Downtown Business Alliance Members and Volunteers Gear Up for a Busy Season!
At this month’s Downtown Business Alliance meeting, the agenda was filled with planned events that equal a lot of fun for the whole community! President Billie Ruth Standbridge called the meeting to order in the new meeting room of the Backstory Brewery. DBA officers are Vice President Joy Wilson, Secretary Linda Galligher and Treasurer Lynda Hager. Fourteen members and guests attended. Incidentally, you do not have to be a downtown merchant to join the Alliance. Many members are businesspeople throughout the county, as well as individual members.
Speaking for the September 15 Brick Street Vintage Market was Marlene DeYong of Marlene’s Sass and Class Boutique, 212 Main Street, who reported that additional vendors are needed for the upcoming open-air market, as more than forty vendors can be accomodated along Connally Street and across the Plaza. Vendors need to contact Judy Heilman at 903-885-9700 or 213 Main Street.
Danna Bain of Danna’s Florist reported that she is bringing the Gypsy Wagon and all the Buffalo Girls to the Brick Street Vintage Market on September 15, and that her entourage also encourages anyone who lives along Hwy 11 from Sulphur Springs to Winnsboro to get involved in her October event. The Flea Market Style and Swap will take place during October 11-13 along the “80-Mile Treasure Trail” that will actually stretch along Hwy 11 all the way to Daingerfield, Texas. Danna will also bring her Style and Swap back to Sulphur Springs at the Civic Center November 8-10.
Standbridge spoke about the annual Lone Star Heritage Quilt Show which is a 2-day event downtown, Friday September 14 and Saturday September 15. Again the over 100-quilt display will be hung at The Roc, 115 Putman Street and a special featured guest will be creator of “The Last Supper” quilt. This will be the Guild’s 19th annual show, which brings visitors from all over Texas to Sulphur Springs.
The WorldWide Photo Walk will be held in Sulphur Springs on Saturday October 6 from 9-11am. DBA member Perry Altenbaumer reminded everyone that prizes will be given for the best local photos, and that the contest is actually conducted world-wide on that day. It is free to enter and will be centered in Heritage Park and in the downtown area. The Trolley will provide transportation to and from Plain and Fancy Sandwich Shop.
Rita Edwards gave an update on the annual Car Show to be held in downtown Sulphur Springs on Saturday November 3. Several collectible cars have already been signed up, and the Sulphur Springs meet is always well-attended because people love to bring their cars and visit our town.
Retail merchants, wineries and eateries will host a Ladies Night Out shopping event during November, with plans still being finalized.
The Christmas Parade will take place downtown on the first weekend in December, and will take the “northern route” from the downtown square. Floats and other parade entries in business and non-business categories are encouraged.
With questions about downtown projects and events, contact Vice President Joy Wilson at 903-885-9966 or Marlene DeYong at 903-335-8918 or other members including Jennifer McCullough of the News Telegram, Jan Massey of the MIllennium Shopper, Kelly Boles and Jennifer Gregory of Galyean Insurance, Rita Edwards of Edwards Used Cars, Lara Colby of The Magic Scoop, Dinky Weeks of Corner Grubhouse also Sassy’s Pizza and Wings, Janie Carothers, a downtown property owner, Magan Smith of Cody Drug, Perry Altenbaumer of The Appliance Hospital, Danna Bain of Danna’s Florist and J.P. and Kristy Mosely of Landers Creek Outfitters.
SSHS Names Homecoming Court for 2018
Sulphur Springs High School Assistant Principal Vanessa Abron announced the ten Homecoming nominees for this school year.
The nominees, announced Tuesday, September 4, 2018, (photo not available until Friday) are JoAnna Duran, Maddie Millsap, Madison Clark, Madison Caprarotta, Alena Bledsoe, Madelyn Ray, JaQueline Espinoza-Frias, Camri Price, Sadie Stroud and Stephanie Olguin.
The student body will vote on the nominees and select a Homecoming queen and two princesses. The queen and princesses will be announced after all the nominees are presented prior to the kickoff of the Wildcats Homecoming Game against Terrell on Friday, September 14.
Earlier that day, the nominees will be recognized at a pep rally in the main high school gym at 3 p.m. The Homecoming nominees will be interviewed by media members this Friday (September 7). The nominees will have an early morning practice at the field in the Multipurpose Building on Wednesday, September 12.
