Texas Ag Commissioner Miller Supports President Trump’s Delay of Key Commodity Tariffs
March 10, 2025 – “I applaud President Trump’s decision to delay tariffs on Mexican and Canadian agricultural commodities and products included in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This decision will provide more time for open negotiation with both countries and, most importantly, provide short-term relief and time for our agricultural producers. I also fully support President Trump’s initiative to leverage tariffs to restore fair and equitable trade agreements that benefit Americans. His ongoing tariff strategy will strengthen domestic production, attract new investments, spur job growth, and ultimately reduce costs for American consumers. While there will be a short-term adjustment period—undoubtedly challenging for farmers already facing hardships—our agricultural industry will emerge stronger and more resilient than ever.
It has only been seven weeks, and while I understand that many farmers and ranchers need immediate relief, we must give President Trump and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins the necessary time to address the economic challenges left by the Biden Administration. This includes reviewing and releasing funds that remain frozen at the USDA. During Trump’s previous administration, we saw firsthand how tariffs strengthened American agriculture, leading to some of its most prosperous years. We won those trade battles before, and we will win them again. The proof lies in the ongoing efforts to secure better deals for Americans.
No president in modern history has been as steadfast in fulfilling campaign promises as President Trump across his two terms, and I have no doubt he will once again deliver for American farmers and businesses.”
Typical Spring Weather Ahead for Hopkins County
March 9, 2025 – The upcoming week in Hopkins County, Texas, is expected to feature mild and pleasant weather conditions. Temperatures are forecasted to reach a high of approximately 71°F (21°C) and a low of around 46°F (8°C).
Looking ahead to Wednesday, March 12, 2025, there is a slight chance of precipitation in the forecast. The day is expected to be mostly cloudy, with a 20% chance of showers. Temperatures are anticipated to be cooler, with highs around 60°F (16°C) and lows in the upper 30s°F (3-4°C).
This and That for March From Master Gardener David Wall
March 9, 2025 – A recent article mentioned under- and overwatering causing cucumber curling. Over watering is NOT a curling cause. Underwatering, irregular watering and under fertilization can cause curling. Poorly vented greenhouses with high humidity, and direct sunlight with high temperature can also cause curling, but underwatering and under fertilization are you best bets for causing it. Sorry for the earlier incomplete statements.
Then, there’s the question as to how long a cucumber will last in your home before turning mushy. Many store them in refrigerators, but cucumbers should be stored at temperatures above 50°. This usually implies leaving them on the countertop, but that may not work either! It’s better to wash and dry them before wrapping in a paper towel, placing in a partially unsealed baggie, and placing them in the refrigerator door away from other foods that give off ethylene gas. They should stay fresh for a week.
Cut or sliced cucumbers should be kept in the refrigerator to prevent bacteria growth. To use. Cut off what you need and place the end of the remainder in plastic wrap and return it to the baggie. Again, they should stay fresh for a week.
Growing cabbage near tomatoes can stunt a tomato plant’s growth and seriously reduce fruit production. Cabbages compete much more efficiently for the same nutrients as tomato plants. When they grow close to each other the tomato plants will suffer.
From a botanical perspective, watermelons and bananas are berries, but strawberries and raspberries are not! Good viable seeds and acorns will sink in a glass of water. Non-viable seeds will float. The only exception seems to be viable cranberries which have small pockets of air inside them causing them to float.
A strawberry is the only fruit that bears all its seeds (200 of them!) on the outside.
Sen. Cruz Introduces the Make American Flags in America Act of 2025
March 9, 2025 – WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) introduced the Make American Flags in America Act of 2025. This legislation closes loopholes in existing law meant to ensure that American flags displayed on federal property or procured by federal agencies to be manufactured completely in the United States from American materials.
Upon introduction, Sen. Cruz said, “There is bipartisan agreement that American flags should be produced in America using American materials, but loopholes in existing laws still allow Chinese manufacturers to sell flags, including through fraudulently-branded websites. This bill would close those loopholes. Congress should take it up and expeditiously pass it.”
This bill is cosponsored by Sens. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Rick Scott (R-Fla.).
