Texas Set to Implement Controversial “Bathroom Bill” as Questions Over Enforcement and Impact Mount
December 1, 2025 – Beginning Thursday, Texas will implement Senate Bill 8, the long-debated “bathroom bill” that restricts transgender people’s access to certain restrooms and changing areas in public facilities. The law—formally titled the Texas Women’s Privacy Act—caps more than a decade of Republican efforts to pass sex-based bathroom regulations.
SB 8 applies to public buildings, including county and city offices, state agencies, public schools, open-enrollment charter schools, and public universities. Multi-stall restrooms, changing rooms, and showers in these facilities must now be used according to a person’s sex assigned at birth. The law does not apply to private businesses, which may set their own policies.
The legislation also expands beyond bathrooms. It requires Texas prisons to house inmates according to sex assigned at birth—something the Texas Department of Criminal Justice says it already does. A separate provision restricts certain family violence shelters to serving only individuals assigned female at birth, though advocates note many shelters receive federal funding that requires them to serve clients regardless of sex, potentially rendering the state rule inapplicable.
The bill provides limited exemptions, including emergency personnel, custodial workers, law enforcement, and children under 10 accompanied by an adult. Institutions may also offer single-person restrooms open to anyone.
A major unresolved question is enforcement. SB 8 states that public institutions must take “every reasonable step” to ensure compliance but does not define what those steps are. Critics fear the vagueness could lead to intrusive ID checks or harassment, though lawmakers say extreme measures like physical inspections are not intended—yet the law does not explicitly prohibit them.
Individuals cannot be penalized under SB 8, but institutions can face steep fines—$25,000 for a first violation and $125,000 per day for subsequent ones—after notification and review by the Attorney General’s Office.
Supporters say the law protects privacy and safety, while opponents argue it invites discrimination, legal confusion, and costly enforcement battles. As implementation begins, many agencies are still drafting policies, and advocates warn that the real-world impact will likely emerge in the coming months.
Applications Open Dec. 1 for 69th Texas Game Warden and State Park Police Cadet Class
AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will begin accepting applications Dec. 1 for the 69th Texas Game Warden and State Park Police cadet class. The application period will close Dec. 31.
The cadet class is open to those interested in enforcing conservation laws, public safety and joining the next generation of elite state law enforcement officers.
As fully commissioned peace officers, game wardens and park police officers are tasked with enforcing all Texas criminal laws and must enforce the Penal Code, Transportation Code and Health and Safety Codes much like their law enforcement colleagues in neighboring communities. Additionally, their responsibilities extend beyond the pavement as they patrol some of the most remote regions of the state, protecting Texas’ natural resources by enforcing hunting and fishing regulations, patrolling waterways, and keeping millions of residents and visitors safe while they enjoy the outdoors.
“Since 1895, Texas Game Wardens have been an elite branch of law enforcement that is critical to protecting our communities and Texas’ natural heritage,” said Col. Ron A. VanderRoest, TPWD Law Enforcement Director. “Honor, commitment and service guide our wardens every day as they focus on conservation enforcement, connect with the public and respond to emergencies and natural disasters across the state.”
VanderRoest added that Texas Game Wardens are deeply rooted in the communities they serve, living in the counties they patrol, teaching hunter and boater education courses, hosting outreach events and working with local partners to promote safe, legal and ethical outdoor recreation.
TPWD law enforcement officers also play a vital role in the state’s emergency response efforts, being specially trained in search, rescue and recovery operations on land, in the air and on the water.
The Texas Legislature has authorized an expanded enforcement program for Texas Game Wardens that includes a 50-hour work week for Texas Game Wardens and paid overtime for Texas State Park Police. This schedule supports increased patrol coverage across the state and provides an opportunity to earn a higher salary through additional enforcement hours and overtime compensation.
State Park Police Officers share a similar commitment to people and natural resources. They patrol some of the state’s most iconic public lands, including forests, rivers, mountains and beaches, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for the nearly 10 million visitors who explore Texas State Parks each year.
“For more than 50 years, State Park Police Officers have protected Texas’ parks and people,” said Chief Wes Masur, Director of State Park Police. “Our officers use community-oriented policing strategies to educate the public on state park rules and regulations, enforce state laws and serve as active partners with local law enforcement agencies. It is demanding work at times, but serving Texans in these special places is an incredibly rewarding career.”
Applicants for the 69th class must be at least 21 years old by the start of the academy and have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in any field of study by June 30, 2026. They must also pass a comprehensive background check, psychological and medical evaluations and complete a physical readiness test that includes handgun stability, a 2,000-meter row and a swim test. A complete list of requirements for Texas Game Wardens and State Park Police can be found online.
All cadets accepted into the program are required to live at the Game Warden Training Center near Hamilton for the duration of the 35-week training period, set to begin Oct. 1, 2026.
