Your Sulphur Springs Wildcats Competed Against Greenville in Their Homecoming Game September 5th, 2025
September 8, 2025 – Kyler Vandelaar and Lucy McKenzie were crowned Homecoming Princesses and Emma Boatman was crowned the Wildcats 2025 Homecoming Queen in festivities held before the football game September 5th, 2025. After the celebration the Wildcats gave it their all and took on the Greenville Lions in a fierce Homecoming football competition. It was an exciting game and everyone was ready to keep the exciting competition going after a half-time break, but mother nature had other plans. At halftime the game was cancelled due to the threat of bad weather. Check out the exciting game below and find out who came out ahead in the end!
Governor Abbott Signs Texas Summer Camp Safety Bills Into Law
September 5, 2025 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott recently signed House Bill 1 (the Youth CAMPER Act), Senate Bill 1 (the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act), and Senate Bill 3 at the Governor’s Mansion to enhance safety measures at Texas summer camps and better protect Texans from catastrophic flooding events.
“As camper parents, Cecilia and I know the powerful role that camps can play in the lives of our children,” said Governor Abbott. “We know the anxious anticipation to see your child again after dropping her off at camp. Every child who goes to camp should come home to their families, and no parent should ever have to outlive their child or endure this kind of loss. Today we are doing more than just changing campgrounds in Texas, we are changing the future for our children.”
The Governor was joined by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, Senator Charles Perry, Representative Drew Darby, the Heaven’s 27 families, and other state officials.
During his remarks, Governor Abbott stressed the importance of the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act and the CAMPER Act, which together require camps to install and maintain emergency systems, train staff on evacuation procedures and establish a Youth Camp Safety team to ensure the safety of Texas children at camp. The Governor stressed the powerful role camps play in the lives of children and the profound impact they have on their upbringing. Following the event, The Governor and First Lady privately met with families to offer their continued support.
Additional photos of the event will be provided here when available.
House Bill 1 (Darby/Perry) the Youth Camp Alert, Mitigation, Preparedness, and Emergency Response (Youth CAMPER) Act, requires youth camps to adopt and annually update emergency plans, train staff, orient campers, notify parents of floodplain risks with signed acknowledgment, and share plans with local emergency services. The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is authorized to enforce compliance through inspections, complaint investigations, and license suspension or denial.
Senate Bill 1 (Perry/Darby) known as the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act, prohibits DSHS from licensing youth camps with cabins in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-designated floodplains (with limited exceptions), requires annual emergency training and planning, creates an online registry of licensed youth camps, and extends safety standards to campgrounds and recreational vehicle parks.
Senate Bill 3 (Bettencourt/Wilson) creates a grant program at the Office of the Governor to offer financial support to cities, counties, and other government entities for the installation of early-warning sirens in areas prone to flash-flooding.
Structure Fire Contained at North Hopkins ISD Field House
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 6, 2025 – North Hopkins, TX – At approximately 16:01 hours on September 6, 2025, emergency crews responded to a structure fire at the Field House located on the campus of the North Hopkins Independent School District. Upon arrival, the building was reported by be fully engulfed in smoke with active fire present. Deputies from the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office and multiple fire departments arrived on scene. Fortunately, no one was inside the building at the time of the incident. Fire crews were able to quickly contain the fire to a small section of the locker room area. The structure sustained medium fire damage to a corner of the building and light to medium smoke damage throughout. No damage was reported to any outlying equipment. The following agencies responded to the scene:
- Hopkins County Fire Department
- North Hopkins Volunteer Fire Department
- Dike Volunteer Fire Department
- Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office
Brinker and Cumby Volunteer Fire Departments were dispatched but were disregarded prior to arrival. No injuries were reported, and the situation was brought under control without further incident. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
For more information, contact:
Andy Endsley
Hopkins County Fire Marshall
Hopkins County Fire Department
Paris District Road Report for September 8, 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 September 8, 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 were converted to one-way traffic on Tuesday, May 27th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121. 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. 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. All other sections of frontage roads in the Van Alstyne area will be converted to one-way traffic.
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. Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane.
