State Fair of Texas Announces Safety and Security Measures for 2024
By STATE FAIR OF TEXAS |
The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest annual events in the world – attracting more than 2.3 million people in 2023 and bringing an estimated economic impact of nearly $500 million dollars to North Texas every fall. The State Fair of Texas engages leading security experts in the industry to ensure the safety of our patrons, vendors, and staff. We are constantly evaluating our security plan with the Dallas Police Department (DPD) and the Fair’s other security partners to adopt the most up-to-date recommended security practices for special events of our size and regularly implement additional measures to increase our effectiveness. As a private not-for-profit organization, the State Fair is introducing several additions to the comprehensive safety and security plan for our largest community program and fundraising event – the 2024 State Fair of Texas – including a new bag policy, redesigned pedestrian entry gates, updates to the weapons policy, a State Fair Command Center, and more.
NEW, ENHANCED, AND RETURNING SECURITY PROTOCOLS FOR THE 2024 STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
NEW:
- BAG POLICY
- To continue providing a safe environment for the public and help expedite fairgoers’ entry into the fairgrounds, starting in 2024, the State Fair is implementing A POLICY THAT LIMITS THE SIZE OF BAGS that may be brought into the State Fair. Exceptions to this policy will be made for medical bags and parenting bags after proper inspection. Before attending the Fair, fairgoers are encouraged to visit BigTex.com for additional specific guidelines.
- Approved Bags – The following bags are permitted:
- Bags and soft-shell coolers that are 9 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches (9” x 10” x 12”) or smaller are allowed.
- Medical bags and parenting/childcare bags are allowed.
- These medical and parenting/childcare bags do not have to be 9” x 10” x 12” or smaller but will be searched at all entry gates.
- Medical bags containing medically necessary items, including but not limited to insulin, medication, portable oxygen, small soft pack coolers, and breast pumps.
- Soft-Shell Coolers that are 9 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches or smaller are allowed.
- Coolers must use ice packs or clear bagged ice. Loose ice is no longer allowed, to aid in more efficient search of coolers by security.
- All permitted bags are subject to search.
- There are no lockers or bag checks at the State Fair. Guests with a prohibited bag or item must return it to their vehicle or discard it properly. Prohibited items can NOT be held by security, staff, or volunteers.
- STATE FAIR COMMAND CENTER
- New this year, the State Fair of Texas has invested in a 24/7 State Fair Command Center which will serve as a central hub for operational communications and where event oversight, incident notification, tracking, and resolution will occur. The Center will have in-person representation from State Fair operations, public safety and allied agencies depending on the level of activation. State Fair Command will be operational 24 hours a day for the 24-day run of State Fair and will be led by the recently retired director of the City of Dallas Office of Emergency Management, Rocky Vaz.
- REDESIGNED PEDESTRIAN GATE ENTRY LAYOUT
- As fairgoers arrive, they will see signage advising them on what to expect when they are screened. This includes information about prohibited items, our guest code of conduct, and that all bags/wagons/coolers are subject to search. Guests will be channeled through weapons detection technology, which screens for dangerous weapons in the presence of a licensed and trained security officer. This redesign is to ensure safe entry for all guests in alignment with the Fair’s safety protocols. In addition, the security screening process will be recorded to confirm that security personnel follow best practices.
- New this year, Texas-themed identifiers will be placed at key pedestrian entry points. These identifiers will help guests safely return to their cars after their visit.
ENHANCED:
- WEAPONS POLICY
- As a private not-for-profit organization, the State Fair of Texas prohibits fairgoers from carrying all firearms, knives that are prohibited according to state law, clubs, explosive devices, ammunition, chemical dispensing devices, replicas or hoaxes, or other weapons of any kind. This includes Holders of a License to Carry, Constitutional Carry, Concealed Carry, and the Open Carry of firearms anywhere on the fairgrounds including Cotton Bowl Stadium. This policy does not apply to current peace officers or qualified retired peace officers in accordance with state law. Peace officers’ credentials will be verified by Dallas Police Department officers during the screening process.
- GUEST CODE OF CONDUCT.
- Introduced last year, the Guest Code of Conduct will be posted at each pedestrian entry gate. Guests should read this before purchasing admission tickets and entering the fairgrounds. By entering the fairgrounds, you agree to abide by the Code of Conduct.
