First Graduates of East Texas A&M University to be Honored at Fall Graduation
Fall commencement ceremonies at East Texas A&M are set for December 13 and 14.
COMMERCE, TX, Dec. 10, 2024—
East Texas A&M University will celebrate the first graduating class under its new name at commencement ceremonies on Friday, Dec. 13 and Saturday, Dec. 14. The Fall 2024 graduation is an exciting milestone for the university, which changed its name from Texas A&M University-Commerce to East Texas A&M on November 7. The ceremonies will take place at the University Field House located at 1804 Lee Street on the campus of East Texas A&M. Doors will open one hour before each ceremony.
Degree candidates
The 1,289 degree candidates for East Texas A&M’s fall graduation include more than 500 graduate students and more than 700 undergraduate students. From these candidates, 354 will graduate with academic distinction, including 106 cum laude, 123 magna cum laude and 125 summa cum laude.
Graduate highlights
- Age of youngest graduate: 19
- Age of oldest graduate: 81
- U.S. states represented: 30
- Countries represented: 9
- First-generation graduates: 435
- International graduates: 146
Graduation ceremony schedule
East Texas A&M will conduct five separate ceremonies as follows:
Graduate School – Master’s
Friday, Dec. 13, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. | Livestream
College of Business
College of Science and Engineering
Graduate School – Doctoral and Master’s
Friday, Dec. 13, 2024 at 4 p.m. | Livestream
College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
College of Education and Human Services
College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts
Undergraduate – Bachelor’s
Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 at 8:30 a.m. | Livestream
College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources
College of Business
College of Science and Engineering
Undergraduate – Bachelor’s
Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 at 11 a.m. | Livestream
College of Education and Human Services
College of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts
Undergraduate – Bachelor’s
Saturday, Dec. 14, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. | Livestream
College of Innovation and Design
Guest information
Tickets:
- Each graduate received an allotted number of tickets to share with family and friends. A ticket must be presented for each guest, including infants and toddlers.
- Guests should make sure they have their tickets BEFORE they arrive to the ceremony and have them ready to be scanned BEFORE entering the building.
- Guests without tickets may view a live stream of the ceremony, either on the second floor of the Rayburn Student Center or via the links above.
Parking:
- The closest parking lots are 1, 2, 3, and 5.
- Guests with disabilities (with proper vehicle identification) may park in Lot 4. The entrance to Lot 4 is on Bois D’Arc St.
- Shuttle buses are free of charge and will be rotating throughout the parking areas approximately every 15 minutes.
Bags:
- A clear bag policy is in place.
Accessibility:
- The bottom two rows of bleachers are reserved for guests with disabilities. Representatives from the Student Disability Services office will be available to assist. For accessibility concerns, please email [email protected].
For additional guest information, please visit tamuc.edu/Graduation.
Cedar Fever Season Begins in Texas
December 10, 2024 – COLLEGE STATION, Texas – It’s time for Texans to brace for cedar fever season once again. Cedar fever is an allergic reaction to the pollen released by mountain cedar trees, and unfortunately, you don’t have to be allergic to the pollen for it to affect you.
In Texas, the predominant species of mountain cedar is Ashe juniper, making cedar fever especially irritating in the Hill Country west of I-35 where there are primarily juniper trees mixed in with oaks and a few other species.
“Cedar fever is irritating to many due to the quantity and density of Ashe junipers in Central Texas that all produce pollen at the same time, which leads to a high concentration of pollen in the air,” said Robert Edmonson, Texas A&M Forest Service Biologist and ISA Certified Arborist.
The pollen from Ashe junipers isn’t particularly allergenic or harmful, but its concentration is what irritates most because your body perceives it as a threat and begins to fight it.
Since the pollen is spread by wind, cedar fever can even affect individuals who are not near a high concentration of juniper trees. And the source isn’t limited to Ashe junipers. In more eastern parts of the state there are also eastern redcedars that pollinate around the same time and can induce a similar response from people’s auto-immune systems.
