A Spooky Night at the Museum is Coming Saturday, October 23, 2021
A Spooky Night at the Museum is coming up on Saturday, October 23, 2021, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. There will be games, snacks, and a special twist on playing in the museum.
Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased at the museum, or by calling 903-886-6055.
Address:100 Maple St., Commerce, TX 75428
Courtesy Stop On SH 19 North To Check On A Motorist Resulted In A Felony Arrest
5 Others Arrested On Controlled Substance, Related Charges; Teen Jailed On Marijuana Charge
What started off as a courtesy stop to check on a motorist in Birthright resulted in a felony controlled substance arrest, according to arrest reports. In unrelated incidents this week, a youth learned the consequences of having an illegal substance in a drug-free zone Friday, and at least four others were also booked into the county jail on controlled substance charges from Oct. 4-8, 2021, according to arrest reports.
Call Leads to 2 Arrests
Michael Allen Comfort and Taylor Elise Allen were arrested Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, for possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance in a drug-free zone.
Sulphur Springs Police responded with Hopkins County EMS at a Church Street address, to what was reported as a possible overdose. One person was reportedly transported to the hospital.
SSPD Officer Francisco Castro stayed with a man and woman at the address. After being granted permission to search a vehicle, he reported finding a number of syringes loaded with suspected herion and methamphetamine. A case with a plastic bag containing suspected meth and black tar heroin was also located, Castro alleged in arrest reports.
Both Comfort, who is also known by Matthew Joseph Comfort, and Allen were arrested for possession of 1 gram or more but less than 4 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance in a drug free zone, according to arrest reports.
The 35-year-old Longview man and 30-year-old Kilgore woman remained in Hopkins County jail Saturday evening, Oct. 9, 2021, on the controlled substance charge. Bond was set at $30,000 on the third-degree felony charge, according to jail reports.
SH 19 North Courtesy Stop
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Officer Timothy around 4:40 p.m. Friday noticed a gray Nissan Armada with one rear flasher active, parked with the motor still running, on the side of State Highway 19 north across from the dollar store in Birthright. So, King conducted a courtesy stop to see if the driver was in need of assistance.
Before getting out of his vehicle, King noted the driver had begun to accelerate the vehicle, while in park. He approached the passenger’s side of the SUV. Inside, he reported seeing a male leaned back, sleeping in the driver’s seat, with a white baggy containing a crystal-like substance King suspected was methamphetamine.
King requested a deputy to respond to assist him in waking up the sleeping man behind the wheel of the SUV, then took a photo of the substance, documenting its existence. Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Richard Greer and a Delta County Sheriff’s officer responded to King’s request for back up.
The officers opened the driver’s side door and attempted to place a handcuff on the wrist of the man inside the Armada, he began jerking away, not following officers’ commands, King alleged in arrest reports. The officers continued to instruct him to comply with their instructions but he continued to stiffen his arm and wouldn’t put it behind his back, So, King grabbed one arm and Greer the other and put him on his stomach so the handcuffs could be applied, according to arrest reports.
A records check of the Missouri license plate produced an incorrect return. Numerous broken glass pipes were found in the SUV when it was inventories. The occupant, identified as 35-year-old Emmanuel Alejandro Ojeda-Carbajal of Kansas City, Missouri, was booked into Hopkins County jail on a possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance charge, according to arrest reports.
Ojeda-Carabajal remained in Hopkins County jail at 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021. His bond was set at $25,000 on the charge.
Marijuana In A Drug-Free Zone
An officers walked into the south restroom entrance in a drug-free zone at 9:45 p.m. Friday and noticed two individuals in a single stall. One of the individuals was found to have what turned out to be two small Swisher sweet bags in his hand. He complied when the officer asked to check what he had. He reported finding a green, leafy substance that looked and smelled like marijuana in the teen’s possession. Consequently, the 17-year-old was taken into custody for possession of less than 2 ounces of marijuana in a drug-free zone, a Class A misdemeanor offense.
The Sulphur Springs teen remained in Hopkins County jail Saturday afternoon, Oct. 9, 2021. Bond on the charge was set at $2,000, according to jail reports.
KSST does not publish the names or photos of people charged with misdemeanor crimes in staff-generated reports, only those accused of felony offenses.
Traveling In The Left Lane of I-30 Without Passing
HCSO Deputy Thomas Patterson stopped a Chevrolet Tahoe Monday, Oct. 4, on Interstate 30 west at mile marker 121 for traveling in the left lane for an extended period of time and not passing, despite signs posted along I-30 stipulating the left lane is specifically for passing only.
