Commissioners Renew 1 Local Disaster Declaration, Enact Another
Hopkins County Commissioners Court renewed one local disaster declaration for the damages resulting from Nov. 4 tornadoes, and enacted another due to “threat of disaster from the unprecedented levels of illegal immigration, human trafficking, and drug smuggling coming across the U.S. border from Mexico.”
New Disaster Declaration
Hopkins County Commissioners Court was asked during the regular court session Monday, Nov. 14, 2022, to approve a declaration of local state of disaster due to illegal immigration, human trafficking and drug smuggling across the border from Mexico.
“Basically, what this is it’s a declaration of a local state disaster and I might ask the sheriff for his input on this. According to what I have before me today, since January 2021, more than 3.2 million illegal aliens apprehended after unlawfully entering the United States, and more than 800,000 illegal aliens have avoided apprehension while unlawfully entering the United States and remain unaccounted for within our nation,” County Judge Robert Newsom said. “Basically, the proclamations calls for simply a proclamation that we are under a very serious situation in Texas, in Hopkins County as well as the United States. We ask that this declaration be noted to our state and to our nation, that we have a very serious situation across the state.”
The disaster declaration, citing the Centers for Disease Control statistics, states that “the unprecedented amount of human trafficking, combined with the smuggling of fentanyl and other opioids infiltrating our border with Mexico had killed over 71,238 American citizens.” According to the declaration, Customs and Border Protection have identified more than 50 known terrorists who have unlawfully entered the US through an unsecured border with Mexico. It claims sophisticated international human and drug trafficking organizations spearheaded by “violent international drug cartels” have operational control over the unsecured US-Mexico border. The document declares “the ongoing immigration crisis” an unacceptable security threat and humanitarian disaster, the consequences of which impact Hopkins County residents.
“Along with the immigrants coming across undocumented, we have had a large influx of drugs. Drugs are so plentiful now they are free now basically,” Sheriff Lewis Tatum said. “It’s just causing all kinds of havoc. We’ve had two ODs (over-doses) in this county recently, and one of them came back with fentanyl and we’re not sure about the most recent one; the tests aren’t back. We’ve got to get a handle on it. I spoke with the Sheriff’s Association this morning and they’re asking for help on the border states. They’re overwhelmed and officers and sheriff’s down there are just give out. They can’t handle the deceased bodies that they are finding let alone stop the immigrants coming across illegally.”
The disaster declaration noted the county judge has “determined that extraordinary measures must be taken to ensure the protection of the health, safety, and welfare of county residents.” It calls on Texas Governor to “declare the existence of an invasion on its border with Mexico and taken necessary actions to preserve and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Texas.” Citing Article 4, Section 7 of the Texas Constitution and Article 1, Section 10, Clause 3 of the US Constitution, the declaration asks the governor to use constitutional authority to immediately prevent and remove all people invading Texas and the US.
The local disaster declaration authorizes the use of “all lawfully available resources and authority” granted by both the Texas and US Constitution. The declaration is to remain in effect until the county judge terminates it, and grants the judge authority to issue additional directives related to the issue at any time necessary or relevant.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price made a motion, which Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley seconded, approving the local disaster declaration “regarding Texas invasion.” The declaration was issued with full approval of the Commissioners Court.
Renewed Disaster Declaration
The Commissioners Court also considered renewing the disaster declaration the county judge issued last week for damages caused by the tornadoes, high winds, fallen trees and water from the storm cells which spread through Northeast Texas and Oklahoma on Nov. 4, 2022.
Two tornadoes were confirmed by the National Weather Service to have touched down within a 2-mile radius in Hopkins County, primarily in Precinct 1, although one dairy barn was damaged in Precinct 2 in the Pickton area as well In Precinct 1, four buildings — three residences and a shop — were completely destroyed and two sustained heavy damage, according to Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley.
