New TxDOT Safety Initiative Taps Into the Lone Star spirit
‘Drive like a Texan’ encourages safe behavior while driving
December 13, 2024 – AUSTIN — People in Texas take pride in who they are. From holding the door open for a stranger to lending a helping hand to a neighbor, being a Texan is a way of life. But too many times, drivers leave that Lone Star spirit behind when they get on the road, which can often result in preventable crashes.
To help instill that Texas spirit on the road, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is getting back to the basics by launching a new safety initiative called Drive like a Texan. This fresh perspective exemplifies the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan. By reminding drivers to practice those values every day we can make Texas roads safer for everyone.
“We want a fresh, heartfelt approach to how we talk about road safety. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve lived here, or where you’re from. All that really matters is that you embrace those values that represent the best of Texas,” said TxDOT Deputy Executive Director Brandye Hendrickson. “The message is simple: take pride in how we treat each other on and off the road.”
Although the number of people who died in crashes went down in 2023 compared to 2022, an average of 12 people die on Texas roadways every day. It will take everyone’s help, and Drive like a Texan introduces a new unifying message that can save lives when put into practice. It reminds Texans of who we are, how we treat each other and the common values we share.
Drive like a Texan messages will appear across television, social media, website and billboards throughout Texas starting this winter. After a launch at the Trail of Lights in Austin, look for Drive like a Texan stops at holiday light shows throughout the state.
Whether it’s letting someone merge with a friendly wave, slowing down in busy areas or simply practicing patience, this campaign encourages everyone to embody the true Texan spirit. Drive like a Texan — kind, courteous and safe.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Stops Second Harris County “Guaranteed Income” Scheme
Preventing Public Money from Being Unlawfully Redistributed.
December 16, 2024 – Attorney General Ken Paxton secured a stay preventing Harris County from restarting its unlawful “guaranteed income” program after the County made an attempt to sidestep a court order halting a similar program.
A guaranteed income program is a way to provide regular cash payments to individuals to supplement their income. These programs are also known as guaranteed basic income, basic income guarantee, or unconditional basic income. Guaranteed income programs are intended to: Reduce poverty and inequality, Empower individuals to use the funds as they see fit and Create an income floor that no one can fall below
In April 2024, Attorney General Paxton sued Harris County to stop its original “guaranteed income” program that unlawfully distributed public money with “no strings attached.” The Texas Supreme Court ordered the County to pause the program and not distribute any funds while litigation continued. However, the Harris County Commissioners Court attempted to restart the program by enacting a virtually identical one—with significantly increased administrative costs—in blatant violation of the Supreme Court’s order. Attorney General Paxton sued and has now obtained another stay blocking Harris County from implementing any aspect of the program.
The Texas Constitution explicitly forbids “any county, city, town or other political corporation or subdivision of the State … to grant public money or thing of value in aid of, or to any individual.” When ruling on the original program, the Texas Supreme Court noted that “the State has raised serious doubts about the constitutionality of the Uplift Harris program, and this potential violation of the Texas Constitution could not be remedied or undone if payments were to commence while the underlying appeal proceeds.”
“Harris County is not above the law and cannot ignore the Texas Constitution,” said Attorney General Paxton. “They made a blatant attempt to end-run a Texas Supreme Court ruling by duplicating their unlawful handout program, and we have successfully blocked them yet again.”
Texas Arrests Mexican Mafia Gang Members, Human Smugglers
December 16, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard continue to work together to secure the border; stop the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas; and prevent, detect, and interdict transnational criminal activity between ports of entry.
Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the multi-agency effort has led to over 529,500 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 49,400 criminal arrests, with more than 42,500 felony charges. In the fight against the fentanyl crisis, Texas law enforcement has seized over 588 million lethal doses of fentanyl—enough to kill every man, woman, and child in the United States and Mexico combined during this border mission.
Texas has decreased illegal crossings into the state by over 87% due to our historic border security mission. Fewer illegal crossings into Texas means fewer migrants to transport to sanctuary cities. Since the start of Texas’ transportation program, the state has transported:
- Over 12,500 migrants to Washington, D.C. since April 2022
- Over 45,900 migrants to New York City since August 2022
- Over 36,900 migrants to Chicago since August 2022
- Over 3,400 migrants to Philadelphia since November 2022
- Over 19,200 migrants to Denver since May 2023
- Over 1,500 migrants to Los Angeles since June 2023
Operation Lone Star continues to fill the dangerous gaps created by the federal government’s refusal to secure the border. Every individual who is apprehended or arrested and every ounce of drugs seized would have otherwise made their way into communities across Texas and the nation due to open border policies.
