Wesley United Methodist Church Announces the Dates for Fall Round Up 2024
October 7, 2024 – Wesley United Methodist Church is proud to announce the dates for Fall Round Up 2024. It is set for Saturday., Nov. 9. Serving 5:30-7:30 PM. Cost is $15, $5 for kids 10 & under. We are cooking up some delicious chicken and beef Hopkins County Stew plus some awesome chili, all the good stuff that goes with stew, and desserts of all kinds. Live entertainment during the evening provided by Monte Tipps. We will have a Silent Auction and Country Store. Kid’s Carnival, with a $5 entry fee, will be held upstairs in the Youth Room. It is a full evening of food, fun and fellowship!!
Medicare AEP: What You Need to Know About This Year’s Major Changes
October 7, 2024 – The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the time each year when Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare coverage. AEP runs from October 15th to December 7th, during which beneficiaries can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan or vice versa.
- Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another.
- Enroll in, switch, or drop a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.
Changes made during AEP take effect on January 1st of the following year. If you’re on Medicare, this period is crucial for you to review your current plan, compare options, and ensure you have the best coverage for your needs.
What’s Changing This Year?
Changes to Doctor Networks
Most of the major insurance carriers have been revising their provider networks as we head into 2025, so it’s important that you make sure all of your doctors will still be in the network. A local insurance advisor such as myself can help you with this.
Prescription Drug Savings
- There is now a $35 monthly cap on out-of-pocket costs for insulin for Medicare Part D enrollees. This cap applies even before beneficiaries reach the catastrophic phase of their coverage, making insulin more affordable for seniors.
- Starting in 2025, your total out-of-pocket prescription drug costs won’t exceed $2,000 annually. This is a significant change, as there is currently no limit on out-of-pocket spending. Once you reach the $2,000 threshold, you won’t pay anything further for your prescriptions for the rest of the year.
- You will also be able to break your prescription costs into monthly installments rather than having to pay everything upfront, which helps if you’re on a fixed income.
Monthly Premiums
If you’re on a Medicare Supplement, you might be due for a premium increase. If this becomes unaffordable for you, there are alternative options available. Some of you may be on a Medicare Advantage plan offering a Regional PPO with a monthly premium. You may find that your monthly premiums will be increasing in 2025.
How Can You Be Prepared for AEP?
With so many plans to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you make an informed decision:
Review Your Current Plan
What do you think about your current plan? Has it met your financial and health needs this past year? Maybe your prescription drugs were too expensive or you had a doctor that was out of network. Make a list of pros and cons.
Consider Your Budget for Next Year
Healthcare costs are the #1 concern for most seniors, so we want to make sure that your Medicare plan offers you the best financial protection. Look beyond the monthly premium and consider the overall cost.
List Your Prescriptions and Doctors
Before you think about extra perks (such as fitness or dental benefits), it’s essential to make sure your doctors and prescriptions will be covered in 2025. List these out so you can look at plans that cover them.
Ignore TV Commercials and Ads in the Mail
Unfortunately, there are a lot of bad actors in the Medicare industry who are just trying to make money off of seniors. Many of them operate from call centers overseas! My advice: ignore the advertisements altogether.
Meet with a Local Insurance Advisor
Did you know it costs $0 to work with an independent insurance advisor such as myself? Why do this alone when you don’t have to? By meeting with a local expert, you can rest assured that you have made the best plan choice for your needs.
Gillan Boyer is an independent insurance advisor serving Sulphur Springs and the surrounding areas. You can reach him at 903-307-3644 or callboyer.com.
Report from United Way’s First Report Meeting
October 7, 2024 – The Hopkins County United Way Workers held their first Report Meeting October 1st, 2024. KSST received an email from the Hopkins County Untied Way Executive Security, Susan Berning, about the meeting. Susan Berning stated in this email…
“Good morning, Campaign volunteers and media friends.
