New Beginnings Healing and Deliverance Ministries to Hold Free Community Wide Meal March 1st
February 28, 2025 – New Beginnings Healing and Deliverance Ministries will host their monthly “The Lord’s Supper” free community wide meal March 1, 2025, from 11am to 2pm. The March Menu includes loaded baked potato, and a dessert. The event will be held at 717 East Jefferson St., in Sulphur Springs, Texas. For more information, please call 903-335-7689.
Greenville ISD Students Tattoo Each Other While Teacher in Classroom
February 28, 2025 – A troubling incident at Travis Intermediate in the Greenville Independent School District, northeast of Dallas, has sparked concerns after multiple students were tattooed with the same needle. A parent, whose son was among those tattooed, says medical testing is now underway to assess potential health risks, including infections or the transmission of diseases.
Details surrounding how the tattoos were administered and who was responsible remain unclear, but the use of a shared needle raises serious safety concerns. Health officials warn that reusing needles can spread infections such as hepatitis and HIV, making immediate medical evaluation critical for those affected.
The school district has not yet released a full statement on the incident, but parents are demanding answers and accountability. Many are questioning how such an event could have occurred on school grounds and what measures will be taken to prevent similar situations in the future.
As medical testing progresses, families await results while urging increased oversight to ensure student safety. The incident has raised broader concerns about health education and school supervision, emphasizing the need for stricter policies to prevent unsafe practices among students. Authorities are expected to investigate further to determine the full scope of the situation.
USDA Will Now Enforce Federal Law on Illegal Aliens and SNAP Benefits
Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for public benefits like SNAP.
February 28, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced a renewed crackdown on undocumented immigrants receiving federal food assistance benefits, reinforcing a policy that is already part of federal law. The move aligns with broader efforts by the Biden administration to tighten enforcement of public assistance eligibility rules amid ongoing political debates over immigration and government aid programs.
Under current federal law, undocumented immigrants are ineligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, commonly known as food stamps. However, some mixed-status households, where U.S. citizen children or legal residents live with undocumented family members, can still receive benefits based on eligible members. The USDA’s announcement signals stricter enforcement measures to prevent any improper access to aid by ineligible individuals.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized that the administration is committed to ensuring that benefits reach only those who qualify under the law. While critics argue that the announcement is largely symbolic—since federal law already prohibits undocumented immigrants from receiving food assistance—some Republican lawmakers and immigration hardliners have called for even stricter regulations.
Advocacy groups warn that such policies may deter eligible families from seeking assistance out of fear, potentially worsening food insecurity among children and low-income households. The USDA maintains that enforcement will be focused on compliance rather than new restrictions.
As the debate over immigration and public benefits continues, the USDA’s renewed emphasis on existing rules reflects growing political pressure to address concerns over government resources and undocumented populations. However, the agency has not outlined major changes beyond reinforcing current policies, leaving many to question whether this crackdown is more about political messaging than actual policy shifts.
Drinking and Driving Over Spring Break Could Land you in the “DWI Not So Fun House” or Worse
51% of alcohol-related crashes in Texas during the 2023 holiday period involved drivers ages 17–30
February 27, 2025 – AUSTIN – What begins as a fun time with friends over spring break can turn tragic in an instant, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding everyone to always get a sober ride.
Shocking cell phone video shows the moments before 17-year-old Andrea Elizalde was killed in a crash in the spring of 2019. Elizalde was just weeks away from graduating from high school with dreams of becoming a brain surgeon, when she was thrown from a Corvette after her inebriated friend hit a light pole at 110 mph on an Amarillo highway.
Five years later, tragedy continues to strike young Texans who don’t take the dangers of drinking and driving seriously. Andrea’s father, David Elizalde, started the nonprofit Andrea’s Project to share his daughter’s tragic story with other students.
“If I can save people from getting DWIs and save people’s lives, I’ll have really accomplished something in my daughter’s honor,” Elizalde said.
This spring, TxDOT will take this same message to college students around the state as part of its Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign.
“There is never a good reason to drive after drinking,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Everyone has the opportunity to choose a sober ride and prevent horrific crashes.”
During the 2023 spring break period, there were 375 alcohol-related crashes in Texas involving drivers between the ages of 17 and 30, including nine deaths. That’s more than half of all drunk driving crashes in the same 10-day period. Students can save lives by designating a sober driver, using rideshares, taxis and public transportation, or simply staying put after drinking. To spread this message, TxDOT is partnering with the campus-based group U in the Driver Seat and other student leaders across Texas throughout March.