RECENT HIGHLIGHTS FROM OPERATION LONE STAR:
Governor Abbott: Texas National Guard Reinforces Razor Wire Barriers In El Paso
On Monday, Governor Abbott shared photos on X, formerly known as Twitter, showcasing Texas National Guard soldiers installing and reinforcing razor wire barriers near El Paso.
These effective border barriers are strategically placed in front of a large levy drain, allowing water and debris to flow while stopping illegal crossings into Texas.
Last month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit ruled in favor of Texas’ right to build razor wire border barriers.
Governor Abbott: Texas’ Border Wall Construction Continues In Maverick County
Earlier this week on X, Governor Abbott shared footage of ongoing border wall construction in Maverick County.
Until Texas has a partner in the White House, the state will continue to build miles of border wall to keep the state and nation safe.
Governor Abbott: Texas Continues To Deny Illegal Immigration At Border
On Wednesday, Governor Abbott highlighted a photo on X showing a Texas National Guard soldier turning back a group of migrants attempting to illegally cross the border from Mexico into Texas.
Under the direction of the Governor, Texas National Guard soldiers along the southern border continue to hold the line and deny illegal entry into the state.
DPS Arrests Confirmed Mexican Mafia Gang Member In Kinney County
DPS troopers arrested two illegal immigrants, Nery Flores Flores (left) and Usvaldo Castaneda Loma (right), for trespassing on a private ranch in Kinney County this week. Both men, from Mexico, attempted to evade troopers but were quickly apprehended.
Flores Flores is a confirmed Mexican Mafia gang member and is a deported aggravated felon wanted on an immigration violation. He served 16 years in prison for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and was deported to Mexico in 2020.
WATCH: DPS Arrests Human Smuggler From El Salvador Following High-Speed Pursuit
A smuggler in a black Ford F-150 led DPS troopers on a high-speed pursuit on IH-35 in La Salle County on Wednesday. During the pursuit, the smuggler, Kevin Cruz Diaz, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador, evaded recklessly. After DPS troopers successfully deployed a tire deflation device, Diaz stopped and was arrested.
Diaz is charged with ten counts of smuggling of persons with a firearm, evading arrest, theft of a firearm, and possession of controlled substances. DPS troopers referred all 10 illegal immigrants from Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico to Border Patrol.
Texas National Guard Reinforces Miles Of Razor Wire Barriers Along Border
This week, Texas National Guard engineers installed dozens of miles of razor wire barriers on a new stretch of key terrain to block illegal border crossings from Mexico.
These barriers have been effective to stop illegal border crossings in low water areas along the Rio Grande River.
Texas National Guard Boat Teams Continue To Patrol Southern Border
Last week, Texas National Guard riverine boat teams worked around-the-clock patrolling the Rio Grande River to stop illegal border crossings from Mexico into Texas.
Texas National Guard Staff Sergeant (Sgt) Isais Mayen highlighted the critical work his brush and riverine operations team does conducting missions on the Rio Grande River from Roma to Brownsville.
“This week, while conducting a river assessment, we noticed a potential (cartel-associated) drop-off location used for illegal trafficking,” said Staff Sgt. Mayen. “To prevent future use of this location, we alerted our law enforcement partners of the activity.”
WATCH: Texas National Guard Installs Anti-Climb Barriers In Eagle Pass
Texas National Guard soldiers continue to work around-the-clock installing anti-climb barriers across the southern border. In Eagle Pass, Specialist (SPC) Leonardo Cartagena, an engineer working with Task Force Eagle, details the importance of adding more border barriers to ensure the safety of Texans living in communities along the southern border.
“Operation Lone Star is important to me because I was born and raised here in Texas,” said Spc. Cartagena. “The saying ‘Texans helping Texans’ is definitely dear and true to my heart. At the end of the day, it’s also about securing the towns and making sure no bad people come into town to hurt our loved ones and [ensure] that we’re keeping each other safe.”
Paris District Road Report for Week of December 16, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Dec. 16, 2024. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Safety Message: Impaired driving and penalties – DUI & DWI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk your life and the lives of others, and it can send you to jail. If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
When am I legally intoxicated?
You are legally intoxicated in Texas when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but you are breaking the law as soon as drugs or alcohol affect your driving — or flying or boating — ability.
What are the penalties for a DWI?
