USFDA Authorizes Second Booster Dose Of Pfizer, Moderna COVID-19 Vaccines For Ages 50 And Up And Immunocompromised Individuals
Today (March 28, 2022), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized a second booster dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or the Moderna COVID-19 vaccines for older people and certain immunocompromised individuals. The FDA previously authorized a single booster dose for certain immunocompromised individuals following completion of a three-dose primary vaccination series. This makes a second booster dose of both vaccines available to other populations at higher risk for severe disease, hospitalization and death.
“Current evidence suggests some waning of protection over time against serious outcomes from COVID-19 in older and immunocompromised individuals. Based on an analysis of emerging data, a second booster dose of either the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine could help increase protection levels for these higher-risk individuals,” said Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “Additionally, the data show that an initial booster dose is critical in helping to protect all adults from the potentially severe outcomes of COVID-19. So, those who have not received their initial booster dose are strongly encouraged to do so.”
The FDA amended the emergency use authorizations as follows:
- A second booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered to individuals 50 years of age and older at least 4 months after receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine.
- A second booster dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered to individuals 12 years of age and older with certain kinds of immunocompromise at least 4 months after receipt of a first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine. These are people who have undergone solid organ transplantation, or who are living with conditions that are considered to have an equivalent level of immunocompromise.
- A second booster dose of the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine may be administered at least 4 months after the first booster dose of any authorized or approved COVID-19 vaccine to individuals 18 years of age and older with the same certain kinds of immunocompromise.
The FDA changes apply only to the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines and the authorization of a single booster dose for other age groups with these vaccines remains unchanged. The FDA plans to continue evaluating data and information as it becomes available when considering the potential use of a second booster dose in other age groups.
The FDA-authorized Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine and the FDA-approved Comirnaty can be used to provide the authorized booster dose(s). Similarly, the FDA-authorized Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine and the FDA-approved Spikevax are authorized to provide the authorized booster dose(s).
Hopkins County, Texas Vaccine Statistics
According to Texas Department of State Health Services, 76.52% of Texans age 5 years and older (20,634,296) had received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine, including 17,419,881 who are fully vaccinated, and 6,502,643 Texans who’d received a booster dose of the vaccine.
In Hopkins County, 48.3% of residents ages 5 and older had received at least one dose of the vaccine, including 42.58% who were fully vaccinated. Among the population age 65 and older in Hopkins County, 70.25% of residents were reported to be fully vaccinated, and 76.36% had received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
Overall, that’s 16,728 people age 5 and older in Hopkins County who’ve received at least one dose of the vaccine; 14,747 reported to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and 5,250 who’ve had a booster dose of the COVID vaccine.
People ages 16-49 accounted for 5,367 of the people reported to be fully vaccinated in Hopkins County, more than any other age group. Next were people ages 50-64 (3,924), then ages 65-79 (3,645 people); ages 80 and older (1,193); ages 12-15 (420 people), and finally ages 5-11, who were fully vaccinated in Hopkins Couty, according to the March 28, 2022 Texas Health and Human Services/DSHS report.
Also, women continue to outpace men for full vaccinations in every age category except juveniles 15 and younger; 101 boys and 92 girls ages 5-11 years are fully vaccinated in Hopkins County, 215 boys and 205 girls ages 12-15 were reported to be fully vaccinated. A total of 7,869 White people in Hopkins County (53.36%) had been fully vaccinated, 3,041 people (20.52%) who listed their race or ethnicity as “Other,”2,380 Hispanic (16.14%), 816 Blacks (5.53%), 509 whose race and ethnicity was listed as “Unknown” (3.45%) and 132 Asian residents (0.9%),
Information to Support Authorization of a Second COVID-19 Booster Dose
The FDA has determined that the known and potential benefits of a second COVID-19 vaccine booster dose with either of these vaccines outweigh their known and potential risks in these populations. The evidence considered for authorization of a second booster dose following primary vaccination and first booster dose included safety and immune response information provided to the agency as well as additional information on effectiveness submitted by the companies.
A summary of safety surveillance data provided to the FDA by the Ministry of Health of Israel on the administration of approximately 700,000 fourth (second booster) doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine given at least 4 months after the third dose in adults 18 years of age and older (approximately 600,000 of whom were 60 years of age or older) revealed no new safety concerns.
