97th Paris Junior College Spring Graduation Highlights Student, Faculty Excellence
Photo cutline 1: PJC sophomore Beau Brewer received the 2022 Distinguished Service Award from PJC President Dr. Pamela Anglin and Vice-President Sheila Reese.
Paris Junior College celebrated its 97th Spring Commencement with the announcement of the Distinguished Service Award and Teaching Excellence Award. Nearly 475 students applied to graduate and some 250 of those indicated they would participate in the graduation ceremony held at Noyes Stadium on May 13, 2022.
PJC Student Government Association President Rachel Roebuck gave the opening invocation, and music student Amanda Dean performed the song, “Raise Me Up.”
“Tonight, we want to celebrate a great year and a great group of students,” said Dr. Pam Anglin, PJC President in her opening comments. “Allow me to introduce the class of 2022. There are 472 individuals graduating from PJC with certificates and degrees. Forty-one percent are male, 89 percent are female. Our graduates range in age from 18 to 66 years. These 472 graduates represent 37 different Texas counties, 16 different states, and the foreign countries of Germany and Mexico.”
This year over 109 students graduated from PJC a couple of weeks before graduating from their high schools including Celeste, Cumby, Greenville, Miller Grove, North Hopkins, North Lamar, Pioneer Tech, Prairiland, Quinlan Ford, Royse City, and two from home schools.
Beau Brewer was named the 2022 Distinguished Service Award winner. He is a 2020 graduate of McKinney Boyd High School in McKinney. A returning member of the Dragons Baseball Team and of Phi Theta Kappa, the two-year college honor society, he was named 2021 All Region Outfielder and named to the President’s Honor List for academic excellence three times.Brewer donates his time volunteering at the local Food Pantry, Red River Valley Boys and Girls Club, and the Paris Animal Shelter. He was a 2021 Paris Junior College Homecoming nominee and crowned 2022 Mr. PJC.
This past week, Brewer was named All Conference First Team Third Base and Region XIV All-Region First Team Infield. Following graduation from PJC, he plans to further his academic and athletic career at Western Kentucky University. Other outstanding PJC students nominated for the Distinguished Service Award included Jayda Carter, Sean Curtis, Rachel Roebuck and Brendan Concannon.
D’Lynn Bueno, who teaches history at PJC, received the 2022 Teaching Excellence Award, which includes a $1,000 honorarium, a medallion and a plaque. The nomination letter for the Teaching Excellence Award outlined three aspects to her excellence: congenial attitude, pedagogical diversity and commitment to the success of both their own students and the student body at large. She is a teacher of teachers; utilizes developments in the best practices of higher education to maximize student learning and success. She is also encouraging, compassionate, student-friendly student-centered, and operates on the leading edge of classroom innovation.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Dr. Anglin asked the graduates to move their tassels to the left. She thanked them for choosing Paris Junior College.
“Each of you have proven that you have a goal and you have a dream,” said Anglin. “This has been one step in your journey; one milestone along the way. And we hope we laid the foundation that serves you well as you continue on with your education or go into the workforce.”
Photo cutline 2: D’Lynn Bueno, who teaches History at PJC, received the 2022 Teaching Excellence Award from Dr. Pamela Anglin, PJC President.
Photo cutline 3: A crowd of 250 students chose to participate in the 2022 Spring Commencement Ceremony at Paris Junior College.
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.
North Hopkins Water Supply: Phones are back on
The phones are back on, and there is no need to use the temparary number to contact the NH Water Supply.
AG Lawsuit Now Claims Google’s Incognito Mode Violates Deceptive Trade Practices Act
AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Paxton filed an amended petition that adds Incognito mode to his previous geolocation-related lawsuit against Google. Incognito mode or “private browsing” is a web browser function that implies to consumers that Google will not track your search history or location activity.
The fifth lawsuit the AG has filed against Google argues that the company misled consumers by tracking their personal location without consent, and in many cases continued to track them after the feature was disabled by users, all of which constitute a violation of the Texas’ Deceptive Trade Practices Act. While Texas consumers were under the impression they were not being tracked, Google continued to use their private location information to boost company profits, a press release from the AG’s office stated. The suit now alleges that Google’s representations that users can avoid having their internet search and activity history recorded by using Incognito Mode are similarly misleading.
“Google claims to give users control and to respect their choice but in reality, regardless of the settings users select, the Big Tech giant is still hard at work collecting and monetizing the location and other personal information that users seek to keep private,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I am not going to let Google succeed in deceiving Texans.”
To read the amended lawsuit click here.
White, Gurley Earn Top Honors Among Saltillo High School Senior Class Of 2022
Trinity White and McKenna Gurley earned the top honors among the Saltillo High School Senior Class of 2022.
Trinity White, daughter of Robert and Shannon White, earned distinction as the 2022 senior valedictorian with a 3.824 grade point average.
