Chamber Connection – January 16, 2025
By Butch Burney
Be a star at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce’s 98th Annual Banquet and Community Awards, because the theme for the Feb. 13 event is Vintage Hollywood.
At the banquet, we will recognize Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, Caregiver of the Year, Community Pride Award, Agriculturist of the Year, Growth and Renewal, Outstanding Professional Educator, Outstanding ParaProfessional Educator, Outstanding Auxiliary Educator Large Business of the Year, and Small Business of the Year.
We like to celebrate the great things about Hopkins County, and the best time to do it is at this annual event.
To reserve your spot, tables of 10 are $500 each and individual tickets are $30. To get reservations or tickets, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email at [email protected]. A sponsorship table includes advertisement of your business at the banquet and reserved seating.
Come and help us celebrate Hopkins County!
Lunch and Learn
Save your spot for our next Lunch and Learn! Join State Rep. Jill Dutton as she recaps her 11 months as State Representative of House District 2. It will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, at The Oaks Bed and Breakfast on Oak Avenue.
Lunch is complementary, but space is limited. If you are interested in hearing what Jill Dutton has to report, please RSVP by calling the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or emailing [email protected]
She looks forward to sharing with you and answering any questions she can.
Ribbon Cuttings
Credit Union of Texas will host a ribbon cutting at noon on Friday, Jan. 17, at their location on the downtown square, at the corner of Main and Gilmer streets.
Deep Routes and Shop the Springs will have a ribbon cutting for their two-year anniversary at noon on Friday, Jan. 24.
Suspect Arrested on Charge of Timber Theft in Liberty County
January 15, 2025
Suspect arrested on charge of timber theft in Liberty County
LIBERTY, Texas – Gabriel Burress, 37, of Rye, Texas, was arrested Wednesday, Jan.15, 2025, in Liberty County for Unauthorized Harvesting of Timber valued between $500 – $20,000, a state jail felony.
Burress was arrested by the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Unit and Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Department after a warrant was issued by Judge Cody Parrish, Justice of the Peace Precinct 3, on Jan. 14, 2025.
The victims in this case are the landowners of approximately 1/2 acre, among a series of 1/2- acre tracts, in Liberty County who do not permanently reside on this property. The landowners’ property, along with adjoining properties, was harvested while they were not present. A timber theft tip was submitted to the Texas A&M Forest Service Timber Theft Hotline by several concerned neighboring landowners.
A formal investigation into the suspicious timber harvesting began Dec. 17, 2024, by the Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Department. This investigation revealed that Burress had no authorization from the landowners to harvest timber.
“Through the diligent work by Investigator Marshall Odom and with the help of Liberty County Sheriff’s Office, we were able to locate and arrest Burress without incident,” said Josh Mizrany, Texas A&M Forest Service Assistant Chief Law Enforcement Officer. “Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Department works to protect Texas timberland owners and their natural resource assets.”
While Burress was arrested for Unauthorized Harvesting of Timber, additional charges will be filed against him due to new implications of HB1772 (Timber Asset Protection Act) that took effect Sept. 1, 2023.
“Marshall Odom, Texas A&M Forest Service’s investigator, did an excellent job of finding the suspect that hauled the logs, interviewing him and providing me with probable cause to sign this warrant,” said Judge Parrish. “Timber theft in the north end of Liberty County needs to be decreased.”
Burress’ hearing will be held in district court at a later date. If convicted, Burress could face up to two years in a state jail facility and/or a $10,000 fine.
Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers are asking that any landowners in the Big Thicket Lake Estates area to visit their property to inspect for any unauthorized timber removal.
To prevent timber theft, landowners should:
- Visit their property frequently.
- Have someone they know and trust report any cutting on their land immediately.
- Never sign a contract without checking several references of the buyer.
- Insist on getting bids for their timber.
- Mark all property lines to assure cutting on adjacent property does not encroach on theirs.
- Utilize trail/deer cameras on their property that can record suspicious activity or individuals.
