Main Street Uncorked Presents $5,000 to Veterans’ Memorial
Jeana Penny presents 5,000 check from Main Street Uncorked a fundraiser for the Hopkins County Veterans’ Memorial.
NETBIO Anniversary Sale Averages $906.48 per Head
The cattle industry in Northeast Texas celebrated a milestone at the Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission Wednesday when the Northeast Texas Beef Improvement Organization (NETBIO) launched the beginning of its 20th year of operation with a big barbecue luncheon and a pre-conditioned calf and yearling sale.
NETBIO is a group of independent cow/calf producers and agribusiness representatives who work together to enhance the beef industry in Northeast Texas. The organization is recognized across the State of Texas and the Southern United States as the leader in its reputable offering of pre-conditioned calves.
The anniversary celebration kicked off with a barbecue meal that was enjoyed by approximately 475 producers, buyers, family and friends. Following the lunch, auctioneer Joe Don Pogue gaveled the sale of 7,758 head of cattle into action.
BIDDING GOES ON Auctioneer and Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission co-owner Joe Don Pogue, at the microphone, takes bids on a pen of Tiger stripe heifers during Wednesday’s NETBIO pre-conditioned cattle sale.
“It was a very good sale to mark the anniversary of NETBIO,” Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission co-owner and NETBIO board member said. “There were producers and buyers here from throughout the region and from the adjoining states.”
Fowler said the 246 producers who consigned cattle to the sale did their usual great job of pre-conditioning their cattle and getting them ready for the sale. He added that the demand was good and the cattle sold at a premium. A total of 38 buyers paid an average of $906.48 per head.
“There was a lot of interest from the buyers — both those at the sale and several who were buying over the Internet,” Fowler said.
Those who missed this sale have an opportunity to attend a second NETBIO anniversary sale on November 29 at the Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission.
Due to the increased demand that made it necessary to close the consignment books early on the Nov. 15 sale, NETBIO directors scheduled this second sale, which will be offering over 7,000 head of pre-conditioned cattle. This second edition of the anniversary-month sale will begin at 1 p.m.
The next regularly scheduled NETBIO sale will be held on January 17. The deadline for weaning calves for that sale is Dec. 3, and the booster shot deadline is Dec. 18.
QUALITY CATTLE A total of 7,758 head of pre-conditioned cattle like these sold at the NETBIO anniversary sale this week. Another special NETBIO sale, with over 7,000 head consigned, will be held Wednesday, Nov. 29, at 1 p.m. at the Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission.
Lovejoy Head Coach Resume Includes UT Quarterback; Offensive Coordinator for Southlake Carroll, UNT
The Wildcats play Lovejoy Friday at Prim Stadium in a bi-district match and the Leopards head coach is Todd Ford, in his second year. The former University of Texas quarterback in the `90s was the offensive cooordinator for Coach Todd Dodge at Southlake Carroll and the University of North Texas. Coach Ford also built the program at Round Rock Cedar Ridge leading them to the playoffs for three straight years before coming to Lovejoy.
This year Lovejoy is 5-5, just like the Wildcats. They lost five but have won the last five. Plagued by injuries and a tough schedule that include playoff teams Argyle, Frisco Wakeland, Frisco Lone Star and Highland Park, the Leopards went 0-5. After a bye week, they got healthier and have won five straight including victories over playoff teams North Forney and Mesquite Poteet.
Lovejoy’s quarterback is Carson Collins, who was injured early. Coach Ford said he is benefiting from starting ten games last season as a sophomore. Receiver Chase Van Wagoner is heading to TCU. On defense, the Leopards leader is Arkansas commit Bumper Pool, their senior middle linebacker. Coach Ford said the Wildcats are well coached and they are playing very hard. He said the Wildcats are also on a winning streak and are playing with confidence. Coach Ford said the opportunity is there for a really good football game to take place Friday night.
