Honorary Chairs for Spreading Our Wings Campaign Announced
June 16, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – Honorary chairpersons for Spreading Our Wings, the campaign to fund the expansion of the surgical services wing at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, have been announced. Long-time community leaders and hospital supporters, Sharon and Charles Helm will be serving in this role with the fundraising initiative.
In this volunteer role, the Helms will be assisting with plans and marketing for the project. They have been vocal about their great experiences with CMF-SS physicians, the need for a strong, local hospital, and their desire to see CMF-SS become a regional hospital. For the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s 2025 Gala, Sharon and Charles provided a video presentation sharing the life-saving care they have each been provided by CMF-SS providers.
To show their support for the Spreading Our Wings initiative, the Helms were early donors to the campaign and have given generously.
CEO/President of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, Paul Harvey said about the Helms, “We are so pleased that Sharon and Charles are willing to assist us with the Spreading Our Wings campaign. They understand what we are trying to do here, and with their experiences and knowledge, they can help us make the advancements with this campaign to better serve this community.”
To learn more about the campaign, visit SpreadOurWings.GiveSmart.com.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation is running the fundraising campaign for the benefit of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. The Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, so all or part of donations may be tax-deductible. Donors should consult their tax preparer for more information.
For more information contact the Foundation at 903-438-4799 or [email protected].
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Harley-Davidson Softails Recalled
June 16, 2025 – Harley-Davidson Motor Company is recalling more than 82,000 bikes due to an issue that increases the potential of a crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reporting.
The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break on certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles, the federal agency said in a recall notice dated June 12, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.
The possible malfunction can lead to a risk of crash or death, officials said.
Harley-Davison had not reported any deaths or injuries in connection to the issue, as of early June.
Some vehicles included in the recall were previously repaired under recall 23V591, and will need to have a new remedy completed. Here’s what to know about the recall, including which years are affected and how to remedy the issue.
The recall affects the following 82,117 Harley-Davidson Softail bikes:
- FLDE: 2018-2019
- FLHCS: 2018-2024
- FLHC: 2018-2021
- FXLRS: 2020-2024
- FXLRST: 2022-2024
- FLHCS ANV: 2018, 2023
- FXRST: 2022
To view additional details about the recall, visit the report here.
Texas Capitol Evacuated Saturday Due to Credible Threat
June 16, 2025 – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) evacuated the Texas Capitol on Saturday in response to what officials described as a “credible threat” directed toward the state government. The evacuation took place just hours before a planned “No Kings” protest was set to begin on Capitol grounds.
Law enforcement officials quickly secured the area and began investigating the source of the threat. DPS later confirmed that a man had been arrested in connection with the incident. Authorities have not yet released detailed information about the suspect’s identity or the nature of the threat, but they emphasized that the response was taken out of an abundance of caution to ensure public safety.
The “No Kings” protest, which was expected to draw a significant number of participants, was organized to challenge what protesters describe as overreach by state leadership. The event was ultimately postponed as law enforcement continued their investigation and worked to clear the area.
In a statement, DPS said, “The safety of Texans, state employees, and visitors is our highest priority. We acted swiftly to protect the public and will continue to monitor the situation closely.”
As of now, officials have not indicated whether the suspect had ties to any known groups or whether the threat was directly related to the protest. The Capitol remained closed for several hours before being reopened to the public later in the day.
Authorities said they will release additional details as the investigation progresses and reassured the public that security measures at the Capitol remain heightened.
Texas Senate Bill 38: New Protections for Property Owners Against Bad-Faith Tenants and Serial Squatters
June 16, 2025 – Texas has taken decisive action to protect property owners with the passage of Senate Bill 38, a law designed to address the growing challenges posed by bad-faith tenants and serial squatters. Under this new legislation, eviction cases can now be handled more efficiently, reducing the time and financial burden landlords often face when attempting to reclaim their property.
