Volunteers Still Needed for AARP Tax Aide
January 4, 2024 – Tax season is upon us all, and the AARP Tax Aide program is looking for more volunteers.
AARP Tax Aide is a free tax preparation and e-file service available by appointment to anyone. You do not need to be a senior to use this service. You do not need to be a senior to volunteer either. A member of the KSST Team is proud to be one of the new volunteer trainees for the 2023 tax season.
Tax Aide Volunteer Training will be during the month of January. It is largely computer based, and the actual returns done for clients are also done via computer. The returns are all done at the Sulphur Springs Library. If you have ever done your own tax return on a computer, you have a basic idea of how the process works.
Tax Aide volunteers are never alone. There is an entire team of support available at all times. Guidelines and policies developed by the IRS and AARP also protect the filer, and the volunteer. A volunteer who follows the rules in preparing a return can not be held liable for errors. Client returns are screened and their potential difficulty is matched with the volunteer’s level. Some simple returns might take just 15 minutes, others are more fit for experienced members of the team. Volunteers will never be put in a situation where they have no support. All returns prepared by a Tax Aide Volunteer are reviewed by a different volunteer member of the team before filing.
Please keep in mind that the free Tax Aide service can not help with every type of return. The majority of people who make an appointments do meet the return guidelines, or ‘scope’, set nationally by the IRS and AARP.
Training has already begun for the 2023 tax season. Any volunteer wanting to be included this season will be personally brought up to speed by local trainers.
Sign up to volunteer and learn more by clicking here.
The first appointments for the free service in the Sulphur Springs Area will be February 6th.
Hopkins County Sheriff Deputy Arrests Greenville Man
January 4, 2023 – A Hopkins County Sheriff Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a Mazda SUV traveling over the speed limit on Hwy 11. While questioning the lone driver, the local sheriff’s deputy noticed a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle prompting a probable cause search of the vehicle.
During the thorough search, more than one clear plastic bag was found containing a green leafy substance believed to be marijuana. Also found in the vehicle was a digital scale commonly used to weigh and distribute marijuana as well as a large amount of U.S. currency ($9,,850) and a black handgun.
A records check showed that the driver, identified as Kavrin Raphael Massey, was on probation which made the possession of a handgun a felony charge. Massey was placed under arrest and transported to the Hopkins County Jail charged with possession of marijuana, money laundering as well as the unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. A local towing company was dispatched to take possession of the 2021 Mazda.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report – January 2024
January 04, 2023 – Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report submitted to Sulphur Springs City Council by City Manager Marc Maxwell
CLAIMS – Unable to provide claims report this month – flu season.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN – We are applying for a $300,000 grant from the General Land Office to perform the plan. This will delay the plan a couple of months, but $300,000 is $300,000.
SENIOR CITIZENS CENTER – Construction continues. We will be connecting power to the building this month.
COLLEGE STREET – Little changed from last month. The concrete contractor, 5W Contracting has
poured concrete all the way past Carter Rookson. They are now finishing the excavation of curb & gutter and sidewalks on the remaining 1,950 feet to Como Street. At the present rate the project should be finished by June.
PACIFIC PARK – We are very close to finishing the project. We just lack a bit more sod.
WATER FILTER REHABILITATION – This $3.2 million project will rehabilitate all 6 filters at the water treatment plant. Work on Filter #4, the most problematic filter is nearing completion. We continue to be impressed with the quality of work.
LEAGUE STREET DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS – This drainage project at the 201 N Davis Street, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482 • 903.439.3700 • sulphurspringstx.org KCS railroad was authorized for $265,000 at the August 15th City Council meeting. This project began 4 weeks ago. It has already resolved the flooding problems at Main & League. We are still making improvements on the north side of the KCS tracks. Expect League Street to remain closed for 2 more weeks.
STREET IMPROVEMENT PLAN (SIP) – Following is a list of streets to be repaved in 2023.
Woodcrest and Rockdale are on hold for utility reasons. (Atmos and Oncor).
Street, Between, Length
League soft spot repairs 500
Woodcrest Azalea to Cul de Sac 898 – ON HOLD
Mulberry Woodlawn to RR 530
Lemon Bill Bradford to Spence 1199 – Completed
Milligan Church to Davis 549
Rockdale Shannon to Hillcrest 3749 - ON HOLD
Robertson Davis to Texas 1199
Houston Hillcrest to League 4800 – Completed
Putman Jackson to Carter 1400 – Putman
Texas Shannon to Arbala 1901 – Completed
Spence Fisher to Davis 476
Spence Gilmer to Ardis-end 850 – Completed
Spring Gilmer to Magnolia 808 – Completed
Peach Texas to Brinker 570
Craig Booker to Main 2170
REVENUES AND EXPENDITURES – Finance Director Lesa Smith will present the usual report of revenues and expenditures.
