Theft Ring Busted for Fraudulently Buying Trailers Across Central Texas
January 18, 2026 – CENTRAL TEXAS — A theft ring responsible for fraudulently purchasing trailers across Central Texas has been dismantled following a months-long investigation by local and state authorities.
Law enforcement officials say the suspects used stolen identities and forged documents to buy utility and cargo trailers from dealerships and private sellers throughout the region. Investigators believe the group targeted high-value trailers, often reselling them quickly or transporting them out of the area to avoid detection.
The investigation, which began after multiple businesses reported suspicious purchases and unpaid transactions, involved coordination between several Central Texas police departments and state agencies. Detectives tracked patterns in the fraudulent sales, surveillance footage, and financial records to identify the individuals involved.
Authorities executed multiple arrest warrants this week, taking several suspects into custody. Officers also recovered a number of stolen trailers during searches at storage facilities and rural properties connected to the ring.
“This was an organized operation that caused significant financial losses to local businesses and residents,” officials said. “The cooperation between agencies was critical in bringing this group to justice.”
The suspects face multiple felony charges, including organized criminal activity, fraud, and theft. Additional arrests are possible as the investigation continues.
Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of trailer fraud in Central Texas is urged to contact their local law enforcement agency.
Paris District Road Report for January 19, 2026
January 15, 2026 – Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Franklin, Delta, Lamar, Red River, Hunt and Rains Counties for the week starting January 19, 2026. 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: Flash Floods
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. If you encounter a flooded road, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
- Never walk, swim, or drive through still or moving flood waters. The water may be hiding dangers such as debris, tree branches, power lines, or damage to the road. As little as six inches of fast-moving water can cause motorists to lose control of their vehicle, even a pickup truck or SUV.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- Be especially careful driving at night when it can be harder to see flood dangers.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Here’s the law
- Never drive around barriers blocking low water crossings or flooded roadways. Penalties include a fine of up to $2,000 and/or up to 180 days in jail.
- Tampering with roadway warning signs or barriers is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, up to two years in jail, or both.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
Grayson County:
US 75, from the Collin County Line to FM 902. This project will widen the US 75 mainlanes from the Collin County Line to FM 902 to six lanes. The project will also reconstruct the bridge at County Line Road and construct new u-turn bridges in Van Alstyne near Simmons Loop and in Howe south of Hall Cemetery Road. This project will convert the frontage roads from two-way operation to one-way operation. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction. A reduced speed limit of 65 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne were converted to one-way traffic on Wednesday, June 11th. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from FM 121 to Blythe/Farmington Road. After the pavement work is complete, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic. There will be a section of frontage road near Northridge Road and Simmons Loop that will be reduced to one lane in order to construct the new u-turn bridge over US 75.
The frontage roads in Van Alstyne on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to FM 121 are one-way roads. The pavement work is completed, and both lanes of the frontage roads are open to traffic. There will be occasional lane closures to install work zone striping & other remaining works. The section of frontage road on the east side of US 75 between Kelly Lane and County Line Road will remain as two-way traffic in order to allow traffic on Kelly Lane to travel to County Line Road.
US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on October 23. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Blythe Rd to Hanning St. Lane closures will be in place during the conversion in order to complete pavement repairs and to overlay the roadway with a new surface. After the pavement work is completed, both lanes of the frontage roads will be opened to traffic.
US 75, from SH 91 (Texoma Parkway) to US 82. This project will rebuild the US 75 mainlanes from SH 91 to US 82 as well as reconstruct the entrance and exit ramps on US 75. The project will also reconstruct bridges at Taylor Street, Lamberth Street and the US 75 main lanes over US 82 and reconstruct the frontage road intersection at SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project. Two lanes on the US 75 main lanes will remain open in each direction during the daytime hours with occasional further lane closures during the nighttime period. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads during construction.
The US 75 frontage road U-turn at the US 82 frontage road intersection travelling southbound to northbound is closed to traffic to allow crews to continue work on a portion of the new US 75 main lane bridge over US 82. During this closure, traffic is asked to go through the US 75 and US 82 frontage road intersection by making a series of left turns.
US 75 northbound exit ramp to Lamberth Rd. (Exit 63) will be closed from August 20 to January 31, 2026. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Eastbound/Westbound Taylor St. will remain closed until April 2026.
