Supreme Court Order Overturns Roe v. Wade
The U.S. Supreme Court today (Friday, June 24, 2022) issued an order to overturn Roe v. Wade, the case that made abortion constitutionally legal 50 years ago.
According to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, the Justice Department will work to protect and advance reproductive freedom. The agency will protect providers and those seeking abortions in states where it is legal, but will stand by the FDA approved use of the drug Mifepristone for medication abortions.
The court’s ruling would enable states to ban abortion; nearly half are expected to do so.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and Rep. Bryan Slaton praised the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and leaving it up to states regarding the matter.
“Texas is a pro-life state, and we have taken significant action to protect the sanctity of life. Texas has also prioritized supporting women’s healthcare and expectant mothers in need to give them the necessary resources so that they can choose life for their child. I signed laws that extended Medicaid health care coverage to six months post-partum, appropriated $345 million for women’s health programs, and invested more than $100 million toward our Alternatives to Abortion program. This critical program provides counseling, mentoring, care coordination, and material assistance, such as car seats, diapers, and housing to mothers in need,” Gov. Abbott stated in a June 24 press release regarding Roe v. Wade.
District 2 Rep. Bryan Slaton also commended the Supreme Court for “standing strong to affirm the sanctity of human life,” in answer to decades spent praying and fighting to have the landmark case and law overturned. Now, Slaton said, Texas must stand firm by never forgetting or repeating the “evil that was allowed to fester in this country for nearly 50 years. For millions of innocent children, the light of life and liberty was extinguished, their futures erased, as they were killed in the womb. In this evil, our country has been complicit.”
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton responded to the Supreme Court ruling be declaring June 24 an annual holiday for the AG’s Office in recognition of what he called “an end to a half century of the unconstitutional and unconscionable national right to abortion.” The office closing, Paxton said, honors “the nearly 70 million unborn babies killed in the womb since 1973.”
Texas Congressman Pat Fallon (District 4) considers the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which he called a “massive federal overreach,” “a huge win for life and an ever bigger win for the United States of America.” Along with a photo of him outside the court building, Fallon in a social media post he has been “committed myself to always fight for the sanctity of life,” and feels “blessed to be on sight and bear witness to HISTORY!”
“At the end of the day — unborn children are no less alive than you and me, for precious life begins at conception. It doesn’t stop here; we must continue our fight to protect life,” Fallon posted on another social media account as his official statement at 10:26 a.m. June 24, 2022.
Before the Supreme Court decision, enacted in Texas was Senate Bill 8, which prohibits abortion after 6 weeks of pregnancy and would allow private individuals to sue doctors who perform illegal abortions or individuals who in anyway assist in an abortion. Texas law as approved in SB 8 would allow no exceptions to the abortion ban. No exceptions are allowed for rape, incest
Texas is one of 13 states that enacted so called “trigger laws” prior to the news of Friday’s Supreme Court order.
According to a legal advisory issued Friday by Paxton, Texas’ trigger law would go into effect 30 days after a judgement is issued by the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court issued an opinion Friday; not a judgement.“
Texas’ trigger law would making performing an abortion at any point during a pregnancy a felony. Approximately 2 dozen states are also reported to have near-total or six-week bans on abortion already in place before the court decision.
“Now the trigger bill we passed last session will take effect, but we cannot stop at pre-Roe laws. We must also completely and utterly abolish abortion in Texas. We must do so in a way that upholds and honors the 14th Amendment, and truly applies the equal protection of the laws to all people. I look forward to re-introducing the bill to abolish abortion next session, and I invite every member in the Texas Legislature to join me,” Rep. Slaton said.
Sulphur Springs Native Verifies Missile System Pre-Fire Checks Aboard USS Benfold
PHILIPPINE SEA (June 16, 2022) — Gunner’s Mate 3rd Class Zachary G. Whitley of Sulphur Springs, Texas, verifies all Vertical Missile System (VLS) pre-fire checks aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) as part of Valiant Shield 2022 (VS 22).
Benfold is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force and is on routine deployment as part of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 5.
