Ticket Giveaway: St. James Fish Fry #3
February 2024 – Friday night Fish Fry is back! You can win 2 tickets to the event hosted by the Knights of Columbus at 297 Texas St here in Sulphur Springs, TX. The FREE tickets are for the March 1, 2024 event only.
Dine in or carry out starting a 5:00pm. Beer battered cod available, a short wait may be required.
Menu includes USA catfish, fries, coleslaw, hush puppies, beans, fried okra, tea, coffee, desserts and more. Prices start at $12. All you care to eat is $20.
Rules and Information:
The passes must NOT be resold!
Unclaimed passes will be dispersed by KSST.
Employees of KSST/KRVA can’t win.
Winner’s names and picture will be posted on Facebook.
To enter to win, comment on this post in Facebook. Winners will be contacted via Facebook Messenger.
Mitigating The Impacts of Invasive Species In Texas
February 26, 2024 – Press Release from Texas A&M Forest Service concerning Invasive Species in Texas
Mitigating the impacts of invasive species in Texas
Invasive species cause many negative impacts to the Texas landscape, from the displacement of native trees to potentially wiping out entire species. Because of their widespread impact, Texas A&M Forest Service is taking great lengths to help mitigate their impacts and taking time to highlight those efforts during National Invasive Species Awareness Week.
Invasive species have two main characteristics: they are non-native to an ecosystem and their introduction causes or is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment or human health.
“Invasive species produce a measurable impact,” said Demian Gomez, Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Health Coordinator. “If left unchecked, invasives can threaten native species, biodiversity, ecosystem services, water resources, agricultural and forest production, economies and property values.”
Most often, invasive species have been introduced into an ecosystem through human activity. This can include anything from plants purposefully introduced as ornamentals to insects accidentally transported in imported goods such as through wood packaging materials.
Invasive species succeed because of their ability to grow in favorable environments and their lack of natural predators, competitors and diseases that normally regulate their populations.
Texas A&M Forest Service is mitigating the impacts of invasive species in Texas through several efforts.
Emerald ash borer
The emerald ash borer (EAB) is a destructive, invasive borer beetle native to Asia. After being discovered in Michigan in 2002, EAB was first detected in Texas in 2016 in Harrison County. Since then, EAB has been positively confirmed in Bowie, Camp, Cass, Cooke, Dallas, Denton, Marion, Morris, Parker, Rusk, Tarrant, Titus and Wise Counties.
EAB is responsible for killing millions of ash trees across much of the country, and each year, Texas A&M Forest Service places traps throughout the state to proactively monitor for the spread of the pest.
“The agency began monitoring for the pest in 2012 by strategically deploying detection traps each spring,” said Gomez. “We continue to set traps and monitor because early detection of the beetle is the best way to limit the spread and avoid high ash mortality.”
Texas A&M Forest Service works with communities to develop, communicate and implement local EAB preparedness plans. And while the agency assists with planning, trapping and monitoring, the Texas Department of Agriculture is ultimately responsible for EAB management and coordination in Texas.
Oak wilt
Oak wilt is one of the deadliest tree diseases in the United States. Since its first detection in Texas in 1961, it has killed millions of trees across 76 counties.
Oak wilt is caused by the fungus Bretziella fagacearum, thought to have originated in Central America. The fungus invades and disables the water-conducting system in oaks.
Any new wound on oaks can be an entry point for infection. Very active in late and early spring, small native sap beetles transfer spores of the oak wilt fungus, infecting new trees. Additionally, the pathogen can spread through interconnected roots, particularly impacting live oaks in Central Texas.
“Texas A&M Forest Service works with public and private partners to minimize the spread of the fungus across the state through the Oak Wilt Suppression Project,” said Gomez. “We help by providing public education and awareness, identifying and mapping mortality centers and providing treatment recommendations and cost-shares.”
Brazilian peppertree
The Brazilian peppertree was first introduced to Texas in the 1950s and has since invaded thousands of acres in coastal habitats, shading and killing native vegetation and even causing allergic reactions in some people.
Since 2014, Texas A&M Forest Service has worked with the Texas Gulf Region Cooperative Weed Management Area in Port Aransas to address Brazilian peppertree in the region through eradication and education.
