CASA Serves Children of Hopkins, Franklin and Rains Counties As Court Appointed Special Advocates With 28 Year HIstory
Staff and volunteers at the Lake Country CASA office in downtown Sulphur Springs have a solemn mission: To be a voice for abused and neglected children through the power of volunteer advocacy and change in the child protection system. CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocate, got it’s start in the United States in 1989, when a grandmother who had lost her young grandson in death at the hands of his mother’s boyfriend, decided she had to make a statement. She placed blue ribbons on her van and drove around her town, to demonstrate that her precious grandchild had not died in vain and without love. Hundreds of CASA groups began to be organized around the country, adopting the blue ribbon as their symbol. Hopkins County CASA formed 28 years ago under the direction of Eddie Jo Edge, and in time was expanded to include cases of child abuse and neglect being handled in Rains and Franklin Counties. The three-county organization is known today as Lake Country CASA, with headquarters at 213 Connally Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas. Director is Gina Law, and local Supervisor is Sherry Johnson.
L. to R. Lou Ellen Cromer, Sharla Evans and Peggy Walker
According to Rains County Supervisor and Program Director Peggy Walker, last year their 27 volunteers served a total of 134 children. As 2018 has begun, the 20 active volunteers have already served on the cases of 75 children, marking an increase in need for CASA volunteers. What does a CASA volunteer do? In an overview, a trained volunteer makes regular home visits to assess and monitor the child’s home situation, is present at all of the child’s court appearances, and can accompany or even transport the child to medical appointments. Volunteers become familiar with the child’s school progress as well, and can visit the school on their behalf. In other words, the volunteers act as advocates for their assigned children at all times. Safety is an important aspect of volunteer duty, thus Casa volunteers “pair up” when making home visits, or go in conjunction with a CPS visit. Once a CASA volunteer, Sharla Evans now serves as Volunteer Coordinator, training new volunteers and keeping up with their case reports, court appointments and home visits. One CASA veteran, Lou Ellen Cromer, has served about 80 children in her 15-year volunteer career. She continues to feel that she fills a vital niche for her assigned children, and that she makes a difference in their lives as they grow toward adulthood.
Lake Country CASA is seeking volunteers who can be committed to their assignment. Each case typically lasts one to two years, and the amount of time spent on a case per month averages 10 hours. In many cases, these children may eventually return to their home, be placed with another family member or find a foster home or adoptive family. In order to help achieve this goal and provide quality advocacy, volunteers must make case time a priority. If you are interested in finding out more, contact Executive Director Gina Law at 903-885-1173 or see her at the Lake Country CASA office, 216 Connally Street, downtown Sulphur Springs. Learn more about CASA at lakecountrycasa.org.
TxDOT Paris District Office Announces Concrete Work on I-30; Seal Coat of Roadways Set
Concrete repair work along I-30 in Hopkins County will begin the week of April 23, 2018, according to the Texas Department of Transportation Paris District office. Officials with TxDOT also announced they recently cleared Brannan Paving to seal coat several roads in Fannin, Franklin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar, Rains and Red River counties. The contractor is scheduled to begin during the week of April 24 in Hunt County.
This district-wide seal coat project is scheduled to be completed by mid-August, weather permitting, at an estimated cost of more than $11.6 million. Some work times and locations may overlap, and traffic control measures may include some one-way operation during construction.
Innovative Roadway Solutions, a subcontractor, will begin seal coating roadway shoulders the week of April 24 in Hunt County and work its way through Hopkins, Red River, Lamar, Fannin, Grayson counties through the end of May. Brannan Paving will begin seal coating roadway main lanes the week of June 14 in Hunt County and work its way through Hopkins, Rains, Franklin, Lamar, Red River, Fannin and Grayson County through the week of August 10, 2018.
“This is preventative maintenance that is critical to seal out moisture and prevent damage to the pavement, as well as preserve our investment in these roadways,” said Jesse Herrera, TXDOT area engineer based in Sulphur Springs, Texas. “Provisions have been included in the highway contract to keep through traffic delays to a minimum, and access to adjacent properties will be maintained.”
People traveling along roadways receiving a seal coat should slow down and be aware of construction activity. Motorists should not drive through an area where asphalt has been applied, but rock has not yet been placed. There will be some loose rock along roadways as well, and motorists should be prepared to stop for a short duration while the work is underway.
