3 Arrested On Warrants For Violating Terms Of Probation or Parole
At least three people over the last week on warrants for violating the terms of their release on probation or parole.
Early Morning Arrest
Sulphur Springs Police Cpl. Silas Whaley spotted a red Ford Fusion early Friday morning, Dec. 16, 2022, on JD Franklin Drive at Jefferson Street. The officer identified it as the car a wanted man was known to frequently drive.
Whaley made an investigative stop and confirmed Raekwon De Sean Gasaway was indeed the person driving the car. The active warrant was confirmed and Whaley took the 21-year-old Sulphur Springs man into custody at 1:10 a.m. Dec. 16, 2022.
Gasaway was booked into Hopkins County jail at 1:45 a.m. Friday on the felony warrant for violating probation, which he was on for a theft of firearm charge. Bond was recommended to be set at $150,000, Whaley noted in arrest reports.
Church Street Arrest
Cpl. Whaley also reported conducting a traffic stop on a Buick Encore on Church Street Wednesday night.
After obtaining the driver’s identifying information, a records check was conducted. The 45-year-old who gave a rural Sulphur Springs address was confirmed to be wanted by the US Marshalls’ Service. Whaley took her into custody at 9:06 p.m. Dec. 14, 2022.
Upon arrival at the county jail, the woman was booked in at 9:52 p.m. on the warrant for violation of probation, which she was on for an illegal re-entry charge, according to arrest reports.
Hinnant Street Arrest
A Sulphur Springs Police officer was dispatched Monday afternoon in the area of the Adult Probation Office, where a wanted man was reported to have been located.. Upon arrival, the man was located and confirmed to have an outstanding warrant for his arrest.
The 34-year-old Mount Vernon man was reportedly assisted to the patrol car at 2:12 p.m. Dec. 12, and transported to the county jail. The man was booked into jail at 2:46 p.m. on the warrant for violating probation, which he was on for accident involving $200 worth or less of damage to a vehicle. Bond on the charge was recommended to be set at $5,000, according to arrest reports.
KSST does not publish the names or photos of people charged with misdemeanor crimes in staff-generated reports, only those accused of felony offenses.
Hopkins County Unemployment Rate Unchanged From October To November 2022
Franklin County Has Lowest Jobless Rate in 9-County Workforce Development Area; Hopkins Delta Counties Tied for Second Lowest Rate In Northeast Texas WDA Last Month
Franklin County’s 3.5% unemployment rate was the lowest in Northeast Texas Workforce Development Area and even lower than the overall state jobless average of 3.7% for November 2022. While a 0.1% increase from October 2022, Franklin County’s November 2022 jobless rate was still 0.1% lower than November of 2021, according to the latest Local Area Unemployment Statistics released Friday morning, Dec. 16, 2022, on the Texas Labor Market Information website for Texas Workforce Commission.
US, State and Region
Across the United States, unemployment has remained steady at 3.4% for the second month in a row, while the number of unemployed declined, so too did the overall workforce and the number employed across the nation. November 2022 marked the third time this year the US monthly unemployment rate has been 3.4%. The monthly unemployment rate across the country so far this year was highest at 4.4% in January, then dipped to 4.1% in January and has remained below 4% since March. In April and September of 2022, only 3.3% of individuals in the USA labor force were without jobs.
Unemployment dipped from October to November 2022 across Texas from 3.8% to 3.7% and across NETWDA from 4.3 to 4.2%. Joblessness over the last year dipped from 4.5 in November 2021 to 3.7 last month across the state and from 4.8% in November 2022 to 4.2% last month across NETWDA. As the labor force state-wide has grown from 14,393,136 in November 2021 to 14,630,713 in October 2022 and 14,704,535 in November 2022, so too have the number of jobs. That left 544,188 Texans without jobs in November 2022, down from 651,011 in November of 2021 and even the 5,357 in October of 2022.
“Texas continues to set employment records thanks to our growing workforce and world-class employers,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “The growth we’ve seen in the Lone Star State in the past year leads the nation.”
Leisure and Hospitality led job growth in November with 20,200 positions added, followed by Education and Health Services, which grew by 5,400 jobs. Also of note, Mining and Logging employment added 3,800 jobs over the month and expanded by 22.7 percent since November 2021.
“The extraordinary job growth we’ve seen over the past years shows that Texas continues to be the best place for business,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “In addition, TWC continues to be a support system for our Texas employers, large and small, by providing resources to keep our economy thriving.”
Northeast Texas WDA
Across NETWDA, the labor force has shrunk from 124,863 in November 2021 to 124,754 in October 2022 and 124,628 in last month. The number of employed in Northeast Texas WDA has risen over the past year, from 118,873 in November 2021 to 119,376, causing jobless numbers to drop from 5,990 one year ago to 5,357 in October 2022 and 5,252 in November 2022.
Unemployment rates increased in only two of the nine counties in Northeast Texas WDA from October to November 2022. Although it had the lowest rate, Franklin County’s unemployment rate was still 0.1% higher last month than in October. Lamar County’s unemployment rate also rose slightly, from 4.1% in October 2022 to 4.2% in November 2022, with the overall labor force dipping from 24,196 in October to 24,167 in November. The number of people employed in Lamar County dropped from 23,193 in November of 2021 to 23,192 in October of this year and 23,156 last month. While the number of jobless in Lamar County dropped from 1,151 in November of 2021, seven more people were jobless in Lamar County last month than the month before.