The safety of Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine, when administered as a second booster dose, is informed by experience with the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine and safety information reported from an independently conducted study in which the Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine was administered as a second booster dose to 120 participants 18 years of age and older who had received a two-dose primary series and a first booster dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine at least 4 months prior. No new safety concerns were reported during up to three weeks of follow up after the second booster dose.
Immunogenicity data from an ongoing, open-label, non-randomized clinical study in healthcare workers at a single center in Israel were reported in a publication provided to the FDA. In this study, individuals 18 years of age and older who had received primary vaccination and a first booster dose with Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine were administered a second booster dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine (154 individuals) or Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine (120 individuals) at least four months after the first booster dose. Among these individuals, increases in neutralizing antibody levels against SARS-CoV-2 virus, including delta and omicron variants were reported two weeks after the second booster as compared to 5 months after the first booster dose.
The amendments to the EUAs to include a second booster dose for these populations were granted to Pfizer Inc. and ModernaTX Inc.
County To Roll Over Funds Left In FY 2021 Road And Bridge Fund To Precincts For 2022
Sulphur Bluff Resident Complains of Unsafe Road Conditions Near His Residence
Hopkins County had a little bit of money left over in the Road and Bridge Fund Balance from fiscal year 2021 that the four Precinct Commissioners will be able to use during the 2022 fiscal year. One county resident told commissioners he would like to Precinct 3 repair what he considers unsafe road conditions near his home.
Budget Amendment
County Auditor Shannah Aulsbrook noted that all together the county had $810,318 left in the Road and Bridge fund after the 2021 audit. She recommended transferring those funds in a rollover line into the 2022 budget for each precinct commissioner to spend the percent as he sees fit, as there are no rules restricting the use of that funding.
Precincts 2 and 4 had quite a bit more money left over at the end of FY 2021 than others, due largely to grant funding. Precinct 1 will be carrying over $45,000, while Precinct 2 carries over $361,640, Precinct 3 carries over $23,587 and Precinct 4 transfers $380,091 from 2021 to 2022.
Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin said for most part, the carry over amounts are pretty much “already spent with these oil prices. ” Anglin made a motion, which Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price seconded, to approved the budget amendments asrecommended. The entire 4-member body then, on Monday, March 28, 2022, approved the budget amendment during the regular court meeting as recommended.
Road Complaint
Frank Brown, who for the past few months has frequently expressed discontent to Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley during the public comments portion of the Hopkins County Commissioners Court meetings, Monday once again complained about road conditions near his Sulphur Bluff residence.
Brown said when he spoke to Judge Robert Newson and Commissioner Bartley on Monday, Feb. 14, he was told Bartley planned to rerock the road. After more than a month, Brown said, the road has yet to be rerocked and has, in fact, now turned to mud. He said rock was hauled the first week of March to “somewhere in Sulphur Bluff,” but was not appplied to the road in question. Brown said he on March 17, he called and left a message for Bartley regarding the road problems.
“I told him that we don’t need that red dirt – iron ore they call it – on the roads because it turns into pure mud,” Brown said. “You go look at it, go look at [County Road] 3617. It just turns into mud, and potholes and everything else on 3617. I don’t think that’s a mile. that’s eight-tenths of a mile maybe,” Brown said.
The Sulphur Bluff resident said he warned Bartley last year and as done so for the last few years that those asphalt roads are cracking and need to be sealed.
Brown held up a bag with a dark clump he said was 2 1/2 inches of oil dirt he said “dissolving off the side of the road.” He said he sstopped and collected the clump on the way to court Monday morning for elected officials to see what he’s been talking about.
“I’ve see some of the roads the other commissioners are doing. They look great – I’m not saying they all do, but some of them does. The roads out here is getting ridiculous to drive on, trees not trimmed. You pass someone on 3635, 40, 46, you pass someone there, you’re in the ditch or you’r in a tree. I mean there’s no question about it. This has got to be resolved. It’s not safe to drive that road under they conditions they are,” Brown claimed.
Newsom thanked Brown for his comments, but no further comment was made regarding the matter by the Commissioners Court during the regular March 28, 2022 meeting.
Commissioners Court Approves 4 Truck Bids, John Deere Purchase
Four different truck bids were approved by Hopkins County Commissioners Court, leaving the decision of which truck and bid to the individual department head. A used John Deere, was also among the items approved during the regular Commissioners Court meeting Monday morning, March 28, 2022.