Patterson also, in arrest reports, noted the driver’s behavior showed suspicious indicators, specifically frequent braking when not close to other vehicles or reaching speed near the posted speed limit of 75 miles per hour. While talking with the deputy, the driver, identified as Luis Enrique Sanchez-Ramos, agreed to let him search the SUV. The deputy reported finding a clear resealable bag containing a substance that field tested positive for methamphetamine and weighed 1 pound, 1.8 ounces in the SUV.
The 25-year-old Karnes (a small town in Karnes County), Texas man was arrested for possession of more than 400 grams of a Penalty Group 1/1B controlled substance. Sanchez-Ramos remained in Hopkins County jail Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021 on the felony charge. Bond was set at $30,000, according to jail reports.
Jefferson Street Traffic Stop
HCSO Sgt. Scott Davis stopped a white Toyota Tacoma at 1:50 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 5, 2021, on Jefferson Street at Alabama Street for a traffic violation. Upon contact, the officer noted the driver’s hands were trembling. When he asked, Joshua Paul Stillwagoner refused to let him search the pickup, but admitted there was a glass pipe oft he kind used to smoke methamphetamine in the ashtray, Davis alleged in arrest reports.
Due to the 38-year-old Sulphur Springs man’s nervousness, Davis put Stillwagoner in hand restraints and searching him. A small amount of marijuana, a small tin with a baggy of suspected meth and a baggy of suspected Xanax, Davis alleged in arrest reports. Consequently, the man was taken into custody. A search of the truck prior to impound revealed the meth pipe with suspected meth residue in the ashtray. Two additional baggies containing suspected meth residue were located.
After arriving to assist, Deputy Nick Marney continued the search of the truck for inventory prior to it being impounded. Davis transported the 38-year-old Sulphur Springs man to the county jail, where Stillwagoner was booked for possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance, which weighed less than 1 gram as well as a warrant for violation of probation, which he was on for a possession of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance, according to arrest reports.
Stillwagoner was held in Hopkins County jail Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021, on the violation of probation charge; bond on the controlled substance charge was set at $20,000, according to jail reports.
Como Warrant Arrest
HCSO Deputies Justin Wilkerson and Nick Marney, aware of a warrant for Suzanne Marie Baca’s arrest, went to the 57-year-old Como woman’s County Road 1475 residence and took her into custody at 7:01 p.m. Oct. 5, 2021, on a warrant for violation of probation, which she was on for a possession of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance.
Baca, who is also known by Suzanne Marie Vaughun, Suzanne Marie McClain, Suzanne Mc-Clain and Suzanne Vaughun-Martinez, was held in in Hopkins County jail Saturday evening, Oct. 9, 2021, on the probation violation charge. The 38-year-old Como woman was arrested on the original controlled substance on Sept. 1, 2019, then released from jail on Sept. 4 after securing the $20,000 bond set on the charge, according to Hopkins County jail reports.
Wine, Music Sampled At Main Street Uncorked Festival Saturday
Saturday afternoon’s weather donned mild and breezy, perfect for those planning to check out downtown and enjoy Main Street Uncorked Wine and Music Festival.
The event kicked off at 1 p.m., and about 3:30 p.m. an estimated 300 had registered, half online in advance and half at the registration booth just off Davis Street, to stroll down Main Street, sample wine from area vineyards Oct 9. After a brisk pace as the event opened, things tapered off for a short time, but were again gearing back up for an evening of entertainment and some of the best Texas wineries, a little shopping, and maybe even a meal at one of the local restaurants for those seeking a bit more sustenance for their evening out.
Although the mercury showed 91 degrees, the autumnal heat of Northeast Texas wasn’t blistering, with wind and over providing a respite while visitors sampled the unique aromatic blends available. Among the featured wineries were Cannon Creek Vineyard, Red Road Vineyard and Winery, Hidden Hangar Vineyard & Winery, Maydelle Country Wines, Phinesse Farms Winery, Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards, and Texas South Wind Vineyard & Winery.
Several vendors too offered wares, including local clothing, specialty soap and other items. Vendors included Marlene’s Sass & Class, Sunlight Soaps, Kat’s Custom Designs, Buff City Soap, Under the Pines Car Freshies, Jennifer Tolar Pink Zebra, Arbala Blossoms Pure Honey and Abby’s Special Dips. Many businesses along Main Street were also open to offer clothing, food, a snack, nonalcoholic as well as other adult beverages.
The Wine and Music Fest also offered live entertainment from the stage anchored at the far end of the event, at Gilmer Street and Main Street. Entertainers slated to perform included Matthew Fiock for the first hour, Lincoln Goodman from 2:30-3:30 p.m. and Twisted Whisky was slated to take the stage from 5 to 7 p.m.