She has been active in Academic UIL, athletics and school organizations.
White is a four-year member of the Beta Club, serving as reporter and president during that time. She also competed in Beta events and is this year’s state fiber arts champion.
She too was a four-year member of FCCLA, serving as secretary, vice president and president of the Saltillo FCCLA Chapter at different times during her high school career.
White also has served as Class of 2022 vice president her freshman and sophomore years and as president her junior and senior years.
The Saltillo High Class of 2022 valedictorian was a four-year member of the yearbook staff.
She played basketball in ninth, 10th and 11th grades and ran cross country her freshman and sophomore years.
In Academic UIL, White was the district accounting champion and went on to finish sixth at region in accounting her junior year. As a senior, she earned fourth in district in accounting.
White plans to go to Paris Junior College to attain an associate’s degree in business, then transfer to Texas A&M University commerce to work on a bachelor’s degree.
In her spare time, White enjoys listening to music; crocheting; hanging out with friends, family and her cat; and watching her little brother play basketball.
McKenna Gurley, daughter of Blake and Donna Gurley, earned distinction as the Saltillo High School Senior Class of 2022 salutatorian with a 3.563 GPA.
Gurley also has been active in student organizations, especially FCCLA. She served as an FCCLA officer, holding the position of webmaster. She was State FCCLA gold medalist her freshman y ear and a silver medalist at the State FCCLA conference her senior year.
She too was a Beta Club member and officer, holding the office of secretary. This year, Gurley served as Senior Class secretary. She also is on the Yearbook Committee.
Gurley plans to attend Texas A&M University Commerce to major in education, with a goal of becoming a teacher.
When not devoted to her school work and commitments, the Saltillo High School Senior Class of 2022 salutatorian can be found working as an office assistant, spending time with friends and family, and enjoying outdoor activities such as being in nature.
Graduations, Upcoming Events
White and Gurley will be honored along with the rest of the Saltillo 2022 graduates at a baccalaureate service at 6 p.m. May 22, 2022, at Saltillo Baptist Church, and a graduation ceremony at 7 p.m. Friday, May 27, 2022 in Kerry Garmon Gymnasium.
The seniors also went on a field trip on May 18. A Masonic Lunch is slated to be held in Mount Vernon on Monday.
The annual Saltillo High School Awards program will begin at 7 p.m. May 24 in the gymnasium at the school, and seniors will be among the students receiving academic and athletic honors.
This year’s senior class includes Cindy Alvarez, Evan Andrew, Justice Burke, Kathryn McKenna Gurley, William Gurley, Kaleb Harris, Elena Heukels, Nora Martinez, Caden Perez, Andrew Redburn, Raegan Speir, Brianna Tawil, Amina Terry and Trinity White.
Below is a list of upcoming activities at Saltillo ISD
- May 20
- Elementary field trip for grades 3-5
- May 22
- Baccalaureate at 6 p.m. at Saltillo Baptist Church
- May 23
- AR trip for kindergarten through 5th grade
- Masonic Lunch Mount Vernon
- AR trip for junior high ahd high school
- May 24
- Senior and Kindergarten Walk-Through at 9 a.m.
- High School Awards at 7 p.m. in the Gym
- May 25
- Elementary Awards at 9 a.m.
- Junior High Awards immediately following elementary awars
- Yearbook forms due without personalization
- May 26
- Kindergarten Graduation at 9:30 a.m.
- Last Day of School
- Junior High Graduation at 7 p.m. in Garmon Gym
- May 27
- High School Graduation at 7 p.m. in Garmon Gym
Red River Historian Robin Cole-Jett Featured Speaker At May 19 Genealogical Society Meeting
Hopkins County Genealogical Society’s May meeting will feature Robin Cole-Jett, known as the Red River Historian. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. May 19, 2022, at the research library at 611 North Davis St. in Sulphur Springs, or may be accessed via Zoom.
For more than 20 years, Cole-Jett has researched, documented, and shared the history of the Red River Valley of the Southwest through her website, presentations, books, articles, social media, and even a few TV appearances.
A Texan native h family roots all over the Red River Valley in Louisiana, Robin received her bachelor’s degree from East Texas State University, her Master of Education from the University of North Texas, and her Master of Arts in History from Texas Woman’s University.
Cole-Jett vacillates her professional life between stints of writing, teaching, road tripping, and museum consulting work. She has made her permanent home in Denton County.
One of the more interesting aspects of genealogy research isn’t necessarily an ancestor’s life records. In a country where most citizens have immigrated or were forcibly moved, discovering the roads, paths, trails, and traces they took can be equally rewarding, Genealogical Society members note.
In this presentation on “Ye Olde Roads,” Cole-Jett will discuss stagecoach routes, emigration trails, and more in the North Texas region.
She also plans to bring copies of her book, “Ye Olde Roads”, for autograph and sale.
