The United Way Reported They’ve Reached 60% of Their Goal at Their 5th Campaign Meeting October 28th
October 31, 2025 – The 2025-2026 Hopkins County United Way held their fifth Campaign Report Meeting October 28th, 2025, at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office in Sulphur Springs, Texas, where they reported they have reached 60% of their Campaign Goal! Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this fun meeting. You can still donate by mailing your donation to … P. O. Box 735, Sulphur Springs, Texas, 75483, or online at www.hcuw.org/give … or through venmo or PayPal…
Texas Manufacturing and AI Boom Hinges on Access to Affordable Water
October 30, 2025 – As the Trump administration pushes forward with policies to revive U.S. manufacturing — including tariffs, regulatory reform, and easier credit — Texas is once again in the spotlight. The state’s vast land, strong energy infrastructure, and central location make it an attractive hub for industry. But one key question looms large: Can Texas deliver enough affordable water to fuel its manufacturing future?
Water has emerged as a defining constraint — not just for traditional manufacturing like paper, chemicals, and metals, but also for the rapidly growing data center and semiconductor sectors. With the rise of AI and cloud computing, sprawling data centers in North Texas and the Austin area now consume millions of gallons annually for cooling. That puts them in direct competition with other industrial and municipal users.
Unlike electricity, there is no universal cost per gallon for industrial water. Each new source — whether a drilled well, a dammed river, or recycled wastewater — requires investment. Economically, the return on that investment depends on how much value each gallon produces. A dollar’s worth of notebook paper, for example, may require two gallons of water, while the same two gallons could yield up to ten dollars’ worth of semiconductor chips.
This efficiency gives tech manufacturers more flexibility in site selection. Semiconductor plants, like the new Samsung and Texas Instruments facilities, can operate profitably even with higher-priced, treated water, often recycling much of what they use. Meanwhile, water-intensive paper and chemical industries tend to favor East Texas, where rainfall is abundant and water is cheaper.
For Texas to sustain growth in both heavy industry and high-tech sectors, ongoing investment in water infrastructure and recycling technology will be critical. The state’s economic future — and its role in the national manufacturing revival — may depend as much on the flow of water as on the flow of capital.
Commissioner Miller Praises FDA’s Emergency Authorization of New Screwworm Treatment for Dogs
October 30, 2025 – AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller is commending the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for issuing the first-ever Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for an animal drug, calling it “a major win for animal health and the American people.”
The authorization, announced this week, allows veterinarians to use a new treatment targeting New World screwworm (NWS) infestations in dogs. The parasitic larvae, which burrow into the flesh of animals, pose a severe threat to both domestic pets and livestock.
Credelio is a brand of prescription-only, chewable oral medication used for the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats.
“This is exactly the kind of no-nonsense leadership Texans can count on,” Commissioner Miller said in a statement Wednesday. “I’m proud to see the FDA, under the steady hand of Commissioner Makary and the leadership of HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., making history by issuing the first-ever Emergency Use Authorization for an animal drug.”
The newly authorized treatment, which can be administered to both adult dogs and puppies, is expected to be deployed immediately to veterinarians in southern states, where screwworm cases occasionally emerge.
Miller praised the Trump administration for acting “decisively” to protect both family pets and agricultural livelihoods. “The New World screwworm is a dangerous pest, but with the strong leadership of the Trump Administration and hardworking folks back home, Texas agriculture will come out stronger than ever,” Miller said.
The New World screwworm, once eradicated in the U.S., remains a recurring threat through imported animals and wildlife migration from Latin America. Federal and state agriculture officials have long considered it a top-tier biosecurity concern.
More details about the FDA’s emergency authorization and distribution guidance for veterinarians are expected in the coming days.
New Financial Literacy Course Coming for Texas High School Students
October 28, 2025 – In a major education shift, all Texas public high school students will soon be required to complete a dedicated half-credit course in personal financial literacy. The law, signed earlier this year as House Bill 27, mandates that students entering ninth grade in the 2025-2026 school year earn this credit before graduating.