One of the most significant features of Senate Bill 38 is the ability to expedite the eviction process. The law allows courts to issue summary judgments in clear-cut cases, enabling property owners to win their cases without the need for lengthy trials. This provision is particularly beneficial in situations where the evidence is undeniable, saving time for both the courts and landlords.
Supporters of the bill argue that the existing eviction system is often exploited by serial squatters and bad-faith tenants who delay proceedings to remain in properties rent-free for extended periods. These delays not only harm individual property owners but can also result in financial strain, unpaid property taxes, and unnecessary maintenance costs.
Senate Bill 38 aims to streamline the adjudication process and eliminate unnecessary obstacles that prevent landlords from regaining control of their properties. By removing procedural inefficiencies, the bill offers much-needed relief to Texas property owners while preserving fair legal protections for tenants who act in good faith.
Lawmakers who supported the legislation emphasized that the bill is about restoring balance and ensuring that property rights are respected. With Senate Bill 38 now in effect, Texas landlords can pursue evictions more swiftly, minimizing financial losses and deterring serial squatting practices that have become a growing concern in many parts of the state.
Pruning Tomato Plants From Master Gardener David Wall
June 15, 2025 – If you’re growing determinate tomatoes, disregard this article, other than to say when determinate finish producing, have more plants ready to take their place! It’s also not about pruning sucker limbs which you should already be doing. It’s not about keeping the bottom 12-24” fee of limbs for air circulation. Rather, it’s about keeping growth in check to provide the best and most fruit as well as maintaining plant health.
During the summer, limbs become bunched together, cutting off free air flow to the foliage and fruit. Lack of air flow in summer heat does the plants no favor. By the way, prune in the early morning when it’s cooler for both you and the plant, which lowers plant stress and gives the plant some time to heal before the heat of the day. Also, removing excess growth, pushes the plant to focus more on fruit production than leaf production.
Pushing the plant away from leaf production pushes it to developing and taking care of fruit. You may get higher or lower production, but more important, you’ll get better quality!
Your goal in pruning is first, to improve air flow around and through the plant. Next, prevent plants from becoming top-heavy or bushy which can lead to structural problems and uneven distribution of fruit. Sunlight should be able to penetrate to plant lower levels for preventing disease problems while allowing healthy growth. With pruning, the quality of the fruit will definitely improve.
Inside a cage, some limbs will grow downward, encroaching on the free air flow zone you want clear of leaves. Cut the limbs off as close to the stem as possible. Always use sharp scissors.
Pruning isn’t a “one shot and you’re done.” Examine plants weekly as part of garden maintenance. We’ll talking topping in a future article.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Summer Seminar to be Held June 21, 2025
June 15, 2025 – OUR SUMMER SEMINAR IS ONLY ONE WEEK AWAY!
Saturday, June 21, 2025 with Patti Huff Williams
Registration is still open, so grab your seat before someone beats you to it. In fact, if you just can’t make up your mind until the last minute you may register at the door on the day of the seminar. (However, if you wish to attend the seminar via Zoom, registration will close at noon on Friday, June 20, 2025).
The current price is $35.00 for everyone and the syllabus accompanying this presentation is worth the price of the seminar all by itself! (Those joining us virtually will receive a Zoom link to the seminar and the Syllabus via email on the day of the seminar. Following the seminar a hard copy of the Syllabus will be mailed to each participant).
And now, just to tempt you further to join us in person, several downtown restaurants have agreed to discount their prices by 10% when you mention you are attending the HCGS Seminar!! The restaurants participating are: Plain & Fancy, Redneck Bar & Grill, Corner Grubhouse, and Haystacks.
You really don’t want to pass up this opportunity
Your 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival Queen is… Lucy McKenzie!
