Here’s the Exciting Activities Scheduled for December at the Senior Citizens Activity Center
Rainbow Trout Arriving Soon at a Waterbody Near You
November 19, 2024 – The holiday season is just around the corner and with it comes the annual Texas winter tradition of trout fishing at waterbodies across the state.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will begin stocking thousands of rainbow trout Nov. 27, the day before Thanksgiving.
It doesn’t take a lot of sophisticated fishing equipment to reel in a rainbow trout. They can be caught using simple, light tackle or hand-tied flies on a fly rod. However, anglers should keep an array of baits and lures nearby as well as ice to keep trout fresh. Rainbow trout are also an attractive, tasty fish and anglers can easily find recipes online.
“TPWD stocks catchable-sized fish during winter months to create unique winter angling opportunities throughout Texas,” said Carl Kittel, TPWD rainbow trout program director. “Rainbow trout love cold water and can be caught on a variety of baits and lures (worms, commercially available pastes, corn, spinners, spoons, flies and more), and are great to take home and eat. Our winter rainbow trout program has been a favorite of anglers for over forty years.”
TPWD plans to stock 342,373 rainbow trout in Texas from Nov. 26 — March 9. Because rainbow trout are unable to survive in most areas of Texas after winter due to the warm water temperatures, anglers are encouraged to keep up to their daily bag limit of five trout.
Exceptions exist within special trout management zones on the Guadalupe River downstream of Canyon Lake, which often remains cool enough for rainbow trout to survive year-round. This portion of the Guadalupe River is recognized as one of the top 100 trout streams in the nation and is considered the southernmost trout stream in North America.
Fishing for rainbow trout on Texas rivers and streams is popular among anglers. In addition to stocking the Guadalupe River downstream of Canyon Lake, TPWD also stocks rainbow trout in the Brazos River downstream of Possum Kingdom Lake, portions of the Frio and South Llano rivers, and in the Clear Fork of the Trinity River.
Although trout stockings take place at numerous locations in Texas, TPWD’s Neighborhood Fishin’ program provides a unique experience for families and new anglers to reel in a fish in and around major cities.
TPWD manages 18 Neighborhood Fishin’ lakes statewide in most major urban centers, including Amarillo, Austin, the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, Houston, San Angelo, San Antonio and Wichita Falls. These lakes — frequently stocked with rainbow trout during winter — offer plenty of amenities so family members of all ages can enjoy a fun and relaxing day fishing and connecting in nature. Other stocking locations include dozens of local city and county park ponds.
In addition, anglers can enjoy complementary fishing without a license in a Texas state park from a bank, dock or pier. TPWD recommends anyone planning a trip to a park reserve a day pass in advance especially during busy times like weekends and holidays. Day passes can be reserved online though the TPWD website or over the phone by calling (512) 389-8900.
Texas does not require a fishing license for youth under the age of 17, but adults must have a fishing license with a freshwater fishing endorsement. Funds from the sale of fishing licenses and freshwater fishing endorsements directly support efforts by TPWD to provide great fishing opportunities for current and future generations.
An angler fishing in a Community Fishing Lake or from a dock, pier or jetty within a Texas State Park may use no more than two poles. The statewide bag limit is five trout with no minimum length limit, except on parts of the Guadalupe River where special limits are in effect.
Sulphur Springs will receive a stocking of fish at Peavine Pinion Pond on January 11, 2025.
Governor Abbott Hosts Irish Ambassador Byrne Nason At Governor’s Mansion
November 19, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott held a meeting with the Ambassador of Ireland to the United States Geraldine Byrne Nason and other Irish leaders to discuss strengthening the economic partnership between Texas and Ireland at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. This was Ambassador Byrne Nason’s first official visit to Texas and first meeting with Governor Abbott.
During the meeting, Governor Abbott and Ambassador Byrne Nason highlighted deepening the enduring cultural and economic bond between Texas and Ireland, including in the technology, healthcare, artificial intelligence, and semiconductor industries. The Ambassador also mentioned that she would be traveling to the Texas Medical Center (TMC) this week to meet with healthcare leaders. Governor Abbott touted it as the largest medical center in the entire world, mentioning the recent grand opening of the TMC3 Collaborative Building that helps facilitate groundbreaking medical research through joint research labs and workspaces.
Additionally, both leaders discussed China’s economic inroads in the global south. Governor Abbott and Ambassador Byrne Nason emphasized the importance of continuing trade relations to strengthen the national security interest of both Texas and Ireland.
