School Vouchers in Texas Advance Toward Reality
April 4, 2025 – The Texas House Public Education Committee has advanced a school choice measure, moving it toward a full chamber debate with a narrow 9-6 vote. The legislation proposes the creation of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), which would allocate up to $10,000 per student annually for families to use on private school tuition or other educational expenses. The proposal marks a major step forward for school choice advocates, particularly Governor Greg Abbott, who has made the issue a cornerstone of his education policy agenda.
Governor Abbott has strongly supported school choice, especially during last year’s Republican primaries, where he endorsed challengers against incumbent lawmakers who opposed similar initiatives. The advancement of this legislation reflects the increasing political pressure to give parents more control over their children’s education, particularly in the wake of pandemic-related school closures and ongoing debates over curriculum transparency.
The preliminary state budget sets aside $1 billion for the ESA program in the 2026-2027 school year. This funding would initially allow up to 100,000 students—out of more than five million public school enrollees—to participate in the program. Proponents argue that this initiative would provide greater educational opportunities for families seeking alternatives to the public school system, particularly those in underperforming districts or areas with limited school options.
Dallas Rep. John Bryant called the bill a “catastrophe” for 10 of the largest school districts in the state, which he said wouldn’t get the money they needed under this proposal.
The proposal faces significant opposition from public education advocates and some lawmakers who argue that diverting state funds to private education could weaken public schools. Critics contend that ESAs disproportionately benefit wealthier families who can already afford private schooling and may not adequately support low-income students, particularly in rural areas where private school options are scarce. Additionally, concerns remain about the lack of accountability for private schools receiving public funds, as they are not held to the same academic and financial transparency standards as public institutions. Some of the State’s largest school districts fear they will not receive enough funds to operate.
School choice legislation has repeatedly passed the Texas Senate over the past decade but has faced resistance in the House. This is only the second time such a measure has made it to the House floor for consideration. With strong political backing from the governor and increased public interest in school choice, the upcoming debate will be pivotal in determining the future of education funding in Texas. Whether the bill garners enough support to become law remains to be seen, but its advancement signals a growing push for education reform in the state.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report, April 2025
April 3, 2025 – During the regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council on Tuesday April 1, 2025, City Manager Marc Maxwell submitted his monthly report.
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER, MARC MAXWELL
SUBJ: MANAGER’S REPORT
CLAIMS – We had 2 workers compensation claims in March for police officers who were exposed to blood. We did not have any liability claims. The City filed a claim of its own for wind damage to the animal Shelter.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN – Kimley Horn is collecting data for their baseline. They will also attend the Claws For a Cause event on April 26 where they will be seeking input from the public.
MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD – I expect 100% construction drawings this week.
THERMO WATER – The Capital Construction Division has installed 1,600 feet of 18’ water main into the site. It will replace an old 8” main. This will be the first water project of many at Thermo.
THERMO ROAD – All of the concrete road for this project is complete. All that remains is some work on the shoulders. This $4.4 million project is partially funded by a $2.4 million grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA).
COLEMAN BALLFIELD LIGHT UPGRADE – This $250,000 grant from the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) to upgrade the ballfield lights to LED is on again, off again. It’s currently somewhere in between. We’ve been told to select our contractor to do the work, but not to spend any money yet. This may still happen.
MIDFIELD APRON – This concrete pavement/drainage improvement is approximately 90% complete. This project includes drainage improvements as well as repaving the midfield apron in concrete. Total project cost is $5.28 million, of which 90% is funded by a grant through TXDOT.
WASTEWATER CHLORINE CONTACT CHAMBER – Hayter Engineering is presently designing the new chlorine contact chamber. Everything we are hearing reinforces staff’s belief that we will be able to re-rate the plant to at least 10 MGD. This $2.2 million project will repurpose a former (abandoned) sand filter turning it into a chlorine contact chamber. Chlorine contact time is a bottleneck at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The WWTP has a rated capacity of 5.4 MGD. Staff believes we can increase the capacity to 10 MGD when the project is completed. The increase will require TCEQ approval, but staff thinks it is feasible. The project is being funded from the Enterprise Fund balance.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SIP) –
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES – Finance Director Lesa Smith will present the monthly report of revenues and expenditures.
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Patched 130 potholes.
