CHRISTUS Recognizes Those Who Met The Cardiopulmonary Rehab Team’s 5-Mile Challenge
Net Health To Offer Pediatric and Adult COVID Vaccines March 7-11 At MMU Tents Behind Hospital
By Holly Ragan, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs
[email protected]
Sulphur Springs, Texas, March 4, 2022 – In honor of American Heart Month in February, the Cardiopulmonary Rehab team led by Anita Beasley and Britney Caldwell held a 5-Mile Challenge! We are super proud to announce the names of our participants who successfully completed the challenge.
Congratulations to Peggy Roberts, Robert Horne, Michael McMackin, David Poe, Marlon Weir, Roger Amerson, Terry McCullough, Patricia Deis, Laura Diehl, Carlton Sewell, and James Edwards. Each person received a goody bag of CHRISTUS hospital prizes.
Hungry?
If you are looking for an alternative option for lunch, we welcome you to come in and try our new soup/ salad bar in the hospital cafeteria. Served fresh daily! The hospital cafeteria is located in the basement, and is easily located by entering the main entrance and then taking the main elevator down.
Events
Local Fitness Court – Grand Opening
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs is a proud supporter of the new local Outdoor Fitness Court located in Pacific Park. Please join us for a ribbon cutting and demonstration on Friday, March 11, at approximately 10 a.m. More information to follow – stay tuned!
Community Health Day
In partnership with CHRISTUS Health, Columbia Lodge #81 invites you to attend an event aimed to build a community that is more secure, productive, healthy, and hopeful. We will have local experts speaking on a variety of health-related topics that will educate and empower community members to take charge of their own health and well-being.
The event will be held Saturday, March 12, 2022, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the HW Grays Building at Pacific Park, 413 Beckham Street in Sulphur Springs. This event is free to anyone, and everyone is welcome.
For more information, contact Bryan Vaughn at [email protected].
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. – 12 midnight 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.
Carter BloodCare
Carter BloodCare bus will park in the hospital’s front parking lot collecting local blood donations on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. As a thank you, all donors will receive a stainless steel water bottle while supplies last.
To schedule an appointment to donate blood, contact Patricia Wilson at 903.438.4380 or call/text 800.366.2834.
**UPDATED – COVID Vaccine Clinics
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will no longer offer the COVID Vaccine Clinic every Friday morning.
However, beginning the week of March 7-11 from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. daily, 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 until September to provide COVID vaccines.
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 wristband 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)
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 41counties. 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
Seven Teams in Action on Friday, Mar. 4
Friday, Mar. 4 is an action-packed game day, with seven different teams playing.
Not only is this Friday game day full of different squads from Sulphur Springs competing home and abroad, but several teams already have the conclusion of their regular season approaching.
Team tennis hosts a tournament at the Tennis Center today.
Several talented schools are participating in the Sulphur Springs tourney, such as Texas High and seven others from around East Texas.
Team Tennis plays all day today in the Athletic Complex.
After next week’s Longview tournament, Coach Martinez and Co. go to the Galveston Tennis Tournament the week after before suiting up for the District 15-5A Championship Monday and Tuesday, Mar. 28-29.
Wildcats golf play in their second competition of the spring season on this Friday game day, and have a two-day tournament starting today in Pine Tree.
Coach Jeremy DeLorge have a tough two-day tourney ahead of them and hope to put their Regional Preview behind them.
While cold weather made practice next-to-impossible last week, perfect weather this week has allowed Sulphur Springs to get the proper reps they need headed into their second invitational.
Men’s golf begin in Longview today at 8 A.M.
Like team tennis, golf has just two more contests, in Garland next Tuesday and their District Preview the week after, prior to their District Championship meet Monday and Tuesday, Mar. 28-29.
Lady Cats softball play in day two of their final tournament in Royse City.
Friday, Mar. 4 has Sulphur Springs taking on Prairiland and the host Royse City.
Coach David Carrillo and his team are the first game up, teeing off at 10 A.M. Their second and final match on the day against Royse City begins at 1:45 P.M.
Softball closes out the tournament with a game on Saturday, Mar. 5 taking on Canton at 1 P.M.
The Lady Cats went a perfect 2-0 on Thursday, Mar. 5 beating Ursaline Academy 6-0 and Mineola 10-4 to improve their record to 7-0-2 heading into Friday’s games.
On Tuesday, Mar. 7 softball begin their district season, hosting Hallsville at 6:30 P.M.
Baseball was not as successful in their first day of action in the Wylie East tournament.
Sulphur Springs plays in day two of their second tourney on the season.
On Thursday, Mar. 3 host Wylie East drubbed the Wildcats 14-1, scoring 14 runs off seven hits.
10 the Pirate’s runs came through the first two innings. Sulphur Springs recorded two hits against the host.
Coach Jerrod Hammock and his squad no doubt hope to get back in the win column on Friday, Mar. 4 in day two of the Wylie East tourney.
Baseball also plays another game on Saturday, Mar. 5 as well.
Track and field compete in Gilmer late this afternoon.
Their first meet was scheduled to be hosted in Sulphur Springs but was cancelled due to icy weather that made its way through Northeast Texas.
With that, both Wildcats and Lady Cats Track and Field teams head to Gilmer for what is now their first Invitational of the spring season.
The relays begin today for both squads at Buckeye Stadium at 4 P.M.
Coaches Matt Young, Ross Hicks and their teams have three more competitions in their spring season.
What is now the second competition for the track and field teams takes place next Thursday, Mar. 10 in Lindale.
Both soccer teams are the last up on Friday, Mar. 4 taking on Marshall.
Wildcats soccer play at Gerald Prim on this Friday gameday hosting the Mavericks.
Coach Alexi Upton and his squad hope to increase their win streak to two and hold on to their place as the current 3 seed from District 15-5A.