The westbound SH 91 access to US 75 northbound frontage road will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. Northbound motorists intending to access eastbound SH91 will need to take the N. Travis St Exit (Exit 60), follow the frontage road to Taylor St, turn right and follow Taylor St to SH91. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The southbound frontage road to northbound frontage road U-Turn at SH 91 will be closed to facilitate the next phase of construction in this area. US 75 Southbound frontage road motorists intending to access the US 75 northbound frontage road will need to continue to N. Travis St, and utilize the U-Turn at Travis St. A detour sign will be posted to guide traffic.
The US 75 northbound exit to SH-91 will be closed to facilitate the construction of the ultimate ramp connection. Motorists intending to access SH-91 will be required to take Exit 60 for N. Travis Street/Taylor Street. Detour signs will be posted along the frontage road at N. Travis Street, Taylor Street, and N Loy Lake intersections.
Northbound & Southbound lanes of Taylor St. from US 82 to N. Travis S will be closed from September 7 to September 8 from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM for bridge removal.
US 75 southbound frontage road at US 82 entrance ramp to southbound US 75 will be closed from September 7 to September 8 from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
US 75 southbound frontage road at Lamberth Rd entrance ramp to southbound US 75 will be closed from September 7 to September 8 from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
The US 75 northbound and southbound main lanes from Travis St. to Loy Lake Rd. will have alternate lane closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from September 02 to September 30 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
The US 75 northbound and southbound frontage road from Travis St. to Loy Lake Rd. will have alternate lane closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from September 02 to September 30 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM.
Eastbound & westbound frontage road from Loy Lake Rd to Travis St. will have alternate lane closures for mobile operations. This is a moving lane closure that will last for short duration at each location. This closure is scheduled from September 02 to September 30 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
US 75 Northbound mainlanes from Taylor St. to north of US 82, right shoulder will be closed from September 3 to September 30 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM to install high mast.
US 75 Northbound mainlanes from Taylor St. to north of US 82, right shoulder will be closed from September 3 to September 30 from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM to install high mast.
Eastbound mainlanes from Travis to Loy Lake Rd, right shoulder will be closed from September 02 to September 30 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM to install high mast.
US 75 southbound mainlanes from Loy Lake (Town Center) to Lamberth Rd will have full nightly closures from September 15 to September 17 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM for deck concrete pouring.
Southbound main lanes of US 75, beginning at Exit 63 (US 82). The closures are scheduled to begin nightly from 8:00 p.m. on September 22, 2025, until 5:00 a.m. on September 23, 2025. And repeated nightly until on the night of the September 23rd and September 24th. These closures are due to the paving of the new US 82 overpass bridge.
US 75 northbound exit to Lamberth Rd will be closed beginning August 20 to allow construction of the frontage road and intersection south of exit. Drivers can take exit 60 or go north and make a U-turn at US 82.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to October 20 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
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. The new signal light at the SH 289 and FM 902 intersection was activated on Thursday, May 29. The signal has started normal operation, and drivers should pay attention to this new signal as they approach the intersection.
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 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.
Contractor will start paving on the week of September 08. Temporary traffic signal will be installed on the north and south ends of the project and traffic will be reduced to one lane. There will be pilot car to guide traffic through the work zone. Drivers should expect delay and slow down in 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.
US 69 from SH 56 to FM 151, Contractor will be performing flexible pavement repair work at various locations where there is pavement failure. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor will close the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The bridge will be closed on August 04, 2025. 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.
SH 160, from Whitewright to Collin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from SH 289 to FM 1417. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform milling ang seal coat preparation 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 is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 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 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 shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
FM 904 from FM 1550 to FM 64. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform fog seal operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1550, from SH 34 to FM 824. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform fog seal operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from FM 1753 to FM 898. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform fog seal operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 897, from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform fog seal 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 rehabbing the existing road. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. 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:
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.
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.
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 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 will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. Contractor will be installing milled rumble strips and pavement markings. 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 performing striping and seeding ROW. 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 installing storm sewer. Contractor is now in Phase 2 of the project. 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 will be performing seal coat this 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 is working on drainage structures and leveling up shoulders. 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 base repairs. 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 in place. Expect night and day single lane closures Monday (9/8) through Friday morning (9/12). Lane closures both EB and WB. Contractor will perform traffic switch at FM 1903 on Sunday (night 9/7). Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. FM 36 Exit Ramp is now opened. 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 1566. Crew will be performing bridge 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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New Grant Supports the use of Trees and Forestry in Watershed Protection Plans
September 4, 2025 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service is now accepting applications for the Watershed Protection Plan Implementation grant, aiding communities in implementing active watershed protection plans.
