Celebrate Texas State Parks Day with Free Admission Nov. 2
Oct. 27, 2025 – AUSTIN — Have you always wanted to visit a state park but never been? Make plans to visit one of 89 Texas State Parks on Nov. 2! In honor of Texas State Parks Day, a tradition born from 2023’s centennial celebration, everyone can visit a state park for the day for free.
“We hope that Texas State Parks Day will inspire all Texans to get outside and explore what our great state has to offer,” said Rodney Franklin, State Parks Division Director. “We encourage you to spend time with family and discover what makes our state parks so special.”
With parks located in almost every corner of the state, visitors can explore a range of different places as varied as Texas. During Texas State Parks Day, guests can enjoy day-use activities such as wildlife watching, walking or hiking, park programs, biking, swimming, paddleboarding and many more. Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for activities and events in a park near you.
Ahead of Veterans Day on Nov. 11, Texas State Parks reminds visitors of Parkland Passports available to veterans, active duty and Gold Star family members. These passports are available at no cost and grant the cardholder free entry to all Texas State Parks.
“Texas Parks and Wildlife and state parks join everyone in expressing our appreciation to veterans and the service men and women of our military,” said Franklin.” We thank you all for your service and hope you enjoy the cooler fall weather and beautiful colors in one of Texas’ state parks!”
Reservations are recommended and can be made online. Parks will operate as they normally do and will limit admissions based on park capacity. All other fees will still apply on that day.
The SSHS Wildcats Traveled to Nevada, Texas, October 23rd to Play Football With the Community Braves
October 26, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs, Texas, High School Wildcats traveled to Nevada, Texas, October 23rd, 2025, to play football with the Community Braves. This is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this game. KSST’s Sports Director, John Mark Dempsey, called Play by Play, and Tony Flipping provided Color Commentary. Be sure to check out this exciting game and find out how your Wildcats did playing football on a Thursday instead of a Friday night. The game was moved to Thursday due to the chance of storms.
Does Texas Really Need Another Chicken Joint? Here Comes Bojangles
October 26, 2025 – The fast-growing Southern fried-chicken and biscuits chain Bojangles is firmly setting its sights on Texas — and some residents are asking: do we really need another chicken joint?
Bojangles recently announced multiple Texas expansion moves, including key openings in the Houston area (notably in Spring, Texas) and a planned debut in the Dallas–Fort Worth suburbs.
Chicken is cheaper for restaurants than beef because it costs less to produce, but restaurant prices vary depending on the establishment, with some charging the same for chicken and beef while others price chicken products lower. Restaurants are adding more chicken options due to rising beef prices, which are driven by higher feed and cattle production costs.
One franchise deal in particular targets the city of Seguin, Texas via a “travel-center” format, part of a larger multi-unit development agreement.
Texas is already home to hundreds of chicken-focused restaurants, leading some critics to question whether Bojangles’ growth will simply cannibalize existing brands rather than fill an underserved niche. Proponents argue Bojangles brings a unique Southern-flavored menu with biscuits, Cajun‐seasoned chicken and sides not typically found at every chain. The brand also touts strong franchise momentum in Texas, with plans for dozens more stores by 2026.
Whether locals will flock or shrug remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: Texas’ chicken wars are heating up, and Bojangles wants to be front and center in the fight.
Here are the Texas Cities recently slated to get Bojangles Chicken:
Seguin, Texas — site of a travel‐center format Bojangles deal.
Spring, Texas — Houston‐area location opening in early 2025.
League City, Texas — another Houston‐suburb slated for Bojangles.
Orange, Texas — part of the chain’s broader Texas expansion.
McKinney, Texas — Dallas‐area market confirmed for 2025 Bojangles.
Manor, Texas — Austin‐area suburb included for geographic context of Texas coverage.
There are currently 17 Texas locations including Baytown, Bedford, Cypress, Euless, Fort Worth, Frisco, Lancaster, League City, Lewisville, Lorena, Orange, Richmond, San Antonio, Spring, Tomball, Webster, and Wylie.
Master Gardeners at Work! By Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
October 21, 2025 – Last week the Hopkins County Extension Office received a phone call from a Sulphur Springs resident who was concerned about the condition of the lawn, as well as information on how to move and re-plant a shrub that had overgrown its space.
Mario Villarino called me and asked if I could go by and talk with the homeowner, so my wife Charlotte and I did just that. The homeowner had moved to Sulphur Springs about 3 years ago from out-of- state, and from a climate that is humid, receives regular rainfall, and is similar to the climate in Houston. The Hopkins County climate is very different than Houston’s, and can be challenging to our newcomers!
Upon driving up to the property, it was obvious to us both that the lawn needed water. This is not surprising, since there has been a lack of meaningful rainfall in Hopkins County for several weeks. We recommended a morning watering program of at least 1 inch per week until the fall rains arrive. The landscape also included a couple of flowerbeds that also would benefit from a good soaking of water.
Along with our recommendation for watering, we strongly recommended mulching these flowerbeds, as bare soil (and the accompanying weeds) was visible. We then explained what mulch is and how it works to benefit both the soil and the plants.