- Always hold their timber contractor to the agreed upon term.
Landowners who are unfamiliar with selling their timber are urged to contact their local Texas A&M Forest Service office. Texas A&M Forest Service field staff assists landowners with the process of securing the services of a professional resources manager to help select trees for harvest, estimate values and find potential buyers.
To report suspected timber theft or suspicious activity, call the Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Timber Theft Hotline at 1-800-364-3470. The Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Department works with local officials to help bring those responsible for timber theft and other violations of the natural resources code to justice.
To contact a Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement Investigator your area, please visit https://ticc.tamu.edu/Documents/Home/LE_Map.pdf.
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Texas Water Development Board Deems Marvin Nichols Reservoir Feasible
January 15, 2025 – The Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) recently declared the Marvin Nichols Reservoir project feasible, marking a significant step forward for the controversial water supply initiative in Northeast Texas. This decision brings the proposed reservoir closer to reality, with the aim of addressing long-term water needs for the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex and other regions. However, the ruling has reignited debates among stakeholders over environmental, economic, and social impacts.
In its feasibility assessment, the TWDB determined that the Marvin Nichols Reservoir meets the technical, economic, and environmental criteria necessary for large-scale infrastructure projects. The reservoir is projected to provide approximately 1.7 million acre-feet of water annually, ensuring a reliable supply for the rapidly growing North Texas region. With the DFW area’s population expected to double by 2070, securing additional water resources is deemed critical for sustaining residential, industrial, and agricultural demands.
The board also highlighted the reservoir’s potential for economic benefits, including job creation during construction and increased recreational opportunities. Additionally, the project aligns with the Texas State Water Plan’s objectives, which emphasize proactive measures to mitigate future water shortages.
The feasibility ruling has drawn sharp criticism from environmentalists, local residents, and East Texas officials. Opponents argue that the project’s benefits for urban areas come at a significant cost to rural communities and ecosystems. Constructing the reservoir would flood approximately 70,000 acres of forests, wetlands, and farmland, displacing wildlife and altering the region’s ecological balance.
Landowners in the area are particularly concerned about the use of eminent domain, which could force them to sell their properties. This has fueled fears of losing cultural heritage and the rural character of the region. Environmental groups also question the TWDB’s consideration of alternative solutions, such as enhanced conservation, wastewater reuse, and more efficient water infrastructure.
While the TWDB’s ruling clears a significant hurdle, the Marvin Nichols Reservoir project still faces numerous challenges, including securing funding, navigating federal and state permitting processes, and addressing legal battles from opposition groups.
The decision underscores the growing tension between urban expansion and environmental preservation in Texas. As the state prepares to meet future water demands, the Marvin Nichols Reservoir will likely serve as a pivotal case study in balancing development with sustainability. Whether the project ultimately moves forward will shape Texas’ water management strategies for decades to come.
The proposed reservoir would be about a one hour drive from Sulphur Springs, TX.
City of Sulphur Springs Prepares For Next City Council Election
January 15, 2025 – Sulphur Springs City Secretary, Natalie Burling, has already received two applications for the upcoming May 3, 2025 election for Place 4 and Place 5 on the Sulphur Springs City Council. January 15th was the first day to file for a place in the upcoming election and the two incumbents were quick to file their paperwork to be on the ballot for reelection. Tommy Harrison, incumbent Place 4, and Gary Spraggins incumbent Place 5 made their intentions official to seek another term after filing the necessary forms Wednesday morning. Prospective candidates meeting the requirements listed below are allowed to choose either Place 4 or Place 5 to seek a place on the council.
The city of Sulphur Springs released the following information about the election and the candidate requiements.
