Paris District Road Report for Week of August 12, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Aug. 12, 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: Back to School
As Texas children head back to school, TxDOT is calling on everyone to be extra cautious in school zones and around school buses to help keep kids safe.
School zones can be chaotic with children walking or biking to school, sometimes dashing between cars and hopping in and out of buses. Unfortunately, traffic crashes can and do happen. In 2023, there were 748 traffic crashes in Texas school zones, resulting in one death and 14 serious injuries. The most common crash causes were speeding, distracted driving and failure to yield the right of way.
There were also 11 people killed and 63 seriously injured last year in the 2,523 crashes involving Texas school buses. Driver inattention and speed were also the top contributing factors in those crashes.
TxDOT urges drivers to be on the lookout for young pedestrians and cyclists as the school year begins and to slow down, stay alert and follow all traffic laws to keep children safe and avoid costly fines and tickets. TxDOT also encourages parents to start sharing pedestrian and school zone safety tips while their kids are at a young age.
Tips for driving in school zones
- Be aware that traffic patterns around school zones may have changed since the last school year.
- Stay alert and put your phone away. Using a handheld electronic device while driving in an active school zone is against the law.
- Stop and yield to people in crosswalks.
- Always obey school zone speed limit signs. Remember, traffic fines increase in school zones.
- Drop off and pick up your children in your school’s designated areas, not the middle of the street.
- Keep an eye on children gathered at bus stops.
- Watch for children who might dart across the street or between vehicles.
Tips for children walking or biking to school
- Use sidewalks. If there’s not one, it’s best to walk on the left side of the street facing traffic.
- Cross the street only at intersections or marked crosswalks. Look left, right and left again before proceeding.
- Always obey crossing guards.
- Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street. Never assume a driver sees you.
- Look for traffic when stepping off a bus or from behind parked vehicles.
- Always wear a helmet when riding a bicycle or scooter.
- Don’t be distracted by electronic devices that take your eyes and ears off the road.
- Follow all traffic rules, signs and signals.
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:
Annual Seal Coat. The annual seal coat program is scheduled to begin work on Aug. 6. Roadways receiving a seal coat surface this year include FM 120 from FM 1753 to Carpenter’s Bluff Bridge; FM 691 from FM 131 to the airport; and FM 902 from US 377 to US 75. 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 right lane on the south bound main lanes of US 75 from US 82 to Loy Lake Rd. will be closed during the night. Drivers should expect delays.
The left lane on the northbound main lanes of US 75 from Loy Lake Rd. to US 82 will be closed during the night. Drivers should expect delays.
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. This work has an anticipated completion date of early August 2024. 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 lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. 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, barrier removal and sign installation. Drivers should expect delays.
The southbound US 75 exit ramp (Exit 57) for Park Avenue is closed to allow crews to complete the final pavement surfacing at this ramp. Motorists traveling southbound are asked to use the southbound exit for State Highway 91 and North Travis Street, and continue along the southbound frontage road to Park Avenue. They may also use the southbound exit for South Travis Street/FM 1417.
The southbound US 75 exit ramp (Exit 58) for Houston Street is completed and ramp is open.
The northbound US 75 exit ramp for Lamar Street is closed to traffic to allow crews to complete the final pavement surface at this ramp. The ramp should reopen at 9 p.m. on Aug. 13. Motorists traveling northbound are encouraged to use the northbound exit for Center Street and continue along the northbound frontage road to Lamar Street or use the northbound exit for North Travis Street.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts 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 construction of the new frontage road lanes and bridges.
US 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Construction on this project is expected to begin on Aug. 19. 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 perform a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
Enterprise Road at Tributary to Harris Creek. Enterprise Road at the Tributary to Harris Creek is closed to through traffic as crews remove and replace the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use Wright Road, SH 289 and Plainview Road as the detour route.
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.
US 82, from SH 91 to FM 1417 in Sherman. Watch for a lane closure on westbound US 82 between Texoma Parkway and Loy Lake Road as workers install a center median concrete barrier to help prevent crossover head-on collisions.
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 US 82 lanes at Harris Creek, the westbound US 82 lanes at Post Oak Creek, and on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at FM 1417. Motorists should expect daytime lane closures on FM 1417 at the US 82 underpass, while crews are replacing the bridge rail at this location. On this project, the contractor is also installing a center median concrete traffic barrier between FM 1417 and FM 131. Motorists should expect daytime lane closures while this work is underway.
