Governor Abbott’s Statement On President Trump’s Executive Order Protecting Women’s Sports
February 6, 2025 – Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed the Save Women’s Sports Act into law in 2023. It marking a significant development in the state’s approach to competitive sports and gender classification. The legislation is designed to preserve fair competition in women’s athletics by ensuring that only athletes designated as female at birth can participate in women’s sports. Proponents of the act argue that it is essential for maintaining a level playing field, particularly in high school and collegiate sports, where biological differences are believed to confer competitive advantages. They assert that the law provides clarity for athletic organizations and schools, safeguarding opportunities for cisgender female athletes and ensuring consistency in competition rules.
“Today is a historic day for female athletes across the country who have worked tirelessly to compete at the highest level,” said Governor Abbott. “President Trump’s Executive Order prohibiting biological men from competing in women’s sports will safeguard the integrity of women’s sports, and I am proud to have joined the President at the White House for this historic signing. Female athletes across the nation can be assured that fairness will be protected.”
Critics, however, raise concerns that the law is exclusionary toward transgender individuals, potentially limiting their right to compete according to their gender identity. Advocacy groups and civil rights organizations warn that such restrictions may have broader social implications, affecting the mental and emotional well-being of transgender youth. They argue that the legislation could foster an environment of discrimination and marginalization, undermining efforts toward inclusivity in sports and society as a whole.
Governor Abbott defended the law as a necessary measure to protect the integrity of women’s sports, emphasizing that it aligns with the state’s longstanding commitment to competitive fairness. With the act now in effect, Texas athletic programs, school districts, and sports associations must adjust their policies to comply with the new requirements. As the law is implemented, its impact on team compositions, competition structures, and the broader dialogue on gender in sports will be closely monitored, contributing to ongoing national debates about fairness, inclusion, and the rights of transgender athletes.
USPS Temporally Suspends Services for Incoming Chinese Packages
Temu Fan? Prepare for Higher Prices
February 5, 2025 – The United States Postal Service (USPS) announced a temporary suspension of incoming parcels from China and Hong Kong. This decision coincided with escalating trade tensions between the U.S. and China, marked by the imposition of retaliatory tariffs by both nations.
The suspension has significant implications for the e-commerce sector, particularly for companies like Shein and Temu, which rely on shipping low-value packages directly to U.S. consumers. These businesses have benefited from the de minimis rule, which exempts packages valued under $800 from import duties. However, recent policy changes have eliminated this exemption for Chinese-origin packages, introducing additional tariffs and processing fees.
The USPS has not provided a specific reason for the suspension, but it is widely believed to be linked to these recent policy changes and the broader context of U.S.-China trade relations. The halt in package acceptance has caused disruptions in the e-commerce industry, with companies scrambling to adjust their logistics and supply chains.
This development underscores the complex interplay between international trade policies and global commerce, highlighting the need for businesses to remain adaptable in the face of evolving geopolitical landscapes.
Help Shape the Future of Paris Junior College in Greenville, Paris, and Sulphur Springs
February 4, 2025 – Help Shape the Future of PJC in Greenville, Paris, and Sulphur Springs
Did you know that Paris Junior College – in Greenville, Paris, and Sulphur Springs – plays a role in your life, even if you do not have a child nearing college age? All the ways PJC affects local people, businesses, and the regional economy have led the College to ask them to attend an upcoming listening session for their views on the future of PJC.
“Paris Junior College trains the people who save your life in an emergency, take care of you and your loved ones at the hospital or nursing home, manage local businesses, run manufacturing facilities, fix your air conditioning, work on the airplane you fly in, or weld the trailer you use,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, Paris Junior College president. “There are so many ways PJC affects your life, and that’s why we want you to help shape PJC’s future by attending one of listening sessions.”
Paris Junior College will hold three listening sessions at 7:00 p.m. to gather ideas from the public. The first is on Tuesday, February 11 at the PJC – Greenville Center at 6500 Monty Stratton Blvd. in Greenville; the second is on Tuesday, February 18 at the PJC – Sulphur Springs Center at 1137 Loop 301 East in Sulphur Springs; and the third is on Wednesday, February 19 in the Math and Science Building on the Paris campus at 2400 Clarksville St.
“We invite you to come enjoy light refreshments and share your ideas,” said Benson. “We want to make PJC even better – together.”