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through fiber optic cables lying on the ocean floor, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
Upcoming Senior Citizens Center Events: Medicare Choices Class, 42 Tournament
If your age 55 or older and looking for something to do, be sure to stop by the Senior Citizens Center. There’s always something going on there, from activities and fitness exercises to valuable educational sessions. In addition to special annual favorites and special events, there are weekly and monthly programs offered as well.
Medicare Information Session
This Friday, June, 24, at 11 a.m. “Medicare Choices with the Retirement Gals” will be hosted at Senior Citizens Center. Pie and coffee will be served for those attending. Debbie Sheley with the Retired Gals will explain all of the Medicare choices available in 2022, as well as potential penalties and deadlines.
Anyone who would like to schedule a 1-on-1 appointment may contact Debbie Sheley at 903-571-6750, to schedule one.
Summer 42 Tournament
One warm weather favorite is the annual Summer 42 Tournament. This event will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 16, 2022. In addition on bragging rights, players will compete for cash prizes. Dominoes and tables will be provided.
The cost to enter the tournament is $10 for all who register no later than July 1. The entry fee will increase to $25 per team beginning July 2. Checks should be made payable to SS Senior Center. Lunch will be offered for $5 per person at the July 16 Tourney.
For additional information, contact Karon Weatherman at the Senior Citizens Center, 903-885-1661.
Homemade Ice Cream Freeze Off
Just as temperatures really begin to soar — if you think it’s hot now on the third day of summer, just wait for the those long dog days of summer — the Senior Citizens Center will be hosting an event designed not only to help cool ya down, but to feed your sweet tooth as well.
The Annual Senior Citizens Ice Cream Freeze Off, sponsored by Carriage House Manor and the Cottages, will begin at 2 p.m. Friday, July 22.
Senior Citizens are invited to stop by the Senior Citizens Center to sample all the delicious flavors of homemade ice cream entered in the contest, then, vote on their favorite frozen treat. The three entries receiving the most votes will win prizes.
So, if you’ve got a good ice cream recipe, dig out your ice cream freezer and start practicing for the July 22 showdown for best ice cream. If you’re a senior citizens, stop by the center to cool off, and fellowship while determining which ice cream you like best.
Senior Citizens Center Program and Marketing Director Karon Weatherman urges those who do want to enter a frozen treat in the contest to let her know as soon as possible, so plans can be made to adequately plan for the event.
“Don’t miss any of the everyday events that are happening at the Senior Center. You can come and beat the heat and enjoy visiting your friends at the Senior Citizens Center,” Weatherman said.
Fan Drive
And, if those activities aren’t enough, the Senior Citizens Center also serves at the headquarters for the Meal A Day Program, has a library where senior citizens can sit and visit or read, and also hosts an annual fan drive to benefit senior citizens in the community who need one. The center partners annually with Sulphur Springs Corvette Club to accept donations of new box or stand fans or money to purchase fans.
“I still have some FANS if anyone needs one just come and get it,” Weatherman said.
Any senior citizen who does not have a fan and air conditioning to keep them cool can contact the Senior Citizens Center to pick one up or arrange to get one. Anyone who knows of a senior citizen in Hopkins County who does not have a means to cool off in this hot heat can also report it so that arrangements can be made to get a fan to that individual.
Additional Upcoming Seasonal Activities
Below are a few additional dates to jot down for seasonal favorites include:
- Wednesday, July 27 — Party in the Park with Early Bingo for prizes at 8:30 a.m., good ol’ Country Music performed by Dale “the C” Cummings at 9:30, and light brunch at 10:30 a.m. at Buford Park Pavilion
- Saturday, Aug. 13 — Senior Citizens Prom, 6 p.m.; theme: Game Night, at the Senior Citizens Center.
- Thursday, Aug. 25 — Men’s BBQ, noon, Wes Smith as grill master, at the Senior Citizens Center
- Saturday, Sept. 17 — 17th Annual Clara Bridges 90+ Banquet, 12-2 p.m., at First Baptist Church’s Recreational Outreach Center, known as The ROC, 115 Putman Street,
- Tuesday, Oct. 18 — Senior-style crock pot Stew Cook Off, 1 p.m. at Senior Citizens Center; prizes for 1st-3rd places.
