4 SSMS Destination Imagination Teams Win Top Honors At Region, Advancing To State Contest
Sulphur Springs Middle School had a great weekend at the East Region Destination Imagination Tournament in Mesquite. Four of the five SSMS Destination Imagination teams placing at the regional contest came home with first place honors in their contest and have qualified to compete with teams from all over Texas at the Lone Star DI Finals in Arlington on March 25-26.
The Technical Team won first place, High Instant Challenge, and received a DaVinci Creativity Award. They will be advancing to the state DI contest.
The Technical Challenge this year was called “A Daring Escape” and required each team to build two devices that use technical methods to overcome hazards, create and present a story about a daring escape from a hazardous situation, and include a feat of skill that helps in the daring escape.
The Technical Team coached by Bryan Cole and Kelly Shutt consists of Nathan Bilyeu, Austin Wantland, Cara Batterton, Hayden McCoy, Sawyer Shutt, Hannah Speed, and Tyler Scott.
The Scientific Team won first place and High Instant Challenge, and will also be advancing to the State DI contest later this month.
The Scientific Challenge this year was called “Up Close” and required teams to research the science of microscopy, create and present a story about a character who encounters a mysterious object while in a microworld, design and build scenery that brings the microworld to life, and design and create a visual effect that enhances the mysterious object, then, reveals it with technical methods.
The Scientific Team is coached by Brooke Howard and consists of Kannon Gibson, Luke White, Anderson Grimes, Abbey Williams, Lucy McKenzie, Jackson Palmer, and Kessler Moss.
The Fine Arts Team won first place and High Instant Challenge, and will be advancing to the Lone Star DI Finals.
The Fine Arts Challenge this year was called “Tricky Tales.” Teams were required to research trickster characters and how they have been portrayed in literature, theater film or mythology; create and present a story about a trickster who attempts to overcome a tricky situation; design and create a costume that goes through a costume transformation; and design and create an illusion that enhances the story.
The SSMS Fine Arts team coached by Adrienne Lilley and Beth Cole consists of Brooks Burgin, Claire Monk, Paige Batterton, Piper Lilley, Sara Ferguson, Johni McClung, and Tabitha Cummings.
The Improv Team won also won first place and High Instant Challenge, and will be advancing to State.
The Improv Challenge was called “Festival Frenzy.” Teams were required to research festivals from around the world, create and present a two-act improvisational skit about a goal a character is trying to achieve at a festival, choose between two options to help the character to attempt to achieve the goal and enhance the skit with a set of boxes.
The SSMS Improv team is coached by Jeffery Denton and consists of Rhett Williams, Robert Denton, Jessica Reed, Kegan Edwards, Zackary Young, and Kyla Navarro.
The SSMS Engineering Team won fourth place at Regionals this year.
The Engineering Challenge was called “Roll With It.” Teams were required to design and build a structure that can roll down a ramp and collide with the structure tester, test the structure by placing weights on it, create and present a story about how a character becomes a legend, and design and build a rotating device that is integrated into the story.
The Engineering team coached by Alysia Butler and Gerson Salvatoreh consists of Justin Chen, Anthony Small, Julie Ann McCoy, Aiken Grimes, Tyler Dubose, Grace Dyer, and Kaden Pierce.
Congratulations to each of their these SSMS Destination Imagination Teams on their achievements in these challenging competitions. KSST wishes the state qualifiers the best of luck and are excited to hear of your successes at state as well.
CHRISTUS Recognizes Those Who Met The Cardiopulmonary Rehab Team’s 5-Mile Challenge
Net Health To Offer Pediatric and Adult COVID Vaccines March 7-11 At MMU Tents Behind Hospital
By Holly Ragan, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs
[email protected]
Sulphur Springs, Texas, March 4, 2022 – In honor of American Heart Month in February, the Cardiopulmonary Rehab team led by Anita Beasley and Britney Caldwell held a 5-Mile Challenge! We are super proud to announce the names of our participants who successfully completed the challenge.
Congratulations to Peggy Roberts, Robert Horne, Michael McMackin, David Poe, Marlon Weir, Roger Amerson, Terry McCullough, Patricia Deis, Laura Diehl, Carlton Sewell, and James Edwards. Each person received a goody bag of CHRISTUS hospital prizes.
Hungry?
