One Dozen Per Visit For Some Stores
February 12, 2025 – The ongoing avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak has significantly impacted egg supplies in Texas, leading several grocery chains to implement purchase limits to manage shortages and curb panic buying. Retailers such as Trader Joe’s, Costco, and Sprouts Farmers Market have restricted customers to purchasing a limited number of egg cartons per visit.
The H5N1 bird flu strain has led to the culling of millions of poultry nationwide, severely disrupting egg production. Consequently, egg prices have surged, with the average cost of a dozen large, grade-A eggs reaching $4.15 in December 2024, up from $3.65 in November.
In Texas, the average price for a dozen eggs has risen to $5.43, reflecting the strain on supply chains.
To ensure broader access and prevent stockpiling, stores have instituted purchase limits, typically allowing customers to buy only one to three cartons per visit.
These measures aim to stabilize the market and ensure that more customers can access eggs during this period of limited supply. Consumers are advised to check with local stores for specific purchase policies and to consider alternative protein sources as the industry works to manage the outbreak and restore normal supply levels.
Grassburs are Common Grassy Weeds That can Negatively Impact Forage by Mario Villarino
February 11, 2025 – Grassburs, also known as sandburs or sticker weeds, are common grassy weeds that can negatively impact forage and hay quality in pastures and hayfields. They produce sharp, spiny seed pods that can cause discomfort to animals and reduce the value of hay.
Identification:
Grassburs are typically warm-season annuals or perennials. They are easily recognized in the mature stage by their distinctive seed heads, which contain seed capsules with sharp spines. These capsules usually contain one to three seeds and can penetrate animal tissues, causing pain and potential infection. Unfortunately, grassburs look a lot like grass when immature, and landowners usually only notice them once seed heads are present.
Management Strategies:
1. Cultural Practices:
Maintain Healthy Forage Stands: A dense and healthy stand of desirable grasses can outcompete grassburs. Proper fertilization, irrigation, and grazing management are essential to promote vigorous forage growth.
2. Chemical Control:
Preemergence Herbicides: Applying preemergence herbicides can prevent grassbur seeds from germinating. It is important to apply these herbicides before soil temperatures reach 52°F, as this is when grassbur seeds typically begin to germinate.
Postemergence Herbicides: If grassburs have already emerged, postemergence herbicides can be used to control young plants. Early detection and treatment are crucial for effective management.
For more detailed information on identification and management, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers a comprehensive publication titled Grassbur/Sandbur Identification and Management in Pastures and Hayfields.
Implementing these strategies can help manage grassburs effectively, improving the quality of pastures and hayfields. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Lion Rodeo Boasts Two Event Winners at Annual Home Rodeo
Trace Harris and Jill White took home their third and second event wins of the 2024-25 season, respectively.
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX, February 5, 2025— The East Texas A&M Rodeo Team had two individual event winners at its 6th annual home rodeo at the Hopkins County Civic Center in Sulphur Springs, Texas on January 31 and February 1.
Trace Harris and Jill White took the top spot in the Steer Wrestling and Breakaway Roping events, respectively. Harris’ time of 9.5 seconds put him just 0.2 seconds ahead of the next finisher. This was Harris’ third event win of the season. White finished with a best time of 4.3, putting her 0.7 seconds ahead of second place. The win was White’s second of the season.
In the team standings, the East Texas A&M men’s team finished 7th, while the women’s team was scored in 8th. Other student-athletes who placed in their events include Cash Robb (5th, Steer Wrestling), Oceane Veilleux (6th, Barrel Racing), and Chancey Wright (6th, Breakaway Roping).
The Lions now look to finish the rest of the season strong to secure a spot in the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR), scheduled for June 15-21 in Casper, Wyo. The top two teams and the top two ranked riders in every individual event in each region of the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association (NIRA) standings qualify for the big show.
Following last weekend’s rodeo, the women’s team and four Lions currently sit in a CNFR qualifying position in the standings as they are now. Harris and White currently lead the NIRA Southern Region standings for Steer Wrestling and Breakaway Roping, while Justin Freeman and Veilleux sit in second place for Team Roping and Barrel Racing, respectively.
The Lions are next in action at the Texas A&M University Rodeo in Bryan, Texas on February 28 and March 1.
Coming Soon – Annual Great Texas Warrant Roundup
February 11, 2025 – The Great Texas Warrant Roundup is an annual statewide initiative where law enforcement agencies collaborate to address outstanding warrants, particularly those related to unpaid traffic violations. Traditionally, this roundup occurs in late February or early March, following an amnesty period during which individuals are encouraged to resolve their fines without facing arrest.
As of now, specific details regarding the 2025 Warrant Roundup have not been officially announced. However, based on past practices, it’s anticipated that Texas will proceed with this initiative in a similar timeframe. For instance, in previous years, cities like Round Rock have participated in the roundup, urging residents with outstanding warrants to take advantage of the amnesty period to avoid potential arrest.
Critics, including organizations like the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), have expressed concerns about the roundup’s impact on economically disadvantaged individuals. They argue that the initiative disproportionately affects those unable to pay fines, leading to arrests and potential jail time for minor infractions.
If you have outstanding warrants, it’s advisable to contact your local municipal court to inquire about possible amnesty programs or payment plans. Addressing these issues proactively can help you avoid the consequences associated with the roundup.
For the most current information on the 2025 Great Texas Warrant Roundup, monitor official announcements from local law enforcement agencies and municipal courts.
Click here for information on the Hopkins County Municipal Court.
Driving Across Texas in an EV May Not Get Easier
February 11, 2025 – The recent suspension of federal funding for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure by the Trump administration has introduced significant uncertainty for North Texas’ clean energy initiatives. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has instructed state transportation departments to pause activities related to the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, pending a comprehensive review.