- Saturday, Oct. 22 — Earl W. Martin 42 Tournament for cash prizes, 10 a.m. Senior Citizens Center; $10 early registration; $25 per team registration after Oct. 7.
- Tuesday, Oct. 25 — Sulphur Springs Senior Olympic Games: 9:30 a.m. 1K race, 10 a.m. start of other games including bean bag toss, frisbee golf, Nerf javelin, horseshoes, washer pitching, scooter races and wheelchair races, all at The ROC. Olympic Cook Out at noon.
- Monday, Oct. 31 — Eat, Drink and be Scary for Halloween at noon at hte Senior Citizens Center.
- Nov. 16 — Senior Citizens Friendsgiving Thanksgiving Potluck at 1 p.m. at the Senior Center. Bring a Side dish and dessert to share.
- Friday, Dec. 2 — 4th Annual Chili Cook-Off at noon for 1st-3rd place prizes, at the Senior Center.
- Dec. 5-16 — Golden Agers Gift Tree, adopt a senior citizen for Christmas.
- Friday, Dec. 16 — Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center Christmas Party, pictures with Santa, $5 gift exchange, bring a favorite Christmas treat to share.
Weekly Activities
Regular weekly activities include:
- Bingo — 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. Cards are 75-cents each, and you keep the same card throughout the day’s play.
- Fit and Strong — 9:30 a.m. Mondays, Tuesday and Thursdays, lead by John Little; free exercise class.
- Art and Painting Class — at 10 a.m. Tuesdays. Free class by instructor Vera Allen.
- Euchre! — played at 11 a.m. Wednesdays
- Tai Ji Quan — 10:45 a.m. Mondays and Thursdays, free class taught by Karen Moseley
- Chair Yoga —11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays, and
- Chicken Foot — 11 a.m. Fridays (not on July 22 due to the afternoon freeze off).
Monthly Activities
Monthly activities held at the Senior Citizens Center include:
- Bright Star Writers Group meeting — the second Monday of each month at 1:30 p.m.
- Happy Scrappy Cards — first Monday of each month at 1:30 p.m. (unless the first Monday falls on a major holiday, such as 4th of July or Labor Day), make and take 3 cards. Teachers will be Nancy Rooks and Mary Lou Foster.
- Line Dancing Classes — at 1:30 p.m. the first and third Tuesdays of each month with Tammy Vincze as instructor.
- Rummikub —the first, second and third Thursdays of each month at 1 p.m.
- BUNCO — the fourth Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. Cost is $5. Bring a snack to share
- Left, Right, Center (LRC) Game — the second Thursday of each month at 10:30 a.m.
- 42 — played the first Saturday of each Monday at 1 p.m.
- Arts and Crafts —the second Monday the month at 1:30 p.m.
- Craft Time — the fourth Monday of each month at 1:30 p.m. A different craft is offered each month.
- Art/Wreath Making Class — at 1:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month.
FDA Denies Authorization To Market JUUL Products
MDO: Currently Marketed JUUL Products Must Be Removed From US Market
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued marketing denial orders (MDOs) to JUUL Labs Inc. for all of their products currently marketed in the United States. As a result, the company must stop selling and distributing these products. In addition, those currently on the U.S. market must be removed, or risk enforcement action. The products include the JUUL device and four types of JUULpods: Virginia tobacco flavored pods at nicotine concentrations of 5.0% and 3.0% and menthol flavored pods at nicotine concentrations of 5.0% and 3.0%. Retailers should contact JUUL with any questions about products in their inventory.
“Today’s action is further progress on the FDA’s commitment to ensuring that all e-cigarette and electronic nicotine delivery system products currently being marketed to consumers meet our public health standards,” said FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D. “The agency has dedicated significant resources to review products from the companies that account for most of the U.S. market. We recognize these make up a significant part of the available products and many have played a disproportionate role in the rise in youth vaping.”
