Do You Have a Tariff Refund Coming?
April 20, 2026 – The United States on Monday launched the first phase of a sweeping tariff refund system, marking a significant shift in the aftermath of a Supreme Court decision that invalidated a key piece of the Trump administration’s trade policy.
The ruling, issued in February, determined that former President Donald Trump did not have the legal authority to impose a broad set of tariffs that had been collected over the past year. As a result, the federal government is now responsible for reimbursing billions of dollars to American importers who bore the financial burden of those measures. The repayments are also expected to include interest, potentially increasing the total payout substantially.
To begin the process, the administration unveiled an online refund portal, allowing eligible businesses to submit claims for the duties they previously paid. Officials described the launch as the “initial step” in what could become one of the largest reimbursement efforts tied to trade policy in U.S. history.
The refunds are aimed specifically at importers—companies that paid the tariffs directly—rather than individual consumers. While some economists suggest that portions of the tariff costs were passed on to customers through higher prices, there is currently no mechanism in place for direct payments to citizens.
For many businesses, particularly small and mid-sized firms, the announcement offers long-awaited relief. Industry groups have argued that the tariffs disrupted supply chains, squeezed profit margins, and created uncertainty across multiple sectors.
Still, questions remain about how quickly refunds will be processed and whether the system can handle the anticipated volume of claims. Administration officials acknowledged the challenges but said they are working to ensure a “fair and efficient” rollout.
The portal’s debut signals a turning point for U.S. trade policy, as the government begins to unwind a controversial chapter with significant financial consequences.
Early Voting Open for Hopkins County Hospital Board Election
April 20, 2026 – Seven candidates have signed up for the three upcoming openings on the local Hospital District Board. Early voting continues weekdays (Except March 21) through March 28th. Anyone can early vote in person at The Roc located at 115 Putman St., in Sulphur Springs. Election day is Saturday, May 2, 2026 and on election day, the normal polling places will be up and running at the 11 various polling places across Hopkins County.
Candidates for Consideration for a place on the Hopkins County Hospital District Board are:
Tanner Ragan
Jaime Mitchell
Jennifer McCoy
Sharla Tanton Campbell
Robin Boshears
Rosario Mejia (incumbent)
Chris Brown (incumbent)
Early Voting Schedule at The ROC, 115 Putman St., Sulphur Springs
Monday – April 20: 8:00am-5:00pm
Tuesday – April 22: CLOSED for Holiday (San Jacinto Day)
Wednesday – April 22: 8:00am-5:00pm
Thursday – April 23: 8:00am-5:00pm
Friday – April 24: 8:00am-5:00pm
Saturday – April 25: CLOSED
Sunday – April 26: CLOSED
Monday – April 27: 8:00am-5:00pm
Tuesday – April 28: 8:00am-5:00pm (Final Day of Early Voting)
Polling Locations for Election Day Only: May 2, 2026
PCT. 1
LUTHERAN CHURCH
1000 TEXAS STREET
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX
(FRONT FOYER)
PCT. 3
HOPKINS COUNTY COURTHOUSE
118 CHURCH STREET
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX
(1ST FLOOR COURTROOM)
PCT. 3A
PARIS JUNIOR COLLEGE
SULPHUR SPRINGS CAMPUS
1137 TX-301 LOOP
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX
(ROOM 101A)
PCT. 4
HOPKINS COUNTY CIVIC CENTER
1200 HOUSTON STREET
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX
(WEST HALL)
PCT. 4A
LEAGUE STREET CHURCH OF
CHRIST
1100 SOUTH LEAGUE ST
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX
(FRONT FOYER)
PCT. 5
SALTILLO ISD
150 CR 3534
SALTILLO, TX 75478
(AG LAB)
PCT. 11
CUMBY MUNICIPAL BUILDING
100 E. MAIN STREET
CUMBY, TX 75433
(CITY MEETING ROOM)
PCT. 12
SULPHUR BLUFF ISD
1027 CR 3550
SULPHUR BLUFF, TX 75481
(FOYER OUTSIDE GYM)
PCT. 13
COMO-PICKTON CISD
13017 TX HWY 11 E
COMO, TX 75431
(NEW GYM)
PCT. 16
MILLER GROVE ISD
7819 FM 275 SOUTH
CUMBY, TX 75433
(FOYER OUTSIDE GYM)
PCT. 17
NORTH HOPKINS ISD
1994 FM 71 W
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX
(ADMIN. BUILDING)
Texas Attorney General Files Landmark Lawsuit Against ActBlue Over Alleged Donation Violations
AUSTIN, Texas — Ken Paxton has filed a high-profile lawsuit against ActBlue, accusing the political fundraising platform of misleading the public about its donation safeguards and enabling fraudulent and potentially foreign contributions in U.S. elections.
