Master QuickBooks With a Class at PJC-Sulphur Springs
A class on QuickBooks Level I is available at the Paris Junior College – Sulphur Springs Center starting next Friday (Jan. 11) at 9:00 a.m. Offered through the Continuing Education Department, the course covers the basics of the popular record keeping software used by many small businesses today.
Taught by Jim Struwe, a counselor with the Paris Small Business Development Center, the course assists with business management through accurate record-keeping. Covering the basics allows better control of business income and expenses for more success and profitability.
The course will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on January 11, 18, and 25. To register, call 903-782-0447.

Berger Officials Meet Next Week to Plan Future for Facility at Birthright
“It was not the Christmas present we expected or wanted for our team.” Martine Berger said the fire that destroyed the main building at Berger Horticulture at Birthright is especially difficult at this time of year. She said the evaluation of the main building is that it is a complete loss. The Canada based company does intend to re-build, according to Berger.
According to Mike Matthews, Hopkins County Fire Marshall, the cause of the fire is undetermined but there is nothing to raise suspicions as to its cause. ATF assisted in the investigation with technology and manpower. He stated the fire did start in the center of the factory area where the building collapsed. He stated that interviews with employees have been conducted to assist in possible causes for the fire and there are a couple of interviews that remain. He emphasized that there is no suspicion of foul play as a cause for the fire.
Other buildings at the facility are safe, according to Berger. She said no dollar figure has been attached to the loss at the time. Berger told KSST News Thursday, January 3, 2019, that the family owned business is putting together a contingency plan but will meet next week to begin the process of planning for the future of the local facility.
At this time no employee wages have been lost and company officials will meet with employees next week so they will know the solution that will be put in place. She said the company, “…wants to take care of our people”.
Berger said the company is grateful for the quick and effective work of emergency services and the county and area fire departments. She said they also thank the neighbor who reported the fire.
The first call came in Monday at 11:28 a.m. of a possible structure fire at Berger Horticulture located near Birthright on State Highway 19N. The fire was officially under control at 3:20 p.m. Monday, December 24, 2018. Hopkins County Engine 20, Sulphur Springs Fire Department Engine, and North Hopkins Volunteer Fire Department arrived at the scene at the same time. Noting the fire was consuming the front side of the building, an all call was given to all county volunteer departments. County Tankers from surrounding counties–Lamar, Franklin, and Delta–and the City of Commerce responded.
Hopkins County Fire Chief Andy Endsley said the fire could have gone on all night had it not been for the sacrifices of the crews involved. He noted that even though it was Christmas Eve Day when many would be finalizing shopping and family activities, the dedication of county, city, and area firemen kept the fire from escalating to a greater level.

Hearts of Life Presents Tony for Adoption

Tony is approximately 2-3 years old and a very large mixed breed. He is very intelligent and has a relaxed nature. Tony does very well on a harness and enjoys his walks. He is somewhat independent, but still loves any and all affection from humans.
Tony’s adoption fee is $100.00 which includes all previous vetting, neuter and rabies shot. If you are interested in meeting Tony, please contact Hearts of Life Animal Rescue by phone at 903-439-5019, email at [email protected], www.facebook.com/heartsoflife or find us on Petfinder.com!
Tira News for Jan 4th, 2019

By Jan Vaughn
Robert and Yvonne Weir’s family got together for Christmas, with Destri, Eben, and Nico arriving on Sunday, as well as Dustin, Natalie, and Maria, and Sarah and Lucas. They had snacks and a bonfire and Sarah and Lucas opened their gifts before they left. The next day Dacy, Mike, Elise, and Eli came and they had fajitas and all the trimmings, followed by their gift exchange. Yvonne adds, “My children and grandchildren and I attended the candlelight service at the Tira Methodist Church.”
Kenden Joslin celebrated his 17th birthday at Chuck E. Cheese in Rockwall on Thursday, December 27th. Helping him celebrate were his parents Malcolm Joslin and Tiffany Vaughn, his siblings Morgan and Jaidyn Joslin, his girlfriend Whitney and her 4-year-old sister Rhalie, and myself (his grandmother).
