This and That for May 2025 From Master Gardener David Wall
Raw onions are delicious but can really can cause strong odors in the house and on your breath. Soak the slices or chopped pieces in ice water for 10 minutes, then drain. The onion flavor will stay without the strong odor.
Diluting bleach with water is great for cleaning garden tools. Vinegar is great for removing rust from tools. Beer is a great fertilizer for garden plants, but use it sparingly. Too much attracts pests. Water used to cook vegetables such as corn, potatoes, rice, etc., contains many nutrients your plants need. Used coffee and tea grounds provide valuable nutrients such as nitrogen for your plants. The used grounds are at or very close to a neutral pH. Consider a small handful of powdered milk (great calcium source) on the ground when transplanting and perhaps a couple more times during the growing season.
To reduce soil alkalinity, consider a cup of vinegar diluted with a gallon of water. Use sparingly. Use trap crops to protect your vegetable plants. Plant radishes around cucumber plants. Plant sunflowers among other vegetables, particularly tomatoes. In years past, I’ve counted as many as 21 leaf footed and stink bugs on a single sunflower plant with none on the tomato plants.
Club soda has numerous readily available nutrients such as potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium your vegetable plants love. Try once cup for each plant every other week. When watering, deep watering once a week as slow as possible is best. If you have raised bed gardens deep watering more often is required. If using 5-gallon containers, watering daily may be required.
Including a teaspoon of sugar around each plant perhaps every other week will be greatly appreciated by the soi microbes. The liquid from Banana peels in water for 2-3 days will provide phosphorus for plants.
Paris District Road Report for Week of May 12, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin and Grayson Counties for the week starting May 12, 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: Work Zone Safety
Every day, crews across Texas work to build and maintain the state’s roads, sometimes separated from high-speed traffic by only a few feet. In recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21-25, 2025, TxDOT calls on motorists to make driving safely a priority when passing through the state’s active work zones. In 2024, nearly 28,000 traffic crashes occurred in work zones in Texas, resulting in 215 deaths and another 825 serious injuries.
Most of the people killed in work zone crashes are drivers and their passengers. They made up 81% of the fatalities in 2024. Speeding, driver inattention and unsafe lane changes were among the top contributing factors in work zone crashes.
Driver safety
Work zones present a different and sometimes challenging environment for drivers to navigate. Motorists may encounter uneven pavement, narrow lanes, concrete barriers, slow-moving heavy equipment, and vehicles that make sudden stops. TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign offers five tips for safely driving through work zones:
- Slow down. Follow the speed limit and pay attention to road conditions. What’s safe for normal conditions may not be safe in a work zone.
- Stay alert. Focus on driving, avoid distractions, and put your phone away.
- Don’t tailgate. Give yourself room to stop in a hurry, should you need to. Rear-end collisions are the most common kind of work zone crashes.
- Watch out for road crews. Roadside workers want to get home safely too. Always follow instructions and be mindful of construction area road signs.
- Allow extra time. Road construction can slow things down. Plan ahead so you are not tempted to speed.
More work to do
TxDOT continues to work on increased safety measures and public outreach efforts to educate motorists about driving in work zones. We encourage everyone, from engineers and planners to drivers and pedestrians, to take responsibility for work zone safety. As part of this outreach, we remind drivers of the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law. It requires drivers to move over a lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching a TxDOT, emergency, law enforcement, tow truck, or utility vehicle stopped with flashing lights activated on the roadside or shoulder. Violation of this law can result in a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Stricter penalties for drivers who cause serious injuries by failing to follow these rules now include possible jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.
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.
There will be nighttime lane closures on southbound US 75 between FM 121 in Van Alstyne and Haning Street in Howe the week of May 12th in order for the contractor to place concrete traffic barrier. The lane closures will begin each weeknight at 8:00 pm and all lanes will be reopened to traffic by 5:00 am the following morning.
There will be daytime lane closures along the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage roads between County Line Road and Farmington Road the week of May 12th in order for the contractor to perform base repairs on the roadway. All traffic will be reduced to one lane and flaggers will be present to control traffic. Motorists should expect delays while this work is underway.
