Commissioner Miller Alerts Texas Equine Industry of EHV-1 Outbreak
Swift detection of symptoms is key to the preservation of animal health
November 20, 2025 – AUSTIN – Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) today issued an alert to Texas horsemen of an outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) reported by Texas veterinarians after the recent World Championship Barrel Racing (WPRA) Finals in the Waco area on November 5-9. Commissioner Miller is urging all horse owners, trainers, and venue operators who attended or were in proximity to the event, or who have recently returned from any large equine gathering in the Waco region in the last 14 days to act swiftly, monitor their animals carefully, and implement heightened biosecurity measures.
“This virus can spread fast, it can be deadly, and the earliest signs are often so subtle they’re easy to miss,” Commissioner Miller, himself an avid horseman, said. “That’s why monitoring your horses right now is critical. The quicker we identify a potential case, the better chance we have to protect not only our animals, but the entire Texas equine community.”
A particularly aggressive strain of EHV-1 has been confirmed by veterinary clinics in Central Texas. While investigations are ongoing, the TDA believes the situation warrants immediate attention, given the rapid spread and severe outcomes in affected horses. Those who should act immediately are those who:
- Have a horse that was present at the WPRA event in the Waco area or transported one to/from that event.
- Have a horse that has mingled with those transported from that event.
- Any horse owner or facility operator who has recently participated in large multi–barn gatherings, roping jackpots, or traveled extensively enough to include the Waco region.
Clinical signs of EHV-1 can vary widely, and may include:
- Fever.
- Nasal discharge, coughing, or other respiratory changes.
- Depression or lethargy.
- Neurological signs: stumbling or incoordination, loss of tail tone, hind-limb weakness, head tilt, recumbency.
- Abortions in pregnant mares.
The EHV-1 virus spreads quickly and efficiently, making early precautions essential. Horses can transmit the virus directly through simple nose-to-nose contact, and infected animals may also release contagious aerosolized particles when they cough or sneeze. Indirect transmission is equally dangerous, as shared tack, grooming tools, water and feed buckets, thermometers, and other equipment can all carry the virus from one horse to another. Even humans can unintentionally act as mechanical carriers, spreading the virus on their hands, clothing, or boots.
To protect your horses and the broader Texas equine community, the TDA recommends the following immediate steps:
- Isolate any horse that attended the Waco event for at least 14 days from other equines, or until cleared by a veterinarian.
- Suspend hauling, showing, or mixing horses from the exposure group until further notice. Avoid taking exposed horses to other barns or events.
- Disinfect trailers, wash-racks, cross-ties, tie-areas, tack rooms, buckets, grooming tools, and any shared equipment. Use an appropriate virucidal disinfectant.
- Avoid sharing tack, halters, grooming equipment, buckets, water hoses, etc., between exposed and unexposed horses.
- Monitor temperatures twice daily for all exposed horses and report any fever (≥101.5 °F) or other signs to a veterinarian immediately.
- If any horse exhibits neurologic signs, coughing, or nasal discharge, isolate it immediately, wear protective gear, and call your veterinarian.
- Keep accurate records: track which horses were present at events, their movement, and who handled them for contact tracing if needed.
- Stay in contact with your local veterinarian and keep up to date on updates from state veterinary authorities.
“I’m asking every local horse rider, roper, trainer, and breeder to do their part today,” Commissioner Miller added. “Check your horses twice a day, isolate any exposed animals, tighten up your biosecurity, and call your vet the moment something looks off. If we work together and take this seriously, we can get ahead of this outbreak and keep our horses and our state’s $12.3 billion equine industry safe.”
Abbott Calls for Criminal Investigations Into Sharia Courts
November 20, 2025 – Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is urging law enforcement officials to launch criminal investigations into reports that unauthorized sharia-based tribunals are operating in North Texas. The governor’s directive follows claims that an organization known as the “Islamic Tribunal” has been conducting dispute-resolution proceedings in Collin and Dallas counties while presenting itself as a legitimate judicial body.
In a letter sent to local district attorneys, county sheriffs, the Texas attorney general, and the Department of Public Safety, Abbott warned that certain groups may be “masquerading as legal ‘courts’ staffed with ‘judges’ issuing orders” under the guise of Islamic law. He emphasized that although the First Amendment allows religious institutions broad freedom to address internal theological or ecclesiastical matters, that freedom does not include the authority to operate as a parallel legal system or issue rulings that purport to carry civil or criminal force.
