Chamber Connection – April 3, 2025
By Butch Burney
Registration is still going on for the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, set for Friday, May 2, at Sulphur Springs Country Club.
Registration is open for six-person teams in the morning and afternoon, though there are only a few afternoon slots available.
Cost is $750 per team, which includes three golf courts and lunch for all team members.
There are also sponsorship opportunities available for hole-in-one contests and interactive holes.
For more information or for registration, call the Chamber office at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Lunch and Learn
Go Farther, Faster with AI will be a Lunch and Learn hosted by Deep Routes Coffee and presented by Kendra Wallace on Wednesday, April 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Whether you are an AI pro or just getting started, attendees will learn how Artificial Intelligence can save you time and money, relieve stress, strengthen relationships and more.
The cost is $25 and includes lunch.
Spring Market on Main
The Spring Market is coming to Main Street in a few weeks.
The annual sidewalk sale and market vendors will set up on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be spring items inside and outside, food, décor, gifts and more.
The annual event is hosted by the Downtown Business Alliance.
Cocktails and Conversation
You don’t want to miss the next Cocktails and Conversation, an after-hours business mixer, hosted by Credit Union of Texas from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at their downtown Sulphur Springs location. They will have refreshments and an opportunity to network with other business professionals.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend the mixer.
Blue Blazes Carnival
The SSHS Blue Blazes will have a spring carnival at Buford Park from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 19.
Rowdy Goose Parties and More will be there with inflatables and mini golf as well as a silent auction, vendors, food trucks and more.
Window Decorating Contest
The Hopkins County Dairy Festival is hosting a Window Decorating Contest during the month of May. Businesses can decorate between May 1 and May25, but must register before the decorating window closes. Judging will be May 26-30, with winners announced on May 31.
The theme for this year is Udder the Big Top (carnival theme).
For more information, contact Gena Prickette at 903-243-4534 or [email protected]
Heritage Park
Dutch Oven classes are right around the corner at Heritage Park.
It is April 12, from 8 a.m. to noon, $20 per person. You will learn how to prepare the food, cook it, and of course EAT it.
For more information or registration, contact Rick Wilson at 903-335-2752.
Claws for a Cause
Rotary Club’s annual crawfish boil is set for Celebration Plaza, Saturday, April 26. Service and live entertainment starts at 5 p.m. Click on the Clause for a Cause Facebook page for ticket links.
City Clean Up
The City of Sulphur Springs will open its dump facility the week of April 28-May 3 for the annual city wide clean up. The facility is ½ mile east of the traffic stop at Jefferson Street and Loop 301. Residents need a valid driver’s license or water bill to verify they live in the city limits.
Miller Grove Stew and Auction
The annual Miller Grove FFA stew and Auction is set for Thursday, April 3, at the school. The stew will start at 6 p.m., with the auction to follow.
Easter Egg Hunt
Sulphur Springs Health and Rehab will host an Easter Egg Hunt for all interested children at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 18, at their facility on Airport Road.
UPRA Spring Rodeo
The Hopkins County Rodeo Association is hosting the 45th UPRA Spring Rodeo on April 18-19 at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Doors open at 6 p.m., events begin at 7:30. Easter egg hunt and a bicycle give away on Saturday, the 19th. Tickets for adults are $12 (buy advance tickets for $10 at Circle E Western Store), kids 6-12 are $5 and kids under 5 are free.
Ribbon Cuttings
Pink Brizilia Boutique will host a ribbon cutting at noon Friday, April 4, at their shop at 220 Connally Street. Please join us for this event.
‘Islamic City’ in Hunt County Being Investigated by Multiple Texas Agencies
April 3, 2025 – Governor Greg Abbott announced this week that the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has determined that the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) and its affiliated entities have not obtained the necessary permits and authorizations required for their proposed construction and development project. According to the TCEQ, any construction undertaken without proper approval would violate state law. As a result, the agency has formally notified EPIC and its affiliates, ordering them to confirm that no construction activities have taken place without authorization.
In addition to the TCEQ’s findings, Governor Abbott stated that a dozen state agencies are currently investigating potential illegal activities linked to EPIC and its affiliated entities. While specific details regarding the nature of these investigations remain undisclosed, the governor emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance with environmental and development regulations.
The announcement has sparked widespread attention, with some questioning the scope and motivations behind the investigations. Supporters argue that enforcing environmental laws is essential to maintaining regulatory integrity, while critics raise concerns about possible selective enforcement or political motivations. As the investigations unfold, EPIC and its affiliates may face legal consequences if violations are confirmed, potentially impacting the future of their development plans.
Governor Abbott Proclaims April 2025 As Autism Awareness And Acceptance Month
April 3, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today promoted World Autism Awareness Day by recognizing April 2025 as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Texas. Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of conditions, typically appearing during early childhood, and characterized by challenges with social skills, relationships, self-regulation, and communication.