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 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.
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.
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. 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 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.
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.
US 377, from US 82 to the Denton County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs 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 896 at Valley Creek. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews perform bridge repairs. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
Beginning on May 19th, FM 274 will be 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 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.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary will be 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 64, from SH 34 to the Delta County 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.
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. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: IH 30 at Bill Bradford. Watch for crews performing repairs to concrete bridge rail. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: FM 2653. Watch for crews performing pavement repairs. Watch for flagging operations and 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:
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.
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 processed material and dried out material at various locations. Concrete footings poured and culverts were prepped. Contractor will be performing structure work along with seeding operations. 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 on last section of project. Ride testing and cover prime scheduled for next week. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. 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 will be scheduled for next week. 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 will begin prepping right-of-way. 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. 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 performing embankment work at FM 1570. Contractor will be excavating and performing embankment at M.S.P U-turn during nights. The contractor will be setting panels under nightly lane closures. Steel tying is ongoing on the project. Hot mix will be placed at night on EB frontage road near FM 1570. 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. Grading for detour paving along EBFR and EBML between 1565 and 36 o Grading for detour paving along WBFR and WBML between 1565 and 36 Grading for detour paving WBFR 2511 area. Hot mix detour paving along EBML 1565 and 36 area. 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. Overlay work ongoing on SH 66, FM 1570, and US 69. Edging work FM1566 from FM 118 to SH34. 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.
Rains maintenance section will be working on potholes, signs and mailboxes. Rains maintenance section will be working on FM 1567 addressing edges and rutting. Ranis crew will work on FM 47 and repair Tawakoni State Par. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation talks Mental Health with Dr. Mary Leshe
May 9, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – In honor of May being Mental Health Awareness Month, the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation sat down with Dr. Mary Leshe to discuss stereotypes and truths regarding mental health.
Dr. Leshe started her practice, Heritage Counseling Center, in 1998 and will be celebrating 27 years of service on the 31st of this month.
The first stigma Dr. Leshe wanted to address was the belief that mental health should be viewed differently than physical health. “Mental healthcare is just like any other kind of healthcare. The brain is an organ that needs upkeep, training, and attention, just like any other part of the body may need at times.”
Mental health is intertwined with physical health. “90-95% of serotonin, the happiness hormone, is produced by the gut”, explained Dr. Leshe, “if your gut is unbalanced, your emotions will likely be also.”
Dr. Leshe gave her own definition of mental health: “It’s a state of wellbeing showing how others are able to deal with stressors and challenges in a positive way – mentally, emotionally, and physically.”
She continued, “When these three aspects of health are maintained, it is easier to recover when bad things happen like sickness or hardship.”
There are many approaches to overcoming feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and other emotions that can impact mood and decision making. Journaling, breathwork, and grounding come highly recommended by Dr. Leshe.
“Journaling is bar none [the best] for self-expression. Recording life events helps bring to the surface how they made you feel,” Dr. Leshe remarked. As for breathwork, Dr. Leshe instructed: “Breathe in through the nose and hold it for 4-6 seconds while thinking about things that make you happy. Breathe out through the mouth and repeat until the hard feelings have passed.”
Breathwork is a form of grounding for mental health, but grounding looks different for everyone. For some, it means going to a safe place, doing a calming activity like coloring, or even focusing on the feeling of both feet on the ground – all for the purpose of reconnecting with the present moment.
Social media is a big stressor that takes the mind off the present. It gives the illusion of connection, encourages self-comparison, and can induce anxiety. Dr. Leshe elaborated, “Nature is healing. Even just sitting outside, away from social media, is good for your state of mind.”
Another habit of vital importance Dr. Leshe described was staying involved with the community. Isolation breeds feelings of depression, insecurity, and loneliness. “Being around other people helps you think about more than yourself. It helps you feel like you belong,” she explained.
