St. Philip’s Fall Fest and Hot Dog Cookout to be Held October 22nd
October 12, 2025 – St. Philip’s Episcopal Church of Sulphur Springs, Texas, will host a Fall Fest and Hot Dog Cookout on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. The event will be held from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, in the St. Philip’s Episcopal Church parking lot located at 1206 College Street, in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Hot Dogs and drinks will be provided along with music and games. Everyone is welcome.
Paris District Road Report for October 13, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting October 13, 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.
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. Lane closures will be in place in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121 are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road.
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-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue 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 and southbound frontage road from Taylor Street to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) will be switched to the new pavement, Sunday October 12, 2025. The frontage road will remain one lane to allow for construction of the new intersection. Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to December 1, 2025. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Eastbound/Westbound Taylor St. will remain closed until April 2026.
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 connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. 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, or traffic can continue along the northbound frontage road through the Loy Lake Road intersection and take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
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.
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 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 occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to finalize the rehabilitation and widening of the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers may be directing traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
US 75 debris pickup, from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The Contractor demolished the bridge and started replacing it. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Frog Pond Rd & Spalding Rd or Klas Rd & Hazelwood Rd.
FM 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safety treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor closed the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The bridge will remain closed until the new bridge is constructed. Drivers can use Cates Rd, FM 121 and Hynds Ranch Rd or N Lincoln Park Rd., Knob Hill Rd., and Stone Marshal Rd as an alternate route.
FM 697, from Cave Rd to Crews Rd. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform level up operations on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from Huff Rd to Gibbons Rd. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform level up work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
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 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
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 lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 69 to Collin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be performing surfacing operations. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: FM 1870, at Thermo Mine Road. Crews will begin striping operations for the existing road. Watch for construction vehicles entering and exiting roadway. Expect slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. 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:
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE . Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19 . Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
FM 195, at Six Mile Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
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.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is currently suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project added shoulders and replaced drainage structures. Work zone signs and barricades are in place. This project is near completion, with punch list items being completed. 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 widened the existing roadway. The contractor has work zone signs and barricades in place. This project is near completion. Contractor is completing punch list items. 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 performing flex base work on the south end of the project, and asphalt paving on the north end of the project. Contractor is also performing maintenance on driveways. 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. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor is currently working base material. Contractor will be fog sealing this week. One-way flagger operations are currently set up through the work zone. Expect minor delays. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is performing excavation and embankment work. Expect delays in the workzone. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Contractor is laying driveway pipes and installing culverts. Contractor is performing full-depth reclamation. Flagger controlled traffic control is in place during construction operations. Expect slight delays and follow pilot vehicle. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. Left lane closures on both EB and WB for FM 1903, FM 1570, and Monty Stratton from 7PM to 6AM. EB traffic is switched to the new FM 1570 bridge over the weekend. Drill shafts are installed at FM 1903. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. Contractor will be performing cement treatment and hot mix paving for detours around FM 36 area frontage roads. They will be setting and moving barrier at night. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Contractor is setting light poles and electrical services on SH 24 and FM 1528, and SH 24 at BU 24. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing pavement overlay on FM 272 and FM 1565. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair and ROW mowing in various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 1565. Right of Way vegetation management will be taking place in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Ladies-Only Breast Health Event, Celebrate “the girls” to be Held October 13th
October 12, 2025 – In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation invites the public to our ladies-only breast health event, Celebrate “the girls”, on Monday, October 13th. The party will be from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm in the Medical Plaza, 113 Airport Road. There will be refreshments, door prizes, and educational resources for breast health.
Johanna Hicks will lead a demonstration of self-exams using a prosthetic breast model allowing ladies to learn how to detect lumps by touch and Stefany Walton from the Ruth and Jack Gillis Women’s Center will talk a bit about the importance of mammograms. The ladies of the Breast Cancer Support Group are the hostesses.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation and the Ladies of the Breast Cancer Support Group hope to teach ladies how to monitor their breast health and show them there is a future beyond breast cancer.