If you are looking for an alternative option for lunch, we welcome you to come in and try our new soup/ salad bar in the hospital cafeteria. Served fresh daily! The hospital cafeteria is located in the basement, and is easily located by entering the main entrance and then taking the main elevator down.
Events
Local Fitness Court – Grand Opening
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs is a proud supporter of the new local Outdoor Fitness Court located in Pacific Park. Please join us for a ribbon cutting and demonstration on Friday, March 11, at approximately 10 a.m. More information to follow – stay tuned!
Community Health Day
In partnership with CHRISTUS Health, Columbia Lodge #81 invites you to attend an event aimed to build a community that is more secure, productive, healthy, and hopeful. We will have local experts speaking on a variety of health-related topics that will educate and empower community members to take charge of their own health and well-being.
The event will be held Saturday, March 12, 2022, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the HW Grays Building at Pacific Park, 413 Beckham Street in Sulphur Springs. This event is free to anyone, and everyone is welcome.
For more information, contact Bryan Vaughn at [email protected].
Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation Lights of Life Gala 2022
The Lights of Life Gala is scheduled for Saturday, April 2, 2022 from 6 p.m. – 12 midnight at the Civic Center. This year’s theme “Under the Big Top” reflects our desire for some fun and frivolity after a long season of hardship. The gala promises to be another dazzling evening of fine dining, dancing and bidding on amazing live and silent auction items. This year’s Lights of Life Gala chairs are fourth generation Hopkins County natives, sisters Markeda Fisher and Kayla Price Mitchell.
Shannon Barker, Foundation Executive Director shared “I am thrilled to be working with Markeda and Kayla. When they arrived as the bearded ladies to reveal the theme, Under the Big Top, I knew we were in good hands! They keep everyone laughing, but also have the experience and relationships to ensure a successful event. Their impressive history and dedication to Hopkins County is evidenced by their past and present community involvement. We are thankful they feel the Healthcare Foundation is a worthy cause to invest their efforts in.”
For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please call the Foundation office at 903-438-4799.
Carter BloodCare
Carter BloodCare bus will park in the hospital’s front parking lot collecting local blood donations on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. As a thank you, all donors will receive a stainless steel water bottle while supplies last.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood, contact Patricia Wilson at 903.438.4380 or call/text 800.366.2834.
**UPDATED – COVID Vaccine Clinics
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will no longer offer the COVID Vaccine Clinic every Friday morning.
However, beginning the week of March 7-11 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily, Net Health will be back offering Pediatric and Adult COVID vaccines. This vaccine clinic is located at the MMU tents behind the hospital. No appointment is necessary. Subsequently, Net Health will continue to come every four weeks until September to provide COVID vaccines.
Hospital Visitation
Please note the following guidelines:
- Visitors must acquire masks themselves prior to entering our facility; cloth masks are acceptable. Masks must cover both the nose and the mouth. Visitors must remain masked during their time in the hospital.
- An adult must accompany minor-age visitors, be free of symptoms, and able to comply with masking and hygiene expectations throughout the visit.
- 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: 1 Essential support person for the duration of hospital stay. Essential support person will be given a visible wristband for identification purposes;
- ICU/ER: 1 Essential support person only;
- All other patients may have 1 Essential support person and 1 visitor (up to 2 persons in room at a time)
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 41counties. 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
Seven Teams in Action on Friday, Mar. 4
Friday, Mar. 4 is an action-packed game day, with seven different teams playing.
Not only is this Friday game day full of different squads from Sulphur Springs competing home and abroad, but several teams already have the conclusion of their regular season approaching.
Team tennis hosts a tournament at the Tennis Center today.
Several talented schools are participating in the Sulphur Springs tourney, such as Texas High and seven others from around East Texas.
Team Tennis plays all day today in the Athletic Complex.
After next week’s Longview tournament, Coach Martinez and Co. go to the Galveston Tennis Tournament the week after before suiting up for the District 15-5A Championship Monday and Tuesday, Mar. 28-29.
Wildcats golf play in their second competition of the spring season on this Friday game day, and have a two-day tournament starting today in Pine Tree.
Coach Jeremy DeLorge have a tough two-day tourney ahead of them and hope to put their Regional Preview behind them.
While cold weather made practice next-to-impossible last week, perfect weather this week has allowed Sulphur Springs to get the proper reps they need headed into their second invitational.
Men’s golf begin in Longview today at 8 A.M.
