This fun, family-friendly event is a great way to stay active while connecting with our community! Registration begins at 7:00 PM, with the race to follow.

Entry is $30 per participant, and we’re proud to offer 50% off for first responders, military, and students. Following the race, an awards ceremony will be held to recognize the top three finishers in three categories. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come enjoy an evening of fitness, fun, and community spirit—we can’t wait to see you there!

Join us for a FREE lunch & learn on Thursday, July 11th from 11:45am – 1pm at the JCCCA office.

Presented and sponsored by DEWW I.T., come learn about “Using A.I. in a Small Business.

Discover how you can move your business forward by using modern technology while also protecting what you’ve built. To RSVP call 361782-7146.

The JCCCA & Alamo Lumber are teaming up for a patriotic Sip & Paint! Gather your friends and get ready for an evening of creativity, fun, and patriotic spirit at our Patriotic Sip & Paint on Saturday, August 8th hosted by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture and Alamo Lumber! Whether you’re an experienced artist or just looking for a fun night out, this event is perfect for everyone. We’ll provide the supplies, instruction, and plenty of red, white, and blue inspiration as you create a beautiful patriotic masterpiece to take home. Seats are limited, so be sure to register today! The event will be held at the Chamber from 7pm - 9pm. Cost per person is $40. Come enjoy great company, unleash your creativity, and celebrate the American spirit with us!

To register, contact the Chamber Office at (361) 782-7146, go online, or stop by our office at: 116 W. Cypress Street in Edna. Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention! We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it! Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146.

Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine!

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks! Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time! Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts!

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join!

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to Dance Unlimited of Edna, our June Member of the Month! Dance Unlimited of Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community! Located at 601 Apollo in Edna. For more information, call (361) 782-1936.

RCM Hill argued that the county lacked the legal authority to impose the temporary ban, which came after the company had already secured contracts for more than 800 acres for more than $80 million.

“You’re not going to see anybody else trying a moratorium at this point because they’ve seen what happens when you do it,” said Robert Paterson, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin who specializes in land use law.

“You basically just get clubbed with a ridiculous amount of money.”

In Hood and Somervell counties, both southwest of Fort Worth, at least nine proposed data center projects are under consideration.

Concerned citizens are filling county commissioner meetings, saying the projects could raise electricity bills, strain water resources, and harm tourism.

Earlier this month, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the Public Utility Commission to ensure that new data centers actually reduce residential electric bills and proposed that new laws be passed during next year’s legislative session to further regulate the data centers.

Texas GOP pushes for closed primaries Abbott and other state GOP leaders declared at the recent state convention in Houston that they will push to require voters to register with a party to prevent crossover voting, The Texas Tribune reported.

“We are going to make clear that in the future, only Republicans will vote in Republican primaries,” he said at the Houston convention.

The party has made closing primaries a top legislative priority. The state’s current open primary system doesn’t require party registration, so voters can cast ballots in whichever primary they want — just not both.

The Texas Republican Party sued Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson last year and was later joined by Attorney General Ken Paxton in asking a federal judge to strike down parts of the election code that allow open primaries. Nelson, who is stepping down next month, opposed Paxton’s motion and argued that it is up to the state Legislature to change election law.

High court sides with weed user banned from owning guns The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously last week that a Texas man’s conviction for possessing both marijuana and a pistol under an existing law that prevents “unlawful” drug users from owning guns was unconstitutional. Both gun rights groups and civil liberties advocates filed briefs urging the court to take Ali Hemani’s side. He challenged the law after being arrested in 2022 by federal agents who found a pistol and 60 grams of weed when his home was searched.

His attorneys argued the law violated his Second Amendment rights and was vague since it does not define “unlawful user.”

“Is someone who uses a controlled substance once a year, ‘an unlawful user’? What about someone who uses that substance every six months, or every two weeks?” they argued.

“Does it matter how much one consumes, or only how frequently one does so? The statute does not say.”

Adding to the issues in the case is that marijuana is legal to some degree in more than 40 states. Texas has a limited medical marijuana program.

New World Screwworm cases up to 15 As of Sunday, the number of confirmed New World Screwworm cases totaled 15. The Texas Animal Health Commission has placed a quarantine on parts of Coke, Edwards, Gillespie, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Schleicher, Sutton, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb and Zavala counties. All warm-blooded animals in a quarantine zone may not be moved without prior authorization from TAHC.

Federal and state agencies are working together to eradicate the NWS by introducing sterile male flies into affected areas. Abbott has issued a statewide disaster proclamation in response. The pest lays its eggs in open wounds, then the eggs hatch into larvae that feast on living flesh. While it is mostly found in cattle, one case has been found in a dog.

TAHC is urging livestock and pet owners to stay vigilant, monitor their animals, and report any suspicions of NWS infestations by calling 1-800-550-8242.

State says camp leaders had chances to prevent tragedy A state investigation has concluded the deaths of 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic last summer were not inevitable, The Dallas Morning News reported.

Investigators found the camp “failed to meet emergency planning requirements, train its staff, or evacuate quickly despite multiple chances to prevent the tragedy.”

The report said that as the Guadalupe River flooded, at least 39 adult staff members were within reach of the children and, for hours, could have safely assisted with evacuations.

Camp leader Richard “Dick” Eastland died in the flood, along with as many as 13 children and counselors, according to investigators.

The 115-page report was presented to a joint legislative committee last week, as several parents of children who died in the floods listened. Lawmakers have created new regulations that require emergency address systems, ban camps from being in floodplains, and mandate redundant internet access to improve awareness of weather emergencies.

“We owe it to the victims and their families to learn every lesson that’s possible, and to ensure that those lessons result in meaningful action,” said the chair of the Senate flood investigative committee, Sen. Pete Flores, R-Pleasanton.

Paxton’s platform short on specifics, except for crypto bill Paxton’s platform in his bid to be the state’s next U.S. senator is mostly devoid of specifics, according to the Houston Chronicle. The one piece of legislation he argues is critical is a cryptocurrency bill called the CLARITY Act. Supporters say it would bring stability to the crypto market, which uses a digital form of cash.

The law was passed by the U.S. House a year ago but is stuck in the Senate. Critics include some of the country’s largest unions and banks, who say it doesn’t provide sufficient consumer protections or safeguards against money laundering.

The bill is the only piece of legislation named on Paxton’s website. He also vows to “carry the torch for Trump’s agenda.”

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

Adult Fiction: Victim #8 (Luke Steele), Traci Hunter Abramson; Hometown Vendetta (Luke Steele), Traci Hunter Abramso; The Lumber Baron’s Wife, Lynn Austin; Hope Rises (Walter Nash), David Baldacci; Five, Ilona Bannister; Detecting Danger (Refuge Cove), Christy Barritt; Seven Brides For Beau Mcbride (The Mcbrides Of Montana), Amy Barry; Aphrodite In Pieces, Lauren J.A. Bear; A Deal With A Debutante (London’s Most Eligible), Chelsea Bobulski; Into The Blue, Emma Brodie; Yesteryear, Caro Claire Burke; Sanctuary, James Cleary; The Girls Trip, Allyson Condie; Three Queens, Rebecca Connolly; Thistlemarsh, Moorea Corrigan; Kill For A Million (Rivalries), Janet Dailey; The Lost Story Of Via Belle, Melanie Dobson; A Founding Mother, Stephanie Dray; Lifted By The Wings Of Destiny (Bregdan Chronicles), Ginny Dye; Boots Beneath Her Bed, Taylor Esposito; Miss Beth Bettencourt, Eva Marie Everson; Chase The Light (National Parks Summers) , Suzanne Woods Fisher; Too Close To Home, Seraphina Glass; The Manhattan Confessions (On Central Park), Jocelyn Green; Harbor Pointe (Hope Harbor), Irene Hanno; A Cute Little Murder, Molly Harper; The Island Club, Nicola Harrison; Mad Mabel, Sally Hepworth; A Deadly Episode (Hawthorne), Anthony Horowitz; More Than Friends, Denise Hunter; Born To Be Killed (Smoke Jensen), William Johnstone; Save The Date, Mallory Kass; Not What We Pictured, Becca Kinzer; With The Enduring Tides (Women Of Cannon Beach), Jane Kirkpatrick; Double Shadow (Splinter Effect), Andrew Lundington; This Weekend Doesn’t End Well For Anyone (The Vacation Mysteries), Catherine Mack; Chasing The Clouds Away, Debbie Macomber; Caller Unknown, Gillian Mcallister; Dueling Hearts (Windswept Weddings), Vickie Mcdonough; The Last Letters Of Sally And Walter, Cammie Mcgovern; The Radiant Dark, Alexandra Olivia; Mrs. Benedict Arnold, Emma Parry; The Mother- Daughter Book Club, Susan Patterson; How To Cheat Your Own Death (Castle Knoll Files), Kristen Perrin; Death Times Seven (Daniel Pitt), Anne Perry; Paradox (Cash & Colcord), Douglas Preston; The Most Mysterious Bookshop In Paris (Paris Bookshop).

Mark Pryor; The Mountain We Call HomeKim Michael Richardson; Riptide (Silent Horizons), Chad Robichaux; Cherry Baby, Rainbow Rowell; Where We Belong, Kim Vogel Sawyer; The Insomniacs, Allison Winn Scotch; Lidie: The Further Travels And Adventures Of Lidie Newton, Jane Smiley; Your Soulmail Is Attached, Joan Smith; Ms. Mebel Goes Back To The Chopping Block, Jesse Sutanto; Shadow Strike, Brad Taylor; These Empty Places, Sarah Loudin Thomas; In Pursuit Of Civility (Merriweather Academy For Young Ladies), Jen Turano; Final Act Of Redemption, Carol Voelkel; Random Act Of Love, Carol Voelkel; Over The Edge (Summer Rangers), Susan May Warren; Stranger Things Have Happened, Kasie West; Witness Protection, Robert Whitlow; Our Extraordinary Summer (Hobby Island), Lori Wilde; The Bookshop Of 99 Doors.