Advance tickets sold online cost $10 each for a bag, glass and tasking bracelet. Tickets at the registration booth cost $15. Wineries also offered tastings for $1 each, with the cost per glass, bottle and case at the discretion of each winery. Main Street Uncorked will continue to offer wine until 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021.
Proceeds from Uncorked will benefit Journey Road, a local non-profit organization working to strengthen foster families in their ministry to foster children. To learn more about Journey Road, visit www.journeyroadministries.com.
Royse City Takes Control in Fourth Quarter, Beating Wildcats Football 42-28
Sulphur Springs fought hard and played a season-best game, but ultimately fell short up against a stout Royse City offense, losing 42-28 on Friday, Oct. 8.
The Wildcats football team pulled the game within one or two possessions at several different points; unfortunately for Coach Greg Owens’s squad, the Bulldogs went tit-for-tat with his team.
The pre-season District 8-5A MVP Champ Petty-Dozier showed why he was favored to win the award, racking up almost 200 yards and three touchdowns in the victory.
The Wildcats looked the best they have all season long on Friday, scoring touchdowns on 1/4 of their offensive drives, and Coach Kurt McCain’s defense made crucial stops to keep Sulphur Springs in the game.
Korderrian “Bull” Turner recovered a fumble deep in Wildcats territory and the special teams unit recovered a muffed punt in the end zone for a touchdown to pull the game within seven at 21-14 with just under 10 minutes to go.
The Bulldogs ended up going on a 21-14 run over the final eight minutes that propelled them to victory at Gerald Prim Stadium.
The Wildcats offense scored the second most points on the season at 28; QB Brady Driver connected on a 29 yard pass to WR Weston Fields for a touchdown; both players lone score on the night.
Senior RB Jesse Bailey got the last TD on the night for Coach Greg Owens’s team.
The loss drops the Wildcats football team’s season record to 0-6 overall (0-3 district).
Next up, Sulphur Springs will be back on the road next Friday when they travel to Corsicana to take on the Tigers.
That game is set to kick off at 7:30 P.M.
We will not be livestreaming next Friday’s match in Corsicana, but we will however be broadcasting the Wildcats’ fourth district game over the radio on KSST 1230 AM.
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.
Paris District Road Report for the Week of October 11, 2021
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district during the week of Oct. 11, 2021. 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.
The annual crack seal contract project for Grayson County roadways begins Oct. 18. Drivers should expect delays as the work is performed using daytime lane closures. The following roadways will be crack sealed this year: SH 5 from US 75 to the Collin County line; US 377 from FM 901 to US 82; SH 289 from FM 120 to SH 56; FM 121 from US 377 to SH 289; FM 1417 east from SH 56 to US 82; FM 2729 from FM 697 to SH 11; and FM 84 from SH 91 to US 69.
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.
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.
Northbound and Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic has been shifted onto the existing frontage road near West Staples Street and transitions back to the existing mainlanes near West Cherry Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Center 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 Center Street under US 75 are closed to traffic. To detour, eastbound Center Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Park Avenue, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Houston Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Center Street.
Video animations of the northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch and Center Street detour can be viewed online at:
- Northbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLyVQ6rYNhM
- Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic switch:
- Detour for the Center Street closure at US 75: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OIMoHaqAFGg
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 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 perform bridge construction. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on bridge construction and construction of new frontage road lanes.
The westbound US 82 exit ramp for Loy Lake road is currently closed for crews to work on widening the US 82 frontage road. Traffic wishing to access Loy Lake Road is requested to take the SH 91 exit ramp (# 643), or the US 75 exit ramp.
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.
FM 131, Grayson County: in Sherman at the Northcreek Drive intersection. Watch for occasional lane closures as construction crews work on installing a traffic signal at the intersection.
Yellow Bridge Road (CR 876), Grayson County: Yellow Bridge Road (CR 876) has been reopened to through traffic at the branch of Pilot Grove Creek as construction on the bridge has been completed.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Jim Jones Road to FM 3356. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews work to build portions of the new bridges and roadway. Watch for lane shifts and narrow lanes throughout the project as crews have moved traffic to a portion of the new concrete pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a five-lane section consisting of concrete pavement when the project is completed.
FM 691, Grayson County: from FM 131 to SH 91. Watch for daytime and nighttime lane closures as crews perform pavement repairs on the concrete pavement.
US 75 frontage roads, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to the Collin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform spot base repairs on the roadway.
FM 1897, Grayson County: from FM 1753 to US 69. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform spot base repairs on the roadway.
FM 898, Grayson County: from US 69 to the Fannin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform spot base repairs on the roadway.
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 377, Grayson County: from US 82 to FM 901. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
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.
