Hay Baler Sparks Grass Fire, Draws Multi-Agency Response
ROBERTSON COUNTY, Texas — Several Robertson County fire departments responded to a grass fire Thursday afternoon after flames reportedly started in a hay baler. The Franklin Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to provide mutual aid as crews worked to contain the fire before it could spread across additional property. Firefighters limited the blaze to approximately 2 acres. One hay bale was lost in the fire. No injuries were reported. The Franklin Volunteer Fire Department was joined by firefighters from the Easterly, Wheelock and BlackJack volunteer fire departments. The Robertson County Sheriff’s Office and Robertson County EMS also assisted with the response. Fire officials reminded farmers and equipment operators to keep a working fire extinguisher readily available while operating tractors, hay balers and other machinery, particularly during hot and dry conditions. Robertson County remains under a burn ban, restricting outdoor burning as officials continue to monitor elevated wildfire conditions across the county.
Bremond Resident Claims $1.825 Million Texas Two Step Jackpot
BREMOND — A Bremond resident is celebrating a $1.825 million lottery win after claiming the jackpot from a recent Texas Two Step drawing, according to the Texas Lottery. The winning ticket was purchased as a Quick Pick at CEFCO Food Store No. 61, located at 101 Mignonette St. in Kosse. The ticket matched all five numbers drawn in the Monday, Aug. 3, Texas Two Step drawing. The winning numbers were 4, 15, 19 and 20, with 22 selected as the Bonus Ball. The Texas Lottery said the jackpot-winning ticket was claimed by a Bremond resident who has chosen to remain anonymous. The $1.825 million jackpot represents a significant lottery win for the Bremond area. Although the winner is from Bremond, the winning ticket was purchased in nearby Kosse. The retailer that sold the winning ticket may also be eligible for a $5,000 retailer bonus from the Texas Lottery. Texas Two Step drawings are held every Monday and Thursday. The game begins with a $200,000 jackpot, which increases when no ticket matches all five numbers.
Backpack project aims to help Franklin students
FRANKLIN — The first day of school should be exciting, but for many families, the cost of backpacks and school supplies can add extra stress to an already busy time of year. Higher Dimensions Christian Center hopes to make that season a little easier with its Back-to-School Backpack Project, a drive-through giveaway beginning at 11:30 a.m. August 15 at the church in Franklin. Families can drive through the church parking lot and receive one backpack for each student in their vehicle. Backpacks will be handed out while supplies last, so families are encouraged to arrive early. Volunteers will also serve hot dogs and lemonade during the event. The backpack project is a simple way for the church to show local children that their community is cheering them on as they return to the classroom. A new backpack may seem like a small thing, but for a student preparing for a new school year, it can bring confidence and excitement. The event is built around the message of equipping students with “excellence and love” and reminding families that they do not have to prepare for the school year alone. Higher Dimensions Christian Center is located in Franklin. The giveaway will remain drive-through only and will continue until all backpacks have been distributed.
Franklin High School to Host Community Blood Drive Aug. 18
HEARNE — Hearne High School has released its bell schedule for students in grades 7-12 as preparations continue for the start of the 2026-27 school year. Classes will begin Wednesday, Aug. 12, with the school building opening at 7:25 a.m. each day. The first bell will ring at 7:55 a.m., and instruction will begin at 8 a.m. Students will follow either the HS A Lunch or HS B Lunch schedule, with 35-minute lunch periods built into the school day. Passing periods between classes will last four minutes, and the school day will conclude with dismissal at 3:40 p.m. School officials encourage students and families to review the schedule before the first day to ensure a smooth start to the new academic year.
