‘Muslims Only’ Event in Dallas Now Welcomes Everyone Who Abides by Dress Code
May 6, 2026 – A religiously themed private event at a taxpayer-funded water park in North Texas has sparked political backlash and renewed debate over public facilities, religious accommodation, and inclusivity after organizers revised promotional materials that originally described the gathering as a “Muslim-only event.”
Initially, Women were required to dress in “burkinis,” and men are required to wear swim trunks and shirts.
The controversy centers on the annual “Epic Eid” celebration, scheduled for June 1 at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark. The indoor water park, owned by the city of Grand Prairie, has hosted the event in previous years and is partially funded through a voter-approved quarter-cent sales tax.
The event website states that guests should uphold “Islamic etiquette,” just as they do in other mixed-gender spaces.
Organizers initially promoted the event with a flier stating it was “For Muslims only” and required attendees to follow a “modest dress code.” The gathering also advertised halal food, family-oriented entertainment, and designated prayer areas. Women were expected to wear full-coverage swimwear such as burkinis, while men were asked to wear shirts and longer swim trunks.
Halal food refers to food that is permissible under Islamic law. In general, halal food excludes pork, alcohol, and ingredients derived from forbidden sources. For meat to be considered halal, the animal must come from a lawful species such as cattle, sheep, goats, or poultry, and it must be slaughtered according to Islamic guidelines known as dhabihah. During slaughter, a mentally competent Muslim typically recites the name of God, and the animal’s throat is cut swiftly with a sharp knife to sever the major blood vessels while minimizing suffering. The animal must be alive and healthy at the time of slaughter, and the blood is drained from the body because consuming blood is prohibited in Islam. Clean handling and avoiding cross-contamination with non-halal foods are also important parts of halal food preparation.
Criticism escalated quickly on social media and among Texas conservatives, who questioned whether a publicly funded venue could legally host an event appearing to exclude people based on religion. The issue drew the attention of Greg Abbott, who threatened to revoke state public safety grants connected to the venue unless the policy changed.
Following the backlash, event organizer Aminah Knight updated the promotional language and emphasized that the purpose of the gathering was not religious exclusion but creating a comfortable environment for families seeking modest recreation.
“In response to feedback, we have updated our materials to clearly reflect that this is a modest dress-only event, centered around a respectful and family-friendly environment,” Knight said in a statement posted online.
The revised poster removed the phrase “Muslim-only event” and replaced it with “All are welcome.” The updated materials continue to encourage modest attire for all guests attending the private rental.
Supporters of the event argue that faith-based and culturally specific gatherings are common at privately rented venues and say the changes clarify the inclusive intent of the celebration. Critics, however, maintain that the original wording raised legitimate constitutional and ethical concerns because of the public ownership of the facility.
The dispute comes amid broader political tensions in Texas surrounding Islam, religious freedom, and public accommodations. In recent months, Muslim advocacy organizations and several community leaders have also criticized Abbott over his past designation of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, as linked to extremism — a characterization opponents have called inflammatory and defamatory.
Despite the controversy, organizers say the Eid celebration will proceed as planned, now under revised guidelines welcoming attendees of all backgrounds willing to follow the event’s modest dress expectations.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Investigates Drone Company for Threatening Texans’ Security and Privacy by Selling Surveillance Products That Are Likely Tied to Communist China
May 6, 2026 – Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into Drone Nerds, LLC (“Drone Nerds”) over the company’s connection to Anzu Robotics, LLC (“Anzu”). Anzu is a known affiliate of the Chinese Communist Party (“CCP”).
Anzu is a China-affiliated company that has marketed and sold drones in the United States. The company has done this while misrepresenting its security and privacy measures and concealing its ties to the CCP. These products raise serious concerns, including unauthorized data collection, surveillance capabilities, and potential access by the Chinese government. In February 2026, Attorney General Paxton sued Anzu to end the company’s deceptive practices in Texas and protect consumers from threats to privacy and national security.
In November 2025, XTI Aerospace acquired Drone Nerds and Anzu. Further evidence has suggested that Anzu may be attempting to avoid restrictions by partnering with Drone Nerds as a distributor of its products. The two entities are likely operating together to evade Texas law to continue to sell drones and other products that enable the CCP to spy on Texans. Despite these concerns and previous evidence of Anzu’s Chinese ties, Drone Nerds falsely represents to consumers that Anzu Robotics’ Raptor drone is “headquartered and operated within the United States, giving you the peace of mind that your solution is delivered by your neighbors.”