When Dr. Leshe was asked what she would share if she could share just one thing with the world, she replied one word: gratitude. “Gratitude is the single greatest power to change your life. If you can find just three things to be grateful for at the start and end of your day, you will feel more positive – you will even sleep better.”
If you find yourself in need of support or guidance, please reach out to a professional for help. In the words of Dr. Leshe, “It’s the strong people that realize they need a little help, and they reach out. They are the ones who will take advice.”
The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization serving Hopkins County since 1997. The goal of the Foundation is to increase healthcare opportunities for Hopkins County residents. For more information, reach out to the Foundation at (903) 348-4799 or [email protected].
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Texas Democratic Party Chairman will Speak at an Event June 5th in Hopkins County
May 9, 2025 – The Hopkins County Democratic Party announces that on June 5th, 2025, they will be hosting a rally. The Democratic Party Chairman will be speaking at this event. The rally will be held at the HW Grays Building in Sulphur Springs, Texas, from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. The public is invited to attend.
Staff Changes at Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office
May 9, 2025 – Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum is pleased to announce the well-deserved promotions of three dedicated members within the Sheriff’s Office. These promotions recognize the individuals’ commitment, experience, and leadership potential.
Michael Russell has been promoted to Chief Investigator. With many years of service and a proven track record in complex investigations, Russell has consistently demonstrated exceptional investigative skills and a strong commitment to seeking justice for the citizens of Hopkins County. In his new role, Chief Investigator Russell will oversee and manage the Investigations Division, providing leadership and guidance to the investigative team.
Justin Wilkerson has been promoted to Sergeant Investigator. Sergeant Investigator Wilkerson has been an integral part of the Patrol Division, consistently demonstrating thoroughness and dedication in his work. His skills will further enhance the Criminal Investigation Division’s dedicated and professional teamwork in serving the citizens of Hopkins County.
Drew Fisher has been promoted to Patrol Sergeant. Sergeant Fisher has shown exemplary dedication and leadership within the Sheriff’s Office. His promotion to Sergeant recognizes his ability to effectively lead and supervise personnel, ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of law enforcement services to the community.
Sheriff Tatum stated, “These promotions are a reflection of the hard work, dedication, and professionalism that Michael, Justin, and Drew bring to our Sheriff’s Office every day. They are valuable assets to our team and to the citizens of Hopkins County. I am confident that they will excel in their new roles and continue to serve our community with distinction.”
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office congratulates Chief Investigator Michael Russell, Sergeant Investigator Justin Wilkerson, and Sergeant Drew Fisher on their well-earned promotions.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s Designer Handbag Bingo is Back
May 9, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – The dates have been set for the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s Designer Handbag Bingo. Thursday, August 7, the Hopkins County Regional Civic Center will be filled with hundreds of bingo players eager to win handbags from brands such as Louis Vuitton, STAUD, Tory Burch, Stella McCartney, Kate Spade, and more.
Sponsorships for this highly coveted event will go on sale May 19 at handbagbingo25.GiveSmart.com. The top two tiers of sponsorship are $2,500 and $1,500, both including a table for 8 players. The $500 and $250 sponsorships do not include a table or tickets, but they do include advertising benefits.
Table sales open on June 23 and cost $615 to seat 8 players. This event typically sells out through table reservations before individual tickets become available for purchase. Reserving a table shortly after reservations open is recommended to secure a spot. Any individual tickets available will be sold starting July 12 for $75 each.
For more information, visit handbagbingo25.GiveSmart.com and follow the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation on Facebook and Instagram (@hchealthcarefoundation).
The Foundation is an IRS 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has served Hopkins County for 28 years. It has invested millions of dollars to improve healthcare in Hopkins County since 1997.
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East Texas A&M News Release: Outstanding Alumni Honored at Awards Gala
May 9, 2025 – The 2025 Alumni Awards Gala Honors Alumni Who Inspire, Lead and Give Back.
COMMERCE, TX, May 7, 2025—
The East Texas A&M University Alumni Association hosted the 2025 Alumni Awards Gala on April 26. The formal dinner and program honored six exceptional Lions whose lives reflect a deep commitment to service, leadership and the university community.