If Sulphur Springs can take care of business at home on Friday, and do the same next Tuesday in Pine Tree, the Wildcats stand a solid chance of keeping the 3 seed and avoid traveling to Whitehouse for their Bi-District match-up for the second year in a row.
For now, men’s soccer has to get a solid win and increase their win streak to two, all thereby keeping Hallsville a game back with two games left for both schools.
The Wildcats kick off tonight at Gerald Prim Stadium at 7:15 P.M.
Lady Cats soccer travel to Marshall to take on the Lady Mavs.
Coach Javier Aguayo and his squad play for pride the remainder of the season. With their Tuesday home loss to Texas High, Sulphur Springs is officially eliminated from postseason contention.
Women’s soccer (1-8) are 3.5 games back of the three-way tie for third between Mount Pleasant, Texas High and Pine (5-4) with just three games to go.
Sulphur Springs travels to lowly Marshall (0-8) for their last of three contests for the winter season.
That game kicks off at Maverick Stadium at 7:15 P.M.
After Friday’s road contest in Marshall, the Lady Cats hold Senior Night at Gerald Prim Stadium on Tuesday, Mar. 8 with those festivities beginning at 7 P.M., 15 minutes before the pitch drops.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Career and Technical Education Programs Of Study At SSHS Highlight Of Rotary Meeting
At the Rotary Club meeting today, Sulphur Springs High School students highlighted several of the Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs of study offered at the school.
Students presenting information about the law enforcement program included Evan Patrick and Michelle Tijerin. Jasmin Kessler-Cordova, Priscilla Gaspar and Tyler Warner discussed the animal science program; while Amanda Hernandez, Orianna Arizmendez, Olyvia Palacious and Jeremy Resendiz. Additionally, Karen Martinez and Jack Bain discussed the entrepreneurship program and Tate Smith briefed the Rotarians about the architecture program at SSHS.
“The students did an outstanding job in presenting today,” said Jenny Arledge, SSHS CTE Director.
Last month, students Jillian Jumper Clancy Mayo, Mykylie Meador, Ella Ray, Madelyn Sherman, Michelle Mejia and Khira Young updated the Rotarians their experiences and take-aways from RYLA (Rotary Leadership Youth Award) Camp, a camp for a select group of students who excel in leadership and school and community service the Rotary Club is helping develop future leaders. Stress management, conflict resolution, delegation, facilitation skills, and goal setting are a few of the things TYLA camps and summits can teach.
For More Information
Rotary Club is a service club dedicated to the ideal of Service Above Self. Rotary Club of Sulphur Springs is “committed to providing our membership a fun and engaging way to serve our community and world. Every week the club provide members and guests the opportunity to network over lunch while learning about and engaging in programs that make a difference, such as CTE programs in schools.
On April 30, Rotary Club of Sulphur Springs will be hosting Claws for a Cause 2022, from 5 to 9 p.m. on Celebration Plaza. All you can eat of crawfish and live music by Dubb and The Love Machines available for $30 a ticket for ages 13 and up or $15 a ticket for ages 12 and under. Beverages also available for purchase. All proceeds benefit Hopkins County non-profits, and provide selected graduating seniors with scholarships. Tickets available from Eventbrite. Tables for 10 available for $500; various sponsorship tables, VIP Service and “extras” available as well.
SSHS students and staff, like many schools around the county, state and nation, spent February celebrating Career and Technical Education Month, a public awareness campaign to celebrate the value of CTE and the achievements and accomplishments of CTE programs across the country. To help Sulphur Springs High School celebrate CTE Month 2022, KSST compiled short videos featuring a few of the CTE programs offered at SSHS.
If you missed seeing them on Channel 18, they can be found on the KSST Radio YouTube channel, or by clicking the following links:
- CTE Feature: CTE Kickoff
- CTE Feature: Pharmacy Technician Certification Program
- CTE Feature: Advanced Manufacturing & Machinery – Programming/Software Development- FANUC Robotic Arm Certification and Internships.
- CTE Feature: Firefighter Training Program
- CTE Feature: Teaching and Training – Educational Aide Certification
- CTE Feature: Emergency Service – EMT Certification
- CTE Feature: CTSO presentations to SSISD Board of Trustees
Paris Junior College Regents Hear how Five Years in, Pathways Helps Students
PJC-Sulphur Springs Center
Public Information Services
PJC Regents hear how five years in, Pathways helps students
At their monthly meeting held Monday, Feb. 28, the Paris Junior College Board of Regents received an update on the Guided Pathways program. The College implemented the program five years ago, according to Vice President for Student Access and Success Sheila Reece.
“Guided Pathways helps students clarify their goals,” said Reece. “They select a pathway and stay on track with that pathway in order to finish a certificate or degree without any excessive hours.”
She distributed sample degree plans given to the students that contain courses needed for a specific program and other information such as marketable skills, program outcomes, and any specific university-transfer requirements.
“Because of Pathways, PJC students’ average semester credit hours is lower than our peer community colleges,” said Reece. “It takes 60 hours to graduate with an associates’ degree. PJC was at 70 hours to graduate while our peer colleges were at 76 hours, so we’re doing better.”
PJC is also outperforming peer colleges in time to graduate: 3.2 years compared to 3.6 years.
“You might think three years is a long time, but we have many part-time students and many who stop out and then come back,” said Reece.
To help implement the plan, PJC has seven student success coaches spread among Paris, Greenville and Sulphur Springs averaging 150 to 250 students they see each semester. Two are licensed professional counselors who assist students with problems such as depression, anxiety, or other problems. A testing anxiety workshop has recently been implemented.
The success coaches also work with students undecided about what they want to take, and help them narrow their choices and pick a pathway. They also act on alerts from faculty if a student is not attending class or turning in work to find out what’s going on, get them back in class and set up tutoring, if needed.
