Paris Junior College’s 49th Creative Writing Awards
Paris, Texas, April 23, 2025 – Paris Junior College hosted its 49th annual Creative Writing Awards ceremony. This ceremony recognizes outstanding student achievements in English, English as a Second Language, and Foreign Language. It also celebrates the winners of the annual creative writing contest. This year marked over ninety entries across four divisions of creative writing.
Wesley Johnston received the English Award for outstanding student. Keurtys Komba won the English as a Second Language Award. Finally, Stanford Lewis was presented with the Foreign Language Award. In creative writing, Braden Collar placed first in both “Narrative” and “Argument with Research” categories. Austin Gutierrez placed first in the “Short Story” category, and Corey Williams won the “Poetry” category. All of the winners are published in “Swingers of Birches: Student Achievement in Writing.” “Swingers of Birches” is an annual PJC publication that promotes creative writing across the college.
Paris Junior College remains committed to celebrating student success.
To learn more visit parisjc.edu.
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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.
Wildcat Athletes Have Signed Letters of Intent to Continue Their Sports Activities at the College Level
April 24, 2025 – Several Sulphur Springs Wildcat athletes have signed letters of intent to continue their sportsactivities at the college level.
Wildcat football player … defensive end Nathan Andrews .. will compete for Hendrix College in Arkansa.
Wildcat wide receiver Wyatt Watson will play Football for Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene
Kaden Mitchell, the quarterback on the Wildcat football team and a pitcher and third baseman on the baseball team, will play baseball at Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond
Wildcat cheerleader and softball player Mattie Dixon will cheer at Paris Junior College.
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The Sulphur Springs Wildcats baseball team shocked the no. 2 ranked team in Texas 4A baseball, the Texarkana Pleasant Grove Hawks, Tuesday night, 4-0. It was only the third loss of the season against 24 wins for the Hawks, and their first loss in district play. The Wildcats are now 16-9 for the season and 8-3 in district play. They host Pleasant Grove in the final district game at 7 Friday night.
The Ladycats softball team plays Wills Point in a bi-district doubleeader at 5 p.m.Friday at Community High School in Nevada. KSST will broadcast the games. If needed, a third game will be played at 10 a.m. Saturday morning.
Texas Soil and Water Stewardship Week Recognizes the Vital Role of Native Ecosystems
April 24, 2025 – Hopkins-Rains Soil and Water Conservation District #445 has partnered with the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) and the Association of Texas Soil & Water Conservation Districts to highlight Soil and Water Stewardship Week and the importance of voluntary land stewardship in Texas. The statewide campaign is April 27 through May 4, 2025, and the focus this year is “Home is Where the Habitat is.”
Native habitats are vital for maintaining Texas’s rich biodiversity. They serve as homes for countless species while playing a critical role in storing carbon, filtering pollutants, and preventing soil erosion. Preserving these habitats is essential to ensuring that the ecosystems we rely on remain strong and resilient for generations to come.
Texas’s native habitats and landscapes are not just the foundation of our natural environment—they are also deeply intertwined with our cultural heritage and future prosperity. From prairies and wetlands to forests and rivers, each habitat contributes to the health and vitality of our state. These habitats sustain wildlife but also provide critical ecosystem services that benefit people directly, such as clean water, fertile soil, and recreational opportunities. The preservation of these habitats is a shared responsibility that supports both environmental and human well-being.
Healthy habitats contribute to many things, including:
- Clean Air and Water: Native plants and habitats filter pollutants, ensuring cleaner air and water for all.
- Ecosystem Stability: Biodiverse habitats provide a balanced environment, reducing the impact of natural disasters.
- Carbon Storage: Habitats act as natural carbon sinks, helping to maintain ecosystem balance.
- Enhanced Natural Beauty: Native landscapes enrich the aesthetic value of our state, attracting tourism and boosting local economies.
- Resilient Environments: Strong ecosystems support sustainable agriculture and forestry, safeguarding Texas’s economy and quality of life.
