Vietnam Veterans Day Celebration to Take Place at Celebration Square on March 28th
March 1, 2026 – Bob Kerr, the voice of KSST’s Veterans Voices, reached out with the following message…
“Dear Comrades and Friends, We are excited to announce that the Vietnam Veterans Day celebration is scheduled to take place at Celebration Square on Saturday, March 28th at 11:00 a.m. (Please note that the official designated day is Sunday, the 29th). We appreciate your support and involvement. Kindly help us by spreading the word to your friends, family, and social media contacts. We are confident that it will be a memorable and enjoyable event. Thank you for your cooperation.”
Bob Kerr
Be sure to catch Bob Kerr’s “Veterans Voices” each Monday morning at 8:10am on KSST, 1230AM.
Paris District Road Report for March 2, 2026
February 27, 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 March 2, 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 and Howe on both the east and west sides of US 75 from County Line Road (CR 375/Panther Parkway) to Haning St. 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.
The US 75 frontage roads in Howe were converted to one-way traffic on February 04. This one-way conversion happened on both the east and west sides of US 75 from Hanning St to FM 902. 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 complete, 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 March 31, 2026. This is a long-term closure, and drivers should use the adjacent exits.
Lamberth Dr. Eastbound and westbound to be closed from January 17 to September 2026.
US 75 southbound entrance ramp from US 82 is closed.
US 75 Northbound Frontage Road from Loy Lake Rd (Sherman) to Fallon. There will be alternating Lane Closures from 02 Feb – 02 Mar from 7:00 am – 3:00 pm.
US 75 Southbound Frontage Road from FM 691 to Fallon Dr. Right lane will be closed from 03 Feb – 24 Mar from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm.
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. Motorists 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.
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 safely 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.
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.
CR 2410 at Tanyard Creek. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on the CR 2410 bridge located at Tanyard Creek. The bridge will be closed in both directions beginning January 22, 2026, and will remain closed until May 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use FM 100 and FM 2216 as an alternate route.
Calf Creek Ln. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on Calf Creek Ln bridge located at Calf Creek. The bridge will be closed in both directions beginning March 04, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use Jim Lamb Rd and Whitney Rd. as an alternate route.
SH 56 in Bells east of US 69. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews clean out the drainage structures. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations in Grayson County. Watch for daytime lane closure as maintenance crews perform pothole repair work on the roadway. 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 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 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 completed 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 2105. Contractor will be performing bridge replacement work on CR 2105 bridge located at Robert Springs Tributary. The bridge will be closed in both directions beginning March 05, 2026, and will remain closed until July 2026. Road closure signs are installed on the roads leading to the project to inform drivers. Drivers can use CR 2110 and CR 2100 as an alternate route.
FM 2029. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform seal coat preparation work on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Various locations in Fannin County. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform pothole repair and sign work 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.
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.
Hopkins County: Loop 301 at Railroad Crossing. The railroad crossing will be getting replanked the week of March 9-13 and the road will be closed to through traffic during the operations.
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 79, at Little Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance.
BU 82 H (Bonham St.), from Loop 286 to 11th Street NW. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk on the north and south sides of the roadway.
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 preparing to pour the median on north end of project. 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 will be performing prime coat on roadway from 1000 ft. west of Gardner Rd. to the intersection of FM 512 and FM 2655. 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 excavating in the south bound shoulder. Expect delays in the work zone. 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. RK Hall will begin paving on Monday. Flagging operations will be in place while work is being performed. This work is expected to be completed by March 7th. Contractor is waiting for warmer weather before applying first layer seal coat. 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. Expect one lane closures this week. 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 temp and permanent walls at both CR 2511 and FM 36. Contractor will be repairing damage to pavement caused by recent winter weather. 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 SH 24 from FM 2736 to Loop 178, 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 repairs at various locations. Crews will also be on FM 36 from SH 66 to US 380 finishing prep work for seal coat on the construction project.
