DPS Graduates 122 New Texas State Troopers
March 23, 2026 – The Texas Department of Public Safety welcomed 122 new Texas Highway Patrol troopers Friday during a graduation ceremony in Austin, marking the completion of Recruit Class C-2025.
The ceremony, held at Austin Ridge Bible Church, recognized the department’s 180th graduating class. Out of 1,685 applicants, 136 recruits began the rigorous 30-week training academy last August, with 122 successfully meeting all requirements to earn their commission.
Houston Police Chief J. Noe Diaz, a former DPS trooper and Texas Ranger, delivered the keynote address. Drawing on his own experience, Diaz encouraged graduates to embrace the challenges ahead.
“I’ve walked the road you’re about to take,” Diaz said. “The miles will be long, but the honor of serving Texas will make every one of them worth it.”
DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin praised the class, calling it one of the most prepared in agency history. He said the new troopers are ready to serve communities across Texas with professionalism and dedication.
During the academy, recruits completed more than 1,200 hours of instruction, covering areas such as law enforcement procedures, crash investigation, crisis response and emergency medical care. The training concluded with a field exercise simulating real-world scenarios troopers may encounter on duty.
Class C-2025 includes 99 men and 23 women, with ages ranging from 21 to 51. Thirty-three graduates are military veterans, and more than half speak multiple languages.
The new troopers are scheduled to report to duty stations across the state beginning April 12.
Commissioner Miller Joins Texas in Mourning Chuck Norris
March 23, 2026 – “Texas lost a true legend today. My friend Chuck Norris wasn’t just a movie star or a martial artist, he was the embodiment of grit, discipline, and Texas toughness. He represented the kind of strength and character that built this state and made this country great.
Those values show up every single day in our pastures, our fields, and our rural communities. The same toughness Chuck Norris was known for is the same toughness I see in Texas farmers and ranchers who wake up before daylight, battle drought, market swings, and whatever else gets thrown at them, and still keep putting food on tables across this country. Chuck understood that kind of work ethic, and he respected it.
He stood for faith, family, and freedom, the same principles that guide our agricultural producers and keep rural Texas strong. Agriculture isn’t just an industry here, it’s a way of life, and it takes the kind of discipline and resilience Chuck Norris lived out every day. He never forgot where he came from, and he never stopped fighting for the values that make Texas exceptional. That’s something our agriculture community understands better than anyone.
Folks like Chuck Norris don’t come around often. He was one of a kind, and his legacy will live on not just in Hollywood, but in the backbone of this state, the farmers, ranchers, and rural communities who live out that same strength every day.
My prayers are with Chuck’s family, his friends, and the millions of fans across Texas and the world who are mourning this loss. Texas will always be proud to call Chuck Norris one of our own.”
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo Dodges Resignation Demand
March 23, 2026 – A resolution calling for the resignation of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo was tabled during a Commissioners Court meeting after failing to gain enough support to move forward.
The measure was introduced by the court’s lone Republican member, who sought to begin formal consideration of the resolution. However, none of the Democratic commissioners seconded the procedural motion required to bring the item up for discussion, effectively halting the effort.
The resolution stems from a recent incident at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where Hidalgo and several guests reportedly attempted to access a restricted chute area without proper credentials. The section requires a premium ticket, and rodeo officials said Hidalgo was asked multiple times to return to a designated suite before ultimately being escorted out.
Hidalgo has disputed the account, claiming she was physically shoved, threatened with arrest and treated unfairly. She has suggested the incident may have involved sexism or racial bias. Rodeo officials have denied those allegations.
The county judge was not present at the meeting where the resolution was introduced, as she is currently traveling in Europe. According to officials, the trip is tied to preparations for international visitors expected during upcoming World Cup events in Houston.
While the resolution did not advance, it is not off the table. Commissioners could revisit the issue later this month, leaving open the possibility of further political debate surrounding the incident and Hidalgo’s leadership.
Paris District Road Report for March 23, 2026
March 20, 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 March 23, 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.
Safety Message: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
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. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic.
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 entrance ramp from Loy Lake (Sherman) is scheduled to be opened March 19 or 22. This schedule depends on weather or mechanical/material issues.
US 75 southbound exit ramp to Loy Lake (Sherman) is scheduled to be opened March 29 or 30. This schedule depends on weather or mechanical/material issues.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from FM 691 is scheduled to be opened March 29 or 30. This schedule depends on weather or mechanical/material issues.
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 March 09 to March 31. 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 Taylor St. and Lamberth Dr. will be fully closed from March 25 to March 27 during the night from 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This full closure is needed for paving activities.
Eastbound exit ramp to US 82 will have multi-night closure from 23 Mar – 25 Mar 8:00 pm – 5:00 am.
US 75 northbound frontage road between Loy Lake Rd (Sherman) and FM 691 will be closed from March 23, 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 March 30, 2026, at 7:00 am to February 26, 2027. This is a long-term full closure.
