TxDOT Identifying Transit Needs for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities
TxDOT holding virtual public workshops statewide in December and January
December 2, 2024 – PARIS – To learn more about the transit service needs of seniors and individuals with
disabilities, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is hosting a series of virtual
workshops.
Access to quality transit is vital to the lives of many people across Texas, including in the Paris
District area. For many, transit is their only connection to healthcare, jobs, family members and
even grocery shopping.
TxDOT is hosting a series of workshops in December and January to hear from communities,
organizations and riders about their public transit needs.
Information on the program, how to connect virtually and how to provide a comment can be
found at txdot.gov.
The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, maritime, rail and public transportation across the state.
WHEN: Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024
WHERE: Virtual public workshop
MEDIA: Online, meeting links and passcodes are available at txdot.gov
“The” Social Event of the Season will Take Place December 12th at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center
December 2, 2024 – The Senior Snowflake Social will be held December 12, 2024, at the new Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center. Presented by Heritage Home Health and Hospice, you can expect brunch, Christmas Bingo, Snow Pictures, and so much more fun and exciting activities! Don’t miss out on the Social event of the season, being held from 12:00pm to 2:00pm! For more information, please call Stacy White at 918-471-7397. It’s going to be lots of Holiday fun!
*Update* SSPD Investigates Murder of Frosty The Snowman On Main Street
December 2, 2024 – Although not dressed in green, a “grinch” was caught on security camera tackling and depleting a blow-up Frosty of his much needed oxygen at a local business on Main Street late Saturday night. The offending suspect, wearing a dark coat, khaki pants, red ballcap and tennis shoes calmly walks up behind the unsuspecting holiday character, pouncing on the decoration and collapsing Frosty to the ground as an accomplice walks by and films the crime in progress on a cell phone. The heinous act is captured on video by the owners of the Fox & Fig Home Decor store located at their new location on Main Street. The owners vowed to repair or replace Frosty and return the holiday spirit to their patio. Sulphur Springs Investigators are in possesion of pictures and videos of the incident as they try to determine the identity of the vandals. If you have any information about the incident, or the can identify either member of the holiday hit-and-run team, contact SSPD at 903-885-7602.
**UPDATE** Frosty the Snowman Offenders have turned themselves in to authorities and made restitution to the owners of Fox & Fig as well as apologized for their actions.
Big Bend Ranch State Park Search and Rescue
December 2, 2024 – This is an ongoing situation and initial information is subject to change. Updates will be provided as information becomes available.
Nov. 27, 12:30 p.m.: A multi-agency search and rescue operation is underway at Big Bend Ranch State Park (BBRSP) for Debra Staples, 56, of Roanoke.
Staples was last seen Tuesday, Nov. 26 around 9:30 a.m. at the West Contrabando Trailhead wearing cycling attire. Her husband returned to the area around 1 p.m., and reports that both she and her bike were gone.
Crews searched until it was no longer safe to do so on Tuesday and ground search efforts were suspended overnight. Aerial searches continued, utilizing drone thermal capabilities. All search efforts resumed at first light Wednesday (Nov. 27).
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department personnel and technological assets activated for the search include Texas Game Wardens, State Park Police Officers, BBRSP staff, UAS pilots and a K9 search team. Additional assets are on standby and will be mobilized as needed.
Other agencies involved in the search include U.S. Border Patrol, the Presidio County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations and El Paso Fire Department’s Combined Search and Rescue Team (ComSAR).
Nov. 27, 7:30 p.m.: Debra Staples, 56, who had been lost at Big Bend Ranch State Park for over 30 hours has been located, alive and well, 20 miles from the point she was last seen.
Soon after her husband left to bike one of the trails on the morning of Nov. 26, Staples decided to try to catch up to him. She was unable to. Upon reaching a crossroads in the trail, she took the wrong trail. After getting a flat tire on her bike, Staples opted to leave it behind. She ended up walking in a circle for five hours, eventually coming upon the bike again. She decided to take it with her and continued walking the trail system until she reached the Sauceda Ranger Station located in the interior of the park. From there, search crews were notified of her location, and she was safely reunited with her family.
Paris District Road Report for Week of December 2, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Dec. 2, 2024. 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: Football Season
Football season is a chance to make great memories cheering for your team and tailgating with family and friends. That’s why TxDOT is reminding fans to celebrate football season responsibly by always finding a sober ride through its Drive Sober. No Regrets. statewide impaired driving campaign. The campaign aims to reduce the number of DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes, especially as fans gather across the state to support their favorite teams.
