Paris District Road Report for Week of April 21, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin and Grayson Counties for the week starting April 21, 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: Work Zone Safety
Every day, crews across Texas work to build and maintain the state’s roads, sometimes separated from high-speed traffic by only a few feet. In recognition of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21-25, 2025, TxDOT calls on motorists to make driving safely a priority when passing through the state’s active work zones. In 2024, nearly 28,000 traffic crashes occurred in work zones in Texas, resulting in 215 deaths and another 825 serious injuries.
Most of the people killed in work zone crashes are drivers and their passengers. They made up 81% of the fatalities in 2024. Speeding, driver inattention and unsafe lane changes were among the top contributing factors in work zone crashes.
Driver safety
Work zones present a different and sometimes challenging environment for drivers to navigate. Motorists may encounter uneven pavement, narrow lanes, concrete barriers, slow-moving heavy equipment, and vehicles that make sudden stops. TxDOT’s “Be Safe. Drive Smart.” campaign offers five tips for safely driving through work zones:
- Slow down. Follow the speed limit and pay attention to road conditions. What’s safe for normal conditions may not be safe in a work zone.
- Stay alert. Focus on driving, avoid distractions, and put your phone away.
- Don’t tailgate. Give yourself room to stop in a hurry, should you need to. Rear-end collisions are the most common kind of work zone crashes.
- Watch out for road crews. Roadside workers want to get home safely too. Always follow instructions and be mindful of construction area road signs.
- Allow extra time. Road construction can slow things down. Plan ahead so you are not tempted to speed.
More work to do
TxDOT continues to work on increased safety measures and public outreach efforts to educate motorists about driving in work zones. We encourage everyone, from engineers and planners to drivers and pedestrians, to take responsibility for work zone safety. As part of this outreach, we remind drivers of the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law. It requires drivers to move over a lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching a TxDOT, emergency, law enforcement, tow truck, or utility vehicle stopped with flashing lights activated on the roadside or shoulder. Violation of this law can result in a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Stricter penalties for drivers who cause serious injuries by failing to follow these rules now include possible jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.
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. Construction on this project is expected to begin on May 5, 2025. 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 further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The US 75 frontage road u-turns at the US 82 frontage road intersection are closed to traffic to allow crews to begin work on a portion of the new US 75 mainlane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
The northbound US 75 frontage road exit to SH 91 is closed to allow for construction of the pavement of the new US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91. During this closure, traffic is asked to stay on the northbound frontage road to Taylor Street and take Taylor Street back to SH 91.
Eastbound and westbound US 82 will have a left lane closure to allow for construction of drilled shafts and columns for the new US 75 bridge over US 82. Traffic should expect delays as US 82 will be reduced to one lane.
The southbound frontage road from Taylor Street to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) will be reduced to one lane to allow for construction of the new intersection. An all-way stop will be in place at the southbound US 75 frontage road intersection with SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to control traffic. Westbound SH 91 traffic is reduced to one lane and will be required to stop at the southbound US 75 intersection.
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.
Beginning on April 23rd around 9:00 pm, the northbound main lanes just south of FM 691 will be closed. Northbound traffic will be required to exit at FM 691 (Exit 65) and take the frontage road to Eastbound Katy Memorial Expressway. Drivers wishing to continue Northbound on US 75 will follow the detour which directs traffic to the U-turn at Spur 503 to head westbound on the Katy Memorial Expressway frontage road, which will guide them back toward US 75. They will then re-enter US 75 at the next available entrance ramp. The closure is necessary to remove an overhead sign bridge. Police will be monitoring traffic at both the northbound and southbound frontage road intersections with FM 691. All lanes are expected to be reopened to traffic by 5:00 am on April 24th.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.
The U-turn lanes for the US 75 frontage roads at FM 691 are closed to traffic to allow crews to work on constructing the middle portion of the new US 75 bridge over FM 691. During this closure traffic wishing to make a U-turn at the intersection is asked to turn left onto FM 691 and make another left at the next signal light.
The exit ramp from northbound US 75 to North Loy Lake Road in Denison is closed permanently. Travelers who wish to access North Loy Lake Road from northbound US 75 will detour up to Crawford Street, make a U-turn at the Crawford Street intersection, and head south on the frontage road to reach North Loy Lake Road.
The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
Southbound US 75 near Washington Street will be reduced to one lane on Friday night, April 25th starting at 7:00 pm in order to perform bridge repairs. The lane closures are expected to last thru Sunday afternoon, April 27th. Traffic is advised to expect delays on southbound US 75 during this weekend period and is encouraged to seek alternate routes.
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.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Beginning on March 5, 2025, 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. 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.
SH 289, in Dorchester at the FM 902 intersection. This project will widen SH 289 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at this intersection. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound SH 289 main lanes as well as on FM 902. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County. 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.