Hopkins and Delta Counties tied at 3.9% for second lowest jobless rate in NET in November 2022. While unemployment in Delta County from October 2022 to November 2022 declined from 4% to 3.9%, Hopkins County’s unemployment rate has remained unchanged at 3.9 over the past 2 months. Compared to November 2021, Delta County’s unemployment rate was down from 4.2% to 3.9%, while Hopkins County’s jobless rate was up from 3.6% last year to 3.9% over the past 2 months. Delta County’s civilian labor force has continued to decline slightly over the past year from 2,446 in November 2021 to 2,442 in October 2022 and 2,439 last month. While the overall labor force in Hopkins County has continued to rise of the past 12 months, from 17,980 in November 2021 to 18,232 in October and 18,288 in November 2022, so too has the number of jobless individuals in Hopkins County. In November of 2021, a total of 643 people were unemployed in Hopkins County; the number increased to 716 in October 2022 and 721jobless last month in Hopkins County.
Titus County also reported a small dip in joblessness, dropping from 4.4% in November 2021 to 4.2% in October and 4.1% in November 2022. The overall labor force in Titus County rose from 13,577 in November 2021 to 13,672 in October 2022, but dipped again last month to 13,549. The number of jobless has continued to dwindle over the past year in Titus County, dipping 598 in November 2021 to 573 in October 2022 and 565 in November 2022.
Bowie County had a 4.2% unemployment rate in November, a 0.1% dip from October 2022, and a 0.8% dip from November 2021. The overall workforce in Bowie County rose from 37,284 in November 2021 to 39,207 last month, which was 22 fewer than in October. The number of jobless in Bowie County has continued to decline from 1,968 last November to 1,705 in October and 1,629 last month.
Unemployment in Red River County dipped from 4.6% in October to 4.4% last month, which was 0.8% less than in November of 2021. Red River County experienced a gain in the overall workforce from 5,261 in November of 2021 to 5,326 in October of 2022, and although a month-over-month dip, at 5,284 the county’s November 2022 workforce was still 23 people ahead of last year. Similarly, the number of Red River County individuals working rose from 4,986 in November 2021 to 5,079 in October 2022, only to dip slightly one month later to 5,049. That left 235 jobless last month, down from 247 one month before and 275 in November 2021.
The two counties with the biggest annual change in unemployment rates in the Northeast Texas Workforce Development Area are Cass and Morris Counties.
Cass County’s unemployment rate dipped only 0.1% from October to 4.4% in November 2022, but one year before the county’s unemployment rate was 5.5%. Cass County’s workforce had declined over the past year from 12,256 in November 2021 to 12,150 in October 2022 and 12,076 last month. The number of jobless in Cass County has fallen from 679 last November to 545 in October and 534 in November 2022.
Morris County’s jobless rate is the highest in the 9-county WDA. Morris County’s unemployment rate declined from 8.5% in November 2021 to 6.7% in October 2022 and 6.5% in November 2022. Morris County boasted a civilian labor force of 4,598, 390 of which were unemployed in November 2021. In October 2022, 293 of the 4,367 member labor force were still without jobs in October 2022. Last month, 284 of the 4,397 member labor force were jobless, according to the Dec. 16, 2022 TLMI.
FDA Approves First Gene Therapy for the Treatment of High-Risk, Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Adstiladrin (nadofaragene firadenovec-vncg), a non-replicating (cannot multiply in human cells) adenoviral vector based gene therapy indicated for the treatment of adult patients with high-risk Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG)-unresponsive non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) with carcinoma in situ (CIS) with or without papillary tumors.
“This approval provides healthcare professionals with an innovative treatment option for patients with high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer that is unresponsive to BCG therapy,” said Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “Today’s action addresses an area of critical need. The FDA remains committed to facilitating the development and approval of safe and effective cancer treatments.”
Bladder cancer, one of the more common forms of cancer, is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form a tumor in the tissues of the bladder. These abnormal cells can invade and destroy normal body tissue. Over time, the abnormal cells can also metastasize (spread) through the body. Most newly diagnosed bladder cancers (75% to 80%) are classified as NMIBC – a type of cancer that has grown through the lining of the bladder but hasn’t yet invaded the muscle layer. This type of cancer is associated with high rates of recurrence (between 30 to 80%) and the risk of progression to invasive and metastatic cancer.
Treatment and care of patients with high-risk NMIBC, including those with carcinoma in situ, or CIS (abnormal cancer cells found in the place where they first formed and that have not spread to nearby tissue), often involves removing the tumor and the use of BCG to reduce the risk that the cancer will recur. Few effective treatment options exist for patients who develop BCG-unresponsive disease. The failure to achieve a complete response, or the disappearance of all signs of cancer as seen on cystoscopy, biopsied tissue, and urine, is associated with an increased risk of death or a disease-worsening event. Without treatment, the cancer can invade, damage tissues and organs, and spread through the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 57,000 men and 18,000 women are diagnosed with bladder cancer annually, and roughly 12,000 men and 4,700 women die from the disease each year in the United States.
The safety and effectiveness of Adstiladrin was evaluated in a multicenter clinical study that included 157 patients with high-risk BCG-unresponsive NMIBC, 98 of whom had BCG-unresponsive CIS with or without papillary tumors and could be evaluated for response. Patients received Adstiladrin once every three months for up to 12 months, or until unacceptable toxicity to therapy or recurrent high-grade NMIBC. Overall, 51% of enrolled patients using Adstiladrin therapy achieved a complete response (the disappearance of all signs of cancer as seen on cystoscopy, biopsied tissue, and urine). The median duration of response was 9.7 months. Forty-six percent of responding patients remained in complete response for at least one year.
