Sulphur Springs Dairy Queens Opt Out of DQ Texas App Points Earning
April 1, 2026 – Some Sulphur Springs residents may enjoy a deal on a dipped cone or a Dude Sandwich, but earning rewards points at local Dairy Queen restaurants is for now a thing of the past. As the DQ Texas loyalty app has been updated, the two Sulphur Springs locations have chosen to not participate in the foreseeable future for their customers to earn points towards rewards. The DQ Texas App rewards loyal Dairy Queen customers by calculating points on purchases and allowing customers to redeem those points on future purchases through discounts and free items. When questioned at the store level, the explanation is that the stores “do not have the proper scanners.” The official response from DQ Texas is: We are sorry but you will no longer be able to earn points from the Sulphur Springs locations. Each DQ is individually owned and operated, and this location is not set up to award points. They are a non-integrated location. You can still use the APP at this location but only to get the rewards offered on the APP, if the DQ is participating.
The explanation from the corporate level seems to indicate that the Sulphur Springs stores may not participate in future App specials. There is a Free Spicy Dude Sandwich deal on the App currently (with purchase of fries and drink) but it is not clear if local stores are honoring this deal. So for those of you that enjoy a deal on a Dilly Bar, you may have to pay full price for the sweet treat until the local restaurants join the other Dairy Queens in the full implementation of the DQ Texas App.
Both Sulphur Springs Dairy Queen locations owned and operated by Hometown Boys, LLC. based in Lindale TX.
Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library to be Closed April 3rd
March 31, 2026 – The Hopkins County Genealogical Society announces that their library will be closed Friday, April 3rd, 2026 in observance of Good Friday. The library will reopen for “all your research needs” Monday, April 6th, 2026, at 9:30am. Come in and look for those ancestors you have wondered about for so long. The Genealogical Society wishes everyone a blessed weekend and a very joyful Easter. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society Library is located at 611 North Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Smart TVs Draw Scrutiny Over Account Requirements, Data Collection
March 31, 2026 – Consumers are raising concerns as more smart TVs—particularly lower-cost models sold through major retailers like Walmart—now require users to create and log into accounts before accessing basic features. The shift, tied to operating systems such as Roku TV and other built-in platforms, is part of a broader trend toward connected, ad-supported home entertainment.
ACR Tracking: Automatic Content Recognition (ACR) technology tracks what users watch, even from external sources like cable boxes, to sell targeted ads and audience data.
Shoppers report that new televisions often prompt account setup during initial installation, limiting functionality until completed. While manufacturers say accounts enable app downloads, streaming services, and software updates, critics argue the requirement also facilitates large-scale data collection and targeted advertising.
Smart TV ads generate significant revenue for manufacturers and content providers, with each user generating roughly $5 per quarter in advertising and data revenue. This high-margin revenue model (e.g., Roku’s $4.15B and Vizio’s $478M platforms) utilizes ACR tech to serve targeted ads within home screens and free streaming services, often compensating for low hardware profit margins.
Industry analysts note that smart TV makers have increasingly adopted a business model similar to smartphones and social media platforms—offering affordable hardware while generating revenue through ads and user data. Viewing habits, app usage, and even voice interactions can be collected to build advertising profiles.
This evolution reflects a major change from earlier televisions, which functioned independently of internet connectivity. Today’s devices often come preloaded with ad-supported interfaces, recommendations, and sponsored content integrated directly into home screens.
Privacy advocates warn that many consumers may not fully understand how much data is being gathered or how it is used. While settings exist to limit tracking, they can be difficult to navigate or buried within menus.
Retailers and manufacturers maintain that users consent to data practices through terms of service agreements and can opt out of certain features. Still, the growing requirement for accounts has sparked debate about whether basic consumer electronics should depend on ongoing data exchange to function fully.
TEXAS LAWMAKERS TO STUDY IMPACT OF CLASSROOM TECHNOLOGY
March 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas lawmakers are preparing to take a closer look at how increasing use of technology in classrooms is affecting student learning ahead of the 2027 legislative session.
House Speaker Dustin Burrows has directed two committees to examine the role of digital devices in education, including whether heavy reliance on screens is helping or hindering academic performance. The review comes as more schools across Texas incorporate laptops, tablets and online platforms into daily instruction.
Supporters of classroom technology argue that digital tools can expand access to information, personalize learning and prepare students for a modern workforce. However, critics say the rapid shift toward screen-based learning may be doing more harm than good.
The Texas Public Policy Foundation has labeled the trend the “edtech lie,” arguing that technology has been oversold without clear evidence of improved outcomes. Concerns include reduced attention spans, weaker reading comprehension and less critical thinking among students.
When people use the term “edtech lie,” they’re usually pointing to a few key concerns:
- Lower academic performance: Some studies and international examples (like Sweden) suggest heavy screen use can correlate with declines in reading comprehension and focus.
- Distraction over engagement: Devices can split attention—students may appear engaged but are often multitasking or passively consuming content.
