Earthworms After a Rain
By David Wall, Mount Pleasant Master Gardener
I realize rains have been in short supply recently, but have you ever gone walking across your yard after a rain and noticed the number earthworms (from now on, just worms) on the ground surface? How about in the morning when the dew is heavy? How about going out on a hot day and finding dead worms on your sidewalk, curb, and driveway.
The obvious answer is they come to the surface because they’re drowning, but that’s not the case. Worms breathe through their skin (not lungs), and need moisture to do that. Also, most worm species can survive submerged for up to two weeks.
There are several theories on this. One says that worm species most active at night need more oxygen, are more likely to come to the surface in a heavy rain. This is possible for some species, but certainly not for all, as other species won’t come to the surface period.
Another theory is that raindrops sound like vibrations put out by moles, so they come to the surface to escape. Some fishermen produce these vibrations with sticks or electrical current, catching surfaced worms for bait. Funny thing about this is only adult worms come to the surface, no juveniles.
A more likely explanation is they can move easier and faster on the surface. They can move to new territory, perhaps searching for a mate. The problem is they need moisture, and if the surface heats and dries too fast, they perish. Even though they can tell the difference between night and sense they’re since drying out, day, you’d think they’d race to get back underground. Unfortunately, if they happen to be on the sidewalk, curb, or driveway, drying may occur before they can get to shelter. That’s why we see so many carcasses on concrete.
Sulphur Springs Teen Accused Of Injuring Five With A Knife
A Sulphur Springs man was accused of injuring five people with a knife, two of whom pressed charges against him early Sunday morning, according to arrest reports.
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Zack Horne and Drew Fisher and Sgt. Tanner Steward responded at 2 a.m. Oct. 16, 2022, to a complaint of an active disturbance on FM 71 east. While they were responding, dispatchers received additional information, first, that a person was armed with a knife, then, that someone had been injured, the deputies alleged in arrest reports.
Upon arrival, deputies placed a 19-year-old male identified as a suspect into handcuffs while they investigated. They determined based on investigation that Bryan Sandoval-Perez got into a verbal altercation with multiple individuals regarding a portable Bluetooth speaker. Witnesses claimed he displayed a pocketknife during the altercation, then began to attack a male, cutting the male’s finger.
When the others learned what had occurred, four to five other males attempted to disarm Sandoval-Perez, who began swinging the knife in a slashing and stabbing motion at them. A total of five males were reported to have been injured, deputies reported being told.
Two to five of the injured opted to pursue criminal charges against Sandoval-Perez. All injured were treated by medical personnel from the hospital. The 19-year-old Sulphur Springs man was arrested at 2:43 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022, and transported to Hopkins County jail. Sandoval-Perez was booked in on two aggravated assault with a deadly weapon charges, according to arrest reports.
The teen remained in Hopkin County jail later Sunday in lieu of the $75,000 bond set on each of the two second-degree felony assault charges, according to jail reports.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Sulphur Bluff Team Named Grand Champion At Help-A-Child Benefit Ag Mechanics Build Off
The first ever Help-A-Child Benefit Ag Mechanics Team Build Off was a huge success Friday, with all 35 teams commended by the judges for their welding skills, safety practices and use of PPE, and manner in which they worked together as a team. In the end, however, only the teams constructing the top four ranked smokers went home with awards.
“Everyone is doing excellent work,” said John Plemons, Paris Junior College welding instructor and contest judge.” All of y’all will make great welders. There weren’t any welds out here that were bad.”
Nine schools — Bonham, Caddo Mills, Como-Pickton, Rains, Hughes Springs, Sulphur Bluff, Sulphur Springs, Winnsboro and Boles — had two teams competing at the event. Also competing were four-person teams from Cooper, Bland, Callisburg, Van, Grandview, Detroit, Miller Grove, Celina, Timpson (near Nacogdoches), Chism, North Hopkins, Hartley, Prairiland, Avery, Cumby, Wills Point and Hallsville schools.
Level of experience among competitors varied from experienced seniors to first time competitors.
“We do appreciate all of you who’ve come to our first ever build off with our Help-A-Child organization. Just a reminder, what money was raised goes to Scottish Rite Hospital, Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center and our local foster families as well as scholarships by the local Lodges that participate in this area,” said Michael Bowen, ag mechanics team build off co-coordinator with Dan Froneberger.
Some ag instructors said the contest was not only a good competition experience for the students, it also allows them to take an active role in helping other youth through the programs the Help-A-Child Benefit supports. The team from Winnsboro said they felt compelled to attend a competition so close to home that offers kids this opportunity to learn and grow while helping the Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center in their town.
In fact, the Kids Helping Kids event went so well, contest organizers are considering adding more contests next year to give even more students a chance to help other youth through their contest entry fees and participation.
“I can’t stress enough thanks to everybody who showed up here today for helping us with the Help-A-Child Benefit. Y’all are helping a lot of children in our area,” said Help-A-Child Benefit coordinator Wade Bartley.
