“Updated” SSHS Band Practice Underway
Right now the Sulphur Springs High School Wildcats Marching Band has about 135 members. That’s as large as it’s been in a long long time. Band Director Charles McCauley said it was uniform fitting day Wednesday morning. Band assistant Cyndi Welch does altering when needed. McCauley commended the attitude and work ethic of the band this year.
Special staff has been brought in to assist with coaching various instrument segments of the band. Only one time has the entire band practiced together. Friday, the band will begin learning the show for the new year. McCauley said it will take the remainder of August to learn the routine. The first football game this year is the last Friday night in August. The band ususally performs the first number of the routine at that game.
Finance Director Presented Draft Budget to City Council
City of Sulphur Springs Director of Finance Peter Karstens distributed a draft budget to city council members and then gave a brief overview. Positives for revenue included sales tax up 3.2%, sewer rates generating $160,000 more than the current budget, water sales are expected to meet budget, certified net taxable value went up 3.2%, sewer rates will rise 2% but water rates will not increase. The tax rate will remain the same. There is no inflation so employees will not receive a cost of living raise. Lower gasoline prices helps the budget throughout according to Karstens. Due to rosy revenues, Karstens said the city may not have to borrow money to complete engineering next fiscal year for the Wastewater Treatment Plant renovation. The budget will fund renovation of the police station. The city fund balance remains healthy. City Health Insurance is expected to rise 11.5%. Tax Increment Financing, which puts money in the city budget increased 11.4%. The budget has $1.5 for water and sewer capital improvements and $1.8-million for street upgrades. The council will consider earmarking some funds for sidewalks. The council will go over the budget line by line next week.
During the regular meeting that followed, during his Manager’s Report, City Manager Marc Maxwell noted the FM 2285 water line project was completed. Next up is a water line project on North Davis between Park and Glover. Then Rockdale Road north of I-30 will follow. Maxwell said the city business office at old City Hall is just about done. It lacks some outside concrete and landscaping and carpet inside. The council also amended this year’s budget so the large pavilion project can be done in a few months. Eventually donated money will pay for the project. The council asked TXDOT to conduct a study for a signal light at Highway 19 and FM 2285. There were several comments about how dangerous the intersection is. During public forum former city councilman and perennial candidate for the council Charles Oxford accused an unnamed councilman of trying to intimidate him by visiting his house a few days after the July council meeting. Oxford said it actually had the opposite effect as Oxford felt motivated in his efforts to confront the council regarding specific matters. The current councilman reportedly told him You will get nothing from the council, according to Oxford.
Tax Free Weekend Begins Friday, August 7
Quick Start for SSHS Lady Cat Volleyball Season
Things move fast for volleyball. Practice began Monday, there are scrimmages at home Friday and at Wills Point Saturday. The regular season begins Tuesday August 11th at Prairiland with matches against the host and North Lamar. Lady Cats Volleyball Coach Allison Irvin is having tryouts right away to assign players to the Varsity, JV and Freshmen teams. The Varsity graduated only two. The rest of the squad is returning.
FBI Arrests Sosa-Pintor
Fernando Sosa-Pintor, 52, was arrested again last week for possession of child pornography. This time the arrest was initiated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Sosa-Pintor was held in Hopkins County Jail until Tuesday, August 04, 2015, when he was taken to Plano for a hearing in federal court. The hearing was scheduled for Tuesday afternoon but the results are not known at this time.
The Sulphur Springs man was arrested by Hopkins County Sheriff’s deputies Tuesday evening, September 23, 2014 for possession of and promotion of child pornography. Then Investigator Daniel Winn and Sgt. Corley Weatherford executed a search warrant at the residence above a Mexican food restaurant on West Industrial in Sulphur Springs. Computers and electronics containing images of child pornography were seized. Sosa-Pintor was then held on bonds totaling $60,000, set by then Justice of the Peace Ronny Glossup. Hopkins County Sheriff’s officers and the FBI had worked together in the initial arrest.
