Hopkins County Master Gardeners Presented a Program on Texas Superstar Plants March 20th
March 30, 2025 – On Thursday, March 20th, 2025, the Hopkins County Master Gardeners met at the AgriLife Extension Office. At this meeting, Master Gardener Daci Rawson presented a program on “Texas Superstar Plants”. Below is KSST’s coverage of this interesting program. Be sure to check it out and learn about the stronger flowers and plants in Texas.
Paris District Road Report for Week of March 31, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting March 31, 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. Construction on this project is expected to begin on May 5, 2025. 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 further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
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.
The 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.
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.
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.
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.
Northbound US 75 near Washington Street will be reduced to one lane on Friday night, April 4th starting at 7:00 pm in order to perform bridge repairs. The lane closures are expected to last thru Sunday afternoon, April 6th. Traffic is advised to expect delays on northbound US 75 during this weekend period and is encouraged to seek alternate routes.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at the intersection.
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. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
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 Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at the Union Pacific Railroad overpass. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures while workers perform bridge repairs.
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.
FM 1417, from FM 691 to FM 120. 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.
Spur 503, from SH 91 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone.
SH 91, from Martin Luther King Street to the Oklahoma State Line. 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:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
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 in place to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic is asked to approach the detour shift slowly and drive an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews replace the bridge structure.
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 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 34, from FM 2990 to FM 68. 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.
SH 121, from SH 56 to SH 11. Watch for mobile lane closures as maintenance crews perform a sweeping operation to remove loose material from the roadway. Motorists should expect delays from the mobile operation in 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. Watch for crews performing drainage structure work. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: IH 30, from SH 154 to Hunt County Line. Watch for crews performing concrete pavement repair during nighttime operation. Expect slower moving traffic at night.
Hopkins County: IH 30 at Bill Bradford. Watch for crews performing repairs to concrete bridge rail. Expect slower moving traffic.
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.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
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.
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:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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 at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
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 setting grade for embankment (various locations), shaping ditches and processing material. The contractor will be placing asphalt in this week starting in Commerce and headed west on SH 11. Culvert and guardrail work will be ongoing. 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 is currently finishing cement treatment work on the second mile of the project and will begin prime coat and ride test soon. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. Back fill and slope completed near bridge structure. Fog seal work on the 1st mile has been completed. 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 cleaning and patching cross culverts The contractor will also be addressing sidewalk near the DGNO RR crossing and placing asphalt for PH 1B traffic switch. Traffic switch has been completed and milling of existing roadway is underway on FM 35. 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 the 2nd section of reclaiming and placing a second lift of flex base down station. Cement treatment work is scheduled and will begin early next week. Culverts and some riprap work will be ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has been working on placing embankment for wire walls at FM 1903 and FM 1570 and poured the cap abutment at FM 1570. and poured the back wall at FM 1570. The contractor will be setting panels under nightly lane closures. Steel tying is ongoing on the project. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36. The contractor will be moving barrier during nighttime lane closures and milling shoulders and adding temp paving. Contractor has ongoing box culvert work near FM 1565 plans to restore the frontage road pavement during this time. Grading work on the eastbound main lanes and westbound frontage roads will be ongoing. Temporary walls are being installed and dirt work with detours are ongoing throughout the project. Contractor will be pumping water and drying material throughout project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt and Rains County maintenance sections will be working on mailboxes, potholes and signage. Crews will begin overlay work on SH 66 from Caddo Mills to Greenville. Overlay work will also begin on US 69 from Celest to Greenville in various locations. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county.
Rains maintenance section will be working on potholes. Work near FM 1565 and SH 276 to address bridge settlement is underway Seal coat prep work will begin on FM 513 south of IH 30 Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, maritime, rail and public transportation across the state.
Connecting You with Texas
Registration for Summer, Fall Terms Opens April 1 at Paris Junior College
March 28, 2025 –Registration for summer, fall terms opens April 1 at PJC
Free summer class for graduating high school seniors
Paris Junior College will open summer and fall registration to students on April 1 at all locations: Greenville, Paris, and Sulphur Springs. Again this year, PJC is offering a scholarship to eligible high school students covering tuition and fees for one summer class.