2022 Help-A-Child Ag Mechanics Team Build off prizes 
Grand Champion prizes 
Sulphur Bluff team, Grant Champion 
Sulphur Bluff team, Site#4, Grand Champion and project 
2022 Help-A-Child Ag Mechanics Team Build Off Reserve Champion prizes 
Hallsville team, Site #11, Reserve Champion 
Hallsville Team, Site#11, Reserve Champion project 
Help-A-Child Ag Mechanics Team Build Off third place prizes 
Prairiland team, Site #5, 3rd place winner 
2022 Help-A-Child Ag Mechanics Team Build Off 4th place prizes 
Cooper team, Site #33, Help-A-Child Ag Mechanics Team Build off 
Cooper Team, Site#33, 4th place winner
Local businesses sponsored the competition, donating an estimated $5,000 worth of tools and equipment, which the top teams took home. Everyone working received a t-shirt for their participation in the event. Top winners also received another kit to take home to construct another fire pit, which they can then sell to benefit their school program.
Once ranked by a Panel of judges from Paris Junior College, the top four projects then automatically were entered in Saturday’s Help-A-Child live auction, with the proceeds to be added to the auction total. Bonham also donated their projects Friday, and one also was to be auctioned Saturday.
Sulphur Bluff team at site #4 went home with the banner for welding the Grand Champion ag mechanics team build off project Friday. Along with bragging rights and a banner, the grand champion team consisting of Jace Cunningham, Dakota Klemptner, Landon Dugnolle and Jess Cunningham received as part of their prize package RWX Digital Automatic Welding Helmets, Badger totes with the 2022 event logo on them and cases, socket sets, gloves, pliers, wrenches and other welding gear.
The Hallsville team consisting of Cade Edwards, Luke Hamilton, Trevor Smith, and Landon Rachal constructed the Reserve Champion ag mechanics project Friday. In addition to their banner, second place team took home DeWalt reciprocating saws, piers, Milwaukee Packouts, gloves, DeWalt 20volt FlexVolt Advantage, Matheson Select Electronic Welding Helmets and other items as part of their prize package.
The Prairiland team built the third place project. In addition to a banner, the prize package they took home included Mikita circular saws, gloves, Milwaukee measuring tape, vice grips, toolboxes and other items.
Finally, the fourth place build off project was constructed by the Cooper team. Their prize package included Milwaukee Packouts, vice grips, wrenches, taper measures and other tools.
Presenting sponsors for the Ag Mechanics Competition Team Build Off include Bobcat of North Texas, 5W Contracting-Michael and Kimberly Williams, Tommy Williams Pipe and Steel, Hooten’s and Matheson.
“We thank everyone for coming, these ag students for applying their skills to these projects. We need to thank the ag teachers: guys and gals my hats go off to you for all the time that you devote to these students,” Bartley said, calling for a round of applause for the agriculture teachers.
2022 Help-A-Child Benefit Ag Mechanics Team Build off projects being judged 
Rains team, Site #34, Help-A-Child Benefit 
Rains team, Site #35 
Hughes Springs team, Site #26 
Hughes Springs team, Site #27 
Sulphur Springs team, Site #28 
Sulphur Springs team, Site #29 
Bland team, Site#30 
Callisburg team, Site#31 
Callisburg team, Site #31 
Van team, Site# 32 Cooper team, Site #33, Help-A-Child Ag Mechanics Team Build off 
2022 Help-A-Child Benefit Ag Mechanics Build Off teams waiting for winners to be announced
Paris District Road Report for October 17, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Oct. 17, 2022. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
SH 56 (Lamar Street) at the Post Oak Creek bridge has been reopened to traffic. The remaining work will be completed using occasional daytime lane closures.
US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The southbound lanes for SH 91 are closed at the US 75 underpass for crews to begin construction on the new overpass. Motorists traveling southbound on SH 91 will be detoured along the northbound US 75 frontage road to Taylor Street where they will make a left on Taylor Street and another left on the southbound frontage road. This closure is expected to last until Oct. 25, weather permitting.
The northbound and southbound US 75 frontage road intersections with Center Street have been converted to an all-way stop condition. Traffic on the frontage roads is asked to pay attention to the advanced warning signs and new stop signs, and approach the intersection prepared for a stop there.
Lamar Street and Houston Street under US 75 are closed to through traffic with detour signs in place to guide motorists around these intersections.
Eastbound Lamar Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Center Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to eastbound Lamar Street. Video animation of this detour can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/5LrCpdOA8OQ
Westbound Houston Street traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Washington Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to westbound Houston Street. Video animation of this detour can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/7jCatnI3Oq4
These switches will allow crews to reconstruct the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Lamar and Houston Streets. The US 75 northbound frontage road traffic is reduced to one travel lane, but two travel lanes remain for northbound US 75 mainlane traffic. A concrete barrier separates the northbound frontage road and mainlane traffic. Video animation of this alignment can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/y_uO0UmpCzk
For southbound US 75 the frontage road traffic is reduced to one travel lane, but two travel lanes remain for southbound US 75 mainlane traffic. A concrete barrier separates the southbound frontage road and mainlane traffic. Video animation of this alignment can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/k2EG2W9rFJY
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lanes shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on construction of new frontage road lanes.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews construct the new roadway pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a four-lane divided section with turn lanes. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project. The West Cypress Grove Road intersection on the east side of FM 1417 will be closed to through traffic to work on paving at the intersection beginning Oct. 17. During the closure, traffic wishing to use Cypress Grove Road is asked to use Mimosa Drive and Redbud Trail as a detour route. A traffic switch is planned for Oct. 26 where mainlane traffic will be switched to the new concrete section between Lamberth Street and SH 56.