Thank you for all you are doing on behalf of Hopkins County United Way and the 18 organizations this Campaign will help support!…
Last week’s pledge total is $17,864.99, and we look forward to adding to that total…”
KSST plans on having a presence at the meeting October 8, 2024, and will report on the meeting once we have a chance to.
North Texas Food Bank Celebrates Exceptional Supporters and Volunteers at 17th Annual Golden Fork Awards
DALLAS, TX, October 7, 2024 – The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) honored its outstanding supporters and volunteers during the annual Golden Fork Awards ceremony, recognizing those who have significantly advanced hunger relief efforts across North Texas through their generosity and commitment.
The awards, presented on September 24th, acknowledged the following remarkable recipients:
Lifetime Achievement Award: Perot Family
This prestigious award is given to individuals who have dedicated at least ten years to combating hunger. The Perot family was recognized for their profound impact on NTFB’s mission, beginning with their purchase of the former NTFB warehouse in 1987, which they leased for just $1 a month until NTFB could acquire it in 2002. Their substantial contributions to NTFB’s capital campaign in 2015 allowed the creation of NTFB’s state-of-the-art facility, which proudly bears the Perot family name. In 2022, the Perot family gave another generous gift, which helped build up the Nourish North Texas endowment to ensure a sustainable future for hunger relief efforts. A heartfelt video featuring Ross Perot Jr. highlighted their enduring legacy. Watch here.
Jo Curtis Inspiring Generations Award: Walter Family
Named after one of NTFB’s founders, the inaugural Jo Curtis Inspiring Generations Award, went to the Walter family, whose multigenerational commitment to NTFB began 27 years ago when Tom and Jean Walter responded to their grandson’s request to support the food bank instead of receiving a birthday gift. Their efforts have resulted in over 9.3 million meals for neighbors in need. Jeff Walter shared insights into his family’s journey at the event. Watch here.
Jan Pruitt Legacy Award: Erica Yaeger
Erica Yaeger, Chief External Affairs Officer for NTFB, received the Jan Pruitt Legacy Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership and steadfast dedication since joining in 2018. Her transformative efforts in external affairs have significantly enhanced public support and fundraising initiatives while embodying the core values of NTFB. The Jan Pruitt Legacy Award honors an executive at the food bank or a partner agency who embodies the unwavering commitment of former NTFB president and CEO, Jan Pruitt.
Corporation of the Year: Ryan LLC
Ryan LLC was honored as Corporation of the Year for its support, providing over 1.2 million meals since 2006. Their recent $75,000 sponsorship for the Delivering Hope Truck and active volunteer participation through RyanShares Day exemplify their commitment to fighting hunger.
Tom Black Volunteer of the Year: David Malone
Named for a former board chair and NTFB LIFE Council member Tom Black, this award recognizes someone who exemplifies the same selfless commitment Black always displays. David Malone was named Volunteer of the Year for his exceptional dedication, contributing over 750 hours in two years. He has played a crucial role in creating engaging volunteer experiences and is a volunteer leader for NTFB’s new repacking room initiative.
Foundation of the Year: Theodore and Beulah Beasley Foundation
The Theodore and Beulah Beasley Foundation received the Foundation of the Year award for their steadfast support, contributing nearly $2 million over 13 years. Under the leadership of President Michael Vanderslice, the foundation continues to honor the legacy of its founders by making a significant impact in the community.
Retail Partner of the Year: Walmart
Walmart was recognized as Retail Partner of the Year for providing access to over 80 million meals since 2010, demonstrating a solid commitment to hunger relief in North Texas.
“We owe our progress in the fight against hunger to transformational supporters like today’s honorees,” said NTFB President and CEO Trisha Cunningham. “Though the challenges of hunger can feel overwhelming, thanks to the dedication of individuals and organizations like these, we continue to make strides toward a hunger-free, healthy North Texas.”
Thank you especially to LXP Industrial Trust for sponsoring the Golden Fork event and for their ongoing support of the North Texas Food Bank.