These MDOs only pertain to the commercial distribution, importation and retail sales of these products, and do not restrict individual consumer possession or use—the FDA cannot and will not enforce against individual consumer possession or use of JUUL products or any other tobacco products.
After reviewing the company’s premarket tobacco product applications (PMTAs), the FDA determined that the applications lacked sufficient evidence regarding the toxicological profile of the products to demonstrate that marketing of the products would be appropriate for the protection of the public health. In particular, some of the company’s study findings raised concerns due to insufficient and conflicting data – including regarding genotoxicity and potentially harmful chemicals leaching from the company’s proprietary e-liquid pods – that have not been adequately addressed and precluded the FDA from completing a full toxicological risk assessment of the products named in the company’s applications.
To date, the FDA has not received clinical information to suggest an immediate hazard associated with the use of the JUUL device or JUULpods. However, the MDOs issued today reflect FDA’s determination that there is insufficient evidence to assess the potential toxicological risks of using the JUUL products. There is also no way to know the potential harms from using other authorized or unauthorized third-party e-liquid pods with the JUUL device or using JUULpods with a non-JUUL device. The FDA recommends against modifying or adding substances to tobacco products. JUUL users are encouraged to report any unexpected health problems or product problems to the FDA through the Safety Reporting Portal and to seek medical attention as necessary.
“The FDA is tasked with ensuring that tobacco products sold in this country meet the standard set by the law, but the responsibility to demonstrate that a product meets those standards ultimately falls on the shoulders of the company,” said Michele Mital, acting director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products. “As with all manufacturers, JUUL had the opportunity to provide evidence demonstrating that the marketing of their products meets these standards. However, the company did not provide that evidence and instead left us with significant questions. Without the data needed to determine relevant health risks, the FDA is issuing these marketing denial orders.”
Any products subject to an MDO may not be offered for sale or distributed in the United States, or the FDA may take enforcement action.
In addition to ensuring that JUUL complies with this order, as with unauthorized products generally, the FDA intends to ensure compliance by distributors and retailers. Specifically, the FDA notes that all new tobacco products on the market without the statutorily required premarket authorization are marketed unlawfully and are subject to enforcement action.
As the FDA has stated in the past, unauthorized electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) products for which no application is pending, including for example, those with an MDO, are among our highest enforcement priorities. Therefore, the FDA encourages retailers to discuss products in their inventory with their suppliers including the current status of any particular tobacco product’s marketing application or marketing authorization. Manufacturers will be the best source of that information and retailers should rely on manufacturers directly to inform decisions about which products to continue selling.
There are many resources to help smokers who want to quit. Quitting all tobacco products is the best possible path to good health. Some current JUUL users who will not have access to JUUL products following this action or current smokers who want to transition away from cigarettes and cigars may decide to switch to other ENDS products that have been reviewed and authorized by the FDA based on their potential to benefit adult smokers.
To date, the FDA has authorized 23 ENDS products. Under the PMTA pathway, applicants must demonstrate to the agency, among other things, that permitting the marketing of the new tobacco product would be appropriate for the protection of the public health.
The FDA continues to work to complete its review of the remaining pending applications for deemed products submitted by the Sept. 9, 2020, deadline.
Additional Information
Information From the Robotics Coding Camp Held at Paris Junior College Sulphur Springs
ROBOTICS CODING CAMP
The Paris Junior College Robotics Coding Camp has been conducted this week at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center with 16 sixth, seventh and eighth graders participating. PJC computer science instructor Cedric Crawford is the camp instructor. Above, 7th grader Kayden Pierce has completed building his vehicle and uses a remote control to demonstrate it.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
After Hours Mixer, Stew Logo Contest Deadline and Baby Benefit Deadlines Approaching
By Butch Burney
You won’t want to miss the Chamber’s Business After Hours at CPI, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, June 28, at their offices at 906 North Hillcrest Drive. Calvin will have food and drinks for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a member of the Chamber or not, come on for one of the best networking events.