Since 1939, the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) and Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) have championed responsible natural resource management across the state. By partnering with private landowners, agricultural producers, and conservation organizations, they help implement strategies that protect our precious soil, water, and habitats. The success of conservation efforts relies on active community involvement and shared commitment, as collective actions play a vital role in protecting and preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
This year’s theme, “Home is Where the Habitat Is,” invites us to celebrate and protect these critical habitats. By prioritizing habitat preservation, we can ensure that the ecosystems supporting Texas’s vibrant biodiversity and abundant natural resources continue to thrive. Let us renew our commitment to protecting these habitats and honor their role in shaping a sustainable and resilient future for all Texans.
This campaign aims to bring more awareness and support to voluntary land stewardship because the way we manage our resources on private lands directly impacts our natural resources. Hopkins-Rains Soil and Water Conservation Board is proud to collaborate with conservation partners across Texas to promote the importance of natural resource conservation.For more information on “Home is Where the Habitat is,” please visit www.tsswcb.texas.gov.
Weekly Senior Center Activities with Meal A Day Menu for the Week of April 28th
April 24, 2025 – Check out what the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizens Activity Center has in store for the community this week, this month, and upcoming months! This post also includes the Meal A Day Menu for April 28th, 2025 through May 2nd, 2025.
NFIB Thanks Governor Abbott for Signing Senate Bill 14
AUSTIN (April 23, 2025) – NFIB State Director Jeff Burdett today thanked Gov. Greg Abbott for signing Senate Bill 14, legislation creating the Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office and making it easier to run a small business in Texas.
“Governor Abbott’s signing of SB 14 marks a historic step for Texas small businesses, creating the Texas Regulatory Efficiency Office and building on the Small Business Freedom Council’s recommendations to reduce regulations, taxes, and workforce barriers,” Burdett said. “This legislation sets the stage for what could be the most impactful session for small businesses in Texas history.”
The Small Business Freedom Council was made up of business group leaders and small business owners from across the state. The Council’s report, released in March, focused on reducing red tape, cutting taxes and fees, and improving workforce licensing. Senate Bill 14 reflects many of those ideas and puts them into action.
Burdett said he was grateful to Governor Abbott for allowing him to serve as co-chair of the Small Business Freedom Council. “It was a privilege to work with the governor’s team on this important effort,” Burdett said. “His leadership continues to keep small business front and center, and that’s what makes Texas a great place to do business.”
He also thanked Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Sen. Phil King for leading the bill through the Senate, and Speaker Dustin Burrows and Rep. Giovanni Capriglione for their work in the House. “SB 14 is the start of what could be the best session ever for small businesses in Texas,” Burdett said. “We’re grateful to all the leaders who are helping make that happen.”
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Dinner Bell for April 30, 2025
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
SPONSOR: Charles Dawson
The doors to Fellowship Hall at First United Methodist Church will open at 11:00 a.m. Meal service begins at 11:30 a.m. and doors will close at 12:45 p.m. Please come join us to share fellowship and a meal.
Charles Dawson is this week’s Community Partner.
Charles is a lifelong Hopkins County resident and lifelong member of First United Methodist Church.
A financial advisor and commodity broker for over 45 years, Charles owns and runs Texas Trading Company, a financial services and futures trading firm with offices just around the corner from the church. He’s also a lifelong, dedicated cattle rancher and farmer.
Charles brings a servant’s heart to his community as well. He has served in many leadership positions at First UMC, as a leader on numerous civic and financial boards, and as a faithful member of various community organizations. You will often find Charles at fundraising events for local FFA, 4H, church, and scholarship groups, helping support the next generation. He is the father of three daughters and two sons-in-law, and a proud grandparent of six, bringing him much joy, pride, and laughter. Charles’ favorite Warren Buffet quote is:
“The most important investment you can make is in yourself.”
We are blessed to have Faith Huffman, Stephanie Page, DJ Spencer, Enola Gay, and Tammy Crook from Sulphur Springs News Telegram, serving with us this week as well. We plan to continue inside dining every Wednesday with the exception of the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.
MENU:
- Chicken & Rice Casserole
- Arkansas Green Beans
- Garden Salad
- Buttered French Bread Slices
- Peach Cobbler Crisp
The Dinner Bell Ministry
First United Methodist Church
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
Sulphur Springs Wildcats and Ladycats Track Team Athletes Qualified for the State Meet
April 24, 2025 – Several Sulphur Springs Wildcats and Ladycats track team athletes qualified for the state meet at the Regional Meet held at East Texas A&M in Commerce last weekend.
