Cooper Lake State Park Is A Great Place to Watch Lunar Eclipse
March 7, 2025 – If you can stay up really late or get up really early next week, you may want to make your way out to Cooper Lake State Park to view a Total Lunar Eclipse. The spectacular event will happen in the wee hours of Friday morning March 14, 2025 (after midnight Thursday night) and staff at the Doctors Creek Unit are encouraging stargazers to visit the park to view the eclipse.
Cooper Lake Eclipse Information:
A total lunar eclipse takes place when the Earth comes between the Sun and the Moon, and its shadow covers the Moon. Eclipse watchers can see the Moon turn red when the eclipse reaches totality.
Total eclipse begins at 1:26 a.m. – completely red moon, maximum eclipse at 1:58 a.m. – Moon is closest to the center of the shadow, total moon eclipse ends at 2:31 a.m.
Find an outdoor space free of obstructions to view the night sky. Along with paying your daily entrance fee you’ll also pay an after hours activity fee to see this special night sky event.
Cost: Park programs are open to the public and free with a paid park entrance fee of $5 per person ages 13 and up; children 12 and under are always free! Park entry is free with the Texas State Park Pass. Plus you will need to pay the after hours activity fee.
No need to register—just show up!
*Events and programs are subject to cancellation due to weather; if cancelled, an update will be made to this posting. Please contact park staff for more information and the latest updates.
Doctors Creek Unit
95 Park Road 8154
Cooper, TX 75432
Latitude: 33.348700
Longitude: -95.663677
(903) 395-3100
Two National Park Offices in Texas Slated for Closure
March 7, 2025 – President Donald Trump’s administration has announced plans to close two national park offices in Texas as part of a broader effort to cut government spending. The decision affects key National Park Service (NPS) facilities that play crucial roles in resource protection, public safety, and park management.
One of the offices slated for closure is the main headquarters of the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area in the Texas Panhandle. This facility serves as the central hub for park operations, including wildland fire management, law enforcement, public access, and environmental preservation. Lake Meredith, a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, relies on these services to maintain visitor safety and park conservation efforts.
The second closure impacts the law enforcement facility at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This site houses NPS employees responsible for first response, public safety, equipment storage, and artifact preservation. The San Antonio Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts thousands of visitors annually, and the loss of this facility raises concerns about the park’s ability to provide adequate security and maintenance.
The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has criticized the closures, warning that reduced resources could lead to safety risks, decreased visitor services, and potential damage to protected sites. Conservationists argue that cutting essential services at national parks undermines their long-term sustainability.
Despite these concerns, the Trump administration defends the decision as a necessary move to reduce federal spending and streamline government operations. Critics, however, see it as part of a broader pattern of diminishing environmental protections and public land management.
With no immediate plans to replace these offices, local officials and park advocates worry about the long-term impact on Texas’ national parks, as well as the communities and economies that rely on them for tourism and recreation.
Another Wet and Chilly Weekend Ahead for Hopkins County and Northeast Texas
March 7, 2025 – A cold front is moving into Hopkins County, Texas, this afternoon, bringing chilly temperatures and a rainy weekend ahead. The front is expected to drop temperatures significantly, with highs struggling to reach the 50s and overnight lows dipping into the 30s. Residents should prepare for steady rain and possible thunderstorms throughout the weekend, making for damp and cold conditions.
The rain is expected to begin later today and continue through Sunday, with periods of heavier showers at times. Winds will also pick up, adding to the overall chilly feel. Those with outdoor plans should consider indoor alternatives or bundle up with rain gear if heading out.
However, relief is on the horizon as temperatures are forecast to rebound by Monday. Sunshine will return, and highs will climb back into the 60s, bringing a more comfortable start to the new week. Until then, Hopkins County residents should brace for a wet and cold few days ahead.
Texas Ends Remote Work Option for Government Employees
March 7, 2025 – The State of Texas has officially ended remote work for government employees, following a broader push by President Donald Trump to bring federal workers back to in-person offices. On his first day back in office, Trump signed an executive order requiring federal employees to return to onsite work, citing the need for efficiency, accountability, and better public service. Texas leaders quickly followed suit, announcing that state agencies would no longer allow remote work arrangements.
Governor Greg Abbott’s administration has echoed Trump’s stance, arguing that in-person work improves collaboration, productivity, and responsiveness in government operations. State agency heads were directed to phase out remote work policies and ensure all employees return to their offices full-time. The shift marks a significant change for many government workers who had been operating remotely since the COVID-19 pandemic.