South Travis Street, Grayson County: in Sherman at Post Oak Creek. Construction is underway for the South Travis Street bridge over Post Oak Creek. During construction, the bridge will be reduced to one lane with traffic signals controlling traffic through the project, while the new bridge is built in phases.
Business US 377B, Grayson County: in Whitesboro from Randy Street to Walnut Street. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to construct sidewalks and curb ramps. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Business US 377B, Grayson County: south of Whitesboro at the railroad underpass near US 377. Watch for lane closures with signals controlling traffic while crews work to upgrade the bridge railing.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
FM 1753, Grayson County: from FM 120 to FM 1897. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and overlay the roadway.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Construction is ongoing on this new-location roadway which is west of SH 289 approximately four miles. The new roadway will be two lanes with shoulders and will be an extension of the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway. Local traffic on CR 60 (Marilee Road) and Stiff Chapel Road should expect occasional road work at those intersections, with flaggers present to control traffic. Work on FM 121 at the FS 121 intersection (formerly Scharff Road intersection) is ongoing as crews work to widen the pavement to add turn lanes. Motorists on FM 121 should expect daytime lane closures while crews widen the pavement and install a culvert.
US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
US 69, Grayson County: from US 82 to Spur 503. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform spot milling on the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 121, Grayson County: from US 377 to SH 289. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs and blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers build the new SH 34 bridge over the future Lake Ralph Hall as well as the approaches to the bridge.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
FM 100, Fannin County: from US 82 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 409, Fannin County: from FM 2029 to FM 100. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 2029, Fannin County: from FM 1396 to FM 273. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
FM 1536, Hopkins County: from SH 19 to FM 71. Watch for lane closures and short delays as crews rehabilitate the roadway.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
FM 906, Lamar County: from FM 2648 to CR 47400. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
FM 195, Red River County: from the Lamar County line to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and replace bridge rail.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the North Loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures, perform bridge maintenance, and make crossover closures.
Loop 286, Lamar County: at the US 271 North overpass. Watch for road closures during overnight hours while crews perform bridge maintenance on the railroad bridge overpass. A signed detour route will direct traffic around this work site.
Loop 286, Lamar County: At Collegiate Drive intersection and the westbound FM 195 exit ramp. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures, perform bridge maintenance, and make crossover closures.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 2675, Delta County: from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
CR 3440, Delta County: at Jennings Creek. Watch for road closure while crews replace the existing bridge.
CR 15100, Lamar County: at a Branch of Cuthand Creek. Be aware that the road is closed while crews replace the existing bridge.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
CR 1032, 1031 and 2132 (bridge replacement project), Hunt County. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has reopened the CR 1032 bridge. The contractor has removed the existing CR 2132 bridge. The proposed drill shafts, abutments and bridge slab have been constructed. The contractor is allowing cure time for concrete slab at this location. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 224, Hunt County: The contractor has placed barricades and warning signs along with the detour route. The contractor will be forming and pouring abutments and caps this week. Grading for stone rip rap and building crane pads should be done shortly followed by rip rap and setting beams. Beam are scheduled to be set soon. Please be aware of this construction, detour route and workers in the area.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor worked on laying profile tracks and RPMs and placing the final SETs on the driveway culverts. The contractor performed hand work on the SH 19 intersection. The contractor is cleaning up the area and working on final punch-list items. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor is working on the west and east tie ins and the widening of SH 34. The contractor is finishing up drainage and inlet placement for the project. Work will begin soon on sidewalks and signals. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews for both Hunt and Rains County will be performing various overlay and potholing operations. Hunt County maintenance crews will be performing base repair and overlay on FM 1563 near Wolfe City and SH 11 in Commerce and addressing culvert erosion on SH 24 near Commerce. Rains County crews will be working on SH 19 and clearing ditches on SH 276. Crews will be installing mailboxes, delineators, and signs in various locations. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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4 Jailed On Probation Warrants, 2 Arrested In Court, 3 Others Jailed On Felony Warrants
Over the last week, nine people were jailed in Hopkins County on felony warrants. Four people were jailed in Hopkins County on violation of probation warrants, two were taken into custody in district court, and three on other felony warrants, according to arrest and jail reports.
Arrested In District Court
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Deputies Mike Sheen and Steve Huffman took Brian Everett Gumpert into custody at 3:40 p.m. Oct. 13, 2022, in the 8th Judicial District Court. Shing then walked the 54-year-old man into the county jail, where he was booked in at 6:06 p.m. Thursday on a possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance charge.
The Sulphur Springs man remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, in lieu of the $175,000 bond set on the charge, according to jail reports. Gumpert was also booked into county jail on Feb. 15, 2022, on the controlled substance charge, but was released later that day on a$10,000 bond, according to jail records.
HCSO Deputy Elijah Fite took 44-year-old Wendy Ann Wilder into custody at 3:20 p.m. Oct. 13, 2022, in the 8th Judicial District Courtroom after having her bond revoked on a possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance charge, according to arrest reports.
Fite escorted her to the county jail, where she was booked in at 3:48 p.m. Thursday on the charge. The Sulphur Springs woman remained in the county jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, in lieu of a $150,000 bond on the charge, according to arrest reports.
She was last in Hopkins County jail on Feb. 9, 2022, for a possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance charge. She was released from the county jail the next day on a $10,000 bond, according to jail records.
