News

Texas A&M Chemistry Road Show coming to Canton

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Van Zandt County/Sarah Norman Library Director Tonja Garten announced recently that the library has been chosen as one of the participants this summer in the Texas A&M University Chemistry Road Show. The program is presented by James D.

Massey ready to compete in The American Rodeo

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In the heart of Texas, where the spirit thrives, a new chapter in rodeo history is unfolding. Corlee Massey, a 14-year-old breakaway roper, is set to compete in The American Rodeo, one of the richest single-day rodeos in the world.
Corlee Massey, 14, of Wills Point will be competing in The American Rodeo competition scheduled for April 11, 12 at Globe Life Field in Arlington. The American Rodeo is considered to be one of the richest single-day rodeos in the world. Courtesy photo

Hudgens appointed again as interim Van City Manager

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davidb@vanzandtnews.com For the second time in less than a year, City of Van Emergency Management Coordinator Jeff Hudgens will also serve as Interim Van City Manager. The Van City Council, during a special called meeting March 20, appointed Hudgens to serve again.

Commissioner, retiring court reporter recognized

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Van Zandt County Pct. 4 Commissioner Brandon Barton and Retiring VZC Court Reporter Becky Wheeler received special recognition March 26 during the regular meeting of the VZC Commissioners Court.
Retiring Van Zandt County Court Reporter Becky Wheeler was presented with an appreciation plaque for her 40 years of service by VZC County Court at Law Judge Josh Wintters March 26 during the regular meeting of the VZC Commissioners Court. Photo by David Barber

Fire Marshal issues order to Taaleri Energia

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Following the regular meeting of the Van Zandt County Commissioners’ Court March 26, VZC Judge Andy Reese issued the following press release to the News regarding the Battery Energy Storage Facility (BESS) under construction south of Canton.

HUNTING HOGS CLOSE TO HOME

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Most regular readers of my corner of this awesome publication have probably surmised that ‘Ole’ Luke’ has a passion for not only hunting hogs but also transforming the wild pork into some tasty dishes.
Luke gives some hog hunting tips he has learned through the years. Photo by Luke Clayton

Blotter

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The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office released the following arrest report from March 18-25. Algie Eldridge Lam III, 28, Wills Point, Assault peace officer/judge, injury child/elderly/disable w/int bodily injury, resist arrest search or transport, driving while intoxicated 2nd.

Courthouse renovations, relocation discussed during public meeting

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davidb@vanzandtnews.com A public workshop meeting to discuss renovations and potential relocation of the Van Zandt Courthouse drew around 75 Van Zandt County residents. The meeting was held in the VZC District Courtroom March 13 and was led by VZC Judge Andy Reese.
Courthouse renovations, relocation discussed during public meeting

Melton remembered with ETCOG Regional Statesmanship Award

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East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) Executive Director The East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) Regional Statesmanship Award recognizes a local, state, or federal official that has demonstrated valuable dedicated service to regional cooperation.
The family of the late Virgil Melton Jr. stand with the 2025 East Texas Council of Governments (ETCOG) Regional Statesman Award following an ETCOG awards ceremony March 18 in Emory. Melton served as the Van Zandt County Pct. 2 Commissioner and as an ETCOG Board of Directors and Executive Committee member. Photo courtesy of the East Texas Council of Governments

Candidate questionnaires, photos due April 4

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Candidates in the May 3 Van Zandt County city and school elections are reminded to turn in their Candidate Questionnaires and photos to the office of in Canton by 3 p.m. Friday, April 4.
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