July 2026

Commissioners approve committee's recommendation

Body County commissioners doubled up on meetings recently, following their regular called session July 15 with a special called session just two days later on July 17 to hear from its evaluation committee on agenda item related to the hiring of an architectural firm.

The Myth of Two-a-Days

Body For generations, the phrase two-a-days has caused concern among parents, with many believing that practicing twice in one day is the primary cause of heat-related illnesses. The research tells a different story.

Albert “Al” Newton Wheeler

Body August 13, 1941 - July 8, 2026 Albert “Al” Newton Wheeler, a devoted follower of Christ, passed away on 8 July 2026, in Dallas, Texas. He was 84 years old.
Albert “Al” Newton Wheeler

Patricia McFarland

Body March 25, 1950 – July 24, 2026 A funeral service is being held for Patricia (Odom) McFarland, of Canton, on Friday, July 24, 2026, at 10 AM, at Autry Funeral Home, Jacksonville. Visitation will begin at 9 AM until service time.
Patricia McFarland

Cockfighting charges against Grand Saline man dropped

Body news@kaufmanherald.com Charges against a Grand Saline man for alleged cockfighting were dropped, with his roosters and hens being returned to him after a hearing on Wednesday, July 22.

District of Innovation plan updated

Body The Wills Point ISD Board of Trustees set its collective sights on bookkeeping items and the district's District of Innovation plan during their most recent session, taking on an agenda with just three action items July 20.

Groundwater Conservation District resolution approved

Body The potential formation of a Regional Groundwater Conservation District to preserve the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer was front and center last week with members of the public and elected officials discussing the matter at-length during the most recent commissioners court session held...
Ernie Burns, City of Van Mayor, was among the members of the public who addressed the Van Zandt County Commissioners Court during their July 15 session regarding the county's pursuit of joining a Regional Groundwater Conservation Distric Photo by David Barber