Too often, a designated driver is chosen during the course of the evening and is often considered the least drunk person in the group. The designated driver should always be a sober driver who has not consumed any amount of alcohol. Designating a driver, calling a taxi, using a rideshare service, staying where you are, calling a friend or family member, and using mass transit are the safest ways to ensure you do not drive under the influence.
One regrettable decision to drink and drive could turn game time into a DWI costing up to $17,000 in fines and fees, the loss of a license, jail time or worse. It just isn’t worth it. Visit SoberRides.org to learn about the real costs of drunk driving. Follow the hashtag #DriveSoberNoRegrets to keep up with the campaign on social media.
Safety Message: Impaired driving and penalties – DUI & DWI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk your life and the lives of others, and it can send you to jail. If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
When am I legally intoxicated?
You are legally intoxicated in Texas when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but you are breaking the law as soon as drugs or alcohol affect your driving — or flying or boating — ability.
What are the penalties for a DWI?
First offense
- Up to a $2,000 fine.
- Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
- Loss of driver license up to a year.
Second offense
- Up to a $4,000 fine.
- One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
Third offense
- A $10,000 fine.
- Two to 10 years in prison.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
These fines do not include a state fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 assessed upon sentencing.
Impaired driving with a child passenger
- You will be charged with child endangerment if you’re driving impaired with children under 15.
- You will be additionally fined up to $10,000.
- You could be put in jail for up to two years.
- You will lose your driver’s license for another 180 days.
Driving with an open container
Carrying an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you’re not impaired, is illegal. Learn more about Texas open container laws.
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:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: Spur 316 from SH 289 to FM 120, FM 120 in Denison from Houston Avenue to FM 1753, US 69 in Denison from Houston Avenue SH 56, FM 1417 from FM 691 to US 82, US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417, US 82 frontage roads from FM 1417 to FM 1417, SH 56 from US 82 to SH 289, Spur 129 from US 377 to SH 56, FM 1417 from SH 56 to SH 11, SH 289 in Gunter from Kerfoot Road to Elm Street, FS 121 from FM 121 to the Denton County line, SH 5 in Van Alstyne from Redden Road to the Collin County line, SH 56 from SH 11 to FM 1417, SH 11 from SH 56 to FM 697, FM 902 in Tom Bean from SH 11 to King Street. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
The northbound US 75 main lanes will be closed to traffic in order to place bridge beams for the new Spur 503 overpass beginning at 9:00 pm on the night of December 4th. Traffic will be required to exit at Exit 66 and continue onto Spur 503, then directed to exit for Theresa Drive, then take the westbound frontage road back to the Loy Lake Road intersection and then onto the northbound entrance ramp to US 75. Officers will be in place at Therese Drive and Loy Lake Road to assist traffic through these intersections. The main lanes are expected to be reopened to traffic by 5:00 am on the morning of December 5th.
Beginning on December 8th at 9:00 pm the westbound Spur 503 overpass to southbound US 75 will be closed to allow for demolition of this bridge in order to continue working on building the new overpass and roadway approaches. 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 southbound US 75 main lanes will be closed to traffic in order to perform bridge demolition of the old Spur 503 overpass beginning at 9:00 pm on the night of December 8th. Traffic will be required to exit at North Loy Lake Road and continue on the frontage road past the construction area and will be able to enter back onto the main lanes before FM 691. Police will be on sight to flag traffic through the Loy Lake Road intersection. The main lanes are expected to be reopened to traffic by 5:00 am on the morning of December 9th.
The northbound US 75 main lanes will be closed to traffic in order to perform bridge demolition of the old Spur 503 overpass beginning at 9:00 pm on the night of December 9th. Traffic will be required to exit at Exit 66 and continue onto Spur 503, then directed to exit for Theresa Drive, then take the westbound frontage road back to the Loy Lake Road intersection and then onto the northbound entrance ramp to US 75. Officers will be in place at Therese Drive and Loy Lake Road to assist traffic through these intersections. The main lanes are expected to be reopened to traffic by 5:00 am on the morning of December 10th.
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 lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at 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.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to install rumble strips, backfill the pavement and seed the front slopes. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 1417, from US 82 to SH 56. Travelers are advised that intermittent temporary daily lane closures will be required for both northbound and southbound FM 1417 while the contractor completes the remaining work.
