Johanna Hicks Receives State Honors, Commissioners Court Recognized At 2022 Extension Conference
Hopkins County Family & Community Health Extension Agent Johanna Hicks earned state honors and Hopkins County Commissioner Court was recognized last week at the 2022 Texas Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences state conference.
Hicks Receives State Honors
Johanna Hicks received the Healthy Texas Award at the TEAFCS Awards ceremony in Decatur, an annual event attended by Extension professionals from across the state. The impressive results her leadership with the Community Health/Wellness Alliance in conducting sessions at summer student day camps were cited for the state honor.
According to Hicks, the program started when the usual “Kids’ Camp: Fun, Food, Fitness” was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic. However, Sulphur Springs ISD developed a summer day camp in 2020 for students which has taken place each summer since then. Additional opportunities for Hicks and her collaborators surfaced as Cumby ISD added a camp program to its summer schedule in 2022. Hicks and her team jumped in to assist in leading sessions.
Providing education on nutrition, physical activity, hydration, water safety, sun safety, stranger danger, and bullying, Hicks and representatives from the Texas Department of State Health Services, United Healthcare and Master Wellness Volunteers made an impact in the lives of students attending the camps.
Hicks provided incentive items to reinforce topics being taught, including MyPlate flying discs, sports bottles, MyPlate books, toss up balls, and more. Seven issues of “Color Me Healthy” newsletter including recipes, tips for healthy eating, suggestions for incorporating physical activity into daily life, and more were distributed to parents. Hands-on cooking sessions in 2021 and 2022 included the importance of increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. Students also learned about reading a recipe, using the correct measuring utensils, hand hygiene, oven safety, and food safety.
The results were notably impressive:
- 100% of participants indicated that they plan to drink more water and fewer sweetened beverages.
- 100% also indicated that they plan to eat breakfast every morning, and
- 88% indicated that they plan to eat more fruits and vegetables.
Hopkins County Commissioners’ Court Honored
The Hopkins County Commissioners’ Court received recognition at the 2022 Texas Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences state conference as well.
(Photo courtesy of Callie Cline, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Specialist.)
Hicks nominated the Commissioners Court for their support and participation in events of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.
The Commissioners Court consisting of Judge Robert Newsom, Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker, Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin, Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley, and Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price view Extension as a viable asset to the community and serve on Extension committees and task forces, Hicks sited in her nomination. The court members attend Extension leadership planning meetings, the annual Extension Banquet and 4-H Achievement Banquet, as their schedules allow. Newsom also assists in recognizing National 4-H Week by reading a proclamation and giving encouraging words to our county’s youth.
The County Judge, Hicks noted, was instrumental in encouraging county employees to take part in Walk Across Texas, an 8-week walking program to promote daily physical activity, which took place in Fall 2021. Three county official teams took part in the event in addition to three other local teams. Total miles logged during Walk Across Texas were 7,883.44.
In the words of Johanna Hicks, “The Hopkins County Commissioners’ Court is a shining example of support, encouragement, and involvement in the work of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. From Extension building improvements to involvement in Walk Across Texas, each commissioner has buoyed the life of work of Extension in Hopkins County.”
Congratulations to Hopkins County Extension Agent Johanna Hicks and the Commissioners Court on receiving this recognition for their efforts in and support of the local community.