Abbott’s concern centers particularly on the Islamic Tribunal’s claims that it handles a wide array of disputes in the Dallas area and that it purportedly has “the approval of the Texas Judicial system.” According to Abbott, these assertions are inaccurate and potentially unlawful. He stressed that no private body may claim judicial authority or issue binding decisions outside the framework of state and federal law.
The governor’s letter underscores that Texas courts must adhere to American legal principles, including due process protections, and cannot be supplanted by religious tribunals. “Legal disputes in Texas must be decided based on American law rooted in the fundamental principles of American due process, not according to Sharia law dispensed in modern day star chambers,” Abbott wrote.
The directive calls on authorities to determine whether any entity is falsely presenting itself as a court or violating statutes related to the unauthorized practice of law. The investigations, if pursued, could clarify the boundaries between permissible religious mediation and illegal attempts to replicate judicial functions within the state.
Texas Seeks Payment for Biden Era Immigration Expenses
November 19, 2025 – Texas’ Republican congressional delegation is pressing federal agencies to release more than $11 billion they say was earmarked to reimburse the state for border security costs incurred during the Biden administration. In a letter sent this week, the lawmakers argue that Texas bore an outsized financial burden responding to what they describe as unchecked illegal immigration and escalating drug trafficking along the southern border.
According to the delegation, Texas deployed thousands of state law enforcement officers, expanded National Guard operations, built physical barriers, and launched multi-agency interdiction efforts to stem the flow of migrants and narcotics. They maintain that these actions filled an enforcement gap left by federal authorities and therefore qualify for reimbursement under funding included in the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill.
The lawmakers say the bill specifically sets aside funds to repay Texas for money spent “protecting Americans” during the previous administration, and they contend that failure to release the funds would amount to ignoring both congressional intent and the state’s urgent financial needs. They also warn that without reimbursement, Texas could face significant strain as it continues to operate large-scale border enforcement initiatives.
Federal agencies have not publicly indicated when or whether the requested funds will be distributed, setting up a potential clash over how border security responsibilities—and costs—should be divided between state and federal governments.
Texas Governor Abbott Labels CAIR and Muslim Brotherhood ‘Foreign Terrorist Organizations’
November 19, 2025 – Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced on November 18, 2025, that he is designating the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as “foreign terrorist organizations” and transnational criminal organizations. Under a newly enacted state law (Senate Bill 17), the move bans both groups from buying or acquiring real estate in Texas.
Abbott said the organizations pose a threat to the state, accusing them of trying “to forcibly impose Sharia law and establish Islam’s ‘mastership of the world.’” He directed the Texas attorney general to investigate any property transactions tied to the groups and, if necessary, pursue court orders to force divestment or impose civil penalties as high as 50 percent of a property’s market value.
The proclamation cites long-standing concerns about national security. Abbott points to documented links between former CAIR figures and the now-defunct Holy Land Foundation — a charity that was prosecuted and convicted for financing Hamas.
CAIR strongly rejected the designation, calling it a “publicity stunt” rooted in conspiracy theories and anti-Muslim bias. The group threatened legal action, insisting the move has no basis in U.S. law.
Critics also note that federal law, not state law, typically governs the formal designation of foreign terrorist organizations. Under U.S. law, only the Secretary of State can make that call — and neither CAIR nor the Muslim Brotherhood is currently listed on the U.S. State Department’s official list of terrorist organizations.
This action from Abbott comes amid increased scrutiny of Muslim-led initiatives in Texas. Among the flashpoints is a planned community near Dallas, formerly called EPIC City (now rebranded as The Meadow), which some state officials have criticized as an attempt to create an Islamic enclave.
As legal challenges loom and activists raise serious First Amendment concerns, the move by Abbott is shaping up to be a highly contested battle over property rights, religious freedom, and state-level power.
Texas Braces for Flooding Threat as Heavy Rains Target Central and Southern Regions
November 19, 2025 – Texas is preparing for several rounds of heavy rainfall over the next week, raising concerns for potential flooding across parts of the state. Meteorologists warn that a slow-moving storm system will interact with deep Gulf moisture, producing clusters of thunderstorms capable of dropping significant rainfall in a short period of time.
The highest threat is expected in south-central and central Texas, particularly along the Interstate-35 corridor from San Antonio to Austin. Rainfall totals in these areas may reach 1 to 3 inches, with localized pockets receiving up to 6 inches if storms repeatedly track over the same locations. The Hill Country and Edwards Plateau are considered especially vulnerable due to steep terrain and rapid runoff, which can overwhelm creeks, streams, and low-water crossings.
Urban centers, including the San Antonio–Austin metro area, may experience flash flooding in poor-drainage zones, low-lying neighborhoods, and roadways prone to ponding. Officials caution that rapidly rising water levels could make travel hazardous, urging residents to check forecasts frequently and avoid driving through flooded roads.
