Why Advancing from RN to BSN Matters More Than Ever – And How It’s Faster and Cheaper Than You Think
April 4, 2025 – The East Texas A&M University RN-to-BSN program gives registered nurses the advancement they need at a reasonable price.
COMMERCE, TX, April 4, 2025— As the healthcare industry evolves and hospitals increasingly prefer bachelor’s-prepared nurses, advancing from a registered nurse (RN) with an associate degree to an RN with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is more important than ever.
Whether it’s for greater job opportunities, higher salary potential or an increased likelihood of securing leadership and managerial roles, more nursing students are choosing to take the BSN route to becoming a nurse.
Why Earning a BSN Matters More Than Ever
As stated previously, hospitals and other healthcare facilities increasingly prefer or even require BSN nurses as part of their staff. This is partly due to studies showing improved patient outcomes in facilities where greater emphasis on hiring BSN nurses is established. In fact, the American Nurses Credentialing Center requires 100% of a facility’s nurse leaders and managers to have a bachelor’s degree or higher in nursing to qualify for Magnet Recognition, an acknowledgement of nursing excellence in particular areas. As such, it’s no surprise many facilities offer a higher pay rate for nurses with a BSN versus those with a diploma or Associate Degree in Nursing.
Some organizations, like the Veterans Health Administration, already require nurses under their employ to be BSN-educated. And some states are considering implementing a “BSN in 10” law, which requires nurses to earn their BSN within 10 years of becoming an RN. This law is already in effect in New York.
Furthermore, nurses looking to eventually become nurse practitioners must complete a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), and most MSN programs require a BSN for admittance.
Overcoming Concerns About Returning to College
For these reasons and more, it is no surprise that associate-degree RNs are looking to continue their education and career development journeys by earning a BSN. But the thought of returning to college triggers trepidation for many. After all, doesn’t college come with commuting to campus, sitting through lectures and staying up into the wee hours of the night studying for exams? And doesn’t college cost a lot of money?
Well, not necessarily.
How East Texas A&M Makes It Quick and Affordable
At East Texas A&M University, an RN can earn their BSN in a matter of months while avoiding many of the drawbacks of the standard college experience. With the most inexpensive RN-to-BSN program in Texas, it’s also an affordable option.
East Texas A&M offers a competency-based RN-to-BSN program, which recognizes the skills and knowledge a student has already obtained while on the job as an RN or student nurse. Competency based education (CBE) posits that learning is best measured by students demonstrating what they know and can do rather than by the number of hours spent in a classroom. CBE is student-driven and self-paced, guided by individualized feedback from an instructor and advisor.
RN-to-BSN Admissions Coordinator Anthony Ashcraft said, “Students can accelerate through the curriculum or decelerate as needed, depending on their work-life commitments.”
The RN-to-BSN program is 100% online, meaning no commuting to campus or working around a rigid class schedule. Students enroll in seven-week terms for the program, rather than the standard semester of around 16 weeks. The self-paced nature of the program allows the student to expedite through the curriculum as desired. This presents an opportunity for courses to be completed within a few weeks and provides a pathway to earlier graduation.
Two (or more) For the Price of One
Perhaps the best part of this competency-based method of earning a BSN is that students may enroll in one class or multiple classes per seven-week term, all for the same low price. That’s right—a student can take multiple classes for the same price as one.
“The RN-to-BSN track at ETAMU’s School of Nursing is the best deal in Texas!” said Dr. Jere Hammer, interim department head and director of nursing.
So, advancing from RN to BSN is not only immensely important, both for patient care and the nurse’s career, but at East Texas A&M, it can also be accomplished in a relatively short amount of time at a reasonable cost.
To meet the minimum admission requirements for the RN-to-BSN program at East Texas A&M, an individual must have an unencumbered RN license from Texas or another state or be currently enrolled in or have completed an RN program and awaiting licensure exam results.
For more information about the RN-to-BSN program, please contact Anthony Ashcraft or Dr. Jere Hammer.
All About Lawns by Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson
April 4, 2025 – 1. What Is A Lawn??
“A plot of grass, usually tended or mowed, as one around a residence or in a park”
“A lawn is a piece of commercial, industrial, or residential land on which grass can grow. A lawn creates a type of natural carpet on which you can relax, have picnics, or play sports.
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, a yard is defined as the grounds that immediately surround a house and which are usually covered with grass.
Turf refers to the actual soil on the surface of the ground that contains dense vegetation. Can be artificial, as used in sports stadiums.