FM 996, Grayson County: in Pottsboro from FM 120 to FM 1417. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 902, Grayson County: from Howe to Tom Bean. 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 temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
The annual crack seal contract project for Fannin County roadways begins the last week of October, 2021. Drivers should expect delays as the work is performed using daytime lane closures. The following roadways will be crack sealed this year: FM 409 from FM 2029 to FM 100; FM 151 from the Grayson County line to US 69; FM 271 from SH 78 to FM 1550; FM 272 from US 69 to the Hunt County line; FM 904 from FM 1550 to FM 64; Loop 391 from FM 1743 to SH 56; FM 1550 from FM 271 to FM 1743; US 69 from Grayson County line to Hunt County line; FM 814 from US 69 to Business US 69B; Business US 69B from SH 121 to FM 814; SH 121 from US 82 to SH 56; and SH 78 from the Oklahoma State line to SH 121.
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.
SH 121, Fannin County: from US 82 to FM 898. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers pave a new hotmix pavement surface.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work on widening US 82 from a two-lane roadway to a four-lane divided roadway. Westbound US 82 traffic has been shifted to the new pavement for the entirety of the project from the Lamar County line to SH 121. Eastbound traffic between SH 121 and the Lamar County line has been opened to two lanes. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as crews complete the remaining work.
FM 272, Fannin County: from US 69 to the Hunt County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform spot base repairs on the roadway.
FM 68, Fannin County: from FM 271 to SH 78. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade perform base repairs on the roadway.
SH 56, Fannin County: from FM 87 to FM 898. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews repair the surface on 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.
FM 71, Hopkins County: from FM 3236 to Sulphur Bluff. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews perform ditch grading operations.
SH 37, Franklin County: from elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
FM 3389, Hopkins County: from I-30 to FM 1567. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews rehabilitate the roadway.
SH 11, Hopkins County: From SH 154 to SH 19. Watch for lane closures and short traffic 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.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
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 as final work is being performed.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
FM 36, Hunt County: from FM 36 to FM 751 at various locations: The contractor will be completing the final forming and pouring concrete drainage structures on FM 1564 and placing roadway striping. The contractor is working placing chevrons and performing profile striping on FM 1570, FM 751 and FM 36.
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. Preliminary embankment, excavation, and bridge work has begun with all shafts being completed. This work should not affect existing traffic on SH 34 or SH 276. Roadway construction affecting closures on Spur 264 has begun, this work will affect through-traffic between Meyers Avenue to County Road 2304. Weekend work is to be expected. 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 begun mile five of this seven-mile project and is currently reworking the subgrade and bringing in flex base, placing geogrid and compacting areas for roadway rehabilitation and widening. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 66 at FM 1570, Hunt County: The contractor is working to finish begin final punch list items. Please be aware of lane closures and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing overlay on SH 66 from FM 1579 to Caddo Mills and on will be performing spot base repair on various locations on FM 816. Crews will be performing potholing at various locations in Hunt County. Maintenance contract crews will be performing debris removal on I-30 and guard rail repair at various locations around Hunt County. 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 SH 34 from SH276 to the Kaufman County line. Crews will be performing various sign installations, potholing, edging, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operation 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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Lady Cats Volleyball Drops Five Set Heartbreaker In Texarkana
Coach Bailey Dorner’s volleyball team got out to a 2-1 set lead against Texas High but could not hang on, losing a five set heartbreaker in Texarkana.
Sulphur Springs lost set one, but it would not last long as they rallied to take sets two and three to lead the undefeated Lady Tigers two sets to one.
From there Texas High showed their grit by winning set four and a shortened set five to claim victory in a five-set match versus the Lady Cats volleyball team.
The loss drops Coach Bailey Dorner’s squad’s season record to 19-13 overall (5-3 district).
The loss also puts Sulphur Springs comfortably in fourth place in District 15-5A.
Three of the last four contests have gone to five sets, going 2-1 in those three games; Tuesday, Sept. 28 in Hallsville and Friday’s contest in Texarkana were both losses while Friday, Oct. 5 home contest versus Mount Pleasant was a win for Sulphur Springs.
Next up, the Lady Cats volleyball team will be back on the road when they travel to Marshall for a hotly anticipated rematch between the Lady Mavs and Sulphur Springs.
Marshall comes in to the game a half game ahead of Sulphur Springs at 5-2 in district play.
Coach Bailey Dorner and her program will no doubt be looking to rebound from the Friday loss to Texas High by getting a second win on the season versus Marshall.
Tuesday’s match for Sulphur Springs is set to begin with JV and freshman teams in Marshall at 5 PM followed by the varsity showdown at 6 P.M.