Besides the massive quantity of pollen released, cedar fever is also problematic because of the timing of the pollen release. Most trees pollinate in the spring when many are expecting to have allergies. Ragweed pollen and mold spores can contribute to allergies in the fall, but very few plants pollinate during the winter. Juniper trees are the exception.
These trees typically begin producing pollen in mid-December, often triggered by colder weather or the passage of a cold front. Pollen production reaches its peak in mid-January, before slowly tapering off toward the beginning of March.
“Cold fronts are marked by very dry and windy conditions with rapid pressure changes which trigger pollen cones to open and release pollen grains,” said Edmonson. “In certain conditions, you can even see the pollen blowing off trees.”
For people new to the Central Texas region, or unfamiliar with cedar fever as a whole, it can also lead to confusion since the pollination period of mountain cedar trees occurs during the peak of cold and flu season. It’s not uncommon for people experiencing cedar fever to mistake their symptoms for a cold or the seasonal flu, especially given the variety of symptoms triggered by cedar fever. These include fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, partial loss of smell and some people run a slight fever. However, if your fever is higher than 101.5°F, then pollen likely isn’t the cause.
You can treat cedar fever by taking allergy medications and antihistamines, but you should consult with your physician or health care professional before taking new medications. You can also try and anticipate the pollen by tuning in to your local news station, many of which will give you the pollen count and can predict when it’s going to be a particularly pollen-heavy day. On those days, it’s smart to keep windows and doors closed, and to limit the amount of time you spend outdoors. It can also be helpful to install higher MERV-rated air filters in home and auto HVAC systems and invest in home air purifiers.
Removing juniper trees from your property isn’t recommended primarily because the pollen is airborne and—since they often wait to release their pollen until it’s cold, dry and windy—that pollen can blow for miles. It’s also important to note that only male juniper trees release pollen.
“The male trees have larger pollen cones, while the female trees have much smaller reproductive cones, which are very inconspicuous, but that’s what is pollinated from the male trees,” said Edmonson.
While cedar fever might sound and seem particularly hostile, Ashe junipers are really just a species like any other, feeling out the conditions and waiting for the perfect moment to release their pollen in order to set their offspring up for success come springtime.
For more information about how to identify Ashe junipers and/or eastern redcedars in your own backyard, check out the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Texas Tree ID webpage or the My Tree ID mobile app. You can also see the distribution of junipers, as well as a variety of other tree species across the state, via our Forest Distribution App.
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Dinner Bell for December 12, 2024
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
Grocery Supply Company was founded in 1947 in Mt. Vernon, Texas. Coming to Sulphur Springs in 1953 kit located on Oak Avenue at the train tracks. Present day operation in Sulphur Springs are on Hillcrest Drive North.
Today, GSC Enterprises, Inc. operates two primary business segments: Grocery Supply Company that meets the needs of dry, refrigerated and frozen items for convenience stores; and Fidelity Express.
Fidelity Express, established in 1988, provides financial services such as money orders, bill pay, prepaid cards, gift cards and other walk-in cash products for independent retailers in 20 states and the District of Columbia.
GSC remains a family-owned and operated business with second and third generations of the McKenzie family at its leadership. Their family is truly devoted not only to its employees, their families and their customers, but also to the communities in which GSC Enterprises, Inc. serves.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christ mas and New Years Day.
MENU:
Chicken Spaghetti
Bacon Infused Green Beans
Garden Salad
Buttered French Bread Slices
20 Minute Chocolate Cake
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
Como-Pickton FFA Makes Donation to the Veterans Memorial
December 10, 2024 – The Como-Pickton FFA made a significant donation Tuesday morning. The money will go towards the upkeep and maintenance of the Veterans Memorial.
The group was able to raise the funds by auctioning off a handmade quilt. During the auction, the quilt was actually sold once, then donated back to be resold.
On hand to receive the check, for $4,350.00 was Clayton McGraw. McGraw is a local veteran and played a major role in the creation of the Veterans Memorial. When asked how he was doing, Clayton stated “At the age of 92, I’m happy to be anywhere.” The check was presented by Michael Bowen, FFA sponsor and Ag teacher at Como-Pickton High School.
Lydia Walden, Assistant Superintendent of Como-Pickton CISD, stated that “This FFA chapter has been involved with the Veterans Memorial for many years.”