After the meeting, the Governor and Ambassador recounted the shared cultural and historical ties Texas and Ireland share, noting the Irish Texans who fought for Texas independence in the 19th century, with many notably defending the Alamo and fighting in the Battle of San Jacinto. Both leaders then exchanged gifts, with the Ambassador receiving a box bearing the Texas State Seal and Governor Abbott receiving cuff links bearing a harp—the national symbol of Ireland.
Governor Abbott, PUCT Release Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group Report
November 18, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) today announced the release of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group’s final report on Texas’ plan to build a world-leading advanced nuclear power industry to enhance electric reliability and energy security, promote economic development, and unleash new opportunities for the growing Texas workforce.
“Texas is the energy capital of the world, and we are ready to be No. 1 in advanced nuclear power,” said Governor Abbott. “By utilizing advanced nuclear energy, Texas will enhance the reliability of the state grid and provide affordable, dispatchable power to Texans across the state. I thank Public Utility Commissioner Jimmy Glotfelty and the members of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor Working Group for working tirelessly to put Texas on the path to be the global leader in advanced nuclear power. As we build an advanced nuclear industry in our great state, we will ensure Texas remains a leader in energy and strengthen the Texas grid to meet the demands of our growing state.”
“Texas has long been the energy capital of the world, and today we have an incredible opportunity to build a world-leading advanced nuclear industry that will deliver safe, reliable power for generations to come,” PUCT Commissioner Jimmy Glotfelty said. “I want to thank the Governor for his direction on this important issue and the many people who dedicated their time and expertise to this work. The economic and policy recommendations we’ve outlined will inspire swift action and help Texas become the leader in advanced nuclear energy.”
In August 2023, Governor Abbott directed the PUCT to form a working group to study and plan for the use of advanced nuclear reactors in Texas. Over the past year, the working group developed key recommendations and strategies to position Texas as No. 1 in the advanced nuclear industry.
Governor Abbott Issues Executive Order Targeting Chinese Communist Party’s Harassment Of Texans
November 18, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today issued an executive order to protect Texans from the coordinated harassment and coercion by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) or the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The Governor directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to target and arrest any criminals executing CCP influence operations like “Operation Fox Hunt” to forcibly return dissidents to China.
“The Chinese Communist Party has engaged in a worldwide harassment campaign against Chinese dissidents in attempts to forcibly return them to China,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas will not tolerate the harassment or coercion of the more than 250,000 individuals of Chinese descent who legally call Texas home by the Chinese Communist Party or its heinous proxies. Ensuring the safety, welfare, and well-being of Texans is a top priority. I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to identify and bring criminal charges against individuals who harass Texans on behalf of this hostile foreign adversary. We will continue to do everything we can to protect Texans from the unlawful and repressive actions of the Chinese Communist Party.”
At the direction of the Governor Abbott, DPS will immediately begin to:
- Identify and charge individuals suspected of crimes relating to exploiting dissidents on behalf of any foreign government.
- Partner with local and federal law enforcement through the Texas Fusion Center to assess the incidents where foreign governments extend their reach beyond their borders to intimidate Texans.
- Discover and document individuals suspected of planning, attempting, or carrying out acts of repression, and by January 15, 2025, provide policy recommendations on how to counter such threats and develop training programs that can be used to identify and report such illicit activity to DPS.
- Introduce a hotline and update the iWatch Texas Community Reporting System to allow Texans to directly report any sort of suspected acts of oppression or coercion by PRC or CCP actors, or other foreign adversaries against Texans. Texans can report suspicious activity at iwatchtx.org, through the iWatchTexas mobile app, or by calling 844-643-2251. Reporting through any of these channels can be anonymous.
Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson Chats With John Mark on This Second Cup Of Coffee
Hopkins County Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson stopped by and chatted with John Mark on this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. On this episode you learn about Ronnie’s trip to Big Bend, when the average first freeze of the season is, pointers to starting the Winter gardening season, and so much more. Ronnie Wilson was nice enough to share some of his beautiful pictures from his trip to Big Bend.
Dinner Bell for November 20, 2024
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.
A partner with Dinner Bell since 2017, the Knights of Columbus have smoked our Thanksgiving meal turkeys since 2018. The Knights of Columbus was organized in Connecticut in 1882 to serve their church, community, and family with virtue. Fraternity and patriotism were added to the Knights founding principles of charity and unity in 1885 and 1900 respectively. In 1951 the Knights initiated the adoption of the phrase “under God” as an addition to the Pledge of Allegiance. This adoption occurred in 1954. The Knights advocate for Catholic causes and provide a wide range of philanthropic and support services to Catholic institutions worldwide.
