Illegal Aliens Cut From Certain ‘Federal Public Benefits’
July 14, 2025 – On July 10, 2025, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced a major policy reversal intended to prevent undocumented immigrants from accessing certain taxpayer-funded healthcare and social services. The new directive rescinds a 1998 Clinton-era interpretation of the 1996 PRWORA welfare law, which had previously narrowed “federal public benefit” and allowed undocumented individuals to receive services like Head Start, community health centers, mental-health and substance-use grants, and Title X family planning.
“For too long, the government has diverted hardworking Americans’ tax dollars to incentivize illegal immigration.” – Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
HHS’s updated stance clarifies that any program serving individuals, families, or households under PRWORA now falls under this definition, reversing exemptions that have been in place for nearly 27 years.
Under the new rule, 44 programs are designated as “federal public benefits” including Head Start, mental-health and substance-abuse support, health workforce initiatives, and homelessness aid.
Government officials say this change could save Texas and other states millions of dollars, citing Texas Health and Human Services data showing hospitals incurred $121 million in monthly healthcare costs for undocumented patients.
HHS’s own estimates suggest redirecting these resources could yield up to $375–374 million annually in Head Start alone.
Kennedy framed the move as restoring “integrity to federal social programs,” preventing public resources from incentivizing illegal immigration.
Though the policy takes effect immediately, a 30-day public comment period is underway before detailed implementation guidelines are released.
The revised list newly includes all programs now classified as “Federal public benefits” under PRWORA:
- Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics
- Community Mental Health Services Block Grant
- Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
- Head Start
- Health Center Program
- Health Workforce Programs not otherwise previously covered (including grants, loans, scholarships, payments, and loan repayments).
- Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Prevention, and Recovery Support Services Programs administered by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
- Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness Grant Program
- Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant
- Title IV-E Educational and Training Voucher Program
- Title IV-E Kinship Guardianship Assistance Program
- Title IV-E Prevention Services Program
- Title X Family Planning Program
Animal Shelters in Texas Get Relief
July 13, 2025 – Adoptable pets from Central Texas flew into the Susquehanna Valley Saturday, touching down at Lancaster Airport and heading straight to the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area for adoption this week. The rescue mission—coordinated by Wings of Rescue in partnership with Brandywine Valley SPCA—marks a second relief flight, following an earlier arrival in Delaware.
Multiple flights carrying hundreds of pets have provided relief for Texas shelters since the flooding in Kerr County Texas earlier this month.
Among the arrivals are four dogs and ten cats that were already waiting in overcrowded Austin-area shelters before recent flooding intensified the crisis. According to Colleen Harrington, director of the Brandywine Valley SPCA’s Second Chance Program, the flights open up much-needed kennel space in Texas and prevent stray animals from slipping through the safety net.
Animal-care teams unloaded the pets quickly despite the summer heat. These affectionate dogs and shy but hopeful cats are now available at the Harrisburg shelter—some as early as Sunday or Tuesday, depending on check-in timing.
With adoption efforts in full swing, the Humane Society is urging local families to visit and welcome a fellow rescue into their homes this week. Not only does adoption offer a fresh start for these animals, but it also frees space for Texas shelters still dealing with flooding fallout.
If you’ve been considering bringing a pet into your life, now is the perfect opportunity to make an incredible impact—two-fold, in fact.
Indiana Task Force 1 Sends Additional Help To Texas
July 13, 2025 – Indiana Task Force 1, Indiana’s urban search-and-rescue team, has dispatched an additional 35 members to Kerr County, Texas, to bolster ongoing flood-response operations following catastrophic flash flooding that inundated the Hill Country region earlier this month.
The deployment comes amid intensifying recovery efforts after several rounds of torrential thunderstorms, which have repeatedly inundated local communities and disrupted prior relief operations . The team augments a multistate response that has included task forces from Ohio, Colorado, Minnesota, and others, along with units from the Coast Guard, National Guard, and Mexican emergency crews.
The disaster has claimed at least 132 confirmed fatalities as of July 10, including a tragic toll of over 106 lives lost in Kerr County alone—comprising both adults and children—with hundreds more reported missing. The Indiana contingent will assist in search and rescue, structural assessments, and recovery efforts, particularly along the rapidly swelling Guadalupe River corridor.