Since 2023, the agency has also been collaborating on a project to reduce the impacts of the invasive Brazilian peppertree in the Texas Gulf Coast with the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center, the University of Texas Marine Science Institute and the City of Port Aransas, studying biological control options.
As part of this study, a small thrips insect, known as the Brazilian peppertree thrip, was released on plots to study their control of the invasive plant. The study aims to integrate the insect, referred to as a biocontrol, with ongoing mechanical and herbicide management of the Brazilian peppertree.
Researchers will release new insects and monitor the trees over two years to evaluate the impacts. The U.S. Forest Service provided funding for the project.
Laurel wilt and the red bay ambrosia beetle
The redbay ambrosia beetle, responsible for spreading laurel wilt, has killed more than half a billion trees in the Lauraceae family, with high impacts to redbays, sassafras and the avocado industry in the southeastern U.S.
“This vascular fungal pathogen, transported and cultivated by the beetle to be used as a food source for larvae, can kill trees in less than a month,” said Gomez. “It was first reported in Texas in 2015 and since then, has spread across eastern Texas.”
Texas A&M Forest Service is working with public and private partners to study the spread and distribution of the disease/insect complex.
Early detection and rapid response
Early detection, rapid assessment and rapid response (EDRR) provides the greatest opportunity for eradication and cost-effective management of invasive species. The EDRR program, a network of traps targeting exotic bark and ambrosia beetles, increases the likelihood that invasive species will be found, contained and eradicated before they become widely established.
In collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service, Texas A&M Forest Service deploys 48 traps annually for the program. These traps are located near areas where potentially invasive and problematic bark and ambrosia beetle species may become established or begin satellite infestations such as wood processing mills, ports and commercial distribution centers.
It is important to monitor your property for invasive species and take steps to control them when possible. To learn more about invasive species, visit https://tfs.tamu.edu/InvasiveSpecies/.
Hopkins County Records – February 2024
Daily Instrument Register For 2/12/24 Thru 2/14/24
- Coy Johnson to Justin Foster; Tract in the Lot 32 Peerless Addition Survey
- Coy Johnson to Marianna Mata, Mario Mata, and Mario Alexander Mata; Tract in the Lot 19 Peerless Addition Survey
- Coy Johnson to J Teofilo Mata Lopez and Erika Tapia Sanchez; Tract in the Lot 18 Peerless Addition Survey
- Debbie Booker, Susan Gatewood, Brenda Loomis, Patricia Lyle, Patricia A Spa Lyle, and Ronny Lyle to Karrie Harmon and Stacy Harmon; Tract in the John G Procello Survey
- Nestor Cervantex and Sonia Yesenia Sosa Tellez to Fatmir Cosic and Indira Cosic; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- All In Cattle Company LLC to 8 Of Herts Holdings LLC; Tract in the Jose Ybarbo Survey
- Tracy Irby Also Known As Tracy Stine Irvy to Johnie Ben Bryant; Tract in the J Ybarbo Survey
- Cassie Nicole Fleming and Journey Properties LLC to James B Clark III and Kristy M Clark; Tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin Survey
- Larry Blount to Lawanda Knight Kent; Tract in the William D Walker Survey
- Foluke Adejokum to Linda Rosamond and William E Rosamond; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Jimmie D McCoy Also Known As Jimmy D McCoy, and Mary L McCoy to Angel Amanda McCoy; Tract in the Sarah H Norris Survey
Daily Instrument Register For 2/15/24 Thru 2/16/24
- Church of Christ of Sulphur Springs Texas, Hank Hayes Formerly Known As Jefferson Street Church of Christ, Paul Jones Formerly Known As League Street Church of Christ, Tommy Panter, Kirk Reams, and Randy Reed to Fellowship Christian Church of Sulphur Springs; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Fellosship Christian Church of Sulphur Springs Formerly Known As Fellowship Christian Church, Also Known As First Christian Church of Sulphur Springs, Also Known As First Christian Church, The First Christian Church of Sulphur Springs to Journey Baptist Chruch-Sulphur Springs; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Leonard Darden, Paul Darden, and Ricky Darden to Le’ Keisha L Flournoy; Tract in the James Gahagen Survey
- Craig Lesley Stuart to Daniel Miller and Tammi Miller; Tract in the John Mott Survey
- Stuart Ranch Texas LLC to Daniel Miller and Tammi Miller; Tract in the John Mott Survey
Report of Marriage Documents for Hopkins County 2/16/24 Thru 2/22/24
- Allen Cody Mills and Stephanie Brook Petry
- Jaime Austin Tunstill and Marion Rae-Leigh Dame
Interesting Facts for February From Master Gardener David Wall
February 25, 2024 – While most people avoid them, watermelon seeds are rich is proteins, vitamins, omega 3, zinc, fatty acids, and so on! Blue whale hearts weigh nearly a ton and only need to beat once every 10 seconds. Sunlight converts cholesterol in our skin to vitamin D3. Eating kiwi fruit reduces eye problems and increases eyesight. China is constructing the world’s first forest city where all buildings are covered by a million plants to tackle global warming and air pollution. Humans are the only creatures that will cut down a tree, turn it into paper, and then write: “Save the trees” on it!