Adstiladrin is administered once every three months into the bladder via a urinary catheter. The most common adverse reactions associated with Adstiladrin included bladder discharge, fatigue, bladder spasm, urinary urgency, hematuria (presence of blood in urine), chills, fever, and painful urination. Individuals who are immunosuppressed, or immune-deficient should not come into contact with Adstiladrin.
This application was granted Priority Review, Breakthrough Therapy, and Fast Track designations.
The FDA granted approval of Adstiladrin to Ferring Pharmaceuticals A/S.
Commissioners Approve Agreement Amendment, Expanded Reinvestment Zone For Pine Forest Solar I, Hybrid Projects
Axon Taser Agreement, Proposed COLA For County Retirees Also Receive Court Approval
Hopkins County Commissioner Court worked through a full agenda in relatively short order this week, approving an agreement amendment and expanded reinvestment zone for Pine Forest Solar LLC and Pine Forest Hybrid LLC Projects. An Axon Taser Agreement and a cost of living adjustment (COLA) for the county retirement plan also received Court Approval.
Pine Forest Solar, Hybrid
The date of operation was pushed back from 2023-2024 to December of 2024 to allow for cleanup of Pine Forest Solar LLC and Pine Forest Hybrid LLC. Everything else should be the same in the project agreements, April Christensen with Clearway Energy Group told the Commissioners Court Monday, Dec. 12, 2022
Supply chain issues were cited as a cause for the extended time required for construction. The solar company representative said procurement of steel and getting solar panels. She said the solar project is still on and is a definite project, while the hybrid project, which involves uses of batteries, is not definite. The Commissioners Court was asked to approve amendments to both project agreements, however, so that everything is in order should the hybrid project move forward as well.
The land that could possibly be utilized for the Pine Forest solar projects, hence, the request for approval of a new larger reinvestment zone which includes all the potential property to be used. In an August 2022 Chapter 313 application asking Como-Pickton CISD to consider approving a tax incentive, limiting the school maintenance and operations tax to $20 million for 10 years. The Pine Forest Solar project was estimated at that time to be a “total investment . . . in excess of $251 million.”
“The reinvestment zone we’ve expanded it so that if we do acquire more land, and we do have a couple more parcels, we don’t have to keep coming back to you to expand. It is very large now, but that just means we won’t have to keep asking you. Reinvestments zones, that don’t mean we can go anywhere with solar panels. People do still have to choose to lease with us before they can be part of the solar project,” the solar project rep stated. “It gives us the flexibility to know that it could be included in tax abatements.”
Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin made the motion, which Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker seconded, to approve the first amendment to the Pine Forest Solar 1 LLC and Pine Forest Hybrid LLC agreements. The Commissioners Court unanimously approved the amendment to both agreements. Anglin also made a motion, which Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley seconded, to approve the expanded reinvestment zone as submitted for Pine Forest Solar I LLC an authorized the county judge to enter into the agreement on behalf of the county for an economic development project. The Commissioners Court gave unanimous approval of that motion as well.
Axon Tasers
On behalf of Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office, Sgt. Richard Greer asked the Commissioners Court to consider approving the sales terms and conditions with Axon Enterprises Inc. for purchase of 10 new Tasers, 10 holsters, 25 active live cartridges and 20 training cartridges.
The agreement with Axon is an installment agreement for approximately $3,500 a year for 3-5 years instead of having to pay one lump sum of over $17,000 for the Tasers related items. Axon is the only one they can get the trademarked items from. The new Tasers, cartridges and holsters will replace broken and outdated items which would be more cost effective to replace than try to repair.
County Auditor noted that the matter was presented to the Commissioners Court because it is an item the court would have to sign should to move forward with the purchase. The payment will come out of the sheriff’s office budget. HCSO has the funding to cover the cost.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price made a motion, which Bartley seconded, to authorize the terms and conditions of the Taser purchase from Axon Enterprises Inc. The Court approved the motion.
Retirement COLA
Hopkins County Commissioners Court was asked to approve a 7% cost of living adjustment (COLA) for all employees on Hopkins County Retirement Plan.
“We had already budgeted for it back during budget sessions, so the funds are there and ready to be spent. We did not know what the rates were going to come in at. We did budget for enough. It changes our retirement rate to 14.27. That’s still lower than what we are paying right now to give the retirees a raise. The recommended raise would be 7%,” Aulsbrook said.
Barker made the motion, which Anglin seconded, and the court agreed to grant the 7% COLA for retirees.
Fire Station Inspection
Hopkins County Fire Marshal reported Texas Commission on Fire Protection conducted its biannual inspection of Hopkins County Fire Station last week. If deficiencies are found, the Fire Commission has the authority to give departments a small fine on up to shutting the department down.
“We had zero deficiencies, which is fantastic news for the county,” Endsley told the Commissioners Court during their Dec. 12 meeting. “That’s the first time we’ve ever done that in our history. I took over from the previous administration, that administration had 15 deficiencies. We’ve had two other inspections since I’ve been in this position and we’ve had 2 the first year, 1 this last time and now zero. That is a lot of work from every individual that works for Hopkins County Fire Department and the Commissioners Court. We appreciate that and would like to acknowledge that we got the official letter from the state that we’ll also add to this attachment to keep on file. We just want to keep that on file from this time forward. We have not been doing that. We’re going to continue doing that.”
Endsley said HCFD Operations Chief Doug Skinner and “all the guys at the fire station do a very good job.” keeping the paperwork lined out. The programs the Commissioners Court allowed the department to buy has helped significantly with record keeping, and which is paying on in the good inspection.