- • Performed 1 major street repair following an Atmos repair.
- • Cleaned storm catch basins 5 times.
- • Installed 2 no parking signs and replaced 3 stop signs.
- • Removed 8 fallen trees from roadways.
- • Installed 528 feet of Curbs and 5 new driveway approaches on Alabama. • Received 8600 feet of water pipe for Thermo.
- • Conducted 89 building inspections, 21 electrical inspections, 19 plumbing inspections, and 5 mechanical inspections.
- • Issued 28 building permits, and 69 trade permits.
- • Responded to 172 fire/rescue calls including 2 structure fires, 1 vehicle fire and 11 grass fires.
- • Performed 45 fire inspections.
- • Performed preventative maintenance on 78 fire hydrants.
- • Treated wastewater to a daily average total suspended solids reading of 0.79 mg/L. • Hauled 651 tons of sludge to the landfill.
- • Repaired 11 water main ruptures.
- • Replaced 13 water meters.
- • Repaired 4 sewer mains.
- • Washed 81,000 feet of sewer mains.
- • Performed preventative maintenance and repairs on water treatment and wastewater treatment items.
- • Filled in tree wells on College/Main.
- • Sprayed for weeds on athletic fields.
- • Prepped ball fields for 74 youth games.
- • Rented the Grays building 16 times.
- • Installed 6 new scoreboards at Coleman Park.
- • Made repairs at Kids Kingdom.
- • Planted 6 Bur Oaks in Colman Park (North Side).
- • Responded to 201 Animal Control calls while achieving a 76% adoption rate. • Made 0 felony arrests in the Special Crimes Unit.
- • Responded to 30 accidents, issued 444 citations, recorded 38 offences and made 49 arrests in the Patrol Division.
- • Checked out 4,064 items from the library plus 1,028 eBooks. • Sold 3,619 gallons of AvGas and 8,356 gallons of JetA fuel. • Accommodated 1,841 takeoffs/landings at the airport.
Sulphur Springs Ladycats Track Team Placed Second and the Wildcat boys Placed Third at Meet in Paris
April 3, 2025 – At the district track meet in Paris this week, the Sulphur Springs Ladycats track team placed second and the Wildcat boys placed third.
The Ladycats 4X400m Relay Team set a new school record, breaking the previous record held from 1989, with a time: of 4:09.4.
Jaicee Jasmer placed 1st in the pole vault, 1st in the 200m run and with the 4x200m relay team.
Edith Martinez was 1st in the the 3200m.
Codee Roland was 1st in the long Jump and on the 4x200m relay,team.
Madysen Gilbert was 1st in the Shot Put.
Trinity Jefferson was 1st in the Discus throw.
And Kolbie Moughon placed 1st in the 100 meter Hurdles
On the Wildcat boys track team,
Ty Bybee was first in the pole vault and the 110M Hurdles
The 4x100M relay team of Kyshawn John, Deuce Timmons, Jio Ibarra, and Creed Whisenhunt won1st place.
And the 4x200M relay team of Grayson Hardy, Creed Whisenhunt, Jaxson Haire and Deuce Timmons placed 1st.
Paris Junior College Regents Create Hopkins County Advisory Board
April 3, 2025 – Paris Junior College is creating an Advisory Board of Hopkins County residents to engage with the community and plan for the future of the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center.
“We are shaping a strategic vision for the future,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC President, “and we want to continue strengthening relationships in Hopkins County. Establishing a Board of Advisors will enhance our connection.”
The creation of the county advisory board was approved by the PJC Board of Regents at the March meeting. The primary goal is to foster engagement and gather community input from local residents. The board will serve solely in an advisory capacity without policy-making authority.
The Board of Regents will have the ultimate authority to appoint members, with recommendations from the President. To find a complete description for serving on the advisory board and the online application, go to https://www.parisjc.edu/main/county-advisors/.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Chamber Connection – April 3, 2025
By Butch Burney
Registration is still going on for the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, set for Friday, May 2, at Sulphur Springs Country Club.
Registration is open for six-person teams in the morning and afternoon, though there are only a few afternoon slots available.
Cost is $750 per team, which includes three golf courts and lunch for all team members.
There are also sponsorship opportunities available for hole-in-one contests and interactive holes.
