August 2nd Marked Down Market Boasts Huge Vendor List
July 30, 2025 – Marked Down Market on Saturday, August 2, 2025, in downtown Sulphur Springs brings together a huge roster of vendors from across Northeast Texas. Hosted between Alliance Bank and CNB on Gilmer Street, the event runs from 9 AM to 4 PM CDT. Marked Down Market will be a great opportunity for back-to-school shopping, especially for families looking to stretch their budgets. Expect over 10 boutiques, local artisans,...
TAX-FREE Weekend Coming Soon
July 30, 2025 – In Texas, the annual back-to-school tax‑free weekend is scheduled for August 8–10, 2025. During this three-day period, qualifying purchases like most clothing, footwear, backpacks, and school supplies priced under $100 per item are exempt from both state (6.25%) and local (up to 2%) sales tax. Eligible items include everyday wear, shoes, book bags, and standard school supplies—though high-cost accessories like...
Why Does the US Import So Much ‘Lean Trim’?
July 29, 2025 – The U.S. imports lean beef trim primarily to meet consumer demand for ground beef with specific fat-to-lean ratios—most commonly the 80/20 blend. Domestic cattle, particularly grain-fed steers raised for premium cuts, produce beef with higher fat content. This means U.S. processors often lack enough naturally lean trimmings to blend into ground beef at the desired consistency and price point. To solve this, the...
Area Public School Start Dates for 2025
July 28, 2025 – Public school start dates in the U.S. vary widely, typically falling between late July and early September, depending on the region and district. Southern and Southwestern states, including Texas, generally begin their school year earliest—most students return between August 7 and August 18. In San Antonio, for example, many districts start between August 4–14 for the 2025–26 school year. Northeastern states,...
Cattle Numbers Lowest Since the 70’s
July 28, 2025 – A severe cattle shortage in the United States, the world’s largest beef-producing country, has pushed cattle costs to historic highs, slashing profits for major meatpackers like JBS NV and Tyson Foods Inc. and driving record beef prices at grocery stores. The shortage stems from years of herd reductions by ranchers who struggled with high interest rates, expensive feed, and prolonged drought conditions....
GOP Primary Race for Texas Agriculture Commissioner is Heating Up
July 25, 2025 – The GOP primary race for Texas Agriculture Commissioner is heating up as incumbent Sid Miller faces a challenge from businessman Nate Sheets. Miller, a two-term commissioner known for his outspoken personality and strong support for conservative causes, is leaning on his record of expanding rural broadband, advocating for Texas farmers, and pushing back on federal regulations. He remains a familiar face in Texas...
Governor Abbott Announces 2025 Texas Women’s Hall Of Fame Honorees
July 22, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott recently announced five extraordinary women to be inducted this year into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding achievements and for changing the course of Texas history. “The Texas Women’s Hall of Fame recognizes remarkable Texas women for their individual achievements and enduring impact on our great state,” said Governor Abbott. “Cecilia and I are...
Senate Bill 5 Set to End ‘Legal’ THC in Texas
July 22, 2025 – During a special legislative session, a Texas Senate committee advanced Senate Bill 5, a sweeping measure that would ban all products containing any detectable amount of any cannabinoid, including hemp-derived THC. The committee emphasized that neither state nor local governments have the resources to properly regulate the growing market of THC-infused products. Instead of expanding oversight or setting limits,...
Over 5 Million Above Ground Pools Recalled in U.S. and Canada
July 22, 2025 – More than 5.2 million aboveground swimming pools sold across the U.S. and Canada over the last two decades are being recalled after nine drowning deaths were reported. The recall covers a range of Bestway, Intex Recreation and Polygroup pools that were sold by major retailers as far back as 2002. According to Monday notices published by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, these pools...
Federal Mandate Requires Changes to In-State Tuition Eligibility at East Texas A&M
July 21, 2025 – COMMERCE, TX, July 21, 2025— In compliance with a recent federal court order and guidance from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, East Texas A&M University is making required changes to in-state tuition eligibility beginning in the Fall 2025 semester. These changes affect students who previously qualified for in-state tuition under Texas Education Code § 54.053(a)(3) but are unable to demonstrate...
