Paris Junior College Capping 100th Year With Gala
March 20, 2025 – PJC capping 100th year with gala
Paris Junior College is celebrating a Century of Excellence with Golden Night, Glittering Lights: A Centennial Celebration Gala on Saturday, April 12.
“We wanted to have fun with the final event of 100th anniversary,” said PJC Advancement and Marketing Executive Director Baleigh McCoin. “We’re inviting you to step back in time and join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate 100 years of Paris Junior College with a roaring 1920s-themed gala. 1920s-inspired formal attire is encouraged.”
Honorary Gala Hosts are Althea and Kevin Dixon. Althea Dixon is Superintendent of the Paris Independent School District, the entity that created Paris Junior College in 1924.
The Centennial Celebration is more than just a gala; it is a commitment to the future of PJC students. This fundraiser directly supports essential student needs, including the food pantry, clothes closet, and student emergency fund. PJC is working hard to ensure that no student must choose between education and basic necessities.
“By sponsoring this milestone event,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC president, “you’ll help remove barriers to success, empower students to stay in school, and invest in the future of our community. Together, we can build a stronger foundation for the next century of education at Paris Junior College.”
The gala will open with a cocktail hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. under the Eiffel Tower at the Love Civic Center on April 12. Attendees will move inside at 6:30 p.m. The deadline for event registration is April 1.
Sponsorships are available. PJC thanks these early supporters: Dragon Pride Sponsor Huhtamaki, Centennial Sponsor McClanahan and Holmes, and Green & Gold Sponsor Farmer’s Bank and Trust.
To purchase tickets or a sponsorship, please go to https://secure.qgiv.com/for/parisjuniorcollege/event/pafadgtc/. Sometimes unforeseen issues can arise with today’s technology. If you experience difficulties with the form or have questions, please call the PJC Office of Advancement at 903-782-0315.
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.
Chamber Connection – March 20, 2025
By Butch Burney
When spring rolls around, that means it’s time for the annual Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, set for Friday, May 2, at Sulphur Springs Country Club.
Registration is open for six-person teams in the morning and afternoon, though there are only a few afternoon slots available.
Cost is $750 per team, which includes three golf courts and lunch for all team members.
There are also sponsorship opportunities available for hole-in-one contests and interactive holes.
For more information or for registration, call the Chamber office at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Mercado Mujer Popup
Beauty Grace Lifestyle Shop will host a street-wide women’s shopping day on Connally Street on Saturday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be 18 vendors set up on the street, as well as shopping opportunities at Beauty Grace and other Connally Street shops.
There will be big 50 percent off shopping opportunities as well as La Dona food truck.
Marlene’s Sass and Class and KJ’s Boutique will also host a sidewalk sale on Main Street the same time, so come to downtown ready to shop.
Lunch and Learn
Go Farther, Faster with AI will be a Lunch and Learn hosted by Deep Routes Coffee and presented by Kendra Wallace on Wednesday, April 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Whether you are an AI pro or just getting started, attendees will learn how Artificial Intelligence can save you time and money, relieve stress, strengthen relationships and more.
The cost is $25 and includes lunch.
Spring Market on Main
The Spring Market is coming to Main Street in a few weeks.
The annual sidewalk sale and market vendors will set up on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be spring items inside and outside, food, décor, gifts and more.
The annual event is hosted by the Downtown Business Alliance.
Cocktails and Conversation
You don’t want to miss the next Cocktails and Conversation, an after-hours business mixer, hosted by Credit Union of Texas from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at their downtown Sulphur Springs location. They will have refreshments and an opportunity to network with other business professionals.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend the mixer.
Blue Blazes Carnival
The SSHS Blue Blazes will have a spring carnival at Buford Park from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 19.
Rowdy Goose Parties and More will be there with inflatables and mini golf as well as a silent auction, vendors, food trucks and more.
Window Decorating Contest
The Hopkins County Dairy Festival is hosting a Window Decorating Contest during the month of May. Businesses can decorate between May 1 and May25, but must register before the decorating window closes. Judging will be May 26-30, with winners announced on May 31.
The theme for this year is Udder the Big Top (carnival theme).
For more information, contact Gena Prickette at 903-243-4534 or [email protected]
Heritage Park
Dutch Oven classes are right around the corner at Heritage Park.
It is April 12, from 8 a.m. to noon, $20 per person. You will learn how to prepare the food, cook it, and of course EAT it.
For more information or registration, contact Rick Wilson at 903-335-2752.
