State Representative Flynn Presents Texas Flag to Wildcats for Florida Trip
A couple of months ago, State Representative Dan Flynn of Van, a former high school football player, dropped by the Sulphur Springs Multipurpose Building to take a look at the facility. He learned that the Wildcats would be playing their second football game of the season on September 2 at EPSN’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. He decided the Wildcats needed a Texas flag to take with them so everyone in Florida would know they were from Texas.
Thursday Representative Flynn and his Chief of Staff David Erinakes presented Wildcats Football Coach Greg Owens with a Texas flag along with documentation that certified that the flag had flown over the Texas State Capitol on July 1. Those at the Thursday morning presentation included Wildcats football players and student athletic trainers that will be making the trip along with participants at this weeks Wildcat Football Camp.
Representative Flynn urged the youths to visit him in Austin and to take a tour of the State Capitol. The large Texas flag was unfurled for picture taking. Several campers, who are also boys scouts, helped Representative Flynn fold the flag back up properly. As a former football player, Representative Flynn said he gets better the older he gets. He told the players they would never forget their high school football memories. He said it was a big deal for the entire state of Texas that the Wildcats would be playing in Florida.
texas flag
Bright Star Baseball Begins Online Registration Friday
Online registration for Bright Star Baseball fall season begins Friday, July 29. The fall season will be six weeks beginning September 12th and ending October 17th. October 24th is reserved for any needed make-up game.
All who desire to sign on as buddies, sixth grade and older and players ages 5-18 can register online at www.brightstarbaseball.com.
Bright Star Baseball is designed for players who have special needs to play the game assisted by buddies.
Distraught Driver Finally Stopped Following Hit and Run
Photo courtesy of Eric Buck
On State Highway 19 South near a local sports training center, DPS, Hopkins County Sheriff’s Deputies and the Hopkins County Fire Marshall made a traffic stop and felony take down. The vehicle had been involved in hit and run accident. The vehicle and driver had been involved in an accident with a Tabor Sanitation Truck.
According to local law enforcement, the driver of the vehicle was distraught and continued to drive even though pursued by law enforcement. No charges have been filed in the incident.
AgriLife Extension: Combating Grasshoppers
Mario Villarino DVM, Ph.D.
Hopkins County Extension Agent for Ag and NR
1200B Houston Street
Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482
903-885-3443
Grasshoppers are reported affecting sites in Hopkins County.
This might to come to you as big news since you probably have seen grasshoppers already in yards and fields. A recent high number of reports across the county confirm the presence of grasshoppers already causing damage to crops this year. The management of grasshoppers in hay fields is considerably different than in gardens and lawns and I will address those differences separated. This time, I will share with you the impact of grasshoppers in gardens and lawns. According to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension- Entomology department, grasshoppers are occasional pests of ornamental landscapes. The differential grasshopper and four other species (red-legged, migratory, two-striped, and Packard grasshoppers) cause most of the damage seen by homeowners and urban residents in Texas. Because grasshoppers require relatively large breeding grounds in which to build large populations, most severe outbreaks occur near farmland and other less disturbed areas, such as in rural communities, farmsteads, and urban fringe areas. Although grasshopper damage is difficult to completely prevent during outbreak years, homeowners can minimize their impact through the use of barriers, insecticides and landscape plants that are less prone to damage.