June 14, 2025 – The hugely popular 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival came to an big top ending Saturday night, June 14, 2025, at the Hopkins County Regional Civic Center Auditorium when, after ambitious competition from eight very talented contestants, Lucy McKenzie was crowned as the 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival Queen. Lucy is the daughter of Ryan and KK McKenzie, and will be attending Sulphur Springs High School in the Fall as a Senior. The theme for this year’s Dairy Festival, which celebrates and acknowledges the rich heritage of the dairy industry, was “Udder the Big Top.” The theme and the spirit was carried out throughout the Festival from the hot air balloons, the parade with all of it’s fantastic floats, the Jr. Dairy Show, Milking Contest, Ice Cream Freeze Off, and Carnival finally concluding with the 64th Annual Dairy Festival Pageant!
The Dairy Festival Pageant began with a spirited rendition of the National Anthem by Brad Cummings, followed by an impressive circus routine performed by a professional routine group from Rise and Fly Fitness. Next, Carolyn McKinney took to the mic to welcome everyone and to introduce the night’s Emcee, Israel Lewis. Lewis then began his wonderful Master of Ceremonies duties of the night, starting with introduction of the 2025 Dairy Festival Queen Contestants. Each contestant took to the stage, which was fabulously decorated as a circus big top tent to carry on the theme, “Udder The Big Top,” as Israel Lewis shared some details about each young competitor. Next, the 2024 Dairy Festival Queen, Coryn Young, daughter of Shandis and Cory Young, was introduced and she took to the stage. Coryn then helped out as Israel Lewis introduced the “Crackerjacks.” The two winning kids took the stage and strutted their stuff, waving and smiling.
Israel Lewis then introduced the Judges of the 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival Queen competition as the contestants prepared to show off their talents in the Talent Competition. The 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival Queen Contestant Competition Judges consisted of Sawyer Cunningham, Denita Young, Terry McGonigal, Leslie Loanzon, and Ana Lemons. Standing in as Auditor was Emily Glass. Next, each 2025 Queen Contestant took to the stage to give it their all and show off the best of their talents. The competition was outstanding! You could tell each young woman was giving it their best, and it showed. Each performance was inspiring. There was no doubt that each contestant had worked hard and prepared for this glorious moment, giving it all of their best efforts. The examples of awesome talent ranged from dancing to singing, from artistic speech pieces to piano playing, to comedy and beyond! The judges had an impressive challenge in front of them. Once the Talent Competition was finished, the night’s activities took a break as the Pageant went into a brief intermission.
The evening’s pageantries then continued with special entertainment. 2024 Queen Coryn Young shared her wonderful talent of dance by performing a routine to Prince’s “Purple Rain.” When Coryn was done and was catching her breath, she had a chat with the night’s emcee Israel Lewis where she shared her experience as the Dairy Festival Queen. She also gave some advice to the 2025 Contestants. Next, the 2025 Dairy Fest Queen Contestants were escorted on stage. One at a time they walked on stage dressed in beautiful gowns for the Evening Gown Competition. Each contestant stepped up to the mic and shared a little about themselves and how much they love Hopkins County. Each shared a personal thought, or philosophy. Each of the young women took a spot on stage and waited patiently. As the judges then took on the hard task of selecting winners by tallying up their scores, Judge Brad Cummings and his son, Hayden, took to the stage and performed a couple of spirited numbers entertaining the audience and the 2025 Queen Contestants.