Hopkins County Records — Aug. 3, 2022
Land Deed Transactions
The following land deed transactions were filed and posted between July 11 and July 15, 2022, at Hopkins County Clerk’s Office:
- Mary Jane Colton Estate, Robert E. Colton independent executor, to Robert E. Colton; tract in the Ira Stephenson survey
- Brenda Sue Mosley to Douglas Craig Moseley; tract in the Antonio Lazarin survey
- Gerardo Fulgarin and Maria Fulgarin to Omar Cisneros and Rosano Cisneros; tract in the D Padillo survey
- Pam Bell to Martin Medina; tract in the G. Procello survey
- Billy Wayne Campbell and Jan Burrows Campbell to Brian Shurtleff; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Larry D. Clayton and Timothy Steven Clayton to Judy Petty, Linda Petty, Mickey Dean Petty and Mickey Gene Petty; tract in the Francis Hopkins survey
- Liberty Tierra LTD to Brenda Rodriguez and Edmundo Rodriguez Jr.; tract in the Lucy Ann Collum survey
- Liberty Tierra LTD to Nohemi Ortiz and Cesar Torres; tract in the Twin Lake Farms; tract in Twin Lake Farms
- Summit Ranch Investments LTD to Flavio Saucedo; tract in the Oak Grove Subdivision
- Kari Hargrave and Ronnie Craig Hargrave to Megg Beverage; tract in the William Clapp survey
- Kris Childress and Lisa Childress to Cavadian Properties LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Hesston Taylor and Keri Taylor to Julia Hilton and Kenneth Clyde Hilton; tract in the J. Atchley survey
- Christine Jernigan and Dakota Jernigan to Sandoval 700 CR LLC, Malachi Sandoval and Andrea Dawn Sandoval; tract in the Mary Hamilton survey
- Whitney Hurley and Jordan Thompson to 100 MPH + Property Management LLC; tract in the S. Coy survey
- Jim Hankins and Angela Mobley, independent executor for the Trudy Hankins Estate, to Mary Denise Camarillo and Jose Luis Alvarez Martel; tract in the Elihu Lindley survey
- Jan Ainsworth, Benny Herman, Juanita Merle Herman, Roger Len Herman and Joan Stringer to Amanda Ann Turner and Brentley Heath Turner; tract in the Daniel Halbrooks survey
- Melva Edwinna Burkett to Delbert Lee Tully Jr. and Laura Lee Tully; tract in the Richard Moore survey
- Janet Webb and Lloyd Webb to Carolina Ceballos and Rafael Ceballos; tract in the James Riggs survey
- El Toro Investments LLC, Juan A. Ramirez and Laura A. Ramirez to Roger Wright; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Richard David Dischiavo and Virginia F. Dischavio to Erin E. Potter and Paul M. Seigler; tract in the WR Prather survey
- Nicole Leigh Johnson to Shelby Jones, Jeffrey Sexton and Alex Smith; tract in the Thomas Lee survey
- Texas Grand Land VI LLC to Ariana Elizabeth Meyer and Kaleb Emmett Meyer; tract in the A. Weaver Ranch
- Benji Flanery, Karen Flanery AKA Karen Scott to Journey Properties LLC
- Steve Kennedy to Steven Michael Kennedy Jr.; tract in the GM Calvert survey
- Marita Ranch LLC and James E. Melson to Cory Alters and Joanne Alters; tract in the JR Autwell survey
- BP America Production Company to BPX Operating Company
- David Fenton and Richard Todd Fenton to Kathy Desmet and Matthew Desmet; tract in the Helena Nelson survey
- Brian Edward Snyder and Sharadee Snyder to Christopher Mark Buxton and Katherine E. Marie Buxton; tract in the J. Pettyjohn; tract in the J. Pettyjohn survey
- Kathleen Frazier to Justin Hill; tract in the JJ Box survey
- Kimberly Abron known as Kimberly R. Hall, to The C. Ranch TX LLC; tract in the RJ Watson survey
- Vincente Rios Badillo and Tammy Rios to Rachel R. Howell; tract in Rios Estates
- Jose Carmona and Olivia Mendez to Cristina Mendez; tract in the John Rowland survey
- Della Wright and Larry Don Wright to Nancy Rita Attaway, Patricia Ruth Jennings and John David Jetton; tract in the Nacogdoches University survey
- McSweeney Land and Cattle LLC to Maribel Reyes Deliz; tract in the Thomas Lee survey
- Joe Mack Gober and Mark McClendon to Virginia E. Hampton and Wesley Jordan Hampton; tract in the E. Melton survey
Applications for Marriage Licenses
The following individuals filed applications for marriage licenses from July 23-28, 2022 at Hopkins County Clerk’s Office:
- Johnathon Tsai and Sierra Nechelle Joiner
- Kaleb Jacob Myles and Alexis Cheyanne Sanchez
Twogether In Texas, Annual 4-H Achievement Banquet Coming Up This Month
By Johanna Hicks, Family and Community Health Agent, Hopkins County, [email protected]
Are you engaged to be married? Are you seriously dating? Are you married, but need a boost? If you said ‘yes’ to any of these, then I have a great opportunity for you. Twogether in Texas Marriage Education workshop is being offered on Saturday, August 13, 8:30 a.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m. at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office – Hopkins County. The address is 1200 West Houston, Sulphur Springs. We are located next door to the Southwest Dairy Museum and directly in front of the Hopkins County Civic Center.