The lawsuit, announced Monday, alleges that ActBlue violated Texas consumer protection laws by falsely representing the strength and consistency of its donor verification processes. According to Paxton’s office, these alleged failures created vulnerabilities that could allow unlawful donations to flow through the platform, potentially undermining election integrity.
“The radical left has relied on ActBlue as a way to funnel foreign donations and dark money into their political campaigns,” Paxton said in a statement. “ActBlue lied to Congress and to the American people, and I will ensure justice is served.”
Background of the Case
ActBlue, founded in 2004, has become a central fundraising tool for Democratic and progressive campaigns, processing more than $16 billion in contributions over two decades. Its widespread use and streamlined online donation system have made it a dominant force in modern political fundraising.
Concerns about the platform’s practices first emerged in 2023, when Paxton launched an investigation into whether ActBlue’s systems allowed donor fraud in violation of state law. In 2024, his office escalated the issue by submitting a petition to the Federal Election Commission, outlining claims that suspicious actors were using the platform to make repeated “straw donations.”
Key Allegations
The lawsuit builds on those earlier concerns, citing recent findings and reporting, including coverage by The New York Times. According to the complaint, ActBlue’s own legal counsel acknowledged inconsistencies between the organization’s public statements and its internal practices.
Investigators allege that safeguards meant to prevent illegal donations were not consistently enforced. One example highlighted in the filing is the continued acceptance of donations via gift cards and prepaid debit cards—methods critics say can obscure donor identity and increase the risk of fraud.
The Office of the Attorney General argues that these practices could allow both domestic and foreign actors to bypass campaign finance laws, raising broader concerns about transparency and accountability in political funding.
What Comes Next
The lawsuit seeks penalties under Texas law and aims to force changes in ActBlue’s operations. ActBlue has not yet issued a detailed response to the filing.
Legal experts note that the case could have national implications, potentially influencing how online political fundraising platforms are regulated and scrutinized moving forward.
Texas Economy Hits Record $2.9 Trillion
April 20, 2026 | Austin, Texas | Texas has reached a new financial milestone, with its economy expanding to a record $2.9 trillion in 2025, according to preliminary estimates released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. The announcement, highlighted in a press release from Governor Greg Abbott, underscores the state’s continued economic momentum and its growing influence on both the national and global stage.
Adjusted for inflation, Texas’ economy grew by 2.5% in 2025, outpacing the overall growth rate of the United States. This marks another year in which the state has exceeded national economic performance, reinforcing its reputation as a hub for business expansion, job creation, and population growth.
Governor Abbott attributed the state’s success to its workforce and business-friendly environment. He emphasized that Texas continues to attract entrepreneurs, corporations, and investors due to its regulatory climate, lower taxes, and infrastructure investments. Over the past decade, the state has actively positioned itself as a destination for companies relocating or expanding operations, particularly in sectors such as technology, energy, manufacturing, and logistics.
The scale of Texas’ economy is now comparable to some of the largest national economies in the world. Based on international comparisons, Texas ranks as the eighth-largest economy globally, surpassing many developed countries. Additionally, its 2025 growth rate exceeded that of eight of the world’s ten largest economies, signaling not just size but sustained acceleration.
This growth represents a dramatic rise from 2015, when the state’s economy stood at $1.59 trillion at the beginning of Abbott’s tenure. Over the 11-year period, Texas’ GDP has expanded by approximately 46% when adjusted for inflation. This long-term trajectory reflects consistent population increases, strong job creation, and continued inward migration of both businesses and workers.