Those planning to join the meeting via Zoom are asked to register in advance at:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAtdeqrqz4iGtVmML3oYXomAXtEc5qfI2Jq
After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
25 Graduates Ranked In Top 10% Of SSHS Senior Class Of 2022 Recognized At Honors Breakfast
The top 10% of Sulphur Springs High School Senior Class of 2022 was recognized Tuesday morning, May 17, 2022, at a special honors breakfast at 7 a.m. at Hopkins County Civic Center.
“Today, we give special recognition to 25 honor graduates of Sulphur Springs High School Class of 2022. This class has 256 candidates for graduation. This is a special time for these young people, their families, our community and school. We are extremely proud of them,” said SSHS Principal Derek Driver, who served as master of ceremony for the occasion.
The invocation was given by Jeff Harris, before the breakfast prepared by the SSH Culinary Arts Department, served by SSHS staff. For at least two years, the CTE classes at SSHS worked together to plan and prepare the Civic Center Exhibit Hall in readiness for the occasion honoring the top academic seniors. Students included those in interior design, construction, floral design/plant science, digital communications, design and multimedia arts and culinary classes.
Superintendent Michael Lamb offered thanks Alliance Bank, long time sponsor of the event which has become a celebratory tradition for students and their families. He also recognized local dignitaries and special community guests, including Sulphur Springs’ mayor, the Chamber of Commerce president, local media covering the event, a Texas A&M University-Commerce representative and introduced SSISD Board Of Trustees President Robert Cody.
“Students, it’s incredible what you have done so looking forward to what you move on to do, and watching you do great things. Congratulations, enjoy this day,” Lamb said.
“This is one of our favorite events of the year to be a part of,” School Board President Robert Cody said. “We enjoy this so much because we get to sit in the presence of students who have excel in this district and strive to make this district what it is. We are so proud of you, and we can promise you, when you leave here, you are prepared for the next step. A lot of us have had children who have gone through this district and they have gone on to excel and be the type of citizens that we are so proud of. We are proud of you. We are proud of all the moms and dads here today. Thank you so much for encouraging your children to do their very best and to excel.”
Cody introduced the board members, starting with Jason Dietze, who attended not only as as the newly elected vice president of the school board member but the proud father of a 2022 honor graduate. The school board also includes John Prickette; newly elected president Craig Roberts; Leesa Toliver; Robbin Vaughn and Kerry Wright. High school staff and administrators, including College and Career Readiness Director Jenny Arledge, also were recognized during the program.
Leslie Harred noted she and the other counselors at SSHS look forward to the the honors breakfast, a celebration of the culmination of 13 years of hard work, dedication to deadlines, grades, projects, victories and sometimes defeats. She congratulated the students and parents.
Harred and her fellow counselors Jamie Ladd and Carol Cowley took turns introducing this year’s honor graduates introduced in alphabetical order. Each graduate then too their place at the front of the room, along with their teacher or special guest who had the honor of presenting the graduate with an honor stole to wear at graduation.
Honor graduate Emily Atkinson plans to attend Texas Christian University, where she will major in business management then plans to pursue a career in finance.
She recognized Mrs. Lynn Smith, her school “mom” for the past four years, for always helping when needed, going above and beyond to make Atkinsons’ BPA experience fun and rewarding, and is the “backbone” of her BPA success.
Atkinson and was a state and national qualifier, and served as president of the school BPA chapter.
Honor graduate Connor Bailey plans to attend Oklahoma State University, where he will major in aviation with a goal of becoming a commercial pilot.
His special guest was his flight instructor, Mr. Bryce Etzkorn. He said Etzkorn has greatly invested in him and his future career as as commercial pilot.
Bailey is an Eagle Scout, a private pilot and received a Bright Star Scholarship.
Honor graduate Beau Bankston plans to attend Texas A&M University-Commerce, where he will study agribusiness.
He invited Mr. JT Luper, his junior and senior ag teacher, to be his guest at the breakfast. Luper, Bankston noted, has taught him more than any teacher he can remember. Luper’s knowledge and patience while teaching him was a “major influence on what I plan to do for my career.” Bankston said Luper deserves a thank you for all of the extra work and stress he endures to supply every student with a potential to learn.
Bankston is involved FFA, and was state qualifier in agriculture mechanics LDE.
Honor graduate Paige Bimmerle plans to attend Texas A&M to study business management and plans to pursue a career in project management.
She recognized Suetta Armstrong, her fifth grade teacher. Bimmerle noted that it meant a lot to her that Mrs. Armstrong got to know her more as a person than a student.
Outside of school she is involved in First Baptist Youth Group, works for Lake Country Labradoodles. She also is a two-time recipient of the MLK Character Award.
Honor graduate Bailee Burnett plans to attend the University of Texas at Tyler, where she is enrolled in the Honors Program will major in kinesiology with a goal of becoming a physical therapist.