US 75 Southbound Frontage Road between Lamberth Dr and Taylor St will be fully closed from 24 Mar – 25 Mar from 8:00 pm – 5:00 am. This full closure and flagging operation is needed for paving activities.
The north-south and south-north U-Turn at the frontage roads of US 75 and US 82 intersection will be fully closed during the day from March 01 to March 31 from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
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 the 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 be performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. The bridge on Prescott Road was closed in both directions on December 01. The bridge will remain closed until March 2026. Road closure signs will be installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Johnny Watson Road, Jelley Road and Southmayd Road as an alternate route.
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 seal coat preparation work on the frontage roads. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82 mainlanes from FM 901 to FM 1417 (west side of Sherman): Watch for daytime lane closure 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.
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. Motorists should expect delays as temporary traffic signals direct traffic through the work 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 will be 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 will be 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 34. 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 2029. 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.
Various locations in Fannin 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.
Various locations in Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform sign work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
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: Loop 301 at Railroad Crossing. The railroad crossing will be getting replanked the week of March 23-27 and the road will be closed to through traffic during the operations.
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 sidewalks on the north and south sides of the roadway.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
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.
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. Traffic on north end of project (SH 66 to I-30) is now switched to new phase. 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 in the south bound shoulder. Flagger operations in place while work is being performed near FM 751. Expect delays in the workzone. 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 will be applied. Flagging operations will be in place 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. Expect one lane closures and rolling closures at night for pavement repairs. 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 and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing overlay on FM 36 from FM 2194 to FM 1562. Base repairs will be performed on FM 2194 from US 69 to FM 903. Flaggers will be present at both locations. 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 roadway prep work on FM 275 from Hopkins County Line to FM 514. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
###
Attorney General Ken Paxton Secures TRO and Stops Rogue Municipal Utility District From Acting to Support the East Plano Islamic Center Development
March 20, 2026 – Attorney General Ken Paxton has secured a temporary restraining order (“TRO”) that stops Double R Municipal Utility District No. 2A of Hunt and Collin Counties (“Double R MUD”) from taking any substantive action at its scheduled meeting tomorrow, Friday, March 20. Among other actions stopped, the TRO prevents Double R MUD’s board of directors from directing the activities and operations of the MUD, including accepting or appointing new directors. The MUD and its purported directors are also restrained from taking up or otherwise considering or acting upon any agenda item that was put forth for tomorrow’s scheduled meeting—unless it falls under extremely limited circumstances related to ongoing litigation.
The TRO follows a lawsuit by Attorney General Paxton against Double R MUD and its purported officers for taking over an existing MUD and simultaneously expanding that MUD to support the East Plano Islamic Center (“EPIC”) development known as “EPIC City.”
MUDs have the power to impose taxes on Texas citizens and are subject to legal requirements, but Double R MUD engaged in highly unusual activity in September 2025. In an apparent effort to allow EPIC City developers to avoid state oversight, it appears the developers engineered the takeover of an inactive, existing MUD—rather than engaging in the process to create an entirely new one.
The meeting scheduled for tomorrow could further the scheme that was orchestrated at the September 2025 meeting, which is why Attorney General Paxton sought and successfully obtained a TRO. The TRO temporarily freezes Double R MUD from any concrete action until a scheduled Temporary Injunction hearing later this month.
“This TRO is a win for the rule of law. Allowing Double R MUD to meet in this way would have only furthered its illegal scheme to support EPIC City,” said Attorney General Paxton. “My office will continue to work tirelessly to stop the illegal EPIC City scheme, and anyone who has broken the law will be held accountable.”
Governor Abbott Receives Award For Veteran Services At American Legion Post 76 In Austin
March 20, 2026 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott today celebrated the 107th birthday of the American Legion and received the National Vietnam Veterans of America State Award for Veteran Services.
“America truly is the greatest force for freedom the world has ever known, and the reason for that is because the United States of America has had the mightiest military in the history of the world. We as a state will continue to support those who served our country at home and abroad,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas is proud to be home to more veterans than any other state in the United States. The award we got today is a tangible way that shows Texas is at the top of our game, ensuring that we are providing our veterans with the support and resources they need and deserve. No state loves our veterans more than the great state of Texas.”
“The American Legion is delighted to host Governor Abbott at our historic Post 76 in Austin
in celebration of the American Legion’s 107th birthday,” said Commander Jim Brennan. “Our Post has been located at this same site overlooking Lady Bird Lake since purchasing the house in 1924. We are thankful for Governor Abbott and the State of Texas for their outstanding services supporting veterans and their families.”
The Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) supports veterans who served during the Vietnam War. The American Legion has spent over a century championing veterans’ benefits, patriotism, and community service.
VVA recognized Texas as one of the most veteran-friendly states, awarding the State Award for Veterans Services to Texas for the state’s excellence in pro-veteran state-level legislation, cost-of-living support for veterans, and employment and retirement security.
The Governor was joined by VVA Legislative Director Jim Brennan, VVA National Secretary Bill Meeks, and veterans of American Legion Post 76.
