Pine Forest Disturbance Call Leads to Murder Charges
May 3, 2024 – A disturbance call in Pine Forest at 1:06am early Friday morning brought Hopkins County Sheriff’s deputies to a Pine Forest address on FM 269. When officers arrived on the scene, they located a decease white male identified as Jimmy Holmes, a 69-year-old white male. Witnesses on the scene identified Brandon Murray, a 49-year-old white male as the perpetrator. Murray was still on the scene of the homicide, and after further investigation, was arrested and booked into the Hopkins County Jail on murder charges. Justice of the Peace Brad Cummings pronounced the deceased at 1:30am Friday morning.
Ribbon-Cutting for New Senior Activity Center Held May 1st
May 2, 2024 – The dream and hope of the Sulphur Springs community for a safe, comfortable, and attractive facility for the members of the Senior Community to gather and engage each other took one giant leap closer to realty with a ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the almost complete facility on May 1, 2024. Members from all walks of life gathered in the new big event room at the Senior Activity Center, located at 301 Oak Avenue in downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas, to hear words of welcome and thanks from key players in the development of this Center.
Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center Coordinator Dawna Pryor took the stage first to welcome everyone. She announced that there is no move in date, yet, but she is excited. She welcomed Chamber President Butch Burney to the stage, and he proceeded to thank a number of important people. He proceeded to list off examples of what makes Sulphur Springs such a great city, including the brand new Senior Activity Center, and stated, “I think you can realize, in Sulphur Springs no child is left behind, no adult is left behind, and now, no senior citizen will be left behind.” Meal A Day Director Amanda Dietlin was then welcomed to the stage to talk about the Meal A Day program and it’s partnership with the New Senior Activity Center. The brand new kitchen in the facility will provide the Meal A Day cooks with awesome new equipment for preparing their meals. Sulphur Springs Mayor John Sellers took the mic next to talk about the great facility and the great people involved with the new Senior Activity Center. He discussed the journey hard works took starting in 2020 to achieve, plan, and eventually build the brand new building. John Sellers listed off a few of the many amenities the new Senior Activity Center has to offer. Dawna Pryor then welcomed Texas Department of Housing Kristina Tirloni to the stage. Kristina Tirloni continued the thanking of individuals, and talked about the Texas Department of Housing and one of the programs that helped make the dream of this facility come true. Pastor Harold Nash followed at the mic to discuss how it’s a privilege to be in Sulphur Springs, and in the new Senior Activity Center. He then led the crowd in prayer. The activities in the new big event room were concluded with John Sellers revealing the plaque that will eventually hang in the front of the building.
Officials and guests who wanted to, journeyed outside and gathered below the new building’s large sign to engage in a great ribbon-cutting. Afterwards everyone was encouraged to mingle, enjoy some light finger foods and sandwiches, and tea, and to walk around the brand new facilities and check out what all the brand new City of Sulphur Springs Senior Activity Center will have to offer. It was a great day in the great city of Sulphur Springs, Texas!
A Second Cup of Coffee About Choral Society Concert “I Saw the Light”
In this episode of A Second Cup of Coffee with John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down with North East Texas Choral Society member Marilyn Powers. The two chatted about the history of the North East Texas Choral Society and it’s beginnings. They then talked about the upcoming concert, I Saw the Light. Give it a watch and find out what the Choral Society is all about!
Fire Ant Control Without Dangerous Chemicals From Master Gardener David Wall
May 2, 2024 – My feeble mind says I wrote this article 10+ years ago, but I can’t find it anywhere! So, let’s talk about fire ant control.
Fire ants are a great nuisance in our yards and gardens, and there are several ways to control them with numerous dangerous chemicals. There are, fortunately, two control methods that don’t involve such chemicals.
The first is dried molasses – molasses in granular form. This natural product provides a light nitrogen feeding to the soil while making fire ants vacate their home and move away. If you spread dried molasses as you would any granular fertilizer twice a year (spring and fall), your yard and garden should stay free of them.
But what if a mound should appear overnight only to grow daily in size. He literature suggests sprinkling dried molasses in the area around the mound. I do this, but have never been able to resist a small handful directly on the mound. In 24 hours, they’re gone. It seems the sharp edges of the dried molasses scrape and eat at the fire ants’ outer skin.
The other product is orange oil which is a natural liquid oil produced by cold pressing the orange peels without heat which would degrade the product. The resulting oil eats away the waxy coating on the exoskeleton of fire ant which kills by dehydration and then asphyxiation.