Truck Bids
The county received four bids for six pickups, each different, including different trucks. County Auditor Shannah Aulsbrook and HCSO Chief Deputy Tanner Crump recommended accepting all truck bids, which would allow each county entity who would be purchasing a truck work directly with each vendor to select the option that best suits their need, availability and budget.
Crump noted that the bid specifications were written in such a way to allow for some flexibility, particularly in the current market, where readily available vehicles are hard to come by, including allowing the bidder to quote a price for a used vehicle if the truck was in stock and meets bid specifications.
“All these bids are not the same. Not everyone could get six of the same vehicle. Not everything that they bid is in stock, even today because they are selling so fast. So you will probably have to contact each of these vendors that you want to deal,” Aulsbrook told the Commissioners Court.
Brian Toliver Ford’s bid for trucks in stock were for $49,968. At the time of the bid, the dealer had two trucks in stock, but as of Monday was reported to have only one.
Nottingham Sulphur Springs Chrysler Dodge Jeep for $54,232.50 per truck; the dealership had one vehicle in stock at that price at the time of the bid.
Jay Hodge Chevrolet bid $38,695 each for a 4-cylinder turbo, a base truck, although other options were also available for additional. Hodge’s bid price was the cheapest, however, upon closer inspection, the quote did not meet terms in the specifications sheet that the county asked for. Hodge’s goal, however, was to sell a truck at the cheapest possible price. The bid also includes an $8,000 fleet discount that Ford is not offering. Crump said he was told if the V8 options is preferred, that can be added for an additional price.
Morrow Brothers Ford of Illinois submitted a bid for $47,600 for F150 Fords.
All vehicles except the two mentioned above would have to be ordered. All are four-door 4-wheel drive trucks. They have power windows and locks, air conditioning and cruise control. The Chevrolet quoted would be the very base construction model. The base model Ford was in the bid quoted from the Illinois dealership. Toliver’s quote for a sport package includes storage, carpet and features that aren’t included in the work truck. Toliver’s bid included a 30-day build date, which Crump said would likely have the quickest turnaround time. The “more desirable” truck, one with more features, typically cost a bit more upfront, but also garner a higher resale value, Crump noted.
For instance, the Civic Center purchased a base package work truck, like a construction vehicle. While the truck doesn’t have a lot of miles on it, when the county sought a trade-in value, it was approximately $10,000 less than one that had more more features, Crump explained.
Crump noted that the sheriff’s office’ fleet vehicles are on a 36-month rotation for replacement through a least program with American National Leasing, and has had trouble getting the units in.
“I’m happy to report that by the end of this week I’ll have nine on the ground. That’s seven from last year that were supposed to be in by October – I’m just now getting them – then two for this coming year. So, there are vehicles coming in, but when you order them, you are at the mercy of the manufacturer to determine when you are going to get them. I think that is reflected in these bids sheets as well,” Crump said.
Crump said while only four bids were received, he had been in contact with a total of 10 dealers to whom the spec sheets were made available. While the bids received are all at least $10,000 more than the county has paid for these types of vehicles in the past, that’s on par with current market prices. A new car is currently estimated to cost about $10,000 more than pre-COVID sales prices. Attempting to give a best estimate for future markets on trucks is virtually impossible
Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin made a motion, which Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price seconded, and the four Court members present (Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker continued to be out due to illness) agreed to accept all bids as submitted.
John Deere Equipment
Hopkins County also posted notices requesting bids for a used John Deere 324L for Precinct 4. Commerce Sand and Select submitted the only bid, for $60,000.
“I’ve looked at this. It seems to be a good piece of equipment and is still in warranty,” Price said, when motioning for the bid to be accepted. Bartley seconded the motion, which was met with unanimous approval of all four members of the court members present at the March 28 meeting, for the used Compact Wheel Loader
Volunteers Needed At CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital Sulphur Springs
By Holly Ragan, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, [email protected]
Helping Ukraine
In light of the news of the attacks on Ukraine, we would like to extend an opportunity to aid the community of Kharkov (a city in northeast Ukraine). One of the hospital associates has a spouse who is from this city, and their family is still there.
The hospital has been able to send some medical supplies. In addition, and thanks to the generosity of many others, we have been able to set up a fund through our Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation to raise money and send it directly to aid this city.
