Secretary Rollins Tours Egg Laying Facility, Hosts Avian Flu Roundtable in Texas
February 24, 2025 – Bogata & Mount Pleasant, TX – Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins met with poultry farmers and industry leaders as part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s ongoing response to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). Secretary Rollins toured a Cal-Maine Foods egg-laying facility in Bogata, Texas before traveling to Mount Pleasant, Texas, where she hosted a farmer roundtable focused on avian flu response efforts.
“It’s great to be back in Texas and see firsthand the incredible work farmers are doing to protect their flocks,” said Secretary Rollins. “The Biden administration failed to lead on avian flu, and families across America are paying the price. President Trump understands the importance of addressing this issue head on, and USDA is taking action to support farmers, strengthen supply chains, and bring egg prices down.”
During her visit to Cal-Maine Foods, Secretary Rollins saw firsthand how strong biosecurity measures are being implemented to combat outbreaks, support poultry farmers, and stabilize record-high egg prices.
Secretary Rollins then traveled to Mount Pleasant, Texas for a roundtable discussion with poultry farmers, veterinarians and industry leaders. The discussion focused on ongoing avian flu outbreaks, USDA’s response, and the need for proactive disease mitigation strategies.
Texas Measles Outbreak Potentially Spreads to Two Universities
February 25, 2025 – Texas health officials issued alerts regarding potential measles exposure at two state universities.
A resident from Gaines County, who later tested positive for measles, visited Texas State University in San Marcos on February 14. During the visit, the individual was on campus between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., and also dined at Twin Peaks Restaurant from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The following day, February 15, the same individual toured the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) main campus and several tourist attractions in San Antonio, including the River Walk’s Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
These visits have raised concerns about potential exposure to the highly contagious virus among students, faculty, and the general public. Health departments in Hays County and San Antonio are collaborating with the Texas Department of State Health Services to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed.
As of now, no additional measles cases have been reported in the affected counties. Officials are urging those who were present at the specified locations and times to monitor for symptoms, which include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a characteristic rash. This incident coincides with a significant measles outbreak in Texas, with over 90 confirmed cases reported since late January, primarily in the South Plains region.
The outbreak has sparked debates over vaccination mandates, especially as some groups advocate for vaccine exemptions. Health authorities emphasize the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in preventing the spread of the disease.
Mitigating the Impacts of Invasive Species in Texas
February 24, 2025 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Invasive species cause many negative impacts to the Texas landscape, from the displacement of native trees to potentially killing entire species. Because of their widespread impact, Texas A&M Forest Service takes great lengths to help mitigate their impacts and is highlighting those efforts during National Invasive Species Awareness Week.
Invasive species have two main characteristics: they are non-native to an ecosystem and their introduction is likely to cause harm to the economy, environment or human health. Non-native species are those that do not naturally originate in the area or region where they are found.
“Human activity is often responsible for introducing non-native and invasive species into new ecosystems,” said Demian Gomez, Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Forest Health Coordinator. “This includes planting ornamental trees and plants or accidentally transporting insects in wood packaging material, firewood or other goods.”
Invasive species are dominant and grow well in non-native environments because they lack natural competitors, predators and diseases that normally regulate their populations in their natural environment.
Texas A&M Forest Service works to mitigate the spread and impacts of invasive species through proactive forest health management strategies. The agency also partners with other research organizations to track the spread of invasive pests, diseases and tree species.
Invasive species currently posing a significant risk to Texas include:
Emerald ash borer
Native to eastern Asia, the emerald ash borer (EAB) is a destructive, invasive wood-boring pest that has killed millions of ash trees in the U.S. and Texas. EAB was first detected in the U.S. in 2002 and was first reported in Texas in Harrison County in 2016. Since then, EAB has been detected in 27 Texas counties.