State qualifiers for the Wildcats are
Creed Whisenhunt, the regional champion in 100-meter dash, with a time of 10.6 seconds, andTy Bybee, the regional champion in the pole vault, with a new school record of 16 feet.
Ladycat state qualifiers are:
Jaicee Jasmer, the regional champion in the pole vault at 14 feet, andEdith Martinez, second place in the 1600-meter (one mile) run, with a new school record of 5:25.
The Wildcat boys’ 4X100-meter relay team of Kyshawn John, Deuce Timmons, Jio Ibarra, Creed Whisenhunt finished third with a time of 41.85 and missed making the state meet by less than three-tenths of a second.
The 4×200-meter relay team of Creed Whisenhunt, Deuce Timmons, Ty Bybee and Grayson Hardy finished fourth and missed missed state by two-thousandths of a second.
Ty Bybee finished third in the 110-meter hurdles and Vincent Johnson placed fifth in the shot put.
The state meet is May 1-3 iat the University of Texas in Austin.
Bill to Guarantee Texas Inmates A/C by 2032 Advances
April 24, 2025 – A Texas House panel has approved House Bill 3006, mandating the installation of air conditioning in all state prisons by the end of 2032. Introduced by Rep. Terry Canales (D-Edinburg), the bill proposes a phased implementation, limiting expenditures to $100 million every two years and permitting the use of inmate labor to reduce costs. This legislative move follows a federal judge’s recent ruling that deemed the extreme heat conditions in Texas prisons unconstitutional .
Currently, approximately two-thirds of Texas prison inmates are housed in facilities without full air conditioning, where indoor temperatures often exceed 100°F. These conditions have led to numerous heat-related illnesses and deaths among inmates. Advocates argue that the absence of climate control not only endangers lives but also results in significant legal expenses for the state due to lawsuits. Rep. Canales emphasized that the bill aims to expedite the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s (TDCJ) current timeline of 25 to 30 years for full air conditioning implementation .
The bill has garnered support from various advocacy groups and religious organizations, including Texas Baptists, who highlight the moral imperative of ensuring humane conditions for incarcerated individuals. The legislation now awaits further consideration by the full House.
Texas A&M University System to Launch Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies in Fort Worth
April 24, 2025 – The Texas A&M University System is proud to announce the establishment of the Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies (CAAT), a groundbreaking initiative aimed at advancing research and development in emerging aviation technologies. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMU-CC) will lead the initiative, leveraging the Autonomy Research Institute’s (ARI) extensive experience as an FAA-designated UAS System Test Site. The laboratory component of the Center will be located at Texas A&M-Fort Worth.
The CAAT will leverage the region’s robust aviation sector and strong university network. The announcement comes as a result of a provision authored by U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz in the bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, which authorized the creation of a federal research center focused on innovative aviation technologies, including drones, air taxis, and supersonic and hypersonic aircraft.
“I’m grateful to see the Texas A&M System leading this initiative and cultivating the next generation of aviation leaders,” Cruz said. “When I authored the bipartisan FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, I wrote the language creating the Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies with the express intention of bringing that Center to the Dallas-Fort Worth area because of the groundbreaking innovation occurring there. I’m confident this new research and testing center will help the private sector create thousands of high-paying jobs and grow the Texas economy through billions in new investments.”
Chairman Robert Albritton of the Texas A&M System credited Sen. Cruz for taking the lead on such an important matter.
“The researchers of the Texas A&M System are eager to take on the challenges put forth by Sen. Cruz,” Albritton said. “The airspaces of the United States soon will look very different, and I am confident that A&M System experts will make the skies as safe as possible when the newest aviation technologies take flight. The entire Board of Regents enthusiastically look forward to this project and the difference in air safety it will make for all Americans.”
Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp added that he is proud that the System was selected to lead the Center for Advanced Aviation Technologies.