“There’s a lot of damage. I know most of the commissioners have been out there that night helping with that. We appreciate everyone out there, including the sheriff’s office. We could not have done what we done that night without everyone’s help. It is greatly appreciated,” Endsley said.
Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker extended thanks to Endsley and the fire department personnel for their work in a chaotic situation.
“We have about three houses totaled this go-round and several houses and barns and other properties damaged. We will be getting some information out about how they can ask for assistance,” Barker said.
Endsley said Hopkins County was very blessed in the limited loss sustained, compared to that of neighboring Lamar and Red River counties. Hopkins County officials, after things were more or less settled Nov. 4 in Hopkins County sent fire department personnel to Lamar County and Red River County to assist. In Lamar County, where a tornado was on the ground for 22 miles Nov. 4, 37 homes were completely destroyed and over 40 heavily damaged just outside of Paris. In Red River County, a tornado was one the ground for 46 miles and destroyed 12 residences on Nov. 4.
Endsley said he has flown in a Texas Department of Public Safety helicopter since the tornadoes swept through the area, observing the path the twisters took over the Red River, then touched back down in Idabel, Oklahoma, where one person was killed, and a lot of destruction was reported. He said from the sky he was also able to see where a tornado touched down after going over Highway 82 in Clarksville, covering a wide path.
County Judge Robert Newsom issued a local disaster declaration on Nov. 8, which would allow the county to apply for financial assistance if it become available. The disaster declaration has to be approved by the Commissioners Court within 7 days or it expires.
“This will help us if there’s any back side to mitigation grants, things like that. We won’t see anything on the front side, but possibility of grants and things like that that come in later as soon as the governor declares — and I anticipate pretty sooner because we had seven tornadoes through our area right here around us. Since we touch the very bottom tip of Lamar County, we will be included in that,” Endsley said.
Endsley said there are links on social media platforms where people access links to report damage. This helps give local and state officials an account of loss and damages. Damages have to reach a certain level for an area before FEMA funding becomes available, the fire marshal noted.
According to Extension Agent Mario Villarino, Texans impacted by the severe weather are encouraged to fill out an Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT) survey. The information provided in the survey helps emergency management officials gain an understanding of damages that have occurred and aids officials in determining if the state meets federally-required thresholds for various forms of disaster assistance, as well as identify any immediate resource needs. The iSTAT damage survey can be filled out in multiple languages online by visiting damage.tdem.texas.gov and clicking on November 3-5, 2022: Severe Weather Event.
Precinct 1 Commissioners Mickey Barker made a motion, which Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin, seconded approving the renewal of the local disaster declaration due to damages from the tornadoes on Nov. 4, 2022. The motion was unanimously approved by the court.
Christmas In Heritage Park Offered Nov. 26 and Dec. 3, 2022
Hopkins County Historical Society will once again host Christmas in Heritage Park Saturdays, Nov. 26 and Dec. 3, 2022, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.
A $3 fee is asked for everyone age 7 and older, but children ages 6 or younger will be admitted free to enjoy the old fashioned Christmas in the Park with their families at Heritage Park, 416 North Jackson St.
Lots of door prizes will be awarded, and free hot cocoa and old fashioned cider, coffee and cookies will be free to enjoy.
The lighted trees are up, the buildings are decorated. Hopkins County Historical Society members invited all to come out and help celebrate this special time of the year at Christmas in the Park.
In addition to light displays and music while strolling the grounds, Santa will be available to visit with the young and young at heart. Marshmallows can be roasted over an open fire, roasted peanuts and popcorn are also available for a fee. The Country Store has been turned into a Christmas store. Hundreds of Christmas items are for sale. All proceeds from Christmas In Heritage Park will go toward maintenance and preservation of Heritage Park.
Hopkins County Commissioners Court Nov. 14 Agenda
Meal A Day Menu And Senior Citizens Center Calendar for Nov. 14-18, 2022
Volunteers prepare meals at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center and deliver them five days a week to MealA Day program recipients in Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County. The Meal A Day Menu for the remainder of the week of Nov. 14-18, 2022 includes:
- MONDAY, NOV. 14 — Chicken Spaghetti, Mixed Vegetables and Garlic Toast.
