Preparing for Winter Storms is Crucial to Ensure the Safety of Individuals by Mario Villarino
January 22, 2025 – Preparing for winter storms is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals, livestock, and property. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service offers comprehensive resources to help Texans effectively prepare for and respond to winter weather events.
Key Preparedness Steps:
1. Stay Informed: Keep abreast of weather forecasts and heed advisories from local authorities. Reliable information can be accessed through the National Weather Service and local news outlets.
2. Home Preparation: Ensure your home is well-insulated to retain heat. Seal any drafts around windows and doors. Protect pipes from freezing by insulating them and allowing faucets to drip during extreme cold. Have your heating systems inspected and maintain a safe alternative heating source, such as a fireplace or portable heater.
3. Emergency Supplies: Stock a minimum three-day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water. Keep an adequate supply of essential medications and a first-aid kit. Prepare for potential outages with flashlights, batteries, and, if possible, a generator.
4. Vehicle Preparedness: Ensure your vehicle is serviced and equipped with antifreeze. Carry essentials such as blankets, a flashlight, food, water, and a shovel in your vehicle.
5. Livestock and Pets: Provide adequate shelter to protect animals from wind, snow, and ice. Ensure access to unfrozen water sources. Stock sufficient feed, considering that animals may require additional energy during cold weather.
For more detailed information and resources, visit the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Disaster Preparedness & Recovery page. Additionally, the Disaster Assessment & Recovery (DAR) unit offers valuable insights into community resiliency and disaster response efforts.
By taking these proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with winter storms and ensure a safer environment for yourself, your family, and your community.
Check Out the Latest Episode of Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey and Cooper Lake’s Aron Maib
In this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down with Cooper Lake State Park Supervisor Aron Maib. The two discussed the upcoming “Kids’ Trout Fishing Day” January 25th, 2025, the park’s need for volunteers, the “Skins and Skulls” event, and much more. Take a look at this episode and learn what Cooper Lake State Park has instore for you!
With Trump In Office, Texas Scrambles to Install More Border Buoys
On January 20, 2025, immediately following President Donald Trump’s inauguration, Texas expanded its border security measures by installing additional buoys along the Rio Grande. Governor Greg Abbott shared footage of these new buoys being deployed, emphasizing the state’s commitment to curbing illegal immigration.
This action aligns with President Trump’s reinstated immigration policies, which include declaring a national emergency at the southern border, resuming border wall construction, and reintroducing the “Remain in Mexico” policy. These measures aim to strengthen border security and reduce unauthorized crossings.
The deployment of buoys has been a contentious issue. In 2023, the Biden administration sued Texas, arguing that the floating barriers violated federal law. While a district court initially sided with the federal government, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals later overruled this decision. With the change in administration, it remains to be seen how federal-state dynamics regarding border security will evolve.
Governor Abbott’s proactive approach reflects Texas’s determination to address border challenges directly. By expanding the buoy barrier, the state seeks to deter illegal crossings and enhance overall border security in collaboration with federal initiatives.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Sues Biden During the Administration’s Final Hours to Stop Unlawful Ban on Offshore Drilling
January 21, 2025 – Attorney General Ken Paxton has sued the Biden Administration during its final hours to prevent President Joe Biden’s unlawful restriction of offshore drilling in violation of federal law. W&T Offshore, Inc, joined Attorney General Paxton in the lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court Eastern District of Texas Lufkin Division.
On January 6, President Biden unlawfully attempted to indefinitely extend the withdrawal of some offshore drilling sites under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. The law, however, does not permit presidents to unilaterally prevent the economic development of these areas in perpetuity without any limitation whatsoever. President Biden’s actions exceed his statutory authority and will make America less energy secure.
Attorney General Paxton has sued Biden, asking the court to enjoin the sweeping withdrawals and prevent them from taking effect. This lawsuit represents the 106th lawsuit Attorney General Paxton has filed against the Biden Administration in opposition to its frequent violations of the Constitution and the rule of law. As of today, Attorney General Paxton has won more than three out of every four lawsuits filed against Biden.