The Lady Cats took on Brook Hill in Basketball Action on December 3rd
December 9, 2024 – The Sulphur Springs High School Lady Cats took on Brook Hill in basketball competition on December 3, 2024. The game was played in Wildcats Gym in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Be sure to check out KSST’s coverage of this exciting game below. KSST’s Sports Director John Mark Dempsey called Play by Play and Tony Flippin provided Color Commentary when he could.
Paris Junior College Asking for Community’s Help
December 9, 2024 – In the midst of celebrating its 100th anniversary, Paris Junior College is asking the community to help determine the College’s direction over the next 10 years. The first step is a community survey, which will be followed by listening sessions in the community in early 2025.
“We are excited for the future of the college and we need your help with our strategic planning,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC president. “That plan will set the goals and vision for the future of the college and what that will look like in 10 years.”
The survey seeks to learn more about what the community things of programs that should be offered, facilities needed to house those programs, and services that students need. Responses will feed into a larger strategic plan that includes facility planning, instructional planning, and finances needed to implement it.
Input is sought from all service area communities in Delta, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar, and Red River counties, and the Fannindel and Honey Grove school districts in Fannin County.
The survey is available online at https://www.parisjc.edu/strategic-plan-survey.html. It takes only a few minutes to complete and responses are confidential. The survey will closed on January 10, 2025.
“Since arriving at Paris Junior College,” said Benson. “I have used the phrase ‘Together We Can’ and have explained that for us to continue and build on the success of PJC it will take all of us… that includes sharing your honest thoughts and opinions.”
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Paris Junior College Board of Regents Welcomes new Member
December 9, 2024 – At its December 2 meeting, the Paris Junior College Board of Regents welcomed a new member.
Taylor Slagle, Regional Director for Quality Care ER, is the new at-large board member. The position was formerly held by Mark Buster, whose term ended at the October meeting. At that meeting, Board of Regents President Curtis Fendley presented Buster with plaque of appreciation for his service.
The Board then approved creation of a two new horology credentials: Basic Watch Repair Certificate at 24 semester credit hours (SCH) and an Encasement Technician Occupational Skills Award at 12 SCH. Also approved was a reduction in the Vocational Nursing Certificate from 51 to 50 SCH.
Approval was also given for an easement for the City of Greenville’s Fire Administration and Training Facility, an interlocal agreement to use existing contracts of the Texas Association of Community College Business Officers member institutions, and a revised management fee for the Follett bookstore contract extension.
Regents received an update on the Quality Enhancement Plan from Government faculty Brandon Langehennig. Part of PJC’s accreditation, the plan’s goal is to improve student success by ensuring students have the basic computer skills to engage fully in PJC’s
modern learning environment. The success of students in the Learning Frameworks course increased about 1.5 percent last year.
“I’ll be glad if I can stand here next year and say we’re still making improvements,” Langehennig said.
Turning to campus improvements, the Regents approved construction of a parking lot and fire lane for the baseball field and new softball field. They also approved a contract to overhaul the campus fiber infrastructure.
The Regents approved Pyro’s Reboot Program, which will allow eligible former students to pay down their debt to $500 and have that amount forgiven if they successfully meet program requirements.
In the October meeting, the Regents amended the 2024-2025 Academic Calendar to reopen after the Winter Break on January 6, 2025, and adjust the Summer Long Term to begin on May 21, 2025. The 2025-2026 Academic Calendar was also approved.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Distributes Over $100,000 in Payments to Relieve Effect of Border Crime Through New Landowner Compensation Program
December 12, 2024 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has issued more than $100,000 of disbursements to Texans affected by border-related crimes through the new Landowner Compensation Program.
On May 9, Attorney General Paxton launched the Landowner Compensation Program which provides relief payments to Texans whose agricultural land has been damaged by people trespassing in connection with a border crime. Affected landowners can be reimbursed for repair costs not covered by other sources for up to $75,000 after filing a claim within 90 days of the incident. The damage must be documented in a written law enforcement agency report and meet other requirements to be eligible for compensation.