RETURNING:
- STATE FAIR SAFETY TEAM
- As an added layer of safety, the State Fair of Texas introduced the STATE FAIR SAFETY TEAM to the Fair a few years ago. The Safety Team is made up of retired police officers and works closely with the Dallas Police Department to ensure a safe environment during the State Fair. In addition, the State Fair Safety Team serves as State Fair ambassadors, assisting fairgoers during their visit to the State Fair – as an extension of our regular guest services operations.
- CEIA OPENGATE® WEAPONS DETECTION SYSTEM.
- The State Fair will continue to have this state-of-the-art technology at each pedestrian entry gate. OPENGATE, manufactured by CEIA, is a weapons detection system designed for automatic screening of people in transit. All fairgoers will walk through this weapons detection system as they enter the Fair.
- OPENGATE is used at several other local sporting and entertainment venues, including American Airlines Center, Dos Equis Pavilion, Toyota Music Factory, The CJ CUP Byron Nelson and Bass Performance Hall, as well as several local Independent School Districts – Arlington, HEB, Richardson, and Sherman – and other venues outside of DFW like, the Indianapolis 500, PGA Tour events, and many others.
- The State Fair will continue to have this state-of-the-art technology at each pedestrian entry gate. OPENGATE, manufactured by CEIA, is a weapons detection system designed for automatic screening of people in transit. All fairgoers will walk through this weapons detection system as they enter the Fair.
- “AFTER 5 P.M. MINORS POLICY”
- IMPLEMENTED IN 2023 AND WILL CONTINUE THIS YEAR. During the 2024 State Fair of Texas, starting at 5:00 p.m. daily, all minors, age 17 and under, must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone (21+) when entering the Fair. Parents, guardians, or chaperones may accompany no more than six (6) minors 17 years of age and under. The State Fair will require all accompanying parents, guardians, and chaperones (21+) to present a valid ID upon entry starting at 5:00 p.m. daily. Once inside the fairgrounds, the parent, guardian, or chaperone is not required to remain with the minors; however, the State Fair encourages that they stay in communication with each other and be aware of their location on the fairgrounds during their visit.
- MASS NOTIFICATION SYSTEM
- This system is in place to notify people throughout the fairgrounds of inclement weather or other potential critical incidents. If you hear an alert coming from the fairgrounds sound system during your visit, please take it seriously, listen carefully, and follow the prompts.
Additional safety tips for planning your visit to this year’s State Fair:
- WE ARE LARGELY AN OUTDOOR EVENT. Approximately 80% of the State Fair is held in outdoor settings. Please be aware of the weather forecast and come prepared. Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast while visiting and listen for any inclement weather alerts on the sound systems or from officials and staff.
- As we do every year, we ask that everyone be “FAIR AWARE.” If you see something that doesn’t look right on the fairgrounds, say something. Tell a member of law enforcement, a State Fair Safety Team member, or anyone wearing an official State Fair polo. Let’s all do our part to keep the Fair safe.
- IF YOU ARE HOPING TO ATTEND WHEN THERE ARE LESS PEOPLE ON THE FAIRGROUNDS, consider attending on a weekday instead of a weekend. Weekdays are traditionally much less crowded than weekends and attending on a weekday provides you with many discounted admission offers. Visit BigTex.com/Discounts to see the full list of available discounts. In addition, Opening Weekend is historically less crowded than future weekends.
- PLEASE USE HAND SANITIZER AND WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY. We will have hundreds of hand sanitizing stations placed throughout the fairgrounds for public use. There will also be hand sanitizing stations placed throughout the barns and livestock areas, where it is especially important to wash your hands after visiting the animals.
ANIMAL SAFETY
- OFFICIAL STATE FAIR OF TEXAS VETERINARIAN
- The State Fair of Texas maintains an official veterinarian on-site for the duration of the Fair, including all livestock events, to consult, develop, and implement the Fair’s animal health and welfare plan.
- ONGOING ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING FOR ANIMAL SAFETY
- The State Fair coordinates with the Texas Animal Health Commission to determine animal health requirements on an ongoing basis.
- The State Fair has already adjusted the requirements for animals arriving at 2024 competitions in response to current animal health concerns.