Adult EAB lay eggs in the bark of ash trees in the spring and early summer and the larvae burrow into the bark. The larvae feed on the phloem and cambium, disrupting the flow of nutrients within the tree leading to its death. EAB emerge from the tree as adults, leaving D-shaped holes in the bark.
EAB are easily spread long distances by human activity, especially by the transportation of firewood. They can also travel in unprocessed ash logs, ash nursery stock and other ash commodities.
Texas A&M Forest Service works with communities to develop, communicate and implement local EAB preparedness plans. And while the agency assists with planning, trapping and monitoring, the Texas Department of Agriculture is ultimately responsible for EAB management and coordination in Texas.
Saltcedar
Saltcedar trees are dominating wildlands and ranches, especially in the Texas panhandle, exacerbated by the loss of cottonwood and willow trees to wildfires. They were first introduced in the U.S. as an ornamental tree in the 1800s but escaped cultivation in the 1870s.
Saltcedars are aggressive invasive trees that can consume nearly 200 gallons in a day and their leaves and stems secrete high concentrations of salt into the ground around them. These factors diminish nutrients for native species. Additionally, saltcedars lack desirable protein for foraging wildlife.
Saltcedars are highly resistant to control, including mechanical management. The best removal method is spraying imazapyr or imazapyr in addition to glyphosate onto the tree.
Brazilian peppertree
Brazilian peppertree has invaded thousands of acres in coastal habitats since its introduction to Texas in the 1950s. This invasion has caused the shading and killing of native vegetation as well as allergic reactions in some people.
Since 2014, Texas A&M Forest Service has worked with the Texas Gulf Region Cooperative Weed Management Area in Port Aransas to address Brazilian peppertree in the region through eradication and education.
The agency has also been collaborating on a project led by the US Army Engineer Research and Development Center to reduce the impacts of Brazilian peppertree in the Texas Gulf Coast since 2023. The study aims to integrate tiny insects called thrips, referred to as a biocontrol, with ongoing mechanical and herbicide management of the Brazilian peppertree.
Researchers will release new insects and monitor the trees over two years to evaluate the impacts. The U.S. Forest Service provided funding for the project.
Laurel wilt and the red bay ambrosia beetle
Laurel wilt is a vascular fungal pathogen spread by the red ambrosia beetle. The pathogen was first reported in Texas in 2015 and has spread eastward, killing more than half a billion trees in the Lauraceae family. This loss has severely impacted redbays, sassafras and the avocado industry in the southeastern U.S.
This vascular fungal pathogen, transported and cultivated by the beetle to be used as a food source for larvae, can kill trees in less than a month.
Texas A&M Forest Service is working with public and private partners to study the spread and distribution of the disease/insect complex.
Silktree/Mimosa
Mimosa trees are widely used in landscaping due to their fragrant purple flowers and silky petals that bloom in the spring. This Asian native tree was introduced to Texas in 1745. Mimosas adapt to a wide variety of soils, and its seed coat is impermeable, allowing years-long dormancy.
Because of their large spanning canopy, mimosa trees can severely reduce sunlight and nutrients for native species.
Mimosa trees resprout with vigor when trimmed or wounded. Mimosas should be cut down to the stump, and then immediately thoroughly sprayed with herbicides to ensure the tree is killed down to the roots. Larger mimosa trees can be injected with Imazapyr or Triclopyr herbicides as a safer alternative to cutting the tree down.
Since invasive species are often introduced by human activity, Texas A&M Forest Service recommends mindful tree planting and activities. Moving firewood can be a culprit in transporting diseases, so it should be burned near where it is purchased or cut down.
Additionally, landowners can help prevent the spread of these invasive tree species and diseases by diversifying the native tree species on their land, creating a naturally competitive ecosystem. Learn more about planting the right tree in the right place: https://texastreeplanting.tamu.edu/.
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Sponsorships Sought for April’s Man Bingo
February 24, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, TX – The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s Man Bingo, known as Mingo, is slated for Thursday, April 10 at the Hopkins County Civic Center. Sponsorships are on sale for the event.