The moment we all had been waiting for all evening had finally come. The revealing of the winners. First, Ticket Sales Awards were rewarded. Second Place in Ticket Sales went to Lucy McKenzie, Daughter of Ryan and KK McKenzie. First Place in Ticket Sales went to Amerson Boles, Daughter of Michael and Brandi Boles. Each of these contestants were rewarded cash prizes. The next Award presented was the Tracey Gold Fox Miss Congeniality Award. The 2025 Contestant to win this Award was Emmah Palacios, Daughter of Miguel and Lyndie Palacios. Emmah earned a plaque for this honor. Next, the winner of the 2025 Talent Award was announced. Lucy McKenzie won this Award with her talents on the piano and microphone when she performed the Beatles’, “Let It Be,” which rewarded her a $500.00 Scholarship. The announcement of the winners of the top four Awards came next. The Third Runner Up for Queen was Awarded to Emma Boatman, Daughter of Ashten Boatman and the late Jacob Boatman. Emma won a $500 Scholarship and a Silver Tray. The Second Runner Up honor went to Amerson Boles. Amerson won a $750 Scholarship and a Silver Tray. The Award for First Runner Up to the Queen went to Contestant Claire Jalufka, Daughter of Cody and Lisa Jalufka. Claire won a $1,000 Scholarship and a Silver Tray. The audience, contestants, and Coryn Young were on the edge of their seat as Israel Lewis began to announce that the 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival Queen was… Lucy McKenzie! … Lucy was rewarded a $1,250.00 Scholarship, and a Silver Tray. This huge win brought the 2025 Hopkins County Dairy Festival to a climatic end. The entire Festival was grand and deserves a tip of the top hat!
Save the Date! The 2026 Hopkins County Dairy Festival is currently scheduled to take place June 12th, 2026 through June 20th, 2026. A video presentation of the 64th Annual Dairy Festival Pageant, “Udder The Big Top” will be available to see on Cable Channel 18, and KSST’s YouTube Channel, within the next few days. Be sure to check it out once it goes live!
Paris District Road Report for Week of June 16, 2025
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 June 16, 2025. 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 approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Safety Message: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Tuesday, May 27th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road. All other sections of frontage roads in the Van Alstyne area will be converted to one-way traffic.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
Beginning on June 16th at 8:00 pm, SH-91 WB will be closed from roughly Loy Lake Rd/Broughton St to the US 75 southbound frontage road. The closure will end the morning of June 17th before 5:00 am. This closure will prepare the pavement for the traffic switch to the new concrete pavement and allow the reconstruction of the intersection of SH-91 and the US 75 frontage roads.
After the traffic switch, westbound SH-91 traffic will be able to enter US 75 southbound or remain on the southbound frontage road to N. Travis St. The southbound frontage road traffic will not have access to the entrance ramp to US 75 which lies between SH-91 and N. Travis St. The southbound frontage road traffic will continue south and take the entrance ramp to US 75 near Center St.
The US 75 frontage road u-turns at the US 82 frontage road intersection are closed to traffic to allow crews to begin work on a portion of the new US 75 mainlane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
The northbound US 75 frontage road exit to SH 91 is closed to allow for construction of the pavement of the new US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91. During this closure, traffic is asked to stay on the northbound frontage road to Taylor Street and take Taylor Street back to SH 91.
Eastbound and westbound US 82 will have a left lane closure to allow for construction of drilled shafts and columns for the new US 75 bridge over US 82. Traffic should expect delays as US 82 will be reduced to one lane.
The northbound and southbound frontage road from Taylor Street to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) will be reduced to one lane to allow for construction of the new intersection. An all-way stop will be in place at the southbound US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to control traffic. Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane and will be required to stop at the southbound US 75 intersection.
The westbound SH 91 access to US 75 northbound frontage road will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. Northbound motorists intending to access eastbound SH91 will need to take the N. Travis St Exit (Exit 60), follow the frontage road to Taylor St, turn right and follow Taylor St to SH91. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The southbound frontage road to northbound frontage road U-Turn at SH 91 will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. US 75 Southbound frontage road motorists intending to access the US 75 northbound frontage road will need to continue to N. Travis St, and utilize the U-Turn at Travis St. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The US 75 northbound exit to SH-91 will be closed to facilitate the construction of the ultimate ramp connection. Motorists intending to access SH-91 will be required to take Exit 60 for N. Travis Street/Taylor Street. Detour signs will be posted along the frontage road at N. Travis Street, Taylor Street, and N Loy Lake intersections.