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 2729, from SH 11 to FM 121. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place a seal coat surface on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 901, from Gunter Rd to McGeehe Rd. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place fog seal on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 3133, from SH 5 to Collin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place fog seal on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2729, from Meadow Estate Street to Dane Road. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews place fog seal on the roadway surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone
Fannin County:
Annual Seal Coat. The annual seal coat program is scheduled to begin work on Aug. 6. Roadways receiving a seal coat surface this year include Recreational Road 3 from FM 273 to end of maintenance, and SH 78 from SH 56 to SH 11. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2990, at the North Sulphur River bridge. The FM 2990 bridge at the North Sulphur River is closed to traffic permanently for removal of the bridge as part of the new Lake Ralph Hall project. Traffic is asked to use SH 34 as the alternate route to FM 2990. Changeable message signs will be onsite to warn motorists of the closure.
FM 1753, at the Brushy Creek bridge. FM 1753 at the Brushy Creek bridge is closed to through traffic as crews remove and replace the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use FM 2645, FM 898, US 82, and FM 1752 as the detour route.
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. FM 274 at Sandy Creek bridge is closed to thru traffic while the contractor replaces the existing bridge. During the closure traffic is asked to use FM 1753 and SH 78 as the detour.
SH 56 at Bois d’Arc Creek. SH 56 at Bois d’Arc creek is reduced to one lane with a signal in place to control traffic as crews work to remove and replace the bridge railing. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
SH 56 at Hutchins Creek and Caney Creek. SH 56 at Hutchins creek and Caney creek will be reduced to one lane with a signal in place to control traffic beginning the week of Aug. 5, as crews will work to remove and replace the bridge railing as well as perform bridge repairs. 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 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.
FM 121 at Bois D’Arc Creek. Watch for daytime lane closure as crews work on repairing the bridge.
FM 1550 at Pickle Branch. Watch for daytime lane closure as crews work on repairing the bridge.
FM 2645, from FM 1753 to FM 898. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2554, from FM 273 to CR 2125. 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 1743, from US 82 to SH 56. 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 1491, from SH 78 to Simmon Street. 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.
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 US 67 to FM 71. Watch for shoulder closures and construction vehicles entering the roadway as crews perform paving 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 eastbound side.
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.
Loop 286, from US 271 North going west to FM 79. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts, crossing closures and merging traffic while crews place a bonded concrete surface and perform asphalt paving operations.
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.
FM 79, 8.6 Miles northwest of Loop 286, Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace an existing cross drainage 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.
FM 2675, from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
SH 19 at South Sulphur and South Sulphur Relief. Watch for temporary shoulder closures while crews perform bridge maintenance.
Red River County:
CR 2127 at Scatter Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and a detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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.
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 34, from FM 1570 to FM 2101. The contractor has set barricades and work zone signs. The contractor has completed the flexible pavement repair on the main lanes and shoulders. The contractor has finished the placement of HMA overlay on the northbound and southbound lanes. The contractor is completing the final striping. Vegetative watering, seeding and mulch is being placed. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and has begun performing excavation work and road widening. Culvert work has begun on the project. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 11, from Culver Street to Live Oak. The contractor has placed work zone signs and barricades. Fencing installation and grate work is ongoing. Final signal work is underway, barrels and barricades have been removed to open lanes. Final punch-list items are underway. Oncor is working to supply power to the signal lights. 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 is wrapping up on cross culverts and culvert extensions and will be placing riprap soon. The contractor will be placing prime coat on the first mile section. 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. Excavation work for the detour is ongoing. The contractor has been working on the placement of storm sewer and culverts will continue along FM 2642 north of I-30 towards SH 66 with embankment and excavation work. Nighttime operations are currently being used for several cross culvert locations. The contractor is placing geogrid and flexbase on FM 2642 near Royse City high school moving north. The contractor placed barrier and crash cushions on FM35. 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 begun placing a prime coat on the current section of work and will begin grading and ditch work along with embankment work. 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 westbound I-30 main lanes have been realigned to detour paving around the existing westbound I-30 main lane bridge over FM 1570. This detour will remain in place until the new FM 1570 overpass is constructed. During the realignment, all I-30 westbound traffic will be reduced to one lane and diverted to the frontage road from Exit 89 (FM 1570) to FM 1903. The westbound frontage road at FM 1903 is one-way only along with the frontage roads along the project corridor. Traffic on FM 1903 from north of I-30 will have to turn right on the westbound frontage road and travel to State Highway 36 in order access I-30 east. The contractor plans to place more barriers and perform main lane widening and drainage work in the area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Intersection Improvements from CR2511 to FM 1565: The contractor has begun prep right of way work and will begin setting barrier and low-profile barricades soon. Contractor is working on excavating and widening of the shoulders for phase 1 and placing RCP for temporary drainage on detours. 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 mailbox installations sign repairs and pothole repairs throughout the county. Rains Maintenance Section will be doing patching work on SH 34 from SH 276 to Kaufman County line and seal prep work on FM 513 from US 69 to I-30. The Hunt County Maintenance section will be overlaying on FM 118 from SH 224 to SP 118. Please be aware of workers in these areas.