A Big Daddy Sponsorship runs $2,500 and includes a front-row reserved table with 8 bingo packets. Sponsors’ names and logos will be displayed next to the prize sponsored, and the sponsors’ logos will be printed in the program. Additionally, the sponsors’ names will be announced from the podium.
The Dude Sponsorship is $1,500 and includes a premium reserved table with 8 bingo packets. Sponsors’ names and logos will be displayed next to the prize sponsored, and the sponsors’ logos will be printed in the program. Additionally, the sponsors’ names will be announced from the podium.
A Master Sponsorship is $500 and is a prize sponsor only, with no tickets. The sponsor’s name will appear next to the sponsored prize, printed in the program, and acknowledged from the podium.
Tike Sponsorships are $250 each and are prize sponsors only, with no tickets. The sponsor will receive the same marketing benefits as with a Master Sponsorship.
The various levels of sponsorship determine the value of the prize being sponsored. Examples of prizes include guided fishing experiences, grill accessories, coolers, hats, rifles, earbuds, sporting goods, and tech.
For more information on sponsorships email [email protected] or call 903-438-4799.
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Hopkins County Genealogical Society to Hold Next Lunch & Learn February 26th
February 24, 2025 – Lunch & Learn will be held this coming Wednesday, February 26, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Tx. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society invites anyone who wants to learn more about doing genealogical research to join us. For this month’s session you are encouraged to bring your laptop or tablet, along with your sack lunch, salad or drive-through meal.
Donna Toups’ topic will be “Digging for Answers & Answering Questions” through the use of familysearch.org. Whether you have a laptop to bring or not, you are sure to take away some helpful tips and information from this FamilySearch expert!
Donna is a native Texan and has been living in Van Zandt for about 17 years. Her career includes teacher, college and career advisor, and employment specialist. Within her church she has the calling as a Family History Consultant and works at the Will Point Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ Family History Center each week.
Donna is a wonderful speaker and instructor, so we hope you will join us and bring some other folks with you. There is no charge and members and non-members are welcome!
For Those That Always Felt Applebee’s Needed Pancakes on the Menu – IHOPlebee’s
February 24, 2025- Seguin, Texas is now home to the first dual-branded Applebee’s | IHOP restaurant in the United States, offering a unique dining experience that combines the best of both popular chains. This innovative concept allows customers to mix and match menu items from Applebee’s and IHOP, with all options available at any time of the day. Whether guests are craving IHOP’s signature pancakes for dinner or Applebee’s famous burgers for breakfast, the flexible menu caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
The restaurant’s launch in Seguin marks a significant milestone for Dine Brands Global, the parent company of both chains, as it pioneers this new approach to casual dining. The dual-branded concept aims to maximize convenience and variety for diners while streamlining operations under one roof. The success of the Seguin location could set a precedent for similar ventures across the country.
Dine Brands Global plans to build on this momentum, with construction scheduled to begin on 14 more dual-branded Applebee’s | IHOP locations across the U.S. through 2026. By combining two well-loved brands into a single establishment, the company hopes to attract a broader customer base, boost efficiency, and enhance the dining experience for families and individuals alike.
The Seguin location is expected to draw both locals and travelers along the busy Interstate 10 corridor, serving as a convenient stop for quality meals at any hour. Community members have welcomed the new restaurant, which also brings local employment opportunities and economic benefits to the area.
As Dine Brands Global continues to expand this concept, the Applebee’s | IHOP partnership in Seguin represents a forward-thinking approach to modern dining—offering variety, flexibility, and something for everyone under one roof.
Citations Given to People Trying to Smuggle Eggs Across Southern Border Into Texas
February 24, 2025 – Raw egg imports from Mexico are prohibited under U.S. regulations aimed at preventing the spread of diseases like avian influenza and Newcastle disease. Since January, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers in the area have intercepted over 90 individuals attempting to bring raw eggs into the United States from Mexico. Travelers should be aware that fresh eggs, raw chicken, unprocessed avian products, and live birds are strictly forbidden at U.S. ports of entry.