The grant will support up to 15 grants over five years to implement tree and forestry components of watershed protection plans previously approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality or the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board.
Applications for the grant will be accepted through Nov. 30, 2025.
Eligible entities include municipalities, public utility districts, state agencies, non-profit organizations, non-governmental organizations, tribal entities and community-based organizations.
A watershed protection plan is a framework for implementing integrated water quality protection and restoration strategies driven by environmental objectives.
“Watershed protection plans are critical for communities and ecosystems as they protect drinking water sources, manage flood risks and promote sustainable development,” said Karl Flocke, Texas A&M Forest Service Water Resources Program Leader. “Watershed protection planning is locally driven, and this grant will help fund the necessary steps for communities to enact their plans.”
Applicants must provide nature-based solutions that increase the strategically placed tree cover and protect water quality while increasing access to urban tree canopy and associated health, environmental and economic benefits.
Explore the eligibility map and apply for the Watershed Protection Plan Implementation grant: https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/grants-financial-assistance/community-grants-and-programs/watershed-protection-plan-implementation-grants/.
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Chamber Connection – September 3, 2025
By Butch Burney
The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce is partnering with two other entities to bring you a free Leadership Seminar as part of our extended Lunch and Learn series.
The seminar, to be held at the Sulphur Springs Country Club from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18, will feature George Manning, Professor of Psychology and Business at Northern Kentucky University, who brings decades of expertise as an acclaimed author, consultant, and public speaker on leadership, workplace dynamics, and human behavior.
The workshop is funded by a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant, so there is no charge for the training materials or lunch.
To register, click on the link on our Facebook or Instagram post or call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Business executives, managers, and emerging leaders will all benefit from the program.
56th Annual Stew Contest
We are looking forward to a fantastic 56th Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest, with title sponsor Alliance Bank, on Oct. 25, and it’s time for stew cooks to start registering.
Registration for last year’s cooks has been sent, and new and returning cooks can also register online at HopkinsChamber.org.
We are keeping the registration fee the same as in past years at $100 per stew site, with the sponsor asked to provide $150 to each cooking team for ingredients.
If you have been a Stew Cook in the past, we look forward to seeing you again and tasting your delicious stew. If you have won the contest in the past, you are eligible to enter the Super Stew competition.
Each returning stew team will have the option of keeping their 2024 site. These sites will be reserved until Friday, September 26, and then on Monday, September 29, the “unclaimed” stew sites will be open to “new cooks” and to returning cooks who would like a new site location. After Sept. 26, all sites will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. As in 2024, we will have sites open on both the north and the south side of Connally Street, where we will have a serving tent and market vendors.
Join us for the biggest event in Hopkins County!
Stew Tickets
Thanks to our generous sponsors, we are able to keep tickets prices for the Stew Contest on Oct. 25 the same as the last several years — $8 for adults and teenagers, and free for all children 12 years and under!
Tickets are on sale at the Chamber office, all of our local lending institutions, and online at HopkinsChamber.org.
Signature Solar is providing the Kids Eat Free sponsorship, so thanks to them for being such a great community partner.
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 begins on Sept. 15 and windows will be judged on Oct. 15.
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!
Coffee and Conversation
Join us for our main networking monthly event when Gary’s Termite and Pest Control hosts our Coffee and Conversation on Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Chamber office, 110 Main Street.
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 cocktails, snacks and great conversation.
Ribbon Cutting
Hopkins County United Way will host a ribbon cutting on the downtown Plaza at noon on Friday, Sept. 12. Please join us for this event.
Texas Shrimping Industry Under Siege — New Law Aims to Shore It Up
September 4, 2025 – Texas’s once-thriving shrimping industry is facing collapse, largely due to a flood of cheaper imported shrimp. Once accounting for 50% of the U.S. supply in the 1990s, Texas now contributes just around 4%, with the number of licensed shrimpers plummeting 60% over the past 25 years to fewer than 1,000 active vessels. Many shrimpers receive as little as $1 per pound, despite retail prices reaching $10–12, undercutting their livelihoods and threatening a generational way of life.