Equipment Purchase
Price asked the court to approve purchase of a 2017 Dynapac CP 1200 machine. The Precinct 4 Commissioner said this would be an upgrade. Instead of having to use private driveways to turn equipment around, the mew equipment would only roll backward and forward, and would cost $48,681.65. Because the amount is below the required threshold, the County would not have to be bid outright. Aulsbrook said Precinct 4 has the funds to buy it outright. Price made a motion, which Bartley seconded, and the court approved to allow for purchase of the Dynapac.
Budget Amendments
Aulsbrook submitted for Commissioners’ approval budget amendments for the sheriff’s office, Precinct 4 and Precinct 1.
She noted HCSO received $12,800.80 in insurance proceeds for two vehicles that were wrecked. Those funds, with approval, are to be moved into the departments maintenance and repairs fund to pay for repairs to the vehicles.
Precinct 4 received a $17518.75 insurance claim for oil clean up last year.
“Because that came in last year, and we didn’t finish paying for all the bills until this year, I will be getting that from the fund balance,” Aulsbrook noted. “The funds did come in right at the end of last year. SO, I need to move $17,518.75 into your repairs and maintenance to pay for those invoices.”
Precinct 1 received funds from $22,059.96 Greenview Cemetery for passing a parking lot. That will need to be moved into the precinct road building fund.
Delek Logistics paid the county repair roads damaged during clean up of an oil spill in Turkey Creek. Precinct 1 had $11,186 left over in last year’s budget that needs to be moved from the fund balance into the current budget to pay expenses, Aulsbrook noted.
Barker made the motion, which Anglin seconded to amend the budget as proposed by the auditor.
Asset Disposal
Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley was given Commissioners’ approval to dispose of a Case backhoe destroyed by fire using Auctioneer Express after the New Year. Barker asked if it’d be better to wait if other commissioners have items to dispose of and post and list them with the online auction service at the same time. Aulsbrook noted it’d be easier on her and more cost effective to list them for disposal all at one time.
Consent Agenda
The Dec, 12 consent agenda, items to be enacted on under one motion unless a member of the Commissioners Court requests otherwise, included minutes from the Regular Nov. 14 meeting, and the Nov. 14 and 28 workshops; and a request from Spectrum/Charter to construct and place aerial and/or underground conduit and fiver on County Roads 3511, 4738, 4740, 4744 and 4749.
Price said he did approve of the requests in Precinct 4. Bartley, however, recommended that the requests impacting Precinct 3 be at least temporarily denied.
“There’s some issues out there that’s been taking place in the work zones. The way they have placed some of their equipment, it’s not in the right place in the right-of-ways, haven’t cleaned up the right of ways after they’ve gone in and trimmed. I called attention to it a couple of weeks ago and nothing’s been done about that so far. I know the weather could be a factor, but the safety issue out there is on the farm to market roads, not using the safety practices — no warning lights,” Bartley said.
Bartley said he’s even driven through the area they’ve worked in the past only to find a work crews working at night with no e Even at night time, I’ve gone through there and there’s a work crew out there working with no not complete disregard for safety, orange work cones. One night, Bartley said, he drove through and turned him vehicle lights on for their safety until a deputy count arrive to speak to them about appropriate safety practices while working along FM roads. He said there are no markings on the contractors’ trucks to identify them. He said perhaps denying the request will get the company’s attention and prompt them to do a better job observing safety measures while working on FM roads.
The Commissioners Court agreed to grant the requests from Spectrum/Charter with the exception of CR 3511 in Precinct 3.
A Year In Review — 2022 Livestock And Forage Education
By Dr. Mario Villarino, Hopkins County Extension Agent- Agriculture and Natural Resources
RELEVANCE
Livestock and forage production are a 3.96 billion dollars industry in the Central Region. Livestock and forage enterprises are affected by climate and market variability. Hopkins County currently has more than 100,000 head of cattle with 27,000 head of dairy cattle. Due to environmental requirements of federal and state authorities, Hopkins County dairy operators must maintain environmental requirements for operation.
RESPONSE
This plan collaborated with dairy (Dairy Farmers of America, Southwest Dairy Museum) and beef organizations (NETBIO ) to determine and conduct educational efforts needed for the successful operation of livestock farms and ranches. This plan had the goal of providing educational experiences to 350 beef producers, 150 private applicators, 60 dairy producers and 60 landowner seeking private applicator accreditation.
The plan included the following activities:
- Hopkins-Rains Hay Show (with Soil Conservation Board) (15 Participants).
- Prairie Day (150 participants)(Presenter)(Yantis Texas).
- 4 New Pesticide Applicators Trainings (quarterly)( 36 participants).
- Cattle Trail in Beef Day (111 Participants).
- Dairy Outreach Fall Conference (13 Participants).
- Pesticide Private Applicator CEU (82 Participants).
- 34 Press releases (digital and printed media).
- Result Demonstration in pre-conditioning of beef cattle.
- 1,455 Telephone consultations.
- 423 Site visits.
Evaluation Strategy
Retrospective post evaluation surveys were utilized to measure knowledge gain and adoptions of best practices for the evaluated programs.
- 100% (111/111) participants completed the evaluation for the Cattle Trail.
- 38% (5/13) participants completed the evaluation for the Dairy Outreach Fall Conference.
- 85% (70/82) participants completed the evaluation survey for Pesticide Private Applicator CEU.
RESULTS
2022 Cattle Trail
- 100% (111/111) have a better understanding of the steps beef goes before consumers.
- 100% (111/111) have a better understanding of the different parts of beef.
- 100% (111/111) have a better understanding of the importance of ranching in Texas.
- 100% (111/111) have a better understanding of products made of beef.
- 99% (110/111) have a better understanding of the economic impact of beef in their county.
2022 Dairy Outreach Fall Conference
- 60% (3/5) attendees indicated economic benefit from this activity.
