Wood County Sheriff’s Report July 26-31, 2017
July 26th
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on HWY 37 near Mineola; at approximately 3:03 a.m. The individual was located and everything was cleared.
At 6:34 a.m., cows were reported out on FM 515 near Yantis.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 6304 near Mineola, at approximately 6:55 a.m., in reference to an alarm. The actor was located near the reporting party’s property. Dustin Sewell, 34, of Mineola, was arrested for Criminal Trespass of Habitation/Shelter/Superfund Site/Infrastructure Facility.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 9:03 a.m., in reference to criminal mischief. A known actor damaged a gate, but deputies were advised it was accidental.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 4495 near Winnsboro, at approximately 9:07 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2503 near Mineola, at approximately 9:22a.m., in reference to a theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole several firearms from the reporting party’s residence. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on FM 515 near Yantis, at approximately 3:36 p.m. The vehicle was located and everything was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 14 near Hawkins, at approximately 9:40 p.m., in reference to reckless driving. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2180 near Quitman, at approximately 9:56 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
At 11:35 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 14/CR 3153 near Quitman.
July 27th
Deputies went out on an Arrest/Warrant Service to HWY 37 near Mineola, at approximately 8:14 a.m. Charity Lewis, 22, of Mineola, was arrested for outstanding warrants.
Deputies went out on an Arrest/Warrant Service to Humble St. near Hawkins; at approximately 2:09 p.m. Deputies searched the area but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an Arrest/Warrant Service to Harris Lane near Yantis; at approximately 2:31 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies went out on an Arrest/Warrant Service to Richards St. near Quitman; at approximately 3:20 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3440 near Hawkins, at approximately 5:16 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to Holly Trail near Hawkins, at approximately 6:32 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to Walnut St. near Yantis, at approximately 6:41 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to Jeanelle St. near Quitman, at approximately 6:45 p.m., in reference to a burglary. Deputies checked the area and the scene was cleared.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 7:59 p.m., in reference to a burglary of a vehicle. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a purse out of the reporting party’s vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Mineola, at approximately 8:32 p.m., in reference to a theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a wallet out of the reporting party’s vehicle.
At 8:54 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 69/South of FM 515.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 2869 near Winnsboro; at approximately 11:49 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
July 28th
Deputies were dispatched to Lake Holbrook, at approximately 1:00 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies located individuals and cleared the scene without incident.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person at Lake Holbrook; at approximately1:24 a.m. Deputies located the individuals and cleared the scene without incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2110 near Quitman, at approximately 1:32 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area and everything was OK.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on FM 852 near Winnsboro, at approximately 9:41 a.m. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2636 near Mineola, at approximately 10:28 a.m., in reference to a welfare check. The individual was located and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2180 near Quitman, at approximately 12:08 p.m., in reference to burglary of habitation. A known actor broke into the reporting party’s residence and stole several items.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2745 near Mineola, at approximately 1:04 p.m., in reference to reckless driving. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 69 near Alba, at approximately 4:02 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
At 6:00 p.m., horses were reported out on HWY 69 near Alba.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 14 near Hawkins, at approximately 8:56 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the building was secure.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on HWY 154 near Quitman; at approximately 11:29 p.m., due to a traffic violation. Shelby Chandler, 22, of Quitman, was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated.
July 29th
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1660 near Alba, at approximately 1:34 a.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies located the noise, and advised the owners of the house to turn the music down.
At 9:52 a.m., cows were reported out on HWY 37/North of CR 4836 near Winnsboro.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 1801 near Mineola, at approximately 12:18 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3230 near Quitman, at approximately 12:54 p.m., in reference to criminal mischief. Actors, or actors unknown, damaged the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to Holly Trail near Hawkins, at approximately 3:28 p.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies cleared the scene and everything was OK.
Deputies were dispatched to PR 6325 near Mineola, at approximately 7:16 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the building was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2148 near Quitman, at approximately 10:05 p.m., in reference to reckless driving. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3540 near Hawkins, at approximately 10:53 p.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. Elias Vasquez, 33, of Gilmer, was arrested for Assault.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on Sioux near Quitman, at approximately 11:25 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
July 30th
At 12:01 a.m., cows were reported out on CR 1810 near Yantis.
