Wood County Sheriff’s Report June 6-12, 2018
Wood County Sheriff’s Report for June 6, 2018 to June 12, 2018 includes: Disturbance: 6; Thefts: 7; Burglaries: 3; Terroristic Threats: 1; Criminal Mischiefs: 2; Inquests: 1; Suspicious Circumstances: 6; Suspicious Vehicles: 5; Suspicious Persons: 2; Alarms: 7; Harassments: 3; Criminal Trespasses: 2; Scams: 1; Frauds: 0; Abandoned Vehicles: 0; Cows Out: 16; Horses Out: 1; Welfare Checks: 9; Assaults: 3; Dog Bites: 0; Fires: 2; Noise Complaints: 2; Disputes: 3; Arrest/Warrant Services: 8; Reckless Drivers: 4; Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle: 0; Shots Fired: 1; Other: Traffic Stops (3) Suicidal Subject (1) Credit/Debit Card Abuse (1)
June 6th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2264 near Mineola, at approximately 1:26 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Daniel Willi, 21, of Grand Saline, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 4583 near Winnsboro; at approximately 2:42 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
At 6:42 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
At 9:04 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2088 near Winnsboro.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:44 a.m., in reference to a scam that occurred on CR 2223 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2088 near Quitman, at approximately 10:00 a.m., in reference to a theft. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to Geronimo near Quitman, at approximately 10:35 a.m., in reference to harassment. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to Loyd St. in Yantis, at approximately 11:49 a.m., in reference to a theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a security camera from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on PR 8694 near Winnsboro; at approximately 12:20 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 288 near Quitman, at approximately 12:36 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Yantis, at approximately 1:59 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2223 near Mineola, at approximately 2:00 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 2:47 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass that occurred on PR 7908 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4960 near Quitman, at approximately 3:00 p.m., in reference to a theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several items from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 4:49 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 182 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1460 near Quitman, at approximately 5:48 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to Lake Hawkins point, at approximately 6:13 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1900 near Yantis, at approximately 7:02 p.m., in reference to theft. A known actor stole and dumped the reporting party’s motorcycle. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 182 near Quitman, at approximately 7:28 p.m., in reference to a burglary. A known actor stole several items from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 7:45 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3230 near Quitman.
Deputies spoke to the reporting party, at approximately 9:17 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 3640 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 49 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:29 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Prior to deputies’ arrival, the individuals fled the scene.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Mineola, at approximately 10:56 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies located the vehicle and issued a warning.
June 7th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 1943 near Yantis; at approximately 5:46 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Alba, at approximately 6:48 a.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a cargo trailer full of wood cabinets from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3540 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:51 a.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies determined this was a civil matter and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 49 near Mineola, at approximately 1:03 p.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 58, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace arrived and ordered an autopsy.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 5:18 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies transported an individual to the Emergency Room and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 6:59 p.m., in reference to a fire. Alba and Mineola Fire Department extinguished the fire and the scene was cleared.
At 7:34 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2225 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4896 near Winnsboro, at approximately 8:18 p.m., in reference to an assault. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
June 8th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1995 near Yantis, at approximately 6:13 a.m., in reference to shots fired. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:33 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 2290 near Mineola; at approximately 12:32 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 1:02 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 1:06 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3230 near Quitman.
At 1:38 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2869 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2427 near Mineola, at approximately 5:35 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 5:51 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 514 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to Lake Holbrook beach, at approximately 7:18 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
At 7:38 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 1647 near Winnsboro.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on HWY 80 near Mineola; at approximately 10:27 p.m. Amber Tompkins, 37, of Flint, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana.
