Lady Cats Volleyball Drops Four Game Set in Edgewood
Coach Bailey Dorner’s program was able to jump out to a 1-0 set lead, but lost three straight sets to drop a four game match to Edgewood.
The Lady Cats volleyball team were originally set to have a bye on their schedule, but Coach Dorner added another game to the mix to make sure her team was prepared for the playoffs.
After set one it looked like a good decision, with Sulphur Springs taking a tight first set 25-22 to take the 1-0 lead over the Lady Bulldogs.
Set two proved to be Edgewood’s time, as they won the set 25-17 to tie it up and won two more sets, both with scores of 25-19 in favor of the Lady Bulldogs to win the match 3-1.
The loss dropped the Lady Cats season record to 20-15 overall (still 6-4 district).
Also, Longview’s five set loss to Marshall Tuesday officially eliminated the Lady Lobos, so Sulphur Springs is officially playoff bound.
Next up, Coach Dorner and her volleyball team will be back at home for their final home game of the regular season.
It should prove to be another good one as Sulphur Springs will host the Hallsville Lady Cats.
Hallsville comes in to the game with a 8-3 district record and in third place of District 15-5A.
If Sulphur Springs can topple Hallsville on Friday, senior night for the Lady Cats, and win next Tuesday in Longview, Coach Dorner’s program could slide in to third place for the playoffs.
But before they can look ahead to closing out their season they must first get through an always-tough Hallsville squad on senior night at the SSHS Main Gym.
Friday’s festivities will begin at 4:15 P.M. to honor seven seniors in the volleyball program and will follow with the varsity showdown at 4:30 P.M.
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.
Wildcats Basketball 2021-22 Season Firmed Up
Wildcats football head coach and athletic director of SSISD Greg Owens released the Wildcats basketball schedule on Wednesday, Oct. 20.
It will be the first year under new head coach Brandon Shaver, who previously coached at Pine Tree.
The season gets underway in a few weeks on Saturday, Nov. 6 when they travel to the thick of the DFW metroplex to take on Irving MacAuthor.
The Wildcats basketball team has another scrimmage, in Greenville against the rival Lions on Thursday, Nov. 11. JV will start the action at 5 P.M. followed by the varsity teams at 6:15 P.M.
Regular season play for Coach Shaver and his program will commence when they go on the road for their third straight match when they travel to Tyler to take on Tyler Legacy starting with JV and freshmen squads, whose start times are 1 and 1:30 P.M., respectively.
The varsity team will compete at 3 P.M.
The first home game for the Wildcats is on Nov. 16 when they take on Paris in what will be Medical Personnel Appreciation night.
That game tips off with varsity only at 4:30 P.M.
From there the Wildcats will take on nine more opponents before their district opener before Christmas Break on Dec. 21 when they host Marshall.
That match will also be a toy drive before the holiday season gets underway.
After both taking part in the Allen tournament on Dec. 27-28, 2021, and once the new year is upon us, the Wildcats and Coach Shaver will make the trip to the coach’s previous gig, Pine Tree.
The return for the new Wildcats basketball coach to take on his former team in the Pirates will tip-off at 5 P.M. (Freshman), 5:30 P.M. (JV), and the varsity showdown will begin at 7 P.M.
To see the full schedule for the basketball team though, click here or here.
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.
Wildcats Middle School Football A and B Teams Stay Undefeated With Two Games Left
The Middle School Wildcat Football A and B team traveled to Pine Tree to face the Pirates and both teams came out victorious.
This makes six straight wins for the Wildcats Middle School Football teams with only two games left in the season. A and B teams are 6-0 for the season.
The eighth grade A Team won 35-26 versus the Pirates.
On both offensive and defensive lines Juan Reyes, Justin Strickland, Aiden Godbolt, Jeffery Stevenson, Dallin Horton, Lucas Shirley, Anthony Solis, Michael Walker, Trey Pennal, Vincient Johnson and Aiden Mcarroll, had a great game, executing the run block and passing blocking schemes on the offensive side, and did a great job of clogging up gaps in the defensive side.
Quarterback Gage Gideon also played well throwing for a 75-yard touchdown pass and 1 rushing Touchdown.