More on this story as soon as the result of his appearance in federal court are made known to local authorities.
PJC Public Information Services by Paul Bailey
Paris Junior College begins its 91st year of offering higher education and vocational training opportunities in Northeast Texas this fall. Through the years, it has opened campuses in Sulphur Springs and Greenville, in addition to the original Paris campus. This has given more people access to advanced education and training. Here is how and why PJC has a long history of success.
By Paul Bailey
PJC Public Information Services
Paris Junior College has made a difference in the lives of thousands of people in northeast Texas during its 91 years of service as an educational institution. PJC and North Central Texas CC (Gainesville) are the two oldest existing municipal junior colleges in Texas. Paris Junior College is the oldest 2-year college (opened in 1924) still operating under its same name and charter.
One of the reasons I have always enjoyed my work at PJC is because I like the excitement of seeing people become successful. That’s what Paris Junior College and its campuses in Greenville and Sulphur Springs do — they help make successful citizens out of ordinary people — and I get to tell the public about that.
Having been very familiar with Paris Junior College and its importance to the Northeast Texas area, it was a great privilege to go to work for the college in 1992 and to become the point person in telling folks about the college and helping it grow.
When Paris Junior College opened the PJC-Greenville Center campus for classes, it was important to me because I remember as a Greenville resident and a Herald Banner editor/reporter hearing discussions about the city not having an institution of higher education. The same was true when PJC opened the Sulphur Springs campus. I live there, and I can attest to the fact that the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center has opened doors for so many people. I think people in Hopkins and Hunt Counties deserve the academic and technical/vocational education opportunities made available through the Centers. They are convenient, affordable, and offer quality instruction.
The thing that makes it easy for me to promote Paris Junior College and its campuses in Greenville and Sulphur Springs is the fact that two-year colleges have an open door admissions policy that gives people of all walks of life an opportunity to pursue a college education and/or vocational training. People of all ages who never envisioned themselves going to college can walk through the door and into a classroom of opportunity.
Two-year colleges are the backbone of the educational system in America. We have 50 community/junior colleges in Texas, and well over 50 percent of all undergraduate students attending college today in Texas are enrolled in these 50 colleges.
Why do they choose a two-year college? I think it is because they can receive quality instruction and get more personal attention from instructors. Tuition costs are half that of a state university, courses are easily transferable, scholarships and financial aid are available, and the colleges are convenient to home.
I have great optimism about the future of community/junior colleges, and especially Paris Junior College and its campuses in Greenville and Sulphur Springs. Community Colleges have the educational products that people need and what is required to educate and train all Americans.
“Extended” National Weather Service Issues Heat Advisory Through Saturday
The National Weather Service has extended the heat advisory through Saturday evening at 7 p.m. High temperatures will approach triple digits Wednesday afternoon, August 5th with heat index values exceeding 105 degrees across the Northern half of North Texas including Hopkins, Delta, Hunt, Rains Counties, as well as the D/FW metro area. The National Weather Service in Fort Worth has issued a heat advisory from 1 p.m. Wednesday, August 5th, until 7 p.m. Saturday August 8th.
Temperatures will exceed 100 degrees with maximum heat index values of 104-108 for two consecutive days. The NWS reminds to check on persons with health problems and the elderly, as they are the most susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Never leave young children or pets in an enclosed vehicle, even for a short time.
Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Wear light and loose fitting clothing when possible and drink plenty of water.
What is 54321+8? Read to Find Out! – by Johanna Hicks
What is 54321+8? Read to Find Out!
I recently had the privilege of attending the 2015 Texas Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences conference in Brenham. We had some very informative speakers, and I want to highlight one in particular. Maureen Lyons is a familiar name among Family & Consumer Sciences professionals. She works for Health Edco, an educational resource company. Her presentation was “54321+8 (or 10).” Below is an explanation of the concept. I think you will enjoy it as an easy tool to remember some basic health tips!