- 100% (5/5) attendees indicated this activity to be valuable to network with experts and other participants.
- 100% (5/5) attendees indicated to be completely satisfied with the activities presented in this conference.
2022 Pesticide Private Applicator CEU
- 93% (65/70) plan to take actions or make changes as a results of the knowledge gained during the conference.
- 93% (65/70) anticipate benefitting economically as a direct result of what their learned from this activity.
For More Information, contact Dr. Mario Villarino, CEA Ag/NR-Hopkins County, at 903-885-3443 or [email protected]
Extension programs of Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas
Live Oak Street Lights Are A Christmas Delight
Live Oak Street has become a local must-see during the holidays for about a decade, give or take a couple of years. While not quite as brilliant as the Griswold lawn of National Lampoons fame, the Sulphur Springs Christmas lights do shine as a beacon of goodwill and the continuation of a tradition started about 25 years ago, a light display that spanned acres of field.
The Millers said they want to provide the kind of joy a friend’s parents provided starting 25 years ago on the acreage by the family home for people who would drive out to see the thousands of colorful lights. It took about 4 months for his friend’s family to get everything set up. Lighting the season was and still is a holiday tradition for them.
The Millers moved to Sulphur Springs about 12 years ago and have been continuing that tradition in this community, putting up lights of their own for families to enjoy. The project is a family one, with the couple enlisting help from their grown children at times.
His longtime friend helps out some too. In fact, he pointed to small arches spanning either side of the walkway to the front door, which he said he and the friend constructed and put up. In fact, he and the friend, who has a light display of his own, go back and forth helping each other with their displays, carrying on the tradition the friend’s parents established over two decades ago. When the friends parents passed about 5 years ago, the pair split some of the boxes that control the show, to use in their homes.
The Millers said they usually spend about 2 months checking all the lights and electrical strands, making sure all are ready to go online around sundown Thanksgiving Day. Mr. Miller, sometimes aided by their children, does most of the work on the house and lawn lights, while his wife typically makes sure the trees are properly dressed in numerous strands of colored lights. Initially, the lights were standard Christmas bulbs, which had to be strung and plugged in carefully so as not to overload the electrical system at their home. More recently, he began converting to LED lights, which don’t take as much power or plugs, conserving energy and reducing their electric bill each holiday season.
And the lights aren’t just luminescent displays of Christmas lights. They are set to skip, dance, chance, twinkle, glow and race in time to music, typically 6-9 holiday songs. The yard has strings of color — red, white, yellow, blue and green — chasing each other in tune to festive tunes across the grass, from 13 control boxes discretely hidden throughout the yard. The house is highlighted in red and green area. A wreath, stars and snowflakes adorn the house. The front windows are lined in white twinkle lights. The brick mailbox is wrapped in bands of red and green. The walkway to the front door is lined with candy canes dazzling in flashing red hues. An archway along the driveway on one side of the property is streaked in strings of colored lights that flash in varied tones.
Often, the Millers add something different, or switch up the display annually, to keep it interesting for neighbors or any motorists and visitors who care to stop by and check the lights out. For instance, a big lit wreath may be added above a big picture window, and the green tree of Christmas lights is now much taller than say the one on the right side of their yard. For Christmas, the flag pole near the lit arch drive is converted into the trunk or center base from which the green lights are hung. Not only is it taller, but more lights were added as well.
Rain, fog or brilliant, clear star-filled night, the lights and music are available for people to take in from the comfort of their vehicles. The Millers’ Christmas lights can be seen beginning at 5:30 p.m. daily Thanksgiving Day and continuing through New Year’s Eve. The Live Oak Street lights shine until about 9/10 p.m. on weeknights, and a couple of hours later on weekends. They will shine into the New Year, then be extinguished around 1 a.m. Jan. 1.
And, even better, there is no charge for people to drive over to Live Oak Street and tune in to the designated frequency to enjoy the Christmas music while watching the light show in the late evenings and nights. There is a small locked container on a stand by the driveway. People can make a donation if they want to, but doing so isn’t necessary. The Millers explained that someone made the container for them for them so they felt obligated to put it up. They do appreciate any funds donated, but said what they really look enjoy finding in it are handwritten people took time to scrawl a message on, to tell them about their visit to view the lights. The couple has even had a few people knock at the front door to talk with them about their Christmas lights.
The Millers said they enjoy providing the lights for people to drive by and see, something families can enjoy together. The Millers encourage people to drive over to enjoy the labor or their efforts, and tell their friends. They love seeing people driving by, pausing to enjoy the music in their vehicles as they watch the lights dance merrily across the lawn.
They’d love to see their neighbors get in on the fun, decorating their lawns too. He said he’d be willing to program their lights so that they too blink and shine to the holiday tunes. A few neighbors have put up a few lights, but no nearby yards come close to brightening others’ nights during the Christmas season the way the Millers’ Live Oak Street lights do.
Chamber Connection – Dec. 14: Find Out About Christmas Ornaments And Activities, Directories, Eclipse 2024
By Butch Burney, Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce President/CEO
As 2022 comes to an end, it is time to get nominations in for those individuals and businesses that have been outstanding this year.
Nominations are being accepted for Citizen of the Year, Woman of the Year, Small and Large Businesses of the Year and other superlative recognitions. The awards will be announced at the Chamber’s membership banquet on Thursday, Feb. 16, at the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Nominations can be sent to [email protected] or mailed to the following addresses:
- Citizen of the Year — Chamber of Commerce — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
- Woman of the Year — Beta Sigma Phi Organization — P.O. Box 72, SS, TX 75483.
- Caregiver of the Year — The Pilot Club — P.O. Box 131, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483.