The election to select Council Members for Places 4 and 5 will be conducted May 3, 2025 at 201 North Davis Street Sulphur Springs, Tx 75482. All places are elected at large. A prospective candidate shall be a qualified voter of the State of Texas, resided continuously in the State of Texas and the City of Sulphur Springs for 12 months immediately preceding the deadline for filing an application for a place on the ballot. Other qualifications include 1) must be a citizen of the United States eligible to hold such office under the constitution and laws of this state; 2) must not be mentally incompetent as determined by a court; 3) Must not be convicted of a felony for which he/she has not been pardoned or had full rights of citizenship restored by other official action; 4) must be 18 years of age or older on the commencement of the term to be filled; 5) must not hold any other public office in which he/she was elected for and/or be a member of a board directly appointed by the City Council on the commencement of the term to be filled; 9) city taxes must be paid to current; 10) and have knowledge of the nepotism law summary.
First day to file is January 15, 2025 8am-5pm
Last day to file is 02/14/2025 by 5pm.
Upcoming Arctic Blast Set to Impact Hopkins County and Northeast Texas
January 15, 2025 – Northeast Texas is bracing for an upcoming Arctic blast expected to bring frigid temperatures, strong winds, and the potential for winter precipitation. Forecasted to arrive in the coming days, the cold front could cause significant disruptions to daily life, including travel delays, power outages, and heightened safety concerns. Local authorities and meteorologists are urging residents to prepare for the severe weather as conditions could deteriorate rapidly.
The Arctic blast, driven by a strong polar jet stream, is forecasted to plunge temperatures well below seasonal averages. Daytime highs are expected to struggle to reach the freezing mark, while nighttime lows could dip into the teens or single digits, with wind chills making it feel even colder. In addition, the blast may bring a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow, particularly in higher elevations and areas north of the I-30 corridor.
Strong winds accompanying the cold air mass are another concern, with gusts potentially reaching 30-40 mph. These winds could exacerbate the already frigid conditions and contribute to power outages by damaging trees and power lines.
The Arctic blast poses a variety of risks to residents and infrastructure in Northeast Texas. Roads and bridges may become icy, leading to hazardous driving conditions. Authorities are urging caution and recommending that residents avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the storm.
Power outages are another major concern, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure may be more vulnerable to high winds and ice accumulation. Extended outages could leave residents without heating during dangerously cold conditions, heightening the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses.
Agriculture and livestock operations may also be significantly impacted, with farmers taking precautions to protect crops and animals from the extreme cold.
Local emergency management officials are emphasizing preparedness, encouraging residents to stock up on essential supplies, such as food, water, and medications. Families are advised to ensure their homes are well-insulated, pipes are protected from freezing, and alternative heating methods are safe and ready to use.
Schools and businesses are also monitoring the situation closely, with closures or modified schedules likely if forcats worsen.
While Arctic blasts are not uncommon in Texas, their severity and timing can catch residents off guard. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of readiness and resilience in the face of unpredictable winter weather.
Temperatures will fall below freezing on Saturday, and may stay there for five days.
Could Austin Be The Next ‘LA Wildfire’ Location?
January 15, 2025 – Austin, Texas, is grappling with increasing fire concerns as changing environmental conditions and urban growth amplify risks across the region. Local officials, residents, and fire safety experts are raising alarms about the heightened potential for wildfires, property damage, and threats to public safety. These concerns are driven by a combination of prolonged drought, rising temperatures, and rapid urban expansion into fire-prone areas.
One of the primary factors fueling Austin’s fire concerns is the ongoing drought affecting large parts of Texas. Low rainfall levels have left vegetation dry and highly flammable, creating prime conditions for wildfires. Additionally, rising temperatures due to climate change exacerbate the risk, as extreme heat waves dry out grasses and brush even further. Experts warn that the wildfire season is becoming longer and more intense, with fires spreading more quickly and becoming harder to control.
Austin’s rapid population growth and urban sprawl have contributed to increased fire risks. As more housing developments push into areas near the city’s wildland-urban interface (WUI), the boundary between developed land and natural vegetation, the number of structures and lives at risk during a wildfire increases significantly. These developments also complicate fire suppression efforts, as firefighters must balance protecting human life and property with managing the fire itself.