Drunk Driving Victim Invites Public to Local MADD Walk on September 29 at Shannon Oaks
Back in 2017, Melinda McDonald had almost arrived back home in Hopkins County from a Christmas shopping trip when her car was suddenly struck from behind by an intoxicated driver. Melinda remembers little from the impact except the sensation of the car rolling and anxiously hoping for the safety of her infant granddaughter who was in a car seat behind her. Soon , the realization came that her daughter and fiance were nowhere to be seen, apparently thrown from the car. Amidst the fear and confusion, good samaritans began stopping to assist, and somebody called 911. The four family members were transported to area hospitals. For months following surgery, Melinda’s daughter was unable to perform even the simplest tasks in caring for her child. The entire McDonald family had become surviving victims of a drunk and drugged driver.
Melinda and MADD Program Director Beth Powell were guests on the KSST Good Morning Show with Enola Gay, to invite the public to walk with them at the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Walk on Saturday September 29, 2018 at 8pm. Please plan to arrive earlier and bring your families and friends. Starting at 6pm, there will be children’s fun and educational activities, music, food and friendly fellowship near the Pumpkin Patch setting. Dress in costume if you would like to. Meet the McDonald family and other survivors of drunk driving crashes and hear their stories amidst a “celebration of life” atmosphere.
According to Powell who directs MADD programs in a 23-county region, there were 92 drunk driving crashes in the KSST listening area during 2017. These are referred to as “crashes” and not “accidents” because it is no accident when a drinking-impaired driver put the keys in the ignition and directs his or her vehicle onto a public roadway, putting passengers, pedestrians and other drivers in danger. It is a decision they make, and too often the consequences are far-reaching for driver and victims. 2018 is the 10th anniversary of the local Walk Like Madd event in Sulphur Springs. Your participation is important. It is hoped you will join in and walk for those who no longer can, and alongside those who are learning to walk again. Find out more at madd.org.
Douglas Intermediate One Met All Six TEA Distinction Designations in Final Year for School
Douglas Intermediate School 2017-18 was one of more than 400 campuses that achieved a Met Standard rating in the 2018 state accountability system also earned all distinction designations applicable to their individual school. Up to seven distinction designations can be earned for: Academic Achievement in English Language Arts/Reading; Academic Achievement in Mathematics; Academic Achievement in Science; Academic Achievement in Social Studies; Top 25 Percent: Comparative Academic Growth; Top 25 Percent: Comparative Closing the Gaps; and Postsecondary Readiness.
With the potential to earn six TEA Distinction Designations, the Douglas campus received all six distinctions including:
- Academic Achievement in English Language Arts and Reading
- Academic Achievement in Mathematics
- Academic Achievement in Science
- Top 25 Percent: Comparative Academic Growth
- Top 25 Percent: Closing Performance Gaps
- Postsecondary Readiness
Holly Folmer, former Principal at Douglas Intermediate School and current Principal of Sulphur Springs Elementary School, commend the Intermediate School teachers, staff and students for this accomplishment. She stated, “All members of the campus including leaders, teachers, support staff, paraprofessionals, cafeteria workers and custodians worked diligently to reach the goals of the campus. Even though these results are achieved from STAAR Scores and formulated by the Texas Education Accountability System, this is not just about the STAAR test – it’s about student learning, purposeful curriculum and instruction, great teaching, much progress, relationships with students and staff and a whole lot of love!”
Folmer noted two critical factors that played a role in the achievement of distinction designations.
- Extended Learning Time was incorporated into the Douglas school day a few years ago and provides students with an opportunity for enrichment or needed interventions.
- Science LIVE is another important part of fifth grade which provides hands-on learning in science. Student success on the Science STAAR has improved with the implementation of a science lab setting for students.
She said ELA/Reading and math classroom instructional processes and interventions are more ways in which student learning is promoted and success is achieved. In fact, fifth grade students in SSISD performed above the state averages on the STAAR Reading, Math and Science.
Because of the restructuring of campuses in SSISD, Douglas Intermediate School students and staff made history in 2017-18 as the last year to be a fifth-grade campus.
Folmer said, “I was honored to be the Douglas Principal for 5 years and I have witnessed the work of many great teachers and paraprofessionals. As I began my first year, I had a dream to grow Douglas Intermediate School to be the best and we succeeded! Students, staff and parents should be extremely proud of this notable achievement!”
City Council Approve Rate Increases, Drainage Repair for Issues at Pacific Park
In the city of Sulphur Springs, water rates will increase 2%, sewer rates will increase 2%, and sanitation rates will increase 2.25% following the unanimous vote of the Sulphur Springs City Council during their September 4th regular session.
A budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2018 and the appropriations for Fiscal Year-2019, which included salary increases for the two municipal judges and city secretary, were approved with only one opposing vote on each of the two items.
Atmos bills in the city will see an average $1.06 increase. The rate was reached in a negotiated settlement by the 170 cities, including Sulphur Springs, who are members of a steering committee that negotiates rates.
Council amended the Capital Improvement plan for 2019-2023 to include drainage issues in Pacific Park. The partial collapse of a storm drain that ran under the railroad track near Carter and MLK motivated the action. Flooding in the area made streets virtually impassable during heavy rains. The 470ft of drainage from Carter to Lamar that will reroute the runoff away from the railroad tracks will cost $85,000. The cost will impact the Summer Paving Program for the city. One paving project will be removed to fund the drainage. Currently, the city has 35 drainage problems according to City Manager Marc Maxwell. Maxwell stated that it may be time to think about adding a drainage fee of $1 on water bills to fund drainage improvements.
A Charter Review Committee was appointed. City Councilman Jimmy Lucas, Mayor John Sellers, City Manager Maxwell, City Attorney Jim McElroy will serve with appointed members of the committee: Tyler Law, Jay Julien, Thomas Harrison, Will Longino, Dr. Scott McDearmont, Larry Powers, Bill Watts, and Kayla Price Mitchell.
The Economic Development Budget for fiscal year 2019 will be $1,800,000 following approval by the council.
Two zoning changes were approved on first reading. Property at 435 Connally will be zoned single family attached. This will allow building attached housing units with yard space between houses. The cost of the houses will be between $125,000 and $180,000. Property at 1332 South Hillcrest will be zoned light commercial allowing the 3 acres near Rockdale Road to be used for office and retail space.
The council also approved an update for service credits which increases the value of employee retirement benefits.
City Manger’s Report September 4, 2018
City Manager Marc Maxwell reported the progress of various projects and activities in the city to the Sulphur Springs City Council during their regular meeting Tuesday night, September 4, 2018.
CROSSTOWN TRAIL – The railroad crossing is complete. The Capital Construction Division has constructed the path between the K.CS railroad tracks and Main Street. They have also constructed the path on the North face of Coleman Lake dam. We are now waiting for delivery of the flashing lights for the crossing. When finished, this grant-funded project will connect Buford Park to Coleman Park and the high school/civic center complex. It will also replace the sidewalk on the north side of Connally Street.
CANTEX FORCE MAIN – This project is about 75% completed. The Capital Construction division began on the East end of the project and they are now progressing West on Airport Road. This is the final capital improvement project in the 2013-2017 C. I.P. It replaces 2,400 linear feet of aging sewer force main and 2, 900 feet of gravity main. Currently the main passes through the middle of the hospital complex. The new route passes around the hospital complex. One-third of the city’s sewage passes through this line.
SUNSET STREET – We will open bids for materials for this project in September. Expect to approve the low bids at the October 2nd council meeting. The project will include new water mains, new sewer mains and a new concrete street from Connally to Houston. The $275,000 CDBG grant is matched with $132,000 of city funding. We have submitted construction drawings for approval. Work will begin in the fall.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT – Phase 2 continues with the demolition of the secondary clarifiers. This will make way for the new diffused air aeration units. This project is on time and under budget.
CLAIMS – We had one minor workers compensation claim in August. We did not have any liability claims.
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES – Finance Director Lesa Smith will not give a year-to-date report of revenues and expenditures.
Elsewhere around the city, employees: Made 21 street repairs following utility repairs. Repaired 166 potholes. Cleaned out drainage ditch from Ardis to MLK. Cleaned out drainage ditch from Church to Houston. Replaced 10 stop signs, 2 child crossing signs, 3 one way signs, 4 no parking signs, 3 school zone signs and 6 no cell phone use signs. Replaced driveway approach to Brookshire’s offKyIe Street. Conducted 40 building inspections, 34 electrical inspections, 31 plumbing inspections, 7 mechanical inspections and issued 29 building permits. Aerated all athletic fields. Repaired bare spots on soccer fields. Checked out 3,255 items from the Municipal Library plus 558 e-Books. Repaired the Celebration Plaza fountain. Programmed school zone lighting. Repaired/replaced various A/C units around the city. Achieved a daily average total suspended solids reading of 1. 87 mg/L at the wastewater treatment plant. Responded to 179 fire/rescue calls including 1 structure fire, 1 vehicle fire and 4 grass fires. Performed preventative maintenance on 80 fire hydrants. Conducted 44 fire safety inspections and reviewed 44 pre-fire plans. Responded to 261 animal control calls, achieving an adoption rate of 48%. Made 115 arrests, recorded 89 offenses, responded to 32 accidents, and wrote 707 citations in the patrol division. Repaired 28 water main ruptures. Replaced 15 water meters. Treated 188 million gallons ofpotable water. Unstopped 11 sewer mains and made 5 sewer repairs. Washed 70, 000 feet of sewer mains. Flushed 35 dead-end water mains. Sold, 1,915 gallons ofAvGas and 7,031 gallons ofJetA fuel.