The Graduating Senior Scholarship is available to those graduating in 2025 in PJC’s five-county service area: Delta, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar and Red River counties, plus the Fannindel and Honey Grove ISDs, and Lamar and Red River County resident home school students. The scholarship covers tuition and fees for one class in either Summer I, Summer II, Summer Extended, or Summer Long terms.
The deadline to apply for the Graduating Senior Scholarship is May 31, 2025. The Summer Long Term begins May 21; Summer I and Summer Extended Terms start June 2; and the Summer II Term begins July 9.
New students must apply to be admitted to PJC. Once admitted, they will see a student success coach or advisor and get registered for classes. It’s not too soon to apply for financial aid and fall scholarships. To learn more about financial aid at PJC, go to www.parisjc.edu/main/financial-aid-at-pjc/.
The priority deadline for fall scholarships is April 1. That deadline only means that those applying earlier are likely to get more aid than those who apply at the last minute. Learn more about scholarships at www.parisjc.edu/scholarships.
Those interested in starting at PJC may email [email protected].
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Paris Junior College Students Must Apply to Graduate by April 1
March 28, 2025 –PJC students must apply to graduate by April 1
New this year – tickets
Paris Junior College students who want to graduate this year must fill out an online graduation application by April 1. The form ensures the student’s record correctly shows they are graduated, whether or not they wish to participate in the Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 9.
New this spring are tickets for friends and families of graduates. Each graduate will receive six tickets when they pick up their cap and gown. Guests without tickets will not be allowed to enter but will be able to view the ceremony via livestream.
There will again be two commencement ceremonies on May 9. Students receiving a Certificate of Completion or Associate of Applied Science will graduate at the 3:00 p.m. Workforce Education ceremony. Those receiving an Associate of Science, Associate of Arts, or Associate of Arts in Teaching will graduate at the 7:00 p.m. Academic Education ceremony.
The location is also new this year. Both ceremonies will be held at the Paris High School Gymnasium, located south of the PJC campus at 2255 S. Collegiate Drive in Paris.
Graduation caps and gowns are available for free to those who apply by the April 1 deadline. Cap and gown pick-ups are scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on April 15 at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center, April 16 at the PJC-Greenville Center, and April 17 at the Paris campus in the Administration Building, Room 149.
For instructions on accessing the online graduation application and more information, please go to www.parisjc.edu/graduation.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
East Texas A&M University Breaks Ground on New Event Center
March 28, 2025 – The new arena will serve as a central hub for student life and community engagement in Northeast Texas.
COMMERCE, TX, March 27, 2025—
East Texas A&M University broke ground on its highly anticipated Event Center on Thursday, March 27—a game-changer for athletics, entertainment, and community connections in Northeast Texas. The university celebrated the groundbreaking with a special ceremony at the site, welcoming community members and distinguished guests.
“In developing this event center—the premier event center in Northeast Texas—we know this can be a catalyst for growth, not just within our university community, but this region, the city of Commerce, Hunt County and beyond,” said East Texas A&M Athletics Director Jim Curry.
A Multi-Purpose Venue for Northeast Texas
Located on the south side of campus along State Highway 24 in Commerce, Texas, the modern, multi-use Event Center will primarily serve as the home for East Texas A&M’s men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball teams. Beyond athletics, the $70 million venue will host major university and community events, including graduations, concerts, conventions and special gatherings. Designed to anchor a future campus event district, the Event Center will serve as a central hub for student life and community engagement in Northeast Texas.
