Sewing, Hay Bale Stacking, and Chicken Cutting: Cover Girl Thursday Night Competition
Thursday night concluded the second, and final, night of challenges for four Hopkins County girls competing for the Cover Girl title. The girls competed in three events; sewing, hay bale stacking, and chicken cutting. The night started out with current Cover Girl, Aleigh Bessonett, showing the girls the ropes to hay bale stacking. The square bales had to be carried from one end of the area to the other and stacked in an “I” or “H” shape. Two of the girls got creative and found a way to carry two at a time, improving their score. Aleigh Bessonett then randomly chose the pattern that the girls would sew and showed them how it’s done. In the final event, the girls had to cut up a chicken and name the parts they cut. All the poor chickens got nicknames and the girls had a blast!
Early Voting Begins Monday; Sample Ballots Now Available
October 21, 2016 – Early voting begins Monday. Early voting in Hopkins County is at the Justice of the Peace Courtroom located in the County Tax office/JP building, 128 Jefferson Street. Enter the front door of the building and follow the signs to the voting area. Hours are 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. each day.
Sample ballots are now available on the Hopkins County website. Debbie Shirley, Hopkins County Clerk, says that when voting the voter should scroll through the entire ballot before pushing the red button that records the vote. Sample ballots include the general election for Hopkins County, City of Cumby’s city election, school board elections for Cumby, Miller Grove, and North Hopkins, and the Paris Junior College referendum. Como-Pickton and Saltillo school districts will not vote in the PJC referendum. They are members of the Northeast Texas Community College District. The specific sample ballot, there are now 39 ballot styles, to review is the voter precinct number on your voter registration card. Maps of precincts and voting boxes and specific voting dates and information concerning voter ID are also available on the website (found here).
Straight party voting will also allow one to crossover to vote for a specific candidate in another party. When a vote is cast for a crossover, the vote for the person on the straight party ticket will be removed. Also, she reminds to go all the way through the ballot to be sure to vote on all issues. A summary page at the end of the electronic ballot will allow the voter to review their votes and make any changes necessary.
When early voting begins Monday, the following Saturday, October 29th, the early voting place will be open 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and on Sunday, October 31, one may vote early from 1 p.m. until 6 p.m. Shirley promises that experienced workers will assist in making the early voting process a quick and easy experience.
Over 700 ballots have been mailed to voters who requested ballot-by-mail. Those wishing to vote by mail but have not signed up to do so have until October 28th to request a ballot. Those who may vote by mail include those over 65-years of age, or sick or disabled, or expect to be absent, or those confined in jail.
There is a write in for President and Vice President of the United States. If one desires to write in a name, there is a button to push will brings up a keyboard and you may type in the name. Only those names found on the approved list of write in names will be counted. Shirley said you may vote for Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck, but those votes will not be counted.
PJC Regents Renew RSVP Partnership
A group mobilizing volunteers received a positive endorsement from the Paris Junior College Board of Regents Wednesday evening, as they renewed a partnership with Red River Valley Retired Senior Volunteer Program for another three years.
RSVP is America’s largest network for people age 55 and older contributing their time and experience to important organizations that improve the community. Since 1971, RSVP has matched the personal interests and skills of seniors with opportunities to help solve significant problems in their communities and meet the needs of their fellow citizens.
“RSVP coordinates an extensive network of volunteers,” said PJC President Dr. Pam Anglin, “They receive a federal grant and local United Way funding in addition to the College’s support to carry out an enormous and beneficial program in our communities.”
In other business, the Regents:
- Combined three actions into one with the approval to privately sell several tracts of land in Paris initially offered for sale at public auction with no takers. The action will put the properties back on the tax rolls.
- Gave final approval to amend the Paris Junior College District Series 2012 Bond remainder of $3.3 million and refinance from a 20-year, variable rate note to a fixed rate, 10-year note.
- Accepted the resignation of Educational Talent Search Advisor Jaci Shovan and the retirement of Campus Police Officer Richard Adams, effective Jan. 15, 2017.