Rains County maintenance section will be performing roadway prep work on FM 514 from FM 2496 to SH 19. Road repairs will also be made on FM 2081 from FM 514 to Hopkins County Line. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
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Sailor With Family Ties to Lavon Named Warfighter of the Week
February 26, 2026 – Lavon sailor named warfighter of the week
Gwenivere Zambo, from Lavon, Texas, was named the warfighter of the week aboard the U.S. Navy aircraft carrier, USS John C. Stennis in Newport News, Virginia, Feb. 26.
According the award citation, Zambo expertly trained and was instrumental in the qualification of 320 security and weapons department personnel on the use and employment of the new 9mm Sig Sauer M18 pistol.
Beyond the firing line, she demonstrated exceptional initiative and commitment by
single-handedly completing four vital preservation projects within her division. This
tireless effort, undertaken in addition to her primary duties, not only improved the
material condition of her work spaces, but also embodied the very spirit of teamwork
and dedication that has propelled the gunnery division ahead of its demanding
maintenance schedule.
Her personal commitment serves as an inspiration and a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the mission.
U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Tener
Hood County Commissioners Reject Data Center Pause, Seek State Action Instead
February 26, 2026 – GRANBURY — The Hood County Commissioners Court voted 3-2 this week to reject a proposed moratorium on new data center developments, opting instead to unanimously pass a resolution urging Greg Abbott to call a special legislative session to address the issue statewide.
Commissioners have faced mounting pressure from residents concerned about water usage, noise and long-term environmental effects tied to artificial intelligence-related data centers and power generation projects proposed in the area.
The debate comes as Hood County, located southwest of Fort Worth, has received five data center applications in recent months, signaling growing interest from developers seeking land and power access outside major metro areas. In January, commissioners granted conditional approval to one project proposed by Florida-based Sailfish, clearing an early hurdle for what could become a large-scale digital infrastructure facility.
Earlier this month, the all-Republican court also voted 3-2 against a six-month moratorium that would have temporarily halted additional approvals while officials studied the long-term impacts of data centers on water usage, electric demand, and local infrastructure.
Opponents of the moratorium argue counties lack clear statutory authority to impose such pauses on private development. One commissioner said state law limits the regulatory tools available to counties, leaving them unable to enact temporary bans without risking legal challenges.
However, Shelby Slawson (R-Stephenville), whose district includes Hood County, has publicly disputed that interpretation, suggesting counties may have broader authority than some local officials believe.
Data centers — large facilities that house servers supporting cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital storage — have expanded rapidly across Texas due to the state’s business-friendly climate and relatively low energy costs. Supporters say the projects bring tax revenue and infrastructure investment, while critics raise concerns about strain on the electric grid and local water supplies.
By calling for state-level guidance, Hood County leaders signaled they want clearer rules before additional projects move forward.
Texas School Choice Program Surges Past 130,000 Applications in Historic Rollout
February 26, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas’ new Education Freedom Account program has drawn more than 130,000 student applications at the halfway point of its initial enrollment window, marking what state officials describe as the largest launch of a school choice initiative in U.S. history.
The program, approved by lawmakers earlier this year and administered by the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, will provide eligible families with state-funded accounts beginning in the 2026–27 school year. Those funds can be used to cover private school tuition and fees, homeschooling expenses, tutoring, therapy services for students with disabilities, and other approved educational costs.
According to state data, roughly 2,000 private and accredited schools have registered to participate so far, creating a broad network of options across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Most applicants intend to use the funds for private school enrollment, while a smaller percentage plan to pursue homeschooling or customized learning arrangements.
Although interest has exceeded expectations, participation in the first year will be capped at about 100,000 students due to legislative funding limits. State officials say applications will not be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Instead, awards will be determined using a weighted system that considers educational need and socioeconomic factors, meaning families are not penalized for applying later in the window.
Supporters argue the program empowers parents with greater flexibility and competition in education, potentially improving outcomes statewide. Critics, including some public school advocates, contend the accounts could redirect funding away from traditional public schools already facing budget pressures.
With weeks remaining before the application deadline, education analysts expect total interest to climb even higher. The strong early response underscores the intensity of the school choice debate in Texas — and signals that demand for alternative education pathways is significant as the state prepares for the 2026–27 academic year.