Read the bill text here.
BACKGROUND
In 2024 Congress passed and the President signed into law the All-American Flag Act, which prohibits agencies from using funds to procure a U.S. flag unless such flag has been manufactured in the United States from materials that have been U.S. grown, produced, or manufactured. However loopholes in the law have allowed Chinese companies to sell American flags on e-commerce platforms and falsely label those flags as American-made The Make American Flags in America Act of 2025 removes an acquisition threshold and requires the FTC to produce a report assessing enforcement.
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Egg Prices: US Department of Justice is Investigating
March 8, 2025 – The Department of Justice has launched an investigation into the recent surge in egg prices, examining whether major egg producers have engaged in anti-competitive practices to artificially inflate costs. The inquiry comes after a period of record-high egg prices, which some consumer advocacy groups and lawmakers suspect may be the result of collusion among suppliers.
“If you add up all the expenses, you will get a grand total of $0.26 to produce one egg. Multiply that by 12, and we get $3.12 to produce one dozen eggs.”
Officials are scrutinizing whether egg producers intentionally restricted supply to drive up prices, despite industry claims that factors like avian flu outbreaks and increased production costs have contributed to the spike. The antitrust division is reviewing market dynamics to determine whether any illegal activity, such as price-fixing or coordinated supply reductions, has occurred.
Egg prices more than doubled in some areas over the past year, raising concerns about profiteering at a time when inflation has already burdened consumers. Some critics argue that large egg producers have used external challenges as a pretext for excessive price hikes, benefiting from reduced competition in the industry.
If wrongdoing is found, the DOJ could take enforcement actions against responsible parties. The investigation underscores broader concerns about corporate pricing strategies in essential food markets, as federal regulators seek to prevent unfair manipulation that harms consumers.
Paris District Road Report for Week of March 10, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting March 10, 2025. 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.
Safety Message: Impaired driving and penalties – DUI & DWI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk your life and the lives of others, and it can send you to jail. If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
When am I legally intoxicated?
You are legally intoxicated in Texas when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but you are breaking the law as soon as drugs or alcohol affect your driving — or flying or boating — ability.
What are the penalties for a DWI?
First offense
- Up to a $2,000 fine.
- Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
- Loss of driver license up to a year.
Second offense
- Up to a $4,000 fine.
- One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
Third offense
- A $10,000 fine.
- Two to 10 years in prison.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
These fines do not include a state fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 assessed upon sentencing.
Impaired driving with a child passenger
- You will be charged with child endangerment if you’re driving impaired with children under 15.
- You will be additionally fined up to $10,000.
- You could be put in jail for up to two years.
- You will lose your driver’s license for another 180 days.
Driving with an open container
Carrying an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you’re not impaired, is illegal. Learn more about Texas open container laws.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: Spur 316 from SH 289 to FM 120, FM 120 in Denison from Houston Avenue to FM 1753, US 69 in Denison from Houston Avenue SH 56, FM 1417 from FM 691 to US 82, US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417, US 82 frontage roads from FM 1417 to FM 1417, SH 56 from US 82 to SH 289, Spur 129 from US 377 to SH 56, FM 1417 from SH 56 to SH 11, SH 289 in Gunter from Kerfoot Road to Elm Street, FS 121 from FM 121 to the Denton County line, SH 5 in Van Alstyne from Redden Road to the Collin County line, SH 56 from SH 11 to FM 1417, SH 11 from SH 56 to FM 697, FM 902 in Tom Bean from SH 11 to King Street. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. Construction on this project is expected to begin on March 19, 2025. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The southbound frontage road from Taylor Street to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) will be reduced to one lane to allow for construction of the new intersection. An all-way stop will be in place at the southbound US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to control traffic. Westbound SH 91 traffic will be required to stop at the southbound US 75 intersection.
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 closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project.
