Former NHL Player Ribeiro Found Not Guilty on 2 Sexual Assault Charges by Franklin County Jury; Deadlocked on 3rd Related Charge
February 2, 2024 – A Franklin County jury concluded that former NHL player, Mike Ribeiro, was not guilty of sexual assault. Ribeiro, who played for the Dallas Stars from 2006 to 2011, had been charged with and found not guilty on two counts of sexual assault and one count of attempted sexual assault. The jury deadlocked on the count of attempted sexual assault. Whether or not Mike Ribeiro will be retried on the third charge is not known as of the writing of this story. His trial began in Franklin County January 23, 2024. Since closing arguments were presented Thursday, February 1, 2024, the Franklin County jury had been deliberating for over 11 hours.
Bright Star Republican Women Meet February 13th
The Bright Star Republican Women will meet again February 13, 2024, at 6pm, at 115 Putman Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas. The program for this meeting is entitled, “How to attend The Texas State Republican Convention as a Delegate.” The speaker for the February 13th meeting is Donnie Wisenbaker, Hopkins County Republican Chairman and State Republican Executive Committeeman. All Republican Women are invited to attend. For more information, please call 903-348-1614.
Poll: Top Issues for Sulphur Springs City Council
February 2, 2024 – KSST gathered input from the community on what voter’s top issues are. With two seats open on the City Council and elections coming up soon, now is a great time to get the discussion started.
Here are the top issues suggested by participants. They are listed in no particular order. Please consider voting for the issue you are most concerned about.
This poll is no longer accepting votes
Hopkins County Records – January 2024
Daily Instrument Register For 1/4/24 Thru 1/5/24
- Aaron Singh and Shannon Singh to PPA Global Energy LLC; Tract in the P Venables Survey
- Eva M Froneberger and Johnny William Froneberger to Bright Star Enterprises Holdings LLC; Tract in the Nacogdoches Univ Survey
- Melissa Womack and Shannon Womack to Catalan Bardo Aguiree; Tract in the J Brown Survey
- Levi Velasco and Bertha Velsasco to Alejandro Velasco; Tract in the Thomas Tobar Survey
Daily Instrument Register For 1/8/2024 Thru 1/10/2024
- Nita Rhoadex to Tyler Rhoades; Tract in the Sara H Norris Survey
- Barbara Hunt and Harry Keith Hunt to Andres Gomez, Anthony Gomez, and Rosa E Ortiz; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Linda Marie Cross, Pyyllis Jan Edmonds, and Allan Wayne Melton to Alan Screws, Kim Screws, Nathan Crouch, and Liz Dawson; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Juana Jennings and Van Jennings to Eva Ortiz and Ruben Ortiz; Tract in the M Ticer Survey
- Juana Jennings and Van Jennings to Maria Gricelda Torrez Diaz Also Known As Jose Manuel Huerta Gonzalez, and Maria Huerta; Tract in the M Ticver Survey
- Kelly Pope and Ryan Pope to Aaron Mathis and Abigail Mathis; Tract in the Neil Ard Survey
- Derick Boyd and Jamie G Boyd to Donna G Boyd and Dueward Wayne Boyd; Tract in the Green Lane Survey
- Sonia Cortez and Pedro Natanael Aguilar Iglesias to Cassandra Elaine Gregory and Frank Ray Gregory; Tract in the Sheffield and Smith Addn Survey
- Jeffrey Stephen Oppenheim and Martha Haire Oppenheim to Savannah Michelle McCarty; Tract in the Agaton Caro Survey
- Jeffrey Stephen Oppenheim and Martha Haire Oppenheim to Micah Wayne McCarty; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Jeffrey Stephen Oppenheim and Martha Haire Oppenheim to Marcus Errol McCarty; Tract in the M A Bowlin Survey
- Juan Barcenas to Damaris Dulude; Tract in the M A Bowlin
- Elizabeth Dale, Tammy Demery, Linda Hutchins, Mary Neal, Barbara Perry, Manly Sims, and Toleia Sims to James Sims; Tract in the Levi Landers Survey
- Carbajal Enciso and Reynaldo James Enciso to Diana Garcia; Tract in the James Gahagan Survey
- Amanda Wallis to Hunter Wallis; Tract in the Ocela Barb Survey
Report of Marriage Documents for Hopkins County 1-26-24 Thru 1-31-24
- Jovel Jonathan Ex Colocho and Mendez Gloria Eliza Lopez
- Ryan Austin Peel and Tosha Nicole Birchfield
- Elisha Daniel Calhoun and Emily Ruth Verseckes
- Lyle Dylan Ely and Jessica Ann Kilpatrick
- Dawson Lane Sears and Taylor Marie McElfresh
Not Just a Game: TAMUC Esports Club Impresses with Early Success and Substantial Growth
February 1, 2024 – COMMERCE, TX—It’s no secret that video gaming has exploded in popularity since its early days. Likewise, the Esports Club at Texas A&M University-Commerce has experienced rapid growth and success in its first semester of existence, with even more growth expected.