She invited art teacher Amber Warren to be her special guest. Burnett said Mrs. Warren can make any bad day better and always goes above and beyond to help anyone. Warren is easy to talk to, will give advice or let them rant, and Burnett says she’s been so helpful to her.
Burnett has been involved with more than one school club, including serving as treasurer, secretary and president of HOSA: Future Health Professionals.
Honor graduate Addison Caddell plans to attend the University of Texas at Dallas, where she has committed to play softball and plans to major in business. She plans to pursue a career in sports management.
She invited Mrs. Bailey Dorner, her softball coach, to be her special guest. Caddell noted that Coach Dorner has always been there for her, on and off the field, helping her become the person she is today and has become a true friend and mentor.
While playing varsity softball, Caddell earned Newcomer of the Y ear, Defensive MVP and Academic All-District recognition, and was selected for the FCA Heart of a Champion All Star games. She has been involved several school clubs as well.
Caddell also served as a student representative on the SSISD Long Range Planning Committee and is a member of Paris Junior College’s honor society, Phi Beta Kappa.
Honor graduate Dawson Carpenter plans to attend Texas A&M University, where he plans to major in aerospace engineering with a goal of pursuing a career with NASA or SpaceX after graduating.
In addition to earning the distinction among honor graduates as the salutatorian for SSHS Senior Class of 2022, Carpenter is a National Merit Scholarship Commended Student, College Board Rural and Small Town Recognition Scholar, Bright Star Scholar, and an AP Scholar with honors.
Carpenter invited Gail Herman, who has taught him all four years of high school. He noted that Miss Herman took him under wing as a freshman and gave him a place to belong in UIL academics for the past four years.
And, belong he did. Carpenter advanced this year in four UIL events, helping his teams earn first place honors in spelling and literary criticism, and as the second place individual in the copy editing at the state academic UIL competition.
Carpenter also played varsity baseball, and was involved in several student organizations.
Honor graduate Litzy Chacon plans to attend the University of North Texas, where she will major in business communication. She has received the UNT Excellence Honors Scholarship and an Emerald Eagle Award.
She recognized Susanna Sanchez, her first grade teacher, who has inspired her and continued to encourage her throughout the years.
Chacon has served in leadership roles in several school organizations she’s been involved with. She is a 2022 Martin Luther King Character Award recipient, received recognition through the National Hispanic Recognition Program (CollegeBoard) and is on the Yearbook Staff and sings in choir.
Honor graduate Fernando Chimal plans to attend Texas A&M University-Commerce, where he will major in accounting with a goal of becoming a certified public accountant.
He invited Mrs. Martinez, his fifth grade bilingual education teacher, to be his special guest. Mrs. Martinez made a great impact on him by motivating him to keep both languages, specifically Spanish. She also taught him to stay humble.
Chimal has been involved in various school organizations including BPA, and competed in UIL accounting and number sense contests. He is involved in Phi Theta Kappa honor society
Honor graduate Luke Dietze plans to attend Baylor University, where he will major in mechanical engineering with a goal of becoming an engineer in the golf technology industry.
The SSHS graduate said his favorite high school memory is shooting a 78 on day two of the district golf tournament. He invited Mr. Jeremy Delorge to be his special guest. Dietze said Delorge is not only his golf coach, but his therapist, mentor and friend. Delorge also helped Dietze realize his full potential on and off the golf course.
In addition to playing varsity golf, Dietze has also been a member of PTK and NHS, and was involved in other school organizations as well.
Honor graduate Peyton Hammack plans to attend the University of Arkansas, where she will major and earn a degree in accounting, then further her education by attending law school.
She invited Mr. Todd McCoy. Hammack notes that Mr. McCoy took the time to really get to know her during her junior year. She says he was always patient in helping her to understand the content and continues to care about her success in all areas of her life.
Hammack said winning the district volleyball championship her junior year is her favorite high school memory. She racked up a few awards in volleyball, including being a three-time District Setter of the Year, Academic All-District her sophomore and junior years, and Academic All-State her senior year.
Honor graduate Juan Hernandez Jr. plans to attend Texas A&M University-Commerce, where he will major in construction engineering.
Hernandez recognized Mr. Casey Jeter. While in his class from 10th-12th grades, Jeter provided Hernandez with the opportunity to join the powerlifting team at a time when the SSHS student most needed something to work toward. Jeter offered guidance, which helped Hernandez become one of hte strongest lifter in the state, qualifying him for the Powerlifting National Honor Society.
The honor graduate also is in NHS, NTHS and competed in accounting UIL.
Honor Graduate Makayla Howell also plans to attend TAMU-C where she will major in biology.
Mrs. Amy Ridner, health science teacher, was recognized as Howell’s honored guest. Howell said Ridner provided the class with opportunities to learn within the healthcare field, is a supportive teacher who is always there for her students. Ridner has taught Howell more than any previous healthcare teachers have.