- TUESDAY, NOV. 15 — Smothered Beef Patties With Brown Gravy & Onions, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and a Roll.
- WEDNESDAY, NOV. 16 — Cheesy Chicken & Broccoli Rice Casserole, Peas & Carrots, and Corn.
- THURSDAY, NOV. 17 — BBQ Smoked Sausage, Macaroni & Cheese, Baked Beans and a Roll.
- FRIDAY, NOV. 18 — Cheeseburgers, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Onion, Hamburger Dill Slices and Chips.
The Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center is a place where Senior Citizens age 50 and over can have a good time with old friends and make some new ones. Meal-A-Day is just one service the center provides. The coffee pot is always on and a smile is on each face. The SCC has a full library with all different kinds of reading books that can be taken, read and returned. Take as many as you like and bring some of your books in to share with others. Click here to find more information for seniors citizens.
2022 Hopkins County Christmas CASA Cookie Walk Will Feature Treats From Local Bakers
Will Your Church Observe Stand Sunday? Did You Know You Can Generate Money For Lake Country CASA While Shopping Online
An annual Hopkins County Christmas tradition, the CASA Cookie Walk, is returning this year and will feature some special treats. Another event a little soon, Stand Sunday, will happen Nov. 13. And, there are option for those who wish to donate to or become involved with CASA.
CASA Cookie Walk
The fundraiser for the organization for more than 25 years was canceled the last couple of years due to COVID and replaced with Miracles Made on Connally Street, where people were invited to purchase tickets for $25 each to win one of 12 small decorated Christmas trees.
CASA announced this month, however, that the annual Christmas tradition, the CASA Cookie Walk, will be held in 2022. It is scheduled as is tradition on the first Friday in December from 9 a.m. to noon (or until all the cookies are gone).
“We are excited to announce there will be yummy treats from some fabulous local bakers so plan to join us for some Christmas goodness! Sweets & Sunshine Shelly’s Sweets, Cinnamon Bear’s Bakery, Christy’s Piece of cake,” local CASA representatives noted.
A variety of cookies and other sweet eats will be offered for a $5 per pound donation (or more if you are feeling generous) Dec. 2, 2022, at First United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 301 Church St. (across from the Post Office).
All proceeds from the Cookie Walk will benefit the children Lake Country CASA serves in Hopkins, Rains, and Franklin counties. Lake Country CASA served 60 children in Hopkins County alone in 2021.
Stand Sunday
Before the CASA Cookie Walk will be an other event, Stand Sunday. On Nov. 13, 2022, people are asked to stand together to show support for children and families in foster care.
Stand Sunday began in 2004, when Bishop Aaron Blake Sr. called for the families of Brownwood to stand up to care for children and families impacted by the child welfare system. Since then, churches across the country have begun joining forces on Stand Sunday to declare war on inaction when it comes to children and families facing abuse, abandonment and neglect. Stand Sunday, traditionally, is a time when people of all faiths stand as one voice on the second Sunday in November for this one purpose — showing support for children and families involved in the foster care system.
As of June 2022, there are 12,128 children in Texas foster care system. Across the US, there are approximately 424,000 children in foster care, StandSunday.org reports.
Lake CASA encourages everyone to take time Sunday to pray for children in foster care and stand up for children who have suffered abuse or neglect.
Check with you church to see if Stand Sunday will be observed on Nov. 13. And, its not restricted to churches; a group or individual can take a stand through advocacy, prayer and finding out ways in the local community they can support. Families may even want to become foster families, make contributions to charitable organizations such as CASA that are dedicated to helping these children who have been removed from their homes and placed into the foster care system, or consider become a CASA volunteer.
In cases where children enter the foster system because their homes are deemed or alleged to be unsafe, a judge may appoint a committed volunteer whose only focus is on that child, giving hope and help in guiding the child to a safe, permanent home.