- The State Fair communicates directly with livestock exhibitors to ensure the health and safety of both the animals and people.
FOOD SAFETY
- CITY OF DALLAS CODE COMPLIANCE INSPECTIONS
- Every State Fair food booth undergoes and must pass a Dallas Health Department inspection to be operational.
- One notable exception is that State Fair of Texas vendors are often visited more frequently to ensure food safety standards. In addition to check-in, before the State Fair begins, concessionaires will be visited four more times for an inspection throughout the 24-day event.
- In 2023, more than 900 food inspections were completed.
- INDEPENDENT INSPECTORS
- The State Fair goes above and beyond the required standards for food safety. We hire a third- party company with independent inspectors to complete additional inspections daily. Food vendors do not know when they will be inspected, and reports are reviewed by the State Fair food and beverage team daily to ensure food quality and safety.
FOOTBALL
As it relates to ICONIC COLLEGE FOOTBALL GAMES in Cotton Bowl Stadium during the State Fair of Texas, we are excited to welcome back our longstanding traditions, starting with the STATE FAIR CLASSIC between the Grambling State University Tigers and Prairie View A&M University Panthers for another exciting matchup and Battle of the Bands during halftime on Opening Saturday, September 28 – kicking off at 6:00 P.M. The ALLSTATE RED RIVER RIVALRY between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the University of Texas Longhorns returns for the 95th consecutive neutral site showdown with a 2:30 P.M. kickoff in Cotton Bowl Stadium on Saturday, October 12. As of 2024, these two esteemed schools are now housed under the NCAA Southeastern Conference (SEC), making for an even more anticipated and iconic matchup. Due to the historically large crowds, the State Fair will likely open early for the Red River Rivalry to allow fans plenty of time to enjoy the State Fair and make it to their seats inside Cotton Bowl Stadium. More details will be revealed closer to game day.
- Cotton Bowl Stadium follows NFL policy as it pertains to clear bag admittance. If you are attending a game in the Cotton Bowl, please visit BigTex.com/Football to see details on the CLEAR BAG POLICY and what is permitted and prohibited inside the stadium.
- A FAN CODE OF CONDUCT will be in place for games held inside Cotton Bowl Stadium during the State Fair. All patrons shall comply with sportsmanship principles outlined in the NCAA Constitution, Article 1, C and SEC Bylaw, Article 10. Guest conduct is expected to be respectful prior to, during, and after each competition. By entering Cotton Bowl Stadium, you are agreeing to abide by the Fan Code of Conduct.
RIDE SAFETY
- INDEPENDENT MIDWAY
- We operate an “Independent Midway,” meaning we do not just hire one ride operator to bring in all the rides. Running an independent midway is very rare in this industry because of the amount of work that goes into it; however, we have found it to be very beneficial for our model. We utilize many different operators, meaning each operator may have only one or a handful of rides on our Midway. This allows us to hand-pick the rides that we bring to the State Fair of Texas and bring the best attractions to our event for our fairgoers.
- NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING (OR NDT)
- Testing is completed prior to the State Fair as a manufacturer’s requirement. The ride owner is responsible for completing the non-destructive testing process and providing us with the results. Then our independent safety inspectors review those results.
- INDEPENDENT INSPECTORS
- The State Fair of Texas contracts independent inspectors to inspect all rides prior to Opening Day and then continue to inspect groups of rides daily throughout the Fair. We require weekly safety meetings with all ride operators.
We are proud to create a family-friendly environment where visitors of all ages can come together to celebrate all things Texan at the Most Texan Place on Earth. The State Fair of Texas spent nearly $6.7 million on safety and security measures for the 2023 State Fair.
“The safety of our fairgoers, employees, and vendors remains the Fair’s number one priority. We are committed to providing a safe and welcoming experience for every single person who attends our annual celebration of Texas,” said Jaime Navarro, chief operating officer for the State Fair of Texas. “Comparable policies are in place industry-wide, and the State Fair of Texas believes these policy additions will further enhance our existing safety and security protocols.”
For more information on State Fair of Texas policies and other general frequently asked questions, please visit BigTex.com/KnowBeforeYouGo. We look forward to welcoming guests back to the Most Texan Place on Earth for the 2024 State Fair of Texas taking place at Fair Park in Dallas from Friday, September 27 through Sunday, October 20.