“This initiative represents a significant opportunity to harness the expertise of our member institutions and drive innovation in the aviation industry,” Sharp said. “We are committed to fostering collaboration among universities, private organizations and government entities to advance the integration of cutting-edge aviation technologies.”
The CAAT will serve as a hub for research and testing, utilizing the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi’s Autonomy Research Institute (ARI), which is designated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a UAS test site. The institute will conduct controlled testing of unmanned aircraft systems and other advanced technologies, facilitating the safe integration of innovative solutions into the national airspace.
“Texas A&M-Corpus Christi’s and ARI’s involvement in the CAAT solidifies our role as pioneers in the rapidly evolving field of unmanned flight,” said Dr. Kelly M. Miller, President and CEO of Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. “The university’s vision for growth in this cutting-edge field began 11 years ago when ARI first became an FAA test site. We are deeply grateful for the trust placed in us by the A&M System and for the steadfast support we’ve received locally from the City of Corpus Christi and the Texas Legislature, which has been instrumental in advancing ARI’s mission and cultivating the next generation of aviation leaders.”
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar, who will take over as chancellor of the A&M System in July, said he is thankful to Sen. Cruz for the tireless work he put into authoring the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 and creating the CAAT.
“This represents a tremendous victory for the Texas A&M System and the Lone Star State,” Hegar said. “Nearly 30 entities from across the nation fought hard to secure this opportunity, but the Texas A&M System was perfectly positioned to make this visionary endeavor a reality.”
Hegar added that he is pleased to hear Secretary Duffy citing the academic programs, strategic partnerships and innovative infrastructure when the announcement was made.
The center will bring together 19 member institutions of the Texas A&M System, as well as partners from the University of North Texas, Southern Methodist University, and other esteemed organizations. This collaborative effort aims to create a dynamic ecosystem that fosters innovation, supports job creation, and drives investment in the aviation sector.
“The FAA is committed to advancing new and emerging aviation technologies, as well as innovative aviation concepts and services, including advanced air mobility, powered-lift aircraft, and other cutting-edge aviation technologies — all areas where ARI excels,” said Mike Sanders, Executive Director of ARI. “As highly innovative, yet undeniably disruptive, unmanned aircraft technologies reshape our skies, we acknowledge that sharing space with manned airspace is more than a technical challenge; it’s a matter of doing it with transparency and safety.”
About The Texas A&M University System
The Texas A&M University System is one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation, with a budget of $7.3 billion. Through a statewide network of 11 universities, a comprehensive health science center, eight state agencies, Texas A&M-Fort Worth and Texas A&M-RELLIS, the Texas A&M System educates more than 165,000 students and makes more than 25.3 million additional educational contacts through service and outreach programs each year. System-wide, research and development expenditures exceed $1.5 billion and help drive the state’s economy.
AG Paxton Demands Epic City Documents from Plano ISD
April 24, 2025 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has demanded that Plano Independent School District (ISD) officials provide documents related to potential communications with individuals associated with the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC) and its affiliated development project, EPIC City. This request is part of an ongoing investigation into EPIC City, a proposed 402-acre Muslim-centered residential development near Josephine, Texas, initiated by EPIC and managed through its entity, Community Capital Partners.
The Attorney General’s office was informed of comments made by Plano Mayor John Muns regarding facilitating dialogue between Plano ISD board officials and individuals at EPIC. In response, Paxton stated, “My office is demanding documents from Plano ISD officials who may have communicated with individuals involved with EPIC City as part of our ongoing investigation into this development”.
Plano ISD has indicated its willingness to cooperate with the Attorney General’s request. A district spokesperson noted, “While we are unaware of the specific conversations mentioned in the Attorney General’s press release earlier today, the district will fully cooperate with any requests received from the Attorney General’s office”.
This development follows previous records requests sent to city officials in Plano, Richardson, Wylie, and Josephine, Texas, as part of the broader investigation into EPIC City. The project has attracted political scrutiny, with concerns raised about potential violations of Texas state law.
EPIC City is designed to feature over 1,000 residential units, a mosque, a K-12 faith-based school, a community college, and commercial shopping facilities. The development aims to create a diverse and inclusive community where people of various backgrounds can coexist harmoniously.
The investigation remains ongoing, and further details will be released as they become available.