“Texas continues to promote the acceptance and celebration of people with disabilities, including Texans with autism,” said Governor Abbott. “We must also foster a supportive environment where each individual across the autism spectrum can thrive. Autism awareness and acceptance empowers Texans throughout the state like Jeremiah Kimmel, a student with Autism who joined me at my State of the State Address, to feel included and supported. This April, we celebrate neurodiversity and the unique perspectives, abilities, talents, and experiences of Texans who make our state great.”
Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States with one in 36 children having the diagnosis. Acceptance can lead to better job prospects, additional employment opportunities, affordable housing, and accessible and integrated transportation systems that match personal needs and lifestyles.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is hosting the 2025 Texas Autism Conference, a virtual event on April 14-17, 2025. For more information, please contact [email protected].
The Governor’s Committee on People with Disabilities works toward a state in which people with disabilities have the opportunity to enjoy full and equal access to lives of independence, productivity, and self-determination. The Committee recommends changes in disability policies and programs, supports a network of committees on people with disabilities, issues awards to promote greater awareness, and promotes compliance with disability related laws.
Commission Approves Expansion of Digital License and Tag Options for Recreational Hunting, Fishing
April 3, 2025 – AUSTIN – Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is expanding digital license and tag options to all recreational hunting, fishing and combo license and tag types.
TPWD introduced digital licensing and tagging in 2022 for harvested deer, turkey and oversized red drum.
Options have since expanded to allow resident hunters and anglers to purchase a fully digital license for the super combo (Items 111, 117), youth hunting (Item 169) or lifetime combo (Item 990), Hunting (Item 991), or Fishing tags (Item 992). Customers can also purchase other products such as the exempt angler tag (Item 257), bonus red drum (Item 599) and spotted seatrout tags (Item 596).
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission approved expanded digital license and tag amendments during its March meeting. The new will go into effect on Sept. 1 but will be available for purchase Aug. 15, when 2025-26 licenses go on sale.
Additional information on the new amendments can be viewed on the commission website.
Texas Legislature Considering Restrictions on What SNAP Can Buy
April 2, 2025 – Senate Bill 379, passed by the Texas Senate, seeks to restrict food stamp recipients from purchasing certain non-essential items such as soda, chips, and candy. The bill is part of a broader initiative to ensure that government assistance is directed towards healthier and more nutritious food options. If enacted, the legislation would modify the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides financial aid to low-income individuals and families to purchase food.
Supporters argue that the bill will encourage healthier eating habits among Texans who rely on food assistance. They believe it could reduce the rates of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related health issues that disproportionately affect low-income communities. By limiting purchases to more nutritious food, proponents assert that the bill could foster long-term public health benefits.
Critics, however, contend that the bill infringes on personal freedom and may unfairly stigmatize low-income individuals. They argue that food assistance programs should provide recipients with the flexibility to choose what they eat based on personal preferences. Additionally, some question whether the bill will truly address the root causes of poor health, such as limited access to fresh food in certain areas.
The bill now awaits further consideration in the Texas House of Representatives.
Blue Cross Blue Shield Coverage Ends For Many North Texas Hospitals
April 2, 2025 – Contract negotiations between major healthcare providers failed ahead of the April 1 deadline, leaving thousands of North Texans without in-network access to Texas Health Resources and UT Southwestern System. As two of the largest hospital networks in North Texas, the breakdown in negotiations affects a significant number of patients who must now search for new medical providers or face higher out-of-pocket costs.
Both healthcare systems have assured the public that negotiations are ongoing and that they are committed to minimizing disruptions. They have pledged to assist affected patients by providing guidance on transitioning to alternative in-network providers and ensuring continuity of care where possible. However, many patients with scheduled procedures, ongoing treatments, or primary care relationships are now in a difficult position.
Such disputes often arise over reimbursement rates and coverage agreements between insurers and healthcare providers. While negotiations may still lead to a resolution, patients are advised to check with their insurance providers for updates and potential exceptions for continuity of care. In the meantime, the uncertainty has created frustration and concern among North Texans, who now face difficult decisions regarding their healthcare access and affordability in an already complex system.
A Mother’s Plea: Put Down the Phone, Save a Life
April 1, 2025 – Distracted driving was the second-most common factor in traffic crashes last year
PARIS – Maria Espinoza never imagined a routine walk to school with her 6-year-old son would turn into a life-altering tragedy.
But in an instant, a distracted driver jumped the curb, striking her son and trapping him beneath the vehicle. He spent six months in a coma, with doctors warning he might never walk or talk again.
Years later, Maria’s son has defied the odds – relearning how to walk, talk and even eat. He’s studying to become a physical therapist, determined to help others recover just as he did. And Maria is on a mission: asking everyone to pay attention behind the wheel.