City Clean Up
The City of Sulphur Springs will open its dump facility the week of April 28-May 3 for the annual city wide clean up. The facility is ½ mile east of the traffic stop at Jefferson Street and Loop 301. Residents need a valid driver’s license or water bill to verify they live in the city limits.
Miller Grove Stew and Auction
The annual Miller Grove FFA stew and Auction is set for Thursday, April 3, at the school. The stew will start at 6 p.m., with the auction to follow.
Easter Egg Hunt
Sulphur Springs Health and Rehab will host an Easter Egg Hunt for all interested children at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 18, at their facility on Airport Road.
UPRA Spring Rodeo
The Hopkins County Rodeo Association is hosting the 45th UPRA Spring Rodeo on April 18-19 at the Hopkins County Civic Center. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Oscar Aguilar at 903-243-0446 or [email protected].
Ribbon Cuttings
HTeaO will host a ribbon cutting at their facility at 1065 Gilmer Street at noon on Friday, March 28. Please join us for this event.
Paris Junior College Holding NC3 Signing Events for Future Students
March 20, 2025 – PJC celebrates technical students at NC3 Signing Day events
Together with dozens of other National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) Leadership Schools across the country, Paris Junior College is holding NC3 National Letter of Intent Signing Day ceremonies for students who will attend a workforce program at PJC in the fall of 2025.
“By signing our incoming students to Letters of Intent, we’re telling them that we’ve reserved a place for them, and we want them,” said Dr. Michael Erny, Vice President of Workforce Education. “PJC’s technical education prepares them for a strong career. Industry leaders are excited about this opportunity because it validates our students and provides an opportunity for industry representatives to meet these future workers.”
PJC is part of the NC3 network of education providers and corporations that, together, provide innovative career and technical education models and produce a sustainable, highly-skilled workforce.
Dozens of technical institutions across the country will be hosting signing day ceremonies tied together by live, nationwide simulcasts.
Both ceremonies will last from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The first event takes place in the Workforce Training facility at the PJC-Greenville Center on Wednesday, April 9, and the second will be held in the Student Center Ballroom on the Paris Campus, Thursday, April 10. Students from other areas in PJC’s five-county service area are invited to attend either ceremony.
Students are asked to RSVP to https://parisjc.wufoo.com/forms/nc3-national-signing-day-event-registration/ by April 4.
NC3 was established to help build a workforce prepared to meet the needs of today’s industries, and those of tomorrow, by connecting employers and educational institutions in partnerships that foster effective training, elevation of skilled careers, and employment opportunities. In fulfilling its mission, NC3 builds deep industry-educational partnerships and develops, implements and sustains industry-recognized portable certifications and digital badges built on national skills standards. The end goal is having an industrial labor market where all workers have jobs they need to thrive, and all companies have well-trained employees they need to operate and grow. Learn more at www.nc3.net.
This QR code links to the online RSVP form for attendees.
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.
Ag Commissioner Miller Ready to Replace Texas Parks and Wildlife
March 20, 2025 – Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has expressed confidence that his department could take on the responsibilities of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) if it were ever dissolved. Miller believes the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has the resources, experience, and statewide reach to manage the duties currently overseen by TPWD, which include wildlife conservation, state parks management, and outdoor recreation programs.
… an act relating to the abolishment of the Parks and Wildlife Department and the Parks and Wildlife Commission and the transfer of their functions to the General Land Office, Department of Agriculture,
and Department of Public Safety.
Miller argues that the agriculture department already works closely with rural communities, landowners, and conservation programs, making it well-positioned to handle tasks such as managing public lands and enforcing hunting and fishing regulations. He also claims that consolidating agencies could streamline government operations and reduce costs.
However, critics question whether the TDA has the expertise and infrastructure to take on such a vast portfolio. TPWD manages over 100 state parks and wildlife areas, oversees endangered species protection, and regulates outdoor activities crucial to Texas’ tourism and environmental efforts. Opponents argue that dismantling TPWD could disrupt conservation efforts and negatively impact Texas’ natural resources.
Texas House Bill 4938 has been filed by Rep Curry. Miller’s remarks have sparked debate over the future of state agencies, budget priorities, and the best approach to managing Texas’ natural assets.
City of Irving Moves Ahead With Casino Plans
March 20, 2025 – The Irving Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5-4 to fast-track a recommendation for approval of Las Vegas Sands’ casino resort plans to the Irving City Council, which is scheduled to vote on the matter this week. The decision moves the project one step closer to potential approval, setting the stage for a major casino and entertainment development in the city.