Chip and I took our daughter Tiffany, granddaughter Jaidyn, and great-
granddaughter Dixie to Piney Shores Resort on Lake Conroe on Friday, December 28th. We went to The Ice Rink at The Woodlands that afternoon and I took pictures of the others skating. We went back to the resort and swam in the indoor pool that night. We took Dixie back to her home in Sour Lake on Saturday morning, and then, after driving home, our family went to the home of Tim and Lori Vaughn for a family get-together in honor or Jamie, Anna, and Emma Vaughn, of Georgia. It had been a few years since they were last in Texas. Jamie is the son of Jim and Sandra Vaughn.
James and Vickie Longino hosted a small group at their home for a New Year’s Eve party. Guests were Eddie and Karen Northcutt, Greg and Karon Adams, Mike and Susan Smith, Brad and Janiene Fain, and Chip and myself. We enjoyed eating, visiting, and playing games.
I’m having trouble getting news reports recently. I’m sure there were many other family gatherings during the holidays. I hope to be able to report more next time.
I always need and appreciate input from my friends to help keep me informed of news in our community. If you have any news pertaining to Tira residents, past or present, please contact me, Jan Vaughn, at 903-945-2190 or 903-438-6688 or [email protected] .
Cattle Feeding During the Winter By Mario Villarino

The weather conditions during this fall-winter season has created serious problems for beef producers needing hay. Many producers are finding out low quality hay and even then hay is getting harder to find. Getting or keeping cows in proper body condition throughout the winter can optimize pregnancy rates the following season, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.
Dr. Jason Banta, beef cattle specialist, Overton, said cows with proper body condition scores at calving are more likely to breed back and produce healthy calves in the future. Proper nutrition and supplementation are two keys to keeping cows in good shape. Supplemental feeding during winter months is critical to ensure cows are in optimal condition for pregnancy, calving and future breeding. Banta said 2-and 3-year-old cows should have a body condition score of 6 or better at calving.
Cows 4-years-old and older should be in a body condition score of 5 or greater at calving. Cows with a body condition score of 5 should display abundant muscle tissue. Ribs are noticeable but overall fat cover is lacking. Hooks and pins are less obvious and hips and backbone are slightly rounded versus a sharp appearance, according to the AgriLife Extension overviews.
A body condition score of 6 represents cows that are ideal at calving. Ribs are covered completely with fat and beginning to cover the rump, and muscle tissue is at its greatest. Hay should be tested for nutritional quality, which will give producers the necessary information to help determine supplementation requirements, Banta said.
Any supplementation plan should be based on three primary criteria – the nutrient requirements of the animal, the quality of available hay or roughage, and the current condition of the cows. Winter supplementation will depend greatly on what stage of production the cow is in, Banta said.
Lactating cows require different amounts of supplementation than dry cows, those pregnant but not nursing a calf. “When evaluating pasture or hay, consider the nutrient requirements of the cow,” Banta said. For example, to maintain its body condition, a lactating cow would require hay that is about 11.5 percent protein and 62-63 percent total digestible nutrients, or TDN. A dry cow in late gestation would need about 8 percent protein and 55 percent TDN.
Producers should select supplements based on the cost per unit of nutrient needed, Banta said. Cubes are a common supplement used by many producers. If both energy and protein supplementation are needed, a 20 percent cube would likely be most cost effective, he said.
However, if only a protein supplement is needed, then a 40 percent cube is more cost effective. Banta said producers should start slow and build up with supplements, such as concentrates and grains, because cows are designed to consume grasses.
It’s also important to feed them supplements consistently each day to avoid digestive problems such as acidosis, which can lead to founder, foot abscesses, damage to the rumen lining damage, or death. He recommends starting with no more than 2 pounds of supplement per cow per day and slowly building up from there.
Banta said producers should watch manure patties to monitor cows’ protein intake. “If patties look like they are stacking up and are firm, that tells us we need more protein supplement,” Banta said. A 40 percent cube is a good concentrated supplement source of protein, he said.