The total weight of ants is exceeds the total weight of humans on earth. An ant will survive a fall from any height, because its terminal velocity will never be high enough to kill it.
When flies land on your food, they spit on it – UGH! They cannot chew solid food, so they release digestive juices to turn your food into a predigested, slurpable soup. People who regularly consume spicy food tend to have higher tolerances for pain. Capsaicin in chili peppers triggers endorphin release, which can increase pain tolerance. 60% of plastic waste in oceans comes from China, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand.
Our military is the largest purchaser of explosives in the U.S. Disney world is second! Children who are hugged and cuddled grow up to be happier adults. Blowing out birthday candles can increase bacteria on the cake by 1,400%. If a shirt shrinks, put it in a bowl of ice water with one cup of hair conditioner. It will regain its size. Popcorn is by far the healthiest snack. It builds bone, muscles, tissue and is good for teeth if not flavored. 40% of Earth’s soils are already degraded, with 90%+ at risk by 2050?
Spring Awakening: Adventure and Learning Bloom at Cooper Lake State Park in March
February 25, 2024 – Cooper, TX— As spring blooms across Northeast Texas, Cooper Lake State Park is excited to announce a vibrant array of outdoor programs at both the Doctors Creek and South Sulphur Units. These programs are designed to celebrate spring’s arrival and the much-anticipated Spring Break for schools. These offerings provide a perfect opportunity for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers to explore the wonders of the natural world through a series of thoughtfully crafted educational and recreational programs. Join us in celebrating the great outdoors and making lasting memories in the heart of Northeast Texas.
Doctors Creek visitors can delve into the fascinating world of local fauna with “Skins and Skulls,” offering an intimate look at the mammals and reptiles of the park. The journey continues with “Birding 101”, “Wildlife Detectives”, and “Amazing Arachnids”, among other captivating sessions aimed at forging a deep connection between participants and the park’s surrounding environment. Special events like “Fishing with the Ranger”, “Stargazing”, and “Art in the Park” ensure a broad spectrum of activities, catering to all interests, from the serene to hands-on.
In tandem, South Sulphur springs to life with its own unique set of activities, including “Kid’s Trout Fishing Day – Part 2”, “Spider Sniffing”, and “Luck of the Irish Archery Shoot”, promising memorable experiences for all age groups.
Both park locations also emphasize self-guided learning and creativity with nature journaling and stargazing, and will host “Dutch Oven 101” for culinary enthusiasts.
March at Cooper Lake State Park heralds the rebirth of the forest, transforming the park into a spectacle of colors with redbuds and Mexican plums showcasing their stunning purple and white blooms, and spring flowers adorning the prairies and forest floor. This natural tapestry sets a picturesque backdrop for the park’s diverse programs, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in nature’s renewal.
Fishing enthusiasts will find spring an exceptional time to reel in a nice slab crappie, monster blue catfish, a stringer of bluegill, and shimmering rainbow trout! The park’s 20-plus miles of trails beckon hikers to discover the unfolding beauty of spring at every turn. Camping shifts into high gear during March, with Spring Break marking one of the park’s busiest and most exciting periods of the year. Cooper Lake State Park accommodates all camping preferences, from cabins and cottages, to shelters, water and electric campsites, and walk-in tent sites, ensuring a perfect outdoor stay for almost every visitor.