First offense
- Up to a $2,000 fine.
- Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
- Loss of driver license up to a year.
Second offense
- Up to a $4,000 fine.
- One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
Third offense
- A $10,000 fine.
- Two to 10 years in prison.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
These fines do not include a state fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 assessed upon sentencing.
Impaired driving with a child passenger
- You will be charged with child endangerment if you’re driving impaired with children under 15.
- You will be additionally fined up to $10,000.
- You could be put in jail for up to two years.
- You will lose your driver’s license for another 180 days.
Driving with an open container
Carrying an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you’re not impaired, is illegal. Learn more about Texas open container laws.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: Spur 316 from SH 289 to FM 120, FM 120 in Denison from Houston Avenue to FM 1753, US 69 in Denison from Houston Avenue SH 56, FM 1417 from FM 691 to US 82, US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417, US 82 frontage roads from FM 1417 to FM 1417, SH 56 from US 82 to SH 289, Spur 129 from US 377 to SH 56, FM 1417 from SH 56 to SH 11, SH 289 in Gunter from Kerfoot Road to Elm Street, FS 121 from FM 121 to the Denton County line, SH 5 in Van Alstyne from Redden Road to the Collin County line, SH 56 from SH 11 to FM 1417, SH 11 from SH 56 to FM 697, FM 902 in Tom Bean from SH 11 to King Street. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 75, from US 82 to North Loy Lake Road. This project will rebuild and widen the US 75 mainlanes from four lanes to six lanes as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at FM 691, Iron Ore Creek and Spur 503, and add U-turn bridges at Loy Lake Road in Sherman and Spur 503 in Denison. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project.
There will be left lane closures for the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes on December 16th and 17th in order for crews to perform bridge work between FM 691 and Spur 503. The lane closures will begin at 9:00 pm each night and will be reopened to traffic at 5:00 am the following morning.
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 lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at the intersection.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to install rumble strips, backfill the pavement and seed the front slopes. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at SH 56, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at US 377.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Crews will be working on US 75 each week 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.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
FM 901, from US 377 to US 82. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 4020 at Caney Creek. CR 4020 at Caney Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure traffic is asked to use CR 4025 as a detour.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
FM 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews apply a seal coat to the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56, from FM 1743 to FM 1396. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1629, from SH 121 to SH 78. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform edge repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 11, at FM 1553. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Franklin County: No construction projects ongoing during this week.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing road surfacing operations. Expect slower moving traffic.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
FM 38 at West Fork of Sanders Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1184 at Robertson Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch grading in the area. Excavation, flex base and flowable fill operations are ongoing. Work is currently ongoing at the Middle Sulphur River relief structure. Construction operations have begun and will continue the project shoulders. Work on intersections and driveways will be ongoing 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 is currently performing work on bridge columns and placing asphalt on bridge. Contractor continues to perform reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID in the 2nd mile of project limits. Cement treatment and culver riprap is completed on the 2nd mile of the project. New guard rail placement is finishing. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66: The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor currently has paving operations and sidewalk operations ongoing. The contractor is grading for a detour near Verandah and Baylor Scott and White and placing sidewalk and backfilling curb in the area. Contractor is forming rebar and working blockouts for driveways near Peppergrass. Inlets placement and driveways are ongoing. Railroad coordination is underway near FM 2642 and SH 66, work will begin soon in this area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, From SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. Cement treatment has been completed on the 1st mile section of the 9.5 mile project and the contractor has finished structure wingwalls and headwalls at 3 structures. A ride test and prime coat are scheduled later. The first 1.5 miles of reclamation work is to be placed with cement treated base Please aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun excavation at FM 1903 (West side) and working on placing wire wall at FM 1903 (East side) and soil nail walls at FM 1903.The contractor is also placing embankment & Wire walls east of 1570.along with form work for Bent #3 Cap at FM 1570. Columns are being constructed at FM 1903 and FM 1570 along with the placing of backfill for retaining walls at FM 1570.Pipe/Inlets work for drainage FM 1570 is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36: The contractor is currently grading and placing embankment between the frontage roads and main lanes. Contractor poured culvert B headwall and footing, Grading at FM 1565, EB 2511 for temp wall installation and setting barrier on Eb an WB main lanes from 1565 to end of project limits. Culvert installation is ongoing and detour pavement will be placed throughout the project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County MNT: Overlayed US 69 at SH 34 to repair rutting and SH 36. Addressed Structure maintenance on various roadways.