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Checked out 2,718 items from the library plus 924 eBooks.
- Restored electrical power to the Thermo property.
- Reset school zone flashing lights on League Street.
- Upgraded various downtown streetlights to LED.
- Repaired lights on Hopkins County Veterans Memorial.
- Upgraded lights at Coleman Park bathrooms to LED.
- Hauled 452 tons of sludge to the landfill.
- Began the process of renewing the wastewater treatment plant discharge permit.
- Treated wastewater effluent to a daily average of 0.85 mg/L.
- Repaired 11 water main ruptures.
- Replaced 22 water meters.
- Unstopped 42 sewer mains.
- Repaired 2 sewer mains.
- Flushed 38 dead-end water mains.
- Performed preventative maintenance on spillway gates at Lake Sulphur Springs.
- Changed out banners downtown.
- Held 62 activities for seniors including a veteran’s breakfast and a Christmas
party. - Removed multiple tree stumps from Coleman Park.
- Repaired dugouts at Coleman Park.
- Mowed the airport and grass landing strip.
- Planted hardwood trees and fruit trees at Pacific Park.
- Made several repairs to Kids Kingdom.
- Sold 2,875 gallons of AvGas and 9,717 gallons of JetA fuel.
- Assisted with the Christmas parade.
- Responded to 204 fire/rescue calls including 3 structure fires and 2 vehicle fires.
- Performed 20 fire inspections.
- Performed preventative maintenance on 72 fire hydrants.
- Conducted 76 building inspections, 36 electrical inspections, 19 plumbing
inspections, and 3 mechanical inspections. - Issued 21 building permits and 50 trade permits.
- Responded to 167 animal control calls.
- Achieved a 78% adoption rate at the animal shelter.
- Responded to 1,917 911 calls for police.
- Made 3 felony arrests in the Special Crimes Unit.
- Responded to 29 accidents, issued 425 citations, recorded 59 offences and made
42 arrests in the patrol division.
Cell-O-Core Shuts Down Sulphur Springs Operations
January 4, 2024 – A local drinking straw manufacturer has shut down their Sulphur Springs plant. Ohio based Cell-O-Core expanded their operations to Sulphur Springs approximately 10 years ago under an agreement with the Sulphur Springs Economic Development Corporation. The local operation is housed on CMH drive in a building owned by the local EDC. In business since 1945, Cell-O-Core is the largest U.S. based straw manufacturer as they expanded their operations for the first time outside of Ohio ten years ago by choosing Sulphur Springs as the location to expand. KSST News was unable to reach Cell-O-Core management for more information on the company’s future plans.
Hopkins County Chamber Putting Finishing Touches On Chamber Directory
January 3, 2024 – Chamber members should make sure their membership is current with the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce as the local Chamber is wrapping up the info on the new Directory. The Chamber will distribute over 7,000 of these directories to visitors, relocation hopefuls, and even hometown heroes who are interested in learning more about our local businesses. They include historical information as well all things to the see and do in Hopkins County. The best part is, they include an alphabetical and categorical listing of your business.
LeeAnn Peugh, with Echo Print and Design, is contacting businesses to see if you are interested in
placing an ad in the directory. You can reach LeeAnn at 903-885-0861. The rates are affordable, and one of the best ways to represent your business. You may also contact the Chamber, and I will pass your information along to her. If your business wants to be in the directory, please make sure your membership is current.
Only current members will be included in the directory. If you’re unsure, please contact the chamber at [email protected] or by calling 903-885-6515.
Cooper Lake State Park Announces Activites For January 2024
January 3, 2024 – Press Release from Steve Killian, Cooper Lake State Park Superintedent
Experience the Best of Winter at Cooper Lake State Park
Cooper, Texas – Wintertime at Cooper Lake State Park brings very special opportunities for outdoor exploration. No mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, and some of our other not so favorite animals are dormant so get out here and trop through the woods. January is the best month of the year for stargazing. With the park’s dark skies, celestial adventures await. Take a cool hike on almost 20 miles of parkland trails. Go trout fishing at the end of the month in our special event pond. Campout and enjoy a roaring campfire as you sip a steamy cup of hot chocolate as you roast a s’more! Are you excited yet?
Cooper Lake State Park is thrilled to host a series of fun and engaging educational events scheduled for the second half of January at both Doctors Creek and South Sulphur Units. Among these, the centerpiece is the eagerly anticipated “Annual Kid’s Trout Fishing Day” on Saturday, January 20th at the South Sulphur Unit. This is a perfect opportunity for young anglers to experience the joy of trout fishing, an unusual experience for sure for Texas. Kids be sure to bring an adult and they can fish too! No Fishing Licenses Required and we will have bait and loaner poles too!