Indiana Task Force 1’s additional deployment underscores the severity and national scope of the disaster, with teams continuing 24/7 operations to locate survivors, recover victims, and support local authorities. As heavy rains threaten renewed flooding, the trained professionals are critical in reinforcing regional capacity and helping communities through this crisis.
SID MILLER ADDRESSES PRESIDENT TRUMP’S VISIT TO KERRVILLE, TEXAS
July 13, 2025 – “President Trump’s visit to Kerrville comes at a crucial time as Texans are suffering from historic and devastating flooding. This is the leadership Texans know to expect from President Trump: present, proactive, and ready to act when disaster occurs.
President Trump is committed to strengthening emergency response efforts so that what happened in the Hill Country never happens again, and I will fight with him every step of the way. We’re not just going to rebuild, we’re going to rebuild stronger, smarter, and faster.
Hundreds of Texans remain unaccounted for. As searches continue, I hope Texans will continue to join me in keeping those affected in their prayers. In times of disaster, we must unite in solidarity and support our neighbors.”
Paris District Road Report for Week of July 14, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting July 14, 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: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
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:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. 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 lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Tuesday, May 27th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road. All other sections of frontage roads in the Van Alstyne area will be converted to one-way traffic.
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 US 75 frontage road u-turns at the US 82 frontage road intersection are closed to traffic to allow crews to begin work on a portion of the new US 75 mainlane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
The northbound US 75 frontage road exit to SH 91 is closed to allow for construction of the pavement of the new US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91. During this closure, traffic is asked to stay on the northbound frontage road to Taylor Street and take Taylor Street back to SH 91.
Eastbound and westbound US 82 will have a left lane closure to allow for construction of drilled shafts and columns for the new US 75 bridge over US 82. Traffic should expect delays as US 82 will be reduced to one lane.
The northbound and 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 is reduced to one lane and will be required to stop at the southbound US 75 intersection.
The westbound SH 91 access to US 75 northbound frontage road will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. Northbound motorists intending to access eastbound SH91 will need to take the N. Travis St Exit (Exit 60), follow the frontage road to Taylor St, turn right and follow Taylor St to SH91. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The southbound frontage road to northbound frontage road U-Turn at SH 91 will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. US 75 Southbound frontage road motorists intending to access the US 75 northbound frontage road will need to continue to N. Travis St, and utilize the U-Turn at Travis St. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The US 75 northbound exit to SH-91 will be closed to facilitate the construction of the ultimate ramp connection. Motorists intending to access SH-91 will be required to take Exit 60 for N. Travis Street/Taylor Street. Detour signs will be posted along the frontage road at N. Travis Street, Taylor Street, and N Loy Lake intersections.
The US 75 northbound and southbound will have alternate lane closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from July 07 to August 02 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
US 82 eastbound and westbound lanes at the intersection of US 75 and US 82 will have alternate closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from July 07 to August 02 from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM
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. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
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 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night 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.
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. The new signal light at the SH 289 and FM 902 intersection was activated on Thursday, May 29. The signal has started normal operation, and drivers should pay attention to this new signal as they approach the intersection.
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.
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 SH 91 to the Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
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.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 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 the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, the bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The Contractor demolished the bridge and started replacing it. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Frog Pond Rd & Spalding Rd or Klas Rd & Hazelwood Rd.
FM 901, from US 82 to US 377. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place seal coat on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone
Fannin County:
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.
FM 274 is closed to thru traffic at the Sandy Creek Bridge in order for the contractor to replace the bridge and approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 78 and FM 1753 to detour around the closure.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. Traffic will be required to detour onto CR 2815 & CR 2865 while the bridge structure is being replaced.
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 981, from Us 69 to Colin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operation roadway. Motorists should expect delays as they drive through the work zone.
FM 151, from US 69 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations 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. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: FM 1870, from SH 11 to Mine Haul Road Bridge. Crews will be constructing turn lane and hauling in roadway materials. Watch for construction vehicles entering and leaving travel lanes.
