Winnsboro Police Department Media Report – March 28-April 3, 2022
Winnsboro Police Department each week provides a media report with information about department activity for the last 7 days. WPD activity for the week of March 28-April 3, 2022 included:
Arrests
- Azucena Sanchez Garcia, 17 years of age, of Dallas, was arrested March 29, 2022, on a theft of property valued at $100 or more but less than $ 750 charge.
- Araceli Sanchez Balolerois, 26 years of age, of Dallas was arrested March 29, 2022, on a theft of property valued at $100 or more but less than $ 750 charge.
- Steven Tosh, 56 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on March 31, 2022, on a Titus County warrant for theft of property valued at $100 or more but less than 750.
- Brandi Ragsdale, 40 years of age, of Mount Vernon, was arrested on March 31, 2022, for driving while license invalid with previous convictions and multiple Winnsboro Municipal Court warrants.
- Andrea Sandlin, 29 years of age, of Yantis, was arrested on April 1, 2022, on a Winnsboro Municipal Court warrant for speeding.
- Michael Harrison, 43 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on April 2, 2022, on a Bradley County warrant for failure to appear.
- Stevie Needham, 25 years of age, of Leesburg, was arrested on April 3, 2022, on a Franklin County second degree warrant for possession of controlled substance.
Calls for Service
- The Winnsboro Police Department responded to a total of 112 calls for service during this reporting period.
Citations
- The Winnsboro Police Department issued 18 citations and 37 warnings during this reporting period.
SSHS Advances To Region UIL OAP Competition
The Sulphur Springs High School Wildcat Theatre students continue to shine, advancing from Area to the Region UIL OAP competition with their performance of “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Four students also earned individual recognition for their contributions to the play.
The SSHS thespians are among three theatre troupes from our district selected to advance from region to area. Hallsville and Longview also are advancing.
AllieGrace Woodard, Austin Crump and Lucy Braddy once again earned All Star Cast honors. While AllieGrace has earned All Star Cast recognition at all three levels of competition so far, Austin and Lucy received two All Star Cast Honors and at Bi-District received Honorable Mention All Star Cast recognition.
Brandon Williams was also awarded Outstanding Crew honors for the second time this season.
The SSHS Wildcat Theatre troupe are slated to perform at the Area UIL One Act Play competition at 1:30 p.m. April 21, at Prosper Rock Hill High School. Cost to view the play is $5 per person.
The cast and crew of “Peter and the Starcatcher” includes: AllieGrace Woodard, Lucy Braddy, Brandon Williams, Caleb Talmage, Anayeli De La Cruz, Savannah Lilley, Austin Crump, Khira Young, Danielle Verlander, Markida Hood, Ricardo Chavarria, Jolene Reed, Talley Brown, Oliver Falter, Caroline Prickette, Addison Bradley, Cadrian Davis, Aiden Woodard, Aspen Mayhew, Audrey Tanton, and Alaya Mims. Lesha Woodard is the director of the play.
Congratulations to these students for advancing to Region and their individual achievements.
Social Security Offices To Resume In-Person Services Beginning April 7, 2022
Online, Phone Still Most Recommended Ways To Contact SSA For Assistance, To Schedule Appointments, But Not Required
Social Security Administration Acting Commissioner Kilolo Kijakazi just announced good news for those individuals in need of assistance from the agency: local officers will be resuming in-person services this week.
“I am pleased to announce that local Social Security offices will restore in-person services, including for people without an appointment, on April 7, 2022,” Kijakozi was quoted in a Social Security Administration news release issued Monday morning, April 4, 2022.
However, while walk-ins are allowed, the acting commissioner is still recommending those who can to use Social Security’s Administration’s online services at www.socialsecurity.gov, or to call ahead to their local office to schedule an appointment to avoid potentially having to wait for a long period in line at the local office to speak with a SSA representative. Phone appointments can also potentially save people a trip to what likely will be a busy office.
“I thank the public for your patience as we work to increase service,” Kijakozi stated in the release. “Customers who walk in without appointments may encounter delays and longer waits at our offices. Be aware that our offices tend to be the busiest first thing in the morning, early in the week, and during the early part of the month, so people may want to plan to visit at other times.”
Throughout the pandemic, millions of people used the agency’s online services and received help by phone. People who have access to the internet are recommended to first try the SSA’s online services before calling or visiting a local Social Security Administration office, the acting commissioner said.
Because many people served by SSA have health vulnerabilities the agency will continue to require certain safety measures, consistent with union agreements.
“[W]e are continuing to require certain safety measures including masking, physical distancing, and self-health checks for COVID-19 symptoms. We will provide masks to the public and employees if they need them,” the acting commissioner noted.