The journey continues at South Sulphur (SS), the starry night of January 13th will bring the “Stargazing” event to life. Starting at 7 p.m. at the Gulls Bluff Boat Launch Parking Lot, you can gaze upon the celestial wonders and catch a glimpse of the Quadrantids meteor shower. The journey continues with and artistic flare January 14th with another “Art in the Park” session at 2 p.m. at the Gulls Bluff Pavilion, inviting more participants to join the State Fish Art contest. Finally, on January 27th, try your hand at archery with “Archery 101.” This event, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Buggy Whip Restroom, requires prior registration and is limited to 12 participants. It’s a fantastic opportunity for those aged 10 and up to learn archery, regardless of experience level. To reserve your spot, contact Alicia O’Connor at Alicia.O’[email protected] or call (903) 945-5256.
At Doctors Creek (DC), the journey begins with the “Skins and Skulls” event on January 13th. At 2 p.m., gather at the Doctors Creek Headquarters for a fascinating glimpse into the lives of local wildlife. The following day, on January 14th, “Art in the Park” beckons all creative spirits to Pelican Point Pavilion at 10 a.m. Here, artists of every skill level can express their creativity in the State Fish Art contest, with all materials provided. On January 20th, survival enthusiasts and nature lovers alike won’t want to miss “Fire Building 101.” Starting at 10 a.m. in the Bluebonnet Day Use Area, you’ll learn the art of building the perfect campfire. The month at Doctors Creek culminates with the “Wildlife Detectives” event on January 27th. Meet at 2 p.m. at the South Loop trailhead at Pelican Point parking lot for an enlightening walk on the South Loop Trail, where you’ll learn to read the signs of the local fauna.
We warmly invite everyone to participate in these enthralling activities, especially the Annual Kid’s Trout Fishing Day, a unique and delightful experience for budding fishing enthusiasts. Cooper Lake State Park is excited to offer these engaging events, fostering a connection with the natural work and sparking new interests. Join us for a January filled with discovery and fun! Park is committed to providing educational and recreational opportunities that connect our community with nature. We look forward to welcoming you to our park!
All programs and are free with your entrance permit. For more information on this or other events and programs at Cooper Lake State Park, please visit our Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website and also like our Facebook pages (Cooper Lake State Park – South Sulphur 903-945-5256 and Cooper Lake State Park – Doctors Creek (903) 395-3100).
Doctors Creek Unit
Saturday, January 13 – DC
Skins and Skulls – 2 p.m. Meet at Doctors Creek Headquarters – Get an inside look at a few of the local animals.
Sunday, January 14 – DC
Art in the Park – 10 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Pavilion – Calling all artist! All art supplies provided. The State Fish Art contest is our focus this month.
Saturday, January 20 —DC
Fire Building 101 – 10 a.m. Meet at Blue Bonnet Day Use Area – Learn tips and tricks on how to build a perfect campfire.
Saturday, January 27 — DC
Wildlife Detectives – 2 p.m. Meet at South Loop trail head at the Pelican Point parking lot. We’ll take a short walk on the South Loop Trail. Explore how to determine the types of animals that may have been here from the signs they leave behind.
South Sulphur Unit
Saturday, January 13 – SS
Stargazing – Join us as we explore the night sky. We’ll have the telescopes out for viewing a planet or two, viewing starts at 7 p.m. meet at the Gulls Bluff Boat Launch Parking Lot. We’ll also talk about viewing the tail end of the Quadrantids meteor shower.
Sunday, January 14 — SS
Art in the Park – 2 p.m. Meet at Gulls Bluff Pavilion – Calling all artist! All art supplies provided. The State Fish Art contest is our focus this month.
Saturday, January 20 – SS
Annual Kid’s Trout Fishing Day – 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Park at Headquarters and walk to the Event Pond. Experience the joy of catching trout. No rod and reel, no worries we have a few loaners available. Remember your trout bait.
Saturday, January 27 – SS
Archery 101: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Meet at Buggy Whip Restroom. Registration is required, program limited to 12 participants. Reserve your spot by calling (903) 945-5256 or email Alicia O’Connor Alicia.O’[email protected]. No experience needed. Ages 10 and up. All equipment provided.
Ginn Takes Oath For Hopkins County Court At Law Judge
January 3, 2024 – Local attorney John Ginn made his committment official to Hopkins County by taking the oath at a swearing in cermony as the new Hopkins County Court at Law Judge. That positon was recently vacated by Clay Harrison, as Harrison wishes to enter private practice. 8th Judicial District Judge Eddie Northcutt presided over the ceremony as John Ginn’s wife, Eydie observed.
Green Acorns and Cattle by Mario Villarino
January 2, 2024 – The howling winds of cold fronts and rainstorms often knock green acorns from oak trees in a pasture. Most cattle like the taste of acorns and tend to seek them out. But hungry cattle that consume too many green acorns will get sick. Their gastrointestinal tracts will be upset; they will develop diarrhea, become dehydrated, constipated and emaciated; and they might die.