As we celebrate the arrival of spring and the myriad of activities it brings, Cooper Lake State Park stands as an enduring testament of the charm of nature and adventure. Whether you’re angling for the catch of the day, exploring scenic trails, or enjoying a night under our dark skies, the park offers a sanctuary where the rejuvenating spirit of spring can be experienced in all its glory. YOU NEED THIS! Join us this season to make unforgettable memories in the heart of Northeast Texas, enveloped by the beauty and wonder of the natural world.
All programs are free with your entrance permit. For more information on this or other events and programs at Cooper Lake State Park, please visit our Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website and also like our Facebook pages (Cooper Lake State Park – South Sulphur 903-945-5256 and Cooper Lake State Park – Doctors Creek 903-395-3100).
Doctors Creek
Saturday, March 2 – DC
Skins and Skulls – 11 a.m. Meet at Headquarters. Get an inside look at some of the mammals, and reptiles of the park.
Saturday, March 9 – DC
Birding 101 – 9 a.m. Meet at the Lone Pine Boat Ramp Parking Lot by the restrooms. Learn some tips and tricks to get you on your way to learning a new hobby. Bring your binoculars.
Wildlife Detectives – 10:30 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Parking lot. We’ll take a short walk on the Cedar Creek South Loop. Explore how to determine the types of animals that may have been here from the signs they leave behind.
Sunday, March 10 — DC
Amazing Aracnids – 10 a.m. Meet at the Pelican Point Pavilion. Find out why aracnids are so amazing while learning what they are. Join us in creating an aracnid make-n-take.
Monday and Tuesday March 11 and 12 – DC
Self-guided Nature Journaling – pick up a handout from headquarters
Self-guided Stargazing – pick up a handout from headquarters
Wednesday, March 13 – DC
Fishing with the Ranger – 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Meet at the Bluebonnet Fishing Pier and Day Use Area. Bring your own fishing gear, no pole, no worries. We have a few fishing poles available to borrow. No experience needed!
Thursday, March 14 – DC
Sights and Sounds of the Upcoming Eclipse – 2 p.m. Meet at the Pelican Point Pavilion. Become a citizen scientist. Hone your observation skills, and create your own pinhole camera.
Friday, March 15 – DC
Stargazing – 8 p.m. Meet at Pelican Point Parking area. How many constellations can you spot and/or name? We’ll have the telescopes out to view a planet or two. Dress for the weather, bring a lawn chair and binoculars if you have them.
Saturday, March 16 – DC
Levee Walk – 9:30 a.m. Meet at the Lone Pine Parking Lot – Join us on a guided walk down the levee to see the wonders of nature! Bring water and dress for the weather.
Art in the Park – 11 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Day Use Area. An opportunity to let loose your inner artist! Spring is in the air!
Saturday, March 23 – DC
Dutch Oven 101 – 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Pavilion. Happy trails on a cattle drive, yes indeed. Cast iron cooking was a part of that happiness. Enjoy a hands-on cooking demonstration and taste testing. Reserve your spot by calling (903) 395-3100 or emailing alicia.o’[email protected]
Saturday, March 30 – DC
Becoming a Junior Ranger – 10 a.m. Meet at Headquarters. Do you have what it takes to become a Jr. Ranger? Complete the tasks, and check your skills.
South Sulphur
Saturday, March 2 – SS
Kid’s Trout Fishing Day Part 2 – Meet at 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Park at Headquarters and walk to the Event Pond. Experience the joy of catching trout. No rod and reel, no worries we have a few loaners available. Remember to bring your trout bait.
Friday, March 8 – SS
Spider Sniffing – 7:30 p.m. Meet at Heron Harbor Day Use Area next to the playground. Learn about eight legged predators, then go on an adventure, sniffing out spiders. Bring a flashlight, bug spray, and a water bottle, and dress for the weather.
