Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson Announces Post-Election Audit for November 5 Election
It’s the largest post-election audit conducted in state history
November 7, 2024 – AUSTIN, TX — Texas Secretary of State Jane Nelson announced post-election audits for the November 5 election. Known as partial manual counts, these audits check the results of designated races through a hand-count process.
“Texas leads the way in election integrity measures with checks before, during and after voting,” said Secretary Nelson. “This year’s audit will be the largest conducted in the state and underscore Texas’ commitment to transparency.”
The partial manual count will be much larger and more expansive than previous post-election audits. To provide greater transparency and accountability to the Texas election process, the Secretary of State’s office has made the decision to include multiple offices and additional polling places for this election’s audit.
Which races will be audited?
The Secretary of State’s office selected the presidential and U.S. Senate races for audit. Additionally, counties will be required to randomly select a county-level race.
What polling locations will be audited?
In accordance with Texas law, counties shall conduct a manual count of all the races in at least one percent of the election precincts. All counties will receive an email from the Secretary of State’s office that contains their randomly selected precincts or locations.
This year, the Secretary of State’s office also requires counties to perform a partial manual count in three additional precinct or polling places randomly selected by the county.
When will the audits happen?
Counties must begin the count no later than 72 hours after polls close. The count shall be completed no later than the twenty-first day after election day.
The partial manual count cannot change the outcome of races but can alert candidates to issues in the tabulation that could lead to a full recount or an election contest.
Paris District Road Report for Week of November 11, 2024
Paris District Road Report for week of Nov. 11, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Nov. 11, 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:
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.
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 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. Watch for lane closures on the US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and SH 91 as crews complete the median barrier work.
FM 697, at Choctaw Slough Creek. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to perform bridge repairs. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
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 Mustang Creek, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at FM 901.
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.
SH 160, from SH 11 to the Collin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs and blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
SH 91, from US 82 to FM 691. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs and blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as traffic will be reduced to one lane through the work zone.
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.
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 56, from SH 78 to FM 1396. 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 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform full depth reclamation of 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.
Franklin County: SH 37, from BU 37 to FM 71. Crews will be performing repairs and resurfacing the existing roadway. Watch for traffic shifts and slow-moving traffic.
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: Bridge at Timber Creek. Crews will begin installing detour for Timber Creek Bridge in preparation for replacement of the existing bridge.
Hopkins County: FM 2653, at IH 30. Crews will begin resurfacing the bridge deck. Traffic will be detoured during resurfacing operations.
Hopkins County: SH 19, Railroad Crossing on N Hillcrest. Crews will begin railroad replanking to take place November 8 through 12.
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.
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. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour 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.
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 and will be ongoing. Hotmix operations have begun and will continue on Left Northbound shoulders. 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 reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID in the 2nd mile of project limits. Cement treatment and culver riprap will be upcoming. 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. 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 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractor has set barricades and work zone traffic signs. The contractor is performing punchlist work in the project limits. 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 workzone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. The first 1.5 miles of reclamation work is underway and the 1st lift of flexbase has been placed along several stations. GEO GRID operations will be upcoming. 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. Contractor plans to remove FM 36 North exit ramp, the next exit ramp is 3.5 miles back near FM 1903. Travelers will need to use either the FM 1903 exit or exit at FM 1565 and travel back to FM 36. 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 repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County MNT will be performing overlay from on SH 224 from FM 118 to SH 34, Assisting DPS with lane closure on US 380 and Overlaying on FM 1737/ SH34 in various locations
Rains County MNT will continue to address pavement issues SH 19 south and north and repair drainage issues on FM 1564.
###
KSST was Present at United Way’s Last Campaign Pledge Meeting of 2024
November 9, 2024 – KSST was present at the Hopkins County United Way’s last campaign pledge meeting of 2024 on November 6th, 2024, at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office here in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Did they achieve their objective of the year? Watch the video and find out!
Dinner Bell for November 13, 2024
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
Grocery Supply Company was founded in 1947 in Mt. Vernon, Texas by Curtis McKenzie, Kenneth McKenzie and Wood row Brittain. In 1953 it moved to Sulphur Springs on Oak Avenue at the train tracks. Present day operations are located at the corner of Hillcrest Drive North and Main Street.