“We request that people traveling on these roadways recognize that the temporary inconvenience of this construction is necessary to preserve our roadways,” Herrera said.
Motorists traveling in Northeast Texas should pay special attention to all traffic control devices and flaggers, and slow down when they encounter work on area roads this summer.
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Wood County Sheriff’s Report April 4-10, 2018
Wood County Sheriff’s Report for April 4, 2018 to April 10, 2018 includes: Disturbance: 3; Thefts: 3; Burglaries: 1; Terroristic Threats: 1; Criminal Mischief’s: 4; Inquests: 1; Suspicious Circumstances: 7; Suspicious Vehicles: 6; Suspicious Persons: 5; Alarms: 5; Harassments: 4; Criminal Trespasses: 2; Scams: 1; Frauds: 2; Abandoned Vehicles: 1; Cows Out: 28; Horses Out: 2; Welfare Checks: 6; Assaults: 0; Dog Bites: 0; Fires: 2; Noise Complaints: 1; Disputes: 6; Arrest/Warrant Services: 4; Reckless Drivers: 2; Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle: 1; Shots Fired: 3; Traffic Stop (2); Animal Complaint (1); Burning Violation (1)
April 4th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3582 near Winnsboro, at approximately 11:18 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, loosened lug nuts on the reporting party’s vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2298 near Mineola, at approximately 2:47 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
At 3:14 p.m., cows were reported out on Church St. in Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 4:08 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a “For Sale” sign from the reporting party’s residence.
At 4:12 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4895 near Quitman.
At 5:04 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 5:27 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 515 near Winnsboro, at approximately 6:17 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several items from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to Indian Gap near Quitman, at approximately 6:21 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3582 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:06 p.m., in reference to terroristic threat. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 7:07 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4895 near Quitman.
At 7:47 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3950 near Hawkins.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 8:06 p.m. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 3966 near Hawkins, at approximately 8:17 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4250 near Winnsboro, at approximately 8:33 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Extra patrol will be provided for this area.
April 5th
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on HWY 154 near Quitman; at approximately 12:29 a.m. Guadalupe Garcia, 31, of Big Sandy, was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated with an Open Container.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3920 near Hawkins, at approximately 2:58 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Jessica Ogden, 27, of Hawkins, was arrested for Criminal Trespass.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2260 near Mineola; at approximately 7:55 a.m. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 14 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:57 a.m., in reference to harassment. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 10:29 a.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, broke in and stole several items from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2377 near Alba, at approximately 11:24 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. James Whycough, 49, of Alba, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4988 near Winnsboro, at approximately 11:56 a.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and determined it was a civil matter.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2660 near Mineola, at approximately 1:30 p.m., in reference to an animal complaint. Deputies determined the horses were unhealthy. This case is active.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 852 near Winnsboro, at approximately 2:20 p.m., in reference to theft. A known actor stole several items from the reporting party’s property. Michael Love, 45, of Winnsboro, was arrested for Theft of Property.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 2436 near Mineola; at approximately 5:26 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to Hwy 154 near Quitman, at approximately 7:04 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s truck with BB pellets. This case is active.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1689 near Alba, at approximately 7:58 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to College St. in Alba; at approximately 9:42 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 10:00 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances that occurred on CR 4520 near Winnsboro. Deputies will provide extra patrol for the area.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4186 near Winnsboro, at approximately 10:02 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
At 10:13 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
April 6th
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 2:32 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Paula Mora, 51, of Quitman, was arrested for Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Violence.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3545 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:27 a.m., in reference to an abandoned vehicle. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
At 10:26 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 3120 near Quitman.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 1688 near Alba, at approximately 12:01 p.m. Amanda Loyd, 22, of an unknown address, was arrested for Public Intoxication.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1681 near Alba, at approximately 12:12 p.m., in reference to unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Actors, or actors unknown, stole the vehicle from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 12:37 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 14 near Hawkins, at approximately 2:25 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any individuals.
At 3:26 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 14 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1254 near Mineola, at approximately 4:14 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1600 near Alba, at approximately 5:04 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any individuals.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2425 near Mineola, at approximately 5:20 p.m., in reference to a fire. Mineola Fire Department extinguished the fired and the scene was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2944 near Alba, at approximately 5:37 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies spoke with the reporting party and cleared the incident.
