TPWD Encourages Monitoring, Reporting of Animals Affected by New World Screwworm
December 30, 2024 – AUSTIN — Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) asks hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts in South Texas to monitor for animals affected by New World Screwworm (NWS) after a recent detection in Mexico.
This detection, found in a cow at an inspection checkpoint in the southern Mexico State of Chiapas, close to the border with Guatemala, follows the progressively northward movement of NWS through both South and Central Americas.
As a protective measure, animal health officials ask those along the southern Texas border to monitor wildlife, livestock and pets for clinical signs of NWS and immediately report potential cases.
What is New World Screwworm?
New World screwworms are larvae or maggots of the NWS fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax), that cause a painful condition known as NWS myiasis. NWS flies lay eggs in open wounds or orifices of live tissue such as nostrils, eyes or mouth. These eggs hatch into dangerous parasitic larvae, and the maggots burrow or screw into flesh with sharp mouth hooks. Wounds can become larger, and an infestation can often cause serious, deadly damage or death to the infected animal.
NWS primarily infests livestock but can also affect humans and wildlife including deer and birds.
The parasite was last eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, with costly efforts by federal and state animal health officials, livestock producers and veterinary practitioners. Eradication efforts have continued in Central America, but the pest is considered widespread in Cuba, Haiti, Dominican Republic and South American countries.
Clinical signs of NWS myiasis may include:
- Irritated or depressed behavior
- Loss of appetite
- Head shaking
- Smell of decaying flesh
- Presence of fly larvae (maggots) in wounds
- Isolation from other animals or people
Transmission
NWS infestations begin when a female NWS fly is drawn to the odor of a wound or natural opening on a live, warm-blooded animal, where she lays her eggs. These openings can include wounds as small as a tick bite, nasal or eye openings, navel of a newborn or genitalia.
One NWS female fly can lay up to 300 eggs at a time and may lay up to 3,000 eggs during her lifespan. Eggs hatch into larvae (maggots) that burrow into an opening to feed. After feeding, larvae drop to the ground, burrow into the soil and emerge as adult NWS flies. Adult NWS flies can fly long distances and the movement of infested livestock or wildlife can increase the rate of spread.
Prevention
When spending time outdoors (especially if traveling abroad to NWS-affected areas), be sure to clean and cover all wounds in addition to applying insect repellant to outdoor clothing to help avoid contact with NWS and other harmful insects.
How to Help
While in the field enjoying activities such as hunting, hiking or bird watching, hunters and outdoor enthusiasts are asked to report suspected signs of NWS. Any wildlife with suspicious clinical signs consistent with NWS should be immediately reported to a local wildlife biologist. Livestock reports should be made to the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) or U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).
“Those enjoying Texas’ natural resources have an opportunity to serve as the first line of defense in protecting wildlife, livestock, and human health,” said TPWD wildlife veterinarian Dr. J Hunter Reed. “Their eyes and ears will be critical to quickly responding and managing this threat.”
Additional information about NWS can be found on TAHC, USDA and the Center for Disease Control NWS webpages.
Governor Abbott Statement On Passing Of Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter
December 29, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today released a statement following the passing of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter:
“Cecilia and I mourn the loss of former President Jimmy Carter alongside millions of Americans across the country. Our nation remains the greatest beacon of freedom and opportunity in the world because of our fearless chief executives who are our guiding force through the best and worst of times. For that, we owe President Carter our enduring gratitude for his service as the 39th President of the United States. Having led a life marked by selfless service to the American people, President Carter leaves behind a great legacy as a husband, father, naval officer, governor, and Nobel prize winner, and he will be greatly missed by many. Cecilia and I send our prayers and deepest condolences to the entire Carter family.”
Saving Your Tomato Seeds From Master Gardener David Wall
December 29, 2024 – Saving seeds for many vegetables is pretty straightforward. Depending on the vegetable, you may be able to get them from a ripe, over-ripe, or dead fruit. For example, save cucumber seeds from a ripe fruit. Save peppers from a red or over-ripe fruit. Save okra seeds from a dead pod. Saving tomato seeds for next year, however is slightly different.