Wide receiver Jaxson Haire continues to have a great season, catching the 75-yard reception for a touchdown and 10-yard rushing Touchdown.
Running backs Alex King ran the ball hard all night, and rushed for 80 yards on the night, also adding 1 rushing Touchdown. Other RB Keyshaun John also played well and added 1 touchdown on the ground.
Coach Flores said the defense did a great job of flying around making plays and had huge defensive stops in the 4th quarter.
The B Team also won, beating Pine Tree 28-0.
In the trenches, Josh Dixon, TJ Abron, TJ Bolden, Jermiah Robinson, Bryson Reyes, Aiden Koon, Kendrick Harris, Marcos Ramirez, Blaine Allen, and Jacolby Arceneaux did a great job of blocking on the offense, and defensively did a great job of getting in the backfield of the Pirates offense to disrupt plays.
WR Za Godbolt had 1 touchdown reception and played well on defense at the Free Safety position. QB Deuce Timmons had a great game throwing for 1 touchdown pass and getting one on the ground as well.
RBs Cazden Holton and Chase Maynard both scored with rushing touchdowns, and ran the ball hard all game.
The middle school football coach said the defense did a great job of flying around making plays and swarming to the Football.
The Middle School Wildcats Football Teams will travel to Hallsville to Face the Bobcats on Tuesday, Oct. 26.
The action begins at 4:30 P.M. starting with the C team, followed by the B and A teams at 5:30 P.M. and 6:30 P.M. respectively.
Coach Flores said he would like to thank the parents and fans that came out and showed support Tuesday night.
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.
Week 3: Hopkins County United Way At 40 Percent Of Goal
Hopkins County United Way marked the half-way point in the United Way campaign, after three full weeks of the campaign approximately 40 percent of the $150,000 campaign goal had been collected.
Over the last week alone, HCUW campaign workers collected $27,786. When added to the 22 collected during the first two weeks of the campaign, that brings the total amount raised as of Oct. 19 to $60,554.15. That leaves three weeks to go in the 2021-22 campaign, which will benefit 18 local nonprofit organizations which provide services and enrichment programs that benefit all segments of the population.
HCUW President Mike Horne thanked the HCUW volunteers who attended Tuesday morning’s campaign report meeting, whether or not they had any new donations or updates to report.
Horne said in his experience last year as campaign chair, the more people who showed up at the meetings each week the more support he felt and more excited he and others present became for the campaign. He encourages all HCUW campaign workers and volunteers to attend the final three meetings if possible (Oct.26, Nov. 3 and Nov. 9 at 9 a.m. at Texas AgriLife Extension Office) to continue building support for this year’s HCUW Campaign Chair Kristy Moseley.
Moseley thanked all for their dedication to the campaign and encouraged those who still have packets out to return to the businesses and industries they approached about funding to try to collect donation packets so that next week’s report total can equal this week’s progress. The goal is to get all donations in by the Nov. 9 meeting if at all possible, so they can be counted toward the goal.
The campaign president also read a letter received from Rep. Bryan Slaton thanking and acknowledging HCUW for their efforts to help others.
As packets were turned in Tuesday, campaign workers noted which donors the donations came from. A representative from CHRISTUS Mother Frances-Sulphur Springs reported the the hospital is holding a pledge drive, offering a friendly Make A Change contest with the name of each person who pledges to HCUW by the end of the month to be placed into a raffle for a chance to win gift cards and donated prizes.
HCUW officer reported generous contributions from several faithful contributors to HCUW, as well as other new donors, whose contributions are all equally important as each helps HCUW grow the campaign fund closer to the goal to support the local agencies.
Sulphur Springs ISD Business Manager Sherry McGraw reported the school district’s campaign started a little bit later than some to allow a little time between the school’s annual Foundation fundraiser and the HCUW campaign.
Bill Owens at a previous meeting handed the campaign officials a check from Jay Hodge Chevrolet as a “down payment” on the amount the dealership hopes to raise this month through a giveback campaign being conducted this month. This week, he reported another $2,900 contribution from Jay Hodge Chevrolet; the dealership is contributing $100 to HCUW for every new car sold this month. So far, the business has contributed $5,500 to HCUW.
