January 2026

Van Zandt Newspapers LLC welcomes all candidates who have signed up to run for a Van Zandt County or a statewide office in the upcoming March 3, 2026, Primary Election to submit a FREE announcement and a photo for publication.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is part of a continuing series of articles regarding Van Zandt County races that were featured during the Republican Candidate Debate Forum held Jan. 17 at the Canton Civic Center sponsored by the Republican Club of VZC (RCVZC).

Popular male vocalist and social media personality Chris Ruggiero will be performing his hit show “Teenage Dreams & Magic Moments” live in concert at the Jamie Foxx Performing Arts Center stage located on the campus of Terrell High School on Thursday evening, January 12, 2026. The curtain goes up at 7:30 PM.

The 30-day burn ban, implemented by the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court on Jan. 9, was revoked Jan. 26 by the VZC Fire Marshal’s office, according to a letter addressed to VZC citizens by VZC Fire Marshal Kevin Palmer.

The regular meeting of the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court scheduled for Jan. 28 was cancelled due to the weather.

The Edgewood School Board held its first regular monthly meeting of 2026 on Jan. 19. Among the items presented to the trustees included the annual audit report detailing the district’s financial performance including financial statements, general fund insights, and capital assets. See story on page 2A.

On Saturday, Jan. 24, the SPCA of Texas’ Animal Cruelty Investigations (ACI) Unit assisted the Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office in the arrest of a man and woman who allegedly mistreated a dog on their property.

Students in Van Zandt County were able to enjoy an extended weekend break as classes were cancelled in all seven VZC school districts Jan. 26-28.

susan@vanzandtnews.com In a meeting marked by thorough discussions and significant financial updates, the Edgewood School Board convened on Jan. 19 as they addressed several key points.

Van Zandt County Historical Commission Erwin Concrete Inc. recently received a Texas Treasure Business Award from the Texas Historical Commission, in recognition of the Fruitvale business’ 80 years of continuous operation serving Van Zandt County and the surrounding region.