Interested applicants may apply online. The application process to become a law enforcement officer with TPWD is highly competitive, with only the most qualified applicants being selected to attend the academy.
For more information, check the game warden career webpage or call the closest TPWD Law Enforcement Office and for questions about becoming a State Park Police Officer, contact park police recruiter EJ Rivera at [email protected].
Paris District Road Report for December 1, 2025
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting December 1, 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: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
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. 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 lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121 are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping & other remaining works. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road.
US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on October 23. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Blythe Rd to Hanning St. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is completed, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic.
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-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue work on a portion of the new US 75 main lane 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.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to December 24, 2025, from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Eastbound/Westbound Taylor St. will remain closed until April 2026.
US 75 northbound main lanes from north of US 82 to north of Lamberth to be fully closed from December 07 to December 08 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This lane closure is needed to switch traffic to the new pavement.
US 75 southbound main lanes from north of US 82 to north of Lamberth to be fully closed from December 08 to December 09 from 8:00 PM to 5:00 AM. This lane closure is needed to switch traffic to the new pavement.
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.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. 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, or traffic can continue along the northbound frontage road through the Loy Lake Road intersection and take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
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.
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.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Occasional lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm at night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
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 occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to finalize the rehabilitation and widening of the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers may be directing traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County Line. 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.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 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 the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Two new traffic signals in Tioga were activated last week. The new traffic signals were activated at the US 377 & FM 922 intersection and at the US 377 & FM 121 intersection. The traffic signals were fully activated to signal mode on Wednesday, November 19. Message boards are in place on US 377, FM 922 and FM 121 to alert the public about the change. Message boards will remain in place for a week after the change to full activation to help with advanced notification.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The Contractor demolished the bridge and started replacing it. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Frog Pond Rd & Spalding Rd or Klas Rd & Hazelwood Rd.
FM 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safety treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor closed the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The Contractor completed the bridge replacement work and opened it to traffic on October 31. The Contractor will continue working on the remaining minor items with occasional daily lane closures. Drivers are requested to slow down, watch for construction workers and obey construction signs as they travel through the work zone.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. The bridge on Prescott Road will be closed in both directions until the bridge replacement work is completed. The bridge will remain closed until March 2026. The Contractor plans to close the bridge and begin work at the end of November, weather permitting. Road closure signs will be installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Johnny Watson Road, Jelley Road and Southmayd Road as an alternate route.
US 377 in Whitesboro. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform edge repair work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82 eastbound entrance ramp from US 377. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform edge repair work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 11 from SH 56 to north of FM 1417. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform edge repair work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121 west of Gunter. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform edge repair work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Lamar St. from S. Montgomery St. to Bethany Rd. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform level up work 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 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
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 occasional delays as the contractor performs the final minor activities in 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 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
SH 78, from FM 981 to Coline County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform overlay operations on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be performing surfacing operations. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. 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:
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 42nd street in Paris to Division Street in Blossom. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform pavement repairs and resurfacing.
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.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
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.
1st ST SW & South Main St., Lamar County: from Hearne St. in Paris to Kaufman ST. in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install a bike lane and perform pavement and curb repairs.
FM 195, at Six Mile Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
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.
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.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
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.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is currently suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. 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 performing flex base work on the south end of the project, and asphalt paving on the north end of the project. Contractor is also performing maintenance on driveways. 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. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor is currently working base material. Contractor will be fog sealing this week. One-way flagger operations are currently set up through the work zone. Expect minor delays. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is performing excavation and embankment work. Expect delays in the workzone. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Contractor is laying driveway pipes and installing culverts. Flagger controlled traffic control is in place during construction operations. Expect slight delays and follow pilot vehicle. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. Drill shafts are installed at FM 1903. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. Contractor will be performing cement treatment and hot mix paving for detours around FM 36 and FM 1570 area frontage roads. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
District Wide Lighting / Safety Improvement. Contractor is setting light poles and electrical services on SH 24 and FM 1528, and SH 24 at BU 24. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing spot base repair on FM 2358. Edge work will be performed on FM 1565, from IH-30 to SH 66. Flaggers will be present at both locations. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair at various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 1565. Right of Way vegetation management will be taking place in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Learn About the SSHS Choir’s Christmas Concert Coming up December 9th on This KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
November 28, 2025 – On November 18th, 2025, Sulphur Springs High School Choir Director, Beth Cole, dropped by for A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey to chat about the SSHS Choir’s upcoming Christmas Program being held at the Sulphur Springs High School Auditorium on December 9th, 2025. Beth and John Mark also talked about Sulphur Springs’s Choir students, the All State Competition coming up on January 10, 2026, and much more. Be sure to check out this charming segment of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey and learn about the Sulphur Springs High School’s Choir Director and what she has in store for her students.