Some campaign workers turned in personal donations they were making or had received to HCUW.
HCUW Executive Secretary Susan Berning reported donation packets are still a lot of packets out, some at very large industries which have traditionally been generous supporters of United Way. Some are anticipated to come in later than the typical 6-week campaign scheduled. For example, Holt CAT’s annual campaign will be conducted through the corporation, which matches employee donations. Red River Credit Union will have their numbers in January. HCUW is still waiting to hear back about a Brookshire’s Grant the United Way officials have applied for.
Thanks was again expressed to all contributors and campaign workers, which often include representatives of some of the agencies which HCUW supports, including Teen Court and SAFE-T, as well as Larry Crowson and some of his staff for installing the campaign “thermometer” on the Sulphur Springs Fire Department Station 2 grounds to update the community weekly on the campaign’s progress.
Those who wish may make donations or learn more about Hopkins County United Way and the 2021-22 campaign via the organization’s website, https://hcuw.org, via PayPal or debit/credit card, or by clicking the Shop Now button on the Hopkins County United Way Facebook page. Donations may also be mailed from individual contributors to HCUW Campaign Headquarters, at PO Box 735, Sulphur Springs, TX 75483.
For more information about this week’s contributors, be sure to watch KSST’s YouTube videos of the campaign workers report meetings.
TAMUC Student To Receive Outstanding Grad Student- Specialist Level Award
COMMERCE, Texas — The Texas Association of School Psychologists’ (TASP) Awards and Honors committee recently selected Kelli Lahman—a graduate student in the Specialist in School Psychology program at Texas A&M University-Commerce — as the winner of the 2021 award for Outstanding Grad Student-Specialist Level.
Lahman has received numerous scholarships and awards during her time at A&M-Commerce.
She is the founder and past president of the Student Affiliates of School Psychologists (SASP) chapter at A&M-Commerce. Her passion for student involvement in current school psychology issues motivated her to establish the chapter to foster collaboration among peers and future colleagues. Under her leadership, the chapter received national recognition from the National Association of School Psychologists.
Her research interests focus on disproportionality in school discipline, school climate, diverse students’ school experiences, supervision and mentorship, and educational policy-making. She is driven to design and develop best practice models for culturally sensitive interventions and culturally responsive evidence-based programs and policies.
Lahman will be recognized at the 29th Annual TASP Convention, November 4-6, at the Sheraton Hotel and Conference Center in Georgetown, Texas. There will be an awards ceremony for all winners that Thursday from 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Erin Harper, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology and Special Education, and coordinator for the School Psychology program at A&M-Commerce. She said the department is honored to be part of Lahman’s academic success.
“The faculty and students in the Department of Psychology and Special Education salute Kelli for her many achievements in the School Psychology program,” Harper said. “We look forward to watching her succeed personally and professionally in the years to come.”
Lahman said she is grateful for the recognition of her efforts.
“I would like to thank the Department of Psychology and Special Education faculty and my peers for their support,” she said. “Due to their encouragement, I have experienced tremendous personal and professional growth during my time at A&M-Commerce.”
Lahman is set to graduate in spring 2022 with a specialist degree in school psychology. She plans to continue her education by attending a doctoral program in school psychology.
Learn more about the Specialist in School Psychology degree program at A&M-Commerce.
About Texas A&M University-Commerce
Texas A&M University-Commerce serves rural and metropolitan East Texas with a dedicated mission to Educate. Discover. Achieve. With an enrollment of 11,624 students, the university is the third-largest member of The Texas A&M University System. The 2,100-acre Commerce campus provides many opportunities for students to learn and grow. The university offers more than 130 degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels. A vibrant student experience includes 14 NCAA Division II athletic teams, a thriving Greek system and more than 120 student-led organizations. Classes are delivered on-site in Commerce, Corsicana, Dallas, McKinney, Frisco and Mesquite. In November 2021, the university will open A&M-Commerce at Dallas, located at 8750 North Central Expressway.