###
Texas Parks and Wildlife PBS Television Series Celebrates 40th Season
October 7, 2024 – AUSTIN – The Emmy Award winning Texas Parks and Wildlife public television series embarks on its 40th season Sunday, Oct. 6.
“It’s amazing to think this show has told more 1,100 stories across more than 900 episodes in its first 39 seasons,” said Kyle Banowsky, series producer. “Besides entertainment value, the series has created a rich public record of Texas’ natural history over the past 40 years and shows how Texans have engaged with the outdoors over that time.”
The series launched as a documentary style show in 1985 under the name Made in Texas, aired once per month and focused on one topic each episode. The program transitioned in 1991 to its current format and was renamed to Texas Parks and Wildlife to mirror the magazine, featuring three to four stories each week on a variety of different topics.
The half-hour program airs each week on Texas PBS stations along with 50 city government and educational access channels across the state. The show also airs on other public stations across the country, PBS online and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) YouTube channel.
It has earned 40 total Lone Star Emmy awards, and this week, racked up five nominations in five different award categories for the 2024 Lone Star Emmy Awards show, taking place Nov. 23
The show presents stories that focus on the challenges and triumphs of everyday people who engage in conservation, enjoy the outdoors and explore all that Texas has to offer. Episodes explore a wide range of topics from in-depth conservation issues to fun family activities.
“Our hope is to inspire you to get outdoors and visit the natural places in our state,” added Banowsky. “We want to provide a compelling reason for you to care about the outdoors and the state’s cultural heritage. Maybe you’ll even get involved and help preserve a piece of that heritage. It’s our hope that you’ll develop a new appreciation for the natural world, a world that’s right here in your own backyard.”
Stories viewers can look forward to in this 40th season include a front row seat with biologists as they travel across the state researching black bears in West Texas, study javelinas in South Texas and track alligators on the coast. The cameras join a “whooper watcher” tour at the Whooping Crane Festival in Port Aransas, go on a fishing trip for walleye in the Panhandle, tag along on a duck hunt in the wetlands south of Houston and check out some state parks.
Through the episodes, viewers will meet Texas Game Wardens, rock climbers, musicians, archaeologists and the much-loved Working Dogs for Conservation. In addition, the show will share a few wild game cooking recipes folks can try out at home.
“We appreciate the viewers and got a lot of positive feedback from our audience, many of whom especially enjoy our weekly ‘Postcards from Texas’ segment which are little nature moments that appear during the credits at the end of every show,” said Banowsky.
TPWD will officially celebrate the anniversary in January, when the series enters its 40th calendar year, with activities to be announced on its website and through social media.
More Than 600 Texas Students Exhibitors Show at the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction.
October 7, 2024 – The 76th Annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction stole many hearts at this year’s State Fair of Texas. The Auction kicked off on Friday, October 4, with the sale of the Grand Champion Market Steer. This year’s prize-winning steer was PURCHASED BY LONGTIME STATE FAIR DONOR, FRANK DEEL, WITH HIS GENEROUS BID OF $180,000, a new record for the State Fair of Texas. During the event, Mr. Deel was also honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his continued support of the Fair’s historic program. Donor Roger Perry was also honored with a Capital Circle Induction to celebrate his significant contributions to the organization.
With 336 STEERS COMPETING IN THE YOUTH MARKET STEER SHOW this year, earning the Grand Champion title was no easy feat. After hundreds of steers and hours of judging, the final decision was made; JADE STONE FROM MARTIN COUNTY 4-H, AGE 18, took home the grand prize for his WINNING STEER, “HAGGARD”.
MADELYNN WALL FROM IDALOU FFA sold her RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION MARKET STEER to STATE FAIR OF TEXAS CONCESSIONAIRES AND MIDWAY RIDES & GAMES OPERATORS FOR $80,000.
The Grand Champion Market Barrow, owned by LINDSEY SESSUM OF SPLENDORA FFA, sold to the BRISCOE AND CARPENTER FAMILIES FOR $32,000.