At 7:19 a.m., horses were reported out on HWY 37 North near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to Sioux near Quitman, at approximately 10:17 a.m., in reference to a theft. A known actor stole electricity from the resident’s meter box. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies spoke with the reporting party over the phone, at approximately 12:27 p.m., regarding a theft that occurred on HWY 80 near Mineola. Known actors stole building materials from the reporting party’s property. This case has been forwarded to investigators.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2088 near Quitman, at approximately 12:57 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
At 7:32 p.m., horses were reported out on FM 2869 near Winnsboro.
At 8:12 p.m., cows were reported out on FM 312 near Winnsboro.
At 9:35 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 1413 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to FM 2088 near Winnsboro, at approximately 10:22 p.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
July 31st
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2660 near Mineola, at approximately 12:23 a.m., in reference to a disturbance. Deputies were advised it was a verbal altercation only and the scene was cleared without incident.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 1660 near Alba, at approximately 1:36 a.m., in reference to a noise complaint. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2317 near Mineola, at approximately 3:02 a.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the building was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to 1686 near Alba, at approximately 5:20 a.m., in reference to suspicious circumstances. Deputies checked the area, but were unable to locate any activity.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 3909 near Winnsboro; at approximately 9:00 a.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 2:09 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties were separated for the night.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on CR 2263 near Mineola, at approximately 4:23 p.m., due to the driver appearing to be lost. Josefina Camacho, 29, of Mineola, was arrested for Public Intoxication.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 4:24 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the building was secure.
Deputies were dispatched to Sunrise Lane near Hawkins, at approximately 7:28 p.m., in reference to a welfare check. Deputies located the individual and everything was OK.
Deputies conducted a traffic stop on CR 2298 near Alba, at approximately 7:48 p.m., due to a warrant showing up under the owner of the vehicle. Drug paraphernalia and marijuana were located inside the vehicle and confiscated. Zachary Tucker, 20, of Alba, was arrested for Possession of Marijuana and an outstanding warrant.
At 8:16 p.m., horses were reported out on HWY 69 near Alba.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 1801 near Yantis; at approximately 11:14 p.m. Deputies located the individual and everything was cleared.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle at Lake Winnsboro; at approximately 11:25 p.m. Deputies located the vehicle and cleared the scene without incident.
August 1st
Deputies were dispatched to PR 5750 near Yantis, at approximately 5:55 a.m., in reference to an assault that occurred. Lance Stewart, 48, of Yantis, was arrested for Assault Causes Bodily Injury Family Violence.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 3859 near Hawkins, at approximately 8:44 a.m., in reference to an inquest. A male, 71, was found deceased in his residence. An autopsy was ordered by the Justice of the Peace.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 154 near Quitman, at approximately 9:28 a.m., in reference to theft. Actors, or actors unknown, stole a paint sprayer from the reporting party’s property.
Deputies went out on an Arrest/Warrant Service to Apple St. near Winnsboro; at approximately 12:31 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2745 near Mineola, at approximately 12:53 p.m., in reference to a dispute. Parties separated, prior to the deputies’ arrival.
Deputies were dispatched to CR 2164 near Quitman, at approximately 3:01 p.m., in reference to an alarm. Deputies checked the area and the building was secure.
At 4:31 p.m., cows were reported out on HWY 154 near Yantis.
At 5:52 p.m., cows were reported out on CR 4186 near Quitman.
Deputies were dispatched to HWY 80 near Mineola, at approximately 6:25 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 Lake Hawkins; at approximately 8:46 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to make contact with the individual.
Deputies responded to a suspicious person on CR 2910 near Mineola; at approximately 9:07 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the individual.
Deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle on Indian Gap near Quitman; at approximately 9:45 p.m. Deputies searched the area, but were unable to locate the vehicle.
Between the dates of July 26th and August 1st, Wood County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to multiple agency assists that included the following: Police Departments, Emergency Medical Services, Montgomery County and Child Protective Services.
Total Jail Count – 148` prisoners – 118 males and 30 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.
Johanna and Mario Host Extension Leadership Workshop
On Thursday August 3, the Hopkins County extension agents hosted a fun and fast-moving workshop for Extension leaders. About two dozen individuals and committee members were present, representing various aspects of Extension projects including 4-H, Master Gardener, Wellness /Nutrition and Special Events.
