TxDOT celebrates ‘National Intern Day’
EL PASO — So much for lifeguarding or summer travel. Hundreds of young Texans are spending their summer at TxDOT, gaining experience, sharpening skills and building a future.
“This is my first job, and at 17, I believe this opportunity is an incredible starting point for someone my age,” said Isaiah Daniels.
Daniels, a Parkland High School student planning to attend Texas Tech, is a summer intern at the Anthony Texas Travel Information Center.
“The welcoming atmosphere at the TIC has made my transition into the workforce enjoyable,” he said. “This experience has helped me step out of my comfort zone, and I am truly thankful for the personal growth I’ve achieved here.”
Mya Zubia has gained similar skills interning as a mechanic in TxDOT’s El Paso office. She’s been working in the shop pursuing her passion working on TxDOT vehicles.
“To me it’s like home,” she said. “I like getting dirty, I like using my hands, fixing things. It’s like a puzzle. I like the excitement, the heavy work.”
Zubia grew up in a shop and recalls spending time with her “Tio,” or uncle, learning the trade. She will graduate in January from Western Technical College in El Paso as a diesel mechanic.
She aims to specialize in engines, transmissions, or hydraulics and wants to have a fleet of her own. Though she’s part of a male dominated industry, her experience at TxDOT has been positive.
“At first, I was more nervous, but everyone was so welcoming it calmed my nerves,” she said. “At other shops it was more of a challenge, especially working with an older generation.”
Zubia encourages other young women to pursue careers as mechanics.
“If this is really what you want to do, this is what you’re passionate about, then go for it and don’t let anyone stop you,” she said. “All that anxiety isn’t worth your career, especially if you love it.”
TxDOT’s Internship Program is designed for high school and college students seeking to be introduced to career opportunities and gain practical work experience in transportation-related fields and support occupations. Full and part-time positions are available year-round.
To qualify, students must be at least 16 years old, be eligible to work in the United States and be enrolled as a student at a high school, technical school, college, or university. Available positions can be found online at txdot.gov/careers.
Recently Opened Truck Stop in Sulphur Springs Sold
CEFCO will change to Casey’s
July 26, 2024
The acquisition will expand Casey’s presence into the attractive Texas and southern markets, delivering accretive growth and creating value for shareholders, team members and guests
ANKENY, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Casey’s General Stores, Inc. (“Casey’s” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: CASY), one of the leading convenience store chains in the United States, today announced an agreement to acquire Fikes Wholesale, Inc. (“Fikes”), owner of CEFCO Convenience Stores (“CEFCO”), in an all-cash transaction for $1.145 billion. The purchase price includes tax benefits valued at approximately $165 million for a net after-tax purchase price of $980 million.
Fikes Wholesale, Inc. and CEFCO Convenience Stores began as a single “filling station” in Cameron, Texas in 1952 and has grown to be a respected operator with stores in multiple states. Casey’s acquisition of Fikes will include 198 retail stores and a dealer network. The proposed transaction will increase Casey’s footprint to nearly 2,900 stores. The acquisition will bring 148 additional stores to Texas, which is a highly strategic market for Casey’s, as well as 50 stores in the southern states of Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. In addition to the retail stores and dealer locations, the transaction includes a fuel terminal and a commissary to support the Texas stores.
“During our Investor Day presentation in June of 2023, we outlined our business strategy to achieve top-quintile EBITDA growth. One of the core pillars of the plan is to grow the number of units,” said Darren Rebelez, Board Chair, President and CEO of Casey’s. “This acquisition will allow Casey’s to accelerate our unit growth plan with high-quality assets that, along with our recent 22 store acquisition in northern Texas, will provide an expanded presence in Texas and allow us to continue to expand in the state and region.”
Raymond Smith, President of Fikes and CEFCO, highlighted the strategic alignment between the two convenience organizations. “The acquisition by Casey’s, especially given its reputation and shared values, is an exciting development for Fikes and our employees. I am happy that the CEFCO stores will join a top convenience retailer that will reinvest in the stores and eventually bring Casey’s pizza to many of our customers as well as provide professional opportunities for our employees. We believe Casey’s will be an excellent steward of the CEFCO experience that our loyal customers have come to expect.”