Its’ purpose and business model is “Impacting Lives Through Exceptional Service” as a full-line wholesale distribution company for convenience stores in fourteen states.
Today, GSC Enterprises, Inc. operates two primary business segments: Grocery Supply Company that meets the needs of dry, refrigerated and frozen items for convenience stores; and Fidelity Express.
Fidelity Express, established in 1988, provides financial services such as money orders, bill pay, prepaid cards, gift cards and other walk-in cash products for independent retailers in 20 states and the District of Columbia.
GSC remains a family-owned and operated business with second and third generations of the McKenzie family at its leadership. Their family is truly devoted not only to its employees, their families and their customers, but also to the communities in which GSC Enterprises, Inc. serves.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
Meat loaf
Mashed potatoes
Black-eyed peas
Garden Salad
Bread pudding
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
North East Texas Choral Society Proudly Presents Their 27th Christmas Concert
November 8, 2024 – The North East Texas Choral Society proudly presents their 27th Christmas concert entitled “Winter Wonderland.” Dates for the concert are Saturday, December 7 at 7:00 PM and Sunday, December 8 at 2:00 PM. You will hear some of your holiday favorites along with one or two new pieces. Invite a friend to share the beautiful experience with you. Get your holiday off to a joyful start with The North east Texas Choral Society. Tickets may be purchased in advance from a singer, from City National Bank downtown location, Alliance Bank downtown location, Guaranty Bank and Trust or online at http://www.singerscount.org.
Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force Issues Third Biennial Report To Legislature
November 8, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today announced the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force (SASTF) issued its third Biennial Report to the Texas Legislature. The report includes policy recommendations for the 89th Legislative Session and summarizes task force activities since the last report, including the launch of a Forensic Nursing Coaching Pilot Program with the Texas A&M Health Center of Excellence in Forensic Nursing, a quarterly SASTF Webinar Series, and new trauma-informed trainings for law enforcement and hospital emergency room staff.
“Dedicated professionals and volunteers across Texas continue their crucial work to address the atrocity of sexual assault and help their fellow Texans,” said Governor Abbott. “By actively engaging in crime prevention, prosecution, advocacy, and victim support, Texas is working tirelessly to protect the right of all Texans to live safely and securely. Last session, I signed a law to permanently establish the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force. Their critical work on behalf of Texas’ adult and child sexual assault survivors for the last four years has been a key component in our goal to raise awareness and combat this heinous crime. Working together, we will continue to seek justice for survivors, hold offenders accountable, and ensure that survivors have access to the resources they need to heal and recover.”
Established in 2019, the SASTF ensures a survivor-centered, trauma-informed, collaborative, and coordinated response to sexual violence experienced by adults and children across Texas. Governor Abbott signed Senate Bill 1402 into law last year to permanently establish the SASTF.
The report includes 10 policy recommendations for the 89th Legislative Session:
Promote Survivor Safety, Rights, And Healing
- Extend the right to terminate a lease to include survivors who were not assaulted in their dwelling or on the premises of their dwelling.
- Include Legal Services Information in the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Information Sheets for Sexual Assault Survivors.
- Extend consideration of impact when granting motions for continuance to include all survivors of sexual assault, regardless of family violence involvement.
- Expand right to reimbursement for Emergency Medical Care to include follow-up care for a period of 30-days.
- Expand trauma-informed training requirements for emergency room medical professionals to include ER Physicians and ER Physicians Assistants, both employed and under contract.
Strengthen Statewide Efforts
- Extend current two-year limit on Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) certifications to three years.
- Require County Commissioners Courts to submit Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) Reports to the Governor’s Sexual Assault Survivors’ Task Force.
Focus On Offender Accountability
- Amend the sexual assault statute with respect to consent to provide clear protection for victims of sexual assault in circumstances not explicitly covered by current Texas law.
- Expand prohibited employment for a registered sex offender to include rideshare services.
- Allow evidence of extraneous offenses to be admissible for sexual offenses in adult sexual assault cases to explain the state of mind of the defendant and the relationship between defendant and victim.