Lamberth Dr. Eastbound and westbound to be closed from January 17 to September 2026.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from US 82 to be closed beginning January 18, 2026.
US 75 southbound and northbound mainlanes to be closed from N. Travis to Loy Lake Rd. from January 16 to 31, 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This will be short term closure for mobile operation.
US 75 southbound and northbound mainlanes to be closed from N. Travis to Loy Lake Rd. from January 16 to 31, 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This will be short term closure for mobile operation.
Westbound and eastbound frontage roads from 300 ft east of northbound frontage road to 300ft west of southbound frontage road to be closed from January 16 to 30, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. This will be short term closure for mobile operation.
US 75 northbound frontage road from Lamberth to north of westbound frontage road to be closed from January 16 to 30, 8:00 pm to 5:00 am. This will be short term closure for mobile operation.
US 75 north and southbound frontage roads from Lamberth to north of westbound frontage road to be closed from January 16 to 31, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. This will be short term closure for mobile operation.
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. Watch for nighttime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes, as crews work to construct the new pavement section.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the connecting northbound and southbound frontage roads are being built at the new Spur 503 bridge. Westbound traffic will travel to the intersection of Spur 503 and the northbound frontage road and will go north on the new frontage road to access northbound US 75. Motorist wishing to go south will follow the northbound frontage road to Loy Lake Rd, and take the U-turn and continue south until the next available entrance ramp to southbound US 75.
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.
US 75 northbound frontage road from FM 691 to Spur 503 to be fully closed from January 05 to March 18. This full closure is needed to reconstruct the frontage road.
US 75, from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on completing the remaining work on this project. Watch for occasional lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75 Overlay, from near FM 84 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for lane closures on northbound and southbound US 75 as crews will be working from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Occasional lane closures will be present at night for crews to overlay the roadway with hotmix. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 pm at night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m.
SH 5, in Van Alstyne from Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue. Watch for daytime lane closures on SH 5 as crews work to install a shared use bicycle and pedestrian trail. The trail will follow along SH 5 from the existing trail at Williams Way to Blassingame Avenue, then along Tolson Avenue, then along Main Street where it will connect with Van Alstyne Parkway. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from the SH 91 to the Fannin County Line. Watch for daytime lane closures on the US 82 eastbound and westbound main lanes as crews work to perform pavement repairs and then a pavement overlay on the surface. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours.
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.
US 377 in Tioga, from South of FM 922 to North of Mc Knight Rd. and from Hinton St. to Shawnee Dr. This project will widen US 377 on each side of the roadway to allow for the addition of a center left-turn lane. This project will also install traffic signals at the intersection of US 377 & FM 121 and at the intersection of US 377 & FM 922. Watch for shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures on the northbound and southbound US 377 main lanes as well as on FM 922. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Southmayd Rd at Elba Creek, The bridge at Elba Creek was closed beginning June 25. The bridge replacement is completed and opened to traffic on December 03. Construction crews will continue working on the remaining minor items and motorists are requested to slow down as they drive through the work zone.
FM 697, from east of FM 2729 to US 69, This project will widen FM 697 on each side of the roadway to make the shoulders wider. The project will also safety treat fixed objects and add one course surface treatment on the full width of the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
Sister Grove Rd., Contractor closed the bridge on Sister Grove Rd at West Prong Sister Grove Creek to replace the existing bridge. The Contractor completed the bridge replacement work and opened it to traffic on October 31. The Contractor will continue working on the remaining minor items with occasional daily lane closures. Drivers are requested to slow down, watch for construction workers and obey construction signs as they travel through the work zone.
Prescott Rd, Southmayd. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the Prescott Road bridge located between Johnny Watson Road and Jelley Road in Grayson County. The bridge on Prescott Road was closed in both directions on December 01. The bridge will remain closed until March 2026. Road closure signs will be installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Johnny Watson Road, Jelley Road and Southmayd Road as an alternate route.
SH 56 east of US 69. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform drainage maintenance work. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 69 between Bells and Whitewright. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews assist in road material sampling performed by consultants. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
Bonham State Park, Park Road 24. Park Road 24 in the Bonham State Park will have daytime lane closures while crews rehabilitate the main road, camping spots and parking lots within the park. Detour routes will be present during construction to allow for the flow of traffic.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge replacement is completed and the bridge is open to traffic. However, construction crews will continue working on the remaining bridge structure and roadway final works. During this final stage, traffic is asked to watch for workers and equipment and drive slowly when going through the work zone.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect occasional delays as the contractor performs the final minor activities in the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 opened to all traffic on 6/23/2025. Construction crews will continue working on minor items at this location. Motorists should expect delays as there will be daily lane closures through the construction zone.
