Paris District Road Report for May 16, 2022
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting May 16, 2022. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91. The northbound Washington Street exit ramp is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Houston/Lamar Street exit ramp. The southbound exit ramp for Park Avenue is currently closed and exiting traffic is requested to use the Lamar/Houston Street exit. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set for this construction project.
The reopening of the mainlanes and underpass at the Center Street area to traffic is underway. Northbound and southbound mainlane traffic have been moved to the newly constructed mainlanes. The Center Street intersection under US 75 is scheduled to be reopened to traffic the week of May 18.
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road from just north of Houston Street and transitions back to the existing main lanes south of North Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 main lanes and the bridge over Washington Street. Within this area, the US 75 frontage road traffic has been reduced to a single travel lane, while US 75 mainlane traffic still maintains two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic are separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Washington Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to complete work in preparation of the mainlane detour. To detour, eastbound Washington Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Lamar Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on North Travis Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Washington Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Washington Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Washington Street closure at US 75:
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between North Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lanes shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on construction of new frontage road lanes.
US 82, Grayson County: from SH 91 to the Fannin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform spot pavement repairs.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews are working to construct the new roadway pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a four-lane divided section with turn lanes. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project. The Canyon Creek intersection on the east side of FM 1417 will be closed to traffic beginning May 9 to allow crews to complete the concrete paving at this intersection. The intersection is expected to be closed for around three weeks to complete the work. Travelers are asked to use Lamberth Street during this closure.
SH 5, Grayson County: in Van Alstyne along Newport Drive from Partin Elementary School to SH 5, and along SH 5 from Newport Drive to Forrest Moore Park. Construction on a new multi-use trail is underway. The project will install an eight-foot-wide minimum sidewalk trail along this stretch of roadway. During work on this project, occasional lane closures will be required to complete the work.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to complete the remaining work on the project.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Thursday night. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
FM 1753, Grayson County: from FM 120 to FM 1897. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and then overlay the roadway.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Construction is ongoing on this new-location roadway which is west of SH 289 approximately four miles. The new roadway will be two lanes with shoulders and will be an extension of the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway. Local traffic on CR 60 (Marilee Road) and Stiff Chapel Road should expect occasional road work at those intersections, with flaggers present to control traffic.
FM 121, Grayson County: in Van Alstyne from Preston Avenue to John Douglas Road. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as construction crews work to install sidewalks, curb ramps, and landscape features.
US 377, Grayson County: Willis Bridge at the Oklahoma State line. Watch for occasional lane closures on the existing bridge as workers pour concrete for the new bridge structure.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
The annual contract to perform bridge repairs in Grayson County is underway. The following locations will have bridge repairs performed, so travelers should expect occasional lane closures while this work is underway. US 75 northbound mainlane bridge at Iron Ore Creek, US 75 southbound frontage road bridge at Iron Ore Creek, the SH 289 bridge approximately 1.75 miles south of FM 120, and FM 1417 at Post Oak Creek.
FM 1897, Grayson County, from US 69 to FM 1753. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 898, Grayson County, from SH 11/US 69 to the Fannin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 697, Grayson County, from SH 11 to FM 2729. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 121, Grayson County, at the Wall Street intersection. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 1753, Grayson and Fannin County: from FM 1897 to SH 78. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers complete the remaining work on the project.
CR 3810 at Loring Creek, Fannin County. The bridge on CR 3810 at Loring Creek is closed to through traffic in order to replace the bridge. During this closure traffic is asked to use CR 3800.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers build the new SH 34 bridge over the future Lake Ralph Hall.
FM 1552, Fannin County: from SH 78 to County Road 3710. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work on re-establishing vegetation on the project. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews complete the remaining work.
FM 1396, Fannin County: from FM 897 west to FM 2029. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to widen the roadway.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
SH 37, Franklin County: from the elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
IH 30, Hopkins County: from Loop 301 to Franklin County Line. Watch for lane closures and traffic delays as crews begin surfacing operations.
FM 1536, Hopkins County: from SH 19 to FM 71. Watch for lane closures and short delays as crews begin upgrading cross drainage structures.