Most feed stored will have or can order dried molasses. I usually buy a 50 lb. bag. Orange oil comes in liquid filled jars and might be available at a grocery store (check the ingredients) or feed store. You only need 2 oz. per gallon of water. This diluted solution can be sprayed on foliage or poured directly on the ground as a control for fire ants and other mound dwelling insects.
Controlling Weeds in Ponds by Mario Villarino
May 2, 2024 – Controlling weeds in ponds is essential for maintaining water quality, preserving aquatic habitats, and ensuring recreational usability. Weeds can quickly overrun a pond, leading to decreased oxygen levels, restricted water flow, and an unappealing appearance. Effective weed control involves a combination of preventative measures and targeted management strategies tailored to the specific characteristics of the pond and the types of weeds present. In this guide, we’ll explore various methods for pond weed control, including mechanical, biological, chemical, and cultural approaches.
Mechanical Weed Control:-Hand Pulling: For small-scale weed infestations, hand pulling can be effective. This method involves manually removing weeds by hand or using tools like rakes or weed pullers. It’s labor-intensive but environmentally friendly and suitable for targeting specific problem areas. 2. Cutting and Harvesting: Cutting and harvesting weeds can help reduce their biomass and prevent them from spreading. Tools such as weed cutters, trimmers, or aquatic weed harvesters can be used to cut and remove weeds from the pond. Regular maintenance is required to prevent regrowth. 3. Dredging: Dredging involves removing accumulated sediments along with weeds from the bottom of the pond. This method can be effective for large-scale weed control and sediment removal but may be expensive and disruptive to aquatic ecosystems.
Biological Weed Control-Biological Control Agents: Introducing natural predators or herbivores that feed on aquatic weeds can help control their growth. For example, grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) are commonly used to consume submerged weeds like hydrilla and pondweed. However, careful consideration should be given to potential impacts on native vegetation and ecosystems before using biological control agents. 2. Microbial Herbicides: Microbial herbicides contain naturally occurring bacteria or fungi that target specific weed species. These products can be effective for controlling weeds without harming other aquatic organisms. Examples include herbicides containing strains of bacteria like Bacillus thuringiensis or fungi like Myrothecium verrucaria.
Chemical Weed Control- Herbicides: Herbicides are chemical substances specifically designed to control weed growth. They can be classified based on their mode of action, such as contact herbicides (kill only the parts of the plant they directly contact) or systemic herbicides (translocated throughout the plant, killing it entirely). Commonly used aquatic herbicides include glyphosate, diquat, and 2,4-D. It’s important to carefully follow label instructions and regulations when using herbicides to minimize environmental impacts and ensure safety.
Cultural Weed Control-Vegetation Management: Proper vegetation management around the pond can help prevent nutrient runoff and reduce the influx of organic matter, which can fuel weed growth. Maintaining a buffer zone of native vegetation, installing erosion control measures, and minimizing fertilizer use in surrounding areas can all contribute to weed control efforts. 2. Aeration: Aeration systems can improve water circulation and oxygen levels in the pond, which can help inhibit weed growth and promote the growth of desirable aquatic plants. Aerators come in various forms, including diffused aeration systems, surface aerators, and fountains.
Integrated Weed Management (IWM) combines multiple control methods to achieve long-term weed control while minimizing environmental impacts. By integrating mechanical, biological, chemical, and cultural approaches, IWM aims to target weeds at various life stages and reduce reliance on any single control method. Regular monitoring of weed populations and environmental conditions is essential for implementing effective IWM strategies. Controlling weeds in ponds requires a comprehensive approach that considers the specific characteristics of the pond, the types of weeds present, and environmental considerations. Mechanical methods such as hand pulling, cutting, and dredging can be effective for targeted weed removal. Biological control agents and microbial herbicides offer environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical herbicides, while cultural practices like vegetation management and aeration can help prevent weed growth. Integrated Weed Management (IWM) combines multiple control methods to achieve long-term weed control while minimizing environmental impacts. By implementing appropriate weed control strategies, pond owners can maintain healthy aquatic ecosystems and enjoy their ponds for recreational purposes. 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 Spring Cleanup May 3rd & 4th
May 2, 2024 – Hopkins County Spring Cleanup is May 3rd from 7 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. and on May 4th from 7A.M. until noon. Hopkins County residents may bring larger household items (not commercial) to their county precinct barn to dispose of them properly.