Chamber Connection – October 8, 2025
By Butch Burney
Now’s the time to avoid the lines and get your tickets for the 56th Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest, with title sponsor Alliance Bank, on Oct. 25.
Tickets are available online at HopkinsChamber.org, at the Chamber of Commerce office at 110 Main Street, and at our local lending institutions (banks and credit unions).
Thanks to our generous sponsors, we were able to keep tickets prices for the Stew Contest the same as the last several years — $8 for adults and teenagers, and free for all children 12 years and under!
Signature Solar is providing the Kids Eat Free sponsorship, so thanks to them for being such a great community partner.
Stew service starts at 10:45 a.m. the morning of the contest and we have more than 170 sites at Buford Park signed up to cook and serve you stew!
But wait, that’s not all you’ll get for your ticket. We also have 28 vendors who will have merchandise and baked goods for you to shop. Thank you, Red River Credit Union for being our market sponsor
But wait, that’s not all. We also have a Fun Zone, sponsored by One Church, where kids can play Gellyball and other games next to Kids Kingdom.
But wait, that’s not all. Come out Friday night for our concert from Dubb and the Luv Machines, starting at 7:30 p.m. The Friday night activities are sponsored by City National Bank.
For stew cooks, bag pickup is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, at the Chamber office, and our Stewcomers Meeting (for first year cooks) will be 5:30 p.m. at the Buford Park pavilion.
Window Decorating Contest
The Chamber is hosting a window decorating contest for the Stew Festival. There is no charge to enter, just let us know that your business is competing so it can be judged.
The theme for the Stew Contest this year is the Wizard of Oz and There’s No Place Like Hopkins County. The contest began on Sept. 15 and windows will be judged on Oct. 16.
If you’d like to take part in this fun contest, call us at 903-885-6515 or email us at [email protected].
The winner of the contest will get, among other things, the opportunity to ring the dinner bell on stage at 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, to signal the start of the stew service!
Uncorked: Wine, Art and Music Festival
Come downtown on Saturday, Oct. 11, for Uncorked, a wine festival that is more than just tasty spirits. The festival will also include more than 30 vendors, food trucks and live music.
There will be 11 wineries downtown for tasting and bottle purchases, as well.
Visit uncorkedsstx.org for all the ticket options. The festivities start on Friday, Oct. 10, with events that include a chef’s dinner and happy hour festival kickoff.
On Saturday, in addition to general admission tickets, you can purchase tickets for a history walk, boozy brunch, flower art, mural painting and picnic, a mimosa bar, gourmet picnic and reserved tables, Main Street Theatre comedy, and a silent disco.
Help-a-Child Benefit
The 18th annual Help-a-Child Benefit is set for Oct. 17-18 at the Hopkins County Civic Center with chili, brisket, raffles and other activities.
The ag team competition build off is set for Friday, Oct. 17, at the Equine Pavilion parking lot.
On Saturday, the day opens with a chili and brisket contest. The livestock show starts at 9 a.m., followed two hours later by the ag mechanic show and silent auctions.
Chili and brisket will be served starting at 11:30 a.m. at $10 all you can eat, and auction for the project show begins at 12:30 p.m.
You can also buy chances to win a Kubota RTV X with trailer.
All proceeds benefit the NET Child Advocacy Center, Scottish Rite Hospital, Hunt County CASA, Lake Country CASA and Masonic Lodge Scholarship Program.
Sunrise Social
Join us for a networking event when Jasmine Lemons hosts a Sunrise Social on Friday, Oct. 10, at Holiday Inn Express, from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend. It is free to everyone, and a prime time to make friends and contacts.
Please make plans to attend to enjoy some breakfast foods and great conversation.
Alamo Letter Dedication
A ceremony to mark the establishment on the downtown plaza of a monument for Travis’ Letter from the Alamo will take place the afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 18. Starting at 2 p.m., the ceremony will unveil the bronze plaque placed at the base of the Texas flag in front of the Courthouse.
The ceremony will feature keynote speaker Rosser Coke Newton, co-chairman of the Texas Alamo Letter Society, playing of El Deguello by Kelly Fletcher, and reenactment of the recruitment of the Gonzales Rangers (the Immortal 32) who answered Travis’ call for help.