The meeting’s purpose was to dispense information and to gather information. According to a census of attendees, radio and e-mail are the preferred mediums for receiving information about Extension activities. Agent Johanna Hicks asked to suggest future programs that would fill local needs, and to be willing to mentor new 4H programs that may help youth. One of the guidelines of new programs is an 8-task learning requirement. Reports given to leaders showed that over 500 hours in volunteer services were logged during 2016, with that number is expected to increase for 2017. Another report showed the BLT program, or Better Living for Texans, provides $1200 annually for expenses for local nutrition education programs. Another report showed that the relatively new Fee-Based extension programs require attendees to remit $10 which the College Station headquarters uses to offset wages paid to extension employees. Extension Agent Mario Villarino said that the annual Hay Show, which is an Ag Extension program held in the Fall, is in need of support by new producers as it’s population is aging.
Those present enjoyed a healthy meal prepared by the agents, and entertaining role-play exercise and door prize give-aways based on facts learned at the meeting. Everyone also met Extension intern Aida Ugalde, who will graduate from Texas A and M Commerce with studies in Health Promotions. The public is invited to get involved with Extension office efforts to serve local needs. The agents welcome suggestions, assistance and leadership by volunteers! Pick up a list of upcoming programs and activities already in place that you can join at the Hopkins County Agri-Life Extension office at 1200 West Houston Street in Sulphur Springs or phone 903-885-3443.

Johanna with Intern Aida Ugalde
It’s Official: August 3rd HC Sweetees Proclaimed World Champs
By Savannah Owens
The Hopkins County Sweetees are back from Alexandria Louisiana with a huge trophy and even bigger smiles. These girls had a 14-0 record, and were undefeated for the entire season. Hopkins County Judge Newsom issued a proclamation at 4:30 pm at the County Courthouse where he dedicated August third to the official Hopkins County Sweetees World Champs. Head Coach Tanner Ragan, and Assistant Coaches Andy Taylor and Geoff Thompson were there to commemorate this terrific accomplishment. The crowd was huge- showing Hopkins County is proud of our girls!
This team of 12, consists of 5 and 6 year old girls who love to play softball. Their practice routines for the big game was 2-3 days a week for a month and a half. All their hard work definitely paid off!
KSST talked to the team members to find out their favorite part of Softball or the Big Game.
Shaelee Davis said she enjoyed “hitting and catching balls on 1st base.”
Sarah Pickering’s favorite moment was when she “tagged a girl out.”
Allyson Dykes favorite memory was “winning.”
Chloe Johnson’s favorite part of softball was “making three home runs.”
Ayla Oud enjoyed “hitting the ball.”
Ramsey Ragan’s favorite part of the big game was “when we won the World Series.”
Mya Underwood liked “Batting.”
Georgia Bradford’s favorite moment was “when I hit a home run.”
Peyton Taylor’s favorite part of softball was “catching the balls in the air.”
Maggie Thompson enjoyed “when we won.”
Presley Hunt’s favorite memory was “hitting a winning run in a game.”
Unfortunately Coach Ladaruis Harrison and team member Kylee Harrison were unable to attend the ceremony.
Tira News August 4, 2017
by Jan Vaughn
A memorial service for Floyd Benefield is planned for Sunday, August 13th, at 2:00 p.m., at the Tira Community Center. A light meal will be served. Sandwiches and cookies will be provided and community members are encouraged to bring salads or chips and dips. Please be in prayer for the family.
Teachers, aides, and other staff will be returning to work at North Hopkins School next week. New teacher orientation is Monday, August 7th, and others begin on Tuesday. Students return for classes on Monday, August 21st.
About 40 people gathered at the Tira Community Center for the Ice Cream Social on Saturday, July 29th. A good time was had by all.
Chip, Tiffany, and I met Delayne at Razoo’s Cajun Café in Mesquite on Tuesday night. We had a delicious meal and good visit in celebration of Delayne’s birthday.
I guess not much is going on in our community this week. I hope to have more to report next time.
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].
This Bug is Back and Looking for Blood
By Savannah Owens
There have been 19 confirmed cases and counting of the Zika Virus in Texas this year. In 2016 Texas had 370 cases of West Nile Virus, which is also becoming a threat in Texas in 2017 as mosquito season has hit it’s peak time. People can hardly go outside to check their mail without being bitten.
While most people who contract West Nile Virus don’t have symptoms, about 20% of people will face fever, body aches, nausea and flu-like symptoms. 1% of infections are considered sever and can be life threatening.