Governor Abbott Issues Executive Order Requiring Texas Hospitals To Collect, Report Healthcare Costs For Illegal Immigrants
August 8, 2024 | Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order directing the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to collect information on illegal immigrants who use Texas public hospitals for inpatient and emergency care and to report incurred healthcare costs due to the Biden-Harris Administration’s reckless open border policies. HHSC will also be required to report annually to the Governor and Texas Legislature all inpatient and emergency care costs for illegal immigrants so the State of Texas can seek reimbursement from the federal government.
“Due to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’ open border policies, Texas has had to foot the bill for medical costs for individuals illegally in the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans should not have to shoulder the burden of financially supporting medical care for illegal immigrants. That is why today I issued an Executive Order requiring the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to collect and report healthcare costs for illegal immigrants in our state. Texas will hold the Biden-Harris Administration accountable for the consequences of their open border policies, and we will fight to ensure that they pay back Texas for their costly and dangerous policies.”
At the Governor’s direction, HHSC will immediately begin to:
- Direct hospitals and additional identified providers to collect information regarding the cost of medical care provided to illegal immigrants, beginning by November 1, 2024.
- Direct covered hospitals to report such data to HHSC quarterly, with initial submissions due March 1, 2025.
- Direct those hospitals to inform the patient that federal law mandates that any response to such questions will not affect patient care.
- Report annually, beginning on January 1, 2026, to the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House on the preceding year’s costs for medical care provided to illegal immigrants.
Kennedy Application for Texas Ballot Accepted
August 9, 2024 – AUSTIN — The Office of the Texas Secretary of State sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding his application for a place on the Texas ballot for president.
The letter states: “After review, your application has been accepted. Your name will appear on the ballot for the 2024 General Election as an Independent candidate for the Office of President of the United States. Nicole Shanahan will also appear on the ballot as the Vice-Presidential candidate.
George Washington is the only U.S. president elected as an independent to date.
“State law requires an independent candidate for president in 2024 to submit a petition with 113,151 signatures from Texans who are both registered to vote and did not vote in the March Primary Elections. Mr. Kennedy’s petition contained 122,513 valid signatures.
Back to School: CHRISTUS Health Stresses Importance of Immunizations
August 8, 2024 – (EAST TEXAS) – As students prepare to head back to classrooms, CHRISTUS Health is stressing the importance of immunizations and physical exams for a healthy start to a new school year.
Texas law requires children to be vaccinated against several diseases before attending school, including MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), hepatitis B, and DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis), among others. Although there are exemptions, Texas Health and Human Services encourages parents to vaccinate their children according to age-appropriate immunization timelines.
“Immunizations are very important — their importance cannot be overstated,” said Don Roseberry, physician assistant – certified with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. “Not only do they reduce the length and severity of illness when we contract them, but they also are shown to decrease death rates for diseases.”
Roseberry said when students return to school, they are exposed to other children and to whatever illnesses those children have been exposed to.
It is recommended that parents who have questions about their child’s immunization records contact their local health care provider or reach out to their school nurse for guidance.
“Most children entering a school setting will already have had a series of vaccines addressed by their pediatricians or family doctors before getting to school,” Roseberry said. “If not, the Centers for Disease Control does have a ‘catchup’ schedule that can be used to bring a child up to date.”
Roseberry said physical exams and a healthy diet also are important before the new school year begins and encourages parents and students to adjust their sleep schedule ahead of the new school year.
The Sleep Foundation recommends school age kids get between 9 and 12 hours of sleep a day, while teenagers should get a recommended 8 to 10 hours.
“Kids should have a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables to provide adequate energy for the day, make sure to stay hydrated and aim for a healthy amount of sleep,” he said. “These are basic things that can really help the body stay healthy.”
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Chamber Connection – August 7, 2024
By Butch Burney
The anticipation has been growing and now it is time for the actual preparation. We are looking forward to a fantastic 55th Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest on Oct. 26, and it’s time for stew cooks to start registering.
Registration for last year’s cooks are going out in the mail and email this week, so be looking for it in your mailbox and inbox. You can also register online at HopkinsChamber.org/stewcooks.