To donate to this effort, go to Online Giving (christushealth.org) and select ‘Helping Ukraine’ in the drop down box.
Events
Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation Lights of Life Gala 2022
The Lights of Life Gala is scheduled for Saturday, April 2, 2022 from 6 p.m. to 12 midnight (a.m.) at the Civic Center. This year’s theme “Under the Big Top” reflects our desire for some fun and frivolity after a long season of hardship.
The gala promises to be another dazzling evening of fine dining, dancing and bidding on amazing live and silent auction items. This year’s Lights of Life Gala chairs are fourth generation Hopkins County natives, sisters Markeda Fisher and Kayla Price Mitchell.
Shannon Barker, Foundation Executive Director shared “I am thrilled to be working with Markeda and Kayla. When they arrived as the bearded ladies to reveal the theme, Under the Big Top, I knew we were in good hands! They keep everyone laughing, but also have the experience and relationships to ensure a successful event. Their impressive history and dedication to Hopkins County is evidenced by their past and present community involvement. We are thankful they feel the Healthcare Foundation is a worthy cause to invest their efforts in.”
For more information and sponsorship opportunities, please call the Foundation office at 903-438-4799.
Blood Drive in Honor of Israel Lewis
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will host a blood drive in honor of Israel Lewis, a local community member suffering from medical complications. The drive will be held on Wednesday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Carter BloodCare Bus in the parking lot of the hospital.
**UPDATED – COVID Vaccine Clinics
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will no longer offer the COVID Vaccine Clinic every Friday morning.
However, Net Health will be back offering Pediatric and Adult COVID vaccines. This vaccine clinic is located at the MMU tents behind the hospital. No appointment is necessary. Subsequently, Net Health will continue to come every four weeks to provide COVID vaccines.
From 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily, Net Health will offer vaccines on the following weeks: April 4-8, May 2-6, May 31 – June 3, June 27 – July 1, July 25-29, August 22 – 26, September 19 – 23, October 17 – 21. September and October are tentative.
Hospital Visitation
Please note the following guidelines:
- Visitors must acquire masks themselves prior to entering our facility; cloth masks are acceptable. Masks must cover both the nose and the mouth. Visitors must remain masked during their time in the hospital.
- An adult must accompany minor-age visitors, be free of symptoms, and able to comply with masking and hygiene expectations throughout the visit.
- Emergency Department entrance open 24/7
- Main Entrance open 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday
- Gift Shop open
- Visiting hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Types of Visitors:
- COVID receiving aerosol treatments: via tele-visitation only;
- COVID not receiving aerosol treatments: 1 Essential support person for the duration of hospital stay – Essential support person will be given a visible wrist band for identification purposes;
- ICU/ER: 1 Essential support person only;
- All other patients may have 1 Essential support person and 1 visitor (up to 2 persons in room at a time)
- Types of Visitors:
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
We are in need of volunteers to help in various different roles throughout our hospital. We are asking for anyone willing to give his or her time, to help bring a smile to someone in our hospital!
For more information, contact Meredith Caddell at 903.438.4678.
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
- 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
Information From an English Class at the Paris Junior College Sulphur Springs Campus
ENGLISH CLASS LECTURE
PJC-Sulphur Springs Center English Instructor Ken Haley gives instruction to his class. Listening closely are (from left) Shelby Green, Kenia Herrera, Briseyda Rodriquez, and on back row Caroline Gibson.
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.
Dr. Balkcom: Serving Hopkins County Has Been An Honor
When honored Monday morning for decades of service as Local Health Authority for Hopkins County, Dr. Ichabod L. Balkcom IV said a heartfelt thank you, and noted simply that it has been his honor to serve.
Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom noted that Monday, March 28, 2022 was a “very special day for me and the Commissioners Court, really Hopkins County” because it was a time to honor Dr. I.L. Balkcom IV.
“He’s been here forever. As long as I can remember, Dr. Balkcom always was a Hopkins County doctor who took care of the very least of those. I am so proud to be able to honor him today,” Newsom said during the regular Commissioners Court session Monday.
Balkcom served the Hopkins County community for 28 years, 24 of which were spent in the Medical Surgical Clinic and 4 years as part of CHRISTUS Trinity Clinics. He also served as Local Health Authority for Hopkins County for at least 25 years.