In other business, the Regents:
• Raised 2022-2023 tuition by $2 per semester credit hour, following two years with no increase, and the general fee remains unchanged. The increase goes into effect with the Fall 2022 semester.
• Approved waiver of a portion of dual credit tuition and fees, keeping them at the same level. For the Spring 2022 semester, dual credit students comprised 40 percent of enrollment.
• Received the President’s Report, including an update on the 2020 Accountability Report that tracks 2018, 2019, and 2020 data about the college. It allows the College to evaluate and benchmark progress.
• Accepted employment of Student Success Coach/Financial Aid Advisor Elizabeth Joslin at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center effective March 1.
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.
Paris Junior College Offering One Free 8-Week Class
PJC offering one free 8-week class;
deadline to register is Monday, March 21
To assist those affected by COVID-19, Paris Junior College is offering one free eight-week flex term class, starting Monday, March 21. PJC will be closed for Spring Break March 14-18, so students would be advised to register by Friday, March 11.
“Our region’s decline in the number of students enrolled in higher education is a problem not just for their futures, but for our communities and regional economy,” said Dr. Pam Anglin, PJC President. “The College has funding available to assist these students get back on track after the disruptions of COVID-19. An 8-week flex course is a great place to start but it must be by March 21.”
The funding is available from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) II Strengthening Institutions Program and is available to current and prospective students. The funds cover tuition and general fee for one 8-week course in the second flex term only. Go to www.parisjc.edu/schedule and select “Spring 2022 8-Week Flex Courses” to see available classes. New students may start by calling 903-782-0425 in Paris, 903-454-9333 in Greenville, 903-885-1232 in Sulphur Springs, or email [email protected]. Current students who wish to sign up for the 8-week course should register through MyPJC or email [email protected].
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.
Sulphur Springs City Council Eyeing Renewal Of Curfew For Unaccompanied Minors
Sulphur Springs City Council, on first reading, approved renewal of Ordinance No. 2762, establishing a curfew for unaccompanied minors.
Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jason Ricketson, during the regular City Council meeting on March 1, 2022, said the ordinance gives officers an option that serves as a safety measure, offering officers a legal option in dealing with youth who are out late at night. They can issue citations to unaccompanied minors, who do not meet requirements for exceptions and are caught out curing hours the curfew is in effect.
Before the ordinance was passed, officers who contacted youth out late without supervision only had the option to ask them to leave and go home, but legally no other options unless the minors commit a criminal offense. The kids knew that and would even rebuff officers requests, citing their inability to do anything further. Most frequently reported to be out after business hours, knocking over things, potentially fighting, causing a disturbance in December 2019 were middle school aged youth, according to the pair of downtown business representatives who asked the City Council for help a little over 2 years ago.
The ordinance allows there to be a penalty, a citation or warning, for unaccompanied minors out late at night by themselves. It also allows the officer to take the youth home if caught out in violation of curfew, according to City Manager Marc Maxwell. Ricketson noted recently, officers have noted what appear to be more youth sneaking out of their homes at night, and at younger ages.
If a warning or citation is issued, there will be a record of it. So if an unaccompanied minor is contacted by police for being out walking after midnight or 2 a.m., a record check check would show if the same youth had been issued a curfew violation warning by a different officer a few months before. The officer at that time could take the unaccompanied minor home and issue a citation for violating curfew, or determine if other action is needed. If alleged criminal behavior was involved, police should take the proper legal action for that offense, according to the police chief.
While officers have not issued a citation yet, they have given 40 warnings for youth being out after curfew since the ordinance was became effective on May 1, 2020.
The curfew ordinance, when enacted had a “sunset clause,” meaning a definite expiration date of April 30, 2022. Ricketson asked the City Council to renew the curfew for three years this time, the longest allowable.
Place 1 City Councilman Jay Julian asked if there is other action that police could take in absence of the ordinance for miscreant behavior by minors, if the absence of the ordinance would pose a higher threat to public safety. Ricketson said it would hold the youth accountable for their actions, and allow them to take them home.
Julian pointed out that before the holidays the glass restrooms downtown were vandalized, but not by youth. A 28-year-old man caused that damage. He asked if that’s the case, by that logic, shouldn’t the curfew be extended to include young adults too. Ricketson pointed out that the man shortly after damaging the see-through loos was arrested, just as a youth would be taken into custody per the law regarding alleged juvenile offenders.
The city council approved on first reading an extension of Ordinance No. 2762 establishing a curfew for unaccompanied minors, with Julian voting against renewal of the curfew.
The ordinance will be heard again for second reading at the April City Council meeting, and if approved by a majority of the elected board would once again become effective. A public hearing will be conducted prior to the April City Council vote on the ordinance, to allow community members to voice comments regarding renewal of the curfew.
The ordinance can be viewed on the city website, https://www.sulphurspringstx.org/, or by clicking here.
Sulphur Springs City Manager’s Report – March 1, 2022
Sulphur Springs City Manager Marc Maxwell presented the following report to the City Council during the regular monthly council meeting on March 1, 2022.
COVID-19 Response
We have 3 patients in the COVID unit at the hospital.
Claims
We did not have any liability claims or workers compensation claims from February.
Senior Citizens Building
It looks like we are going to get the $2.4 million in grant funding that we applied for. It won’t be official until April, but we scored well above the cut-off line.
Pacific Park
The fitness court is completed. We will hold a ribbon cutting/ opening on March 11, 10:30 to noon. Thank you to Saputo and Christus Trinity Mother Frances for making the project possible with your generosity.
The Capital Construction Division has finished installing a drainage system and sidewalks for the playground.
College Street
The project continues eastward. The Capital Construction Division is replacing utilities in the intersection of Jefferson and Jackson.
Revenues and Expenditures
Finance Director Lesa Smith will present a report of year-to-date revenues and expenditures.