“Go Early and Go Often” — Fair Number of Gobblers, Jakes on the Landscape for the 2026 Spring Wild Turkey Season
Feb. 24, 2026 – AUSTIN —Hunters can expect to see an abundance of two and three-year-old gobblers for the 2026 spring turkey season. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) recorded good production through summer turkey surveys in 2023, 2024 and 2025.
After another year of good production and recruitment, hunters can expect a temporary spillover of birds into landscapes where they are not always found. Gobblers are expected to spread out in search of hens, hens in search of nesting cover and young birds moving across the landscape looking for new areas to occupy.
“For spring turkey hunters, two-year-old gobblers are probably the most fun birds to hunt,” said Jason Hardin, TPWD Wild Turkey Program Leader. “They gobble readily and are not jaded by past turkey hunter efforts and near misses from previous seasons. The middle and later portions of the season usually have fewer hunters in the woods, and you never know when you will strike a tom in the mood to strut and gobble. Go early and go often.”
TPWD reminds hunters to review the Outdoor Annual before opening day to ensure they are hunting during the legal season and pursuing legal birds. Hunters can check the TPWD website for exact season dates for the county where they plan to hunt. Hunters must possess an Upland Game Bird Stamp Endorsement to hunt wild turkeys in Texas.
The spring season dates are as follows:
Youth Only
Rio Grande Turkey
- North Zone: March 21-22; May 16-17
- South Zone: March 7-8; May 2-3
Spring Regular Season
- North Zone: March 28-May 10
- South Zone: March 14-April 26
- Special One Turkey Bag Limit Counties: April 1-30
- East Zone: April 22–May 14
Drier conditions across much of the Rio Grande wild turkey range mean a slower start to the nesting season and more competition from real hens distracting gobblers. When rains do return to promote green grasses and wildflowers, breeding activity will begin soon after. However, some gobblers will still be ready to start the breeding season even if hens are not in top breeding condition.
All or part of nineteen counties offer a spring season from April 1–30. These counties include Bastrop, Brewster, Caldwell, Colorado, Comal – east of I35, Fayette, Guadalupe – north of I10, Hays – east of I35, Hill – east of I35, Jackson, Jeff Davis, Lavaca, Lee, Matagorda, McLennan – east of I35, Pecos, Terrell, Travis – east of I35, and Wharton.
At the edges of the Rio Grande wild turkey ranges in Texas, the landscape historically has lower numbers of wild turkeys, resulting in a spring-only seasons. Hunters are allowed a one-gobbler bag limit per county. As with all Texas counties with an open season, wild turkey harvest reporting is mandatory. Any and all harvested wild turkeys must be reported within 24 hours through the Texas Hunt and Fish mobile app or online.
All or parts of twelve counties in east Texas make up the East Turkey Zone including Bowie – north of HWY 82, Cass, Fannin – north of HWY 82, Grayson, Jasper, Lamar – north of HWY 82, Marion, Nacogdoches, Newton, Polk, Red River – north of HWY 82 and Sabine. There is a one-gobbler bag limit for the entire East Turkey Zone and again mandatory harvest reporting is required within 24 hours of harvest.
Hunters who purchased a digital licenses have a digital tagging option. All hunters who chose to use the digital tagging option must report their wild turkey at the time of harvest and harvest data must be attached to the harvested turkey. Rules and guidance associated with the new digital tagging option can be found on the TPWD website.
“Thank you to all hunters who harvested a wild turkey and reported the bird through TPWD’s Texas Hunt & Fish App over the last few hunting seasons,” said Hardin. “TPWD keep tabs on the state’s wild turkey population, and those populations are changing over time. With most of Texas being privately owned, TPWD relies on our turkey hunter citizen scientists to provide the data we need to track and manage wild turkeys.”
Additional information about harvest reporting, bag limits and more can be found in the Outdoor Annual or via the Outdoor Annual app. Apps are available for free download from Google Play or the App Store.
Hopkins County Weather Outlook: Warm This Week, Rain Chances Next Week
February 24, 2026 – Hopkins County is set to see an unseasonably warm stretch of weather for late February, with highs reaching into the upper 70s and low 80s — well above the average high of about 60°F this time of year. These temperatures are a notable departure from typical February conditions and feel more like early spring than mid-winter.