Miss Rodeo America, Lisa Lageschaar, Comes Home to Hopkins County
At age 26, Miss Lisa Lageschaar whose home is Pickton, Texas is about to hang up her crown and banner because she has already achieved the pinnacle of Rodeo Royalty in the United States. As Miss Rodeo America 2017, she has served as the top representative of the PRCA Rodeo world wearing the crown she earned at National Finals Rodeo in December 2016. Lisa sat down with Enola Gay in the Channel 18 TV studio for a rare hometown interview about her amazing career.
Although raised on a dairy farm, Lisa always had a horse to ride, running barrels and roping in Mt. Vernon and Winnsboro rodeos and jackpots. At age 14, she became interested in the role that college scholarship money plays in wearing a crown and sash. She was crowned Miss UPRA in the Civic Center arena in Hopkins County seven years ago during the United Professional Rodeo Association Finals. She next set her sights on the title of Miss Rodeo Austin while in college there, and in achieving that, she decided to go for Miss Rodeo Texas. She did not win on her first attempt at the state title and taking that as a sign, went back to teaching public school Ag classes at New Boston, Texas. However, when school dismissed that summer, she followed her heart and tried again, this time earning the Miss Rodeo Texas title during the San Antonio Fat Stock Show in 2016. She traveled extensively, making public speaking appearances and riding in rodeos across Texas for one year, then prayerfully approached the idea of running for the national title. Always with her parents support, Lisa competed in Las Vegas’ NFR last December and ended up winning not only the appearance, personality and written portions of the contest but the coveted title of Miss Rodeo America for 2017. One year and thousands of miles later, she is now set to get back on track to obtain her doctorate in Educational Leadership, because teaching is in her heart. Meanwhile, she is happy to be spending a little downtime at November’s end back home with her family in Hopkins County.
Lisa has a Master of Education in Secondary Education from Stephen F. Austin State University and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Tarleton State University. Lisa plans to obtain a doctorate in Educational Leadership to continue to provide the best opportunities possible for our youth. As a member of the Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas, American Quarter Horse Association and Texas CattleWomen, and a graduate of the Masters of Beef Advocacy Lisa is passionate about agriculture and the western lifestyle.
“I firmly believe that our youth are our future. My main goal is to make a positive difference in the lives of others. I am honored to represent the western and agriculture industries and the cowboys and cowgirls who keep our western traditions alive. The equine and agriculture industries have brought me more joy and happiness than I could have ever imagined, and it is my calling to give back to the industries that have given me everything by serving as an enthusiastic, proud representative.”
Lisa has been an active member in her community, giving back to the local youth through programs like Future Farmers of America and 4-H. She has mentored many students on public speaking, veterinary science, floriculture, horse evaluation, livestock judging and more. Being a positive example is important to Lisa and this belief is what lead her to pursue her chosen profession as an educator. Not only does she teach on the importance of agriculture as it relates to our future, but she also strives to instill values like humility, hard work, and integrity. When time allows Lisa competes in team roping, barrel racing, and enjoys working on the family dairy farm.
“As a first generation American, and someone who did not come from an equestrian background, I quickly found a way into the equine industry. Through my experience and education I have evolved into a woman who is passionate about horses, rodeo, agriculture, and the western way of life. I was not chosen by this lifestyle, but I chose to make it my lifestyle. As Miss Rodeo America I will be able to serve as a spokeswoman on a larger scale, as a living example of how it doesn’t matter where someone comes from or what their circumstances are – anyone can accomplish anything they put their mind to.”
KSST’s Enola Gay with Miss Rodeo America Lisa Lageschaar at home in Hopkins County at the Channel 18 TV studio during November 2017
Froeschle Keynote Speaker for 2017 Economic Outlook Conference
2017 Economic Outlook Conference will feature Richard Froeschle, current Labor Market Economist, as keynote speaker. The event, sponsored by the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce and Sulphur Springs/Hopkins County Economic Development Corporation, is set for Wednesday, December 6th.