SH 91, from Martin Luther King Street to the Oklahoma State Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 377, from US 82 to the Denton County Line. 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.
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 896 at Valley Creek. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews perform bridge repairs. 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 is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 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 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has an onsite detour in place to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic is asked to approach the detour shift slowly and drive an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews replace the bridge structure.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary will be closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. Traffic will be required to detour onto CR 2815, CR 2840 and CR 2825 while the bridge structure is being replaced.
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.
SH 50, from SH 34 to the Hunt County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 64, from SH 34 to the Delta County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform a level up on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121, from SH 56 to SH 11. Watch for mobile lane closures as maintenance crews perform a sweeping operation to remove loose material from the roadway. Motorists should expect delays from the mobile operation in 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. Watch for crews performing road widening operations. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: IH 30, from SH 154 to Hunt County Line. Watch for crews performing concrete pavement repair during nighttime operation. Expect slower moving traffic at night.
Hopkins County: IH 30 at Bill Bradford. Watch for crews performing repairs to concrete bridge rail. Expect slower moving traffic.
Hopkins County: SH 11 from FM 2287 to SH 154. Watch for crews performing pavement repairs during nighttime operations. Expect lane closures and 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.
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.
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.
SH 19/24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from LP 286 intersection to SH 19. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway, perform bridge rail upgrades, and bridge maintenance.
US 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
US 82, Lamar & Red River Counties: from State Loop 286 in Paris to Bowie County Line in Red River County. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Delta County:
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
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.
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 work. Contractor prepared for hotmix (various locations) and removed traffic barrier at bridge. Hotmix was laid on shoulders, intersections and driveways. Concrete footings poured and culverts were prepped. Next week will be more excavation an embankment work along with striping operations. 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 finishing cement treatment on last section of project. Ride testing and cover prime scheduled for next week. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. 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 grading riprap, forming inlets and cleaning and patching cross culverts The contractor will also be addressing sidewalk near the DGNO RR crossing and placing asphalt for PH 1B traffic switch. Traffic switch has been completed and milling of existing roadway is underway on FM 35. 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. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has completed the 2nd section of reclaiming and placing a second lift of flex base down station. Prime coat, base repairs and construction on culverts and grading of ditches will be scheduled for next week. 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 been working on placing embankment for wire walls at FM 1903 and FM 1570 and poured the cap abutment at FM 1570. and poured the back wall at FM 1570. The contractor will be setting panels under nightly lane closures. Steel tying is ongoing on the project. 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 will be moving barrier during nighttime lane closures and milling shoulders and adding temp paving. Contractor has ongoing box culvert work near FM 1565 plans to restore the frontage road pavement during this time. Grading work on the eastbound main lanes and westbound frontage roads will be ongoing. Grading for detour paving along EBFR and EBML between 1565 and 36 o Grading for detour paving along WBFR and WBML between 1565 and 36 Grading for detour paving WBFR 2511 area. Hot mix detour paving along EBML 1565 and 36 area. Temporary walls are being installed and dirt work with detours are ongoing throughout the project. Contractor will be pumping water and drying material throughout project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt and Rains County maintenance sections will be working on mailboxes, potholes and signage. Crews will begin overlay work on SH 66 from Caddo Mills to Greenville. Overlay work will also be ongoing on US 69 from Celest to Greenville in various locations. Overlay work began on FM 272 from SH 69 to FM 816. Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county.Rains maintenance section will be working on potholes. Work near FM 1565 and SH 276 to address bridge settlement is underway Seal coat prep work will begin on FM 513 south of IH 30 Vegetative spot spraying will be ongoing throughout the county. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Young Eagles Flight Rally Scheduled for April 26
SULPHUR SPRINGS, TX — APRIL 26 — Area young people ages 8-17 will have a chance to take to the skies as the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 1094 hosts a Young Eagles Flight Rally at the SULPHUR SPRINGS MUNICIPAL AIRPORT on Hwy 19 northwest of town.
The annual rally is part of the national EAA Young Eagles Program, created to interest young people in aviation. Since the program was launched in 1992, Volunteer EAA pilots have flown over two million young people who reside in more than 90 countries.
Go to eaachapters.org to register. You can also go to yeday.org and be sure to type in your zip code to register.
Paxton Sues City of Dallas Again Over Gun Ban
April 18, 2025 – Attorney General Ken Paxton Sues City of Dallas for Banning Guns on Public Property in Violation of Texas Law
Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed two lawsuits against the City of Dallas for banning lawful license holders from carrying handguns into Fair Park’s Music Hall and The Majestic Theatre in blatant violation of Texas law.
The City of Dallas Office of Cultural Affairs leases both The Majestic Theatre and Music Hall at Fair Park. Under Texas law, governmental subdivisions have no authority to prohibit license holders from carrying their handguns as Dallas has repeatedly done to citizens, going so far as threatening to arrest law-abiding citizens seeking to participate in their rights. Now, Attorney General Paxton has sued Dallas for wrongfully infringing on Texans’ gun rights.