- Community Pride Award — Adult Leadership Class — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
- Agriculturist of the Year — Hopkins/Rains Counties Farm Bureau — 233 College St., Sulphur Springs 75482.
- Growth and Renewal — DBA — 109 Jefferson St. E, SS, TX 75482.
- Outstanding Professional Educator (Administrator, Counselor, Diagnostician, or Teacher) — Chamber of Commerce — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
- Outstanding ParaProfessional Educator (Secretary or Aide) — Chamber of Commerce — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
- Outstanding Auxiliary Educator (Maintenance, Custodial, Transportation, Nurse or Cafeteria) — Chamber of Commerce — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
- Businesses of the Year nominations should be for those businesses which exhibit outstanding community involvement — civic, church, educational, benevolent, humanitarian or other.
- Large Business of the Year — Chamber of Commerce — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
- Small Business of the Year — Chamber of Commerce — 110 Main Street, SS, TX 75482.
Hopkins County Ornaments
If you’re decorating your Christmas tree and you’re looking for that special ornament, come see our local one.
For the fifth year, the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce has commissioned a Christmas ornament, and this year it celebrates Heritage Park!
There is a limited supply (70) and the cost is $40. If you would like to purchase one, drop by our office at 110 Main St. while supplies last!
Eclipse 2024
It’s still 16 months away, but the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, will be here before we know it, and there is still a lot of planning to do.
Literally tens of thousands of people are expected to make Hopkins County their destination for the eclipse because Sulphur Springs sits directly on the centerline.
Plans have begun, but there is still a lot to do. Those who want to be a part of the process are invited to attend a planning meeting at noon on Friday, Dec. 16, at Clarion Pointe. You can RSVP [email protected] for more information.
Directories
Work has started on the 2023 Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce Directory. We distribute over 7,000 of these directories to visitors, relocation hopefuls, and even hometown heroes who are interested in learning more about our local businesses. They include historical information as well all things to the see and do in Hopkins County. The best part is, they include an alphabetical and categorical listing of your business.
LeeAnn Peugh with Echo Publishing will be contacting you in the next few weeks to see if you are interested in placing an ad in the directory.
The rates are affordable, and one of the best ways to represent your business. You may also contact the Chamber, and I will pass your information along to her.
Christmas Activities
- RPM Staffing Professionals will host its 2nd Annual Stockings for Seniors, with donations directly benefitting Rock Creek Health and Rehabilitation. Donations items include but are not limited to chapstick, books, socks, denture cleaner, hand lotion, etc. Contact RPM at 903-439-1022 or drop off donations at 401 Church St., Suite B.
- Doerksen Hospice is hosting a sock drive benefitting our area oncology clinics, dialysis centers, and nursing homes. They will be accepting the socks through the month of December. Drop off locations will be their office at 1304 Church St. and the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizen Center on MLK Boulevard.
- Wreaths Across America will take place at the Sulphur Springs City Cemetery on December 17, at 11 a.m. For more information on donations and volunteering visit: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.
- The 2nd Annual Roper & White Christmas Bicycle giveaway is scheduled for December 17, from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. There will be 140 bicycles available for children ages 3-12, no reservations. Parents may pick up 1 bike per vehicle at Roper & White, 519 Oak Ave.
- The Salvation Army will be hosting Breakfast with Santa on Thursday, December 22, from 9 to 11 a.m. at The Roc. Contact Dihn at 214-709-3523 with any questions.
Texans Can Protect Themselves From Motor Vehicle Crimes, Including Auto Theft
Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority Recommends: “If You Like It – Lock It.”
AUSTIN, Texas – Don’t let the Grinch – or auto burglars and thieves – steal your joy this holiday season. The risk of having your car or valuables stolen increases while shopping and traveling during the holidays. The Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA) reminds Texans: “If You Like It – Lock It.”
Texans can adopt simple habits to protect themselves from the threat of motor vehicle crime:
- Lock your vehicle and take your keys.
- Never leave your vehicle running unattended, even if you will only be away for a moment.
- Hide or remove valuables from your vehicle.
- Contact law enforcement immediately if you see anything suspicious or if your car is stolen.
“By remaining vigilant, Texans can protect their vehicles and what’s inside,” said MVCPA Chairman and Laredo Assistant Chief of Police Mike Rodriguez. “Don’t let criminals disrupt your life and damage your vital sense of security in the community.”
Every year, motorists and businesses in Texas experience nearly two billion dollars in losses due to motor vehicle burglary and theft. For more information about how to protect your vehicle and property, visit MVCPA online at www.TxDMV.gov/motorists/consumer-protection/auto-theft-prevention.
The Motor Vehicle Crime Prevention Authority (MVCPA) is a program within the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. The Texas Legislature established MVCPA in 1991 to combat motor vehicle theft, burglary, and fraud-related motor vehicle crime in Texas. This is the 29th year the authority has issued funding. For more information about how to protect yourself from motor vehicle crime, visit MVCPA at at www.TxDMV.gov/about-us/MVCPA.
SSHS Wildcat Band Recognized For Achievement At State Marching Contest
Sulphur Springs High School Wildcat Band members gathered around the courthouse steps this week to receive special recognition from Hopkins County Commissioners Court. Then, later that night, band leadership was also recognized by Sulphur Springs ISD Board of Trustees for the Wildcat Band’s achievement at the state marching competition.
Sulphur Springs High School Wildcat Band gather for the reading of a proclamation recognizing them for placing fourth in the State Marching Contest. 
Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom presents SSISD Director of Bands Spencer Emmert with a frame copy of the proclamation signed by the Commissioners Court in recognition of the Wildcat Band for placing fourth at state. 