THE RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION MARKET BARROW, owned by WESTON LACKEY FROM HASKELL FFA, SOLD TO THE ROUSSO FAMILY OF ROUSSO CONCESSIONS – the winner of this year’s Big Tex Choice Award for Cotton Candy Bacon on a Stick – FOR $25,000.
The GRAND CHAMPION MARKET LAMB, owned by LANDRY LAIN OF PARKER COUNTY 4-H, SOLD TO JACK PEW, JR. FOR $35,000.
The GRAND CHAMPION MARKET GOAT, owned by REAGAN MILLER OF DENVER CITY FFA, sold to the AMY & LES WARE FOUNDATION FOR $35,000.
NICOLE LEE OF FLORESVILLE COUNTY FFA sold her Grand Champion Market Broiler to the ABLON FAMILY FOR $16,000.
THE RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION MARKET BROILER, OWNED BY ISABELLE PORTER FROM MONTGOMERY COUNTY 4H, SOLD TO PAT AND GINA NORRIS FOR $10,000.
An annual tradition since 2015, FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES OF THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS pitch in to purchase an animal at Auction. Continuing that tradition for the ninth year in a row, the State Fair team bid $21,000 on a BREED RESERVE CHAMPION MARKET STEER owned by MAKENNA SKINNER FROM BRAZOS COUNTY 4-H. Because the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction and Scholarship Program truly embodies the State Fair’s mission of promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement, the team feels very passionate about contributing to these students.
Supported by community leaders and local businesses, the annual Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction is a representation of the extreme dedication put forth by the youth exhibitors participating, along with the planning and efforts of the passionate individuals who organize the event. The Auction is considered the heart and soul of the State Fair’s nonprofit mission pillars of agriculture and education. The Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction brings families and friends together for an occasion that benefits the community in addition to providing fairgoers with some good old-fashioned fun. APPROXIMATELY 3,100 ENTRIES FROM AROUND THE STATE COMPETED FOR ONE OF THE COVETED 604 SPOTS IN THE AUCTION THIS YEAR. The students who earn a spot in the Auction get to sell their animals to the highest bidder. Students then receive a previously determined maximum payment – or premium – for their animal, with excess proceeds put towards supporting more Texas students through the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction and Scholarship Program. The Program benefits students who have competed in youth livestock events at the State Fair, as well as students attending high schools in the Fair Park area. Through the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction and Scholarship Program, THE STATE FAIR HAS AWARDED MORE THAN $35 MILLION IN AUCTION AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS.
The State Fair of Texas congratulates all the students who participate in its youth livestock competitive events and is happy to support them in their pursuit of higher education through the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction and Scholarship Program. SAVE THE DATE OF THE 2025 BIG TEX YOUTH LIVESTOCK AUCTION ON FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2025.
The State Fair is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and does not receive any government funding or support. Its nonprofit purpose is funded through the proceeds from the annual State Fair of Texas event. The net proceeds from the Fair are used to help preserve and improve our home, Fair Park; underwrite museums, community initiatives, and scholarship programs to support students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education; and help improve State Fair operations – to help put on the next great State Fair of Texas. Help support the Fair’s mission of celebrating all things Texan by promoting agriculture, education, and community involvement through quality entertainment in a family-friendly environment by attending the State Fair of Texas, running through Sunday, October 20.
Paris District Road Report for Week of October 7, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Oct. 7, 2024. 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:
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.
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 entrance ramp on the southbound frontage road onto US 75, north of Spur 503 and south of Loy Lake Road, is permanently closed. This closure is part of the reconstruction of US 75 from US 82 to Loy Lake Road in Denison. Motorists who wish to travel south on US 75 from its intersection with Loy Lake Road are advised to note this change. A detour is in place requiring traffic to continue on the southbound frontage road, around Spur 503, to the entrance ramp for US 75 southbound located north of the FM 691 intersection. Signs will alert travelers and guide them along this detour route.