SH 78 from FM 273 to Oklahoma State line: Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek. The onsite detour on CR 1202 at Tributary of Brushy Creek has been removed. The new bridge is competed and open to traffic. Traffic is asked to approach the bridge slowly and drive at an appropriate speed through the work zone while crews continue working on finishing the remaining bridge work.
CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary. CR 2865 at Sanders Creek Tributary was closed to traffic on Monday, April 21 to allow for replacement of the bridge. The bridge at Sanders Creek Tributary is completed and opened to traffic. The bridge on CR 2825 at Sanders Creek was closed on June 21 & the Contractor demolished the bridge. The bridge is now completed and opened to traffic.
SH 56 from Loop 205 (Bonham) to FM 2077 (Dodd City). Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform spot milling work. 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.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Crews will be performing surfacing operations. Watch for lane shifts within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
Franklin County: FM 21, from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Crews will be rehabbing the existing road. Watch for temporary traffic signals within the work area. Expect slower moving traffic.
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:
BU 271 B, from 18th Street SE to 34th Street SE . Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
US 271, at the intersection of FM 2648 and at the intersection of FM 3298. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures as crews install roadway illumination within the right of way.
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 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.
1st ST SW & South Main St., Lamar County: from Hearne St. in Paris to Kaufman ST. in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install a bike lane and perform pavement and curb repairs.
FM 195, at Six Mile Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
Delta County:
SH 154, from SH 19 to BU 24. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures.
Red River County:
FM 2120, from FM 2573 to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Northeast Texas Trail, Clarksville, Texas. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from BU 82J to Annona East City Limits. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
Northeast Texas Trail, from Annona East City Limits to Bowie County Line. Watch for trucks and equipment entering and exiting streets and highways while crews construct the off-system trail.
BU 82 J, from FM 2825 to High Street (Clarksville). Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the south sides of the roadway.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
SH 34, From Traders Road to FM 1570. This project will construct a turning lane, consisting of culvert extensions, roadway widening, overlay, and striping. Work on this project is currently suspended due to utility conflicts. TxDOT is working with utility owners to relocate utilities. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642, from FM 35 to SH 66. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. The contractor is installing rebar on the south end of the project from I-30 to FM 35. Contractor is preparing the medians for concrete pour and drilled shafts are being installed along FM 35. Contractor is also performing maintenance on driveways. Buc-ee’s driveway on FM 2642 is now closed as the project prepare to enter the final construction phase. Buc-ee’s can be accessed from Shaw Rd. The intersection of FM 2642 and Shaw Road is temporarily a 4-Way Stop until the final phase of construction is complete. Look for traffic signs and limit distractions. Please slow down, be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, from SH 34 to FM 118. Barricades and traffic signs are in place. Contractor is performing cement treatment and flex blase. One-way flagger operations are currently set up through the work zone. Expect minor delays. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, from FM 751 to CR 3609. The 2.6-mile rehabilitation project will add a center turn lane. The contractor has placed barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor is now back working after agreeing on a Change Order due to differing site conditions. Contractor will be paving the WB shoulder on Monday, January 19th. Expect delays in the workzone. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 36, from US 380 to SH 66. The 6.11-mile project will rehabilitate roadway surface and add safety end treatments. Contractor is performing patch repairs. Contractor will be seal coating roadway depending on the weather this week. Flagger controlled traffic control is in place during construction operations. Expect slight delays and follow pilot vehicle. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Interchange Improvements, from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. Barricades and advance warning signs are in place. FM 1903 intersection under the bridge will be closed for the deck pour on Sunday night, January 25th (7PM to 6AM). There will be daily one-lane closures in the EB right lane during January 26th through January 30th. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements, from CR2511 to FM 36. Temp wall work is ongoing. Contractor is working on overpass at CR 2511. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Hunt and Rains Counties:
Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole and sign repair work, and mailboxes throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County maintenance crew will be performing overlay on FM 2655 from SH 11 to FM 512, and on FM 2358 from SH 34 to End of Maintenance. Flaggers will be present at both locations. Crew will be performing bridge maintenance work in various locations. Maintenance contractors will be performing guardrail repair at various locations.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 1565. Right of Way vegetation management will be taking place in various locations. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
###
Two Gala Photo Releases
January 16, 2026 – Gala Photo Release: Chaney and Craig Johnson
The Johnson family has supported the Foundation for generations. Pictured here from
left to right are Foundation Board Member and Co-Chair Bob Weaver, Craig Johnson,
Chaney Johnson, and Foundation Board Member and Co-Chair Heather Johnson,
sister-in-law to Chaney and Craig. To learn more about the Foundation’s Gala, visit
Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
Johnson have graciously sponsored the 20 th Annual Gala to be held January 24, 2026.