A Closer Look at the Event Center
The Event Center was designed by architecture firm Gensler and will be built by Hoar Construction. The 65,000 square-foot arena will feature:
- Approximately 2,500 stadium seats
- Two multipurpose press rooms
- Two suites
- Four team locker rooms
- Eight coaches’ offices
- Loge box (semi-private seating) for around 40 guests
- Training room
- Video scoreboards
- Technology and infrastructure for concerts and other events
Ana Kurzan, senior designer at Gensler, described the Event Center as “a brilliant beacon celebrating campus victories, graduations and regional pride.” She added that the building’s modern design is inspired by “the elegance of a lion in motion, as well as its strength and stoicism.”
The area surrounding the Event Center will include a plaza, an outdoor entertainment space with a stage, a Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant and more than 800 new parking spaces.
The master development plan—which will be fully developed later—adds additional retail and entertainment space, including an auxiliary gym, restaurant spaces, and a hotel—all designed to create a high-energy, student-friendly environment.
Virtual image of the Event Center’s interior. Compliments of Gensler.
Driving Growth and Engagement
The new Event Center is a transformative investment in East Texas A&M’s future, designed to:
- Strengthen East Texas A&M’s presence as a leading destination for athletics, entertainment and student engagement
- Enhance campus visibility and brand recognition, attracting more students and visitors
- Serve as a vibrant gathering place for students and the community
- Boost student recruitment and retention, enhancing the overall campus experience
- Create new partnerships and opportunities for local businesses and organizations
Molly Jacobsen, assistant city manager for Commerce, said the Event Center will bring transformative opportunities to the region.
“We look forward to this Event Center providing much needed jobs in the area, enhancing our community and the quality of life, boosting the local economy, promoting the growth of other local business, and spurring innovation in the development of new business,” she said.
Elevating Lion Athletics
As East Texas A&M continues its journey in NCAA Division I athletics, the Event Center will help bridge the campus infrastructure gap, providing top-tier resources to attract high-caliber student-athletes and enhance their academic and athletic experiences. By offering DI-level facilities, East Texas A&M aims to elevate its profile, drawing greater attention from fans, media and prospective athletes while strengthening its reputation as a competitive force in collegiate sports.
Basketball player Jordyn Newsome, president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, said the new Event Center will reflect the university’s pride as they take on DI competition in the Southland Conference.
“This will be a place we represent East Texas A&M with strength, determination and heart,” she said. “This Event Center will open new doors of opportunity for Lion Athletics, and I cannot wait to see it.”
Groundbreaking Ceremony
Several special guests attended Thursday’s groundbreaking ceremony, including:
- Chris Grant, Commissioner, Southland Conference
- Thomas Samuel, Deputy Commissioner, Southland Conference
- Don Montgomery, The Texas A&M University System
- Elizabeth Cockerham (Senator John Cornyn)
- Matt Hernandez (Representative Brent Money)
- Natalie Steinsholt (Representative Keith Self)
- Steven Harrison, Commissioner, Hunt County
- Bobby Stovall, Judge, Hunt County
- Molly Jacobson, Assistant City Manager, Commerce
- Dr. Keith McFarland, President Emeritus
Other VIP guests included representatives from Commerce EDC, Commerce Chamber of Commerce, Greenville Chamber of Commerce, Commerce ISD and Campbell ISD. Several VIP vendors attended from The Sports Facilities Companies, Hoar Construction, GSR-Andrade and Gensler.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Southland Conference Commissioner Chris Grant said he became a “believer” in East Texas A&M after visiting and seeing the alignment among the campus, the community and the administration.
“I became a believer and believe in East Texas [A&M] and everything we can accomplish just by the growth of becoming Division I,” he said. He added that the groundbreaking for the new facility is “a statement that East Texas belongs in Division I, and East Texas is a leader in the Southland Conference.”
Chris Grant, Commissioner, Southland Conference, addresses the crowd at the groundbreaking ceremony. | East Texas A&M Marketing and Communications
In his remarks, Jim Curry thanked The Texas A&M University System for their support, assistance and guidance and their “great belief in the growth trajectory of this university…” He also recognized East Texas A&M President Mark Rudin for “his leadership, his inspiration, the bold vision he’s got for this university…”
Looking Ahead
With a master plan for future growth, the Event Center will bring together education, athletics and entertainment to become a premier destination for Northeast Texas.