In a July 22, 2021 letter to patients and friends, Dr. I.L. Balkcom and wife Deborah let patients and friends know that that his association with the clinic had ended. He has not retired, but he Deborah were going in a different direction, and thanked everyone for keeping them in prayer as he continued to heal from a leg fracture.
Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley noted that few in Hopkins County knew a Local Health Authority exists much less that Hopkins County had one. He admitted that until the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world he was unfamiliar with the roles and responsibilities of a LHA.
“We realized at that point how much authority Dr. Balkcom had when things were shut down and moving forward, but with Dr. Balkcom’s progressive thinking we were not locked down like a lot of other counties, our neighboring counties, things like that,” Endsley said.
The fire marshal noted that Hopkins was one of the last counties in Texas to report a death from COVID.
“In fact, Dr. Balkcom argued and won the first case because that patient happened to be his own patient. So, he go that death removed from our county as a COVID death. Any death from COVID is one too many, but we’ve done very well throughout the whole county,” Endsley said. 2020. March 3 marked the 24th confirmed COVID death in 2022.)
Endsley attributed that to positive thinking and moving forward with Balkcom, who attended many meetings with county officials, interjecting his thoughts and knowledge.
In addition to having his own practice, while serving as the LHA, Balkcom also worked with the sheriff’s office, providing care regularly to inmates in the county jail. Endsley expressed appreciation for Balkcom for “what all he’s done for the sheriff’s office over the years.” Dr. Balkcom and his family’s service to the community doesn’t end there, Endsley noted
“All of the Balkcoms here, they are humble people. They don’t brag on theirself. You’ve really got to drag out of them what they all are involved in. They are involved in a lot of animal rescues, things like that. I can’t express how much we appreciate Dr. Balkcom and his family,” Endsley said.
The list of community activities they have participated is long and diverse.
Balkcom has served on the Hopkins County Hospital Board and as president of Texas Academy of Family Medicine. His civic involvement has included being part of the Northeast Texas Choral Society for over 20 years, serving on the Sulphur Springs Planning & Zoning Commission, the United Way selection of benefits committee. He too has served as a Sunday school teacher at First United Methodist Church and been a member of First Baptist Church.
His wife Deborah has served on the Chamber of Commerce Committee, Hopkins County Civic Center Board, Adult Leadership and was the chief volunteer for Hearts of Life for several years.
The Balkcoms are also known for their support of many local organizations, especially those supporting youth and the local health care community, including Northeast Texas Livestock Auction; school FFA, band, athletic departments; and the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation.
In fact, the Lights of Life Campaign Committee selected Dr. I.L. IV and Deborah Balkcom as 2018-2019 campaign honorees for their exceptional service, commitment and passion for Hopkins county, specifically for their 25-years of support of the hospital.
During Monday’s Commissioners Court, Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley expressed appreciation to Balkcom for “being my health doctor for many, many years.” He too complimented Dr. Balkcom and wife Deborah for the assets they have been as citizens of Hopkins County, to the organizations too numerous to mention the Balkcoms have supported over the years.
“I hate to see y’all leave Hopkins County. Y’all were just such a great asset when y’all lived here and served this county. I am so grateful for that. You raised a mighty fine son too,” Bartley said with a laugh.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price expressed appreciation to Balkcom for being his family doctor.
“You’ve been a great asset to the county and we all appreciate you,” Price said.
Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin said he did not have as much experience with Dr. Balkcom as his fellow Commissioners Court members, but Balkcom was his grandmother’s doctor. He expressed appreciation to Balkcom for his time served in Hopkins County.
Sheriff Lewis Tatum said he’s been friends with the Balkcoms for a long time, longer even than he’s been sheriff or even a sheriff’s deputy.
“They were very good to my children,” Tatum said, adding with a grin that Dr. Balkcom was picky about his fish, but did allow him to fish on his property. He’s worked with the Balkcoms on dog rescues as well. “They’ve always been there for me and my family and we always appreciate and will always be there for them.”
“It has been my honor, thank you,” Dr. Balkcom said simply.
“Hopkins County, Texas honors and appreciates Dr. Ichabod L. Balkcom, MD, for his decades of service as Hopkins County Local Health Authority. The citizens of Hopkins County thank you for going beyond the call of duty many times over the last 25 years,” Newsom read as he presented the plaque to Dr. Balkcom on behalf of the Hopkins County Commissioners Court, during the regular court session March 28, 2022.