While supporters of the move argue that public servants should be physically present to serve taxpayers effectively, critics contend that eliminating remote work could reduce employee satisfaction, increase turnover, and limit hiring flexibility. Some state employees have expressed concerns about commuting costs and work-life balance.
Despite pushback, Texas remains firm in its decision, aligning with federal efforts to restore traditional workplace operations across government institutions.
Dinner Bell for March 12, 2025
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
SPONSOR: Christus Health
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.
In July 2016 the Hopkins County Hospital District and Christus Health formed an alliance in which Christus became the leasing entity of the hospital building, its employes, and the medical services of the hospital.
Christus Health can trace its history to 1866 with the founding of St. Mary’s Hospital in Galveston, Texas, by the sisters of Charity. In 2016 Christus merged with Trinity Mother Frances hospital and Clinics (itself a product of a merger of two catholic based systems) in Tyler, Texas.
The goal of Christus Health is to improve the health and well-being of the communities it serves with the underlying core values of Compassion, Excellence, Dignity, Integrity, and Stewardship. Under its umbrella are 63 hospitals in the United States, Mexico, Columbia, and Chile, employing 45,000 associates.
Christus Mother Frances is a partner with Dinner Bell six times yearly. The relationship to feed those needing a meal in Sulphur Springs and its vicinity dates back to 2017. Thank you Christus Health!
Our lovely servers today are from the Daily News Telegram who enjoy being at Dinner Bell! We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Spaghetti Casserole
- Roasted Root Vegetables
- Garden Salad
- Buttered French Bread Slices
- Do Nothing 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 !!!
Paris Junior College’s Gabriella Sosa tops National Rankings
March 6, 2025 – Paris Junior College softball player Gabriella Sosa has snagged several number one spots in rankings from the National Junior College Athletic Association this week.
The sophomore catcher is currently number one nationally in home runs (20), runners batted in (56), and total bases (106). She is third nationally in slugging percentage (1.359) and fourth in hits (40).
“Gabby has gotten off to a great start and her numbers are incredible,” said PJC Softball Coach Shelby Shelton. “The best thing about Gabby is that she is a tremendous person and makes the people around her better. She has earned the results she is getting and the recognition that comes with it.”
Sosa, who graduated from MacArthur High School in San Antonio, credits her teammates for her success.
“Overall, I feel the performance is good,” said Sosa. “My teammates are a huge part of the success as well as our coaches. We have such a good offensive team; they truly push me to strive to be better and compete. Our coaches also put in a ton of extra work so we can feel good about our swings and make adjustments as needed.”
Their combined efforts are evident in the national NJCAA ranking of 16th for PJC softball – an achievement the team has maintained for three weeks.
“The ranking is something we don’t even talk about as a team,” said Shelton, “but as a program, we always want to strive to be relevant on the national level, so to be named in the top 25 is always an honor for our program.”
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.
Weekly Senior Center Activities with Meal A Day Menu for the Week of March 10th
March 6, 2025 – Check out what the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center has in store for the community this week, this month, and upcoming months! This post also includes the Meal A Day Menu for March 10th, 2025 through March 14th, 2025.
Object Falls From Sky and Lands in Quinlan Texas
March 6, 2025 – Residents of Quinlan, Texas, were startled Tuesday night when an unidentified object fell from the sky. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has since claimed responsibility, identifying it as part of an Air and Marine Operations (AMO) Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS). The system is a large, balloon-like surveillance tool used to monitor air and marine traffic, primarily along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Eyewitnesses described seeing a massive object descending before it landed in a rural area near Quinlan. Some speculated it was debris from space or even a UFO before CBP clarified its origins. Officials confirmed that the aerostat became detached from its tether and drifted before ultimately crashing.
CBP has deployed personnel to recover the equipment and investigate what caused the malfunction. While no injuries or property damage have been reported, the incident has sparked curiosity and concern among residents.
TARS aerostats are stationed in various locations to enhance border security by providing real-time surveillance. However, this rare failure has raised questions about their reliability and potential risks if they were to detach in more populated areas. Officials assure the public that measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Paris Junior College President Wins State, National Awards
March 6, 2025 – Just eight months into his first year as Paris Junior College’s ninth president, Dr. Stephen M. Benson is already gaining state and national notice. He will receive two awards from Phi Theta Kappa, the national two-year college honor society. He was nominated for both awards by the PTK Beta Zeta Chapter, which has been active at PJC since 1932.