There is also still time to take a very important online community survey prior to attending a listening session. Those responses are helping to shape the listening sessions. Please go to https://www.parisjc.edu/strategic-plan-survey.html and tell PJC what you think.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Texans May Know Fate of School Choice Bill on Wednesday
February 4, 2025 – On Wednesday, the Texas Legislature should cast ballots on a significant school choice proposal that promises to reshape the state’s educational landscape. Lawmakers are considering a measure that aims to broaden educational options by providing increased support and funding for charter schools, voucher programs, and other alternative education initiatives alongside traditional public schools. Proponents argue that this legislation will foster healthy competition, driving innovation and accountability within the education system, while giving parents greater control over their children’s learning environments.
The bill proposes a broad school choice program that begins with 25,000 students and expands to all students over several years. Students in the program could get 75% of what the state spends on average per student in public school to pay for private tuition and other costs.
The bill also includes a $340 raise to per-student spending — from $6,160 to $6,500 — and pay raises for teachers and other school staff.
Supporters emphasize that expanding school choice can address diverse student needs more effectively by offering tailored educational experiences. They contend that increased competition among schools will spur improvements in academic performance and overall efficiency. Additionally, advocates believe that empowering families with more options will help bridge gaps in achievement and better prepare students for a dynamic, modern economy.
Critics, however, caution that redirecting resources toward alternative education options may lead to underfunded public schools, potentially worsening disparities in areas already facing challenges. They argue that the proposal could divert essential support from traditional schools, thereby affecting students who rely on established public education systems. As the legislative vote unfolds, the decision will likely have long-lasting implications for Texas’s approach to education reform.
Waffle House Flies The Coop; Charges Extra For Eggs
February 4, 2025 – Waffle House is introducing a new egg surcharge on its customers as a direct response to the rising cost of eggs, which has been impacting its overall menu pricing. As egg prices continue to soar due to supply chain challenges, increased feed costs, and other market pressures, the iconic restaurant chain is taking steps to offset these expenses without broadly raising prices on all menu items.
The surcharge will specifically target dishes that prominently feature eggs, ensuring that the cost increase is absorbed only by the items directly affected by the higher ingredient costs. Waffle House officials have stated that this measure is necessary to maintain the quality and consistency of their offerings while navigating an economically turbulent period. Rather than implementing a blanket price hike across the board, the surcharge allows the chain to precisely address the cost escalation related to eggs.
While some loyal patrons have expressed concerns over the added fee, Waffle House maintains that this is a temporary adjustment aimed at mitigating financial strain. The company is committed to transparency with its customers and will continue to assess the situation, making further adjustments if necessary. In the meantime, the surcharge represents a targeted strategy to sustain operational standards and preserve the affordability of the broader menu.
East Texas A&M Recognized for Top Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report
East Texas A&M earned top ratings from U.S. News & World Report for several online degree programs, reflecting the university’s commitment to excellence and innovation in online education.
COMMERCE, TX, Feb. 3, 2025—
East Texas A&M University’s online bachelor’s programs are #2 in Texas, according to the latest rankings by U.S. News & World Report. The rankings were released on January 21. East Texas A&M placed in the nation’s top 30% in five online degree programs for 2025.
East Texas A&M’s top online programs
These rankings highlight the university’s commitment to providing high-quality online education across multiple disciplines.
Best Online Bachelor’s Programs
- #2 in Texas (tied with University of North Texas)
- Top 7% nationally (25 out of 357 ranked schools–tie)
Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs
- #5 in Texas (tied with University of Texas Rio Grande Valley)
- Top 27% nationally (27 out of 101 schools–tie)
Best Online Graduate Business Programs (Excluding MBA)
- #5 in Texas (tied with University of Houston–Bauer)
- Top 30% nationally (66 out of 221 ranked schools–tie)
Best Online Master’s in Education Program
- #8 in Texas
- Top 27% nationally (85 out of 320 ranked schools)
Best Online MBA Programs
- #8 in Texas (tied with Sam Houston State University)
- Top 27% nationally (100 out of 366 ranked schools–tie)
All five online degree programs rose in the rankings from 2024, reflecting the university’s ongoing efforts to enhance educational quality and accessibility.
Dr. April Sanders, dean of the College of Innovation and Design, said East Texas A&M is proud to be a state and national leader in online degree programs.
“These rankings reflect our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional online education that meets the evolving needs of today’s students,” Sanders said. “By combining innovative teaching methods with rigorous academic standards, we’ve created online programs that not only rank among Texas’s best but truly transform our students’ lives and careers.”
The evaluation process
U.S. News evaluates online degree programs using four weighted categories: student engagement, technology resources, faculty credentials and training, and peer assessment. These categories collectively highlight the quality of a university’s online programs. The Office of Institutional Research led the process in partnership with deans and department heads, working diligently to complete and submit the required documentation.