The Knights were organized locally at St. James Catholic Church in 1987. Besides supporting local activities at St. James Catholic Church, it presently helps the Community Chest, Meal-A-Day, Dinner Bell and Wreaths Across America. Our gratitude is extended to the Knights of Columbus for supporting the Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry for an extended period of time. We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
MENU: THANKSGIVING FEAST
TURKEY-DRESSING-GRAVY-CRANBERRY SAUCE
BACON GREEN BEANS
HONEYCRISP SALAD
HOT ROLLS
PUMPKIN DESSERT
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 !!!
Start Planning Gardening Experiments in 2025 From Master Gardener David Wall
November 17, 2024 – Many gardeners tend to plant the same gardening crops every year. Hopefully, they’re at least rotating crops to prevent problems caused by practicing monoculture, which puts gardens in decline. One of the fun aspects of gardening is the ability to experiment with new species? I experiment every year with something, and the results ranging from dismal to exceptional.
I stick with the basics of okra, cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes. For okra and peppers, I no longer experiment. Spineless okra and either beit alpha or Socrates cucumbers are my standards. They produce well, and the cucumbers produce 2-4 times the number of other cucumber species.
My produce goes to the battered women’s shelter, so I’m more interested in quantity rather than weight. I’ve tried jalapeno, cayenne, habanero and some other peppers, but this year I found some new standards. Jalapeno jedi plants produce very well and are both large & fat. Two new peppers, Thai hot and Thai mini, have proven very successful,
Thai hot (60-100K scoville) grow vertically, produce a crop, restart and produce a second crop. In a long season, a third crop is possible. Hai minis are another matter. The plants exceed 4’ tall, have extremely large foliage, and will produce an unbelievably large amount of produce, up to an exceeding 1,000 fruit ranging in size from little bigger than a pencil dot to ½”, and they also have the 60-100K scoveille heat rating.
A third 50-100K pepper is the xiêm rừng pepper, is also known as Vietnam Birds Eye Pepper. It’s a 3-4’ tall plant producing a heap of 1.5-2.5” fruit.
For tomatoes, I really like F1 Juliet. Yes, I have to buy seeds every year, but this is a heavy producer, and for whatever reason, violates the rule of not producing in the heat of summer.
Paris District Road Report for Week of November 18, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Nov. 18, 2024. 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: Football Season
Football season is a chance to make great memories cheering for your team and tailgating with family and friends. That’s why TxDOT is reminding fans to celebrate football season responsibly by always finding a sober ride through its Drive Sober. No Regrets. statewide impaired driving campaign. The campaign aims to reduce the number of DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes, especially as fans gather across the state to support their favorite teams.
Too often, a designated driver is chosen during the course of the evening and is often considered the least drunk person in the group. The designated driver should always be a sober driver who has not consumed any amount of alcohol. Designating a driver, calling a taxi, using a rideshare service, staying where you are, calling a friend or family member, and using mass transit are the safest ways to ensure you do not drive under the influence.
One regrettable decision to drink and drive could turn game time into a DWI costing up to $17,000 in fines and fees, the loss of a license, jail time or worse. It just isn’t worth it. Visit SoberRides.org to learn about the real costs of drunk driving. Follow the hashtag #DriveSoberNoRegrets to keep up with the campaign on social media.
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.
The southbound US 75 main lanes will be closed to traffic in order to set bridge beams for the new Spur 503 overpass beginning at 9:00 pm on the night of November 18th. Traffic will be required to exit at North Loy Lake Road and continue on the frontage road past the construction area and will be able to enter back onto the main lanes before FM 691. Police will be on sight to flag traffic through the Loy Lake Road intersection. The main lanes are expected to be reopened to traffic by 5:00 am on the morning of November 19th.
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 entrance ramp on the southbound frontage road onto US 75, north of Spur 503 and south of Loy Lake Road, is permanently closed. This closure is part of the reconstruction of US 75 from US 82 to Loy Lake Road in Denison. Motorists who wish to travel south on US 75 from its intersection with Loy Lake Road are advised to note this change. A detour is in place requiring traffic to continue on the southbound frontage road, around Spur 503, to the entrance ramp for US 75 southbound located north of the FM 691 intersection. Signs will alert travelers and guide them along this detour route.
The northbound US 75 frontage road is closed to thru traffic north of FM 691 in order to replace the frontage road bridge over Iron Ore Creek. Work for the construction of the new US 75 northbound frontage road Iron Ore Creek bridge and northbound frontage road pavement is currently in progress. Motorists traveling along the northbound frontage road will take the northbound entrance ramp north of FM 691 and take exit 66 to access eastbound Spur 503. Local traffic wishing to return to FM 691 is asked to use Pool 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. Watch for lane closures on the US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and SH 91 as crews complete the median barrier work.