Howell was active in HOSA, recognized as a Red Cord honor student and winner of an Air Force Academy essay contest scholarship winner.
Savannah Lilley plans to attend Colorado School of Mines, where she will major in chemical engineering with a goal of eventually going into pharmaceuticals. She hopes to engineer new medications.
Not surprisingly, her favorite memories at SSHS involve participating in biology, chemistry, and anatomy and physiology labs.
Lilley invited Mrs. Beth Cole, her varsity choir instructor, to be her special guest because she has inspired her in more ways than one. Cole has also encouraged Lilley through her years with her.
She has participated in more than one school organization, including serving as Student Council treasurer and was on yearbook staff.
Honor Graduate Reese Rabe plans to attend the University of Mississippi, where he will work toward a business degree. He also plans to pursue an economics degree while there.
Rabe honored Mr. Jeff Harris, who taught him in eighth grade and remains one of his favorite teachers. Harris inspired Rabe to learn on a higher level, challenged him to start thinking about his future goals and college career.
Rabe played varsity baseball and was involved in NHS and Key Club.
Honor graduate Shelby Ray plans to attend Texas A&M University, where she will focus on classical studies with a goal of becoming a librarian.
Ray honored Mrs. Kaley Williams, who she said brings so much joy into her life. She knows she can go to Williams with anything and she will be there for her.
Ray not only was a member of the state champion literary criticism team, but also competed in UIL journalism events, is a 2022 MLK Jr. Award recipient and NHS member. Her leadership includes the percussion section in the school band and participating in Hopkins County Leadership.
Honor graduate Ashley Rodriguez plans to attend the University of North Texas, where she will major in biology.
Her guest was Mrs. Demetra Robinson. Rodriguez noted that Mrs. Robinson has been encouraging and supportive since she had her as a teacher her freshman year. Robinson, Rodriguez said, has been involved in her life even when she was no longer in her class. She described Robinson as one of the kindest teachers she has ever had.
Rodriguez has been active in band and a member of HOSA, NHS, NTHS and other student organizations.
Honor graduate Jacob Semler plans to major in film and digital media at Baylor University.
He recognized Mr. Jordan Owens, who he said created a classroom environment where he could discover his passion “all while being a great person.”
Semler encourages other students to take advantage or career resources available such as elective classes and opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities. Doing so, he says could help students find their passion and a future occupation.
Among the activities Semler participated in were NHS, NTHS. He serve as a BPA vice president and was a two-time national qualifier. He also was a regional powerlifter.
Honor Graduate Matthew Sherman plans to attend Texas A&M University, where he will work toward a career in orthopedics.
Sherman’s guest of honor was Mr. Spencer Emmert. Sherman said Emmert taught him to have a love for playing music through his passionate teaching.
Among Sherman’s honors are becoming an Eagle Scout, being the third ranked student in the class of 256, receiving the John Phillips Sousa Award., being in NHS He played on the varsity baseball and football teams, earning 1st Team Academic All-State Football Player and All-District Honorable Mention Pitcher honors. He participated in Hopkins County Leadership.
Honor graduate Katie Tiemeyer plans to attend the University of Texas at Tyler, where she will major in public health with a focus in nutrition science.
She honored Mrs. Katlin Meadows, who has been her cheer coach all four years of high school. Tiemeyer said not only has Mrs. Meadows helped her with her athletic aspirations, but has taught her so much about how to carry herself and live honorably. The varsity cheer captain said Meadows has always been an amazing example of how to love others well.
Aside from the high energy cheering during the basketball playoffs and bus rides with her team, Tiemeyer said she enjoyed time out sharing life advice with coaches.
Tiemeyer has earned a UT Tyler Athletic Scholarship for Competition Cheer and Stunt Teams and is also a Bright Star Scholarship recipient. She’s also served as an officer in Key Club, participated in Hopkins County Leadership and other student organizations including HOSA.
Honor graduate Michelle Tijerin plans to attend the University of Texas, where she will major in international relations and global studies with a goal of one day having a career as an immigration attorney. She was awarded a Bright Star Scholarship to apply toward her studies.
She invited Miss Rachel Finney to be her special guest. She said Miss Finney has been a big inspiration in her life. Tijerin described Finney as a caring individual who has pushed her and encouraged her to pursue her dreams and to believe that anything is possible. In fact, one of Tijerin’s favorite memories of SSHS is from sitting on the couch in Finney’s classroom, bickering with her friends, eating anything they had in their backpacks and working on their assignments. Being in that stress-free environment and truly enjoying that class time with friends is a memory Tijerin said she will cherish forever.
She participated in Dare To Dream and was a member of BPA, NTHS, Phi Theta Kappa and NHS, and other school organizations.
Honor graduate Jadyn Van Winkle plans to attend West Texas A&M University, where she plans to major in biology with a goal of either being a SANE nurse or vet.