The move reflects growing concern that many young adults reaching age 18 are equipped to manage student loans, credit cards and budgeting not with proficiency, but with uncertainty. “Maybe this happened to you. You were 18 years old, and your parents suggested you start to build your credit profile,” reads a typical anecdote. The new requirement aims to give students the foundational skills they need to make informed financial decisions early.
Under the legislation, school districts must provide resources or approved curricula that meet the Texas Education Code’s personal finance standards — topics include budgeting, credit scores, interest, saving and investing. Supporters say the requirement will help shift students away from learning financial lessons the “hard way.”
Critics caution that a single half-credit course may not be enough to fully prepare students for the complexities of modern finance — but agree it’s a meaningful step forward. Educators are now preparing to roll out the course in the 2026-2027 academic year for full implementation.
As Texas joins a growing number of states mandating financial education, students will now face a curriculum requirement that connects classroom learning to real-world experiences — whether saving for a first car, avoiding predatory loans or understanding how college choices affect long-term credit.
Your Local Grocery Store Needs SNAP
SNAP Cutoff Threatens to Hit Texas Grocers Hard
October 29, 2025 – The suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for an estimated 3.5 million Texans could ripple far beyond the families who rely on the aid. Economists and industry experts warn that grocery stores—especially small, locally owned ones—will face sharp revenue declines if the federal government shutdown continues into the weekend.
According to the National Grocers Association, SNAP recipients account for roughly 12% of all grocery sales nationwide. In Texas, that translates to about $614 million in spending each month, much of which flows directly into neighborhood food stores.
“When those benefits run out, it’s going to have a significant impact on store sales, product demand, and eventually jobs,” said Gary Huddleston, grocery industry consultant for the Texas Retailers Association. “Smaller grocers in rural and low-income areas will feel it first and hardest.”
Each month, SNAP funds—about $400 per recipient—are loaded onto debit-style cards, triggering grocery restocking schedules statewide. If those funds stop, retailers could be left with unsold perishables and tightening margins.
Large chains like H-E-B and Kroger are better positioned to absorb short-term shocks, but independent grocers in South, Southeast, and West Texas may struggle to stay afloat. Economists warn the cutoff could worsen food deserts, areas already lacking access to affordable groceries.
As the shutdown continues, grocers are bracing for difficult decisions—layoffs, reduced inventory, and potential closures—if federal funding doesn’t resume soon.
Local Author Sharon Feldt Had a Second Cup Of Coffee to Share an Event She is Holding October 30th
October 29, 2025 – Local author Sharon Feldt recently had a Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. Sharon and John Mark chatted about the upcoming showing of It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, taking place October 30th, 2025, at 5:30pm, at the Book Nook on Main. They also talked about the newest John Grisham book, “a blind date with a book,” and so much more. Be sure to check out this segment and learn what one of your locally owned small businesses is up to these days.
In Honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, The Health Care Foundation Held Their Breast Health Event October 13th
October 28, 2025 – In observance of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation, and the Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support Group, held their 2025 Breast Health Event, “Celebrate the Girls” on October 13th, 2025. This event was held at the Medial Plaza in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this event.
Gala Sponsorships, Tickets, and Underwriting Opportunities are Available
October 28, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, TX – The 2026 Gala, sponsored by the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation, is only three months away. Have you secured your tickets?
This is the funnest fundraiser in Hopkins County. Over the past nineteen years it has affectionately been called the adult prom! What other chance do we get during the year to don our finest formal outfits, feast on a wonderful meal, and dance until midnight? Whether we are there for business connections, supporting healthcare, or enjoying a night with our sweeties, the goal remains the same…improving local healthcare opportunities.
Sponsorships, all of which include tickets to the event, are available from $1,000 to $40,000. Underwriting opportunities start at just $1,750. And, tickets are $250 per person which includes a reception, dinner, and live music. All of these opportunities to participate will help the Foundation raise the funds it needs to help CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs purchase new medical equipment to outfit the surgical wing currently under renovation and expansion.
Why should you support this endeavor? Because none of us know when we will have a medical emergency or need medical care. In many situations, the faster a person can get to the hospital or have EMS on site, the chances of a positive outcome are greatly increased.