Sherry Kay Sinclair
March 14, 1964 ~ November 27, 2025 (age 61)
Sherry Kay Sinclair, of Sulphur Springs, passed away peacefully, the morning of November 27, 2025 to be with her Lord. She was surrounded by her family until the very end. She was born on March 14, 1964 in Hope, Arkansas. Sherry had 30 years in education, starting her career in 1992 in Queen City, Texas. She then worked in Mt. Pleasant in 1997 and 1998, then moved to Sulphur Springs ISD, spending the last few years as Principal and Head Start Director at Douglass ECLC.
Sherry was a dedicated educator who loved her students and staff. Her dedication to her family was limitless. She brought joy and sunshine to a sometimes-dark world. She will be greatly missed.
She was preceded in death by her father, Jerry Don Bailey, Sr. and her brother Jerry Don Bailey, Jr. Sherry is survived by her husband of 37 years, Shawn Sinclair; son, Sawyer Sinclair; daughter, Skyler Sinclair; sister, Marla McCord; and her in-laws, Bill and Tommie Sinclair; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at the Hopkins County Regional Civic Center, 1200 Houston St, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. Interment will follow in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Mt. Pleasant, Texas.
Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home. www.westoaksfuneralhome.com
MISTLETOE By Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
November 28, 2025 – Mistletoe has long been associated with the Christmas holidays, and the idea of kissing under the mistletoe is a favorite of many people, both young and old. Mistletoe has historically represented romance, vitality, and fertility. The ancient Greeks’ winter holiday Kronia used mistletoe as part of the celebrations, and the tradition of “kissing under the mistletoe” may have started there. How this idea started (and continues!), is a mystery, since mistletoe’s life cycle and history seems a bit less than romantic…….
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that takes water and nutrients from the host plant. The name comes from 2 Anglo-Saxon words—“mistel”, meaning “dung”, and “tan”, meaning “twig”. This combination of words refers to the plant spreading its seeds by bird or squirrel droppings. The scientific genus of mistletoe is Phoradendron, meaning “thief of the tree”.
Generally, mistletoe does not harm healthy trees, but is more often found on older, declining, and sparsely leafed trees. Strong trees have a dense canopy that helps shade mistletoe out and preventing it from taking hold, while the bark of a vigorous tree can grow more quickly than the roots of the mistletoe, preventing them from reaching the tree’s nutrients.
Mistletoe is evergreen and keeps its leaves year round, and is more easily seen in fall and winter when the host tree loses its leaves. Mistletoe produces its greenish-white berries from October to December. These berries are quite sticky, and attach themselves to the bark of the host tree until conditions are right for germination. After germinating, the seeds send roots into and through the bark, seeking nutrients in the tree branch.
The berries are poisonous, and should be kept away from children and pets. Wash hands with soap after handling the plant. If taken indoors, keep mistletoe away from heat, as it will dry out and become a fire hazard.
Control of mistletoe is difficult. Removing entire limbs infested with mistletoe can be more harmful than useful to the tree. Removing the clumps is a stopgap remedy, as the mistletoe will re-grow, but it does remove a source of future seeds. It can be treated/sprayed with a plant growth regulator, but this procedure should be done by a licensed pest control operator. This may involve a high cost, especially for an older, weak tree.
A parasite with poison berries, spread by animal dung! Makes one feel romantic, doesn’t it??
POINSETTIAS By Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
November 28, 2025 – Poinsettias are everywhere! Nurseries, garden centers, even grocery stores are now selling these plants for Christmas color and decorations. These plants are famous for their bright red foliage, and make a great Christmas display of holiday cheer. Although we are used to seeing poinsettias as red plants, they come in many varieties and colors. The “leaves” are actually called “bracts”, and the “flower” is a small cluster in the center of the plant.
Poinsettias are native to Mexico and Central America, and are perennial plants in Zones 9-11. Unfortunately for Hopkins County, we are a Zone 7 area, and poinsettias will not survive our winters outside, but can be grown indoors.
Anyone who wants to keep their Christmas poinsettia alive through the winter can place the plant in a window that gets bright, indirect sunlight, avoid drafty areas, and keep the temperature constant around 65-75 degrees. Do not feed poinsettias while blooming. After the blooming period, poinsettias need a little liquid all-purpose fertilizer monthly, applied at about ½ the recommended rate. Water lightly when the top of the soil is dry, and try to keep the soil moist, but not wet.
Be aware that the sticky, white sap from the plant can cause skin irritations and rash. Wash hands well after handling the plant.