“Farmers and ranchers near the Texas-Mexico border have had their homes and businesses forced onto the frontline of Biden’s invasion, bearing the brunt of the immediate damage from illegal border crossings. Our Landowner Compensation Program has begun to provide relief to our citizens who need help with the costs imposed by border crime,” said Attorney General Paxton.
For more information about the Landowner Compensation Program, including eligibility requirements, and to apply online, visit the Office of the Attorney General’s website at https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/crime-victims/landowner-compensation-program.
Paris District Road Report for Week of December 9, 2024
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Dec. 9, 2024. 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: Football Season
Football season is a chance to make great memories cheering for your team and tailgating with family and friends. That’s why TxDOT is reminding fans to celebrate football season responsibly by always finding a sober ride through its Drive Sober. No Regrets. statewide impaired driving campaign. The campaign aims to reduce the number of DUI-alcohol related traffic crashes, especially as fans gather across the state to support their favorite teams.
Too often, a designated driver is chosen during the course of the evening and is often considered the least drunk person in the group. The designated driver should always be a sober driver who has not consumed any amount of alcohol. Designating a driver, calling a taxi, using a rideshare service, staying where you are, calling a friend or family member, and using mass transit are the safest ways to ensure you do not drive under the influence.
One regrettable decision to drink and drive could turn game time into a DWI costing up to $17,000 in fines and fees, the loss of a license, jail time or worse. It just isn’t worth it. Visit SoberRides.org to learn about the real costs of drunk driving. Follow the hashtag #DriveSoberNoRegrets to keep up with the campaign on social media.
Safety Message: Impaired driving and penalties – DUI & DWI
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can risk your life and the lives of others, and it can send you to jail. If you are under 21, it is illegal for you to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol in your system.
When am I legally intoxicated?
You are legally intoxicated in Texas when your blood alcohol concentration reaches 0.08 percent, but you are breaking the law as soon as drugs or alcohol affect your driving — or flying or boating — ability.
What are the penalties for a DWI?
First offense
- Up to a $2,000 fine.
- Up to 180 days in jail upon conviction with three mandatory days.
- Loss of driver license up to a year.
Second offense
- Up to a $4,000 fine.
- One month to a year in jail upon conviction.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
Third offense
- A $10,000 fine.
- Two to 10 years in prison.
- Loss of driver license up to two years.
These fines do not include a state fine of $3,000, $4,500, or $6,000 assessed upon sentencing.
Impaired driving with a child passenger
- You will be charged with child endangerment if you’re driving impaired with children under 15.
- You will be additionally fined up to $10,000.
- You could be put in jail for up to two years.
- You will lose your driver’s license for another 180 days.
Driving with an open container
Carrying an open container of alcohol in your vehicle, even if you’re not impaired, is illegal. Learn more about Texas open container laws.
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:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Grayson County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: Spur 316 from SH 289 to FM 120, FM 120 in Denison from Houston Avenue to FM 1753, US 69 in Denison from Houston Avenue SH 56, FM 1417 from FM 691 to US 82, US 82 from FM 901 to FM 1417, US 82 frontage roads from FM 1417 to FM 1417, SH 56 from US 82 to SH 289, Spur 129 from US 377 to SH 56, FM 1417 from SH 56 to SH 11, SH 289 in Gunter from Kerfoot Road to Elm Street, FS 121 from FM 121 to the Denton County line, SH 5 in Van Alstyne from Redden Road to the Collin County line, SH 56 from SH 11 to FM 1417, SH 11 from SH 56 to FM 697, FM 902 in Tom Bean from SH 11 to King Street. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
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.
There will be left lane closures for the northbound and southbound US 75 mainlanes each night the week of December 9th in order for crews to place concrete traffic barriers along the center median. The lane closures will begin at 9:00 pm each night and will be reopened to traffic at 5:00 am the following morning.
Westbound Spur 503 is closed to traffic near US 75 as the overpass to southbound US 75 has been removed to allow for construction of the new overpass. During this closure traffic on westbound Spur 503 will be required to detour onto the frontage road at the temporary exit ramp west of Theresa Drive and continue along the frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection where traffic can make the U-turn to continue south on the US 75 frontage road to the entrance ramp before the FM 691 intersection.
