The annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers, in conjunction with the United States Postal Service, is set for Saturday, May 9. Rural mail carriers in Mount Vernon and surrounding areas will be collecting non-perishable food items like canned meats and fish, canned soup, juice, pasta, vegetables, cereal and rice. See the May 7 edition of the Optic-Herald for more information.

Water rose into the picnic area at Overlook Park on Lake Cypress Springs after the many thunder storms on Saturday and Sunday. The heavy rain last brought the level of the lake up approximately 3 1/4 feet above normal. 

The Republican Women of Northeast Texas  were honored for contributing the most volunteer hours for the 2008 presidential campaign. The recognition was awarded at a dinner given by Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst at Carmelo’s Restaurant in Austin.   See the April 30 edition of the Optic-Herald for more information.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) last week unveiled a redesigned Texas driver license and identification card with a new look and enhanced security features. See the April 30 edition of the Optic-Herald for more information.

The Carter Blood Care blood donation bus will be at the Logan’s Pointe Apartment Complex from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 9. Everyone in the community is encouraged to visit the bus at 101 Logans Pointe Drive to make a blood donation. For more information, call Debi Renner at 903-285-4888.Everyone wishing to donate blood should eat a balanced meal prior to donation and should bring their driver’s license for ID purposes.