Like team tennis, golf has just two more contests, in Garland next Tuesday and their District Preview the week after, prior to their District Championship meet Monday and Tuesday, Mar. 28-29.
Lady Cats softball play in day two of their final tournament in Royse City.
Friday, Mar. 4 has Sulphur Springs taking on Prairiland and the host Royse City.
Coach David Carrillo and his team are the first game up, teeing off at 10 A.M. Their second and final match on the day against Royse City begins at 1:45 P.M.
Softball closes out the tournament with a game on Saturday, Mar. 5 taking on Canton at 1 P.M.
The Lady Cats went a perfect 2-0 on Thursday, Mar. 5 beating Ursaline Academy 6-0 and Mineola 10-4 to improve their record to 7-0-2 heading into Friday’s games.
On Tuesday, Mar. 7 softball begin their district season, hosting Hallsville at 6:30 P.M.
Baseball was not as successful in their first day of action in the Wylie East tournament.
Sulphur Springs plays in day two of their second tourney on the season.
On Thursday, Mar. 3 host Wylie East drubbed the Wildcats 14-1, scoring 14 runs off seven hits.
10 the Pirate’s runs came through the first two innings. Sulphur Springs recorded two hits against the host.
Coach Jerrod Hammock and his squad no doubt hope to get back in the win column on Friday, Mar. 4 in day two of the Wylie East tourney.
Baseball also plays another game on Saturday, Mar. 5 as well.
Track and field compete in Gilmer late this afternoon.
Their first meet was scheduled to be hosted in Sulphur Springs but was cancelled due to icy weather that made its way through Northeast Texas.
With that, both Wildcats and Lady Cats Track and Field teams head to Gilmer for what is now their first Invitational of the spring season.
The relays begin today for both squads at Buckeye Stadium at 4 P.M.
Coaches Matt Young, Ross Hicks and their teams have three more competitions in their spring season.
What is now the second competition for the track and field teams takes place next Thursday, Mar. 10 in Lindale.
Both soccer teams are the last up on Friday, Mar. 4 taking on Marshall.
Wildcats soccer play at Gerald Prim on this Friday gameday hosting the Mavericks.
Coach Alexi Upton and his squad hope to increase their win streak to two and hold on to their place as the current 3 seed from District 15-5A.
If Sulphur Springs can take care of business at home on Friday, and do the same next Tuesday in Pine Tree, the Wildcats stand a solid chance of keeping the 3 seed and avoid traveling to Whitehouse for their Bi-District match-up for the second year in a row.
For now, men’s soccer has to get a solid win and increase their win streak to two, all thereby keeping Hallsville a game back with two games left for both schools.
The Wildcats kick off tonight at Gerald Prim Stadium at 7:15 P.M.
Lady Cats soccer travel to Marshall to take on the Lady Mavs.
Coach Javier Aguayo and his squad play for pride the remainder of the season. With their Tuesday home loss to Texas High, Sulphur Springs is officially eliminated from postseason contention.
Women’s soccer (1-8) are 3.5 games back of the three-way tie for third between Mount Pleasant, Texas High and Pine (5-4) with just three games to go.
Sulphur Springs travels to lowly Marshall (0-8) for their last of three contests for the winter season.
That game kicks off at Maverick Stadium at 7:15 P.M.
After Friday’s road contest in Marshall, the Lady Cats hold Senior Night at Gerald Prim Stadium on Tuesday, Mar. 8 with those festivities beginning at 7 P.M., 15 minutes before the pitch drops.
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.
Career and Technical Education Programs Of Study At SSHS Highlight Of Rotary Meeting
At the Rotary Club meeting today, Sulphur Springs High School students highlighted several of the Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs of study offered at the school.
Students presenting information about the law enforcement program included Evan Patrick and Michelle Tijerin. Jasmin Kessler-Cordova, Priscilla Gaspar and Tyler Warner discussed the animal science program; while Amanda Hernandez, Orianna Arizmendez, Olyvia Palacious and Jeremy Resendiz. Additionally, Karen Martinez and Jack Bain discussed the entrepreneurship program and Tate Smith briefed the Rotarians about the architecture program at SSHS.
“The students did an outstanding job in presenting today,” said Jenny Arledge, SSHS CTE Director.