The proposal seeks to rezone approximately 1,000 acres of land near Highway 114, including the site of the former Texas Stadium, for a large-scale mixed-use development.
Supporters argue that the casino could bring significant economic benefits, including job creation, increased tourism, and additional tax revenue for Irving. Sands has promoted the project as a world-class resort that would enhance the region’s hospitality and entertainment offerings.
The company has invested heavily in lobbying efforts, contributing substantial sums to state politicians. In August and September 2024, the Texas Sands PAC donated $150,000 to Gov. Greg Abbott and $100,000 to Comptroller Glenn Hegar.
However, opponents have raised concerns about potential social impacts, gambling addiction, and increased traffic congestion. Some commissioners who voted against the fast-track approval expressed reservations about the speed of the process and the need for further public input.
Gambling is forbidden under Texas Penal Code Chapter 47. Changing these laws can only be done by amending Texas’ constitution, which requires two-thirds approval in the Texas House and Senate and the approval of a majority of voters on a statewide ballot.
The Irving City Council’s upcoming vote will be crucial in determining whether the project moves forward. If approved, the casino plan would still require state-level authorization, as Texas has strict gambling laws that currently prohibit most forms of casino gaming. The decision could set a precedent for future gaming-related developments in the state.
UT System Joins Ban on Drag
March 19, 2025 – The University of Texas (UT) and Texas A&M University have both banned drag shows on their campuses, following recent statewide discussions about the role of such performances in higher education settings. This decision aligns with broader legislative efforts in Texas aimed at restricting drag performances in public spaces, particularly in institutions that receive state funding.
“All activities at UT institutions are expected to comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and executive orders, including any restrictions on the use of public funds,” said Kevin Eltife, chairman of the UT System Board of Regents.
At UT, officials cited concerns over “appropriate use of campus facilities” and “alignment with the university’s mission” as reasons for the prohibition. University leaders have emphasized that student organizations must ensure events comply with institutional policies and state regulations. Texas A&M has taken a similar stance, stating that drag performances do not align with the university’s values or mission of education and research.
Critics of the ban argue that it infringes on freedom of expression and limits the ability of student organizations to engage in inclusive programming. Supporters, however, claim that drag performances are inappropriate for university settings and should not be funded by public institutions.
The ban has sparked significant debate among students, faculty, and advocacy groups, with some calling for reconsideration of the policy. As the discussion continues, universities may face legal challenges or further policy changes based on evolving state and national perspectives on free speech and inclusivity.
Governor Abbott Showcases Special Education School Choice Opportunities In Plano
March 18, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Abbott today met with students with special needs, parents, and educators during a tour of St. Timothy Christian Academy (STCA) and promoted the importance of passing school choice for all Texas families during a media availability in Plano.
“The job of the state is to empower parents,” said Governor Abbott. “Schools like St. Timothy provide parents with an alternative education pathway where each individual student’s needs are met, whether they have special needs or just need to be in a different learning environment. Passing school choice in the state of Texas will empower generations of parents to be able to choose the education pathway that truly is best for their child.”
Joined by STCA Board of Directors President Lee Phegley, educators, and students during the media availability, Governor Abbott pledged that Texas will be put on a pathway to become the No. 1 state in the nation for educating students through a universal school choice program. Additionally, Governor Abbott thanked the Texas House of Representatives for standing up for Texas families and for having enough votes to pass their school choice bill, House Bill 3, as the Texas Senate has already passed their version in Senate Bill 2.
Prior to the media availability, Governor Abbott toured St. Timothy Christian Academy and met with students, parents, and educators. The Governor encouraged the St. Timothy students that they can overcome any obstacles, noting that he did not let the accident that left him in a wheelchair stop him from reaching his goals.
St. Timothy Christian Academy supports families by providing education to students with learning differences in grades K-12.
Find out What the Hopkins County Master Gardeners Have Planned for March 20th on This Second Cup Of Coffee
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark had a chat with Hopkins County Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson. John Mark and Ronnie talked about weeds on this segment. They talked about the different types of weeds, and what types of weed killer you should use on each different type of weed. Ronnie also discussed what exciting events the Hopkins County Master Gardeners have in store for the community for the next week or two. Be sure to catch this episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee below and see what you learn!
The Hopkins County Master Gardeners Have Exciting Events Coming Up
March 18, 2025 – The Hopkins County Master Gardeners have exciting events coming up this month. On Thursday, March 20th, 2025, Daci Rawson will present a program on “Texas Superstars,” at the AgriLife Extension Office, located at 1200 Houston Street, in Sulphur Springs, Texas. This program will begin at 6:30pm.