June 9th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1534 near Alba, at approximately 12:02 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 12:13 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies gave the individual a courtesy transport and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 2:02 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Susana Cortes, 27, of Quitman, was arrested for outstanding warrants.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Quitman, at approximately 4:06 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
At 9:39 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2225 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 49 near Mineola, at approximately 11:28 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 12:05 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. A known actor damaged the reporting party’s shed.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3269 near Mineola, at approximately 12:11 p.m., in reference to burglary. Deputies spoke with the reporting party and cleared the incident.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:00 p.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on CR 1558 near Alba. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4897 near Winnsboro, at approximately 1:47 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s mailbox.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4420 near Winnsboro, at approximately 3:57 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4965 near Winnsboro, at approximately 4:05 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on Lake Holbrook beach; at approximately 4:57 p.m. Deputies located the individual and cleared the scene.
At 5:41 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 49 near Hawkins.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:34 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies spoke with the reporting party and advised extra patrol would be provided.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2163 near Quitman, at approximately 7:27 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3130 near Quitman, at approximately 7:56 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies located the suspicious activity and everything was OK.
At 8:52 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3270 near Quitman, at approximately 9:00 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on FM 515 near Winnsboro; at approximately 9:17 p.m. Eniz Martinez-Bueso, 29, of Winnsboro, was arrested for outstanding warrants.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to Humble St. in Hawkins; at approximately 10:01 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 2224 near Mineola; at approximately 10:11 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3900 near Hawkins, at approximately 10:30 p.m., in reference to an assault. Harold Brown, 66, of Hawkins, was arrested for Aggravated Assault and Burglary of Habitation.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1483 near Yantis, at approximately 10:33 p.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
June 10th
Deputies were dispatched to Raising Star near Quitman, at approximately 12:31 a.m., in reference to a suicidal subject. Roy Shelton, 70, of Quitman, was arrested for Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3820 near Hawkins; at approximately 2:43 a.m. James David, 42, of Hawkins, was arrested for Unlawful Possession of Firearm.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 2088 near Quitman; at approximately 10:46 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 2966 near Yantis; at approximately 11:11 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4854 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:07 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
At 1:17 p.m., horses were reported out on CR 4441 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4530 near Winnsboro, at approximately 3:05 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 3120 near Hawkins; at approximately 4:15 p.m. Steven Ingram, 31, of Hawkins, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Alba, at approximately 4:41 p.m., in reference to a fire. Alba Fire Department extinguished the fire and the scene was cleared.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 5:57 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
At 6:13 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3425 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:34 p.m., in reference to an assault. Kenneth Kratzmeyer, 28, of Hawkins, was arrested for Assault.
At 7:24 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2659 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:04 p.m., in reference to theft. A known actor stole several items from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
At 10:57 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3230 near Quitman.
June 11th
At 7:36 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 2225 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2460 near Mineola, at approximately 9:07 a.m., in reference to a vehicle burglary. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a firearm from the reporting party’s vehicle. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 9:18 a.m., in reference to theft. A known actor stole cattle from the reporting party. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 3440 near Hawkins; at approximately 1:47 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:48 p.m., ni reference to suspicious circumstances that occurred on CR 1431 near Quitman. Deputies advised the reporting party that extra patrol will be provided.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Alba, at approximately 8:27 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
June 12th
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Quitman, at approximately 1:17 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 3:36 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances that occurred on CR 3540 near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 4:27 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 6:30 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to FM 2088 near Quitman; at approximately 10:03 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to Wigley St. in Mineola; at approximately 12:09 p.m. Jennifer King, 36, of Mineola, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 1:18 p.m., in reference to terroristic threat that occurred on CR 2841 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to Indian Gap near Quitman, at approximately 3:58 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 779 near Mineola, at approximately 4:31 p.m., in reference to a reckless driver. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1452 near Quitman, at approximately 6:17 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1670 near Alba, at approximately 7:15 p.m., in reference to credit/debit card abuse. A known used the reporting party’s credit/debit card without authorization. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 3550 near Hawkins; at approximately 7:21 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on FM 14 near Hawkins; at approximately 8:53 p.m. Crystal Martin, 36, of Mineola, was arrested for outstanding warrants.
Between the dates of June 6 to June 12, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Police Departments, Child Protective Services, Txdot and Upshur County.
