National Weather Service Issues Red Flag Warning for Hopkins and Surrounding Counties
March 13, 2025 – The National Weather Service of Ft. Worth has issued a Red Flag Warning for Montague, Cooke, Grayson, Fannin, Lamar, Young, Jack, Wise, Denton, Collin, Hunt, Delta, Hopkins, Stephens, Palo Pinto, Parker, Tarrant, Dallas, Rockwall, Kaufman, Van Zandt, Rains, Eastland, Erath, Hood, Somervell, Johnson, Ellis, Henderson, Comanche, Mills, Hamilton, Bosque, Hill, Navarro, Freestone, and Anderson counties in effect from 11:00am to 9:00pm Friday, March 14, 2025. The Warning has been issued because conditions such as very strong winds gusts up to 65 mph and very low relative humidity values make for very hazardous fire dangers! Impacts could include … Rapid spread of wildfires due to very strong southwesterly winds and low relative humidity values. A Red Flag Warning means that extreme fire weather conditions are either occurring now, or will shortly. A combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry vegetation can contribute to extreme fire behavior. Avoid all outside burning and welding today. Do not toss lit cigarette butts outside. Report wild fires to the nearest fire department or law enforcement office.
The National Weather Service of Ft. Worth has also issue a Wind Advisory for Eastern North Texas and portions of Central Texas for Friday, March 14, 2025, from 7:00am to 7:00pm. We are expecting Southwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph.
Stay tuned for further updates…
Lawsuit Claims Girl Scout Cookies Contain Toxic Chemicals
March 13, 2025 – The Girl Scouts of the USA are facing a lawsuit after a viral study claimed that their popular cookies contain toxic contaminants, including heavy metals and the herbicide glyphosate. The lawsuit, filed by consumer advocacy groups, alleges that the organization misled customers by failing to disclose the presence of potentially harmful substances in their cookies. The controversy erupted after independent lab testing reportedly found traces of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, along with glyphosate, a widely used weed killer that has been linked to health risks.
The lawsuit argues that these contaminants pose potential health concerns, particularly for children, who are the primary consumers of Girl Scout cookies. While the levels of these substances in the cookies have not been deemed immediately dangerous, consumer groups claim that long-term exposure could be harmful.
In response, the Girl Scouts and their cookie manufacturers have defended their products, stating that they meet all federal safety regulations and undergo rigorous testing. However, the lawsuit has sparked concerns among parents and consumers, prompting calls for greater transparency in ingredient sourcing and testing. As the legal battle unfolds, it could have lasting effects on the iconic cookie brand and the future of its fundraising efforts.
Murray Awaits Bond to Be Set in Shooting Incident
March 13, 2025 – Sulphur Springs police were dispatched at about 3pm Wednesday afternoon, March 12, 2025 to a report of shots fired at the Spring Valley Apartments and were told that a man had been shot in the leg. Officers located the victim and administered aid and began to gather information about the incident. Witnesses identified the shooter as 51-year-old Turon Jenard Murray, who had reportedly left the scene in his girlfriend’s car. Murray was located on Beckham Street and arrested for 2nd degree felony Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and 3rd degree felony Possession of a Firearm by a felon. The condition of the victim is not known. Murray remains in the Hopkins County Jail awaiting bond to be set in the matter.
Sulphur Springs City Wide Spring Clean Up 2025 is April 28th Through May 3rd
February 11, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs City-wide Spring Clean Up 2025 event is scheduled to take place April 28, 2025 through May, 3, 2025. One must show a valid driver’s license, or a water bill, as proof of city residency. Certain trash such as tires, hazardous waste, anything containing refrigerant, and wet paint, will not be accepted. The dumpsite location is a half a mile East of the four way stop at Jefferson Street and Loop 301. Happy cleaning!