“Thank you very much. It was a lot of fun taking care of the jail. We could write a book about my time in jail,” Balkcom said to laughter. ” I’ve seen everything that you can imagine. I’ve seen tattoos that I didn’t know you could put ’em there. The thing I wanted to tell everybody is, anytime you have an opportunity to serve your community, do it.”
The Balkcoms have two sons, including Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife Capt. I.L. Balkcom V, who was among those present to when Dr. Balkcom was recognized Monday morning by the county officials.
“I am his biggest fan, in stature and standing here. He’s done a lot for this place and we appreciate,” Capt. Balkcom said.
“Even though we reside in Smith County, we still are Hopkins Countians and I’m still here twice a week taking care of my animals, still,” Deborah Balkcom said.
Commissioners To Honor Balkcom, Appoint New Local Health Authority
Hopkins County Commissioners Court is scheduled to honor Dr. I.L. Bakcom IV, then consider appointing a new Local Health Authority for Hopkins County, as well as a number of other items during the regular court session Monday morning.
Dr. I.L. Balkcom IV is slated to be honored for his service to Hopkins County, which has included filling the role of Local Health Authority, a position appointed by the county government to provide support services in the absence of a county health department. Dr. Balkcom has served as Hopkins County’s LHA in the absence of a state health department for a number of years. The court reappointed Balkcom as LHA on March 26, 2020; he has been the LHA for both Hopkins and Delta counties throughout the pandemic.
Afterward, the Commissioners Court is scheduled to consider appointing Dr. Darrell Pierce as the Local Health Authority for Hopkins County moving forward. Pierce has practiced family medicine as a primary care physician with CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic.
Texas AgriLife Extension Agents are scheduled to give their quarterly report on activities of Hopkins County Extension Office.
The March 28 agenda also includes submission of bids received for six new 4×4 model 2021-2022 model half-ton pickup trucks by the March 24 deadline. The bid packet specifies units should be four full door, half-ton pickups, with four barrel or fuel injection carburetor, heavy duty rear wheel drive and transmission coolers, 120 AMP capable of use during severe conditions, electronic ignition system sufficient for two-way radio hood-up, five conventional tires and four alloy non-steel wheels. The trucks are to have heavy duty front and rear shock absorbers, exhaust system, suspension, seat cushion springs radiator. Preferred items specified in the bid package include a full center console with captains seats; and white, gray or silver exterior; and dark interior.
Bids received by the March 24, 2022 deadline for a used John Deere 324L High Lift for Precinct 4 will also be presented for Court consideration Monday, March 28, 2022.
That’s not the only item on Monday’s agenda for Precinct 4. A letter from Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price concerning land division in his precinct, is to be submitted for the record.
The Court is slated to consider approving a construction contract with Sedalco to build a new trusty housing facility, to be paid with federal funding and that will be located on county property across from the current jail facility.
The March 28 regular Commissioners Court agenda too shows submitted for consideration a Chapter 381 agreement for D6, Inc., the business opened a branch in Sulphur Springs over a year ago and is now looking to move it’s headquarters and main operations from Portland to Sulphur Springs.
A contract with Lexis Nexis for legal research and a request from Spectrum/Charter to be allowed to construct and place a meter base bole or ground mount base on County Road 3525 in Precinct 3 also are on the agenda.
The Commissioners Court will convene at 9 a.m. Monday, March 28, 2022, in the Commissioners Courtroom on the first floor of Hopkins County Courthouse, 118 Church St., for the regular court meeting.
Immediately following the regular court session, the Commissioners Court is slated to move to the third floor meeting room inside the courthouse for a work session.
County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley and Sheriff Lewis Tatum are slated to meet with the Court during the March 28 work session to discuss with each operations, review revenues and expenditures, and any proposed improvements and repairs in their departments.
Events, repairs and improvements are slated to be discussed, and revenues and expenses reviewed with Civic Center General Manager Lonnie Fox during the work session as well.
Environmental concerns are scheduled to be discussed with the environmental inspector during the work session. The agenda also calls for a budget work session.
Meal A Day Menu – March 28-April 1, 2022
Volunteers prepare meals at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center and deliver them five days a week to Meal A Day program recipients in Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County. The Meal A Day Menu for the week of March 28-April 1, 2022 includes:
- Monday – Beef Stroganoff, Italian Vegetables and Garlic Toast.