At 11:09 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 11:35 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 11:46 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
April 7th
Deputies were dispatched to FM 312 near Winnsboro, at approximately 1:01 a.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 39, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace was notified and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3440 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:57 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies secured the vacant building and were unable to locate any individuals.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4530 near Winnsboro, at approximately 11:50 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
At 4:51 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Mineola.
At 5:21 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1522 near Alba, at approximately 5:57 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 515 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:41 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on HWY 11 near Winnsboro; at approximately 8:54 p.m. Michael Huvler, 30, of Gilmer, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on Indian Gap near Quitman; at approximately 11:04 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
April 8th
At 12:09 a.m., horses were reported out on HWY 37 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Yantis, at approximately 4:19 a.m., in reference to a fire. Yantis/Lands End Fire Department extinguished the fire and the scene was cleared.
At 10:01 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 1681 near Alba.
At 11:10 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 6778 near Mineola, at approximately 12:46 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies located and advised the individuals to lower the volume of the music.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 49 near Mineola, at approximately 12:47 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies located the individuals that were shooting and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1660 near Alba, at approximately 1:00 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. A known actor damaged the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:56 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on HWY 37 near Winnsboro. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2315 near Mineola, at approximately 5:14 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2311 near Mineola, at approximately 5:39 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies located the individuals that were shooting and everything was OK.
At 7:32 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 1410 near Quitman.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 17 near Yantis; at approximately 8:19 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
At 9:27 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2117 near Quitman, at approximately 9:56 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to Meadow View Path near Hawkins; at approximately 10:42 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
April 9th
At 4:47 a.m., horses were reported out on Hwy 37 near Quitman.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:09 a.m., in reference to a fraud that occurred on Salida Bend near Hawkins. A check was cleared on the reporting party’s bank account without authorization. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 778 near Mineola, at approximately 9:36 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 2659 near Hawkins, at approximately 10:28 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:45 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 2700 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1785 near Yantis, at approximately 2:39 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. The individual was located and transported to the hospital by EMS.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2244 near Mineola, at approximately 4:25 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke to all parties involved and determined it was a civil matter.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 49 near Mineola, at approximately 4:54 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 5:25 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on FM 17 near Alba. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 6:40 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4925 near Quitman, at approximately 6:54 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
At 9:49 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 852 near Winnsboro, at approximately 10:42 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
At 11:14 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
April 10th
Deputies were dispatched to Mockingbird St. in Alba, at approximately 6:39 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 9:04 a.m., in reference to fraud. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 9:06 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
At 10:33 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2869 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to Choctaw near Quitman, at approximately 12:50 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on HWY 69 near Alba, at approximately 1:19 p.m. David McCarmack, 36, of Alba, was arrested for an outstanding warrant, Resisting Arrest, Search or Transport and Evading Arrest Detention.
At 3:46 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1540 near Alba, at approximately 3:54 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and Kelly Prather, 40, of Alba, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
At 4:00 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Winnsboro.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to Holly Trail near Hawkins; at approximately 4:04 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Quitman, at approximately 4:18 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies located the vehicle that matched the description, but did not notice reckless driving.
At 6:10 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4899 near Quitman.
At 7:21 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3811 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:27 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
At 7:52 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Pine Mills.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 7908 near Hawkins, at approximately 8:43 p.m., in reference to a burning violation. Deputies located the burning, which was wood, and everything was cleared.
At 8:54 p.m., cows were reported out on Hwy 154 near Quitman.
At 9:31 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
Between the dates of April 4 and April 10, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included Police Departments and Emergency Medical Services.
Between the dates of April 4 and April 10, Wood County Sheriff’s Investigators obtained 6 arrest warrants and arrested the individuals and recovered $30,000 worth of stolen property.
Total Jail Count – 139 inmates – 118 males and 21 females.
Sheriff Castloo would like to remind everyone…if you have any information on these or any other crimes, please contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office at 903-763-2201 or Crime Stoppers at 903-763-CASH.
Contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office if you notice any suspicious vehicles or activity around your neighborhood. Please be aware of your surroundings.