FM 3389, Hopkins County: from IH 30 to FM 1567. Watch for lanes closures and short delays as crews perform surfacing operations.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
FM 906, Lamar County: from FM 2648 to CR 47400. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
FM 195, Red River County: from the Lamar County line to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and replace bridge rail.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to the Bowie County line. Watch for work zones and drive safely through construction areas while final work is being performed.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the North Loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 2675, Delta County: from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
CR 3440, Delta County: at Jennings Creek. Watch for road closure while crews replace the existing bridge.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Project (several counties): The contractor has set barricades at the Wolfe City, Texas, location. The contractor is currently working on Santa Fe Street and FM 816 and is nearing completion in this area. The project is wrapping up in the downtown area of Wolfe City. The contractor has been working on forming and pouring concrete on sidewalks and driveways, weather permitting. This project will improve pedestrian sidewalks and construct ADA-compliant curb ramps at these locations: Hunt County, SH 34 at Crockett Street to SH 34 at FM 816 in Wolfe City. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 903, Hunt County: From US 380 to FM 1569 South. The contractor has set barricades and bulletin boards and advance warning signs. The contractor has finished ditches, base for the prime coat, performed a ride test, prime coated, and temporary striped mile one. The contractor is reworking base, placing geogrid, and hauling flex base on mile two. The contractor has finished pouring the cross structures. The contractor will be pouring concrete driveways, working on driveway pipe and safety end treatments.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor has completed widening and reworking existing base for the last section of the project. The contractor has finished flex base hauling and placing in the last section. The contractor has begun cement treatment on the last section of the project. The contractor has completed the 150-foot bridge deck pour. The contractor continues setting safety end treatments and driveway pipe on the south side of the project. Please be aware of lane closures, detours, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor has placed project barricades and has prepared and cleared the right-of-way. The contractor has performed a traffic switch for northbound and southbound traffic on Spur 264 to complete the concrete pavement on the east half of Spur 264. The contractor continues grading flex base on SH 276 from east of the bridge approach to the proposed CRCP section, fine grade embankment work on the west end of the project, and prep work for geo-grid and flex base. The contractor started the CRCP section on the east side of the bridge approach. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
FM 1566, Hunt County: from FM 272 near Celeste to State Highway 34. The contractor has placed prime coat on the beginning mile. The contractor has placed temporary stripe on the first mile. The contractor has finished mailbox turnouts. The contractor is working on the proposed signing for the project. Seal coat for pavement surface will begin soon, weather permitting.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing overlay operations on FM 2655 to SH 11 in Wolfe City. Crews will be performing potholing at various locations in Hunt County. Maintenance crews will be installing mailboxes, delineators, and signs in various locations. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations at various locations. Please be careful when traveling in these areas, watch out for workers and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
Maintenance crews in Rains County will be performing seal coat prep work on FM 1903 from SH 34 to the I-30 frontage road. Crews will be performing sign installations, mailbox installation, potholing, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations on various roadways. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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Winnsboro Police Department Media Report – May 9-15, 2022
Winnsboro Police Department each week provides a media report with information about department activity. WPD activity for the week of May 9-15, 2022 included:
Arrests
- Joshua Orr, 38 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 9, 2022, for Possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana in a drug free zone and Winnsboro Municipal Court warrants for possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license invalid.
- Jordan Crist, 28 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 9, 2022, for possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana in drug free zone, unlawful carrying of a weapon and five Winnsboro Municipal Court warrants for multiple traffic law violations.
- Larissa Benson, 32 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 12, 2022, on Wood County warrant for driving while license invalid with previous convictions.
- Jonathon Nolen, 43 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 12, 2022, on Winnsboro Municipal Court warrants for defective stop lamps, possession drug paraphernalia and failure to maintain financial responsibility.
- Debrah East, 35 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 12, 2022, for possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance and possession of dangerous drugs.
- Nikolas Rakich, 25 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 13, 2022, for Driving While Intoxicated with an open alcohol container
- Timothy Tadlock, 33 years of age, of Detroit, was arrested on May 15, 2022, for driving while license invalid with previous convictions.
- Catherine Anderson, 32 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on May 5, 2022, for possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1B controlled .
Calls for Service
The Winnsboro Police Department responded to a total of 169 calls for service during this reporting period.
Citations
The Winnsboro Police Department issued 36 citations and 63 warnings during this reporting period.
Early Voting In Party Primary Runoff Elections Began This Morning, Continues Through Friday
Early voting in the Democratic and Republican Party Primary Runoffs began this morning (May 16, 2022) and will continue through Friday, with Election Day following on Tuesday, May 24, 2022.
Hopkins County residents may vote early by personal appearance from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, May 16-20, in the Hopkins County Justice of the Peace 2 Courtroom, 128G Jefferson Street, Sulphur Springs in either the Democratic or Republican Primary Runoff.
Only Hopkins County voters registered to vote on April 25 are eligible to vote in this election.
Voters may cast ballots in only one of these elections, and will be declaring themselves as either a Democrat or Republican by voting in that election.