Part of the preparations by SSA to restore in-person services has included implementation of office-to-office support and bringing back some recently retired employees to help assist. Assistance in getting to ready has also come from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living and national advocate organizations.
The SSA is also transitioning to a new more modern phone system, which could mean a busy signal or unintentional disconnection of calls while the system is being updated. Many Social Security services are also available by dialing toll-free, 1-800-772-1213. People who are deaf or hard of hearing may call Social Security’s TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.
“We sincerely regret this disruption and recommend people call when our national 800 number may be less busy, such as before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. local time or later in the week. Like our offices, our waits are generally shorter later in the month,” Kijakazi stated in the release.
Most Social Security services are available to the public online at www.socialsecurity.gov and with a my Social Security account. Most Social Security services do not require the public to take time to visit an office. Create a my Social Security account, a personalized online service, at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.
These personalized online services include requesting a replacement Social Security replacement card if certain requirements are met, change direct deposit information if the individual already receives Social Security benefits, request a replacement SSA-1099, and can even print or download a Benefit Verification Letter from their account to show proof of benefits. The portal too includes a retirement calculator and links to information about other online services including retirement, disability and Medicare benfits.
Those who do not yet receive Social Security benefits can download from their online account a personalized Social Security Statement, which provides earnings information as well as estimates for future benefits.
Curfew For Minors, Project Superman Among April 5 City Council Agenda Items
Homestead exemption, curfew for minors ordinance and economic development project negotiations are among topics Sulphur Springs City Council will discuss during the regular City Council meeting scheduled Tuesday.
While the regular City Council meeting isn’t scheduled to begin until 7 p.m. April 5, the elected city officials are slated to meet starting at 6:15 p.m. Tuesday in executive session to deliberate regarding Project Superman negotiation, consider possible purchase of real property, and to consult an attorney.
Labeled and identified only as “Project Superman” as negotiations are ongoing, local officials say the potential economic development project could be “a game changer” for the local economy in terms of jobs, and potential long-term tax revenues which would bolster the economy and provide funding for all taxing entities for projects and improvements. For the city and school district, the additional funds could mean additional funds for infrastructure and facilities improvements.
If negotiations for Project Superman or other matters from the executive session have reached a point where action is needed, the City Council would vote on the matter during the regular open portion of the meeting Tuesday evening, April 5, 2022.
Presented for second and, if approved, final hearing is the re-adoption, ratification, republishing and extension of Ordinance 2762 for another 3 years, the maximum allowable time. The ordinance, first passed by the City Council in 2020, establishes a curfew for unaccompanied minors, including circumstances in which minors would be allowed to be out past those hours. The city ordinance was first approved on final reading in April 2020.
The ordinance allows there to be a penalty, a citation or warning, for unaccompanied minors police catch out late at night by themselves. It also allows the officer to take the youth home if caught out in violation of curfew; officers previously were only able to ask the youth to leave, but no other enforceable recourse unless the unaccompanied minor had committed a criminal offense, City Manager Marc Maxwell told the City Council during first reading of the document proposed for re-adoption of the ordinance at the March1 City Council meeting. Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jason Ricketson noted recently, officers have encountered what appear to be more youth sneaking out of their homes at night, and at younger ages.
While officers had not yet issued a citation for the offense as of the March meeting, police had given 40 warnings for youth being out after curfew since the ordinance was became effective on May 1, 2020.
Ordinance No. 2862 will expire on April 30, 2022, if not re-approved by the City Council this month. To read Ordinance No. 2862, click here.
A presentation on homestead exemptions is slated to be discussed during the April 5 meting as well.
Additional items on the agenda include a city manger’s report on the status of capital improvements, municipal operations, accidents and claims for the past month, as well as a review of expenditures and revenues by the assistant city manger/finance director; and consent agenda, including a request for a 380 agreement, and City Council and other Committee meeting minutes from previous meetings.
Time has been designated for proclamation for Fair Housing Month, and any announcements, presentations and proclamations from the city officials; and public forum, to allow those individuals who signed up prior to the start of the City Council meeting to address the council on the records for a few minutes.
Unless otherwise noted, Sulphur Springs City Council meets in regular open session at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at Sulphur Springs Municipal Building (City Hall) on Davis Street.
Lady Cats Softball Holds on For Huge 4-3 Victory in Hallsville
Sulphur Springs softball found themselves trailing in a game for only the second time in their district season.
Coach David Carillo’s team rallied down from 1-0, pulling ahead by three before holding on for a 4-3 on Friday in Hallsville.
While scoreless through two and a half innings, Hallsville scored the first run of the game in their third at-bat to take a 1-0 advantage.
Another scoreless inning later and the Lady Cats scored their first thanks to four singles, the last being the biggest from Crymson Bryant.