Paris Junior College Inducts Three into Hall of Honor and Hall of Fame
November 7, 2024 – PJC inducts three into Hall of Honor and Hall of Fame
On Friday, Nov. 1, Paris Junior College inducted Sheila Reece and Don Kosterman into the Academic Hall of Honor and the 2013 Softball Team into the Athletic Hall of Fame.
Academic Hall of Honor
Sheila Reece was a dedicated educator and leader who devoted her career to student success. She started at PJC as an Education Placement Specialist in the Educational Opportunity Center (EOC) in 1992, and her passion for student support led her to various leadership roles, including Director of the EOC in 1993 and Director of Admissions in 1995. In 2011 she became Associate Dean of Student Access and Success and then Vice President of Student Access and Success in 2017.
“I am proud to be the one to induct my friend Sheila into the Paris Junior College Hall of Honor Class of 2024,” said Linda Slawson, Director of Financial Aid at East Texas Baptist University, who held that role for many years at PJC. “I had the pleasure of convincing Sheila to leave the Texas Workforce Commission to come to PJC in 1992.”
Deeply rooted in her community, Reece graduated from Honey Grove High School, married Mark Reece in 1985 and raised their daughters, Samantha and Macey. She was an active member of the Honey Grove ISD School Board.
Tragically, Sheila’s life was cut short in a car accident on May 18, 2023. Her legacy continues to inspire those she touched through her unwavering commitment to education and the countless lives she influenced throughout her career.
“Sheila believed and trusted and supported each and every one of you that worked with her throughout the years, and she was proud of you,” said Slawson. “You inspired her, and she valued and recognized each of your special talents. And many of you are here tonight, and I know you miss her. Sheila had a special soul. The sign on her office should have read ‘loyal, trusted leader, and friend.'”
Her family, husband Mark and daughters Samantha and Macey, accepted her award.
“Though she was not one for the spotlight, she would have been touched by this recognition for all the work that she did for over 30 years,” Samantha said in her acceptance comments.
Though retired Chemistry faculty Don Kosterman was unable to attend due to a recent move to Tallassee, Alabama, he was vividly evoked through his introduction by former student and PJC Biology faculty Jason Taylor.
“I first met Don when I was a student in his inorganic chemistry class,” Taylor said, “and I and the other students thought, ‘Man, this Guy is harsh.’ But we soon learned the bark was worse than the bite, and he would work for hours on end if you needed the help.”
Taylor also shared a favorite hobby of Kosterman’s: crocheting.
“Every Christmas in the math and science department, everybody was going to get something hand-crocheted by Don Kosterman,” said Taylor. “Funny thing is, Don was color blind, so when he would give them to you, he would say he didn’t know what color they were, but we always liked them.”
Kosterman was born in Paris in 1944, while his father served overseas during World War II. Following the war, his family moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Austin, then returned to Paris – just a block from PJC. He aspired to become a mechanical engineer.
He started at PJC in 1962, where he was drawn to chemistry through the influence of faculty members Frank Grimes and Bobby Ray Walters — both future PJC presidents. He earned a bachelor’s in chemistry and mathematics in 1967, then a Master of Science in Chemistry in 1969 from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M University – Commerce).
He changed goals again and began teaching at Highland Park High School, marrying Suzy, with whom he has celebrated over 54 years of marriage. In 1972 they returned to Paris where he began a 48.5-year career teaching chemistry at PJC. Over the years he also taught physics, physical science, various math courses, computer programming, and even slide rule.
“I taught students with diverse backgrounds and needs, including future doctors, dentists, nurses, veterinarians, and engineers,” Kosterman said. “I was honored to teach international students, students with disabilities, very young students, and older students.
“I am grateful for the thousands of students I taught, the hundreds of colleagues I worked with, and over 50 years with Paris Junior College – a record I’m proud of,” Kosterman said. “Thank you to all who were part of my journey. God bless you all, and God bless Paris Junior College — here’s to another 100 years!”
Athletic Hall of Honor
Paris Junior College’s 2013 Softball team made history by defeating Trinity Valley Community College in nine innings to be the first PJC softball team to make the national tournament.