Street Improvement Program
Texana land and Asphalt has begun the Lee Street project, but we had to stop the project Short at Brinker until school is out. We will also wait on League Street until school is out. So, these two projects were budgeted for 2021 but will be performed in 2022. Here are the new streets to be paved in 2022.
Miscellaneous
Elsewhere around the city, employees:
- Learned the wastewater treatment plant won Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant of the Year from the Water Environmental Association of Texas.
- Checked 2,881 items and 653 eBooks from the Library.
- Repaired 56 potholes.
- Hauled street sweeper spoils to the landfill.
- Spread sand and salt at critical intersections during 2 ice events.
- Replaces 3 street signs.
- Responded to 252 fire/rescue calls including 7 structure fires.
- Conducted 40 fire inspections and performed preventative maintenance on 79 fire hydrants.
- Conducted 27 building inspections, 12 electric inspections, 10 plumbing inspections, 1 mechanical inspection and issued 22 building permits.
- Pressure washed sidewalks downtown.
- Trimmed trees and underbrush at Buford Park.
- Stained pump house at Coleman Park.
- Removed several dead trees throughout parks.
- Sold 2,169 gallons of AvGas and 7,775 gallons of JetA fuel
- Accommodated 721 operations at the airport.
- Responded to 125 animal control calls while achieving a 73% adoption rate.
- Made 1 felony arrest in the special crimes unit.
- Responded to 35 accidents, wrote 460 traffic citations, recorded 37 offences and made 38 arrests in the Patrol Division.
- Installed L.E.D. lighting fixtures at Fire Station #1.
- Installed L.E.D. lighting fixtures at Department 60 Service building.
- Performed preventative maintenance on several items at the wastewater treatment plant and water treatment plant.
- Treated wastewater to a daily average total suspended solids (TSS) reading of .22 mg/L.
- Sent 242 tons of sludge to contractor for composting, and none to the landfill.
- Repaired 10 water main ruptures.
- Replaced 3 water meters.
- Unstopped 34 sewer mains.
- Treated 125 million gallons of potable water.
- Flushed 36 dead-end water mains.
Spring Break – Arrive Alive
By Johanna Hicks, Family & Community Health Extension Agent, Hopkins County, [email protected]
Ahhh, spring break – something many people enjoy. Spring break can be a particularly dangerous and deadly time on Texas roadways. Each Spring break, too many young, promising lives are cut short due to the fateful and regrettable decision to get behind the wheel and drive drunk.
In an effort to stop this deadly trend, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Watch UR BAC program and The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) are partnering to raise awareness on impaired driving during the spring break holiday. The message is for everyone to arrive at their destination sober, safe, and smiling.
We want everyone to have a happy and safe spring break, one that they will remember for years to come, but for all the right reasons. Even one drink before driving is when impairment begins. Under no circumstance is it ever OK to drink and drive. This behavior is illegal, it is deadly, and it is selfish. Do everyone a favor: If you will be drinking during spring break, or for any occasion, plan ahead for a sober ride.
In Texas, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to consume alcohol. The state’s legal limit for intoxication is 0.08 blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) for those over the age 21. Law enforcement officers can arrest drivers for having a BAC below 0.08 with probable cause based on the driver’s behavior. Drivers under the influence of alcohol may face up to $17,000 in fines and fees, jail time, and could lose their license. Know the signs of an alcohol overdose and when someone needs emergency medical care. If any of the following signs after drinking are observed, do not hesitate to request emergency assistance:
- Unconsciousness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Slow breathing
- Slow heart rate
- Clammy skin
- Delayed responses
- Low body temperature
- Skin or lips turning blue
- Paleness
Celebrate with a plan. The best plan is to not drink alcohol at all. Turn your focus on good wholesome activities – explore the great outdoors, enjoy time with friends and family, go sight-seeing, do something productive. Make the right choice to not drink and drive – arrive alive.
Upcoming Events
- Spring Break Basic Sewing Workshop: March 14-16, 10 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m., Hopkins County Extension Office, 1200 West Houston, Sulphur Springs. No charge, but participants are asked to bring a sack lunch, fabric scissors, pins, and seam ripper. Make-and-take projects will be provided each day. Participants may also bring their own fabric and patterns if they have a specific project in mind. Only a couple of spaces remain. Call 903-885-3443 for more information and to sign up.
- 55+ Health Fair: April 5, 9 a.m. to noon, ROC. Be sure to visit the Texas A&M AgriLife Exhibit!
- Be Well, Live Well series: April 11, 14, 18, 21, 10 a.m., Extension Office. This four-lesson series is targeted toward the 50+ crowd. No charge, but seating is limited. Call 903-885-3443 for more information and to sign up.
Closing Thought
Always believe that something wonderful is about to happen.
– Coco Channel
Contact Johanna Hicks, B.S., M.Ed., Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Family & Community Health Agent for Hopkins County at P.O. Box 518, 1200-B West Houston, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483; 903-885-3443; or [email protected].
Jail Inspection, LED Light Renovations, Website Service Agreement Discussed By Commissioners
LED Light renovations for three county facilities, a website service agreement, recent jail inspection, and the Texas opioid multi-district litigation settlement agreement offers were discussed this week during the regular Hopkins County Commissioners Court meeting.
Jail Inspection
The Hopkins County jail received another exceptional rating of 100 during a recent Texas Commission on Jail Standards inspection, according to Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum.
“I think we only had one technical and they had to find something bad. They added one more day to inmates that got in trouble so, they had them in there for 6 days instead of 5,” Tatum said.
The jail inspector was also very pleased with the jail’s nurse to the point they would like to use her protocols, especially handling of inmates medications, to train personnel at other jails, the sheriff noted.
When asked about a comment the inspector made as he was leaving the jail facility, Tatum said he commented that the jail “looks better now than it did when we moved into it, cleaner that it was when it was brand new.” The sheriff attributed that to Jail Administrator Kenneth Dean’s leadership.