For more information or for registration, call the Chamber office at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Lunch and Learn
Go Farther, Faster with AI will be a Lunch and Learn hosted by Deep Routes Coffee and presented by Kendra Wallace on Wednesday, April 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Whether you are an AI pro or just getting started, attendees will learn how Artificial Intelligence can save you time and money, relieve stress, strengthen relationships and more.
The cost is $25 and includes lunch.
Spring Market on Main
The Spring Market is coming to Main Street in a few weeks.
The annual sidewalk sale and market vendors will set up on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be spring items inside and outside, food, décor, gifts and more.
The annual event is hosted by the Downtown Business Alliance.
Cocktails and Conversation
You don’t want to miss the next Cocktails and Conversation, an after-hours business mixer, hosted by Credit Union of Texas from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at their downtown Sulphur Springs location. They will have refreshments and an opportunity to network with other business professionals.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend the mixer.
Blue Blazes Carnival
The SSHS Blue Blazes will have a spring carnival at Buford Park from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 19.
Rowdy Goose Parties and More will be there with inflatables and mini golf as well as a silent auction, vendors, food trucks and more.
Window Decorating Contest
The Hopkins County Dairy Festival is hosting a Window Decorating Contest during the month of May. Businesses can decorate between May 1 and May25, but must register before the decorating window closes. Judging will be May 26-30, with winners announced on May 31.
The theme for this year is Udder the Big Top (carnival theme).
For more information, contact Gena Prickette at 903-243-4534 or [email protected]
Heritage Park
Dutch Oven classes are right around the corner at Heritage Park.
It is April 12, from 8 a.m. to noon, $20 per person. You will learn how to prepare the food, cook it, and of course EAT it.
For more information or registration, contact Rick Wilson at 903-335-2752.
Claws for a Cause
Rotary Club’s annual crawfish boil is set for Celebration Plaza, Saturday, April 26. Service and live entertainment starts at 5 p.m. Click on the Clause for a Cause Facebook page for ticket links.
City Clean Up
The City of Sulphur Springs will open its dump facility the week of April 28-May 3 for the annual city wide clean up. The facility is ½ mile east of the traffic stop at Jefferson Street and Loop 301. Residents need a valid driver’s license or water bill to verify they live in the city limits.
Miller Grove Stew and Auction
The annual Miller Grove FFA stew and Auction is set for Thursday, April 3, at the school. The stew will start at 6 p.m., with the auction to follow.
Easter Egg Hunt
Sulphur Springs Health and Rehab will host an Easter Egg Hunt for all interested children at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 18, at their facility on Airport Road.
UPRA Spring Rodeo
The Hopkins County Rodeo Association is hosting the 45th UPRA Spring Rodeo on April 18-19 at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Doors open at 6 p.m., events begin at 7:30. Easter egg hunt and a bicycle give away on Saturday, the 19th. Tickets for adults are $12 (buy advance tickets for $10 at Circle E Western Store), kids 6-12 are $5 and kids under 5 are free.
Ribbon Cuttings
Pink Brizilia Boutique will host a ribbon cutting at noon Friday, April 4, at their shop at 220 Connally Street. Please join us for this event.
‘Islamic City’ in Hunt County Being Investigated by Multiple Texas Agencies
April 3, 2025 – Governor Greg Abbott announced this week that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has determined that the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) and its affiliated entities have not obtained the necessary permits and authorizations required for their proposed construction and development project. According to the TCEQ, any construction undertaken without proper approval would violate state law. As a result, the agency has formally notified EPIC and its affiliates, ordering them to confirm that no construction activities have taken place without authorization.
In addition to the TCEQ’s findings, Governor Abbott stated that a dozen state agencies are currently investigating potential illegal activities linked to EPIC and its affiliated entities. While specific details regarding the nature of these investigations remain undisclosed, the governor emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance with environmental and development regulations.
The announcement has sparked widespread attention, with some questioning the scope and motivations behind the investigations. Supporters argue that enforcing environmental laws is essential to maintaining regulatory integrity, while critics raise concerns about possible selective enforcement or political motivations. As the investigations unfold, EPIC and its affiliates may face legal consequences if violations are confirmed, potentially impacting the future of their development plans.