That game will be broadcasted on to KSST 1230 AM.
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.
Sulphur Springs Collaborating On Communications Grant Application
City Affirms Support of Ark-Tex, East Texas COGS’ Application For US EDA Build Back Better Challenge Grant Funding
Sulphur Springs City Council this week approved two resolutions authorizing city staff to collaborate with other agencies in the county and across Northeast Texas in applying for regional grant funding during Tuesday evening’s meeting.
AFG Communications Grant
Resolution No. 1236 allows the city to join Hopkins County, Hopkins County EMS District, Delta County, the City of Cooper, Lamar County and Franklin County in applying for a regional FEMA Firefighter Assistance Grant, which if granted would provide funding for each entity to purchase communications equipment.
The grant proposal was initially pitched by Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley and Sulphur Springs Fire Chief David James to Hopkins County Commissioners Court in September as an application for a regional grant to purchase as many new emergency services radios as allowable under the grant terms to replace older portable radios which have begun falling into disrepair with components and systems that have become so antiquated by today’s technology standards that more often than not there are no available replacements and functional comparable replacement parts are almost as obsolete.
When originally pitched to and approved by County Commissioners, the proposal was for the Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County Fire Departments, with HCFD representing the the county’s volunteer fire departments as well, and Hopkins County EMS district (which serves 4 counties) to partner in applying for a regional grant, which if granted would pay up to 90 percent of the cost. Each participating agency, then would be responsible for paying for the equivalent of 10 percent of the overall total for their radios.
According to James, upon hearing of the proposed partnership for regional funding, local officials were contacted by officials from Delta County, the City of Cooper, Lamar County and Franklin County agencies who also asked to join the partnership, with the knowledge that each would be required to fund 10 percent of their overall portion of the communications cost.
Although not all information of grant terms has yet been released, in the past, the Firefighter Assistance Grant has allowed for a specified number of radios per seat per department vehicle and one mobile unit for the truck. Local officials more than a decade ago received a grant of this nature to fund not only 100 new radios to be distributed to agonies throughout the county but also communications infrastructure upgrades as well. While the grants no longer offer funding to help cover costs of infrastructure, radios were still on the latest list of equipment FEMA will consider providing grant funding to help.
“Doing this regionally increases our odds for being selected for the grant,” James noted
The last time the city fire department participated in such a grant program was in 2010-2011, for the radios which have just about exceeded their potential lifespan. Vickers Consulting Services will serve as grant writer for the application
In unanimously approving Resolution No. 1263, not only did the City Council approve an interlocal agreement between the city and the other agencies and entities, but also authorized the city manager to execute the document.
Build Back Regional Challenge Grant
The City Council too approved Resolution No. 1264, which show support for Ark-Tex Council of Governments‘ submission of a US Department of Economic Development American Rescue Plan Act Build Back Better Regional Challenge Grant in the amount of $500,000.
Essentially, the US Department of Commerce EDA will assist communities and regional impacted by the coronavirus pandemic through the 2-phase Build Back Better Regional Challenge. In Phase 1, the EDA will provide $500,000 technical assistance grants to 50-60 coalitions to help these finalists prepare more detailed applications for transformational projects. During Phase 2, the original list of finalists would then be cut to 20-30 finalist coalitions selected to receive $25-$17 million, potentially up to $100,000, to help implement economic development strategies to help regional economies recover from the pandemic and build economic diversity and resiliency to mitigate impacts of future economic disasters.
Northeast Texas Economic Development District (NETEDD)’s American Rescue Plan Act Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant application should support advanced manufacturing clusters in the ATCOG and East Texas Council of Governments regions. Basically, by working together the two COGS would devise a comprehensive proposal to transform economies through group of complimentary aligned projects organized to maximize advanced manufacturing through improved rail access, utilization of coal mine properties, creation of sustainable workforce through education and bringing new industry to both regions.
Specific projects targeted include TexAmericdas Center and Sulphur Springs coal mine property in the ATCOG region; the coal mine project closures in Harrison and Camp counties in ETCOG region.
Entities from across the region, officials across the region are working to get passed by their governing bodies, such as the Sulphur Springs City Council and Northeast Texas Regional Rail District Board, interlocal agreements showing their support for and willingness to take the necessary steps to apply for and help secure the grant funding to boost the economy. The deadline to apply for consideration for Phase 1 is Oct. 19, with awards anticipated on Dec. 8, 2021.
If selected, ATCOG and ETCOG would spend Phase 1 identifying the regional manufacturing assets such as, coal mine properties, rail roads, education entities, workforce; the regional leadership (employers, private sector involvement); the plans sustainability (how the plan will grow and prosper in the future); and the plans equity (how the plan will reach the rural areas and benefit the regions and beyond).