The junior’s RBI single got Jayden Harper home, allowing Sulphur Springs to tie it up at 1-1 in the top of the 5th.
The 6th inning was when the Lady Cats capitalized on a few costly errors from Hallsville. Kinz Smallwood leading off reached first on infielder error.
Two walks later, and Sulphur Springs had two runners on with only one out.
Smallwood was picked off at third base for the second out, but a fielding error from Hallsville’s CF proved costly as both Lady Cats on-base and hitter Jadyn Harper crossed home for a huge 4-1 lead in the top of the 6th.
With the game on the line, Hallsville’s lead-off batter in the bottom of the 7th singled. Unfortunately for Hallsville, they then coughed up two quick outs, before a wild pitch and two big hits later and Hallsville found themselves trailing by only one at 4-3.
Crimson Bryant with two outs put the game away, recording her final strikeout of the evening to secure a 4-3 victory for Sulphur Springs on Friday, Apr. 1.
The junior got the win after pitching another complete game, giving up 5 hits and 3 runs. Bryant struck out 13 Hallsville batters and walked three Friday.
Friday’s huge win in Hallsville gives the Lady Cats a 16-1-2 record (7-0 district).
Next up, Coach Carrillo’s squad has two big home games on deck:
- Tuesday, Apr. 5 vs Longview (5-2, #3 in district 15-5A)
- Friday, Apr. 8 vs Mount Pleasant (4-3, #4 in 15-5A)
Wins over one or both of the those squads would go a long way for securing a second-straight district championship for Sulphur Springs.
First Lady Cats softball host a hot Lady Lobos squad, with that game teeing off Tuesday, Apr. 5 at 6 P.M.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Meal A Day Menu – April 4-8, 2022
Volunteers prepare meals at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center and deliver them five days a week to Meal A Day program recipients in Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County. The Meal A Day Menu for the week of April 4-8, 2022 includes:
- Monday – Lemon Chicken On a Bed of Rice, Pinto Beans and Normandy Vegetables.
- Tuesday – Ham and Broccoli Quiche, 3-Bean Salad, Roasted Potatoes and Carrots.
- Wednesday – Chicken and Dressing Casserole, Sweet Potatoes and Lima Beans.
- Thursday – Meatloaf, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and a Roll.
- Friday – Chicken Spaghetti, Garlic Bread and Tossed Salad.
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.
Paris District Road Report for April 4, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting April 4, 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. The northbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street exit ramp. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Lamar/Houston Street exit. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road near West Staples Street and transitions back to the existing mainlanes near West Cherry Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Center Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Center Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. To detour, eastbound Center Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Park Avenue, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Houston Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Center Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLyVQ6rYNhM
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Center Street closure at US 75: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIMoHaqAFGg
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road from just north of Houston Street and transitions back to the existing main lanes south of North Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 main lanes and the bridge over Washington Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Washington Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to complete work in preparation of the mainlane detour. To detour, eastbound Washington Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Lamar Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on North Travis Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Washington Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Washington Street closure at US 75:
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between North Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lanes shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on construction of new frontage road lanes.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to 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 east side of the Washington Street intersection at FM 1417 has been reopened to traffic after completion of the paving at this intersection. Construction crews plan to close the eastern portion of Taylor Street in the near future in order to complete the paving work across this intersection. Message boards will be placed in advance of the closure in order to notify the public.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to complete the remaining work on the project.
FM 1417, Grayson County: at the Park Avenue and Quail Run Road intersections. Watch for daytime shoulder closures and occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to install traffic signals at these intersections. The new signal at the Park Avenue intersection has been placed in flash mode and traffic on both FM 1417 and Park Avenue have a stop condition at the flashing light. The signal will be placed in full signal mode on April 5. The new signal at the Quail Run intersection is currently scheduled to be placed into flash mode on April 5.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Thursday night. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete. 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 then 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 4 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.
FM 121, Grayson County: in Van Alstyne from Preston Avenue to John Douglas Road. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as construction crews work to install sidewalks, curb ramps, and landscape features.
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 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday and Wednesday during the nighttime.
The annual contract to perform bridge repairs in Grayson County is underway. The following locations will have bridge repairs performed, so travelers should expect occasional lane closures while this work is underway. US 75 northbound mainlane bridge at Iron Ore Creek, US 75 southbound frontage road bridge at Iron Ore Creek, the SH 289 bridge approximately 1.75 miles south of FM 120, and FM 1417 at Post Oak Creek.
FM 1897, Grayson County, from US 69 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 902, Grayson County, from SH 5 to SH 11. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers complete the remaining work on the project.
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.
FM 1552, Fannin County: from SH 78 to County Road 3710. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
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.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work on re-establishing vegetation on the project. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews complete the remaining work.
