Peerless Youth Ministries Will Hold a Fish Fry March 21st
March 5, 2026 – The Peerless Youth Ministries will hold a fish fry and auction March 21, 2026. Food will be served beginning at 5:00pm. Cost is a donation. The church is located at 7414 FM 71 W Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report March 3, 2026
March 5, 2026 – During the regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council on Tuesday March 3, 2026, City Manager Marc Maxwell submitted his monthly report.
TO: SULPHUR SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER, MARC MAXWELL
SUBJ: MANAGER’S REPORT
CLAIMS
Two workers’ compensation claims were filed in February: A Fire Captain sustained a sprain/contusion to his left foot/ankle during a wildfire incident and was released to full duty. An Assistant Fire Marshal sustained a torn right calf muscle while detaining a suspect and was released to limited duty.
Liability matters included a Notice of Claim from Frontier regarding facilities in the 1600 block of Myrtle Drive and a property abatement notice in the 1200 block of College Street that did not qualify as a claim under TMLIRP.
A Notice of Claim was filed and forwarded to TMLIRP.
Thermo
Crews flushed the 18-inch water line, completed pressure testing, and began BAC-T testing. Nine concrete pads were installed around valve stands.
For the Thermo 21″ sewer line (9,000 feet), crews continued mulching the path in preparation for installation. Installation will begin in 2 weeks.
Miracle League Field
Staff is reviewing bids for sitework, field construction and fencing. The bids are coming in a little better than before.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
| Street | Between | Length |
| Asphalt/Conc. Repair | various soft spot repairs | 1000 |
| Hodge | League to Barbara | 1130 |
| Colorado | Longino to Jackson | 401 |
| Fleming | Church to Rosemont | 428 |
| Putman | Carter to Como | 2360 |
| Mulberry | Park to Glover | 1299 |
| League | Connally to Houston + curve | 1316 |
| Moore | Main to Connally | 1193 |
| Gaines | Fuller to Putman | 422 |
| Raintree | Loop 301 to Loop 301 | 2978 |
| N. Lake Rd. and ramp | Peerless Hwy to ramp | 3200 |
| Towne | Hinnant to Robertson | 412 |
| Lemon | Bill Bradford-McGrede to Sprite | 1088 |
| Able and Ava | Putman to Fuller | 820 |
| Davis St. | South Davis from RR to Kyle | 2149 |
| Southland | Davidson to end | 898 |
| Simms | Freeman to end | 400 |
| Cranford | Austin to Hodge | 891 |
| Total Feet | 22385 | |
| Total Miles | 4.24 | |
Departmental Activity
Public Works
- Repaired 177 potholes and cleaned storm drains 2 times.
- Repaired pavement from 1 water/sewer cut.
- Installed 120 feet of curbs at Robertson and Towne Streets; installed new valley gutters at Gaines & Putman and Moore & Main Streets; began curb replacement on Hodge Street (SIP list).
- Repaired/replaced 2 stop signs and 8 street signs; installed 2 new 30 MPH signs on McGrede Street.
- Cleaned box culvert under South Texas Street; repaired a sinkhole at Stonebriar; filled asphalt settlement at Coleman Park parking area.
- Applied barricades for low-water areas during storms and hauled street-sweeper spoils to Maloy Landfill.
Utilities — Water
- Water breaks repaired: ¾″–1; 1″–1; 2″–3; 4″–2; 6″–4; 8″–8.
- Water meters replaced: ¾″–19; 1″–2; 2″–1; meter boxes–3. Dead meters: 1.
- Located over 5,400 feet of water mains for contractors; installed five 1″ taps and one 2″ tap; repaired or replaced two hydrants.
Wastewater Treatment Plant
- Monthly average effluent TSS = 1.95 mg/L.
- Hauled 578.59 tons of sludge to Maloy Landfill; none to Pleasant Oaks.
- Completed multiple maintenance items, including sludge pump repairs, drive unit preparation, and press-building bearing replacement.
Water Plant
- Collected bacteriological samples; collected TOC samples and received lab results.
- Flushed dead-end mains.
- Conducted BAC-T sampling on the 18″ Luminant water line.
- Submitted annual Water Audit.
Community Development — Inspections & Permits
- Inspections: 98 building; 18 electrical; 23 plumbing; 4 mechanical.
- Permits: 33 building; 61 trade.
- No Planning & Zoning or ZBA applications were filed for February.
Fire Department
- 170 total calls; 40 inspections; 76 hydrants maintained; 178 CE hours.
- Incident detail: 4 structure fires; 3 vehicle fires; 12 non-structure fires; 14 alarms; 2 county mutual aids.
Police Department
Two patrol officers (Kaitlyn Childers and Austin Garrison) were hired to fill patrol positions.