Held at the Rayburn Student Center, this year’s gala celebrated the newest recipients of the Gold Blazer and Distinguished Alumni Awards—some of the most prestigious honors the university bestows.
University President Mark Rudin and Alumni Association President Duane Hicks welcomed the crowd, which included faculty and staff, students, family, and friends. The evening featured live music by the Student Wind Ensemble and remarks by Trent Hamilton, secretary of the Alumni Association Board.
Gold Blazer Awards
The Gold Blazer Award, first awarded in 1984, recognizes alumni who go above and beyond in service to East Texas A&M without expecting recognition or reward. This year’s honorees represent decades of dedication to their alma mater and their communities.
Rene’ K. Griffin (’75)
Hometown: Heath, Texas
Griffin’s connection to East Texas A&M began in childhood and has never wavered. He has attended every homecoming since 1960—64 years and counting. Griffin, a co-founder of Texas Book Company, has given back through decades of support, including scholarship funding, event hosting, and leadership through the Delta Tau Delta fraternity.
Linda D. King (’79)
Hometown: Commerce, Texas
King spent nearly 50 years serving the university, including as executive assistant to five presidents and later as chief of staff. Known for her calm leadership and passion for students, she was a Kappa Delta advisor for 17 years and is a pillar in the Commerce community.
Michael S. Lamb (’96, ’00)
Hometown: Sulphur Springs, Texas
A respected education leader, Lamb has served as superintendent for Sulphur Springs and Little Elm ISDs. He was a dedicated member of the East Texas A&M Alumni Association for nine years, half of which he spent as president. He has worked tirelessly to keep fellow alumni connected and engaged.
Distinguished Alumni Awards
The Distinguished Alumni Award, established in 1967, is reserved for those who have achieved exceptional success in their life’s work while making meaningful contributions to East Texas A&M.
George Allen (’67)
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
A trailblazer in real estate development, Allen has developed millions of square feet of retail, multifamily and mixed-use properties across the Southeast United States and Central America. Allen and his family also operate the 12,000-acre Circle A Ranch in Archer County.
Dr. Kenneth “Rock” Clinton Jr. (’65, 68)
Hometown: Cumby, Texas
Dr. Clinton, professor emeritus, spent over 40 years as a faculty member and administrator at East Texas A&M, helping launch the university’s international programs. A global leader in Delta Tau Delta fraternity, Clinton has also served the Commerce community in countless ways.
Scott Stahl (’84)
Hometown: Dike, Texas
A leader in the technology industry, Stahl continues to support future Lions as vice chair of the East Texas A&M Foundation Board and mentor to business students. Stahl embodies the spirit of service and leadership. His family’s Lion legacy spans generations.
“It is both humbling and deeply moving to witness the profound impact our alumni continue to make in their professions, their communities and here at East Texas A&M,” said Amanda Lowe, director of Alumni Engagement. “Their legacy of leadership and generosity will continue to inspire Lions for generations to come.”
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report, May 2025
May 6, 2025 – During the regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council on Tuesday May 6, 2025, City Manager Marc Maxwell submitted his monthly report.
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER, MARC MAXWELL
SUBJ: MANAGER’S REPORT
CLAIMS – We had 1 workers compensation claim in April for a police officer who suffered abrasions while making an arrest. We had one liability claim from a driver who’s car was struck by a police cruiser. There were no injuries.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN – Kimley Horn is collecting data for their baseline. They are hosting an open house at the Senior Activities Center on May 15 from 5 pm to 8 pm. They will complete the community assessment phase in May.
MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD – We have received 100% construction drawings from Kimley Horn and we have submitted them to Texas Parks and Wildlife for approval. We also have a photo-op scheduled for May 12 at 5:45 at which time the Bright Star Baseball organization will present a check to assist with the construction of the field.
THERMO WATER – The Capital Construction Division installed 2,440 feet of 18’ water main in April for a total of 4,040 feet. We are replacing old 8” main. This will be the first water project of many at Thermo.