US 75, from US 82 to North Loy Lake Road. This project will rebuild and widen the US 75 mainlanes from four lanes to six lanes as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at FM 691, Iron Ore Creek and Spur 503, and add U-turn bridges at Loy Lake Road in Sherman and Spur 503 in Denison. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the mainlanes of US 75 as well as frontage road lane closures within the project. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
The northbound left lane on US 75 will be closed to traffic on the night of June 17, 2025. The closure will happen between Fallon Dr and FM 691 as the Contractor will be setting beams at this location.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working each night from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
SH 289, in Dorchester at the FM 902 intersection. This project will widen SH 289 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at this intersection. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound SH 289 main lanes as well as on FM 902. The new signal light at the SH 289 and FM 902 intersection was activated on Thursday, May 29. The signal has started normal operation, and drivers should pay attention to this new signal as they approach the intersection.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 901, from US 82 to US 377. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274 is closed to thru traffic at the Sandy Creek Bridge in order for the contractor to replace the bridge and approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 78 and FM 1753 to detour around the closure.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has an onsite detour that was in place to allow for replacement of the bridge. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. The onsite detour is closed, and it will be removed in the coming weeks. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic will be required to detour onto CR 2815, CR 2840 and CR 2825 while the bridge structure is being replaced.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
FM 273, from FM 2554 to FM 2029. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from FM 1753 to FM 898. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: FM 1870, from SH 11 to Mine Haul Road Bridge. Crews will be constructing turn lane and hauling in roadway materials. Watch for construction vehicles entering and leaving travel lanes.
Hopkins County: FM 71, S Sulphur River. Crews will be boring to collect soil samples. Roadway will be closed during these operations.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be improving drainage structures and trimming trees along the roadway to prep for rehabbing the existing road.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE . Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19 . Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24: This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch work. Contractor is performing excavation and embankment work, and processing material at various locations. Contractor will be performing seeding operations. Workzone striping will be taking place this week. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 1563, from SH 50 to SH 2655: This is a 2.7-mile rehabilitation project that will widen the existing roadway. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Contractor completed cement treatment on last section of project. Ride testing and cover prime scheduled for next week. New guardrail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Backfill, slope around bridge, and riprap are completed. Driveways, signage and mailboxes will be ongoing next week. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66: The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor is grading riprap, forming inlets and addressing potholes The contractor will begin prep work for PH2 traffic switch and extending drainage culverts near RC High School. Coordination with DGNO on North FM 2642 will begin next week with traffic arm modifications. Please slow down and be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, from SH 34 to FM 118: The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has completed temporary seeding and subgrade widening. Construction on culverts and grading of ditches, seeding and driveways is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609: The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is currently prepping right-of-way and installing erosion control within the project limits. Contractor is removing existing 18” pipe and replacing with 24” pipe on the southbound. Contractor will begin installing erosion control devices. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66: The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Barricades and work zone traffic signs installations are ongoing. Contractor is laying driveway pipes. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903: Barricades and advance warning signs in place. Contractor will be performing temporary drainage work at FM 1903. Grading will be performed on east and west sides of FM 1903. Prime coat will be applied to main lanes at FM 1903. Hot Mix Asphalt will continue to be laid on the west side at FM 1903, during night. Contractor will be performing flexbase work on EB and WB frontage roads, and at Monty Stratton. Contractor is performing prep work for FM 1903 Bridge Beam set. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36: Detour paving will be happening on eastbound main lane near 2511 area. Detour paving will be performed at 2511 area on WBFR. At FM 36 contractor will be performing for grading on detour paving along EBFR and EBML, as well as WBFR and WBML. Temp wall work at FM 36 is ongoing Utility relocations are ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement:
Boring and trenching for conduit has started on I-30 at FM 513. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Vegetative edge spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Debris pickup will be performed on IH30 on Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday. Ditch cleaning will be taking place throughout the county. Maintenance contractor will be performing guardrail repair in various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing seal coat on FM 513, and FM 2737. Crew will be performing work on FM 1565 from I-30 to Kaufman County line. Litter pickup will be performed at various locations for picnic areas and boat ramps. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Right of Way mowing and tree trimming will be ongoing in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Texas Will Now Offer Expedited Business Fillings and Veteran Business Benefits
June 14, 2025 – House Bill 346, authored by Representative Harris Davila and Senator King, introduces significant improvements to support Texas small businesses by streamlining the formation process and solidifying tax benefits. Under the new law, the Texas Secretary of State will now offer expedited business filings, enabling entrepreneurs to establish their businesses more quickly and efficiently. This change addresses long-standing concerns about delays in processing business applications and allows small businesses to start operations without unnecessary administrative hurdles.