There will be a freeway closure on the northbound main lanes of US 75, beginning at FM 691 and going to North Loy Lake Road the night of March 13th. The closure is scheduled from 9:00 p.m. on March 13, 2025, until 5:00 a.m. on March 14, 2025, to pour the Spur 503 bridge deck. Drivers wishing to continue Northbound on US 75 will follow the detour which directs traffic to the U-turn at Spur 503 to head westbound on the Katy Memorial Expressway frontage road, which will guide them back toward US 75. They will then re-enter US 75 at the next available entrance ramp.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
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 occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures 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 completing the remaining work at the intersection.
SH 289, in Dorchester at the FM 902 intersection. This project will widen SH 289 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at this intersection. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound SH 289 main lanes as well as on FM 902. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69, in Whitewright at the SH 11 and SH 160 intersection. This project will install traffic signals at this intersection. The traffic signal will be become operational on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
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 eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at the Union Pacific Railroad overpass. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures while workers perform bridge repairs.
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 Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
FM 1417, from FM 691 to FM 120. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1417 Proposed (East side of Sherman), from SH 56 to US 82. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. 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.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. 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.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has an onsite detour in place to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic is asked to approach the detour shift slowly and drive an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews replace the bridge structure.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
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 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1629, from SH 78 to SH 121. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing drainage structure work. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: IH 30, from SH 154 to Hunt County Line. Watch for crews performing concrete pavement repair during nighttime operation. Expect slower moving traffic at night.
Franklin County: IH 30 Truck Parking EB. Watch for crews performing paving operations. Expect slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: BU 67, from SH 37 to City Limits. Watch for crews performing pavement surfacing operations. Watch for flaggers and slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: BU 37, from SH 37 to BU 67. Watch for crews performing pavement surfacing operations. Watch for flaggers and slower moving traffic.
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.
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
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from 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.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
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.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
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 FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch work. Contractor is setting grade for embankment (various locations), shaping ditches. Moving dirt around and processing material. Contractors were also placing runs of retrofit rail at the bridge decks – Middle Sulphur River & Relief.
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. Contractor is currently finishing cement treatment work on the second mile of the project and will begin prime coat and ride test soon. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Back fill and slope completed near bridge structure Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. 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. The contractor is grading riprap, forming inlets and cleaning and patching cross culverts The contractor will also be addressing sidewalk near the DGNO RR crossing and placing asphalt for PH 1B traffic switch. Traffic switch is being set and readied for 3/7/25 and signs will be placed soon alerting the traveling public. Please slow down and be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, From SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has completed the 2nd section of reclaiming and placing a second lift of flex base down station. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area. Temp seeding, flex base and geogrid are upcoming in a few weeks.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has been working on placing embankment for wire walls at FM 1903 and FM 1570 and poured the cap abutment at FM 1570. and poured the back wall at FM 1570. The contractor will be setting panels under nightly lane closures. Steel tying is ongoing on the project. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36. The contractor will be moving barrier during nighttime lane closures and milling shoulders. Contractor has ongoing box culvert work near FM 1565 plans to restore the frontage road pavement during this time. Grading work on the eastbound main lanes and westbound frontage roads will be ongoing. Temporary walls are being installed and dirt work with detours are ongoing throughout the project. Contractor will be pumping water and drying material throughout project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt and Rains County maintenance sections will be working on mailboxes, potholes and signage. Crews will begin prepping FM 1903, SH34 for seal coat work later this year and overlayed and patched FM2458.
Rains maintenance section will be working on complaints for potholes and addressed drainage issue on FM 36 and CR2546
will begin next week along with sweeping and debris removal. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area
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Cooper Lake State Park Is A Great Place to Watch Lunar Eclipse
March 7, 2025 – If you can stay up really late or get up really early next week, you may want to make your way out to Cooper Lake State Park to view a Total Lunar Eclipse. The spectacular event will happen in the wee hours of Friday morning March 14, 2025 (after midnight Thursday night) and staff at the Doctors Creek Unit are encouraging stargazers to visit the park to view the eclipse.
Cooper Lake Eclipse Information:
A total lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and its shadow covers the Moon. Eclipse watchers can see the Moon turn red when the eclipse reaches totality.
Total eclipse begins at 1:26 a.m. – completely red moon, maximum eclipse at 1:58 a.m. – Moon is closest to the center of the shadow, total moon eclipse ends at 2:31 a.m.
