Lady Cats Win First Two Games in Allen Tourney
The Lady Cats’ softball team swept two games on the first day of a Allen tournament Thursday. The Lady Cats downed Frisco Liberty, 4-1 and later topped McKinney North, 9-4. The Lady Cats improved their season record to 6-1.
The Lady Cats will play Rowlett Friday at 11 a.m. and then Dallas W.T. White at 3 p.m. Friday. The Lady Cats will wrap up their tournament play against Sherman Saturday at 11 a.m.
Wildcats Drop First To Games in Rose City Classic
The Wildcats’ baseball team opened the season with a pair of losses in the Rose City Classic in Tyler Thursday. The Wildcats dropped their opener to Forney, 6-5 and then lost to Lindale 8-3.
The Wildcats were one clutch hit away from upsetting a powerful Forney team. The Wildcats trailed 6-2 entering the seventh inning. They scored three runs as Gavin Millsap got on on an error, Mason Buck walked and Kaden Argenbright, Triston McCormick and Dawson Draper all singled in runs. With two runners on, a double play ended the game. Ryan Humphries took the pitching loss given up 4 runs with only 3 earned in five innings. Argenbright was 3 for 4 with an RBI and a run scored. McCormick was 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs. Buck scored 2 runs and was 1 for 2. Humphries had the only extra base hit, an RBI triple. The Wildcats outhit Forney 9 to 7. The Wildcats committed 2 errors.
In the nightcap, the Wildcats spotted Lindale 2 first inning runs but tied the game at 2 in the top of the third. Lindale scored 3 runs in the bottom of the third on three walks, a squeeze bunt and a lone single to take a 5-2 lead. After the Wildcats sliced the lead to 5-3 with one run scoring without a hit in the top of the fifth, Lindale tallied three more times in the bottom of the fifth on two singles, a double and a sacrifice fly to lead 8-3. The Wildcats could manage only a single in the top of the sixth and the game was called due to time. Draper took the pitching loss. The Wildcats had only 4 hits in the game. Draper and Kamren Harrison had RBI’s for the Wildcats. Argenbright, Humphries and Draper scored runs. Argenbright and Humphries were 1 for 3, Easton Silman was 1 for 2 and McCormick was 1 for 1. The Wildcats are 0-2 for the season. They will play Waxahachie at 11 a.m. Friday at Tyler Lee Field and Nacogdoches at 3 p.m. Friday at Mike Carter Field in Tyler. The Wildcats play Whitehouse Saturday at 5 p.m. on Mike Carter Field in Tyler.
Grassburs By Mario Villarino
Grassburs are a common grassy weed in lawns and fields in our county. Most of the homeowners find them late in the fall when the seed heads are dry and gets into everywhere. For the control of grassburs, the late Dr. McAfee back then extension turf specialist wrote: “Field sandbur (grassbur) is a summer annual grassy weed that can be found in home lawns, sports fields, parks and along roadsides. This weed is especially adapted to dry, sandy soils but can be found growing in other types of soils as well. The big problem with this weed is the sharp, spiny burs that are part of the inflorescence. These burs can be painful and are difficult to remove from clothing material. Field sandburs (grassburs) generally start germinating in late spring and will continue to germinate until late summer or early fall months. This weed will continue to grow until the first hard frost or freeze occurs in the fall.Field sandburs (grassburs) are generally not a problem in well maintained turfgrass areas. With proper fertilization, mowing and irrigation, you can produce a turf that is dense enough to prevent sandbur (grassbur)s from becoming a problem. However, if field sandburs (grassburs) do become a problem there are several effective herbicides that can be used to control this particular weed. The most effective and efficient method of control is to use a pre-emergent herbicide. To be effective, these pre emergents need to be applied before weed seeds germinate — generally when the soil temperature (NOT the air temperature) reaches 52 degrees F. In north Texas areas, apply the pre-emergent by April. If a post-emergence herbicide is used, wait until the day time temperatures are about 75 degrees F. for the products to be most effective. To insure complete control of germinating grass burrs in heavily infested areas, extend the residual of the herbicide barrier in the soil and thus extend the length of control period by making applications of the pre-emergent herbicide EVERY 6 WEEKS through September. In areas with a light infestation of grass burrs, two applications that are 6 weeks apart and after the initial application should control seed germination. As always, the pre-emergent application needs to be watered in thoroughly. Not applying enough water after application of a pre-emergent herbicide is one of the main reason for failure to effectively obtain control of the annual grassy weeds such as sandburs (grassburs). REMEMBER: A dense stand of healthy grass provides the best weed control. Because most weeds are “opportunists” that invade weakened lawns, the fight against weeds starts with good management. All cultural practices such as