In addition to accelerating business formation, House Bill 346 permanently enshrines two key benefits for new veteran-owned businesses: the franchise tax exemption and the business filing fee waiver. Previously, these incentives were temporary, but with this legislation, they will continue indefinitely, providing lasting financial relief and encouraging more veterans to pursue entrepreneurship.
The franchise tax exemption spares qualifying veteran-owned businesses from paying the state’s franchise tax during their initial years, significantly reducing early-stage financial burdens. The waiver of state filing fees further lowers barriers to entry, making it more accessible for veterans to start businesses in Texas.
- Expedited Business Filings:The Secretary of State is authorized to offer expedited services for commercial and business record searches and filings.
- Fee Structure:The bill removes the previous maximum fee limits for expedited services and allows the Secretary of State to set and collect fees deemed appropriate.
- Variable Fee Schedule:The Secretary of State can establish a varying fee schedule based on the type of business organization.
- Fee Publication:The bill requires the Secretary of State to publish the fee amounts on its website.
- Veteran-Owned Business Support:The bill makes permanent the franchise tax exemption and business filing waiver for new veteran-owned businesses.
- Repeal of Outdated Provisions:The bill repeals certain provisions related to the franchise tax and filing fees for veteran-owned businesses that were set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
- Effective Date:The bill takes effect on September 1, 2025.
This legislation builds on the ongoing work of the Governor’s Small Business Freedom Council, which focuses on cutting government red tape and improving efficiency for Texas businesses. House Bill 346 is part of a broader commitment to making Texas the best state to start and grow a small business.
Paxton Attempts to Block 23andMe From Selling Customer’s Personal Information
June 14, 2025 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit in the ongoing 23andMe bankruptcy case, aiming to protect Texans’ genetic privacy and assert their rights over their personal genetic data. Paxton’s office is seeking a judgment that confirms Texans’ ownership of their genetic information and requires 23andMe to fully comply with Texas’s strict data privacy laws.
“Texas’s strong data privacy laws grant consumers property rights to their genetic information and require companies to obtain user consent before sharing any of this highly confidential data,” Paxton said in a statement. “Genetic testing companies have access to massive amounts of critically sensitive personal information, and I will fight to ensure that businesses follow the law and secure Texans’ personal data.”
The lawsuit comes as 23andMe, known for its popular direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits, recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the Eastern District of Missouri. During the bankruptcy proceedings, the company proposed selling customer data — including genetic profiles, health histories, and other personally identifiable information — as part of its asset portfolio to potential buyers.
Paxton argues that such a sale would violate Texas’s Genetic Information Privacy laws, which require separate, express consent from individuals before their genetic data can be sold, transferred, or disclosed to third parties. The lawsuit emphasizes that genetic data is not just another asset to be sold in bankruptcy but is a uniquely personal form of property that remains under the control of the individual.
This case could set a major precedent for consumer genetic privacy rights, particularly as more Americans use services like 23andMe to explore their ancestry and health risks. Paxton’s action positions Texas at the forefront of the growing national debate over who truly owns and controls personal genetic data.