“Congratulations, Sheriff,” Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom said.
LED Light Renovations
Grants Consultant Beth Wisenbaker told Hopkins County Commissioners Court that the county had learned the grant the county sought to help fund renovation of the historic Hopkins County Courthouse, County Annex Building and AgriLife Extension building had increased by 10% to $77,660. The county is required as part of the terms to provide a 20% match, which is a little higher than usual. The total amount would be $93,192.
“The bid we have in is $88,250, so we’re covered. Probably the most we would have to be out is $15,000, but that may come down a little. I’ve got the number to Shannah (Aulsbrook, the county auditor). so there might be a little slide in there. I might be thinking exact numbers,” Wisenbaker said, recommending that the court accept the grant and bid.
“Plus, we pay 20%,” Newsom said.
Aulsbrook noted that the only bid the county has received for the project is from National LED, the only company that attended a mandatory pre-bid meeting.
Wisenbaker said even with approval, the county is still waiting to receive a letter from Texas Historical Commission that would detract from the renovated historic courthouse or the other two buildings, which are not listed as historic.
She said essentially, THC just wants to ensure the change won’t change the overall historic look of the structure. All are aware that the courthouse did not have lighting when first constructed. THC wants to ensure the two other buildings aren’t historical, and if they are that changing the lighting in the three buildings won’t change any historic feature of the building.
Tom Glosup also reported that National LED has been in contact with Texas Historical Commission and has been told THC has no problem with the planned renovation. A letter from THC is needed, however, to move forward with the project. Local officials are still waiting for the documents granting an exemption to all three buildings to arrive. Glosup said he’d spoke with the head guy at the lighting company earlier that morning, and he indicated the company was ready to go with the product the business manufactures as soon as the documentation is dispatched properly.
The motion, made by Anglin and seconded by Bartley, to replace current lighting with LED lighting throughout the courthouse, Extension Office and County Annex Building was approved, contingent on the THC approval and grant.
Newsom asked Wisenbaker to please let him and the other members of the Commissioners Court know as soon as she hears from THC regarding the project.
“This is going to help us a lot, but we’ve go more buildings to do,” the county judge said. “We need to get all LED across the board as soon as we can.”
Opioid Lawsuit
Following an executive session that lasted about 30 minutes, called so that the court could confer with their attorney about settlement offers related to the opioid lawsuit filed several years ago and what’s come out of it so far. Newsom asked the county treasurer and auditor to join the court and attorney for the closed session.
Jack Walker, an attorney, whose firm Martin Walker, PC, in Tyler, along with Simon Greenstone Panatier of Dallas, are involved with the county in the ongoing opioid litigation.
“Today, we are here to seek three settlements that we have reached with three defendants in the case — Endo Pharmaceuticals; Teva Pharmaceuticals; and what we call the Big 3 Contributors, McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen. We are seeking authorization for the settlement of the case and to authorize the county judge’s signature on a Texas release form and participation form that allows us to effectually settle it,” Walker said during the Feb. 28 Commissioner Court meeting.
With no further further discussion, the court agreed to the request authorizing Newsom to execute the order regarding settlement offers in the matter of Texas opioid multi-district litigation for the county in the matter of County Of Hopkins V. Purdue Pharma, Inc., Et Al., MDL Pretrial Cause No. 2018-63587, In The 152nd District Court Of Harris County, Texas.
Weaver Ranch Plat
A request was made for a final plat for Weaver Ranch. County Clerk Tracy Smith said her office has all of the paperwork that accompanies the request, and the person making the request has been in touch with Fire Marshal Andy Ensley and county officials regarding the request. The property is about 55-acres with no infrastructure, located off county roads, consisting of 8 lots, one of which has a home on the property. The business behind it has already receive approval from the water and electric companies, and taxes are figured. The property is north of Weaver Baptist Church on County Rod 3528.
Commissioner Wade Bartley said he’d met with the developer, and commended him for doing “everything asked of him in a timely manner” so that the final plat can be approved so the project can proceed with the vision for it.
With no further discussion Bartley then made a motion, which Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price seconded, to approve the final plat request for Weaver Ranch property as presented. The motion received approval of the members of the court present at the Feb. 28, 2022 meeting; Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker was unable to attend due to illness.
Newsom then offered thanks to the developer for building homes in Hopkins County.
Budget Amendment
Aulsbrook asked the Commissioners Court to approve a budget amendment for Precinct 4. She explained that initially, the insurance company wasn’t sure what status they would place a wrecked county vehicle on when it was put in the shop in October following a crash.
Precinct 4 received $4,674.38 in insurance funds at that time. That amount was moved back into the Precinct 4 budget in October. Since then, the insurance company has deemed the vehicle as a total loss, which resulted in an additional insurance payment of $2,575.62, increasing the total amount received from insurance to $7,250. Aulsbrook said with approval, that amount would be put back in the Precinct 4 machinery and equipment fund.
Price made a motion, which Anglin seconded, to approve the budget amendment. The motion passed.
Other Items
Another item on the agenda was for a website service agreement with Texas Association of County, CIRA (County Information Resources Agency), an organization which provides services and resources to Texas counties and local governments, including email and website hosting. Aulsbrook said she had not seen the paperwork, but TAC CIRA is who the county website is through. Bartley made a motion, seconded by Anglin to approve the website service agreement; it was approved by the court.
The court acknowledged for the official record, kept by the County Clerk’s Office, that the Pine Forest Solar farm has been purchased by a subsidiary of Clearway Energy Group.
Newsom also recognize on record Homeland Security Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator Kristy Springfield and Fire Marshal Andy Endsley for successfully completing the Pipeline Emergency Response and Damage Prevention Training Program held January 12, 2022, in Sulphur Springs. Springfield also completed a Spotter Training Program presented by the National Weather Service on February 18, 2022.