Who Is Eligible To Vote
Texas Secretary of State John Scott reminds voters that under Texas law, voters who cast a ballot in either party’s primary election must vote in the same party’s primary runoff election. Voters who did not cast a ballot in the March 1st Primary Elections may vote in either party’s Primary Runoff Election.
Texans will have an important opportunity to choose candidates at the federal, state and county level to appear on the November 8th General Election ballot,” Secretary Scott said in a news release. “The candidates you will be voting on have made it to the final round of their parties’ primary elections, and this is your chance to decide who you want to compete for those public offices in November. Make sure to do your research on the candidates, make an informed decision, and prepare to make your voice heard in the runoff elections by visiting VoteTexas.gov!”
The winner of each election will then face the top candidate from the other parties on the Uniform Election on Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2022.
Voter ID Requirements
When voters arrive at the polling place, each will be asked to present one of the seven acceptable forms of photo identification, which are:
- Texas Driver License issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)
- Texas Election Identification Certificate issued by DPS
- Texas Personal Identification Card issued by DPS
- Texas Handgun License issued by DPS
- United States Military Identification Card containing the person’s photograph
- United States Citizenship Certificate containing the person’s photograph
- United States Passport (book or card)
For voters aged 18-69, the acceptable form of photo ID can be expired up to four years. For voters aged 70 or older, the acceptable form of photo identification may be expired for any length of time.
If a registered voter does not possess and cannot reasonably obtain one of the seven approved forms of photo ID, that individual may fill out a Reasonable Impediment Declaration (RID) (PDF) at the polls and present an alternative form of ID, such as a utility bill, bank statement, government check, or voter registration certificate.
Democratic Runoff
Democrats will be asked to vote for their choice in four different state races.
- On the Democratic ballot for Lieutenant Governor are Mike Collier and Michelle Beckley.
- Democrats too will decide between Rochelle Mercedes Garza or Joe Jaworski as their candidate for Attorney Genera.
- Seeking the Democratic nomination for the office of Comptroller of Public Accounts are Janet T. Dudding and Angel Luis Vega.
- Democrats Jay Kleberg and Sandragrace Martinez are vying for the Democratic nomination for Commissioner of the General Land Office.
Republican Runoff
Republicans will be asked to vote for their choice in three different state races.
- Vying for the Republican Party nomination for Attorney General are Ken Paxton and George P. Bush.
- Republicans Dawn Buckhingham and Tim Westley are in a runoff for the party nomination for Commissioner of the General Land Office.
- Sarah Stogner and Wayne Christian are the two Republican candidates for Railroad Commissioner.
Election Day Voting
On Election Day, voting has been consolidated to six voting centers. Voters may cast ballots in either the Republican or Democratic runoffs from 7 a.m. to p.m. Tuesday, May 24 at any of the following six voting locations:
- Lutheran Church (Front Foyer), 1000 Texas Street Sulphur Springs, TX 75482;
- H.W. Grays Building (Meeting Room), 411 Beckham Street Sulphur Springs, TX 75482;
- Hopkins County Courthouse, (1st Floor Courtroom), 114 Church Street Sulphur Springs, TX 75482;
- Grace Family Church (Fellowship Hall), 2201 Loop 101 East Sulphur Springs, TX 75482;
- Hopkins County Civic Center (West Hall), 1200 Houston Street Sulphur Springs, TX 75482;
- League Street Church of Christ (Front Foyer), 1100 South League Street Sulphur Springs, TX 75482
Tuesday, May 24, at 7 p.m. is also the deadline for a mail ballot to be received, if hte carrier envelope is not postmarked or Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at 5 p.m. if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at the location of the election on Election Day (unless overseas or military voter deadlines apply.)
Peyton, Carr Top 8th Graders at SBJH
Zaylee Peyton and Emma Carr are recognized as the top 8th graders at Sulphur Bluff ISD.
Zaylee completes eighth grade with a weighted 4.81 grade point average., making her the top raking student in her class. She has attended Sulphur Bluff school for 9 years.
She has been very active in school activities, in FFA Greenhand, serving as President and competing in FFA Creed Speaking events. She had planned to compete in Academic UIL, but it was canceled for junior high both years due to COVID. She was, however, involved in UIL from 2nd to 6th grades and placed in numerous events.
In addition to academics, Zaylee too was active in athletics during her junior high years. She served as co-captain of the volleyball team and captain of the basketball team. She ran cross country and played softball. In track, she placed second at district in discus third in the 1600 meter and third in the 2400 meter events.
She also helps in the children’s program at Independence Baptist Church
When asked her advice for other students hoping to be successful as well, she said, “You can’t control all things in life, but you can try your absolute best in what you can control.”