“This was a first for any woman’s athletic program in the College’s history,” said PJC Athletic Director Clay Cox. “The Dragons finished the regular season with a 15-5 conference record in a gripping Region XIV tournament. And anybody that’s been around Region XIV knows how tough it is in any sport. They showcased determination and resilience, winning not one, not two, but three games on the final day, including back-to-back victories over Trinity Valley Community College to claim the regional title earning a spot in the National Junior College Athletic Association national tournament in St George Utah.
“Throughout the season, the Dragons demonstrated exceptional teamwork and character,” Cox said. “Their national tournament run put PJC and the city of Paris on the national softball map. In recognition of their efforts, Coach Dixon, along with assistant coach Chelsea Jordan and assistant coach Mr. Jack Butler, were honored as the NJCAA Region 14 coaching staff of the year.”
2013 players inducted include Katlin Alexander, Katelyn Bardwell, Jessica Branam, Audrey Farfan, Clarissa Garcia, Samantha Goines, Sarah Gregori, Ali Hargis, Dara Hendon, Kristin Henry, Chelsea Jordan, Alexis Padilla, Emilee Reed, Samantha Reynoso, Erin Ross, Sarah Smeltzer, and Chancy Williams.
PJC marked Dickson’s first head coaching job, and the team ended the season with a 37-19 record. She went on to start the softball program at Tyler Junior College, then to Stephen F. Austin University, and now coaches at the University of New Mexico.
Several players were recognized for their outstanding performances. Pitcher Smeltzer and Padilla earned First Team All-Region honors. Smeltzer posted a 12-2 record, with the second-best ERA in the region, while Padilla, despite playing with a broken hand, managed a .400 batting average and five home runs. Farfan and Hendon made Second Team All-Region. Hendon was a powerhouse, batting .434, ranking fifth in the region, and showing remarkable consistency. Farfan, Hendon, Padilla, Smeltzer and Reynoso were also named First Team All-Conference East.
This group was absolutely special,” said Dickson. “I want to thank the softball team, you were talented, fearless and fun. I found I had a relentless sophomore class that led the way, and a talented freshman class. My heart is so full this week, being able to see you and your families. I also want to thank the coaches, Assistant Coach Chelsea Jordan and amazing assistant coach Mr. Jack – you’re such a servant leader. Not only did you make our team better, but you made every team, every year better. I’m so grateful to be here to honor you guys, congratulations for this afternoon.”
Closing out the ceremony, PJC President Dr. Stephen Benson said, “As we leave here tonight, I hope we all feel a renewed sense of pride in being part of the PJC family and are inspired by the extraordinary legacy of those we’ve honored. Together, let’s continue to uphold the values, excellence, and spirit that make Paris Junior College truly remarkable.”
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.
Texas A&M University System Board of Regents Approves Name Change for Texas A&M University-Commerce
The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents voted to change the name of Texas A&M University-Commerce to East Texas A&M University.
COMMERCE, TX, November 7, 2024— During its quarterly meeting on November 7, 2024, The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents voted to change the name of Texas A&M University-Commerce to East Texas A&M University, effective immediately. The university will have several months to transition to the new name.
This decision reflects the Board’s commitment to strengthening the university’s identity and increasing its regional visibility. The change aims to reinforce the university’s mission to serve the educational needs of rural and urban East Texas communities.
“The growth and success of A&M-Commerce over the past several years have been remarkable,” said Bill Mahomes, chair of the Board of Regents. “However, we must enhance our identity and outreach to continue building on this foundation. Changing the university’s name is a crucial step in our broader strategy to serve our state better.”
Chancellor John Sharp agreed.
“This is long overdue, and it returns to the original tradition of ‘ET’ as the university’s symbol while raising its prominence,” he said. “This university has always been bigger than one town in Texas.”
The rebranding to East Texas A&M University aligns with the institution’s goals to improve name recognition. It also represents an opportunity to highlight the university’s commitment to regional engagement and educational excellence.
“We believe that this name change will better reflect our heritage and mission while allowing us to connect more deeply with the communities we serve,” said Mark Rudin, president of East Texas A&M University. “This is not just about a name; it’s about creating a stronger, more unified vision for our future.”
The transition to the new name will involve updates to the university’s branding, signage, website, URL, email addresses and communication materials over the coming months. The university community and stakeholders will be engaged throughout this process to ensure a smooth transition.