Last month, students Jillian Jumper Clancy Mayo, Mykylie Meador, Ella Ray, Madelyn Sherman, Michelle Mejia and Khira Young updated the Rotarians their experiences and take-aways from RYLA (Rotary Leadership Youth Award) Camp, a camp for a select group of students who excel in leadership and school and community service the Rotary Club is helping develop future leaders. Stress management, conflict resolution, delegation, facilitation skills, and goal setting are a few of the things TYLA camps and summits can teach.
For More Information
Rotary Club is a service club dedicated to the ideal of Service Above Self. Rotary Club of Sulphur Springs is “committed to providing our membership a fun and engaging way to serve our community and world. Every week the club provide members and guests the opportunity to network over lunch while learning about and engaging in programs that make a difference, such as CTE programs in schools.
On April 30, Rotary Club of Sulphur Springs will be hosting Claws for a Cause 2022, from 5 to 9 p.m. on Celebration Plaza. All you can eat of crawfish and live music by Dubb and The Love Machines available for $30 a ticket for ages 13 and up or $15 a ticket for ages 12 and under. Beverages also available for purchase. All proceeds benefit Hopkins County non-profits, and provide selected graduating seniors with scholarships. Tickets available from Eventbrite. Tables for 10 available for $500; various sponsorship tables, VIP Service and “extras” available as well.
SSHS students and staff, like many schools around the county, state and nation, spent February celebrating Career and Technical Education Month, a public awareness campaign to celebrate the value of CTE and the achievements and accomplishments of CTE programs across the country. To help Sulphur Springs High School celebrate CTE Month 2022, KSST compiled short videos featuring a few of the CTE programs offered at SSHS.
If you missed seeing them on Channel 18, they can be found on the KSST Radio YouTube channel, or by clicking the following links:
- CTE Feature: CTE Kickoff
- CTE Feature: Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
- CTE Feature: Advanced Manufacturing & Machinery – Programming/Software Development- FANUC Robotic Arm Certification and Internships.
- CTE Feature: Firefighter Training Program
- CTE Feature: Teaching and Training – Educational Aide Certification
- CTE Feature: Emergency Service – EMT Certification
- CTE Feature: CTSO presentations to SSISD Board of Trustees
Paris Junior College Regents Hear how Five Years in, Pathways Helps Students
PJC-Sulphur Springs Center
Public Information Services
PJC Regents hear how five years in, Pathways helps students
At their monthly meeting held Monday, Feb. 28, the Paris Junior College Board of Regents received an update on the Guided Pathways program. The College implemented the program five years ago, according to Vice President for Student Access and Success Sheila Reece.
“Guided Pathways helps students clarify their goals,” said Reece. “They select a pathway and stay on track with that pathway in order to finish a certificate or degree without any excessive hours.”
She distributed sample degree plans given to the students that contain courses needed for a specific program and other information such as marketable skills, program outcomes, and any specific university-transfer requirements.
“Because of Pathways, PJC students’ average semester credit hours is lower than our peer community colleges,” said Reece. “It takes 60 hours to graduate with an associates’ degree. PJC was at 70 hours to graduate while our peer colleges were at 76 hours, so we’re doing better.”
PJC is also outperforming peer colleges in time to graduate: 3.2 years compared to 3.6 years.
“You might think three years is a long time, but we have many part-time students and many who stop out and then come back,” said Reece.
To help implement the plan, PJC has seven student success coaches spread among Paris, Greenville and Sulphur Springs averaging 150 to 250 students they see each semester. Two are licensed professional counselors who assist students with problems such as depression, anxiety, or other problems. A testing anxiety workshop has recently been implemented.
The success coaches also work with students undecided about what they want to take, and help them narrow their choices and pick a pathway. They also act on alerts from faculty if a student is not attending class or turning in work to find out what’s going on, get them back in class and set up tutoring, if needed.
In other business, the Regents:
• Raised 2022-2023 tuition by $2 per semester credit hour, following two years with no increase, and the general fee remains unchanged. The increase goes into effect with the Fall 2022 semester.
• Approved waiver of a portion of dual credit tuition and fees, keeping them at the same level. For the Spring 2022 semester, dual credit students comprised 40 percent of enrollment.
• Received the President’s Report, including an update on the 2020 Accountability Report that tracks 2018, 2019, and 2020 data about the college. It allows the College to evaluate and benchmark progress.
• Accepted employment of Student Success Coach/Financial Aid Advisor Elizabeth Joslin at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center effective March 1.