We are keeping the registration fee the same as in past years at $100 per stew site, with the sponsor asked to provide $150 to each cooking team for ingredients.
If you have been a Stew Cook in the past, we look forward to seeing you again and tasting your delicious stew. If you have won the contest in the past, you are eligible to enter the Super Stew competition.
Each returning stew team will have the option of keeping their 2023 site. These sites will be reserved until Monday, September 30, and then on Tuesday, October 1, the “unclaimed” stew sites will be open to “new cooks” and to returning cooks who would like a new site location. After Sept. 30, all sites will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. As in 2023, we will have sites open on both the north and the south side of Connally Street, where we will have a serving tent and market vendors.
New Cooks
We will have a Stewcomers meeting at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 15 for any new cooks or those who are thinking about entering. You can get all the information you need to start planning for the largest annual single-day event in Hopkins County.
If you need more information, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
The theme for this year’s stew contest is Stewper Heroes, and we would love for you to participate and be a Stewper Hero!
Adult Leadership
Even if you think you know Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County, you are sure to learn a lot through Leadership Sulphur Springs, which is back on this year, with applications online!
The leadership class is for Hopkins County men and women who want to learn and become more invested in their local community. It’s an intensive nine-month program that immerses the participants in the business and government of Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County.
The tentative dates for this year’s program are attached to the application, which can be accessed at HopkinsChamber.org.
You can also have an application mailed to you by emailing me at [email protected]. The deadline is Aug. 9, so get your information in as soon as possible.
The registration fee is $500 and that covers the cost of the food, drinks, transportation, etc. for the year.
Lunch and Learn
Wind energy will be the topic for the Chamber’s Lunch and Learn on Sept. 11, featuring Apex Clean Energy. The energy company is anticipating investing in wind turbines in the western part of Hopkins County.
The Lunch and Learn will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, at The Grays Building in Pacific Park. Those in attendance will get a meal and information on the project, as well as the opportunity to ask questions.
To RSVP for the event, message [email protected] or call 903-885-6515.
Cocktails and Conversation
Join us for our main networking monthly event when Beauty Grace Lifestyle Shop hosts our Cocktails and Conversation on Thursday, Sept. 5, at the store on Connally Street.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend. It is free to everyone, and a prime time to make friends and contacts.
Please make plans to attend to enjoy some cocktails, snacks and great conversation.
Quilt Show
The Lone Star Heritage Quilt Show is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 20-21 at the ROC on Putman Street. Numerous projects will be on display, and one special quilt will be up for raffle during the event. If you’re interested in entering your own quilt project, those arrangements must be made by July 31. To request entry, email [email protected].
Missing Migrant Program: key to locating lost mother and child
FRONTON, Texas – Rio Grande Valley Sector Missing Migrant Program placards were successful in leading agents to the location of a lost migrant mother and child that were lost in a remote ranchland, rescuing them from the harsh elements that can be very dangerous for migrants that have been abandoned by their smugglers.
On August 7, 2024, at about 1:50 a.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the Rio Grande City Station were alerted about a lost mother and child around Fronton, Texas. The mother had called 911 emergency services for assistance and advised the operator she needed help and was standing near a metal sign that read “Auxilio 911” (Help 911) with a green cross. This sign was deployed by the RGV Sector Missing Migrant Program and was catalogued with location coordinates for agents to respond to the exact location. Agents responded to the location and located the mother and her child. Both mother and child were evaluated by emergency medical technicians before being transported to a local Border Patrol station.
“Great work by all involved in this humanitarian response”, said RGV Chief Patrol Agent Gloria I. Chavez, “This rescue of a mother and child highlights the importance of the humanitarian efforts that the Rio Grande Valley Sector through, its Missing Migrant Program, have invested in to save human lives”.
SEN. CRUZ APPLAUDS SENATE’S UNANIMOUS PASSAGE OF THE JUDGES ACT
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Sens. Todd Young (R-Ind.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) in applauding the Senate’s unanimous passage of the Judicial Understaffing Delays Getting Emergencies Solved (JUDGES) Act of 2024. The JUDGES Act would address judicial emergencies and shortages across the country by increasing the number of federal district judges in the most overworked regions of the country.
The bipartisan legislation will now head to the House of Representatives for consideration.