SSHS Wildcat Band and instructors gather for a photo with Hopkins County Commissioners Court to commemorate the proclamation issued in their honor.
County Judge Robert at 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 12, noted Nov. 9, 2022, was the first time in school history the SSHS Wildcat Band advanced to the State Marching Contest. Competing against 23 other bands, the Wildcats advanced from the preliminary round of competition to the finals. Overall, the SSHS Wildcat Band finished 4th among the top 10 bands competing at the state marching contest.
These results, Newsom read from the proclamation “show dedication, unity and the giving of their best.” The county judge then appealed “to all citizens of Hopkins County to congratulate the great effort and success of the Sulphur Springs High School Band.”
He presented a framed copy of the proclamation to Director of Bands Spencer Emmert, along with a photo of the Wildcat Band, which identifies each by name. Drum majors for the 2022 marching season included Jeremy Resendiz, Catherine Starzyk, Catherine De La Rosa and Lauren Maynard.
The 150 member strong band, with color guard, includes: Jakob Toland, Anaiya McGinnis, Jazmine Kelley, Logan McCain, Allan Tellez, Triniti Hill, Jocelin Garcia, Maria Garing, Celeste Hernandez, Melanie Ortega, Allece Johnson, Brooklynn Person, Charli Roden, Laney Bankston, Jaycie Arledge, Flor Gudino, Lisa Marin, Cadence Lester, Alma Abrego, Jessica Reed, Nataly Calderon, Makenna Jones, Jocelyne Yanez, Juan Santacruz; 2nd row standing: Daisy Nunez, Heidi Montoya, Asia Chen, Alexis Villarino, Adrian Escobedo, Janeth Rivera, David Verlander, Hannah Hughes, Evelyn Garcia, Sloan Biggerstaff, Avril Mireles, Kiersten McDonald; 3rd row standing: Juan Perez, Jencarlos Diosdado, Bryton Wies, Ronaldo Sanchez, Lucy McKenzie, Lakayla Taylor, Keira Clayton, Davin Ly, Dylan McKinney, Diego Perez, Mika Petty, Andrew Resendiz, Kate Hurley, Sara Voss, Valeria Garcia, Anna Petry, Miyani Frazier, Chase Maynard, Dixie Adams, Frances Yanez, Kayla Santana, Karmon Fitzgerald, Jadyn Allen, Kylee Anderson, Sadie Barnett, Carolina Alvarez, Landon Wies, Abbey Williams, Mattie McCord, Kami White, Yurem Guzman, Paige Batterton, McKenzie Hunter, Sienna Posey, Caroline Prickette, Jasmin Yanez, Clancy Mayo, Bernie Chavez, Rafael Flores, Andrew Galarza, Jackson Reed, Jonathan Pichardo, Keyla Herrera, Mason Maynard, Isaac Stanley, Conner Curtis, Grayson Wall, Cameron Davis, Jace Walton, Samuel Ramirez, Hannah Teer, Kyson Herriage, Isaac Riley, Cohen Elliott, Alexies De La Rosa, Justin Woods, Valentin Garcia, Matthew Brown, Alex Cortez, Josh Lopez, Charlie Bayless, Kannon Gibson, Wyatt Watson, Justin Chen, Peyton Willis, Jose Salas, Aydan Whittle, Brooks Burgin,Levi Caton, Austin Wantland, Ryan Mitchell; Back row: Aidyn Utt, Nathan Bilyeu, Ty Robinson, Anthony Small, Lucas Shirley, Paul Nowlin, Brody Emmert, Aubrey Williams, Alex King, Marcos Ramirez, Zach Clark, Trentin McKinney, Uriel Santacruz, Cameron Jefferson and McKenna Meskimen.
The proclamation was read on Celebration Plaza instead of in the Commissioners Courtroom during their regular 9 a.m. meeting Dec. 12 because of the courtroom isn’t big enough to accommodate that many attendees.
And, Hopkins County Commissioners Court wasn’t the only group to honor the band on Monday. SSISD school board also invited band leadership to the regular Dec. 12 meeting to recognize the band for their history-making performance of “Come Fly With Me” at the state marching contest.
SSHS Trustee John Prickette had the honor of presenting a certificate of recognition to Emmert for the outstanding job he and his assistants did directing the band, about 150 great kids and the flag corps as well.
“On behalf of this board, we are extremely honored and proud to recognize the band for their accomplishments this year. Fourth place in state in 4A says a lot. It gives me goosebumps to say that this evening. So congratulations,” Prickette said.
Emmert said after advancing to the state marching contest for the first time in school history, the SSISD Wildcat Band approached the contest with a goal of making the top 10. They “did an amazing job” which earned a fourth place state ranking, just one spot away from a medal. Next year, the marching band will strive to improve and earn a medal. For about 25 years, bands were only eligible to advance to state competition once every 2 years, a decision made by state superintendents. This year, the option to change that arose, and Superintendent Michael Lamb was on the committee that got to put to a vote the notion of keeping the marching band advancement rule the same or changing it so that bands who score high enough have the potential to advance to state marching competition every year. The superintendents voted in favor of giving top bands the potential to advance to state annual, provided they score high enough at lower level contests.
Lamb laughed, joking that vote was made before he realized how much it would cost to for bands to compete at state.
“We have felt such support and exciting momentum from our community. The kids have worked so hard for all of the work they have done to really have this opportunity to advance to state. And really, after this occurred, just outpouring of support from our community was amazing. The send offs and everything, the support of our trip itself, with help organizing and chaperoning, the financial support was absolutely amazing. It’s not cheap to take 150 kids to San Antonio for several days, but it was amazing. The support of our school district and our administration is second to none,” Emmert said. “We are so thankful to Mr. Lamb and the school board’s support of our band program.”