Wood County Sheriff’s Report August 22-28, 2018
Wood County Sheriff’s Report for August 22, 2018 to August 28, 2018 includes: Disturbance: 4; Thefts: 4; Burglaries: 2; Terroristic Threats: 2; Criminal Mischiefs: 2; Inquests: 1; Suspicious Circumstances: 4; Suspicious Vehicles: 10; Suspicious Persons: 2; Alarms: 4; Harassments: 0; Criminal Trespasses: 6; Scams: 1; Frauds: 0; Abandoned Vehicles: 0; Cows Out: 26 ; Horses Out: 5; Welfare Checks: 5; Assaults: 6; Dog Bites: 0; Fires: 0; Noise Complaints: 1 ; Disputes: 2; Arrest/Warrant Services: 3; Reckless Drivers: 3; Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle: Shots Fired: 0; Other: Burn Ban Violations (12); Credit/Debit Card Abuse (1)
August 22nd
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on HWY 154 near Quitman; at approximately 2:13 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3220 near Quitman, at approximately 3:11 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 564 near Mineola, at approximately 4:15 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
At 6:40 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2088 near Quitman.
At 8:45 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 3230 near Quitman.
At 9:13 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2088 near Quitman.
At 11:06 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 4560 near Winnsboro.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 2:30 p.m., in reference to terroristic threat on PR 7495 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 4:25 p.m., horses were reported out on FM 2088 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Mineola, at approximately 5:11 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies arrived and nothing appeared to be burning at the residence.
At 6:24 p.m., horses were reported out on FM 2869 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4940 near Quitman, at approximately 7:21 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several firearms from the reporting party’s storage building. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:46 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances on Indian Gap near Quitman. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Alba, at approximately 8:07 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to Live Oak St. in Winnsboro; at approximately 8:24 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to Wanda St. in Winnsboro; at approximately 8:37 p.m. Jeffery Hawkins, 50, of Winnsboro, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
August 23rd
At 1:34 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 3220 near Quitman.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2906 near Mineola; at approximately 1:35 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the incident.
At 6:33 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 182 near Quitman.
At 8:19 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 80 near Mineola.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2632 near Mineola, at approximately 8:32 a.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies arrived and nothing appeared to be burning at the residence.
At 8:48 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
At 9:23 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 80 near Mineola.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 14 near Quitman, at approximately 11:29 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2922 near Alba, at approximately 11:32 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 14 near Hawkins, at approximately 11:35 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individuals.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3854 near Hawkins, at approximately 12:14 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several firearms from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 852 near Winnsboro, at approximately 6:14 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Winnsboro Fire Department, Ogburn Fire Department and Perryville Fire Department extinguished the fire. This case has been forwarded to other agency.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 6:38 p.m., in reference to scam that occurred on PR 5551 near Alba. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 7:08 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
At 7:26 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 1730 near Yantis.
At 7:38 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 80 near Mineola.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3875 near Mineola, at approximately 9:26 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 1681 near Alba; at approximately 10:31 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2935 near Alba, at approximately 11:19 p.m., in reference to an assault. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
August 24th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1900 near Yantis, at approximately 6:09 a.m., in reference to an alarm. An individual was checked by Emergency Medical Services and everything was OK.
At 8:02 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 4864 near Winnsboro.
At 8:06 a.m., horses were reported out on FM 14 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 7545 near Hawkins, at approximately 1:57 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Prior to the deputies’ arrival, the actors left the scene.
At 2:42 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Winnsboro.