Upon passage, Sen. Cruz said, “Congress has failed in its responsibility to authorize sufficient judgeships and resources for the judicial branch, particularly in America’s fastest-growing communities like Texas. As a result, federal judges in Texas have been disproportionately burdened with crushing caseloads and excessive backlogs, hindering the efficiency and effectiveness of our judicial system. It’s our constitutional duty to ensure that these judicial shortages no longer restrict any American’s access to justice. I am proud that my colleagues in the Senate have unanimously recognized the severity of these consequences, and I urge my colleagues in the House to do the same by passing this legislation.”
Sen. Cruz was joined by Sens. James Lankford (R-Okla.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), and Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.) in co-sponsoring the legislation.
BACKGROUND
Courts across the country are overburdened and facing a shortage of federal judges. As of March 31, 2023, there were 686,797 pending cases in federal district courts across the country, averaging 491 filings per judgeship over a 12-month period. In March of 2023, the Judicial Conference of the United States, a nonpartisan policy-making body for federal courts, recommended that Congress create 66 new district court judgeships to help alleviate this crisis.
The JUDGES Act would install 13 new district judges in Texas, in all four judicial districts over the next 12 years. It would also allow federal judges to hear cases in College Station, improving judicial access in the College Station/Bryan area.
Governor Abbott Deploys State Firefighting Resources As Wildfire Threat Increases
August 7, 2024 – Governor Greg Abbott this week announced that he has deployed state firefighting resources across the state as wildfire threats increase throughout Texas.
“Texas stands ready to support local officials and communities throughout our great state as the threat of wildfire activity increases in the coming days,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas is deploying more than 200 personnel including firefighters and support staff, as well as tactical resources like fire engines, all-terrain vehicles, and bulldozers to provide on-the-ground assistance. Due to dry vegetation and high temperatures, Texans are urged to limit any activities that may cause a spark and to take all necessary precautions to keep their families and their loved ones safe. I thank the Texas Division of Emergency Management and local emergency management personnel for their diligence to prepare for wildfires in the northern and western regions of our state.”
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, wildfire activity is expected to increase in the northern and western regions of the state due to dry vegetation subjected to multiple days of triple digit temperatures. The Texas A&M Forest Service has raised the Wildland Fire Preparedness Level to Level 2 due to an increase in current and expected wildfire activity across the state. Over the past week, more than 35 wildfires have burned more than 3,000 acres across Texas.
At the Governor’s direction, the following state firefighting resources have been activated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to support wildfire response operations:
- Texas A&M Forest Service: State and local firefighters through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System totaling more than 200 firefighters and support personnel as well as 45 equipment resources such as fire engines, bulldozers, and motor graders; 5 federally-contracted fixed wing firefighting aircraft including a single engine air tanker for retardant drops, two fire bosses for water drops, and two air attack platforms for surveillance and spotting
- Texas National Guard: CH47 Chinook rotary wing helicopter with firefighting capability
- Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Wildland Fire Support Packages including paramedics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
The State of Texas continues to request aircraft assistance from the federal government, but recent requests have not been able to be filled due to lack of aircraft availability.
At Governor Abbott’s direction, the Texas State Emergency Operations Center will begin statewide wildfire coordination calls tomorrow to provide local and state partners with situational awareness and ensure coordination between responders.
Additionally, based on current conditions and the fire weather forecast, Governor Abbott has directed the Texas A&M Forest Service to open the Abilene Air Tanker Base at Abilene Regional Airport to assist state and local responders in wildfire suppression efforts across Texas.
Texans are urged to prepare for wildfire danger by limiting activities that cause sparks, following instructions from local officials, making an emergency plan, and keeping emergency supplies readily available. Texans can visit TexasReady.gov and tfsweb.tamu.edu for wildfire tips and safety information.
Sulphur Springs City Council Member Touts Lithium Extraction Company as City Seeks Lease
August 7, 2024 – The regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council saw the council approving a “brine lease” with a company to extract valuable lithium from the “Thermo Mine” property which is now owned by the City of Sulphur Springs. The move was touted by one council member on social media as he suggested that citizens should do their own due diligence if they are approached for a similar lease. The following post appeared on Place One City Council Member Jay Julian’s personal Facebook page.