Generally only one generation of grasshoppers is produced each year; however cool, dry weather during the spring months and the successive emergences of different grasshopper species can result in a seemingly endless procession of these insects throughout the summer and fall months. Grasshopper eggs are generally laid during the fall and late summer in rural, non-crop landscapes, such as along ditches, fencerows, and shelter-belts, and in weedy areas. They may also be laid in crop areas after harvest, within weedy fields, and in forage areas and pastureland. Eggs usually hatch the following spring, in June and July. The development of grasshopper nymphs to the adult stage requires 40 to 60 days or more. Adult forms of the differential grasshopper usually appear in mid-July. The adult grasshopper is the most voracious feeder, and is able to disperse over large areas due to its strong wings. The adult grasshopper is the most likely stage to invade and damage ornamental landscapes. Because residents of urban communities generally have little control over the surrounding countryside, management options for grasshoppers in urban landscapes are limited. Homeowners can protect valuable plants, to some extent, through the use of residual insecticides. Geotextile fabrics can be used as barriers to protect valuable vegetables and specimen ornamental plants. Also, landscape plants that are less attractive to grasshoppers can be used. Recent tests have shown that insecticides containing bifenthrin (found in some Ortho® Home Defense products) and lambda-cyhalothrin (Scimitar®) provide the fastest knockdown and longest residual control. Products containing permethrin (several manufacturers), cyfluthrin (Bayer® Advanced Lawn and Garden products), and esfenvalerate (Ortho® Bug-B-Gone) should also provide good control. Insecticides containing chlorpyrifos, diazinon and carbaryl will provide control of shorter duration. Geotextile fabrics have found increased use among vegetable gardeners as floating row covers to protect plants. These fabrics are light enough to permit needed sunlight and air circulation to occur within plants that are covered, yet strong enough to provide a barrier to many insects. During heavy grasshopper infestations, even these barriers may be damaged by hungry grasshoppers. It may be necessary to apply insecticides (that are labeled for the plants being protected) to the fabrics before they are used to cover the plants. Some plants that require insect pollination may require hand pollination when covered by row covers. These fabrics may be obtained through some garden centers and via mail-order garden supply catalogs.
The following list of plants preferred and not-preferred by grasshoppers was developed largely by (retired) extension horticulture agents, John Cooper and Stan Lovelace, based on observations during heavy grasshopper feeding in Denton County in 1998. Additional species have been added based on reports from Master Gardeners and others. The plants listed were observed under heavy feeding pressure from differential grasshoppers. This list should be used with caution, understanding that different results may be obtained under differing conditions with different grasshopper species. 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].
Access Physicians at City Hall
On Tuesday, July 26th, 2016, at Sulphur Springs City Hall Access Physicians Multi-specialty Clinic celebrated one year anniversary in Sulphur Springs. A banquet was held in the City Hall building beginning at 5:30 p.m.. The Sulphur Springs Clinic specializes in Pulmonary, Neurology, Endocrine, and Psychiatry. Soon they will be adding Nephrology and Dermatology. They also specialize in Chronic Care Management, Botox for Chronic Migraine Therapy, and Diabetes Education. The office is located at 107 Medical Circle in Sulphur Springs, Texas.
Animal of the Week: Lacy
Lacy is a six month old Blue Lacy/Lab mix that has been at the Sulphur Springs Animal Shelter since early July. She was found at the Sulphur Springs Veterinary Clinic and brought to the Shelter. “She’s very calm and she’s doing well with leash training,” Animal Shelter Officer Barbi Blanch said. “There’s no signs that she ever had a collar on and she hasn’t been walked before on a leash. She does alright with other animals, and her and Frasier get along really well.”
Lacy shows submissive behavior when playing with other animals, but she generally stays calm and enjoys receiving attention. Due to her young age, Lacy has never been involved in any previous off-site adoptions. She will, however, be present at the off-site this weekend, July 30, at Tractor Supply from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In other news, the Animal Shelter has become overrun with cats as a result of the kitten season arriving late in the year. The Shelter is having to use a dog kennel to house additional cats, making for a total of 17 cats, the majority of which are kittens or young adult cats. “Four that we have were found in a dumpster,” Officer Blanch said. “They’re somewhat feral, but are all fat and healthy. We’re still running the $35 adoption special on cats, which is a fairly reasonable price for getting them spayed, nurtured, and get all of their shots. You can’t beat that price.”
Due to the extreme heat and lack of any significant shade or breeze, no cats or kittens will be present at the off-site adoptions. According to Officer Blanch, cats do not tolerate heat as well as their canine counterparts.
Chamber Connection July 28th
Chamber Connection-July 28th
I’m just so excited about the upcoming First Annual Chamber of Commerce Photography Contest! Let me review the basics. Anyone of any age can enter as we have a children’s category. The picture must be newer than January 1, 2014, and must have been taken in Hopkins County. The contest will be open from August 1st to August 31st. There are seven categories you may enter: Natural World, Travel, People, The Hopkins County Experience, Altered Images, Mobile, and Children’s Category. Only digital images are accepted (no prints). To submit your photograph, email the picture to [email protected] Rules are releases will be available on the Chamber of Commerce website. I cannot wait to see your beautiful photos!
One announcement from the Chamber… effective August 1st we will have new business hours. The Chamber of Commerce will be open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. We are closed on Mondays from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. as well.