FM 1396, Fannin County: from FM 2029 west to CR 2275. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to widen the roadway.
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.
SH 37, Franklin County: from the elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
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.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to the Bowie County line. Watch for work zones and drive safely through construction areas while final work is being performed.
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.
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.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Project (several counties): The contractor has set barricades at the Wolfe City, Texas, location. The contractor is currently working on Santa Fe street and is near 50 percent complete. The project is moving towards the downtown area of Wolfe City. This project will improve pedestrian sidewalks and construct ADA-compliant curb ramps at these locations: Hunt County, SH 34 at Crockett Street to SH 34 at FM 816 in Wolfe City. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 903, Rains County: From US 380 to FM 1560. The contractor has set barricades and bulletin boards and advance warning signs. The contractor has begun hauling new flexbase and placing new geogrid and cement treated the material. Culvert walls are being constructed and poured. The contractor reworked base and built subgrade approximately 1,400 feet. The contractor also poured a parallel wall.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor has been doing the finish work on the cement-treated flexbase, driveways and backfilling from Lake Fork Creek to the north for one mile. Drill shaft installation has been completed and beams will be set soon. The contractor has completed the 150-foot bridge deck pour, as well as setting SET’s and driveway pipe on the north and south side of the project. The bridge crew is currently installing the bridge rail and are scheduled to complete this task this week. Please be aware of lane closures, detours, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor has placed project barricades and has prepared and cleared the right-of-way. The contractor has performed a traffic switch for northbound and southbound traffic on Spur 264 to complete the concrete pavement on the east half of Spur 264. The contractor continues grading flexbase on SH 276 from east of the bridge approach to the proposed CRCP section, fine grade embankment work on the west end of the project, and prep work for geo-grid and flexbase. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
FM 1566, Hunt County: from FM 272 near Celeste to State Highway 34. The contractor has placed prime coat on the beginning mile. Prep work for temporary strip should be placed late next week for the first mile section. Contractor is working on backfilling shoulders and repairing silt fences along the left and right sides of miles 1 and 2.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing overlay operations on FM 1570 from I-30 to SH 66, and on FM 118 from SH 224 to FM 512. Crews will be performing potholing at various locations in Hunt County. Maintenance contract crews will be performing debris removal on I-30 and guard rail repair at various locations around Hunt County. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
Maintenance crews in Rains County will be performing seal coat prep work on the I-30 south frontage road from CR 3102 to FM 1737. Crews will be performing various sign installations, potholing, edging, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations on various roadways. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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SSISD Superintendent Answers Questions, Shares Information About $93 Million Bond Election
Approximately 40-50 people attended the Town Hall meeting Thursday night to hear Sulphur Springs ISD Superintendent Michael Lamb share information and answer questions about the May SSISD $93 million bond election.
Taxes, where a new facility will be constructed, what will become of existing structures and when these projects would take place, as well as what would occur if the bond does not pass were among the topics community members asked Lamb about.
How The Bond Proposal Was Devised
Lamb explained an outside group was utilized to compile facilities needs for the district. The SSISD Facilities Committee – composed of parents, grandparents, educators, community and business professionals – then went over the school’s goals, prioritizing needs and resources. The group whittle the list down from more than $130 million to $93 million in needs and recommended the school board call for a bond election to provide the needed funding for campus improvements, renovations, replacements and new construction.
He explained that the school district was set to call for the bond in the previous school year, but due to COVID-19’s impact on the district and community opted to wait another year to propose the idea. SSISD trustees called for the $93 million bond this spring, and voters ultimately will have the final say.
Nearly all of Sulphur Springs ISD’s buildings have served the district for 50 plus years. Schools are typically built with the expectation of a 30-40 year life cycle. Thanks to the work of the district’s maintenance staff, nearly all of Sulphur Springs ISD’s buildings have far exceeded that, Lamb said.
The administration building, for example is 100 years. Austin, Sulphur Springs Elementary, Douglass ECLC and Travis campuses are all 60-67 years. Bowie and Rowena Johnson Primary campuses were built 55 years ago. Only three campuses have fewer than 50 years of use: high school is 43, Barbara Bush Primary 25 and Middle School 9. Most recently, SSISD facilities have lasted about 80 years, evidenced by the demolition of Houston Elementary and closing and renovation of sections of Austin campus.
Next to the SSISD Administration Building, Travis is the oldest campus. Educators and maintenance staff have maximized the available resources and space at Travis.
However, with the increased use of modern technology in the classrooms, it has become increasingly more difficult to properly equip the facility to keep up. When Travis Elementary was constructed 67 years ago, the campus did not need the amount of electrical outlets it does today to power Promethean boards and e-devices for students and staff. Maintenance staff have had to run wires on the walls instead of in them for this because the building is just not equipped for that level of electric use.
