October 2025

New contract with Animal Protection League approved

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davidb@vanzandtnews.com During their regular meeting Sept. 26, the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a new contract with the Animal Protection League for spaying and neutering services for dogs and cats belonging to residents of VZC.

U.S. Air Force celebrated during ceremony in Canton

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In a cooperative effort, the Canton Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) 12219 along with the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial held a ceremony celebrating 78 years of the United States Air Force on Sept. 18.
Larry Dawson led in prayer during the ceremony honoring the United States Air Force for 78 years of service Sept. 19 at the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial in Canton. All of the speakers participating in the ceremony were members of the VFW Post 12219 in Canton. Photo by Faith Caughron

Edgewood cross-country team competes in Canton Invitational

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Edgewood Cross-Country Head Coach DaLinda Cassell shared that her cross-country team recently competed in the Canton Invitational. “We had a great middle school and high school meet this week as we attended the Canton Invitational,” said Cassell.

VZC football teams reach halfway point in their seasons

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davidb@vanzandtnews.com All five varsity football teams in Van Zandt County have reached the halfway point in their seasons as they have completed their non-district schedules and are now preparing for their most important games so far, their district schedules.
Averi Crouch (second from left in back row) was named as the 2025 Van High School Homecoming Queen and Guado Sanchez (second from right in back row) was selected as the 2025 VHS Homecoming King Sept. 26 during pre-game ceremonies at Van’s Memorial Stadium prior to the kickoff of the varsity football game between the Van Vandals and the Brownsboro Bears. Photo by Jillian Veader, V8R Photography

2025 Tax Rate adopted unanimously by commissioners

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davidb@vanzandtnews.com After a public hearing, the Van Zandt County Commissioners’ Court unanimously adopted the 2025 Tax Rate for VZC and also approved an Order Setting the Tax Rate during a special called meeting Sept. 29.

Myra Taylor’s journey of resilience and hope

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In the heart of Canton, Myra Taylor’s story of survival and strength unfolds, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and thrive despite overwhelming challenges. Diagnosed with breast cancer over two decades ago, Myra’s journey is not just about her battle with the disease but also about her unwavering faith, the love of family, and the support of a community that rallied around her during the darkest times.
Myra Taylor and family at her 70th birthday celebration last year. Courtesy photo

Martins Mill ISD wins District of Distinction Award

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Martins Mill ISD recently was named as the winner of the 2025 TAEA District of Distinction Award. Only the top eight percent of districts in the state, including Martins Mill, earned the honor this year.
Earlier this year, the Texas Art Education Foundation (TAEF) recognized Martins Mill ISD among the top eight percent of districts in the state as Martins Mill ISD was selected as the winner of the 2025 TAEA District of Distinction Award. There were a total of 109 school districts across the state that received recognition from the TAEF. Courtesy photo

Juvenile case under review following shooting

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susan@vanzandtnews.com Van Zandt County District Attorney Tonda Curry has disclosed additional information in the shooting death of a 55-year-old man in Wills Point. In an interview with the Van Zandt News on Tuesday Sept.

Tom Allen West

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June 3, 1946 – September 22, 2025 Mr. Tom Allen West, 79, of Grand Saline, passed away September 22, 2025, in Grand Saline.