“The law is clear. Cities like Dallas have no authority to override state statutes that enable license holders to lawfully carry their handguns and protect themselves from potential threats,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I will always do everything in my power to defend Texans’ gun rights from cities that would strip us of our legal rights.”
Attorney General Paxton similarly sued the City of Dallas in 2024 for unlawfully restricting license holders from carrying their handguns into the Texas State Fair.
Temu and Shein Set to Raise Prices
April 18, 2025 – Starting April 25, 2025, Chinese-founded e-commerce platforms Temu and Shein will raise prices for U.S. customers in response to new trade policies implemented by President Donald Trump. These policies include a 145% tariff on Chinese imports and the elimination of the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed goods under $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. The exemption’s removal, effective May 2, significantly impacts both companies, which have relied on low-cost, high-volume shipments to offer budget-friendly products to American consumers.
In customer notices, both Temu and Shein attributed the impending price increases to rising operating expenses due to these policy changes. They encouraged shoppers to make purchases before April 25 to take advantage of current pricing. While neither company specified the exact price adjustments, the hikes are expected to affect a wide range of products, from clothing to electronics.
Analysts suggest that despite the price increases, Temu and Shein may still offer competitive prices compared to other retailers. However, the new tariffs and policy changes could alter the dynamics of the U.S. e-commerce market, potentially affecting consumer behavior and the competitive landscape.
Hopkins County Breast Cancer Support Group Holds Easter Themed Meeting
April 17, 2025 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s Breast Cancer Support Group had its monthly meeting Monday, April 14. The group enjoyed Easter treats prepared by Carolyn McKinney as they listened to Father Justin Wylie, Director of Pastoral Care at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, speak on survivor’s guilt.
Father Wylie gave a presentation that was both lighthearted and sincere. He shared about the importance of gratitude and how to turn crisis into catharsis. Attendees appreciated the o;ering of his time and perspective. Afterwards, the group got to know its newest visitors and caught up with familiar faces.
Anyone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer or any gynecologic cancer is welcome to attend. Don’t hesitate to bring a loved one while getting to know the group. Attendees are encouraged to participate however is most comfortable for them. Each meeting presents an opportunity to share a personal cancer story, take part in group discussions, and brainstorm ways to reach out to those who are homebound or newly diagnosed.
Meetings are held the second Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. in the Medical Plaza Conference Room, 113 Airport Rd. This is the free-standing building on the southeast corner of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. The conference room is the first door on the left. The next meeting is set for May 12. Please help spread the word by sharing the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s posts on Facebook and Instagram (@hchealthcarefoundation).
The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has served Hopkins County for 28 years. A local board of directors governs it.
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Chamber Connection – April 17, 2025
By Butch Burney
You don’t want to miss the next Coffee and Conversation, an after-hours business mixer, hosted by One Church on Thursday May 1, from 8-9 a.m. There will be great coffee, awesome connections, and a wonderful community!
Call the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce for any questions 903-885-6515.
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]
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.
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.
What Helps Me
The Senior Citizens Center is hosting What Helps Me: A Parkinson’s Discussion on Monday April 21, at 11 a.m. at 301 Oak Ave. Call 903-439-3720 for more information.
Coffee With CASA
Join the Credit Union of Texas for Coffee with CASA from 8:30-9:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 24, at the CUTX office at 200 Main Street. You can learn more about Lake Country CASA’s mission to help children in the community and how you can become involved.
Ribbon Cuttings
Money Law and Title will have a ribbon cutting at their office at 106 College Street. Please join us for this event.
Caution Ahead: TxDOT Calls for Safe Driving in Work Zones
April 17, 2025 – Work Zone Awareness Week is April 21-25
AUSTIN – When working on the side of the road you have to be aware of your surroundings at all times, and driving through work zones requires the same amount of caution.
Family’s tragic loss
College student Katrina Bond slowed down for traffic in a work zone on I-35 near Fort Worth when the driver of a heavy pickup truck, who admitted he had just received a text, slammed into her car. The force of the collision pushed Katrina’s car into the path of another truck. She never made it home.
“People think this kind of tragedy won’t happen to them. I didn’t think it would happen to me,” Katrina’s mom, Kathy Bond, said. “I try to show Katrina’s picture and tell her story to as many drivers as I can. I ask them to please put all their focus on the road when they’re behind the wheel.”
Work Zone Awareness Week
In 2024, there were nearly 28,000 crashes in Texas work zones. Those crashes caused 215 deaths, a 12% increase in fatalities over the previous year. Most of the people killed in work zone crashes are drivers or their passengers.