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.
Paris Junior College Offering One Free 8-Week Class
PJC offering one free 8-week class;
deadline to register is Monday, March 21
To assist those affected by COVID-19, Paris Junior College is offering one free eight-week flex term class, starting Monday, March 21. PJC will be closed for Spring Break March 14-18, so students would be advised to register by Friday, March 11.
“Our region’s decline in the number of students enrolled in higher education is a problem not just for their futures, but for our communities and regional economy,” said Dr. Pam Anglin, PJC President. “The College has funding available to assist these students get back on track after the disruptions of COVID-19. An 8-week flex course is a great place to start but it must be by March 21.”
The funding is available from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) II Strengthening Institutions Program and is available to current and prospective students. The funds cover tuition and general fee for one 8-week course in the second flex term only. Go to www.parisjc.edu/schedule and select “Spring 2022 8-Week Flex Courses” to see available classes. New students may start by calling 903-782-0425 in Paris, 903-454-9333 in Greenville, 903-885-1232 in Sulphur Springs, or email [email protected]. Current students who wish to sign up for the 8-week course should register through MyPJC or email [email protected].
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.
Sulphur Springs City Council Eyeing Renewal Of Curfew For Unaccompanied Minors
Sulphur Springs City Council, on first reading, approved renewal of Ordinance No. 2762, establishing a curfew for unaccompanied minors.
Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jason Ricketson, during the regular City Council meeting on March 1, 2022, said the ordinance gives officers an option that serves as a safety measure, offering officers a legal option in dealing with youth who are out late at night. They can issue citations to unaccompanied minors, who do not meet requirements for exceptions and are caught out curing hours the curfew is in effect.
Before the ordinance was passed, officers who contacted youth out late without supervision only had the option to ask them to leave and go home, but legally no other options unless the minors commit a criminal offense. The kids knew that and would even rebuff officers requests, citing their inability to do anything further. Most frequently reported to be out after business hours, knocking over things, potentially fighting, causing a disturbance in December 2019 were middle school aged youth, according to the pair of downtown business representatives who asked the City Council for help a little over 2 years ago.
The ordinance allows there to be a penalty, a citation or warning, for unaccompanied minors out late at night by themselves. It also allows the officer to take the youth home if caught out in violation of curfew, according to City Manager Marc Maxwell. Ricketson noted recently, officers have noted what appear to be more youth sneaking out of their homes at night, and at younger ages.
If a warning or citation is issued, there will be a record of it. So if an unaccompanied minor is contacted by police for being out walking after midnight or 2 a.m., a record check check would show if the same youth had been issued a curfew violation warning by a different officer a few months before. The officer at that time could take the unaccompanied minor home and issue a citation for violating curfew, or determine if other action is needed. If alleged criminal behavior was involved, police should take the proper legal action for that offense, according to the police chief.
While officers have not issued a citation yet, they have given 40 warnings for youth being out after curfew since the ordinance was became effective on May 1, 2020.
The curfew ordinance, when enacted had a “sunset clause,” meaning a definite expiration date of April 30, 2022. Ricketson asked the City Council to renew the curfew for three years this time, the longest allowable.
Place 1 City Councilman Jay Julian asked if there is other action that police could take in absence of the ordinance for miscreant behavior by minors, if the absence of the ordinance would pose a higher threat to public safety. Ricketson said it would hold the youth accountable for their actions, and allow them to take them home.
Julian pointed out that before the holidays the glass restrooms downtown were vandalized, but not by youth. A 28-year-old man caused that damage. He asked if that’s the case, by that logic, shouldn’t the curfew be extended to include young adults too. Ricketson pointed out that the man shortly after damaging the see-through loos was arrested, just as a youth would be taken into custody per the law regarding alleged juvenile offenders.
The city council approved on first reading an extension of Ordinance No. 2762 establishing a curfew for unaccompanied minors, with Julian voting against renewal of the curfew.
The ordinance will be heard again for second reading at the April City Council meeting, and if approved by a majority of the elected board would once again become effective. A public hearing will be conducted prior to the April City Council vote on the ordinance, to allow community members to voice comments regarding renewal of the curfew.
The ordinance can be viewed on the city website, https://www.sulphurspringstx.org/, or by clicking here.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report – March 1, 2022
Sulphur Springs City Manager Marc Maxwell presented the following report to the City Council during the regular monthly council meeting on March 1, 2022.