Police Department
- 1,607 total calls
- 41 accidents (8 injuries; 0 fatalities)
- 443 citations
- 46 offenses
- 39 arrests
Animal Control
- 107 complaint calls
- 16 dogs/cats picked up; 6 owner drop-offs
- 15 adoptions (85% adoption rate)
- 8 animals released to owner
Library
- 5,054 visitors
- 3,858 checkouts
- 281 computer sessions
- 209 eBook users; 745 eBook checkouts
Programming included AARP tax assistance, preschool story time, Spring Break planning activities, Earth Day tree signups, and coordination with local schools and area libraries.
Parks & Recreation
- Daily maintenance and cleaning; banners changed for Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day; cleaned fountain wet vault twice; fertilized trees and rye grass.
- Sprayed sports fields and Pacific Park for weeds; trimmed trees in Buford Park; planted four trees; rebuilt three picnic tables; prepared Grays Building for 12 rentals; mowed airport terminal area once.
- Assisted with 120 senior activities; hosted a Valentine’s Party (80 attendees) and Silver Saturday Night (85 attendees).
Coleman Park is booked every weekend (except Easter and July 4th) from March 21 through August 1.
Airport & Tourism
- 4,304 gallons AvGas sold.
- 5,982 gallons Jet-A sold.
- 2,145 aircraft operations (average 76 per day).
Out-of-State Travel
- None
Hopkins County Texas Receives Significant Rain Overnight, Was it Enough?
March 5, 2026 – Hopkins County received a round of overnight rainfall this week, but local totals show the precipitation was not nearly enough to significantly ease ongoing dry conditions across Northeast Texas.
Weather stations around Sulphur Springs, the county seat, recorded roughly 0.43 inches of rain during the latest overnight system, according to rainfall monitoring data. While the showers brought temporary relief and dampened dusty conditions, the amount fell short of what farmers and ranchers say is needed to replenish soil moisture and area stock ponds.
The small rainfall comes during a year that has been unusually dry for the region. Records indicate Hopkins County is more than 47 percent below its normal rainfall total for the year to date, highlighting the severity of the deficit.
Agricultural producers across the county say the overnight rain helped settle fields and provided minor moisture for winter pastures, but it did little to address longer-term concerns. Many pastures remain stressed, and water levels in farm ponds are still lower than normal.
Climatology data for Sulphur Springs shows the area typically receives about 4.43 inches of rain during March alone, meaning several additional storms would be needed to bring totals closer to average levels.
Meteorologists say additional opportunities for rain could arrive later in the week as storm systems move across North Texas, but totals remain uncertain.
For now, the overnight showers served as a reminder of how badly the region needs sustained rainfall.
In Hopkins County, residents welcomed the rain—but most agree it was just a start, not the soaking needed to break the dry spell.
Rain chances are in the forecast for the next seven days.
Republicans Voters Reject Sharia Law at March Poll
March 5, 2026 – Republican primary voters across Texas delivered overwhelming support for a non-binding ballot proposition calling for the prohibition of Sharia law, according to unofficial results released following Tuesday’s primary election.
Sharia, meaning “the correct path” in Arabic, is the divine legal and moral framework derived from the Quran and Hadith (teachings of Prophet Muhammad) that governs all aspects of life for Muslims, including daily worship, marriage, finance, and moral behavior. It serves as a guide for ethical conduct and, in some contexts, is codified into state legal systems, particularly regarding personal status and criminal justice.
The proposal was one of 10 advisory questions placed on the Republican primary ballot by the Republican Party of Texas. Party leaders included the measures to gauge grassroots priorities ahead of the party’s 2026 state convention and the 2027 legislative session, when lawmakers could consider legislation related to the issues raised in the ballot questions.
The “dark side” of Sharia law, often highlighted by human rights critics, refers to strict, literalist interpretations that can lead to severe violations of human rights, particularly concerning women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Key issues include harsh corporal punishments (stoning, amputation), restrictions on women’s rights, and lack of due process.
Among the propositions, the measure concerning Sharia law received the highest level of support. Unofficial returns showed approximately 94.81 percent of Republican primary voters backed the proposal, making it the most widely supported of the advisory questions.
As of late 2025, Texas has legally banned the application of Sharia law and the creation of “Sharia compounds” or “cities” in the state, with Governor Greg Abbott signing legislation in September 2025 to prevent foreign or religious law from superseding Texas law. This action followed controversy over a proposed Muslim-centric development, EPIC City, which officials argued could lead to discriminatory practices.
Supporters of the measure say the vote reflects concerns among Republican voters about maintaining U.S. and Texas law as the governing legal framework within the state. Because the proposition was advisory in nature, the vote does not automatically create or change any law. However, party officials say the results help guide the legislative priorities that Republican leaders may pursue in future sessions of the Texas Legislature.