Rains County MNT will continue to address pavement issues SH 19 south and north and repair pavement edges on FM2737. Worked on Structure Maintenance for SH 276.###
Dinner Bell for December 18, 2024
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
Benny and Sue Ann Johnson have been with Dinner Bell Ministry since it’s inception. They have blessed the ministry with their presence and smiles and greeting of guests each week. We so appreciate Benny and Sue Ann for their partici pation and willingness to be a community partner.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
Stuffed Pork Loin
Mashed Potatoes
Arkansas Green Beans
Mandarin Orange Spinach Salad
Hot Rolls
Pecan Squares
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
New TxDOT Safety Initiative taps into the Lone Star Spirit
‘Drive like a Texan’ encourages safe behavior while driving
December 15, 2024 – PARIS — People in Texas take pride in who they are. From holding the door open for a stranger to lending a helping hand to a neighbor, being a Texan is a way of life. But too many times, drivers leave that Lone Star spirit behind when they get on the road, which can often result in preventable crashes.
To help instill that Texas spirit on the road, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is getting back to the basics by launching a new safety initiative called Drive like a Texan. This fresh perspective exemplifies the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan. By reminding drivers to practice those values every day we can make Texas roads safer for everyone.
“We want a fresh, heartfelt approach to how we talk about road safety. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve lived here, or where you’re from. All that really matters is that you embrace those values that represent the best of Texas,” said TxDOT Deputy Executive Director Brandye Hendrickson. “The message is simple: take pride in how we treat each other on and off the road.”
Although the number of people who died in crashes went down in 2023 compared to 2022, an average of 12 people die on Texas roadways every day. It will take everyone’s help, and Drive like a Texan introduces a new unifying message that can save lives when put into practice. It reminds Texans of who we are, how we treat each other and the common values we share.
Drive like a Texan messages will appear across television, social media, website and billboards throughout Texas starting this winter. After a launch at the Trail of Lights in Austin, look for Drive like a Texan stops at holiday light shows throughout the state.
Whether it’s letting someone merge with a friendly wave, slowing down in busy areas or simply practicing patience, this campaign encourages everyone to embody the true Texan spirit. Drive like a Texan — kind, courteous and safe.
For more information, please contact [email protected] or call (903) 737-9213.
East Texas A&M University Appoints Dr. April Sanders as Dean of the College of Innovation and Design
Dr. Sanders aims to drive innovation in her new role at ETAMU.
COMMERCE, TX, Dec. 11 2024—
Dr. April Sanders has been named dean of the College of Innovation and Design (CID) at East Texas A&M University. CID hosts 14 interdisciplinary academic programs and is home to the university’s competency-based education initiative and Investing in Us, a professional development program for university employees.
With a robust background in education, Sanders has served in numerous leadership roles, including assistant department head and department head for East Texas A&M’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction. She has also served as associate dean, assistant dean, and most recently, interim dean of CID, where she successfully managed the college’s strategic goals, financial budgeting, and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Sanders expressed excitement about her new role. “I am honored to lead the College of Innovation and Design during this moment in our university’s history,” she said. “ Our college represents the intersection of innovation and impact, and through our genuine commitment to student success, we will continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in education.”
She added: “As dean of the College of Innovation and Design, I have the opportunity to help guide talented faculty, staff and students as they discover their own potential to drive meaningful change.”
Dr. Tammi Vacha-Haase, provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, said Sanders is an expert in competency-based education who brings a unique perspective to help CID shape cutting-edge educational experiences.
“Dr. Sanders’ collaborative approach and her ability to build strong, meaningful relationships across the institution position her to effectively address shared challenges and foster university-wide innovation,” Vacha-Haase said. “CID is in excellent hands with Dr. Sanders at the reins.”
Sanders began her career at ETAMU in 2021 as an associate professor. She has published more than 20 articles and delivered over 35 presentations. She has also helped ETAMU earn multiple awards and grants, including an external grant for more than $500,000 from the Department of Education to address teacher shortages in Texas K-12 schools.
Sanders received her Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of North Texas, her Master of Education in Educational Administration from Stephen F. Austin State University, and her Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Central Arkansas. She holds principal (EC-12) and secondary English (6-12) certifications. Her special interests in literacy, teacher education and preparation, and curriculum development reinforce her passion for transforming students’ lives through flexible and personalized learning opportunities.
Dr. Sanders will assume the role of dean on January 1, 2025.