Saturday, March 9 – SS
Birding 101 – 1:30 p.m. Meet at Gulls Bluff Day Use Area. Learn some tips and tricks to get you on your way to learning a new hobby. Bring your binoculars.
Wildlife Detectives – 3 p.m. Meet at Coyote Run Trail Head. We’ll take a short walk on Coyote Run Trail. Explore how to determine the types of animals that may have been here from the signs they leave behind.
Sunday, March 10 — SS
Amazing Aracnids – 2 p.m. Meet at the Gulls Bluff Pavilion. Find out why aracnids are so amazing while learning what they are. Join us in creating an aracnid make-n-take.
Monday and Tuesday March 11 and 12 – SS
Self-guided Nature Journaling – pick up a handout from headquarters.
Self-guided Stargazing – pick up a handout from headquarters.
Wednesday, March 13 – SS
Fishing with the Ranger – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Park at Headquarters and walk to the Event Pond. Bring your own fishing gear, no pole, no worries. We have a few fishing poles available to borrow. No experience needed! All ages and stages.
Thursday, March 14 – SS
Luck of the Irish Archery Shoot: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Meet at Buggy Whip Restroom. Shoot for the gold at the end of the rainbow. Registration is required, reserve your spot by calling (903) 945-5256 or emailing alicia.o’[email protected]. No experience needed. Ages 10 and up. Equipment provided. Class size limited to 12 archers.
Friday, March 15 – SS
Sights and Sounds of the Upcoming Eclipse – 2 p.m. Meet at the Gulls Bluff Pavilion. Become a citizen scientist. Hone your observation skills and create your own pinhole camera.
Saturday, March 16 — SS
Guided Walk – 1 p.m. Meet at the Buggy Whip Equestrian Trail Head – Join us on a guided walk down the to the water’s edge to see the wonders of nature! Bring water, and dress for the weather.
Art in the Park – 3 p.m. Meet at the Gulls Bluff Pavilion.
An opportunity to let loose your inner artist! Bring your ideas, and we’ll provide the medium.
Saturday, March 23 — SS
Dutch Oven 101 – 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Meet at Gulls Bluff Pavilion. Happy trails on a cattle drive, yes indeed. Cast iron cooking was a part of that happiness. Enjoy a hands-on cooking demonstration and taste testing. Reserve your spot by calling (903) 945-5256 or emailing alicia.o’[email protected]
Saturday, March 30 — SS
Becoming a Junior Ranger – 2 p.m. Meet at Headquarters. Do you have what it takes to become a Jr. Ranger? Complete the tasks, and check your skills.
##
Next Lunch & Learn by the Genealogical Society to be held February 28th
The next Lunch & Learn gathering by the Hopkins County Genealogical Society will be held Wednesday, February 28, 2024, from 12Noon to 1:00pm, at the Genealogical Library. Hopkins County Genealogical Society Librarian, Silvina Epperson, will be presenting, “Preserving Articles and Photos.” Members and nonmembers are invited to attend. Bring your sack lunch, salad, or drive through-meal.
Paris District Road Report for week of February 26, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Feb. 26, 2024. 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.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Safety Message: Teen Click It or Ticket
Too many parents are living their worst fear: losing a child. These parents have lost teenagers in vehicle crashes in which they weren’t wearing their seat belt. Vehicle crashes continue to be a leading cause of death for U.S. teenagers, and TxDOT’s Teen Click It or Ticket campaign is urging teens to buckle up — every seat, every ride.
Seat belts offer the best protection in a crash, but sadly seat belt use remains low among teen drivers and passengers. In 2021, 45% (144 of 318) of teens killed in vehicle crashes were not wearing seat belts.
During February, the Teen Click It or Ticket campaign will be rolled out statewide, seeking to reach Texas teens with its imperative seat belt safety message. The outreach will include TV, radio, digital advertising and social media. Additionally, an interactive element will be introduced as the campaign makes visits to several high school campuses across the state with its “Teen Click It or Ticket” mobile digital vehicle.
Teens will also learn about Texas law which requires drivers and all passengers to wear seat belts. Unbuckled drivers and passengers — even those in the back seat — can face fines and fees of up to $200.
TxDOT’s “Teen Click It or Ticket” campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths. Nov. 7, 2000 was the last deathless day on Texas roadways.