Acorn poisoning is caused by chemicals called tannins. It generally occurs when acorns fall off trees in the immature green stage, followed by overconsumption by cattle. This usually occurs in pastures where there is not much grass left nor hay fed. Poisoning from oak tannins also can occur when cattle eat buds and young leaves of oaks (shrubs and trees) in early spring. Sickness starts 8 to 14 days after the cattle have started eating acorns.
The amount tolerated by an animal is influenced by the protein content of its diet. If the protein intake is high, the animal can consume more acorns without having poisoning symptoms. Cattle affected by acorn poisoning have a poor appetite, appear dull, become constipated, suffer weight loss and look gaunt or “tucked up.” They also may pass blood in the manure and/or bleed from the nostrils. Profuse diarrhea may follow after the constipation.
Affected animals drink large amounts of water and void excessive amounts of clear urine (urine may also contain blood). Many animals go down and cannot rise after 3 to 7 days of clinical signs of acorn poisoning. If these affected animals do not die, it may take as long as 2 to 3 weeks before they start to recover. Producers suspecting such a problem should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.
To correct the protein and energy deficiencies of a stressed, thin cow herd, provide plenty of good-quality hay. When feeding hay, consider both the quantity and quality fed, and supplement it if needed with the proper amounts of protein and/or energy supplements. Providing hay that is of poor quality—even in large amounts—might provide adequate energy, but the cattle will be deficient in protein. Providing good hay but not enough of it can improve the protein deficiency but leave the cattle lacking in energy.
Treatment is of little value in severely affected cattle. However, for the other cattle remaining on the “poor” oak tree pasture, provide supplemental feed containing hydrated lime (calcium hydroxide) and protein, which are “antidotes” for the tannins. Mix and cube the following feed formulation for breeding cattle (4 pounds per head per day) and use it as a meal creep feed for calves (free-choice lime limits consumption like salt): Cottonseed meal: 1,040 pounds (52 percent) Dehydrated alfalfa leaf meal: 600 pounds (30 percent) Vegetable oil: 160 pounds 8 percent) Hydrated lime: 200 pounds (10 percent).
Obviously, acorn poisoning can be prevented by removing cattle from areas with oak trees when acorns have recently fallen. Reserve these pastures for grazing in late fall or winter, when the acorns have had a chance to age, turn brown and become somewhat less toxic. No matter when the cattle are turned onto “poor” oak tree pasture, remember that they still could be affected if they eat too many acorns.
Baylor Emmitt Gregory is First Baby of 2024
January 2, 2024 – Sulphur Springs can say hello to the first baby born in 2024 at Christus Mother Frances Hospital in Sulphur Springs. Baylor was born at 12:43 pm on the 1st day of January and entered this world at 8 pounds, 13.8 ounces. Baylor also measured 21.5 inches long. Proud parents of the new baby are Kenneth Gregory, Jr. and Cortnie Robbins. Baylor also has three older siblings, Ferris (4), Karter, (2), and Piper (1). The first baby delivered in 2024 was Dr. James Doughtie.
Garden Seeds for Your 2024 Garden From Master Gardener David Wall
December 31, 2023 – It’s time to start thinking about what vegetables, herbs, and flowers you want to grow in 2024. Do you want basics, exotics, heirlooms, hybrids, organics or combinations of these?
Let’s start with the basics of onions, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and okra. Where will you get seeds? This can be very simple or as complicated as you want. On the simple side, go to your local nursery, country, or hardware store. They’ll have just about anything you want such as cucumbers from 4” to 36” long, tomatoes from grape to 2 pounders, and peppers from mild to scorching. Okra might be available in only one species, but other sources are available. Flowers and herbs will be available in abundance. The biggest purchasing advantage is price. They’re less expensive than ordering and have no shipping costs.
For other desired varieties, you can go online, and search. A slight problem is that growers tend to name their own varieties, so you have to spend considerable time reading the specifics or each variety. Product catalogs are usually free. Two of the best include multiple vegetables/herbs/flowers, although they specialize in tomatoes and to a lesser extent, peppers. They are Totally Tomatoes and Tomato Growers. Tomato Growers, for example has enough tomato varieties (329!) that you would need over ten 100’ rows just to plant one of each variety! For dreamers, perhaps the best catalog is the baker seed catalog, which retails for around $14, but has information you just won’t find anywhere else. It’s often called the dreamers or droolers catalog!
Then, you can go online and type vegetable seed catalogs which will give you an exhaustive list. Again, they are nearly always free. PS. Don’t waste your time/money buying organic vegetable seeds. They have no advantage and exist primarily to fatten organic grower profits!!!