- Weaker foundational skills: Overreliance on digital tools may reduce handwriting, deep reading, and problem-solving practice.
- One-size-fits-all thinking: Schools adopted technology broadly without strong evidence it works equally well across subjects, ages, or student needs.
International examples are also influencing the debate. Sweden, which spent years transitioning away from traditional textbooks in favor of digital devices, has reversed course after seeing declines in reading performance. The country is now investing more than $100 million to reintroduce physical textbooks in classrooms.
In Texas, one study found that about 20 percent of instructional time is now spent on school-issued devices, highlighting how deeply technology has become embedded in education.
Lawmakers say the goal of the upcoming review is not to eliminate technology, but to find the right balance. As schools continue to evolve, the question remains whether screens should lead instruction—or simply support it.
Texas State Parks Police Officers Earn Awards
March 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Several Texas State Parks Police Officers received awards from the Park Law Enforcement Association (PLEA) and were recognized at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Meeting on Thursday.
Lifetime Achievement Award — Chief Wes Masur
Chief Wes Masur was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from PLEA, being recognized for a career of more than 30 years reflecting unwavering dedication, innovation and commitment to service. Masur has served as Chief of Texas State Park Police for over two decades, leading approximately 150 officers and serving more than 85 State Parks with more than 9.6 million visitors per year.
“Chief Masur’s leadership has been visionary and transformative,” said PLEA’s Executive Director Dale Steele. “He led a complete organizational restructure, secured Schedule C pay status for his officers, modernized equipment and technology, strengthened recruitment and training standards, and elevated professionalism across the agency. Under his guidance, officers gained access to premier training opportunities and advanced tools necessary for modern law enforcement.”
PLEA Life Saving Award — Sergeant Lynn Kuenstler and Officer Gary Carter
Texas State Park’s Police Sergeant Lynn Kuenstler and Officer Gary Carter were honored with PLEA’s Life Saving Award.
On July 11, 2025, Officer Carter responded to a medical emergency while on patrol in Garner State Park. He found an unresponsive park visitor in the Pecan Grove camping loop and worked to remove them from the vehicle and immediately began administering CPR. Sergeant Kuenstler arrived on scene with oxygen and an AED, allowing the officers to continue life-saving measures as a team, ultimately restoring responsiveness to the visitor. They later learned that the visitor had slowly lost vision, complained of chest pain and was unresponsive for two minutes before they arrived.
PLEA Life Saving Award — Sergeant Neal Kocurek and Officer Ryan “Price” Blalock
Sergeant Neal Kocurek and Officer Ryan “Price” Blalock also earned the Life Saving Award from PLEA.
Near Sheldon Lake State Park on Oct. 31, 2025, Officer Blalock observed heavy black smoke and alerted Sergeant Kocurek before finding a vehicle partially aflame with an 18-year-old driver trapped inside. Blalock entered the vehicle to attempt a rescue, with the driver pinned beneath the dashboard with his leg impaled. Kocurek arrived and joined in the effort. The officers retrieved fire extinguishers and worked to suppress the fire which was moving into the passenger compartment. The Sheldon Fire Department arrived, and being former firefighters themselves, the officers assisted with the charging line and provided equipment transport until the man was extricated and airlifted to a trauma center.
Throughout the rescue, both Officer Blalock and Sergeant Kocurek were exposed to heavy smoke, toxic fumes, extinguisher powder and danger of exploding vehicle components, all without the aid of breathing apparatus or respirator protection. Both required decontamination and fully recovered, while the victim suffered no burns and was treated for the physical trauma to his body.
PAXTON SUES DENTAL PROVIDERS, MARKETERS OVER ALLEGED MEDICAID FRAUD SCHEME
MARCH 31, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against multiple dental providers and marketing groups accused of orchestrating a scheme to defraud Texas Medicaid by performing medically unnecessary procedures on patients.
According to the lawsuit, the providers allegedly partnered with so-called “marketer defendants” who targeted Medicaid recipients—often low-income families—by offering incentives such as gift cards to become patients. Those marketers then directed individuals through a network of clinics, sometimes moving them between locations to increase billing opportunities.
Once patients were recruited, the providers are accused of performing unnecessary dental procedures, including some considered high-risk, and billing Medicaid for services that were not medically justified. State officials say the alleged scheme not only wasted taxpayer dollars but also placed vulnerable patients, including children, at risk.
The case is being brought under the Texas Health Care Program Fraud Prevention Act, which prohibits false claims, kickbacks and other fraudulent practices involving Medicaid services. The Attorney General’s office is seeking restitution, civil penalties and additional remedies.
“It is malicious and unacceptable that these providers were performing dangerous, medically unnecessary procedures on patients in order to scam our Medicaid system,” Paxton said.
Medicaid fraud has been an ongoing concern in Texas, particularly in the healthcare sector, where past enforcement actions have targeted billing schemes, unlawful referrals and unnecessary treatments. The state has increased oversight in recent years through its Healthcare Program Enforcement Division, which works to identify and prosecute fraud involving public funds.