Twogether in Texas is designed to focus on 5 key areas: Marriage Expectations, Communication, Conflict Resolution, Money Management, and Goals & Dreams. The workshop is free of charge to anyone who would like to attend. Morning refreshments, as well as lunch will be provided. Perhaps one of the best benefits of attending the workshop – other than the great information – is that engaged couples will receive a certificate to save $60 upon applying for a marriage license at their county clerk’s office.
Comments from a former Hopkins County Clerk include:
“We are proud to partner with the Extension Office in providing this service. It has been my pleasure to observe couples who come in and proudly display their certificate. It is our desire that more couples will be involved in the free marriage education workshops being offered. We would love to see more marriage licenses and fewer divorces.”
Attendees do not have to be from Hopkins County. The certificate for the savings is applicable to the entire state and is good for up to one year from the date it is issued. Interested couples may sign up by calling the Hopkins County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office at 903-885-3443. We will need names of both individuals, plus a phone number.
Take the step to building your marriage on a firm foundation! After all, strong marriages make strong families. Strong families make strong communities.
Annual 4-H Achievement Banquet
The month of August is busy around our office, but one of the highlights is the annual 4-H Achievement Banquet. This year’s event will be held on Saturday, August 20, 6 p.m. at League Street Church of Christ. We will recognize the many accomplishments of our county 4-H members and will honor our Outstanding 4-H Leader of the Year. 4-H families are asked to contact the Extension Office by August 17 to reserve a ticket.
This year’s theme is “When in 4-H” and the meal will be catered. The 4-H Foods Project group will meet at 10 a.m. to prepare desserts. Our guest speaker is the District 4-H Council President, Jacey Sharkey, from Hunt County. She will share her thoughts on what it means to be a 4-H member and challenge adults and youth alike to “Make the Best Better.” A slide show of 4-H members in action will be shown during the meal. Tickets are available at the Extension Office. Please call 903-885-3443 to add your name to the list.
Closing Thought
Start by doing what’s necessary then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.
— Francis of Assisi
Contact Johanna Hicks, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Family and Community Health Agent at the Hopkins County office at P.O. Box 518 (1200-B West Houston), Sulphur Springs, TX 75483; 903-885-3443; [email protected]
Sulphur Springs Man Jailed On Evading Arrest Charge
A 41-year-old Sulphur Springs man was jailed on an evading arrest charge Sunday afternoon, according to arrest reports.
Hopkins County sheriff’s deputies responded at 5:27 p.m. July 31, 2022, on County Road 3341 to check out a vehicle suspected to have been involved in a crash. The vehicle reportedly traveled at a high rate of speed despite having a flat tire, then turned into a County Road 3341 address.
Upon arrival, deputies spotted a black Nissan Altima with major damage on the driver’s side of the car. The back driver’s side wheel was also bent. A female claimed she had a blow out and hit a sign, so her husband drove the vehicle home.
When the man exited the residence, deputies alleged it was apparent the husband was intoxicated. While talking to the 51-year-old man, deputies noted he spoke with heavy, slurred speech and admitted he had been drinking, but denied operating the car.
While deputies continued their investigation to determine who had actually been driving the car when it was damaged, the deputies asked the man to step off of his porch. The Sulphur Springs man, however, allegedly told them no, then took off on foot away from deputies toward the interior of the home. Deputies chased him, taking him to the ground just as he was about to enter the residence. Once on the ground, the man allegedly ignored the deputies’ commands. After a brief struggle, the man complied and was taken into custody at 5:40 p.m. Sunday,
The 51-year-old rural Sulphur Springs resident was booked into Hopkins County jail at 8:43 p.m. July 31, 2022, on the evading arrest or detention charge, then released Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, on a $2,000 bond on the misdemeanor charge, according to arrest and jail reports.