###
Texas A&M Forest Service Forester Receives National Smokey Bear Award
August 11, 2024 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Michelle Moore, Texas A&M Forest Service Forester, received a bronze Smokey Bear award today in recognition of her efforts to create a first-of-its-kind wildfire prevention resource guide.
The Introduction to Fire Prevention virtual resource guide created by Moore is a Texas-specific guide for volunteer fire departments, members of the public and Texas A&M Forest Service personnel.
Moore also created fire prevention training kits specifically for pet rescue and adoption centers in East Texas as part of her fire prevention training resource outreach strategy. These kits contained homeowner prevention, mitigation and evacuation materials, as well as pet-specific evacuation and emergency resources.
“Michelle was instrumental in the construction and launch of this program that creates a way to share these valuable resources for those with diverse needs across the state,” said Karen Stafford, Texas A&M Forest Service Program Coordinator.
The bronze Smokey Bear award is the highest honor given to an individual for their prevention service that has a significant impact within a state over at least a two-year period.
Moore aids in sustainable forest management and silviculture in East Texas. Outside of her normal duties as a forester, Moore became particularly interested in fire prevention. During the two wildfire seasons of 2021/2022 and 2023, Moore supported fire prevention activities and presentations across 25 east Texas counties, which revealed to her that these prevention resources needed a larger, more accessible platform.
In her search to create a fire education guide, Moore prioritized the idea of constructing an educational resource program for fire prevention for internal and partnership use. As the training’s impact grew, so did the perceived need for more community members and first responders to have access.
“Michelle took great initiative to create these accessible resources following her introduction to fire prevention, and we are so grateful she did,” said Stafford. “Her unique perspective on wildfires and fire prevention was crucial to the success of this program’s reach.”
Texas A&M Forest Service has over 500 fire and non-fire response personnel. The Introduction to Fire Prevention resource guide is used to introduce all new employees, including non-fire response personnel, in the agency to become acquainted with fire prevention and operations.
Smokey Bear awards, sponsored by USDA Forest Service, the National Association of State Foresters and the Ad Council, began in the mid-1950s, and the bronze award was established in 1962.
#
Fifth Annual Designer Handbag Bingo Deemed a Success
August 11, 2024 – Sulphur Springs, TX –
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation Board of Directors is proud of the funds they funnel back into Hopkins County’s healthcare. They are also proud of the events they sponsor to ensure the means to fund those healthcare initiatives.
This year’s Designer Handbag Bingo, held on August 8, had approximately 583 bingo players in attendance. Given away that night were 33 designer bags and 16 door prizes that included cash, designer bags, gift cards, and other designer goods.
But the most important and impactful part of the night was raising money to benefit local citizens. Funds from Designer Handbag Bingo provide a Free Mammography Clinic to be held in October for uninsured Hopkins County women over the age of 40.
The preliminary income and expenses from the 5th annual Designer Handbag Bingo show the net proceeds to be $63,000. This amount is 100% due to the support of the local community, donors, sponsors, underwriters, players, and volunteers.
In addition to the Free Mammography Clinic that began in 2019, the Foundation also offers In My Closet which provides free wigs and prosthetics to Hopkins County women undergoing breast cancer treatment. It opened in 2016.
This year, the Foundation added its first initiative aimed at men, free heart calcium scans. Since 2006, the Foundation has set yearly funding priorities to improve local medical technology, equipment, and offerings in Hopkins County. Over 34 projects past projects have been funded including ICU beds, 4D Sonogram equipment, labor and delivery beds, the Gardens at Memorial, CT Scanner, anti-gravity treadmill, and Lucas CPR machines to name a few.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation is an IRS-designated 501 (c) 3 non-profit, governed by an all-volunteer board of directors, each of whom lives and works in Hopkins County. All funds raised by the Foundation stay in Hopkins County to benefit its citizens. For more information contact Kayla Price, Executive Director, at 903-438-4799 or [email protected].
