Paris Junior College Drama Holding PlayFest Auditions Thursday and Friday
March 16, 2025 – Auditions for the Paris Junior College Drama Department’s 10th Annual Pyro PlayFest, “Where There is a Will, There is a Way!” will be held Thursday and Friday, March 20 and 21, at 6:00 p.m. They will be held in the on the Duane Allen Stage in the Ray E. Karrer Theater in the Administration Building on the Paris campus, 2400 Clarksville Street in Paris.
“We’re excited to announce open auditions for the 10th Annual Pyro PlayFest,” said PJC Drama faculty William L. Walker, “a thrilling celebration of new works and emerging talent. We are seeking actors ages 16 and up to bring to life twelve brand-new short plays written by playwrights from around the world.”
All are welcomed to audition, whether they are a seasoned performer or stepping onstage for the first time. The PlayFest offers opportunities to develop acting skills, collaborate with a dynamic creative team, and be part of an exciting theatrical experience. The theme was inspired by the Bard, William Shakespeare, but the call for plays stated the theme could be interpreted anyway the playwright chose.
“This is your chance to be part of a bold, innovative festival that celebrates storytelling in all its forms,” Walker said. “If you’re ready to step into the spotlight and bring new characters to life, we want to see you at auditions!”
The auditions will include cold readings from selected scripts, group and individual scene work, and a fun and supportive environment. The PlayFest will be performed from April 23 to April 27, 2025.
For more information, contact [email protected].
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Historic Bridge Available For Adoption
Adopt a Piece of Texas History Through the TxDOT Historic Bridge Legacy Program
March 14, 2025 – PARIS – The Texas Department of Transportation oversees a Historic Bridge Legacy Program to facilitate the adoption of historic bridges that outlive utility for vehicular service. All bridges available under this program are listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. The bridges are owned by TxDOT, cities, or counties and merit special consideration of their potential for preservation in the community. The primary emphasis of the program is to find a new public use for the bridges, such as along a hike-and-bike trail or in a public park.
A historic bridge in Grayson County at Craft Road crossing Choctaw Creek Tributary is currently available for adoption. For more information, please contact TxDOT Paris District Public Information Officer, Kristen Prater at [email protected] or 903-737-9213 or visit www.txdot.gov, keyword search “adopt a bridge.”
The Craft Road bridge is a Camelback pony metal truss bridge built in 1920. The bridge originally carried a railroad, but it was relocated to its current spot in 1950 and widened. The bridge is significant for its engineering history as a local example of a truss bridge. The bridge is in poor condition but with needed repairs and overall painting, the truss could be repurposed as a pedestrian bridge. At a minimum, cleaning, painting, and sealing of deformed members would be required. An engineering analysis for the allowable load rating and desired pedestrian bridge width would be required to determine if more extensive repairs are needed.
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Dust Storms and Distant Fires Created a Colorful Sunset on Friday
March 14, 2025 – A massive dust storm swept across Texas on Friday, creating a dramatic and hazy sunset as strong winds carried thick clouds of dust across the sky. The storm, combined with smoke from distant wildfires, cast an eerie orange and red glow over the horizon, reducing visibility and affecting air quality.
Residents experienced gusty winds and dry conditions, making travel difficult in some areas. The unusual combination of dust and smoke created a surreal atmosphere, with many capturing stunning yet ominous photos of the scene. Officials advised people to stay indoors if sensitive to poor air quality and respiratory issues.
Ag Commissioner Miller Touts Texas’s Farm to School and Farm to Food Bank Programs
March 14, 2025 – “I recognize that the USDA’s budget cuts are intended to eliminate fraud, abuse, and waste. However, even well-functioning programs that deliver real results are undergoing reviews to ensure fairness. These changes also provide an opportunity for states to assume greater responsibility in shaping their own programs.
Texas and the Texas Department of Agriculture do not depend on this funding to maintain a strong program. We’ve been at the forefront for years, developing sustainable initiatives. Texas will continue to effectively operate successful Farm to School and Farm to Food Bank programs. Eighty-eight percent of Texas child nutrition programs purchase local foods, and prior to this grant, over $257.8 million was spent by Texas schools on local foods.
I support a fair and consistent approach, which is precisely what the Trump Administration is implementing. This is not a final decision—it’s a reassessment. There’s always room for refinement, and we may see a revised version of the policy down the road that is even better for agriculture producers.
I want to thank our farmers and ranchers, local food banks, school nutrition departments, and Farm Fresh Network members for their dedication to providing fresh, nutritious meals to Texas students and families. Your hard work is building a healthier, more sustainable future for our state.”
Have Hummingbirds Arrived at Your Feeder Yet?
March 14, 2025 – Hummingbirds are expected to arrive in Hopkins County, Texas, in mid to late March as they migrate north for the spring and summer seasons. The first arrivals are typically ruby-throated hummingbirds, which travel from their wintering grounds in Central America and Mexico. These tiny birds follow the blooming of flowers and warmer temperatures, seeking nectar and insects to fuel their journey.