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.
The westbound Spur 503 ramp to northbound US 75 is closed to traffic. A temporary detour is in place to divert this traffic onto the frontage road. Traffic will exit Spur 503 onto the frontage road using the new detour, continue along the Spur 503 frontage road which runs into the US 75 frontage road to the Loy Lake Road intersection. Traffic can continue along the frontage road through Loy Lake Road and then take the next entrance ramp to northbound US 75.
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 lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91.
US 75, at the US 82 intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures for the frontage roads on the northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street, as well as on the eastbound and westbound US 82 frontage road lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on completing the remaining work at the intersection.
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 377, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime lane closures on US 377 as crews work to install rumble strips, backfill the pavement and seed the front slopes. Motorists should expect delays during the daytime work hours as pilot cars and flaggers direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. 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.
US 82, from the Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, bridge travel will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently, the contractor is working on the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at Mustang Creek, and the eastbound and westbound US 82 lanes at FM 901.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, from the Collin County line to the Oklahoma State line. Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
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.
FM 902, from SH 5 to FM 2729. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, from US 75 to SH 91. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform bridge repairs to the Loy Lake Bridge. Motorists should expect delays as the roadway will be reduced to one lane through the work zone.
FM 901, from US 377 to US 82. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Fannin County:
The annual crack seal contract to place sealant in the pavement cracks on roadways in Fannin County is underway. The following roadways will receive a crack seal: FM 2029 from FM 273 to FM 1396, FM 100 from FM 273 to FM 2216, FM 2216 from FM 100 to the Lamar County line, FM 1752 from US 82 to FM 898, SH 78 from US 82 to SH 56, Loop 205 from 9th Street to SH 56, SH 34 from SH 56 to FM 64, SH 11 from US 69 to the Hunt County line, FM 896 from Business SH 121 to US 69, FM 815 from Business US 69 to SH 78, US 69 from FM 896 to FM 272, and FM 1553 from SH 78 to SH 78. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 68, at the North Sulphur River bridge. FM 68 at the North Sulphur River bridge is closed to through traffic as crews work on and replacing the bridge structure and roadway approaches. During the closure, traffic is asked to use SH 34, SH 11, and SH 78 as the detour route.
FM 2645, from FM 898 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 274, from SH 78 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 26 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 121 overpass at US 69. The SH 121 overpass at US 69 is closed to thru traffic while crews perform bridge repairs. All traffic will be required to take the exit for US 69 and then will be able to take the next entrance ramp back onto SH 121. A temporary signal is in place to control traffic on SH 121 and US 69 during this closure. Motorists should expect delays as signals control traffic through the construction zone.
CR 4020 at Caney Creek. CR 4020 at Caney Creek is closed to through traffic to allow for replacement of the bridge. During the closure traffic is asked to use CR 4025 as a detour.
FM 68, from SH 78 to FM 271. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway to an overall width of 28 feet. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 78, from US 82 to the Oklahoma State line. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as workers install sloped-end treatments on drainage structures and replace bridge rail and guardrail.
FM 100, from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2815, from FM 1629 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews apply a seal coat to the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 56, in Bonham at the SH 121 intersection. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling 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.
Franklin County: No construction projects ongoing during this week.
Hopkins County: SH 19, from I-30 to Rains County Line. Watch for crews performing road surfacing operations. Expect slower moving traffic.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
Lamar County:
Loop 286, from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1497, from FM 1184 to FM 3426. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82 / Lamar Avenue, from 33rd street to 42nd street in Paris. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures in the nighttime hours while crews improve signals, install a raised center median, and resurface the roadway.
FM 38 at West Fork of Sanders Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
FM 1184 at Robertson Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
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 271, Lamar & Red River Counties: from FM 196 North to SH 37. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews remove tree and brush from within right of way.
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.
Delta County:
FM 2068 at East Fork of Jernigan Creek. The roadway is now reopened. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews replace existing bridge structure.
SH 24, at Doctor’s Creek. Watch for temporary shoulder closures and trucks entering and exiting the highway as crews perform bridge maintenance on the northbound structure.