Hopkins County: FM 71, S Sulphur River. Crews will be boring to collect soil samples. Roadway will be closed during these operations.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be improving drainage structures and trimming trees along the roadway to prep for rehabbing the existing road.
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.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division Street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
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.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
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:
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, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
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 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Contractor will begin setting barricades July 7th. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures Contractor is grading and shouldering up across project limits. Contractor will continue paving this week. 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. Contractor completed cement treatment on last section of project. New guardrail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Backfill, slope around bridge, and riprap are completed. Driveways, signage and mailboxes will be ongoing. 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 installing storm sewer. Contractor is working to switch traffic to new pavement on the north by July 11th. Contractor will be starting work on Phase 2 after traffic switch. 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. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. No work will be performed this week. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is currently prepping right-of-way and installing erosion control within the project limits. Contractor is removing existing 18” pipe and replacing with 24” pipe on the southbound. Contractor is performing structure work. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Barricades and work zone traffic signs installations are ongoing. Contractor is laying driveway pipes. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs in place. Lane closures will start Sunday night (7/13) through Friday morning (7/18). Left lane closures on IH30 both EB and WB for FM 1903, FM 1570, and Monty Stratton from 7:00 PM to 6:00 AM. These closures will be utilized to help assist in material haul, asphalt and concrete paving operations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Detour paving will be happening on eastbound main lane near 2511 area. Detour paving will be performed at 2511 area on WBFR. At FM 36 contractor will be performing for hot mix on detour paving along EBFR and EBML, as well as WBFR and WBML. Temp wall work at FM 36 is ongoing Utility relocations are ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Boring and trenching for conduit has started on I-30 at FM 513. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance will be performing overlay on Division St. in Greenville. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair and ROW mowing in various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing pavement repairs on US 69 in Lone Oak and Point. Right of Way mowing and tree trimming will be ongoing in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Governor Abbott Announces $10,000 Reward For Individual Connected To ICE Facility Ambush
July 10, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Office of the Governor’s Public Safety Office is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Benjamin Hanil Song, who is wanted for his alleged involvement in the July 4, 2025, attack on a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Facility in Alvarado, Texas. During this attack, an Alvarado police officer was shot and wounded. The Texas Department of Public Safety has added Song to their 10 Most Wanted Fugitive List.
“The targeted attacks against our federal law enforcement officers is a crime and must end,” said Governor Abbott. “Criminals such as Benjamin Hanil Song will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. I encourage Texans with information to call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline or submit an anonymous tip online. Texas is and always will be a law-and-order state.”
On Tuesday, warrants were issued out of Johnson County for Song’s arrest for aiding terrorism, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon on a public servant and engaging in organized crime. Yesterday, a federal arrest warrant was issued for Song in the United States District Court, Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth, Texas, after he was charged with attempted murder of a federal officer and discharging a firearm during, in relation to, and in furtherance of a crime of violence.
The suspect, Benjamin Hanil Song, 32, is described as an Asian male, approximately 5 feet, 6 inches tall, and weighs 150 pounds. He has brown eyes and black hair. He should be considered armed and dangerous.
In addition to the state reward, the Federal Bureau of Investigation is offering up to $25,000, bringing the total reward amount up to $35,000.
To be eligible for the cash rewards, tipsters must provide information using one of the following methods:
• Call the Texas Crime Stoppers hotline at 1-800-252-TIPS (8477)
• Submit a web tip through the Texas 10 Most Wanted website
• Submit a tip online
Callers’ anonymity is guaranteed by law regardless of how tips are submitted, and tipsters will be provided a tip number instead of using a name. Fugitives should be considered armed and dangerous. Texans should never try to apprehend a fugitive.
Governor Abbott Announces New Crisis Support Line For Texans Affected By Floods
July 11, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott today announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) launched the Texas Flooding Emotional Support Line, a new statewide crisis support line for Texans impacted by recent catastrophic floods. The crisis support line is available 24/7 and provides professional crisis counseling at no cost.