- Tuesday – Sweet and Sour Chicken On a Bed of Rice, Asian Vegetables and Egg Rolls.
- Wednesday – Tater Tot Casserole, Corn and Pinto Beans.
- Thursday – Rope Sausage, Sauerkraut, Black-Eyed Peas and Cornbread.
- Friday – Cheeseburgers, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Onions, Pickles, Baked Beans and Potato Chips.
The Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Center is a place where Senior Citizens age 50 and over can have a good time with old friends and make some new ones. Meal-A-Day is just one service the center provides. The coffee pot is always on and a smile is on each face. The SCC has a full library with all different kinds of reading books that can be taken, read and returned. Take as many as you like and bring some of your books in to share with others. Click here to find more information for seniors citizens.
Free Virtual Brain Injury Awareness Month Conference To Be Held March 30-31, 2022
AUSTIN – The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is hosting a free virtual conference on March 30-31 to raise awareness about brain injuries and educate health care providers across the state on treatment options. The 2022 Texas Brain Injury Awareness Month Conference, “Resiliency and Recovery: Bouncing Forward,” highlights the achievements of people living with a brain injury and provides education about brain injuries, overcoming adversity, developing a resilient mindset, and improving outcomes.
“This conference celebrates personal experiences from inspirational speakers and professional achievements in the field of brain injury and allows people who attend to learn more about resiliency, recovery and bouncing forward,” said HHSC’s Brain Injury Programs Manager Christine Medeiros.
Every year, 144,000 Texans experience a brain injury. These types of injuries can result from falls and crashes, as well as brain conditions such as strokes or Parkinson’s disease. Gov. Greg Abbott issued a proclamation to recognize March 2022 as Brain Injury Awareness Month in Texas.
This year’s conference is being held from Wednesday, March 30, through Thursday, March 31. Speakers, including national experts and HHSC staff, will focus on resiliency, becoming an effective advocate, adapting to life with traumatic brain injury, employment after experiencing a brain injury, the importance of peer support, and innovative treatment options. Survivors and family members will also talk about their experiences and recovery.
WHAT: “Resiliency and Recovery: Bouncing Forward” Texas Brain Injury Awareness Month Conference to celebrate the achievements of people living with brain injuries and provide education on overcoming adversity, developing a resilient mindset, and improving outcomes.
WHEN:
- Day 1: Wednesday, March 30, 2022
- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Click here to view the schedule and register
- Day 2: Thursday, March 31, 2022
- 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Click here to view the schedule and register
WHERE: This will be a virtual conference.
About Brain Injury Programs
The Texas Health and Human Services Brain Injury Programs include Comprehensive Rehabilitation Services and the Office of Acquired Brain Injury. These programs connect brain injury survivors to resources and person-centered services and supports, and they raise awareness about how to prevent brain injuries.
About National Brain Injury Awareness Month
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognizes Brain Injury Awareness Month each March as an important opportunity to bring attention to the prevention of traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to promote strategies to improve the quality of life for people living with TBI and their families.
as Brain Injury Awareness Month in Texas.
SSHS Advancing To Area OAP Contest
Sulphur Springs High School Wildcat Theatre troupe is advancing to the Area One Act Play Contest with their performance of “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Four students’ contributions during the schools’ performance at the Bi-District OAP Contest held earlier this week in Whitehouse garnered individual recognition as well.
AllieGrace Woodard added to her accomplishments. Earlier this season, Woodard advanced to state in two UIL theatrical design categories, hair and makeup and costume; she’s advanced in at least one theatrical design category every year she’s been eligible to compete in high school. This week at the Bi-District OAP contest was the second time she’s earned All Star Cast honors for her acting abilities during the OAP competition.
Austin Crump and Lucy Braddy entered this week’s competition having earned All Star Cast honors at the prior level of OAP competition as well. This week, at the Bi-District meet Crump and Braddy received Honorable Mention All Star Cast recognition.
At the UIL Bi-District OAP competition, Alaya Mims earned distinction as an Outstanding Crew member.
Overall, SSHS Wildcat Theatre was among three high school troupes selected to advance to the Area OAP contest. Hallsville and Longview also qualified to advance to the UIL Area OAP Contest Thursday, March 31, 2022.
Congrats to these Wildcat thespians for advancing from the Bi-District to Area OAP contest and their individual accomplishments.