Children’s: I Wish I Had A Polar Bear With Ice Cream, Diane Alber; Nine-Tail Trouble (Monster Locker), Jorge Augusto Aguirre; Go, Trains, Go!, Addie Boswell; Orris And Timble: Star Stories, Kate Dicamillo; Wildspeak, Sangma Francis; Friend Group, Lisa Greenwald; The Sun Thief, Alice Hemming; Chasing Shadows (Warriors: Changing Skies), Erin Hunter; Little Fairy Godmother, Abie Longstaff; Dawn On The Coast (Babysitters Club Graphix) Ann Martin; Queen Of The Wolves (Chronicles Of The Yellowstone Wolves), Rick Mcintyre/ David Poulsen, David The Whale’s Tale And The Otter’s Side Of The Story, Kate Messner; Sheep & Goat Climb The World. A.C Paolini; The Worried Book, Howard Pearlstein; The Shy Book, Howard Pearlstein; Camping Is A Terrible Idea, Kirsten Pendreigh; The Story Of “ The Star-Spangled Banner”, Patricia Pingry; The Story Of America’s Birthday, Patricia Pingry; Rainbow Roller Skates (Unicornia), Ana Punset; Construction Site: Firefight!, Sherri Duskey Rinker; George Vs. George, Rosalyn Schanzer; Good Night, Escargot, Dashka Slater; The Storm Cloud, Frances Stickley; Murray The Pirate, Adam Stower; A Fish Like Me, Jamie Sumner; Fox Catches A Wave, Corey Tabor; Of Thee I Sing, Ryan Van Cleav; Little Ghost’s Summerween, Maggie Edkins Willis; Home Is A Hug, Cindy Wume; Wackadoo! (Bluey).

Young Adult: To Steal A Throne, Gabi Burton; Girl Of Love, Melanie Dale; I’m Gonna Get You Back, Eva Des Lauriers; As I Dream Of You, Jennifer Lee; We Are Never Getting Together, Janette Rallison; Devious Prey, Scott Reintgen; Burn The Kingdom Down, Addie Thorley.

Adult Non-Fiction: Monsters In The Archives, Caroline Bicks; American Patriarch.

H.W. Brands; The Story Of Birds. Steve Brusatte; I Choose Me, Jeannie Garth; Alito, Mollie Hemingway; The Sowing Season, Ashley Hetherington; How To Get Rich In American History, Joseph Moore; A Perfect Coincidence, Jim Rasenberger; The Secret War Against Hate, Steven Joseph Ross.

The results include assessments in Algebra I, English I, English II, biology and U.S. history. The biggest improvement was in biology, with 71% of students meeting expectations, up 9%.

“These results reflect the hard work of Texas students, educators and families and demonstrate that focused instruction and high expectations continue to produce positive outcomes for students across our state,” said Commissioner Mike Morath. “These results may also be reflective of the legislature’s ban of cell phone use in classrooms, so that students are better able to stay focused on their schoolwork while at school.”

Parents and families can access their child’s individual STAAR EOC results through their school district’s family portal or by visiting TexasAssessment. gov and using the unique access code provided by their child’s school.

STAAR results for students in grades 3-8 will be available this week.

Schools will begin phasing out STAAR end-of-year testing beginning in the 20272028 school year.

Experts warn charter school boom could bust The pace of growth of charter schools in Texas slowed this past school year, with experts warning that the enrollment drops facing traditional school districts could begin to affect charters, The Texas Tribune reported. With declining birth rates, the growth of vouchers, and increased immigration enforcement, experts say the growth of charter schools may soon reverse.

“They’re headed to a cliff, for sure,” said Bob Templeton, a senior consultant with an Austin- based public policy firm called STRIVE.

“And I don’t know if it’s going to be next year, but it could definitely be within five years.”

Texas public schools this past year experienced their first non-pandemic enrollment decline in nearly 40 years, with 76,000 fewer students. The drop was primarily among Hispanic students in traditional neighborhood campuses. Charter schools still increased enrollment, but at a lower rate. They now educate roughly 446,000 students, or 8% of the state’s nearly 5.5 million public school students.

“It was the changes in immigration enforcement that caused the enrollment to turn the way that it turned this year, especially as it relates to the Hispanic community,” said Templeton.

Abbott, Rollins update Texans on screwworm response Gov. Greg Abbott and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins briefed the public on the state and federal governments’ ongoing response to the threat posed by the New World Screwworm. There have been 11 confirmed cases in Texas as of Monday.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is importing and dispersing sterile male flies to combat the invasion, and the Texas Animal Health Commission has designated five “infested zones” that include Coke, Edwards, Gillespie, Kerr, Kimble, La Salle, Sutton, Tom Green, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb and Zavala counties.

Warm-blooded animals must pass an inspection before being authorized for shipment outside an affected area.

“Sterile flies are the well-established solution to the spread of the New World screwworm,” Abbott said.

Ranchers and livestock owners are urged to remain vigilant by checking animals daily and treating wounds promptly. The screwworm lays its larvae in open wounds.

Texans are urged to report any suspected New World screwworm cases in livestock to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242 and report suspected wildlife cases to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) at (512) 389-4505.

Texas leads nation in solar growth Texas is leading the nation in new solar capacity, installing 50% more than any other state in the first quarter of 2026, the San Antonio Express-News reported.

Across the nation, solar generation and battery storage accounted for 91% of new energy capacity.

“Texas is actually soon to overtake California for the most total installed solar capacity,” said Daniel Giese, state director for the Solar Energy Industries Association. California now has 55.5 gigawatts of installed capacity, barely exceeding Texas’ 53.5 gigawatts.

Capital

A separate report from a global energy think tank showed that nationally, solar supplied more electricity than coal in May for the first time. Solar accounted for 12.8% of U.S. energy last month, while coal dropped to 12.2%.

In Texas, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas expects solar to exceed coal for the first time later this year.

The growth in data centers is a major reason for the growth in new solar capacity in Texas, since it can come online fairly quickly.

Abbott takes aim at Texas data centers Abbott has directed electric regulators and ERCOT, the agency that oversees the electric grid, to require new data centers to pay for the power and infrastructure needed to power their operations, The Dallas Morning News reported.

The explosive growth in the centers is sparking fears that they will drive up consumer electric bills.

The governor further ordered the Public Utility Commission to ensure that new data centers actually reduce residential electric bills.

“Data centers must operate in ways that reduce costs for residential electricity customers, do not drain water needed for our communities and take into consideration the needs of our neighborhoods,” Abbott said in a statement.

He has also proposed new laws in next year’s legislative session that would repeal a data center sales tax exemption that could cost the state billions of dollars in tax revenue, require data centers to use water-efficient technologies, and report electric and water usage.

Agency to set rules on using fracking wastewater on farmland Lawmakers have directed the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to lead the charge in setting water quality guidelines for using treated oilfield wastewater on Texas farmland, The Tribune reported. As the state’s demand for water grows, lawmakers have invested millions of dollars studying ways to treat the billions of gallons of toxic wastewater produced from fracking operations so it can be used for irrigation purposes.

Each site where the water is to be used will require its own permit, including limits on pollutants before the water is released, and reporting requirements “as necessary to ensure protection of human health and the environment,” said Laura Lopez, a TCEQ spokesperson.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

This month, we’re excited to highlight upcoming events, celebrate member achievements, and share valuable resources designed to help your needs. Whether you’re a long-time member or newly involved with the Chamber, we encourage you to take advantage of the programs, partnerships, and initiatives that make our business community stronger.

Get ready to light up the night at our upcoming 5K Glow Run/ Walk on Saturday, July 11th at the BRC Boat Ramp. This fun, family- friendly event is a great way to stay active while connecting with our community! Registration begins at 7 p.m., with the race to follow.

Entry is $30 per participant, and we’re proud to offer 50% off for first responders, military, and students. Following the race, an awards ceremony will be held to recognize the top three finishers in three categories. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come enjoy an evening of fitness, fun, and community spirit—we can’t wait to see you there.

Join us for a FREE lunch & learn on Thursday, July 16 from 11:45 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the JCCCA office.

Presented and sponsored by DEWW I.T., come learn about “Using A.I. in a Small Business.

Discover how you can move your business forward by using modern technology while also protecting what you’ve built. To RSVP call 361782-7146.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it! Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146.

Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks. Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time. Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts.

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to Dance Unlimited of Edna, our June Member of the Month! Dance Unlimited of Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 601 Apollo in Edna. For more information, call (361) 782-1936.

Two cases have been identified in newborn calves in Zavala County, about 5.6 miles apart.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said a strike team was on site and that restrictions were in place to prevent the movement of cattle.

“We have, in the past, prevented as well as eradicated this pest, and we can do it again,” Abbott said.

The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays eggs in open wounds, nearly always in cattle. In the past, sterile male flies have proven effective in eradicating screwworm infestations. The federal government is building a $750 million facility to produce sterilized flies, but it won’t be complete until November 2027.

In the meantime, the government is purchasing sterile flies from a facility in Panama and using federal funds to revamp another facility in Mexico. However, total fly production from those two plants accounts for only 40% of what is needed, The News reported.

State officials have stressed that the New World screwworm does not pose a food or disease risk to humans.

A widespread infestation could further drive up beef prices, already elevated by a ban on importing Mexican cattle and a drop in domestic production.

Record power demand likely this summer A hot summer and exponential growth in power-hungry data centers could mean Texas uses more power than ever before, according to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas.

ERCOT, which operates most of the state’s power grid, is forecasting demand will reach 92 gigawatts this summer, breaking the previous record of 85.5 gigawatts set during the 2023 summer heat wave, the Houston Chronicle reported.

Despite the anticipated demand, Pablo Vegas, ERCOT’s chief executive officer, said there is a low risk of blackouts this summer.

“As we continue to see (power demand) growth coming on, that profile and picture obviously can evolve, and we expect it to evolve,” Vegas said. “But what we have published at this point is still showing fairly adequate capacity and low likelihood of emergency conditions going into the June and July months.”