The northbound US 75 frontage road is closed to thru traffic north of FM 691 in order to replace the frontage road bridge over Iron Ore Creek. Work for the construction of the new US 75 northbound frontage road Iron Ore Creek bridge and northbound frontage road pavement is currently in progress. Motorists traveling along the northbound frontage road will take the northbound entrance ramp north of FM 691 and take exit 66 to access eastbound Spur 503. Local traffic wishing to return to FM 691 is asked to use Pool 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 nighttime 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.
As the US 75 project continues to move into the final stages there will be nightly lane closures on both north- and southbound lanes as construction crews perform pavement marking and sign installation. Drivers should expect delays.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional daytime 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 82, from 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, milling, and an overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours when lane closures are present.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to perform pavement repairs, milling, and an overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 901. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to backfill the overlay and place striping and rumble strips on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours when lane closures are present.
FM 1417, from US 82 to SH 56. Travelers are advised that intermittent temporary daily lane closures will be required for both northbound and southbound FM 1417 while the contractor completes the remaining work.
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 Elba Creek, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at Deaver Creek.
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.
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.
FM 901, from US 377 to US 82. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 901, from SH 56 to FM 902. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place a fog seal on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 3133, from SH 5 to the Collin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place a fog seal on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2729, from FM 121 to FM 922. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place a fog seal on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Spur 503 frontage roads, from SH 91 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures on the Spur 503 frontage roads as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
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.
FM 271, from SH 78 to FM 68. 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 121, from SH 11 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform bridge repairs. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 151, from SH 11 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform culvert repairs. 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.
Franklin County: IH 30, Truck Parking Area. Crews will be paving entrance and exit ramps on the new eastbound truck parking area.
Franklin County: IH 30, County Road 2080. Crews will be removing the bridge during nighttime operations. Traffic will be detoured during nighttime operations.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing road rehabilitation operations and traffic shifts in the work areas.
Hopkins County: I-30, at FM 269. Crews will be performing tree trimming and tree removal operations on the westbound and eastbound side.
Hopkins County: FM 1870, at IH 30. Crews will begin resurfacing the bridge deck. Traffic will be detoured during resurfacing operations.
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.
US 271, from LP 286 to Oklahoma State Line. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews resurface the pavement and perform bridge maintenance.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour 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
CR 16300 at Little Sandy Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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.
FM 38 at West Fork of Sanders Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from the FM 64 intersection to 1,540 feet east of FM 198. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway and perform bridge rail upgrades.
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. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour 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.
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. Temporary seeding operations have begun on segments of the project. Culvert and Safety End treatments are being installed along the project and excavation and road widening is in progress. Shoulder embankment work will be ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from Culver Street to Live Oak. Final punch list items are underway. Oncor has supplied power to the signal lights and the signals are in testing phase. 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. The contractor has completed cross culverts and culvert extensions and will be placing riprap soon. The contractor has sealed and shouldered up the first mile of the project and has placed flex base and placing geogrid at various locations. Contractor is currently performing reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID. 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 placing sidewalk and backfilling curb in the area. Site Grading work is ongoing. Paving operations are in progress in areas north of FM 35 Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractor has set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete. The contractor has completed placing GR4 seal course on the final section of roadway. The contractor is also backfilling turnouts, driveways and roadway edges. Roadway strip and permanent seeding will be placed today and through the weekend. 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 mainlanes. Continuing grading EB between 1565 and FM36.The contractor will be placing hot mix for shoulder rehab at night and Milling at night along WB and EB for shoulder rehab. Grading at FM 1565 intersection and embanking along WBML 2511 area. Underpass at FM 1565 will be closed for a few weeks to install Culvert from north frontage to south frontage. FM 1565 ramp configuration will change this week please be advised of new WB exit location.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County MNT will be performing sealcoat prep on FM 2874.
Rains County MNT will continue to address pavement issues SH 19 south and north.