Questions? Check out East Texas A&M University’s FAQ page.
First Meeting of the Breast Cancer Support Group Scheduled
Sulphur Springs, TX –
November 7, 2024 – The first meeting of the Hopkins County Breast Cancer support group will be held on Tuesday, November 12 at 5:30 pm at the conference room of the Medical Plaza located at 113 Airport Rd. The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation recently announced the group’s established to serve Hopkins County and the surrounding areas.
The group will aid in keeping survivors informed of new information and research and provide a source of support for those on a breast cancer journey.
Since the first meeting will be held in November, the organizers decided on the theme of “thankful.” The program will be a group effort with Debbie Stinson Stribling presenting a devotional and others contributing during the event. Refreshments will be served.
All breast cancer survivors and those beginning a breast cancer journey, both women and men, are invited to attend. Women with female-related cancers are also invited to participate in the group.
The Medical Plaza is the freestanding, three-story building on the southeast corner of CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs. The conference room is on the first floor on the left.
To stay informed about the breast cancer support group and other offerings, please follow the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation on Facebook or Instagram.
For more information, contact the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation at 903-438-4799 or [email protected].
###
TxDOT Partners with DPS to Help end the Streak of Daily Deaths on Texas Roadways
Starting Nov. 7, DPS will hand out flyers with safety messages during traffic stops
Nov. 7, 2024
AUSTIN – Every day for the past 24 years someone has died on a Texas roadway. Every. Single. Day.
On the anniversary of the last deathless day on Nov. 7, 2000, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) are working together to share safe driving messages in hopes to finally end this deadly streak.
The two agencies are joining forces because ending fatal crashes takes all of us. TxDOT is working to engineer safety solutions and educate drivers on safe practices while DPS enforces the laws of the road. However, drivers are the most important partners, which is why DPS troopers will be handing out tip cards during traffic stops to encourage safe driving behaviors.
“After more than two decades, it’s long past time to end the streak of daily deaths on our roadways, but it’ll take all of us to get it done,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Each life lost is a mother, father, brother, sister or friend, and we need to work together to make sure everyone can get home safely.”
Last year, 4,289 people were killed on Texas roads, and so far in 2024, Texas is averaging 10 roadway deaths a day.
Some of the top causes of crashes make up part of the card that troopers will hand out for two weeks starting Nov. 7. The messages include:
Drive safe speeds
Buckle up
Move over or slow down
Get a sober ride
Avoid distractions
Lives instantly altered
Since Nov. 7, 2000, more than 87,000 people have been killed on Texas roads.
One life lost was Aspen Blessing, a vibrant 18-year-old who was killed in March after her car was struck head-on by a drunk driver in Callahan County. Forever changed by one person’s choice to drink and drive, her family is left with a massive void.
“The hardest part is that Aspen did everything right,” said Jen Blessing, Aspen’s mother. “She was not speeding. She was wearing her seatbelt. She wasn’t distracted. One man’s bad choice cost Aspen, our family and his family everything.”
Blessing and her family are working with TxDOT to help prevent other families from suffering a similar tragedy.
Roadway safety improvements
TxDOT is committed to enhancing safety on roads throughout the state, investing $17 billion in safety improvements through the state’s 10-year plan. TxDOT also works tirelessly to develop safety innovations that can have significant impacts.
One improvement implemented this year in Fort Worth uses cameras to identify pedestrians on major roadways, targeting areas where people have been hit after trying to cross. It detects them early on, notifies law enforcement and helps them respond before they step out on the road. This has led to a drop in pedestrian crashes on these highways since they were installed in January. It’s just one example of the many innovative and engineering improvements TxDOT makes every year.
Deadly streak nearly ends
In January, Texas experienced one day with just one traffic fatality caused by a driver running a stop sign.
“A single life lost is too many, but this shows us that it can be done,” said TxDOT Deputy Executive Director Brandye Hendrickson. “We’ve been close a few times in recent years. Safety is paramount when we design, build and maintain roads, and it also must be the top priority when we’re driving on them.”
We can all do our part to #EndTheStreakTX of daily deaths.