THERMO ROAD – This project is completed.
This $4.4 million project was partially funded by a $2.4 million grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA).
COLEMAN BALLFIELD LIGHT UPGRADE – This $250,000 grant from the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) to upgrade the ballfield lights to LED is on again, off again. It’s currently on again…mostly. SECO will be here tomorrow for a site audit. They tell us that the approval to proceed is imminent.happen.
MIDFIELD APRON – All of the concrete is in place. All that remains is a bit of erosion control and painting.
This project includes drainage improvements as well as repaving the midfield apron in concrete. Total project cost is $5.28 million, of which 90% is funded by a grant through TXDOT.
WASTEWATER CHLORINE CONTACT CHAMBER – Hayter Engineering is presently designing the new chlorine contact chamber. We have encountered an obstacle that threatens to prevent us from re-rating the plant from %.4 MGD to 10 MGD. Our Primary clarifiers are only 8 feet deep. TCEQ now requires a minimum depth of 10 feet. They are applying the depth requirement to us if we want to rerate. Staff is working on the issue. We are applying for a variance. Our data shows that our clarifiers are doing a fantastic job as they are.
This $2.2 million project will repurpose a former (abandoned) sand filter turning it into a chlorine contact chamber. Chlorine contact time is a bottleneck at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The WWTP has a rated capacity of 5.4 MGD. Staff believes we can increase the capacity to 10 MGD when the project is completed. The increase will require TCEQ approval, but staff thinks it is feasible. The project is being funded from the Enterprise Fund balance.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SIP) – Following is a list of projects for the 2025 SIP. Highlighted segments have been completed. The contractor is waiting for the school year to end before finishing the list.
| 2025 Street | Improvement | Program |
| Street | From/To | Length |
| Hodge | Davis to Fisher and Texas to Brinker | 925 |
| South Davis | Lee to Industrial | 1047 |
| Debbie/Kayla/Price | Camp thru Cul de sac | 961 |
| Foscue | Jefferson to Weaver | 808 |
| Middle | Church to Mulberry | 918 |
| Turtle Creek | Main to end | 702 |
| Village | Linda to End | 301 |
| Ponder | Connally to Van Sickle | 702 |
| Sunset | Houston to RR | 1193 |
| Sprite | End to End | 1109 |
| Stacy/Beckton/C P Alley | Fuller to College | 1244 |
| Tate | Texas to Brinker | 570 |
| Michel | College to Gena | 850 |
| McGrede | Sprite to Lemon | 1660 |
| Lilly/Bird Cir. | MLK to Cul de sac | 570 |
| Ponder | Van Sickle to Houston | 449 |
| Levi/Cottonwood | End to End | 988 |
| Ingram | Texas to Locust | 359 |
| Locust | Tate to Bellview | 449 |
| Asphalt/Concrete repairs | Various | 1000 |
| Coleman Parking | Expansion | 250 x 190 |
| Camp | Texas to Brinker | 550 |
| Kimberly | End to end | 675 |
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES – Finance Director Lesa Smith will present the monthly report of revenues and expenditures.
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Prepped athletic fields for 137 youth games and 3 tournaments.
- • Prepared the Grays building for 19 rentals.
- • Mowed the airport and grass landing strip twice.
- • Assisted with 102 activities for seniors.
- • Conducted 90 building inspections, 13 electrical inspections, 17 plumbing inspections, and 13 mechanical inspections.
- • Issued 30 building permits and 60 trade permits.
- • Sold 3,136 gallons of AvGas and 4,950 gallons of JetA fuel.
- • Handled 1,495 take-offs/landings at the airport.
- • Repaired 311 potholes.
- • Cleaned out storm catch basins 6 times.
- • Replaced 9 stop signs.
- • Removed 4 fallen trees from roadways.
- • Poured a concrete slab for the Adult Leadership Class project, replacing an old pavilion in Buford Park.
- • Made 18 street repairs following utility cuts.
- • Hauled Street Sweeper spoils to the landfill.