This directive affects approximately $3 billion allocated for EV charging projects nationwide, with Texas slated to receive a substantial portion. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) had previously outlined plans to deploy these funds to establish an interconnected network of EV charging stations across the state.
In North Texas, the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) had been proactive in advancing EV infrastructure. The council secured a $15 million community grant to implement the North Texas Equitable Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NTx–EEVI) Project, aiming to enhance charging accessibility, particularly in underserved areas.
The funding suspension has prompted NCTCOG and other regional stakeholders to reassess their plans. While the private sector has significantly invested in EV infrastructure, industry leaders assert that consumer demand will still drive the expansion of charging networks despite federal funding issues.
The pause in federal support raises concerns about potential delays in EV infrastructure deployment, which could impact the region’s transition to cleaner transportation options. Local authorities and organizations are now exploring alternative funding mechanisms and partnerships to maintain momentum in their clean energy efforts.
CHRISTUS Heart Month Focus: Importance of Cardiac Rehab for Patients
February 10, 2025 – (EAST TEXAS) – February is American Heart Month, and CHRISTUS Health is focused on all matters of the heart, including the importance of cardiac rehabilitation following a cardiac event
or surgery, what it entails and how it benefits patients.
People who participate in a 36-week rehab program have a 47% lower risk of death and 31%
lower risk of heart attack than those who attend only one session, according One Million Hearts,
a national campaign co-led by the Centers for Disease Control and Centers for Medicare &
Medicaid Services, aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease occurrences nationwide.
“Not only does cardiac rehab reduce your risk of future cardiac events and improve your heart,
but it includes valuable education for patients,” said Britney Caldwell, a cardiac rehab nurse at
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. “The education involved is valuable, as
it educates our patients on how to take care of their heart when they are away from the hospital.”
Patients in cardiac rehab programs must be referred by a physician. Once in the program,
patients learn about weight and medication management, receive diet consultations and are
monitored for blood pressure and lipid levels to ensure their rehab plan is effective.
Jeromy O’dell, 53, was referred for cardiac rehab in 2024 after undergoing a cardiac procedure.
He recently completed the recommended 36-sesson program, which consisted of three sessions a
week at 30 minutes, minimum, per session.
“I had such a great experience with my rehab program,” O’dell said. “There are times where it
can be tough but knowing the benefits of rehab and having the experience I did, I would
recommend to anyone who needs it.”
Despite the benefits, cardiac rehab remains underutilized, particularly among women and
minorities, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). AHA reports that only 19-34%
of patients participate in a cardiac rehab program.
“I have had patients before telling me, ‘I am too old to start, or I can’t work these machines’ as
we discuss a rehab program,” said Caldwell. “We find that once we can get patients to rehab,
introduce them to the program, they realize how great it makes them feel and they want to
continue.”
Caldwell said there are programs to help mitigate some of the barriers that may prevent a patient
from participating in rehab, adding “We know everyone is different, so every plan is
individualized to maximize our patients’ abilities. We congratulate anyone who shows up and
takes control of their heart health.”
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No New Pennies – Will the Dollar Be Next?
February 10, 2025 – On February 9, 2025, President Donald Trump announced that he had directed the U.S. Treasury Department to halt the production of new pennies, citing the rising costs associated with minting the one-cent coin. In a post on the social media platform Truth Social, he emphasized that the country has been minting pennies “which literally cost us more than 2 cents” for “far too long.”
The cost of producing a penny has exceeded its face value for 19 consecutive years, leading to financial losses for the government. In 2025, the production cost of a single penny was reported to be approximately 2.1 cents, more than double its monetary worth.
The decision to cease penny production revives a longstanding debate about the coin’s relevance and economic impact. Critics argue that eliminating the penny could lead to rounding issues in cash transactions, potentially affecting consumers and businesses. However, proponents of discontinuation highlight the financial inefficiencies and environmental concerns associated with continued penny production.
The move aligns with broader governmental efforts to reduce waste and improve efficiency. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a cost-cutting task force led by Elon Musk, has been evaluating various areas of federal spending, including the production of low-denomination coins.
While the President has directed the Treasury to stop minting new pennies, the process of discontinuing the coin entirely may require legislative action from Congress. As the situation develops, further discussions and analyses are expected to address the implications for the economy and daily transactions.
Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson Visited on This Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson dropped by to chat about planting. John Mark and Ronnie discussed how we still could get a freeze. They also talked about what plants you want to plant during this time of year, what type of weed killer you want to put out during the current season, the fact that the time for pruning is nearing an end, the series of workshops the AgiLife Extension Office Master Gardeners will be offering to the public in the upcoming months, and so much more. Learn how to exercise your “green thumb” on this exciting episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey!
SSHS Senior Jordan VanWinkle Stopped by for a Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
Sulphur Springs High School Senior Jordan VanWinkle, an intern at the Hopkins County office of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, sat down with John Mark Dempsey on this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee. Jordan shared with John Mark how she is spearheading a program for female trustees at the Hopkins County jail. The project will involve the building of a greenhouse and will use hydroponics to grove fruits and vegetables. Jordan is just one example of the talent and ambition that is the Sulphur Springs Wildcats! Watch the segment below and learn what impressive steps Jordan VanWinkle has taken, and is continuing to take, to make this idea a reality!
SSHS Wildcats Competed Against North Lamar in Basketball February 7th
February 9, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs High School Wildcats challenged North Lamar in a friendly game of basketball on February 7, 2025. The fierce competition was played in Wildcat Gym in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Below is KSST’s coverage of this exciting game. KSST’s Sports Director John Mark Dempsey called play by play while Tony Flippin offered color commentary. Be sure to check out this thrilling game below.