FM 697, at Choctaw Slough Creek. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to perform bridge repairs. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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 82, from SH 91 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs, milling, and an overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours when lane closures are present.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to perform pavement repairs, milling, and an overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1417, from US 82 to SH 56. Travelers are advised that intermittent temporary daily lane closures will be required for both northbound and southbound FM 1417 while the contractor completes the remaining work.
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 Mustang Creek, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at FM 901.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
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.
Spur 503, from SH 91 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 901, from US 377 to US 82. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. 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.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge will be closed to through traffic beginning on December 2, 2024, as crews will remove and replace 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 271, from SH 78 to FM 68. 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.
SH 56, from SH 78 to FM 1396. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. 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 full depth reclamation of 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: SH 37, from BU 37 to FM 71. Crews will be performing repairs and resurfacing the existing roadway. Watch for traffic shifts and slow-moving traffic.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing road rehabilitation operations and traffic shifts in the work areas.
Hopkins County: Bridge at Timber Creek. Crews will begin installing detour for Timber Creek Bridge in preparation for replacement of the existing bridge.
Hopkins County: FM 2653, at IH 30. Crews will begin resurfacing the bridge deck. Traffic will be detoured during resurfacing operations.
Hopkins County: SH 19, Railroad Crossing on N Hillcrest. Crews will begin railroad replanking to take place November 8 through 12.
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.
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. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour 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.
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. Temporary seeding operations have begun on segments of the project and will be ongoing. Hotmix operations have begun and will continue on left Northbound shoulders. 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 performing reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID in the 2nd mile of project limits. Cement treatment and culver riprap will be upcoming. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. Bridge column work has been completed. 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. The contractor is placing sidewalk and backfilling curb in the area. Site Grading work is ongoing. Paving operations are in progress in areas north of FM 35. Railroad coordination is underway near FM 2642 and SH 66, work will begin soon in this area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractor has set barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor is performing punchlist work in the project limits. 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 workzone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. The first 1.5 miles of reclamation work is underway and the 1st lift of flexbase has been placed along several stations. GEO GRID operations will be upcoming. 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 is currently grading and placing embankment between the frontage roads and mainlanes. Continuing grading EB between 1565 and FM36.The contractor will be placing hot mix for shoulder rehab at night and Milling at night along WB and EB for shoulder rehab. Grading at FM 1565 intersection and embanking along WBML 2511 area. Contractor plans to remove FM 36 North exit ramp, the next exit ramp is 3.5 miles back near FM 1903. Travelers will need to use either the FM 1903 exit or exit at FM 1565 and travel back to FM 36. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County MNT will be performing overlay from on SH 224 from FM 118 to SH 34 and overlaying on FM 1737/ FM 2358 in various locations. Detour set for RR work on SP 302 from FM 118 to Johnson St. in Hunt County. Travelers will need to use SH 224 or FM 118 to access downtown Greenville.
Rains County MNT will continue to address pavement issues SH 19 south and north and repaired drainage issues and patched the bridge approach on FM1564.
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Attorney General Ken Paxton Secures $83 Million Settlement for Texas
AG Holds Kroger Accountable for Role in Opioid Epidemic
November 14, 2024 – Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an $83 million statewide opioid settlement with Kroger to resolve claims by the State of Texas and its Political Subdivisions for practices that contributed to the opioid epidemic in Texas.
The settlement is the latest in a series of agreements Attorney General Paxton has negotiated to hold the pharmaceutical industry accountable for worsening the national trend of overdoses and deaths from prescription opioids. To date, Attorney General Paxton has obtained over $3 billion in legal settlements with drug manufacturers and other entities for their roles in the national opioid epidemic. Funds from statewide opioid settlements are dedicated to opioid abatement and overseen by the Texas Opioid Council.
Affected Political Subdivisions in Texas—such as local governments and county governments in the Texas Opioids Multidistrict Litigation—are encouraged to sign on to the settlement to ensure that Texas citizens and entities may receive all benefits and opioid remediation funds to which they are entitled. To sign on to the settlement, Subdivisions may visit the OAG’s website here for more information.
Joining the settlement allows for Subdivisions to receive direct payments and grant money in the form of opioid abatement funding from the Texas Opioid Council. The deadline for all Texas Political Subdivisions to sign on to and receive benefits from the settlement is December 29, 2024.
“We’ve worked relentlessly to hold major pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, and pharmacies accountable for their role in the national opioid epidemic that has created so much suffering in our State,” said Attorney General Paxton. “This settlement is an important step in our ongoing efforts to securing justice for Texas.”