Sulphur Springs Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski noted that City of Sulphur Springs staff have been working Ark-Tex Council of Governments on this grant opportunity which could potentially provide some of the funding needed to develop some of the infrastructure needed to develop the former Luminant coal mine property in Thermo that is now owned by the city. He noted that ATCOG has identified this area as an advance manufacturing focus.
If approved, there is no fund match requires for the first phase of the Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant. The grant would provide $500,000 for technical assistance. Later, if the ATCOG-ETCOG project makes it to Phase 2, a match of approximately 25 percent could be required.
“There’s an emphasis on coal communities getting some priority with this grant process, so we wanted to take advantage of what is going on in Northeast Texas to help turn the workforce into a new opportunity,” Niewiadomski said.
NETEX Board, owner of the railroad that spans from Titus to Collin County, also discussed the Build Back Better Regional Challenge grant, noting that it’d be great to see some of that funding translate to rail, potentially benefitting NETEX directly, by developing the area, producing better paying jobs, bolstering the economy.
Hopkins County Records – Oct. 8, 2021
Land Deed Transactions
- Daniel A. Holley to Amanda S. Lehman and Daniel Paul Lehman; tract in the Ira Stephenson survey
- Cindy Haynes, the same person as Cynthia Haynes, to Clifford Dean Autrey, Sheri Jo Borton Autrey and Bar Diamond D; tract in the JJ Box survey
- OCTXLP LLC to Jean LaFleur and Soraya LaFleur; tract in the E. Burkham survey
- Mary M. Hudnall and Ronald L. Hudnall to Elizabeth Leigh Hudnall-Kinyk and Timothy John Kinyk; tract in the AN Smith survey
- Joe Mack Gober and Nona Fair Gober to Quyt Thi Nguyen; tract in the E. Melton survey
- G Five Living Trust UT A 10-23-2018, with Geoffrey Don Greenwade and Ronda Kay Greenwade as co-trustees, to Roundrock Realty LLC; tract in the Robert Montgomery survey
- Deanna L. Grant and Jackie R. Grant to Brian Mitchell; tract in the Ulysses Aiguier survey
- Cheryl Pride to Alfred McKerson; tract in the Thomas Norris survey
- Cheryl Hudson, Kathy Hudson, Michael Wayne Hudson and Scott Craig Hudson to Maria D. Gomez, Mario Hernandez, Frederico Hernandez Moreales and Salvador Hernandez Morales; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- Donald P. McCann and Sarah McCann to Donald P. McCann and Sarah McCann; tract in the Elizabeth Melton survey
- 100 MPH + Property Management LLC to Macy Sims; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- Anna Carpenter, Layton Carpenter and Shannon Carpenter to David Burkhart and Lisa Burkhart; tract in the John S. Bowen survey
- Debra Ann Davis and James P. Davis to Brandon David Brewer and Kristi Lea Brewer; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- SGSL Holdings LLC to Wachs Capital Limited Partnership; tract in the GC Roberts survey
- Cavadian Properties LLC to Robert William Cowan; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Brandi Clayton, Donta Clayton and Anita Clayton Walker To Gloria Clayton; tract in the TT Martin survey
- A. Knighten, independent executor for the Edith Nell Knighten Estate to Gloria Clayton and Anita Clayton Walker; tract in the TT Martin survey
- Martha M Sallee and Philip L Sallee to Jerad A. Gouge; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- Shara Collins to Selvariaj Sinnappan; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Jana R. Andrews and Jason M. Andrews to Chris F. Anderson Jr. and Tabbitha G Anderson; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Jana R. Andrews and Jason M. Andrews to Chris F. Anderson and Tabbitha G. Anderson; tract in the James Webb survey
- McIlrath Properties LLC to Ben Taylor Warren and Sara Warren; tract in the Ira Stephenson survey
- Gerald Lee Levine Jr. to Colton Ryan Williams and Kaley Williams; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Gerald Lee Levine Jr., surviving co-independent executor for the Jo Elizabeth Chapman Levine Estate, to Gerald Lee Levine Jr.; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Amanda Pickett and Jarred Pickett to Colon Trust; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Brittany Hammond and Heath Hammond to Brian Frederick Mitchell; tract in the Thomas Lee survey
- Billy Jerrell Jenkins and Martha Geneva Jenkins to Elmer Steven Moreno and Leydie Stephanie Moreno; tract in the WG Chester survey
- Tammy Halbert and Jerry Jackson to Amanda Meadows to Larry Meadonws; tract in the O. Barb survey
- Caden Clay Price, Coen James price, Emily Price and Lauren Price to Alfonsa Sanchez Arbizu and Brisaldo Ramirez Hernandez; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Jaward Raylon Bryson and Larry W. Green Jr. to The Korth Family Trust; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Arthur Estates LLC to Kiran Singh; tract in the Charles Thompson survey