mowing, fertilizing and watering should be done in a manner and time that will favor the grass rather than the weeds. Height of mowing influences competition against weeds such as crabgrass – the higher the cut, the lower the infestation. Frequent light sprinkling encourages shallow-rooted weeds and seed germination. Less frequent “deep-soak” watering that maintains a dry surface layer provides the grass with a competitive advantage. Temperature, light, soil moisture and other factors determine the time and extent of weed germination and development. Some weeds germinate in early spring while others sprout in summer or fall. If conditions are favorable, a weed may be particularly abundant in a given year, but under different conditions the next year, it may be little in evidence.Although most herbicides are formulated with reliable safety factors, application rates higher than those recommended may cause injury to turf and other ornamental plants. Many people over apply herbicides, especially when using fertilizer-herbicide combinations. The user needs to follow instructions on containers carefully to avoid overdoses. Beforeweeds sprout from seeds. Apply two to four weeks ahead of germination. Less effective control may be expected if applied more than a month before germination. Applications should not be made until excess lawn clippings and leaf litter are removed. Irrigating immediately after application will help move materials down to the soil. After weeds appear. Liquid sprays are more effective than dry materials, especially on hard-to-kill weeds. Apply post-emergence materials when weeds are growing vigorously. Tough old weeds are hard to kill, and if mature seeds are already formed, the lawn is likely to be infested again next year. Amine forms are safest because they give off fewer vapors that might damage other plants. Volatile ester formulations should not be used around ornamental plants. Select a time when winds are calm to prevent spray drift. Using wax bars or granules impregnated with herbicides near ornamentals will minimize such hazards. Fertilizer-herbicide combinations are extremely popular because they combine two operations. Combinations with pre-emergence chemicals are generally effective since both the fertilizer and herbicide action are dependent on contact with the soil. Post-emergence herbicide action depends more on absorption by leaves, and granules in such combinations do not adhere well to smooth-surfaced leaves. They will stick better if applied when weed leaves are damp. “Weed and feed” materials present a conflict in desirable actions. Proper time for weed control often does not coincide with the most desirable time and rates for fertilizing. If used for follow-up fertilizations, there is danger of herbicide overdose. Fertilizer spreaders can be used for applying granular herbicides. Be sure to adjust the spreader to apply recommended rates. If possible, apply half the desired rate in one direction and the remaining half at right angles to the first application. A sprayer used for application of 2,4-D and related chemicals should not be used to spray garden or flower plants. Cleaning procedures are not always reliable. To be safe, have a separate sprayer for weed-killing purposes. Eliminating weeds is of little value unless enough desirable grass is present to fill in bare spots. A reseeding program deserves first consideration if the turf is so weak that it will not recover once weeds are eliminated. Study soil and other conditions to determine reasons for low vigor of the original turf”. 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
4-H Members to Showcase Talents By Johanna Hicks
4-H Members to Showcase Talents
This time of year is busy for our Hopkins County 4-H members. Many are participating in livestock shows in Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, while others are busily preparing for Fashion Show, Food Show, Educational Presentations, Public Speaking, Share-the-Fun, and Consumer Decision Making.
I want to take this opportunity to invite you to observe them in action during our Bobby McDonald Memorial County 4-H Round-up! Two exciting evenings have been planned, and our 4-H members have worked hard to complete their projects, whether it is a speech, presentation, foods project, clothing project, or talent. Here is a schedule of events to take place at Cedar Canyon, beginning at 5:30 on both days.
- Tuesday, February 28: Food Show – participants have selected a category (protein, fruits & vegetable, grain, or dairy), and will bring their prepared dish to the contest. They will be interviewed by a panel of judges pertaining to their specific dish. Example: how it fits in MyPlate, the steps of preparation, nutrients most prevalent, etc.
Fashion Show – participants have the option of constructing an outfit or purchasing an outfit using their consumer skills. Again, they will be interviewed by a panel of judges pertaining to their specific outfit. Example: fiber content of the outfit, care procedures for the outfit, special construction techniques used, how/if it coordinates with other outfits, where it is to be worn, etc.