Van Winkle recognized Miss Gail Herman, whose AP English classes have made her a better writer, educated thinker and more prepared for college. Herman, Van Winkle noted, is passionate about teaching and does not take shortcuts.
In fact, Van Winkle was a winner in the VFW Voice of Democracy Speech Contest, a Lone Star Youth Cowboy Poetry Contest, Air Force Academy Northeast Texas Chapter 416 Essay Contest, and Texas Elks State Association Essay Contest.
She has also been active in a number of student organizations, including NHS, NTHS, HOSA served as a student representative on the SHAC, played varsity soccer and served as class president.
Joel Villarino is not only an honor graduate, he is the top graduate in the SSHS Senior Class of 2022. He has decided to attend Rice University to major in computer science with a goal of becoming a software engine.
The SSHS 2022 valedictorian recognized Mr. Gerald Grafton, who he said has always been extremely nice and understanding. Villarino said he always leaves Mr. Grafton’s statistics and calculus classes with a positive attitude. He too noted that Grafton encourages him to ask questions, no matter how redundant they might seem.
Villarino is a National Merit Scholar, recipient of the Rotary Youth Leadership Award, participated in the CollegeBoard Recognition Program for Hispanic and Small Towns. The Wildcat Drum Major made the Area Band on F Horn and jazz guitar, and was a State Solo & Ensemble Qualifier. In Academic UIL, Villarino served as captain of the computer science team. He also served as class treasurer and was member of NHS and NTHS.
Jessica Yanez plans to attend the University of Texas to major in business, then pursue a doctoral degree in pharmacy with a goal of becoming a clinical pharmacist.
She invited Mrs. Adriana Salas to be her special guest during the honors breakfast. Yanez said Mrs. Salas was the first teacher to make her feel seen. Salas classroom provided Yanez with the warmest and safest environment to begin her academic journey. Yanez said she will forever be thankful for the memories created while in Salas’ class.
Yanez’s favorite memory at SSHS was getting to grow academically as well as independently. She said she had learned a great deal that she will carry with her through the years.
Receiving the National Hispanic Recognition Program Award and the National Rural and Small Town Recognition Award are among the honors Yanez has received.
She’s held leadership positions, including serving as class president, Student Council Spirit director, NTHS treasurer, participated in Hopkins County Leadership, and was involved in a number of different activities, including NHS, FFA and HOSA.
Honor graduate Emily Zarco plans to attend Texas A&M University-Commerce, where she will major in nursing.
Mrs. Adriana Salas was also the guest of Zarco. The honor graduate said Mrs. Salas continues to be an influence in her life, motivating her to do her best.
Zarco was a member of both the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society, and served on the Student Council.
SSISD Assistant Superintendent Josh Williams concluded the program noting how awesome the program has become with SSHS students taking on the task or planning and preparing the breakfast for the seniors. As has become tradition, he read the poem “The Goodnight Kiss,” then offered congratulations to the honor graduates for a great job that would not have happened without out a lot of work.
Families and visitors were invited to the Senior Awards and Scholarship Program that followed at 4:30 p.m. May 17, 2022, in the Civic Center Exhibit Hall. The honor graduates gathered for a group photo, a few shots with family, friends and special guests, then departed to join many members of the Senior Class who donned graduation gowns and caps, boarded buses and traveled to receive cheers from and offer encouragement to students on other campuses. The Senior Walk concluded with the graduates returning to the halls at SSHS. The band, cheerleaders and other student groups and parents met the students as they exited and returned to the school.
Understanding Causes For Muddy Ponds
By Mario Villarino, Texas AgriLife Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources in Hopkins County, [email protected]
A frequent complaint of pond owners, especially after filling newly constructed ponds, is a muddy, dirty, or turbid appearance. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, many owners wish for clear sparkling waters but are instead greeted by muddy ponds containing water that resembles chocolate milk. Turbid water, or turbidity, is caused by suspended organic and inorganic particles in a body of water that reduce clarity.
In a muddy pond, it is primarily suspended clay particles that produce the turbidity. It is important to understand the problems that turbidity produced by suspended clay particles could potentially cause in a pond’s ecosystem. Clay turbidity in ponds reduces the ability of light to penetrate the water to depth, which results in reduced amounts of phytoplankton, and subsequently, reduced natural oxygen production and food for fish. Not only could muddy or turbid water cause stunted growth in fish, but overall aesthetics of the pond can be reduced. Another concern of muddy ponds is that suspended solids can lead to undesirable flavors, often referred to as “off-flavors,” in fish harvested from the pond.
Muddiness of ponds can also promote the growth of bacteria and blue-green algae, which can lead to health problems for aquatic organisms, humans, and animals that may swim in or drink from the pond.
Most pond owners desire completely clear ponds that look “aesthetically pleasing,” but due to lack of nutrients and associated food, this can also cause detrimental effects for fish populations if the pond owner is concerned about maintaining a good fishery. Completely clear water means there is no food in the water column for small fish to eat. Ponds can appear muddy for various reasons.