Teen Jailed For Terroristic Threat Made At North Hopkins ISD
A teen was jailed for a terroristic threat allegedly made at North Hopkins ISD on Tuesday, according to Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum.
The North Hopkins ISD police chief contacted Sheriff Tatum at 5:30 p.m. Oct. 19, 2021, in reference to a threat that occurred at the school earlier in the day. Tatum said he immediately had an investigator contact school personnel to start a criminal investigation.
NHISD acknowledge the threat reported to North Hopkins Secondary School campus administration Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 19, in a “public statement” posted on the district website and social media pages around 9:30 p.m. Tuesday: “We know that, in today’s world, any news of this kind is upsetting. Rest assured that your child’s safety and security is always uppermost in our thoughts and actions. The NHISD, its administration, and its staff take all reports of this nature very seriously, and we appreciate your continued support and patience during this time.”
“I want the community to know that any threat made toward another student or our schools will be taken seriously and investigated immediately,” Tatum stated in a news release Wednesday morning.
“The NHISD campus administrators acted immediately to confront the student, address the situation, and conduct a preliminary investigation. The student has been removed from the NHISD secondary school campus and does not pose a threat to NHISD students or personnel at this time,” according to the NHISD school statement.
The school district’s reportedly preliminary investigation indicated no credible threat of imminent danger, but for the safety and security of students, the incident was turned over to law enforcement for further, more in-depth and ongoing investigation, according to NHISD.
“As a result, we expect to have a greater police presence on campus tomorrow morning as the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office conducts a thorough investigation,” NHISD’s public statement read.
According the NHISD report, “the student in question is not currently attending school and the North Hopkins ISD has taken all
appropriate measures to ensure the safety of our students and staff. We are confident our schools, our students, and our staff are not in any danger.”
According to arrest reports, Troy Michael Stockton was accused of making verbal statements to cause serious bodily injury to others. Witnesses told officers the 18-year-old had been involved in a verbal altercation with a student at school and made statements which made another student fear for their wellbeing. A witness reportedly indicated fear of Stockton, who has a mental health condition and has been assaulted by the youth before.
Investigators obtained a warrant for Stockton’s arrest for the alleged terroristic threat made at North Hopkins ISD, due to “substantial evidence” obtained while they spoke with the purported witness, Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Nick Marney and Investigator Michael Russell alleged in arrest reports.
“At approximately 9:31.pm., as a result of the criminal investigation, Troy Michael Stockton, an 18-year-old male student, was arrested for terroristic threat, a Felony 3, at his residence and is currently in the Hopkins County Jail with a $75,000 bond,” Tatum reported.
According to Chapter 22.07, subsections (a)(4), (a)(5) and (a)(6) of Texas Penal Code, a person commits a terroristic threat punishable as a third-degree felony:
- (a) if the person threatens to commit any offense involving violence to any person or property with intent to:
- (4) cause impairment or interruption of public communications, public transportation, public water, gas, or power supply or other public service;
- (5)place the public or a substantial group of the public in fear of serious bodily injury; or
- (6)influence the conduct or activities of a branch or agency of the federal government, the state, or a political subdivision of the state.
“We commend the individuals who made the initial report to NHISD and the NHISD personnel who immediately responded to the report. We also thank our school district police department for quickly responding to the situation and the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office for working with the District to make sure that our students and personnel are safe,” the NHISD release stated.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Chamber Connection: 52nd Annual World Championship Hopkins County Stew Contest To Be Held Saturday, Oct. 23
By Butch Burney
It’s stew time in Sulphur Springs!
Saturday is the 52nd Annual World Championship Hopkins County Stew Contest, sponsored by Alliance Bank, Alliance Bank Financial Services and Galyean Insurance, at Buford Park.
Get there on Friday to check out more than two dozen market vendors, who will be set up on the south side of the square, stay for the appetizer contest and get ready for Dubb and the Luv Machines in concert from 10:30 p.m. to midnight.
Things are not just back to normal at the stew contest, but they are better than normal.
- We will have 150 pots of stew cooking and ready to serve at 10:45 a.m.
- Cooks will be on both the north and south sides of Buford Park.