Airport Road Arrest
Sulphur Springs Police Officer Francisco Castro was aware Nicole Rae Pritchard, a wanted woman, was at an Airport Road location Thursday afternoon.
Castro located the 41-year-old Saltillo woman and had dispatchers confirm the warrants were still active. After they did, the officer took Pritchard into custody at 2:05 p.m. Oct. 13, 2022, on both warrants and transported her to the county jail.
Pritchard, who is also known by Nicole Rae Miller, Nicole Pritchard Miller and Nicole Rae Miller Pritchard, was booked in at 2:37 p.m. Oct. 13, 2022, on a Hopkins County warrants for manufacture or delivery of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance and possession of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance.
The 41-year-old Saltillo woman was released from the county jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, after securing the $35,000 bond set on the manufacture or delivery charge and $20,000 on the possession charge, according to jail reports.
Facilities Transfer
HCSO Deputy Steve Huffman traveled to Pam Lynchner State Jail in Humble, where David Jordan Andrews was being held. The deputy took the 33-year-old Sulphur Springs man into custody at 12:02 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 13, 2022, and transported him to Hopkins County jail.
Andrews was booked into the county jail at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 13, 2022, on a warrant for violation of probation, which he was on for possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance, according to arrest reports.
Andrews, who is also known by Jordon David Andrews, remained in HCSO jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, on the warrant, according to jail reports..
Jail records show Andrews spent Aug. 28, 2022-May 18, 2021, in the county jail for possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charge and and a violation of parole warrant, according to jail reports. He also spent the night in jail Sept. 17, 2021 on a possession of drug paraphernalia charge. He was released the next day, according to jail records.
Carter Street Arrest
Sulphur Springs Police Officer Cameron Robinson reported initiating a traffic stop on a Mazda Protégé Tuesday evening, Oct. 11, 2022, on Carter Street at Fuller Street. The driver of the silver vehicle was identified as Charmaine Denise Jeffery. A records check showed the 45-year-old Sulphur Springs woman to have two outstanding warrants for her arrest.
The warrants were confirmed and Robinson took Jeffery into custody at 7:59 p.m. Oct. 11. She was transported to Hopkins County jail, where she was booked in at 8:38 p.m. Tuesday on a Delta County warrant for violation of probation, which she was on for an endangering of a child-criminal negligence charge, and on a Sulphur Springs warrant for a misdemeanor theft charge, according to arrest reports.
Jeffery was held in Hopkins County jail without bond on the charges until Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022, according to jail reports.
Probation Office Arrests
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Aaron Chaney was alerted Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 11, 2022, that Lyndon Kyle Sillings, a wanted man, was spotted inside a Hyundai Accent parked outside the Adult Probation Office. Upon arrival, Chaney contacted the 33-year-old Greenville man sitting inside the silver sedan on Hinnant Street. Confirming the man to be Sillings, Chaney had the Greenville man step out of the car and detained him in handcuffs while he waited for communications operators to confirm the warrant.
Once the Hopkins County warrant was confirmed, Chaney advised Sillings he was officially in custody at 4:24 p.m. Oct. 11 for the warrant. Deputy Richard Brantley arrived and transported Sillings to the county jail. The car was secured and left secured in the parking lot for the Greenville man’s family to pick up later.
The 33-year-old was booked into jail at 5:40 p.m. Tuesday on the warrant for violation of probation, which he was on for online solicitation of a minor-sexual conduct. The violation, Chaney noted in arrest reports, was alleged to have occurred on Sept. 22, 2022, according to arrest reports.
Sillings remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, on the felony probation warrant. Bond on the charge was set at $200,000, according to jail records.
Tuesday was the second time Sillings has been jailed on a warrant for violation of probation on the online solicitation charge. He was also jailed Jan. 13-Feb. 8, 2017, for the violating probation on the felony offense. Sillings was jailed Nov. 20, 2015-Jan. 8, 2016 for the online solicitation of a minor-sexual conduct charge, HCSO jail reports state.
On Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 12, 2022, HCSO Deputy Zack Steward was requested to respond at the Adult Probation Office to collect a wanted woman.
Upon arrival, Steward met with a probation officer, who escorted him into the office, where Loreen Leann Deleon was located. The deputy placed the 29-year-old Crowley woman into custody at 1:48 p.m. Oct. 12, and transported Deleon to the county jail, where she was booked in at 2:16 p.m. Wednesday on the warrant for violation of probation, which she was on for manufacture or delivery of 4 grams or more but 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance, according to arrest reports.
Deleon remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, in lieu of the $150,000 bond set on the probation charge, according to jail reports.
The Crowley woman was last jailed in Hopkins County jail on warrants for two manufacture or delivery of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charges and a motion to revoke probation on a forgery charge. She was released on June 3, 2019; bond on the controlled substance charges totaled $200,000, $1,000 per charge, according to jail records.
Fuller Street Arrest
SSPD Officers Dustin Green and Thad Cook went to a Fuller Street address Friday evening, Oct. 7, 2022, in an attempt to serve the resident with a warrant. The policemen contacted Kearon Elija Mosley outside the residence and, after confirming him to be the wanted man they sought, took the 26-year-old into custody at 6:45 p.m.