Gala Photo Release: Jessica and Walt Gamblin
The Gala has been a staple event for the Foundation for 20 of the 28 years of the
Foundation’s existence. The 2007 Gardens at Memorial, the 2025 MRI upgrade, the
2021 CT scanner, and several years of Lucas CPR Machines are just a few examples of
the 35 impactful projects completed through the Gala over the years.
Proceeds of this year’s Gala will help fund the surgical services expansion of
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. To learn more about this year’s
project, visit SpreadOurWings.GiveSmart.com.
Saturday, January 24. Keep up with all things Gala on the Foundation’s social media
and on Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
Dry Conditions and Increased Vegetation set Stage for Higher Wildfire Risk in Texas
January 16, 2026 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Wildfire activity across the state is expected to increase this winter and spring as above-normal vegetation dries and becomes highly flammable.
The dormant wildfire season, which occurs during winter and spring, is typically characterized by fire activity that occurs in freeze-cured grasses and increased wind speeds associated with passing dry cold fronts.
Above-normal grass growth across much of Texas in 2025 will support increased wildfire potential into early spring 2026.
Areas along and west of Interstate 35, including the High Plains, Rolling Plains and Southern Plains, have heavy grass loads that could support large, hard-to-control fires under dry and windy conditions. Exceptional grass loading in the Hill Country and Cross Timbers poses similar risks, while South Texas and the Lower Gulf Coast remain lower threat until grasses freeze-cure.
Texas A&M Forest Service wildfire response has trended 136% above normal from October 2025 through mid-January 2026, with agency personnel responding to 434 wildfires that burned 11,425 acres during this period.
“Wildfire activity has increased across the state, driven by underlying drought conditions and above normal grass production from last year’s growing season,” said Jared Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “With a La Niña climate pattern forecasted, Texas is expected to experience more conditions that favor wildfire activity more often.”
The Climate Prediction Center forecasts a La Niña pattern for early 2026, bringing warmer and drier-than-normal conditions to much of Texas from January through March. These conditions are also expected to increase wildfire risk during the dormant fire season.
“We are closely monitoring the increased likelihood of wildfire effective weather in Texas, including conditions associated with Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreaks,” said Luke Kanclerz, Texas A&M Forest Service Predictive Services Department Head. “These outbreak events have historically resulted in multiple large, high impact wildfires that can be difficult to contain and are an immediate threat to public and firefighter safety.”
Since 2005, wildfires that ignite under Southern Plains Wildfire Outbreak conditions represent only 3% of reported wildfires but have accounted for 49% of the total acres burned. Under these conditions, grasses dry rapidly and become highly flammable where even a small spark can ignite a wildfire that spreads rapidly.
Nine out of 10 wildfires in Texas are human caused. Texas residents are encouraged to stay wildfire aware. Avoid outdoor activities that could spark a wildfire during warm, dry and windy conditions. If a wildfire is spotted, immediately contact local authorities. A quick response can help save lives and property.
For information on the current wildfire situation in Texas, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/wildfire-and-other-disasters/current-wildfire-status/
View the 2026 Dorman Fire Season Outlook: https://ticc.tamu.edu/Documents/PredictiveServices/Outlooks/TAMFS_2026_DormantFireSeasonOutlook.pdf
To stay current with fire environment conditions and fire potential, visit the weekly Texas Fire Potential Update at https://ticc.tamu.edu/Documents/PredictiveServices/Outlooks/texas_fire_potential_update.pdf
###
Teachers Could Benefit From Voucher Program Soon
January 16, 2026 – Teachers and educators across Texas may soon find new income opportunities through the state’s Education Savings Account program, often referred to as school vouchers, passed by the Legislature. The program allows families to use state-funded education dollars for approved services outside traditional public schools, opening the door for educators to participate as paid vendors.