“I am truly honored to be nominated for these awards by the outstanding students of Phi Theta Kappa,” said Benson. “This organization represents the best of academic excellence, leadership, and service, and I am continually inspired by their dedication. As president of Paris Junior College, my greatest privilege is championing student success, and I share this recognition with the incredible faculty, staff, and students who make our institution thrive.”
At the Texas annual meeting of Phi Theta Kappa, Dr. Benson will be inducted into the Texas Hall of Honor for New Presidents for the Texas Region of Phi Theta Kappa. Benson will receive the honor at the Texas Region’s 2025 Awards Banquet held in Houston on March 8.
On April 3, Benson will travel to Kansas City, Missouri for PTK Catalyst, the honor society’s annual international meeting. There he will receive the PTK Paragon Award for New Presidents. This award recognizes new college presidents for their outstanding support of student success and for providing high-quality learning environments both inside and outside the classroom.
“I applaud you for taking an active and direct interest in the leadership development of your Phi Theta Kappa students — they are so grateful, and it’s not just them,” said Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner, President & CEO of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. “Your nomination was strong evidence that you are a student success champion for all students. They know you are working hard to provide them more opportunities and stronger pathways to completion, transfer, and employment. They know you support their learning, and as a result, they have had a better college experience because of you.”
Christopher Withrow, PTK Beta Zeta Chapter President, wrote both successful nominations.
“Although his tenure has only spanned a few months,” Withrow wrote, “Dr. Benson has been instrumental in facilitating change on our campus, as well as for our chapter.”
Withrow cited Benson’s willingness to talk with student leaders, even during his vetting process, and address their questions and concerns.
“He presented himself as a champion whom Phi Theta Kappa could rely on,” Withrow said, “and he has fulfilled that assurance. He has been open to any and all suggestions for positive activities that PTK could be involved in to improve the community and fellowship of our institution.”
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.
East Texas A&M Breaks Ground on Buffalo Wild Wings, a New Hub for Lion Fans
The 5,000+ square-foot restaurant will feature an enclosed patio and covered exterior game area.
COMMERCE, TX, March 4, 2025—East Texas A&M University is gearing up for a game-changing addition with a brand-new Buffalo Wild Wings set to open in fall 2025.
Construction is underway just south of Whitley Hall near State Highway 24 in Commerce, Texas. The restaurant will be university-owned and operated by East Texas A&M’s food services provider, Sodexo. It is poised to be the go-to spot for students and the community to enjoy good food while watching sports on the big screen.
Big flavors, big screens, big fun
What do you get when you combine incredible wings, 26 sauces, and amazing burgers with family, friends and sports? A global franchise brand of 1,200+ sports bars across 10 countries – and now our campus.
Buffalo Wild Wings is the largest sports bar franchise in the U.S. and the fastest-growing wings-to-go concept with BWW GO. Buffalo Wild Wings is part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants which includes Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin’, Jimmy John’s, and SONIC.
“We are thrilled to bring a brand-new Buffalo Wild Wings to East Texas A&M University,” the company said in a statement. “With wall-to-wall TVs, a spacious enclosed patio, and a covered exterior game area, this new sports bar is the ultimate spot for Lion Athletics fans to enjoy wings, burgers, and our signature sauces while cheering on their team. We look forward to joining the community and becoming a go-to location for students, faculty, and sports fans this year.”
Archer Construction from Paris, Texas, is the contractor for the project. The building will provide more than 5,000 square feet of space and capacity for 281 people. It will also feature an enclosed patio area and a covered exterior game area equipped with TVs and cornhole boards.
The start of something big in Commerce
The new restaurant is the first piece of a larger project that will ultimately include a hotel and a new event center/arena for the university. Buffalo Wild Wings will connect to a central plaza, allowing patrons to dine and then walk a short distance to enjoy events in the new arena.
East Texas A&M President Mark Rudin expressed his enthusiasm for the new restaurant.
“This establishment is poised to become a go-to spot for students, families, Lion Athletics fans and more,” Rudin said. “We are excited to partner with Buffalo Wild Wings in this endeavor, and I can’t wait to order up my first basket of wings!”
Computer renderings of the new Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant slated to open in Fall 2025. Courtesy of Design and Engineering Inc.