Esports, the general term for competitive video gaming, has found a home in higher education over the last decade, with colleges and universities big and small beginning to field competitive teams in a variety of games. A growing number of institutions officially sanction Esports programs like they do for other sports programs, such as football and basketball, with scholarships on offer to top-tier players.
The Club’s Beginnings
The story of Esports at A&M-Commerce began with founding members Adam Morris, current club president, and Timothy Cooper, vice president. Morris said he and Cooper came up with the initial idea for the club in fall 2022.
“The fascinating part of this entire endeavor is the efficiency and how quick it moved along,” Morris said. “Tim is very connected on campus, and I am very connected with the Esports industry. He excels in player relations, and I have the knowledge and resources to help us in the competitive scene.”
Morris, Cooper and treasurer Ethan Waldschmidt make up the officers for the club.
Morris works professionally as an event contractor in the Esports industry while pursuing his bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies at A&M-Commerce. He said the overall market value of professional Esports is estimated to hit $30 billion in 2024.
“Esports is all-inclusive; anyone can do it,” Morris said. “It can bring a lot of attention to the university, and we are already seeing some of that.”
Cooper, a senior majoring in Computer Science, had previous experience organizing monthly gaming tournaments in the Baptist Student Ministry at A&M-Commerce, which he says brought him and Morris together.
“I had interest in creating an Esports team at A&M-Commerce, but I knew it wouldn’t be something I could accomplish on my own,” Cooper said. “After Adam and I met, we were able to put our expertise together and jumpstart this idea.”
Waldschmidt, a senior majoring in Computer Science, met Morris through a mutual friend. He has been instrumental in coordinating with Campus Recreation, which oversees club sports at A&M-Commerce, to organize meetings and events.
“Adam and I hit it off pretty quickly,” Waldschmidt said. “He learned about my previous experience with Esports teams. I was really glad to be a part of the early conversations surrounding Esports at A&M-Commerce and help in any way I could.
Hitting the Competitive Circuit
The club is available to all A&M-Commerce students and currently boasts nearly 100 members after just one semester. While membership is open, the club holds selective tryouts for its competitive teams.
One facet of Esports that sets it apart from other sports leagues is the variety of games that are played competitively. While major sports leagues pertain to a single sport, such as the NFL for football or the NBA for basketball, dozens of different games are played on the competitive stage. Finding a game to focus on can be a part of the challenge in forming a competitive team.
During the Fall 2023 semester, the A&M-Commerce Esports Club chose “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” as its game of choice for competitive play. Released in 2018, Smash Ultimate is the latest entry in Nintendo’s crossover fighting game series that sees classic Nintendo characters from across their many franchises—as well as characters from rival game publishers such as Sega, Capcom and others—duke it out in combat. Wildly successful, the series has sold more than 70 million copies since the original entry was released in 1999.
At A&M-Commerce, the club’s competitive teams are split into two squads – The Gold and Blue teams – led by team captains Bradley Pallan and Matthew Luebbert, respectively.
TAMUC’s Esports club has seen plenty of early competitive success. They took home a second-place finish at a Midwestern State University Tournament in September, and most recently won the team competition at High Noon, a Smash Ultimate tournament hosted by Oklahoma State University from December 2-3.
The club has also joined the National Esports Collegiate Conference, a sanctioning body for Esports competitions at the college and university level.
Leveling Up
The Esports Club is growing by leaps and bounds. The club has partnered with the Division of Student Affairs, Campus Recreation and the Center for Information Technology Excellence at A&M-Commerce to transform space in the Journalism Building to create a dedicated hub in the hopes of developing it into a full-fledged, scholarshipped program.
“We are expanding to a full lab with supercomputers and next-generation consoles for competition and practice,” Morris said. “It’s surprising but also reassuring to see the amount of support we have gotten from the university in this endeavor in such a short time.”
He added that the club is planning to open tryouts for teams to compete in new games as well.
“The time is now to jump in,” Morris said. “Any student has the opportunity to try out, and if they can compete, we’ll welcome them in.”
Cooper believes that the best is yet to come for Esports at A&M-Commerce.
“I’m really excited for the future,” Cooper said. “We’re getting a lot of support from the university. We’re excited to welcome even more new faces to help us build this program.
Waldschmidt echoed those sentiments, touting the buy-in from the club’s members.
“Our players are so energetic and willing to do whatever they can to grow the program,” Waldschmidt said. “People like the idea that we’re bringing something big and exciting to campus.”
Interested in learning more about Esports at A&M-Commerce? Contact Adam Morris or search for the club on ManeSync.