“This facility will be a place where people can gather, collaborate, perform, engage, and celebrate all of the things that contribute to making a city really feel more like a community,” Jacobsen said. “Today, we celebrate this vision as it becomes a reality.”
“It’s yet another great day to be a Lion,” Rudin said. “This Event Center will be such an important part of our history.”
Virtual image of the Event Center’s exterior. Compliments of Gensler.
8th Annual Jake Wilson Memorial Bass Tournament to be Held April 12th
March 28, 2025 – We are having our annual Jake Wilson Memorial Bass Tournament on April 12th, 2025.
The Minnow Bucket will be the host Marina. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Diane Wilson 972-567-5215.
Governor Abbott Announces Texas State Securities Board Investigation Into East Plano Islamic Center
March 28, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas State Securities Board launched an investigation into the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) and affiliated entities for potential failures to comply with applicable state and federal securities requirements, including protections against fraud.
EPIC City is a planned Muslim-centered residential development spanning 402 acres near Josephine, Texas, in Collin and Hunt counties. Initiated by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC), the project aims to include over 1,000 residential units, a mosque, a K–12 faith-based school, a community college, and commercial facilities. EPIC offers investment opportunities through Community Capital Partners (CCP). Prospective investors can purchase shares at $80,000 each, securing a lot within the community.
“The group behind the proposed East Plano Islamic Center compound may be misleading investors,” said Governor Abbott. “Defrauding Texans will not be tolerated. The Texas State Securities Board is conducting a thorough investigation to ensure Texans are protected from financial harm that is alleged to have been caused by EPIC. This is part of an ongoing investigation into allegations of illegal activities by EPIC. All entities in Texas must follow state law, not Sharia law.”
This week, Governor Abbott announced that the Texas Funeral Service Commission sent a cease-and-desist letter ordering EPIC to immediately stop all illegal funeral service operations. On Monday, the Governor also announced that a dozen state agencies are investigating potential illegal activities conducted by EPIC and its affiliated entities.
Paris Junior College-Sulphur Springs Center Nurse Aide Class Starts April 7
March 27, 2025 – The Continuing Education Department at the Paris Junior College – Sulphur Springs Center is offering a nurse aide class from April 7 to May 28. The class and clinical will be from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every Monday and Wednesday.
The course prepares entry level nursing assistants to achieve a level of knowledge, skills, and abilities essential to provide basic care to residents of long-term care facilities. Topics include resident’s rights, communication, safety, observation, reporting and assisting residents in maintaining basic comfort and safety. Course emphasis is on effective interaction with members of the health care team.
Applicants must have a valid state-issued photo ID and social security card. The names on both of these items must match. Applicants will also be required to fill out a background release form upon applying to be considered for this class.
For more information or to sign up, call 903-885-1232 or 903-782-0447, or email [email protected].
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Federal Programs at Paris Junior College Bring Local Success
March 27, 2025 – Paris High School senior Isaiah Hampton has racked up a lot of ink – both in print and digitally, thanks to his many impressive achievements over the last few years. What many people may not know is the help he received from two federal programs at Paris Junior College.
Hampton had been participating in PJC’s Educational Talent Search (ETS) and then applied to Upward Bound (UB) as a sophomore. Both programs are funded by the Department of Education and free to participants.
ETS identifies qualified youths in seventh through twelfth grade with potential for higher education to complete high school and go on. ETS may serve up to 778 students in twenty-six high schools and four junior high schools in Lamar, Red River, Fannin, Hunt, Delta, Hopkins, Franklin, and Titus counties.
UB offers a college-preparatory program for ninth through twelfth grades that promotes educational achievement for students from lower income families who would be the first in their household to receive a college degree. Students are accepted from the following schools: Avery, Chisum, Clarksville, Detroit, North Lamar, Paris, Prairiland, and Rivercrest. Ninety-two percent of students completing the UB program advance to a college or university.