Stew Logo Contest
It’s not too late to enter the logo contest for the 53rd Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest. You have until Thursday, June 30, to send your logo submission. The theme is “Road Trip — Destination Hopkins County.” The winning entry gets four T-shirts with the theme on it, four stew tickets, a tumbler, a quart ticket and a parking pass.
To enter, upload your design at HopkinsChamber.org or email to [email protected].
Blood Drive
Red River Credit Union will team with Carter BloodCare for a blood drive on Monday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot of RRCU at 822 Gilmer St. Donors will receive a T-shirt while supplies last. For more information, contact Stephani Britton at 903-735-3000, ext. 2107, or email [email protected].
Mental Health First Aid
Lakes Regional will host a two-day event for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), which is free and open to the public. The adult MHFA is 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 14 at the Lakes Regional Sulphur Springs location on Airport Road. The youth seminar will be 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 26.
To register, call 972-977-7295 or email [email protected].
Baby Benefit
Heritage Home Health and Hospice is hosting a baby wipe and onesie drive benefitting Heart of Hope, a pregnancy resource center in Sulphur Springs.
Donations of baby wipes and white onesies (sizes 0-3 months) may be dropped off at Heritage Home Health & Hospice (1325 Shannon Rd E, Suite A, Sulphur Springs) or at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce (110 Main Street, Sulphur Springs) now through June 24.
Backstory Happenings
G3 Mercantile will be bringing country music singer Tommy Alverson to Backstory Brewery, along with Longhorn burgers and door prizes on July 9. Burgers will be served from 5 to 9 p.m., with the music going from 7 to 9 p.m.
Backstory Brewery’s 4th Annual BBQ Cookoff is scheduled for Saturday, June 25. It’s a fun time for the whole family. Trophies and prizes will be awarded to the top teams.
Goodwill Appreciation
Goodwill Industries at 1320 West Shannon Road will be hosting a customer appreciation event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 9. Enjoy hot dogs, chips, water, soda, watermelon and a chance ot earn a discount off your purchases.
Children’s Grief Camp
“Mending the Mess,” a grief camp for children ages 6-12, was scheduled June 23-24, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at First United Methodist Church. The camp is part of Cypress Basin Hospice’s Camp Brave Heart.
For more information, go to the website CBHospice.org.
Ribbon Cuttings
- Tolleson Family Market hosted a ribbon cutting at noon on Friday, June 17, at their shop at 300 Connally St. They have a selection of canned and fresh produce as well as a smoothie bar.
- Vosh Graphix hosted a ribbon cutting at noon Thursday, June 23, at the Chamber office. Please welcome them to the business community.
- Greenleaf Mortuary will have a ribbon cutting at noon Friday, June 24, at 200 Putman St. Please join us for this event.
Fire Up The Grill For National Grilling Month
By Johanna Hicks, Texas Cooperative Extension, Family and Community Health Agent in Hopkins County, [email protected]
My family recently enjoyed gathering to celebrate Fathers’ Day. We fired up the grill and cooked a delicious meal – fish caught from the Galveston Bay and fresh zucchini from our garden. Our neighbors also gathered around on their back porch to cook outdoors. Ahh, the smell of grilling filled the air!
July is National Grilling Month. Grilling offers the opportunity to eat a varied selection of proteins such as beef, chicken, wild game, and seafood. Maybe you fancy grilled fruits and vegetables? You can experiment with rubs, herbs, or marinades. Smoked or not? Direct or indirect heat? Perhaps, a grilled salad? The options are endless.
One tool all grillers should have in their toolbox is a thermometer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, foods should be cooked hot enough to kill harmful germs and be maintained at 140°F until grilled food is served. Recommended internal temperatures are:
- Beef, pork, lamb, veal – 140ᵒ F
- Fish – 145ᵒ F
- Hamburger, ground beef – 160ᵒ F
- Poultry, hot dogs – 165ᵒ F
Other tips for grilling safely are to wash your hands before and after handling raw meat, keep raw meats, poultry, and seafood separate from ready-to-eat foods, refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours, and discarding leftovers after 4 days. Grilling food is a healthier option than frying as fat contained in or on the food drips out; vitamins and minerals are preserved, and calories are lowered.