“In 2021, I became the first State Attorney General to sue Biden just three days into his failed administration. Now, I will be the last AG to sue Biden on his way out of Washington,” said Attorney General Paxton. “The past four years saw the repeated, intentional effort by Biden and his deep state cronies to subvert our laws, destabilize our nation, and undermine our freedoms. I worked tirelessly to stop these attempts and won time and time again. Soon, when President Trump takes the oath of office, we can begin to undo the damage done.”
Learn What’s Up at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center on This Second Cup Of Coffee
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark chatted with Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center Coordinator Dawna Pryor. The two talked about what is, and what will be, going on at the Senior Citizens Activity Center, such as water color painting, a Valentine’s Day Karaoke party, activities to help with balance and strength, and so much more. Be sure to check out this exciting episode and learn what’s up at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center!
Wildcats Took on Bonham in Basketball Action January 17th
January 19, 2025 – The Sulphur Springs High School Wildcats took on Bonham in basketball action January 17, 2025, at Wildcats Gym in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Below is KSST’s coverage of the thrilling game. Check it out!
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library to be Closed January 20th, 2025
EVERYBODY can be great.
Because
ANYBODY can serve.You only need a HEART full of grace.A SOUL generated by LOVE
The Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library will be closed Monday, January 20, 2025, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We will reopen Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
Paris District Road Report for Week of January 20, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting January 20, 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: 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.
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 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 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 SH 56, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at US 377.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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 striping 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.
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.
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. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures 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. Excavation, flex base and flowable fill operations are ongoing. Work is currently ongoing at the Middle Sulphur River relief structure. Construction operations have begun and will continue the project shoulders. Contractor placing workzone tabs and pavement markings. Metal beam guard fence work is ongoing 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 performing on the second mile of the project. Contractor continues to perform reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID within the project limits. Cement treatment and culver riprap is completed on the 2nd mile of the project. New guard rail placement is completed and work on mow strip is ongoing. 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 will begin soon in this area. 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 work zone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. Cement treatment has been completed on the 1st mile section of the 9.5 mile project and the contractor has finished structure wingwalls and headwalls at 3 structures. grading ditches today. Contractor’s completed prime coat yesterday and began temp striping today and started work on SETs and driveway pipe.
Finish work on the cement treated base will be ongoing in these sections. 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 main lanes. Contractor poured culvert B headwall and footing, Grading at FM 1565, EB 2511 for temp wall installation and setting barrier on EB an WB main lane 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 and sign repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
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Incorporating Indoor Plants Into Your Home can Enhance Your Living Space by Mario Villarino
January 18, 2025 – Incorporating indoor plants into your home can enhance your living space and provide various health benefits. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, plants can improve mental health by reducing stress levels, especially during the winter months.
For those new to indoor gardening or seeking low-maintenance options, consider the following plants:
• Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Thrives in low light and requires minimal watering.
• ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Prefers medium to bright light and has low water needs.
• Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Adaptable to various light conditions and doesn’t require frequent watering.
• Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata): Prefers medium to bright light and needs infrequent watering.
• Dracaena Species: Various types are available, tolerating medium to bright light with moderate water needs.
When selecting houseplants, it’s essential to consider their compatibility with your environment and any pets, as some plants can be toxic to animals.
For more detailed information on indoor gardening and plant selection, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers resources and programs, such as the Texas Master Gardener program, which provides horticultural information and training.
By choosing suitable plants and understanding their care requirements, you can enjoy the aesthetic and health benefits of indoor gardening. 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].
Hopkins County Genealogical Society to Hold Next Lunch & Learn January 22nd
January 17, 2025 – Lunch & Learn will be held this coming Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Tx. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society invites anyone who wants to learn more about doing genealogical research to join us. Bring your sack lunch, salad or drive-through meal if you like.
We are excited to have our society president, John A. Sellers, as our speaker to start out this new year. John’s topic will be “Our Library’s Lesser Known Records.” We are absolutely sure you will be surprised to hear about some of the records we have available you didn’t know about. You all know what a great speaker John is so we hope you will come and bring some other folks with you!