The Master Gardeners will present a program about water, watering, and fertilizer on March 27, 2025. This educational program will begin at at 6:30pm, in Heritage Park.
Then, on March 29th, 2025, the Hopkins County Master Gardeners will be set up in the Gardening Department at Atwoods in Sulphur Springs, Texas, from 9:00am to Noon, for a general visit. They will be on hand to answer your gardening questions and they will be offering soil testing kits.
You’re not going to want to miss out on any of these thrilling events, especially if you have a “green thumb.” Or even if you don’t have a “green thumb” yet, but want to start getting into gardening, come check them out. Everyone is welcome.
Tips to Prevent Barn Swallow Nests this Spring
March 18, 2025 – Federal law prohibits disturbing barn swallows once they nest, so take preventative action now.
– by Susan Himes
Whether you love watching barn swallows up close or dread the mess they leave behind, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert encourages you to take preventative action before the birds begin nesting.
With the migratory spring season for swallows underway, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert provides property owners with information to limit nest building on structures while adhering to federal law protecting the species. (Michael Miller/Texas A&M AgriLife)
The migratory spring season for swallows is underway, and barn swallows will typically enter the southern U.S. until mid-April.
Of the eight species of swallows in North America, barn and cliff swallows are considered the most problematic for property owners because they build mud nests attached to houses, barns and other structures. Barn swallows tend to nest as single pairs, while cliff swallows can nest in colonies of up to several hundred pairs.
These birds prefer nesting on overhangs, covered ledges or other suitable surfaces, using mud to build their nests. If your property meets these conditions, you may find swallows returning every year unless you take preventative action.
Intervene before nests are built and occupied
If you don’t want barn swallows on your property, you must immediately take action before any nests are built and occupied, said AgriLife Extension’s Liz Tidwell, a small acreage wildlife program specialist in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management, Uvalde.
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 makes it a federal crime to hunt, kill, capture, sell or otherwise hurt migratory birds, which includes destroying nests in use. In other words, once a bird begins spending time in a nest, even if the nest is not yet complete, it is illegal to remove it.
“The main reason people want to remove barn swallow nests is aesthetic,” Tidwell said. “Mud nests on the side of your house or structure, along with the bird droppings underneath, can be unsightly and even pose health concerns due to the droppings.”
Additionally, nests by entryways may also be a nuisance if swallows act territorial and “divebomb” homeowners to protect their nest and young.
“Luckily, swallows are not as aggressive as blue jays or mockingbirds,” she said. “Often, once swallows get used to your presence and know you aren’t going to harm the nest, they will stop swooping down on you.”
How to prevent barn swallow nests
Tidwell shared advice for preventing unwanted swallows.
- Cover nesting areas: Use netting or wire mesh to cover areas where swallows could build nests — typically areas like an eave or where a roof and wall meet.
- Hang vinyl strips: Vinyl plastic hung in overlapping vertical strips may be used for places with an open entryway.
- Add bird spikes and barriers: Bird spike sticks and barriers can be purchased and installed to prevent birds from building nests.
- Remove old nests: Knock down old, empty nests. Birds will reuse nests from previous years if available.
- Interrupt construction: When you see signs of new nest construction, knock down the mud daily until the birds give up on their build. Once a bird starts spending time in the nest — even if it is not yet complete — it is illegal to remove the nest until it is empty again.
Tidwell said trapping or shooting the birds is illegal, and attempting to scare the birds away is usually ineffective.
How to remove a barn swallow nest
Old, empty nests and the mud placed at the beginning of construction can be removed several ways.
- Use a pressure washer or hose.
- Use a pole or scraper but use protective gear like gloves and a respirator mask.
- Use caution if handling an empty nest. Parasites and mites can persist in nests as long as three years after a bird leaves.
Reasons to welcome swallows
Before taking preventative measures, Tidwell also encourages you to learn about the benefits of having barn swallows around:
- Pest control: Swallows eat insects many people consider pests — essentially providing a free ecological service.
- Birdwatching opportunity: The proximity of nests to doorways and windows makes for easy bird watching.
- Educational value: Nests allow viewers to experience a bird’s life cycle.
Ultimately, Tidwell said it’s important to remember that these birds are part of the seasonal changes of our dynamic natural world.
“They’re just temporary guests passing through and will leave when the weather cools,” she said.
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