To get poinsettia bracts (leaves) to change color is not a quick process! The bracts naturally change color when the days become shorter and the plant receives less sunlight. To simulate nature and “trick” the plant, at the end of September begin to put the plant in total darkness for 16 hours everyday, with the remaining 8 hours in a bright, sunny window. Then at Thanksgiving, stop the total darkness treatment, and put the plant in a window with indirect sunlight. Soon, the bracts will change color in time for Christmas!
FedEx Fowl-Up Causes Smoked Turkey Delivery Delays
November 27, 2025 – TYLER, Texas — A Thanksgiving scramble is underway after a major Texas turkey supplier said hundreds of its holiday orders may not be delivered in time. Greenberg Smoked Turkey, Inc., a longtime family-run business in Tyler, reported that turkeys bound for North Texas customers became stuck inside a FedEx distribution facility in Hutchins.
The delay, which the company says is outside its control, has left both the supplier and customers frustrated during one of the busiest food-shipping weeks of the year. Greenberg officials said they were notified that dozens of pallets of boxed turkeys were sitting idle in the Hutchins hub, with little clarity from FedEx on when they would move again.
For many families, Greenberg’s smoked turkeys are a traditional centerpiece, and the potential disruption comes at the worst possible moment. “We know how important these turkeys are to your holiday,” the company said in a statement, adding that it is working around the clock to monitor shipments, provide updates, and offer refunds where necessary.
FedEx has not publicly commented on the cause of the bottleneck, though staffing shortages and high holiday package volume have strained carriers nationwide.
Greenberg Smoked Turkey urged customers awaiting deliveries to check tracking numbers frequently. The company said it remains hopeful that most shipments will still arrive before Thanksgiving—but acknowledged that some may not make it in time for Thursday’s holiday meals.
That $100 Million For Childcare in Texas Didn’t Go Far
November 27, 2025 – LUFKIN — When Texas lawmakers approved a $100 million boost to the state’s child care scholarship fund earlier this year, the investment was billed as a lifeline for working families struggling with soaring child-care costs. But months later, many child-care centers say they have seen little change — and thousands of eligible families remain stuck on waitlists.
The problem, state officials and providers say, comes down to how the money was structured and how quickly costs have risen.
The $100 million infusion was intended to stabilize the Texas Workforce Commission’s child-care assistance program, which helps low-income parents afford care so they can stay in the workforce. But unlike past emergency federal funding, the new state money did not expand capacity. Instead, it was largely absorbed by rising reimbursement rates — the amount the state pays providers per child.
In short: the money helped keep the system from collapsing, but it didn’t create many new spots.
Providers across East Texas say they’re operating at — or beyond — capacity, with staffing shortages making expansion nearly impossible. “We can’t open a new classroom without a qualified teacher,” said one Lufkin-area director. “Even if more families qualify for aid, we have nowhere to put the kids.”
Families are feeling the impact. While demand for subsidized child care is growing, especially in rural and low-income areas, providers say inflation, rising wages, and new safety and quality requirements have outpaced funding. As a result, the $100 million stabilized the program on paper but failed to meaningfully shorten waitlists.
Child-care advocates argue that Texas will need recurring, long-term investments — not one-time boosts — to make subsidized care both accessible to families and financially sustainable for providers.
For now, parents in Lufkin and across the state continue waiting, hoping the next legislative session delivers a fix.
Texas Wants Drastic Fee Increase For Camps After Tragedy
November 27, 2025 – Texas regulators have proposed dramatic hikes to summer camp licensing fees — increases that could reach as much as 4,000% — sparking concern among camp operators that many longtime youth and overnight camps might be forced to shut down.
Under current law, the initial license fee for a residential youth camp — like an overnight summer camp — is $750, with annual renewals ranging from $103 to $464 depending on the camp’s size.
Under the new proposal filed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), that initial fee would soar to as high as $21,000 for very large camps, while renewal fees for some camps could rise to as much as $19,500 per year.
Day-camp fees would also climb steeply: from $250 to as high as $3,200, based on camper volume.
State officials argue that the increase is needed to help fund expanded oversight, inspections, and enhanced safety regulations passed in response to the tragic July 4 floods at Camp Mystic and other camps.
But critics — including many small, nonprofit camps — warn that the cost jump is untenable. Some say they may not survive the added financial burden.
Camp directors told DSHS they support increased safety, but pleaded for more reasonable fee structures. “This causes an undue burden for smaller or more remote camps,” one operator wrote.
Others said that the new broadband-connectivity and evacuation-plan requirements, in addition to skyrocketing fees, could force them out of business.
The proposals also include a restructuring of the state’s Youth Camp Advisory Committee — reducing representation from camp operators and adding seats reserved for child-safety experts, parents, and mental-health professionals.
The public comment period on the rules is open through mid-December. As Texas camps weigh their future, many worry that some of the state’s oldest summer traditions may vanish.