Governor Abbott Proclaims April 2025 As Autism Awareness And Acceptance Month
April 3, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today promoted World Autism Awareness Day by recognizing April 2025 as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Texas. Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions, typically appearing during early childhood, and characterized by challenges with social skills, relationships, self-regulation, and communication.
“Texas continues to promote the acceptance and celebration of people with disabilities, including Texans with autism,” said Governor Abbott. “We must also foster a supportive environment where each individual across the autism spectrum can thrive. Autism awareness and acceptance empowers Texans throughout the state like Jeremiah Kimmel, a student with Autism who joined me at my State of the State Address, to feel included and supported. This April, we celebrate neurodiversity and the unique perspectives, abilities, talents, and experiences of Texans who make our state great.”
Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States with one in 36 children having the diagnosis. Acceptance can lead to better job prospects, additional employment opportunities, affordable housing, and accessible and integrated transportation systems that match personal needs and lifestyles.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is hosting the 2025 Texas Autism Conference, a virtual event on April 14-17, 2025. For more information, please contact [email protected].
The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities works toward a state in which people with disabilities have the opportunity to enjoy full and equal access to lives of independence, productivity, and self-determination. The Committee recommends changes in disability policies and programs, supports a network of committees on people with disabilities, issues awards to promote greater awareness, and promotes compliance with disability related laws.
Commission Approves Expansion of Digital License and Tag Options for Recreational Hunting, Fishing
April 3, 2025 – AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is expanding digital license and tag options to all recreational hunting, fishing and combo license and tag types.
TPWD introduced digital licensing and tagging in 2022 for harvested deer, turkey and oversized red drum.
Options have since expanded to allow resident hunters and anglers to purchase a fully digital license for the super combo (Items 111, 117), youth hunting (Item 169) or lifetime combo (Item 990), Hunting (Item 991), or Fishing tags (Item 992). Customers can also purchase other products such as the exempt angler tag (Item 257), bonus red drum (Item 599) and spotted seatrout tags (Item 596).
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved expanded digital license and tag amendments during its March meeting. The new will go into effect on Sept. 1 but will be available for purchase Aug. 15, when 2025-26 licenses go on sale.
Additional information on the new amendments can be viewed on the commission website.
Texas Legislature Considering Restrictions on What SNAP Can Buy
April 2, 2025 – Senate Bill 379, passed by the Texas Senate, seeks to restrict food stamp recipients from purchasing certain non-essential items such as soda, chips, and candy. The bill is part of a broader initiative to ensure that government assistance is directed towards healthier and more nutritious food options. If enacted, the legislation would modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides financial aid to low-income individuals and families to purchase food.
Supporters argue that the bill will encourage healthier eating habits among Texans who rely on food assistance. They believe it could reduce the rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues that disproportionately affect low-income communities. By limiting purchases to more nutritious food, proponents assert that the bill could foster long-term public health benefits.
Critics, however, contend that the bill infringes on personal freedom and may unfairly stigmatize low-income individuals. They argue that food assistance programs should provide recipients with the flexibility to choose what they eat based on personal preferences. Additionally, some question whether the bill will truly address the root causes of poor health, such as limited access to fresh food in certain areas.
The bill now awaits further consideration in the Texas House of Representatives.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Coverage Ends For Many North Texas Hospitals
April 2, 2025 – Contract negotiations between major healthcare providers failed ahead of the April 1 deadline, leaving thousands of North Texans without in-network access to Texas Health Resources and UT Southwestern System. As two of the largest hospital networks in North Texas, the breakdown in negotiations affects a significant number of patients who must now search for new medical providers or face higher out-of-pocket costs.
Both healthcare systems have assured the public that negotiations are ongoing and that they are committed to minimizing disruptions. They have pledged to assist affected patients by providing guidance on transitioning to alternative in-network providers and ensuring continuity of care where possible. However, many patients with scheduled procedures, ongoing treatments, or primary care relationships are now in a difficult position.
Such disputes often arise over reimbursement rates and coverage agreements between insurers and healthcare providers. While negotiations may still lead to a resolution, patients are advised to check with their insurance providers for updates and potential exceptions for continuity of care. In the meantime, the uncertainty has created frustration and concern among North Texans, who now face difficult decisions regarding their healthcare access and affordability in an already complex system.