###
Secretary Haaland Designates Texas Preserve as Nation’s Newest National Natural Landmark
WASHINGTON — Today, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland affirmed the designation of Independence Creek Preserve in west Texas as the nation’s newest National Natural Landmark, recognizing an important piece of America’s natural heritage. This nearly 20,000-acre Chihuahuan Desert preserve is protected and managed by The Nature Conservancy.
“Today, we recognize another extraordinary American natural feature as a National Natural Landmark. Working with private landowners is a critical part of our conservation and preservation efforts at the Department,” said Secretary Deb Haaland. “This designation furthers the Biden-Harris administration’s vision for inclusive and collaborative conservation, building on our legacy of voluntary and locally-led stewardship of our nations lands and waters.”
“The preservation and protection of America’s special places is most successful when accomplished through inclusive, locally led efforts,” said Chuck Sams, Director of the National Park Service, which manages the national natural and historic landmarks programs. “This newly designated landmark exemplifies collaborative conservation while recognizing the ecological brilliance of this desert oasis.”
With today’s announcement, there are now 605 national natural landmarks designated at city, county or state parks, wildlife refuges, national forests, nature preserves, as well as privately-owned lands across the United States and its territories.
Spectacular vistas of flattop mesas and dramatic canyons meet woodlands, desert scrub and honey-colored prairie grasses within the Nature Conservancy’s preserve. Independence Creek, for which the preserve is named, feeds into the Pecos River. This unique environment sustains an abundant variety of plants and animals including migratory birds and several rare and endangered species.
National Natural Landmarks recognize and encourage the conservation of privately owned and managed places that contain noteworthy biological and geological resources. Sites are designated by the Secretary of the Interior for their outstanding condition, illustrative character, rarity, diversity and value to science and education. The National Park Service works cooperatively with landowners, managers and partners to promote conservation and appreciation of our nation’s natural heritage.
President Does not Favor A&M-Dallas Name
August 9, 2024 – Texas A&M-Commerce president Dr. Mark Rudin has issued a message on the Alumni Association Facebook page, saying that based on comments received from alumni, students, faculty, staff and other supporters, he won’t support the renaming of the university as Texas A&M University-Dallas.
Rudin writes: “I have informed the Board of Regents and A&M-System Chancellor John Sharp that I will not be pursuing a name change of our university to Texas A&M University-Dallas now or in the future.”
The name East Texas A&M University, which was also discussed in recent forums, is not mentioned.
Rudin further says: “As always, I welcome hearing from the campus and the community. Please feel free to reach out to me about this matter, or any other issue, at [email protected].”
State Fair of Texas Announces Safety and Security Measures for 2024
By STATE FAIR OF TEXAS |
The State Fair of Texas is one of the largest annual events in the world – attracting more than 2.3 million people in 2023 and bringing an estimated economic impact of nearly $500 million dollars to North Texas every fall. The State Fair of Texas engages leading security experts in the industry to ensure the safety of our patrons, vendors, and staff. We are constantly evaluating our security plan with the Dallas Police Department (DPD) and the Fair’s other security partners to adopt the most up-to-date recommended security practices for special events of our size and regularly implement additional measures to increase our effectiveness. As a private not-for-profit organization, the State Fair is introducing several additions to the comprehensive safety and security plan for our largest community program and fundraising event – the 2024 State Fair of Texas – including a new bag policy, redesigned pedestrian entry gates, updates to the weapons policy, a State Fair Command Center, and more.
NEW, ENHANCED, AND RETURNING SECURITY PROTOCOLS FOR THE 2024 STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
NEW:
- BAG POLICY
- To continue providing a safe environment for the public and help expedite fairgoers’ entry into the fairgrounds, starting in 2024, the State Fair is implementing A POLICY THAT LIMITS THE SIZE OF BAGS that may be brought into the State Fair. Exceptions to this policy will be made for medical bags and parenting bags after proper inspection. Before attending the Fair, fairgoers are encouraged to visit BigTex.com for additional specific guidelines.
- Approved Bags – The following bags are permitted:
- Bags and soft-shell coolers that are 9 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches (9” x 10” x 12”) or smaller are allowed.
- Medical bags and parenting/childcare bags are allowed.
- These medical and parenting/childcare bags do not have to be 9” x 10” x 12” or smaller but will be searched at all entry gates.
- Medical bags containing medically necessary items, including but not limited to insulin, medication, portable oxygen, small soft pack coolers, and breast pumps.