William Barrett Travis, commander of the forces at the Alamo, sent the letter on Feb. 24, 1836 to “The people of Texas and all Americans in the world,” asking for reinforcements. He ended the letter with the famous vow, If this call is neglected, I am determined to sustain myself as long as possible & die like a soldier who never forgets what is due to his own honor & that of his country – Victory or Death.
The ceremony is free and open to the public.
Ribbon Cutting
Glow and Go Lighting will have a ribbon cutting at the Chamber office, 110 Main St., at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15. Please join us for this event.
Rich Cavaness will have a ribbon cutting for his American National insurance office at the Chamber office at 110 Main St., at noon on Friday, Oct. 17.
Jimmy Houston Outdoors Big Bass RV and Boat Storage will have a ribbon cutting at their facility, 3944 State Highway 154 in Yantis. The event is set for 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, part of their grand opening.
Hopkins County United Way Held Their Second Weekly Meeting October 7th
October 12, 2025 – The Hopkins County United Way members held their second meeting of the 2025-2026 Campaign October 7, 2025, at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Executive Secretary Susan Berning reached out to KSST with a report on the meeting. Susan reported, “On behalf of Ashley Crump and Kaitlyn Hankins, I am very pleased to report Campaign pledges to date total $23,708.78!! If you attended our meeting …, please note the total is slightly higher than reported at the meeting. Our next meeting is this coming Tues., Oct. 14, at 9:00 a.m., at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office.” This is the 70th Anniversary of the Hopkins County United Way. Be a good neighbor and help out this great cause.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Monthly Meeting to be Held on October 16th
October 12, 2025 – Join us Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Hopkins County Genealogical Society Research Library, 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs, TX , for a program by Major, (Ret.) USAF, David W. Wims: “Tools of the Trade – Captain Samuel H. Walker and the Percussion Revolvers of 1836-1860.”
David W. Wims was born in Ft. Worth, Texas and graduated from High School in Houston, Texas. He attended University of Houston and East Texas State University, where he was awarded a BA in English and History. He attended graduate school at North Texas State University.
David joined the U. S. Air Force in 1973 and in 1986 he was awarded a BS degree in Computer Science from ETSU and also Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Air Force on the same day at ETSU. From 1986 to 2004 he served in various positions with the U.S.A.F. in Montana, South Dakota, New Mexico and Alabama. In 2000 he was awarded a MA in Military History from the University of Alabama. He was also in-service in Missouri, Tennessee and Eskan Village, Riyadh the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In 2004 David retired from active duty with the Air Force, but began teaching until 2022, when he retired from both and moved back home to Mt. Vernon, Texas. Since then he has been involved in western re-enactments, wild west shows and anything related to all periods of American history, but especially the Colonial era and early frontier post Revolution – not to mention the restoration of his grandparents natural rock house built in 1939 in Mt. Vernon, Tx.
If you cannot join us in-person, we invite you to join us via Zoom. When: October 16, 2025 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/n1YJ3LjHTzObtAa52fNTyw
With such an extensive history, how could this man not be interesting to listen to? In addition to period clothing he will bring guns and artifacts for “show and tell.” We can hardly wait to hear and see his presentation!
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day October 25
October 10, 2025 – Texans are encouraged to safely dispose of unused or expired medications during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 25. The nationwide initiative, led by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), provides secure drop-off locations at law enforcement agencies, pharmacies, and community centers across Texas. The event aims to prevent prescription drug misuse, accidental poisonings, and environmental harm caused by improper disposal. Residents can find nearby collection sites through the DEA’s website. All drop-offs are free and anonymous, helping keep communities safer and medications out of the wrong hands.
Commissioner Miller Urges Swift Action After New Screwworm Case Found in Northern Mexico
AUSTIN, Texas (October 8, 2025) — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller issued an urgent call to action Wednesday following confirmation of a new case of New World Screwworm in Montemorelos, Nuevo León, Mexico — less than 150 miles south of the Texas border.