Impact on Southern Texas
Southern portions of the state may also see heavy rainfall as deep tropical moisture moves inland. Thunderstorms may train over the same areas, increasing the chance of flash flooding in both rural and urban communities. Low-water crossings, especially common in southern and central Texas, are expected to be among the first areas affected.
Flooding Concerns for Hopkins County
While the most intense rainfall is forecast farther south, Hopkins County in northeast Texas is not completely in the clear. Scattered storms are expected throughout the week, and although totals may be lower than in central Texas, brief periods of heavy rain could still trigger localized flooding—particularly in low-lying areas near small creeks, farm roads with poor drainage, and rural crossings west and south of Sulphur Springs.
Residents are advised to remain alert, especially during overnight storms, and to monitor local forecasts for any sudden changes.
A&M CEA Mario Villarino Visited on A Second Cup Of Coffee to Discuss the NETBIO Annual Meeting November 21st
November 19, 2025 – Texas A&M AgriLife Hopkins County Extension Agent Mario Villarino-Gutierrez visited on KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey to talk about the next NETBIO Annual Meeting taking place November 21st, 2025, at 12:00pm, at the Sale Barn in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Mario and John Mark also chatted about the beef industry and it’s future, the dairy industry, and much more. Be sure to check out this interesting episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey.
Traveling For Thanksgiving? Here’s Your Outlook
November 18, 2025 – Thanksgiving travel in Texas is expected to be unusually busy this year, with 5.8 million Texans projected to journey 50 miles or more from home over the holiday period, according to AAA Texas. That number marks a modest but meaningful increase from 2024, signaling high holiday travel demand in the Lone Star State.
Nearly 90% of those travelers plan to drive, with AAA estimating that 5.3 million motorists will hit the highways. On the air-travel front, 328,000 Texans are expected to fly, while about 140,000 may take other modes of transport like buses or trains.
Despite the surge in travel, gas prices provide a silver lining: drivers in Texas will pay around $2.61 per gallon, roughly in line with last year. AAA is urging travelers to plan ahead, calling out Wednesday, November 27, as one of the most congested days as commuters mix with holiday road trippers.
Safety warnings are also in play. AAA is reminding holiday drivers to plan for extra travel time, avoid impaired driving, and take advantage of roadside assistance—expecting thousands of calls for help during the busy travel stretch.
Commissioner Miller Proudly Announces $150,000 Donation by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to the STAR Fund
The donation bolsters relief efforts to support central Texas producers
November 18, 2025 – AUSTIN – Commissioner of Agriculture Sid Miller recently announced a generous $150,000 donation by the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to the State of Texas Agriculture Relief (STAR) Fund to bolster ongoing relief efforts for the central Texas agriculture community impacted by the tragic July flooding. STAR Fund applications are still being accepted and will close on November 30th. The donation is part of a larger $500,000 total that the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has donated for flood recovery efforts in the Texas Hill Country.
“Beyond the heartbreaking loss of life, this disaster also tore through our farms, ranches, and rural communities across Central Texas,” Commissioner Miller said. “I thank the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo for their fundraising efforts and generous $150,000 donation to the STAR Fund. This demonstrates their strong commitment to helping the community of Central Texas. The STAR Fund stands ready to assist producers in their effort to rebuild vital agricultural infrastructure lost in the devastating July flooding.
The STAR Fund (State of Texas Agriculture Relief Fund), funded by private donations without cost to the taxpayer, supports disaster recovery for eligible farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses with rebuilding and relief needs. STAR Fund grants will be available to eligible agriculture operations for rebuilding fence lines, repairing barns, replacing equipment, and restoring lost forage and feed supplies.
“As the world’s largest livestock show and rodeo, we understand the responsibility we have to stand with our neighbors in times of crisis,” said Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo President and CEO Chris Boleman. “Thousands of people were impacted by the floods, many of whom are exhibitors at our annual event and critical to the agriculture and livestock industries. By supporting these organizations and their projects, we’re helping ensure they can continue their important work and focus on the future.”
To qualify, a business must be in a county listed in the Texas Governor’s disaster declaration, including counties Bandera, Bexar, Burnet, Caldwell, Coke, Comal, Concho, Edwards, Gillespie, Guadalupe, Hamilton, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Lampasas, Llano, Mason, Maverick, McCulloch, Menard, Real, Reeves, San Saba, Schleicher, Sutton, Tom Green, Travis, Uvalde, and Williamson.