TxDOT will travel the state with its mobile “DWI Not So Fun House” exhibit to give the community an up-close look at the risks of drunk driving.
The exhibit features video stories from drunk-driving survivors and offenders to illustrate the consequences of driving impaired. It also includes an arcade-style driving simulator to demonstrate the effects of alcohol on motor skills and reaction time.
TxDOT’s Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths. Nov. 7, 2000, was the last deathless day on Texas roadways.
Vaccination- How Does it Work? by Mario Villarino
February 27, 2025 – Agriculture during the winter is full of challenges and harsh realities. Hopkins County has traditionally maintained a strong dairy and beef production all year long but the winter is particularly challenging since weather conditions are many times less than ideal for ranching. Also, producers can see the short-commings of the preparations for the winter when disease or mortality occurs. Hay becomes scarce and sometimes expensive. It is during the harsh winter when ranchers hesitate specialy when mortalities occurs. For some farmers, one cow loss is too many. Disease prevention is one of those steps that is hard to evaluate since usually happens when animals are healthy. Vaccination is the most important technology available during disease prevention.
What Are Vaccines and How Do They Work?: Vaccines are biological products designed to protect humans and animals from infectious diseases. They work by stimulating the immune system to recognize and respond to specific pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria, without causing the actual disease. Vaccination is one of the most effective methods for preventing illness in both humans and livestock, playing a crucial role in public health and agricultural management. When a vaccine is administered, it introduces an antigen—an inactivated, weakened, or fragment of a pathogen—into the body. The immune system detects this foreign substance and begins producing antibodies, which are proteins designed to neutralize the pathogen. Additionally, the immune system creates memory cells that remain in the body for an extended period. If the vaccinated individual is later exposed to the actual disease, these memory cells quickly recognize the pathogen and trigger a rapid immune response, preventing illness or reducing its severity.
Types of Vaccines
Live Attenuated Vaccines – Contain weakened versions of a virus or bacteria that do not cause disease but still stimulate a strong immune response.
Inactivated Vaccines – Use killed pathogens to safely build immunity.
Subunit, Recombinant, or Toxoid Vaccines – Contain only specific parts of the pathogen, such as proteins or toxins, to trigger immunity without using the whole organism.
mRNA and DNA Vaccines – Introduce genetic instructions for the body to produce a harmless part of the pathogen, prompting an immune response.
Importance in Human and Animal Health: Vaccination is essential for preventing the spread of contagious diseases. In humans, vaccines protect against illnesses like measles, polio, and influenza. In agriculture, vaccines help safeguard livestock and poultry from diseases such as brucellosis, rabies, and bovine respiratory disease, improving herd health and food production. Vaccines are a critical tool in disease prevention, reducing illness and death while minimizing the need for antibiotics. Whether in human healthcare or animal agriculture, vaccines play a key role in maintaining public and economic health. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides research-based guidance on vaccination strategies to help farmers, veterinarians, and the public make informed decisions about disease prevention. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Measles Takes Unvaccinated Lubbock Texas Child
February 27, 2025 – Lubbock health officials have confirmed the first measles-related death in West Texas amid a growing outbreak. The victim, a child who was not vaccinated, marks the first fatality linked to the disease in the region. This is also the first measles-related death reported in Texas in over two decades, raising concerns about the resurgence of the highly contagious virus.
“It’s predictable, when measles occurs in unvaccinated children and adults,” says Dr. Carol Baker, a pediatrician and infectious diseases specialist who’s retired from the Baylor College of Medicine, “I’m not surprised, but I am so sad.”
Measles spreads easily through respiratory droplets and can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and death. Young children, unvaccinated individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Symptoms include high fever, cough, red eyes, and a distinctive rash.
Health officials are working to contain the outbreak through contact tracing and expanded vaccination efforts. They stress that the measles vaccine is safe, highly effective, and crucial in preventing further cases. The outbreak has been linked to declining vaccination rates, which have left more individuals susceptible to infection.
Authorities urge parents to ensure their children receive the recommended immunizations to prevent future tragedies. The child’s death serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of vaccines in protecting public health and preventing the spread of life-threatening diseases like measles.
Majority of Texas House Members Support School Vouchers
February 27, 2025 – A slim majority of the Texas House has signed on to support a new school voucher bill, marking a potential breakthrough for Gov. Greg Abbott’s top legislative priority. The bill, which would establish a program allowing parents to use public funds for private and religious school tuition, has gained 75 co-sponsors in addition to its author. With 76 votes in the 150-member chamber, this level of support could be enough to push the measure through.