COVID-19 Response
We have 3 patients in the COVID unit at the hospital.
Claims
We did not have any liability claims or workers compensation claims from February.
Senior Citizens Building
It looks like we are going to get the $2.4 million in grant funding that we applied for. It won’t be official until April, but we scored well above the cut-off line.
Pacific Park
The fitness court is completed. We will hold a ribbon cutting/ opening on March 11, 10:30 to noon. Thank you to Saputo and Christus Trinity Mother Frances for making the project possible with your generosity.
The Capital Construction Division has finished installing a drainage system and sidewalks for the playground.
College Street
The project continues eastward. The Capital Construction Division is replacing utilities in the intersection of Jefferson and Jackson.
Revenues and Expenditures
Finance Director Lesa Smith will present a report of year-to-date revenues and expenditures.
Street Improvement Program
Texana land and Asphalt has begun the Lee Street project, but we had to stop the project Short at Brinker until school is out. We will also wait on League Street until school is out. So, these two projects were budgeted for 2021 but will be performed in 2022. Here are the new streets to be paved in 2022.
Miscellaneous
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Learned the wastewater treatment plant won Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant of the Year from the Water Environmental Association of Texas.
- Checked 2,881 items and 653 eBooks from the Library.
- Repaired 56 potholes.
- Hauled street sweeper spoils to the landfill.
- Spread sand and salt at critical intersections during 2 ice events.
- Replaces 3 street signs.
- Responded to 252 fire/rescue calls including 7 structure fires.
- Conducted 40 fire inspections and performed preventative maintenance on 79 fire hydrants.
- Conducted 27 building inspections, 12 electric inspections, 10 plumbing inspections, 1 mechanical inspection and issued 22 building permits.
- Pressure washed sidewalks downtown.
- Trimmed trees and underbrush at Buford Park.
- Stained pump house at Coleman Park.
- Removed several dead trees throughout parks.
- Sold 2,169 gallons of AvGas and 7,775 gallons of JetA fuel
- Accommodated 721 operations at the airport.
- Responded to 125 animal control calls while achieving a 73% adoption rate.
- Made 1 felony arrest in the special crimes unit.
- Responded to 35 accidents, wrote 460 traffic citations, recorded 37 offences and made 38 arrests in the Patrol Division.
- Installed L.E.D. lighting fixtures at Fire Station #1.
- Installed L.E.D. lighting fixtures at Department 60 Service building.
- Performed preventative maintenance on several items at the wastewater treatment plant and water treatment plant.
- Treated wastewater to a daily average total suspended solids (TSS) reading of .22 mg/L.
- Sent 242 tons of sludge to contractor for composting, and none to the landfill.
- Repaired 10 water main ruptures.
- Replaced 3 water meters.
- Unstopped 34 sewer mains.
- Treated 125 million gallons of potable water.
- Flushed 36 dead-end water mains.
Spring Break – Arrive Alive
By Johanna Hicks, Family & Community Health Extension Agent, Hopkins County, [email protected]
Ahhh, spring break – something many people enjoy. Spring break can be a particularly dangerous and deadly time on Texas roadways. Each Spring break, too many young, promising lives are cut short due to the fateful and regrettable decision to get behind the wheel and drive drunk.
In an effort to stop this deadly trend, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Watch UR BAC program and The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are partnering to raise awareness on impaired driving during the spring break holiday. The message is for everyone to arrive at their destination sober, safe, and smiling.
We want everyone to have a happy and safe spring break, one that they will remember for years to come, but for all the right reasons. Even one drink before driving is when impairment begins. Under no circumstance is it ever OK to drink and drive. This behavior is illegal, it is deadly, and it is selfish. Do everyone a favor: If you will be drinking during spring break, or for any occasion, plan ahead for a sober ride.
In Texas, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to consume alcohol. The state’s legal limit for intoxication is 0.08 blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) for those over the age 21. Law enforcement officers can arrest drivers for having a BAC below 0.08 with probable cause based on the driver’s behavior. Drivers under the influence of alcohol may face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time, and could lose their license. Know the signs of an alcohol overdose and when someone needs emergency medical care. If any of the following signs after drinking are observed, do not hesitate to request emergency assistance:
- Unconsciousness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Slow breathing
- Slow heart rate
- Clammy skin
- Delayed responses
- Low body temperature
- Skin or lips turning blue
- Paleness
Celebrate with a plan. The best plan is to not drink alcohol at all. Turn your focus on good wholesome activities – explore the great outdoors, enjoy time with friends and family, go sight-seeing, do something productive. Make the right choice to not drink and drive – arrive alive.