Rebelez added, “We expect the acquisition will create value for Casey’s shareholders in the near- and long-term and will be accretive to Casey’s EBITDA in the current fiscal year. Fikes is a well-run and well-respected company in our industry, and we look forward to welcoming the Fikes team to the Casey’s family. We could not be more excited about the future of our two organizations.”
The company plans to finance the transaction through balance sheet cash and bank financing. The net investment of $980 million represents an approximate multiple of 11 times CEFCO’s pro forma adjusted 2023 EBITDA. The Company expects to achieve approximately $45 million in annual run-rate synergies upon the completion of kitchen installations in the acquired stores.
The transaction is anticipated to close during the fourth quarter of calendar year 2024, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approval. Casey’s was advised by BMO Capital Markets Corp. as financial advisor and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP as legal counsel, and Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton as antitrust legal counsel. Fikes was advised by BofA Securities as financial advisor and Bourland, Wall & Wenzel, P.C. as legal counsel.
Webcast Information
Casey’s will host a conference call to discuss the transaction at 10:00 a.m. Central Time, July 26th. A live webcast of the call will be available on Casey’s website on the Investor Relations page at https://investor.caseys.com/events-and-presentations/default.aspx. For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, an audio replay will be available on the website for twelve months.
About Casey’s General Stores
Casey’s is a Fortune 500 company (Nasdaq: CASY) operating over 2,600 convenience stores. Founded more than 50 years ago, the company has grown to become the third-largest convenience store retailer and the fifth-largest pizza chain in the United States. Casey’s provides freshly prepared foods, quality fuel and friendly service at its locations. Guests can enjoy pizza, donuts, other assorted bakery items, and a wide selection of beverages and snacks. Learn more and order online at www.caseys.com, or in the mobile app.
About Fikes Wholesale, Inc. and CEFCO Convenience Stores
Fikes Wholesale, Inc. and CEFCO Convenience Stores were founded as a family-owned and operated business in 1952. Today, they operate convenience stores in Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, and Texas. Learn more at www.cefcostores.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This communication contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those related to the ability to consummate the transaction, the potential impact of consummation of the transaction on relationships with third parties, expectations for future periods, possible or assumed future results of operations, financial conditions, liquidity and related sources or needs, business and/or integration strategies, plans and synergies, supply chain, growth opportunities, and performance at the Company’s stores. There are a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from any results expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the execution of the Company’s strategic plan, the integration and financial performance of acquired stores, wholesale fuel, inventory and ingredient costs, distribution challenges and disruptions, the impact and duration of the conflict in Ukraine or other geopolitical disruptions, as well as other risks, uncertainties and factors which are described in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on the Company’s website. Any forward-looking statements contained in this communication represent our current views as of the date of this communication with respect to future events, and the Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements in this communication whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Texas Rangers World Series Trophy Coming to Sulphur Springs
July 29, 2024 – The 2023 World Series Trophy is touring texas, and making a stop in Sulphur Springs.
KSST, Your home for Texas Rangers Baseball in Hopkins County, invites everyone to the HW Grays Building on Thursday, August 22, 2024.
KSST will be giving away tickets and Texas Rangers swag, starting at 12:30PM. Bring the kids and get their picture taken with the trophy.
A Second Cup of Coffee Chat with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Mario Villarino About Trees
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Mario Villarino dropped by KSST to visit with John Mark Dempsey on A Second Cup of Coffee. The two discuss trees, what to watch for when growing them, some pointers on how to take care of them, and so much more. Give it a view below, you won’t be disappointed.
Davis Street Baptist Church to Hold Back to School Event August 10th
July 28, 2024 – Davis Street Baptist Church invites the public to their Back to School Event August 10th, 2024. The event will begin at Davis Street Baptist Church at 9:00am. School supplies will be handed out to kids grade pre-K through 8th grade. You can expect family fun such as a bounce house, hot dogs and chips, and fellowship. Come early while supplies last!