Generally speaking, if cows are in good condition then 1-1.5 pounds of a 40 percent cube or something similar is a good place to start for dry cows; 2-3 pounds per day would likely be needed for wet cows, Banta said. If cows also need energy, then something like a 20 percent cube could be a good option.
With average quality hay, a common feeding rate for dry cows would be about 2-3 pounds per day per cow or 4-6 pounds for wet cows. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].

Hopkins County 4-H & Youth Program By Johanna Hicks

Several of my previous columns featured major programs that are offered through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension in Hopkins County. One of the major branches under the large umbrella of Extension is the 4-H & Youth program, so I wanted to focus on some of the accomplishments of our youth.
Hopkins County boasts nearly 150 4-H members. The top 15 projects in Hopkins County are: Horticulture, Dairy, Foods & Nutrition, Shooting Sports, Poultry, Beef, STEM, Photography, Goats, Swine, Robotics, Fashion & Interior Design, Community Service, Veterinary Science, Public Speaking. Many people mistakenly think 4-H is just for showing animals. As you can see from the list of popular projects, animal projects are popular, but youth do NOT have to own an animal.
Our Extension staff encourages youth to explore many projects. I assist youth who want to focus on foods & nutrition, clothing & textiles, public speaking, educational presentations, and other similar projects. My co-worker assists youth with animal projects, shooting sports, and vet science.
We offer many county-wide 4-H events. These include: Sewing Fun Day; Foods Fun Day; Junior Market Show; Dairy Show; Christmas Party; community service projects; National 4-H Week; One Day 4-H; record book training; scholarship training; 4-H Project Tour Day; and 4-H Achievement Banquet.
4-H also offers Competitive events. Hopkins County 4-H’ers participated in County, District and State 4-H Roundup (educational presentations, public speaking, food show, fashion show, photography, Share-the-Fun); Houston Livestock Show/Rodeo Public Speaking Contest; Fort Worth Livestock Show Public Speaking Contest; Livestock judging; District and State Record Book competitions.
A highlight of the year is the Multi-County 4-H Camp. Our staff serves on the steering committee that helps plan, implement, and evaluate the camp. This 3-day, 2 night camp is held in Lone Star, TX, and features workshops, group activities, swimming pool, canoeing, paddle boats, the “Blob”, gift shop, snack shop, ping pong, tetherball, and much more. 4-H’ers have the opportunity to meet kids from other counties, while developing leadership and teamwork. Hopkins County typically takes the largest group.
The County 4-H Council meets 6 times each year to help set dates and plan major county events. The Council is made up of youth representatives from each of the 4-H clubs in Hopkins County.
Texas 4-H Opportunities Scholarships are awarded each year to deserving seniors who are members of 4-H. Hopkins County has had four recipients in recent years: Travis Hicks, Sara Forsman, Aleigh Bessonett, and Cade Goldsmith. Their combined scholarships equaled over $40,000. Our local 4-H program also provides the Janie Crump Memorial 4-H Scholarship to high school seniors who are members of 4-H.
Our recent Extension Leadership Banquet featured eight of our 4-H members as guest speakers, each covering a different topic: Zia Miller, Infinity4-H Club, “4-H Family Legacy”; Geoffrey Stewart, Dike 4-H Club, Leadership, Shooting Sports; Jorja Bessonett, Miller Grove 4-H Club, Gold Star, Family Life Project, 4-H Record Books; Diego Childs, Infinity 4-H Club, Community Service and National 4-H Week; Rylie Carroll, Infinity 4-H Club, Public Speaking, 4-H Project Show; Christian Ebel, Infinity and Dike 4-H, Video production and public speaking; Braden Lennon, Infinity 4-H, Dairy project and judging; Savannah Allen, Infinity 4-H, Ambassador program, District Office, State 4-H Roundup contests. As you can see, 4-H provides a vast range of opportunities.
The 4-H year is September 1 thru August 31. For more information about this and other Extension programs, please call 903-885-3443.
A New Year, A New Start
Happy New Year! When we contemplate a new year, many thoughts cross our minds. Health, finances, family, work, friendships, household issues – they are all there, mingled together in our minds. A new year means a fresh start, so use the opportunity to make a difference!