Yes, you can collect the seeds, dry them, and store them in a container that breathes – I use envelopes! To get the best germination rates, however, tomato seeds need to be fermented. Fermentation is the natural process a tomato seed goes through in the wild. The fruit drops and rots. The seeds ferment as the fruit rots, and later they dry. Next spring, they sprout. Manual fermentation does the same thing. So how does one go about accomplishing this process?
First, gut the tomato, placing the insides (seeds, pulp & juice) in a jar. The outer skin is still available for salads and other uses. Then add enough water so that the entire mixture is in suspension. Now stir the mixture thoroughly with a spoon or other tool and set down. You’ll soon notice seeds that are floating. They’re no good and will be removed (not now!) later.
Now put a cloth cover over the jar top and secure it with string, a rubber band or other device. Using a cloth to ensures air can enter or leave. Now set aside. The jar may smell, but that’s all right. During this time, the seeds are fermenting. Good seeds will sink to the bottom.
After 3-5 days, no longer, remove any floating mold and seeds. Put in a fine mesh stainer, wash/rinse, and put on a paper towel to dry. Once dried, store in a breathable container (I use envelopes!).
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Holiday Hours
December 27, 2024 – The Hopkins County Genealogical Society announces that, in observance of the New Year’s Holiday, they will be closed Tuesday, December 31, 2024, and Wednesday, January 1, 2025. They will reopen Thursday, January 2, 2025, at 9:30am. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library is located at 611 North Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society wishes everyone a safe and happy New Year, and will see you in 2025!
Some More Photo Ops With More Gala Sponsors
December 27, 2024 – Carriage House Manor
Thank you to our friends at Carriage House Manor for their sponsorship in support of the 19th annual Gala! The Tanton family is joined by the 2025 Gala Chairs, the Burgin family. From left to right are Brad Burgin, Julie Burgin, Arvis Tanton, Sheila Tanton, Shandra Dunn, Sharla Campbell, Linda Burgin, and Joe Bob Burgin.
Visit Gala2025.GiveSmart.com for more information.
City National Bank
Proceeds will go toward an MRI upgrade at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. Get your tickets at Gala2024.GiveSmart.com!
Leesa & Brian Toliver
Thank you to Leesa and Brian Toliver for sponsoring the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s Gala. This annual event will be held on January 25, 2025, with proceeds going toward an MRI upgrade at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs.
Gathered by the big tree and big check are, from left to right, Teffany Burgin, Brad Burgin, Julie Burgin, Leesa Toliver, Brian Toliver, Linda Burgin, and Joe Bob Burgin.
For more information or to get tickets, go to Gala2025.GiveSmart.com Bidding for silent auction items will start on the same site on January 20. Some of Leesa’s photographs will be up for bid.
Social Security Fairness Act Almost a Law
December 27, 2024 – The Social Security Fairness Act, recently passed by Congress, aims to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), which have reduced Social Security benefits for public-sector retirees such as teachers, firefighters, and police officers.
The Senate approved the bill with a bipartisan vote of 76-20 on December 21, 2024, following the House’s passage on November 12, 2024.
The legislation now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature to become law.
Supporters argue that repealing WEP and GPO corrects long-standing inequities, allowing approximately 3 million public service retirees to receive full Social Security benefits they have earned.
Critics, however, express concerns about the financial implications, noting that the repeal could add $195 billion to federal deficits over the next decade and accelerate the insolvency of Social Security Trust Funds by six months.
If enacted, the law is expected to provide retroactive payments for 2024 to affected workers, though specific details are yet to be clarified.
The Social Security Fairness Act represents a significant shift in retirement benefits for public-sector employees, addressing concerns that have been debated for nearly four decades.
As the bill awaits the President’s signature, discussions continue regarding its long-term impact on Social Security’s financial health and the broader implications for retirement policy in the United States.
Here are the specific benefits for survivors:
1. Increased Survivor Benefits
- The repeal of the GPO allows surviving spouses and dependents of public-sector retirees to receive full Social Security survivor benefits, even if the deceased spouse was receiving a government pension.