- All-you-can-eat tickets are $6 and can be purchased online (HopkinsChamber.org), at the Chamber office or any of the local banks. Buy online and get a four-pack of tickets for $20. Tickets will also be on sale on site Saturday.
- There are more than 25 vendors signed up for the market, which will be on the south side of Connally Street both Friday and Saturday. Come out and shop their wares.
- In addition, Stew T-shirts, tumblers and mugs will be available for purchase.
- There will be an appetizer contest Friday evening, and Dubb and the Luv Machines will be in concert Friday night, sponsored by City National Bank.
Be a part of the biggest community event in the county on Friday, Oct. 22, and Saturday, Oct. 23.
Wall That Heals
The Wall That Heals, the Vietnam Veterans replica memorial, will be in Sulphur Springs Nov. 4-7, at the Sulphur Springs High School track. The three-quarter sized replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C., along with a Mobile Education Center, will arrive in Sulphur Springs on Tues., Nov. 2, escorted by Patriot Guard Riders, law enforcement, and fire department personnel, and will be welcomed by citizens participating in a Yellow Ribbon & Banner Campaign.
This year 2021 has been nationally designated as the year to “Welcome Home America’s Vietnam Veterans,” and organizers are hopeful that local citizens will help do that with the Yellow Ribbon & Banner Campaign.
Below are the links for Hopkins County to sponsor The Wall That Heals and participate in The Yellow Ribbon Campaign. For more information, volunteer and sponsorship opportunities, see:
Facebook: The Wall That Heals, Sulphur Springs, TX
Halloween Activities
Woods of the Dead, benefiting Operation Victor Echo Tango, is open every Friday and Saturday in October from dark to midnight at 2779 CR 2426 in Como.
The Second Annual Halloween Screamfest is hosted by VR Social, located at 317 Spring Street, from Oct. 25-31. The events will include an outdoor horror movie marathon, a ghost glow bike ride to Coleman Park, dead walking on the square, and a Halloween pet photo booth. The Screamfest benefits Let Love Live animal rescue sanctuary.
Car Show
The Heritage Square Car Show is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 6, rain or shine. The show, sponsored by the Downtown Business Alliance, will be held downtown for vehicles model 1987 or older. Awards will be presented at 3 p.m.
For more information, email [email protected].
Mabel’s Foundation
Mabel’s Foundation, a Mexican children’s refuge, will have its second Annual Trade School Dinner to support Nuevo Progreso Trade Schools from 4:30-8 p.m. Nov. 5 at Lake Fork Baptist Church in Alba. Lasagna with all the fixings will be served, and an offering will be taken at the door. Carry out or sit down is available.
You can call 605-431-9654 ahead of time.
Ribbon Cutting
Cooper Lake State Park celebrated their 25th anniversary last weekend with a ribbon cutting at South Sulphur Park. Check out all the activities at the parks this fall.
County Commissioners Approve Dump Truck, Tractor/Loader, Work Truck Purchases
Hopkins County Commissioners Court approved dump truck, tractor/loader and work truck purchases as well as company from which to purchase, road, bridge and culvert materials; and to hire for asphalt paving. A new employee was introduced and a user license agreement was approved for the County Clerk’s Office.
Truck and Equipment Purchases
Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley got the go ahead to purchase two 2022 model Mac dump trucks through a TIPS purchasing cooperative contract $185,806.08, so the county was not require to go out for bids on them. He plans to finance the trucks. Three lease purchase proposals were submitted, from Bank Corp. South’s was 2.59 percent interest, Guaranty Bank 4.29 percent, and CNB Bank 3.20 percent.
Bids specifications requested rates for 6 years or 7 years of financing. The best option was 72-month contract to be paid back at a 2.59 percent interest rate to Bank Corp South. The county has never done business with that financial institution before; it’s the company that was through the Mac company he is buying it from.
Bartley said these trucks are badly needed. He shopped around for several months trying to find good, single action dump trucks with no luck. In September, he had four dump trucks in the shop at the same time. Without the dump trucks, precinct crews weren’t able to get much work done because they couldn’t get materials hauled to them. So, he ordered the two new trucks, which are now ready for delivery. He asked the court to approve the purchase of the two dump trucks through the contract service as well as financing through Bank Corp South at a rate of 2.59 percent over 72 months, with payments starting January. The court unanimously approved the request.