A new training for interested Master Wellness Volunteers will begin on Tuesday, January 22. We will be hosting the first and last sessions in person at the Extension Office, 1200 W. Houston, Sulphur Springs, from 9:00 a.m. to approximately 4:00. Other sessions can be completed on-line at your own leisure. Please contact my office at 903-885-3443 for more information, or go to: https://agrilife.org/mwv.
Closing Thought
The little things in life help make the big things succeed – my personal reflections
Recipe of the week:
Shoo Fly Pie
Ingredients:
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ cup boiling water
- 1 egg yolk, beaten
- ½ cup molasses
- ¾ cup flour
- 1/8 teaspoon ginger
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 pie crust
Directions:
- Dissolve soda in boiling water. Add egg and molasses. Set aside.
- Stir dry ingredients together, mix well. Cut in butter until mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Pour molasses mixture into pie shell.
- Springs crumbs evenly over the top – don’t stir.
- Bake at 425ᵒF for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350ᵒ and bake 20 minutes longer.
- Cool and serve.

Sulphur Springs Hotel Now Locally Owned and Operated; To Undergo Significant Renovation

Sulphur Springs, TX (1/3/2019) – The hotel formerly known as the Holiday Inn Express in Sulphur Springs has recently changed ownership. Local residents, Charles and Sharon Helm, recently purchased the property and have begun the process of converting the hotel into a local brand by Choice, called Clarion Pointe.
Clarion Pointe is part of the Choice family of hotels and is a new brand that will allow for originality, creativity and local elements to be brought into the property. The brand has recently launched with Choice and currently, there are only a handful of hotels in the pipeline, with Sulphur Springs being one of them.
“Clarion Pointe allows us to bring Sulphur Springs into the walls, the floors, the shop in the lobby, the meeting room, the fitness room and throughout the whole hotel. When we are completed with renovations, you will be staying at the BEST hotel, with a window into why we love this community,” said Charles Helm.
During the renovation period, the hotel will function as a Clarion Inn. When renovations are completed, the new flag, Clarion Pointe will be revealed. The renovations are expected to be completed sometime late Spring or early Summer.
The Clarion Inn features 72 rooms and will have a new, modern look in public areas and rooms. Local art will be featured throughout the hotel, as well as an on-site lounge.
The Helm Family has a long history as hoteliers in Sulphur Springs. In 1962, Charles Helm’s father, Walter “Punk” Helm, opened his first motel in Sulphur Springs, the 50-room Paradise Inn located on Interstate 30 where the going price for a room night was only $6. 20 years later, in 1982, Charles Helm with his late brother Lewis, opened the Best Western Trail Dust Inn of Sulphur Springs. Charles and Sharon also have owned two additional hotels in Sulphur Springs over the last 25 years. Their daughter Monica and husband Zach Glenn, both raised in Sulphur Springs, are actively involved in the day to day operations of Helm Hotels Group.
To reward previous loyalty, all guests of the Clarion Inn will be able to have their previous hotel loyalty status matched from the IHG® Rewards Club program to the Choice Privileges Rewards program.
The Clarion Inn is located at 411 Industrial Drive East, conveniently located off Interstate 30. Reservations and more information are available by calling the hotel directly at 903-885-6851 or through the hotel’s website at ssclarion.com.
About Helm Hotels Group:Clarion Inn of Sulphur Springs is owned and operated by Helm Hotels Group, family owned and operated for over 35 years and currently has been in the Helm family for 3 generations. Helm Hotels Group also owns the Best Western Plus Crown Colony Inn & Suites in Lufkin and Best Western Premier Crown Chase Inn & Suites in Denton. More information about Helm Hotels Group can be found at helmhotelsgroup.com.
About Choice HotelsChoice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest and most successful lodging franchisors in the world. With more than 6,800 hotels, representing more than 550,000 rooms, in over 40 countries and territories as of June 30, 2018, the Choice® family of hotel brands provide business and leisure travelers with a range of high-quality lodging options from limited service to full-service hotels in the upscale, midscale, extended stay and economy segments. The award-winning Choice Privileges® loyalty program offers members benefits ranging from everyday rewards to exceptional experiences.