The Commissioners Court also approved as part of the consent agenda the meeting and special work session minutes from Jan. 24-Feb. 14, 2022; a request from Farmers Electric Cooperative Inc. to construct electrical power distribution facility across County Road 1155, south of County Road 1118 in Precinct 1; a request from Spectrum Gulf Coast LLC to construction power distribution facilities in the County Road 1120 right-of-way and County Road 1142 in Precinct 1; and a request from Spectrum/Charter to construct and place an underground conduit on County Roads 1117, 1127, 1123 and 1125 in Precinct 1, as well as on County Road 4719 in Precinct 4.
Republican, Democratic Party Primary Election Results For March 1, 2022
While some US and state races for party nominations were determined in the March 1 Primary Elections, others will require a runoff election in May to determine whose name will be on November ballots. The local candidates for county officers ran unopposed for their party’s nomination and face no challengers from the other party either.
County Elections
Below are the votes received for local county offices held by the candidates, who drew no opponents:
- County Chair Democratic Party Tommy Long – 457 total votes: 84 absentee, 180 early voting and 189 election day, with 56 undervotes.
- County Judge Robert Newsom, Republican – 3,326 total votes: 71 absentee, 1,164 early voting, 2,091 election day, with 447 undervotes.
- County Court-At-Law Judge Clay Harrison, Republican – 3,240 total votes: 63 absentee, 1,146 early and 031 Election Day, with 533 undervotes.
- District Clerk Cheryl Fulcher, Republican – 3,218 total votes:64 absentee, 1,138 early and 2,016 Election Day, with 555 undervotes.
- County Clerk Tracy Orr Smith, Republican – 3,169 total votes: 62 absentee, 1,116 early and 1,990 Election Day, with 605 undervotes.
- County Treasurer Danny Davis, Republican – 3,154 total votes: 66 absentee, 1,114 early and 1,974 Election Day, with 619 undervotes.
- County Commissioner Precinct 2 Greg Anglin, Republican – 728 total votes: 15 absentee, 234 early and 479 Election Day, with 118 undervotes.
- County Commissioner Precinct 4 Joe Price, Republican – 838 total votes: 13 absentee, 273 early and 552 Election Day, with 124 undervotes.
- Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 BJ Teer, Republican – 1,600 total votes: 34 absentee, 571 early and 995 Election Day, with 269 undervotes.
- Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 Brad Cummings, Republican – 1,653 total votes; 31 absentee, 571 early and 1,045 Election Day, with 251 undervotes.
- County Chair Republican Party Donnie W. Wisenbaker – 3,165 total votes: 64 absentee, 1,127 early and 1,974 Election Day, with 608 undervotes.
US Representative District 4
Republican Pat Fallon will face Democrat Iro Omere for the US District seat in November.
Omere, unopposed March 1 on the Democratic ballot, received 15,295 votes state-wide, including 407 in Hopkins County (74 by absentee ballot, 153 during early voting and 178 on Election Day).
Republican Pat Fallon, however, had two opponents for the Republican nomination for US District 4 Representative. Fallon received 2,359 votes, John E. Harper 439 votes (and Dan Thomas 627 votes in Hopkins County. Across District 4, Fallon received 41,049 total votes, which accounted for 58.92 percent of the overall ballots cast. Harper received 7,526 (10.08%) and Thomas 21,089 votes (30.27%).
State Representative District 2
Incumbent Bryan Slaton received 85.09% and Clyde Bostick 14,91% of Republican votes for District 2 State Representative in Hopkins County. Across District 2, Slaton received 82.37% (16,557 votes) and Bostick 17.63% (3,543 votes) of the overall votes cast by Republicans. The Democratic Party did not have a nominee for this race, so it appears Slaton will be elected to another term in office.
State Senator District 1
Bryan Hughes, the Republican incumbent, drew no opponents for the Republican nomination for State Senator District 1, but did receive 3,017 votes in Hopkins County and 87,905 total votes across the district, which includes Bowie, Camp, Cass, Delta, Fannin, Franklin, Gregg, Harrison, Hopkins, Lamar, Marion, Morris, Panola, Red River, Rusk, Smith, Titus, Upshur and Wood counties.
Governor
Republican incumbent Greg Abbott will face Democrat Beto O’Rourke the November Election for Governor.
O’Rourke received 92.39% (948,590) of overall votes cast for the Democratic nomination for Texas Governor, including 457 of the 491 Democratic votes cast in Hopkins County for Governor. Inocencio (Inno) Barrientez received 1.24% (12,873 total votes, 2 in Hopkins County), Michael Cooper 3.04% (31,619 total, 16 Hopkins County), Joy Diaz 3.18% (948,590 total, 11 Hopkins County) and Rich Wakeland 1.24% (12,839 total, 3 Hopkins County) of overall votes cast by Democrats for Governor.
Abbott received a total of 66.54% (1,266,726 total votes) to secure the Republican Party nomination for Governor, including 2,650 (70.76%) of the 3,745 Republican votes cast in Hopkins Count . Challenger Paul Belew received 0.57% (10,927 total votes, 9 in Hopkins County) of the Republican votes cast in Texas, Danny Harrison 0.55% (10,445 total, 11 Hopkins County), Kandy Kaye Horne 1.2% (22,930 total, 22 Hopkins County), Don Huffines 11.84% (225,491 total 369 Hopkins County), Rick Perry 3.2% (60,952 total, 55 Hopkins County), Chad Prather 3.82% (72,719 total, 220 Hopkins) and Allen B. West the next closest with 12.27% (233,560 total and 409 Hopkins County) of overall votes for the Republican nomination for Governor.
Lt. Governor
Incumbent Dan Patrick received 76.51 percent of all Republican nominations for lieutenant governor, including 2,937 of the overall 3,605 Republican votes cast in Hopkins County for the office. In November, Patrick will face either Mike Collier or Michelle Beckley, who it appears are headed to a May runoff for the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor.