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 Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at Mustang Creek, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at FM 901.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Crews will be working on US 75 each week 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.
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.
FM 1417, from FM 691 to FM 120. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 901, from US 377 to US 82. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge will be closed to through traffic beginning on December 2, 2024, as crews will remove and replace 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 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 4020 at Caney Creek. CR 4020 at Caney Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure traffic is asked to use CR 4025 as a detour.
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 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 271, from SH 78 to FM 68. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform full depth reclamation of the roadway and apply a seal coat. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56, from SH 78 to FM 2077. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling 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.
Franklin County: No construction projects ongoing during this week.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing road surfacing operations. 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.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
FM 38 at West Fork of Sanders Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1184 at Robertson Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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.
BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch grading in the area. Temporary seeding operations have begun on segments of the project and will be ongoing. Hotmix operations have begun and will continue Left Northbound shoulders. Work on intersections and driveways will be ongoing. Also, contractor is grading ditches. 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 currently working on bridge guardrail. Contractor continues to perform reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID in the 2nd mile of project limits. Cement treatment and culver riprap will be upcoming. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. 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 currently has paving operations and sidewalk operations ongoing. The contractor is grading for a detour near Verandah and Baylor Scott and White and placing sidewalk and backfilling curb in the area. Contractor is forming rebar and working blockouts for driveways near Peppergrass. Inlets placement and driveways are ongoing. Railroad coordination is underway near FM 2642 and SH 66, work has begun in this area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractor has set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete. The contractor has finished punchlist and waiting on 70% vegetative establishment in the project limits. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, From SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and workzone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. The first 1.5 miles of reclamation work is underway and the 1st lift of flexbase has been placed along several stations. GEO GRID operations are occurring. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun excavation at FM 1903 (West side) and working on placing wire wall at FM 1903 (East side) and soil nail walls at FM 1903.The contractor is also placing embankment & Wire walls east of 1570.along with form work for Bent #3 Cap at FM 1570. Columns are being constructed at FM 1903 and FM 1570 along with the placing of backfill for retaining walls at FM 1570.Pipe/Inlets work for drainage FM 1570 is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36: The contractor is currently grading and placing embankment between the frontage roads and mainlanes. Contractor poured culvert B headwall and footing, Grading at FM 1565, EB 2511 for temp wall installation and setting barrier on Eb an WB mainlanes from 1565 to end of project limits. Culvert installation is ongoing and detour pavement will be placed throughout the project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County MNT will be performing overlay from on SH 224 from FM 118 to SH 34, Assisting DPS with lane closure on US 380 and overlaying on FM 1737/ SH34 in various locations
Rains County MNT will continue to address pavement issues SH 19 south and north and repair drainage issues on FM 1564.
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Two East Texas A&M Alums to Lead Texas DPS
Both Martin and Kidd graduated from competency-based degree programs at East Texas A&M designed to help working professionals advance their careers.
COMMERCE, TX, November 22, 2024—The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has announced two key appointments held by East Texas A&M University graduates. Freeman F. Martin will become the 14th director of DPS, while W. Nim Kidd continues to serve as assistant director and chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management.
Martin: 34 years of law enforcement experience
Martin, a native of New Deal, Texas, will take the helm of DPS on Dec. 1. The first Texas Ranger in history to become director, he began his career with DPS in 1990 as a Highway Patrol Trooper. Over 34 years, he ascended the ranks, serving as Texas Ranger Captain, Homeland Security Operations Deputy Director, and most recently, Senior Deputy Director.
Martin’s leadership experience spans crisis management, border security and violent crime prevention. He played pivotal roles in high-profile cases, including investigations into the Sutherland Springs mass shooting and Hurricane Harvey response.
“With a wealth of experience in law enforcement and a strong commitment to uphold the rule of law, Freeman Martin is the right choice to lead the Texas Department of Public Safety and will be instrumental to ensure the safety and security of Texans,” said Governor Greg Abbott.
Martin leveraged his extensive law enforcement background to earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with an emphasis on law enforcement leadership from Texas A&M University-Commerce (now East Texas A&M). The competency-based program provides up to 30 credit hours for Texas Commission on Law Enforcement certifications and training to help officers accelerate their time to graduation. He is also a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command.
Jimmy Womack, an instructor and program coordinator for the College of Innovation and Design at East Texas A&M, said he and Martin have a long history. The two were on competing boxing teams in Lubbock, Texas, during the 1970s-80s. He said Martin’s competitive spirit and determination were evident even then.