There was a large lilac (Texas??) that had grown so large that it completely blocked the window next to the front door. The resident wanted to move the shrub to a different location where it could grow and flourish. We recommended not moving the plant at this time, but wait until January when the plant would be dormant. With our first frosts and freezes coming soon, pruning, digging, and transplanting now would probably not be successful, as the plant will not have time to develop a root system strong enough for surviving the winter’s cold temperatures.Before we left, I gave the homeowner a soil test bag along with the printed instructions, as well as an invitation to come sample a Master Gardener meeting. The Texas A&M Extension Master Gardener program is about education (both for MGs and the public), and sharing knowledge with those people interested in gardening. Our meetings are the 4th Thursday of each month at 10am at the Extension Office, 1200B Houston St.
LOOK, BUT DON’T TOUCH!! By Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
October 26, 2025 – This plant has some of the most vivid, striking, and attractive fall foliage! I have never seen it for sale at any nursery or garden center, and I have never heard of anyone planting or cultivating it, but it thrives in Hopkins County without any help from gardeners! Found in shady areas, it is perennial, and a member of the pistachio and cashew family. Toxicodendron radicans is its scientific name, and it is native to Asia and North America.
All parts of the plant contain urushiol, a powerful skin irritant. Even dead, dry leaves and vines contain the “poison”, and will harm unprotected skin.
Enjoy the fall color, but be aware of its’ itchy, oozing red rash and blistering consequences of touching!
Paris District Road Report for October 27, 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 27, 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.
Grayson County:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. 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 & other remaining works. 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 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on October 23. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Blythe Rd to Hanning St. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is completed, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to 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-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, from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. 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 northbound main lanes from Travis St. to US 82 will be closed each night from November 4 to November 6 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This will be a full closure to install bridge girders.
US 75 southbound main lanes from US 82 to Travis St. will be closed each night from November 2 to November 4 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This will be full closure to install bridge girders.
US 75 southbound main lanes from US 82 to Travis St. will be closed each night from November 6 to November 7 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This will be full closure to install bridge deck panels.
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.
US 377 from Whitesboro and Tioga. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation on the roadway surface and tree trimming/removal in the right of way. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56 from Southmayd to Whitesboro. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform level up/seal coat preparation work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69/SH 160 from County line to Bells. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform tree trimming and removal operations on the sides of the road. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and/or 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.
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 be working the ditches to establish drainage. Watch for construction equipment near the work area.
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.
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 2736. 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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HC Health Care Foundation’s “Celebrate ‘the girls’” Champions Breast Cancer
October 22, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – The Foundation’s breast health party, affectionately titled “Celebrate ‘the girls’”, was an incredible evening of laughter, friendship, and breast health education for the public! Women from all walks of life united in the spirit of wellness and community, with the ladies of the Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support Group serving as hosts.
The event is expected to become an annual tradition during Breast Cancer Awareness Month,
spotlighting prevention and demonstrating through survivors that there is life beyond a cancer
diagnosis.
Attendees learned how to identify breast lumps by touch and perform self-exams using a prosthetic breast model. Johanna Hicks, a breast cancer survivor and support group member, led the demonstration and shared her diagnosis story with the crowd.
Stefany Walton, mammogram technician at the Ruth and Jack Gillis Women’s Center, guided partygoers through a virtual tour of the spa-like facility, describing the steps of getting a mammogram and showing the advanced imaging equipment used. She emphasized that individuals who undergo preventative screenings and detect cancer early have a 99% survival rate.
Kristi Brewer, chair of the Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support Group, co-led the program and kept energy levels high with fun, feminine door prizes throughout the night. Kristi and her mother-in-law, Jo Beth Brewer, were instrumental in the Foundation starting the support group, which celebrates its first anniversary this November. Meetings are held at 5:30 p.m. on the second Monday of every month at the Medical Plaza, 113 Airport Rd.
The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has expanded local healthcare
initiatives in Hopkins County since 1997. The Foundation offers free programs, educational
resources, and clinics while also funding equipment, construction, and programs for the local nonprofit hospital
CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs and State special district the Hopkins County
Hospital District. For more information, follow the Foundation on social media, email
[email protected], or call 903-438-4799.
Photo 1: Pink boas fashionably set the members of the Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support
Group apart from partygoers. The Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support Group meets the
second Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the Medical Plaza, 113 Airport Rd. Group chair,
Kristi Brewer, helps organize and welcomes women who have or have had cancer of any kind.
Photo 2: In a powerful moment, a majority of the room raised their hands when support group member Vickie Pickel asked all breast cancer survivors whose cancer was detected through a mammogram to identify themselves—highlighting the life-saving impact of preventative screenings.
Photo 3: Johanna Hicks (left) used a prosthetic breast model to teach ladies how to perform self-exams and how to identify lumps by touch. Sarah England (right) listens to instructions while feeling for lumps within the model.
Photo 4: Guests enjoyed delicious refreshments provided by Carolyn McKinney and Kim Sellers at the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s breast health awareness event.