People with the Zika Virus have many similar symptoms as West Nile Virus, such as fever and aching joints. A differentiation is that the Zika virus symptoms contain red-eyes and a rash. Pregnant Women should be especially careful as the Zika Virus has been linked to many birth defects.
If you find yourself with any of these symptoms consult a medical professional immediately.
Here are some tips from the Texas Department of State Health and Human Service and KSST Family to help prevent getting bitten and keep you safe:
- Use EPA-approved insect repellent (something with permethrin or DEET) every time you go outside.
- Keep air conditioning, windows, and door screens in good repair to keep mosquitoes out.
- Limit outdoor activities during peak mosquito times. (Dusk and Dawn)
- Cover exposed skin with long pants and long-sleeved shirts (or use bug spray) whenever possible.
- Remove standing water in and around homes, including in trash cans, toys, tires, flower pots, and any other containers so mosquitoes can’t lay their eggs.
- Using a larvicide in water containers that can’t be drained to keep mosquitoes from developing into biting adults.
- Keep plants and bushes trimmed to prevent areas mosquitoes can congregate.
- Make sure to change out the water in pet water bowls every day to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.
- Clean out your gutters to make sure rain can flow easily, and not leave lingering water for mosquitoes to breed.
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital-Sulphur Springs Honors Extraordinary Nurses with Daisy Award
August 3, 2017 – Nurses at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs (CMFH-SS) are being honored with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s program to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day.
The first award recipient is Ryan Jones, RN on the Medical/Surgical Floor for his attentiveness to patient needs and always creating a soothing and safe environment.
The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation is based in Glen Ellen, CA, and was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.
Nurses may be nominated by patients, families, and colleagues and they are chosen by a committee of nurses at CMFH-SS to receive The DAISY Award. Recipients are chosen twice a year and presentations are given in front of the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, and visitors. Each Honoree receives a certificate commending her or him for being an “Extraordinary Nurse.” The certificate reads: “In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people.” The Honoree will also be given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa.
Said Bonnie Barnes, FAAN, President and Co-Founder of The DAISY Foundation, “When Patrick was critically ill, our family experienced first-hand the remarkable skill and care nurses provide patients every day and night. Yet these unsung heroes are seldom recognized for the super-human work they do. The kind of work the nurses at CMFH-SS are called on to do every day epitomizes the purpose of The DAISY Award.”
Said Chief Nursing Officer Anitha Sanderson, “We are proud to be among the healthcare organizations participating in the DAISY Award program. Nurses are heroes every day. It’s important that our nurses know their work is highly valued, and The DAISY Foundation provides a way for us to do that.”
For a complete listing of healthcare organizations currently running the program, please go to http://DAISYfoundation.or
This is one initiative of The DAISY Foundation in service to the nursing profession. Additionally, DAISY offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, The DAISY Faculty Award to honor inspiring faculty members in schools and colleges of nursing, and The DAISY in Training Award for nursing students. More information is available at http://DAISYfoundation.org.
For 68 years, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs has made a vow to lead the charge to create healthy lives for the people and communities of the Sulphur Springs area and across Northeast Texas by extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our nurses keep that promise every day by providing the compassionate, sophisticated, award-winning care you have come to expect. Our journey is just beginning, and we invite you to join us. Follow CHRISTUS as We Follow CHRISTUS.
Something’s Fishy…or Not By Johanna Hicks
Something’s Fishy…or Not
You have probably heard that the recommendation for fish consumption is two times a week. Sometimes, that is easier said than done. Some people are afraid of cooking seafood because of the food safety aspect. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension can help you so you can confidently cook seafood safely with these tips!
1) Avoid cross-contamination. Handle raw and cooked seafood products separately. Thoroughly clean and rinse your work space between each step. This includes, cleaning knives, cutting boards, and containers used during preparation. Plexiglas or plastic cutting boards are preferred over wooden cutting boards that cannot be sanitized properly. Keep raw and cooked seafood from coming in contact with each other.
2) Cook fish and seafood thoroughly. Fish is cooked when it turns opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Follow processor’s directions when preparing frozen, packaged seafood products.
Extension’s “Dinner Tonight” has a multitude of fish and seafood recipes. The featured ingredient of the week is salmon. When selecting salmon, look for bright, firm, orange-pink flesh in fresh salmon. Salmon is high in protein and Vitamin D, and is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 3’s from food have been studied thoroughly and are found to hold numerous benefits, including eye and heart health, and they may improve brain, joint, and bone health, among other benefits.
