March 2026

WPISD community remembering Susan Pace

2 months ago By David Barber

Three days after being recognized for her 45 years of service to Wills Point ISD, friends and family of Susan Pace are now remembering the life of an individual for her dedication to the children of the school district and in the community.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly named Susan Pace Dining Hall at the Wills Point Middle School was held March 5 as Mrs. Pace cut the ribbon. A large number of school administrators, teachers, staff, former students, and family members were in attendance during the program inside the facility. Mrs. Pace died three days later following the dedication ceremony. Her funeral service was held March 13 at Wills Point High School. Photo by David Barber

Horton, Hyepock recognized during Van Chamber Luncheon

2 months ago By News Staff

DAVID BARBER davidb@vanzandtnews.com Two Van High School seniors were honored with scholarship awards March 10 during the first Van Area Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Luncheon of 2026 downtown at The Movie House. Tatum Horton was recognized as the Van Oil Queen as she received a $1,200.00 scholarship from the Van Oil Queen Pageant.

Van Oil Queen Tatum Horton (left) received a $1,200.00 scholarship from the Van Oil Queen Pageant during the Van Area Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Luncheon March 10 downtown at The Movie House. First runner- up Grace Hyepock received a $500.00 scholarship. Photo by David Barber

Dunn sworn in as new WP Municipal Judge

2 months ago By David Barber

Van Zandt County Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Herbert Dunn added another job title as he was sworn in March 10 as the new City of Wills Point Munic-by Wills Point Mayor Mike Jones following a closed executive session by the Wills Point City Council during its regular monthly meeting.

Van Zandt County Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Herbert Dunn was sworn in as the new City of Wills Point Municipal Judge March 10 during the regular monthly meeting of the Wills Point City Council. The appointment of Dunn was approved unanimously. Administering the oath of office is Wills Point City Secretary Leann Holley. Photo by David Barber

Safe ways seniors can lose weight

2 months ago By News Staff

The prevalence of obesity among adults 60 and older is significant. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 39 percent of adults 60 and over met the criteria for obesity over a twoyear period between August 2021 and August 2023.

Lady Mustangs fall short of achieving ‘three-peat’

2 months ago By Staff Reports

The Martins Mill Lady Mustangs were attempting to accomplish a rare ‘three-peat’ state championship, but it was not meant to be March 5 at The Alamodome in San Antonio as the two-time defending Class 2A, Division 2, State Champions lost in the State Championship game to Lipan, 42-35. Kara Nixon led the Lady Mustangs in scoring with 17 points followed by Teeley Salazar with seven, McKenna Wise with six, Brilen Butcher with three, and Alli Vaughan with four.

The Martins Mill Lady Mustangs were seeking a ‘three-peat’ state championship against Lipan in the Class 2A, Division 2, State Championship Game March 5 at The Alamodome in San Antonio but their efforts came up short in a 42-35 loss. The game was played before a crowd of 2,880 fans. Martins Mill finished its season with a 30-5 overall record. Photo courtesy of the Martins Mill High School Yearbook Staff

Martins Mill Mustangs seeking repeat state title

2 months ago By Staff Reports

Just like it was in the girls’ state championship game March 5, the battle for the Class 2A, Division 2, boys’ state title was decided March 12 when the defending state champion Martins Mill Mustangs took on Lipan at The Alamodome in San Antonio.

Maintenance, grounds employees recognized by WPISD

2 months ago By David Barber

Maintenance and grounds employees received special recognition from the Wills Point School Board during its regular monthly meeting March 9. Wills Point ISD Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Student Services Brian Clements expressed his appreciation to the employees as he spoke to the trustees.