U.S. Lawmakers Eye “Privateer” Authority to Target Cartel Boats Under Proposed Legislation
January 5, 2026 – WASHINGTON — A controversial new proposal being floated in Congress could open the door for private American citizens to legally seize cartel ships and assets on the high seas, reviving a centuries-old constitutional power and sparking debate over enforcement and legality. A privateer is a private ship owner or seaman authorized by a government’s letter of marque during wartime to attack and capture enemy...
Commissioner Miller Warns Texas as China Mystery Seed Package Deliveries Continue
January 5, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller and the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) today urged Texans to remain vigilant as unsolicited packages containing unidentified seeds continue to arrive at their doorsteps. Since February 2025, TDA has collected seed deliveries at 109 locations across the Lone Star State, totaling 1,101 packs of unsolicited seeds. While small in appearance, these packages...
FM vs. RM and other uniquely Texan highways
January 5, 2026 – By Ryan LaFontaine AUSTIN — Highway designations can be tricky. To get where you’re going in Texas, you can take an FM to a PR and that would be no BS. “BS” as in Business State Highway. What did you think it meant? Texas is home to the nation’s largest highway system, and with that comes one of the most colorful collections of highway designations in the country. From State Highways and Spurs to Loops, and a...
New Recycling Facility Open in Sulphur Springs
January 5, 2026 – SULPHUR SPRINGS — A new recycling service is officially open in Sulphur Springs, marking a milestone for the community as residents head into the new year with expanded options for waste reduction and environmental stewardship. The new recycling location will open Monday, January 5, 2026, at 2800 Interstate 30 in Sulphur Springs. The facility will operate Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and...
Dereald Lynn Millsap
Graveside services for Dereald Lynn Millsap, age 69, of Sulphur Springs will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Greenview Cemetery with Bro. Robert Burns officiating. Pallbearers will be Harrell Hettich, James Hettich, Larry Millsap, Tim Boney, Teddy Jennings, Rick Jennings, Greyson Pruitt and Nathan Pruitt. There will be no formal visitation. Dereald was born on December 22, 1956 in Sulphur Springs the son...
Burn Bans Likely Coming to Northeast Texas as Wildfire Danger Grows
January 5, 2026 – NORTHEAST TEXAS — Fire officials are warning residents across Northeast Texas to prepare for burn bans this week as warm, dry and windy conditions persist, fueling heightened wildfire risk across the region. There is currently 0.3″ forecast this week on Thursday Dry weather patterns and an ongoing lack of rain have left grasses, brush and timber unusually dry and highly flammable. Combined with gusty...
A Message of Inspiration From the Author of Living Loved, January 4, 2026
Hey friends, there’s a difference between visiting God and dwelling with Him. Psalm 91 begins with this promise: “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1) Notice the word dwells. It doesn’t mean dropping by, checking in when life gets tough, or visiting on Sundays or in moments of desperation. Dwelling implies staying, remaining, and making God’s...
The ‘Cruel Rule’ to Consider When Euthanizing Your Own Pets
January 3, 2026 – In Texas, shooting and killing your own dog is only legal under very specific circumstances, and doing so incorrectly can lead to a third-degree felony charge for animal cruelty. As of 2026, Texas law (specifically Penal Code § 42.092) has become even more stringent regarding the treatment of non-livestock animals. Here is the current breakdown: The “Cruel Manner” RuleWhile you are the owner, you do...
Jim Russell
January 17, 1938 — January 1, 2026 Sulphur Springs Jim was born on January 17, 1938, in Frankfort, Indiana to Gordon and Nettie (McCoy) Russell. He married Carolyn McClaine on August 22, 1958, in New Brunswick, Indiana. He graduated from Butler University with his Bachelor’s in Science Degree in Education. Jim worked as a supervisor for Ford Motor Company in Indianapolis for 11 years. He then started Jim Russell Real Estate in...
Gala 2026 Sponsor Photos
January 2, 2026 – Visit Gala2026.GiveSmart.com for underwriting, sponsorships, and tickets. This year’s proceeds will help fund the surgical services expansion of the local nonprofit hospital, CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs. Photo 1: Arvis Tanton and his family have been caring for the people of Hopkins County for decades through their work at Carriage House Manor, and the Foundation is deeply grateful for...