- 5 represents the number of fruits and vegetables servings we should have each day. These are power house foods, loaded with vitamins and minerals. Most are low in fat and high in fiber. Think COLOR! The more colors you have in your diet, the more nutrients you will consume because each color group provides different nutrients.
- 4 represents the number of glasses of water you should have each day. Most of us grew up with the concept that we should have 8 glasses of water each day, but sometimes, that amount of water replaces other foods which can provide nutrients. Unless you plan to be outdoors for long periods and exerting yourself in lots of physical activity, four glasses will be plenty. Water removes toxins, cleanses the system, regulates body temperature, hydrates the brain, hydrates cells, helps you have healthy skin, and decreases hunger. An interesting statistic is that ¾ of Americans are chronically mildly dehydrated. Exercise increases the need for water, so be careful on these hot summer days. At the first sign of thirst, drink water!
- 3 represents the number of good laughs you should have every day, but it also represents the number of dairy servings. Laughter improves mental health, improves the brain’s neurochemicals which help lower anxiety, depression, and blood pressure, and laughter also improves the immune system. Three servings of dairy daily help strengthen your bones and teeth, and provide nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, niacin, potassium, iron, and others.
- 2 represents the upper limit of screen time daily. Limiting screen time (computer, television, video games, and even smart phones) means more time to spend with family. Also, the more screen time spent, the less active the individual becomes, fewer calories are burned, and there is a decrease in use of muscles and bones. So, encourage your teen, spouse, co-worker, etc., to spend more face-to-face time, get up from the couch or office chair, and have real-life interaction!
- 1 represents the amount of physical activity you need each day – one hour that is! Physical activity can prolong life, provide stronger bones, increased energy, increased memory, better sleep at night, and decreased blood pressure. You will also burn more calories by achieving one hour of daily physical activity. Current statistics indicate that only about 1/3 of American teens get 1 hour per day.
- +8 represents the hours of sleep you need each night (+10 for children). Avoid scary or high-intensity shows at bedtime. Your body needs time to gear down. Sleep allows your body to heal and rebuild and helps the brain to “hardwire” you memory. It is best to sleep in a dark, cool room. Avoid activities and caffeinated beverages that make it difficult to sleep. Children need even more sleep because it is hard work growing bones and muscles! Keeping children out late on a school night should be avoided. Their bodies need time to settle down. A calming bedtime story or song will help them relax.
That is what 54321+8 (or 10) is all about. Remember that there is only one you! Take good care of yourself, exercise healthy habits, and be a good example for the next generation!
Cooking Well with Diabetes and Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes Reminder
These two diabetes series are rapidly approaching, and we still have seats remaining. If you or a loved one have questions about managing diabetes, be sure to call! The series will take place on the same dates, but at different times: Mondays and Thursdays, August 17, 20, 24, and 27, with an additional day of the evening session held on August 31.
– “Cooking Well with Diabetes” is a 4-lesson series focusing on healthy meal preparation, cooking demonstrations, and sampling. The series will take place from1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
– “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes” is a 5-lesson series focusing on self-care and nutrition components. You’ll learn to recognize foods that are high and low in carbohydrates, as well as learn about diabetes medications, physical activity, self-monitoring, doctor visits (what you should have and how often), and much more.
Each series is $25 per person or couple, payable at the door. Materials, refreshments, sampling, door prizes, and “graduation gifts” will be provided. To sign up, call 903-885-3443.
Closing Thought
“Flatter me and I may not believe you. Criticize me and I may not like you. Ignore me and I may have hurt feelings. Encourage me and I will not forget you” – William Arthur Ward
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]
Sulphur Springs Law Enforcement Rescues a Dog Locked in Car
Tuesday morning, August 4, at 11 a.m. Sulphur Springs Animal Shelter officers and local law enforcement officers responded to a call about a dog left locked in a vehicle in the Walmart parking. It took nearly two hours for responders to get the dog out of the car.