Cook transported the Sulphur Springs man to Hopkins County jail, where he was booked in at 7:33 p.m. Oct. 7, 2022, on the warrant for violation of probation, which he was on for a criminal mischief resulting in $2,500-$30,000 worth of damages. Elija Mosley remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, on a $100,000 bond on the charge, according to arrest and jail reports.
Oct. 7 was the third time Mosley has been booked into the county jail over the last year. He was also jailed Nov. 3, 2021, on a warrant for violation of probation on the charge and released the next day on a $25,000 bond. He returned again to the county jail Feb. 2-March 7, 2022, to serve a commitment on the criminal mischief charge. Mosley was first jailed overnight June 9, 2020, on a warrant for the criminal mischief charge, then released the next day on a $5,000 bond, according to HCSO jail records.
HCSO Arrest
Katherine Leanne “Katey” Turner went to HCSO to return tools to Investigator Dennis Findley last Friday. While she was there, Deputy Kevin Lester served Turner with two felony warrants.
The 25-year-old Lewisville woman was taken into custody at 1:45 p.m. Oct. 7, 2022, and escorted into the county jail, where she was booked in at 1:58 p.m. on two forgery of financial instrument charges. The offenses, Lester noted in arrest reports, are alleged to have occurred on Oct. 3, 2022.
Turner remained in Hopkins County jail overnight and, after securing the $2,000 bond per charge, was released Saturday, Oct. 8, 2022, according to jail records.
Last weekend was the second time in less than a month that the Lewisville woman has been booked into Hopkins County jail. The first time was Sept. 19, 2022, on a criminal mischief resulting in $2,500-$30,000 worth of damages; she was released from the county jail the next day on a $5,000 bond on the charge, according to jail reports.
KSSTRadio.com publishes Sulphur Springs Police Department reports and news. The Police Department is located at 125 Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Texas. Non-emergency calls can be made to (903) 885-7602.
If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1.
The Sulphur Springs Police Department continues to serve its citizens with pride in its overall mission and will strive to provide the best possible police force in the 21st century.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Peppa Pig is Coming to Arlington December 26, 2022
KSST has secured a limited number of tickets and will be giving them away to lucky Peppa Pig Fans very soon!
HOORAY! PEPPA PIG LIVE! PEPPA PIG’S ADVENTURE TO RESUME TOURING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON WITH A SPECIAL STOP IN ARLINGTON, TEXAS.
The show, featuring the globally beloved character of Peppa Pig, will delight audiences on December 26, 2022
Tickets on sale now at utatickets.com
WHAT: Round Room Live and Hasbro, Inc., a global play and entertainment company, are thrilled to announce that Peppa Pig Live!Peppa Pig’s Adventurewill bring the lovable, cheeky little piggy to audiences across the United States in time for the holidays! Come join Peppa this Holiday season on an exciting camping trip in the winter woods with George and her school friends, including Pedro Pony, Suzy Sheep and Gerald Giraffe. With lunchboxes packed and Daddy Pig driving the bus, Peppa and friends are excited about their outdoor holiday adventure, full of singing, dancing, games and surprises. Little piggies everywhere will love celebrating the season with this 60-minute live musical experience!
WHEN AND WHERE: The tour will make a stop in Arlington, Texas at College Park Center on Monday, December 26, 2022 at 6 p.m.
TICKETS for the live, family-friendly musical experience are on sale now at www.utatickets.com.
MORE INFORMATION: Since launching in 2004, PEPPA PIG has captured the hearts and minds of preschoolers and caregivers worldwide. Known for her British accent, charming wit and endearing confidence, Peppa’s YouTube views in 2021 alone equated to over 300,000 years spent watching, equivalent to 20 minutes for every person on Earth. Resulting from Hasbro’s ongoing Brand Blueprint Strategy, fans can immerse themselves in all things Peppa through various consumer touchpoints, including full episodes on Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. and Amazon Prime, narrative content via AVOD platforms, a library of audio stories, music releases, app play, cross-category consumer products, Live shows and now, a visit to the new Peppa Pig Theme Park, in Florida. Audiences have been eagerly watching as she embarks on new adventures, facing the joys and obstacles of contemporary life with humor and gumption, instilling confidence and demystifying first experiences for kids along the way.
In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Adventure tour producers and venue management teams continue to work diligently on localized plans to ensure the safety of all audience members, touring personnel, and venue staff. College Park Center is a GBAC Star accredited venue, and is committed to keeping guests and employees safe with strict cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention measures. Learn more at utatix.com/GBAC.
Fans can visit peppapigliveus.com now for tour dates, ticket information and one-of-a-kind photo experience packages. Follow Peppa Pig Live! social media for pre-sale access and exclusive tour content.
FOLLOW PEPPA PIG LIVE!:
Website: www.peppapigliveus.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/PeppaPigUSTour
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/PeppaPigLiveUS
Instagram: www.instagram.com/PeppaPigUSTour
FOLLOW PEPPA PIG:
Website: www.peppapig.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/peppapig
Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialPeppaPig
Twitter: www.twitter.com/PeppaPig
Instagram: www.instagram.com/officialpeppa
15th Annual Help-A-Child Benefit Kicks Off Today (Oct. 14)
Ag Mechanics Build Off Slated Friday; Cook-Offs, Livestock Show, FFA Project Show, Auctions Following On Oct. 15
In just a few hours, the 15th Annual Help-A-Child Benefit will kick off what promises to be two days of fun competitions and family-friendly activities designed to raise funds and awareness for organizations and programs which benefit children in the local communities.