“Freeman Martin is a proud graduate of our criminal justice program and a valued friend,” Womack said. “His unwavering dedication to public safety and remarkable leadership have been evident throughout his career. As executive director, Freeman will continue to serve Texas with integrity, vision and a steadfast commitment to excellence.”
Kidd: A leader in emergency management
Kidd has been with DPS since 2010 and oversees Texas’ emergency preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation efforts. Before joining DPS, Kidd served in the San Antonio Fire Department, where he held leadership roles in technical rescue and hazardous materials response teams.
Kidd’s emergency management expertise includes coordinating disaster responses for events such as Hurricane Katrina and the 2001 World Trade Center attacks. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences from East Texas A&M and a Master of Public Administration from Texas State University. He also maintains certifications as a master firefighter, hazardous materials technician and emergency medical technician.
East Texas A&M’s commitment to law enforcement
Martin and Kidd’s leadership highlights the success of East Texas A&M’s flexible degree programs designed to help working law enforcement officers advance their careers. Learn more about how these programs prepare graduates for impactful careers in law enforcement, emergency management and beyond at tamuc.edu/CID.
Chamber Connection – November 27, 2024
By Butch Burney
We like to celebrate the great things about Hopkins County, and the best time to do it is at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Banquet and Community Awards.
Nominations are being accepted for Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, Small and Large Businesses of the Year and other superlative recognitions. The awards will be announced at the Chamber’s membership banquet on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
When nominating a person or business, please write in the nomination letter the reasons you are presenting them for the award.
Nominations can be sent to [email protected] or mailed to the following addresses:
Citizen of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Woman of the Year—Chamber of Commerce – 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75483.
Caregiver of the Year—Chamber of Commerce – 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75483.
Community Pride Award—Adult Leadership Class—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Agriculturist of the Year—Hopkins/Rains Counties Farm Bureau— 233 College St., Sulphur Springs 75482.
Growth and Renewal—DBA—109 Jefferson St. E, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding Professional Educator (Administrator, Counselor, Diagnostician, or Teacher)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding ParaProfessional Educator (Secretary or Aide)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Outstanding Auxiliary Educator (Maintenance, Custodial, Transportation, Nurse or Cafeteria)—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Businesses of the Year nominations should be for those businesses which exhibit outstanding community involvement—civic, church, educational, benevolent, humanitarian or other.
Large Business of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Small Business of the Year—Chamber of Commerce—110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Please get your nominations in before the end of the year.
Coffee and Conversation
First United Methodist Church will host our next mixer, Coffee and Conversation from 7:30-9 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 5.
Come and join us for the morning get-together. You don’t have to be a Chamber of Commerce member to take part in our gatherings.
Ornaments and Stew Merch
Our 2024 Christmas Ornaments, featuring the Total Solar Eclipse, are on sale at the Chamber office. They are $40 each.
The Chamber also has a limited supply of 2024 stew merchandise still available and on sale at great prices. For instance, vintage stew T-shirts are $5 each, vintage hoodies are $15, and there are other savings as well. We are located at 110 Main St.
Christmas Activities
■ Christmas in the Park is set for Nov. 30 and Dec. 7 at Heritage Park on Jackson Street. Affordable family fun under the Christmas lights, with Santa, live music, nativity and more.
■ Lake Country CASA’s annual Cookie Walk is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 6, beginning at 8 a.m. at First United Methodist Church. There will be cookies, cakes and other treats for sale to benefit Lake Country CASA.
■ The Lions Club Lighted Christmas Parade is set for Friday, Dec. 6 starting at Buford Park. Line-up begins at 4 p.m. with the parade starting at 7. Registration must be received by noon on Tuesday, Dec. 3. Categories will be Large Business, Small Business and Non-Profit, with cash prizes awarded to winners.
Registration sheets are available at the Chamber office, 110 Main St.
Entry fee is one new unwrapped present for Blue Santa.
■ Along with the parade, the city will host the Lighted Celebration Market downtown from 5-9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. It will include lighting of the city Christmas tree at 5:45 p.m.
■ The Christmas Market on Main Street will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, downtown. You can do your shopping with our local merchants and vendors that day.
■ Northeast Texas Choral Society will have their “Winter Wonderland” production at 7 p.m. Dec. 7 and 2 p.m. on Dec. 8, at the Hopkins County Civic Center. Visit the website SingersCount.org for ticket information.