“Ironically, the dog had actually broken its chain at home and the owners were afraid of the dog getting loose, so they took the dog with them to Walmart and locked it in the car,” Animal Control Officer Annie DeWolfe said. “Unfortunately that was not the best solution for that situation. The 9-1-1 call was made by a bystander who was parked close by. He called the Police Department and they got a hold of us, so we came out to check on the dog.”
When Animal Control arrived on scene, the dog, a Lab mix breed, which is noted for its large amount of fur, was not yet in serious condition. However, as time went by, the dog’s condition began to worsen. Normally, pulling dogs from locked vehicles only takes about ten minutes. The cause of the prolonged time in extracting the dog in this situation came from the difficulty in contacting the owners of the animal.
“We ended up having to call an officer out to assist us,” Officer DeWolfe said. “The owners of the dog were having difficulty hearing the overhead announcement in the store. They told us they could only understand bits and pieces of it, so they disregarded it. Normally, when we have a situation like this [at Walmart] we will call people over the speaker system and let them know that they are needed up front. Sometimes it goes well, and sometimes it doesn’t.”
Once the dog was removed from the vehicle, it was taken to Bright Star Veterinarian Clinic to have its temperature taken. The animal was wrapped in ice and wet towels to lower its body temperature. The dog also received fluids to help with dehydration. The police officer who arrived on scene to assist Animal Shelter officers reminded the owners of the dog to not leave the animal in the car during the hot summer month of August.
“Well, he’s a fellow pet lover, so he let them know that you are not allowed to leave your dog in the car, especially with the heat like it has been,” Officer DeWolfe said.
In response to the incident, Animal Shelter officers have asked people to remember the importance of not leaving your animals in locked vehicles during high temperatures. Incidents like todays have happened previously throughout the summer.
“It doesn’t take any time at all for a dog to suffer heat stroke in a car,” Officer DeWolfe said. “It’s just like a little child. You wouldn’t leave your child in a car, don’t leave your dog in the car. It’s wearing a fur coat on top of that heat. It’s going to overheat in no time. Besides, animals can’t sweat, they have to pant. They can sweat a little bit through their paws, but paws versus your entire body make a huge difference.”
KSSTRadio.com publishes Sulphur Springs Police Department reports and news. The Police Department is located at 125 Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Texas. Non-emergency calls can be made to (903) 885-7602.
If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1.
The Sulphur Springs Police Department continues to serve its citizens with pride in its overall mission and will strive to provide the best possible police force in the 21st century.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Animals of the Week: Anna and Elsa
Anna and Elsa are two Shepard/Border Collie mix “sisters”. The two dogs were found on Russell Drive last week.
“They are untrained,” Animal Control Officer Barbi Blanch said.” They are young, so they’re trainable.”
The two dogs are both 6 months old, which is the perfect time to begin their training, according to Animal Shelter staff. It is actually unknown if the two dogs are, in fact, sisters. They are assumed to be sisters based their friendship and dependency on each other, as well as their similarities in breed. Neither dog has received shots in the past.
“We will start them on their puppy shots today so that we can try to get them to a home,” Officer Blanch said. “They’re not quite at the age for heartworm tests, so we’re going to let that slide until they’re old enough.”
Both dogs behave great with each other, furthering the assumption of sisterhood. They have been kept together in the same cage and have yet to fight with each other or any other animals. They seek attention from people, and bear no signs of past injuries.
The names of the two dogs, Anna and Elsa, are actually placeholder names. The Animal Shelter usually names animals only when promoting the animal for adoption. They try to avoid giving the animals any permanent names so as to not form any emotional attachments. The current Animal Shelter Mascot, a quiet and playful dog named Gracie, was one such animal that Shelter staff grew attached to in the past.
The Animal Shelter has commented on another possible off-site event which could take place in two weeks.