One of the staple items that you will find in my pantry is canned salmon. Salmon patties are easy to make and very economical. Try this recipe for a tasty main dish.
Ingredients:
– One (14.75 ounce) can reduced-sodium salmon, drained and flaked
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup egg substitute (or use one raw egg)
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded, reduced-fat cheddar cheese
– 1 Tablespoon dried parsley
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 Tablespoon shredded or grated Parmesan cheese, for coating
Directions:
1) Combine salmon, lemon juice, bread crumbs, Worcestershire sauce, egg, onion, cheddar cheese, parsley, garlic powder, and black pepper; mix well.
2) Shape into four large patties.
3) Dust lightly with parmesan cheese.
4) Chill for 20 minutes.
5) Lightly coat baking sheet with cooking spray.
6) Bake at 375° for 20 minutes, 10 minutes on each side of the patty.
Nutrition information:
Calories 220, Calories from Fat 70, Total Fat 8g, Saturated Fat 2.5g, Cholesterol 60mg, Sodium 240mg, Total Carbohydrate 12g, Dietary Fiber 1g, Sugars 2g, Protein 25g
If you want an idea for a very quick, simple recipe, try Apple Tuna Salad, using a 12-ounce can of tuna (canned in water), and add one small chopped apple, ¼ cup fat-free or low-fat vanilla yogurt, and 1 teaspoon each of honey and mustard. Combine ingredients and serve on whole wheat bread or crackers. This recipe makes about 3 servings.
For more recipes using fish and seafood, go to Extension’s Dinner Tonight website, at http://Dinnertonight.tamu.edu. You will also see options to watch recipe demonstration videos and sign up for weekly e-mail blasts.
Save $60 on a Marriage License
August slipped up on me and I need to get busy on marketing some upcoming programs! Twogether in Texas Marriage Education Workshop will take place on Saturday, July 26, at the Extension Office, 1200 W. Houston Street (next door to the Southwest Dairy Museum). We will start at 8:30 a.m. and end at approximately 3:30 p.m. The workshop is free and lunch will be provided. However, I DO need couples to call to reserve seats so I can make adequate preparations – 903-885-3443.
Engaged couples will be given a certificate to save $60 upon applying for a marriage license. The State of Texas has determined that couples who start off on a strong footing have stronger marriages, and that is the purpose of this workshop! Married couples are also welcome to attend.
Topics covered will be marriage expectations, communication, conflict resolution, money management, and goals & dreams. Water, coffee, and refreshments will also be provided, but please call!
Cooking Well with Diabetes
The revised curriculum is finally here! If you or someone you know would like to learn more about preparing healthy, diabetic-friendly meals, this series is for you! The four-lesson series is scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays, September 12, 14, 19, and 21, at the Extension Office. A fee of $25, payable at the first session, will cover materials, recipe demonstrations and sampling, door prizes, and great information for preparing delicious, nutritious, healthy meals. Please call 903-885-3443 to sign up.
Closing Thought
I’m blessed by the number of people who told me they missed my column last week. I was on a much-needed family vacation, but I’m back in town now. Thanks for your kind comments!

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]
Evaluating Weed Control: Sprayer Calibration By Mario Villarino
Evaluating weed control: sprayer calibration
Weed control relies in proper weed identification, proper method of control, herbicide selection (if applicable), time of application and proper delivery of the herbicide. Must of the weed control is more successful when weeds are small, but weeds are harder to identify when immature. Also, high temperatures and older weeds require more herbicide to accomplish the goal. At this time of the year, must of our producers have completed must of the spring herbicide application and are evaluating their success or failure and often the equipment (quality, current usage, etc) become a question specially if the weeds are not controlled. In herbicide- based weed control methods, sprayer calibration is important. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, if you apply too much herbicide, costs can become excessive; you may be in violation of the label; and you might cause environmental damage. If you apply too little herbicide, the weeds may not be controlled adequately. Many sprayer calibration methods are available and can be used successfully. The Weed Busters procedure is relatively fast and simple and can be used for most spray systems. To properly calibrate your sprayer, follow the four simple steps below.
1) Determine Speed: If your tractor speedometer is accurate, you can skip this step.