The most common causes for muddy ponds are new pond construction in clay soils, rainfall/runoff, erosion from wave action and other sources, and animals. One may wonder how these factors can cause a pond to become muddy, or turbid. To retain water, ponds must be constructed in, or lined with, clay-rich soil. Clay soils contain tiny, negatively charged clay particles that can suspend in the water, ultimately causing the appearance of muddy water. Runoff from a rain event can also bring clay particles into the pond from the surrounding environment. Turbidity can result from high winds, abrupt changes in air temperature, and excessive rainfall disturbing clay particles, causing them to become suspended in the water. Wildlife, such as ducks, beavers, muskrats, and wading birds; livestock wading in or drinking from the pond; invasive species such as common carp, nutria, and feral hogs; and aeration systems can also cause suspension of clay particles. In some cases, fish species intentionally stocked into the pond, such as grass carp or catfish, can stir the bottom sediment, causing turbidity.
For more information to this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Texas A&M AgriLife Experts Recommend Pediatric Advice On Infant Formula
By Johanna Hicks, Hopkins County AgriLife Extension Agent for Family & Community Health, [email protected]
With the shortage of infant formula on store shelves and uncertainty of when there may be new supplies, many people are turning to the internet and social media to find out how to make their own infant formula at home. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension personnel are advising worried mothers to check with their pediatricians about alternatives for feeding their infants to avoid nutrient and safety concerns surrounding homemade formulas.
Due to product recalls earlier this year and supply chain shortages, Google, Facebook, and other social media outlets have had a surge in articles or posts featuring how to make your own infant formula at home. However, making your own infant formula at home is not recommended and may even put your baby at risk. It can limit the necessary nutrients infants need for proper brain and overall development. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, making homemade infant formula can result not only in a loss of important nutrients but increase the risk of bacterial contamination from water as well as household ingredients.
Some infants may be on specialized formulas which may be either more easily digested or tolerated due to other conditions. Changing the ratio and type of formula may cause gastrointestinal and other complications for infants if a homemade formula is substituted, according to Danielle Kreuger, registered dietitian and Extension Specialist.
Since infant needs change as they age, there is a lot of opportunity for a recommendation based on the age of the infant. If the infant is closer to one year of age, the formula suggestions may be very different than for an infant that’s 4 or 6 months old. Your pediatrician can help you make the best decision for your baby’s health. They may also have resources to get families what they need and can help direct them to an appropriate formula or substitution.
While some may be inclined to make their own baby formula due to the current shortage, this can present many opportunities to limit the nutrients your baby needs to grow. According to Jenna Anding, Ph.D., AgriLife Extension nutrition specialist in Texas A&M Department of Nutrition, Bryan-College Station, a developing baby needs vitamins and minerals including iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid and just the right ratio of nutrients. Breastmilk and baby formula provide the right balance of essential nutrients your baby needs to support their growing and developing bodies.
For more information on infant formula shortages and best practices visit http://www.healthychildren.org. People can also dial 2-1-1 for local information about resources for infant formula.
Closing Thought
Being negative only makes a difficult journey more difficult. You may be given a cactus, but you don’t have to sit on it.
Joyce Meyer
Contact Johanna Hicks, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Family & Community Health Agent for Hopkins County at P.O. Box 518, 1200-B West Houston, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483; 903-885-3443 or [email protected].
CHRISTUS Associates, Others Donate $2,500 To Help A Ukraine Community
Hospital Also Donating Medical Supplies To Send To Kharkov
To Extend the Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ.
By Jennifer Heitman, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, [email protected]
Inpatient Hemodialysis Now Available
We are now offering inpatient hemodialysis for patients who are battling End-Stage Renal Disease while in inpatient status. This is an effort to keep patients and their families in the community by avoiding being transferred out for their hemodialysis needs. We are excited to be able to offer this service. Registered Nurses Dana Ingram and Brigitte Zeigler are leading this effort.
For questions about the CHRISTUS Mother Frances – Sulphur Springs Inpatient Dialysis Program, please contact Dana Ingram at 903-438-4409 or [email protected].
Helping Ukraine
Thanks to the generosity of our hospital associates and many others, we have raised $2,500 for Ukraine. Through a hospital initiative, along with the Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation, we had the opportunity to aid the community of Kharkov (a city in northeast Ukraine). One of the hospital associates has a spouse who is from this city, and their family is still there.
In addition to the monetary gift, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital has charitably donated medical supplies to be sent as well.
*UPDATED – COVID Vaccine Clinics *New Location*
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will no longer offer the COVID Vaccine Clinic every Friday morning.
However, Net Health does offer Pediatric and Adult COVID vaccines. This vaccine clinic is located at 100 Medical Circle in Sulphur Springs. No appointment is necessary. Subsequently, Net Health will continue to come every four weeks to provide COVID vaccines.
