During the year 2020, The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce is highlighting a business each week. Congratulate this week’ Business of the Week for April 2, Slaughters BBQ Oasis. Courtesy/Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce

We have been battling fire ants in our orchard and gardens for 15 years with pretty poor results. We treated mounds, and a month later a new mound would appear 5 feet away. Every spring and fall we would have to completely retreat a bunch of new mounds.

At this time, there is no scientific evidence that COVID-19 is transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks, explained Texas A&M AgriLife experts.

While COVID-19 presents challenges to maintaining an active lifestyle, physical activity can be done in and near the home. Even a small amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can help reduce blood pressure and anxiety symptoms. We at AgriLife Extension continue to recommend being active as an important strategy for staying healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A prayer vigil took place in the parking lot of Sulphur Springs High School Sunday evening. Attendees were asked to remain in their vehicles to respect social distancing with their cars’ hazard lights on to show who was participating in the vigil. Attendees were asked to pray “for our country, our school district, our students, our teachers, and for the virus to end. Please also pray for all the businesses that are fighting through the adversity ... and those who have lost their jobs,” according to a Facebook post by Jamie VanWinkle. Prayers were also offered for all health care workers and those affected by the virus. Staff photo by Jillian Smith