2 Common Lawn Grasses in Hopkins County
Bermuda
Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) is a warm-season perennial grass that spreads mainly via underground stems, or rhizomes, and horizontal above-ground stems, or stolons. The grass tolerates a wide range of soil types and soil pH levels, which makes it adapted to most of the Southern U.S.
Common Bermuda grass is widely used for lawns in the Southern United States and is suitable for the region’s climate. Bermuda grass, particularly the common variety, is the most common grass in Texas due to its adaptability to the state’s warm climate and its ability to withstand heavy use. Bermuda has a light-green color and rough texture, and spreads by both stolons (above ground) and rhizomes (below ground).
While common Bermuda grass will thrive in Hopkins County, managing its growth and preventing its spread can be difficult. It can spread quickly and become invasive, posing a threat to other plants and reducing the lawn’s overall appeal.
St. Augustine grass is a warm-season lawn grass that is popular in Hopkins County. It is a medium- to high-maintenance grass that has bluish-green leaves with 1/3-inch wide, flat blades. It has a low, creeping habit and spreads via stolons, forming dense mats that outcompete weeds. It is a popular lawn grass, rivalling bermudagrass, although St. Augustine is somewhat less drought-tolerant. St. Augustine can grow in a wide range of soil types with a pH between 5.0 and 8.5. St.Augustine may perform better in the shade than other warm-season turfgrasses, but to thrive, it still needs 6-8 hours of sunlight each day.
Care of Your Lawn ——
Sunlight—Both Bermuda and St.Augustine lawn grasses need 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. St.Augustine can sometimes survive in shady areas, but it will not thrive, becoming weaker each year, eventually dying out over a few seasons.
Water —-
St.Augustine flourishes in humid coastal regions, and needs more watering attention during our hot, dry summers.
Usually, 1 inch of water a week will suffice, but keeping the soil moist to a depth of 2”-3” is advisable, and it may take more water during the dry months to keep the root zone moist.
One inch of water a week is also recommended for Bermuda lawns. Bermuda is more drought-tolerant, since it has the ability to go dormant in prolonged dry spells, and will “come back to life” after a good soaking rain.
Always water the soil deeply, as frequent, shallow watering will not result in deep roots, making the grass more susceptible to stress during a drought.
Feeding —–
All lawn grasses will benefit from regular feedings of fertilizer. Generally, a 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 NPK ratio (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium) fertilizer is common, although 21-0-0 is also used for lawns. Having your soil tested is absolutely necessary to discover what your soil actually needs.
A common fertilization schedule is to feed the lawn April 1, May 1, and June 1, skipping the hot months of July and August, and a final feeding on September 1.
Mowing —-
Recommended heights for mowing–
Bermuda — 1”-2”
St. Augustine – 2.5”—3.5”
For optimal health, aim to cut your grass regularly, striving for a consistent height. The goal should be for the grass to spread and grow sideways (horizontally), rather than tall (vertically). Shorter grass encourages lateral growth. Longer grass can help keep your soil cooler, reducing the need for watering. Keep in mind that you want to avoid cutting more than 1/3 of the leaves at one time, nor mowing during periods of extreme heat or drought, as doing so can stress your lawn.
Always keep your mower blades sharp, as dull blades will tear the leaves instead of cutting them cleanly. Mowing wet grass will also result in leaves being torn and damaged.
Beautiful, lush, green lawns do not happen without regular care. Enjoy your time working in your landscape, on the mower, and while watering, so that the end results will make you the envy of your entire neighborhood!
45th Annual Spring UPRA Rodeo Will be Held April 18th Through 19th
April 4, 2025 – Nottingham’s Sulphur Springs Dodge, and the Hopkins County Rodeo Committee present the 45th Annual Spring UPRA Rodeo April 18th and 19th, 2025. Tickets are $12 for Adults, $5 for children age 13 and younger. Kids age 5 and younger get in free. The rodeo will be held at the Hopkins County Indoor Civic Center Arena. Doors open at 6:00pm, Rodeo starts at 7:30pm.
Accused Texas Lottery Director Missing
April 4, 2025 – Reports have surfaced suggesting that Gary Grief, the longtime former executive director of the Texas Lottery Commission, is missing, though his attorney insists he has not “fled.” Grief, who retired abruptly in February 2024 after 14 years as executive director, has recently been under intense scrutiny following revelations that he authorized illicit lottery resellers to operate in Texas.