KSST does not publish the photos or names of people charged with misdemeanor crimes in staff-generated reports, only those accused of felony offenses.
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.
4 Jailed In Hopkins County On Felony Warrants
At least 4 people were jailed in Hopkins County on felony warrants from July 26 to Aug. 1, 2022, according to arrest and jail reports.
During an undercover investigation by Sulphur Springs Police Special Crimes Unit, a quantity of methamphetamine was purchased from Brandon Nicholas Carrell, SCU Lt. Mark Estes alleged in arrest reports. SCU then obtained a warrant for the 40-year-old Sulphur Springs man’s arrest.
Carrell was taken into custody at 3:45 p.m. Aug. 1, 2022, on East Shannon Road by Estes and SSPD Sgt. Brandon Mayes, on the manufacture or delivery of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance in a drug-free zone. He remained in Hopkins County jail Aug. 2, 2022. Bond on the second-degree felony charge was set at $35,000, according to jail reports.
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office deputies received a tip that a wanted woman had left a residence and was walking the area of FM 1567 Saturday morning. Sgt. Richard Greer located Samantha Gail Crotzer at 9:54 a.m. July 30, 2022, on FM 1567 at County Road 1197 and took the woman into custody.
The 35-year-old Sulphur Springs woman was booked into jail at 11:01 a.m. Saturday on the possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance; the offense, Greer noted in arrest reports, is alleged to have occurred on May 14, 2022.
Crotzer was released from Hopkins County jail Sunday, July 31, 2022, on a $10,000 bond on the felony charge, according to jail reports.
Hopkins County Corrections Officer Courtney Steward took Dustin James Thomas into custody at 10:39 a.m. Friday, July 29, 2022, on a warrant for burglary of a habitation. Steward escorted Thomas to Hopkins County jail, where the 20-year-old Brashear man was booked in at 1:01 p.m. on the warrant. The offense, Steward noted in arrest reports, is alleged to have occurred on April 9, 2022.
Thomas was released from the county jail on Saturday, July 30, 2022, on a $30,000 bond on the felony charge, according to jail reports.
HCSO Deputy Terry Thompson traveled to Ellis County, took custody of Sidney Pierre Runnels at 9:10 a.m. July 26, 2022, and transported him from Ellis County jail to Hopkins County jail on bench warrant.
Runnels, who jail reports show is also known by the aliases Sidney Fitzgerald, Sidney Gray, Sidney Groucho and William John Judkins, was booked into Hopkins County jail at 12:25 p.m. July 26, 2022, on warrants or bond forfeiture on a possession of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charge, as well as misdemeanor warrants for failure to drive in a single lane, insufficient bond on a failure to identify as a fugitive and on a driving while intoxicated charge. All four offenses, according to jail records, are alleged to have occurred on Dec. 4, 2021.
The 47-year-old Waxahachie man remained in Hopkins County jail Aug. 2, 2022. His bond was set at $2,000 on the latter two charges, according to jail reports.
Texas Joins Nationwide Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force
The State of Texas is joining a nationwide Anti-Robocall Litigation Task Force with 49 other states to investigate and take legal action against the telecommunications companies responsible for bringing a majority of foreign robocalls into the United States. This bipartisan nationwide Task Force has one goal: to cut down on illegal robocalls, Texas Attorney General Paxton announced Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022, in a news release.
The Task Force has issued 20 civil investigative demands to 20 gateway providers and other entities alleged to be responsible for a majority of foreign robocall traffic. Gateway providers that bring foreign traffic into the U.S. telephone network have a responsibility to ensure the traffic is legal, but these providers are turning a blind eye to robocall traffic, Paxton contends in the release. The Task Force is designed to help reduce the number of robocalls Texans receive and provide incentives to companies that are following the rules.