Grayson County: 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 work and frontage road lane closures within the project.
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 lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
The southbound US 75 exit ramp for Travis Street (FM 131) will be closed beginning March 4th in order for crews to complete installation of drainage structures.
Mainlane traffic has been switched from the old mainlanes to the existing frontage roads to allow for construction of the new mainlanes and bridges between South Travis Street and Center Street. During this operation, northbound US 75 mainlane traffic will shift onto the existing frontage road approximately one-half mile north of South Travis Street and transition back to the existing mainlanes at Middleton Street. Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic will shift onto the existing frontage road approximately one-half mile north of Park Avenue and transition back to existing mainlanes approximately one-half mile north of South Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and bridges at Post Oak Creek. During this phase, US 75 frontage road traffic will be reduced to a single travel lane while US 75 mainlane traffic will maintain two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic will be separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Park Avenue under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to allow for construction of the new overpass at Park Avenue. To detour, eastbound Park Avenue traffic will continue on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on South Travis Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Park Avenue. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Center Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Park Avenue.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on construction of new frontage road lanes.
Watch for lane closures of the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage roads at the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage roads in Sherman. Traffic will remain in this configuration for five weeks while this phase of construction is performed. For this phase, the lanes for the northbound and southbound frontage roads of US 75 will be shifted to the outside onto the newly constructed widening and traffic will be routed onto the new US 82 overpasses. Eastbound and westbound frontage roads of US 82 between the northbound and southbound frontage roads of US 75 will be reduced to one lane of traffic in both the eastbound and westbound directions. This operation will allow for the construction of under pavement drainage structures and constructing one half the width of the permanent pavement. Drivers are advised to be aware of road crews on the highway, expect some delays, and plan their commutes in advance.
Beginning at 8:00 pm on February 26th, the eastbound frontage road will be closed to thru traffic and re-opened to current configuration by 6:00 am February 27th. The westbound frontage road will be closed to thru traffic on February 29th beginning at 8:00 pm and re-opened to the current configuration by 6:00 am on March 1st. During this these short term, temporary closures, traffic will be prohibited from making a thru movement. Motorist traveling east or west will be directed to make a right turn and follow designated detour routing. This operation will allow for the phased construction concrete placement for the permanent pavement.
FM 1417, from US 82 to SH 56. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project. All southbound FM 1417 traffic has been moved to the permanent southbound lanes. Travelers are advised that intermittent temporary daily lane closures will be required for both northbound and southbound FM 1417 while the contractor completes the remaining work items.
US 82, from SH 91 to FM 1417 in Sherman. Watch for a lane closure on westbound US 82 between Texoma Parkway and Loy Lake Road as workers install a center median concrete barrier to help prevent crossover head-on collisions.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. 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.
Park Road 20 in Eisenhower State Park. Watch for daytime lane closures within Eisenhower State Park as workers perform base repairs on the roadway and then overlay the roadway with a hot-mix surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the westbound US 82 lanes at Harris Creek and on the eastbound lanes at Post Oak Creek. On this project, the contractor is also installing a center median concrete traffic barrier between FM 1417 and FM 131. Motorists should expect lane closures while this work is underway.
Lynch Crossing Road at Jordan Creek. Lynch Crossing Road at Jordan Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure, traffic is asked to use County Line Church Road and West Line Road as a detour.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
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 Monday and Thursday during the nighttime.
FM 901, from SH 56 to FM 902. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform blade leveling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2729, from FM 902 to FM 121. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform blade leveling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County: SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
SH 56, in Dodd City from CR 2936 to CR 3210. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to mill and pave the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Westbound US 82, from FM 100 to SH 78. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to mill and pave the roadway. Motorists should expect daytime lane closures through the work zone.
FM 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 271, from SH 78 to FM 68. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1020 at Caney Creek. CR 1020 at Caney Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure, traffic is asked to use CR 1030 as a detour.
SH 78, from SH 56 to FM 68. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform blade leveling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121, from SH 56 to the Collin County line. Watch for mobile operations as maintenance crews perform sweeping along the roadway.
