When the Bullfrogs Started Biting: An East Texas River Story Worth Telling
For many East Texans, the sounds of spring mean one thing — bullfrogs beginning to bellow along the riverbanks. For Kit Hardy, that sound brings back a memory from years ago on the Angelina River that still makes him laugh. Hardy recently shared a photo from a frog-hunting trip with his nephew, showing off a table full of bullfrogs and two hefty ones held proudly in his hands. The picture stirred up an old story from his younger days — one that perfectly captures the spirit o
Rita Shipp
Mar 3
Boots, Bling & Big Energy: International Women’s Day Celebration Set for March 26 at Rayburn Resort
The Jasper-Lake Sam Rayburn Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting the community to dust off their boots and bring their sparkle for an unforgettable International Women’s Day celebration. “Boots & Bling” is set for Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 6 p.m. at the beautiful Rayburn Resort, promising a night filled with music, creativity, and celebration of the incredible women who help our region shine. This high-energy evening will feature: Music Bingo Build-Your-Own Stations , incl
Rita Shipp
Mar 3
Burn Bans Issued for Jasper and Hardin Counties Amid Extreme Fire Risk
Residents in both Jasper County and Hardin County are now under official burn bans as dry conditions, gusty winds, and extreme drought continue to elevate wildfire danger across Southeast Texas. Jasper County Burn Ban By order of County Judge Mark Allen, Jasper County is under a burn ban effective immediately and remaining in place until further notice. All outdoor burning is prohibited, including: Brush piles Trash burning Debris burning Any non-approved open flames Offici
Rita Shipp
Mar 3
Jasper County Sheriff’s Report - 03/03/2026
Today is the last day to vote so go out and make your voice heard. It doesn’t matter which candidate you endorse as long as you get out there and vote! Yesterday we celebrated Texas Independence Day. Jasper County was one of the original counties formed in the same year as the Great State of Texas in 1836! The spirit of Independence is one of the many things that makes Texas such a great state. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TEXAS! The Jasper County Sheriff's Office is pleased to welcome Ga
Rita Shipp
Mar 3
Obituary of Janice Alford
April 11, 1947 — February 27, 2026 Elise Janice (Amburn) Alford, from Newton, passed away at the age of 79. She was born April 11, 1947 in Aberdeen, Ms. and passed away Feb 24, 2026 at her home. Janice is survived by her sons Jerry, Les and his wife Sandie, sister LInda Bowman, brother Cloyce Bowman and his wife Mary. As well as her precious nieces, Rhonda McNeely and Daisy Thiebaud. Grandchildren, Hunter Amburn, Caleb Amburn, Kaydence Amburn, Kori Amburn, Bree Amburn and Bra
Rita Shipp
Mar 3
Obituary of C. L. Spotts
January 1, 1948 — February 23, 2026 U.S. Veteran Charles Luther Spotts, 78, passed away on February 23, 2026. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, carrying the values of duty, resilience, and loyalty throughout his life. He is survived by his wife Yuyun Spotts, four children: Daughter, Kelley Stephens, 54 & son- in- law Clayborn Stephens; Alan Spotts; Charlene Spotts; and RJ Spotts. He also leaves behind five grandchildren — three grandsons and
Rita Shipp
Mar 3