Photo 5: Team members from Brian Toliver Ford Lincoln posed for a fun group photo at the Foundation’s event backdrop. Pictured left to right are Natalie Hightower, Kimberly Miller, Laura Nunez, Missy Overly, Lou Box, and Christian Dicus.
Weekend Weather Outlook for Hopkins County
Daily Forecast:
- Friday, October 24: Low: 60°F (16°C), High: 78°F (25°C), Description: Breezy this morning; cloudy with a couple of thunderstorms; storms can bring flooding downpours and localized damaging wind gusts
- Saturday, October 25: Low: 59°F (15°C), High: 72°F (22°C), Description: Periods of rain and a thunderstorm; storms can bring flooding downpours and localized damaging wind gusts
Here’s your forecast and event update for the weekend in Hopkins County, Texas, including the big stew-contest event:
Weather Outlook
- Today (Friday): Conditions will be mostly cloudy and breezy, with possible thunderstorms this morning. The high is expected around 78°F, dropping to about 60°F overnight. Storms could bring localized flooding and strong wind gusts, so caution is advised.
- Saturday: Rain and possible thunderstorms remain on the forecast, with the high expected to drop to 72°F. The low overnight is forecast near 59°F. The threat of downpours and gusty winds persists — not ideal weather, but manageable for outdoor plans if you’re prepared.
Event Highlight: World Champion Hopkins County Stew Contest
The annual World Champion Hopkins County Stew Contest takes place this Saturday in Sulphur Springs (Buford Park). It’s the 4th Saturday in October tradition: teams cook chicken or beef stew over open wood fires in large cast-iron pots, and for an $8 ticket (kids 12 & under often free) attendees can sample all they like.
Contestants begin prepping early, judging opens around 10:30 a.m., and serving begins shortly after. With typical attendance in the thousands and over 150 teams competing, it’s one of the largest events in Hopkins County.
Weekend Tips
- Bring a rain jacket or umbrella for Saturday — the cleanup from storms today could mean muddy or slick ground in the stew contest area.
- Dress in layers: cooler temps Saturday morning and a chance of rain mean you’ll want something warm and water-resistant.
- Arrive early at the stew fest before the rain peaks, to avoid heavy showers or delays.
- Keep an eye on changing weather conditions if you’re attending the outdoor event — storms can be fast-moving.
It’s shaping up to be a flavorful weekend — just be weather-wise to make the most of it!
Commissioner Sid Miller Outlines Five-Point Beef Policy to Support U.S. Consumers and Producers
AUSTIN, Texas (October 23, 2025) — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller unveiled a detailed five-point plan Thursday aimed at rebuilding America’s cattle herd, reducing beef prices at the grocery store, and protecting U.S. ranchers from what he described as “failed Biden administration policies.”
Miller’s proposal follows a new U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) plan introduced this week under President Donald Trump’s administration and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins. While Miller said he welcomes the USDA’s initiative, he urged the administration to take additional steps to strengthen the nation’s beef industry and lower consumer prices.
“The plan released yesterday by the USDA is a good start,” Miller said. “But as Agriculture Commissioner of our nation’s largest beef-producing state — and a rancher myself — I believe more can be done to help rebuild our national herd and support both producers and consumers.”
Miller’s five key recommendations include:
- Avoid Reliance on Lower-Quality Argentinian Beef Imports — Miller argues that additional imports from Argentina will only affect low-grade hamburger meat and do little to support U.S. producers or improve overall meat quality.
- Reverse the Agricultural Trade Deficit — Citing a $48 billion trade gap, Miller said the U.S. should focus on exporting high-quality American beef instead of increasing imports that “outsource our food supply.”
- Reopen and Expand Grazing Access — Miller called for reopening federal grazing lands idled under President Biden’s “30 by 30” conservation initiative and for allowing grazing on land enrolled in the Conservation Reserve Program to aid ranchers facing drought.
- Create a Heifer Retention Tax Credit — Modeled after the Child Tax Credit, this incentive would reward producers for keeping heifers to rebuild the national cattle herd and expand domestic beef supply.
- Targeted Imports of Live Mexican Cattle — Miller proposed reopening ports for feeder cattle from Mexico to stabilize the beef supply chain, noting that carefully managed imports could be achieved without compromising biosecurity.
“These five actions will rebuild America’s cattle herd, stabilize beef supplies, lower consumer prices, and support our nation’s cattle producers,” Miller said.
He also praised President Trump for “engaging directly with producers” and supporting policies aimed at revitalizing rural America. “By working together, we can strengthen our domestic beef industry and ensure that families across the country have access to high-quality, affordable American beef,” Miller added.
The Texas Department of Agriculture said it will continue coordinating with federal officials and livestock organizations to promote measures that boost cattle production while keeping food prices in check.
The full text of Commissioner Miller’s policy statement is available through the Texas Department of Agriculture’s website.
The Alamo Letter Unveiling Ceremony Took Place October 18th With a Touch of Rain
October 24, 2025 – The Alamo Letter Society of Hopkins County, Texas, Alamo Letter Unveiling Ceremony was held October 18th, 2025, on Celebration Plaza, Downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas. The ceremony honoring Historical Texas heros was well attended, but got shortened by rain. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this important event.