- Soft-Shell Coolers that are 9 inches x 10 inches x 12 inches or smaller are allowed.
- Coolers must use ice packs or clear bagged ice. Loose ice is no longer allowed, to aid in more efficient search of coolers by security.
- All permitted bags are subject to search.
- There are no lockers or bag checks at the State Fair. Guests with a prohibited bag or item must return it to their vehicle or discard it properly. Prohibited items can NOT be held by security, staff, or volunteers.
- STATE FAIR COMMAND CENTER
- New this year, the State Fair of Texas has invested in a 24/7 State Fair Command Center which will serve as a central hub for operational communications and where event oversight, incident notification, tracking, and resolution will occur. The Center will have in-person representation from State Fair operations, public safety and allied agencies depending on the level of activation. State Fair Command will be operational 24 hours a day for the 24-day run of State Fair and will be led by the recently retired director of the City of Dallas Office of Emergency Management, Rocky Vaz.
- REDESIGNED PEDESTRIAN GATE ENTRY LAYOUT
- As fairgoers arrive, they will see signage advising them on what to expect when they are screened. This includes information about prohibited items, our guest code of conduct, and that all bags/wagons/coolers are subject to search. Guests will be channeled through weapons detection technology, which screens for dangerous weapons in the presence of a licensed and trained security officer. This redesign is to ensure safe entry for all guests in alignment with the Fair’s safety protocols. In addition, the security screening process will be recorded to confirm that security personnel follow best practices.
- New this year, Texas-themed identifiers will be placed at key pedestrian entry points. These identifiers will help guests safely return to their cars after their visit.
ENHANCED:
- WEAPONS POLICY
- As a private not-for-profit organization, the State Fair of Texas prohibits fairgoers from carrying all firearms, knives that are prohibited according to state law, clubs, explosive devices, ammunition, chemical dispensing devices, replicas or hoaxes, or other weapons of any kind. This includes Holders of a License to Carry, Constitutional Carry, Concealed Carry, and the Open Carry of firearms anywhere on the fairgrounds including Cotton Bowl Stadium. This policy does not apply to current peace officers or qualified retired peace officers in accordance with state law. Peace officers’ credentials will be verified by Dallas Police Department officers during the screening process.
- GUEST CODE OF CONDUCT.
- Introduced last year, the Guest Code of Conduct will be posted at each pedestrian entry gate. Guests should read this before purchasing admission tickets and entering the fairgrounds. By entering the fairgrounds, you agree to abide by the Code of Conduct.
RETURNING:
- STATE FAIR SAFETY TEAM
- As an added layer of safety, the State Fair of Texas introduced the STATE FAIR SAFETY TEAM to the Fair a few years ago. The Safety Team is made up of retired police officers and works closely with the Dallas Police Department to ensure a safe environment during the State Fair. In addition, the State Fair Safety Team serves as State Fair ambassadors, assisting fairgoers during their visit to the State Fair – as an extension of our regular guest services operations.
- CEIA OPENGATE® WEAPONS DETECTION SYSTEM.
- The State Fair will continue to have this state-of-the-art technology at each pedestrian entry gate. OPENGATE, manufactured by CEIA, is a weapons detection system designed for automatic screening of people in transit. All fairgoers will walk through this weapons detection system as they enter the Fair.
- OPENGATE is used at several other local sporting and entertainment venues, including American Airlines Center, Dos Equis Pavilion, Toyota Music Factory, The CJ CUP Byron Nelson and Bass Performance Hall, as well as several local Independent School Districts – Arlington, HEB, Richardson, and Sherman – and other venues outside of DFW like, the Indianapolis 500, PGA Tour events, and many others.
- The State Fair will continue to have this state-of-the-art technology at each pedestrian entry gate. OPENGATE, manufactured by CEIA, is a weapons detection system designed for automatic screening of people in transit. All fairgoers will walk through this weapons detection system as they enter the Fair.
- “AFTER 5 P.M. MINORS POLICY”
- IMPLEMENTED IN 2023 AND WILL CONTINUE THIS YEAR. During the 2024 State Fair of Texas, starting at 5:00 p.m. daily, all minors, age 17 and under, must be accompanied by a parent, guardian, or chaperone (21+) when entering the Fair. Parents, guardians, or chaperones may accompany no more than six (6) minors 17 years of age and under. The State Fair will require all accompanying parents, guardians, and chaperones (21+) to present a valid ID upon entry starting at 5:00 p.m. daily. Once inside the fairgrounds, the parent, guardian, or chaperone is not required to remain with the minors; however, the State Fair encourages that they stay in communication with each other and be aware of their location on the fairgrounds during their visit.