Other routine repairs and replacements too are getting hard to come by as they are outdated and no longer available, according to Lamb.
“Travis has been an amazing building. The tiles in the classroom, you can’t buy anymore. We’re having to pull them up and paint them. We need more electricity, which we can put on the outer wall only,” Lamb said.
School Taxes
Lamb noted that while the bond would raise the I&S (debt) portion of the tax rate by about 8.5-cents, the there is a possibility that some may see their school taxes go down. Those who receive a homestead exemption could see the amount of exemption increase from $25,000 to $40,000, if the measure passes.
The proposition is on the ballot this year, for voters to consider approving and should be effective during the next tax cycle.
Those 65 an older who receive the exemption will not see their SSISD ad valorem taxes rise above the amount they were frozen at, although that rate could lower as it has for some in recent years when tax rates go down. But, it will never rises above the original frozen rate.
At full value, a residential property valued at $200,000 would see an monthly increase of $14.16 if the SSISD $93 million bond passes.
Lamb said while the district cannot control appraisal value, those are set by the appraisal district, the trustees do set the tax rate, provided it remains within the parameters established by the Legislature and, with increases is voter approved.
The funding that is projected to come in from the planned solar projects within SSISD would provide additional funding to the district, which would help fund some of the expenses the district incurs. Any changes in the legislature could also impact school tax rates as well. As would opening of new industry, which would bring growth, and generate additional funding.
Recommendations, Changes
The committee recommended constructing a new Travis Elementary, with $35 million of the $93 million allocated for the new building. Lamb said although nothing is set in stone, the current thought is for Travis to be located at the end of the SSES property.
While that would mean losing the neighborhood track, there should be a walking path/sidewalk around the entire complex. The facility would need to be designed in away to address the increased traffic flow through the area.
Travis likely would be repurposed for other uses, perhaps to house central offices, special education offices, maintenance or transportation offices.
The district likely would approach the use of Travis facility after construction of a new primary campus much as it did with Austin, taking into consideration needs for use at the time. Travis is built in three parts. The oldest section could be torn down, but hte two remaining parts used, much as was done to convert Austin Academic Center from an elementary to an alternative campus.
Lamb said while that’s been suggested, that plan could change. The recommendation, however, comes after looking at cost and availability of land on which a new Travis campus could be constructed.
Another $6 million of the $93 million bond proposal is designated for construction of additional classrooms. A new addition could be built further back on the property where the fields are located, with part of the existing facility, such renovated. If approved later on, most of the existing Bowie structure could be torn down and a new campus build on the site in 10 years or so. That would likely require another bond election to address needs at Bowie and Johnson campuses, which would be 65 years old at that time.
Another $1 million of the proposed $93 million bond on the May 7 ballot was recommended for repairs at Bush Primary, including repairing cracks.
SSES would allocated $3 million for renovations, with one section of the structure torn down when another is erected and the rest renovated.
A new high school CTE center is expected to cost about $12 million and would include one one end of the grounds. It would include a bigger, better auto tech center where community members would eventually be able to bring in their vehicles for things like an oil change, and larger robotics, culinary and woodshop areas.
High school would also receive $12.5 million to complete the fine arts addition.
Another $9 million would be allocated to finish planned expansion of the fine arts department. This would be applied toward roofs, HVACs for some campuses, address kitchen plumbing, cafeteria and electrical needs as well.
The $93 million bond proposal also includes $2 million to purchase 20 new buses, $10 million for high school refurbishments. $500,000 for renovations at Austin Academic Center. The buses would be a separate bond sale, which would be financed over the course of 5-10 years, school officials noted.
If the bond passes, the process would begin immediately. The design process is expected to take about 9 months to complete, then, bids would be sought, with materials potentially being purchased and arriving within 11 months.
One community member asked if the plan addresses pocket classes, those taught “out of a closet” or small space, on carts. Since that building is the newest, the planning committee, working with campus staff, determined the campus would not be among those funding is allocated in the May 7 bond election.
Lamb said the plan for campuses would be to move around existing space to better maximize it to incorporate areas for special education and growing counseling needs.
What Happens Without Bond?
Without bond money, the district would likely need to redirect educational funds used for instructional programs and services to fund increased building maintenance costs, official report.
Lamb said if the bond doesn’t pass, the district will listen to those against the measure to figure out why, consider if those reasons can be addressed or are simply a miscommunication or lack of or misinformation.
The district will continue to serve students to the best of the staff’s ability, but likely at a not so distant future time would come back to the citizens to ask them to consider approving a different bond proposal.
Voting
The $93 million bond proposal will be on Sulphur Springs ballots for the May 7 election. The last day to register to vote in the May 7 election is Thursday, April 7, 2022.