CASAs work to ensure that every child who needs an advocate to speak for his or her best interests before the courts has a caring, trained adult to help them during this difficult time in their life.
For more information about Lake County CASA, call 903-885-1173.
Donating to CASA
Donations are also accepted to help support the CASA program, to provide funding for advocacy efforts and things the children CASA is entrusted to represent wouldn’t have if not for the organization. Donations may be made:
- At the Cookie Walk;
- By PayPal or a debit or credit card online on
- Lake Country CASA website (https://lakecountrycasa.org/get-involved/donate/) by selecting “Donate;”
- the Lake Country CASA Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/lakecountrycasa)
- By selecting Lake Country CASA as the charity of choice at AmazonSmile, to have 0.5% of purchases you make while shopping the site go to CASA to help the children the organization serves.
Paris District Road Report for November 14, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Nov. 14, 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.
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 complete construction on the new southbound US 75 overpass as well as complete storm drainage work. 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 Nov. 22, 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 lane 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 is closed to through traffic to allow crews to work on paving at the intersection. During the closure, traffic wishing to use Cypress Grove Road is asked to use Mimosa Drive and Redbud Trail as a detour route. Mainlane traffic has been switched to the new concrete section between Lamberth Street and SH 56. The Lamberth Street intersection on the west side of FM 1417 is currently closed to through traffic to allow crews to work on paving at the intersection. During the closure, traffic wishing to use Lamberth Street is asked to use Taylor St. and Little Lane as a detour route. The Lamberth Street closure is expected to last three weeks.
Roland Road at the South Branch of Big Mineral Creek is closed to traffic in order for crews to replace the bridge structure and approaches. During the closure, traffic is requested to use either US 377 or County Line Road as a detour.
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 Monday and Thursday during the nighttime.
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.
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 place pavement markings on 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 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 west bridge deck have been constructed. The bridge deck curing is in progress and the contractor is awaiting to start the roadway flex base. 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 has poured the abutments and caps. Grading and placing stone rip rap is presently occurring. Beams 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. The contractor is working on SH 276 and SH 34 concrete paving to complete the tie-ins. Work has begun on the project sidewalks and signals. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
FM 38 & I-30 Bridges: The contractor plans to clean and paint exist structure on SH 56 location. Overhead bridge repairs on I-30 east bound have continued. The contractor plans on beginning joint repair and bridge rail repair on I-30 east bound November 14th. The contractor plans to begin and finish overhead bridge repairs on I-30 west bound. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 66, Hunt County: SH 66 at FM 1570, SH 34 at FM 1570. The contractor will continue signal work at SH 66 at FM 1570 and SH 34 at FM 1570. The contractor will be partially removing islands and extending box culvert at SH 34 and FM 1570.
Maintenance crews for both Hunt and Rains County will be performing various overlay and potholing operations. Rains County maintenance crews will be performing seal prep on FM 35 from SH 276 to Rockwall County line. Hunt County crews will be on FUA on FM 903 and IH 30. 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 SSHS Students Place At UIL Regional Congress
Four Sulphur Springs students placed in the UIL Regional Congress event held Nov. 10, 2022, in Pittsburg, including one who has qualified to compete at State and a second student who was named as a state alternate.
Congress is an individual contest in a large group setting. It models the legislative process of democracy, specifically, the United States Congress. Within this mock legislative assembly competition, contestants draft legislation (proposed laws and position statements) submitted to the tournament, and they research the docket of bills and resolutions dealing with real-world social and political policies prior to the contest to prepare their speeches.
At the tournament, students caucus in committees, deliver formal discourse on the merits and disadvantages of each piece of legislation, and vote to pass or defeat the measures they have examined. Parliamentary procedure forms structure for the discourse, and students extemporaneously respond to others’ arguments over the course of a session, according to UIL.
SSHS student Jordan VanWinkle earned second place honors in UIL Congress, qualifying the SSHS student to compete in the state level competition.