Paris District Road Report for Week of July 29, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting July 29, 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: Move Over or Slow Down
While millions of Texans commute to work on highways every week, they pass inches away from the worksites for thousands of law enforcement personnel, first responders and road maintenance crews. Unfortunately, many of them are killed in crashes every year on the job, which is why TxDOT is calling on Texas drivers to keep roadside workers safe by remembering to “Move Over or Slow Down.”
The state’s Move Over or Slow Down law requires drivers to move over—putting a lane between them and roadside workers—or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when passing law enforcement, tow trucks, utility vehicles, emergency responders and TxDOT vehicles stopped with activated overhead lights on the side of the road.
Changes to the law went into effect on Sept. 1, 2023, and impose heftier penalties for violations, including fines of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Stricter penalties for drivers who cause serious injuries by failing to follow these rules now include possible jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.
Every year, law enforcement officers, tow truck drivers and other roadside workers do essential work protecting and maintaining our roads, but some are hit, injured or killed while serving our community. TxDOT’s Be Safe. Drive Smart. public awareness campaign asks all drivers to respect these workers who are vital to keeping our roads clear and safe.
The Move Over or Slow Down law requires drivers to:
- Be on alert and pay attention when approaching roadside law enforcement, emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility vehicles and TxDOT vehicles with flashing lights on.
- When possible, move out of the lane closest to these vehicles.
- Slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit if safely switching lanes is not possible or the road doesn’t offer multiple lanes.
- Reduce speed to 5 mph on roadways with posted speed limits of 25 mph or less.
The state’s Move Over or Slow Down law was first passed in 2003 and applied to law enforcement, fire and emergency medical services vehicles. The Texas Legislature has since extended the law’s protections to include TxDOT vehicles, tow trucks and utility service vehicles.
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:
Annual Seal Coat. The annual seal coat program is scheduled to begin work on Aug. 9. Roadways receiving a seal coat surface this year include FM 120 from FM 1753 to Carpenter’s Bluff Bridge; FM 691 from FM 131 to the airport; and FM 902 from US 377 to US 75. 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.
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 entrance ramp on the southbound frontage road onto US 75, north of Spur 503 and south of Loy Lake Road, is permanently closed. This closure is part of the reconstruction of US 75 from US 82 to Loy Lake Road in Denison. Motorists who wish to travel south on US 75 from its intersection with Loy Lake Road are advised to note this change. A detour is in place requiring traffic to continue on the southbound frontage road, around Spur 503, to the entrance ramp for US 75 southbound located north of the FM 691 intersection. Signs will alert travelers and guide them along this detour route.
The northbound US 75 frontage road is closed to thru traffic north of FM 691 in order to replace the frontage road bridge over Iron Ore Creek. Work for the construction of the new US 75 northbound frontage road Iron Ore Creek bridge and northbound frontage road pavement is currently in progress. This work has an anticipated completion date of early August 2024. Motorists traveling along the northbound frontage road will take the northbound entrance ramp north of FM 691 and take exit 66 to access eastbound Spur 503. Local traffic wishing to return to FM 691 is asked to use Pool 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 lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
The southbound US 75 exit ramp (Exit 57) for Park Avenue is closed to allow crews to complete the final pavement surfacing at this ramp. Motorists traveling southbound are asked to use the southbound exit for State Highway 91 and North Travis Street, and continue along the southbound frontage road to Park Avenue. They may also use the southbound exit for South Travis Street/FM 1417.
The southbound US 75 exit ramp (Exit 58) for Houston Street is closed to traffic to allow crews to complete the final pavement surfacing at this ramp. Motorists traveling southbound are asked to use the southbound exit for North Travis Street and continue southward to Houston Street and on to Center Street. They may also use the southbound exit for South Travis Street/FM 1417.