Between the dates of June 6 to June 12, Wood County Sheriff’s Investigators obtained 1 arrest warrant and arrested the individual, and recovered $149 worth of stolen property.
Total Jail Count – 126 inmates – 97 males and 29 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.
Tira News for June 22nd, 2018
By Jan Vaughn
The Tira City Council meeting has been rescheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 25th at the Tira Community Center. The public is always welcome and encouraged to attend.
Yvonne Weir traveled to South Dakota on May 22nd and returned on the 12th of June. While staying on her family ranch, Destri and her family visited for a week and Dacy and her family visited for five days. They all enjoyed the cool weather and visiting Lemmon, South Dakota to see the metal sculptures of John Lopez, as well as multiple dinosaur artifacts. The kids played and rode bikes and had a wonderful time.
Yvonne spent Sunday night with Destri, so she could help take Nico to the doctor on Monday. After the appointment they shopped and then met Robert and Wesley at Dacy’s and enjoyed swimming.
Martha Payton had a busy week and lots of fun with a visit from her son Brad and wife Virginia. Virginia just retired from the Keller Library after thirty years as executive secretary. On Wednesday Jessica Garcia from San Diego came for an overnight stay and lunch out on Thursday. Jessica was on vacation and attended a family reunion in Oklahoma. Regina came on Thursday evening for the weekend. Martha had an early birthday celebration.
Sheila Boyd shared, “We had a wonderful Father’s Day weekend. Michael and I got to spend some time together, and then we had a cookout with Colton, Kat, Jeremy and Jessica. The big surprise was that the grandkids were with them. That is the first time we have gotten to see Josie and Dallas in several months. Lots of love to go around. They called their Uncle Wesley and Terri and talked to them, too. He was able to come down last weekend. Thank you to all the fathers and father figures, here and in heaven, in our lives. Your patience, guidance and grace are what guides us….yesterday…today and tomorrow.”
Minnie Reagor reports, “The Hillis Family Reunion was held June 16-17, 2018 at the Tira Community Center, with 64 in attendance. Those attending were from Tira, Sulphur Springs, Cooper, Greenville, Lone Oak, Garland, Winfield, Cookville, Klondike, Winnsboro, Corsicana, Cedar Hill, Big Sandy, Gladewater, Lake Kiowa, Scurry, Aransas Pass, Ingleside, Buna, and Vidor, Texas. Also attending were Joe Roy Hillis, Sr. and Jane Vincent from
Cresswell, Oregon. The planned Fish Fry for Saturday had to be cancelled due to scheduling conflicts, but all enjoyed a “Cool Lunch” of a variety of foods that needed no heating, along with fruits and desserts. We lost a brother, Rodney Wm. Johnson [aka Bobby Ray Hillis], on June 5, 2018 , and funds were contributed towards his funeral expenses, in addition to funds towards the 2019 reunion. There were no drawings this year, but Hillis BASS contributed a beautiful quilt, representing those that had attended the 2017 reunion… a tree, with leaves that had each
person’s name on them. It will always be a cherished gift!”
She adds, “The 2019 Hillis Family Reunion will only be one day next year, on Saturday, June 15, 2019. Please make note of the date. We hope to see everyone there!”
Our daughter Tiffany, grandchildren Jaidyn and Landon, and great grandchildren Rylan, Brailon, and Slaiden came over for Father’s Day lunch on Sunday. We missed Laiken, but she was not feeling up to par that day. Also joining us were Malcolm Joslin and Grace and Linda Ellen Vaughn. We also missed Morgan, who was traveling, and Kenden, who was with friends. That afternoon Jim, Sandra, Johnny, and Cindy Vaughn, from Broken Bow, came by for a visit. Our son, Delayne, did not make it in, but called to wish his dad a “Happy Father’s Day.”
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].
National Dairy Month: Highlighting Hardworking Dairy Farmers By Mario Villarino
As we conclude our Hopkins County Celebration of the Dairy Industry, I wanted to share some of the history and current situation of the dairy industry as I see it. Dairy farming is as agriculture as can be. Transformation of feed stuff unfit for human consumption gets farmed and provided to highly efficient cattle that transforms it using bacterial and protozoan digestion to make it milk and meat.