Zaylee is the daughter of Matthew and Zandra Peyton of Dike, Texas, sister of Maddox Peyton, granddaughter of Ronny and Loretta Caldwell of Dike and Vince Ryzeck and Lou Ann Arnold of Mount Pleasant, and the great-granddaughter of Jerry Ann Walker of Brinker.
She offers thanks to her “parents for always pushing me to be my best. They’ve taught me the importance of education and to view it as a privilege. They have instilled in me the importance of a great work ethic, to have a desire to learn new skills. Thank you to all my family and teachers for loving me, believing in me, and pushing me to be my best.”
The SB 8th grade valedictorian said while she’s not sure exactly what career path she will pursue after graduating high school she knows it will be “something in the medical field” because she wants to be able to help people.
“I love to lead and help others,” Zaylee said.
Emma car has attained the ranking of salutatorian of Sulphur Bluff 8th Grade Class of 2022 with a weighted 4.77 GPA.
She has attended classes at SBISD for 8 years. during that time she has served on the Student Council, and participated in FFA- Greenhand. She also competed in Junior High UIL One Act Play and Academic UIL.
Emma also ran Cross County, played on the junior high volleyball and basketball teams, as well as track and softball.
The SBISD 8th grade salutatorian’s plans after graduating from high school include attending college with a goal becoming a character designer for television and/or movies “because I enjoy creating.”
When asked who inspires her or has had a big impact on her life, Emma said “Coach Z because she always pushes me to keep going and to stop looking at the clock.”
Emma is the daughter of Dustin and Abbie Carr of Como and sister of Evan Carr of Como.
Meal A Day Menu – May 16-20, 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 May 16-20, 2022 includes:
- Monday – Baked Rotini Pasta with Beef, Italian Vegetables and Garlic Sticks.
- Tuesday – Baked Honey Ham, Hominy Casserole, 3 Bean Salad and a Roll.
- Wednesday – Chicken Spaghetti, English Peas and a Roll.
- Thursday – Frito Chili Pie, Corn and Tomatoes, and Cole Slaw.
- Friday – Fish, Pinto Beans, Hush Puppies and Green Tomato Relish
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.
Cumby Seniors Recognized With Scholarships, Certifications
Cumby High School 2022 seniors were recognized for attaining certifications and degrees. Collectively, the Senior Class of 2022 received $95,255.34 in scholarships during an awards program Thursday evening, May 12, 2022, in the new gymnasium.
Six CHS seniors were recognized for completing all of the requirements to graduate with associates degrees from Paris Junior College Friday. Damian Cota earned an associate of interdisciplinary studies, Casey Elmore an associates in interdisciplinary studies, Logan Krodle an associate of science in accounting business management, Savannah Kurn an associate of applied science in education and Emily McJohnston an associate in interdisciplinary studies.
OSHA graduates, those students completing the 30 hours of training required for thee certification, included Andrea “Andi” Atchley, Jaden Basham, Braylon Boggs, Summer Coker, Ryan Davis, Jailyn Dixon, Taner Edwards, Jackson Evans, Caylor Hoops, Hudson Hornsby, Azlyn Hornsy, Cassidy Jimenez, Jon Johnson, Lane McCraw, Jazmin Mojica, Michael Neel, Montgomery Owens, Jarred Patterson, Josh Snyder, Kera Turner, Cristian Vizcaya and Beaux Williams, as well as Aelyn Fuentes-Arevalo, Stoney Gall, Joseph Jarvis, Blake Petty, Kathryn Sells, Ashlynn Sims and Constance Smith.
Matthew Whittle and Savannah Kurn also received educational aide certification.
Juliana Osornio presented two Arsenio Ugalde II Memorial Scholarships in the amount of $1,000 to Casey Elmore and Jimena Enriquez. The award is given each year in memory of Osornio’s little brother, a 2013 Cumby High School graduate who died at age 20. Arsenio Ugalde was a private first class in the U.S. Army, serving in field artillery while stationed in Washington. The award in past years was funded annually through a Stars and Stripes 5K Color Run. Orsornio thanked all of the seniors who applied, noting that it’s always a pleasure to read all of the essays submitted. She noted that selecting the two recipients each time is very hard as all are deserving.
Fred and Ann Moseley had the pleasure of presenting a scholarship for each of their granddaughters. They awarded a $1,000 Four M Scholarship Thursday evening at the awards program to granddaughter Cordelia Moseley. Mrs. Moseley noted Cordie, their son’s Davy’s daughter, has grown greatly in the last several years, and they are very proud of her for working so hard to achieve her potential in her classes, cheerleading and socialization.
Receiving $250 PTO Scholarships were Fabian Camargo, Damian Cota and Jimena Enriquez.