As part of the investigation, Attorney General Paxton has issued a Civil Investigative Demand (“CID”) to Drone Nerds to determine the extent of the company’s role in misleading Texas consumers in violation of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (“DTPA”). This action is part of the Office of the Attorney General’s broader effort to protect Texans from foreign adversaries that seek to exploit technology for surveillance and data collection.
“Under my watch, the Chinese Communist Party will have no influence in Texas,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I will thoroughly investigate any potential threat to the privacy and security of Texans and hold any company that enables CCP surveillance accountable.”
Commissioner Miller Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month 2026
Theme “More Good Days, Together” highlights the importance of community, connection, and support across rural Texas
May 6, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller today recognized May as Mental Health Awareness Month, urging farmers, ranchers, and rural communities to support one another in prioritizing mental health. This year’s theme, “More Good Days, Together,” underscores the crucial role of connection and community support in maintaining mental health.
“Folks in agriculture are some of the toughest people you’ll ever meet, but that doesn’t mean they don’t carry a heavy load,” Commissioner Miller said. “This month is about making sure our farmers, ranchers, and rural families know they don’t have to carry it alone. We all deserve more good days, and we get there together.”
The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) supports producers through targeted initiatives. Agricultural producers in crisis and their family members can call or text the TDA AgriStress Helpline for 24/7, free, confidential support tailored to the agricultural community. The helpline is staffed by trained professionals who understand the realities of farm life.
“Sometimes the toughest thing you can do is ask for help,” Commissioner Miller said. “But programs like AgriStress are there for a reason. Reaching out is a sign of strength. Looking out for your neighbor is just part of who we are in rural Texas.”
Agricultural producers face a unique combination of pressures that can endanger mental health. Economic uncertainty, natural disasters, and isolation all contribute to chronic stress for farmers and ranchers and their families. Studies show that suicide rates among agricultural producers are roughly three times the rate of the general population in the United States, and in rural communities overall, suicide rates are about 1.7 times higher than in urban areas, highlighting the urgency of addressing mental health issues in agricultural communities.
Additionally, rural Texans seeking mental healthcare resources face significant challenges. Many communities lack access to providers, including psychiatrists and therapists, and residents may travel long distances for care. The TDA State Office of Rural Health (SORH) works to strengthen healthcare access across rural Texas, including behavioral health services. Through grants and other support, the SORH helps ensure that rural communities have the tools and resources needed to thrive.
During May, Commissioner Miller encourages Texans to check in on one another, begin honest, compassionate conversations about mental health, and work together to build stronger, healthier communities. Through connection, support, and community, Texas agriculture can move closer to a future with more good days.
If you are struggling with stress, or know someone who is, please call or text AgriStress at (833) 867-2474, 24 hours a day, to connect with a trained professional. You may also visit the TDA AgriStress webpage.
To learn more about how TDA supports healthcare resources in rural Texas, please visit the State Office of Rural Health website. For more information about Mental Health Awareness month, please visit the Mental Health America website.
John Mark Dempsey Had a Visit With Senior Center Coor. Dawna Pryor on this Second Cup Of Coffee
May 6, 2026 – John Mark Dempsey had a visit with Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center Coordinator Dawna Pryor on this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. John Mark and Dawna chatted about the next Silver Saturday Night scheduled for May 9th, 2026, which will feature Virtual Reality! They also talked about the upcoming Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Pageant scheduled for June 27th, 2026, the next “What Helps Me?” program at the Senior Center which will teach you how to read your electric bill, scheduled for May 18th, 2026, and so much more. This episode below of A Second Cup Of Coffee is so full of activities scheduled in the near future, so don’t miss it.
Look Twice for Motorcycles to Help Save Lives
May 5, 2026 – May is Motorcycle Awareness Month
PARIS – On busy roads, seeing what matters takes practice. By training your eyes to slow down and scan your surroundings, you can help keep yourself and fellow Texans safe.
