Weekly Senior Center Activities with Meal A Day Menu for the Week of June 9th
June 5, 2025 – Check out what the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center has in store for the community this week, this month, and upcoming months! This post also includes the Meal A Day Menu for June 9th, 2025 through June 13th, 2025.
Double Honor: Paris Junior College Sweeps Region XIV Player of the Year Awards
June 4, 2025 – Paris, Texas – For the first time in school history, both the Region XIV Baseball and Softball Players of the Year hail from Paris Junior College, showcasing the exceptional talent and hard work of Dragon Athletics.
Sophomore Gabriela Sosa (San Antonio, TX) earned Region XIV Softball Player of the Year, while sophomore Dylan Schlotterback (Lakeway, TX) was named Region XIV Baseball Player of the Year.
“These two student-athletes have not only led their teams on the field but have represented PJC with pride, integrity, and excellence,” said PJC President Dr. Stephen Benson. “To have both Players of the Year from our college is a tremendous accomplishment and speaks to the strength of our programs, coaches, and student-athletes.”
Gabriela Sosa – A Season for the Record Books
Sosa led the Lady Dragons to a 50–9 season, a Region XIV Championship, and a trip to the NJCAA National Tournament in Yuma, Arizona. She leads the nation in home runs (40), RBIs (115), total bases (214), and slugging percentage (1.209), and recently became the NJCAA all time home run leader. Sosa was also named NJCAA First Team All-American, NFCA Catcher of the Year, and NFCA First Team All-American.
Dylan Schlotterback – Dominant at the Plate
Schlotterback powered the Dragons’ baseball season with elite performances on the infield and at the plate, earning him Region XIV North Player of the Year and Region XIV Player of the Year honors. He finished the year batting .389 while collecting 32 extra base hits, 81 RBI’s and 28 stolen bases. He anchored a group of eight All-Conference and five All-Region PJC baseball selections.
“These athletes set the standard for what it means to be a Dragon — fierce competitors, great teammates, and outstanding students,” said Head Baseball Coach and Athletic Director Clay Cox. “We’re incredibly proud of Dylan and Gabby for their leadership and their achievements. They’ve made history this year.”
With both teams making deep postseason runs and national headlines, the 2025 season stands out as one of the most successful years in Paris Junior College Athletics history. For more information, visit pjcathletics.com.
###
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Paris Junior College Softball Caps Historic Season with All-American Honors and National Recognition
June 4, 2025 – Paris, Texas — The Paris Junior College (PJC) Lady Dragons Softball team wrapped up a season for the history books with a trip to the NJCAA National Tournament and a cascade of national accolades, including five NFCA All-American selections and multiple honors for star catcher Gabriela Sosa.
This powerhouse squad not only claimed the Region XIV Championship and set program records but also made its mark on the national stage.
All-American Honors:
NJCAA First Team All-American
- Gabriela Sosa – Catcher
NFCA All-Americans
First Team:
- Gabriela Sosa – Catcher
- Sofia Hollingsworth – Second Base
- Jessica Battiste – Third Base
Second Team:
- Christi McGuire – Outfield
- Hadison Fults – Utility/Pitcher
NFCA Catcher of the Year:
- Gabriela Sosa
Season Highlights:
- National Tournament Appearance: Advanced to the NJCAA National Tournament, showcasing PJC’s talent on the national level.
- Record-Breaking Wins: Finished the season 50–11 — the most wins in program history.
- Offensive Dominance: Led the nation with 106 home runs and ranked 4th in the country with 497 RBIs.
- Academic Excellence: Posted a 3.95 team GPA, the highest ever for PJC Softball.
- Historic Individual Season: Gabriela Sosa became the NJCAA all-time home run leader (41), was named Region XIV and Conference Player of the Year, crowned PJC Homecoming Queen, and earned both NJCAA and NFCA First Team All-American honors — along with the title of NFCA Catcher of the Year.
- Well-Rounded Recognition: 21 players were honored as NFCA Scholar-Athletes.
- Staff Recognition: Coaching staff named NFCA Midwest Regional Coaching Staff of the Year.
“These young women have put in the work day in and day out, and it’s an incredible feeling to see that dedication recognized at the highest levels,” said Head Coach Shelby Shelton. “Making it to the national tournament, setting program records, and producing five All-Americans — it’s a season we’ll never forget.”
For more on the Lady Dragons’ historic season, visit pjcathletics.com.