“We worked very hard, combed through all the questions, and verified large amounts of data,” said Dr. Dan Su, executive director of Institutional Research. “This process was valuable because it helps us reflect on and assess what we have been doing and how we can improve.”
Su congratulated the programs recognized in the 2025 rankings. “Achieving these prestigious academic rankings brings well-deserved distinction to East Texas A&M,” she said.
U.S. News & World Report rankings are widely regarded as the most authoritative and extensively used ranking system for higher education by prospective students, families, leaders and policy officials.
For more details on East Texas A&M’s rankings, visit U.S. News & World Report.
Paris Junior College Names Fall 2024 Students on President’s and Dean’s List
February 4, 2025 – Paris Junior College has announced more than 250 students named to the President’s and Dean’s lists for academic achievement in the Fall 2024 semester.
“We are incredibly proud of our students who have achieved the distinction of being named to the President’s and Dean’s Lists for the fall semester,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC President. “Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence exemplify the spirit of our Paris Junior College community. Congratulations to all on this well-deserved recognition!”
To be eligible for the President’s List, students must earn a 4.0 grade point average, (straight A’s) on a minimum of 15 semester hours. Those on the Dean’s List must have a minimum of a 3.5 grade point average for at least 15 semester hours, and have no grade lower than a “C.” The lists are compiled exclusive of developmental hours.
Students from Texas named to the President’s List:
Argyle: Brock McKown
Arthur City: Joseph Birnbaum
Beach City: Austin Marlin
Bedford: Aialaisa Lilomaiava
Bells: Nicholas Smith
Blossom: Ashley Fendley, Steven Langley, Weslee Langley, Ariel Malone, Elizabeth Stowell, Briar Thomas, Christopher Withrow
Bogata: Kagen Hales
Brock: Brylee Burns
Bullard: Callie Bailey
Caddo Mills: Sophia Hamm
Campbell: Caleb Rouser, Gabriela Vizcaya
Commerce: Hannah Scarcelli
Como: Evan Carr
Cumby: Jenna Elmore, Jeri Howe
Denton: Samantha Ferguson
Deport: Dominique Turner
Detroit: Brandi Cortes, Cy Garrison
El Paso: Aidan Huante
Flower Mound: Siddarth Dendukuri
Fort Worth: Isabela Cornell
Frisco: Braden Hernandez, Christopher McDaniel
Grand Prairie: Nevaeh Bluefer
Greenville: Austin Cook, Angeline D’Andrea, Jett Fifield, Jose Fraire, Megan Green, Ian Kowalczyk, Jazmin Paulin Rios, Austin Russell
Honey Grove: Levi Beavers, Sonora Flowers, Alyssa Gilbert, Ka’Yauna Nelson, Daniel Tortorella, Lisa Williams, Kendal Wolfe
Houston: Mofiyinfoluwa Morebise
Katy: Tatiana Singhal
Klein: Bankston Lembcke
Klondike: Christopher Hayner, Eli Rhein
Ladonia: Kai Fornof
Lake Jackson: Breanna Allen
Lakeway: Gavyn Schlotterback
Lancaster: Blessing Teamer
Leesburg: Kristyna Stuckey
Liberty: Hadison Fults
Lone Oak: Beaux Ruff
McKinney: Caleb Barrett, Christopher Dick, Ethan Ho
Mount Pleasant: Jaden Coppedge
Naples: Aaron Jackson
Paris: Ashley Alston, Andrew Anderson, Brooklyn Atnip, Traniece Bizzell, Savanna Bradford, Addison Brown, Hailey Bryan, Aubrey Coco, Patricia Devereaux, Dillon Dingman, Ana Emeyabbi, Erik Emrick, Halen Guess, Jarred Jackson, Hannah Kent, Courtney Langford, Sarah Layton, Isabella Maggi, Hunter Moreland, Bradley Resendiz, Laren Robertson, Evan Roddy, Levi Sanders, Jesse Simpson, Michael Sullivan
Petty: Braden Burney
Pickton: Priscila Alonso, Hailey Snipes
Plano: Parker Bowman
Point: Nicholas Bowman
Powderly: William Bates, Camden Brown, Olivia Figueroa, Elizabeth Guillory, Marissa McCann
Quinlan: Miguel Bermudez, Amanda Carter, Zachary King, Katelin Leach, Molly Wilkins
Red Oak: Ciara Johnson
Rockwall: Dylan Rothwell, Zachary Willey
Rowlett: Solomon Astran
Royse City: Destinee Griggs, Jeid Huilar, Nathan Hurtado, Angelina Lozano, Goodness Onifade