Collier received 41.69% (407,250 overall votes), Michelle Beckley 30.23% (295,318 votes) and Carla Brailey’s 28.09% (274,383 votes) of votes across the state for the Democratic nomination for lieutenant governor. In Hopkins County, Collier received 232 votes (49.89%), Beckley 140 votes (20.11%) and Brailey 93 votes (20%).
Republican candidate Trayce Bradford received 6.5% (118,339 votes overall, including 2,937 in Hopkins County) of the overall votes across the state for lieutenant governor, Todd M. Bullis 2.3% (41,803 overall votes, 44 in Hopkins County), Daniel Miller 6.82% (123,561 votes, 248 Hopkins County), Aaron Sorrells 3.95% (71,575 votes, 122 Hopkins County votes), and Zach Vance 3.87% (70,019 votes, 94 Hopkins County).
Attorney General
The Attorney General’s race is another that will require May runoffs for both parties, between Garza and Merritt for the Democratic nomination, and between incumbent Ken Paxton and challenger George P. Bush.
Among the five Democratic Party candidates for AG, Rochekle Mercedes Garza received 43.26% of overall votes (427,855 votes, 125 in Hopkins County), with Joe Jaworski and Lee Merritt in second and third place following the March 1, 2022 Party Primary Elections. Jaworski received 19.62% (194,290 votes, 88 in Hopkins County) of overall Democratic ballots cast in the AG’s Election, Merritt 19.39% (192,022 total, 117 in Hopkins County). Challenger Mike Fields also received 12.28% (121,580 votes, 101 Hopkins County), and S. “TBone” Raynor 5.49% (54,315 votes, 30 Hopkins County).
Paxton received 42.66% (801,368 votes, 1,683 in Hopkins County) of the overall votes cast by Republicans for the Attorney General nomination. George P. Bush received 22.82% (428,682 votes, 861 Hopkins County) of overall votes cast in the Republican AG Election, Eva Guzman 17.46 percent (328,026 votes, 518 Hopkins County) and Louie Gohmert 17.06% (428,682 votes, 646 Hopkins County).
Comptroller of Public Accounts
Incumbent Glenn Hegar easily took the Republican nomination for Comptroller of Public Accounts, receiving 81.65% (1,350,175 total and 2,734 votes in Hopkins County) of the overall Republican votes cast in Texas on March 1, 2022 to challenger Mark V. Goloby’s 18.35% (303,376 total votes, 568 in Hopkins County).
Democrats Janet T. Dudding and Angel Luis Vega appear to be headed for a May runoff for the party’s nomination for Comptroller of Public Accounts. Dudding received 46.05% and Vega 34.78% of the overall votes cast across the state, with Tim Mahoney receiving 19.18%. That’s 438,953 overall votes and 194 votes in Hopkins County for Dudding, 331,502 overall votes and 83 Hopkins County votes for Vega. Mahoney received 182,804 overall votes including 164 Hopkins County votes for the Democratic nomination for Comptroller.
Commissioner of the General Land Office
With four Democratic candidates and eight Republican candidates, no one candidate in either party garnered 50% or more of the votes from their party.
Dawn Buckingham lead Republican candidates with 41.79% of overall ballots cast (660,651 total, 1,243 in Hopkins County) for Land Office Commissioner. Tim Westley received 14.82% (234,279 total, 420 Hopkins) of Republican votes for Land Commissioner, Jon Spiers received 12.63% (199,717 votes, 322 in Hopkins County), Don W. Minton 10.61% (167,806 total, 448 Hopkins), Victor Avila 7.55% (119,436 total, 150 Hopkins), Weston Martinez 6.56% (103,747 total, 202 Hopkins) and Rufus Lopez 6.56% (48,253 total, 67).
Sandragrace Martinez received 32.03% (306,921 total, 99 Hopkins) of the Democratic votes for Commissioner of the General Land Office. Jay Klebert received 25.85% (247,675 votes, 194 Hopkins), Jinny Suh 21.9% (209,871 votes, 81 Hopkins), and Michael Lange 20.22% (193,781 votes, 65 Hopkins) for the Democratic nomination for land commissioner.
Commissioner of Agriculture
Democrat Susan Hayes will face Republican Sid Miller in the November election for Commissioner of Agriculture.
Hays secured the Democratic nomination for Commissioner of Agriculture, receiving 82.75% of the overall votes cast, 790,459 overall, including 124 Hopkins County votes. Ed Ireson received 17.25 % of the overall Democratic votes for Ag Commissioner; that’s 164,794 overall votes, including 124 Hopkins County votes.
Miller appears to have secured the Republican nomination for Ag Commissioner with 58.52% of the overall vote, compared to James White’s 31.08% and Carey A. Counsil’s 10.4%. That’s 969,504 total votes for Miller, including 2,036 by Hopkins County Republicans; 514,996 votes for White, 1,055 from Hopkins County; and 172,334 for Counsil,200 from Hopkins County.
Railroad Commissioner
Of the five candidates seeking the Republican nomination for Railroad Commissioner, incumbent Wayne Christian received 47.13% or 754,115 of the overall votes, including 1,259 cast in Hopkins County. Sarah Stogner was the next closest with 229,285 votes overall (741 in Hopkins County), giving her 15.15% of votes. Finishing third for Railroad Commissioner was Tom Slocum Jr., who garnered 14.22% overall, with 229,285 total votes (527 Hopkins). Marvin “Sarge” Summers received 11.9% with 190,457 votes (454 Hopkins) and Dawayne Tipton 11.49% with 183,820 votes (350 Hopkins).
A runoff appears to be imminent for Christian and Stogner for the Republican nomination for Railroad Commissioner. The winner will face incumbent Luke Warford, a Democrat, in November. Warford received 894,859 votes on March 1, 2022, including 427 in Hopkins County.