“We want to see the students in Upward Bound use the services and resources the program has to offer to meet their higher education goals,” Barham said. “We’re super proud and excited for Isaiah and hope it makes more people excited about doing the program. We’re not gatekeepers, we want to open the eyes of students and parents to what can happen through Upward Bound.”
Last summer Hampton participated in UB’s summer program at PJC, which brings 86 students to live on campus for six weeks during the summer. There is also an academic year phase, providing a grade level appropriate college readiness curriculum, academic enrichment and group activities throughout the school year.
“It was a new experience because I was taking college classes at a college for the first time,” Hampton said. “It was delightful. Being in Upward Bound is an eye-opening experience to help students to know what college life is like, what the college course load is like and how to manage it. That is so fundamental for people who are moving on to college, it’s really your foundation before you go to college.”
It was during one of UB’s Saturday meetings that Barham told Hampton she was referring him to be invited to apply to the QuestBridge College Prep Scholars Program, which led to his recent achievement in March when he was named as a QuestBridge National College Match out of over 25,500 initial applicants. Matched to Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, he will receive a full four-year scholarship to attend with an estimated value of $410,000.
“Christi recommended me to the QuestBridge College Prep Scholars Program, and I received an invitation to apply. It precedes the national match program,” said Hampton. “It makes you six times more likely to be accepted to the match program, and when I was accepted to the college prep program as a junior, I was ecstatic. I applied to the College Match and became a finalist. I thought, ‘what was a kid from Paris, Texas going to hope to accomplish,’ and it was surreal. Then I got the email matching me to Brown University and it was sublime joy.”
Barham assisted him through the college scholarship process. Hampton is also one of 105 recipients of a 2025 Horatio Alger National Scholarship for $25,000, an annual award recognizing exceptional students, who, in the face of critical financial need and great hardship, remain committed to pursuing higher education. He has also twice been selected to perform with the Texas All-State small school choir in San Antonio and has served as one of 12 Crimestopper Ambassadors for the state of Texas.
Hampton plans to double major in chemistry and physics with plans to pursue postgraduate/professional school after Brown University. He is the second QuestBridge National Match scholar from the PJC Upward Bound program. A Chisum High School student matched with Yale University and graduated there last May.
“The UB staff are proud of Isaiah’s accomplishments and are excited about his future,” Barham.
“I wasn’t ranked a valedictorian or salutatorian, and people say you can’t get into a good college,” said Hampton, “but here I am changing that dynamic.”
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Dinner Bell for April 2, 2025
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
SPONSOR: Christus Health
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
The beginning of nuns and hospitals in Texas dates back to 1866 when the Bishop of Galveston wrote a contact in France for help!
Three women of the new congregation of the Sisters of Charity of Incarnate Word sailed for Galveston and established Charity Infirmary (renamed St. Mary’s Infirmary). From Galveston to San Antonio three sisters established Santa Rosa Hospital in 1869 as Cholera was ravaging that area of Texas. In 1937, 16 sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth order arrived in Tyler to establish Mother Frances Hospital. It opened early to aid the victims of the New London tragedy that occurred in nearby Rusk County.
A merger of the Catholic health care system in Houston, San Antonio and Gaveston created Christus Health on January 28, 1999. In 2016 Christus became a major presence in East Texas by merging with Trinity Mother Frances Hospital and Clinic.
In July 2016 the Hopkins County Hospital District and Christus Health formed an alliance in which Christus became the leasing entity of the hospital building, its employees and the medical services of the hospital.
Christus Health has been a partner with Dinner Bell Ministry since 2017 serving many times yearly. In 2025, Christus will join Dinner Bell Ministry 15 times to feed those who need a meal which fulfills one of its goals to improve the health and welfare of the communities it serves.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Ham & Cheese Soup
- Easy Roasted Broccoli
- Garden Salad
- Homemade Rolls
- Butter Cake with Pineapple topping
The Dinner Bell Ministry
First United Methodist Church
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