With the 2026 Gala marking the twentieth such offering, we deserve to celebrate! Over the past nineteen years, thirty-five projects have been funded through proceeds raised by the Gala alone. Those projects totaled over $3.3 million which was invested in medical equipment, programs, and construction projects so that you can have great local healthcare right here in Hopkins County.
Though the Foundation has raised over $9 million in its twenty-eight years, the Gala proceeds account for a good portion of those funds. In addition, the Gala raises awareness in our community as to the needs of local healthcare and more information about the access each citizen has to providers and caregivers.
The Foundation realizes not everyone understands how a party with a purpose can save lives. But it does…every single day.
Be it the MRI machine, Lucas CPR devices, critical care beds, 4D sonogram equipment, 3D mammography system, CT Scanner, inpatient therapy equipment, portable X-ray machine, or an entire new surgical wing, these projects are here to care for you and your family because of the Gala. And this is only a small portion of what the Gala has brought to this community.
Join the Foundation as it gathers for “A Celebration of Twenty Years,” because our health depends on it.
For more information and to support the event go to Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
The Foundation is an IRS 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization led by a board of fifteen Hopkins County residents.
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Don’t miss out on Hopkins’s County’s own party with a purpose. Get your tickets today at Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
To get your tickets or sponsor the 2026 Gala, visit Gala2026.GiveSmart.com or call the Foundation at 903-438-4799.
The Genealogical Society’s City Cemetery Walk is Just Around the Corner
October 28, 2025 – The Hopkins County Genealogical Society’s annual City Cemetery Walk is coming up November 2nd, 2025. Come learn about some of Hopkins County’s most interesting residents as Genealogical Society members portray individuals from Hopkins County’s history. The tour is scheduled for 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Sulphur Springs City Cemetery. Cost is a $10 donation. Reserve your spot by calling 903-885-8523, or stop by the Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library at 611 North Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Congratulates the 2025 Winners of the 56th Annual World Champion Hopkins County Stew Contest, Presented by Alliance Bank
October 28, 2025 – Honorable Mention Campsite and Costume goes to site # 447, Jason and Angie Keyes sponsored by Brookshire’s
Campsite and costume winner this year was site #196, Molly Stevens and Randy Brokmeyer
sponsored by Jackson Dental Their $200 prize was provided by: Super Handy Convenience Stores
Honorable Mention Super Campsite and Costume goes to site # (none)
sponsored by The John Chester Award for Super Campsite winner is site #202, Roger Fernandez and Aaron Davis Sponsored by: Boby Evans Farms Their $250 prize was provided by: Brian Toliver Ford
Tailgate Appetizer Contest third place was site # Patricia Grossenbacher and Aaron Davis
Sponsored by: Bob Evans Farms Their $75 prize was provided by Robinson Benat Construction
Second place in the Tailgate Appetizer Contest was site #3 Kayla Cooper and Mason Carver
Sponsored by: 2 Wolves Energy Their $100 prize was provided by Robinson Benat Construction
First place in the Tailgate Appetizer Contest was site #190, Zach Terry and Cam McLaurn
Sponsored by: Kasie’s Canine Academy Their $200 prize was provided by Robinson Benat Construction
Best New Stew Cook: Site #80, Zach Tiemeyer and Talon Bell
Sponsored by: TLC Chiropractic Their $100 prize was provided by Bear Littleton State Farm Insurance
Honorable Mention: Beef Stew: Site #128, Brody Clark and Trey Clark
Sponsored by: Safety Control
Third place beef stew winner was the team of #20 Marsha Mince and John Holt
Sponsored by: Data point Surveying Their $100 prize money was provided by AK Gillis and Sons
Their third-place stew was purchased for $250 by Texas Heritage National Bank
Second place beef stew winner was the team of #47, Darien Shafer and Reed Brenner