The warming trend continues through the weekend, with Tuesday through Saturday likely staying warm and sunny, making it feel much like spring rather than winter.
Heading into next week, the pattern begins to shift. Forecasters are signaling an increased chance of rain and showers starting Sunday and extending into the early part of next week as more moisture moves into the region. While showers won’t be constant, rain chances are notably higher compared to this week’s dry, warm conditions.
This change marks a transition from unseasonable warmth to more typical late-winter weather, with temperatures still mild but accompanied by cloudy skies and precipitation chances. Residents and outdoor planners should keep an umbrella handy late weekend into the start of next week as rain becomes more likely.
Overall, Hopkins County will enjoy spring-like warmth this week followed by a wetter outlook next week — a mix that’s unusual but not unprecedented for the late winter season.
Timely Rain is Key to the 2026 White Bass Run
Feb. 23, 2026 – AUSTIN – Angler success during the 2026 white bass run could boil down to spring rains across portions of the state, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) biologists predict. Some areas are seeing good water levels and flows, but timely rainfall will boost chances for anglers to reel in these prized fish.
Each spring, white bass run upstream from reservoirs into rivers and creeks to spawn, creating prime fishing opportunities for new and seasoned anglers. White bass can be targeted from the bank, motorized boat or paddle craft in multiple publicly accessible locations throughout the state.
In East Texas, TPWD biologists predict that the tributaries of Lake Palestine will be the prime spots for anglers during this year’s white bass run. The Neches River and Kickapoo Creek both have plenty of water and will support a quality run at some point. Some reservoirs are currently too low to have quality white bass runs, but one good rain event could be enough to change that. Without a significant rain event, the spawning run could be prolonged over the course of one to two months.
For Central Texas anglers, the Colorado River above Lake Buchanan is one of the strongest white bass runs in the area. TPWD biologists indicate the July 2025 rain event significantly raised Lake Buchanan’s water level and reconnected the reservoir with the riverine section upstream. This connectivity should allow white bass to move up the river to Colorado Bend State Park and beyond. As a result, they expect a run on the Colorado River above Lake Buchanan this spring, something that has not happened in recent years due to prolonged low water levels and drought conditions.
Survey reports in North Central Texas suggest that the white bass populations within the reservoirs are above average this year with the potential for good sized fish to be caught if they are triggered into the creek. This area of the state has also been affected by the lack of rainfall, so a good rain event could help boost chances for anglers in the coming weeks.
Popular locations in North Central Texas include the East Fork of the Trinity River below Lake Lavon and upstream of Lake Ray Hubbard off State Highway 78. White bass anglers can also hook into the occasional hybrid striped bass coming up from Ray Hubbard. Another hot spot is on the Stewart Creek arm of Lake Lewisville that includes some trails along the creek in Frisco that give access to that creek. The Elm Fork of the Trinity, upstream of Ray Roberts, is usually good but requires a five- or six-mile long boat trip upriver from the lake to find the fish. The conditions here favor smaller aluminum boats.
Popular runs in the Waco area include the Brazos River flowing through Granbury, the Brazos and Nolan Rivers flowing into Lake Whitney, the North, Middle and South Bosque Rivers flowing into Lake Waco, the Navasota River flowing through Mexia, Fort Parker State Park Lake and Limestone Reservoirs. Other spots that may hold promise include the Cowhouse Creek and Leon River flowing into Lake Belton, and the Lampasas River flowing into Stillhouse Hollow Lake. TPWD biologists pinpointed the Brazos River, any of the Bosque River tributaries, the Nolan River or any of Navasota River sections as potential prime locations due to good water levels.
White bass, also known as sand bass, are a popular freshwater species preferred by Texas anglers both for sport fishing and for the dinner table. While most riverside property is privately owned, public access to high-quality white bass runs can be found at many Texas State Parks, Texas Paddling Trails, leased River Access and Conservation Area (RACA) sites and highway and bridge crossings.