- Previously, the GPO reduced or entirely eliminated these benefits, disproportionately impacting widows and widowers who relied on Social Security for financial stability.
2. Restoration of Fairness
- Survivors who were penalized due to the deceased’s government pension will now receive benefits that reflect the deceased’s full contributions to Social Security.
- This ensures that the system treats survivors equitably, regardless of the pension structure of the deceased.
3. Retroactive Payments
- If enacted, the law is expected to provide retroactive payments for survivors who were previously denied full benefits due to the GPO or WEP.
- Details of the retroactive payment timeline are yet to be clarified but could significantly aid families who faced financial challenges.
4. Financial Security for Low-Income Households
- Survivors, particularly those in low-income households, will benefit from the removal of these offsets, providing better financial security in retirement or times of bereavement.
5. Support for Women
- Since women are often more likely to outlive their spouses and rely on survivor benefits, the repeal addresses gender disparities in Social Security payouts for survivors of public-sector employees.
This legislation aims to ensure that Social Security provides fair and comprehensive support to survivors, correcting what many have viewed as long-standing inequities in the system.
Professor Reinforces That Fluoride In Water Helps Prevent Tooth Decay
Dr. Amal Noureldin, Texas A&M College of Dentistry, explains how growing opposition threatens a 70-year-old health practice.
By Dr. Amal Noureldin – December 27, 2024 – Driving through downtown Dallas, you might see a striking banner hanging at the U-turn bridge, near the Walnut Hill exit on Central Expressway (US 75): “Stop Fluoridation!” Below it, other banners demand action and warn of supposed dangers.
It’s not the first time fluoride has been at the center of public debate.
Since 1951, fluoride has been added to community water supplies in many countries to prevent tooth decay. Fluoridation started as an observation, then an idea that ended as a scientific revolution 50 years later.
Fluoridation is the controlled careful addition of a precise amount of fluoride to community water systems to enhance dental health, ensuring it remains safe without causing systemic health side effects.
The practice has been hailed as one of the “10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century.”
But with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal opponent of fluoridation of water supplies, being tapped by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, this progress is under threat.
I am a clinical professor specializing in caries management, with over 30 years of experience in preventing and treating early decay. In my view, it is crucial to rely on evidence-based practices and research that have consistently shown fluoride to be a cornerstone of dental health, benefiting millions without adverse effects.
Fluoride In The Water Supply
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil and even certain foods. Its role in oral health was first recognized in the early 20th century when researchers observed lower rates of tooth decay in communities with naturally high levels of fluoride in their water.
In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan, became the first city in the world to intentionally fluoridate its water supply. This decision came after thorough discussions with Dr. H. Trendley Dean, head of the dental hygiene unit at the National Institutes of Health at the time, and other public health organizations. The Michigan Department of Health approved adding fluoride to the public water supply the following year.
The city was chosen due to its low natural fluoride levels, a large population of school-age children, and proximity to Muskegon, which served as a control city. After 11 years, the results were remarkable: Cavity rates among children in Grand Rapids born after fluoridation began dropped by over 60%.
By 2008, over 72% of the U.S. population – over 200 million Americans – using public water systems had access to fluoridated water.
This scientific breakthrough transformed dental care, turning tooth decay into a preventable condition for the first time in history.
Fluoride is naturally present in most water sources, but typically at concentrations too low to prevent tooth decay. By adjusting the fluoride level to the recommended 0.7 milligrams per liter, equivalent to about three drops in a 55-gallon barrel, it becomes sufficient to strengthen tooth enamel.
Benefits Of Fluoride For Tooth Health
The science is simple: Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel, the protective outer layer of teeth, by promoting remineralization. It also makes teeth more resistant to the acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. This helps prevent cavities, a problem that remains widespread even in modern societies.
Fluoridated water has been extensively studied, and its benefits are well documented. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, water fluoridation reduces cavities by about 25% across all age groups. It’s a public health measure that works passively – every sip of water helps protect your teeth, without requiring you to change your behavior.