Grilling also brings out smiles and up-lifted spirits, a time to bond with family and friends, and an opportunity for children and teens to learn about cooking.
So, this month, go outdoors! Breathe fresh air and enjoy what nature has to offer with flavors from the grill.
Closing Thought
Do what you can, with what you have, where you are – Theodore Roosevelt
Contact Johanna Hicks, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Family & Community Health Agent, at the Hopkins County Extension Office at P.O. Box 518 or 1200-B West Houston St., Sulphur Springs, TX 75483; by phone at 903-885-3443; or by email at [email protected].
Both Suspects In June 13 Murder Now In Custody At Hopkins County Jail
June 23, 2022 – The two murder suspects Hopkins County officers tracked from Texas to Missouri last Wednesday night are now in Hopkins County jail on one murder charge each, according to arrest and jail reports.
The pair, accused of killing and dumping a 35-year-old man’s body in a wooded area, were transported Wednesday afternoon, June 22, 2022, by Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Elijah Fite, Frank Tiemann, Courtney Steward and Sgt. Tanner Steward from St. Louis, Missouri to Hopkins County jail; 27-year-old Diamonte Jakeli Paynes of Fort Worth and 20-year-old Aleigha Denise Coble of Colbert, Oklahoma, were booked in just after midnight and remained in Hopkins county jail late Thursday morning, June 23, 2022, in lieu of the $1 million bond set for each on the murder charge, according to jail reports.
HCSO deputies reported finding an abandoned vehicle when checking out a report of someone’s personal items being located on a county road north of Sulphur Springs Monday, June 13, 2022. The vehicle came back as being from the Dallas area. Authorities at that time believe it had been dumped in Hopkins County, but continued to investigate, Hopkins County Chief Deputy Tanner Crump stated in a June 14, 2022 release.
A further search of the area revealed a deceased male authorities believed to be associated with the vehicle. The deceased was reported to be the victim of a homicide believed to have been committed in the Metroplex area, with the deceased male and vehicle dumped in rural Hopkins County, HCSO authorities reported June 14.
“This evening two investigators from the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office, Texas and a Texas Ranger traveled to St Louis Missouri and arrested the two suspects in the homicide that was discovered Monday evening,” Crump noted in an update released an 8:35 p.m. June 15, 2022.
The victim of the homicide was identified as Giovanni Alexis Najarro of Dallas, a Hispanic male born in 1987.
Through continued investigation, authorities followed leads in the homicide investigation all the way to St. Louis, Missouri. Two members of Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office and a Texas Ranger traveled Tuesday, June 14, 2022, to Missouri, where suspects Payne and Coble were taken into custody Wednesday evening, June 15, 2022, in connection with the homicide, Crump reported that night.
“Although the investigation is ongoing we do not believe anyone else is involved. I would like to commend all the officers involved for a job well done,” Tatum said of the local law enforcement’s work in making arrests in identifying suspects and getting arrests in the homicide case in 2 days.
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.
SSISD Offers Summer School, Day Camps, Sports Camps And Food Program
It may officially be summer, but Sulphur Springs ISD campuses are still abuzz with activity. From summer school and the summer meal program to day camps, athletic camps and 2022-2023 planning, several SSISD campuses are still being utilized.
Administrators are working to finish filling staff rosters, enrolling students at designated locations and times, and working to have things ready for the start of classes in August. Testing dates for Credit by Examination without prior instruction also have been announced.
Summer School
Summer school is currently being conducted on four different campuses.
Sulphur Springs Middle School is hosting summer school for about 95 students four days a week from 8 a.m. to noon. Sulphur Springs High School is averaging about 75-80 students daily Monday-Thursday and Austin Academic Center is hosting 80-plus students for credit recovery daily, according to SSISD Assistant Superintendent Jeremy Lopez.
Classes began on June 6 and will run through July 8. From Monday-Thursday from 7:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at Barbara Bush Primary for elementary students. Approximately 200 kids are attending the elementary summer school program.