The issue drew additional statewide attention late last year when Gov. Greg Abbott took action related to organizations he said were connected to extremist groups. Abbott announced that the Council on American-Islamic Relations and the Muslim Brotherhood had been designated as foreign terrorist organizations under Texas law, a move that brought renewed focus to debates over foreign influence and religious law in the United States.
All ten propositions placed before Republican voters passed by wide margins, reflecting strong agreement among GOP primary participants on several policy priorities.
Party officials say the results will be reviewed as delegates prepare for discussions at the upcoming Republican Party of Texas convention, where grassroots activists and party leaders will determine which issues should be emphasized in future legislative efforts.
Governor Abbott Notifies Texans Of Safety Resources Amid Iranian Military Action
March 4, 2026 | Austin, Texas | Governor Greg Abbott today notified Texans at home and abroad of safety protocols and resources in response to military actions in the Middle East that pose a threat to American civilians. Americans worldwide, and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Texans in need of immediate assistance can call the U.S. Department of State (from outside the U.S: 1-202-501-4444; from U.S.: 1-888-407-4747) or the Texas Fusion Center (1-844-927-0521).
“The safety and well-being of Texans are paramount,” said Governor Abbott. “Now more than ever, Texans must remain vigilant and follow the guidance of U.S. officials as military action continues overseas. The State of Texas is actively coordinating with our federal partners to safeguard Texans abroad and at home from hostile foreign actors.”
Governor Abbott and Texas officials recommend the following steps to ensure personal safety:
- Heed Federal Warnings: Monitor travel advisories and security alerts issued by the U.S. Department of State and local U.S. Embassy offices.
- Call U.S. Department of State or Texas Fusion Center: Texans in need of immediate assistance or guidance should call:
- U.S. Department of State from outside U.S.: 1-202-501-4444
- U.S. Department of State from inside U.S. and Canada: 1-888-407-4747
- Texas Fusion Center: 1-844-927-0521
- Register with the U.S. Embassy: Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and make it easier for the U.S. government to assist in an emergency.
- Maintain Contact with Family: Keep friends and family informed of your location and travel plans. Establish regular check-ins.
- Avoid High-Risk Areas: Do not travel to regions under active security alerts or where violence and unrest are occurring. Conditions can shift rapidly, even in popular destinations.
- Follow Local and Federal Instructions: If shelter-in-place or travel restriction guidance is issued by authorities, follow those instructions immediately. Seek shelter and minimize unnecessary movements. Remain in your residences or hotels. Avoid areas around military activity. Monitor local media for updates. Avoid crowds.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Keep copies of important documents, emergency contact numbers for the U.S. Embassy or nearest Consulate, and ensure you have a reliable means of communication.
The Governor’s Office and DPS will continue to monitor developments and coordinate with federal partners to ensure Texans receive timely information as the situation evolves.
Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Weather Threat
March 4, 2026 | Austin, Texas |Governor Greg Abbott today announced that he directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of a severe weather threat expected to impact portions of Texas beginning today and continuing through the weekend.
“Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary resources to help local officials respond to potential severe weather across the state,” said Governor Abbott. “Texans are urged to remain weather-aware, regularly check road conditions, and heed the guidance of state and local officials to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones. The State of Texas will continue to closely monitor weather conditions to protect the well-being of communities across our state.”
According to the National Weather Service, multiple storm systems are expected to bring strong to severe thunderstorms across large portions of the state beginning later today across North Texas. As the week progresses, the storm risk shifts to the West to include parts of Northwest Texas such as the Panhandle, South Plains, Permian Basin, Big Country, and Concho Valley. Later in the week, the severe weather threat is expected to shift back towards North, Northeast, and Central Texas. Conditions are anticipated to continue into early next week. Hazards include large hail, damaging wind, heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding, and possible tornadoes. Texans are urged to monitor local forecast information as conditions develop.
At the direction of Governor Abbott, the following state emergency response resources are available to support severe weather local response operations:
- Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (Texas A&M Task Force 1 and Texas Task Force 2): Swiftwater Rescue Boat Squads and Urban Search & Rescue Teams to assist with flood rescues
- Texas Division of Emergency Management: The State of Texas Incident Management Team and All-Hazards Group responders to support deployed emergency response resources across the state
- Texas National Guard: Personnel and high-profile vehicles to assist stranded motorists; Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters to assist with flood rescues
- Texas Department of Transportation: Personnel monitoring road conditions statewide
- Texas A&M Forest Service: Saw Crews to assist with clearing of roadways; Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) Strike Teams to support local emergency services
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Game Wardens, rescue boat teams, and helicopters with hoist capability to assist with flood rescues
- Texas Department of Public Safety: Texas Highway Patrol Troopers, helicopters with hoist capability, Tactical Marine Unit
- Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Severe Weather Support Packages consisting of medics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster Assessment and Recovery Agents, as well as County Extension Agents to support agricultural and livestock needs
- Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordination with utility providers
- Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
Additionally, the Texas State Emergency Operations Center remains activated at Level III (Increased Readiness) to support severe weather and ongoing wildfire operations, amid continued fire weather conditions in some parts of the state.