To make hummingbird nectar, mix 1 part white sugar with 4 parts water. Heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool completely. Do not add red dye or honey, as they can harm birds. Fill clean feeders with the nectar and change it every few days to prevent spoilage.
Weather conditions and food availability play a significant role in their migration timing. A mild winter and early spring blooms can bring hummingbirds earlier, while cooler temperatures may delay their arrival. Birdwatchers in Hopkins County can attract these vibrant visitors by putting out nectar feeders filled with a simple mixture of four parts water to one part sugar. Keeping feeders clean and providing native flowers such as salvia, trumpet vine, and bee balm can help sustain hummingbirds throughout the season.
By April, more hummingbirds should be seen across Northeast Texas as migration peaks. These fascinating birds will remain in the area through the summer before heading south again in the fall. Watching for the first arrivals has become a beloved spring tradition for many Texans, signaling the change of seasons and the return of these energetic pollinators.
Texas Association of Business Calls for Extension of Research and Development Tax Credits
New study finds extension would create thousands of jobs and generate billions in economic output over next decade
March 14, 2025 – AUSTIN, TEXAS – Today, the Texas Association of Business (TAB) called on Texas lawmakers to approve an extension of research and development (R&D) tax credits. These credits are responsible for massive economic growth and an extension would create thousands of jobs and generate billions in economic output over the next decade, according to a new study published by Texans for Innovation. The current R&D tax credit is set to expire in 2026 if not reauthorized by the Texas Legislature. This would be a devastating loss for the business community and our state’s economic potential.
Legislation filed this week – SB 2206 by Senators Paul Bettencourt and Joan Huffman and HB 4393 by Representative Charlie Geren – would offer a Franchise Tax credit for qualified research expenses that will encourage R&D investment across the state.
TAB President & CEO Glenn Hamer applauded the legislators for addressing the need to extend the expiring credits:
“With key R&D incentives set to expire, Texas risks losing ground to other states in research and development spending. Extending these incentives is critical to attracting high-tech industries, creating jobs, and maintaining Texas’ position as a national leader in technology and innovation. Ensuring long-term support for R&D strengthens our economy, workforce, and overall competitiveness.”
Members of Texans for Innovation include the Texas Association of Business, Texas Association of Manufacturers, Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute, Texas Taxpayers and Research Association, Texas Chemistry Council, Texas Oil & Gas Association, Texas Economic Development Council, Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston Partnership, North Texas Commission, Opportunity Austin, and Lockheed Martin.
Ag Commissioner Miller Applauds Trump Administration Proposed Rewrite of EPA’s WOTUS
March 14, 2025 – “The Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule has long been a thorn in the side of rural America. But now, President Trump and EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin are taking decisive action for the American people. Not only have they reclaimed $20 billion of taxpayer money from the Biden administration’s radical climate agenda, but they aim to finally narrow the scope of WOTUS in alignment with the recent Sackett v. EPA ruling—a major victory for rural communities.
For over a decade, I have been fighting for the rights of farmers and ranchers on this issue. Our concerns have often been misrepresented. It’s not that we oppose conservation—quite the opposite. Farmers and ranchers are the most dedicated stewards of the land because their livelihoods depend on its preservation. What we oppose is the ever-changing interpretation of WOTUS, which has led to federal overreach and regulatory abuse under both the Obama and Biden administrations. Agriculture depends on clean water, but we need WOTUS to be clear, fair, and equitable for rural communities.
I applaud President Trump for once again working to rein in WOTUS overreach and commend Lee Zeldin for his efforts to end the constant flip-flopping on this rule. It’s time for common sense to prevail. I look forward to the EPA’s updated WOTUS ruling, which will finally put an end to this bureaucratic overreach once and for all.”
Attorney General Paxton Announces Investigation into Dallas for Open Borders Sanctuary City Policies that Violate State Law
March 14, 2025 – Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation and issued a formal request for records from the City of Dallas concerning the Dallas Police Department’s refusal to comply with state and federal immigration laws.
Recently, Dallas Interim Police Chief Michael Igo said that “[t]he Dallas Police Department is not assisting any federal agency on detaining people that are either documented or undocumented in the City of Dallas.” This assertion raises serious concerns that the City of Dallas and its police department may be violating Texas law, which prohibits local entities from adopting sanctuary city policies that limit immigration enforcement.
The Office of the Attorney General has formally requested all policies, training materials, and communications related to Dallas’s enforcement or non-enforcement of immigration laws, including any records reflecting decisions to decline cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
“The law is not optional. Local governments do not have the authority to disregard state and federal immigration laws,” said Attorney General Paxton. “The people of Texas expect law enforcement agencies to uphold public safety, not to implement sanctuary policies that put our communities at risk. My office will take all necessary legal actions to ensure compliance with state law and hold accountable any local entity that defies its legal obligations.”