For the Love of Nature and Everything Outdoors, Experience Cooper Lake State Park in February
February 1, 2024 – Cooper, Texas – Step away from the daily grind and embrace the love of nature at Cooper Lake State Park this February. Located in the heart of Northeast Texas, this natural gem offers a serene retreat for those yearning to recharge in the great outdoors. Whether you’re seeking to break free from the screen’s glare, work stressors and the strain of city life, or just eager for an adventure, Cooper Lake State Park is your gateway to exploration. With two unique parks encompassing over 3000+ acres of parklands and a 20,000-acre lake, you can engage in a host of activities designed to rejuvenate body, mind, and spirit. It’s the perfect spot for families and groups to gather, explore, and create lasting memories amidst nature’s backdrop.
Spending time outdoors, especially in the serene and natural settings provided by places like Cooper Lake State Park, has profound health and wellness benefits. Immersing oneself in nature is not just a breath of fresh air but a vital contributor to physical and mental health. Research has consistently shown that outdoor activities can significantly reduce stress, enhance problem solving, and improve mood and overall mental well-being. The natural sunlight, fresh air, and physical movement involved in exploring the outdoors, work together to boost energy levels, improve sleep, and increase vitamin D synthesis, which is essential for bone health and immune function. Moreover, the tranquil surroundings and scenic beauty of natural landscapes promote mindfulness and a sense of peace, helping individuals to disconnect from the digital world and the stresses of daily life. By participating in the programs at Cooper Lake State Park, visitors are not only engaging in enjoyable recreational activities and learning but also investing in their long-term health and wellness, fostering a deeper connection with nature and themselves.
In February 2024, Cooper Lake State Park will host a series of engaging programs at both the Doctors Creek and South Sulphur Units, designed to connect visitors with the natural world and inspire creativity. At Doctors Creek, the month kicks off on February 3rd with an early morning “Winter Birds of Cooper Lake State Park” walk, where enthusiasts can explore the shoreline and surrounding areas in search of varied bird species. The following week, on February 9th, the night sky will take center stage with a “Stargazing” event, complete with telescopes for planet viewing. The exploration continues on February 10th with the “Skins and Skulls” program, offering a closer look at local wildlife, and on February 17th, a “Guided Hike” will reveal the natural wonders of the park. Wrapping up the month on February 24th, “Art in the Park” invites budding artists to capture the beauty of the upcoming eclipse, with all supplies provided.
Over at South Sulphur, bird watchers can gather on February 3rd for a “Winter Birds” walk, this time exploring the area around Heron Harbor. Archery enthusiasts, both novices and experienced, are invited to join “Archery 101” on February 10th, with pre-registration required for this limited-space event. Another “Guided Hike” is scheduled for February 17th, promising more opportunities to immerse in the park’s natural beauty. The month concludes on February 24th with another “Art in the Park” session, once again focusing on the upcoming eclipse providing a creative outlet for all participants.
Each event is thoughtfully designed to encourage outdoor exploration and appreciation, offering something for everyone, from avid birders and stargazers to artists and hikers of all skill levels. Visitors are reminded to bring binoculars where applicable and dress appropriately for the quite variable February weather, ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience in the great outdoors.
All programs are free with your entrance permit. For more information on this or other events and programs at Cooper Lake State Park, please visit our Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website and also like our Facebook pages (Cooper Lake State Park – South Sulphur 903-945-5256 and Cooper Lake State Park – Doctors Creek 903-395-3100).
Doctors Creek
Saturday, February 3 – DC
Winter Birds of Cooper Lake State Park – 8:30 a.m. Meet at the South Loop Trailhead next to the Pelican Point Day Use Area. We’ll go on a walk around the shoreline, pocket prairie, and a day use area looking for varied birds. Bring your binoculars, and dress for the weather.
Friday, February 9 – DC
Stargazing – 7 p.m. meet at the Pelican Point Day Use Parking Lot. Join us as we explore the night sky. We’ll have telescopes out for viewing a planet or two. Bring your binoculars, and dress for the weather.
Saturday, February 10 – DC
Skins and Skulls – 2:30 p.m. Meet at Doctors Creek Headquarters – Get an inside look at a few of the local animals. Join us for a come-and-go program featuring the mammals of the park.
Saturday, February 17 – DC
Guided Hike – 10 a.m. Meet at the South Loop trailhead next to the Pelican Point Day Use Area – Join us on a guided hike to see the wonders of nature! Dress for the weather.
Saturday, February 24 —DC
Art in the Park – 10 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Pavilion –
Calling all artists! The upcoming eclipse is our focus this month. All art supplies will be provided.
South Sulphur
Saturday, February 3 – SS
Winter Birds of Cooper Lake State Park – 11 a.m. Meet at Heron Harbor Day Use Area. We’ll go on a walk around the shoreline, grassy field and a day use area looking for varied birds. Bring your binoculars, and dress for the weather.