The lawsuit was initially filed under seal but has since been unsealed, allowing more details to become public. Officials say the case underscores continued efforts to protect both taxpayer resources and patient safety across Texas.
PAXTON PROPOSES RULES TO ENFORCE BAN ON FOREIGN ADVERSARIES OWNING TEXAS LAND
March 30, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has unveiled proposed rules to enforce a new state law restricting land ownership by individuals and entities tied to designated foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, Iran and North Korea.
The proposal begins the formal rulemaking process for Senate Bill 17, passed during the 89th Texas Legislature and in effect since September 1, 2025. The law was designed to address national security concerns by limiting foreign control of Texas land, particularly near critical infrastructure and military installations.
Paxton’s office submitted the rules to the Secretary of State on March 16, with publication in the Texas Register on March 27. A public comment period is now underway before the rules can be finalized.
The proposed framework outlines how the Office of the Attorney General will investigate and enforce potential violations. It defines key terms within the law and establishes procedures for civil investigative demands, reporting requirements and compliance.
Under the rules, professionals involved in real estate transactions—including lenders, title companies, appraisers and real estate agents—would be required to report suspected violations to the Attorney General’s office. Complaints must be submitted electronically or by mail through designated channels.
The rules also include confidentiality provisions, ensuring that complaints and investigative materials are not publicly disclosed unless required by law.
Supporters say the law and proposed rules are part of a broader effort across several states to limit foreign influence over land and resources. Critics have raised concerns about enforcement challenges and the potential impact on legitimate investment.
“My office will use every tool available to prevent our nation’s enemies from gaining a foothold on Texas soil,” Paxton said.
State officials say the rules will provide clearer guidance as Texas moves to fully implement the land ownership restrictions.
Vehicle Pursuit Leads to Felony Charges
March 30, 2026 – Local Hopkins County Law Enforcement officers joined in an effort to assist Greenville PD in a vehicle chase as a suspect vehicle entered Hopkins County.
The 2026 Nissan Pickup did not want to stop and rammed one of the Hopkins County vehicles and sped off attempting to evade officers at speeds reaching 115mph. Local law enforcement, in an effort to protect other drivers, flattened the rear tires of the fleeing vehicle as it was attempting to travel west bound in the east bound lanes of Interstate Highway 30. The fleeing vehicle was undeterred but now at a much slower speed and continued to flee at 20mph crossing over to the South Service Road of I-30. The pickup finally gave up in the parking lot of 7Star Travel Center and a felony take down was initiated. Once Pedro Sosa, age 30, of Sulphur Springs was secured two children (ages 6 and 3) were located in the front seat of the vehicle and were not secured in car seats. Sosa was found to have signs of intoxication so was charged with the enhanced charge of DWI w/ child passenger under 15 years of age. An unopened package contaning pre-rolled THC cigarettes weighing approximately 4.2 grams was located inside the vehicle adding to the charges. Sosa was also charged with Evading Arrest and Assault of Public Servant (ramming his vehicle).
Four warrants from Rockwall County were also levied against Sosa for similar charges (DWI, Evading Arrest, and 2-Endangering Child counts). The children were transported from the scene by EMS as Sosa was transported to the Hopkins County Jail where he remains awaiting his bond to be set on the multiple felony charges.
Even Girl Scout Cookie Sales Effected this Year
March 29, 2026 – As cookie season winds down, some Girl Scout troops are finding themselves with leftover inventory, reflecting a shift in buying habits driven by higher prices and increased competition.
Boxes that once sold quickly are now moving more slowly, with some customers pointing to rising costs. In recent years, prices have climbed to around $5 to $7 per box in many areas, prompting comparisons to cheaper store-brand alternatives that mimic popular flavors like Thin Mints and Samoas.
Girl Scout troops typically earn between $0.80 and $0.95 per box sold, depending on their total sales volume and local council, with an additional $0.10 possible if they opt out of rewards.
Shoppers are also noticing what some describe as “shrinkflation,” with fewer cookies per package despite higher prices. That combination has led budget-conscious consumers to cut back or skip purchases altogether.
At the same time, grocery stores now offer a growing number of lower-cost “knockoff” versions year-round, reducing the urgency to stock up during the limited Girl Scout sales window.
Despite the slowdown, troop leaders emphasize that cookie sales remain a key fundraiser, helping cover costs for activities, travel and community service projects.
Some community members suggest an alternative: donating directly to local troops. The idea allows supporters to contribute financially without purchasing cookies, appealing to those looking to avoid extra calories while still backing the program.
Leaders say whether through purchases or donations, community support remains critical to helping scouts meet their goals.
Wildcats Took on the North Lamar Panthers in Baseball Action March 24th
March 29, 2026 – The Sulphur Springs, Texas, High School Wildcats took on the North Lamar Panthers in baseball action March 24, 2026. The game was played at Wildcat Park in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Below is KSST/Cable Channel 18’s coverage of this game. KSST’s Sports Director, John Mark Dempsey, called Play by Play, and Tony Flipping provided Color Commentary.