Ryan Horne awarded four Cumby Trojans Athletic Booster Club Scholarships in the amount of $500 to Casey Elmore, Savannah Kurn, Fabian Camargo and Logan Krodle.
Cumby Tel awarded three $1,000 scholarships to Jimena Enriquez, Logan Krodle and Damian Cota.
Robert Cash awarded a $1,000 scholarship from Hopkins Masonic Lodge to Fabian Camargo. He also presented Mistie Colfax with a Lamar Medal, an award given to a hard-working teacher.
Emily McJohnston received a Fry Scholarship in the amount of $22,805.34 renewed annually.
Matthew Wheat received a $7,000 University of North Texas Excellence Scholarship that can be renewed annually and a $3,000 UNT Merit Scholarship.
Logan Krodle received a $24,000 National Merit Recognition Scholarship and a $1,500 Texas A&M University tuition support award.
Annalyse Drake was awarded a $15,000 out of state tuition award from the University of Arkansas.
Jimena Enriquez was awarded an $8,000 University of Texas at Tyler Academic Excellence Scholarship.
Cassidy Jimenez received a $1,500 Peace Officer’s Angels Foundation Scholarship.
Casey Elmore and Damian Cota each received a $1,000 Blue and Gold Tier 2 Scholarship from Texas A&M University-Commerce that can be renewed annually.
FDA Approves Novel, Dual-Targeted Treatment For Type 2 Diabetes
In Clinical Trials, Treatment Proved More Effective Than Other Therapies Evaluated
May 13, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injection to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, as an addition to diet and exercise. Mounjaro was effective at improving blood sugar and was more effective than the other diabetes therapies with which it was compared in clinical studies.
“Given the challenges many patients experience in achieving their target blood sugar goals, today’s approval of Mounjaro is an important advance in the treatment of type 2 diabetes,” said Patrick Archdeacon, M.D., associate director of the Division of Diabetes, Lipid Disorders, and Obesity in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
Type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes, is a chronic and progressive condition in which the body does not make or use insulin normally, leading to high levels of glucose (sugar) in the blood. More than 30 million Americans have type 2 diabetes. Despite the availability of many medications to treat diabetes, many patients do not achieve the recommended blood sugar goals.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) are hormones involved in blood sugar control. Mounjaro is a first-in-class medicine that activates both the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which leads to improved blood sugar control. Mounjaro is administered by injection under the skin once weekly, with the dose adjusted as tolerated to meet blood sugar goals.
Three different doses of Mounjaro (5 milligrams, 10 milligrams and 15 milligrams) were evaluated in five clinical trials as either a stand-alone therapy or as an add-on to other diabetes medicines. The efficacy of Mounjaro was compared to placebo, a GLP-1 receptor agonist (semaglutide) and two long-acting insulin analogs.
On average, patients randomized to receive the maximum recommended dose of Mounjaro (15 milligrams) had lowering of their hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level (a measure of blood sugar control) by 1.6% more than placebo when used as stand-alone therapy, and 1.5% more than placebo when used in combination with a long-acting insulin. In trials comparing Mounjaro to other diabetes medications, patients who received the maximum recommended dose of Mounjaro had lowering of their HbA1c by 0.5% more than semaglutide, 0.9% more than insulin degludec and 1.0% more than insulin glargine.
Obesity was common among study participants, with an average body mass index of 32 to 34 kilograms/height in meters squared reported at the time of enrollment. Among patients randomized to the maximum recommended dose, the average weight loss with Mounjaro was 15 pounds more than placebo when neither were used with insulin and 23 pounds more than placebo when both were used with insulin. The average weight loss with the maximum recommended dose of Mounjaro was 12 pounds more than semaglutide, 29 pounds more than insulin degludec and 27 pounds more than insulin glargine. Those patients receiving insulin without Mounjaro tended to gain weight during the study.
Mounjaro can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, upper abdominal discomfort and abdominal pain.
Mounjaro causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rats. It is unknown whether Mounjaro causes such tumors, including medullary thyroid cancer, in humans. Mounjaro should not be used in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Mounjaro has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis), and it is not indicated for use in patients with type 1 diabetes.
Mounjaro received priority review designation for this indication. A priority review designation directs overall attention and resources to the evaluation of applications for drugs that, if approved, would be significant improvements in the safety or effectiveness of the treatment, diagnosis or prevention of serious conditions.
The FDA granted the approval of Mounjaro to Eli Lilly and Co.
Additional Information:
Marijuana, Ecstasy, THC, Crack Cocaine And Psychedelic Mushrooms Found During Traffic Stop
A routine traffic stop on Wildcat Way resulted in location of cache of contraband containing marijuana, Ecstasy, THC, crack cocaine and psychedelic mushrooms.