However, economists note that rapid growth also brings challenges. Infrastructure demands, housing affordability, and workforce development remain key issues that could shape the state’s future trajectory. As more companies and residents move to Texas, pressure on transportation systems, utilities, and urban planning is expected to intensify.
Even so, the latest figures confirm that Texas remains one of the most dynamic economic engines in the United States. With its combination of scale, growth, and global competitiveness, the state is likely to play an increasingly central role in shaping the broader economic landscape in the years ahead.
Texas Food Stamp Limits May Hit Convenience Stores Where It Hurts
April 18, 2026 – Texas’ new restrictions on what food stamp recipients can buy are beginning to ripple beyond grocery aisles—raising concerns about unintended consequences for small retailers, especially convenience stores that rely heavily on snack sales.
Beginning April 1, more than 3.5 million Texans who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can no longer purchase candy or sweetened beverages with their benefits under a state-approved waiver aimed at promoting healthier diets.
While state leaders have framed the policy as a public health measure, early reactions from retailers and analysts suggest the economic impact could be uneven—particularly for convenience stores, where impulse purchases like soda, candy, and snack foods often drive a significant share of revenue.
In many low-income neighborhoods, SNAP dollars make up a sizable portion of sales. Store operators say that when customers can no longer use benefits on high-margin items like sweets and drinks, overall spending may drop—not just on those products, but across the board.
“It’s going to affect businesses greatly,” one grocery worker told local media, noting that snacks and drinks were commonly purchased with benefits.
Convenience stores are especially vulnerable because they typically have smaller footprints and depend on quick, high-frequency purchases rather than large grocery trips. If customers shift spending to larger supermarkets—or cut back altogether—some smaller stores could struggle to stay afloat.
There are already signs of broader stress in the convenience retail sector. Chains like 7-Eleven have announced plans to close hundreds of underperforming locations across North America amid declining foot traffic and changing consumer habits. While those closures are not directly tied to SNAP policy, they underscore the fragile economics facing the industry.
Critics of the SNAP restrictions argue the policy may unintentionally accelerate those pressures. By limiting what can be purchased with benefits, they say, the state risks reducing revenue streams that help sustain neighborhood stores—particularly in rural or underserved urban areas where convenience stores may be the primary food retailers.
Supporters counter that the program was never intended to subsidize junk food and that the long-term health benefits could outweigh short-term economic disruptions. They argue the shift could encourage retailers to stock more nutritious options, aligning with the program’s original mission.
Still, some policy experts warn that transition may not be smooth. Convenience stores often lack the supply chains, refrigeration, or customer demand needed to pivot quickly to fresh or perishable foods.
The result is a policy with competing outcomes: a push toward better nutrition on one hand, and the potential erosion of small retail businesses on the other.
As Texas becomes one of the first states to implement such sweeping SNAP restrictions, regulators and lawmakers will be watching closely to see whether the effort reshapes consumer behavior—or reshapes the retail landscape itself.
Paris District Road Report for April 20, 2026
April 17, 2026 – Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting April 20, 2026. 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.
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:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne and Howe on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to Haning St. are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic except at Bear Rd and Hall Cemetery Rd. The sections at Bear Rd and Hall Cemetery Rd. will have only one lane open. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping & other remaining works. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road.
The US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on February 04. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Hanning St to FM 902. Occasional lane closures will be in place in order to complete remaining items such as backfill and striping.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The US 75 frontage road U-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue work on a portion of the new US 75 main lane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to April 26. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Lamberth Dr. Eastbound and westbound to be closed from January 17 to September 2026.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from US 82 is closed.
US 75 main lanes and frontage roads at various locations will be closed for short duration during daytime and nighttime due to mobile operations from April 01 to April 30. These closures are short duration closures that will happen between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm or between 8:00 pm and 5:00 am.
US 75 northbound frontage road between Loy Lake Rd (Sherman) and FM 691 will be closed from March 30, 2026, at 7:00 am to February 26, 2027. This is a long-term full closure.