His tenure at the commission has been marred by controversy, particularly an investigation that uncovered a foreign gambling syndicate manipulating the lottery system, ultimately walking away with a $95 million jackpot. Some Texas legislators have even described the situation as akin to “money laundering.” Additionally, the Texas Rangers have been investigating Grief’s role in the illegal online lottery sales, which have also been the subject of legislative action in the Senate.
Despite reports from state sources claiming authorities have been unable to locate Grief, his legal team is pushing back. While one of his attorneys declined to comment, another later stated that Grief was “at home,” disputing the claim that he had disappeared. However, independent verification of his whereabouts remains elusive.
As investigations into the Texas Lottery Commission continue, Grief’s apparent absence only adds to the intrigue surrounding one of the biggest scandals in Texas’ gambling history.
EPIC City Project Hires Defense Attorney
April 4, 2025 – Developers of the controversial EPIC City project in Hunt and Collin Counties have retained high-profile defense attorney Dan Cogdell as they face multiple state investigations. The decision, announced Thursday by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC), comes amid growing legal and political scrutiny of the proposed master-planned Muslim community.
“This project is simply the victim of racial profiling,” Cogdell said.
The hiring of Cogdell, a well-known defense attorney with a history of representing high-profile clients, signals that EPIC City developers are preparing for a serious legal battle. Cogdell was notably involved in Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s 2023 impeachment defense, making his involvement in this case particularly noteworthy given Paxton’s current role in investigating EPIC City.
The project has faced mounting criticism, with Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General Paxton both announcing legal probes into its activities. While details of the investigations remain unclear, the heightened attention has led to intense public and political debate. Supporters argue that the project is being unfairly targeted, while critics claim potential legal and regulatory violations.
With Cogdell now leading their defense, EPIC City developers are likely to push back against state allegations. As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome could have significant implications for both the project and broader discussions on religious and community development in Texas.
School Vouchers in Texas Advance Toward Reality
April 4, 2025 – The Texas House Public Education Committee has advanced a school choice measure, moving it toward a full chamber debate with a narrow 9-6 vote. The legislation proposes the creation of Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), which would allocate up to $10,000 per student annually for families to use on private school tuition or other educational expenses. The proposal marks a major step forward for school choice advocates, particularly Governor Greg Abbott, who has made the issue a cornerstone of his education policy agenda.
Governor Abbott has strongly supported school choice, especially during last year’s Republican primaries, where he endorsed challengers against incumbent lawmakers who opposed similar initiatives. The advancement of this legislation reflects the increasing political pressure to give parents more control over their children’s education, particularly in the wake of pandemic-related school closures and ongoing debates over curriculum transparency.
The preliminary state budget sets aside $1 billion for the ESA program in the 2026-2027 school year. This funding would initially allow up to 100,000 students—out of more than five million public school enrollees—to participate in the program. Proponents argue that this initiative would provide greater educational opportunities for families seeking alternatives to the public school system, particularly those in underperforming districts or areas with limited school options.
Dallas Rep. John Bryant called the bill a “catastrophe” for 10 of the largest school districts in the state, which he said wouldn’t get the money they needed under this proposal.
The proposal faces significant opposition from public education advocates and some lawmakers who argue that diverting state funds to private education could weaken public schools. Critics contend that ESAs disproportionately benefit wealthier families who can already afford private schooling and may not adequately support low-income students, particularly in rural areas where private school options are scarce. Additionally, concerns remain about the lack of accountability for private schools receiving public funds, as they are not held to the same academic and financial transparency standards as public institutions. Some of the State’s largest school districts fear they will not receive enough funds to operate.
School choice legislation has repeatedly passed the Texas Senate over the past decade but has faced resistance in the House. This is only the second time such a measure has made it to the House floor for consideration. With strong political backing from the governor and increased public interest in school choice, the upcoming debate will be pivotal in determining the future of education funding in Texas. Whether the bill garners enough support to become law remains to be seen, but its advancement signals a growing push for education reform in the state.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report, April 2025
April 3, 2025 – During the regular meeting of the Sulphur Springs City Council on Tuesday April 1, 2025, City Manager Marc Maxwell submitted his monthly report.
TO: CITY COUNCIL
FROM: CITY MANAGER, MARC MAXWELL
SUBJ: MANAGER’S REPORT
CLAIMS – We had 2 workers compensation claims in March for police officers who were exposed to blood. We did not have any liability claims. The City filed a claim of its own for wind damage to the animal Shelter.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN – Kimley Horn is collecting data for their baseline. They will also attend the Claws For a Cause event on April 26 where they will be seeking input from the public.
MIRACLE LEAGUE FIELD – I expect 100% construction drawings this week.