###
2024 Wildcat Hall of Honor Inductees – Induction Ceremony Scheduled for October 11th
October 5, 2024 – Four former Sulphur Springs Wildcat greats – two All-State players who were integral in the 2008 state football championship, the first NFL player from SSHS and a state tennis qualifier — will be inducted next Friday in the Wildcat Hall of Honor.
Going into the prestigious hall will be 2010 graduate and All-State football player Bryant “Day Day” Jackson, 2011 graduate and two-sport All-Stater Fernando Arellano, 1975 graduate and state tennis qualifier Mark Peugh, and William “Tex” Holcomb, the first Wildcat to play in the National Football League.
The foursome will be inducted in a ceremony at 5:15 p.m. Friday, Oct. 11, in the Hopkins County Civic Center. Fans, family and friends are all invited to the ceremony in which the Hall of Honor recipients will receive a plaque and a commemorative shirt. They will also be recognized before the kickoff of the Wildcats’ game against Celina at Gerald Prim Stadium.
100th Anniversary Cookout at Paris Junior College-Sulphur Springs Center on October 15
October 4, 2024 – As part of the year-long celebration of its 100th anniversary, Paris Junior College is holding a 100th anniversary cookout and open house at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center on Tuesday, October 15, 2024 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We hope to see everyone enjoy a free lunch with us on October 15 as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Paris Junior College,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC President. “This will be a great time to connect with those in the Sulphur Springs area.”
In addition to free hot dogs and hamburgers, snacks and drinks, there will be games, music, and tours of the facility.
The PJC-Sulphur Springs Center is located at 1137 Loop 301 East in Sulphur Springs. For more information, call 903-885-1232.
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.
Paris Junior College is Holding 100th Anniversary Homecoming November 1-2
October 4, 2024 – Paris Junior College is inviting all alumni to Come Home for the 100th Anniversary alumni weekend and Homecoming Celebration on November 1-2, 2024. PJC’s Halloween Carnival at Noyes Stadium will take place from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 31, but is not officially part of Homecoming though alumni are welcome to bring their families to the free event.
Official Homecoming events begin with the First Annual Dragon Golf Tournament, with check-in starting at 9 a.m. at the Paris Golf and Country Club on FM 195 in Paris. All proceeds will benefit Dragon athletics, including baseball, softball, and men’s and women’s basketball and soccer.
At 6:00 p.m. on Nov. 1, the McLemore Student Center Ballroom will host the Hall of Honor/Hall of Fame Induction & Reception. The 2013 PJC softball team is set to be inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, and Don Kosterman and Sheila Reece (posthumous) will be inducted into the Academic Hall of Honor.
PJC’s Homecoming Parade is set to start off a full slate of events on Saturday, Nov. 2, leaving from the Lamar County Courthouse north parking lot at 10:00 a.m. Local high schools student organizations and groups are welcome to join in the parade; contact PJC Student Life Director Kenneth Webb at [email protected] for more information.
The Love Civic Center is the site for the Distinguished Alumni Awards Reunion Luncheon starting at noon. All formerly recognized Distinguished Alumni honorees and their families will be celebrated as we take a special time to recognize these outstanding individuals honored in years past. Complimentary reserved seating and tickets will be provided.
A special Homecoming Tailgate will begin at 2:30 p.m. in the Hunt Center parking lot. Philip Nance will perform during the tailgate (thanks to a sponsorship by Unruh Concrete Pumping).
The Hunt Center is also the location of the women’s and men’s basketball games against Southwestern Christian College at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The Homecoming King and Queen will be crowned at halftime of the men’s game.
Country music singer Clay Hollis will perform at the Love Civic Center that evening at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door; those with valid PJC ID may enter free.
Those wishing to attend the Distinguished Alumni Awards Reunion Luncheon on Nov. 2 are asked to contact the PJC Alumni Affairs office by October 25, 2024. Email [email protected] or [email protected], or call 903-782-0315.
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.