Athletic Camps
Summer athletic camps are in progress as well. Strength and conditioning will continue throughout June and July. Boys and Girls athletic camps began May 31 and will continue through July 27. Among the boys camps offered are baseball, basketball, soccer, tennis and football. Girls camps include soccer, volleyball, basketball and softball.
“They are also putting on mini camps, usually about $50, for the community to come out 3 hours a day for soccer, baseball, volleyball and various activities for the community to get involved in and increase our awareness of our sports program,” Lopez said.
Summer Day Camp
SSISD is also offering summer day camp at Bush Primary. The program is averaging about 36 students who are attending summer day camp daily.
“That is up from last year. That is great. We have five of those kiddos who go to summer school and move over at 1:45. We’ve seen a lot of success with that program so we are excited they get to come and have some experiences with us,” Lopez said
Youth enrolled in the SSISD Summer Day Camp generally go on 2-3 field trips weekly, providing additional learning opportunities for them. Day camp is $115 a week for a full-day camper who attends Monday-Friday and $50 for those who attend summer school the first part of the day, then transfer to the summer program upon dismissal at 1:45 p.m.
Lopez says he helps out on the elementary campus in the mornings and afternoons, just making sure traffic flows and the process goes as flawlessly as possible. He credits the principal for jumping in and getting that lined out, with two lines with designated drop off and pick up areas, helping to prevent vehicles from backing up onto State Highway 19 while waiting to enter the campus. After the first two days of school, there have been no traffic back ups or issues in front of Bush Primary. All parents have managed to load kids and leave in 9 minutes, according to Lopez.
CBE Dates
Districts are required to set no less than four dates per year for Credit By Exam. The district has not had any students request the exams in the last few years. The schedule is set in accordance with a state university testing calendar.
Students who wish to take an exam to get credit for a class they’ve never had prior instruction in, so they don’t have to take the class, may apply at least 30 days prior to the testing date.
This year, students who wish to take a CBS on July 29, have only until June 30 to contact their school counselor to register.
To test on Dec. 2, 2022, students must register no later than Nov. 1. The registration deadline to take the test on March 1, 2023, is Jan. 27, 2023. The registration deadline for the June 1, 2023 testing date is April 28, 2023.
Food Services
Free breakfast and lunch for any children between the ages of 1 and 18 years of age is offered free Monday-Thursday through July 7, with the exception of July 4, when campuses are closed for Independence Day. Breakfast is served from 7:20 to 8:45 a.m. and lunch is served from 10:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Barbara Bush Primary. Breakfast and lunch were also offered Monday-Thursday June 8-23, at SSMS, 865 Wildcat Way.
New Slate Of Officers Appointed To City Boards
2 Recently Elected City Councilmen, Mayor, Pro Tem, New Planning & Zoning Committee Member Administered Oath
This week, Twila Gill took the oath of office for her new position on the City of Sulphur Springs Planning & Zoning Commission. She is among the new slate of officers appointed this month to serve on city board, two recently elected City Councilmen and recently reorganized City Council officers.
Gill was appointed to serve on the Zoning Board of Adjustments in February 2021 and took office on March 16, 2021. She recently asked city officials if she could be appointed to finish out the remainder of Tommy Harrison’s term on the City’s Planning And Zoning Commission. Harrison was appointed in June 2019 to replace Ben Spraggins on the 5-member Planning & Zoning Commission and reappointed in 2021. He gave up his seat on the P&Z Commission when he was elected to the City Council this spring. Gill then will serve on the Planning and Zoning Commission until June of 2023.
City Council
The City Council approved the appointment of Gill to serve in Harrison’s place on the P&Z Commission during the regular council meeting June 7, when Harrison took the oath of office for Place 4 on the City Council, previously held for 18 years by Freddie Taylor, who opted not to seek another term in office. Gary Spraggins was also elected to a full term in Place 5 in May and took the oath of office at the June City Council meeting.
Afterward, the City Council had the task of selecting which members will serve as mayor and mayor pro tem.
