Attorney General Ken Paxton Moves to Stop Biden Administration from Auctioning Off Border Wall Sections for Pennies on the Dollar
December 18, 2024 – Attorney General Ken Paxton took action following reports that the Biden Administration is illegally selling segments of the border wall at the United States-Mexico border.
Recent reports suggested the Biden Administration may be auctioning off up to half a mile per day of border wall sections for a mere fraction of the original purchase cost. In some cases, the government is allegedly listing entire wall panel sections for sale at a starting bid of just $5.
In May 2024, Attorney General Paxton secured a final victory to force the Biden Administration to spend statutorily obligated funds on border wall construction after the federal government attempted to illegally redirect the money. If the sections of the wall that are being sold were purchased with the funds that must be used to secure the border, then the Biden Administration would be in violation of the federal court order. President-Elect Donald Trump has called for the outgoing government to immediately halt the sale of any materials. Attorney General Paxton has now filed a motion with the court to intervene and prevent any sections of the wall from being sold illegally.
“The Biden Administration cannot auction off sections of the border wall. If these reports are true, the Biden Administration is violating a federal court order,” said Attorney General Paxton. “Texas is going to court to prevent any border security materials from being unlawfully sold and to find out the truth about what the federal government may be doing to subvert border wall construction. President Trump has an overwhelming mandate from the American people to build the wall and I will do everything in my power to prevent any acts of sabotage by the outgoing administration.”
Sulphur Springs Emergency Sirens Will Be Tested December 18
December 18, 2024 – Emergency sirens will be tested in Sulphur Springs at noon today by the Sulphur Springs Emergency Management Office.
The test is to gauge the reliability of the emergency warning system and is conducted to find any potential flaws in the system so they can be corrected prior to a real emergency situation. The sirens could be sounded not only for weather warnings such as tornadoes, which are the most common in the area, but also in case of any emergency that could affect the safety and lives of citizens in Sulphur Springs.
Recent tests have shown the emergency sirens to be a ready source of warning in case of emergencies such as tornados or other threats to safety.
This will only be a test.
The Senior Citizens Activity Center Golden Agers Tree Still has six Names on it!
December 18, 2024 – Dawna Pryor with the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center reached out to KSST and asked us to put the word out that the Golden Agers Tree, as of December 17, 2024, still had six names on it. If you can, please help out this worthy cause and make sure none of our loving Senior Citizens go without presents this Christmas season! These Seniors are someone’s Grandparents, someone’s parents, someone’s Aunts and Uncles… Show them that they ARE important and that people care for them this Christmas. This is sure to put you on Santa’s Nice list if your not there already!
Sulphur Springs Trash Pickup Schedule for the Holidays
December 17, 2024 – Office of the Sulphur Springs,, Texas, Registered Municipal Clerk reached out to KSST with the following information.
Trash will be delayed on December 26, 2024 and December 27, 2024, as well as January 2, 2025 and January 3, 2025. If your normal day is Thursday, it will pick up on Friday, and Friday pick up will be on Saturday for both weeks.
Stay tuned for any further updates. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Mr. Christmas Recalls Wireless Decorative Tree Light Controllers Due to Fire Hazard
December 17, 2024 – This recall involves a decorative tree light controller that operates wirelessly to turn on holiday lights on a tree. The decorative controller contains two parts: a lever or a switch that can be pulled to turn the holiday lights on or off, and a separate white receiver that plugs into an outlet and into which the tree’s holiday lights are plugged.
The controller sold at Walmart and Cracker Barrel is shaped like a green, red and white peppermint candy with a candy cane on/off lever, and displays the words “Christmas Light Controller”. The controller sold at Target is sold under the Wondershop™ brand and is shaped like a square on/off switch box with green, red and white balls, and displays the words “Tree Lighting Switch”.
The white wireless receptacle that is plugged into an outlet contains the words “Mr. Christmas” and one of these three model numbers printed on the white receptacle: 39611, 39612 or 39630.
Consumers should immediately stop using this product and return it to their place of purchase to receive a full refund.
The firm has received 10 reports of overheating, including one report of a fire. No injuries have been reported.
These items sold at Walmart, Target and Cracker Barrel stores nationwide and online at Walmart.com, Target.com and CrackerBarrel.com from July 2024 through November 2024 for between $25 and $40.
You can find out more details by clicking here.
TPWD Closing Oyster Harvest Area in Lavaca Bay
December 17, 2024 – AUSTIN – The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is closing TX-19 in Lavaca Bay to commercial and recreational oyster harvest beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 17. This closure is based on samples recently collected by TPWD showing a low abundance of legal-sized oysters.
TPWD has worked with the oyster industry to develop criteria for closing areas to harvest. The criteria include parameters for oysters when they fall below certain thresholds based on the abundance of oysters three inches or greater.