Supreme Court Justices
Place 9 is the only Supreme Court Justice seat on primary ballots that had more than one candidate seeking the party nomination.
Incumbent Evan Young was challenged by David Schenck for the Republican party nomination for Place 9 Justice on the the Supreme Court. Young carried the majority with 54.79% (838,722 votes, 1,907 cast in Hopkins County) of overall Republican votes cast in the election to Schenck’s 42.21 percent (1,483,440 votes, 1,907 cast in Hopkins County).
Young will face Democrat Julia Maldonado in the November Election for Place 9 Justice of the Supreme Court. Maldonado received 900,254 total votes, including 423 votes cast in Hopkins County.
As no opposed raised developed in either party for Supreme Court Justices for places 3 and 5, the following match ups will be on November ballots:
- Place 3
- Republican Debra Lehrmann, incumbent – 1,500,101 total votes, including 3,030 cast in Hopkins County
- Democrat Erin A. Nowell – 892,387 total votes, including 424 Hopkins County votes
- Place 5
- Republican Rebeca Huddle, incumbent – 1,483,440 total votes, including 2,975 in Hopkins County
- Democrat Amanda Reichek – 892,098 total votes, including 424 from Hopkins County
Court of Criminal Appeals Judges
Incumbent Mary Lou Keel not only had no Republican challenger for Place 2 Judge on the Court of Criminal Appeals, there was no Democratic candidate for the office. Keel received 2,948 votes in the March 1 Party Primary Election.
Incumbent Scott Walker received 55.82% of votes to Clint Morgan’s 43.3% votes, securing the Republican nomination for Court of Criminal Appeals Place 5 Judge. Walker received 875,779 total votes, including 1,665 from Hopkins County Republicans while Morgan received 668,787 votes, including 1,138 from Hopkins County voters.
In November, Walker will face Dana Huffman, who drew no opponent for the Democratic Party nomination for Place 5 Court of Criminal Appeals Judge on March 1; Huffman received in 889,800 votes, including 429 cast in Hopkins County.
The primary elections for Place 6 Judge on the Court of Criminal Appeals drew one candidate per party, who will face each other in November. They include:
- Place 6
- Democrat Robert Johnson – 884,508 votes overall, 428 from Hopkins County.
- Republican Jesse F. McClure, III – 1,458,110 total votes, 2,893 in Hopkins County.
6th Court Of Appeals District Chief Justice
Scott E. Stevens was unopposed on the Republican Party ballot for 6th Court of Appeals District Chief Justice. Stevens received 2,935 votes in Hopkins County and 69,552 total votes across the district.
State Board of Education District 12
Roberto Velasco received 257 votes in Hopkins County to Alex Cornwallis’ 185 votes for the Democratic nomination for State Board of Education, District 12. Across the district, Velasco received 27,053 votes giving him 48.59% to Cornwallis’ 28,624, giving him 51.41% overall.
Pam Little had no Republican opponent for the State Board of Education District 12 seat. She received 2,899 votes in Hopkins County, and 120,905 across the district.
District 12 includes Bowie, Collin, Cooke, Dallas, Delta, Denton, Fannin, Grayson, Hopkins, Hunt, Lamar and Red River counties.
Statewide Propositions
Republicans statewide were asked to also cast ballots on 10 propositions:
- Proposition 1 – In light of the federal government’s refusal to defend the southern border, Texas should immediately deploy the National Guard, Texas Military Forces, and necessary State Law Enforcement to seal the border, enforce immigration laws, and deport illegal aliens.
- Yes – 1.741,272 total votes (92.21%)
- No – 147,015 total votes (7.79%)
- Proposition 2 – Texas should eliminate all property taxes within ten (10) years without implementing a state income tax.
- Yes – 1,393,522 Total votes (75.67%)
- No – 447,980 Total votes (24.33%)
- Proposition 3 – Texans should not lose their jobs, nor should students be penalized, for declining a COVID-19 vaccine.
- Yes – 1,676,536 (88.58%)
- No – 216,254 (11.43%)
- Proposition 4 – Texas schools should teach students basic knowledge and American exceptionalism and reject critical race theory and other curricula that promote Marxist doctrine and encourage division based on creed, race, or economic status.
- Yes – 1,710,903 Total votes (91.1%)
- No – 167,242 Total votes (8.9%)
- Proposition 5 – Texas should enact a state constitutional amendment to defend the sanctity of innocent human life, created in the image of god, from fertilization until natural death.
- Yes – 1546,858 Total votes (83.3%)
- No – 310,088 Total votes (16.7%)
- Proposition 6 – The republican-controlled Texas Legislature should end the practice of awarding committee chairmanships to Democrats.
- Yes – 1,487,737 Total votes (81.29%)
- No – 342,449 Total votes (18.71%)
- Proposition 7 – Texas should protect the integrity of our elections by verifying that registered voters are American citizens, restoring felony penalties and enacting civil penalties for vote fraud, and fighting any federal takeover of state elections.
- Yes – 1,811,210 Total votes (95.71%)
- No – 81,205 Total votes (4.29%)
- Proposition 8 Texas should ban chemical castration, puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and genital mutilation surgery on all minor children for sex transition purposes.
- Yes – 1,738,040 Total votes (92.56%)
- No – 139,718 Total votes (7.44%)
- Proposition 9 Texas parents and guardians should have the right to select schools, whether public or private, for their children, and the funding should follow the student.
- Yes – 1,614,623 Total votes (87.53%)
- No – 139,718 Total votes (7.44%)
- Proposition 10 Texans affirm that our freedoms come from god and that the government should have no control over the conscience of individuals.
- Yes – 1,725,148 Total votes (92.47%)
- No – 138,529 Total votes (7.43%)