“Robocalls have become a nationwide problem and I’m proud to join my fellow Attorneys General to put a stop to the incessant interruptions these calls inflict on Texans every day,” Attorney General Paxton said. “We will take this fight to all who assist or enable these scam calls. If the telecom industry refuses to create and comply with reasonable regulations, then our Task Force will demand compliance.”
According to the National Consumer Law Center and Electronic Privacy Information Center, over 33 million scam robocalls are made to Americans every day. These scam calls include phony Social Security Administration calls to seniors, Amazon scams against consumers, and many other frauds targeting consumers, especially vulnerable citizens. An estimated $29.8 billion dollars was stolen through scam calls in 2021. Most of this scam robocall traffic originates overseas. The Task Force is focused on shutting down the providers that profit from this illegal traffic and who refuse to take steps to prevent these scam calls, Paxton reported in the release.
The AG offers the following tips to avoid scams and unwanted calls:
- Be wary of callers who specifically ask you to pay by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. For example, the Internal Revenue Service does not accept iTunes gift cards.
- Look out for prerecorded calls from imposters posing as government agencies. Typically, the Social Security Administration does not make phone calls to individuals.
- If you suspect fraudulent activity, do not provide any personal information and immediately hang up.
- File a Do Not Call or Text complaint here: File a Consumer Complaint | Office of the Attorney General (texasattorneygeneral.gov) or print and mail the form below o: Office of the Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division, PO Box 12548, Austin, TX 78711-2548. You will need the following information to file a complaint:
- The name of the business or individual you’re filing a complaint against
- The business/individual’s full address, including zip code
- A detailed description of your complaint
- Explanation of how you came into contact with the business/individual
- Transaction dates and amounts
- Contract information (when appropriate) with payment details
- How you may have attempted to resolve the dispute, including the names of people you spoke with.
Winnsboro Police Department Media Report — July 25-31, 2022
Winnsboro Police Department each week provides a media report with information about department activity. WPD activity for the week of July 25-31, 2022, included:
Arrests
- Kelli Griffeth, 39 years of age, of Winnsboro was arrested on June 30, 2022, on Winnsboro Municipal Court Warrants for two Driving While License charges; and one charge each for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Expired Registration, Expired Driver’s License, and Operating Unregistered Motored Vehicle.
- Angalic Ballard, 31 years of age, of Cumby, was arrested on July 31, 2022, Driving While License Invalid with Previous Convictions.
Calls for Service
The Winnsboro Police Department responded to a total of 148 calls for service during this reporting period.
Citations
The Winnsboro Police Department issued 39 citations and 44 warnings during this reporting period.
Chamber Connection – Aug. 3: Time For The Annual Chamber Photography Contest
Next Business Before Hours Coming Up This Friday At Chamber, Jettribe Mid-America WaterX Championship Is This Weekend At Coleman Park
By Butch Burney, President/CEO, Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce
It’s time once again for the Chamber of Commerce’s annual photography contest!
The photography contest is open to anyone who resides in Hopkins County. We have seven categories: Natural World, Travel, Family and People, The Hopkins County Experience, Altered Images, Mobile, and Children (for photographers up to 18 years of age).
Photographs must have been taken in Hopkins County no earlier than Jan. 1, 2021.
See the rules on our website, HopkinsChamber.org. You can also upload your photos to our website to enter. The deadline to enter is Aug. 31.
Stewing About It
Registration for the 53rd Annual Hopkins County Stew Festival, presented by Alliance Bank, set for Oct. 22, is open.
To register, go online to the Chamber’s website at HopkinsChamber.org/stewcooks, email [email protected] or call 903-885-6515. The cost to enter is $100 per stew pot, with $150 coming from the sponsor to pay for ingredients.
This year, stew cooks can also pre-order a T-shirt with “Stew Cook” on the back for $15.
Register now to reserve your spot from last year.
We also are taking applications for our vendor market at the stew. Cost is $75 for Chamber members, $100 for nonmembers. Go to our website at HopkinsChamber.org or call Amanda at 903-885-6515 to register.
