Abbott Orders Statewide Investigation Into Possible Child Care Funding Fraud
January 6, 2026 – AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott has directed multiple Texas state agencies to launch investigations into potential fraud involving taxpayer-funded child care programs, signaling a crackdown on misuse of public funds. In a letter sent Monday, Abbott instructed the Texas Workforce Commission to work alongside the Health and Human Services Commission to strengthen anti-fraud efforts and investigate any indications...
Local Healthcare Visionaries: The Story of One Couple
January 5, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, TX – Last year the community celebrated a magnificent milestone which was the 75th anniversary of the local hospital. Before 1949 there were several small hospitals owned by various doctors in the community. At some point, the need for one hospital to serve the community was realized with the establishment of the hospital on Davis Street. There are many great stories...
Shining Star Productions Bringing Hello, Dolly! to Sulphur Springs
January 5, 2026 – Shining Star Productions presents, Hello, Dolly! on stage at the Sulphur Springs High School Auditorium, January 16th through the 18th, 2026! “Put On Your Sunday Clothes” and join Shining Star Productions for this classic, feel-good musical comedy! Shining Star Productions is thrilled to bring the beloved story of meddling matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi to the SSISD Auditorium. This is sure to be...
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...
Paris District Road Report for January 5, 2026
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting January 5, 2026. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades, and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they...
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...
Commissioner Miller Applauds USDA Payment Rates for Farmer Bridge Assistance Program
January 1, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller praised the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s announcement of payment rates under the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program, calling the move a timely boost for producers facing rising costs and market uncertainty. In a statement released Tuesday, Miller said the program provides much-needed clarity and support as farmers plan for the 2026 growing season. The USDA,...
Toyota ShareLunker Program Launches 40th Anniversary Season on New Year’s Day
January 1, 2026 – ATHENS – New Year’s Day 2026 will launch the 40th season of the Toyota ShareLunker Program, another major milestone for Texas’ highly acclaimed and storied largemouth bass selective breeding and stocking program. Since 1986, anglers from throughout the state and nation have gone fishing on Texas lakes and cast their lines in hopes of landing a Legacy Class largemouth bass weighing 13 pounds or more. During the...
Commissioner Miller Celebrates U.S. Shrinking Inflation and Agricultural Trade Deficit
December 30, 2025 – AUSTIN — Commissioner Sid Miller recently celebrated the Trump Administration’s recent economic reports showing declines in core inflation and a forecasted reduction in the agricultural trade deficit next year. The combination points towards a sharp economic turnaround for both American agricultural producers and consumers, with Texas’s robust economy and agricultural production leading the way. The Trump...
Governor Abbott Announces Historic $1.4 Billion In Federal Funding Secured For ‘Rural Texas Strong’ Projects
December 29, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott today announced that Texas will receive a historic investment of over $1.4 billion in federal funding over five years to improve rural health care throughout the state. “Rural Texans across the state will benefit from this historic federal investment. We will strengthen our rural hospitals, expand access to critical mental and physical health care, and help reduce chronic...