###
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Dinner Bell for June 11, 2025
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
SPONSOR: SSCC Ladies Golf
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
Ladies that golf, eat and socialize together at the Sulphur Springs Country Club are in the Ladies Golf Association.
Sulphur Springs Country Club’s Ladies Golf Association (LGA) is proud to sponsor the Dinner Bell. This sponsorship is one of sev eral organizations they support throughout the year.
The LGA is a group of women who play every Wednesday at Sulphur Springs Country Club, and they enjoy golf almost as much as the fellowship the game brings. If you are interested in joining, please contact Jami Birdsong at (903) 272-2239.
We greatly appreciate their sponsorship to the Dinner Bell Ministry.
We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Salad Time Again with our famous summer dishes!
- Pimento—Chicken—Ham Salads
- On a bed of lettuce
- Tomato Salad
- Toasted Bread Sticks
- Do Nothing Cake
The Dinner Bell Ministry
First United Methodist Church
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
NCL Chosen as Best Cruise Line for Solo Travelers
June 5, 2025 – The best experiences last a lifetime – and solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travelers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you’ll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. Norwegian has doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across its fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family – or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony.
Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other solo cruisers.
If you prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind, Norwegian offers Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travelers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book — these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!
Why Cruise Solo?
Along with stylish Studio Staterooms, sailing solo with Norwegian Cruise Line also gives you private key card access to the Studio Lounge*, that’s exclusively available to Studio guests. Here you can enjoy complimentary coffee, espresso, and snacks throughout the day, relax with a book, watch the big-screen TV, or simply hang out while having a drink with your fellow Studio cruisers.
Solo cruise deals are available on all Norwegian ships fleetwide to all destinations worldwide!
*Studio Lounges are on select ships (Prima, Viva, Encore, Escape, Bliss, Breakaway, Getaway, Epic and Pride of America). Refreshments are not available in the Studio Lounge on Pride of America.
For the best deals on your solo adventure Email Sara at: [email protected]
Updated Travel Ban In Place For Several Countries
June 5, 2025 – In a renewed push to restrict immigration and travel, President Donald Trump issued a proclamation naming several countries whose citizens will face travel bans or heightened entry restrictions to the United States. The proclamation, framed as a national security measure, targets a total of 19 nations, citing concerns over terrorism, visa overstays, and failure to comply with U.S. information-sharing standards.
The countries fully banned under the order include Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Citizens from these nations will be barred from entering the U.S. in most visa categories, including immigrant and diversity visas, though limited humanitarian exceptions may apply.
In addition to these outright bans, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will face heightened restrictions. These include increased vetting, limited visa categories, or suspension of specific types of non-immigrant visas, such as student or business travel. Venezuela, for instance, has previously been targeted with tailored bans affecting government officials and their families.
“I must act to protect the national security and national interest of the United States and its people,” Trump stated in the proclamation. Supporters argue that the move strengthens border security and ensures cooperation from foreign governments. Critics, however, say it disproportionately impacts families and asylum seekers from politically unstable or economically challenged nations.
The new restrictions mark a continuation and expansion of Trump-era immigration policies and are expected to draw both domestic and international scrutiny in the months ahead.
Texas Ag Commissioner Praises ‘Historic Investment’ In Texas Water Infrastructure
June 6, 2025 – On June 5, 2025, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller praised the Texas Legislature’s passage of Senate Bill 7 and House Joint Resolution 7, calling it a “historic investment” in the state’s water future. The legislation expands the Texas Water Fund, a move Miller said is critical to supporting rural communities, agriculture, and long-term infrastructure needs.
“For years, Texas farmers, ranchers, and rural towns have faced mounting challenges due to water scarcity,” Miller said in a public statement. “This legislation delivers practical, on-the-ground solutions to ensure our most precious resource—water—is protected and available for future generations.”
SB 7 and HJR 7, championed by Senator Charles Perry and Representative Cody Harris, are designed to direct funding toward water infrastructure projects across the state, particularly in rural and agricultural regions. The bills include provisions to improve water storage, delivery systems, and drought preparedness while requiring greater transparency and accountability in how funds are used.
Commissioner Miller emphasized the importance of these bills to the agricultural sector, calling the legislation a “significant victory for Texas agriculture.” He noted that ensuring reliable water access is essential to keeping Texas a national leader in food production and rural economic growth.
“This ensures that our agricultural industry, small towns, and growing state have the water infrastructure necessary to thrive,” Miller said. “I will always advocate for rural Texas to secure the resources it needs to keep leading and feeding the world.”