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Deputy Isaac Foley reported stopping a silver Chevrolet Silverado at 12:36 a.m. May 11, 2022, for traveling 66 mile per hour in the 50 mph speed zone on Wildcat Way, just west of South Broadway Street. Upon contact with the driver, identified in arrest reports as Melissa Lynn Michelson, Foley detected what smelled to him to be a strong marijuana odor, the deputy noted in arrest reports.
HCSO Sgt. Tanner Steward arrived shortly thereafter to assist. Deputies reported finding 19 bags of suspected marijuana, multicolored pills which tested positive for MDMA or ecstasy as the substance is more commonly known, a bag with a white powdery substance which field-tested positive for crack cocaine, THC gummies and psychedelic mushrooms during a probable cause search of the pickup. Including packaging for each, the suspected marijuana weighed 11.42 ounces, MDMA 2.654 grams, the crack cocaine 1.853 grams, the gummies 0.6 gram and the psychedelic shrooms weighed about 7 grams.
Consequently, the 51-year-old Round Rock woman was taken into custody at 12:56 a.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2022. and transported to the county jail. Michelson was booked in at 5:20 a.m. Wednesday on five charges:
- possession of 4 grams or more but less than 400 grams of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance,
- possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance,
- possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1-B controlled substance,
- possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance, and
- possession of 4 ounces or more but less than 5 pounds of marijuana.
Michelson was released from Hopkins County jail later Wednesday on $65,000 in bonds:
- $35,000 bond for having 4-400 grams of the Penalty Group 2 controlled substance,
- $10,000 bond each on the 1-4 grams of Penalty Group 2 charge and less than 1 gram charge, and
- $5,000 bond each on the marijuana and other Penalty Group 2 charge, according to arrest reports.
Cumby ISD Breaks Ground On New High School
Cumby ISD officially broke ground Thursday night on the district’s new high school during a brief ceremony. The new campus is among several improvements being made to school facilities thanks to voter-approved bond funds as the school transitions toward being Cumby Collegiate High School.
Cumby ISD Superintendent Shelly Slaughter welcomed everyone to the ground breaking event, offered them bottles of water and cookies, then introduced CISD Board of Trustees President Jason Hudson, who is entering his 22nd year of service on the school board.
“Thank yall for being her tonight. It is a special day, history in the making. We appreciate yall sharing some of the son with us today,” Hudson told the small group gathered just behind the ball field where a youth league was making up a game.
Hudson noted the often repeated saying, “it takes a village to raise a child,” and noted that the groundbreaking ceremony and direction the school district is taking is an example of that. Many individuals helped see the goal come to fruition, and he offered thanks to all for their past and continued contributions to Cumby ISD, especially the taxpayers who are helping shoulder the financial burden a new structure and facilities improvements costs.
“We are appreciative to our supporters. It is an honor to serve our community and our school district, because we always want the best for kids because we owe that to them,” Hudson said.
He expressed appreciation to Cumby voters for approving two bond propositions on May 1, 2021, one for for a new high school and ag shop, and facilities improvements at the other campuses, and the other for a new track. That shows voters’ commitment to providing the best possible education for Cumby students, he noted.
The district had in the previous voting cycle, November 2020, proposed a bond that did not receive voter approval. Officials revised their plans, made additions and several changes after listening to public comments and doing additional research. That made the district especially appreciative when voters then on May 1, 2021, approved both bond proposals on the ballot by 61%. Seeing bond propositions in East Texas fail 3 to 1 on Saturday, May 7, 2022, made Cumby voters’ decision in May 2021 that much more appreciated by the school board and administrators, according to Hudson.
“We passed ours last year because of great people and great leaders,” Hudson noted.
The school board president also thanked Superintendent Slaughter for being such a strong advocate for kids and the community, for putting the time and effort in to explain and make the transition at Cumby to the P-Tech program and never giving up.
Hudson too thanked the individuals who have leant their experience and expertise to the facilities committee in identifying needs across the district and helping devise the plans for improvements over the past 6-7 years, which are projected to see the district through then next 40 years.
He offered appreciation too to the Cumby ISD staff and families who continue to support the students to help ensure their successes, as well as those who along with their families who distributed and wore t-shirts, posted banners and information on social networks, helped share information about the bond and district’s plans with their neighbors and family members.
Hudson gestured to two bricks placed atop a table alongside cookies and drinks. He noted each is a piece of the school’s history, a brick that was part of the foundation the school district was built on. The first brick, he said dates back to the 1900s. The second brick dates back to the 1930s and was part of the old high school, torn down several years ago on the site where the high school gymnasium now sits.