“We don’t want this to happen to any other family. We want to save lives and create responsibility,” Espinoza said. “If I take the responsibility and you take the responsibility today, that will make a difference.”
The alarming truth about distracted driving
In 2024, distracted driving contributed to more than 91,000 crashes in Texas, leading to more than 370 deaths – all preventable tragedies.
- The number of motor vehicle traffic crashes in the Paris District in 2024 that involved distracted driving (distraction, driver inattention, or cell phone use) totaled 1,646. These crashes resulted in 17 fatalities and 88 serious injuries.
- Counties in the Paris District: Delta, Fannin, Franklin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar, Rains, Red River
That’s why the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is launching its Talk. Text. Crash. campaign this April during Distracted Driving Awareness Month. The goal? To remind Texans that when you’re driving, nothing is more important than the road ahead.
“Everyone knows they should focus while driving, but too many people still take their eyes off the road to check a text, fiddle with their dashboard or grab a bite to eat,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “We want to make it clear: no text or call is worth a life.”
It’s not just dangerous – it’s illegal
Texting while driving isn’t just risky—it’s against the law. In Texas, anyone caught reading, writing, or sending a text while driving faces a fine of up to $200. Many cities have even stricter laws, banning all handheld device use while driving.
Stay safe: simple steps to avoid distractions
TxDOT urges all drivers to follow these safety tips:
- Stay focused – Keep both hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.
- Put your phone away – Use “Do not Disturb” mode while driving.
- Pull over if needed – If you must send a message, stop in a safe place first.
Experience the dangers firsthand
To drive this message home, TxDOT’s Talk. Text. Crash. campaign will be hitting the road, bringing a driving simulator to cities across Texas. This interactive exhibit lets visitors experience just how quickly distractions can lead to disaster.
Talk. Text. Crash. is an important part of TxDOT’s Drive like a Texan: Kind. Courteous. Safe. initiative. Drive like a Texan is about embracing the pride, camaraderie and responsibility of being a Texan on the road. By making thoughtful choices, we can all help keep each other safe. Learn more at DriveLikeATexan.com.
For more information, please contact [email protected] or 903-737-9213.
The information contained in this report represents reportable data collected from the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3). This information was received and processed by the department as of January 13, 2025.
Old Saltillo Methodist Church Plans Special Pre Easter Program
April 1, 2025 – Old Saltillo Methodist Church will hold a special pre Easter program Sunday, April 6th, 2025. The church is located at 664 County Road 3357, Saltillo, Texas, 75478. Such a wonderful season to step back in time with a pre-Easter program at the Old Saltillo Methodist Church, Rev Dan Hoke pastor. Beautiful children will be under the direction of Sue Barker, a Mt. Vernon resident and member of the Sulphur Springs Choral Society for years. The small Choir will take on the angelic roll to depict the memories of the Old Rugged Cross in song and actions while praising the 1850 Church. The church is a perfectly maintained place of worship dating back to the 1800’s.
Please join us while this service takes you back visually and mentally to times long past. Everyone is invited.
Sulphur Springs Native Takes Gavel as State Democratic Party Chair
April 1, 2025 – Kendall Scudder, a 2008 graduate of Sulphur Springs High School, has been chosen to chair the Texas Democratic Party. In a decisive win on the first ballot, Scudder received 65 out of 121 votes eclipsing the next challenger who received 27 votes. Scudder said upon taking the gavel. “Let’s build a party that the working men and women of this state can be proud of.”
Scudder will take over as chair of the state party at a moment when Democrats are grasping for a way forward after blowout losses up and down the ballot last year, including President Donald Trump’s victory and a surge to the right by traditionally Democratic groups, such as Hispanic voters in South Texas.
After proclaiming Texas a competitive state where Democratic candidates had a fighting chance of winning statewide for the first time in three decades, party leaders instead watched as Trump and U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz trounced their Democratic challengers by roughly 14 and 9 percentage points, respectively. Democrats also ceded ground in the state Legislature and lost nearly every contested state appellate court race, in addition to 10 judicial races in Harris County — eating away at years of Democratic dominance in Texas’ largest county.
Scudder graduated from Sulphur Springs High School before attending Sam Houston State and receiving a degree in Politcal Science. Scudder moved on to attending Cornell University, and George Washington University where he recieved his Masters Degree in Political Management.
UPDATE – CHRISTUS Sulphur Springs Urgent Care Will be Open April 4th
April 3, 2025 – SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas – CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Urgent Care, located at 1339 S. Broadway St. in Sulphur Springs, will remain open on Friday, April 4. Urgent care patients will be seen from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The building had been scheduled for electrical work, but that work has been moved to Tuesday, April 8.
We are expecting work on April 8 to be done in time for the clinic to open and see patients at 3 p.m.
We appreciate your understanding and please let me know if you have any questions.
Telehealth options are also available by visiting www.christushealth.org/get-care