The expanded Texas Water Fund is expected to provide billions in support for vital water projects statewide.
Trump DOJ Lawsuit Ends In-State Tuition For Illegal Aliens
June 6, 2025 – A longstanding Texas law allowing certain undocumented immigrants to receive in-state tuition at public colleges has come under legal fire. The federal Department of Justice recently filed a lawsuit challenging the policy, arguing it violates federal law and the U.S. Constitution’s Supremacy Clause. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton quickly settled the suit, agreeing to end the tuition program.
“Ending this discriminatory and un-American provision is a major victory for Texas.” – Ken Paxton
Since 2001, Texas has permitted undocumented students to qualify for in-state tuition if they attended Texas high schools and lived in the state for a defined period. This made Texas one of the first states to adopt such a policy. The tuition rate difference is substantial, with in-state rates significantly lower than what out-of-state U.S. citizens pay. During his 2012 presidential run, then-Governor Rick Perry vigorously defended the policy, calling critics “heartless.”
The lawsuit pointed to federal statutes that prohibit states from providing postsecondary education benefits based on residency to undocumented immigrants unless the same benefits are offered to all U.S. citizens, regardless of state residency. The DOJ argued, and Paxton concurred, that Texas’s policy conflicted with this federal provision.
Meanwhile, efforts to repeal the law through legislation also fell short. A bill authored by Sen. Mayes Middleton (R-Galveston) aimed to eliminate the program and restrict financial aid access to undocumented students. Although the measure was scheduled for consideration, it was never brought to a vote.
Increase In Toll Rates Coming July 1
June 4, 2025 – Drivers in North Texas will soon see a modest increase in toll rates starting July 1, as part of the North Texas Tollway Authority’s (NTTA) routine adjustment schedule. The cost per mile for drivers using a TollTag will rise from 21 cents to 22 cents—a slight but noticeable change for regular commuters. Those without a TollTag and instead relying on the ZipCash system will continue to pay roughly double the TollTag rate.
The NTTA adjusts toll rates every two years in accordance with a policy aimed at meeting the region’s long-term transportation and infrastructure needs. Officials say the increase is necessary to help maintain and expand toll roads, improve traffic flow, and ensure the safety and efficiency of the existing network.
Additionally, part of the revenue from this increase will go toward servicing approximately $8.8 billion in toll-related debt. These bonds have funded numerous construction and maintenance projects across the North Texas region.
While the adjustment may not significantly impact occasional drivers, it could add up for daily commuters. NTTA officials continue to encourage drivers to sign up for a TollTag to receive the lowest possible rates and streamline toll payments. As the region’s population and road use grow, toll adjustments are expected to remain a regular part of long-term planning.
Governor Abbott Announces Over $481 Million Awarded To Texas Teachers
June 4, 2025 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott today announced that more than $481 million in Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) funds were awarded for over 42,000 designated Texas teachers during the 2024-25 school year.
“Teachers play a key role in the success of Texas students and our great state,” said Governor Abbott. “With this over $481 million in merit pay, Texas is awarding thousands of teachers from every corner of our state with the pay raise they deserve—putting them on a path to earning a six-figure salary. And soon, Texas will invest even more in teachers, providing permanent pay raises for experienced classroom teachers. With empowered parents, exemplary teachers, and exceptional academics, Texas is on a path to be No. 1 in educating our children.”
Since 2019, TIA has awarded over $1 billion to highly effective and impactful teachers across the state. Designed to keep Texas’ best educators in the classroom, TIA provides a clear pathway for teachers to earn a six-figure salary. Participating school systems saw an impact on recruitment and retention, particularly those that have built or expanded their designation systems to include all teaching assignments, like fine arts, special education and career and technology courses. An internal analysis from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) found that teachers who received a TIA designation were retained nine percentage points higher than their non-designated peers.
School systems participating in TIA determine teacher designations using data from classroom observations and student academic growth outcomes. Designated teachers who remain in classroom teaching positions generate annual funding for teacher compensation. Districts may include all teachers in the first year of their local designation system, or they may choose to start with a smaller number of eligible teaching assignments and expand their system over time.
Historically, TIA designations fell into three groups: Recognized, Exemplary, and Master. Under House Bill 2, a new designation band – Acknowledged – will be established, making more teachers eligible for the allotment. The legislation will also increase the allotment amount for Recognized, Exemplary, and Master designations.