“The State of Texas continues working to ensure that Texans hardest hit by these devastating floods have the resources and support they need, and that includes mental health support,” said Governor Abbott. “This new statewide crisis support line will ensure survivors, families, and first responders have access to emotional support and crisis counseling as they work to heal and recover. Cecilia and I continue to pray that God brings comfort to everyone affected and strength to our first responders as they deal with the unimaginable.”
Survivors, families, first responders, and others affected by the disaster can receive professional crisis counseling at no cost by calling 833-812-2480. All calls are confidential and answered by personnel specially trained to work with disaster survivors.
“The physical and emotional effects from a natural disaster are profound, and can have lasting effects on hearts, minds and communities,” said Michelle Alletto, HHSC chief program and services officer. “Dedicated mental health support is available to help our fellow Texans cope with loss, rebuild and heal.”
Through crisis counseling, Texans can receive emotional support and get assistance with reviewing their disaster recovery options and referrals to other programs. Crisis counseling also promotes positive coping strategies and helps prevent additional stress for those affected by disaster.
For more information on mental health resources available to Texans, visit the Disaster Behavioral Health Services page.
Como-Pickton Schools May be Looking For a New Superintendent
July 11, 2025 – An agenda for a Special Meeting of the CPCISD Board of Trustees has been posted for Monday, July 14, 2025 starting at 6:00pm. The top agenda item listed under the heading of Human Resources pertains to “Discussion and possible action of Superintendent‘s voluntary resignation”. Board members are planning an Executive Session as well where they may discuss matters with their legal counsel as well as discussion on the possibilty of appointing an interim superintendent. After adjourning from the Executive Session, board members may indeed appoint an interim superintendent as they return to that agenda item to close out the regular portion of their meeting.
The Special Meeting of the Como-Pickton Consolidated Indepenent School District is planned for Monday, July 14, 2025 starting at 6:00pm and will be held at the C-P Admin Conference Room, 13017 Texas Highway 11 East, Como, Texas 75431.
Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson Talked with John Mark Dempsey About an Upcoming Program on Bees on This Second Cup Of Coffee
July 10, 2025 – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Hopkins County Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson had A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey recently. On this episode, John Mark and Ronnie chatted about Earth Kind Gardening, the benefit of planting marigolds in your garden, a program the Master Gardeners are going to have July 17, 2025, at 6:30pm at the AgriLife Extension Office about bees, and so much more. Be sure to take a look at this segment of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey and see what you will learn!
A Cold Case Murder has Been Solved
July 10, 2025 – A cold case murder has been solved after nearly 30 years according to an announcement from the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office.
A statement from the Sheriff’s Office says: “After nearly three decades, a major development has been made in the 1996 murder of Geraldine Blackmon. On Tuesday, 71-year-old William Doyle Magness of Midlothian, Texas, was arrested and charged with murder in connection with the cold case.”
Working with the Texas Rangers, Hopkins County Sheriff’s investigators executed a search warrant at Magness’s residence on Tuesday. During the warrant service, an arrest warrant for murder was also served, and Magness was taken into custody without incident. He was booked into the jail on s charge of murder. His bond is set at $1 million.
The sheriff’s office says the arrest is the result of a comprehensive re-investigation of the 1996 homicide, including re-interviewing of witnesses, conducting extensive forensic analysis, and the critical discovery of new ballistic evidence. A gun barrel recovered from Magness’s residence in 2025 was positively matched to the bullet collected from the 1996 crime scene, providing the crucial link needed to move the case forward.
Sheriff Lewis Tatum praised the dedication of the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office investigators Shea Shaw and Chris Baumann. And he thanks Texas Rangers Warren Williamson and David Stewart for their partnership and expert support.
Sheriff Tatum also thanks Constable Dennis Findley, who worked the case during his tenure at the Sheriff’s Office, and Cherry Rice, the original lead investigator assigned to the case in 1996.
“Without the hard work and dedication of Mrs. Rice in the original investigation, this case would have never been solved,” Tatum stated. “Her determination ensured that evidence and documentation were preserved for all these years, which proved instrumental in bringing us to this point.”
The arrest of Magness marks a significant step toward achieving justice for Geraldine Blackmon and offers long-overdue answers to her family and the Hopkins County community.
This remains an ongoing investigation, and no additional details will be released at this time.