As part of National Work Zone Awareness Week, April 21–25, TxDOT is using its Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign to promote work zone safety and help prevent these crashes and fatalities.
“Our brave and dedicated road crews work year-round across the state, and we need drivers to stay alert in work zones to help keep them and each other safe,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Work zones can mean changing and unexpected conditions as crews work on the roadway. That’s why it’s vital that all Texans plan, avoid distractions and never rush through a work zone.”
Safety tips
TxDOT reminds drivers that traffic fines double in work zones when workers are present and offers these tips for preventing crashes:
- Slow down. Follow the speed limit and pay attention to road conditions. What’s safe in normal conditions may not be safe in a work zone.
- Stay alert. Focus on driving, avoid distractions and put your phone away.
- Watch out for road crews. Roadside workers want to get home safely too. Always follow their instructions and be mindful of construction area road signs.
- Don’t tailgate. Give yourself room to stop in a hurry. Rear-end collisions are the most common type of work zone crash.
- Allow extra time. Road construction can slow things down. Plan so you aren’t tempted to speed.
TxDOT also urges motorists to follow the state’s Move Over or Slow Down law, which requires drivers to move over a lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching TxDOT, emergency, law enforcement, tow truck or utility vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights activated.
The Be Safe. Drive Smart. campaign is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.
The information contained in this report represents reportable data collected from the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3). This information was received and processed by the department as of February 10, 2025. To view additional traffic safety data, visit TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Data Portal online.
Dinner Bell for April 23, 2025
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
SPONSOR: City National Bank, Sulphur Springs
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
The City National Bank of Sulphur Springs was chartered in 1889 making it the oldest banking institution in Hopkins County. As of June 2024 it has grown to 241 employees at 17 locations. It is the 75th largest bank in the State of Texas.
In March of 1889 the lot on the square and Connally Street was purchased for $3,350.00, and the two-story building, which housed the bank until 1968, was opened for business in June 1889. The original vault door is still in use today and is in perfect working order.
1993 saw growth in the bank outside Hopkins County with the opening of a branch in Winnsboro. The South Town Branch was opened in 1998 by acquiring First National Bank; and, a separate Mortgage Branch was opened in 2000. With acquisitions and openings the bank has a strong presence in the Northeast Texas Counties of Hopkins, Franklin, Rains, Van Zandt and Wood.
The Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry has been blessed with a Partnership with City National Bank since June 8, 2016. For a number of years the bank has supplied financial support and personnel to serve meals on a quarterly basis.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Salads—Salads—and MORE—Salads
- Our famous Chicken, Tuna and Pimento Salads
- Green Beans Sauced with Citrus Infused Sour Cream
- Bread Stix
- Texas Sheet Cake
The Dinner Bell Ministry
First United Methodist Church
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
School Vouchers Huge Step Closer to Realty for Texas Families
April 17, 2025 – In a historic shift, the Texas House passed a major school choice bill on Wednesday afternoon, marking the first time such legislation has cleared the chamber. After years of resistance, House lawmakers voted 85–63, mostly along party lines, to advance a school choice program championed by Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, and the Texas GOP. The vote followed hours of contentious debate that stretched past 2 a.m., with Democrats introducing numerous amendments aimed at weakening the bill—none of which passed.
The legislation would create Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), allowing families to access up to $10,000 in public funds for private school tuition, homeschooling costs, and other educational expenses. The bill now heads back to the Senate, which can either approve the House’s changes or send it to a conference committee for further negotiation.
Gov. Abbott has made school choice a key priority, especially after last year’s Republican primaries, where he helped unseat GOP incumbents who opposed similar efforts. Prior to the vote, House Republicans met privately and received a phone call from former President Donald Trump, who encouraged unity behind the measure.
Only two Republicans—Rep. Gary Vandeaver and former Speaker Dade Phelan—broke ranks to vote against the bill. Abbott has vowed to sign it into law.
Texas House Passes Year Round Daylight Saving Time Bill
April 16, 2025 – This month, Texas House Bill 1393 (HB 1393), which proposes observing daylight saving time year-round, has passed the Texas House of Representatives. The bill was placed on the General State Calendar on April 15, 2025, and subsequently passed the House on April 16, 2025.
However, HB 1393 has not yet become law. For it to take effect, the bill must pass the Texas Senate and be signed by the Governor. Additionally, its implementation is contingent upon federal legislation. Under current federal law, states may opt to observe standard time year-round but cannot adopt daylight saving time year-round without congressional approval. Therefore, even if HB 1393 is enacted at the state level, it would only take effect if the U.S. Congress passes legislation permitting states to observe daylight saving time year-round.
The debate over permanent daylight saving time continues both in Texas and at the federal level. While some lawmakers advocate for year-round daylight saving time, others support maintaining standard time throughout the year. Public opinion remains divided on the issue, and any change would require both state and federal action.