Below are some accessible locations for the white bass run:
Brazos River: Fuller’s Folly River Ranch and Sandy Bottoms River Company are recent site additions to the RACA program upstream of Lake Granbury. Reports indicate water flow remains below normal overall, but TPWD staff are hopeful that recent rain events, with the potential for more in early spring, will support a good run from Lake Granbury into the upstream section of the river.
Neches River: Above Lake Palestine, anglers can find public access at Chandler River Park featured in this TPWD YouTube Video. This RACA site offers nearly 6,000 feet of river frontage for bank fishing and includes a boat ramp and kayak launch.
Llano River: The Kingsland Slab RV Camp provides access to the river, with 750 feet of river frontage along the Llano River. This RACA site offers free public fishing access and is located at 7300 River Oaks Dr. in Kingsland.
Sabine River: Above Toledo Bend Reservoir in Panola County, anglers can find public access for white bass fishing at the Grand Bluff Boat Ramp, which offers 275 feet of river frontage and a single trailer boat ramp. This RACA site offers free public access to the Black Shoals fishing hole located about three miles upstream.
Colorado River: Above Lake Buchanan, bank anglers can fish for white bass at Colorado Bend State Park. The park offers a boat ramp (currently closed to motorboats) and bank access.
TPWD recommends that anglers check the water levels and river flows before heading to their favorite location.
A variety of artificial lures and flies will work for anglers targeting white bass, including small jigs, crank baits and streamers. Night fishing using lights or around lighted docks can also be effective. White bass are excellent table fare for anglers looking for a versatile and healthy source of protein. The daily bag limit for white bass is 25 with a 10-inch minimum length. More information on fishing regulations can be found in the TPWD Outdoor Annual.
As always, don’t forget to purchase your fishing license unless exempt. Funds from the sale of fishing licenses are used to make fishing better by supporting TWPD hatcheries and fish stockings, fish habitat enhancement, fisheries management, outreach activities and more. Purchase online or at a retailer near you. In addition, anglers are asked to “leave no trace” by bringing out what they brought in.
For more information about white bass identification, fishing patterns, life history, biology and access to public sites visit the White Bass Fishing in Central Texas website.
Governor Abbott Orders Expanded DPS Operations Amid Rising Cartel Violence
AUSTIN, Texas (Feb. 23, 2026) — Greg Abbott on Monday directed the Texas Department of Public Safety to intensify public safety and homeland security operations statewide in response to escalating cartel violence in Mexico that officials warn could threaten American civilians.
In a press release, Abbott said Mexican drug cartels pose a growing risk to both public safety and national security, pledging that Texas would “utilize every tool and strategy” to prevent criminal spillover into the state.
Under the governor’s directive, DPS will surge personnel from the Texas Highway Patrol, Texas Rangers, Criminal Investigations Division, and Special Operations Group to the border region. The additional resources are aimed at detecting, interdicting, and apprehending criminal actors, while preventing transnational threats from crossing into Texas communities.
The agency will also expand operations conducted by its Tactical Marine Unit and Aircraft Operations Division along the border to enhance aerial and maritime surveillance. Officials said these efforts are designed to strengthen rapid response capabilities and improve coordination across state and federal partners.
Abbott further ordered the activation of additional personnel from the Homeland Security Division and the Texas Fusion Center to monitor social media and suspicious activity reports around the clock.
The move comes a day after Abbott urged Texans currently in Mexico — and those with loved ones traveling there — to follow guidance issued by the U.S. Department of State amid ongoing security operations, road blockages, and criminal activity in parts of the country.
Texans in need of immediate assistance can contact the State Department or the Texas Fusion Center through their respective emergency hotlines, officials said.
The Next Meeting of the Master Gardeners will be Held February 26th
February 24, 2026 – The Hopkins County Master Gardeners plan to meet at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office on Houston Street, in front of the Hopkins County Civic Center, in Sulphur Springs, Texas, on Thursday, February 26th, 2026. The meeting will begin at 10:00am. At this meeting, Hopkins County Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson will present a program on the insect pests of plants. Anyone and everyone interested in gardening, learning more about the Master Gardeners, or who are interested in becoming a Master Gardener is welcome to join this meeting.