Emmert said he had 150 of the best kids in the band program, some who also have recently received recognition for their efforts in other academic, athletic, extracurricular and service areas.
“That’s the interesting thing about band kids, they’re pulled in other directions, because again we feel like they are some of the best kids in Texas. So every group wants those kids in their organizations. I think it’s an amazing thing. We have some in just about every organization at Sulphur Springs High School represented. We’ve got state-level FFA officers. We’ve got varsity football players. We’ve got varsity basketball and volleyball players. We have drill team captains. We state-level academic champions, so we are really, really fortunate to get to see the students thrive in many ways. We feel like music, the things that music teaches are so beneficial. I know that Mr. Lamb and the school board agrees with us because we’ve felt that support,” Emmert said. “That is not always the case across Texas and across this country. We certainly understand how lucky were are to teach here in Sulphur Springs and to go to school here in Sulphur Springs, to have this administration. But also, I’m extremely fortunate to have the staff and students that was have.”
Emmert noted two of the assistant band director Elizabeth Bialecki and Steve Proctor, were present at the Dec. 12, 2022, school board meeting, and noted there are many others middle and high school directors that are an important part of the band program, including Cody Brown and Zachary Griffin.
He then recognized the leadership team, who he invited to join them Monday evening, as the board room where the trustees meet is a bit small to comfortably and safely accommodate that many additional individuals. He recognized drum major Catherine “Cathy” De La Rosa; and junior drum majors Catherine “Cat” Starzyk and Jeremy Resendiz and Lauren Maynard. Emmert was then asked to have the other members of the student band leadership team to join him before the school board to be recognized and for photos.
Lamb and the school board also expressed praise to the Band Booster Club, which included some members who were present at the school board meeting to see the students and band directors receive recognition. The district has been very fortunate to have such great support for the band program.
“Oh my goodness, it has been just amazing our Booster Club,” said Emmert. “Every year since I’ve been doing a head director position — this goes back about 10 years to when I went to Winnsboro — I think the current band booster president can’t outdo the previous one. It’s just been a stair step, and there have been just some amazing, amazing people in charge of our Booster Club. But this year, Gena and Wendy and Brian and all the boosters and booster officers have just been amazing.”
The director of bands praised the Band Booster Club members who’ve been working tirelessly to raise the fund needed to fly the band to Washington, D.C., where they will perform at the World War II Memorial in May 2023. The trip will incorporate government and civic lessons for students. He offered thanks to the Band Booster Club and sponsors for all of their support.
The Wildcat Band, Emmert noted, was the largest coed organization at SSHS, if not the largest organization, so taking the group to do things such as contests is a hug undertaking.
“We know we wouldn’t be able to do that without the support of our parents,” Emmert noted.
CHRISTUS Introduces New GI Doctor, To Celebrate Sargent For 14 Years Service In Hopkins With Retirement Reception
By Jennifer Heitman, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, [email protected]
New Gastroenterology Physician
CHRISTUS proudly announces the addition of Umair Sohail, M.D., to our Gastroenterology team in Sulphur Springs. He is board certified in Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, and Obesity medicine. Dr. Sohail will be seeing patients at CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic located at 107 Medical Circle in Sulphur Springs.
Dr. Sargent Retirement Reception
We invite the public to join us for a retirement reception celebrating Dr. David Sargent’s FOURTEEN years of service to Hopkins County on Monday, December 19, 2022 from 5 to 6pm at the CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Medical Plaza Conference Room, 1st floor, 113 Airport Rd, Sulphur Springs. Light refreshments will be served.
Memorial Snowflakes
If you have been in our hospital lobby recently, you may have noticed the snowflakes adorning the windows alongside our elegant Christmas tree. These beautiful memorial snowflakes are in honor or memoriam of loved ones.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation recently kicked-off their annual snowflake campaign. The community is invited to pay tribute to friends or family members with a gift in their honor or memory. The Foundation will then send a notification to the honorees or designated contact to make them aware of the gift. In addition, a beautiful snowflake bearing the name of the honoree is displayed in our main lobby.
This offering of the Foundation has become an annual tradition that is warmly received by donors and honorees alike. The recommended donation for each person honored is $25. Recognition of individuals makes a lovely seasonal gift.
For more information, you may visit the Foundation’s webpage, or call 903.438.4799.
Flu Shots: Do not Delay, Get Yours Today!
Flu shots are available at CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, 105 Medical Plaza. Schedule an appointment with your provider today at 903.885.3181. If your provider has seen you in the last six months, you may walk in for a flu shot weekdays between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System includes CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospitals – Tyler, South Tyler, Jacksonville, Winnsboro and Sulphur Springs, the CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Louis and Peaches Owen Heart Hospital – Tyler, CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rehabilitation Hospital a partner of Encompass Health, Tyler Continue CARE Hospital at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital, a long-term acute care facility, and CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic is the area’s preferred multi-specialty medical group, with more than 400 Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers representing 36 specialties in 34 locations serving Northeast Texas across 41 counties.
For more information on services available through CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System, visit christustmf.org
- Bed count – 402 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Tyler
- Bed count – 8 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – South Tyler
- Bed count – 25 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Jacksonville
- Bed Count – 96 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs
- Bed count – 25 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Winnsboro
- Bed count – 94 – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rehabilitation Hospital
- Bed count – 96 – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Louis and Peaches Owen Heart – Tyler
- Bed count – 51 – Tyler Continue CARE Hospital at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital
