Chamber Connection March 8, 2018
Great news!!! It is time for the 29th Annual Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament held at the Sulphur Springs Country Club. This year’s tournament will be held on Friday, April 13th. Just like last year, we will have morning and afternoon tee times. Please consider bringing a team and enjoying a very fun day of golf and prizes! We have limited availability, so let us know as soon as possible if interested. Teams are already signing up! Give us a call at (903) 885-6515 for additional information!
Operation Victor Echo Tango will host their ribbon cutting celebration
Operation Victor Echo Tango will host their ribbon cutting celebration on Monday, March 19th at 12:15 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce located at 300 Connally Street in Sulphur Springs. Operation Victor Echo Tango is a non-profit organization assisting veterans in multiple ways. Please make plans to come by and learn about this new venture in Hopkins County!
Sulphur Springs Elementary School is hosting the Harlem Wizards!
For the first time ever, Sulphur Springs Elementary School is hosting the Harlem Wizards! They will be coming to town on March 19th at the SSHS gymnasium. The SSES PTO is excited to announce that the “Wacky Wildcats” will be taking on the Wizards. There are two easy ways to purchase tickets. You can stop by the SSES office located on Bell Street in Sulphur Springs, or you can purchase online at www.harlemwizrds.com. general admission is $10.00, VIP tickets are $20.00, and courtside plus backstage passes are $30.00. Make sure and join in on this fun night!
Heart of Hope is hosting an educational presentation
Heart of Hope is hosting an educational presentation entitled “Human Trafficking, It’s Closer Than You Think” on Tuesday, March 20th from 6:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Sulphur Springs Middle School located at 835 Wildcat Way in Sulphur Springs. The speaker scheduled for the evening is Laurie McGehee, manager of Probation services in Shreveport, Louisiana. She will discuss topics such as: warning signs of individuals being trafficked, how to protect your child, how to report a tip, and how to connect with anti-trafficking services in your area. For more information, please visit the Northeast Texas Heart of Hope Facebook page.
Hunt Regional is offering January Mobile Mammography Coach in Sulphur Springs
Hunt Regional Hospital is offering the Tubby Adkisson Memorial Mobile Mammography Coach on Thursday, March 22nd in the Spring Village Shopping Center in Sulphur Springs. All insurances accepted at Hunt Regional are also accepted for the Mobile Mammography Coach, including Medicare and Medicaid. They can also help with payment resources for uninsured/income-eligible women or those who choose to pay cash. For help with payment resources please call The Bridge Breast Network at (214) 821-3820 x 21. To schedule individual screening mammograms, please call (903) 408-5010. Appointments and pre-registration are requested.
Tim Halcomb Allstate is hosting their Ribbon Cutting Celebration
Tim Halcomb Allstate is hosting their Ribbon Cutting Celebration on Wednesday, March 28th at noon. Their office is located at 319 Main Street in Sulphur Springs. Come meet Tim and his crew, enjoy some refreshments, and learn about what his office can do for your insurance needs.
AgriLife Extension offers Rebalancing Work & Life Webinar
The Military Families Learning Network (MFLN) is providing a free monthly webinar in partnership with USDA, U.S. Department of Defense, and Extension. The March 28 webinar will take place at 10:00 a.m. To sign up, go to: https://learn.extension.org/events/3261. To join the webinar, use the ‘event location’ link designated for each webinar and follow directions within the site. The MFLN offers both continuing education credit (CE) and certificates of completion for webinars. Additional webinars will take place April 25, May 23, and June 13, 2018. For more information, call the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office – Hopkins County – at 903-885-3443.
Heart of Hope is hosting a 3K and Family Fun Run
Heart of Hope, a pregnancy resource center located at 407 South Davis in Sulphur Springs, is hosting a 3K & Family Fun Run on Saturday, April 7th beginning at Celebration Plaza in Sulphur Springs. Check-in and on site late registration will be available at 9:00 a.m. The 3K Run will kick off at 10:00 a.m., and the Family Fun Run (1/2 mile) starts at 10:45 a.m. Pre-registration deadline is March 22 in which the Family Fun Run cost is $10, and the 3K cost is $20. Late registration costs change to $15 and $25 respectively. Awards will be given to the top 3 qualifiers of the 3K Race at 11:15 a.m. For more information, visit www.sulphurspringspregnancy.com
Pilot Club hosts their Spring Fundraiser
The Pilot Club of Sulphur Springs is hosting their Spring Fundraiser on Saturday, April 7th at 7 p.m. at the Hopkins County Regional Civic Center. They are doing it “Branson Style” with music and entertainment by Robert Joe Vandygriff. A $30 ticket includes meal and entertainment. $5.00 also buys chances for themed gift baskets and a trip for two. Tickets can be purchased through Pay Pal at www.sspilotclub.org. For additional information call (903) 348-5099, (903) 243-0979, or (903) 438-7153.
Ribbon cuttings:

The Muddy Lotus hosted their Ribbon Cutting Celebration
The Muddy Lotus, a new yoga experience in Sulphur Springs, hosted their ribbon cutting celebration on Wednesday, March 7th at noon. They offer different yoga classes at East Texas Gymnastics, located at 1402 Mockingbird Lane in Sulphur Springs. All levels are welcomed, and the first class is free of charge. For more information, call owner Clay Pirdle at (903) 243-1614.
Have a wonderful weekend!
–Lezley
April 3, 2018 Proclaimed National Service Recognition Day in Sulphur Springs

During the March 6, 2018 Sulphur Springs City Council meeting, Mayor John Sellers, center, read a proclamation declaring April 3, 2018 National Service Recognition Day. Retired Senior Volunteer Program members were presented a copy of the proclamation at the meeting. Pictured left to right are Karon Weatherman, Mayor Sellers and Kelly Hamill.
Soccer: Open Date Friday; Wildcats, Lady Cats Defeat Texas High Tuesday
Wildcats Soccer Coach Nicky Wiggins on Win at T High
Wildcats Soccer Coach Nicky Wiggins liked his team’s 3-0 victory at Texas High Tuesday night even more than their 10-1 home win against the Tigers last month. This time Coach Wiggins said the Wildcats didn’t surrender a goal. They were also protecting just a 1-0 lead for most of the game. The Wildcats added two more goals in the final 15 minutes of the game. Axel Solorzano scored for his second straight game. Angel Tavera and Enrique Arellano also scored for the Wildcats. Solorzano, Arellano and Alex Diosdado all had assists. The win was the third straight for the Wildcats in the second half of district play. Their district record has gone from 2-4 to 5-4. The Wildcats are in third place. Coach Wiggins said the Wildcats were frustrated in the game early Tuesday night as they created lots of scoring chances that did not end up in the net. He said the Wildcats hit the goal posts at least four times and he added several of their shots were stopped by the Tigers’ goalkeeper. Coach Wiggins spoke glowingly of the Wildcats defense. He praised goalkeeper J-Lo or Jonathan Lopez and defenders Christian Huff and D.J. Abran. Coach Wiggins is encouraging his Wildcats to remain focused on just the next game they have. The Wildcats have an open date Friday and Coach Wiggins said he wished his hot team could keep on playing. After the bye, the Wildcats will play arch rival Mount Pleasant at home. Coach Wiggins said it has been awhile since the Wildcats came out on top against the Tigers, who are in first place again this year.
Lady Cats Soccer Coach Joel Bailey Discusses Win Over Texas High
Lady Cats Soccer Coach Joel Bailey was very pleased that his team ended up defeating Texas High Tuesday night at home in overtime thus avoiding point-robbing penalty kicks. He noted that overtime winners receive a full three points just like winners in regulation. Both of the Lady Cats goals in the second half of overtime were very well executed. Keeley Hudgins used her left foot to put the ball in the net despite the attention of two Lady Tigers’ defenders. About two minutes later, Mileena Zirretta kicked a ball over Texas High’ defenders that Gracie Boyer got to and then scored using an arching shot over the Lady Tigers ‘ goalkeeper. Coach Bailey said it was great to have Makenna Kagar back on the field for the Lady Cats. Kagar was injured in a tournament and missed the Lady Cats first eight district games. The Lady Cats are now 6-3 in district play. Coach Bailey downplayed defeating former Lady Cats Coach Jesus DeLeon twice this season. He said the coaches have mutual respect for each other. Coach Bailey said he is not a big fan of byes in the district soccer schedule. He wants his team to remain sharp and focused. After the open date Friday, the Lady Cats will have a big road match at Mount Pleasant.

Lady Cats Win District Opener; Travel to Hallsville Friday
Lady Cats Softball Coach David Carrillo said it’s important to win some games when all does not go smoothly. Such was the case Tuesday night as the Lady Cats won their district opener against Greenville, 3-2 at Lady Cat Park.
Coach Carrillo said his team seemed to be a little nervous in the district opener. He said he could tell his team was not in sync during the game. Coach Carrillo said some of the Lady Cats’ hard hit balls went right at Greenville’ fielders. There were also some defensive lapses that led to a sloppy game.
On the other hand, Coach Carrillo was complementary of pitcher Bailey Haggerty. He said she was awesome adding she shut Greenville down pretty well. Haggerty got the win throwing a complete 7 inning game allowing 9 hits and 2 earned runs. She also had 10 strikeouts. Coach Carrillo said his team did get some timely hits, especially from the top of the Lady Cats’ order. Alyssa Abron was 2 for 3 with 2 runs scored. Kelsey Wallace was 1 for 2 with a run, an RBI, a walk and a double. Sadie Stroud was 1 for 3 with an RBI. Brinklee Driver was 2 for 3 with a stolen base. Sophomore Kate Womack was 1 for 3 with a double.
All things considered, Coach Carrillo said he would rather win ugly than lose pretty. He said his Lady Cats are hanging in there and seem to be buying in to what he’s telling them. Coach Carrillo said there was a good crowd Tuesday night and he added Lady Cat Park was in excellent condition.
The Lady Cats travel to Hallsville Friday.

Wood County Sheriff’s Report February 21-27, 2018
February 21st
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 37 near Quitman, at approximately 2:55 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4896 near Quitman, at approximately 3:03 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the day.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 10:53 a.m., in reference to a terroristic threat. Deputies advised the reporting party they would provide extra patrol.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 10:59 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to Main St. in Yantis, at approximately 11:22 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s vehicle.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 11:58 a.m., in reference to harassment that occurred on HWY 37 near Mineola. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to Nolan Lane in Yantis, at approximately 12:00 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the day.
At 12:40 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1643 near Winnsboro, at approximately 12:41 p.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 65, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace was notified and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1985 near Yantis, at approximately 8:42 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3220 near Quitman, at approximately 9:31 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to Lloyd St. in Yantis, at approximately 10:41 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
February 22nd
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:08 a.m., in reference to lost property on CR 3880 near Hawkins. The reporting party informed the deputies of a possible stolen or misplaced gun.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:12 a.m., in reference to criminal trespass on CR 4441 near Winnsboro. A known actor was inside of the reporting party’s residence without consent. Deputies advised the individual to stay out of the reporting party’s residence.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 2:54 p.m., in reference to a scam that occurred on FM 312 near Winnsboro. Actors, or actors unknown, attempted to get the reporting party to send money, claiming he won 5 million dollars.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:49 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances that occurred on Choctaw near Quitman. Deputies advised the reporting party they would provide extra patrol.
Deputies were dispatched to Beaulah St. in Hawkins, at approximately 9:15 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2330 near Mineola, at approximately 10:05 p.m., in reference to an illegal burning violation. Deputies located the violation and advised the individuals that they cannot burn plastic.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1799 near Alba, at approximately 10:45 p.m., in reference to an abandoned vehicle. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
February 23rd
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 1785 near Yantis; at approximately 2:07 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and determined it was a traffic hazard. The vehicle was towed by Wyatt’s Towing.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:21 a.m., in reference to a burglary. Deputies checked the building and there were no signs of forced entry or theft.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 17 near Yantis, at approximately 9:36 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 9:43 a.m., in reference to a scam that occurred on FM 1643 near Winnsboro. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2540 near Alba, at approximately 10:50 a.m., in reference to disturbance. Deputies spoke with the parties involved. Clarice Slayton, 61, of Mineola, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 779 near Alba, at approximately 5:30 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
At 6:30 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 514 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3480 near Hawkins, at approximately 6:52 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 7:40 p.m., in reference to a scam that occurred on Holly Trail near Hawkins. Deputies gave the reporting party advice and cleared the incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3540 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:50 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
February 24th
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2869 near Hawkins, at approximately 7:27 a.m., in reference to a criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 1570 near Alba; at approximately 7:46 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and determined it was a traffic hazard. The vehicle was towed by Wyatt’s Towing.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2425 near Mineola, at approximately 8:55 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to ETMC in Quitman, at approximately 9:32 a.m., in reference to an inquest. A female, 71, was found deceased in her residence. The Justice of the Peace was notified and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 12:34 p.m., in reference to a burglary. A known actor stole an amplifier from the reporting party’s building. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 5551 near Alba, at approximately 3:56 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 6:42 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 3118 near Quitman.
February 25th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2377 near Alba; at approximately 2:23 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 778/FM 1254 near Quitman; at approximately 2:55 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 7:53 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s property with a pellet gun.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 3056/CR 2964 near Mineola, at approximately 10:26 a.m., in reference to an abandoned vehicle. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 852 near Winnsboro, at approximately 11:39 a.m. Deputies located the individual and they went with Emergency Medical Services to the hospital.
At 12:05 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 1643 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 779 near Mineola, at approximately 8:47 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any suspicious activity.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 852 near Winnsboro, at approximately 10:25 p.m., in reference to a traffic hazard. Deputies located the vehicle and it was towed by Wyatt’s Towing.
At 11:55 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 2966 near Yantis.
February 26th
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 12:17 a.m., in reference to a burglary. Upon the deputies’ arrival, there were no signs of forced entry or theft.
Deputies were dispatched to Holly Trail East near Hawkins, at approximately 8:51 a.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 69, was found deceased in his residence. The Justice of the Peace arrived and no autopsy was ordered.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1416 near Quitman, at approximately 9:25 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3860 near Mineola, at approximately 2:22 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s gate. This case is active.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1801 near Mineola, at approximately 4:12 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the building and it was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3955 near Mineola, at approximately 4:41 p.m., in reference to a dog bite. Deputies spoke with all parties involved and cleared the incident.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3114 near Quitman; at approximately 8:02 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1336 near Quitman, at approximately 8:32 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 4930 near Quitman; at approximately 10:21 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
February 27th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on CR 2944 near Mineola, at approximately 7:01 a.m. Deputies located the vehicle and everything was OK.
At 7:11 a.m., horses were reported out on HWY 37 near Quitman.
Deputies went out on an arrest/warrant service to CR 4847 near Winnsboro; at approximately 9:23 a.m. Michael Watts, Jr., 60, was arrested for an outstanding warrant.
Deputies were dispatched to Dogwood Trail near Hawkins, at approximately 12:49 p.m., in reference to theft. A known actor had taken the reporting party’s phone and did not return it. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1879 near Yantis, at approximately 2:39 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies located the suspicious activity and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2112 near Quitman, at approximately 3:10 p.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a lawn mower trailer from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party, at approximately 5:09 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass that occurred on CR 2157 near Quitman. The individual left the property when the reporting party asked him to and the scene was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 5807 near Yantis, at approximately 5:50 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. A known actor damaged the reporting party’s vehicle with a baseball bat. Cary Sessions, 39, of Yantis, was arrested for Criminal Mischief.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1810 near Yantis, at approximately 6:06 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 5899 near Yantis, at approximately 7:34 p.m., in reference to criminal trespass. Deputies issued a Criminal Trespass Warning.
Between the dates of February 21 and February 27, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Police Departments, Game Wardens, Department of Public Safety, Smith County, and Hopkins County.
Between the dates of February 21 and February 27, Wood County Sheriff’s Investigators filed 8 cases with the District Attorney, obtained 2 arrest warrants and arrested the individuals, and recovered $8,000 worth of stolen property.
Total Jail Count – 136 inmates – 117 males and 19 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.
Baseball: North Hopkins Defeat Saltillo
The Saltillo Lions lost a baseball game to North Hopkins on Tuesday. The Panthers took a 19-0 win. North Hopkins scored the 19 runs on nine hits and seven Lions’ errors.
The Panthers’ starting pitcher Wyatt Wharton teamed with reliever Tate Myers to throw a 4 inning no hitter. Wharton also had a big game at the plate going 3 for 3 with a double and 4 RBIs. Colby Cameron of North Hopkins was 3 for 4 with 3 runs scored and 3 RBIs.
The game was called after three and a half innings. Saltillo’s Lyle Bench drew 2 walks for the Lions in the game.

“Do Well, Be Well With Diabetes” Five-Lesson Series Set for April 9-23
Johanna Hicks, agent with the Hopkins County Agrilife Extension Service is reminding the public about an interesting and informative educational series for persons affected by Type II Diabetes. Even if you do not have Diabetes but you cook and care for someone who does, this series is for you! Two sessions per day will be offered, at 1:30pm and 6pm. For more information, phone the Extension office at 903-885-3443.

You’re Invited for History and Lunch By SS Area Retired School Personnel
From: Sulphur Springs Area Retired School Personnel
Please join us on Tuesday, March 13! Keep reading for the time, location of the meeting!
Our next meeting will feature a program by Paula Altenbaumer, presenting the story of an early Texas pioneer, Sarah Ashby McClure Braches. Sarah came to Texas in 1831 as part of the DeWitt Colony. Her home still stands in Gonzales County.
Sarah was a leader of the “Runaway Scrape” during the Texas revolution. An oak tree known as the Sam Houston Oak still stands near her home. Many interesting facets of Sarah’s life (1811-1894) will come to life when Paula appears in costume for our meeting.
Paula Altenbaumer
Paula also relates that a Hallmark miniseries was filmed about this early pioneer, her family, and her descendants. Please join us for an extremely informative program!
Meeting Location:
The Oaks Bed & Breakfast
516 Oak Ave.
Sulphur Springs, TX
Time:
Program – 10:00 a.m.
Buffet lunch (optional) – approx 11:30 a.m.
Lunch menu: Brisket, beans, potato salad, cole slaw and drink
Lunch cost: $10.
Lunch reservations:
Please reply if you plan to stay for lunch. We need a number for the lunch buffet.
Other items:
Our membership drive for 2018-2019 begins this month. Please consider joining our chapter or renewing your membership at the March meeting.
We will also be “passing the basket” for contributions to our Scholarship fund and our Book fund. You may donate cash or write a check payable to Sulphur Springs Area RSP.
Harlem Wizards to Play in SSES Fundraiser
The Harlem Wizards are coming to Sulphur Springs High School Monday, March 19th. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and game time is 6:30. The evening promises to be a fun filled event that is great for kids and adults and will guarantee to put a smile on your face, according to the Sulphur Springs Elementary School PTO. Proceeds from the game will assist in funding playground equipment for the school.
The Wizards will face Administrators and teachers from SSHS. The Harlem Wizards’ mission is to create awe-inspiring events thought out the country. At a Wizards game coordinated ball handling, fancy passing and aerodynamic athleticism combined with high-energy comedy and audience interaction combined with hilarious comedy will entertain fans with two hours of family time where parents, grandparents, and kids can all laugh together.
Tickets purchased before the event are $10 for adults and children. Tickets can be purchased at Sulphur Springs Elementary School or online at www.harlemwizards.com. Tickets will be available on the day of the game at Sulphur Springs High School.