Suspected Meth, Currency Leads to Arrest of Virginia Woman
Jane Traglia Dunkin, 24, of Elkton, Virginia remains in Hopkins County jail following an arrest made Monday, April 16, 2018. Dunkin was stopped for a traffic violation on South Broadway in Sulphur Springs. However, in her possession was a substance suspected to be methamphetamine in three bags totaling 16.07-grams and $6,000 in U. S. currency. The suspected substance has been sent to the DPS crime laboratory for verification.
Dunkin appeared nervous to the Hopkins County Sheriff’s deputy that made the stop. She granted verbal consent to search her Dodge Charger. The deputy discovered six large bundles of currency secured with multi-colored rubber bands. The suspected meth and three bags were found during a pat down search by jail staff.
She is charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1 more than 1-gram but less than 400-grams.
Chamber Connection April 18, 2018
The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce will host a City Council Candidate Forum at the Sulphur Springs Middle School on Thursday, April 19th at 6 p.m. SSMS is located at 835 Wildcat Way in Sulphur Springs, and admittance to the forum will be through the back doors of the school. Questions from the public are encouraged and must be submitted in advance to the Chamber of Commerce via email, fax, or mail. Questions must be received by Monday, April 16th. Submitted questions will be reviewed and approved by a committee appointed for this purpose. No questions will be accepted from the floor during the forum. Email questions to [email protected], fax to (903)885-6516, or mail to 300 Connally Street in Sulphur Springs. We hope you will be able to attend Thursday evening to see the candidates discuss important topics for Sulphur Springs.
Tractor Supply is offering to help 4-H programs
Tractor Supply in Sulphur Springs is offering Paper Clover from April 11-22nd. This is an opportunity to donate at the checkout to send kids in Texas for 4-H Camp and Leadership Experiences. This is a great way to support 4-H from our community.
Rock Creek Health & Rehab is holding a bake sale
Rock Creek Health & Rehab is having a Bake Sale to help support Johnny and April Turner on April 20th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Rock Creek is located at 1414 College Street in Sulphur Springs. Please contact Jennifer Scroggins, Activity Director of Rock Creek, if you are interested in donating funds or making some goodies for the sale.
The 2018 UPRA Rodeo is scheduled for April 20th and 21st
The Hopkins County Rodeo Committee presents the 2018 UPRA Rodeo at the Hopkins County Indoor Civic Center arena on April 20th and 21st. The doors open nightly at 6 p.m., and the rodeo begins at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $10 for Friday, $12 for Saturday, and $8 for children on both nights. Tickets are available at Circle E Western Store in Sulphur Springs.
Reilly Springs Jamboree welcomes Jack’s Western Swing Round Up
The Reilly Springs Jamboree, Hopkins County’s original music venue, presents Jack’s Western Swing Round Up on Saturday, April 21st at 7 p.m. Jack Phillips and his friends will entertain throughout the evening, and it shouldn’t be missed! The Reilly Springs Community Center is located at 109 CR 1439 in Sulphur Springs. For additional information contact Allison Phillips at (903) 348-7321, Enola Gay at (903) 438-3568, or visit www.jackphillipsmusic.com.
Como School Reunion is scheduled for April 21st
The planning committee for the biennial Como High School reunion is scheduled for April 21st in the Como-Pickton School cafeteria. Registration will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by a short program to recognize former teachers, the oldest graduate, and the former student traveling the longest distance. Lunch, consisting of a main dish, sides, dessert, and beverage, will be served for $12. Everyone is encouraged to arrive early and greet former classmates before, during, and after lunch! For additional information, call Richard Teer at (903) 488-3673 or Elizabeth Coker Trepanier at (903) 885-3887.
AgriLife Extension offers Rebalancing Work & Life Webinar
The Military Families Learning Network (MFLN) is providing a free monthly webinar in partnership with USDA, U.S. Department of Defense, and Extension. The April 25th webinar will take place at 10:00 a.m. To sign up, go to: https://learn.extension.org/events/3261. To join the webinar, use the ‘event location’ link designated for each webinar and follow directions within the site. The MFLN offers both continuing education credit (CE) and certificates of completion for webinars. Additional webinars will take place on May 23, and June 13, 2018. For more information, call the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office – Hopkins County – at 903-885-3443.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is hosting a nutrition class
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office is hosting a class called, “What’s Missing in Your Pantry?” This is a class about nutrition, meal planning, and inspiration for the 60 and above crowd. It is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, April 25th and April 26th at First United Methodist Church in the Family Life Center. FUMC is located at 301 Church Street in Sulphur Springs. It will begin at 9:30 a.m., and both days will have different topics. For information contact Johanna Hicks at (903) 885-3443. You must call to sign up, but there is no charge to attend!