Benefit Events
1. Ag Team Competition Build Off
Leading off this year’s benefit, will be the Ag Mechanics Team Competition Build Off which begins at 8 a.m. Friday, Oct. 14, 2022, behind Gerald Prim Stadium in the Hopkins County Civic Center Equine Pavilion Parking Lot. Although this will be the first time the team build off has been part of the Help-A-Child Benefit, it has drawn quite a bit of interest — 36 teams from 28 different schools preregistered to compete Friday, and only one team was unable to make it.
This contest will feature ag mechanics teams of four from school agriculture chapters across Texas, who will be tasked with building an identical item during a time event. Teams begin at 8 and have until noon to build their smoker. Each team receives the same materials, but put their welding and ag mechanics skills to the test putting it together. Each team will be judged on construction and how well they worked together.
The teams constructing the top four projects in Friday’s build off will go home with numerous prizes, including tools and shirts. At noon teams are to take their projects to the designated area for judging. Winners were expected to be announced Friday around 12:30 or 1 p.m., depending on how long it takes the panel to rate each project.
The top three projects then will be among the items auctioned Saturday afternoon on the Civic Center Grounds. Funds raised will go toward the children’s charities and scholarships Help-A-Child benefits. The live auction will immediately follow announcement of winners from all of the other contests starting at noon Oct. 15, 2022.
2. Chili and Brisket Contest/Dutch Oven Peach Cobbler Cooking
Things will really heat up starting at daylight Saturday, Oct. 15, on the Civic Center Grounds as cooking for the chili and brisket contests begin. Dutch oven peach cobbler will also be prepared. The are will be open to the public beginning at 11:30 a.m. to enjoy all they want of the chili and brisket cooked on the grounds for $10 a piece.
Winners will be announced and awards presented for the top rated edible entries.
3. Livestock Show
While the chili and brisket chefs are getting their campfire going and perfecting their entries, exhibitors will begin checking in at 7 a.m. for the 2nd Annual Livestock Show in the Equine Pavilion.
“Last year, we had 106 exhibitors our first time, so we feel that was a success,” said Wade Bartley, founder of the local Help-A-Child Event, who currently is over the auction. “The way we look at this is, we’ve got children helping children. We get the FFA, 4-H and FCCLA organizations involved in this. We’ve got a lot of good participation from our local chapters.”
Check-in will continue until 8 a.m., with the livestock show starting at 9 a.m. The show is open to all age exhibitors of steer and heifers. Steers will be shown by division and weight ( Ex. American, British, Exotic), while heifers will be shown by breed, and their there is no age limit on heifers. This is coordinated by Jay Jordan and Kevin Gray.
4. Big Ticket Raffle
A drawing will also be held Saturday afternoon for a Polaris Ranger 500, sponsored by The Faulk Company, premier sponsor for the 2022 Help-A-Child Benefit, and Como-Pickton FFA. The Faulk Company’s donation allowed for the purchase of the Ranger, which comes on a trailer custom-built by Como-Pickton FFA.
Raffle tickets are available for $20 each or six for $100 Friday and most of the morning Saturday on the Civic Center Grounds during the benefit. The winner does not have to be present at the time of the drawing to claim the Polaris Ranger and trailer. The winner will, however, be responsible for taxes and other fees.
5. Ira Black FFA Ag Mechanics Project Show
The Ira Black FFA Shop Project Show is slated to begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, 2022, on the Civic Center Grounds. This event is named in honor of the late Ira Black, whose long educational career began in a one-room school house, then took him to Cooper and Honey Grove schools. Black worked 32 years as an Area VI Vocational Agriculture Supervisor for the Texas Education Agency.
Black was active in the Texas State Future Farmer program and the Hopkins County Ag Workers Association. He also directed the Children’s Barnyard at the State Fair of Texas and served as superintendent of the livestock show. He helped establish the Ag Workers Organization in Sulphur Springs and was instrumental in the development of the Hopkins Co. Rural Urban Organization that helped bond city and county citizens. The dedicated educator received numerous honors, visionary and leadership awards related to his agriculture and education involvement throughout his life.
The Ira Black FFA Ag Mechanics Show conducted during the annual Help-A-Child Benefit typically features not only shop projects such as tables, fire pits, wooden toolboxes, a lounge chair metal home décor and cutouts, a bench and other items, but also an arts and crafts competition and recognition for cookie creations all created by area high school FFA and FCCLA students. He also spent many years as Superintendent of the Poultry Show at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.
Awards will be announced during the noon presentations, with students recognized for projects entered in various categories for the students’ entries with one grand champion trophy awarded to the top rated project entered into the show. Projects are then sold at auction, with proceeds benefitting the children’s charities supported by the Help A Child Benefit.
6. Live And Silent Auctions
A silent auction of certain donated items will be conducted Saturday during the ag mechanics show. People can go by, scope out the options and, if they see something they’d like to take home, write down their name and bid for that item.
Then, immediately following the announcement of ag mechanics project show and team build-off winners, and chili and brisket winners (roughly 12:30 p.m.), a live auction of project show items and any other donated items donated will be conducted.
Where The Money Goes
All proceeds from the Help-A-Child Benefit will go to four different causes that, you guessed it, help children: Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children and Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center, the Masonic Lodge Scholarship Program, and this year four foster families will be recognized.