- • Worked Spring Cleanup…1,241 vehicles, 85 roll-offs filled, 2,550 cubic yards hauled off.
- • Installed 150 feet of new curb and gutter on Alabama Street.
- • Responded to 203 animal control calls while achieving an 81% adoption rate. • Made 4 felony arrests in the Special Crimes Unit.
- • Responded to 35 accidents, wrote 512 traffic citations, recorded 50 offenses and made 64 arrests in the Patrol Division.
- • Checked out 3,835 items from the Library plus 863 eBooks.
- • Responded to 228 fire/rescue calls including 3 vehicle fires and 5 grass fires. • Performed preventative maintenance on 78 fire hydrants.
- • Conducted 42 fire inspections.
- • Produced wastewater effluent with a daily average total suspended solids reading of 2.25 mg/L.
- • Hauled 926 tons of sludge to the landfill.
- • Repaired 6 water main ruptures.
- • Replaced 20 water meters.
- • Unstopped 43 sewer mains.
- • Washed 85,000 feet of sewer mains.
Dinner Bell for May 14, 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.
Christus Health can trace its history to 1866 with the founding of St. Mary’s Hospital in Galveston, Texas, by the sisters of Charity. In 2016 Christus merged with Trinity Mother Frances hospital and Clinics (itself a product of a merger of two catholic based systems) in Tyler, Texas, and formed an alliance with Hopkins County Hospital District in which Christus became the leasing entity of the hospital building, its employes, and the medical services of the hospital.
The goal of Christus Health is to improve the health and well-being of the communities it serves with the underlying core values of Compassion, Excellence, Dignity, Integrity, and Stewardship. Under its umbrella are 63 hospitals in the United States, Mexico, Columbia, and Chile, employing 45,000 associates.
Christus Mother Frances is a partner with Dinner Bell six times yearly. The relationship to feed those needing a meal in Sulphur Springs and its vicinity dates back to 2017. Thank you Christus Health!
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Chicken Pot Pie
- Bacon Infused Green Beans
- Garden Salad
- Buttered French Bread Slices
- Chocolate Cherry Cake
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 !!!
Texas Bail Reform Bill Tougher on Suspects and Judges
May 8, 2025 – Governor Greg Abbott convened a roundtable in Austin this week with law enforcement officials, policy leaders, and victims of violent crime to rally support for a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at strengthening Texas’ bail system. The event underscored Abbott’s commitment to prioritizing public safety and tightening rules around pretrial release for individuals accused of serious offenses.
“Every member of the Texas House has one question to answer. Are they going to vote to protect the citizens they represent—or the criminals who kill them?” – Greg Abbott
The governor’s proposal includes three key provisions. First, it would require judges to deny bail to individuals accused of violent crimes—including murder, rape, and human trafficking—unless there is “clear and convincing evidence” that the defendant is not a threat to the public and is likely to appear in court. Second, it mandates transparency by requiring judges to issue a written, public explanation when granting bail to violent offenders. Third, it would empower prosecutors to appeal bail decisions they believe compromise public safety.
Abbott framed the measure as a necessary response to rising concerns about repeat violent offenders being released on bail and committing new crimes. “Texans deserve to feel safe in their communities,” he said, adding that the proposal is designed to protect victims and restore accountability in the judicial process.
The Texas Senate passed Senate Joint Resolution 1, which contains the amendment language, by a 28-2 vote in mid-February. However, it has remained stalled in the House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence for nearly two months, frustrating supporters who see it as a critical step forward.
Law enforcement officials at the roundtable voiced strong support, describing instances where repeat offenders exploited lenient bail policies. Victims and their families also spoke emotionally about the consequences of system failures.
“If we pass good, strong legislation, it will save innocent human lives. This bill belongs to the victims and families of these people. If we are successful, and we will be successful, that victory goes to those families.” — Representative John Smithee
As pressure builds on House lawmakers to act, the proposed amendment represents a defining moment in Texas’ criminal justice reform debate, with public safety and judicial transparency at the center of the conversation.