Under the program, teachers and education professionals can apply to become approved service providers offering a wide range of educational support. Eligible services include academic tutoring, curriculum development and support, special education services, and certain mental and behavioral health supports tied to student learning. Providers may work independently or through small businesses, giving educators flexibility to serve students directly.
Supporters say the program empowers teachers by allowing them to use their expertise beyond the classroom while giving parents more options to customize their child’s education. For educators, it creates a pathway to earn additional income or transition into education-focused entrepreneurship without leaving the profession entirely.
Teachers with experience in special education, intervention services, or subject-specific tutoring are expected to be in high demand. Mental health professionals with education credentials may also qualify to provide services addressing learning-related challenges, particularly for students with disabilities.
To participate, educators must meet state requirements, complete the vendor application process, and comply with program guidelines related to services, documentation, and accountability. Payments would come directly from Education Savings Account funds allocated to participating families.
Critics argue the program could divert resources from public schools, while supporters counter that it expands opportunities for both families and educators. As the program rolls out, state officials expect thousands of vendors to apply, signaling a significant shift in how education services are delivered in Texas.
For many teachers, the voucher program represents a chance to reach students in new ways while being compensated for specialized skills developed over years in the classroom.
CEA Mario Villarino Had A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey Again
January 16, 2026 – Hopkins County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Mario Villarino-Gutierrez recently visited on KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. Mario and John Mark chatted about the importance of volunteers. Mario Villarino shared that those who would like to volunteer as a Master Gardener can get started with an online training session being held January 29th, 2026. John Mark and Mario also talked about the 4H program, and the opportunity to be a part of the program with a shooting sport training session being held the weekend of January 17th, 2026, in Canton, Texas. The two also talked about the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office, where it’s located, and how you can contact the office. Be sure to check out this interesting episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey below and learn what your AgriLife Extension Office has in store for the winter.
Learn About the “Little Ducky’s Book Pond” Event Being Held January 17th on This Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey
January 15, 2026 – Learn about the “Little Ducky’s Book Pond” event taking place Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Book Nook on Main, downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas, on this charming episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. Sharon Feldt, owner of the Book Nook on Main, visited with John Mark to share info. about “Little Ducky’s Book Pond,” which begins at 11:30am Saturday, (the 17th). John Mark and Sharon also talked about the book, Rules of the Road, by Joan Bauer, the statistics on the number of children that enjoy reading today, and much more. Don’t miss this informative episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey.
Sulphur Springs Texas City Wide Spring Clean Up Scheduled for the Week of April 13th
January 15, 2026 – The city of Sulphur Springs, Texas, has scheduled the next city wide Spring Clean Up for April 13th through April 18th, 2026. One will have to show a valid driver’s license or water bill as proof of city residency. You will be able to take your unwanted items to a location half a mile East of the four way stop at Jefferson Street (HWY 67) and Loop 301.
2 Gala Photo Releases
January 15, 2026 – Proceeds from the event on January 24 will help fund the surgical services expansion of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. This expansion will double the number of operating rooms and increase the footprint to 19,000 sf. The new surgical suites will be larger and accommodate the latest technology, including the capacity to facilitate robotic surgical systems. To learn more, visit SpreadOurWings.GiveSmart.com.
In addition to their sponsorship, John has donated a rare Rossi “Billy the Kid” engraved Rifle with 250 rounds of ammo. Only 500 of this particular model were made. The rifle is paired in the Live Auction Outlaw Package with a whiskey tasting for 8 people donated by Dr. Martin Fielder and his company WhiskeyDink, LLC, and hosted at Clementine & Co.
The Outlaw Package is available in the 100 for $100 Raffle. Only 100 tickets will be sold at Gala2026.GiveSmart.com, each for $100. Winner does not need to be present on January 24 to win.
Gala Photo Release: Wound Evolution – Tyler
January 15, 2026 – There is one way to win a Live Auction item without attending. The 100 for $100 Raffle offers your choice of select Live Auction items featuring packages such as a trip to Cabo, Montana Fly Fishing, private dinner party packages, and many more fabulous items. Only 100 tickets will be sold, each for $100. The winner will be drawn during the Gala. Get yours while they are still available at Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