Don’t forget about the spectacular event that is being held on Celebration Plaza TONIGHT! This is your chance to “join the choir” for a time of singing and praise to promote healing and unity in Hopkins County. Several worship leaders have come together to direct everyone, and food will be provided after the singing. We are trying to fill the square, so make plans to be there!
Wesley United Methodist Church and Hopkins County proclaim August 3rd as Eisley Henderson Day
Wesley United Methodist Church and Hopkins County are declaring next Wednesday, August 3rd, as Eisley Henderson Day. Judge Robert Newsom will make a proclamation that day at 9 a.m. in the sanctuary of Wesley Methodist, 614 Texas Street, in Sulphur Springs. Everyone is encouraged to attend and to wear their Team Eisley shirt. If you do not have a Team Eisley shirt, please wear purple. If you would like to purchase a Team Eisley shirt, they are available for purchase at Wesley Methodist Church and Janeen’s Country Cottage. Cost of the t-shirt is $20, and the bracelets are $5. All proceeds go to the Henderson family. Thank you for supporting Wesley Methodist and this sweet, sweet family!
Fox & Fig will hold their Grand Opening on Saturday, July 30th
Fox & Fig, a new store specializing in farmhouse, vintage, and unique décor, furniture and jewelry, hosted a ribbon cutting at noon on Wednesday, July 20th will hold their official Grand Opening on Saturday, July 30th. They are located at 624 Main Street, across from Travis Elementary playground, and next door to Sulphur Springs Centre for Dance. Fox & Fig’s official grand opening day is Saturday, July 30th. Please stop in and check out this beautiful new business! See you there!
Community Players and Children’s Summer Workshop present Alice in Zombieland July 21-31
Main Street Theatre will host the Community Players and Children’s Summer Workshop’s presentations of Alice in Zombieland on Thursday, July 21st, Friday July 22nd, and Saturday, July 23rd at 7 p.m. The Sunday matinee showing on July 24th will be held at 2 p.m. This presentation will run through July 31st following the Thursday through Saturday times and the Sunday matinee times. Main Street Theatre is located at 227 Main Street. Tickets are available online at www.mainsttheatre.com or by phone at (903)-885-0107.
Cricket Wireless hosts a “Give Back Night” for Bryan Hosking on July 30th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
10% of all proceeds from Muddy Jakes on the night of Saturday, July 30th, will be given to Bryan Hosking to assist with medical expenses. Bryan was diagnosed with Leukemia, and Cricket Wireless saw a need and made something happen! Please plan to eat at Muddy Jake’s that night to support Cricket Wireless and Bryan Hosking.
One Way Auto will host a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, August 2nd at noon
One Way Auto, the newest member of the Chamber of Commerce, will host a ribbon cutting on Tuesday, August 2nd at noon. One Way Auto is located at 900 Gilmer Street. Please plan to come by and support our new local business.
Fall Festival will hold the Finals Competition for Battle of the Bands August 6th at 6 p.m.
It’s that time again… the Fall Festival’s Battle of the Bands Competition. August 6th at 6 p.m., the Finals Competition will be held on Celebration Plaza. A winner will be chosen from that group of bands! Exciting!
Days Inn of Sulphur Springs hosts ribbon cutting and Grand Opening August 10th at 5 p.m.
Days Inn of Sulphur Springs is under new ownership and has been recently completely remodeled. They are hosting their ribbon cutting and Business After Hours event on Wednesday, August 10th at 5 p.m. Come and enjoy live entertainment, snacks, fellowship, and fun!
The 10th Annual Hot August Nights BBQ Cook-off will be held on Saturday, August 13th
The whole weekend is scheduled to be full of Hot August Nights! Come watch firefighters from across the country compete in the “Toughest 2 Minutes in Sports” at the SSHS Football Stadium parking lot on Friday, August 12th from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and again on Saturday the 13th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The BBQ cook-off food service will begin at 5 p.m., and the Third Day with Steven Curtis Chapman Concert is slated for Saturday evening. For ticket information, please visit itickets.com or call 903-885-7639.
The Hopkins County Fall Festival presents Emerald City Band on Friday, August 19th
The Emerald City Band will be performing on Friday, August 19th, on Celebration Plaza. For ticket information, contact a Fall Festival Board member or by calling (903)243-1925.