- MASS NOTIFICATION SYSTEM
- This system is in place to notify people throughout the fairgrounds of inclement weather or other potential critical incidents. If you hear an alert coming from the fairgrounds sound system during your visit, please take it seriously, listen carefully, and follow the prompts.
Additional safety tips for planning your visit to this year’s State Fair:
- WE ARE LARGELY AN OUTDOOR EVENT. Approximately 80% of the State Fair is held in outdoor settings. Please be aware of the weather forecast and come prepared. Also, keep an eye on the weather forecast while visiting and listen for any inclement weather alerts on the sound systems or from officials and staff.
- As we do every year, we ask that everyone be “FAIR AWARE.” If you see something that doesn’t look right on the fairgrounds, say something. Tell a member of law enforcement, a State Fair Safety Team member, or anyone wearing an official State Fair polo. Let’s all do our part to keep the Fair safe.
- IF YOU ARE HOPING TO ATTEND WHEN THERE ARE LESS PEOPLE ON THE FAIRGROUNDS, consider attending on a weekday instead of a weekend. Weekdays are traditionally much less crowded than weekends and attending on a weekday provides you with many discounted admission offers. Visit BigTex.com/Discounts to see the full list of available discounts. In addition, Opening Weekend is historically less crowded than future weekends.
- PLEASE USE HAND SANITIZER AND WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY. We will have hundreds of hand sanitizing stations placed throughout the fairgrounds for public use. There will also be hand sanitizing stations placed throughout the barns and livestock areas, where it is especially important to wash your hands after visiting the animals.
ANIMAL SAFETY
- OFFICIAL STATE FAIR OF TEXAS VETERINARIAN
- The State Fair of Texas maintains an official veterinarian on-site for the duration of the Fair, including all livestock events, to consult, develop, and implement the Fair’s animal health and welfare plan.
- ONGOING ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING FOR ANIMAL SAFETY
- The State Fair coordinates with the Texas Animal Health Commission to determine animal health requirements on an ongoing basis.
- The State Fair has already adjusted the requirements for animals arriving at 2024 competitions in response to current animal health concerns.
- The State Fair communicates directly with livestock exhibitors to ensure the health and safety of both the animals and people.
FOOD SAFETY
- CITY OF DALLAS CODE COMPLIANCE INSPECTIONS
- Every State Fair food booth undergoes and must pass a Dallas Health Department inspection to be operational.
- One notable exception is that State Fair of Texas vendors are often visited more frequently to ensure food safety standards. In addition to check-in, before the State Fair begins, concessionaires will be visited four more times for an inspection throughout the 24-day event.
- In 2023, more than 900 food inspections were completed.
- INDEPENDENT INSPECTORS
- The State Fair goes above and beyond the required standards for food safety. We hire a third- party company with independent inspectors to complete additional inspections daily. Food vendors do not know when they will be inspected, and reports are reviewed by the State Fair food and beverage team daily to ensure food quality and safety.
FOOTBALL
As it relates to ICONIC COLLEGE FOOTBALL GAMES in Cotton Bowl Stadium during the State Fair of Texas, we are excited to welcome back our longstanding traditions, starting with the STATE FAIR CLASSIC between the Grambling State University Tigers and Prairie View A&M University Panthers for another exciting matchup and Battle of the Bands during halftime on Opening Saturday, September 28 – kicking off at 6:00 P.M. The ALLSTATE RED RIVER RIVALRY between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the University of Texas Longhorns returns for the 95th consecutive neutral site showdown with a 2:30 P.M. kickoff in Cotton Bowl Stadium on Saturday, October 12. As of 2024, these two esteemed schools are now housed under the NCAA Southeastern Conference (SEC), making for an even more anticipated and iconic matchup. Due to the historically large crowds, the State Fair will likely open early for the Red River Rivalry to allow fans plenty of time to enjoy the State Fair and make it to their seats inside Cotton Bowl Stadium. More details will be revealed closer to game day.
- Cotton Bowl Stadium follows NFL policy as it pertains to clear bag admittance. If you are attending a game in the Cotton Bowl, please visit BigTex.com/Football to see details on the CLEAR BAG POLICY and what is permitted and prohibited inside the stadium.