US 75 southbound frontage road between FM 691 and Loy Lake Rd. (Sherman) will be closed from April 20, 2026 at 7:00 am to June 21, 2027.
The north-south U-Turn at the frontage roads of US 75 and US 82 intersection will be fully closed during the day from April 01 to April 30 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
The south-north U-Turn at the frontage roads of US 75 and US 82 intersection will be fully closed from April 01 to April 30.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Loy Lake Sherman to Travis St (Exit 65) will be fully closed from April 20 to April 21 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This closure is needed for paving operations
US 75 northbound frontage road between Taylor St and US 82 to be fully closed for multiple nights from April 13 to May 01 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am.
US 75 northbound mainlanes between US 82 and Loy Lake Entrance Ramp will be fully closed from April 23 to April 24 from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am.
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. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. Westbound traffic will travel to the intersection of Spur 503 and the northbound frontage road and will go north on the new frontage road to access northbound US 75. Motorists wishing to go south will follow the northbound frontage road to Loy Lake Rd, and take the U-turn and continue south until the next available entrance ramp to southbound US 75.
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.
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 occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Occasional lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm at night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
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 and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
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.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The bridge replacement is completed and opened to traffic on December 03. Construction crews will continue working on the remaining minor items and motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
FM 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safely treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will continue performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. Majority of the bridge work is completed, and it was opened to traffic on March 31, 2026. Occasional lane closures will be in place to finish the remaining items of work. Motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
Calf Creek Ln. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on Calf Creek Ln bridge located at Calf Creek. The bridge will be closed in both directions beginning March 10, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Jim Lamb Rd and Whitney Rd. as an alternate route.
US 75 from Ray Bridge to Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform shoulder edge repair & level up work on the roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from US 377 to FM 901. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform edge repair work on the roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations in Grayson County. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform herbicide application on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in 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 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 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be occasional daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 56 at Hutchins Creek and at Caney Creek. Watch for lane closures as crews perform bridge repair work. The temporary signals are removed. However, motorists should expect delays as there will be occasional daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is completed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2105. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on CR 2105 bridge located at Robert Springs Tributary. The bridge is closed in both directions beginning March 05, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use CR 2110 and CR 2100 as an alternate route.
CR 2410 at Tanyard Creek. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the CR 2410 bridge located at Tanyard Creek. The bridge is closed in both directions beginning January 22, 2026, and will remain closed until May 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use FM 100 and FM 2216 as an alternate route.
SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform ditch maintenance work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations in Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform sign installation and bridge repair work along 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.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be grading ditches. Watch for construction vehicles near roadway.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: SH 19 at SH 11. Crews will be working on the pavement joints in the intersection. There will be daily lane closures during the repair process.
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:
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.
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 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.
1st ST SW & South Main St., Lamar County: from Hearne St. in Paris to Kaufman ST. in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install a bike lane and perform pavement and curb repairs.
FM 79, at Little Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
BU 82 H (Bonham St.), from Loop 286 to 11th Street NW. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
BU 271 (North Main St.), from Price Street to Martin Luther King Drive. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the east and west sides of the roadway.
Delta County:
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.
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.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is currently suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. 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. Contractor will begin striping on for new traffic phase on Monday. Please slow down, be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, from SH 34 to FM 118. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor will be setting signs and mailboxes. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is now excavating near the eastbound shoulder. Flagger operations in place while work is being performed. Expect delays in the work zone. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Final pavement surface is complete. Pavement marking operations will continue. Flagging will be present while work is being performed. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. The contractor is working in the median and on frontage roads. Expect one lane closures and rolling closures at night. 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, roadway sweeping, sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing overlay on FM 2194 from FM 903 to US 69, and on FM 1563 from SH 11 to SH 11. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repairs at various locations. Work will be performed on SH 66 at FM 36 to add a Right Turn Lane.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing base repair will be performed on FM 47 from SH 276 to Van Zandt County Line. Spot base repair will be performed on Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Hopkins County Genealogical Society to Hold Next Lunch & Learn April 22nd
April 17, 2026 – Our “Fourth Wednesday Lunch & Learn” is scheduled for Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Tx. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society invites individuals interested in genealogical research to attend. Bring your sack lunch, salad, or drive-through meal, and join us – and bring a friend. This event is free and open to the public!