TPWD will continue to monitor all areas currently closed to harvest and will reopen them when they meet criteria thresholds.
A map showing oyster harvesting areas, as well as the most up-to-date status information on each area, can be found on the Texas Department of State Health Services website.
Pastor Pete sat Down With John Mark Dempsey to Chat About FUMC’s Christmas Plans
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down with Rev. Peter McNabb from Sulphur Springs, Texas, First United Methodist Church. The two talked about a number of topics such as the history of First United Methodist Church, Christmas and the Christmas season and the true meaning of Christmas, First United Methodist Church’s plans for Christmas, Blue Christmas event on December 18th for those who are feeling down and blue, and so much more. Watch this exciting episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee and learn what the First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs has in store for the community this Christmas season.
Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) is a Leading Health Challenge in Cattle Production by Mario Villarino
December 16, 2024 – Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD)—a leading health challenge in cattle production, particularly during times of stress. BRD is one of the most significant health challenges facing the cattle industry, impacting productivity and profitability. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service provides research-based information, tools, and strategies to help producers effectively manage and mitigate the effects of BRD within their herds. BRD, often referred to as “shipping fever,” is a multifactorial disease caused by a combination of stress, viral infections, and bacterial pathogens. It commonly affects cattle during times of stress, such as weaning, transportation, or commingling. The disease leads to inflammation of the lungs, reduced growth rates, and even death if left untreated, making early detection and prevention critical.
The AgriLife Extension emphasizes proactive herd management to minimize BRD risks. Key prevention strategies include proper vaccination protocols, biosecurity measures, and stress management. Vaccinating calves before weaning against respiratory viruses like IBR, BVD, PI3, and BRSV is essential to build immunity. Additionally, maintaining a biosecurity plan helps limit exposure to pathogens introduced by new or returning cattle.
Proper nutrition and management practices also play a critical role in reducing the incidence of BRD. Providing balanced diets, adequate mineral supplementation, and clean water ensures that cattle maintain a strong immune system. Stress reduction techniques, such as low-stress weaning methods and careful handling, further decrease susceptibility to respiratory infections.
For producers dealing with active BRD cases, early diagnosis and treatment are vital. AgriLife Extension promotes the use of observation tools to identify symptoms like nasal discharge, coughing, fever, or labored breathing. Producers are encouraged to work closely with veterinarians to develop treatment protocols, which often include administering antibiotics to combat bacterial infections.
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension also supports producers with educational resources, workshops, and on-site consultations. These programs help producers implement best practices tailored to their specific operations, focusing on long-term herd health and disease prevention.
By prioritizing prevention, early detection, and effective treatment, AgriLife Extension equips cattle producers with the tools they need to reduce the economic impact of BRD. Through informed management and care, producers can improve herd health, enhance performance, and contribute to the sustainability of the cattle industry
Key Aspects of BRD Management
Causes of BRD
BRD is a complex disease involving Stress Factors: Weaning, transportation, crowding, or weather changes weaken the immune system.
Viral Pathogens: Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR), Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD), Parainfluenza-3 (PI3), and Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV).
Bacterial Pathogens: Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, and Histophilus somni often contribute to secondary infections.
Symptoms of BRD: Depression or lethargy. Loss of appetite.
Fever (rectal temperatures >104°F). Labored breathing or coughing. Nasal discharge (clear or cloudy). Drooping ears and head.
Prevention Strategies
Vaccination: Administer vaccines for viral and bacterial agents before high-stress periods like weaning or transport.
Minimize Stress: Gradual weaning, proper transportation, and handling techniques reduce stress.
Biosecurity: Isolate new or sick animals to prevent the spread of pathogens.
Nutrition: Ensure adequate nutrition, including mineral and vitamin supplementation, to boost
immunity.
4. Management Practices
Preconditioning Programs: Include vaccinations, deworming, castration, and weaning before
moving to feedlots.
Environmental Management: Provide adequate ventilation, clean bedding, and reduce
overcrowding to limit disease spread.
Monitoring: Observe cattle closely for early signs of illness, particularly during high-risk periods.
5. Treatment Options
Antibiotics: Use under veterinary guidance, targeting specific bacterial pathogens.
Anti-inflammatory Drugs: Help reduce fever and inflammation.
Early Intervention: Prompt treatment improves outcomes and reduces losses.
6. Resources from Texas A&M AgriLife
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension can help implement BRD prevention and control strategies in your herd. Check their website or contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443. Preventing BRD is cost-effective and ensures cattle remain healthy and productive, improving overall herd profitability.
Signature Solar is the Marquee Sponsor for the 19th Gala
Sulphur Springs, Texas – For the second year, Signature Solar has agreed to be the Marquee Sponsor for
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s annual Gala.
Signature Solar’s Senior Director of Shared Services and a member of the Foundation’s Board of
Directors Kenny Rogers shared, “At Signature Solar and EG4 Electronics, we are committed to this
community and are honored to support the Foundation’s efforts to strengthen local healthcare.”