There is no set goal for the fundraiser, but those involved always hope each successive year will bring in a little bit more to stretch a bit further to help children. Help-A-Child is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization so all donations are tax-deductible. There are no administrative fees paid out as the annual benefit is staffed by an all-volunteer staff, so every penny profited goes to children, Bartley noted.
Last year, the Help-A-Child Benefit donated $107,000, the balance of the fundraiser, to help children served by Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center, Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, local foster families and the Masonic scholarship program benefitting area high school seniors, according to Bartley.
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital For Children
Of the four children’s causes benefitting from the Help-A-Child event, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children was one of the original organizations receiving funding from the benefit 15 years ago.
The hospital opened it’s doors to the children of Texas in 1921 and has emerged as one of the nation’s leading medical centers for the treatment of pediatric orthopedic conditions and sports injuries and fractures, as well as certain related neurological disorders and learning disorders, such as dyslexia.
Each year, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for children provides extensive treatment and therapy for thousands of children challenged by orthopedic conditions, including scoliosis, clubfoot, congenital dislocated hip, Legg-Perthes, limb-length differences and hand conditions, as well as young athletes with sports injuries.
Through the hospital’s Luke Waites Center for Dyslexia and learning Disorders, specific learning disorders, such as dyslexia, are evaluated and treated. Through the hospital’s videotaped dyslexia and literacy training programs, thousands of Texas students have learned to read and write.
The staff of more than 1,000 full-time members at the facility are actively supported by 1,000 dedicated volunteers.
Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is governed by a board of trustees who are members of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry in Texas. Scottish Rite Masons are affiliated with Freemasonry, a worldwide fraternal organization whose members share a common desire to better themselves as citizens and members of society. Financial support from the Scottish Rite or broader Masonic groups is on an individual, voluntary basis. The hospital is not affiliated with the Shriners Hospitals for Children.
Northeast Texas Child Advocacy Center
NETCAC, located in Winnsboro, also has benefitted from the Help-A-Child event since the annual fundraiser was first started 15 years ago.
NETCAC has interviewed more than 7,800 children since the facility first opened its doors in 1998 as a safe child- friendly environment to children between the ages of 2-17 who are alleged to have been sexually or severely physically abused or have been a witness to a violent crime. The children are allowed to tell their stories in a non-leading way to a trained forensic interviewer rather than having to repeat it multiple times to multiple agencies involved in the investigation and prosecution, therefore reducing the trauma to the child.
The NETCAC meets the standards and criteria set by the Texas Family Code and are members of Children’s
Advocacy Centers of Texas and National Children’s Alliance. Currently, the facility is able to offer these services free of charge, thanks to grant assistance, financial assistance from area businesses, gifts-in-kind, donations such as the one received from Help-A- Child organization, community support, and the CAC board members and volunteers.
To provide a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) of professionals to work together to facilitate the prevention, detection, investigation, and treatment to ensure that the best interest of the child victims are being served. CACs coordinate monthly MDT meetings to discuss cases.
Scholarship Program
The Help-A-Child benefit started with just four local Masonic Lodges involved in coordinating and putting on the event. Last year, Help-A-Child partnered with 11 Masonic Lodges from across Northeast Texas to award scholarships to graduating seniors. This year, a dozen Masonic Lodges from across Northeast Texas are partnering with Help-A-Child not only to help conduct the annual fall benefit for kids but to raise money to help high school graduates in their area with costs of a post secondary education.
In exchange for their active help hosting the event, each participating Masonic Lodge will receive a $1,500 donation they can use for scholarships. Each Lodge then has the opportunity to apply to Texas Grand Lodge for a $1,500 scholarship match, doubling the amount the Lodge is able to give in scholarships as a result of the Help-A-Child benefit. Last year along, the Lodges were able to give more than 30,000 in scholarships.
Foster Families
For the past two years, the Help A Child Benefit has recognized families who are outstanding in caring for foster children. This year, four foster families will be recognized for the unselfish time and love they offer to children in need love, attention, and direction in their spiritual.
“There are many children in today’s society who need all of the above and more. It takes special parents who will take in these special children on a moments notice to provide a safe and loving environment. We admire these foster families who are unselfish with their time and love,” Help-A-Child organizers noted in a benefit brochure explaining how and why the foster families are recognized annually.
This year, Bartley noted, four foster families will be recognized through the Help-A Child benefit.
Acknowledgements
The benefit would not be possible without the many local businesses, organizations and individuals who not only donate funds to help underwrite costs, but also donate items for the auction, participate in the competitions and volunteer their time at the various events.
The 2022 premier sponsor for Help-A-Child is The Faulk Company. Walmart is acknowledged as a presenting sponsor.
Past presenting sponsors include Benson Bros Wrecker Service, BT Medical Supplies, In-Touch by Cumby Tel, Lone Star Surgery, Alliance Bank and Purina Feeds.
HCSO Warns Of Jury Duty Phone Scam
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is warning local residents of a jury duty phone scam.
“We have been made aware that someone is calling people posing as a county employee and demanding 500 dollars because the victim failed to show for jury duty. No one from the Sheriff’s Office is going to call and ask for money over the phone. If you ever have a question if something is a scam or not, call and speak to a deputy,” a notice released by HCSO stated.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Funding Priorities For The 2023 Hopkins County Health Care Foundation Set
By Kayla Price, Executive Director, Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation
Sulphur Springs, Texas — The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s Board of Directors have selected funding goals for the 2022-23 year. Through the years, almost $3 million has been raised to provide the local hospital and EMS with equipment and offerings to which a community our size would normally not have access.