THERMO WATER – The Capital Construction Division has installed 1,600 feet of 18’ water main into the site. It will replace an old 8” main. This will be the first water project of many at Thermo.
THERMO ROAD – All of the concrete road for this project is complete. All that remains is some work on the shoulders. This $4.4 million project is partially funded by a $2.4 million grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA).
COLEMAN BALLFIELD LIGHT UPGRADE – This $250,000 grant from the State Energy Conservation Office (SECO) to upgrade the ballfield lights to LED is on again, off again. It’s currently somewhere in between. We’ve been told to select our contractor to do the work, but not to spend any money yet. This may still happen.
MIDFIELD APRON – This concrete pavement/drainage improvement is approximately 90% complete. This project includes drainage improvements as well as repaving the midfield apron in concrete. Total project cost is $5.28 million, of which 90% is funded by a grant through TXDOT.
WASTEWATER CHLORINE CONTACT CHAMBER – Hayter Engineering is presently designing the new chlorine contact chamber. Everything we are hearing reinforces staff’s belief that we will be able to re-rate the plant to at least 10 MGD. This $2.2 million project will repurpose a former (abandoned) sand filter turning it into a chlorine contact chamber. Chlorine contact time is a bottleneck at the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The WWTP has a rated capacity of 5.4 MGD. Staff believes we can increase the capacity to 10 MGD when the project is completed. The increase will require TCEQ approval, but staff thinks it is feasible. The project is being funded from the Enterprise Fund balance.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SIP) –
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES – Finance Director Lesa Smith will present the monthly report of revenues and expenditures.
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Patched 130 potholes.
- • Performed 1 major street repair following an Atmos repair.
- • Cleaned storm catch basins 5 times.
- • Installed 2 no parking signs and replaced 3 stop signs.
- • Removed 8 fallen trees from roadways.
- • Installed 528 feet of Curbs and 5 new driveway approaches on Alabama. • Received 8600 feet of water pipe for Thermo.
- • Conducted 89 building inspections, 21 electrical inspections, 19 plumbing inspections, and 5 mechanical inspections.
- • Issued 28 building permits, and 69 trade permits.
- • Responded to 172 fire/rescue calls including 2 structure fires, 1 vehicle fire and 11 grass fires.
- • Performed 45 fire inspections.
- • Performed preventative maintenance on 78 fire hydrants.
- • Treated wastewater to a daily average total suspended solids reading of 0.79 mg/L. • Hauled 651 tons of sludge to the landfill.
- • Repaired 11 water main ruptures.
- • Replaced 13 water meters.
- • Repaired 4 sewer mains.
- • Washed 81,000 feet of sewer mains.
- • Performed preventative maintenance and repairs on water treatment and wastewater treatment items.
- • Filled in tree wells on College/Main.
- • Sprayed for weeds on athletic fields.
- • Prepped ball fields for 74 youth games.
- • Rented the Grays building 16 times.
- • Installed 6 new scoreboards at Coleman Park.
- • Made repairs at Kids Kingdom.
- • Planted 6 Bur Oaks in Colman Park (North Side).
- • Responded to 201 Animal Control calls while achieving a 76% adoption rate. • Made 0 felony arrests in the Special Crimes Unit.
- • Responded to 30 accidents, issued 444 citations, recorded 38 offences and made 49 arrests in the Patrol Division.
- • Checked out 4,064 items from the library plus 1,028 eBooks. • Sold 3,619 gallons of AvGas and 8,356 gallons of JetA fuel. • Accommodated 1,841 takeoffs/landings at the airport.
Sulphur Springs Ladycats Track Team Placed Second and the Wildcat boys Placed Third at Meet in Paris
April 3, 2025 – At the district track meet in Paris this week, the Sulphur Springs Ladycats track team placed second and the Wildcat boys placed third.
The Ladycats 4X400m Relay Team set a new school record, breaking the previous record held from 1989, with a time: of 4:09.4.
Jaicee Jasmer placed 1st in the pole vault, 1st in the 200m run and with the 4x200m relay team.
Edith Martinez was 1st in the the 3200m.
Codee Roland was 1st in the long Jump and on the 4x200m relay,team.
Madysen Gilbert was 1st in the Shot Put.
Trinity Jefferson was 1st in the Discus throw.
And Kolbie Moughon placed 1st in the 100 meter Hurdles
On the Wildcat boys track team,
Ty Bybee was first in the pole vault and the 110M Hurdles
The 4x100M relay team of Kyshawn John, Deuce Timmons, Jio Ibarra, and Creed Whisenhunt won1st place.