This is especially important for vulnerable populations. Low-income communities often face barriers to accessing dental care or fluoride products like toothpaste. By fluoridating water, communities provide a safety net, ensuring that everyone benefits regardless of their circumstances.
Economically, it’s a smart investment. Research shows that for every dollar spent on fluoridation, communities save about US$20 in dental treatment costs. These savings come from fewer fillings, extractions and emergency visits – expenses that disproportionately affect low-income communities.
Opposition To Fluoridation
Despite its benefits, water fluoridation is not without controversy. Opponents often argue that it infringes on personal choice – after all, most people don’t get to opt out of drinking community water. Others raise concerns about potential health risks, such as fluorosis, bone issues or thyroid problems.
Fluorosis, a condition caused by excessive fluoride exposure during childhood, is often cited as a reason for alarm. However, in most cases, it manifests as mild white spots on teeth and is not harmful. Severe fluorosis is rare in areas with regulated fluoride levels.
What about other health risks? Decades of research, including large-scale reviews by expert panels from around the world as well as the World Health Organization, have found no credible evidence linking fluoridation to serious health problems when fluoride levels are kept within recommended limits. In fact, the fluoride concentration in drinking water is carefully monitored to balance safety and effectiveness.
The CDC oversees the monitoring of fluoride levels in community water systems across the United States. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency establishes a safety standard of 2 milligrams per liter to prevent mild or moderate dental fluorosis.
Still, the debate continues, fueled by misinformation and mistrust in public health initiatives.
It’s important to separate legitimate concerns from unfounded claims and rely on the overwhelming body of evidence supporting fluoridation’s safety.
Fluoride Alternatives
For those who prefer to avoid fluoride, there are alternatives to consider. But they come with challenges.
Fluoride-free toothpaste is one option, but it is less effective at preventing cavities compared with fluoride-containing products. Calcium-based treatments, like hydroxyapatite toothpaste, are gaining popularity as a fluoride alternative, though research on their effectiveness is still limited.
Diet plays a crucial role too. Cutting back on sugary snacks and drinks can significantly reduce the risk of cavities. Incorporating foods like crunchy vegetables, cheese and yogurt into your diet can help promote oral health by stimulating saliva production and providing essential nutrients that strengthen tooth enamel.
However, these lifestyle changes require consistent effort and education – something not all people or communities have access to.
Community programs like dental sealant initiatives can also help, especially for children. Sealants are thin coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of teeth, preventing decay in high-risk areas. While effective, these programs are more resource-intensive and can’t replicate the broad, passive benefits of water fluoridation.
Ultimately, alternatives exist, but they place a greater burden on people and might not address the needs of the most vulnerable populations.
Should Fluoridation Be A Personal Choice?
The argument that water fluoridation takes away personal choice is one of the most persuasive stances against its use. Why not leave fluoride in toothpaste and mouthwash, giving people the freedom to use it or not, some argue.
This perspective is understandable, but it overlooks the broader goals of public health. Fluoridation is like adding iodine to salt or vitamin D to milk. These are measures that prevent widespread health issues in a simple, cost-effective way. Such interventions aren’t about imposing choices; they’re about providing a baseline of protection for everyone.
Without fluoridated water, low-income communities would bear the brunt of increased dental disease. Children, in particular, would suffer more cavities, leading to pain, missed school days and costly treatments. Public health policies aim to prevent these outcomes while balancing individual freedoms with collective well-being.
For those who wish to avoid fluoride, alternatives like bottled or filtered water are available. At the same time, policymakers should continue to ensure that fluoridation levels are safe and effective, addressing concerns transparently to build trust.
As debates about fluoride continue, the main question is how to best protect everyone’s oral health. While removing fluoride might appeal to those valuing personal choice, it risks undoing decades of progress against tooth decay.
Whether through fluoridation or other methods, oral health remains a public health priority. Addressing it requires thoughtful, evidence-based solutions that ensure equity, safety and community well-being.