From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily, Net Health will offer vaccines on the following weeks: May 31-June 3, June 27-July 1, July 25-29, August 22-26, September 19-23, and October 17-21.
Hospital Visitation
Please note the following guidelines:
- Patients and visitors will be encouraged, but not required, to wear a mask. However, we will continue to screen patients and visitors to identify those with COVID-like symptoms. Visitors who fail their screen will be asked to refrain from entering our facilities.
- Emergency Department entrance open 24/7
- Main Entrance open 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday
- Gift Shop open
- Visiting hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Types of Visitors:
- COVID receiving aerosol treatments: via tele-visitation only
- COVID not receiving aerosol treatments: One essential support person for the duration of hospital stay. Essential support person will be given a visible wrist band for identification purposes.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
We are in need of volunteers to help in various roles throughout our hospital. We are asking for anyone willing to give his or her time to help bring a smile to someone in our hospital! For more information, contact Sherry Moore at 903-439-4062 [email protected], or Shelly Trammel at 903-439-4054 or [email protected].
CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System includes CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospitals – Tyler, South Tyler, Jacksonville, Winnsboro and Sulphur Springs, the CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Louis and Peaches Owen Heart Hospital – Tyler, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rehabilitation Hospital a partner of Encompass Health, Tyler Continue CARE Hospital at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital, a long-term acute care facility, and CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic is the area’s preferred multi-specialty medical group, with more than 400 Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers representing 36 specialties in 34 locations serving Northeast Texas across 41 counties. For more information on services available through CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System, visit christustmf.org
- Bed count – 402 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Tyler
- Bed count – 8 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – South Tyler
- Bed count – 25 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Jacksonville
- Bed Count – 96 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs
- Bed count – 25 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Winnsboro
- Bed count – 94 – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rehabilitation Hospital
- Bed count – 96 – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Louis and Peaches Owen Heart – Tyler
- Bed count – 51 – Tyler Continue CARE Hospital at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital
Chamber Connection – May 18, 2022: Graphic Artists May Submit Logo For Total Solar Eclipse Contest
By Butch Burney
Graphic artists are invited to submit a logo for the April 8, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse that will occur that afternoon.
Sulphur Springs is on the centerpoint of the Path of Totality, which means we will assuredly have thousands of visitors that weekend. What that means is that Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County needs to gear up for that event. People travel from literally all over the world to witness a total solar eclipse, and we need to make sure that our county is at the forefront.
We have commissioned a domain, SSTotalEclipse.com and are working on the website to make sure people know we are prepared for them. To get it the website done, we need a logo.
So, we are opening up the Eclipse Logo Contest with the tagline “See You on the Centerline.”
If you are interested in participating, send your submission to me at [email protected]. The official logo will be used on the website and official SSTotalEclipse.com merchandise.
See you on the Centerline!
Golf for a Good Cause
The Reinforcement Foundation is hosting a benefit golf scramble on Friday, June 10, at the Sulphur Springs Country Club. Proceeds will benefit Hopkins County EMS and Cumby Volunteer Fire Department.
Tee time is 1:30 p.m., followed by a banquet dinner and a concert by Tyler and The Tribe.
Registration fee for the four-person scramble is $500, which includes four tickets to the banquet and eight raffle tickets. First, second and third place prizes will be awarded.
There will be plenty of contest holes.
Register on Facebook on the Reinforcement Foundation page or call 903-259-9904. Sponsorships are also available, starting at $100.
Celebration Market
Celebration Market on the downtown plaza starts Saturday, May 21, at S p.m. and goes until 9 p.m. Come out and shop and browse what the market vendors have for you.
Freedom Ball
The Hopkins County Freedom Ball, celebrating our county’s veterans and active military and benefiting the Hopkins County Veterans Memorial, is set for 6-10 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
The ball includes a salute to the military, a speaker, dinner, music and more.
Children’s Grief Camp
“Mending the Mess,” a grief camp for children ages 6-12, will be held June 23-24, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day, at the 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.
Clown Alley
Memory Makers Clown Alley will be performing at Main Street Theatre at 7 p.m. Friday, May 27, and 2 p.m. Saturday, May 28. They are an association of professional and amateur clowns from Hopkins County.
For more information, visit CommunityPlayersInc.com.
Ribbon Cuttings
- Project One Roofing will have a ribbon cutting at their location at 209 Jackson St., at noon on Friday, May 20. Please join us for this event.
- Aaron’s Rent to Own will have a ribbon cutting at its location at 1402 Mockingbird Lane at noon on Friday, May 27. Please welcome them to the Chamber.
Business of the Week
Masterpiece Ultrasound and Boutique is the Chamber’s Business of the Week for May 18. See more about our Business of the Week on the Chamber’s Instagram and Facebook pages as well as our website.