Wood County Sheriff’s Report December 26, 2018-January 1, 2019
Wood County Sheriff’s Report for December 26, 2018 to January 1, 2019 includes:
December 26th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1807 near Yantis, at approximately 10:12 a.m., in reference to a theft. A known actor stole a firearm from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 14 near Hawkins; at approximately 11:29 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2445 near Mineola, at approximately 1:27 p.m., in reference to a structural fire. Mineola Fire Department extinguished the fire and the incident was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2620 near Mineola, at approximately 3:36 p.m., in reference to theft. Deputies determined the item was lost and not stolen.
At 4:41 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 1700 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2292 near Mineola, at approximately 11:17 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
December 27th
Deputies were dispatched to Pacific St. in Mineola, at approximately 12:48 a.m., in reference to family violence. Deputies located the incident and this case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 8:10 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1840 near Yantis, at approximately 12:06 p.m., in reference to an inquest. A female, 66, was found deceased in her residence. The Justice of the Peace arrived and no autopsy was ordered.
At 12:33 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Yantis, at approximately 1:26 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3230 near Quitman, at approximately 1:40 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, broke into the reporting party’s residence and stole several items. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2088 near Winnsboro, at approximately 5:46 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
At 6:37 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 182 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 515 near Alba, at approximately 7:16 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Mineola, at approximately 8:42 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3580 near Winnsboro, at approximately 9:12 p.m., in reference to an assault. Deputies spoke with all individuals involved and cleared the scene.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2675 near Mineola, at approximately 10:52 p.m., in reference to an abandoned 911 call. Deputies made contact with the homeowner and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to Sunrise Lane near Hawkins, at approximately 11:28 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
December 28th
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 12:53 a.m., in reference to theft. A known actor stole two belt buckles from the reporting party’s residence.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:06 a.m., in reference to an assault. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
At 8:27 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 1336 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 49 near Mineola, at approximately 11:30 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4495 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:27 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individuals and everything was OK.
At 12:48 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3230 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2245 near Mineola, at approximately 1:29 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual. This case has is active.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Yantis, at approximately 3:12 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2375 near Alba, at approximately 10:30 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. Judith Long, 73, of Quitman, was arrested for Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Violence.
December 29th
At 9:18 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:52 a.m., in reference to harassment that occurred near Holly Lake Ranch. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4200 near Winnsboro, at approximately 2:08 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the day.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2267 near Mineola, at approximately 4:49 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Justin Robertson, 24, of Tyler, was arrested for Terroristic Threat of Family/Household Member.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3440 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:22 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1840 near Yantis, at approximately 8:51 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. Ronney Byrd, 70, of Yantis, was arrested for Aggravated Assault Date/Family/House with Weapon.
Deputies were dispatched to Pine Bark Glen near Hawkins, at approximately 9:19 p.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies determined it was fireworks and cleared the incident.
December 30th
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 9:01 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to Kickapoo near Quitman, at approximately 9:43 a.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated, prior to the deputies’ arrival.
At 9:57 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 515 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 182 near Quitman, at approximately 11:54 a.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole two chainsaws from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 7996 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:16 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole two boats from the reporting party’s property. This case is active.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1425 near Quitman, at approximately 12:51 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 2:11 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3230 near Quitman.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 1560 near Alba; at approximately 3:44 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 49 near Hawkins, at approximately 4:25 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
At 5:42 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4510 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4870 near Winnsboro, at approximately 5:54 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and cleared the incident.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to PR 6304 near Mineola; at approximately 7:54 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 69 near Winnsboro, at approximately 9:42 p.m., in reference to a recovered vehicle. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1416 near Quitman, at approximately 10:26 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the actor.