The northbound US 75 exit ramp for Lamar Street will temporarily close for approximately two weeks starting at 7 p.m. on Aug. 1. The ramp should reopen at 9 p.m. on Aug. 13. At the same time, the northbound exit ramp for Center Street will open to traffic on Aug. 1. Motorists traveling northbound are encouraged to use the northbound exit for Center Street and continue along the northbound frontage road to Lamar Street or use the northbound exit for North Travis Street.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts 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 construction of the new frontage road lanes and bridges.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Construction on this project is expected to begin on Aug. 19. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to perform pavement repairs, milling, and an overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 901. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
Enterprise Road at Tributary to Harris Creek. Enterprise Road at the Tributary to Harris Creek is closed to through traffic as crews remove and replace the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Wright Road, SH 289 and Plainview Road as the detour route.
FM 1417, from US 82 to SH 56. Travelers are advised that intermittent temporary daily lane closures will be required for both northbound and southbound FM 1417 while the contractor completes the remaining work.
US 82, from SH 91 to FM 1417 in Sherman. Watch for a lane closure on westbound US 82 between Texoma Parkway and Loy Lake Road as workers install a center median concrete barrier to help prevent crossover head-on collisions.
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 US 82 lanes at Harris Creek, the westbound US 82 lanes at Post Oak Creek, and on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at FM 1417. On this project, the contractor is also installing a center median concrete traffic barrier between FM 1417 and FM 131. Motorists should expect daytime lane closures while this work is underway.
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 3133, from SH 5 to the Collin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place a seal coat surface on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2729, from SH 11 to FM 121. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place a seal coat surface on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Annual Seal Coat. The annual seal coat program is scheduled to begin work on Aug. 9. Roadways receiving a seal coat surface this year include Recreational Road 3 from FM 273 to end of maintenance, and SH 78 from SH 56 to SH 11. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2990, at the North Sulphur River bridge. The FM 2990 bridge at the North Sulphur River is closed to traffic permanently for removal of the bridge as part of the new Lake Ralph Hall project. Traffic is asked to use SH 34 as the alternate route to FM 2990. Changeable message signs will be onsite to warn motorists of the closure.
FM 409, just east of FM 2029. Workers will start setting signs and barricade to replace the cross drainage structure. FM 409 at this location will be closed beginning August 1 for about two weeks until the work is completed. Traffic is asked to use FM 273 as the alternate route. Changeable message signs will be onsite to warn motorist of the closure.
FM 1753, at the Brushy Creek bridge. FM 1753 at the Brushy Creek bridge is closed to through traffic as crews remove and replace the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use FM 2645, FM 898, US 82, and FM 1752 as the detour route.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone. FM 274 at Sandy Creek bridge is closed to thru traffic while the contractor replaces the existing bridge. During the closure traffic is asked to use FM 1753 and SH 78 as the detour.
SH 56 at Bois d’Arc Creek. SH 56 at Bois d’Arc creek is reduced to one lane with a signal in place to control traffic as crews work to remove and replace the bridge railing. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
SH 56 at Hutchins Creek and Caney Creek. SH 56 at Hutchins creek and Caney creek will be reduced to one lane with a signal in place to control traffic beginning the week of Aug. 5, as crews will work to remove and replace the bridge railing as well as perform bridge repairs. 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 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 271, from SH 78 to FM 68. 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.
US 82, from FM 898 to the Grayson County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work on milling and paving on the westbound lanes. Motorists should expect delays as they drive through work zone.
FM 2645, from FM 1753 to FM 898. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs 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: SH 37, from US 67 to FM 71. Watch for shoulder closures and construction vehicles entering the roadway as crews perform paving operations.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing road rehabilitation operations and traffic shifts in the work areas.
Hopkins County: IH 30. Watch for nighttime lane closures as crews perform repairs to concrete pavement.
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.
Loop 286, from US 271 North going west to FM 79. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts, crossing closures and merging traffic while crews place a bonded concrete surface and perform asphalt paving operations.