Find an outdoor space free of obstructions to view the night sky. Along with paying your daily entrance fee you’ll also pay an after hours activity fee to see this special night sky event.
Cost: Park programs are open to the public and free with a paid park entrance fee of $5 per person ages 13 and up; children 12 and under are always free! Park entry is free with the Texas State Park Pass. Plus you will need to pay the after hours activity fee.
No need to register—just show up!
*Events and programs are subject to cancellation due to weather; if cancelled, an update will be made to this posting. Please contact park staff for more information and the latest updates.
Doctors Creek Unit
95 Park Road 8154
Cooper, TX 75432
Latitude: 33.348700
Longitude: -95.663677
(903) 395-3100
Two National Park Offices in Texas Slated for Closure
March 7, 2025 – President Donald Trump’s administration has announced plans to close two national park offices in Texas as part of a broader effort to cut government spending. The decision affects key National Park Service (NPS) facilities that play crucial roles in resource protection, public safety, and park management.
One of the offices slated for closure is the main headquarters of the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area in the Texas Panhandle. This facility serves as the central hub for park operations, including wildland fire management, law enforcement, public access, and environmental preservation. Lake Meredith, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, relies on these services to maintain visitor safety and park conservation efforts.
The second closure impacts the law enforcement facility at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This site houses NPS employees responsible for first response, public safety, equipment storage, and artifact preservation. The San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of visitors annually, and the loss of this facility raises concerns about the park’s ability to provide adequate security and maintenance.
The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has criticized the closures, warning that reduced resources could lead to safety risks, decreased visitor services, and potential damage to protected sites. Conservationists argue that cutting essential services at national parks undermines their long-term sustainability.
Despite these concerns, the Trump administration defends the decision as a necessary move to reduce federal spending and streamline government operations. Critics, however, see it as part of a broader pattern of diminishing environmental protections and public land management.
With no immediate plans to replace these offices, local officials and park advocates worry about the long-term impact on Texas’ national parks, as well as the communities and economies that rely on them for tourism and recreation.
Another Wet and Chilly Weekend Ahead for Hopkins County and Northeast Texas
March 7, 2025 – A cold front is moving into Hopkins County, Texas, this afternoon, bringing chilly temperatures and a rainy weekend ahead. The front is expected to drop temperatures significantly, with highs struggling to reach the 50s and overnight lows dipping into the 30s. Residents should prepare for steady rain and possible thunderstorms throughout the weekend, making for damp and cold conditions.
The rain is expected to begin later today and continue through Sunday, with periods of heavier showers at times. Winds will also pick up, adding to the overall chilly feel. Those with outdoor plans should consider indoor alternatives or bundle up with rain gear if heading out.
However, relief is on the horizon as temperatures are forecast to rebound by Monday. Sunshine will return, and highs will climb back into the 60s, bringing a more comfortable start to the new week. Until then, Hopkins County residents should brace for a wet and cold few days ahead.
Texas Ends Remote Work Option for Government Employees
March 7, 2025 – The State of Texas has officially ended remote work for government employees, following a broader push by President Donald Trump to bring federal workers back to in-person offices. On his first day back in office, Trump signed an executive order requiring federal employees to return to onsite work, citing the need for efficiency, accountability, and better public service. Texas leaders quickly followed suit, announcing that state agencies would no longer allow remote work arrangements.
Governor Greg Abbott’s administration has echoed Trump’s stance, arguing that in-person work improves collaboration, productivity, and responsiveness in government operations. State agency heads were directed to phase out remote work policies and ensure all employees return to their offices full-time. The shift marks a significant change for many government workers who had been operating remotely since the COVID-19 pandemic.
While supporters of the move argue that public servants should be physically present to serve taxpayers effectively, critics contend that eliminating remote work could reduce employee satisfaction, increase turnover, and limit hiring flexibility. Some state employees have expressed concerns about commuting costs and work-life balance.
Despite pushback, Texas remains firm in its decision, aligning with federal efforts to restore traditional workplace operations across government institutions.