When a motorcycle crash happens, drivers often say the same thing: “I didn’t see them.” But motorcycles aren’t invisible. They’re simply smaller and easier to overlook — especially when drivers are distracted, speeding or rushing through turns.
“Too many motorcyclists are killed on Texas roads, and we can help prevent these crashes by sharing the road,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. “Looking twice is how you Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. and can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy.”
Motorcycle safety awareness month
This May, during Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is urging drivers to build a simple, lifesaving habit: Look twice for motorcycles.
To help spread this message, families affected by motorcycle crashes are sharing their stories:
- Amy Jo Miller was enjoying a ride on the back of her boyfriend’s motorcycle in Bell County when a driver turned left in front of them, throwing her across the road. Seconds later, another driver ran over her, leaving her with multiple serious injuries. She survived, but more than 15 years later, Miller is still recovering from her injuries.
- Case Clark, of Lubbock, was riding his motorcycle when he was killed in a head-on collision. Clark’s family says he was everyone’s best friend, a loving son and brother, and favorite “Uncle Queso” to his nieces.
- Brendan Johnson, of Austin, was riding his motorcycle home from work when he was killed by a driver who turned left in front of him. Johnson left behind family, friends and a community of loved ones.
Motorcycle riders are at higher risk
Motorcyclists have far less physical protection than people in vehicles. Without airbags, seat belts or steel frames surrounding them, even a relatively minor collision can have devastating consequences.
Last year in 2025, there were nearly 9,000 motorcycle crashes in Texas, killing 557 motorcyclists. That’s 15% of all crash fatalities statewide.
- In 2025, the number of motorcycle traffic crashes in the Paris District totaled 160. These crashes resulted in 16 motorcyclist (operators and passengers) fatalities and 66 motorcyclists being seriously injured.
Habits that save lives
Many serious motorcycle crashes happen at intersections when drivers misjudge a rider’s speed or distance, particularly during left turns. A quick glance isn’t enough.
TxDOT encourages drivers to:
- Expect motorcycles. Train yourself to look for them.
- Look twice before turning or merging.
- Check mirrors and blind spots carefully.
- Use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns.
- Give motorcycles a full lane of space.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Slow down, obey posted speed limits and adjust for road conditions.
- Small changes in awareness can have a major impact on safety.
Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles
TxDOT is hitting the road with an interactive traveling exhibit featuring virtual reality simulations. Participants can experience traffic scenarios from both a driver’s and a motorcyclist’s perspective, demonstrating how easily a motorcycle can go unnoticed if a driver isn’t fully alert.
Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library to be Open May 9th
May 5, 2026 – The Hopkins County Genealogical Society announces that their library will be open Saturday, May 9th, 2026, from 9:30am to 1:00pm for “all your research needs.” Come in and look for those ancestors you have wondered about for so long. You might find some family history to share with your mother on Mother’s Day. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library is located at 611 North Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Hopkins County Marine Corps League Det 1357 will Gather on Celebration Plaza May 15th to Honor Fallen First Responders
May 5, 2026 – KSST’s Veterans Voices’ Bob Kerr would like to announce the following…
“Greetings Comrades and friends. The Hopkins County Marine Corps League Det 1357 will gather on Celebration Plaza at 1100 hrs Friday, May 15th, 2026, to honor this solemn event. Please do your best to attend. UOD is “work w/ cover”. There is a good chance that the Huey will do a flyover again. Judge Brad Cummings and son will sing. There will be representatives from all law enforcement agencies and first responders in attendance.
Semper Fi….”
Bob Kerr
Suspects Identified in Most Recent Drug Bust
May 5, 2026 – May 5, 2026 — Sulphur Springs, Texas — The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on May 4, 2026, at the Old Spanish Villa Apartments on I-30 at Texas Street in Sulphur Springs, near Sulphur Springs Intermediate School on League Street. The operation was part of an ongoing narcotics investigation led by Narcotics Investigator Tanner Steward. Three individuals were arrested at the scene.
During the search, investigators reported seizing a significant amount of illegal drugs and weapons, including 309 grams of cocaine, 1,677.5 grams of THC vape pens, 73 grams of psilocybin, and 15 pounds of marijuana. Authorities also recovered two AR-platform rifles, one handgun, and $73,294.02 in U.S. currency.