CPI is hosting a customer appreciation of Thursday, April 26th
CPI is hosting a customer appreciation dinner and product demonstration on Thursday, April 26th at 6 p.m. at the Sulphur Springs Country Club. CPI would love for you to join them for dinner and stay to learn about their new products they are now offering. Dinner will include salad, prime rib, bacon green beans, broccoli with cheese sauce, and garlic mashed potatoes. Please RSVP to [email protected].
Sulphur Springs Youth Orchestra presents Family Music Night
The Sulphur Springs Youth Orchestra presents a Family Music Night on Friday, April 27th at 6:30 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist, located at 614 Texas Street in Sulphur Springs. This event is free to the public. Come enjoy movie themed and great classical music performances by local musicians. Children are welcomed to dress as their favorite movie characters. For more information, call (903) 261-7907, or email [email protected].
Express Employment Professionals hosts their ribbon cutting
Express Employment Professionals is hosting their ribbon cutting celebration on Tuesday, May 1st at noon. They are located at 204 Shannon Road West in Sulphur Springs. Please make plans to come by and enjoy snacks and fellowship, as well as learn about this Hopkins County business.
Clayton Homes is hosting a Cinco de Mayo event
Clayton Homes in Sulphur springs is hosting a Cinco de Mayo event on Saturday, May 5th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Make plans to go by Clayton Homes for free food, a chance to win a gas grill, and see select homes at blowout prices!
Northeast Texas Choral Society is hosting their 20th Concert!
Our Northeast Texas Choral Society is hosting their spring concert entitled “20 Years 20 Hits”. It will be held May 5th at 7 p.m. and on May 6th at 2 p.m. in the Sulphur Springs High School auditorium. Tickets are $15.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 12 and under. Tickets available at local banks, from NETCS singers, and online at www.singerscount.org.
Red River Credit Union is hosting their grand opening
Red River Credit Union is hosting their ribbon cutting celebration and grand opening of their new building on Wednesday, May 9th at noon. The new located is 822 Gilmer Street in Sulphur Springs. Please make plans to come by and see this beautiful new building and welcome Red River Credit Union to their new place!
Danna’s Buffalo Girls held their grand opening and ribbon cutting
To kick-off the Flea Market Style and Swap, the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting Celebration on April 12th at noon at The Hopkins County Regional Civic Center. Shopping began immediately following the ribbon cutting and lasted through the weekend. Danna’s Buffalo Girls Flea Market Style and Swap will return to Hopkins County in October! Visit www.dannasfleamarketstyle.com or call 903-439-7091 for more information.
TxDOT’s Virtual Reality Distracted Driving Campaign Comes to Civic Center Thursday
Thursday April 19th, at the Hopkins County Civic Center Exhibit Hall from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., TxDOT’s “Heads up, Texas” campaign in partnership with AT&T It Can Wait, will bring a distracted driving virtual reality experience on site to demonstrate the impact of distracted driving.
In recognition of National Distracted Driving Month, the Texas Department of Transportation is launching its “Heads up, Texas” campaign to remind drivers that their undivided attention to the road could save a life.
Partnering with AT&T It Can Wait, TxDOT aims to change distracted-driving behaviors that last year resulted in 100,687 crashes, 444 deaths and 2,889 serious injuries. With state legislation passing a texting-while-driving ban effective Sept. 1, 2017 – making it illegal to read, write or send a text while driving in Texas – TxDOT and AT&T It Can Wait will bring a virtual reality distracted driving experience to 19 cities in Texas this April to educate and connect with local communities.
Higher Education and Learning Technologies Faculty Receive Awards for Research Paper from Korean American Research Association
COMMERCE, TX—Dr. Katie Koo, and Dr. Kibum Kwon, Assistant Professors for the Department of Higher Education and Learning Technologies, received the 2018 Young Scholar Best Research Award for their research from the Korean American Education Research Association (KAERA).
Dr. Koo will present their paper, “Am I Welcomed Here?”: Campus Climate and Psychological Well-being among Students of Color on College Campuses, on April 13 at the 2018 KAERA Conference in New York City. The conference will award them a plaque and cash prize at the business meeting that evening.