Local authorities have emphasized the importance of public awareness and preparedness in mitigating fire risks. However, many residents are reportedly underprepared, with some lacking emergency evacuation plans or proper home fireproofing measures. Efforts to educate the public include campaigns on defensible space creation, where homeowners clear flammable materials like dry brush and debris from around their properties.
In response to the growing threat, Austin officials are exploring a range of measures to reduce fire risk. These include stricter building codes for fire-resistant materials in high-risk areas, increased funding for fire services, and prescribed burns to reduce excess vegetation. Emergency management teams are also enhancing coordination with neighboring counties to ensure a rapid response during a crisis.
While Austin is taking steps to address these concerns, the challenges are significant. The city must balance its growth with the realities of a changing climate and the ever-present threat of wildfires. Effective planning, robust community engagement, and proactive measures will be critical in safeguarding Austin’s residents and resources from future fire disasters.
Starbucks’ New “Buy or Get Out” Policy Sparks Debate
January 15, 2025 – Starbucks has recently introduced a controversial policy, informally dubbed the “Buy or Get Out” rule. This policy mandates that customers must make a purchase to remain in the store or access its facilities, including seating, restrooms, and Wi-Fi. The move has sparked widespread discussion, with supporters arguing it is necessary for operational efficiency and detractors criticizing it as exclusionary and counter to Starbucks’ traditionally inclusive brand image.
Policy Background and Rationale
The policy reportedly stems from concerns about store overcrowding, particularly in urban areas where Starbucks locations have become de facto public spaces. Employees have faced challenges managing non-paying visitors who occupy seating, use restrooms, or stay for extended periods without purchasing anything. The new rule aims to address these issues, ensuring that paying customers have access to the facilities they expect.
Starbucks justifies the policy as a way to maintain the comfort and convenience of its patrons. By encouraging purchases, the company hopes to strike a balance between being a welcoming space and managing operational costs tied to non-paying visitors.
Implementation and Enforcement
Under this policy, store staff will be trained to enforce the rule diplomatically. Signs in stores will remind visitors of the new guidelines, and employees are instructed to approach non-paying visitors with discretion. Exceptions may be made in certain cases, such as emergencies or for individuals requiring assistance, though specific criteria have not been made public.
Public Response
Reaction to the “Buy or Get Out” policy has been mixed. Supporters believe it is a pragmatic solution to issues like overcrowding and misuse of store facilities. They argue that Starbucks, as a business, has the right to prioritize paying customers. Some point out that similar policies are common in other businesses, such as restaurants and libraries, making Starbucks’ decision unexceptional.
Critics, however, view the policy as alienating and potentially discriminatory. They worry that it could disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including homeless individuals, students, and low-income individuals who previously relied on Starbucks as a community space. Critics also argue that the policy conflicts with Starbucks’ previous public commitments to inclusivity and its image as a “third place” between work and home.
Potential Implications
The “Buy or Get Out” policy marks a significant shift in Starbucks’ operations. Its success or failure will hinge on its implementation and public reception. If handled sensitively, it may resolve operational issues; if not, it risks damaging Starbucks’ brand reputation.
Central Baptist Church in Sulphur Springs Will Hold a Fundraiser Concert February 8th
January 14, 2025 – Central Baptist Church of Sulphur Springs invites the public to a fundraiser concert featuring “Faiths Journey” on February 8, 2025, to raise money for the Youth Camp. Tickets are $10, kids age 12 and younger get in free. Tickets will be available at the door, or from one of the youth. For more information, please call 903-885-3660. The concert will begin at 6:00pm.
Great Value Chicken Broth Sold at Walmart Recalled in 9 States Including Texas
January 14, 2025 – Around 2,000 cases of chicken broth sold at Walmart have been recalled due to a packaging issue that could lead to product spoilage, a Walmart spokesperson confirmed to the media.
The Food and Drug Administration reports that the family-sized, 48-ounce cartons of Great Value Chicken Broth, are sold in aseptic paper cartons that could “compromise the sterility of the product, resulting in spoilage.”