Upcoming Events
- Spring Break Basic Sewing Workshop: March 14-16, 10 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m., Hopkins County Extension Office, 1200 West Houston, Sulphur Springs. No charge, but participants are asked to bring a sack lunch, fabric scissors, pins, and seam ripper. Make-and-take projects will be provided each day. Participants may also bring their own fabric and patterns if they have a specific project in mind. Only a couple of spaces remain. Call 903-885-3443 for more information and to sign up.
- 55+ Health Fair: April 5, 9 a.m. to noon, ROC. Be sure to visit the Texas A&M AgriLife Exhibit!
- Be Well, Live Well series: April 11, 14, 18, 21, 10 a.m., Extension Office. This four-lesson series is targeted toward the 50+ crowd. No charge, but seating is limited. Call 903-885-3443 for more information and to sign up.
Closing Thought
Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen.
– Coco Channel
Contact Johanna Hicks, B.S., M.Ed., 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].
Jail Inspection, LED Light Renovations, Website Service Agreement Discussed By Commissioners
LED Light renovations for three county facilities, a website service agreement, recent jail inspection, and the Texas opioid multi-district litigation settlement agreement offers were discussed this week during the regular Hopkins County Commissioners Court meeting.
Jail Inspection
The Hopkins County jail received another exceptional rating of 100 during a recent Texas Commission on Jail Standards inspection, according to Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum.
“I think we only had one technical and they had to find something bad. They added one more day to inmates that got in trouble so, they had them in there for 6 days instead of 5,” Tatum said.
The jail inspector was also very pleased with the jail’s nurse to the point they would like to use her protocols, especially handling of inmates medications, to train personnel at other jails, the sheriff noted.
When asked about a comment the inspector made as he was leaving the jail facility, Tatum said he commented that the jail “looks better now than it did when we moved into it, cleaner that it was when it was brand new.” The sheriff attributed that to Jail Administrator Kenneth Dean’s leadership.
“Congratulations, Sheriff,” Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom said.
LED Light Renovations
Grants Consultant Beth Wisenbaker told Hopkins County Commissioners Court that the county had learned the grant the county sought to help fund renovation of the historic Hopkins County Courthouse, County Annex Building and AgriLife Extension building had increased by 10% to $77,660. The county is required as part of the terms to provide a 20% match, which is a little higher than usual. The total amount would be $93,192.
“The bid we have in is $88,250, so we’re covered. Probably the most we would have to be out is $15,000, but that may come down a little. I’ve got the number to Shannah (Aulsbrook, the county auditor). so there might be a little slide in there. I might be thinking exact numbers,” Wisenbaker said, recommending that the court accept the grant and bid.
“Plus, we pay 20%,” Newsom said.
Aulsbrook noted that the only bid the county has received for the project is from National LED, the only company that attended a mandatory pre-bid meeting.
Wisenbaker said even with approval, the county is still waiting to receive a letter from Texas Historical Commission that would detract from the renovated historic courthouse or the other two buildings, which are not listed as historic.
She said essentially, THC just wants to ensure the change won’t change the overall historic look of the structure. All are aware that the courthouse did not have lighting when first constructed. THC wants to ensure the two other buildings aren’t historical, and if they are that changing the lighting in the three buildings won’t change any historic feature of the building.
Tom Glosup also reported that National LED has been in contact with Texas Historical Commission and has been told THC has no problem with the planned renovation. A letter from THC is needed, however, to move forward with the project. Local officials are still waiting for the documents granting an exemption to all three buildings to arrive. Glosup said he’d spoke with the head guy at the lighting company earlier that morning, and he indicated the company was ready to go with the product the business manufactures as soon as the documentation is dispatched properly.
The motion, made by Anglin and seconded by Bartley, to replace current lighting with LED lighting throughout the courthouse, Extension Office and County Annex Building was approved, contingent on the THC approval and grant.
Newsom asked Wisenbaker to please let him and the other members of the Commissioners Court know as soon as she hears from THC regarding the project.