Try Heavy Hitter Okra in 2025 From Master Gardener David Wall
December 15, 2024 – Many gardeners have grown okra never thinking past Clemson Spinless which are good out to 4”. While they can grow to 8”, flavor goes down and toughness goes up, making pods tough to chew and swallow! Other varieties such as Louisiana are good to 10” but will grow to 16”.
With spineless okra as a standard, pods on an individual stem are mostly 1-2. Jambalaya okra may have 4 pods at any one time. There is, however, a species called heavy hitter okra that may have 2-3 times that number at any one time. Heavy Hitter Okra (Abelmoscus esculentus) is a multi-branching species having high quality flavor, maturing quickly at 56-65 days, and holding the record for season long production in Oklahoma.
At any one-time heavy hitter can have anywhere from 20-40 pods. Season long production can be anywhere from 150 -220 pods. Stem height is 5-7’, which is standard, but branches may extend the plant diameter out to 5’. Row separation recommendation is 2-3’, but at 2’, walking between rows may be difficult. Pods can grow 6-8”, but picking recommendations are 3-4”.
Conditions for growing heavy hitter are similar to those of other okra species. You should sow seeds indoor 4-6 weeks before the last frost. In Mt Pleasant, I usually start seeds the last week of March. Our last frost is usually around 15 April, but I don’t like to transplant before 01 May. Transplanting is OK once each plant has developed 2-3 true leaves.
I have never done it, but the literature recommends loosening the soil around the roots when transplanting. You did NOT hear me say this, but after germination, I gently fertilize with miracle grow at least once a week when watering. That’s the one & only time you’ll ever hear recommend a synthetic fertilizer!
Attorney General Ken Paxton Launches Investigations into Character.AI, Reddit, Instagram, Discord
Over Children’s Privacy and Safety Practices as Texas Leads the Nation in Data Privacy Enforcement
December 13, 2024 – Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched investigations into Character.AI and fourteen other companies including Reddit, Instagram, and Discord regarding their privacy and safety practices for minors pursuant to the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (“SCOPE”) Act and the Texas Data Privacy and Security Act (“TDPSA”).
The SCOPE Act prohibits digital service providers from sharing, disclosing, or selling a minor’s personal identifying information without permission from the child’s parent or legal guardian. The SCOPE Act also requires companies to provide parents with tools to manage and control the privacy settings on their child’s account. The TDPSA imposes strict notice and consent requirements on companies that collect and use minors’ personal data. The protections of these laws extend to how minors interact with AI products.
“Technology companies are on notice that my office is vigorously enforcing Texas’s strong data privacy laws. These investigations are a critical step toward ensuring that social media and AI companies comply with our laws designed to protect children from exploitation and harm,” said Attorney General Ken Paxton.
The investigations follow Attorney General Paxton’s recent lawsuit against TikTok for operating in violation of the safety and privacy requirements of the SCOPE Act.
This year, Attorney General Paxton launched the largest data privacy and security initiative of any State AG office. As part of this initiative, Texas brought a major lawsuit against General Motors for illegally surveilling drivers, collecting driver data, and sharing it with their insurance companies.
In July, Attorney General Paxton secured an historic $1.4 billion settlement for the State of Texas with Meta (formerly Facebook) for unlawfully collecting and using facial recognition data—the largest settlement ever obtained from an action brought by a single State.
Statement by Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller on Proposed Listing of a Butterfly a Threatened Species
December 12, 2024 – “The Biden Administration’s recent proposal to list the Monarch Butterfly as a threatened species is just the latest example of federal government overreach which cripples agriculture and rural development. Don’t be misled. This proposal isn’t about protecting butterflies. It’s about out-of-touch and out-of-control Washington bureaucrats forcing a radical agenda that punishes rural America and the people who call it home.
This designation would slap widespread restrictions on anything that might ‘disturb’ monarch habitat, making it nearly impossible to build or expand in rural areas. We’re not just talking about farmland. This will impact dairies, wind and solar farms, football stadiums, roads, airports, railways, feedlots, rural hospitals, parking lots, logging, and mining — you name it. These restrictions will hit Texas farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and consumers where it hurts, threatening the very industries that drive our state’s and nation’s economies.
This is nothing more than a parting shot from the Biden Administration, a desperate move to impose its heavy-handed, radical climate agenda on hard-working Americans before they leave office and sanity returns to our nation’s capital on January 20th. This is not a balanced approach to conservation; it’s a roadblock to growth, jobs, and prosperity, all in the name of feel-good policies. We deserve better.”
You can read more about Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller by going to this website.