“Dear Citizens of Sulphur Springs,
I’m excited to share some significant news from our recent city council meeting on Tuesday night. We have officially approved a brine lease for mineral royalty owned by the City of Sulphur Springs, located at the “Thermo” property. This marks a major step forward in tapping into the lithium resources within the Smackover Formation, which runs through northeast Texas and contains some of the highest concentrations of lithium in the country.
The city council has authorized our city manager to execute a brine lease with Texas Lone Star Brine, LLC. This company will utilize Standard Lithium, LTD’s proprietary Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) process to extract the lithium from the brine. The DLE process is impressive, as it processes the brine in small tanks to remove the lithium, and then pumps the leftover brine water back into the formation, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
As part of my due diligence, I personally visited and toured Standard Lithium, LTD’s DLE facility in El Dorado, Arkansas. I found their process to be exceptionally clean and efficient. The tour included a Q&A session that addressed all my concerns and boosted my confidence in their technology. Moreover, Standard Lithium has substantial backing from major investors, including a $100 million investment from Koch Strategic Platforms.
Currently, several companies are competing for mineral royalties for brine. Among them are Texas Lone Star Brine, LLC (associated with Standard Lithium, LTD.), Black Mountain Lithium, and Bright Star Exploration, LLC. I’ve also heard that a fourth company might be entering the game soon.
While I won’t advise anyone on what they should do, I want to emphasize that a lot of due diligence was done at the city council level. We chose Texas Lone Star Brine, LLC because we believe Standard Lithium, LTD is at the forefront of this new lithium boom, with the best technology and the investment backing to see it through to production.
If you have been approached by a landman attempting to lease your minerals, I strongly suggest doing your own due diligence. For more information, you can follow this link to a Standard Lithium, LTD presentation, with the facility I toured featured on slide thirteen.
Let’s move forward together in this exciting new chapter for our community!“
Julian also shared the following link on his personal Facebook page for more information. https://d1io3yog0oux5.cloudfront.net/…/Standard-Lithium…
Julian did not disclose what monetary compensation this lease may mean for the City of Sulphur Springs, but shared a link to Standard Lithium’s website. Julian mentioned a $100 million investment made from Koch Strategic Partners as a favorable reason that he believed Standard Lithium was a good choice although a recent Barron’s online article showed that Koch Strategic Partners have lost 63% of their investment.
Jay W Julian’s Facebook post began to receive pushback from citizens against this controversial technology of lithium extraction from brine and what it may mean for the environment and neighbors. It will now be up to City Manager Marc Maxwell to continue negotiations with Texas Lone Star Brine, LLC. who has promised to use new technology from Standard Lithium.
2024 Big Tex Choice Awards Finalists Accounced
By STATE FAIR OF TEXAS | It’s crunch time—pun intended—for finalists of the three most iconic food titles in all of Texas. THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS IS PROUD TO PRESENT THE FINALISTS FOR THE 20TH ANNUAL BIG TEX® CHOICE AWARDS. Three winners will be crowned on Thursday, August 22 in the categories of: “BEST TASTE – SAVORY,” “BEST TASTE – SWEET,” and “MOST CREATIVE.” Back in June, a record-breaking 65 entries represented by 40 Fair concessionaires were narrowed down to 24 semi-finalists, with each entry having been evaluated on four Fair-food elements: uniqueness, creativity, presentation, and taste. After testing some tasty dishes, votes were cast, and the results are in. Ten finalists must now bring it on before a prestigious panel of celebrity judges in hopes of taking home one of the top prizes at the Most Texan Place on Earth. Don’t worry – if your favorite semifinalist didn’t make the final cut, many concessionaires may still choose to include their creation at their stand as a new food item at this year’s Fair. Without further ado, the State Fair of Texas is happy to present the 10 finalists who will compete for the coveted titles of “Best Taste – Savory,” “Best Taste – Sweet,” and “Most Creative” in the 2024 Big Tex Choice Awards competition.
SAVORY
DOMINICAN FRITURA DOG, Justin Martinez
This savory dish brings an explosion of flavor that starts with fritura cheese and Dominican salami. Taking classic Fair food up a notch, this dish is then double deep fried with their famous corn dog batter! Split open and topped with garlic plantain chips, top-secret Dominican sauce, and cilantro, the Dominican Fritura Dog will bring you the best of salty and sweet with an explosion of Dominican flavor. “Hopefully, we’re opening another avenue for people at the State Fair to try something they don’t normally try. That’s what the State Fair is about,” said Justin Martinez, creator of the Dominican Fritura Dog.