Bartley also asked the court to consider approving purchase of a Case tractor/loader from Farm Country through TIPS contract for Precinct 3. American Rescue Act funding is available to help the precincts be able to afford the needed equipment, which will be put to work on roads, the Precinct 3 commissioner said. The tractor can be hooked up to a shredder. Precinct 3 has 2 shredders, one that is broke down most of the time along with a tractor, which has allowed for very little shredding this year. The quote is for $67,800 for the Case equipment.
The court approved the purchase of a Case tractor/loader from Farm Country for $67,800 through TIPS using $67,800 to be paid for using the Rescue Act funding so work can begin soon on roads in most need of significant repairs.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price then sought approval for the purchase of two Chevrolet 2-wheel drive 6500 work trucks from Caldwell Country Chevrolet through BuyBoard purchasing cooperative at a rate of $55,310 per truck. Price noted the bid is for trucks without beds. He said he looked at a 2015 International, a comparable sized truck similar to the ones he proposed buying, with 26,000 miles on it for which the seller was asking $55,000. A bed will have to be put on the trucks for about $12,000 more per truck. There’s a possibility Precinct 4 will be able to move the bed on the truck currently in use to the new truck.
Road, Bridge, Culvert, Materials Bids
Aulsbrook presented to Hopkins County Commissioners Court during their Oct. 15, 2021, regular court session, bid packets with all of the bids and prices submitted for road materials, oil sand, road oil, sealant and culverts. She asked each commissioner read for the record his first through third choices of who to purchase which materials from. Road materials include any rocks purchased, including iron ore and crushed concrete, she noted.
Bids were received from Richard Drake, Arcosa, Seaton, RK Hall, Commerce Sand and Gravel, Wood County Asphalt, P2 Emulsions, Bryan & Bryan, Blazer, BASA. Aulsbrook recommend accept all bids so that if one of the providers does not have what the Commissioner needs or wants, then the county official can purchase from one of the other providers who placed a bid, but would not be able to buy from a company that did not submit a bid. The court followed Aulsbrook’s suggestion and approved all bids submitted.
Only one company, Yoder, responded to the county’s request for bids for clear span concrete bridges and concrete culverts, which was included in the bid packets provided to the commissioners prior to the meeting, Aulsbrook noted.
Barker noted that Yoder has in the past done some repair work for Precinct 1 and built a bridge in Precinct 2 prior to Greg Anglin’s service as commissioner.
“I think it’s time for the county to move forward with contracts for bridges. So all the bridges will be standard. So, I move that we do approve Yoder as our bridge contractor,” Barker said.
The motion was seconded by Anglin, and receive unanimous approval of the Commissioners Court.
Aulsbrook also reported only two bids were received for asphalt paving work, one for $93,450 per half-mile from Texana Land and the other from Area Wide Paving for $89,000 per half-mile.
Barker noted the bids are prime examples of the way materials costs, oil, are currently and expected in the future to be even more expensive. One of the bids was higher than he’d like for it to be, but recommended that the county go with the low-bidder for asphalt paving.
Anglin asked if both could be accepted. Aulsbrook explained that each commissioner must select their choice and go with that one. Barker asked what option the county would have if their selected business was busy when they were ready for asphalt paving in their precinct.
Especially with materials and staff shortages along supply chains being experienced currently, each should have an alternative company to turn to to get the job done in a timely manner, even if it costs more for the other company to perform the work. Aulsbrook noted that the county is already having a difficult time getting multiple companies to bid for these services; selecting more than one company for asphalt paving would result in even fewer submitting bids. She spends days working on the bid process, getting companies to submit bids, and the companies too spend a lot of time working on the bids that are submitted.
Barker too noted a situation the county encountered in some past year, where the cheapest product is not always in the long run the best option. On past occasions, Bartley said, if he had difficulty getting certain materials delivered on time, in some cases due to frequent breakdowns of delivery trucks but no notification of delayed deliveries, so he’d go with a different vendor who would get the material to his precinct when requested and did so with “a whole lot better service.” While it cost more, that vendor remained in contact, especially if there was an issue that arose which would delay delivery of materials.