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: FM 900, from I-30 to FM 3019. Watch for single lane closures and delays as crews perform surfacing operations.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing tree trimming and removal.
Franklin County: Spur 423, at I-30 North Frontage Road. Watch for four-way stop condition as crews activate traffic signal for seven-day flash period.
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: Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
Loop 286, from US 271 North going west to FM 79. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts, crossing closures and merging traffic while crews place a bonded concrete surface and perform asphalt paving operations.
US 271, from LP 286 to Oklahoma State Line. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews resurface the pavement and perform bridge maintenance.
FM 1507 (Jefferson Rd), from SH 19 to 0.8 MI North of Loop 286. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures
SH 24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from the FM 64 intersection to 1,540 feet east of FM 198. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway and perform bridge rail upgrades.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from the FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
Delta County:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 2675, from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
SH 19 at South Sulphur and South Sulphur Relief. Watch for temporary shoulder closures while crews perform bridge maintenance.
Red River County: Cedar / Church Street (Clarksville, Texas), at the intersection of Cedar and Church Street. Watch for road closure while crews remove and replace the existing bridge.
Locust Street (Clarksville, Texas), at Delaware Creek. Watch for road closure while crews remove and replace the existing bridge.
CR 2127 at Scatter Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County: SH 11, from Culver Street to Live Oak. The contractor has placed work zone signs and barricades. The contractor has been working on signals at various locations and performing concrete median work. Final striping, signal head placement and sign placement will begin soon. The contractor has finished placing sod at various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 1563, from SH 50 to SH 2655: This is a 2.7-mile rehabilitation project that will widen the existing roadway. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor has begun preparing the right of way: placing driveways and driveway safety-end-treatments and cross culvert work is underway. The contractor is currently working on culvert extensions and performing subgrade widening work and base work and placing geogrid at various locations. 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. Excavation work for the detour is ongoing. The contractor has shifted traffic to the west to begin removal of asphalt, concrete and some existing driveways. Placement of storm sewer will continue along with embankment and excavation work. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractors have set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete. The contractor has completed subgrade widening, cement treatment, flex base, and geogrid of the subgrade near mile six of the eight-mile project. Contractor is currently placing flexbase and scheduling prime coat and temp seed soon. Riprap and erosion control work is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Shelby Avenue and Bledsoe Creek Bridge: The contractor has set barricades and work zone signs at both locations. The contractor has placed beams and poured the concrete deck on Shelby Avenue. The Bledsoe Creek in Fannin County project has begun placing steel for bridge deck work. Flex base and asphalt will be placed soon on Shelby. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor will be performing eastbound main lane barrier shift work, placing low profile traffic barrier at FM 1903 and excavation / embankment for detour placement. Excavation work on Gilstrap will begin soon and some work zone striping will be performed east bound near FM 1570. Utility work is ongoing. Temporary ramps are now open. The contractor plans to place more barriers and perform main lane widening and drainage work in the area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County Maintenance will be performing work on FM 3211 and overlaying on FM 3427. Crews also addressed the railroad crossing at FM1565 and fixed drainage on Lee Street. Rains County Maintenance has been working on SH 276 repairing uneven shoulders and will perform some sweeping on US 69 at various locations. Both maintenance crews will be performing various sign and mailbox installations on various roads, and fixing potholes on FM roads and state highways.
#
Financial Incentives Program Aids Forestry Climate Solution Practices
February 22, 2024 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Texas A&M Forest Service is awarding $8.25 million through the Texas Climate-Smart Initiative, a financial incentives program to fund non-industrial, private, small-acreage landowners. The five-year project, led by Texas A&M AgriLife Research and funded by the USDA’s Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities grant, will provide financial incentives to agricultural commodities across Texas.
The Texas Climate-Smart Initiative program incentivizes farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or sequester carbon beyond normal practices. Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide, and the Texas Climate-Smart initiative aims to maximize this carbon capture potential while simultaneously producing high-quality fiber for the timber industry.
“We are excited for the opportunity to help Texas forest landowners achieve their carbon-focused forestry goals while improving the overall health and vigor of their trees through this financial incentives program,” said Michelle Moore, Texas A&M Forest Service Staff Forester.