Measles Outbreak Hits Close to Home
March 14, 2025 – Four confirmed cases of the measles have been reported by the Paris-Lamar County Health District. The instances of measles were in persons from 5-months-old to adult age.
The Paris-Lamar County Health District says the four people are unvaccinated against the measles and came to Lamar County from Gaines County in West Texas during their recent measles outbreak.
The Health District is actively investigating the cases with the help of the Texas Department of State Health Services. They are working to contact people who were potentially exposed to the measles and warned that more cases of the “highly contagious” disease may occur, especially among those who haven’t been vaccinated against it.
Officials say that symptoms of the measles include the following conditions:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- And a rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2 to 5 days after initial symptoms.
The health district says anyone exposed or experiencing symptoms should isolate themselves immediately and contact their healthcare provider to arrange testing in a safe manner.
Those infected can spread the disease four days before and four days after getting the measles rash.
The measles vaccine becomes 93% effective 10-14 days after the first dose, and offers full protection after second dose is given 4-6 weeks after first dose.
Governor Abbott Activates Additional State Emergency Response Resources For Extremely Critical Wildfire Danger
March 14, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources in anticipation of extremely critical wildfire danger expected across West Texas and ongoing elevated-to-critical fire weather conditions across most of the state into the weekend.
“The State of Texas continues to monitor the heightened wildfire threats that are impacting large portions of the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Due to the unpredictable nature of wildfires, I directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management to ready additional emergency response resources to assist local communities with any wildfire outbreaks. With dry conditions, wind gusts, and low humidity increasing wildfire danger, Texans are encouraged to make an emergency plan, limit any activities that can cause a spark, and heed the guidance of local officials to keep yourself and your family safe.”
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, dry surface fuels, very strong wind gusts, and low humidity will continue to support increased wildfire danger across nearly all of the state, with extremely critical wildfire danger expected in areas including the High Plains, South Plains, Permian Basin, Big Country, Texoma, Metroplex, and Hill Country. High winds could promote large wind-driven fires with high resistance to control.
The Texas A&M Forest Service is monitoring conditions for the potential of a Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak tomorrow, a dangerous fire weather pattern that could develop under the current forecast. According to the National Weather Service, increased wildfire danger is expected to continue over the next several days.
The Wildland Fire Preparedness Level remains at Preparedness Level 3, indicating that wildfire activity is impacting several regions of the state as the result of drought, dry vegetation, or frequent fire weather events.
The Texas State Emergency Operations Center (SOC) remains activated at Level II (Escalated Response) as the state stands ready to support local officials’ response to wildfire danger. At the Governor’s direction, more than 750 state emergency responders and over 300 pieces of equipment have mobilized from more than 16 state agencies to support the state’s wildfire response across Texas.
The following state emergency response resources continue to remain ready to support local wildfire response operations, including:
• Texas A&M Forest Service (Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System): Local, state, and out of state firefighters and support personnel, fire engines, bulldozers, and motor graders; federally contracted firefighting aircraft, including large air tankers, single-engine air tankers for retardant drops, air attack platforms for surveillance and spotting, super scoopers for water drops, helicopters with firefighting capability, fire bosses and an aerial supervision module for aerial guidance
• Texas Division of Emergency Management: The State of Texas Incident Management Team to support deployed emergency response resources across the state
• Texas National Guard: Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters with firefighting capability
• Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Wildland Fire Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
• Texas Department of Public Safety: Texas Highway Patrol Troopers to patrol roadways and assist stranded motorists
• Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, State Park Police
• Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Type 3 Urban Search and Rescue Teams
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents as well as AgriLife Extension Agents to support agricultural and livestock needs
• Texas Animal Health Commission: Coordinating animal resource needs
• Texas Department of Agriculture: Coordinating agricultural resource needs
• Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel monitoring road conditions
• Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers
• Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
• Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
• Texas Health and Human Services Commission: Personnel to provide information on available services through the 2-1-1 Texas Information Referral Network
• Texas Department of Information Resources: Monitoring technology infrastructure
Texans are urged to implement wildfire prevention measures, including avoiding activities that may cause sparks or flames, making an emergency plan, follow instructions from local officials, and keeping emergency supplies easily available.
Texans can visit TexasReady.gov for wildfire prevention information, locate all-hazards preparedness information at tdem.texas.gov/prepare and find the latest wildfire information at tfsweb.tamu.edu.
Governor Abbott continues to take action to provide all available resources to help support local communities and protect Texans from wildfire impacts, including:
• Encouraging Texans impacted by wildfire to report damage by using TDEM’s online damage reporting tool.
• Increasing the Readiness Level of the State Emergency Operations Center and adding counties to the state’s wildfire disaster declaration.
• Deploying additional state emergency response resources ahead of extremely critical wildfire danger.
• Activating state wildfire response resources ahead of wildfire danger.