Paris Junior College fall Graduation Debuts Changes
December 26, 2024 – Nearly 370 students applied to graduate and more than 100 chose to walk across the stage at Paris Junior College. New this year were two ceremonies, and students sported green gowns as part of the College’s 100th anniversary celebration. Graduating students were also featured speakers this year.
“To each of you, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on earning your college degree or certificate. This accomplishment is a testament to your hard work, perseverance, and dedication throughout your time at Paris Junior College,” said PJC President, Dr. Stephen Benson. “You have been part of a community that prioritizes excellence in education, guided by an exceptional team of faculty and staff. The superior education you’ve received here has equipped you with knowledge and skills that will give you countless opportunities in the future.”
The first ceremony celebrated workforce students getting their certificates of completion or associate of applied science degrees. The second ceremony recognized students obtaining an associate of arts, associate of arts in teaching, or associate of science degree.
Joshua Scott, a fourth generation jeweler graduating from PJC’s horology (watchmaking) program, gave the address at the first ceremony.
“I travelled a thousand miles to come here to Paris Junior College,” said Scott. “It took me a while to get adjusted to this new life here, and if it weren’t for the power of community, I may not have received this opportunity to speak here. Many of the most successful and charismatic people that I know in my life have two things in common, that’s discipline and humor. I haven’t mastered either, but because of the people I’ve surrounded myself with during my time at Paris Junior College I will always strive to have the discipline to do what is right, not what is easy, and I will try to laugh a little more, because life is so much better when you’re having fun.”
The second student commencement speaker was Madison Sullivan, an allied health major who was an active member and officer with PJC’s Student Government Association.
“For most of my life I was scared to step out of my comfort zone. For me this is really stepping out of my comfort zone, but because of the lessons learned at PJC I stand before you here today,” said Sullivan.
She related how after many months of her parents’ insistance, she enrolled and began taking classes, but did not speak with anyone and tried to stay unnoticed.
“Then, Mr. Webb found me,” Sullivan said. “What a difference some people make in your life. He convinced me to come to a Student Government meeting. Getting involved, helping people, and making friends was the push I needed to succeed. My grades and confidence soared, and I knew I wanted to continue down this path in education.
“These opportunities have shaped us into the successful graduates we are today, to the workers, scholars, wives, husbands, fathers, and mothers we will become. We go into tomorrow better equipped than ever before.”
Allen Williams, President of the PJC Alumni and Friends Association, congratulated the graduates.
“You may not realize this yet, but you’ve just joined one of the oldest and one of the proudest community college alumni groups in the state of Texas,” said Williams, “and we’re very proud of you. This will change your life and I know that your family and friends are all very proud of you. Our organization extends to you our best wishes.”
Benson concluded with best wishes to the graduates.
“I encourage you to nurture the connections you’ve built during your journey here, cherish the friendships, partnerships and relationships you formed with your classmates, faculty, staff and the greater College community. As alumni, these bonds will remain an enduring part of your story,” said Dr. Benson. “Embrace the road ahead with the pride and spirit of a Paris Junior College Dragon. Congratulations, Class of 2024. Go forth and make your mark on the world!”
Despite rain, faculty and staff preceded the graduates outside, making two lines for the new alumni to pass through as they clapped and cheered for them.
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.
Demand For Live Christmas Trees Remained Strong
By Adam Russell, Texas A&M AgriLife
Demand for Texas-grown Christmas trees continues to rise as acreage and entrepreneurial interest in farms expands, according to a Texas A&M Forest Service expert.
Fred Raley, Texas A&M Forest Service director of the Western Gulf Tree Improvement Program, said Texas Christmas tree producers fared well this year after back-to-back seasons of drought for much of the state. He said consumers should expect higher prices for choose-and-cut and shipped cut trees this holiday season.
“Demand is up, whether the previous seasons impacted supplies or supplies held steady, so there is a potential for price increases and limited selection,” he said. “The increased cost of shipping in fresh-cut trees from other states will also factor into prices.”
Growers, Farms Diversify Around Christmas Trees
Raley said the impact of drought depended on localized rainfall and growers’ access to irrigation. Some farms are supplementing their native tree stocks with more shipped trees this year.