Fashion Storyboard – this is an event that showcases a design from point of inspiration (magazine picture) to the actual design. The storyboard “tells the story” of the designer’s idea. The storyboard includes original illustrations, as well as additional materials (such as photos from the Internet or magazines, paper, fabric swatches, patterns, etc.) that have influenced the unique design. Categories are wearables, non-wearables (pillows, stuffed animals, etc.), accessories, jewelry, and pet clothing.
Following interviews/judging, an awards presentation will take place. Participants in the Fashion Show will model their outfits while a narration is being read and dishes from the Food Show will be on display. Awards will be given for the top-scoring Junior, Intermediate, and Senior, as well as individual recognition in all contests.
Top-scoring individuals in each contest, category, and age division will advance to District contests to take place on March 31 and April 1.
- Thursday, March 2: This will be a busy night! Public Speaking – 4-H’ers will have the opportunity participate in the Public Speaking Contest, in which they give a speech on any topic they choose.
Educational Presentations will also be included. This contest involves a presentation using visuals, posters, power point, or other props to enhance the presentation. Topics from which 4-H members have chosen include: Safety & Accident Prevention, Health, Beef, Promote 4-H, Companion Animals, Ag and Natural Resources, Family & Consumer Sciences, and Open category.
Share-the-Fun is similar to a talent competition. Vocal, choreography, poetry recitation, skits, and other choices are available.
Following these contests, an awards ceremony will take place, with the top-scoring Junior, Intermediate, and Senior receiving a special award. All other participants will also be recognized.
Top-scoring individuals in each contest, category, and age division will advance to District contests to take place on March 31 and April 1. Details will be available during our County contests.
Both evenings, the Consumer Decision Making Contest will be available for 4-H’ers (and audience!) to try out. This is a great event, because it teaches skills that the youth will use throughout life. The categories we will use are camping equipment and healthy snacks. Here’s how the contest works: A scenario is given pertaining to the category. Four choices are offered (in our case, a photo and description of each item is provided.) The participant will rank the choices from 1 to 4, based on the given scenario, with 1 being the best choice and 4 being the worst, followed by reasons as to why they ranked them in that order.
This event actually reinforces the decision-making skills we practice every day. A good example of this is the clothing choice we make every day. We typically take into consideration what the weather will be (warm, cool, cold), whether or not it will be raining, scheduled activities (out and about, staying home, working outside, practicing sports, etc.) Subconsciously, we are using our consumer decision making skills!
Twenty-eight 4-H members will be taking part in one or more of these contests, and we appreciate Bobby McDonald’s family members for serving as judges! Today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders, and we must prepare them to be responsible, diligent, contributing members of society.
4-H Exchange Trip
Sixteen 4-H members and chaperones from Hopkins County will be participating in a 4-H Exchange trip to Sanders County (Thompson Falls), Montana, in July. Our former 4-H agent, Juli Hutchins Thurston, is employed with the Montana Extension Service and has extended the invitation. Our group will be holding fund raisers to help finance the trip, so when you read or hear about one of these efforts, please take part. We are hoping to raise $6,000 in just a few short months, so your support is vital! For more information, contact the Extension Office at 903-885-3443.
Closing Thought
Families are like fudge…mostly sweet, with a few nuts.
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]
NETLA Buyers Luncheon Hosted By FFA, 4H at First Baptist Church
L to R, FFA Youth Cannon Gibson, Aaron Stanley, Josh Couch, Rachel Stanley and Mollie Gibbins
About two dozen Hopkins County FFA and 4H Youth hosted potential buyers on Thursday February 23 for a prime rib lunch in the dining room of First Baptist Church. The youth helped seat and serve the diners, refilled glasses and made sure their guests got their fill including desserts. Several Hopkins County clubs were represented including North Hopkins, Miller Grove, Cumby , Sulphur Springs and Sulphur Bluff. You can meet these youth and many others at the Hopkins County Junior Market Livestock Show on Thursday February 23 and Friday February 24 in the Civic Center Arena. You are also welcome to attend the Sale of Champions on Saturday February 25 starting at 1pm to see the best of the best livestock entries, congratulate these future farmers and ranchers and help them earn college scholarship money. Another tradition, the Ag Workers Stew and Chili, will be served at noon.
Sulphur Bluff FFA Seniors… Taylor Josey is in Ag Mechanics and Jace Neal gets involved in public speaking and livestock.