Southlake: Grant Moore
Sulphur Springs: Marissa Banuelos, Malori Boyer, Ricardo Chavarria, Gisselle Gomez, Heaton Halbert, Cristian Trejo, Aaron Westerfield
Sumner: Kaidynse Steed
Talco: Jackson McLemore
The Colony: Brianna Ortega
The Woodlands: Jessica Battiste
Wolfe City: Jason Miller, Timothy Wright
Wylie: Cam Pruitt
Students from other states named to the President’s List:
Lakewood, California: Laci Berecochea
Upland, California: Sofia Hollingsworth
Shawnee, Kansas: Greyson Chappel
Monroe, Louisiana: Kaitlyn Worsham
Idabel, Oklahoma: Tamiera Jones
Valliant, Oklahoma: Kayden Bean
Students from other countries named to the President’s List:
Auckland, New Zealand: Catherine Smith
Guayaquil, Ecuador: Stefano Carvajal
Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Wesley Johnston, Cole LeClair
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada: Christopher Melvin
Students from Texas named to the Dean’s List:
Aubrey: Preslie Reffel
Bacliff: Giselle Gonzalez
Blossom: Tucker Crutchfield, Naomi Roberts
Bogata: Jestin Wright
Bonham: Aubri Pendergrass
Brookston: Mallory Sikes
Campbell: Destiny Millard, Jack Nichols
Henderson: Colton Acker
Commerce: Sarai Aguilar, Kacie Bates, Khana May, Jazmin Mojica-Castillo
Como: Joshua Bruce, Johnny Gallegos
Cumby: Alyssa Forgacic, Jeremy Freyman, Justin Green, Braxton Northcutt
Denison: Anizara De Oliveira Souza
Detroit: Raelin Musgrove
Dickinson: Ava Axtle
Dike: Ryleigh Bell, Jolee Wilson
El Campo: Alexis Salazar
Fate: Alejandra Castro Sanchez
Frisco: Dylan Parker
Greenville: Jose Castaneda, Johnny Honeycutt, Jared Morales, Diana Pineda, Patrick Polk, Arron Williams, Trey Witt
Henderson: Natalie Christy
Honey Grove: Tatum Banker, Asher Price, Macie Ragland, Lillian Ridley, Hayshus Tucker, Chloe Walker, Caycee Woodard
Houston: Fabrice Ndayishimiye
Irving: Chasity Rivera
Josephine: Kimberly Quintero
Ladonia: Katherine Chesson
Mabank: Alexia Martinez
Manor: Juan Briones
Mansfield: Xavier Peyton
Mesquite: Arayah Ross
Palestine: Emerith Hernandez
Paris: Robin Anderson, Devin Balazs, Metz Branch, Johnny Davis, Ellie Hubbard, Donnie Johnson, Briggette Ladd, Monica Martinez, Fisher McCoy, Ashjwanae Mickens, O’Toyu Milton, Janeth Ovando, Rhett Powell, Davie Rater, Michelle Sanchez, Shammond Smith, Jose Roman Tabora, Mary Warren, Brittany Woodall, Juan Yepiz
Pattonville: Ashton McQueen
Pflugerville: Lawrence Doe
Powderly: Patricia Garcia, Jehma Nesbit
Quinlan: Donovan Duarte, Jalin Millsap, James Morales, Jonathan Munoz, Pacey Murley-Bell, Blythe Van Ormer
Ravenna: Sawyer Price
Rockwall: Damian Camp
Rowlett: Lucas Solorzano
Roxton: Dusti Gaither
Royse City: Andy Garrett, Emma Neyra
Saltillo: Caden McGill
San Antonio: Gabriela Sosa
Sulphur Bluff: Josiah Hadnot
Sulphur Springs: Michael Bolton, Hannah Davis, Maria Garing, Aiden Horton, Dreu Jones, Ethan Klein, Rowdy Pogue, Isaac Stanley, Vanessa Tellez
Wills Point: Elisa McVeigh
Windom: Mariah Miller
Winnsboro: Pauline Curry
Yantis: Payton Rainbolt
Students from other states named to the Dean’s List:
Murrieta, California: Bradley Fleming
San Diego, California: Aleila Dugan
Miami, Florida: Leonel Aguilar
Columbia, Maryland: Nevaeh Brown
Sauk Centre, Minnesota: Violet Anderson
Antlers, Oklahoma: Katie Gee, Jonathan Webb
Hugo, Oklahoma: Jaisha McClure, Winter Oakes
Soper, Oklahoma: Helen Clifton
Luquillo, Puerto Rico: Sebastian De La Cruz
Hill AFB, Utah: Elsa Wandrey
Students from other countries named to the Dean’s List:
Bhaktapur, Nepal: Mandip Basnet
Flu A Most Common in North East Texas
February 4, 2025 – Health officials in Northeast Texas have reported a noticeable uptick in flu cases over the past few weeks. Local hospitals and clinics are experiencing higher patient volumes as seasonal influenza makes its annual return. Medical experts suggest that the current spike may be due to a combination of factors, including lower vaccination rates and increased social interactions as community events resume.