Sponsored by: D6, Inc. Their $150 prize money was provided by The Book Nook on Main
Their second-place stew was purchased for $450 by Clayton Homes
First place beef stew winner was the team of #29, Jeremy Smith and Chris Bryant
Sponsored by: Fizzy Sips Their $300 prize money was provided by Cattlemen’s Veterinary Services
Their first-place stew was purchased for $600 by Texas Farm Credit
Honorable Mention: Chicken Stew: # 197, Shiloh and Adrian Childress
Sponsored by: Project One Roofing
Third place chicken winner was the team of #463, Ross Cody and Lance Smith
Sponsored by: Clayton Homes Their prize money of $100 was provided by AK Gillis and Sons
Their third-place stew was purchased for $250 by Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln
Second place chicken stew winner was the team of #30 Luke Kerby and Seth Roberts
Sponsored by: Cross Country Communications Their prize money of $150 was provided by The Book Nook on Main Their second-place chicken stew was purchased for $450 by Clayton Homes
First place chicken stew winner was the team of #112 Avery Faulks and Peyton Mitchell
Sponsored by: Self sponsored Their prize money of $300 was provided by First National Bank of East Texas Their first-place chicken stew was purchased for $600 by Jay Hodge Chevrolet
Honorable Mention: Super Stew Beef: #60, Robert Cody and Ryan McKenzie
Sponsored by: GSC
Third place Super Stew Beef award was won by #468 Garrett and Laura Glass
Sponsored by: Guaranty Bank Their prize money of $100 was sponsored by Jiffy Signs
Their third-place Super Stew Beef was purchased for $300 by Oncor Electric Delivery
Second place Super Stew Beef award was won by #202 Roger Fernandez and Aaron Davis
Sponsored by: Bob Evans Farms Their prize money of $250 was sponsored by Farmers Electric Cooperative
The second-place Super Stew Beef was purchased for $500 by Ziggi’s Coffee
First Place Super Stew Beef winner was the team of #50 Koyt Koon and Anthony Ballard
Sponsored by: Oncor Electric Delivery Their prize money of $500 was provided by Thoroughbred Wind
Their winning quart of Super Stew Beef was purchased for $900 by Farm Country
Honorable Mention: Super Stew Chicken: #114 Jeff Tiemeyer and Andy Crouch
Sponsored by: The Way Bible Church
Third place Super Stew Chicken award was won by #9 Don Sapaugh and James Van Winkle
Sponsored by: City National Bank Their prize money of $100 was sponsored by Superior Cleaning
Their third-place Super Stew Chicken was purchased for $300 by Nottingham CDJR
Second place Super Stew Chicken award was won by #87 Brad and Leah Irving
Sponsored by: Ocean Spray Their prize money of $250 was sponsored by Farmers Electric Cooperative
The second-place Super Stew Chicken was purchased for $ 500 by Ziggi’s Coffee
First Place Super Stew Chicken winner was the team of #117 John Mark and Savanna McAfee
Sponsored by: McAfee Farms Their prize money of $500 was provided by Thoroughbred Wind
Their winning quart of Super Stew Chicken was purchased for $900 by Interstate Body Shop
We would also like to thank the following sponsors who provided products for the contest:
Alliance Bank – Title Sponsor
City National Bank – Friday night Sponsor
Signature Solar – Kids Eat Free
One Church – Fun Zone Sponsor
Red River Credit Union – Stew Market Sponsor
Berger Horticultural Products – Judges Room Sponsor
Credit Union of Texas – Breakfast Sponsor
Our service tents were generously provided today by:
Summit Dental
CHRISTUS Health
Henly Homes
Bob Evans Farms
Our Senior Citizen Tent was provided by Jay Hodge Chevrolet.
Our other sponsors that we couldn’t live without are:
Cross Country Communications, First Baptist Church, Southwest Dairy Museum, Edward Jones – Chris Vorheese, Janet Martin Realty, Saputo, NorTex Tractor and Powersports, Edward Jones – Nichole Rosamond, Atmos Energy, Martin Marietta, Superior Cleaning, Stone Creek Solutions, Latsons.com, Chili’s, Legacy Ag Credit, Hope Family Fellowship, Travel Time RV, Central Baptist Church, Optimum, Chick-fil-A, and Jeff Post.
Finally, thank you to all of our volunteers today!
HOSA, Hopkins County High School Leadership Class, SSHS Spanish Club, Sulphur Bluff Beta Club, Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and Ambassadors