Early voting will be conducted April 26-May 3, in the Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace Courtroom inside 128 G Jefferson Street in Sulphur Springs.
On Saturday, May 7, 2022, voting in Hopkins County elections will be conducted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Voters may cast ballots at any of the following six consolidated voting locations on Election Day:
- Precinct 1 – Sulphur Springs Middle School cafeteria, 835 Wildcat Way, Sulphur Springs;
- Precinct 2 – Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 courtroom, 128 G Jefferson Street, Sulphur Springs;
- Precinct 3 – Hopkins County Courthouse in the Commissioners Courtroom on the first floor, 118 Church Street, Sulphur Springs;
- Precinct 4 – Hopkins County Civic Center in West Hall, 1200 Houston Street, Sulphur Springs;
- Precinct 11- Cumby Municipal Building in the Meeting Room, 100 East Main Street, Cumby; and
- Precinct 13 Como-Pickton CISD in the art room; 13017 TX Hwy 11 East, Como.
Additional information
Click on the video above from the March 31 town hall meeting conducted by Lamb for additional information regarding the bond.
Lamb will also be on hand at the Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn, scheduled for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, to discuss the $93 million bond proposal. Cost to attend the lunch is $15 for Chamber members and $20 for nonmembers. To register, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Additional information can also be found at www.sulphurspringsisdbond.com; or obtained by contacting Lamb at the SSISD Administration Building at 903-885-2153.
7 Arrested On Controlled Substance Charges Over The Last Week
At least seven people were arrested over the last week on controlled substance charges and two others were jailed on felony marijuana charges, according to arrest and jail reports.
Traffic Stop on I-30 West At Mile Marker 107
Cumby Police Officer Justin Talley reported seeing a gray Honda Accord traveling west on Interstate 30 near the 110 mile marker at a high rate of speed, 99 in a 75 mile per hour speed zone. Talley initiated a traffic stop. The car pulled over near mile marker 107.
Upon contact with the occupants, the driver was identified as 29-year-old Wyndel Shepherd of Wake Village, and the passenger as 28-year-old Samantha Evans of Texarkana. Talley reported seeing remnants of a plant-like substance he believed to be marijuana in Shepherd’s lap. So, he had Shepherd to step out and patted him down, the officer noted in arrest reports.
Officer Talley reported finding a bag containing a crystal-like substance he believed to be methamphetamine in Shepherd’s jacket pocket.
Evans was then removed from the vehicle. She allegedly admitted the substance was hers as well. Both Shepherd and Evans were taken into custody around 12:45 a.m. Friday, April 1, 2022, and transported o the county jail. The crystal-like substance weighed 13 grams, resulting in both being booked into Hopkins County jail at 3:12 a.m. Friday on a possession of more than 4 grams but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance.
Both Shepherd and Evans remained in Hopkins County jail later Friday . Bond was set at $30,000 each on the felony controlled substance charge, according to sheriff’s office and jail reports.
CR 2320 Arrest
While looking for a wanted man at a County Road 2320 residence at 4:24 p.m. Thursday, March 31, 2022, HCSO deputies Justin Wilkerson and Elijah Fite observed the man’s 38-year-old daughter preparing to leave the residence in a car. She appeared surprised to see law enforcement there, the officers noted in arrest reports.
While questioning her about her father’s location, they noted the woman to be nervous, then, talked to her about her arrest on March 12, 2022, on a possession of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a controlled substance charge. Cook, ho is also known by Laura Shaw, agreed to let deputies search the vehicle, but was hesitant to get out of it. When they questioned her further about possible presence of illegal items in the car, she admitted to the presence of methamphetamine in the console, Wilkerson and Fite alleged in arrest reports.
Deputies searched the red car. They allegedly found hypodermic syringes, including one containing a dark liquid Laura Marie Cook admitted was liquid meth as well as a meth pipe with suspected meth residue. The liquid field-tested positive for meth. A pink bag in the car was alleged to have additional suspected meth in it, Wilkerson alleged in arrest reports. Cook was taken into custody at 4:44 p.m. Thursday, March 31, 2022 at the CR 2320 residence.
After a quick check to see if her father was another nearby residence, deputies transported the 38-year-old Como woman to the county jail. The suspected liquid meth weighed about 100 CC, the equivalent of about 1 gram, and the suspected crystal meth weighed 0.7 gram including packaging. As a result, Cook was booked into Hopkins County jail at 5:46 p.m. Thursday, March 31, 2022, on to possession of a controlled substance charges, one for each of the liquid and crystal-like substance located.
Fuller Street Warrant Arrest
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Sgt. Tanner Steward, and Deputies Chris Baumann, Drew Fisher and Zack Horne contacted Candace Lashay Gordon, a wanted woman, at 11:17 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at a Fuller Street address. They served her with the warrant and took her into custody on a felony warrant.