Local Author Sharon Feldt Had A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey Recently
March 19, 2026 – Local author, and owner of the small local business the Book Nook on Main, Sharon Feldt, was a guest on KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey recently. Sharon and John Mark chatted about the book club Sharon hosts at her house once a month, the book, “The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse,” and upcoming events scheduled at The Book Nook on Main, downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas. Don’t miss this charming segment and learn about some books you might want to read.
A Look at Your 2026 Hopkins County Dairy Festival Queen Contestants
March 19, 2026 – A reception was held March 16th, 2026, to provide parents and contestants information about the upcoming 2026 Hopkins County Dairy Festival. At this event a group picture with the 2026 Queen Contestants and the 2025 Dairy Festival Queen, was taken. Gena Prickette shared this photo with KSST, along with some info on the contestants.
Front Row: left to right
Kaylie Resendiz, daughter of Jaime and Myrna Resendiz
Sicily Potter, daughter of Brian Potter and Tina Potter
Kenzi White, daughter of Rodney and Wendy White
Kiley Vaughan, daughter of Logan and Whitney Vaughan
Middle Row: left to right
Jaleigh Johnson, daughter of Melissa Johnson
Charli Roden, daughter of Darren and Shara Roden
Queen Lucy McKenzie, daughter of Ryan and KK McKenzie
Lindsey Hayes, daughter of Gary Hayes and Crystal Hayes
Alayna Moon, daughter of Bobby Lappin and Tessa Lappin
Top Row: left to right
Piper Lilley, daughter of Steve and Adrienne Lilley
Savanna Darrow, daughter of Bradley and Madison Darrow
Addison Brewer, daughter of Stephen and Kristy Brewer
Bella Gilbreath, daughter of Jason and Heather Gilbreath
Texas To Delete Cesar Chavez Day
March 19, 2026 – Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced Wednesday that the state will no longer observe Cesar Chavez Day, citing allegations against the late labor leader and calling for the holiday’s removal from state law.
Born Cesario Estrada Chavez was March 31, 1927 in Yuma, Arizona, U.S.
Died April 23, 1993 (aged 66) San Luis, Arizona, U.S.
In a statement released from Austin, Abbott said he has directed all state agency heads to discontinue recognition of the holiday. He also indicated plans to work with lawmakers during the next legislative session to formally eliminate Cesar Chavez Day from the Texas calendar.
“Reports of the horrific and widely acknowledged sexual assault allegations against Cesar Chavez rightfully dismantle the myth of this progressive hero,” Abbott said. “They undermine the narrative that elevated Chavez as a figure worthy of official state celebration.”
Cesar Chavez was a prominent civil rights activist and labor organizer who co-founded the United Farm Workers union. He became nationally recognized for advocating on behalf of farmworkers, leading efforts to secure better wages, safer working conditions and labor protections for agricultural workers, particularly in the western United States. Chavez also organized strikes and boycotts, including the well-known grape boycott, which drew widespread attention to farm labor issues.
The governor’s announcement is expected to spark debate, as Chavez has long been honored by supporters for his role in advancing workers’ rights and nonviolent activism. Cesar Chavez Day is observed in several states and recognized at the federal level as a commemorative holiday.
Critics of Abbott’s decision are likely to argue that removing the holiday dismisses Chavez’s historical contributions, while supporters say the allegations raise serious questions about continued recognition.
State lawmakers are expected to take up the issue when the Legislature reconvenes, where any formal removal of the holiday from Texas law would require legislative approval.
The development adds to ongoing discussions about how historical figures are recognized in public policy and state observances.
Sid Miller Launches ‘AgDefence’ Grant Program
March 19, 2026 – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced Wednesday the launch of a new statewide initiative aimed at protecting farmers and ranchers from costly threats to crops and livestock.
The Agricultural Defense Program, also known as AgDefense, will provide targeted financial assistance to combat agricultural pests, diseases and predators. The program is being administered in partnership with the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority under the authority of Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 58.
State officials say the program is now accepting letters of intent from eligible agencies seeking funding for projects designed to reduce agricultural losses and strengthen biosecurity across Texas. Those eligible include the Texas Animal Health Commission, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas A&M AgriLife Research.
Miller said the initiative is critical to safeguarding one of the state’s most important economic sectors. Texas agriculture generates hundreds of billions of dollars in economic activity and supports rural communities across the state.
“Texas agriculture feeds and clothes the world, and I’m not going to stand by while pests, disease, or predators threaten the livelihoods of our farmers and ranchers,” Miller said in a statement.
Officials say the program will fund a range of efforts, including monitoring systems, rapid response strategies and field-level interventions to address emerging threats before they spread. These may include invasive insects, livestock diseases and wildlife that damage crops or prey on animals.
The program is designed to remain flexible, allowing the state to respond quickly as new risks emerge. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis to ensure timely action when threats are identified.
State leaders say AgDefense represents a proactive investment in protecting Texas agriculture, helping ensure long-term stability for producers and maintaining the state’s role as a national and global leader in food and fiber production.
Application Instructions
Letter of Intent Submission link