- Elizabeth Jackson to Mary Bonham; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Jessica Roberts and Roger Roberts to Jason Almand and Krista Almand; tract in the Helena Wilson survey
- Carl Galligher and Linda Galligher to C. Duane Galligher; tract in the Highland Oaks Addition
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Larry D. Black and Linda Moore Riddle
- Steven Neal Duncan and Amanda Louise Covington
- Noe Romero and Judy Valdovinos
- Braden Riley Katchinska and Marlee Elizabeth Minton
- Mark Calvin Ridgeway and Shannon Kelly McNulty
- Jarrod Dale Ratliff and Bailey Rene Early
- Trenton Cade Easley and Karley Lynee Telfer
- Tyler Zayne Watkins and Megen Linda Farriell
- Jimmy Patrick Bailey and Kenzie Ashton Scanlon
Drunk Driving Killed 963 People in Texas Last Year
AUSTIN– Football is a huge part of Texas culture, and with the new season upon us, TxDOT’s Drive Sober. No Regrets. Statewide Impaired Driving Campaign is encouraging fans to celebrate responsibly by always finding a sober ride.
“Fall football is a time-honored tradition in our state, but one regrettable decision to drink and drive could turn game day into a jail time or a deadly crash,” said TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams. ”Whether fans are tailgating with friends or celebrating their team’s big win, we want everyone to enjoy the season responsibly.”
A person in Texas dies every nine hours and six minutes in a DUI-alcohol-related traffic crash. Last year, 963 people in Texas were killed and 2,114 seriously injured because someone chose to get behind the wheel while impaired.
Drinking and driving is 100-percent preventable and can have serious physical, emotional and financial consequences that can last for years. Not only can a DWI hurt or kill someone, it can be expensive and cause legal hassles. It can create difficulty finding or keeping a job. It is shameful and embarrassing, and can result in a loss of trust and regret. A DWI crash can devastate the lives of victims and survivors forever.
There are many sober ride options available. Designate a sober driver, call a taxi, use a rideshare service, stay put, call a friend or family member or use mass transit to ensure you don’t drive impaired.
Throughout the fall, TxDOT’s Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign will conduct outreach events at college campuses across the state in conjunction with football season. These events will include a video exhibit, featuring video testimonials of Texans who deal with the daily consequences of drunk driving, either as an offender or survivor. These powerful stories and drunk driving facts can be found at www.facesofdrunkdriving.com.The Drive Sober. No Regrets. campaign is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel, like wearing a seat belt, driving the speed limit, never texting and driving and never driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. November 7, 2000, was the last deathless day on Texas roadways.
Refinancing Of 2 Bonds Projected To Save The City $214,000 Over 10 Years
A 2020-21 budget update, refinancing 2 bonds, continuation of the 2021 street improvement program, selection of a candidate to serve as city secretary starting in December, purchase of equipment for the street department and selection of a bid for paving Westwood Street were among the items Sulphur Springs City Council tackled as part of their regular October meeting agenda this week.
Financial Update
The unaudited numbers for the City of Sulphur Springs for fiscal year 2020-21 came in better than expected, staying below expenditure limitations. In the general fund, revenues outperformed the projections that were in the budget.
Sales tax revenues and a few “other miscellaneous revenues” came in a little higher than projected. For instance, water revenue came in higher than than projected, Sulphur Springs Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Lesa Smith told the City Council during the regular October council meeting this week.
If the hotel occupancy tax revenues are an indicator, tourism (or at least the hotel industry) appears to be rebounding well from the pandemic, increasing from $150,727 collected last year to $207,762.
She noted that while fuel sales were quite a bit higher than projected, fuel costs rose too.
“We do still have some end of the year allocations to make and after the audit, there will be adjustment entries that will need to be made, likely,” Smith told the council. “Overall, this gives us a pretty good picture of where we’re going to end up.”
Bond Refinancing
Smith asked the City Council to consider approving Ordinance 2792, which would authorize refinancing of 2 bonds, debit owed by the city. By taking advantage of current rates, the city is projected to save $214,352 from 2021-2034, about $20,000 per year, on repayment of the utility bonds taken out in 2011 and 2012. Of course, refinancing by reissuing and sale of the general obligation refunding bonds would be contingent on receiving rates akin to or better than the current estimates.