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office said it received assistance from the Hunt County Narcotics Unit, which helped coordinate and support the operation as part of a broader regional effort to combat drug trafficking activity across Northeast Texas.
Officials stated the investigation is ongoing and remains focused on disrupting distribution networks operating in the area. The sheriff’s office emphasized that collaborative enforcement between counties continues to be a key factor in addressing narcotics-related crime and associated violence.
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to proactive enforcement and maintaining public safety through continued narcotics investigations and coordinated regional operations. All suspects awaiting bond to be set in the multiple felony charges. Suspects presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Executes Search Warrant Leading to Multiple Arrests and Significant Seizures
May 5, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, Texas — On May 4, 2026, the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at an apartment complex in Sulphur Springs. The operation was led by Narcotics Investigator Tanner Steward as part of an ongoing narcotics investigation. Three subjects were arrested at the scene.
During the search, investigators recovered a substantial quantity of illegal substances and contraband, including:
· 309 grams of cocaine
· 1,677.5 grams of THC vape pens
· 73 grams of psilocybin
· 15 pounds of marijuana
· Two AR-platform rifles
· One pistol
· $73,294.02 in U.S. currency
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office extends its appreciation to the Hunt County Narcotics Unit for their assistance and collaboration throughout this investigation. Their support continues to strengthen regional efforts to combat criminal activity.
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office remains vigilant and proactive in its mission to protect the citizens of Hopkins County and will continue to take decisive action against illegal activity.
Paxton Digs Deeper on Secret EPIC City Meeting
May 5, 2026 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against the Double R Municipal Utility District No. 2A, alleging violations of the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) tied to what he describes as an attempted illegal takeover connected to the proposed EPIC City development.
The lawsuit targets the utility district, which spans parts of Hunt County and Collin County, along with individuals Paxton identifies as improperly acting as board directors. According to the filing, the group conducted a meeting on September 12, 2025, in a remote field under conditions that failed to meet the transparency and public notice requirements mandated by state law.
According to the lawsuit, the meeting was held in a remote field rather than a typical public venue and was not properly disclosed to the public. Under the Texas Open Meetings Act, government bodies like municipal utility districts are required to provide clear notice of when and where meetings will take place and what topics will be discussed, ensuring the public has a fair opportunity to attend.
During that meeting, the defendants allegedly took sweeping actions, including firing legal counsel, accepting the resignation of the entire sitting board, appointing a new slate of directors, and attempting to annex more than 400 acres of land. State officials claim the land in question is tied to the planned EPIC City project, an initiative associated with the East Plano Islamic Center.
During the meeting, the individuals involved allegedly carried out a series of major decisions in rapid succession. These included terminating the district’s legal counsel, accepting the resignation of the entire existing board, appointing a completely new board of directors, and attempting to annex more than 400 acres of land.
Paxton’s office argues that the notice for the meeting was intentionally vague and failed to provide meaningful access to the public, a key requirement under TOMA. The lawsuit also alleges that the scope of the decisions—particularly the annexation tied to EPIC City—was not properly disclosed in advance.
“This was not just a technical violation—it was a deliberate attempt to bypass the law,” Paxton said in a statement. “We will continue to use every legal tool available to ensure transparency and accountability.”
The legal action seeks to void the attempted annexation and have the court declare the actions taken during the meeting unlawful. It also requests injunctive relief to prevent further violations.
This case builds on earlier legal efforts by Paxton’s office. In prior proceedings, the state secured a temporary restraining order and later a temporary injunction blocking the same group from taking additional action on behalf of the utility district. Those rulings also invalidated most actions taken by the disputed board after the September meeting.
The controversy has drawn attention in Northeast Texas, particularly in areas near the proposed development. Hunt County, which borders Hopkins County to the east, has seen increased public interest due to its proximity to the land involved in the dispute.
Municipal utility districts, or MUDs, are commonly used in Texas to finance infrastructure for new developments, including water, sewer, and road systems. Because they have the authority to levy taxes and issue bonds, their governance is subject to strict transparency laws like TOMA.
The outcome of the lawsuit could have broader implications for how such districts operate and how large-scale developments are approved across the state. For now, the case remains pending as courts weigh whether the actions taken in September violated state law and whether the attempted expansion tied to EPIC City can proceed.