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.
FM 1487, from FM 910 to FM 412. 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.
BU 82 J at East Langford Creek. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews perform bridge maintenance operations.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Hunt County:
SH 11, from FM 2655 to SH 24. This project will add shoulders and replace drainage structures. The contractor has set barricades and is currently widening shoulders and performing ditch grading in the area. Excavation, Flexbase and flowable fill operations are ongoing. Work is currently ongoing at the Middle Sulphur River relief structure. Construction operations have begun and will continue on project shoulders. Work on intersections and driveways will be ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 1563, from SH 50 to SH 2655: This is a 2.7-mile rehabilitation project that will widen the existing roadway. The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Contractor is currently performing work on bridge columns and placing asphalt on bridge. Contractor continues to perform reclamation work and subgrade widening along with placing GEOGRID in the 2nd mile of project limits. Cement treatment and culver riprap is completed on the 2nd mile of the project. New guard rail placement is finishing. Driveways are ongoing and are being completed by section of work. 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 currently has paving operations and sidewalk operations ongoing. The contractor is grading for a detour near Verandah and Baylor Scott and White and placing sidewalk and backfilling curb in the area. Contractor is forming rebar and working blockouts for driveways near Peppergrass. Inlets placement and driveways are ongoing. Railroad coordination is underway near FM 2642 and SH 66, work will begin soon in this area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, from I-30 to FM 1567. The contractor has set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete. The contractor is performing punchlist work in the project limits. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 512, From SH 34 to FM 118. The contractor has placed barricades and workzone traffic signs. The contractor has begun repair work on base and subgrade failures. The contractor has begun replacing culverts and bridge structures. Cement treatment has been completed on the 1st mile section and the contractor has finished structure wingwalls and headwalls at 3 structures. A ride test and prime coat are scheduled later. The first 1.5 miles of reclamation work is Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 intersection improvements from Monte Stratton to FM 1903. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun excavation at FM 1903 (West side) and working on placing wire wall at FM 1903 (East side) and soil nail walls at FM 1903.The contractor is also placing embankment & Wire walls east of 1570.along with form work for Bent #3 Cap at FM 1570. Columns are being constructed at FM 1903 and FM 1570 along with the placing of backfill for retaining walls at FM 1570.Pipe/Inlets work for drainage FM 1570 is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
I-30 Improvements from CR2511 to FM 36: The contractor is currently grading and placing embankment between the frontage roads and mainlanes. Contractor poured culvert B headwall and footing, Grading at FM 1565, EB 2511 for temp wall installation and setting barrier on Eb an WB mainlanes from 1565 to end of project limits. Culvert installation is ongoing and detour pavement will be placed throughout the project.
Hunt and Rains Counties Hunt County and Rains maintenance crews will be performing pothole repair work throughout Hunt and Rains County.
Hunt County MNT will be performing railroad tie in work at FM 2642. Addressed Structure maintenance on various roadways and overlayed roadways on
Rains County MNT will continue to address pavement issues SH 19 south and north and repair drainage issues on FM 1564. Worked on Structure Maintenance for SH 276.
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Breast Cancer Support Group to Meet December 9th
Sulphur Springs, TX –
December 6, 2024 – The Hopkins County Breast Cancer support group will meet on Monday, December 9 at 5:30 pm in the conference room of the Medical Plaza located at 113 Airport Rd. Mary Leshe, manager and counselor at Heritage Christian Counseling, will be the guest speaker.
The newly formed support group welcomes all breast cancer and female-related cancer patients and survivors from Hopkins County and beyond. Each meeting will cover something educational or inspirational while providing support to one another.
Members will send notes of encouragement to those who cannot attend a meeting. For those who can meet, the group gathers on the second Monday of each month at 5:30 pm in the Medical Plaza conference room.
The Medical Plaza is the freestanding, three-story building on the southeast corner of CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs. The conference room is on the first floor on the left.
To stay informed about the breast cancer support group and other offerings, please follow the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation on Facebook or Instagram.
For more information, contact the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation at 903-438-4799 or [email protected].
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