Texans are encouraged to proactively prepare for severe weather by packing an emergency supply kit, making an emergency plan, and following guidance from local officials.
Texans can find flood and severe weather safety information at TexasReady.gov, check road conditions at DriveTexas.org, and access all-hazards preparedness tips at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.
SSISD Supt. Dr. Steeber had A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey March 3rd
March 3, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, Texas, ISD Superintendent Dr. Deana Steeber was a guest on March 3rd’s episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. On this segment, Dr. Steeber and John Mark discussed the progress of the construction on the new school buildings in Sulphur Springs, Texas, the CTE Program at Sulphur Springs ISD, the culinary program at the school, and so much more. Be sure to check out this informative episode below.
Texas Rangers Unveil Controversial Statue at Globe Life Field
March 3, 2026 – ARLINGTON — The Texas Rangers on Monday unveiled a statue relocated to Globe Life Field that had been removed from Dallas Love Field Airport in 2020 amid significant controversy.
The statue, which depicts a stylized figure from a historical Texas icon, sparked protests and debate when it was initially installed at the airport. Critics at the time said the artwork was inappropriate for a public transit space and offensive to some communities, prompting its removal and eventual storage.
The “One Riot, One Ranger” statue at Dallas Love Field was removed in June 2020 due to its association with racism and historical police brutality.
At the unveiling ceremony, Rangers officials said the decision to install the piece at the team’s ballpark honors its complex history while providing context through educational signage. A team spokesperson said the stadium setting offers a space where fans and visitors can interpret the work through a broader lens, tied to Texas culture and discussion rather than an everyday transportation environment.
Local leaders and some community members attended the event, including supporters who view the statue as part of Texas heritage and opponents who said its presence still raises questions about representation and inclusivity.
The Rangers said they consulted with local historians and community groups during the relocation process and that the accompanying plaque will explain the statue’s past and its place in today’s dialogue. The unveiling comes as the team prepares for the upcoming season, adding another point of interest for fans visiting Globe Life Field.
Growing Number of Parents Push Back on School-Issued Devices
March 3, 2026 – A growing number of parents nationwide are opting their children out of using school-issued Chromebooks and iPads, arguing that constant screen exposure is undermining academic performance and opening the door to distractions and inappropriate content.
Parent groups in several states say they are increasingly concerned that devices meant to enhance learning are instead fueling off-task behavior, from gaming to social media access. Some cite research suggesting students who rely heavily on computers in the classroom perform worse academically than peers who use traditional materials. Other studies indicate that students tend to retain information better when reading from paper rather than screens.
“I’m not anti-technology,” said one parent involved in a device opt-out effort. “But I want it used intentionally — not as a substitute for teaching.”
National organizations representing school administrators, technology officers, and teachers caution against broad device bans. They argue that classroom screen time differs significantly from recreational use at home and say schools must prepare students for a workforce that expects digital fluency, including familiarity with artificial intelligence tools and collaborative platforms.
Education experts say the debate is not simply about devices, but balance. They note a distinction between teaching students how technology works — including its risks — and building entire instructional models around screens. Many recommend blended approaches that combine printed materials, face-to-face instruction, and limited, purposeful digital use.
As districts review technology policies adopted during the pandemic, the broader conversation continues: how to equip students for a digital future without sacrificing focus, comprehension, and critical thinking.
Alleged Jihadist Accused in Deadly Shooting on Austin’s Sixth Street
March 3, 2026 – AUSTIN — A gunman opened fire in downtown Austin’s popular Sixth Street entertainment district early Sunday morning, killing three people and injuring 13 others before being shot and killed by police.
Authorities identified the suspect as Ndiaga Diagne, 42, of Pflugerville. According to law enforcement officials, officers responding to multiple 911 calls encountered the suspect shortly after the shooting began and fatally shot him during an exchange of gunfire.
Investigators say the attack unfolded just after bar closing time in one of the city’s busiest nightlife corridors. Witnesses reported chaos as crowds fled the area while officers secured the scene and rendered aid to victims.
Police confirmed that Diagne was originally from Senegal and had immigrated to the United States decades ago. Officials said he had previously overstayed a visa before later becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen. Authorities have not publicly detailed a motive but said the investigation is ongoing and includes a review of digital evidence and social media activity.
During the attack, Diagne was reportedly wearing a hoodie bearing religious wording. Law enforcement officials declined to speculate on whether ideology played a role, saying federal agencies are assisting in determining whether the shooting qualifies as terrorism.
Sixth Street remained closed Sunday as investigators processed the scene.