Our sponsorship letters will go out this week, so be looking for those!
Stewcomers Meeting
For those who are interested in cooking up a pot of stew for the Stew Festival, the Chamber will have a Stewcomers meeting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 11.
Participating in the meeting does not obligate you to cook in the Stew Fest, but it will give you information on the process, including recipes, timelines and what to expect. Email [email protected] for more information on the meeting.
Leadership Apps Available
Leadership Sulphur Springs is back for another year, and registration has begun.
Leadership Sulphur Springs 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. It is a nine-month session, with meetings held once a month.
Applicants should have lived or worked in Hopkins County for at least a year, have demonstrated a concern for the community, possesses high standards of persona quality and integrity, willing to commit the time required for the program, have the endorsement of their employer to take the necessary time away from work.
To apply, go to the Chamber’s website at HopkinsChamber.org, email [email protected] or call 903-885-6515.
The cost is $500, usually paid by the applicant’s employer.
Breakfast Hours
Come get some breakfast treats during the Chamber’s next Business Before Hours, hosted by Nunez Roofing, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 5, at the Chamber office.
Whether you’re a member of the Chamber or not, come on for one of the best networking events.
Jet Ski Championships
It is race week in Sulphur Springs! Four day of championship jet ski racing is coming to Lake Coleman Thursday, Aug. 4-Sunday, Aug. 7, for the Jettribe Mid-America WaterX Championship. Racers from all over the USA, and even as far away as Australia and England, will battle it out to see who takes home the championship trophy. Spectators can watch for free from the shores of Lake Coleman, just bring some shade and chairs.
The Pro Racer Show will be on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 1 p.m. There will be food, ice cream, power sports merchants, and family games.
Check out Jettribe.com/jettribe-waterx/ for more information!
On Wednesday, Aug. 3, at Lake Coleman, Jettribe will offer a free clinic for any first time beginner racers of any age. Waiver signing starts at 3 p.m., clinic lasts from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. All stand-up and runabout skis riders are welcome. Come out and get to know what racing is all about.
Ribbon Cuttings
- The CHRISTUS Mobile Athletic Training Room was officially unveiled Monday morning at Gerald Prim Stadium. It will be available to 22 school districts in the CHRISTUS service area. There are plans to do a tailgate before one of the Sulphur Springs Wildcat football home games.
- Legend Dairy Heifer, an ice cream and refreshment truck, had a ribbon cutting with its unique vehicle at the Chamber office at noon Friday, July 29. Please welcome them to the community.
Sulphur Springs City Council Has Busy Night Ahead With Workshop Followed By Regular Meeting
Sulphur Springs City Council has a busy night ahead with a workshop scheduled at 5:30 p.m., followed by the regular monthly meeting at 7 tonight (Aug. 2, 2022).
The workshop focus will be on a proposed budget for fiscal year 2022-2023. City staff are continually updating and working on finances. They will present their first proposal for discussion during the 5:30 p.m. work session, which will then be revised based on discussions and continued work and be presented for official consideration during a future City Council meeting.
When the City Council reconvenes in regular session at 7 p.m. Aug. 2, 2022, in the Council Chambers at Sulphur Springs Municipal Building (City Hall), the elected officials will be asked to consider three new proposed ordinances and on second reading two additional ordinances, as well as a resolution, a contract and large equipment purchase.
Ordinance No. 2806 — Reinvestment Zone
Presented for second and, if approved, final reading is Ordinance No. 2806, which would create a reinvestment zone for D6 Inc. The City Council approved the reinvestment zone for the plastics recycler and advanced design-to-shelf packaging manufacturer during the regular July 5 city meeting.
The business began operations at the end of 2020 after purchasing the property known locally as the old Coca-Cola plant, after being granted a Chapter 380 economic development agreement from the City of Sulphur Springs, another tax incentive from Hopkins County and a tax abatement from Hopkins County Hospital District. The business had projected adding 25 jobs to the local economy but, thus far, has added over 70 jobs, according to Sulphur Springs-Hopkins County Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Roger Feagley.