At 5:40 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:41 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity or damage.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4596 near Winnsboro, at approximately 6:48 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. The individual was advised of the effective burn ban and Perryville Fire Department extinguished the fire.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:37 p.m., in reference to terroristic threat that occurred on CR 2166 near Quitman. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 7:42 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 2668 near Mineola.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4858 near Quitman, at approximately 9:59 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 515 near Yantis; at approximately 11:57 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
August 25th
Deputies were dispatched to SPUR 514 near Yantis, at approximately 12:16 a.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any burn ban violations.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 17 near Alba, at approximately 1:08 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 7:59 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s tractor. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Mineola, at approximately 8:06 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies located the suspicious activity and everything was OK.
At 8:16 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 778 near Quitman.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party at approximately 11:49 a.m., in reference to a burglary that occurred on CR 1668 near Alba. Deputies arrived and cleared the residence.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4586 near Winnsboro, at approximately 1:18 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies advised the individual of the effective burn ban and the fire was extinguished.
At 6:09 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
At 6:42 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 2260 near Mineola.
At 6:53 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 2900 near Mineola.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:13 p.m., in reference to a dispute that occurred on HWY 80 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 3056 near Hawkins, at approximately 8:01 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Emergency Medical Services transported the individual to the hospital.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 6645 near Mineola, at approximately 8:39 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies advised the individuals to lower the volume of the music and cleared the incident.
At 8:44 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4860 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2659 near Hawkins, at approximately 11:26 p.m., in reference to an assault. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
August 26th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 1416 near Quitman; at approximately 1:25 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 5822 near Yantis, at approximately 1:29 a.m., in reference to an assault. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning and cleared the incident.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 4860 near Winnsboro; at approximately 3:29 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 182 near Quitman; at approximately 3:37 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3450 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:01 a.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the day.
At 10:07 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 1917 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 10:14 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 778 near Quitman, at approximately 12:03 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Prior to the deputies’ arrival, the fire was extinguished. Deputies advised the individual of the effective burn ban.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2168 near Quitman, at approximately 1:25 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies located the suspicious activity and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to Quitman Emergency Room, at approximately 1:56 p.m., in reference to an inquest. A female, 65, passed away in the Emergency Room. The Justice of the Peace arrived and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Alba, at approximately 2:51 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 5:41 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass that occurred on PR 5899 near Yantis. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 5:58 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 80 near Mineola.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:13 p.m., in reference to terroristic threat that occurred on CR 2166 near Quitman. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to Lake Holbrook, at approximately 7:26 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
At 7:51 p.m., horses were reported out on FM 1643 near Winnsboro.
At 7:50 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4860 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1522 near Alba, at approximately 8:10 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies advised the individual of the effective burn ban and the fire was extinguished.
August 27th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 182 near Quitman; at approximately 4:01 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2377 near Alba, at approximately 6:06 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1541 near Alba, at approximately 8:19 a.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies advised the individual of the effective burn ban and the fire was extinguished.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 154 near Quitman; at approximately 8:33 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:00 a.m., in reference to a theft that occurred on CR 2298 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1885 near Yantis, at approximately 11:31 a.m., in reference to theft. A known actor stole several items from the reporting party’s storage building. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4385 near Winnsboro, at approximately 4:23 p.m., in reference to an assault. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 2210 near Mineola; at approximately 4:25 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 779 near Quitman, at approximately 4:25 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
At 6:02 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 1758 near Yantis.
At 6:16 p.m., horses were reported out on FM 515 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4287 near Winnsboro, at approximately 7:18 p.m., in reference to an assault. Fredrick Seiboldt, 48, of Winnsboro, was arrested for Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Violence Impeding Breath or Circulation.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2940 near Alba, at approximately 7:26 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2117 near Quitman, at approximately 7:51 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1418 near Quitman, at approximately 8:05 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any burn ban violations.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4290 near Winnsboro, at approximately 8:38 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Prior to deputies’ arrival, the individuals left the area.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1975 near Yantis, at approximately 9:27 p.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any burn ban violations.
August 28th
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 4495 near Winnsboro; at approximately 2:21 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 69 near Alba; at approximately 3:11 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:37 a.m., in reference to credit/debit card abuse on CR 2372 near Alba. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1970 near Yantis, at approximately 10:45 a.m., in reference to a burn ban violation. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any burn ban violations.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3114 near Quitman, at approximately 2:10 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individuals.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 3:17 p.m., in reference to theft that occurred on PR 8692 near Winnsboro. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3639 near Hawkins, at approximately 5:17 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. One of the individuals was transported to the hospital by Emergency Medical Services.
At 7:11 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 80 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 7631 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:00 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3540 near Hawkins, at approximately 10:05 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
Between the dates of August 22 and August 28, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Montague County Sheriff’s Office, Police Departments, Child Protective Services and Department of Public Safety.
