*The first cotton acreage estimate for the 2024 crop is out.  *The number of hogs and pigs in Texas has dropped.  *Fuel prices are declining following a slight holiday increase. *The Pioneer crop production clinics are getting underway next week in the Texas Panhandle.  *This should be a better year for precipitation in Texas.  *Congress can strengthen the partnership between farmers, ranchers and food banks by investing in a program in the new Farm Bill.  *Managing dry cows through the fresh period pays dividends down the line.  *The special late deer season for part of the state opens Monday.