One of the primary sources of funding, the annual Lights of Life Gala, is slated for Saturday, April 22, 2023 at the Hopkins County Civic Center. Monies raised through this event will go to fund projects presented by the Hopkins County Hospital District and CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs employees. The Board then decides each year which projects the Foundation will fund with proceeds from the Gala and other fundraising initiatives.
This year’s funding goals are:
- Five new Stryker InTouch Critical Care Beds to replace old hospital beds used in half of the rooms in the Intensive Care Unit. The new beds will help both patient and staff. The bed aids in preventing bed sores, helps with moving a patient, provides a warning that patient may be trying to get out the bed, plays music to lower stress, and speaks 26 languages. The five beds will cost an estimated $181,607.
- A Biodex Balance System and Barihab Treatment Platform for use by Inpatient Therapy. The balance system will help improve strength, range of motion, gait and balance for patients. The treatment platform provides safety for patients and staff by placing the patients in various positions without the risk of fall or injury. This equipment will cost an estimated $43,000.
- Portable X-Ray machine to be used in the Mobile Athletic Training Room (MATR) to determine the severity of young athletes’ sports injuries. This will aid trainers with treating the student. The X-Ray machine costs $90,000.
- An interactive educational program to teach high school students the risks of drunk driving, drowsy driving, texting while driving, as well as boat and side x side safety. The equipment and supplies will cost an estimated $37,000.
Chairman of the HCHCF Board of Directors, Maleta Reynolds, said, “The Board is pleased to raise funds to support these health and wellness initiatives for Hopkins County citizens. Any of us could find ourselves or our loved ones in ICU. The new beds will assist with healing and patient safety. Our community is so proud of our students, so programs and equipment to keep them safe will be easy for all of us to rally around. And, the rehab equipment is state-of-the-art and will provide the best care for patients experiencing mobility issues.”
“Of course, we always look forward to partnering with CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs and the Hopkins County Hospital District. Together, our three organizations are able to provide so many more opportunities for health and wellness than other communities our size can offer. We are truly blessed with this arrangement,” continued Reynolds.
Sponsorship opportunities and ticket information will be made available closer to the event. Reynolds encourages the public to watch for more announcements related to this popular event.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. The Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is governed by an independent Board of Directors each of whom lives in Hopkins County.
For more information on the Foundation, contact Executive Director Kayla Price at 903-438-4799.
New Senior Center A Step Closer To Construction With Signing Of Grant Contract
Sulphur Springs is one step closer to construction on a new senior center. City Manager Marc Maxwell signed the contract with Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs Thursday, Sept. 13, 2022, for a $2.4 million grant to help with cost of constructing a new activity building for senior citizens.
The City of Sulphur Springs anticipates advertising for bids Monday for the project, with a construction contract expected to be awarded at the Dec. 6, 2022, meeting of Sulphur Springs City Council.
“This has been a long process, but it will be worth it in the end,” Maxwell said, adding, “The City would like to thank the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, the voters of Sulphur Springs, and the generous donors who made this project possible.”
The project, along with renovations at Pacific Park, was part of the $3 million bond proposition approved by Sulphur Springs voters in November 2019. The city sought bonds which will be paid back over the next 20 years using Economic Development funding. While the city was able to get the new Grays Building built before costs of materials increased too significantly, the same could not be said for the planned senior citizens building, which has been delayed for more than a year now.
Sulphur Springs City Council in December 2021 agreed to hire KSBR to write the grant, at a cost of 13% of any TDHCA Community Resiliency Program grant funding the city might receive. The grant applications factored in some additional inflation and expanded the original design plan for the new senior center from about 8,500 to 11,000-square feet to better serve and meet the needs of those utilizing the facility.
The applications was submitted by the January deadline and the City of Sulphur Springs was notified in April that TDHCA has approved the grant for $2.4 million to be applied toward the construction of a brand new Senior Citizens Center on city-owned property just past the railroad tracks on Oak Avenue.
Maxwell was authorized to sign the contract to get the project moving. The project has remained in limbo since May 2022, waiting for TDHCA to submit a grant contract; the City would not be reimbursed with grant funding for any costs spent on construction of the new senior citizens activity center prior before the contract is signed.
In September, Maxwell reported an environmental clearance process which involves 2 different comment periods, the last of which was Sept. 28, had to be completed before TDHCA would have a contract to be ready in about a week for signature.
At the Oct. 4 City Council meeting, Maxwell reported another 9-day delay, pushing the environmental clearance period back to Friday, Oct. 7, with the $2.4 million TCHCA grant contract expected to be ready for a signature by Oct. 14, which would allow the city to begin seeking bids by Oct. 21.
Maxwell Thursday afternoon, Oct. 13, 2022, reported the TDHCA grant contract has at long last been signed. The city anticipates posting a notice requesting bids Monday for the project, then awarding a construction contract at the Dec. 6, 2022, City Council meeting.
In addition to the $1.5 million in bond funding and $2.4 million TDHCA grant, $157,767 in private donations will be applied toward the new activity building for senior citizens, giving the city a total budget of almost $4,078,000 for the project.