The district plans to incorporate those bricks and others from the district’s historic past to accent the interior of the new Cumby Collegiate High School. The goal is to restructure the school system and provide the facilities and resources to prepare students for their next stage in life after graduating from CHS, whether that phase be a career in the military, entering the work force, attending a trade school or a four-year university. The school will afford all Cumby ISD a quality education. Each high school students at CHS will have the opportunity to attain an associate’s degree or industry certification at no cost to the student through the restructured school programming.
The groundbreaking Thursday, May 12, 2022, is a dream come true. It’s another step in that process. Work now will begin to construct the new high school facility. Once completed, high school students would be housed in that building, the current high school will be refurbished for younger students and elementary will receive needed improvements as well.
Construction of the Cumby Collegiate High School is expected to take about a year, when Hudson said the district hopes to host a ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of a facility the district can be “proud of for a long time,” Hudson noted.
The school trustees and superintendent each grabbed a shovel, dug into the ground and ceremoniously turned the soil, marking the start of construction. Community members were then invited to attend the Cumby High School Academic and Athletic Awards program held in the nearby CHS Gym to honor 9-12th grade students’ accomplishments during the 2021-2022 school year. To commemorate the occasion, all in attendance were asked to gather for a group photo.
Support Shown For SSHS Senior Told He Can’t Participate In Graduation With Classmates
Community and staff showed support for senior SSHS Caleb Alexander, who was told he can’t participate in graduation. The individuals addressed their comments to school trustees during the regular May Sulphur Springs ISD Board of Education meeting.
According to community members who spoke on the SSHS senior’s behalf Monday, Alexander was involved in an incident which resulted in disciplinary action. Students who engage in altercations are prohibited contact with any other students or classmates at school or a school-related function, whether that be UIL, athletics and senior activities for 30 days. They are removed from their regular classes for mandatory or discretionary disciplinary reasons and placed in a DAEP. Because Alexander’s incident was within 30 days of graduation, Alexander will not be allowed to walk across the stage to receive his high school diploma May 27 with the rest of the his classmates.
Danny Hynson said he has watched his nephew, Caleb Alexander, grow up. He said he is proud of the youth, who he described as a good kid one would be proud to have their name associated with. He acknowledged that does not mean his nephew did not make a mistake, as kids do. But, he said, his nephew is a good student who many have seen go through the athletic program.
“So it’s not like that I know him. We all know him. We’ve all watched him grow. When he leaves and goes off, he’ll be someone that we are proud of,” said Hynson. “And I will say to you, isn’t that what we strive for when we educate kids? When we train up kid in the community, when we send them off – isn’t that what we are actually wanting as a community? That we can say the kids we are sending off are kids that we are proud of, that we’ve got confidence in, yet we can also say they make mistakes? That’s part of life. What I hope is that as educators, as parents, as friends, that we understand they make mistakes. And yet, there are punishments. We hope the punishment is not a deterrent that becomes a roadblock in their life.”
Hynson said in addressing the school board, he and others are asking that Caleb Alexander be allowed to attend graduation, walking across the stage So, what we are asking is are hoping that he will be able to graduate, to walk across that stage. He said the situation is something that needs to be looked at, not just for Caleb but for all good kids, to determine if the goal of the punishment is achieved in the end.
Reiko Alexander said the school’s automatic choice of sending a students to DAEP for involvement in a fight is not a mandatory action, not according to the school handbook. She said the six factors the school disciplinary handbook states are to be considered includes the youth’s disciplinary history.
“The reasons we were given are that is ‘We want to set an example.’ I understand that. We don’t disagree and we are not trying to change the policy. We understand you have a choice, because that’s what we were told. But the choice was ‘if you get in a fight, this is what we do,'” Reiko Alexander said. “He has a stellar disciplinary history. We are asking you to please take that into consideration, take into consideration. Take into consideration how this could affect him socially and emotionally.”
Reiko Alenan said of all of the possible techniques listed as punishment, SSISD officials chose the one option in the handbook that was chosen was the one that would keep a student who has been good in school, with no other issues, and has met all requirements all 13 of coming to school from crossing that stage at graduation.
She said while she understood wanting to set an example in the determination, she did not agree with automatically requiring being sent to DAEP. She said Caleb has a stellar disciplinary history. This punishment could affect him socially and emotionally. She said he has met all other requirements for graduation.
“Again, we are not asking you to excuse the incident, nor change a policy. We are asking you to look at the punishment,” Reiko Alexander said. “Punish him, but let him walk across that stage.”