By analyzing 12,000 college students, Drs. Koo and Kwon found that students of color experienced a more negative and unwelcoming campus climate, and lower rates of psychological well-being compared to their White peers.
Their study contributes to the field of counseling, student affairs and higher education by providing systematic analysis on the power of a positive and welcoming campus climate to students’ mental health.
“By offering insights on ethnic minority students’ unique challenges and negative experiences on campus and their well-being, this study helps advisors, professors, and administrator in higher education,” said Dr. Koo. “Helping them understand the importance of a welcoming, positive and inclusive campus climate associated with students’ psychological well-being.”
KAERA aims to support Korean-American and Korean researchers to advance knowledge in education. By encouraging the use of research for scholarly inquiry among their members, KAERA seeks to offer timely implications for education practice and to serve the public purpose of education for a more equitable society.
County Master Gardeners Recommend Proven Tough Texas Plants
By Brenda Payne, Hopkins County Master Gardener
Gardeners everywhere have had varied results growing plants. We all want a garden that looks good and suits our landscape. But what grows in Houston may not grow as well in Amarillo and what grows in El Paso may not grow as well in Tyler. I grew up in Ohio and found I had to learn about a lot of different plants when I moved to Texas. Fortunately for us the Texas Department of Agriculture and Texas A&M Agrilife Extension have been working to make it easier to grow great plants without all the trial and error we usually have to go through. They have developed a list of Texas Superstar plants for us to choose from.
What is a Texas Superstar? Only the toughest, most reliable and best-looking plants make the cut. Every plant earning the designation undergoes several years of extensive field trials. They must show superior performance under Texas tough growing conditions receiving reasonable levels of water and no pesticides. This means you will find success with proven Texas-tough plants.
Each plant on their list is labeled with planting time, soil requirements, sun needs and the zones they will grow in as well as descriptions of uses for these plants. There are flowers ( annual and perennials), shrubs, vegetables and fruits all listed on their website and in their brochures.
So before you spend many seasons of trial and error you may want to look up some of these Superstars and see what you might want to try in your landscape. You can find information on their website Texassuperstar.com. You can also download their brochure from that website. Another way to find them is to ask your local nursery if they are carrying the Superstars or look for the Texas Superstar logo on the plant tags.
Gardening quote: “My green thumb came only as a result of the mistakes I made while learning to see things from the plants point of view”
Lady Cats Responded to Coach’s Challenge; Senior Night Friday
Lady Cats Softball Coach David Carrillo said he challenged his team before they played Texas High Monday in Texarkana. He told them go get after it, not wait but try to jump on Texas High from the start. The Lady Cats did get off to a good start scoring two first inning runs as two of the first three batters up scored. Coach Carrillo said he wanted the Lady Cats to get a lead so they could put pressure on the Lady Tigers to force mistakes.
The pitching of Bailey Haggerty was magnificent. She carried a no-hitter into the top of the seventh before giving up a hit. Haggerty faced only two batters over the minimum in the one-hitter. She also walked one while striking out ten. There were two outstanding defensive plays by the Lady Cats when the no-hitter was still in play. Second baseball Sierra Smith laid out on a ground ball, made the stop and jumped up and threw out a speedy Lady Tiger runner at first. Center fielder Alyssa Abron also chased down a well hit fly ball in the gap. Coach Carrillo said she makes it look easy.
Meanwhile the Lady Cats pounded out 15 hits. Five Lady Cats had multiple hits led by Alli Fite who had four. Coach Carrillo said the Lady Cats showed patience against a very good Lady Tiger starting pitcher. He said he was glad to see his team so focused with so much on the line.
With the win, the Lady Cats improved to 10-1 in district play. They can do no worse with co-district champs. The Lady Cats can wrap up the district championship with a win Friday on Senior Night at home against arch rival Mount Pleasant.
In the meantime, Coach Carrillo said he was going to give the Lady Cats a day off Tuesday while the coaching staff is scouting possible playoff teams. Most likely bi-district opponents are Lovejoy or Royse City.
Friday on Senior Night the Lady Cats will recognize Alyssa Abron, Macee Hollins, Karlee Adams and Jacklyn Semler. Field dedications will also take place during pre-game ceremonies Friday at both Lady Cat Park and Wildcat Park.