Landowners interested in conducting science-based, carbon-focused forest management practices may apply for funds for one of five categories available through the Texas Climate-Smart Initiative for forestry practices including stand establishment, forest fertilization, herbicide application, prescribed burning and forest thinning.
“Purposeful, prudent and proactive forest management is essential to maintaining the environmental sustainability of our forests while also securing landowners’ generational investments in their forests,” said Moore. “This program is expanding the accessibility of climate-smart practices to many Texans – especially those that are at an “economy of scale” disadvantage in traditional markets.”
For more information on the Texas Climate-Smart Initiative application process, frequently asked questions, newsletter signup and more, visit tfsweb.tamu.edu/climatesmart.aspx.
For more information on grants provided by Texas A&M Forest Service and partners, visit https://texasforestinfo.tamu.edu/fundingconnector/.
###
A&M-Commerce Staff Member Receives Emmy Award for Musical Compositions
February 22, 2024 – COMMERCE, TX—A staff member at Texas A&M University-Commerce was honored with an Emmy Award from the Rocky Mountain Southwest chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
Taylor Mefford, who works as manager of videography in the Office of Marketing and Communications at A&M-Commerce, received the award as part of the production team for “Unresolved,” a true-crime mini-documentary detailing the murder of Adrienne Salinas, a 2013 case that remains unsolved. Mefford composed the original musical score for the series, which aired on KPHO-TV in Phoenix, Arizona
The announcement came at the 46th Annual Rocky Mountain Emmys award ceremony in late 2023.
Mefford, who graduated from A&M-Commerce in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science in Radio-Television, spends most of his time behind a camera. However, he picked up music composition as a hobby during his teenage years.
While working for KPHO’s parent company, Meredith Corporation, in 2020, he decided to throw his hat in the ring to compose for the station’s new documentary series.
“I have mixed feelings about the true crime genre, so I wasn’t sure at first if I wanted to compose for this project,” Mefford said. “But the series was very grounded and wanted to present the facts of what happened.”
Mefford originally supplied a nine-track demo for consideration and was brought on to the project almost immediately. While the series was originally scheduled to air in November 2021, it was delayed until June 2022 due to developments in the case through the court system. The program aired after Mefford left KPHO to join the staff at A&M-Commerce.
In total, he composed more than three hours of original music for use across the series’ six episodes, some of which remained unused. Mefford explained that the project pushed him outside of his comfort zone.
“Since composition is mostly just a hobby for me, this series was a step up,” Mefford said. “I’ve taken quite a break from making my own music, but I’ll get back to it.”
The series is available to stream for free at the KPHO website.
Severe Weather Education Class Scheduled for Tuesday, February 27th, 2024
February 22, 2024 – The 2024 spring severe weather season is not too far away, and the National Weather Service and local public safety officials want you to be ready. The National Weather Service (NWS) Office located in Fort Worth will be conducting a free Severe Weather Education class in Hopkins County on Tuesday, February 27th, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at Sulphur Springs City Hall. Officially known as the SKYWARN Storm Spotter Training Class, the program will be held in partnership with the City of Sulphur Springs. There is no cost to attend this class, no pre-registration is required, and you do not have to be a resident of Hopkins County to attend.
This class is for established storm spotters and/or anyone who is interested in learning more about severe weather threats in North and Central Texas and how to be prepared. The class will feature an in-depth review and study of the various threats posed by severe thunderstorms. The program will also explore thunderstorm characteristics and features associated with severe and non-severe storms. Additionally, the program highlights severe weather safety and how you can report severe weather information to the NWS Fort Worth Office and local public safety officials.
The Hopkins County Severe Weather Education class is part of NWS Fort Worth’s annual severe weather preparedness campaign and is one of several severe weather training programs the NWS Fort Worth Office will conduct around the region between January and March 2024. Other classes across the region can be found at: https://www.weather.gov/fwd/skywarnmap. The National Weather Service Office in Fort Worth provides forecasts, warnings, and weather-related services for 46 counties in North and Central Texas. For more information, visit the NWS Fort Worth Office website at https://weather.gov/fortworth, find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSDallasFortWorth or on Twitter: @NWSFortWorth.