SSHS Anatomy and physiology teacher Amy Ridner said in addition to knowing Caleb Alexander’s parents for years, she has had the honor of teaching him this year. She described him as a “funny, hardworking and a very kind student,” who is always smiling and always has a positive attitude, and is “an all-around great kid.”
“When I heard he was suspended for fighting, my heart broke at first. Then, I was completely confused because he is a very unconfrontational child. I have watched him be pushed into a confrontational level on the court and in the classroom and not react. He stays to himself and he doesn’t bother anyone.”
His classmates, Ridner said, would tell you Caleb is a ” no-drama, very chill guy.” He is respectful to staff and his classmates, always making them laugh and lending a helping hand.
“I know the work that went into the last 13 years of this young man’s life, and this incident should not define him,” Ridner said. “I completely understand that actions should have consequences – Like no prom, no senior shut out, and even not spending the next few days at school with his friends. But, walking across the stage at graduation is not only Caleb’s accomplishment but an accomplishment of the hard work and great parenting from his remarkable parents… It’s students like this that you can’t wait to watch where he goes and what he does because he will do great things. And, as his teacher, I’m excited that I got to be a small part of that.”
Shatamara Alexander acknowledged that her son made a mistake, and in no way is dismissing that, and understand that he should be punished – and is by being placed in DAEP, which precludes him from interacting with his classmates. He understands that he won’t be able to participate in neither prom nor senior activities.
“Should one mistake over 13 years — one mistake. Caleb has been a great student. He’s an AB student. Should one mistake, one lapse of judgement cross out his opportunity to walk the stage and participate in the graduation ceremony because of the 30 day AEP rule?” Shatamara Alexander told the school board.
Graduation, Shatamara Alexander noted, is a huge milestone all students, when they enter any program at school, work toward achieving.
“I ask you as a mother for my child would you please just grant my son some grace? Because we’ve all fallen short. I ask that you would grant him grace and allow him to participate with his classmates in participating in the graduation ceremony,” Caleb’s mother asked in an emotional tone.
Jerrick Massenburge said he’s had privilege of coaching Caleb Alexander in basketball this year. Character, he said, is something that people have behind closed doors, not just in public. He has seen the young man grow and change this year. Despite being a senior who was asked to “come in off the bench,” he never displayed a negative attitude, and always responded politely with “yes, sir” and “no, sir.”
“I think that speaks to his character. When you go through 12 years of school, I think that builds character every year because school’s not easy. You wake up every day. You come to school, but I think the biggest thing with him,” Massenburge said of Caleb Alexander, “is he made a mistake. But it’s one mistake in about 12 years of no mistakes. I love this kid like he was my own son. And if I had a son of my own, I would want him to be just like Caleb Alexander.”
Morning Chapel Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Harold Nash said family called him about the matter. He had no idea about the situation, until he heard the comments issued Monday at the school.
He said he lived in Cedar Hill for 18 years, during that time the town grew from 8,000 to 40,000 and his son played four years of football for his high school team – all except one. His son and others weren’t allowed to play in the final football game their senior year. Nash said he contacted his son’s coach about the issue, then the principal and superintendent. All upheld the coaches decision to bar the students from playing.
His son is 49 and still hasn’t forgotten that incident. One of the others who’d played on the team has since “died with hatred in his heart for Cedar Hill High School because he had given all this talent for four years.”
Nash said while that incident is different than Caleb Alexander’s, he asked for grace for something “that will affect this child the rest of his life.”
“I would love for us to see some grace like God has given us in our lives, in this incident. I love the way they are handling it. They said, not that he would be punished for what happened, but the type of punishment that would keep him from going across that stage. I almost have tears in my eyes. My heart is breaking because that shouldn’t happen,” said Nash.
The pastor said as a prison chaplain who’s dealt with hundreds of men in Sulphur Springs and thousands in prison he has seen how “this kind of thing can affect a person’s thought about governing authorities and people who make decisions.”
“I will continue to pray that this decision will be, if I’d known, I would have gone to the coach – or whatever happened – but it’s too late for that. But, it’s not too late for those in authority to say you have done the right thing, but we don’t want this to result in something that is going to hurt his young man and his family, and it will affect the whole community. God bless you,” Nash concluded.
SSISD School Board President Robert Cody, before opening public forum told those who planned to speak that no one topic may exceed 30 minutes and no one person may speak for more than 5 minutes during public forum. Individuals are afforded the opportunity to voice their opinion, which the board will listen to. However, that does not necessarily solicit a response from the board, as there is no dialog back and forth between the board and speaker during public forum.
After the five speakers sat down, Cody thanked them for their comments then moved on to the next item on the May 9, 2022, meeting agenda.