“This is going to help us a lot, but we’ve go more buildings to do,” the county judge said. “We need to get all LED across the board as soon as we can.”
Opioid Lawsuit
Following an executive session that lasted about 30 minutes, called so that the court could confer with their attorney about settlement offers related to the opioid lawsuit filed several years ago and what’s come out of it so far. Newsom asked the county treasurer and auditor to join the court and attorney for the closed session.
Jack Walker, an attorney, whose firm Martin Walker, PC, in Tyler, along with Simon Greenstone Panatier of Dallas, are involved with the county in the ongoing opioid litigation.
“Today, we are here to seek three settlements that we have reached with three defendants in the case — Endo Pharmaceuticals; Teva Pharmaceuticals; and what we call the Big 3 Contributors, McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen. We are seeking authorization for the settlement of the case and to authorize the county judge’s signature on a Texas release form and participation form that allows us to effectually settle it,” Walker said during the Feb. 28 Commissioner Court meeting.
With no further further discussion, the court agreed to the request authorizing Newsom to execute the order regarding settlement offers in the matter of Texas opioid multi-district litigation for the county in the matter of County Of Hopkins V. Purdue Pharma, Inc., Et Al., MDL Pretrial Cause No. 2018-63587, In The 152nd District Court Of Harris County, Texas.
Weaver Ranch Plat
A request was made for a final plat for Weaver Ranch. County Clerk Tracy Smith said her office has all of the paperwork that accompanies the request, and the person making the request has been in touch with Fire Marshal Andy Ensley and county officials regarding the request. The property is about 55-acres with no infrastructure, located off county roads, consisting of 8 lots, one of which has a home on the property. The business behind it has already receive approval from the water and electric companies, and taxes are figured. The property is north of Weaver Baptist Church on County Rod 3528.
Commissioner Wade Bartley said he’d met with the developer, and commended him for doing “everything asked of him in a timely manner” so that the final plat can be approved so the project can proceed with the vision for it.
With no further discussion Bartley then made a motion, which Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price seconded, to approve the final plat request for Weaver Ranch property as presented. The motion received approval of the members of the court present at the Feb. 28, 2022 meeting; Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker was unable to attend due to illness.
Newsom then offered thanks to the developer for building homes in Hopkins County.
Budget Amendment
Aulsbrook asked the Commissioners Court to approve a budget amendment for Precinct 4. She explained that initially, the insurance company wasn’t sure what status they would place a wrecked county vehicle on when it was put in the shop in October following a crash.
Precinct 4 received $4,674.38 in insurance funds at that time. That amount was moved back into the Precinct 4 budget in October. Since then, the insurance company has deemed the vehicle as a total loss, which resulted in an additional insurance payment of $2,575.62, increasing the total amount received from insurance to $7,250. Aulsbrook said with approval, that amount would be put back in the Precinct 4 machinery and equipment fund.
Price made a motion, which Anglin seconded, to approve the budget amendment. The motion passed.
Other Items
Another item on the agenda was for a website service agreement with Texas Association of County, CIRA (County Information Resources Agency), an organization which provides services and resources to Texas counties and local governments, including email and website hosting. Aulsbrook said she had not seen the paperwork, but TAC CIRA is who the county website is through. Bartley made a motion, seconded by Anglin to approve the website service agreement; it was approved by the court.
The court acknowledged for the official record, kept by the County Clerk’s Office, that the Pine Forest Solar farm has been purchased by a subsidiary of Clearway Energy Group.
Newsom also recognize on record Homeland Security Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator Kristy Springfield and Fire Marshal Andy Endsley for successfully completing the Pipeline Emergency Response and Damage Prevention Training Program held January 12, 2022, in Sulphur Springs. Springfield also completed a Spotter Training Program presented by the National Weather Service on February 18, 2022.
The Commissioners Court also approved as part of the consent agenda the meeting and special work session minutes from Jan. 24-Feb. 14, 2022; a request from Farmers Electric Cooperative Inc. to construct electrical power distribution facility across County Road 1155, south of County Road 1118 in Precinct 1; a request from Spectrum Gulf Coast LLC to construction power distribution facilities in the County Road 1120 right-of-way and County Road 1142 in Precinct 1; and a request from Spectrum/Charter to construct and place an underground conduit on County Roads 1117, 1127, 1123 and 1125 in Precinct 1, as well as on County Road 4719 in Precinct 4.