2025 Crawfish Season Outlook
March 12, 2025 – The 2025 crawfish season in Louisiana and Texas is shaping up to be a strong one, offering relief to farmers and seafood lovers after the drought-stricken 2024 season. Crawfish farmers are optimistic about improved yields, thanks to better water conditions and more favorable weather patterns. The drought in 2024 led to lower crawfish populations and higher prices, making it a difficult year for both producers and consumers.
The annual Claws for a Cause Crawfish Boil, sponsored by the Sulphur Springs Rotary Club, will be held April 26.
With water levels returning to normal and temperatures warming, experts predict a more abundant harvest, which could lead to lower prices and a more accessible supply across restaurants, seafood markets, and backyard boils. Louisiana, the heart of the crawfish industry, is expected to see particularly strong yields, with Texas also benefiting from improved conditions.
Farmers and seafood vendors are preparing for increased demand, as a plentiful season often brings larger crawfish and better quality. Many in the industry are hopeful that this rebound will help compensate for last year’s struggles, providing both economic benefits and an opportunity for more people to enjoy this beloved regional delicacy. As the season progresses, consumers can look forward to fresh, affordable crawfish on their plates, making 2025 a much-anticipated year for crawfish enthusiasts.
USDA Will Reinstate Recently Cut Probationary Workers
March 11, 2025 – The Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) had ordered the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to temporarily reinstate fired probationary employees by Wednesday, and the agency confirmed in a statement that it would comply with the deadline. The MSPB, which oversees federal employment disputes, issued the directive after reviewing cases involving probationary employees who were dismissed by President Trump’s federal workforce cuts.
“By Wednesday, March 12, the Department will place all terminated probationary employees in pay status and provide each with back pay, from the date of termination,” the statement said.
Probationary employees in federal agencies typically have fewer rights than tenured employees, but they can challenge terminations under certain conditions, such as if the firing was based on prohibited personnel practices. The board’s decision signals that there may have been concerns about due process or fairness in these terminations.
The USDA’s compliance with the order means the affected employees will be reinstated while further proceedings take place. This temporary reinstatement does not necessarily indicate a final decision in their favor but allows them to continue working while their cases are fully reviewed. The situation highlights ongoing tensions over federal employment policies and workers’ rights within government agencies.
Federal agencies are required this week to submit plans to further reduce staffing.
Greg Abbott Calls On Texans To Support School Choice At Parent Empowerment Day In Austin
March 11, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott recently highlighted the widespread support for a universal school choice bill for all Texas families at Parent Empowerment Day at the Texas Public Policy Foundation in Austin. As the Texas House Public Education Committee began taking public testimony on House Bill 3, the Governor urged all Texans to voice their support and testify for school choice.
“If you look at opponents of school choice, they have a single goal: they want more money,” said Governor Abbott. “More money is not a goal. It’s a means to an end. Our goal is bigger, bolder, and better. Our goal is to put Texas on a pathway to ranking No. 1 in educating our kids. What matters more than a high-paid lobbyist are parents and children who want the best for their future. It’s essential that you show up to the committee hearing and register your support in favor of school choice. When you do that today, I can assure you that you have done your part, and we will succeed in delivering school choice for every parent and every child.”
During his remarks to a standing-room crowd and overflow room of over 300 parents and students, Governor Abbott lauded Speaker Dustin Burrows for his continued support for school choice—the first Speaker to push for school choice in Texas history. The Governor also debunked the lies about the impact of school choice in Texas, including that an overwhelming majority of Texans from every demographic and region support school choice; public education will be fully funded; and parents who homeschool their children will have control over their curriculum. Additionally, Governor Abbott pledged that with a school choice program, Texas will be put on a pathway to becoming the No. 1 state in the nation for educating students.
The Governor was joined by Speaker Burrows; Representatives Daniel Alders, Paul Dyson, Caroline Harris Davila, Cole Hefner, Hillary Hickland, Carrie Isaac, Mike Olcott, Nate Schatzline, Shelby Slawson, Valoree Swanson, and Steve Toth; and students and parents from across the state who support school choice.