All county precinct barns will be open for the clean up, all trash will be accepted, however no toxic or hazardous materials will be accepted. That means no shingles, no chemicals, no household hazardous wastes, no pesticides, no paint and no appliances containing Freon.
Commissioners plan to have some staff available to assist people when they arrive, but noted those bringing larger items to discard should be prepared to help off load them.
Tires will be accepted this year, however additional charges will be required to be paid upon delivery.
The four county precinct bars will serve as collection sites for the Hopkins County Clean Up Days. The barns can be found at the following locations:
- Precinct 1 Barn – 5516 State Highway 19 south, Sulphur Springs; contact: Commissioner Mickey Barker at 903-485-2040.
- Precinct 2 Barn – 12080 State Highway 11 east, Como; Contact: Commissioner Greg Anglin at 903-488-3514.
- Precinct 3 Barn – 583 County Road 3564, Dike; Contact: Commissioner Wade Bartley at 903-945 2178.
- Precinct 4 Barn – FM 2653, Cumby, 1.7 mile south of State Highway 11 west; Contact: Commissioner Joe Price at 903-582-8840.
Additionally, Sulphur Springs Livestock Auctions will be also be a drop-off site. However, they will only be accepting tires, no other trash or waste items are to be brought to the Sale Barn. Tires drop-offs will be charged a fee for transportation.
Sulphur Springs Livestock Auctions is located at: 1910 S Broadway St
The Good Book Nutrition Nook
May 1, 2024 – Lisa Mansfield Hill proprietress of the new faith based nutrition and wellness store in Sulphur Springs, dropped by the KSST studios this week for a brief interview. Her shop, inside the Good News Christian Bookstore on 1181 Broadway, is a labor love and mirrors her own lifestyle.
Lisa previously worked at a similar store in Sulphur Springs. Her 15 years working with Donna Korth, who Lisa identifies as a pioneer, inspired Lisa to continue providing natural products and education to the area.
“Donna passed me the torch, and I am proud to continue that legacy” said Hill.
Good Book Nutrition Nook has been in business for about 6 weeks, and during that short time Hill has already been able to expands the range of products offered.
Hill recently attended a trade show and education event, and that will provided new opportunities for her customers. “There will be a limited supply of complementary products that can be taken home and used.” said Hill.
Hill also emphasizes that her faith based philosophy of life and health is completely compatible with other medical advice. She strives to work with you and your physician to find a total solution.
Hill wants to thank our Lord and Savior and the Good News Christian Book Store for providing her the space inside their store. “The Jordans have been wonderful.” she added.
You can contact Lisa directly at 903 243 9663, or by email at [email protected].
Cumby 2024 FFA Auction and Dinner to be Held May 4th
April 30, 2024 – The auction of the Cumby FFA is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024. It will be held at 6pm. Cumby FFA Members will be selling various items including, hay rings, fire pits, porch swings, cornhole boards, as well as many outdoor and indoor items. Dinner is also provided. If you have any concerns or questions please reach out, a preferred phone number would be (214)-725-1032.
Dinner Bell for May 1st, 2024
The Ladies Golf Association of the Sulphur Springs Country Club has existed as long as women played golf on the course! In 1975 the present day golf association was organized with golf rounds of a competitive nature being played the last Wednesday of the month followed by lunch. Tallying scores (low score wins) and remembrances of the day’s rounds make the luncheon the ladies share a memorable event.
The golfers take special interest in the Sulphur Springs Girls’ Golf Team and purchase necessary supplies that are beyond the school budget. A word of encouragement when seeing a team member adds to their support!!!
The Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry appreciates the partnership of the Ladies Golf Association of the Sulphur Springs Country Club.
GRAB and GO with a meal from the distribution area under the covered driveway (porte cochere) on the Northeast corner of the First United Methodist Church campus starting around 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday.
MENU
Chicken Pot Pie
Bacon Infused Green Beans
Garden Salad
Buttered French Bread Slices
Cherry Vanilla Chocolate Chip Cake
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF BY FOLLOWING SAFE HEALTH PRACTICES AS FLU AND COVID ARE STILL IN OUR MIDST! WEAR MASKS WHERE REQUIRED! WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN! GET INOCULATED AND BOOSTED!
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!!!
AgriLife Extension Agent Lisa Sprague Visited Again on A Second Cup of Coffee
On this episode of A Second Cup of Coffee with John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down again with Texas A&M AgriLife Hopkins County Family and Community Health Extension Agent Lisa Sprague. The two discuss 4H, the “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes” program, and more. Give it a view and gain new insight into living healthier.