Area CBP agriculture specialists issued 16 civil penalties last week, totaling almost $4,000, linked to the attempted smuggling of prohibited agriculture and food products, including raw eggs.
These restrictions are in place to protect American agriculture and poultry industries from potentially devastating outbreaks. Even a small number of contaminated eggs or poultry products could introduce harmful pathogens, posing significant health risks to both animals and humans. Violators caught attempting to import these prohibited items may face fines and the confiscation of goods.
CBP urges travelers to declare all food products when crossing the border to avoid penalties. While some processed and commercially packaged food items may be allowed, raw animal products remain off-limits. Travelers seeking more information on permitted items are encouraged to consult official guidelines before crossing into the U.S. Following these rules helps maintain public health, food safety, and the stability of the nation’s agricultural economy.
Missing Man Found Deceased in Franklin County
February 24, 2025 – Larry Smith was reported missing on February 13th and an investigation into his whereabouts has been ongoing. During a search of multiple locations over the preceding 10 days, his body was located near Texas Highway 37 at the county line between Franklin and Red River Counties. There are persons of interest in custody on unrelated charges. The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department was assisted by Mount Vernon Police, Cass County Sheriff’s Department, Choctaw County Sheriff’s Department, Franklin County Water District Police, Texas Park and Wildlife K9 personnel, DPS Aircraft Division, Texas Highway Patrol and Texas Rangers. The investigation into the death is ongoing.
East Texas Fire and Nature Festival Coming to Tyler Nature Center in April
February 24, 2025 – TYLER — Texas Parks and Wildlife Department invites the public to learn about the importance of fire in nature at the East Texas Fire and Nature Festival.
The event takes place 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. April 5 at the Tyler Nature Center, 11942 FM 848, Tyler, TX 75707.
The free festival demonstrates the multiple benefits of prescribed fire and focuses on increasing public familiarity and understanding of its role in the ecology of the Pineywoods. Participants will be able to join nature hikes and talks, see wildland fire trucks, access hands-on fire equipment and kids’ activities highlighting wildlife and science and watch a live prescribed fire demonstration, weather permitting.
This event is a collaborative effort between the following organizations: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, USDA Forest Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Texas Longleaf Team, Tall Timbers, Great Plains Fire Science Exchange, The Nature Conversancy, Pheasant Forever, American Bird Conservancy, Smith County Fire Marshal, Smith County Soil & Water Conservation District, Smith County EMS, National Wild Turkey Federation, Master Naturalist and Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas.
For media information, please contact Danielle Okay at [email protected]
Grief Resigns From Texas Lottery
February 24, 2025 – The Texas Lottery is facing significant controversy following an $83.5 million Lotto Texas jackpot win. The winning ticket was purchased through Jackpocket, a lottery courier service that also owns the retail store, Winner’s Corner in North Austin, where the ticket was sold. This dual role raised concerns about the integrity and transparency of lottery operations.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick expressed apprehension regarding the fairness of such arrangements, emphasizing potential conflicts of interest when a courier service owns the retail outlet selling the tickets. He highlighted the need for stricter regulations to prevent possible exploitation of the system.
Amid these concerns, the Texas Lottery Commission sought guidance from the Attorney General’s office to determine their regulatory authority over courier services. This move aimed to address the growing unease among lawmakers and the public about the role of third-party entities in lottery operations.
In the wake of the controversy, Gary Grief, the executive director of the Texas Lottery Commission, abruptly resigned. His departure came just before a comprehensive review of the commission’s practices, intensifying scrutiny over decisions made during his tenure. Reports indicated that under Grief’s leadership, the commission had enabled certain companies to exploit the lottery system, including facilitating a $95 million jackpot win through bulk ticket purchases by a specific investor.