- A FAN CODE OF CONDUCT will be in place for games held inside Cotton Bowl Stadium during the State Fair. All patrons shall comply with sportsmanship principles outlined in the NCAA Constitution, Article 1, C and SEC Bylaw, Article 10. Guest conduct is expected to be respectful prior to, during, and after each competition. By entering Cotton Bowl Stadium, you are agreeing to abide by the Fan Code of Conduct.
RIDE SAFETY
- INDEPENDENT MIDWAY
- We operate an “Independent Midway,” meaning we do not just hire one ride operator to bring in all the rides. Running an independent midway is very rare in this industry because of the amount of work that goes into it; however, we have found it to be very beneficial for our model. We utilize many different operators, meaning each operator may have only one or a handful of rides on our Midway. This allows us to hand-pick the rides that we bring to the State Fair of Texas and bring the best attractions to our event for our fairgoers.
- NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING (OR NDT)
- Testing is completed prior to the State Fair as a manufacturer’s requirement. The ride owner is responsible for completing the non-destructive testing process and providing us with the results. Then our independent safety inspectors review those results.
- INDEPENDENT INSPECTORS
- The State Fair of Texas contracts independent inspectors to inspect all rides prior to Opening Day and then continue to inspect groups of rides daily throughout the Fair. We require weekly safety meetings with all ride operators.
We are proud to create a family-friendly environment where visitors of all ages can come together to celebrate all things Texan at the Most Texan Place on Earth. The State Fair of Texas spent nearly $6.7 million on safety and security measures for the 2023 State Fair.
“The safety of our fairgoers, employees, and vendors remains the Fair’s number one priority. We are committed to providing a safe and welcoming experience for every single person who attends our annual celebration of Texas,” said Jaime Navarro, chief operating officer for the State Fair of Texas. “Comparable policies are in place industry-wide, and the State Fair of Texas believes these policy additions will further enhance our existing safety and security protocols.”
For more information on State Fair of Texas policies and other general frequently asked questions, please visit BigTex.com/KnowBeforeYouGo. We look forward to welcoming guests back to the Most Texan Place on Earth for the 2024 State Fair of Texas taking place at Fair Park in Dallas from Friday, September 27 through Sunday, October 20.
Governor Abbott Issues Executive Order Requiring Texas Hospitals To Collect, Report Healthcare Costs For Illegal Immigrants
August 8, 2024 | Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott issued an Executive Order directing the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to collect information on illegal immigrants who use Texas public hospitals for inpatient and emergency care and to report incurred healthcare costs due to the Biden-Harris Administration’s reckless open border policies. HHSC will also be required to report annually to the Governor and Texas Legislature all inpatient and emergency care costs for illegal immigrants so the State of Texas can seek reimbursement from the federal government.
“Due to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’ open border policies, Texas has had to foot the bill for medical costs for individuals illegally in the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans should not have to shoulder the burden of financially supporting medical care for illegal immigrants. That is why today I issued an Executive Order requiring the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to collect and report healthcare costs for illegal immigrants in our state. Texas will hold the Biden-Harris Administration accountable for the consequences of their open border policies, and we will fight to ensure that they pay back Texas for their costly and dangerous policies.”
At the Governor’s direction, HHSC will immediately begin to:
- Direct hospitals and additional identified providers to collect information regarding the cost of medical care provided to illegal immigrants, beginning by November 1, 2024.
- Direct covered hospitals to report such data to HHSC quarterly, with initial submissions due March 1, 2025.
- Direct those hospitals to inform the patient that federal law mandates that any response to such questions will not affect patient care.
- Report annually, beginning on January 1, 2026, to the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, and the Speaker of the House on the preceding year’s costs for medical care provided to illegal immigrants.
Kennedy Application for Texas Ballot Accepted
August 9, 2024 – AUSTIN — The Office of the Texas Secretary of State sent a letter to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. regarding his application for a place on the Texas ballot for president.
The letter states: “After review, your application has been accepted. Your name will appear on the ballot for the 2024 General Election as an Independent candidate for the Office of President of the United States. Nicole Shanahan will also appear on the ballot as the Vice-Presidential candidate.
George Washington is the only U.S. president elected as an independent to date.
“State law requires an independent candidate for president in 2024 to submit a petition with 113,151 signatures from Texans who are both registered to vote and did not vote in the March Primary Elections. Mr. Kennedy’s petition contained 122,513 valid signatures.
Back to School: CHRISTUS Health Stresses Importance of Immunizations
August 8, 2024 – (EAST TEXAS) – As students prepare to head back to classrooms, CHRISTUS Health is stressing the importance of immunizations and physical exams for a healthy start to a new school year.