Chamber Executive Lezley Brown stated that Froeschle will bring a new voice and opinion to the Economic Conference. Froeschle currently is working in a consulting capacity performing keynote and related public presentations on a wide range of topics including all aspects of labor market and career information, education and workforce skill analysis and labor market trends. He formerly served as the Director of the Labor Market and Career Information Department (LMCI) of the Texas Workforce Commission. His primary expertise is in regional labor market analysis, interpretation and application of labor market information for education and workforce planning, and making public presentations on state and regional labor market trends as they relate to education, workforce and economic development policy. Additional areas of interest and experience include education and workforce policy, state and federal grants administration, job matching and skill analysis, career progressions development, and assessment of occupational supply and demand. Resume includes over 38 years in the application or labor market information for education and employment and training policy, over 25 years of progressive management experience, and over 440 presentations in the past decade on all aspects of the Texas economy for various audiences and in diverse venues across Texas and nationally.
The luncheon will take place at the Hopkins County Civic Center from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. Tickets for the event are $20.
Chamber Connection November 16, 2017
I’m excited to let you know that we have begun work on the 2018 Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Directory. We distribute over 7,000 of these directories to visitors, relocation hopefuls, and even home town 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. Echo Publishing creates this book for us. LeeAnn Peugh, with Echo Publishing, will be contacting you in the next few weeks to see if you are interested in placing an ad in the directory. The rates are affordable, and one of the best ways to represent your business. We redesigned the 2017 directory to look more like a beautiful magazine, and 2018 will follow suit. I hope you will consider this a wise investment with over 7,000 opportunities for business exposure. You may also contact the Chamber, and I will pass your information along to her. I’m proud to produce this book telling all about the place we love. I hope you will join me in the journey!
We have an announcement regarding stew t-shirts. We have a few of the Come and Taste It t-shirts left unpurchased in each size at the Chamber. We’d like to clear these out, so we are selling them for $8.00 each. If you missed purchasing your shirts on Stew Contest day, give us a call at the Chamber! We’ll get your order ready where you can just pop in and grab them. Call quickly before they are all gone! (903) 885-6515.
Wesley United Methodist Church is hosting their Fall Roundup
Wesley United Methodist Church, located at 614 Texas Street in Sulphur Springs, is hosting their 39th Annual Fall Roundup on Saturday, November 18th. The Country Store will be open from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the service of stew and chili from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., silent auction from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and the live auction will begin at 6:30 p.m. Child care is available. Ticket prices are $6.00 for adults, $4.00 for children ten and under, and free for kids five and under. Don’t miss this!!!
7th Annual Turkey Trot scheduled for Thanksgiving Day on Celebration Plaza
Get ready to make room for your Thanksgiving meal by participating in the 7th Annual Turkey Trot on Thursday, November 23rd, on Celebration Plaza. The 5K Run/Walk will begin at 8 a.m. with a $30 entry fee. The 10K Run will also begin at 8 a.m. with a $40 entry fee. Pace for the 10K is 12 minutes per mile. There is also a Kids Fun Run at 7:30 a.m. for ages 10 and under. Entry fee for the Fun Run is $5. Packet pick-up is scheduled for Wednesday, November 22nd, at the ROC from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Heritage Park will host Christmas in the Park on Saturday, November 25th at 6:00 p.m.
The Hopkins County Historical Society presents Christmas in the Park on Saturday, November 25, and Saturday, December 2, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission is $3.00, and children under seven are free. Visit with Santa, see the light displays, listen to live music, enjoy hot cocoa, old-fashioned cider, coffee and cookies, and begin your Christmas shopping in the Country Store.
Lion’s Club will host the 10th Annual Christmas Parade on Friday, December 1st at 6:30 p.m.
The Lion’s Club is hosting the 10th Annual Christmas Parade presented by Carriage House Manor on Friday, December 1st at 6:30 p.m. The parade begins at Buford Park and goes East on Connally Street to the square. It turns left onto Church Street and left on Houston Street to end in the Gerald Prim Stadium parking lot. Line-up begins at 3:00 p.m. on December 1st. You may pick up registration forms and rules at the Chamber of Commerce. The entry fee is one toy, to be donated to the Blue Santa Program. Charitable cash donations also accepted, and checks should be made payable to the Sulphur Springs Lions Club. Registration forms must be received by noon on Tuesday, November 28.