The 31-year-old Sulphur Springs woman was transported to county jail, where she remained Saturday, April 1, 2022, on the warrant for violation of probation, which she was on for an Oct. 22, 2021 tampering with physical evidence with intent to impair charge. She also was discovered to have an outstanding warrant for failure to maintain financial responsibility. She was charged with that offense as well, according to Hopkins County jail reports.
Jail Transfer
Hopkins County Deputy Aaron Chaney was made aware Calvin Jerome Davis Jr. had active warrants out of Hopkins County, and was ready to be picked up from Hutchins State Jail. Chaney took custody of the 34-year-old Killeen man at 9:24 a.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2022, and transported him to Hopkins County jail.
Davis was booked into Hopkins County jail for bond forfeiture on tampering with or fabricating physical evidence and theft of firearm charges, offense for which he was arrested on May 17, 2027, according to arrest and jail reports.
The 34-year-old Killeen man remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, April 1, 2022, in lieu of the new $50,000 bond set on the tampering with evidence charge and $10,000 bond on the firearm charge, twice the original bonds, according to jail reports.
FM 275 North Traffic Stop
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Bobby Osornio reported seeing a man standing next to a Dodge 2500 on the side of FM 275 north at 8:39 p.m. March 25, 2022, and pulled up by him to check on him.
The man told the deputy his truck had a flat right rear tire. Osornio noted the man displayed involuntary jaw movement. Osornio stopped to talk to the man and patted him down. The deputy reported finding two small knives, which were removed from the 53-year-old Cumby man’s pockets.
He reported seeing a spare tire on the ground just west of the truck. Under the tire, a Marlboro cigarette pack was visible. He picked both up, and upon opening the pack found a plastic bag containing a crystal-like substance the deputy believed to be methamphetamines, Osornio wrote in arrest reports.
While talking to the man, identified in arrest reports as Bobby Dwane Tice, the owner of the truck arrived. The owner was reported to be headed to Tice’s residence to help move a trailer. When his front left tire lost all air he contacted Tice to have him bring a spare tire. When he arrived, it was discovered a jack was still needed, so the truck owner left to retrieve one.
The pickup owner allowed Osornio to search his pockets and truck for contraband; no additional illegal substance was found. While Tice admitted to bringing the spare tire to the location, he denied ownership of the suspected meth. Osornio told him he’d not only seen him smoking a cigarette but also saw him ick up his cigarette bud after throwing it on the ground, giving him reasonable suspicion the substance in the cigarette pack was his, the deputy noted in arrest reports.
Tice was transported to the county jail. The suspected meth weighed 1.41 grams including packaging, resulting in Tice being booked into jail at 12:26 a.m. Saturday, March 26, 2022 on a possession o f1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance. Tice, who is also known to write his name Bobby Dwayne Tice, was released from Hopkins County jail later Saturday, on a $10,000 bond on the controlled substance charge, according to jail reports.
I-30 Traffic Stop Near Cumby
Cumby Police Officer Jonathan Painter reported seeing a black sedan traveling at a high rate of speed on Interstate 30 east near mile marker 110 after 1 p.m. March 25, 2022. A check using his Lidar showed the car to be traveling at 87 in a 75 mile per hour speed zone. He reported catching up to the Mitsubishi GX near miler marker 112 and imitated a traffic stop.
When contacted, driver Rosa Maria Medrano told the Cumby officer she had neither a driver’s license nor insurance for the car. A records check by sheriff’s dispatchers revealed a Bexar County warrant for Medrano’s arrest on a controlled substance charge, Painter alleged in arrest reports.
Painter placed Medrano into custody at 1:12 p.m. Friday, March 25, 2022, then found 1.7 grams of a white crystalized substance the officer believed, based on his training and experience, to be methamphetamines in a baggy in her car while inventorying it prior to impound.
Medrano was transported to the county jail, where she was booked at 3:05 p.m. March 25 on a possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance as well as the Bexar County warrant for possession of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance. The 29-year-old San Antonio woman remained in Hopkins County jail Friday, April 1, 2022, in lieu of the $10,000 bond set on the Hopkins County felony controlled substance charge and was held on the Bexar County warrant, according to jail reports.
Felony Marijuana Arrests
Two men, 23-year-old Brennan Dmarr Givens of Dallas and 24-year-old Terez Antoine Gaines of Killeen were booked into Hopkins County jail March 27, 2022, on on possession of 5 pounds or more but less than 50 pounds of marijuana.
Givens was released from the county jail later Sunday on a $20,000 bond on the felony charge. Gaines was released on a $20,000 bond on Monday, according to jail reports.