Texas law requires children to be vaccinated against several diseases before attending school, including MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), hepatitis B, and DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis), among others. Although there are exemptions, Texas Health and Human Services encourages parents to vaccinate their children according to age-appropriate immunization timelines.
“Immunizations are very important — their importance cannot be overstated,” said Don Roseberry, physician assistant – certified with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. “Not only do they reduce the length and severity of illness when we contract them, but they also are shown to decrease death rates for diseases.”
Roseberry said when students return to school, they are exposed to other children and to whatever illnesses those children have been exposed to.
It is recommended that parents who have questions about their child’s immunization records contact their local health care provider or reach out to their school nurse for guidance.
“Most children entering a school setting will already have had a series of vaccines addressed by their pediatricians or family doctors before getting to school,” Roseberry said. “If not, the Centers for Disease Control does have a ‘catchup’ schedule that can be used to bring a child up to date.”
Roseberry said physical exams and a healthy diet also are important before the new school year begins and encourages parents and students to adjust their sleep schedule ahead of the new school year.
The Sleep Foundation recommends school age kids get between 9 and 12 hours of sleep a day, while teenagers should get a recommended 8 to 10 hours.
“Kids should have a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables to provide adequate energy for the day, make sure to stay hydrated and aim for a healthy amount of sleep,” he said. “These are basic things that can really help the body stay healthy.”
###
Chamber Connection – August 7, 2024
By Butch Burney
The anticipation has been growing and now it is time for the actual preparation. We are looking forward to a fantastic 55th Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest on Oct. 26, and it’s time for stew cooks to start registering.
Registration for last year’s cooks are going out in the mail and email this week, so be looking for it in your mailbox and inbox. You can also register online at HopkinsChamber.org/stewcooks.
We are keeping the registration fee the same as in past years at $100 per stew site, with the sponsor asked to provide $150 to each cooking team for ingredients.
If you have been a Stew Cook in the past, we look forward to seeing you again and tasting your delicious stew. If you have won the contest in the past, you are eligible to enter the Super Stew competition.
Each returning stew team will have the option of keeping their 2023 site. These sites will be reserved until Monday, September 30, and then on Tuesday, October 1, the “unclaimed” stew sites will be open to “new cooks” and to returning cooks who would like a new site location. After Sept. 30, all sites will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. As in 2023, we will have sites open on both the north and the south side of Connally Street, where we will have a serving tent and market vendors.
New Cooks
We will have a Stewcomers meeting at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 15 for any new cooks or those who are thinking about entering. You can get all the information you need to start planning for the largest annual single-day event in Hopkins County.
If you need more information, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
The theme for this year’s stew contest is Stewper Heroes, and we would love for you to participate and be a Stewper Hero!
Adult Leadership
Even if you think you know Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County, you are sure to learn a lot through Leadership Sulphur Springs, which is back on this year, with applications online!
The leadership class is for Hopkins County men and women who want to learn and become more invested in their local community. It’s an intensive nine-month program that immerses the participants in the business and government of Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County.
The tentative dates for this year’s program are attached to the application, which can be accessed at HopkinsChamber.org.
You can also have an application mailed to you by emailing me at [email protected]. The deadline is Aug. 9, so get your information in as soon as possible.
The registration fee is $500 and that covers the cost of the food, drinks, transportation, etc. for the year.
Lunch and Learn
Wind energy will be the topic for the Chamber’s Lunch and Learn on Sept. 11, featuring Apex Clean Energy. The energy company is anticipating investing in wind turbines in the western part of Hopkins County.
The Lunch and Learn will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, at The Grays Building in Pacific Park. Those in attendance will get a meal and information on the project, as well as the opportunity to ask questions.
To RSVP for the event, message [email protected] or call 903-885-6515.
Cocktails and Conversation
Join us for our main networking monthly event when Beauty Grace Lifestyle Shop hosts our Cocktails and Conversation on Thursday, Sept. 5, at the store on Connally Street.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend. It is free to everyone, and a prime time to make friends and contacts.
Please make plans to attend to enjoy some cocktails, snacks and great conversation.
Quilt Show
The Lone Star Heritage Quilt Show is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 20-21 at the ROC on Putman Street. Numerous projects will be on display, and one special quilt will be up for raffle during the event. If you’re interested in entering your own quilt project, those arrangements must be made by July 31. To request entry, email [email protected].