The speedometers of most “standard equipment” all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are inaccurate at low speeds. If the spray vehicle is equipped with a tachometer, you can use it to set and hold an accurate speed. If not, you may need to buy an after-market speedometer. To determine the correct number of miles per hour (mph), set two stakes 88 feet apart on terrain similar to application site. Hold the throttle at a defined rpm (revolutions per minute) and gear, and record in seconds the amount of time it takes to drive 88 feet. Repeat this procedure at least once, then calculate the average number of seconds to travel 88 feet. To calculate mph, divide by 60 the number of seconds required to drive the course. Be sure to record the speed, rpm and gear for later reference.
Example: It takes 12 seconds to drive 88 feet. 60 ÷ 12 = 5 mph
2) Determine the Sprayer Swath Width: For boom sprayers, simply multiply the number
of nozzles by the distance in inches between each nozzle and divide by 12.
Example: You have nine nozzles spaced 20 inches apart. (9 x 20) ÷ 12 = 15 feet effective swath width. For boomless sprayers, operate the nozzle at the desired pressure on a dry surface. Measure the width of the spray swath. Then subtract 10 percent to calculate
the effective swath width. Example: The boomless nozzle has a swath width of
20 feet.
Example: 20 feet – (20 feet x 0.10) = 18 feet of effective swath width
3) Calculate the Amount of Time to Spray 1 Acre:
Using the swath width and speed as determined above, calculate the amount of time needed with the following formula:
43,560 ÷ swath width (feet) = minutes/acre / (mph x 88)
Example: Sprayer will travel at 3 mph and deliver a 15 ft swath.
43,560 ÷ 15-foot swath = 11 minutes to spray 1 acre / (3 mph x 88) gallons per acre the sprayer
4) Determine the Number of Gallons/Acre
If the spray tank is marked in gallons, fill it with water to a specific level and record that number (such as 20 gallons). Operate the sprayer at a set pressure (20 to 30 pounds per square inch, or psi) for the number of minutes you calculated it takes to spray 1 acre. Record the volume of water remaining (such as 5 gallons). The difference between the starting number of gallons
and the remaining number of gallons is the number of gallons per acre the sprayer delivered (such as: 20 gallons to start – 5 gallons remaining = 15 gallons per
acre delivered). The sprayer is now calibrated. If the spray tank is not marked and you are using a spray boom, use the procedure above in terms of setting pressure and time, but capture the spray from one nozzle. To determine the number of gallons per acre, measure the amount of the spray collected and then multiply that amount by the number of nozzles on the
spray boom. Repeat this procedure on several nozzles and average
the results. The sprayer is now calibrated.
Example: 1.5 gallons collected from one nozzle on a
nine-nozzle spray boom. 1.5 gallons x 9 nozzles = 13.5 gallons per acre
If the spray tank is not marked and you are using a boomless nozzle, you will have to shroud the nozzle with a plastic bag or similar product to direct the spray into a collection container. The total volume of liquid collected over the amount of time to spray 1 acre is equal to the number of gallons per acre that the sprayer is delivering. The sprayer is now calibrated. For any of the above spray systems, if you wish to increase the number of gallons per acre (gpa), you can either decrease speed of travel or increase the pressure and recalibrate. The reverse is true if you wish to decrease the gallons per acre. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].

Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
Wildcats Marching Band Features 45 Freshman Members
After some special camps for percussion and color guard members, the entire Wildcats Marching Band gathered together on Monday to begin summer band. Wednesday afternoon Band Director Charles McCauley said the band kids are doing great and he added they have had a great first three days of summer band. He said the band members have great attitudes and are working hard.
This year’s Wildcats Marching Band features a large freshman class. With 45 freshman, McCauley said the freshmen make up more than a third of the band. He said the freshmen are learning quickly. McCauley said he enjoyed watching the light bulbs going on for them as they learn things. He said he is working to keep them from feeling overwhelmed.
McCauley said one of the goals of summer band is for all band members to learn to do everything the same way. He said there is only one way to stand, to hold an instrument or to march. McCauley said there are also about thirty pieces of music to learn including the national anthem, numbers to play in the stands and this year’s show songs. He said he hoped the band would learn to march and play the first song of the show by the end of summer band. McCauley said if the band does that, they would be in good shape. The first days of summer band have featured the constant repetition of fundamentals.