Rogers continued, “This sponsorship is our way of saying thank you for the work the Foundation and
healthcare workers do and contributing to an initiative that ensures our small but remarkable
community has access to the quality healthcare it deserves. Together, we can make a meaningful
difference for everyone who calls this place home.”
Proceeds of the Serendipity by the Sea Gala will be donated to CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital –
Sulphur Springs to help fund an upgrade to the MRI. The upgrade will allow scans to be faster and more
comfortable for patients. The images will also be clearer for the person reading the scan. This is
something that will benefit all Hopkins County residents.
This lead gift will help ensure the Foundation can assist the hospital with purchasing this $780,000
upgrade. The Foundation has pledged $260,000 toward the project.
Tickets and sponsorships are still available for the Gala. Visit Gala2025.GiveSmart.com for more
information.
The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that has served Hopkins County for 28 years. A
board of directors of Hopkins County citizens governs it.
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New Paris Junior College Vice President Not New to Paris Junior College
December 16, 2024 – Keitha Carlton, former Controller for Paris Junior College, has returned to PJC to take on the role of Vice President of Business Services.
“We are excited to welcome Keitha back to Paris Junior College,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, PJC President. ”She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her time in higher education. Keitha will be a great addition to the Leadership Team of the College and will help us maintain the strong financial management we expect here at PJC.”
Carlton grew up in Paris and has fond memories of PJC.
“While I did not attend PJC after high school,” Carlton said. “I did take piano lessons there in the summer when I was younger and many family members were first generation college graduates because of PJC. My husband is a PJC alumni. My mother taught as a dual credit instructor for PJC. The College has always been a part of my life.”
Carlton obtained her Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Science in accounting from the University of Texas at Arlington.
“My first job after the University of Texas at Arlington was as an accounting clerk at Walter Virden Associates,” Carlton said. “I was hired because Walter attended PJC and recognized where I was from.”
Her professional roles included being staff auditor/senior auditor for PricewaterhouseCoopers in Ft. Worth, where she worked with clients such as Bombay, American Quarter Horse Association, and Cash America. She went from Analyst to Senior Manager at Greystone Communities in Las Colinas. Moving from Technical Editor to Executive Editor for Thomson Reuters in Fort Worth, Carlton helped implement a complete revision of their book-based, self-study products to be in compliance with regulatory standards for instructional design and continuing professional education for certified public accountants.
When the family decided to move back home to provide a smaller environment for the children’s education, Carlton was able to become involved in the world of higher education as Controller at Paris Junior College. She then became Director of Accounting/Associate Vice President, Controller – Student Financial Services for Collin College in McKinney, prior to returning to PJC.
“I continued to live in Paris while working at Collin,” said Carlton. “I was learning a lot while working there. After a change in administration at PJC, I visited with the new president and he told me of the changes that were occurring, so I thought it was a good time to return.”
One of those changes is the move of Financial Aid into the Business Services Division.
“It was a good time to take the things I learned at Collin and bring them here,” said Carlton. “There are a lot of changes occurring in financial aid and I think we can improve our processes between the two offices to enhance the student experience.”
Since the state funding model is now based on student success, Carlton says the offices are making changes in the software to help students and PJC take advantage of that new focus to benefit both students and the College.
Carlton went through a major system change while at PJC before, and then participated in a similar conversion at Collin College.
“I like converting and working on the systems, because it helps you see where you can make improvements,” said Carlton. “We’re going to go through the same thing here with a reboot on our Jenzabar software and I think it will help identify areas where we can make changes.”
In addition to her professional roles, Carlton gained expertise serving on the audit review and annual financial report committees of the Texas Association of Community College Business Officers.
Carlton graduated from Clarksville High School and met her future husband there; they married in 2001. Her husband has been a firefighter with the City of Fort Worth since that time. They have two children, McKenzie and James.
McKenzie graduated from Paris High School in 2021 and will graduate from Texas A&M University this month. She will pursue a master’s degree in accounting and has an internship with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) in Tulsa this summer. James is a homeschool student who will graduate this month. He already has had a successful career as a BMX and pump track athlete.
“Before I returned to PJC,” Carlton said, “I heard a lot of good things about the administrative team and since returning, I’ve seen a lot of good communication and positive changes. We have a lot of challenges ahead and I like reaching out and working with local schools and the other communities that we are in.
“We want to continue using our system to get information out to students to make paying and payment plans easier. We have a lot of students on financial aid and there have been a lot of changes to the FAFSA. Financial Aid compliance is important to us for the college as well, but also in making that whole experience for the student easier. This is a great time to start taking classes at Paris Junior College.”
PJC closed for winter break on December 13 and reopen on January 6, 2025. Spring classes start on Monday, January 13.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