This month we are excited to offer to you a talk by our president John Sellers about an often overlooked source of research information. He is going to tell us about the collections often available at colleges and universities, and in our case East Texas A&M specifically. This brief talk will be followed by a Q & A period which will allow you to ask him more about that subject or about any research issue you may be having.
It is not often we have the privilege of having John as our speaker and it is certainly not often we have the opportunity to address questions to him directly. So, between now and then, think about what you might like to ask and have your questions ready because he is a tough one to tie down!
See you then.
Unprecedented Level of Support Coalesces Behind Dr. Susan Ballabina as Sole Finalist for Texas A&M President
April 17, 2026 – BRYAN, COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Five of Texas A&M University’s leading affiliated organizations have publicly backed Dr. Susan Ballabina as sole finalist for president, marking an unprecedented level of support across the Aggie Network.
The joint letter is signed by the leadership of The Association of Former Students, the 12th Man Foundation, the Corps of Cadets Association, the Texas A&M Foundation and the George & Barbara Bush Foundation.
Together, these organizations represent generations of Aggies and the full breadth of the university’s mission. They support students, fund scholarships, sustain traditions, strengthen the Corps and advance the university through philanthropy and lifelong engagement.
In their words, Dr. Ballabina is “uniquely suited to lead Texas A&M at this important moment.”
They point to what they have seen firsthand. Steady leadership. Deep institutional knowledge. A clear understanding of how to move a complex university forward while staying grounded in its purpose.
They highlight her engagement with affiliate leadership, her respect for the Aggie Network and her ability to bring people together to get results.
Their conclusion is direct. As Texas A&M approaches its 150th year, this is a moment that calls for experienced, principled and steady leadership. They are confident she is the right choice.
Texas A&M University System Chancellor Glenn Hegar said the alignment speaks for itself.
“This is not routine,” Hegar said. “This is an unprecedented level of support from the very organizations that help carry this university forward every day. They know this institution. They know what it takes to lead it. And they are speaking with one voice.”
Board of Regents Chairman Robert L. Albritton said the support reinforces the Board’s decision.
“We conducted a national search and selected the leader we believe is best prepared to guide Texas A&M into its next chapter,” Albritton said. “This kind of alignment across the Aggie Network affirms that choice.”
The letter was signed by:
- Porter S. Garner III ’79, President and CEO, The Association of Former Students
- Travis Dabney ’96, President and CEO, 12th Man Foundation
- Bruce Hamilton ’78, President and CEO, Texas Aggie Corps of Cadets Association
- John Huser ’89, Vice President and CFO, Interim Leader, Texas A&M Foundation
- Alice Gonzalez Yates ’99, CEO, George & Barbara Bush Foundation
Dr. Ballabina currently serves as Executive Vice Chancellor of the Texas A&M University System. Her appointment is subject to the state’s required 21-day waiting period before final action by the Board of Regents.
Clothing Donations and Consequences: The Global Trade Few Donors See
April 17, 2026 – Millions of Americans drop off used clothing each year at thrift stores, charity bins, and donation drives, often assuming their items will go directly to people in need. But the reality is far more complex—and increasingly controversial in parts of the developing world.
Approximately 45% to over 80% of donated clothing is shipped overseas, as charities can only sell a small fraction—often only 10–20%—in local thrift shops. Much of this exported clothing is sold to markets in the Global South, though a significant portion becomes waste, creating environmental crises, such as in Ghana.
Organizations such as Goodwill Industries and The Salvation Army receive far more clothing than they can sell domestically. Only a fraction ends up on local thrift store racks. The majority is sold in bulk to textile recyclers and exporters, entering a global secondhand market that ships used garments—known in the trade as “mitumba”—to countries across Africa, Latin America, and Asia.
Mitumba is a Swahili term for “bundles,” referring to the massive trade of imported second-hand clothing in East Africa, particularly Kenya. These clothes, often donated or sold in Western nations, are shipped in compressed bales.