US 271, from LP 286 to Oklahoma State Line. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews resurface the pavement and perform bridge maintenance.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour 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
CR 16300 at Little Sandy Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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.
SH 24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from the FM 64 intersection to 1,540 feet east of FM 198. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway and perform bridge rail upgrades.
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. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 2675, from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
SH 19 at South Sulphur and South Sulphur Relief. Watch for temporary shoulder closures while crews perform bridge maintenance.
Red River County:
CR 2127 at Scatter Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and a detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 34, from FM 1570 to FM 2101. The contractor has set barricades and work zone signs. The contractor has completed the flexible pavement repair on the main lanes and shoulders. The contractor has finished the placement of HMA overlay on the northbound and southbound lanes. Contractor has placed temporary striping and is backfilling pavement edges throughout the project. Permanent striping has begun this week and should complete soon. Guard fence and mow strip work is underway and seeding to begin soon. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and has begun some prep right of way work and has begun road widening and ditch grading in the area. SW3P devices will be installed soon. The contractor is placing SW3P devices and prepping the right of way. Culvert work has begun on the project. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from Culver Street to Live Oak. The contractor has placed work zone signs and barricades. Fencing installation and grate work is ongoing. Final signal work is underway, barrels and barricades have been removed to open lanes. Final punchlist items are underway. Oncor is working to supply power to the signal lights. 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. The contractor has been working on cross culverts and culvert extensions on the first mile of the project and placing flexbase and placing geogrid at various locations. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. Contractor is waiting on dryer soil conditions. 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. Excavation work for the detour is ongoing. The contractor has been working on the placement of storm sewer and culverts will continue along FM 2642 north of I-30 towards SH 66 with embankment and excavation work. Nighttime operations are currently being used for several cross culvert locations. The contractor is placing geogrid and flexbase on FM 2642 near Royse City high school moving north. The contractor placed barrier and crash cushions on FM35. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractor has set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete. The contractor has begun work on the final section of roadway, this work will begin with subgrade widening and treating the subgrade and vegetation establishment. Driveway pipes were being installed along with striping for the completed section. Grading and seeding will be completed soon. Please be 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 westbound I-30 main lanes have been realigned to detour paving around the existing westbound I-30 main lane bridge over FM 1570. This detour will remain in place until the new FM 1570 overpass is constructed. During the realignment, all I-30 westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane and diverted to the frontage road from Exit 89 (FM 1570) to FM 1903. The westbound frontage road at FM 1903 is one-way only along with the frontage roads along the project corridor. Traffic on FM 1903 from north of I-30 will have to turn right on the westbound frontage road and travel to State Highway 36 in order access I-30 east. The contractor plans to place more barriers and perform main lane widening and drainage work in the area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Intersection Improvements from CR2511 to FM 1565: The contractor has begun prep right of way work and will begin setting barrier and low-profile barricades soon. Contractor is working on excavating and widening of the shoulders for phase 1 and placing RCP for temporary drainage on detours. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County. Both crews are working on various roads in Hunt and Rains Counties placing fog seal on inhouse seal coat roads.
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A Chat With Gena and Garry Jordan With a Reflection on The Good News Bookstore Turning 50
July 26, 2024 – With The Good News Christian Bookstore’s big observance of the store’s 50th Anniversary, KSST wanted to check in on the owners of this locally owned small town business. Gena and Garry talk about the history of the store, including on how they were blessed to become it’s current owners. They also share details about their big sale going on July 27, 2024. Check out the video below and find out how great and blessed this little Christian Bookstore really is!
Are ‘Cocaine Sharks’ A Real Threat to Texas Beaches?
July 26, 2024 – Researches are currently scrambling to explain a possible new threat on beaches around the world. That threat: sharks hopped up on cocaine.
Here are some facts:
- Sharks have been proven to ‘attack’ the white floating bundles of cocaine left floating in the ocean. These bundles are the result of smugglers dumping their cargo. Scientist theorize sharks might mistake the objects for birds. Much like the theory that surfers are attacked because they might appear similar to a basking sea lion.
- Aquatic species have tested positive for cocaine in addition to other pharmaceuticals. This has been proven in both rivers, lakes and oceans. These drugs are entering the aquatic food chain.
No one really knows what cocaine does to sharks. Will it transform them into a relentless killing machine like might be found in a Hollywood Summer Blockbuster? Probably not. There are theories ranging from an irritant effect on the gills, to bursts of speed, and erratic behavior.
Cocaine hydrochloride acts as a vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels. Healthcare professionals can use it in certain medical procedures to manage bleeding by reducing blood flow to the site.
The body can absorb cocaine systemically, which can affect the cardiovascular system. This can result in increased heart rate, blood pressure, and myocardial contractility (affecting the heart’s ability to contract), which may lead to higher demand for oxygen by the heart.
Cocaine interacts with various receptor types, including muscarinic acetylcholine, N-methyl-D-aspartate, sigma, and kappa-opioid receptors, contributing to its complex toxicity.
Currently the only evidence of sharks testing positive for cocaine have been specimens off the coast of Brazil. Researches are confident that as more regions are tested, additional positive sample will be found.
It is possible that sharks could come into contact with large amounts of high purity cocaine anywhere bundles of the product are dumped in the sea. Rivers that flow through metropolitan areas lacking proper sewer service and a high cocaine user population can also bring the drugs out into the ocean. Cocaine is mainly removed from the human body via the kidneys.
So far no correlation between the drug and attacks on beaches has been determined.
One thing experts all agree on is that the human demand for cocaine and other illegal narcotics is at the heart of this issue.
Are Your Cucumbers Tasting Bitter? From Master Gardener David Wall
July 26, 2024 – Ever bite into a whole cucumber or slice and find it bitter? Basically, the bitterness is caused by plant stress. It seems weird for a cucumber to be in stress, but the stress is caused by several factors such as genetics, widely fluctuating temperatures, poor soil, or inconsistent watering.
Cucumbers belong to the cucurbit or gourd family, and all members of this family produce cucurbitacin. It’s produced as a defense mechanism and makes the cucumber taste bitter! The objective is to prevent a pest eating one bitter cucumber from returning for a second one! In the wild, cucurbitacin can cause the fruit to become totally inedible!
Normally, most of the cucurbitacin is contained in the leaves, roots, and stems to deter pests from nibbling on them. As for the cucumber fruit, stress will put more cucurbitacin in them. So how do we deal with this potential problem?
Skin thickness is a genetic factor. Thin skinned cucumbers tend to generate cucurbitacin, but this applies mainly to heirlooms. Most hybrids have been bred to be less bitter. Higher temps, low temps, and wide temperature variations increase bitterness. Shade cloths can help here.
Consistent watering reduces stress. In hot summer weather, hand watering may be necessary. Rains throughout the season, however, tend to aggravate the problem. A huge problem, however, is caused by pest damage. Once a pest starts munching, cucurbitacin levels start to rise in all of that plant’s fruit. Pest controls and keeping the fruit off the ground tend to lessen this problem.
To counteract bitterness, cut a bit more off the butt end than usual, peel the skin, and wash the fruit. An alternative is to cut off the top end, and then rub the two pieces together for 10-20 seconds. I don’t understand how this works, but it does!
Boar’s Head Recalls Ready-To-Eat Liverwurst And Other Deli Meat
Products May Be Contaminated With Listeria
BOAR’S HEAD PROVISIONS CO., INC.
FSIS Announcement
WASHINGTON, July 26, 2024 – Boar’s Head Provisions Co., Inc., a Jarratt, Va., establishment, is recalling all liverwurst product produced by the establishment that is currently available in commerce because it may be adulterated with Listeria monocytogenes, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The company is also recalling additional deli meat products that were produced on the same line and on the same day as the liverwurst and, therefore, may be adulterated with L. monocytogenes. The company is recalling approximately 207,528 pounds of products.
The ready-to-eat liverwurst products were produced between June 11, 2024, and July 17, 2024, and have a 44-day shelf life. The following liverwurst products are subject to recall [view labels]:
- 3.5-lb. loaves in plastic casing, or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head Strassburger Brand Liverwurst MADE IN VIRGINIA.” The products shipped to retailers bear sell by dates ranging July 25, 2024, to Aug. 30, 2024, printed on the side of the packaging.
The other ready-to-eat deli meat products were produced on June 27, 2024. The following deli meat products are subject to recall:
- 9.5-lb. and 4.5-lb. full product, or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head VIRGINIA HAM OLD FASHIONED HAM” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
- 4-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head ITALIAN CAPPY STYLE HAM” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
- 6-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head EXTRA HOT ITALIAN CAPPY STYLE HAM” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
- 4-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head BOLOGNA” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
- 2.5-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head BEEF SALAMI” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
- 5.5-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head STEAKHOUSE ROASTED BACON HEAT & EAT” with sell by date “AUG 15” on the product packaging.
- 3-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head GARLIC BOLOGNA” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
- 3-lb., or various weight packages sliced in retail delis, containing “Boar’s Head BEEF BOLOGNA” with sell by date “AUG 10” on the product packaging.
The products subject to recall were distributed to retail deli locations nationwide. The products shipped to deli retailers bear establishment number “EST. 12612” inside the USDA mark of inspection on the product labels.
The problem was discovered when FSIS was notified that a sample collected by the Maryland Department of Health tested positive for L. monocytogenes. The Maryland Department of Health, in collaboration with the Baltimore City Health Department, collected an unopened liverwurst product from a retail store for testing as part of an outbreak investigation of L. monocytogenes infections. Further testing is ongoing to determine if the product sample is related to the outbreak. Anyone concerned about illness should contact a healthcare provider.
FSIS is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state public health partners to investigate the multistate outbreak of L. monocytogenes infections linked to meats sliced at delis. As of July 25, 2024, 34 sick people have been identified in 13 states, including 33 hospitalizations and two deaths. Samples were collected from sick people from May 29, 2024, to July 12, 2024. Additional information may be found on the CDC investigation notice, Listeria Outbreak Linked to Meats Sliced at Delis. The investigation is ongoing, and FSIS continues to work with the CDC and state partners.
Consumption of food contaminated with L. monocytogenes can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that primarily affects people who are pregnant, aged 65 or older, or with weakened immune systems. Less commonly, persons outside these risk groups are affected.
Listeriosis can cause fever, muscle aches, headache, stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance and convulsions sometimes preceded by diarrhea or other gastrointestinal symptoms. An invasive infection spreads beyond the gastrointestinal tract. In people who are pregnant, the infection can cause miscarriages, stillbirths, premature delivery or life-threatening infection of the newborn. In addition, serious and sometimes fatal infections can occur in older adults and persons with weakened immune systems. Listeriosis is treated with antibiotics. Persons in the higher-risk categories who experience flu-like symptoms within two months after eating contaminated food should seek medical care and tell the health care provider about eating the contaminated food.
FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ refrigerators and in retail deli cases. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them and retailers are urged not to sell these products with the referenced sell by dates. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase. Consumers who have purchased these products are also urged to clean refrigerators thoroughly to prevent the risk of cross-contamination.
FSIS recommends retail delis clean and sanitize all food and non-food surfaces and discard any open meats and cheeses in the deli. Retailers may refer to FSIS’ guideline, Best Practices Guidance for Controlling Listeria monocytogenes in Retail Delicatessens, for information on steps to prevent certain ready-to-eat foods that are prepared or sliced in retail delis and consumed in the home, such as deli meats and deli salads, from becoming contaminated with L. monocytogenes.
FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution list(s) will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.
Consumers with questions regarding the recall can contact Boar’s Head Provisions Co., Inc., Customer Service at 1-800-352-6277. Media with questions can contact Elizabeth Ward, Vice President of Communications, Boar’s Head Provisions Co., Inc., at [email protected].
Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to [email protected]. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.