Crawford Johnson placed fourth in UIL Congress, qualifying him as a state alternate.
Jack Bain also was recognized for finishing sixth and Tracey Shackelford for placing seventh in UIL Congress.
Congrats to these SSHS students on their UIL Congress accomplishments.
Deputy Finds Fake ID, Suspected Marijuana, Synthetic Urine
2 Men Jailed On Warrants, 1 on Marijuana Charge
November 11, 2022 – A sheriff’s deputy stopped to check on a motorist parked on the shoulder of I-30, but ended up finding a fake ID, suspected marijuana and synthetic urine; one person was taken into custody on a fraud charge as a result. A Naples man with two outstanding warrants allegedly gave a fake name and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine during an early morning traffic stop, and the other Naples man in the car was found to be wanted as well. About two hours later, a Grand Prairie man was found in possession of three baggies of suspected marijuana.
I-30 West Motorist Assist
Hopkins County Sheriff‘s Deputy Bobby Osornio stopped near mile marker 140 on Interstate 30 west to check on occupants of a Chevy Malibu parked with flashers on on the improved shoulder of a bridge, between a guardrail and the solid white line, at 12:05 a.m. Nov. 11, 2022. He pulled in behind the car and turned on his emergency lights, so other motorists would be aware they were on the roadside.
Upon contact, Osornio noted the female driver was crying. The woman told him she was upset because of the vehicle problems she was having. While talking to her, Osornio said he noticed another female walking on the shoulder toward the woman’s car. He instructed the driver to move the car forward to a safer location past the bridge.
Osornio noted a strong marijuana odor could be smelled coming from the car while he was talking to the woman, then, noticed a green, leafy substance he believed to be marijuana on the passenger’s side floorboard.
The driver gave the deputy a Texas ID card and the other female, identified as a passenger, gave Osornio a Texas Department of Criminal Justice inmate card identifying her as April Danielle Homer. He then had the two women exit the car and asked them to empty their pockets. They agreed to let the deputy search their wallets. A driver’s license in Homer’s wallet appeared to the deputy to be a fake ID, but had Homer’s name and date of birth on it. A records check using the card number showed it had been issued to someone else, Osornio alleged in arrest reports.
Homer also was allegedly found to be in possession of a small baggy containing a green leafy substance the deputy believed to be marijuana. A probable cause search of the car revealed a marijuana rolling tray with residue in the passenger’s side floorboard and two bottles of synthetic urine in the glove box, Osornio alleged in arrest reports. He collected the suspect marijuana, rolling tray and synthetic urine secured it. Homer was placed into custody at 12:27 a.m. Friday, Nov. 11, 2022. The driver had help en route to assist her with the vehicle problems. He left the driver to wait and transported the 35-year-old Dallas woman to Hopkins County jail.
Homer, who arrest reports show is also known by the alias “Boosie,” was booked into Hopkins County jail at 3:05 a.m. Friday Nov. 11, 2022, on a fraudulent use or possession of less than 5 items of identifying information, according to arrest reports.
West Shannon Road Traffic Stop
Sulphur Springs Police Officer Dustin Green reported stopping a Honda Civic at 12:38 a.m. Friday morning, Nov. 11, 2022, on West Shannon Road (near I-30 east mile marker 123) for a traffic violation.
Upon contact, Green obtained ID information from the two men in the car, and asked communications operators for a records check on the two.
Dispatchers advised the passenger had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. After the warrant was confirmed by Bowie County authorities as active, the 34-year-old Naples man was arrested at 12:58 a.m. Friday on a warrant for violating probation on a misdemeanor theft of property warrant.
Green had the driver step out of the tan vehicle as well. As he did, the officer reported seeing a clear plastic bag with a crystal-like substance suspected to be methamphetamine on the driver’s seat where the Naples man had been sitting in the car. The suspected meth and packaging weighed 1.2 grams, resulting in the driver’s arrest at 12:54 a.m. Friday, Green alleged in reports.