Help Blue Santa Build His Float
Christmas Light Parade spectators are encouraged to bring a toy or financial donation to the parade for the Blue Santa program and can be turned in either at the Hopkins County Courthouse before the parade, or during the parade to the Blue Santa trailer. The Blue Santa program is a partnership between the Hopkins County Law Enforcement Association and the Sulphur Springs Law Enforcement Association to provide Christmas gifts and financial support to needy families during the Christmas season. Thank you for your generosity to this worthwhile program.
Ribbon Cuttings:
Danna’s hosted a grand re-opening
Danna’s Southern Charm & The Florist celebrated their re-grand opening and ribbon cutting at noon on Tuesday, November 14th, at their new location, 438 Gilmer Street in Sulphur Springs. They also introduced Danna’s Flea Market Style & Swap, featuring the Buffalo Girls, on the 2nd weekend of April and the 2nd weekend of November in Sulphur Springs, and the 2nd weekend of October in Winnsboro.
A Christmas “Feast of Favorites” Onstage December 2,3 By Northeast Texas Choral Society
It’s hard to believe, admits Carol Ruth Allen, Director of the Northeast Texas Choral Society, but “her baby” is 20 years old in 2017. Shortly after getting settled in Sulphur Springs, the classically-trained choral teacher’s dream for community chorale began to morph into an idea which she prayerfully nurtured It then became a concept which her husband, family and friends embraced as well. In 1997, Carol’s concept of the community choir became flesh and blood when 100 local singers joined during the first round of auditions. Over the years, the NETCS Board of Directors has consistently lent talent of every description to the success of the project. Today the Choral Society is a solid reality for everyone in and around the Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County community who enjoys choral performance with two concerts per year.
The public is invited to celebrate and enjoy the “Feast of Favorites” Christmas Concert in two performances … Saturday December 2 at 7 pm and Sunday December 3 at 2 pm…. on the stage of the SSHS Auditorium of the Civic Center in Sulphur Springs. Tickets are $12 per adult and tickets for children age 12 and under are $5, available from Choral Society singers and at local banks. Children are encouraged to come so that they may be exposed to this type of musical art. A season ticket option is offered this year as well, at $20. Find out more and purchase tickets for the concert at netchoral.org
Carol’s belief in personal and community enrichment through this form of art and culture is deeply rooted. Here is an excerpt from the website. “Attending a live performance of any kind is a unique experience in and of itself. When you visit a NETCS concert, your gift is hearing rich, quality choral arrangements presented by 100 voices in an artistically designed manner that allows for an exchange with the audience. This interaction of performance and reception gives life to music in a way no recording can. Expect to lose your breath with the melody. Prepare to connect with the music. Watch for surprises! Following concert, we often hear from first-time audience members, ‘I’ll never miss another show.’ We think you will agree.”
New singers are always being sought. Watch for the next round of auditions in 2018 as the Spring show is planned. Auditions and rehearsals are held at First United Methodist Church, 301 Church Street in Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Director Carol Ruth Allen with board members Kacey Batterton and Carol Ann O’Dell
Death of Inmate Under Investigation
On the morning of Tuesday, November 14, 2017, a Hopkins County Jailer delivering breakfast to an inmate found the inmate breathing but unresponsive, according to Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum. Melvin Williams, 60, was transported to CHRISTUS Mother Francis Sulphur Springs who sent him to Tyler. At the Tyler hospital, Williams died.
Sheriff Tatum said he does not know the cause of death or why the local hospital forwarded Williams to Tyler. He awaits the final reports from the autopsy and inquest in Tyler. Texas Rangers are investigating the death, which is normal procedure for the death of an inmate in the local jail.
Williams was described by the Sheriff as a nice guy that had turned himself in for a 10-day commitment for Delivery of Marijuana. Williams had been in and out of the Hopkins County jail over the past 40 years beginning with his first charge for Transport Alcohol in a Dry Area.