As a rule, dairy cattle transform energy into milk, keeping very little fat and muscle in its body. As a consequence, dairy cattle generally look thin compared to beef cattle. This is because dairy cattle has been selected to carry the capacity to put energy in milk, not meat. Also, because of this same capacity, dairy cattle require clean water, healthy quality food and proper environments to thrive.
Generally, dairy farmers are busy farmers. Having to find a balance between workers, animal care (and all the steps required to provide it) and handling milk (very easy to spoil and with relative short shelf life) requires multitasking and attention to detail.
In Texas, dairy farmers recover their expenses and at times make their profit by selling milk. Industry sets milk prices according to demand (local, national and international). Hopkins County is located near to big metropolitan areas and has developed an infrastructure to support the production of marketing of liquid milk to many metropolitan areas in the US. It has, however, changed thru years.
Northeast Texas is known to produce liquid milk, not cheese. As a producer, quality liquid milk brings better prices, but requires careful handling. Compared to process milk (cheeses, etc), liquid milk gets affected by temperature, contaminants and environmental conditions faster. Historically, Hopkins County residents have strong relationships to the dairy industry. It is not hard to meet local residents with current or former ties to milking cattle.
Dairy farmers are also hard workers. It is not difficult to find dairy farmers working all the time with little or no sleep specially when cows are having babies! (most of the this happens at night). When you mix those variables together (changing milk prices, and intense work) it is not hard to understand that it requires a very special person to become a dairy farmer. Most of the dairy farmers I have met in my life love to dairy farm, and with high cost and narrow profit margins it is easy to understand that love to farm is required to be a dairy farmer.
Today, Hopkins County ranks the highest milk producer county in Northeast Texas, 12th in the state and producing milk by almost 30,000 dairy cows. Overall, Texas has almost 400 dairies, with those numbers changing often. Hopkins County is home to almost 10% of those farms.
Milk and dairy products are traded at different levels. Today, exports of milk and dairy products influence milk prices. Trade policies influence those prices. It has been long time ago since dairy farmers only depend on local markets. It is milk, and milk byproducts that get traded internationally.
Hopkins County has dairy farmers, but they produce milk by the truck load, not the bucket load. This is why you do not see Hopkins County dairy farmers selling milk at farmers markets. Just as any other commodity in the world, for a producer to recover expenses and make a profit, there must be a buyer for their product and demand. Also, the buyer must be able to afford to buy the product.
As the world economy has evolved, different countries increase or decrease importing of agricultural products including milk. This is why understanding milk prices is complicated. Many factors and variables are involved in the process. At times understanding milk prices can be also frustrating specially when milk prices are low.
Reaching the balance between cost of production and milk prices is a constant challenge to dairy farmers to stay in business, no matter the size of the farm. So, considering what the dairy industry has historically done for our community and continues to do today is the main reason why we celebrate June as National Dairy Month.
Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
Help Save Lives this July 4th By Johanna Hicks
Help Save Lives This July Fourth!
For the past 242 years, on July Fourth, Americans have celebrated the birth of our great nation. We set off fireworks, fly American flags, attend special concerts, and partake in backyard barbecues and pool parties galore. But as the celebrations wind down and friends and families head home, it’s vital we all work together to spread this life-saving message: Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. This Independence Day, Hopkins County Extension Office, and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) want to remind you that any time you drive under the influence of alcohol, you put everyone in danger — including yourself. Even though it is still a week away, during the Fourth of July holiday weekend, make sure you plan for safe transportation to and from festivities.
During the 2016 July Fourth holiday, 188 people nationwide were killed in crashes involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. In Texas, 14 people lost their lives during the 2016 July Fourth holiday. That’s 14 families who will forever remember Independence Day with a heavy heart and nightmarish memories.