Which flu is worse, A or B? Flu A tends to be more aggressive and cause more severe symptoms compared to flu B. It’s more common in adults. In contrast, flu B is more common in children. While it typically causes mild illness, type B can be more severe in children under age 5 and older adults
State and local health departments are urging residents to take preventive measures. They emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated, frequent handwashing, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Health clinics are extending their hours to accommodate the increased demand for flu vaccinations, and public service announcements are being broadcast to inform communities about early symptoms and the importance of seeking medical care promptly.
Local schools and workplaces are also implementing additional precautions to help reduce the spread of the virus. In some areas, temporary closures or modified schedules have been put in place for those affected by the flu. While the current situation is being closely monitored, health officials remain optimistic that with proper care and adherence to public health guidelines, the impact of the flu season can be mitigated. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and consult healthcare providers for advice tailored to their individual needs.
Lake Bois D’Arc is a Regional Destination For Nature Lovers
February 4, 2025 – Lake Bois D’Arc has quickly become a premier destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering not only breathtaking natural scenery but also some of the best fishing opportunities in the region. This new reservoir, designed with sustainability and recreation in mind, boasts clear, well-maintained waters that support a thriving aquatic ecosystem. Anglers flock to Lake Bois D’Arc for its abundance of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish, all thriving in a habitat carefully managed to promote healthy populations.
Local fisheries experts and environmental managers have collaborated to stock the lake with a balanced mix of species, ensuring that both novice and experienced anglers can enjoy a rewarding fishing experience. The lake’s design incorporates gentle slopes and varied underwater structures, creating natural hideouts for fish and ideal conditions for breeding. This attention to ecological detail not only enhances the quality of fishing but also preserves the long-term vitality of the lake’s ecosystem.
Recreational facilities around Lake Bois D’Arc further add to its appeal. Several well-placed boat launches and fishing piers allow easy access to the water, while ample parking and nearby picnic areas create a welcoming environment for family outings. Local bait shops and tackle stores have already reported a surge in business, reflecting the growing popularity of the lake as a fishing hotspot.
Moreover, the management of Lake Bois D’Arc emphasizes catch-and-release practices and responsible angling to maintain a sustainable fishery for future generations. Regular community fishing events and workshops on sustainable practices help educate anglers on the importance of conservation, ensuring that the lake remains a vibrant ecosystem.
Overall, Lake Bois D’Arc is not only a testament to modern environmental planning but also a haven for those passionate about good fishing. Its success in merging recreational use with conservation sets a high standard for future projects in the region, promising many enjoyable days on the water for years to come.
Statement by Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller on Governor Abott’s Legislative Priorities
February 4, 2025 – “I applaud Governor Greg Abbott for using his State of the State address to highlight many of the same critical issues I’ve been fighting for—supporting Texas families, our hardworking public servants, and the farmers and ranchers who keep this state running.
Finally, we are eliminating discriminatory DEI policies from the state government, a fight the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has joined.
Texas must stay #1 in cattle, cotton, and our kids’ education. That means schools should teach, not indoctrinate. I fully support banning DEI in K-12 education and passing school choice. Parents—not bureaucrats—should decide what’s best for their children.
Water security remains a top priority, as agriculture and our state’s future depend on it. Last session’s $1 billion investment, along with Governor Abbott’s commitment to do more, is a crucial step forward.
Expanding rural healthcare is another necessity, and I appreciate the Governor’s commitment to ensuring every Texan, no matter where in our great state they may live, has access to quality care.
Texas has led the way in securing the border. Operation Lone Star proves it can be done, and now the Trump Administration is following our state’s lead. And let’s be clear—China and other hostile foreign adversaries have no business buying our precious Texas land. I’ll keep fighting until we put a stop to it.
These priorities reaffirm Texas as the national leader in agriculture, border security, and economic freedom—values that align with President Trump’s mission to make America strong, secure, and prosperous again.”