Total Jail Count – 118 inmates – 96 males and 22 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.
Remember Wood County is under a burn ban as of August 10, 2018.
Contact the Wood County Sheriff’s Office if you notice any suspicious vehicles or activity around your neighborhood. Please be aware of your surroundings.
Murder Victim Identified
September 2018 – Sulphur Springs and Fort Worth Police along with the Hopkins County Sheriff’s office have released the name of the 34-year old woman whose body was found in of Highway 67W in Sulphur Springs. According to law enforcement, Rochelle Mims was murdered in Fort Worth and her body dumped on property inside the Sulphur Springs City Limits.
With a crime scene in two cities that are 100 miles apart, Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jay Sanders said his department is busy as they continue investigation into the murder. Fort Worth Police and Sulphur Spring Police are working together to sort out evidence from a crime scene in Fort Worth and the discovery of the body in Sulphur Springs.
Lucious Newhouse III, 54 of Fort Worth was arrested at the scene and is in Hopkins County Jail charged with Felony 1 Murder and is being held on a $1-million bond. The first call to SSPD came at 7:30 a.m. Sunday morning, according to Sanders. He said that someone reported an accident on Main Street. However, the vehicle was found in a ravine in the field near where Newhouse had dumped the body. Newhouse had become disoriented as he attempted to flee the scene in his vehicle and drove into the ravine. He was in his auto when officers arrived. Sanders said the auto has been sent to a crime lab. Sanders said his department and the Fort Worth Police are working with the Texas Ranger in the homicide investigation. Justice of the Peace B. J. Teer pronounced the woman dead at the scene Sunday as Sulphur Springs Police Detectives, Hopkins County Sheriff’s Investigators, DPS Troopers, and the Texas Ranger began their investigation locally that revealed evidence that led to the murder warrant for Newhouse. Through the investigation that involved Fort Worth law enforcement, the crime scene was discovered to be in Fort Worth.
Team Tennis District Opener Reset for Wednesday
The Wildcats’ team tennis district match with Lindale was rained out Tuesday (September 4). Wildcats Tennis Coach Tony Martinez said the two teams are hoping to make up the match Wednesday at 3 p.m. in Lindale, weather permitting. The match is the district opener for both teams.
Lindale is coached by former Wildcats Tennis Coach Randy Namanny. The Wildcats will enter the match with a 3-7 non-district record but the Wildcats have won their last two matches against former district foes Marshall and Pine Tree. Despite their record, the Wildcats have been much more competitive this season. Many of their losses have been by very narrow margins.
Lady Cats’ Volleyball Defeat Wills Point 3-0
The Lady Cats’ volleyball team won a battle of two state ranked teams Tuesday night (September 4) by defeating Wills Point, 3-0 at Wildcat Gym. The score was 25-18, 25-20 and 25-19. The Lady Cats came in ranked #13 in Class 5A while Wills Point is #12 ranked in Class 4A, both ranked by the Texas Girls Coaches Association. The key to the Lady Cats’ success Tuesday night was strong finishes in each set.
In set one, the Lady Cats scored the last seven points to win, 25-18. All seven points came after serves by Sydney Washburn. In set two, Taylor McElfresh had five straight serves that led to points and took the score was 19-19 to 24-19. The Lady Cats split the next two points to win set two. In set three, the Lady Cats scored the last five points of the set to go from up 20-19 to the 25-19 win.
In stats, Autumn Tanton had 10 kills. Sydney Washburn and Madi Vickery had 6 each. Abbi Baier had 5. Kate Womack had 3 and Lexi Whisenhunt had 2. Whisenhunt had 27 assists. Maddie Millsap had two service aces. Womack, McElfresh and Whisenhunt had 1 each. In digs, Sadie Stroud had 8, Millsap and Whisenhunt had 5 each. McElfresh had 4, Tanton had 3, Baier and Womack had 2 apiece, Sadie Washburn, Sydney Washburn and Vickery had 1 each. Sydney Washburn had a block solo. Tanton had 2 block assists, Sadie Washburn, Baier, Sydney Washburn and Vickery had 1 each.
With the win, the Lady Cats improve their record to 22-5. Friday they get a rematch of last year’s bi-district game as they travel to Wylie East for a 4:30 p.m. game. Last year the Lady Raiders, a number four district seed with a losing season record, surprised the number one district seed and district champion Lady Cats team, 3-0 in a bi-district match at Royse City. The game was played on Halloween.