KSSTRadio.com publishes Sulphur Springs Police Department reports and news. The Police Department is located at 125 Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Texas. Non-emergency calls can be made to (903) 885-7602.
If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1.
The Sulphur Springs Police Department continues to serve its citizens with pride in its overall mission and will strive to provide the best possible police force in the 21st century.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Hopkins County Records – April 1, 2022
Land Deed Transactions
- Leland Dan Harness to Joan Harness; tract in the O. Barb survey.
- Bill Murphey and Joyce Murphey to Juan Tinajero; tract in the Agaton Caro survey.
- Chad Cable and Mary Stahl Cable to Church Street Professional Building LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- 100 MPH+ Property Management LLC to Dan Williamson II and Lisa Williamson; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey.
- Hans Boerhof to Johnny Heilman and Rick Henderson; tract in the Daniel Draper survey.
- Hans Boerhof to Louis Martinez; tract in the Elizabeth Melton survey.
- Daniel Elmore and Jeanina Elmore to Debra Howard Anderson and James Edwin White; tract in the James B. Simpson survey.
- Frans Feijen and Jeanette Feijen to Frans Feijen Family Living Trust and Jeanette Feijen Family Living Trust; tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- Carmen Tolson Cross to Angela Churchman and Michael Churchman; tract in the William Ticer survey.
- Grant White to Tommie Cherie Reeves; tract in the JG Procello survey.
- Tommie Chere Reeves to Matthew Grant White; tract in the Levi Landers survey.
- Lisa Lashawn Hawkins to Agustin Castillo; tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- Joseph Ray Lane Estate, Julius Ray Lane Dependent Administrator, to Christopher Romans and Katy Romans; tract in the CL Ewing survey.
- Amberly Klika and Landis Klika to Dawson Klika; tract in the Martin Kelley survey.
- Hillary D. Powell and Shane Powell to HDSBP LLC; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey.
- Anna L J Randolph to David Wayne Randolph; tract in the Thomas Lee survey.
- Sandra Russell and William T. Russell to Diana L. Cross and Johnny R. Cross; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey.
- Beverley Broumley and Wes Broumley to Celina Teresa Jimenez Hernandez and Juan Pablo Hernandez; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey.
- Michael B. Jenkins to Lisa M. Jenkins; tract in the Ocela Barb survey.
- Douglas Aten and T Aten to Misti Aten Long; tract in the CA Galbreath survey.
- Hazel Petros Dominguez and Jose Luis Dominguez to Lino Gutierrez Hernandez and Maria Dolores Soto; tract in the James N. Hill survey.
- William Carter and Nelta Watson to Fernando Ramazzini and Julianna Ramazzini; tract in the J. Polvedore survey.
- Sherry Elaine Gentry and James R. Young to Josephine Reed and Roger Reed; tract in the Santos Coy survey.
- Lewis Craig Swindler to Chuck Friesner and Samantha Friesner; tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- Donald Libby to Bethany Ashby; tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- Roy E. Preuss and Tammy L. Preuss to Atascosa Real Estate Group LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- Jeffrey S. Johnson, Jill Ann Johnson Kelly and Victor Kent Johnson to Consello Jones Mitchell and Lloyd Dortcha Mitchell II; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey.
- Leann M. Norris and Samuel L. Norris to Cindy Scheuber, Jeffrey Ray Wear and Loist Waer; tract in the Stephen Nichols survey.
- Kelly Duray Phillips to Carri Phillips and Kelly Phillips; tract in the B Birdwell survey.
- Willie Troy William to Bobby Gerald George; tract in the WB Merrell survey.
- Gary Lee Keeble and Samantha Keeble to Christopher P. Crow and Zachary D. Crow; tract in the HT Long survey.
- Alan Screws and Kim Screws to Hopkins County Holdings LLC tract in the MA Bowlin survey.
- Wesley House Inc. and Wesley to Hopkins County Holdings.
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Michael Francis Sullivan and Shalom Fawn Dara Currier
- Rodrigo Becerra and Iliana Rodriguez Vicente
- Paul Edward Michaelson and Stephanie Tarlton
- Brandon Teague and Raven Lasache Turner
- Christopher Alan Bender and Megan Alyssa Callahan
- Demetrius Alexander Brown and Alisa Irene Crotts
- Kenneth Keith Ledbetter and Kenneth Wayne McCorquodale
- Craig Jay Brehm and Shannon Gayle Emanuel
- Carlos Manuel Lopez Leon and Alejandra Diaz
- Jerold Allen Matheny and Veronica Marie Estrada
- Dinh Long Cu Bao and Ngoc Bao Vu
- Joshua Tyler Broeske and Madeline Marie Anderson