The City Council unanimously approved, on first reading, Ordinance No. 2792. A public hearing for second and, if approved afterward by the council, final reading of the ordinance will be conducted during the 7 p.m. regular City Council meetings, slated Nov. 2, 2021.
Street Work
Smith also at the Oct. 5, 2021, City Council meeting reported some funding remains in the Street Improvement Program budget. The hired contractor for the projects, Texana Land and Asphalt, only managed in September to pave one additional street segment spanning 1,188-linear feet along Texas Street from Lee Street to Industrial Drive. That leaves two sections of street tabbed as part of the 2021 SIP for improvements. The company expects to repave 3,131-linear foot section of League Street, from Bellview Street to Pampa Street, and a 1,901 foot section of Lee Street, from Davis Street to South Broadway Street, by Thanksgiving Day, city officials reported.
Because those funds were not expended prior to Sept. 30, 2021, those funds will carry over into FY 2021-22, from the FY 2020-21 budget to complete those projects.
The City Council also Tuesday evening reviewed the two bids submitted for concrete to pave 2,000 square feet of payment on Westwood Street in Woodbridge Crossing as part of the SIP. Highway 19 Construction $202,850 and 5W Contracting $296,136. Smith noted the city engineer had reviewed both bids. Although both bids were higher than initially projected in 2018 Capital Improvement Plan, the city engineer believes they are fair for today’s market. Thus, city staff recommended awarding the contract for concrete paving, including all materials and work to Highway 19 Construction, to Highway 19 Construction, who submitted the low bid.
Smith also asked the City Council to consider approving purchase of a CAT Backhoe for $98,000 from Holt CAT, using BuyBoard purchasing cooperative, to replace a 2012 Case 580 Backhoe currently used for street repairs. Public Works Director Russ Nuss recommend then making the Case backhoe as a secondary backhoe, and auctioning off the current secondary backhoe, a 2007 John Deere unit.
The $98,000 for the purchase was budgeted into the 2022 general fund capital outlay budget. Due to the extended periods between order and delivery, city staff initially put it on the October agenda so that, if approved, the city could go ahead and order backhoe in advance. The Holt backhoe was originally quoted at $110,000. However, when street department personnel talked with local Holt CAT representatives the price was lowered to $98,000 to fit the City of Sulphur Springs’ budget, Smith told the City Council Tuesday evening.
Because the contract is through BuyBoard, a purchasing cooperative, using Contract 515-16, the city was not required to go out for bids on it.
City Manager Marc Maxwell said vendors have to offer pricing that is as good as they bid on in their contract with BuyBoard. Many times, city staff have directly negotiated with a vendor who is BuyBoard contractor, then run the contract through BuyBoard, which has enabled the city to obtain equipment at considerably lower rates. A purchasing coop waives the sealed bid process but does not waive our coming to you for a purchase of $50,000.
According to City Attorney Jim McLeroy, a purchasing cooperative satisfies the sealed bid requirement. Essentially, BuyBoard and other purchasing cooperatives have already done the sealed bid work through the contracts offered, saving cities and other customers from having to conduct the bid process, including posting, holding, opening and vetting bid submissions.
The council unanimously approved the request to buy the backhoe using BuyBoard from Holt CAT for less than the budgeted amount.
Other Business
The City Council met in executive session 30 minutes prior to the regular 7 p.m. meeting Tuesday to discuss a personnel matter, appointment of a new city secretary. Gale Roberts last October notified city officials of her plans to retire in December 2021. That would give the city plenty of time to find a suitable candidate, then for that candidate to train with Roberts prior to her official retirement, according to Maxwell.
In July 2021, Maxwell told the council he anticipated later this year asking them to appoint Natalie Darrow the city secretary. The matter was discussed during the Oct. 5, 2021, executive session, then, just prior to the conclusion of Tuesday’s meeting, the City Council officially selected Darrow to become Sulphur Springs City Secretary, effective Dec. 7, 2021.
Darrow has worked for the City of Sulphur Springs for 25 years, starting in records at the task force, and has been most recently serving as the records manager and computer systems specialist at Sulphur Springs Police Department. When not otherwise obligated in her duties at SSPD, Darrow has already been working periodically for at least 4 months alongside Roberts, learning some of the city secretary’s duties. She even filled in for Robertson when the city secretary was on vacation. She will be working full time with Roberts until her retirement to better prepare her for it in December.
The City Council approved on second and final reading Ordinance No. 2789, granting Kris and Kason Childress’ request to rezone 0.21-acre of property at 618 Oak Avenue from multifamily to light commercial. The designations fits with the intent for that area and current zoning surrounding it, Assistant City Manager/Tourism Director Tory Niewiadomski reported at previous city meetings where the request was considered.