SSHS Cross Country Teams Qualify for Regional Meet
Both the Wildcats and Lady Cats’ cross country teams qualified for the regional meet at a district meet in Mt. Pleasant Wednesday. The Wildcats finished second at district and the Lady Cats third.
The Wildcats were edged out by Hallsville while the Lady Cats were defeated only by Mt. Pleasant and Hallsville. Once again Peyton Vickery led the Wildcats with Landon Thornton not too far behind. Eli Sellers was next for the Wildcats followed by Ed Ramirez and Nabian Ramirez.
The Lady Cats were paced by senior Lauren Helm followed by Hannah Dixon, Sydney Washburn, Gracie Boyer and Samantha Vargas. The regional meet will take place Saturday, October 29 at Lynn Creek Park in Grand Prairie.
Miller Grove News
by Brandon Darrow
As the presidential election day draws near, Americans are bombarded with political ads, slanderous statements from both parties, and many misrepresentation of the facts. My advice – just vote. There are many out there who won’t vote and then criticize the winner of the election. I’m not trying to tell anyone who to vote for but just to take a few minutes and cast your vote for whoever you believe will be the best candidate for the job of president.
On the local front, there are several folks running for school board this year. Incumbents, Eric Mabe, Doug Hall, and Kristi Burnett will all be seeking re-election to their seats as Miller Grove School Trustees. I know of at least three people who have filed their name on the ballot for this year: John Derek Wilbur, Jason Back, and Clark May.
After holding a total of 26 years in office, Lewis Russell has decided not to seek re-election as a school board trustee. Lewis has been on the board during 4 decades (1980s, 1990s, 2000’s, 2010’s) and has seen 3 superintendents come thru the doors of MGISD. And, for two of the decades he has served he didn’t even have a child in school. To me that definitely shows the character of a person who cares about their school and their community. From not having enough money to make payroll in the early 80’s to having been a part of six buildings being built on campus, Lewis has pretty much seen it all. He was a Miller Grove High School graduate in 1971 and was elected to the school board for the first time in May of 1985. After a brief 4 years off of the school board he returned in 2004 and currently holds the office of Vice-President. Lewis was even honored Monday, Oct. 17, with a plaque presented to him by the board president, Eric Mabe, at his last official school board meeting.
My sincere condolences go out to the family of C.L. “Butch” Hall this week. Clarence Loyd Hall was born Aug. 4, 1940, in Miller Grove, the youngest of three children born to Clarence Clyde Hall and Nell Roberta (Garrett) Hall. He married Doris Ann Middleton on Sept. 4, 1959, in County Line. Butch worked hard to grow is trucking and agriculture business. He helped the local economy and employed many people in Miller Grove and many of the Miller Grove youth over the years. Butch had a special relationship with all of his grandchildren – most of whom had been employed at Miller Grove Farm Supply during their life. He was also a member of County Line Baptist Church. Butch passed on Oct. 14, at Trinity Mother Frances Hospital of Tyler. Graveside services were held in Clifton Cemetery on Oct. 18, with Bro. Wayne Darty officiating. Burial followed in the cemetery and Wilson-Orwosky Funeral Home of Emory was in charge of arrangements. He was preceded in death by his parents; one infant son, Jason Hall; and sisters Jerry Jane (Hall) Watts and Anna Jean (Hall) Morris. He is survived by his wife of 57 years; one son, Doug Hall; one daughter, Lori Hall; grandchildren, Ryan Claxton, Kelli (Claxton) Urda, Ashley Claxton, Katie (Hall) Hooks, Nicole Hall, Connor Hall, & Kamryn Hall; and great-grandchildren, Rhett Claxton, Kinzley Urda, and Lexton Urda.
Even in hard times God gives us blessings. The day after Butch Hall’s funeral, his and Doris’ fourth great-grandchild was born. Kelli (Claxton) Urda and husband Eric Urda welcomed little Preslie Harris Urda into this world on Oct. 19 at 1:18 pm. She weighed 6 lbs, 7 oz, and was 18 ½ inches long. He was also welcomed by big sister and brother, Kinsley & Lexton. Congratulations to their growing family.
Don’t forget the Fall Carnival scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 27. This is a big fundraiser for the entire school – all grade levels are involved as well as the PTO. And be sure to come with an appetite. Stew and chili will be served in the new gym with carnival games out front in the parking lot.
County Line Baptist Church recently finished pouring the concrete around the new church building. Gail Garmon told me that they are working out the details for a dedication service on Dec. 11, from 2-4 pm. I’m sure there will be more details to come.
Happy Birthday this coming week to Jeff Wren on Oct. 23, Dichele Smith on Oct. 25, Cayle Watson on Oct. 26, Kevin Tipps on Oct. 28, and Billy Dunn, Terry Jill (McGowan) Asbill & Will Sallee, Jr. on Oct. 29.
Happy 6th anniversary to Cory and Callie (Smith) Glove on Oct. 23 and Happy 5th wedding anniversary to James and Ashley (Blackstead) Oler on Oct. 29.
As you travel the highways and byways don’t forget that all roads lead back home and back to Miller Grove. Please send me any newsworthy information. My email address is [email protected].
Wildcats vs. Tigers; What the Coaches are Saying
Friday night at Prim Stadium the Wildcats return to district play after an open date. The 7:30 p.m. game against Mt Pleasant begins the final three game stretch that will determine district representation in play-off action. Here is the what the Wildcat and Tiger head coaches and Wildcat Coordinators are saying about the game.
Owens on Mt. Pleasant
After the good vibes Wildcats Coach Greg Owens got from his team after the Texas High game, Coach Owens said he wasn’t sure he liked the idea of a bye week coming up last week. Thursday Coach Owens jokingly said he’d see how his team played before deciding if the bye was a good thing or bad thing. Seriously Coach Owens said he thought it was beneficial. Players relaxed and got some energy back. He did admit it was taking some effort this week to get the player’s geared up after they dialed it down some last week. Concerning the Mt. Pleasant game Friday at Prim Stadium, Coach Owens said it would be a physical game. He said both teams would be battling to control the line of scrimmage. Both teams have big offensive lines. Coach Owens said the Tigers liked to run the football. He said they threw only about four passes against Texas High last Friday. Coach Owens said the Tigers had some quick and speedy backs. They also utilize fullbacks in the running game. On defense, Coach Owens said he was impressed with several Tigers: some outside linebackers, defensive tackles and some safeties. He said the best thing they do defensively is get off blocks. Coach Owens said it should be a heck of a game as both teams were fighting for playoff spots. He said the Wildcats were already in playoff mode. Coach Owens said some more keys to the game for us were good tackling and good safety play. The Mt. Pleasant and Sulphur Springs game may not be the rivalry it once was, but Coach Owens said is was a key district game and a big game because of the playoff implications.
MtPleasant Coach Homer
Mt. Pleasant Head Football Coach Corey Homer is in his third year as Tigers’ coach. Coach Homer is a 1997 Mt. Pleasant graduate who played for the Tigers and Head Coach Marc McDaniel in 1995 and 1996. He was hired in December of 2013, coming from Plano East where he was Assistant Head Football Coach. Coach Homer had previous stints at McKinney North and John Tyler. His Tigers’ team is 1-7 so far this year. They got to a rough start in pre-district going 0-4. Still Coach Homer says he liked the way his team fought and he adds they have improved each week. In district play the Tigers lost an overtime heart breaker to Hallsville, 24-20. The Tigers bounced back with a big win over Pine Tree. Coach Homer says it was one of the team’s best games this year. Mt. Pleasant then lost to Marshall and Texas High. Coach Homer says three bad plays, two fumble recoveries and a blocked punt, all that went for touchdowns, put the Marshall game out of reach. The Tigers gave Texas High a good fight trailing only 10-7 at halftime before Texas High rallied for a 27-7 win. Coach Homer feels if his team can defeat the Wildcats Friday and then Greenville, their 3-3 district record should be good enough to earn a playoff spot. He admires Wildcats Head Football Coach Greg Owens and says he is glad to call him a friend.
Wildcats Offense
Wildcats Offensive Coordinator Matt Young says the bye week was a productive one for his offense. He says the focus was on details and technical work. Players were able to relieve leg fatigue. Coach Young says the offense stepped back physically and now they face the task of amping up for Mt. Pleasant at Prim Stadium Friday. He calls the Tigers solid defensively and he says they are getting better every week. Coach Young says they don’t give up big plays because they are good at what they do. He says the Tigers defense includes lots of good high school players. Even Texas High had to earn their points in a 27-7 win last Friday that was only a 10-7 game at halftime. Coach Young says the Tigers are good up front. His bottom line is that the Tigers will present a challenge for the Wildcats who must execute their offense. The Wildcats last three games of the season are against teams competing in what Coach Young calls a small school district playoff battle.
Wildcats Defense
Wildcats Defensive Coordinator Triston Abron appreciates a bye week. It’s a time to heal injuries and lose some fatigue and soreness. He says there was a lot of time for teaching and correcting things. Coach Abron says he is impressed with the Mt. Pleasant offense. Coach Abron says they are our total opposite. They like to maintain possession and hog the ball. He says the Wildcats defense needs to make Mt. Pleasant punt and turnover creation would be nice. Coach Abron says the Tigers are fueled on offense by a big, veteran offensive line that comes off the ball and is good at sealing off defenders. He says the quarterback is a great athlete who runs well and can also throw. Coach Abron says they will use three different running backs who all bring something to the table. He says they will throw out of a shotgun formation if they are behind but he adds running is what they really like to do.
An AgriLife Update By Johanna Hicks
Christmas Joys Update
Wow, we have had a tremendous response to the 43rd annual Extension “Christmas Joys” holiday program! Both sessions, scheduled for Monday, November 7, are full (and have been for quite a while). We will try to call everyone to confirm, but if you reserved a seat, and know you cannot come, please contact my office so we can call those on the waiting list. If you are on the waiting list, don’t be discouraged. I have scheduled a Mini “Christmas Joys”, Tuesday, November 8, 1:30 p.m. at the Extension Office, 1200-B W. Houston. You will receive the full booklet of all the recipes, decorating tips, and craft instructions, along with a goody bag, refreshments, and a chance for door prizes. I’ll demonstrate all of my ideas, and discuss the other presenters’ information. I’ve already started a sign-up list, so if you want to attend, please call 903-885-3443.
There are other opportunities to attend similar programs. The following is a list of holiday programs in close proximity to Hopkins County, and I’ll be presenting portions of my ideas at each of the three:
- Friday, November 4 – Hunt County “Making Memories”, Ben E. Keith, Commerce, 9:30 a.m. Contact the Hunt County Extension Office at 903-455-9885 to inquire about seats.
- Thursday, November 10 – Rains County holiday program, Rains County Extension Office, 410 Tawakoni Drive, Emory, 10:00 a.m. Contact the Rains County Extension Office at 903-473-4580.
- Tuesday, November 15 – Van Zandt County holiday program, Van Zandt County Farm Bureau meeting room, Canton, 5:30 p.m. Contact the Van Zandt County Extension Office at 903-567-4149.
As you can see, this is the season to celebrate with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension! We appreciate the opportunity to provide educational, money-saving, time-efficient ideas to make your holiday season more enjoyable.
EarthKind Living Expo
I want to mention the upcoming EarthKind Living Conference again this week. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the front page featured an article, along with my regular column. The conference is scheduled for Friday, November 18, from 8:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with the opening session in Spence Chapel of First Baptist Church, 115 Oak Avenue, Sulphur Springs. The expo will offer something for everyone! From land-owners to apartment dwellers, pastures to pantries, bees to gardens – the list goes on! Another session (same information but different date and location) is scheduled for Friday, December 2, at Ben E. Keith, in Palestine if you cannot attend the Sulphur Springs event.
Registration is now open, so take advantage of the early bird registration fee of only $25, increasing to $35 after November 10. Lunch is included in the fee, and the Sulphur Springs Expo will be catered by our local Plain and Fancy. To register, go to: https://agrilife.org/earthkindliving and click on register. You can also watch a video featuring our planning committee, and a full color flyer listing speakers and topics. Exhibitors will be on hand to provide the latest information on their products. Contact my office at 903-885-3443 if you have questions.
Creative Arts Contest Results
Watch next week’s column for a list of results from the 2016 Hopkins County Fall Festival Creative Arts Contest. There were many fantastic entries and the judges thoroughly enjoyed viewing items up close. Now that Fall Festival is drawing to a close for 2016, the focus can turn to other fall activities taking place in Hopkins County. We are very blessed to live in our community!
Closing Thought
Things work out best for those who make the best of the way things work out – Christian Larson
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]
Twig Girdlers and Upcoming Dairy Programs By Mario Villarino
Recently I got a report of Twig girdlers affecting pecan trees in the Miller Grove area. These beetles are 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, light to dark brown with a wide gray band across the wing covers (elytra) and a dense sprinkling of pink, orange or dark yellow spots. They have long antennae, being members of the longhorned beetle family, Cerambycidae. The pecan girdler occurs throughout Texas except in the trans-Pecos area.
Mesquite twig girdlers,Oncideres rhodosticta Bates, are similar in appearance to pecan twig girdlers, but can be distinguished from the pecan twig girdler by the presence of three shiny, black dots immediately behind the head. It is found in the southern Rolling Plains and prefers to feed on mesquite and several acacia species. The huisache girdler, O. pustulatus LeConte, is 11/16 to 1 1/8 inches long, brown with a light brown band across the middle of the upper surface of the body and peppered with small, shiny black dots. It is found in the Gulf Coast Prairie, south Texas and Rio Grande Valley and injures mostly mimosa and huisache. Adults appear from late August through October. After mating, females select a host plant, chewing a clean-cut “V”-shaped groove around a branch. Thereafter, they crawl above the girdled site and insert cream-colored oval eggs singly into notches chewed into the bark. Larvae hatch from eggs in about 7 days and begin tunneling underneath the bark.
Larvae grow through several stages (instars) through the year before transforming into pupae the following summer. A few of the larvae do not complete development until May or June of the second year, which accounts for a small amount of girdling damage occurring in the spring. Mouthparts of this beetles are for chewing. Pecan twig girdlers attack citrus, elm, hackberry, hickory, huisache, mimosa, pecan, persimmon, red oak, retama, tepehuaje, Texas ebony, walnut and various fruit trees. Twigs selected by female beetles to girdle range in diameter from 9-12 mm. Severe girdling can disfigure trees.
Damage appears mainly in late summer and fall when adult beetles are active. Leaves on the girdled branches turn die and fall, and the branches often fall from the tree during high winds and storms. Beetles are not commonly encountered on trees. They are attracted to lights. Females chew a groove around the circumference of small branches (9-12 mm), “girdling” them, thereby killing injured parts of trees; injured branches eventually fall from the tree; larvae feed inside the dead injured tree part and are not a threat to tree health; medically harmless. For additional information, contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Coming up!:
Two major programs will be occurring in the next weeks. The Northeast Texas Dairy Fall Conference scheduled for October 26, 20916 at the Southwest Dairy Museum (5 CEU for DOPA dairies) Starting at 8:30 with registration. Cost $10 lunch included, and the Private Applicator CEU session November 2, 2016 starting at 10:00 AM (5 CEU’s for private applicators) cost $30 with lunch included. Make sure to call the Hopkins County Extension Office to register for any of this programs by calling 903-885-3443.
Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