“If you want a live tree, my advice would be to get one early for the best selection,” he said.
Raley said sales typically kick off the weekend following Thanksgiving. Farms have been busy ordering trees and preparing their farms for sales season. In North Carolina, tree damage and impassable roads were concerns regarding Christmas tree supplies following the flood damage from Hurricane Helene. However, there was limited damage following the storm to farms and roads have been restored.
Texas producers continue to expand their acreage where they can, Raley said. Many choose-and-cut farms are also diversifying their operation with “experiential services” built around Christmas trees like hayrides, do-it-yourself decoration/wreath making and games.
“They’re trying to build a complete seasonal experience,” he said. “We’re seeing some older generational farms closing, but we’re also hearing from younger entrepreneurs who want to do something in the green industry, and they are looking to start with Christmas trees.”
Demand For Replacement Seedlings Continues To Rise
Stan Reed, executive secretary of the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association, said the organization is seeing similar expansion and diversification trends in the industry across Texas. He estimates there are 85-95 tree farms in Texas that range from small “mom and pop” growers-sellers to 60-70-acre operations.
“Texas doesn’t have any growers who serve the wholesale market, but there are two operations that are poised to enter that market, which will serve local-cut live-tree stands,” he said.
Reed said new information and methods are helping growers increase production and limit setbacks like lost seedlings. There are four primary tree varieties that perform well in Texas growing conditions – Virginia and Afghan pines, and Leyland and Carolina sapphire cypresses.
Christmas trees in Texas are typically grown in four-year rotations, he said. The association sells seedling Virginia pine trees started from seed banks created by the Texas A&M Forest Service at a discount to growers.
Reed said growers have purchased around 130,000 seedlings so far for their upcoming replants.
Growers have been encouraged to buy more trees than they will plant to replace the season’s harvest. Those excess trees are kept as potted trees and are available to replace seedlings that do not establish and survive. Over the years, Reed said some growers have begun taking advantage of keeping trees potted longer to expedite their growth and shorten their harvest time to three years.
Raley said the seedling program started in the early 2000s, and research trials around the state have identified trees and varietal germplasm that are resilient and perform best. Seed from selected high performers grafted in seed orchards are used to create the seedlings supplied through the association.
“That program is about continuous improvement, and our goal is to meet or exceed the demand of growers each season,” Raley said. “That’s become a challenge because those numbers keep going up every year, but we want to continue to see that trend.”
Honoring the First Female Engineer in Texas
Dec. 23, 2024 – By Jeff Barker – BASTROP — The first woman engineer in Texas is set to be honored with a new historical marker in Bastrop County.
In 1938, Leah Moncure made history by becoming the first woman in Texas to earn a professional engineering license.
Moncure went on to work for the Texas Highway Department — now TxDOT— for 32 years, specializing in research, right-of-way and road design. During her historic tenure, Moncure worked in Houston, Austin, Beaumont and Lufkin.
The Texas Historical Commission and Bastrop County will unveil a new historical marker in January 2025 to honor Moncure’s accomplishments. The marker is part of the Commission’s ‘Undertold’ program designed to address historical gaps, promote diversity of topics and proactively document significant underrepresented subjects or untold stories.
Moncure’s trailblazing spirit paved the way for the more than 300 female engineers currently employed at TxDOT.
Diana Schulze is TxDOT’s head engineer in Moncure’s hometown of Bastrop. When Schulze took over the role in 2016, she became the first-ever female engineer to hold the top spot at any TxDOT office in the agency’s Austin District.
“I think it’s pretty neat that we both have ties to Bastrop County,” Schulze said. “We’ve come a long way, and it’s important we continue to honor Leah’s legacy.”
Schulze continues that legacy by mentoring the next generation of female engineers in Texas, including many currently on her staff.
“There’s no reason that upcoming female engineers can’t be successful like Leah and many others before them.” Schulze said.
Schulze will speak at the marker dedication scheduled for Jan. 13. The marker will be placed outside Moncure’s childhood home in Bastrop.