Now, the business is not only planning two further expansions, but will be relocating it’s corporate headquarters from Portland, Oregon to Sulphur Springs, Texas. In October of 2021, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a $1,432,200 Texas Enterprise Fund grant and a $6,000 Veteran Created Job Bonus for D6 to help move its corporate headquarters from Portland, Oregon to Sulphur Springs, Texas.
When the pandemic began, D6 Inc. shifted to making face shields and masks. The latest project will expand the business’ manufacturing presence in the state, building the first fully closed-loop recycling site for single-use PET clamshells in Sulphur Springs.
Overall, the business is expected to expand the current operation by 300,000-square feet, with a 180,000-square-foot building to be constructed as soon as the business can get everything in line and another 120,000-square-foot building expansion in three years. The new buildings will be located on the Saputo (old We Pack) property just across from the current facility, on the 10 acres the EDC has near the railroad tracks, EDC officials reported in 2021.
Ordinance No. 2807 — Rezoning Request
The City Council too will be asked to consider approving on second and, if approved, final reading a request from Andrea and Malachi Sandoval to rezone property at 1659 Arbala Road. The request would be for 0.93-acre at the northwest corner of an 11-acre parcel of land the Sandovals own on Arbala Road, just off Wildcat Way be rezoned from single family to light commercial.
Sulphur Springs Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski earlier this summer reported that it is his understanding that the change would allow the applicants to construct a coffee shop on that corner, but at present there are no structures on it. Mini self storage is planned behind the 0.93-acre parcel, according to city officials and the sign posted on the property.
The land use plan along Wildcat Way identifies it as a future commercial corridor. The property in the area is zoned mostly commercial in all directions except to the west, which is single family, and most of the land is vacant, with the exception of a single family home to the east that is currently zoned heavy commercial, according to Niewiadomski
The P&Z Commission approved the measure June 20 as meeting zoning requirements, but added one stipulation at the recommendation of city staff: the applicant must subdivide the lots according to the rezoning request. That was forwarded to the City Council, who after discussions gave approval on first reading of the proposed Ordinance No. 2807. If approved tonight, it will become final.
Ordinance No. 2808 — Texas Enterpriser Zone Recommendation
The City Council too is asked to consider on first reading amending Ordinance No. 2395 relating to the city’s participation in Texas Enterprise Zone Program, to expand the list of local incentives offered and nominate Ashoka Steel Mills, LLC, to the Office of the Governor’s Economic Development And Tourism through the economic development bank as an enterprise project.
Ashoka Steel Mill is considering two locations on which to locate a new branch of the business, and Sulphur Springs is one of the two. Ashoka officials anticipate asking for incentives from Hopkins County, the City of Sulphur Springs, Sulphur Springs ISD and Hopkins County Hospital District as well, which Ashoka indicated would be determining factors in whether or not the business will open a sizeable facility in Sulphur Springs — which could be among two of the company’s first manufacturing facility in the US. Tulsa, Oklahoma is also in the running to for a new Ashoka facility.
Ashoka has already submitted an application to SSISD asking for an agreement for a tax incentive. SSISD’s attorneys have reviewed the documents and submitted them to the Texas Comptroller’s office. If approved by the Comptroller, then SSISD could consider approving the application from Ashoka Steel Mills LLC. for appraised value limitation on qualified property.
In June 2022, the City Council approved on second reading Ordinance No. 2805, creating a reinvestment zone for Ashoka Steel Mills so the business can apply to Hopkins County Hospital District for a tax abatement.
The company is looking to make a $265 million investment, which would create over 300 jobs, would be a boost to the local economy, the school board was told April 11, 2022. Talent would be mostly local, with a few experts in from Italy and Germany to help during the construction period and potentially with training of technicians and engineers.
The Ashoka Steel Mill would be located in the center of the City of Sulphur Springs’ property which previously housed a coal mine. It would initially occupy about 250 acres, with a 150 acre expansion later, out of the total 4,857-acre former Thermo/Luminant mine property, officials were told Monday.