Adult Leadership Class being offered for the Fall! Sign up Now!!!
Lynda Hager reported that she would be offering an Adult Leadership Class starting in August for anyone who is interested. The Adult Leadership Class is a community leadership development program sponsored by the Hopkins county Chamber of Commerce. The course was created in 1989 with the concept of offering leadership training and community involvement for emerging business and community leaders. Leadership Sulphur Springs is a nine-month session, with meetings held once a month. For more information, please call the Chamber of Commerce at 903-885-6515.
Best Western Trail Dust Inn received the hotel chain’s highest award for quality
The Best Western Trail Dust Inn in Sulphur Springs received the Best Western Chairman’s Award for outstanding quality standards. The Chairman’s Award recognizes Best Western International hotels with a cleanliness and maintenance inspections score in the top five percent of more than 2,100 North American properties. They also receive the Certificate of Excellence Award from Trip Advisor in 2015 and 2016. Congratulations to Best Western Trail Dust Inn for these impressive accomplishments.
New members to the Chamber of Commerce:
Welcome to Smile Corner, a dentistry located in Commerce, Texas. Also welcome to Robco Mobile RV Repair located at 2015 FM 71W in Sulphur Springs. We are very excited to welcome these businesses to the Chamber of Commerce!
Celebration Plaza’s Friday night movie will be Guardians of the Galaxy at 8 p.m. Saturday morning, Yoga on the Square will be offered from 9 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The Celebration Market will be held on Celebration Plaza from 6-10 p.m. and Sweet Steel will provide the entertainment from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Dynamic Duo Music and Comedy Showcase will be held on Saturday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Civic Center. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, and children under five are free of charge.
Initial Activities Set for Hopkins County Schools
Schools in Hopkins County are gearing up for the new school year.
Texas Democrats United for Clinton
Thursday evening in Philadelphia, Democratic Party nominee Hillary Clinton will address delegates on the final night of their national convention. Bill Brannon, Senior Advisor to the Texas Democratic Party and who also works as an advisor to individual Democratic candidates from time to time, calls the former First Lady, former Senator, former Secretary of State, a well prepared, smart, and tough candidate. Brannon spoke with KSST News Thursday morning regarding the convention.
Brannon said Wednesday evening was filled with well written, well presented speeches. He thought Vice Presidential nominee and Virginia Senator Tim Kaine introduced himself well. He also noted that Independent Michael Bloomberg presented a strong case against Trump and Vice President Joe Biden “…hit it out of the park” in their moments before the delegates.
Although comments have been made in the media that the Texas delegation saw division in their caucus, Brannon says the delegation is not divided at all. He noted that delegates in support of Bernie Sanders created temporary disagreement but their number is small. Young delegates in their first involvement in the political process who worked hearts out and believed passionately in their cause didn’t get over the finish line, is how Brannon described the moment. He says he believes they will stay involved and continue to contribute to the party’s future. Those delegates will be encouraged to stay involved, according to Brannon. He said one can’t do this without having the experience [of loss] at some point. He noted from experience that it is devastating, especially to newcomers, when the loss occurs.
Regarding Clinton, Brannon stated that she has been working inside the system shortly after her graduation from Wellesley when she traveled to Dothan, Alabama to investigate the school system to assure desegregation. He stated that she had performed a marvelous job as a senator as she worked across the aisle with Republicans and Independents to accomplish specific goals. He said that he did not see Trump attempting to bring commonality to the process for those on both sides of the political aisle. Clinton’s support, encouragement, and work on behalf of those in New York following 9-11 also stands a testimony to her compassion and skill, according to Brannon.
He also noted that she will do everything possible to assure Sanders’ supporters that their goals will be incorporated into her agenda and will bring them along as the campaign continues. Brannon calls Clinton a progressive wanting to get things done but who will build the case for moderates as well.
As the campaign moves to the next phase, Brannon expects Clinton and others to hit the political trail. He said they will gravitate toward defined battle grounds for votes, although he noted the playing field will change and be dictated by how things are going in the battle for votes.
DPS Traffic Stop Nabs Man for Military Desertion
When Dustin Craig Myrlin, 30, of Texarkana, was stopped by DPS, he was traveling at 81 miles per hour in a 75 miles per hour zone. He also was wanted by the U S Army for military desertion.
Myrlin is in Hopkins County Jail with no bond.