And the 4x200M relay team of Grayson Hardy, Creed Whisenhunt, Jaxson Haire and Deuce Timmons placed 1st.
Paris Junior College Regents Create Hopkins County Advisory Board
April 3, 2025 – Paris Junior College is creating an Advisory Board of Hopkins County residents to engage with the community and plan for the future of the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center.
“We are shaping a strategic vision for the future,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC President, “and we want to continue strengthening relationships in Hopkins County. Establishing a Board of Advisors will enhance our connection.”
The creation of the county advisory board was approved by the PJC Board of Regents at the March meeting. The primary goal is to foster engagement and gather community input from local residents. The board will serve solely in an advisory capacity without policy-making authority.
The Board of Regents will have the ultimate authority to appoint members, with recommendations from the President. To find a complete description for serving on the advisory board and the online application, go to https://www.parisjc.edu/main/county-advisors/.
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.
Chamber Connection – April 3, 2025
By Butch Burney
Registration is still going on for the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, set for Friday, May 2, at Sulphur Springs Country Club.
Registration is open for six-person teams in the morning and afternoon, though there are only a few afternoon slots available.
Cost is $750 per team, which includes three golf courts and lunch for all team members.
There are also sponsorship opportunities available for hole-in-one contests and interactive holes.
For more information or for registration, call the Chamber office at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
Lunch and Learn
Go Farther, Faster with AI will be a Lunch and Learn hosted by Deep Routes Coffee and presented by Kendra Wallace on Wednesday, April 16, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Whether you are an AI pro or just getting started, attendees will learn how Artificial Intelligence can save you time and money, relieve stress, strengthen relationships and more.
The cost is $25 and includes lunch.
Spring Market on Main
The Spring Market is coming to Main Street in a few weeks.
The annual sidewalk sale and market vendors will set up on Saturday, April 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
There will be spring items inside and outside, food, décor, gifts and more.
The annual event is hosted by the Downtown Business Alliance.
Cocktails and Conversation
You don’t want to miss the next Cocktails and Conversation, an after-hours business mixer, hosted by Credit Union of Texas from 5-6 p.m. Thursday, April 3, at their downtown Sulphur Springs location. They will have refreshments and an opportunity to network with other business professionals.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend the mixer.
Blue Blazes Carnival
The SSHS Blue Blazes will have a spring carnival at Buford Park from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 19.
Rowdy Goose Parties and More will be there with inflatables and mini golf as well as a silent auction, vendors, food trucks and more.
Window Decorating Contest
The Hopkins County Dairy Festival is hosting a Window Decorating Contest during the month of May. Businesses can decorate between May 1 and May25, but must register before the decorating window closes. Judging will be May 26-30, with winners announced on May 31.
The theme for this year is Udder the Big Top (carnival theme).
For more information, contact Gena Prickette at 903-243-4534 or [email protected]
Heritage Park
Dutch Oven classes are right around the corner at Heritage Park.
It is April 12, from 8 a.m. to noon, $20 per person. You will learn how to prepare the food, cook it, and of course EAT it.
For more information or registration, contact Rick Wilson at 903-335-2752.
Claws for a Cause
Rotary Club’s annual crawfish boil is set for Celebration Plaza, Saturday, April 26. Service and live entertainment starts at 5 p.m. Click on the Clause for a Cause Facebook page for ticket links.
City Clean Up
The City of Sulphur Springs will open its dump facility the week of April 28-May 3 for the annual city wide clean up. The facility is ½ mile east of the traffic stop at Jefferson Street and Loop 301. Residents need a valid driver’s license or water bill to verify they live in the city limits.
Miller Grove Stew and Auction
The annual Miller Grove FFA stew and Auction is set for Thursday, April 3, at the school. The stew will start at 6 p.m., with the auction to follow.
Easter Egg Hunt
Sulphur Springs Health and Rehab will host an Easter Egg Hunt for all interested children at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 18, at their facility on Airport Road.
UPRA Spring Rodeo
The Hopkins County Rodeo Association is hosting the 45th UPRA Spring Rodeo on April 18-19 at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Doors open at 6 p.m., events begin at 7:30. Easter egg hunt and a bicycle give away on Saturday, the 19th. Tickets for adults are $12 (buy advance tickets for $10 at Circle E Western Store), kids 6-12 are $5 and kids under 5 are free.
Ribbon Cuttings
Pink Brizilia Boutique will host a ribbon cutting at noon Friday, April 4, at their shop at 220 Connally Street. Please join us for this event.