Sellers at the June 7 meeting said while it’s been an honor and privilege serving as mayor for six consecutive years, he would be pleased to allow someone else to take the seat. He offered thanks to recently retired City Secretary Gale Roberts, City Manager Marc Maxwell, for their assistance, and the various department heads for working with the council to make sure they better understand each’s needs are met.
Sellers too extended thanks to his employer, City National Bank, for being so supportive and allowing him to serve as a community servant – especially during the pandemic when he and the city manger and other officials met more regularly via Zoom or other means to make difficult decisions for the community during normal work hours.
Sellers said while there were times he felt very alone in some of the decisions, he appreciated the relationship with the county and school system, working together to help keep the community as safe and strong as possible. He said there were times when he felt he and Freddie Taylor, who’ve both served multiple consecutive terms on the City Council, were alone in their stands.
However, at the end of the day, he’s thankful for the current council as well as those in the past who come together despite personal opinions with respect for discussions and to make decisions for the good of the community.
Maxwell during the June 7, 2022, City Council meeting noted that each of the City Council member have their own unique personalities and perspectives. Sellers as mayor often thinks of details others do not. He noted Sellers to be a good man he’s come to respect. While he cannot offer him the key to the city he did offer a plaque with a large key, representing “the key to our hearts.” Sellers will continue serving his term in office in Place 7 on the City Council.
The City Council selected Place 6 Councilman Doug Moore to serve as Sulphur Springs Mayor and elected John Sellers to serve as mayor pro tem, filling in when Moore is unable to do so and offer his experience over the years as mayor.
Moore thanked his fellow City Council members for placing their trust in him and allowing him to lead them as they continue the good work in progress for the city.
Other City Boards
Craig English, Matthew Mattison and Pat Chase were each approved by the City Council for reappointment to the Planning and Zoning Commission beginning this month. Chase has served on the P&Z since January of 2020, when he was selected to replace Mike Horn, who had to resign after moving out of the city. Mattison was also appointed in January 2020 to replace Kelly Grimes on the P&Z Commission. Craig English has served on the P&Z since June of 2017, when he was appointed to fill a seat previously held by Brandon Williams.
Replacing Gill on the Zoning Board of Adjustments until her term ends in June 2023, will be James Litzler, who was appointed in June 2019 to replace Jonathan Newsom. Filling in as an alternate for Litzler as needed will be Gary Clem. Matt Johnson and Brad Burgin also were reappointed by the City Council to serve on the Zoning Board of Adjustments. Burgin was first appointed to the ZBA to replace Joel Sheffield. Johnson was appointed in 2020.
Also during the June 7, 2022 meeting, the City Council approved the following appointments to city boards:
Economic Development Corporation
- David Fenton, replacing Buck Booker
- Craig Roberts, reappointed for another 3-year term
Library Board
- Sharon Burney, reappointed for another 2-year term,
- Mack Pitts, replacing Kim Roberts, who served from 2012 to June of 2022
Board of Tourism and Promotion
- Lucy McCorkle, arts representative, reappointed since 2006
- Adam Teer, replacing Harry Singh as hotel/motel representative
- Amanda Tredway, replacing Bradley Edge as Chamber representative
Airport Advisory Board
- Brandon Moore, filling the unexpired term of David Baucom, which ends in June 2023.
- Mark Meadows, reappointed since 2004
- Kurt Sehnert, reappointed since 2008
Construction Board of Adjustment
- Wayne Cooper, reappointed as construction representative since 2004
- Gary Stribling, reappointed as HVAC representative since 2010
- Zach King, reappointed as alternate since 2009
- Charles Westbrook, reappointed as alternate since 2010.
Downtown Revitalization Board
- Butch Burney, replacing Helena Martinez
- Phyllis Roundtree, reappointed to 2-year terms since 2015
- Robin Boshears Patrick, reappointed since 2011.
Revolving Loan Fund Committee
- Tommy Harrison, appointed through 2024 to replace Freddie Taylor
Sulphur River Municipal Water District Board
- Linda Galligher, reappointed since 2016, agreed to serve another term but asked to be replaced next term