December 31st
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4420 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:03 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the actor.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 778 near Quitman; at approximately 2:55 a.m. Patrick Robinson, 33, of Sulphur Springs, was arrested for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
At 8:48 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 2869 near Hawkins; at approximately 12:20 p.m. Lauren Young, 35, of Hawkins, was arrested for an outstanding warrant, Theft and Manufacture Delivery of a Controlled Substance.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3854 near Hawkins; at approximately 4:25 p.m. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to Choctaw near Quitman, at approximately 4:31 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a couple items from the reporting party’s property.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1418 near Yantis, at approximately 6:42 p.m., in reference to disorderly conduct. Deputies gave the individual advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on PR 8694 near Winnsboro; at approximately 10:55 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
January 1st
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4700 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:31 a.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1970 near Yantis, at approximately 1:02 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. A known actor damaged the reporting party’s vehicle. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 2:33 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 3:50 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 80 near Hawkins.
At 9:36 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2088 near Quitman.
At 10:46 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2966 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1801 near Mineola, at approximately 11:35 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individuals and everything was OK.
At 2:01 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Yantis.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 3:12 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances on FM 779 near Alba. Deputies advised the reporting party that extra patrol would be provided.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1730 near Yantis, at approximately 4:14 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several items from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 4:33 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2966 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2088 near Quitman, at approximately 4:46 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several items from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 6:21 p.m., horses were reported out on FM 1801 near Mineola.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 7:09 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
At 7:53 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4150 near Quitman.
Between the dates of December 26 and January 1, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Emergency Medical Services, Smith County Sheriff’s Office and Mineola Police Department.
Between the dates of December 26 and January 1, Wood County Sheriff’s Investigators obtained 2 arrest warrants and arrested the individuals and recovered $10,000 worth of stolen property.
Total Jail Count –119 inmates – 95 males and 24 females.
Sheriff Castloo would like to remind everyone…if you have any information on these or any other crimes, please contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office at 903-763-2201 or Crime Stoppers at 903-763-CASH.
Contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office if you notice any suspicious vehicles or activity around your neighborhood. Please be aware of your surroundings.

Soccer: Wildcats Use Extra Day; Lady Cats Open Season Friday
Wildcats Soccer Uses Extra Day to Get Ready For Start of the Regular Season Friday
With planned games in a Princeton soccer tournament canceled Thursday (January 3) due to the weather, the Wildcats’ soccer team had an extra day to watch film and practice in the Multipurpose Building field. The Wildcats had an Alumni scrimmage last Friday, short scrimmages against three opponents last Saturday and one last scrimmage on New Year’s Day. Wildcats Soccer Coach Alexi Upton said in short scrimmage games last Saturday the Wildcats battled to ties with Forney, Kilgore and Pine Tree. He said the Wildcats took a 1-0 scrimmage loss at Frisco Lebanon Trail on New Year’s Day. Coach Upton said the scrimmages yielded good results but he said they also pointed out that the Wildcats need to do a better job of finishing off opponents. He said the Lebanon Trail loss was a case in point. Coach Upton said the Wildcats dominated play and stayed tied with Lebanon Trail only to give up a goal with just a minute and a half left to play. He actually welcomed an extra day before regular season play begins. Coach Upton said the Wildcats watched film and did some run throughs on the Multipurpose Building field on Thursday. He said the Wildcats are having to battle injuries and illnesses. Four Wildcats varsity players have nagging injuries. Still Coach Upton remains positive saying the Wildcats are trending upward and he still believes they will have a successful year. In the Princeton tournament, the Wildcats open the regular season against Celina Friday at 11:45 a.m. and then play Princeton Saturday at 9:15 a.m. Other possible games Saturday depend on results of earlier games.
Lady Cats Now Open Regular Season Friday in Terrell Tournament
The Lady Cats’ soccer team was supposed to open regular season play Thursday (January 3) at a Terrell tournament but Mother Nature had other plans. All Thursday games in the tournament were canceled due to possible wintry weather. The Lady Cats now have games in the Terrell tournament scheduled Friday and Saturday. Friday the Lady Cats play Mesquite Poteet at 3 p.m. And Red Oak at 7:30 p.m. Then Saturday the Lady Cats will face the Highland Park JV at noon. Other games Saturday will be determined by earlier tournament games. Both the Lady Cats and Wildcats’ soccer teams are battling injuries and illness.