The measure flew through the Texas Senate with over whelming support earlier this year,
The debate over school vouchers has long been contentious in Texas, with rural Republicans often joining Democrats in opposition, citing concerns about diverting funds from public schools. However, Abbott has aggressively campaigned for the proposal, making it a central issue in the state’s political landscape.
While securing a simple majority is a significant milestone, the bill still faces hurdles. Procedural challenges, potential shifts in support, and opposition from key House members could complicate its passage. Additionally, if approved, the legislation may face legal challenges and further scrutiny over its impact on public education.
With this latest development, Texas is one step closer to implementing a voucher system, but the fight over education funding and school choice is far from over.
“Parade Of Planets” At Cooper Lake on Saturday
You don’t need to travel to Cooper Lake to enjoy the heavens this week, but why not enjoy the dark skies of Northeast Texas.
February 26, 2025 – In Texas this weekend, astronomy enthusiasts and families are invited to the highly anticipated Parade of Planets—a unique celebration of our solar system set against the backdrop of a stunning Texas night sky. Organized by local astronomy clubs and community groups, the event promises to be a memorable evening filled with scientific discovery and family-friendly fun.
Beginning at dusk, attendees will have access to a series of guided telescope viewings, where experts will highlight visible planets including Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn. These planetary sightings offer a rare chance to witness an extraordinary celestial alignment. Informative talks and interactive demonstrations will delve into the science behind planetary motion and the cultural history of celestial events, engaging both seasoned astronomers and curious newcomers alike.
Local vendors and food trucks will be on-site, creating a festive atmosphere as community members gather to share their passion for the cosmos. Educational activities for children, including planet-themed crafts and stargazing workshops, are planned to spark young imaginations. This Parade of Planets not only celebrates the wonders of our universe but also underscores Texas’ commitment to fostering scientific literacy and community spirit. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or looking for a unique outing, this event is a can’t-miss opportunity to experience the beauty of the night sky.
The Event
February 28 at 7:00pm Stargazing at Cooper Lake State Park – Doctors Creek Unit
Enjoy our dark skies!
Colony Ridge aka “illegal immigrant hotbed” Raided
February 26, 2025 – In a sweeping immigration operation in Colony Ridge, Texas authorities arrested 118 individuals suspected of involvement in illegal immigration activities. The coordinated effort by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) targeted what officials have described as an “illegal immigrant hotbed” within the neighborhood. Law enforcement agencies executed the operation over a multi-day period after months of intelligence gathering and surveillance, leading to a series of raids that disrupted ongoing smuggling networks and unauthorized border crossings.
The Colony Ridge subdivisions have been developed by Colony Ridge, LLC, led by brothers John Harris and William Trey Harris. They advertise mainly in Spanish to the Hispanic market through using the names Terrenos Houston (Houston Terrains), Terrenos Santa Fe (Santa Fe Terrains), Santa Fe, Terrenos Parkway 99 (Parkway 99 Terrains), and Lotes y Ranchos (Lots and Ranches) among others.
Officials praised the joint operation as a significant victory for public safety and border security. “Thanks to ICE, HSI, and the Texas DPS for their relentless work, we have cracked down on this problematic area,” a spokesperson stated. The operation resulted in the seizure of documents, electronic devices, and other evidence that authorities say links the arrested individuals to a broader criminal enterprise involved in immigration fraud.
Critics of immigration policy argue that such crackdowns can lead to community division and overlook the complexities of immigration. Nonetheless, Texas officials maintain that remaining vigilant in neighborhoods like Colony Ridge is essential to upholding state laws and ensuring that local communities are safe and secure from criminal exploitation.
Drummond to Take Top Spot at Commerce ISD
February 26, 2025 – After a competitive search including 44 applicants, the Commerce ISD Board of Trustees has named Steve Drummond as the lone finalist for Superintendent.
The extensive application process, conducted by the Walsh Gallegos Treviño Kyle & Robinson law firm, led to six finalists being interviewed before the Board made its decision.
Drummond is currently the Commerce ISD Director of Human Resources. He has 36 years of experience in public education, and has served as a superintendent, principal, teacher and coach.
A statement from the Commerce I-S-D says, since joining the school district in 2013, Drummond has several major achievements, including:
Raising Commerce High School’s TEA rating from a D to a B in just one-and-a-half years
Launching the Clinical Teacher Intern program with East Texas A&M
And serving as a design team member for the new Conner John Agriculture Shop & Barn.
Drummond holds Master of Education Administration and Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degrees from East Texas A&M.
The Board of Trustees will now enter a 21-day waiting period, after which Drummond is expected to be officially appointed as the new Superintendent for the Commerce ISD.