The proposed electric arc furnace steel mill would produce 350,000 tons of rebar annually. The facility, according to documentation in the application, would use an electric arc to heat metals instead of a blast furnace. The mill estimates 402,500 tons of scrap metal from local areas would be used to produce the rebar; the steel recycling, according to the application, would reduce carbon emissions. The scrap metal would be brought in mainly by rail, amounting to an estimated 8,000 railcars a year, and about 40 trucks.
The business received first approval earlier in the summer and second approval on July 5, 2022, to establish a reinvestment zone for a period of 5 years, renewable for an additional 5 years.
The City Council at the Aug. 2 meeting will be asked to consider approving Ordinance No. 2808, which would recommend the business for additional incentives at the state level if Ashoka does indeed opt to build in Sulphur Springs.
Fire Department Agenda Items
Two items on the Tuesday evening agenda could impact Sulphur Springs Fire Department.
First, the City Council is asked to consider approving on first reading Ordinance No. 2809, which would establish and implement a program to charge mitigation rates for costs incurred during the deployment of emergency and non-emergency services, equipment, and first responders by SSFD, which were provided to non-residents of Sulphur Springs, Hopkins County. Second, the City Council will be asked to consider approving for purchase a Sutphen Rescue Pumper for SSFD.
Additional Agenda Items
City staff are expected to present for City Council consideration proposals for employee health insurance, then make a recommendation of a contract for reinsurance of the city employee health insurance program.
The proposed Ordinance 2810 would amend Ordinance No. 889, approved in 1982, and redefine and authorize locations for video gaming facilities, premises, and devices within the City of Sulphur Springs.
Resolution No. 1308 asks the City Council to appoint directors and a chairman to the Board of Directors of the City of Sulphur Springs Tax Increment Financing Reinvestment Zone #1 and provide an effective date for them.
The City Manager is slated to give his monthly report of capital improvements, municipal operations, accidents and claims for the month of July, and Assistant City Manager Lesa Smith may provide a review of expenditures and revenues.
The consent agenda submitted for approval under one motion unless a Council member requests otherwise includes the minutes from the July 5 City Council meeting and June 27 EDC meeting, as well as a 380 agreement for 327 Magnolia Street.
Visitors may be recognized and city residents or business people who sign up in advance may address the City Council during the public forum portion of the regular Aug. 2, 2022, City Council meeting.
Wanted Man Allegedly Had Meth In Sock When Found In Abandoned Barn
Sulphur Springs Woman Jailed On Probation Warrant
A Sulphur Springs man and woman were arrested Sunday on probation warrants; the man also allegedly had meth when found in an abandoned barn.
Sulphur Springs Police Officers Francisco Castro and Sean Hoffman received a tip that Jeramie Jermaine Smith could be found at a Major’s Drive address. They located him inside an abandoned barn.
He had a white rock and a clear pipe of the kind commonly used to smoke methamphetamine and containing a meth residue in his sock. Also found in the 42-year-old Sulphur Springs man’s sock was a small plastic container with two shards of a crystal-like substance suspected to be meth.
Jeramie Smith, who is also known by the alias Jeramie Tremaine Smith, was taken into custody at 12:32 p.m. July 31, 2022, on the warrant for violation of probation on a possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charge. He was transported to jail, where he was booked in at 1:41 p.m. Sunday, not only on the warrant but also a new possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charge, Castro and Hoffman alleged in arrest reports.
The 42-year-old Sulphur Springs man remained in Hopkins County jail Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in lieu of the $10,000 bond set on the probation charge and a $50,000 bond set on the new controlled substance charge, according to jail reports.
Also arrested Sunday on a violation of probation warrant was Angelia Nicole Smith. SSPD Officers Sean Hoffman and Francisco Castro served the 28-year-old Sulphur Springs woman with the warrant at 8:55 a.m. July 31, 2022, at a Calvert Street residence.
She was booked into Hopkins County jail at 9:38 a.m. July 31, 2022, for violation of probation, which she was on for possession of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance.
She remained in Hopkins County jail Monday, Aug. 1, 2022, in lieu of the $250,000 bond set on the charge, according to jail records.
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.