ERCOT has the legal authority to order large power users, such as data centers and cryptocurrency miners, to reduce their power draw from the grid if necessary. According to ERCOT, the risk of rolling blackouts has dropped because nearly 11 gigawatts of new power capacity has been added since last summer. That’s enough to supply more than 2.7 million households on the hottest summer days, Vegas said.

Secretary of State Nelson stepping down Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced last week that she will resign effective July 17 from the position she has held since 2023, the Texas Standard reported.

“It has been my goal to ensure that voting in Texas is secure, accessible and fair,” Nelson said in a press release.

“We have worked extensively to ensure accurate voter rolls and to educate voters about what they need to know to vote with confidence.”

Abbott is responsible for appointing her successor.

“Secretary Jane Nelson has been a true champion for the people of Texas and an extraordinary Secretary of State,” he said.

Nelson served in the Texas Senate for 30 years before being appointed secretary of state in 2023. That office oversees the state’s elections.

Backers of Texas Dream Act head to court Thousands of non-citizen college students last year lost access to in-state tuition when a federal judge blocked the Texas Dream Act, passed 25 years earlier.

Now, a coalition of immigration nonprofits, a student group and Austin Community College are fighting that ruling, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

They have asked the 5th U.S. Circuit of Appeals to overturn that order, issued last June.

The appellate court heard arguments last week that the Dream Act should be restored. The Texas Legislature passed it in 2001, guaranteeing in-state tuition for students who had lived in Texas for at least three years and graduated from a Texas high school. The measure was signed by then-Gov.

Rick Perry.

Students without legal status are not eligible for federal financial aid or government loans. The end of the Dream Act means those students must pay much higher tuition rates. For example, at Austin Community College, students who lost access to in-state tuition saw their credit-hour tuition rates nearly quadruple.

Tax break approved for SpaceX’s chipmaking project Grimes County officials approved a tax break for a $55 billion chipmaking facility that SpaceX proposes to build outside College Station. The Chronicle reported the project could create 1,800 jobs, but it has prompted concerns from residents that it could change their rural lifestyle and adversely affect property values.

Four of the five county commissioners voted to waive SpaceX’s property taxes in exchange for SpaceX paying the county $10 million up front and $20 million a year for 35 years. The facility is still in its early stages.

“Texas is where the integrated circuit was born and where the future of the semiconductor industry is being built,” Andrew Mahaleris, press secretary for Gov. Greg Abbott, said in a statement.

Elon Musk’s company is building Terafab to create chips for its Starlink broadband internet satellites and other future projects. Its hub is expected to near the Gibbons Creek Reservoir, previously used to cool a coal-fired power plant.

One commissioner expressed concern about a lack of information ahead of last week’s meeting.

“I don’t think that we’ve had honest negotiation with SpaceX, to this point, to allow the core of our constituency to be informed of what’s at stake,” Commissioner David Tullos said.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

John Cornyn in the March 26 runoff, The Dallas Morning News reported. Both Paxton and his general election opponent, Democratic nominee James Talarico, swiftly went on the attack in what promises to be the most expensive Senate general election race in history.

“The future of Texas and the future of America is on the line, and I intend to do everything I can to expand our movement,” Paxton told supporters in Plano.

Talarico is seeking to appeal to Republicans and independents who balked at supporting Paxton during the primary campaign.

The attorney general has been enveloped in several scandals since being elected in 2014.

Talarico called his opponent “morally unfit” for office.

“This November, working Texans — Democrats, independents and Republicans alike — are going to come together to defeat the most corrupt politician in America and the broken political system that he represents,” Talarico said.

Abbott again orders colleges to keep tuition rates flat Gov. Greg Abbott ordered all public universities and colleges to keep tuition flat for the upcoming academic year, the Austin American- Statesman reported.

Abbott first mandated the tuition freeze in 2023. His order also applies to public health institutions and community colleges.

“Higher education must be attainable for Texas students and families,” Abbott wrote.

“Access to affordable, high-quality higher education is essential to ensure Texans learn the skills needed to secure family-sustaining jobs and meet the demands of a growing workforce.”

Most Texas public universities charge between $10,000 and $12,000 for annual instate tuition, according to Robert Kelchen, a higher education professor at the University of Tennessee specializing in finance.

“Overall, Texas is in a pretty enviable position for higher education funding,” Kelchen said, noting “the state funds higher ed pretty well, tuition is fairly modest, and then all the money coming from the oil fund.”

Hill Country ranch to become second-largest state park Nearly 54,000 acres of a former Hill Country ranch will soon become the second-largest park in Texas, The Texas Tribune reported. The former Silver Lake Ranch features steep canyons and rolling hills about 150 miles west of San Antonio, between Rocksprings and Uvalde in Kinney and Edwards counties.

It is the first land purchase made under a $1 billion Centennial Parks Conservation Fund established by the Legislature and approved by voters in 2023.

Previously, the ranch was partially owned by the Moody Foundation, which donated its 88% share. Texas Parks and Wildlife purchased the remainder of the property for $11.85 million.

“Silver Lake Ranch represents the natural beauty, history and spirit of our state, and we are honored to make this gift to Texas Parks and Wildlife to ensure it remains protected and enjoyed by all Texans for years ahead,” foundation trustee Ross Moody said.

The future park, to be named Silver Lake State Park, features a 30-acre spring-fed lake and miles of frontage along the West Nueces River.

An opening date has not been set.

FAA grounds SpaceX Starship again after crash The massive rocket Starship has been grounded again after the lower stage of the rocket plunged into the Gulf of Mexico a few minutes after liftoff, the Statesman reported. The Federal Aviation Administration has ordered an investigation into what went wrong.

The May 22 mishap forced six aircraft to delay their departures and forced another five into holding patterns, the FAA said. No injuries or damage were reported.

This is the seventh grounding in 12 flights for Starship rockets.

SpaceX has approvals to launch and land the craft as many as 25 times a year at its base near Boca Chica Beach in far south Texas.

“A return to flight of the Starship-Super Heavy vehicle is based on the FAA determining that any system, process, or procedure related to the mishap does not affect public safety,” the FAA said.

Researchers: Cities can change storm behavior A team of researchers has examined more than two decades of climate data in Texas to understand how urban and rural areas interact with storms, according to the Texas Standard. State Climatologist John Nielsen- Gammon was part of the research team.

“Probably the biggest finding was how important urban areas were toward individual thunderstorms or smaller-scale collections of thunderstorms,” he said. “Every single city we looked at, the storms were enhanced there — both during the daytime and especially nighttime. There’s a bigger influence in those types of precipitation events.”

Nielsen-Gammon said that while storms are influenced by the presence of cities, often increasing their severity, the extent of that influence depends on the type of storm. The higher temperatures found in cities because of concrete and buildings can affect both the severity and the wind pattern, according to experts.

GOP leaders back French after runoff win Several GOP officials who opposed Bo French’s successful bid to unseat incumbent Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright now say they will back him in the general election, the Houston Chronicle reported.

That includes Abbott, Wright’s fellow commissioners Wayne Christian and Christi Craddick, and Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham.

“Republicans are UNITED and ready to win in November to keep Texas, TEXAS!”

Abbott’s campaign wrote in a post on X.

One notable exception thus far is Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who was among French’s harshest critics. French, the former Tarrant County GOP chair, has made a number of controversial statements, including calling for a ban on Islam in Texas.

French will face Jon Rosenthal, a Houston Democrat and oil and gas engineer, in the November general election.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com

Get ready to light up the night at our upcoming 5K Glow Run/Walk on Saturday, July 11th at the BRC Boat Ramp.

This fun, family-friendly event is a great way to stay active while connecting with our community! Registration begins at 7 p.m., with the race to follow. Entry is $30 per participant, and we’re proud to offer 50% off for first responders, military, and students.

Following the race, an awards ceremony will be held to recognize the top three finishers in three categories. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come enjoy an evening of fitness, fun, and community spirit—we can’t wait to see you there.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts. Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to Dance Unlimited of Edna, our June Member of the Month! Dance Unlimited of Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 601 Apollo in Edna. For more information, call (361) 782-1936.

Dozens of Texas wind projects have been halted because the Department of Defense has not approved the federal permits required for them to move forward, the Austin American-Statesman reported.

Data from the American Clean Power Association indicate that the state has 54 wind projects stalled as part of a nationwide delay affecting 165 onshore wind projects.

President Donald Trump has long opposed wind power. Energy experts such as Environment Texas Executive Director Luke Metzger say the administration is using the regulations, such as ensuring a wind project would not affect military airspace, as an attack on renewable power.

“It’s hard to see this as anything other than an effort to slow or stop wind power regardless of the consequences for consumers, the environment and grid reliability,” Metzger said.

In a statement, a defense department official said DOD is still evaluating the projects.

The department’s evaluation of wind turbines “is inherently complex and time-consuming because it involves balancing two critical, and sometimes competing, interests: developing energy sources while ensuring military operations and readiness are not degraded or impaired to the extent an unacceptable risk to national security is created,” the official said.

R&D plays vital role in state’s economy Texas is one of the top five states contributing to research and development, according to a recent report from the state comptroller’s office.

The federal Bureau of Economic Analysis estimates R&D’s contribution to gross domestic product, “after accounting for the resources used to produce goods and services, employment and compensation from 2012 to 2023.”

The R&D value added by Texas businesses reached $29.2 billion in 2023, a 131% increase from 2012. Further, R&D in the state supplied nearly 195,000 jobs and $30.1 billion in wages, salaries and benefits in 2023.

Texas has 15 Tier 1 colleges and universities, the most in any state. In 2024, more than 11,800 patents were issued in Texas, the second highest in the country, after California.

“When investments are made in research, the returns multiply — strengthening our competitiveness, securing our future and improving the lives of all Texans,” said Fernanda Leite, interim vice president for research at UT-Austin.

First case in 2026 of West Nile virus reported

The year’s first case of West Nile virus has been reported in a Harris County resident, the Texas Department of State Health Services reported. The virus is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, though 80% of people infected with West Nile never experience symptoms.

“West Nile and other mosquito-borne illnesses are a fact of life in Texas in the warmer months, and all Texans should take precautions against mosquito bites to stay safe and healthy,” said DSHS Commissioner Jennifer A. Shuford.

She advised removing standing water from homes and yards, such as in buckets, old tires and other items.

The symptoms experienced by the unlucky 20% include fever, headache, nausea, muscle and joint aches, and fatigue.

Though rare, West Nile virus can be fatal.

In the past five years, there have been 976 cases of West Nile in Texas, according to DSHS, with 106 deaths during that period.

Franklin Mountains State Park grows by 1,000 acres Franklin Mountains State Park, 15 minutes from El Paso, is now 1,054 acres larger to the east as the result of a new land acquisition, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reported.

“I am excited about this acquisition,” said Superintendent Cesar Mendez, “which extends the buffer zone all the way to Martin Luther King Boulevard, adding some lower elevation and flatter land to Franklin Mountains State Park and securing access points (trailheads).”

With 28,000 acres — or 43 square miles — the park is one of the largest urban wilderness parks in the world. It has more than 120 miles of trail and is a popular site with birders.

The acquisition helps safeguard the main mountain area of desert bighorn sheep habitat.

Federal aid for Panhandle wildfire victims The Federal Emergency Management Agency has approved a request for grant funds to assist victims of the Hunggate Fire in Randall County, which has merged with the Chocolate Chip Fire, burning an estimated 14,000 acres and threatening more than 1,245 homes. Aid has also been granted for the Sinky Fire in Potter County, which has burned more than 2,500 acres and prompted evacuation of more than 500 acres.

“Texas has secured federal resources to further guard against wildfire threats in the Panhandle,” said Gov.

Greg Abbott. “With this grant approval, Texas has additional tools to help Texans remain safe from wildfire danger.”

The approval of a Fire Management Assistance Grant makes the state eligible for 75% reimbursement from the federal government for eligible costs associated with wildfire suppression. These grants are available to states, counties and cities to support the mitigation, management, and control of fires that threaten to become major disasters.

Broker imposter scams being reported Several attempted broker-imposter scams over the past few months have prompted the Texas Department of Banking to warn that such ruses could pose a significant threat to financial institutions and consumers.

According to a TDB news release, “consumers are targeted after conducting searches for high-rate investment opportunities. Individuals contacted by the fraudsters are often not existing bank customers and are located across the United States.”

Some red flags to look for are cold calls, an incorrect or bogus email address, low-risk/ high-reward offers, and unusual funding procedures.

Anyone who is targeted by a broker imposter is encouraged to contact the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority at finra.org.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress. com

This engaging session, “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network,” will focus on creating meaningful connections, fostering collaboration, and increasing your community impact.

Connect with fellow nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners as you exchange ideas and build relationships that strengthen our region.

Lunch and presentation will be provided by Texas A&M–Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your network, expand your knowledge, and better serve your community. RSVP to 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us by Wednesday, May 20th.

Mark your calendars for the County-Wide Garage Sale on Saturday, June 6th. Join community members from across the county as they sell their treasures and offer great finds for shoppers of all kinds. A completed list of participating addresses will be available for pickup at the Chamber, City of Edna, & City of Ganado office beginning June 4th. Please note: If you are hosting a sale within the Edna city limits, a permit is required.

Get ready to light up the night at our upcoming 5K Glow Run/ Walk on Saturday, July 11th at the BRC Boat Ramp. This fun, family- friendly event is a great way to stay active while connecting with our community. Registration begins at 7 p.m., with the race to follow.

Entry is $30 per participant, and we’re proud to offer 50% off for first responders, military, and students.

Following the race, an awards ceremony will be held to recognize the top three finishers in three categories. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come enjoy an evening of fitness, fun, and community spirit—we can’t wait to see you there.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts. Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to The Shack, our May Member of the Month! The Shack was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 2049 FM 616 in La Salle. For more information, call (361) 284-3586.

On the GOP side, the statewide runoffs are:

• U.S. Senate: John Cornyn and Ken Paxton

• Texas attorney general: Mayes Middleton and Chip Roy

• Texas Railroad Commission: Jim Wright and Bo French

• Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Place 3: Alison Fox and Thomas Smith The statewide Democratic runoffs are:

• Lieutenant governor: Vikki Goodwin and Marcos Vélez

• Attorney general: Nathan Johnson and Joe Jaworski There are also runoff races for several House seats, the State Board of Education, and Texas Senate District 19, which runs along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Voters who cast ballots in the March GOP primary can’t vote in the Democratic runoff races, and vice versa.

Registered voters who did not participate in the March primary can vote in either party’s runoff election, but not both.

Texas oil industry at war with itself The GOP runoff race for a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission is pitting oil industry leaders against each other. Many small-scale oil companies are supporting former Tarrant County Republican Party chair Bo French because of incumbent Jim Wright’s efforts to lead reforms at the commission, the Houston Chronicle reported.

“I can’t support Jim Wright, because Jim Wright makes rules that are silly for lots and lots and lots of operators,” said Lance Thomas, manager of Albany- based Stasney Well Service. His company is suing the Railroad Commission over new rules about how oil operators manage onsite waste pits.

A political action committee associated with oil billionaire Tim Dunn, a conservative megadonor, has contributed at least $350,000 to French’s campaign. On the flip side, Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and other major oil companies have contributed to PACs backing Wright.

French has drawn controversy for public comments he has made about Muslims and DEI.

Paxton steps up investigations as runoff nears

Attorney General Ken Paxton has steadily increased his lawsuits, investigations, and public threats around many of the conservative causes that energize Republicans, The Dallas Morning News reported. More than 100 news releases announcing such actions have been issued since early January.

Critics say he is using the attorney general’s office for political gain rather than enforcement. Supporters say Paxton is pursuing the issues Texas conservatives elected him to champion.

“He’s been suing the pants off people. I like that,” said Laura Oakley, president of the Grapevine Republican Club.

The topics since the March primary included immigration, Islam, China, visa fraud, election maps, birthright citizenship and foreign influence, according to The News report. A spokesman for Paxton’s campaign called the review of Paxton’s investigations “garbage” and not “worth printing.”

Lottery Commission, ex-director face criminal charges Former Texas lottery director Gary Grief and the Texas Lottery Commission have been charged with misusing their positions in a 2023 Lotto Texas drawing worth $95 million, the Austin American-Statesman reported. The criminal charges assert the agency helped international gamblers engineer a guaranteed win.

Agency officials helped professional bettors purchase nearly every possible six-number combination — more than 25 million tickets — assuring they would win the $95 million jackpot, according to the charges. However, Grief’s attorney issued a statement saying, in part, “When all facts are revealed in court, the public will see that Gary’s leadership at the Lottery Commission generated millions of dollars for Texas schools and veterans and there was no crime.”

Grief and the commission are charged with abuse of official capacity, a broadly worded offense alleging “intent to harm or defraud another” by misusing “government property, services, personnel or any other thing of value belonging to the government,” the Statesman

reported.

Texas’ migrant deportation law likely to be blocked A new law allowing state officials to arrest and deport undocumented immigrants took effect last week, but it appears likely a federal judge will soon move to block it, according to the Houston Chronicle. U.S. District Judge David A. Ezra has previously called the law “patently unconstitutional,” but delayed making a ruling.

Senate Bill 4 has been stymied since its passage by legal challenges arguing that immigration enforcement is under the purview of the federal government, not state governments.

“Gov. Abbott is the sovereign governor of the state of Texas. He is not the president of the United States,” Ezra said. “DPS officers are not ICE agents.”

The GOP majority in the Texas Legislature passed the law during an immigration surge during the Biden administration. That surge has since receded, and few GOP lawmakers have been pushing for the law to be implemented, according to the Chronicle.

Grimes County residents question proposed chip facility Elon Musk’s bid to build what he calls the world’s largest computer chip manufacturing facility in Grimes County, southeast of College Station, is drawing opposition from some residents, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Musk is seeking tax breaks to build the facility, dubbed Terafab.

Supporters say the initial $55 billion investment would later double in subsequent phases, which is too good to pass up. Opponents question the track record of Musk’s businesses, such as SpaceX, and whether the huge company needs tax breaks.

“I believe it would be immoral to give this company tax abatement when we have serious concerns about health issues and safety issues,” county resident Jacqueline Ross told Grimes County commissioners.

SpaceX was fined nearly $150,000 in 2024 for breaking clean water laws after a fuel spill at its South Texas launch site. It also was cited for illegally discharging wastewater into wetlands near its Boca Chica facilities.

The company is seeking a $1.75 trillion valuation when it goes public in a few months, prompting some residents to question why it needs a tax break.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

Join us as we celebrate two exciting Ribbon Cuttings in our community this week. On Wednesday, May 13th at 5 p.m., we will be at the Edna Country Club to inaugurate the new golf cart park barn. Come help us celebrate this wonderful addition to the club and support one of our local businesses.

Then on Saturday, May 16th at 3 p.m., join us at Charlie’s Sports Bar & Grill as they celebrate their new ownership.

Stop by to welcome the new owners and enjoy an afternoon of community fellowship and excitement. We encourage everyone to come out and show their support for these local businesses and the continued growth of our community.

Join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 21st.

This engaging session, “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network,” will focus on creating meaningful connections, fostering collaboration, and increasing your community impact.

Connect with fellow nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners as you exchange ideas and build relationships that strengthen our region.

Lunch and presentation will be provided by Texas A&M–Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your network, expand your knowledge, and better serve your community. RSVP to 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us by Wednesday, May 20th.

Mark your calendars for the County-Wide Garage Sale on Saturday, June 6th. Join community members from across the county as they sell their treasures and offer great finds for shoppers of all kinds. A completed list of participating addresses will be available for pickup at the Chamber, City of Edna, & City of Ganado office beginning June 4th. Please note: If you are hosting a sale within the Edna city limits, a permit is required.

Get ready to light up the night at our upcoming 5K Glow Run/ Walk on Saturday, July 11th at the BRC Boat Ramp. This fun, family- friendly event is a great way to stay active while connecting with our community. Registration begins at 7 p.m., with the race to follow.

Entry is $30 per participant, and we’re proud to offer 50% off for first responders, military, and students.

Following the race, an awards ceremony will be held to recognize the top three finishers in three categories. Mark your calendars, invite your friends, and come enjoy an evening of fitness, fun, and community spirit—we can’t wait to see you there.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts! Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to The Shack, our May Member of the Month! The Shack was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 2049 FM 616 in La Salle. For more information, call (361) 284-3586.

Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustin Burrows released a statement last week saying they support lifting the law.

Nearly 20 camps have sued to block the law requiring them to install a fiber-optic network, arguing that it does not make their properties safer and would cost millions of dollars. So far only nine Texas summer camps are licensed to open, with fewer than two weeks before the season begins. Nearly 300 are still working to obtain licenses. The Department of State Health Services said last week that camps will be allowed to operate under existing licenses while their applications are reviewed.

The laws were passed in the aftermath of last year’s July 4 flooding, which killed more than two dozen campers at Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River. In addition to fiber optic networks, camps must install emergency warning and public address systems and provide safety training for campers.

Patrick backs Middleton in attorney general runoff Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is backing state Sen.

Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston, in the GOP runoff for Texas attorney general on May 26.

Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22. In the runoff, Middleton faces U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, R-Austin.

“Mayes Middleton has established a record as one of the most conservative senators in Texas history,” Patrick said on social media.

The News quoted Patrick as saying Middleton will make the post “the strongest and most impactful AG office in the nation.”

Democrats Joe Jaworski, a former Galveston mayor, and state Sen.

Nathan Johnson, D-Dallas, are in a runoff for their party’s attorney general nomination.

Incumbent Ken Paxton opted not to run and is locked in a primary runoff with incumbent U.S.

Sen. John Cornyn.

Cornyn, Paxton in tight runoff race

Paxton is locked in a tight race against incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn for the GOP nomination, the Texas Standard reported. The Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston recently conducted a poll that showed Paxton leading Cornyn, 48% to 45% with 7% still undecided. The poll of those indicating they were likely to vote in the GOP runoff had a 2.83% margin of error.

In the first quarter of this year, Cornyn raised nearly $9 million, including $3.4 million after the March primary.

Paxton raised $2.2 million. Democratic nominee state Rep. James Talarico, D-Round Rock, raised a record $27 million in the first quarter, the largest-ever sum for a Senate candidate in the first quarter of an election year in any state.

Texas has biggest teacher workforce, but they get paid less Texas has the country’s largest teacher workforce but lags behind the national average in teacher pay and per-student spending, according to a report in the Austin American- Statesman.

A National Education Association report said teacher pay in Texas is about $10,700 below the U.S. average. Texas public school teachers earned an average of $63,749 in 2024-2025, which put it 33rd among states and Washington, D.C. The national average was $74,495.

Texas had nearly 370,000 public school teachers in 2024-2025, the highest number in the country.

Smokable hemp again pulled from Texas shelves Smokable hemp products such as flower buds and rolled joints must again be pulled from store shelves as the state appeals the latest court ruling, according to The Texas Tribune. The ban was set to take effect on March 31, but lawyers for the hemp industry filed suit challenging the plan. A Travis County district judge temporarily halted imposition of the ban, but with the 15th Texas Court of Appeals agreeing to hear the state’s appeal of the lower court ruling, the ban is now back in effect.

“We are confident that the 15th Court of Appeals will reinstate our temporary injunction so that our vets, elderly, and adult consumers have reasonable access to these products,” said David Sergi, an attorney for the hemp industry.

Hemp retailers have said their businesses have lost over half their revenue since imposition of the new rules, which also include much steeper licensing fees.

Texas leads in immigration detention as crossings plummet Texas continues to lead the country in the number of people held in detention centers, even as unauthorized border crossings plunge, the Houston Chronicle reported.

As of early April, the daily average in Texas was nearly 18,000 people. That’s more than twice the average number of immigrants held in Louisiana, the second highest, with about 8,100 per day.

Texas’ high numbers are partly due to the state’s numerous detention centers and a ruling from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals that upheld the practice of holding immigrants until their removal proceedings conclude.

“The 5th Circuit is not immigrant-friendly, and it’s easier to remove people who are detained in the Texas facilities,” said Zenobia Lai, executive director of the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said decisions on where detainees are held are made on a “case-by-case basis in accordance with U.S. law.”

Texas most at-risk state for hail damage Everything is bigger in Texas, including the hail, according to Cotality’s 2026 Severe Convective Storm Risk Report, published in the Statesman. The state ranks as the most at-risk for hail damage, with 8 million homes exposed and a combined reconstruction value exceeding $3.1 trillion.

Four Texas cities rank among the top 10 for homes at greater risk of hail damage. Dallas ranks second nationally, behind Chicago, followed by Houston in third, Austin in ninth, and San Antonio in tenth.

“Although most hailstones are typically pea- or dime-size, hail can grow to as large as golf balls and baseballs.

In extreme cases, hail can reach the size of a softball, grapefruit or even a pineapple,” Statesman meteorologist Mary Wasson wrote.

A pineapple?

Jarvis had begun her campaign three years earlier, after the death of her mother, Anna Reeves Jarvis. By 1911, every state in the Union was celebrating Mother’s Day. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson made it a national holiday.

But within a few years, Jarvis became disillusioned. Card companies, flower shops, and candy makers turned her beloved holiday into big business. Soon she was protesting the very holiday she had worked so hard to create. In 1943, she even began a petition to rescind Mother’s Day.

Anna Jarvis, the founder of Mother’s Day, grew to despise the holiday.

I am no Anna Jarvis. I love Mother’s Day. It gives us a beautiful opportunity to thank God for the vital role mothers play in the lives and faith of their children. The greatest lesson my mother ever taught me was what it means to love God and be loved by him. My mom showed me Jesus in the way she prayed, forgave, served, and loved.

Mother’s Day has become a multimillion-dollar industry. Cards, flowers, candy, and restaurant reservations are not wrong. They can be thoughtful gifts. But commercialism can quietly teach us that love is something we purchase once a year instead of something we practice every day.

Sadly, for many in our world today, Mother’s Day is not a happy day at all. For mothers who have lost children, for children who have lost mothers, and for women who long for children, the holiday can be a painful reminder of grief, loss, and unfulfilled hopes.

Unlike Anna Jarvis, I’m not trying to discourage you from celebrating Mother’s Day. But this year, as you celebrate, don’t let commercialism define what love looks like. Even better than buying her flowers or taking her out to eat, give her the gift of your time. Go to church with your mom this Sunday. Pray with and for her.

Thank her for all she has done for you. Honor her. Forgive her. Support her. Love her not only on Mother’s Day, but throughout the year.

And please be sensitive to those who are hurting this Mother’s Day. Be aware of the women around you who long for the gift of motherhood but have not received it. Be understanding of those who feel the pain of loss more deeply on Mother’s Day.

In the end, Anna Jarvis was right about one thing.

Mothers deserve more than flowers. They deserve our time, our prayers, our honor, and our love—not just on Mother’s Day, but every day of the year.

Pastor Andrew Schroer has been a pastor for over 25 years and is currently serving at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Edna, Texas. You can find his latest books, “364 Days of Thanksgiving” and “364 Days of Devotion,” on Amazon. com.

Learn about how to be “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network. Get connections, collaborations, and community impact during this event. Come connect with nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across our region. Lunch and presentation by Texas A&M-Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and better serve your community! Call 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us to RSVP by Wednesday, May 20th.

SAVE THE DATE: We will have a 5K Glow Run in June and SIP & PAINT in August. Be on the look out for more information to come.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention! We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts. Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to The Shack, our May Member of the Month! The Shack was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 2049 FM 616 in La Salle. For more information, call (361) 284-3586.

“It’s all crazy,” Victor Cortez, a 40-year-old Austin construction worker, said while filling up his pickup truck .

“It depends on the day; some days I’m moving to three or four buildings and spending 100 bucks a day.”

The steep climb in prices comes as a result of the war with Iran, which began in February. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil passes, has caused a sharp increase in oil prices. The price of a barrel of Brent crude, the world benchmark, was $114 on Sunday, up from about $70 a barrel before the war began.

The rise in diesel prices, which averaged $3.30 a gallon in early February, is affecting everything from shipping costs to farming operations. About half the truckers in Texas are independent operators who buy diesel at gas stations and truck stops and don’t receive the discount that large companies with their own trucking yards get for buying in bulk.

Camp Mystic will not reopen this summer

Camp Mystic announced last week that it had withdrawn its application for a camp license for this summer, according to the Austin American-Statesman.

The decision followed a week of hearings before a joint Senate-House committee, which heard testimony from the loved ones of last summer’s flood victims.

The July 4 flooding along the Guadalupe River killed 25 children, two counselors and the camp’s longtime owner, Richard “Dick” Eastland.

“No administrative process or summer season should move forward while families continue to grieve, while investigations continue, and while so many Texans still carry the pain of last July’s tragedy,” the camp wrote in a statement.

The Texas Department of State Health Services, which is responsible for issuing camp licenses, conducted investigations. The camp has been planning to reopen its Cypress Lake campus, which was not damaged by the flash floods. More than 850 children have already registered to attend that camp.

Camp Mystic said it would continue to “fully cooperate with all ongoing investigations.”

Talarico leads Cornyn, Paxton in latest polls A poll shows Democrat James Talarico leading both the Republicans who are locked in a fierce runoff to determine who will face him in November, the Houston Chronicle reported. Talarico led U.S. Sen. John Cornyn 40% to 33%,according to the University of Texas at Austin Politics Project survey. He holds a 42% to 34% advantage over Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. In both scenarios, 19% of voters said they were still undecided.

“While the Democratic candidate leading two established Republicans in these matchups is sure to raise some eyebrows,” the pollsters wrote, the results “reveal a Republican electorate still registering the effects of the months-long, bruising, negative campaigning by Paxton and Cornyn, and the GOP divisions the race has exacerbated.”

Paxton and Cornyn face each other in a May 26 runoff because neither secured a majority in the March primary.

Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22. Voters who cast ballots in the Democratic primary cannot vote in the GOP runoff. Only voters who participated in the GOP primary or did not vote at all can vote in the GOP runoff.

$56 million in fed funding for rural health care

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is making $56 million in federal funding available to rural health care providers.

The “Infrastructure and Capital Investments for Rural Texas” initiative will support modernization of rural health care delivery by funding new equipment and minor facility renovations.

Health care providers can use the funds to “update lab, CT scan, ultrasound, or mammography equipment; stretchers, wheelchairs, patient beds, telemetry units, nurse call systems, generators, defibrillators, crash carts, medication dispensing units, sleep labs, vital sign monitors, oxygen tanks, and other allowable equipment,” according to the HHSC news release.

The state is expected to receive about $1.4 billion in federal funding over the next five years through the program supporting rural health care.

Patrick aims to close loophole for prediction markets Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has directed state senators to explore ways to close gambling loopholes that allow online prediction markets to operate in Texas, according to The Tribune.

He is concerned that state elections and sporting events could be manipulated for profit.

Prediction markets allow users to bet on outcomes of everything from sporting events to election winners, and even the weather. The Trump administration has blocked attempts by other states to regulate the prediction markets, such as Kalshi, claiming oversight belongs to federal agencies, not the states.

“We are regulated at the federal level, but of course, given now the popularity of prediction markets, we are doing a lot of educating on the state level,” said Sara Slane of Kalshi. “That’s the dialogue that we’ll envision having, certainly, in the state of Texas.” While 39 state attorneys general signed on to a legal brief arguing the Commodity Futures Trading Commission doesn’t have sole authority to regulate the prediction markets, Paxton declined to do so.

Texas cities dominate another ‘best’ list

Several Texas cities dominated the top spots in Livability’s new ranking of the most affordable, desirable cities to live in the U.S., according to the Statesman. The list includes only cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000 and median home values of $500,000 or less.

Factors considered included economy and housing; amenities and environment; safety, health and education; and transportation.

Texas cities in the top 10 were Sugar Land at No. 3; Plano at No. 5; Round Rock at No. 9; and New Braunfels at No. 10.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com

Your involvement plays a vital role in making Jackson County a thriving place to live, work, and do business. We encourage you to stop by the Chamber, join us at upcoming events, and continue showing your support for our local businesses.

Join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 21st.

Learn about how to be “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network. Get connections, collaborations, and community impact during this event. Come connect with nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across our region. Lunch and presentation by Texas A&M-Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and better serve your community. Call 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us to RSVP by Wednesday, May 20th.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it! Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146.

Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time. Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts.

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join!

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to First United Methodist Church, Edna, our April Member of the Month!

First United Methodist Church, Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 216 W. Main St. in Victoria. For more information, call (361) 782-3561.

More than a quarter- million students have applied to the state’s voucher program, with a lottery determining who gets a spot. Initial funding for the program is $1 billion, and it is projected to support 100,000 students in its first year.

The program offers taxpayer money to help pay for private and homeschool education.

The amount of each voucher awarded in the initial round varied, from $2,000 each for the 11,000 children applying for homeschool funding to an average of $15,585 for parents who documented their children’s special educational needs.

Smokable hemp ban temporarily blocked A ban on the sale of natural smokeable hemp products has been blocked, possibly until the end of April, by a Travis County district judge. A court hearing is set for this week.

The Texas Tribune reported that lawyers for the hemp industry argue that state agencies overstepped their constitutional authority by imposing new testing requirements that created a 0.3% total THC threshold. The industry says that effectively eliminated smokeable products by essentially rewriting the statutory definitions of hemp created by legislators in 2019.

While that 2019 law also limited THC levels to 0.3%, manufacturers got around it by cultivating hemp plants with another type of THC called THCA, which produces a high when ignited. The newly written limits on any type of THC mirror those that will be imposed by the federal government in November.

Appeals court rules for Ten Commandments in classrooms A federal appeals court last week ordered public school districts to place copies of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, the Austin America-Statesman reported. Parents and a group of faith leaders in nine school districts sued over a 2025 law that requires public schools to post donated posters of the Ten Commandment in classrooms.

By a split vote, the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decided the law does not violate the U.S. Constitution, overturning a San Antonio federal judge’s ruling last year. The case could be appealed to the U.S.

Supreme Court.

“Students are neither catechized on the Commandments nor taught to adopt them,” the judges wrote. “Nor are teachers commanded to proselytize students who ask about the displays or contradict students who disagree with them.”

Six judges on the appeals court dissented, with Judge Leslie H.

Southwick writing that “S.B. 10 is facially unconstitutional under the Establishment and Free Exercise Clauses.”

STAAR ends after this spring After about 15 years, this spring marks one of the final times Texas students will take the STAAR, according to the Chronicle. Beginning with the 2027-2028 school year, that end-ofyear assessment will be replaced by three shorter tests.

Backers of the change say it will reduce classroom time spent preparing for the test and be a more accurate measure of students’ progress.

Critics say the changes will still place too much emphasis and classroom time preparing for the tests.

“The only evidence is that it will create more testing,” said state Rep.

Gina Hinojosa, Gov.

Greg Abbott’s Democratic challenger for governor. “We’re going from 15 tests to 51 tests by the time a kid’s done with eighth grade. It’s outrageous.”

The new Student Success Tool will provide three tests through the school year, instead of a single high-stakes test at the end of the year.

Results will be available within 48 hours of each test, unlike STAAR results, which are usually released in mid-June, months after students take the test.

Workplace fatalities dipped slightly in 2024 The Texas Department of Insurance has reported that 557 workplace fatalities were reported in 2024, the latest year for which statistics are available. That is down slightly from the 564 workplace fatalities reported in 2023. More than 90% of the fatalities occurred in the private sector.

The most fatalities were reported in the trade, transportation and utilities sector at 175; construction fatalities, with 128, followed. The most common occupation involving fatalities was motor vehicle operators A total of 75 fatalities were due to violent acts in 2024.

Men accounted for 92% of the 557 total incidents in 2024.

Texas economy hits record $2.9 trillion The Texas economy expanded to $2.9 trillion in 2025, growing faster than the nation as a whole at a 2.5% rate, according to the U.S.

Bureau of Economic Analysis. The state maintained its ranks as the world’s eighth-largest economy, based on preliminary estimates from the International Monetary Fund.

“The Texas economy expanded to a record high of $2.9 trillion thanks to the productivity of our skilled workforce and the entrepreneurs and businesses investing here with confidence,” said Greg Abbott.

The state’s economy has grown by 46% over the past 11 years.

Wildfire risks in Panhandle, West Texas rise Dry windy conditions across West Texas and the Panhandle are rising, the Statesman reported, leading to increased risk of wildfires. The National Weather Service has issued red flag warnings from Canada to Mexico, including those areas in Texas.

“A red flag warning means a combination of warm temperatures, very low humidity, dry vegetation, and strong winds.

These conditions can quickly spark and spread wildfires, and in this environment, even a small fire can grow rapidly, so extra caution is critical,” Mary Wasson, meteorologist with the San Antonio Express-News reported.

The Texas A&M Forest Service reports that 9 out of 10 wildfires in Texas are human-caused and therefore preventable. Burn bans are now in effect in 102 Texas counties, and wildfire preparedness is at Level 2, with Level 5 being the highest risk.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

One day, Gordon met a young boy in front of his church, carrying a rusty cage with several birds fluttering nervously inside.

Gordon asked the boy, “Where did you get those birds?”

“I trapped them out in the field,” the boy replied.

“Well, what are you going to do with them?”

“I’m going to play with them and then probably feed them to my cat.”

When Gordon offered to buy the birds from him, the boy told him, “Mister, you don’t want them. They’re just old, wild birds. They’re worthless.”

But Gordon insisted. “I’ll give you $2 for the cage and the birds.”

“Okay, it’s a deal,” the boy replied. “But, mister, you’re making a bad bargain.”

Money exchanged hands, and the boy went merrily on his way. Gordon immediately walked around the back of the church, opened the door of the cage, and set the frightened birds free.

The following Sunday, Gordon took the empty cage into the pulpit to teach his people about redemption.

We are all caged birds, trapped by sin, death, and the devil. We are born captive to sin. We listen to the devil’s lies and deserve an eternal cage in hell.

But Jesus redeemed us.

In the Bible, to redeem means to pay the price to set free. Jesus paid the price, unlatched the door, and set us free.

But he didn’t pay $2. Our freedom cost him everything. “It was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed,” Peter tells us, “but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:18,19).

Jesus himself said, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). Jesus’ life was the ransom that set us free.

But that means you are free – free from sin’s curse, free from death’s sting, and free from hell’s cage. Because of Jesus and through faith in him, your soul will one day fly free to heaven.

According to the story, Gordon ended by saying, “That boy told me the birds were not songsters, but when I released them and they winged their way heavenward, it seemed to me they were singing as sweetly as any bird ever has!”

They were singing the song of freedom.

So can we.

Pastor Andrew Schroer has been a pastor for over 25 years and is currently serving at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Edna, Texas. You can find his latest books, “364 Days of Thanksgiving” and “364 Days of Devotion,” on Amazon.com.

That is more than twice the projected cost in the previous state water plan published in 2022.

The draft report, released by the Texas Water Development Board, says the increased costs are due to a number of factors: inflation in construction costs, more frequent droughts, and a decline in existing water supplies as the state’s aquifers become depleted.

The state last year earmarked spending $20 billion over the next two decades for water infrastructure and supply projects — an amount that falls far short of what will be needed, according to some experts. “This figure validates concerns that $1 billion a year is not going to be sufficient to meet the infrastructure needs to ensure our water supply,” said Perry Fowler, executive director of the Texas Water Infrastructure Network, a construction trade coalition for water projects.

The state water plan is created with input from 16 regional planning groups that identify future water needs in their regions and how to meet them. The draft plan is open for public comment and can be accessed here: https:// tinyurl.com/3ktz5fpm.

Talarico raises record $27 million; Cornyn leads Paxton in fundraising State Rep. James Talarico raised a record $27 million in this first quarter of this year, the largest-ever sum for any Senate candidate in any state in the first quarter of an election year, The Texas Tribune reported.

“Winning in Texas will require unprecedented resources,” said Seth Krasne, Talarico’s campaign manager.

“This grassroots fundraising haul puts our movement in a strong position to spread our message in some of the most expensive media markets in the country.

But we can’t take our foot off of the gas.”

Talarico has raised more than $40 million since entering the race last September from more th 540,000 individual contributors.

On the Republican side, where incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn is heading to a May 26 runoff against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, Cornyn outraised his opponent by fourfold, pulling in $9 million in the first quarter. Paxton raised $2.2 million “The Cornyn campaign continues performing at a high level, building off the overperformance in the March 3rd primary to announcing a massive fundraising haul in the first quarter of 2026,” Cornyn campaign manager Andy Hemming said.

Judge orders Camp Mystic to preserve cabins where girls died An Austin state district judge ordered Camp Mystic’s owners not to alter, repair or demolish cabins that housed campers and counselors who died in last year’s July 4 flood along the Guadalupe River, southwest of Kerrville. The flood killed 25 girls, two counselors and one of the owners of the camp.

The camp’s owners are being sued by the parents of 8-year-old Cile Steward, the only victim whose body has not been recovered. Other parents of children who died in the floods also have lawsuits pending.

“This finding is supported by facts tending to show that defendants owed a duty of care to Cile Steward and other minor campers, which they breached by operating Camp Mystic in a high-risk zone without adequate flood protections,” Judge Guerra Gamble wrote.

The injunction remains in place until the lawsuit is resolved or the court rules otherwise. The judge set a trial date of May 3, 2027.

SNAP rule change forces recipients to read food labels Changes in what can be purchased under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are now in place in Texas, and consumers are spending more time examining the ingredients label, the Texas Standard reported.

SNAP benefits can no longer be used to buy candy or sweetened beverages, under Texas Senate Bill 379, passed last year. That includes drinks with more than five grams of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener.

The ban does not include baking sugar or sweet cereals, however.

The guidelines do not provide an itemized list, so retailers must interpret them and apply them to the food items they sell.

“You use Google a lot to get the internet’s interpretation. You look at the law and how it’s written,” said John Robertson of Austin’s Fresh Plus grocery stores.

Data center owners grilled by legislators Texas lawmakers grilled data center developers, energy companies and grid officials recently on the impact of the state’s data center boom, the Houston Chronicle reported. Grid officials say they are proposing regulations that will ensure Texas can handle data centers without raising electricity costs for consumers or risking power blackouts.

Officials from various Texas energy companies said data centers could help upgrade the state’s grid infrastructure.

“If we have an opportunity to have new customers coming to the state pay for that, we’ll have done some really good work,” said Brian Lloyd, with Dallas-based Oncor, the Texas utility with by far the most data centers seeking to connect to its system.

Thomas Gleeson, chair of the Public Utility Commission, told lawmakers his agency is working with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the grid operator, on rules to encourage data centers to bring their own power generation to help prevent price spikes.

“I honestly don’t think on the generation side you’re going to see a large increase in costs at this point, because we have so many renewables and batteries on the system,” Gleeson said.

Amount of state in drought increases again Near the end of March, 89% of the state was in drought, according to hydrologist Dr.

Mark Wentzel with the Texas Water Development Board. That is the largest extent of drought in nearly four years, Wentzel wrote.

In addition to continued dry conditions, average March temperatures were 66.8 Fahrenheit, beating the previous record by more than one-and-a-half degrees.

Wentzel said there is some reason for optimism with a wet, cooler start to April and a forecast of drought contraction in much of the state, except for the Panhandle and West Texas by early summer.

“Also note that we’ve set a new monthly record every year since 2021. In 2021, we set the record for the hottest December. In 2022, it was the hottest July, hottest September in 2023, October in 2024, and November in 2025,” he wrote.

Now we can add March 2026 to that list.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

We invite you to visit the Chamber, attend our upcoming events, and continue supporting our local businesses.

Join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 21th.

Learn about how to be “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network. Get connections, collaborations, and community impact during this event. Come connect with nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across our region.

Lunch and presentation by Texas A&M-Victoria - Nonprofit Center.

Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and better serve your community.

Call 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us to RSVP by Wednesday, May 20th.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses?

We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146.

Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time. Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts.

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to First United Methodist Church, Edna, our April Member of the Month!

First United Methodist Church, Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 216 W. Main St. in Victoria. For more information, call (361) 782-3561.

Without that unity, Patrick said that state Rep. James Talarico, the Democratic nominee, could win, The Dallas Morning News reported. House Speaker Justin Burrows said he believes the GOP will keep its majority in the chamber but agreed unity is critical.

“We’ve got to be on the same page,” Burrows said. “We’ve got to be working and rowing in the same direction.”

Democrats, who have not held a majority in either chamber in more than 20 years, would have to flip 14 Republican seats to achieve a majority in the 150-member House.

Data centers set to get billions in tax breaks An exemption for the state’s booming data center industry means Texas will lose $3.2 billion in sales tax revenue over the next two years, The Texas Tribune reported.

Lawmakers say they will consider proposals to either limit the tax break or eliminate it altogether when they meet in January for the next legislative session.

“These new numbers are extremely concerning, and I will say they’re unsustainable,” said state Sen. Joan Huffman, chair of the Senate Committee on Finance. “I plan to look at filing legislation to either repeal the exemption or take a very close look at it and see.”

The tax break was approved by lawmakers in 2014, when there were far fewer data centers and they were much smaller. If nothing changes, exemptions could reach $1.75 billion annually by 2030.

The state already has more than 300 active data centers, with more than 100 additional projects either under development or planned.

Texas could face $700 million in SNAP penalties New federal rules designed to cut waste in the nation’s food stamp program means Texas taxpayers will have to pay $700 million more each year to participate in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, The Tribune reported.

Officials with Texas Health and Human Services disclosed this to lawmakers at a recent committee hearing.

Almost 9% of the state’s SNAP payments had an error, slightly better than the national rate of 11%. Texas has until October 2027 to bring the error rate down below 6%. The error rate is based on unintentional mistakes by either the agency or the client receiving the benefits that result in an overpayment or underpayment Nearly one-fourth of the state’s population gets some type of assistance from Texas Health and Human Services.

“We are dealing today with a health care epidemic, but not from a disease or virus,” said Sen Lois Kolkhorst, R-Brenham, the committee chair. “With scandals in places like Minnesota and California drawing national attention, we, as Texans, must examine our own system and see how we measure up to other states.”

Court pauses

smokable cannabis ban, higher fees A Travis County district judge has temporarily lifted a statewide ban on the sale of smokeable hemp products, The Texas Tribune reported.

The temporary restraining order is in effect until at least April 23, when another hearing is scheduled.

Texas hemp companies sued to block new state rules that have wiped out a huge portion of the legal cannabis market, the Texas Standard reported. The rules took effect March 31 and prevented stores from selling smokable hemp products and vastly increased licensing fees. Smokable products make up the vast majority of hemp sales in the state.

“I estimated that flower is about half the market and smokable products put together including vapes are about two-thirds of the market,” said Robin Goldstein, a University of California economist who researches cannabis markets. He said the Texas market had about $4 billion in retail sales annually.

The plaintiffs are also suing over a jump in annual licensing fees for manufacturers from $250 to $10,000.

Retailers must now pay $5,000 per store, up from $150.

“These provisions function not merely as regulatory tools, but as significant economic barriers not authorized by statute,” the lawsuit contends.

The suit was filed by the Texas Hemp Business Council, the Hemp Industry and Farmers of America, and eight Texas-based hemp companies.

State to launch statewide food permit July 1 The Department of State Health Services will begin offering statewide operating permits for food trucks in Texas beginning July 1, the Austin American- Statesman reported. Food truck owners currently must pay each city’s permitting fees to operate there, which discourages them from traveling to other places to sell their food.

“It’s a hassle to take time off to go and do that where we have to stop what we’re doing and lose money that day,” food truck owner Eloisa Schessler, of Dallas, said.

Some cities opposed the new law, fearing they may lose control of how mobile food trucks operate in their jurisdictions. They will still be able to control where and when food trucks operate, but they will not be able to collect permit and inspection fees.

Texas’ job growth continues to outpace national rate Texas added 40,100 nonfarm jobs in January to reach 14,379,500 positions, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.6 percentage points, according to the Texas Workforce Commission. “Texas employers continue to spur our state’s economic momentum, adding more than 40,000 jobs across a wide range of major industries,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza.

“TWC remains committed to supporting Texas’ pro-growth policies and world-class talent pipeline that make Texas the best place to do business.”

The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the state remained at 4.3%, which is below the national jobless rate of 4.7%.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park.

Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

Your involvement helps make Jackson County a thriving place to live, work, and do business.

We invite you to visit the Chamber, attend our upcoming events, and continue supporting our local businesses.

Join us for a FREE Lunch & Learn on Thursday, May 21th!

Learn about how to be “Stronger Together: Building Your Nonprofit Network. Get connections, collaborations, and community impact during this event. Come connect with nonprofit staff, board members, and community partners, exchange ideas, and strengthen relationships across our region. Lunch and presentation by Texas A&M-Victoria Nonprofit Center. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your knowledge and better serve your community! Call 361-782-7146 or email info@jctx.us to RSVP by Wednesday, May 20th.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine!

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts. Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to First United Methodist Church, Edna, our April Member of the Month!

First United Methodist Church, Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 216 W. Main St. in Victoria. For more information, call (361) 782-3561.

Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time. Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention! We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses?

We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx. us or call (361) 7827146. Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts.

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to First United Methodist Church, Edna, our April Member of the Month!

First United Methodist Church, Edna was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 216 W. Main St. in Victoria. For more information, call (361) 782-3561.

In February, the Trump administration waived more than two dozen environmental laws in order to clear the way for a 150-mile-long wall through West Texas, including Big Bend and the adjoining state park.

Opposition quickly arose from people and politicians from both parties.

The sheriffs of Brewster, Culberson, Hudspeth, Presidio and Terrell counties — a mix of Democrats and Republicans — wrote an open letter that said: “Based on decades of combined experience working with this terrain, we believe that construction of a continuous physical border wall in the Big Bend region would not represent the most practical or strategic approach to border security in this area.”

Now, a map on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website no longer indicates plans to construct a physical wall in the Big Bend region. It is unclear if those plans are final, since the map has been changed several times in the past few weeks.

The rugged area historically has been the least-busy of the nine Border Patrol sectors, accounting for just 1.3% of the 237,538 apprehensions recorded along the entire U.S.-Mexico border during the last fiscal year.

State on trial for unairconditioned prisons The state of Texas is now on trial in an Austin federal court to determine whether it must provide air-conditioning in state prisons, kut. org reported. Inmates and their attorneys have argued for decades that summer conditions — where temperatures can reach 110 degrees — constitute cruel and unusual punishment.

“The Constitution requires living conditions that are not exposing individuals to high heat levels, and the evidence has consistently shown that what TDCJ has done as an alternative has just not been effective,” attorney Brandon Duke said. “It’s not a solution.”

The state counters that it is bringing more AC online at its prisons.

Plaintiff attorneys say at least five inmates have died in Texas from heat-related illness since 2023.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice says it would cost $1.5 billion to install air-conditioning systems at all its prisons, and that state lawmakers must approve the funding.

U.S. District Judge Robert Pittman is expected to rule from the bench after the trial concludes.

Camp Mystic files application to reopen this summer Camp Mystic has filed an application with the state to reopen this summer, the Houston Chronicle reported. More than two dozen children and two camp counselors were killed in the July 4 flash floods that swept the camp. The Texas Department of State Health Services, which oversees camp licensing, said it has received complaints about the camp and that it will be “investigated for violations of the laws and rules governing youth camps.”

DSHS has been sued by the parents of nine victims who contend the camp was wrongfully licensed just two days before the disaster last summer, even though it lacked an evacuation plan. In a separate case, a Travis County judge has ordered Camp Mystic to preserve for future examination the cabins and grounds damaged in the floods.

Camp leaders are asking for permission to open its Cypress Lake campus, which they said is “in compliance with all aspects of the state’s new camp safety laws and has implemented additional safety measures that exceed the requirements of those laws.”

Texas public school teacher pay drops A new report from the University of Houston Education Research Center indicates average pay for Texas public school teachers has dropped about $5,000 over the past decade, the Chronicle reported. The decrease comes even as the cost of living has increased during that time span.

“When we look at those regional differences, there are some increases across the state, but really what we’re seeing is that average teacher salaries haven’t kept up with inflation,” said Toni Templeton, the Education Research Center’s senior research scientist.

Average base pay for the state’s most experienced teachers, those with 11 or more years of experience, has declined from about $73,000 to about $66,000 in 202425, according to the report.

The Texas Legislature approved pay increases based on teachers’ years of experience, and those raises could show up in future studies.

SpaceX planning what could be biggest-ever IPO Elon Musk’s SpaceX is confidentially planning to sell shares to the public in what could be the largest initial public offering in history, the Austin American-Statesman reported. It has filed paperwork with the Securities and Exchange Commission that indicates it could raise as much as $75 billion in an IPO by July.

The confidential filing allows companies to get feedback from regulators without revealing information to competitors.

However, Space X will have to release a public filing at least 15 days before its IPO “road show,” when it presents its financial plan to potential underwriters and institutional investors.

SpaceX has become the world’s leading commercial rocket launch company. Over the past five years, it has secured $6 billion in contracts from the federal government.

TDI helps stop $400 million Medicare scheme A Texas Department of Insurance investigator and crime analyst played a key role in arresting a Russian national who submitted $400 million in fake Medicare claims.

Nikolai Buzolin established a durable medical equipment company in Houston in 2025. He is charged with stealing patients’ and doctors’ identities to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare Part C.

“A few of the patients checked their explanation of benefits and noticed that they were getting medical equipment that they didn’t need. And it was coming from doctors they’d never met,” said TDI Fraud Unit investigator Sgt.

Kevin Mannion.

FBI agents arrested Buzolin as he was boarding a plane in Los Angeles to Russia. He faces up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.

“TDI works with federal, state, and local partners to follow cases wherever they go, whether it’s California or right here in Texas,” said Mannion. “We track them down, we shut them down, and we help dismantle these criminal activities.”

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress. com.

And it is exactly what it sounds like.

On Tomb-Sweeping Day, hundreds of millions of Chinese visit the tombs of their ancestors to sweep them of debris and dust. Many believe they should do it only once a year so as to not disturb the deceased. Oftentimes they will bring gifts and offerings for their ancestors to help them in the afterlife.

Every year, though, they make sure to go and sweep off the graves.

As Americans, we don’t have a specific day set aside for cleaning the graves of our loved ones. Some people visit every week or every month to make sure the grave is clean and has fresh flowers. Others visit once a year or on holidays. Still others avoid cemeteries completely because it is simply too hard to go.

I’ve always considered Easter a good day to visit the cemetery. In a way, Easter is our Tomb-Sweeping Day as Christians. When Peter and John visited Jesus’ tomb on that first Easter Sunday morning, they found it already cleaned out. Jesus was gone. His burial clothes were neatly folded where his body once lay.

Jesus’ clean and tidy tomb is a reminder of how clean and tidy our tombs one day will be. Centuries before Jesus was even born, Job gave this confident confession: “I know that my Redeemer lives and that in the end he will stand upon the earth” (Job 19:25).

Jesus, our Redeemer, lived long before he was born in Bethlehem and has lived long after his death at Calvary. On Judgment Day, Jesus will once again physically stand here on earth, but the Hebrew word here can also carry the idea of dust, which makes Job’s picture even more striking.

Our Redeemer will one day stand over the dust, the bodies, the graves of those who have died. And on that day, Job says confidently, “In my flesh I will see God; I myself will see him with my own eyes” (Job 19:26,27).

Jesus promises us that because he lives, we too will live (John 14:19). Just as he rose triumphant from the grave, we too will physically rise on the Last Day.

When a person dies, their body and soul separate. Their body turns back to dust. Their soul goes before God for judgment (Ecclesiastes 12:7). All those who believe in Jesus as their Savior are given the gift of heaven he won for them. All those who don’t believe are sent to the punishment of hell we all deserve (Mark 16:16).

But then on the last day, God will raise all the dead. Our bodies and souls will be reunited. They will glorified, just like Jesus’ resurrected body (Philippians 3:21).

Our graves will be emptied. They will be swept clean forever.

That’s the victory Jesus won for us with his resurrection. That is what we celebrate every Easter. And that is why Easter is such a good day to go visit the cemetery.

Easter tells us that the graves of all those who believe in Jesus will one day be swept clean.

Pastor Andrew Schroer has been a pastor for over 20 years and is currently serving at Redeemer Lutheran Church with campuses in Edna and Victoria, Texas. Read more of his devotional writing and contact him at 364DaysofThanksgiving. com.

Just before our NSDA District Tournament, we were told there were no remaining UIL funds.

Initially, we were unable to compete until our parents contributed $1,000.

With that opportunity, we exceeded expectations, qualifying for nationals and earning top placements.

Despite this, we have been informed we would not be able to attend nationals. We were told this was not a budgeted item and too late in the year, and even with donors ready to help, concerns were raised about financial strain on the community.

We are simply asking for the chance to represent Edna at a competition we have worked hard to reach.

We respectfully ask our community to support us in encouraging the school board and superintendent to reconsider.

Sincerely, Kyrstin Nieto

Members, if you’re active on Facebook and have news, events, or promotions you’d like us to share, just tag us in your post or email us. We’re happy to help spread the word and support your efforts.

Let’s work together to keep our community connected and informed. Here’s a friendly reminder to support our amazing local businesses— and one of the easiest ways to do that is with Chamber Bucks.

Chamber Bucks can be purchased in any amount and work just like a gift card at over 25 participating businesses throughout our community. By choosing Chamber Bucks, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re making an investment in Jackson County. The goal of this program is simple: encourage everyone to SHOP LOCAL. Every Chamber Buck spent stays right here at home, helping our local economy grow and thrive.

Stop by the Chamber office to purchase yours today. Let’s keep Jackson County strong—one local purchase at a time.

Looking to share a special message with the community? For only $5, you can display your announcement on the Chamber’s LED sign—a great way to catch attention. We also offer affordable weekly and monthly rates for ongoing promotions.

Have you recently had a great experience at one of our Chamber Member businesses? We’d love to hear about it. Each month, we recognize a Member of the Month, and your nominations help us spotlight those who go above and beyond. To nominate a business, simply email us at info@jctx.us or call (361) 782-7146.

Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community shine.

Not Yet a Chamber Member? Now’s the Perfect Time to Join.

Visit www.jacksoncountytexas. com Congratulations to Hospice of South Texas, our March Member of the Month. Hospice of South Texas was chosen by the Chamber Board of Directors because of their continued support of the Chamber and also our community. Located at 605 E. Locust Ave in Victoria. For more information, call (361) 572-4300.

To our Edna Neighbors, Our Edna High School debaters have had a record-breaking season, ranking in the top 16 in the state and qualifying for the National Tournament! But right now, we are being told we can’t go.

Even though our parents personally funded our last tournament and private donors are standing by to help with Nationals, the school district has declined our trip, citing budget issues and Timing. We’ve worked all year for this moment, and we are ready to represent our town with pride.

Please help us by speaking out. We are asking the community to encourage the school board and superintendent to let us move forward.

We’ve done the work, we just need the chance to compete.

Thank you for standing with us Sincerely, Violet Khan