To combat this, the state passed Senate Bill 823, which takes effect September 1, 2025, requiring wholesalers, distributors, and restaurants to clearly label shrimp as imported when they are not from Texas. The law also bans the misrepresentation of imported shrimp as “Texas,” “Gulf,” “American,” or “Domestic.” State and local health authorities are empowered to enforce these rules with administrative penalties.
Shrimping advocates herald this legislation as a vital first step. Industry stakeholders hope that transparent labeling will help level the playing field and reconnect consumers with authentic Texas shrimp. While it’s an important move, many say deeper reforms and federal support may be needed to sustain the industry for future generations.
ERCOT Can Now Cut Power to Data Centers
August 3, 2025 – A new Texas law, Senate Bill 6, took effect Monday, giving the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) expanded authority to protect the state’s power grid during high-demand emergencies. The measure specifically targets large-scale electricity users—such as cryptocurrency mining operations, data centers, and heavy industrial plants—that consume at least 75 megawatts (MW) of power, roughly equal to the demand of 19,000 homes.
Under the law, these major users must be “curtailment-ready” as a condition of connecting to the Texas grid. That means ERCOT can order them to temporarily shut down operations or switch to backup power sources when extreme heat, cold, or other demand surges threaten grid reliability. The move comes after years of concern about crypto mining and other energy-intensive industries adding stress to a grid already strained during peak weather events.
The new rules apply to any large loads connecting to the grid after Dec. 31, 2025. Existing facilities are exempt, as are critical services such as hospitals and natural gas infrastructure.
Supporters say the law strikes a balance by allowing businesses to operate while ensuring they do not compromise grid stability for millions of Texans. By requiring backup systems or shutdown capabilities, the state hopes to avoid rolling blackouts like those seen in February 2021. Industry operators, however, have raised concerns about costs and potential disruptions to business models.
Move Over for Animal Control Vehicles
August 3, 2025 – Starting September 1, 2025, Texas drivers will need to adjust their habits behind the wheel as the state’s “Move Over, Slow Down” law expands to include animal control vehicles and officers. The law, originally enacted in 2003, was designed to protect emergency responders by requiring drivers to either change lanes or reduce their speed when approaching certain stopped vehicles with flashing lights, such as police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks, and TxDOT vehicles.
Now, animal control officers—who often work roadside responding to loose, injured, or aggressive animals—will be afforded the same protection. Supporters of the expansion say the measure was overdue, given the risks these officers face when performing duties near highways and busy streets. Stopping to assist an animal can put them in close proximity to fast-moving traffic, creating dangerous situations.
Under the law, drivers must move at least one lane away from stopped animal control vehicles displaying flashing lights, or if that isn’t possible, reduce speed by 20 miles per hour below the posted limit. Failure to comply can result in fines up to $200, or as high as $500 if property damage occurs. Violations causing injury can lead to Class B misdemeanor charges.
Paxton Wants Prayer Back in Public School
August 3, 2025 – Attorney General Ken Paxton is urging Texas schools to take immediate steps toward reinstating prayer in the classroom, following the passage of Senate Bill 11, which officially went into effect on September 1, 2025. The new law authorizes school boards to adopt policies creating designated time for voluntary prayer and the reading of scripture in public schools.
In a public statement, Paxton emphasized the importance of faith in education and society, declaring, “In Texas classrooms, we want the Word of God opened, the Ten Commandments displayed, and prayers lifted up.” He argued that the spiritual and moral foundation of America is rooted in biblical principles and warned against what he described as attempts by the political left to erase those values.
Senate Bill 11 requires each independent school district’s board of trustees to hold a recorded vote on adopting prayer or scripture-reading policies within six months of the law’s enactment. Participation by students will remain voluntary and subject to parental consent, ensuring compliance with existing protections of religious freedom and individual choice.
The bill further directs the Office of the Attorney General to provide legal defense for any district or charter school that adopts such policies. Paxton also has authority to recommend best practices for implementation. As part of his guidance, Paxton encouraged Texas students to begin these moments of prayer with the Lord’s Prayer, a cornerstone of Christian teaching, while reminding communities that the opportunity is open for voluntary reflection according to individual faith traditions.