We want our community to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday, but we want them to do so responsibly. This is why we want to help get the message out thatBuzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving. This is not a joke, and it’s not a time to test the laws. Drunk driving is illegal, but it’s also deadly. It’s deadly to the driver, to the driver’s passengers, and to other road users in this community. We’re imploring you: Please ensure you have a sober driver lined up to get you home safely from your holiday festivities. Doing so could save a life. Better yet, choose a different beverage altogether!
With Fourth of July festivities wrapping up in the evening or late at night, more cars will be on the roads. The rate of alcohol impairment among drivers involved in fatal crashes is higher at night. During the 2016 July Fourth holiday period, it was more than three-times higher at night than it was during the day. If you plan on drinking, plan how you will get around without driving.
Remember these tips for a safe night on the roads:
- It is never okay to drive after drinking. Even if you’ve had only one alcoholic beverage, designate a sober driver or plan to use public transportation or a ride sharing service to get home safely.
- If you see a drunk driver on the road, contact the local law enforcement.
- Have a friend who is about to drink and drive? Take the keys away and make arrangements to get your friend home safely.
This Fourth of July, commit to only driving 100 percent sober, because Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving.
Community Health Talks
Hopefully by now, you’ve heard about the Community Health Talks round table series that our Hopkins County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office has planned. The Extension Leadership Advisory Board spear-headed the idea, and registration is now open! Both sessions will be held at the Extension Office, 1200 W. Houston Street, in Sulphur Springs, at 6:30 p.m.. We are located next door to the Southwest Dairy Museum and directly in front of the Civic Center.
The July 6th round table discussion will focus on diseases affecting pets and humans, such as rabies, led by Dr. Leah Larsen, owner of Bright Star Veterinary Clinic. Danielle Altenbaumer with the Department of State Health Services will help clear up the confusion about vaccinations for humans – what is needed, when, and who. The July 13th session will focus on food security and food safety. Brad Fain, with Zoetis Animal Health will lead the discussion. Safe food handling will also be covered.
There is no cost for either session – come to one or both! We’ll have coffee and cookies in ready supply. Please call our office at 903-885-3443 if you would like to attend.
Closing Thought
Life is not long, and too much of it must not pass in idle deliberation on how it shall be spent – Samuel Johnson
Johanna Hicks
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension
Family & Consumer Sciences
1200-B W. Houston
P.O.Box 518
Sulphur springs, TX 75483
903-885-3443 – phone
903-439-4909 – Fax
[email protected]
Chamber Connection June 21, 2018
Congratulations Kaitlyn Ferrill on becoming the new Dairy Festival Queen! What a wonderful end to the Dairy Festival week! Hopkins County is fortunate to have so many dedicated people working to make the Dairy Festival such a success. The Chamber is thankful to the Dairy Festival for working tirelessly in all that they do!
Sulphur Springs Public Library presents their Summer Reading Program for June and July
The Sulphur Springs Library is hosting a summer reading program called Fun with Mary Poppins Reading Program 2018. Story time will be each Tuesday at 10 a.m. in June and July (except for July 10 and 17). Watch for special guest appearances along with fun, stories and great prizes. Minecraft is back every Friday afternoon at 3 p.m. beginning June 1 and ending July 27. Thursday, June 21st at 6 p.m. is a special Mary Poppins Story time event, and Friday, June 22nd at 3 p.m., don’t miss the Bubble Show with Brett Roberts. Then, Thursday, June 28th, at 11 a.m. the library will welcome Will Parker with a very musical story time. The library is happy to answer any questions, please call (903) 885-4926, or you can visit www.sslibrary.org.
AFLAC hosting ribbon cutting celebration
Leann Oliver and Sheila Askins with AFLAC are hosting a ribbon cutting celebration at the Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, June 20th at noon. The Chamber is located at 300 Connally Street in Sulphur Springs. Please make plans to come by and network with these business professionals at the Chamber.