THE DROWNING TAQUITOS, Tony & Terry Bednar
Served in a cup, these fresh, hand-rolled corn tortillas are stuffed with tender shredded chicken and then deep-fried to perfection. To further encapsulate the savory flavor, the taquitos are then “drowned” with a tangy cream sauce, jalapeño, guacamole salsa, shredded lettuce, avocado, tomatillo, pico, and Cotija cheese.
HIPPIE CHIPS, Rose & Tom Deschenes
These far-out wavy potato chip nachos promise to deliver “every flavor profile” with your choice of either zesty homemade ranch or blue cheese dressing, topped with bacon bits, fresh green onions, and a tangy drizzle of sriracha. You can be extra funky and add blue cheese crumbles if you’re so inclined.
HOT CHICK-IN-PANCAKE POPPERS, Palmer & Amanda Fortune
They’re savory, they’re sweet, and they’re easy to eat. Authentic Nashville hot chicken and pimento cheese are rolled into a ball, dunked into pancake batter, and fried to a golden brown, then topped with a drizzle of Sriracha honey and a sprinkle of Nashville hot powdered sugar.
TEXAS FRIED BURNT END BOMBS, Nick & Vera Bert
These bombs take mouthwatering brisket wrapped with shredded potatoes, bacon, and cheese, deep fry it, and top it with a raspberry chipotle barbeque glaze drizzled to add the perfect touch of sweetness.
SWEET
NEVINS NUTTY BAR-LASKA, Tami Nevins Mayes & Josey Mayes
This sweet treat takes the classic nutty bar and adds toasted marshmallow, two Oreos®, strawberry sauce, and freeze-dried strawberry pieces. “It’s on a stick! What’s more Fair food than that?” said Josey Nevins-Mayes, co-creator of the Nevins Nutty Bar-laska.
ROUSSO’S COTTON CANDY BACON ON A STICK, Isaac Rousso
This masterful combination of sweet and savory flavors comes to life with the Cotton Candy Bacon on a Stick—a thick, 12-inch piece of bacon cooked to perfection with a cotton candy glaze on top. The bacon is spun inside a cotton candy machine and torched to caramelize the center and lock in that sweet flavor.
STRAWBERRY POP-TARTS® BEIGNETTFLE, Justin Martinez
This sweet treat was inspired by the flavors of New Orleans beignets and the childhood nostalgia of Pop-Tarts® and waffles, all put together on a stick because Justin says, “Everything is better on a stick.” The Strawberry Pop-Tarts® Beignetffle is a heavenly combination of a fluffy beignet and a crispy waffle topped with homemade strawberry filling, a sweet vanilla icing drizzle, fresh whipped cream, and garnished with colorful sprinkles.
TEXAS SUGAR RUSH PICKLES, Heather Perkins
These cotton-candy-flavored pickle slices are coated in three cereal varieties—Lucky Charms™, Froot Loops®, and Cap’n Crunch® —and then layered in cotton candy, cotton candy sugar crystals, and powdered sugar before being drizzled with strawberry sundae syrup. As if that wasn’t enough, these dressed-up pickles are served with a helping of vanilla ice cream, adding a perfectly cool touch to this crazy concoction!
TROPICAL TWO-STEP PUNCH, Binh Tran
To give fairgoers a taste of paradise, this punch marinates fruits like citrus, passionfruit, and mango overnight to create a crisp cooler that’s fresh, tangy, sweet, sour, and spicy. Available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, this thirst quencher is sure to help you cool down on a hot day at the Fair.
These 10 Fairly-foodie finalists will battle for the three titles on Thursday, August 22, at 2 p.m. CST. While the Big Tex Choice Awards event is closed to the public, folks can follow along online by tuning into one of our social media channels – @StateFairofTX on all platforms.
The 2024 State Fair of Texas, themed “24 Days of Fun,” will open on Friday, September 27, and will run through Sunday, October 20. Head on over to BigTex.com/Tickets to purchase your season passes and premium tickets today and join us this fall at the Most Texan Place on Earth.