In countries like Ghana and Kenya, these imports are a major part of the clothing economy. Vendors buy tightly packed bales of secondhand clothes and resell individual items in open-air markets at affordable prices. For many consumers, used clothing provides access to brands and styles that would otherwise be out of reach.
But the influx has also raised concerns about its impact on local industries. Critics argue that a flood of cheap, imported clothing undercuts domestic textile production, making it difficult for local manufacturers to compete. In the 20th century, several African nations had thriving garment sectors, but many have struggled to maintain them in the face of global competition and secondhand imports.
In Ghana, high volumes of imported second-hand clothing from Western nations are known as ‘obroni wawu’, which translates from the Twi language to “dead white man’s clothes”. The term originated because locals initially believed that such a vast abundance of donated clothing could only come from deceased individuals.
There are also environmental consequences. Not all donated clothing is wearable. In fact, exporters acknowledge that a significant share of garments—sometimes described as “waste” even before shipment—ends up in landfills or informal dumping sites abroad. In Accra, mountains of discarded textiles have become a visible symbol of the problem, clogging waterways and contributing to pollution along the coast.
Supporters of the secondhand trade say it creates jobs and provides affordable clothing in low-income regions. Market sellers, transport workers, and sorters all depend on the industry for their livelihoods. Some economists also note that the decline of local textile industries cannot be attributed solely to used clothing imports, pointing to factors such as trade policies, infrastructure challenges, and the rise of ultra-cheap fast fashion.
The debate has reached policymakers. In recent years, regional blocs like the East African Community have considered restrictions on secondhand clothing imports to protect local manufacturing. However, such efforts have faced pushback over concerns about consumer prices and international trade relations.
For donors, the takeaway is less straightforward than it may seem. While giving away clothes can extend their life and reduce waste at home, it also feeds into a global system with uneven benefits and consequences.
As the volume of textile waste continues to grow worldwide, experts say the challenge will be finding solutions that balance affordability, sustainability, and the economic futures of countries on the receiving end.
ERCOT Now Warning Texas About Planned Data Centers’ Power Demands
April 17, 2026 – Texas’ main power grid operator is warning regulators that electricity demand could surge dramatically over the next decade, fueled by rapid growth in data centers, cryptocurrency mining operations, and large-scale industrial projects.
At a hearing scheduled this week, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is expected to present projections showing that peak electricity demand—currently at a record 85,508 megawatts—could more than triple by 2032. The forecast reflects an unprecedented wave of new, energy-intensive developments seeking to connect to the grid, particularly in fast-growing regions of the state.
But ERCOT officials are also emphasizing a key caveat: the projections carry significant uncertainty. Many of the proposed projects driving the forecasts are still in early stages, and some may be delayed, scaled back, or never completed. Factors such as financing challenges, changing market conditions, and evolving technology could all affect how much of the anticipated load ultimately materializes.
The warning places the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) in a difficult position. Regulators must decide how aggressively to plan for future demand, balancing the risk of overbuilding costly infrastructure against the possibility of falling short and jeopardizing grid reliability.
The issue comes amid heightened scrutiny of Texas’ power system following the devastating February 2021 winter storm, which caused widespread outages and prompted major reforms aimed at improving grid resilience. Since then, state leaders have prioritized ensuring that supply keeps pace with the state’s rapid population and economic growth.
Data centers, in particular, have emerged as a major driver of new demand. The facilities, which support cloud computing and artificial intelligence applications, require vast amounts of electricity to operate and cool servers. Similarly, cryptocurrency mining operations—drawn to Texas by relatively low energy costs and a deregulated market—can consume large amounts of power, often with fluctuating usage patterns.
ERCOT’s message to regulators is clear: while the scale of potential growth is enormous, planning based solely on high-end projections could lead to unnecessary costs for consumers. At the same time, underestimating demand could strain the grid and increase the risk of shortages during extreme weather.
As the PUC considers its next steps, the challenge will be crafting policies that are flexible enough to adapt to changing conditions while ensuring that Texas remains prepared for a future that could bring both explosive growth and significant uncertainty.