Workforce Solutions is hosting a Career & Community Resource Expo on June 28th
Workforce Solutions of Northeast Texas is hosting a Career & Community Resources Expo at the ROC, 120 Oak Street in Sulphur Springs, on Tuesday, June 28th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. They are accepting vendors on a first come first served basis with a deadline for vendors of June 16th. Exhibitor space is free of charge but limited. For additional information, please call Workforce Solutions at (903) 885-7556 x 414.
27th Anniversary of the Independence Day Celebration on Celebration Plaza
Mark your calendars for a stunning and memorable night of a free concert and fireworks presented by the Sulphur Springs Symphony League on Saturday, June 30th, on Celebration Plaza in Sulphur Springs. The concert begins at 8:00 p.m. with fireworks to immediately follow. It is an event that should not be missed. Bring your families, your lawn chairs, or your picnic blankets and enjoy the sights and sounds of Independence Day in Hopkins County.
Ceremony for Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
There will be a ceremony for the Recorded Texas Historic Landmark that was received for the Ashcroft house, located at 333 College Street in Sulphur Springs on Saturday, June 30th at 11:00 a.m.. The ceremony will be on the front lawn and refreshments served on the porch after the ceremony. This is a great accomplishment and is only the second RTHL awarded in our county. John Sellers will be giving additional history on the house and its plot of land.
AgriLife hosts Community Health Talks
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension is hosting a round-table discussion series on issues affecting health in our community. Session 1 is called Animal and Human Health and will be held on July 6th at 6:30 p.m. at the Hopkins County Extension Office located at 1200 W. Houston in Sulphur Springs. Dr. Leah Larsen, DVM, will speak on rabies and diseases affecting pets and humans. Danielle Altenbaumer, Dept. of State Health Services, will speak on clearing up the human vaccination confusion. Register by calling 903-885-3443 by June 29th. Session 2 is called Food and Food Safety. It will be held on July 13th at 6:30 p.m.at the Hopkins County Extension Office located at 1200 W. Houston in Sulphur Springs. Brad Fain, of Zoetis Animal Health, will speak on food security including temperature danger zone, safe food handling.
Ribbon Cuttings:
Heart of Hope hosted their ribbon cutting celebration
Heart of Hope, located at 407 S. Davis Street in Sulphur Springs, hosted their ribbon cutting celebration on Wednesday, June 13th at noon. Please make plans to visit and learn more about Heart of Hope and the benefits they offer Hopkins County.
Video Story: Rotary Club Presents Over $31,000 in Scholarships and Awards Following Claws for a Cause 2018
by Doug Haston
Sulphur Springs Rotary Club Presented over $31,000 in scholarships to students and awards to various non-profit service organizations. Pictured prior to the video below are those who represented non-profits and students who received awards.
Representatives of non-profits received checks from Rotary Club as the club dispersed the benefits from the 2018 Claws for a Cause.
Students were awarded scholarships during the annual give back day for the local Rotary Club. The funds were provided for the scholarships by the Claws for a Cause fundraiser.
PJC-Sulphur Springs CPR Class
CPR CLASS CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) instructors Danny Lawson, foreground, and Lamont K. Kalian, give hands-on instruction to a classroom full of students at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center. The class is offered periodically during the year.
Lights of Life Announces Campaign Theme, Project, and Goal
With Holly and Tanner Ragan at the helm of this year’s Lights of Life Campaign & Gala, there is NO doubt that every event is going to be a huge success as well as a ton of fun. During the first campaign meeting this week, Holly announced the gala theme, project and goal. With over 35 committee members in attendance, they were all excited to hear this year’s theme will be: Vegas! What’s RAISED in Hopkins County STAYS in Hopkins County
Four years ago, Holly committed to serve on the Lights of Life committee by hosting the community’s first half marathon. That same year, in fact within months of the marathon, the funds raised went to purchase the hospital’s first telemedicine cart, which saved her best friend’s life. She is also now dedicated to bringing telemedicine to rural communities.