“With a second case nearing the Texas-Mexico border, time is of the essence,” Miller said in a statement. “The time is now for our state and federal partners to get on board with the deployment of pesticide bait. When utilized right, alongside TDA Swormlure, this is a proven method for eradication.”
The affected calf was intercepted at a new livestock checkpoint, and the screwworm larvae were found dead due to mandatory treatments, including ivermectin and a larvicidal bath.
The New World Screwworm is a flesh-eating parasite that attacks warm-blooded animals, including livestock and wildlife, and can devastate ranching economies if left unchecked. Once eradicated from the United States in the 1960s through a coordinated U.S.-Mexico program, the parasite’s reemergence near Texas has sparked widespread concern among ranchers and agricultural officials.
Miller emphasized that the threat extends beyond livestock. “This isn’t just a livestock issue — it’s about protecting Texas jobs, rural communities, and our agricultural lifeblood,” he said.
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) has already deployed its advanced Swormlure traps across southern Texas to monitor and contain any potential spread. These traps are designed for early detection, allowing for rapid response before infestations reach commercial herds.
TDA is working closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Mexican authorities to coordinate surveillance and treatment along the border region. The Commissioner said deploying pesticide bait — a key element of past eradication efforts — remains essential to preventing the screwworm from crossing into Texas.
“Our world-class Texas cattle industry is too important to take chances,” Miller said. “We are acting with force and precision now to protect the backbone of rural Texas.”
Governor Abbott Orders TxDOT to Enforce Roadway Safety and Compliance Standards
AUSTIN, Texas (October 8, 2025) — Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to intensify enforcement of federal and state roadway safety standards, warning that cities and counties failing to comply could face funding cuts and suspended agreements.
In a statement Wednesday, Abbott emphasized that taxpayer resources must be used solely to maintain safe and efficient roadways, not to promote political or social causes. “Texans expect their taxpayer dollars to be used wisely, not to advance political agendas on Texas roadways,” the Governor said. “To keep Texans moving safely and free from distraction, we must maintain a consistent transportation network across the state.”
The directive instructs TxDOT to review local compliance with roadway design and safety standards, ensuring that all surface markings, traffic signs, and lighting meet federal regulations. Under these rules, any non-standard markings or symbols—including political messages, social slogans, or ideological displays—are prohibited if they do not directly contribute to traffic control or driver safety.
Governor Abbott warned that jurisdictions refusing to comply could face serious penalties, including the withholding or denial of state and federal highway funds.
TxDOT officials are expected to begin compliance assessments immediately, working with local governments to remove any unauthorized markings or signage. The Governor’s office said the initiative aims to maintain safety, uniformity, and neutrality across Texas roads while ensuring that all transportation infrastructure meets the highest safety standards.
Governor Abbott Orders DPS to Crack Down on Illegal Hemp and Vape Sales
October 8, 2025 – AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) to step up enforcement against vape and smoke shops that violate state hemp and product regulations, in what he described as an effort to protect children from harmful substances.
“Texas will protect children from dangerous hemp products,” Abbott said in a statement released Monday. “Today, I directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to increase surveillance and enforcement of any vape and smoke shop violating Texas law. Texas will prioritize protecting our children.”
Under the governor’s directive, the DPS Criminal Investigations Division will launch targeted operations to identify shops of concern, working with local, state, and federal partners to perform inspections and collect evidence of potential violations. DPS special agents will also conduct undercover operations, seize illegal products for testing in the DPS Crime Lab, and pursue criminal charges against individuals or businesses found to be in violation of Texas law.
The move follows an executive order Abbott issued last month, directing multiple state agencies — including the Department of State Health Services and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission — to take immediate steps to curb access to hemp-derived products such as delta-8 and delta-9 THC.
While federal law allows hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC, Texas officials have expressed growing concern over unregulated sales, particularly products marketed to minors. DPS says it will use all available partnerships to enforce compliance and prevent the distribution of illegal or mislabeled items.
The governor’s office emphasized that the state’s actions are meant to balance child safety with the rights of responsible adult consumers and legitimate businesses operating within the law.