In his 2025 State of the State Address last month, Governor Abbott declared school choice as an emergency item this legislative session.
Measles Continues to Spread Especially in Unvaccinated Children
March 12, 2025 – A measles outbreak in western Texas has surged to 223 confirmed cases, with the majority affecting children and teenagers, health officials reported on Tuesday. The outbreak, which has also spread to neighboring Oklahoma and New Mexico, primarily involves unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, 80 of the confirmed cases are in unvaccinated individuals, while 138 cases involve people whose vaccination status is unknown.
In 2013, roughly 7.5% of kindergartners in the county had parents or guardians who filed for an exemption for at least one vaccine. Ten years later, that number rose to more than 17.5% — one of the highest in all of Texas, according to state health data.
Measles, a highly contagious virus, can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and encephalitis. At least 29 individuals have been hospitalized due to the outbreak, raising concerns about the strain on healthcare resources. Health experts emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles, urging parents and guardians to ensure their children receive the recommended immunizations.
Officials are working to contain the outbreak by promoting vaccination efforts and increasing public awareness. The rapid rise in cases highlights the risks of low immunization rates, particularly in communities with vaccine hesitancy. As the situation develops, health authorities continue to monitor and respond to the outbreak to prevent further spread.
Experts in Public Health and Epidemiology expect an even larger surge in cases following Spring Break Activities.
Learn About the Mardi Gras/St. Patrick’s Day Party and More at the Senior Center 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 Dawna Pryor, Coordinator at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center. John Mark and Dawna talked about the Mardi Gras/St. Patrick’s Day Party and Parade taking place March 14th at the Senior Center. The two also discussed the water color painting classes held at the Senior Citizens Center, crochet classes, the screening of Wicked in April, and so much more. Be sure to check out this segment of A Second Cup Of Coffee and learn what the Senior Citizens Center has in store for you!
Children’s Museum to Hold Annual Silent Auction & Market
March 11, 2025 – Major Fundraiser for Northeast Texas Children’s Museum
March 11, 2025 (COMMERCE, TEXAS) – The Board of Directors of the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum is pleased to announce the ninth annual Silent Auction & Market, to be held Monday, March 31, 2025 in the Sam Rayburn Student Center on the campus of Texas A&M University-Commerce. The bidding will begin at 5:30 pm and close at 7:30 pm.
Guests at the auction will find all kinds of items for bidding while enjoying a fun and festive evening out with friends and neighbors. This year’s event will also include trips for bidding from Travel for Goooooood. All for Goooooood will also provide jewelry, culinary items, and sports memorabilia for bidding. Working with outside vendors will provide new and exciting items for the auction. This year’s event is chaired by Becky Adams, and Bonnie Hunter.
In addition, an assortment of baked goods and other culinary delights will be available for purchase at the Market. The Market Co -Chairwoman, Kay Hatfield, said, “The Market will have such a variety of baked goods. We will have hot sauce, fried pies, candy, and snacks. ” Brenda Estes is also co-chairing the Market. The Market is sponsored by Charles Schwab, Greenville.
“Our most ambitious fundraiser to date, the Silent Auction & Market generates monies that directly impact the children of our region by supporting one of our area’s greatest treasures.” said Board President Bonnie Hunter.
- Tickets are available now for just a $5 donation and can be purchased at the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum, online, from any board member or at the door.
Raffle tickets are also on sale for $5.00 each or 5 for $20.00. This year’s prizes are sponsored by Alliance Bank, Cypress Bank, Guaranty Bank & Trust and State Farm Insurance and consist of a $500 Visa Gift Card, and two $250 Visa Gift Card.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the Museum and will directly impact the lives of its young visitors. Each day at the Museum, hands-on, creative play inspires our youth to discover their place in the world in which they live. Because of the generosity of our community, even more innovative experiences to foster curiosity and ingenuity can be provided in the future.
Call 903.886.6055 for more information, or if you would like to donate an item for the auction.
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