■ The Best Christmas Pageant EVER will be playing at Main Street Theatre at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5, 8 and 12, and 2 p.m. on Dec. 7, 14 and 15. Tickets are $15. Visit communityplayersinc.com for more information.
■ First Baptist Church of Sulphur Springs will present Christmas at First on Dec. 13, 14 and 15, at 6 p.m. each evening. Reserve your free tickets at SSFBC.org.
■ The Oaks Bed and Breakfast will host an afternoon with Santa from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. The event will include decorating cookies, arts and crafts, pictures with Santa and snacks and drinks.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Sues BlackRock, State Street, and Vanguard for Illegally Conspiring to Manipulate Energy Markets, Driving Up Costs for Consumers
November 27, 2024 – Attorney General Ken Paxton sued BlackRock, State Street Corporation, and Vanguard Group, three of the largest institutional investors in the world, for conspiring to artificially constrict the market for coal through anticompetitive trade practices.
Over several years, the three asset managers acquired substantial stockholdings in every significant publicly held coal producer in the United States, thereby gaining the power to control the policies of the coal companies. Using their combined influence over the coal market, the investment cartel collectively announced in 2021 their commitment to weaponize their shares to pressure the coal companies to accommodate “green energy” goals. To achieve this, the investment companies pushed to reduce coal output by more than half by 2030.
Blackrock, Vanguard, and State Street utilized the Climate Action 100 and the Net Zero Asset Managers Initiative to signal their mutual intent to reduce the output of thermal coal, which predictably increased the cost of electricity for Americans across the United States.
These firms also deceived thousands of investors who elected to invest in non-ESG funds to maximize their profits. Yet these funds pursued ESG strategies notwithstanding the defendants’ representations to the contrary.
Deliberately and artificially constricting supply increased prices and enabled the investment companies to produce extraordinary revenue gains. This conspiracy violated multiple federal laws that prevent a major shareholder, or a group of shareholders, from using their shares to lessen competition or engaging in other anticompetitive schemes. Further, the companies broke Texas antitrust and deceptive trade practices laws.
“Texas will not tolerate the illegal weaponization of the financial industry in service of a destructive, politicized ‘environmental’ agenda. BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street formed a cartel to rig the coal market, artificially reduce the energy supply, and raise prices,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Their conspiracy has harmed American energy production and hurt consumers. This is a stunning violation of State and federal law.”
A coalition of 10 other States joined Attorney General Paxton on the lawsuit. The Buzbee Law Firm and Cooper & Kirk are serving as outside counsel.
Paris Junior College Announces Registration, Closures and new Events
PJC announces registration, closures and new events
November 26, 2024 – Paris Junior College is holding two fall graduation ceremonies on December 13, one at 1:00 p.m. for those graduating with their certificates or associate of applied science degrees, and the second one at 4:00 p.m. for those graduating with an associate of arts, associate of science, or associate of arts in teaching degrees. Both will be held in the Hunt Center on the Paris campus.
Winter mini-term and the spring semester are fast approaching at Paris Junior College, and students wishing to register should be aware of holiday closures. PJC reopens after the Thanksgiving holiday on Monday, Dec. 2 and remains open until December 13, when the College closes for Winter Break. PJC re-opens on Monday, January 6, 2025, and the first day of spring semester is Monday, January 13.
The winter mini-term offers three-week, online classes that include many courses from the state’s core curriculum that transfer to university. They start on December 16, 2024 and end on January 3, 2025.
New students have a few steps to complete before signing up for classes, so it’s important to start now. They must first apply to be admitted to PJC. This includes submitting their transcript, Texas Success Initiative Assessment 2.0 (TSIA2) scores, bacterial meningitis shot records, and meeting with an advisor. Their advisor helps them sign up for classes and sets up their orientation to show them how to be successful in college.
Last chance registration for spring will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center on Tuesday, Jan. 7, PJC-Greenville Center on Wednesday, Jan. 8, and at the Paris campus on Thursday, Jan. 9.
To learn more about PJC graduation, go to www.parisjc.edu/graduation. To apply, go to www.parisjc.edu/apply. See what classes are being offered in the Winter Mini-Term and Spring Semester at www.parisjc.edu/schedule. Learn more about programs offered by the College at www.parisjc.edu/programs. For general college questions, call 903-785-7661.
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.