The car was impounded and the two Naples men were transported to the county jail. Upon arrival at the county jail, however, Green learned the driver had given him a false name. Instead of being 33-year-old Lamonte Williams, the driver was actually 32-year-old Dereck Williams of Naples, Texas, a man with two outstanding warrants.
As a result, Dereck Wayne Williams was booked into Hopkins County jail at 2:50 a.m. Nov. 11, 2022, on possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance and failure to identify charges, as well as a violation of parole warrant and a Morris County unauthorized use of a motor vehicle charge. Bond was recommended at $4,000, according to arrest reports.
The passenger was booked in at 2:22 a.m. Veterans Day on the misdemeanor Bowie County warrant for violation of probation, according to arrest reports.
I-30 West Traffic Stop
HCSO Deputy Josh Davis stopped a Toyota Corolla at 3:35 a.m. Friday at mile marker 116 on I-30 west for a defective license plate light and expired registration. Upon contact with the driver, Davis reported he could smell a marijuana odor and noticed a small baggy containing suspected marijuana in the 25-year-old’s front shirt pocket.
Davis then advised the Grand Prairie man he would be conducting a probable cause search of the car. Two large bags of suspected marijuana were found in a backpack in the trunk, Davis alleged in arrest reports.
Demetrice Rashun Watson Jr. was taken into custody at 4:34 a.m. Nov. 11, 2022, and the car was impounded. Upon arrival at the sheriff’s office, the suspected marijuana was weighed. The small bag weighed 3.46 grams and the two larger bags together weighed 2.02 pounds. Watson was booked into the county jail at 5:03 a.m. Friday for possession of 4 ounces or more but less than 5 pounds of marijuana (roughly 2.03 pounds), a felony offense.
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.
Author Jenniffer Hudson Connors To Be Featured Speaker At Nov. 17 Genealogical Society Meeting
Jenniffer Hudson Connors. is slated to give a “Veterans Day worthy presentation” during the next Hopkins County Genealogical Society meeting.
Based on her first novel, “In His Hands,” she will tell the story of Lily and Chu. As Lily closes her beloved grandmamma’s house, she finds a bundle of letters written by a pilot in the Vietnam War. The discovery of a long-lost uncle, MIA since 1972, leads her on a search to learn more about him and the answer to a prayer first uttered two generations before.
The author will deliver her talk in person at the 7 p.m. Nov. 17 HCGS meeting in the library, 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs.
Those who live too far from Sulphur Springs to drive to the meeting can join in via Zoom! Register in advance for this meeting at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAud-ioqzwiE9Jk-BhaPxjdSvqxLKbjhg7k. A confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting will be sent upon completion of registration.
Commander Bryan Crittendon and Corporal Robert Kerr Honored
Bryan Crittendon and Robert Kerr have been awarded the Congressional Veteran Commendation. In a ceremony held on Thursday November 10th, 2022, standing with other distinguished veterans, Crittendon and Kerr were received by Representative Pat Fallon. Both Veterans are members of the Hopkins County Marine Corp League.
The ceremony was conducted at the Plano Flags of Honor in Plano, TX. The Plano East Rotary Club errects 1000+ American flags each November in honor of those who have served and continue to serve today.
The Congressional Veteran Commendation is a nominations-based program designed to recognize the wartime sacrifices and peacetime community involvement of Texas Veterans. Honorees are exceptional Americans in every way.
Bryan Crittendon served as a transport helicopter pilot and obtained the titles of Captain and Pilot. As a Military Chaplain, he ministered to active troops, and continues that work at his church. He has become certified as an Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Trainer.
Kerr was a squad leader at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego. He served in Viet nam as a Squad Leader, and was also an Ammunition Technician. Kerr was also awarded a Purple Heart during his service in Viet Nam. Kerr is the Judge Advocate of the Hopkins County Marine Corp League.