Saturday, February 10 – SS
Archery 101: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Meet at Buggy Whip Restroom. Registration is required, program limited to 12 participants.
No experience needed. Ages 10 and up. All equipment provided.
Reserve your spot by calling 903-945-5256 or email Alicia O’Connor Alicia.O’[email protected].
Saturday, February 17 — SS
Guided Hike – 1:30 p.m. Meet at Buggy Whip Equestrian trailhead – Join us on a guided hike to see the wonders of nature! Dress for the weather.
Saturday, February 24 – SS
Art in the Park – 1:30 p.m. Meet at Gulls Bluff Pavilion – Calling all artists! The upcoming eclipse is our focus this month. All art supplies provided.
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Soil Tests Can be Used to Help by Mario Villarino
Soil tests can be used to estimate the kinds and amounts of soil nutrients available to plants. They also can be used as aids in determining fertilizer needs. Properly conducted soil sampling and testing can be cost-effective indicators of the types and amounts of fertilizer and lime needed to improve crop yield.
The effects of adding a fertilizer often depend on the level of nutrients already present in the soil If a soil is very low in a particular nutrient, yield will probably be increased if that nutrient is added. By comparison, if the soil has high initial nutrient levels, fertilization will result in little, if any, increase in yield.
There are three steps involved in obtaining a soil test:
1) obtain sample bags and instructions,
2) collect composite samples,
3) select the proper test, and complete the information sheet and mail to the Soil, Water, and Forage Testing Laboratory at 2478 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-2478 for U.S. mail or 2610 F&B Road, College Station, TX 77845 for commercial deliveries. Contact the lab at (979) 845-4816, FAX (979) 845-5958, or at the Web site http://soiltesting.tamu. edu for additional information.
Obtain sample bags and instructions. County Extension offices provide soil sample bags, sampling instructions and information sheets for mailing samples to the Soil, Water, and Forage Testing Laboratory of the Texas Agricultural Extension Service. Sample bags provided by the Extension service hold a sufficient amount of soil for use in most soil tests. Fill the sample bag or other suitable container with approximately 1 pint of a composite soil sample. Any suitable container can be used for the sample, but it is important to complete the information sheet and follow the instructions for collecting and mailing samples.
For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
What Issues are Important to You?
January 31, 2024 – What issues do you feel are of the highest importance for Sulphur Springs? Sulphur Springs City Council elections are coming up.
Here is a chance to anonymously voice your opinion and provide possible solutions. KSST has made a short Google Form to collect your thoughts and suggestions.
Click here to open the Google Form.
Voters Chose Dutton Over Money
Jill Dutton has narrowly defeated fellow Republican Brent Money in the special election runoff for a Texas House seat that marked an early flashpoint in the latest Texas GOP civil war.
Dutton’s win marks something of an upset after Money got the support of a who’s who of top Texas Republicans, including Gov. Greg Abbott, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and Attorney General Ken Paxton.
With all precincts reporting Tuesday night, Dutton was leading Money by 111 votes, or a margin of less than 1 percentage point, according to unofficial returns. Money reportedly conceded at his election night party in Greenville, while Dutton released a statement celebrating a “resounding victory for conservatives across this district.”
The two Republicans were vying to finish the term of expelled former state Rep. Bryan Slaton, R-Royse City. They will face one another again in the March 5 primary for the full term in the solidly red seat.
“While I’m excited to get to work for the people of HD 2, and while I look forward to being sworn into office in the coming days, this race is far from over,” Dutton said. “I look forward to earning your vote again in March.”
Money is a Greenville lawyer who previously served on the City Council there. Dutton is the former president of the Republican Women of Van Zandt and also was a Van ISD board trustee.
Unofficial Results of the Hopkins County Texas Runoff Election Have Been Reported
January 30, 2024 – According to the Hopkins County County Clerks Office, as of 9:04pm Tuesday, January 30, 2024, cumulative unofficial results from the Hopkins County, Texas, Special Runoff Election January 30, 2024, for State Representative, District Number 2, Unexpired Term, show that Jill Dutton (R) received 65 Absentee Votes, equaling 52.42% of the votes in that category, with Early Voting results giving her 547 of those votes, or 53.31%, and Election Day Voters giving her 627 votes, or 57.95% of the votes in that category. This unofficially gave Dutton, (R), a total of 1,239 of the votes, or 55.51% of the total votes.
Her opponent, Brent Money (R) received 47.58% of the Absentee Votes, at 59, and 479 Early Votes, equaling 46.69% of the votes in that category, according to Unofficial Results. Money, (R) appeared to have gotten 455 Election Day Votes, or 42.05% of that day’s votes, giving him a vote total of 993 Votes, equaling a Total of 44.49% of the total votes.
Stay tuned for further updates.