“To say we have seen the blessings of the foundation come full circle is an understatement. We know that the recipients of care, provided by state-of-the-art equipment this campaign affords, could benefit our very own family, children, and friends. We believe the Foundation helps to assure the success of this hospital, which is why we have joined in their mission to raise funds for this year’s campaign. We also want to bring peace of mind to those who so faithfully give, that all of the money raised through our efforts will stay here in our community,” said Holly Ragan.
As the Foundation Board of Directors considers projects to fund each year, they strive to invest in equipment that is above and beyond the “norm”. The Board tries to find items that will truly enhance a patient’s diagnosis, outcome as well as experience. That is why the Board is so excited to announce that they will be purchasing a Hologic 3 Dimensional Mammography System with Affirm Biopsy Needle. Along with the equipment, the hospital has committed to design a peaceful, relaxing, beautiful Mammography Suite so that every patient that enters will feel comfortable and welcomed into the spa-like environment. Approximately 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime, with an estimated 40,920 women expected to die in 2018 from breast cancer. Early detection is key. By having this equipment at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital in Sulphur Springs, not only will patients be able to schedule their mammogram in their hometown, if they receive a breast cancer diagnosis, the radiologist will be able to do the biopsy on-site instead of having to wait several weeks to return for another appointment. Another benefit is this machine can detect up to 65% more invasive breast cancer with a 40% reduction in recalls compared to 2D mammography alone.
It is important for the community to realize that CHRISTUS provides for capital improvements every year for this hospital, but those dollars go to all of the items the hospital MUST have to operate on a day-to-day basis. It does not always allow for the “newest, state-of-the-art” equipment that is needed to provide an excellent patient experience. Charitable donations to the Foundation play an integral role in shaping the way we practice medicine, and with the myriad of challenges facing health care today, the need for philanthropic support is greater now, than ever. The impact of a donation of any size is profound.
“With this incredible project, the Foundation will offer several naming opportunities for the Mammography Suite, dressing rooms, exam room, waiting room, etc. These opportunities will help the Foundation reach its very aggressive $500,000 goal. The goal for the Lights of Life Campaign and Gala is $380,000 and I’m certain with Holly & Tanners’s positive attitude, determination and knowledge, this will be a tremendously successful year. Of course, we cannot reach our goal without the generosity of this wonderful and supportive community,” said Meredith Caddell, Foundation Director.
“Sponsor solicitation letters will go out the first week of July but we’re already receiving calls and commitments, which indicate that the Gala will be sold out again. It is a wonderful problem to have. The community has certainly embraced this campaign over the past years and together we have made a huge difference for our hospital and our community,” continued Caddell.
If you cannot attend the gala but still want to support your local hospital and the campaign, contributions may be made with a donation to the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation any time throughout the year. Additional opportunities to become involved and support the campaign are by participating, attending and/or donating to the the Style Show, hosted by Lou Nell’s the Quarter Auction, the Fly Your Flag Campaign and the Lights of Life Christmas tree lighting event in The Gardens at CHRISTUS plus a couple of new events. All contributions help to make a difference for our community.
Caddell invites, “Please join us as we work together for the benefit of this hospital and this community. Through your support of the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation, Lights of Life Campaign and Gala we WILL reach our goal.” Call the Health Care Foundation office at 903-438-4799 for more information.
Lowe’s Donates 50 Fans to Senior Citizen Summer Fan Drive
The Senior Citizens Center Summer Fan Drive received an additional 50 fans from Lowe’s Distribution Center in Mt Vernon partnering with the Sulphur Springs Lowe’s store. Karen Weatherman, Director of the Senior Citizen’s Center invites those needing a fan to drop by the Senior Center, 150 Martin Luther King Blvd in Sulphur Springs.
Lowe’s Distribution Center in Mt Vernon partnered up with the Lowe’s Store in Sulphur Springs and donated 50 Fans to the Summer Fan Drive at the Senior Citizens Center. Shown in Photo is Angel Martinez, RDC 955 Operations Manager and Robert McClure Store Manager and his team of employees.