The recalled products were sold in nine states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas, Walmart said.
Tree House Foods Inc. of Oak Brook, British Columbia, is the company that recalled the broth, according to information online. The company issued the recall last month.
Walmart said any customers who have bought the product should not consume it and should throw it away. They can also request a full refund.
Check your chicken broth for the following information to see if it is including in this recall:
- Best used by: March 25, 2026
- Batch/lot code: 98F09234
- Retail Unit UPC: 007874206684
- Case UPC: 078742066844
Updates will be reported on this issue as we receive them. Stay tuned.
North Texas Food Bank to Mark 25th Anniversary of Empty Bowls Fundraiser on February 27
Event Proceeds Will Support North Texans Facing Hunger.
Dallas, TX, January 14, 2025 – The North Texas Food Bank (NTFB) is set to celebrate the 25th anniversary of its Empty Bowls fundraiser on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 6 – 9 p.m. at the Perot Family Campus in Plano. Presented by Kroger, the event will feature bowl-friendly dishes from top local chefs, drinks, and the opportunity to select a handcrafted bowl made by local artisans. The event serves as a poignant reminder that not everyone’s bowl is full, and together, we can work to fill the bowls of those in need.
“We invite you to join us as we commemorate 25 years of Empty Bowls, an event that has raised critical funds to advance our mission of closing the hunger gap in North Texas, thanks to our presenting sponsor, Kroger,” said Trisha Cunningham, President and CEO of the North Texas Food Bank. “Through this event, we’ve provided over 8 million meals to children, families, and older adults facing hunger. Kroger’s ongoing support—through food donations, funding, and partnership—has been a key driver of our success and a true example of community collaboration.”
Culinary Talent at the Event
Serving as the celebrity chef for this milestone event is Brian Luscher, Director of Culinary Operations for 33 Restaurant Group, a vibrant family of restaurants that include Suburban Yacht Club, Cadillac Pizza Pub, The Yard in McKinney, Taverna Rossa Craft Pizza and Beer in Plano and Southlake, Union Bear Brewing Co. in Plano, Denton and soon to be McKinney, Heritage Pizza and Taproom in The Colony, and Seager & Sons in Plano. Luscher is also renowned for his work at The Grape, a beloved Dallas bistro that closed in 2019 after nearly five decades. His commitment to innovative, high-quality cuisine makes him a standout at this year’s Empty Bowls event.
Supporting the Fight Against Hunger
All proceeds from Empty Bowls will support the North Texas Food Bank’s programs, helping address the region’s growing hunger crisis. Texas leads the nation in the number of people facing hunger, with nearly 664,000 individuals in the 12 counties served by NTFB unsure where their next meal will come from—40% of whom are children. The hunger crisis in North Texas is equivalent to the populations of cities like Boston or Las Vegas.
“Kroger is honored to once again serve as the presenting sponsor of Empty Bowls,” said John Votava, Director of Corporate Affairs for Kroger’s Dallas Division. “As part of our Zero Hunger Zero Waste social and environmental impact plan, Kroger provides millions of meals and essential resources each year to the North Texas Food Bank, ensuring our neighbors have access to fresh, nutritious food.”
Ticket Information
Tickets to the Empty Bowls event for 21-and-older people can be purchased for $100. Each ticket sold helps NTFB provide 300 meals for neighbors facing hunger. To purchase tickets, go to https://ntfb.org/emptybowls/.
“We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of our sponsors, including Kroger, Ewing Buick GMC, MUFG Bank, 4Change Energy, Scout & Cellar, NBC 5/Telemundo 39, AlphaGraphics and Mark H. Kleinman,” Cunningham added. “Their contributions, along with the partnership of Chef Brian Luscher, local chefs, Trinity Ceramics, the Dallas Area Woodturners, and local artisans, are crucial in raising awareness and funding to help us close the hunger gap in North Texas.”
Sponsorships Still Available
Empty Bowls sponsorships are still available. For more information, please email [email protected].
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