“We recognize the impact this disaster has had on families, farms, and programs vital to the Hill Country, which is why the Rodeo has chosen to support these organizations,” said Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Chairman of the Board Pat Mann Phillips. “We are also humbled by the courage of our volunteers, who stepped in without hesitation, risking their own safety, and giving their time and resources to help those in need. Their selflessness reflects the heart of our organization.”
This past summer, flooding swept across Central Texas, unleashing catastrophic damage caused by rapid floodwaters sweeping across ranches and crop fields, and infrastructure was destroyed or severely damaged. Months later, producers are still struggling to rebuild vital production infrastructure.
“When disaster strikes our agriculture backbone, the STAR Fund is here to lend a helping hand,” Commissioner Miller added. “Time is running out. I urge all eligible producers who faced agricultural infrastructure damage to apply. I also invite individuals, businesses, and organizations across Texas to donate, because our rural and farming neighbors still need our support.”
Eligible producers in countries affected by the July 4th floods may visit the TDA website for eligibility criteria and application forms. The deadline for applications is November 30th at midnight. To apply, visit the STAR Fund website.
Health Care Foundation’s Annual Snowflake Campaign Kicks Off
November 17, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, TX – It is not too early to think of snowflakes and the holiday season! November is the month that the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation kicks off its annual Snowflake Campaign. The Snowflake mailer was recently mailed and the website is available to accept donations.
The community is invited to pay tribute to friends and family members with a gift in their honor or memory. The Foundation will then send a notification to the honorees or designated contact to make them aware of the gift.
In addition, an intricate snowflake bearing the name of the individual being recognized is displayed in the main lobby of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. It won’t be long before the foyer will be filled with snowflakes on the windows and twinkling with lights on the Christmas tree.
This end-of-year holiday campaign began as one of the first offerings of the Foundation. Originally, donors sponsored lights on the hospital’s Christmas tree to recognize friends and loved ones. The concept was later altered to be outdoor luminaires displayed in the Gardens at Memorial. A few years ago, the snowflakes became the symbol of the campaign.
The hospital lobby is the perfect place to recognize those we hold dear. The area is filled with an elaborately decorated Christmas tree that stands tall as guests are welcomed to the hospital. Snowflakes add to the scene by alighting on the outside windows as well as the Johnnie Masters Gift Shop. It is a breathtaking scene to behold!
The recommended donation for each person honored is $25 or more. Recognition of individuals makes a lovely seasonal gift. It is a great way to tell someone they are thought of during the holiday season and a wonderful way to pay tribute to a deceased friend or loved one.
Donations may be mailed to the Foundation or made online at the Foundation’s webpage. Please include contact information for the donor as well as the individuals to whom an acknowledgment of the recognition should be sent. Additional information to includes the name(s) of the individual(s) to be added to the snowflakes as well as if the gift is in honor of or memory of the person.
The Foundation’s Snowflake Campaign website can be found at Snowflake2025.GiveSmart.com. The
Hopkins County Health Care Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) 3 not-for-profit organization.
As the Foundation has been taking a walk down memory lane due to the upcoming 20 th anniversary of the Gala, it is appropriate to share a few throwback photos of the annual Christmas Campaign, starting with the Lights of Life kickoff held outdoors in 2008.
The annual celebration was held in the newly funded Gardens at Memorial and centered around the Christmas tree. This was a wonderful outdoor celebration to start the holiday season for many years from 2008 until 2021.
The CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs lobby is awaiting the installation of its Christmas tree. Soon after, the snowflakes will start to adorn the windows as the holiday season is ushered in. To learn more or participate in the Snowflake Campaign, visit Snowflake2025.GiveSmart.com.
To recognize a friend or loved one with a snowflake, visit Snowflake2025.Givesmart.com.
The 2025 United Way Workers met up at the Campaign Thermometer November 13th to Celebrate Going Over Their Goal
November 16, 2025 – The 2025-2026 Hopkins County United Way workers met up at the Campaign Thermometer November 13th, 2025, to celebrate one last time for going over their goal. This is the Hopkins County United Way’s 70th year of raising funds for very important and needy organizations. Their original goal for this year was set at a high $170,000.00. Not only did they reach this goal, they have gone above it, with donations still coming in. As of last week the Campaign Total was $182,079.00, with more to come!
Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this celebration and photo opp at the Campaign Thermometer located on Gilmer Street in Sulphur Springs, Texas. There’s still time to donate. For more details, go to www.hcuw.org. KSST, Cable Channel 18, and ksstradio.com thank the Hopkins County United Way, and congratulate them on reaching beyond their goal, and thank you, Hopkins County, for making this possible.