Sophomore Kayleigh Brewer and Freshman Carol Nabors are in the Como-Pickton FFA Chapter and both have been showing pigs since they were 4H youth.
Miller Grove FFA Seniors…Hannah Caudle will show a steer, a lamb and pigs, and Candace Earp will show pigs. Both have been active in livestock showing for about 10 years.
Cumby FFA Seniors…Hunter Cash shows steers and Shealey Wells will exhibit a goat….Miller Grove FFA Sophomore Grant Earp will enter pigs and Cheyenne Gray will show heifers and steers.
Savannah Allen is an 8th-grade 4H Infinity student who shows heifers and goats…and the Deterding sisters Penelope and Esperanza, also 4H Infinity members, will have poultry entries.
Josh Couch and his twin brother Jake are Seniors in the SSHS FFA Chapter. Both have been showing cattle at major Texas shows and in 2017, Jake’s Brown Swiss Heifer won first place in open and junior dairy show classes at Ft. Worth, and 19th place with his Hereford heifer. Both Josh and Jake did well in Beefmaster and Hereford divisions back in 2016 at the Texas State Fair Ag Show. At San Angelo in February 2017, Josh placed third out of 1,300 entries with a breeding-class gilt. Josh plans to go to auctioneer school and Jake into a welding. Josh currently is vice-president and Jake is president of the SSHS FFA Chapter and both actively promote agriculture careers to other students.
Farm Bureau member Yvonne King served as Emcee for the annual event which is always well-attended.
Cheyenne Mitchell, first-Vice President of the Miller Grove FFA Chapter spoke about the impact NETLA has had on her school career and her future plans. Another speaker, Stacy Spradlin Hrabal explained the NETLA legacy that her late father Larry Spradlin had begun. She believes his legacy lives on today through FFA and 4H leaders, Ag teachers, farm/ranch lenders and businessman and through the various Ag producers in Hopkins county as they each help support the next generation’s interest in agriculture.
Plea Bargain Earns 30 Years for Meth Possession
Garland Shane Robinson, 38 of Garland, a codefendant to Cory Butler plead guilty to Possession of a Controlled Substance Penalty Group 1, more than 4-grams but less than 200-grams Thursday in Eighth Judicial District Court. He was sentenced to 30 years in the Texas Department of Corrections. Robinson and Butler were together when Hopkins County Deputies were called to County Road 3502 to check out a suspicious vehicle and a suspicious person. There they the two failed to identify themselves correctly on the first try. Forty-two (42)-grams of a suspected quantity of methamphetamine and securities and benefits obtained under false names were found in the vehicle.
Robinson gave his name as Landon Lee. It was quickly discovered that he was lying about his name. An inventory of the F250 Supercab found the 42-grams of suspected methamphetamine in a computer bag on the back seat of the vehicle. Documents used to obtain securities and benefits in the name of Landon Lee and the name of Nicolas Branson were also found in the vehicle. The charges for the documents and false identity were dropped in the bargain.
Butler was sentence Wednesday.
Meal A Day Menu for February 27th-March 3rd
Wildcats Golf Continue Tournament Play
On a beautiful February day for golf Wednesday, the Wildcats’ golf team took first place in a tournament at Firewheel Golf Park in Garland. The Wildcats shot 311 with their top three golfers shooting in the 70’s. Caleb Lewis won the tournament with a 72. Alex Motes shot 78. Andrew Escobar came in with a 79. Colton Bench shot 82 and Carter Lewis 83.
The Wildcats’ golf team will play in the Twisted 54 Tournament on March 3-4 in Longview hosted by Pine Tree. Golfers will play 36 holes on Friday and 18 more on Saturday.
Arkansas Man Sentenced to Seven Years
Thursday morning in Eighth Judicial Court Carlos F. Thompson, 36, of Arkansas was sentenced to seven years in prison for Unlawfull Possession of a Firearm by a Felon.
When the auto they were driving failed to maintain a single lane near the 110-Mile Marker on I-30, Cumby Police made the stop on an auto that failed to maintain a single lane near the 110-mile marker. Next to the passenger, Thompson, was an open alcoholic beverage container. He was arrested and a probable cause search of the vehicle revealed a concealed firearm behind a folding arm rest in the back seat of the vehicle. A check on the firearm serial number showed it to be stolen. He had prior felony convictions.