“To me service is worth something, even if we’ve got to pay a little bit more for it,” Bartley said.
Barker clarified that the prior instances Bartley referenced were not from asphalt paving companies, but was a supplier of other materials.
Bartley said he can’t speak to the quality of service from the two bidders because he’s never used them. But, there is something to be said for quality of service. He too has experience difficulties in getting bids for certain materials.
Barker said he would hope that some of the contractors in Hopkins County would get on board and submit bids so services could be from local vendors if possible. Aulsbrook noted bid packets were sent out to all local builders, but none opted to submit bids.
Price noted that the frequently changing prices on materials, which are almost higher by the time the bids are opened, so it’s hard for them to give quotes for costs when they don’t know what they will be.
Barker said the issues with asphalt paving bids is that the commissioners cannot guaranty a specific number of miles to be paved during the contract year. He believes the county would receive better bids if they could guaranty a certain number of miles to be paved each year.
Barker voted to use Area Wide Paving for asphalt work. Anglin said he was unfamiliar with either one because he’s never done asphalt paving and doesn’t plan to do so in the near future either.
Aulsbrook said if he changes his mind, he did need to select a vendor at the meeting.
“You can say my first choice is Area Wide Paving, and if he can’t get to it, I want to use Texana. But, the more we do that, the more I have trouble getting people to bid. I do understand your point also, completely,” Aulsbrook said. “If you pick first choice, and you go over here to get it, and I get an open records request wanting to know why I was chosen as the vendor, you have to answer to that.”
“Anytime I don’t go with first choice is because of the availability or the service,” Barker said.
“You just have to be able to explain it,” Judge Robert Newsom said.
With that option, Barker recommended selecting Area Wide Paving as the first choice and Texana as the second to provide asphalt paving. Joe seconded the motion, which was approved by the Commissioners Court.
If anyone wondered why the process and bids generated so much discussion, it’s because, “Historically, not in Hopkins County I’m sure, but in other places it might have happened that competitive bidding was not followed. So somebody’s favorites were taken care of and not the best buy for the tax payers. That’s why the auditor is keeping us straight on it. Thanks you Shannah for that. We appreciate your advice,” Newsom said.
Other Court Business
The Commissioners Court recognized Precinct #2 Constable John Beadle for completing the four hour state and federal law update stemming from the 87th Legislative session held Oct. 8 at Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office.
“We have some of h the best law officials in the state of Texas. One is standing in the back there,” Newsom said of Beadle, who waited in the back of the courtroom during the Oct. 15 meeting.
Appreciation was also expressed to the sheriff’s office for hosting the class so Beadle and other officers didn’t have to travel out of town to attend the training session.
A user license agreement between Hopkins County Clerk and Permitium LLC was approved. County Clerk Tracy Smith explained that there is not cost to the county to enter into the agreement, which will allow people to order copies of their birth certificates, of death certificates or certified copies of their marriage licenses.
“They have all the information. They do what they call vital verify, make sur it is that actual person that’s requesting it. They do all work on the back side of it: getting the form, the application filled out, proof of ID, payment. It only comes to us once they’ve verified all that. If we verify it and print, we would make a copy then. They do all the work instead of my employees having to stop and take time. Local people could do it if they wanted. They do charge a convenience fee, that’s how they make their money. We could actually add a fee for postage that we’ve never charged before. They do all the processing up to that,” Smith said.
The agreement would allow the clerk’s office personnel to direct people who call from out-of-town to request a copy of their birth certificate to direct them to the website instead of the a lengthy process involving multiple calls, emails and credit card processing.
Smith then introduced her new staff member, Courtney Winstead, to the court. She’s goin to replace an employee who has accepted a position with a law firm. Another employee will take over probate work in the Clerk’s Office and Winstead will fill the opening.
2 Subdivision Variances, Partial Closure Of A County Road Granted By Commissioners Court
Hopkins County Commissioners Court grant subdivision variances for two properties as well as a request to close a portion of County Road 3507, during their most recent regular court session.
County Road 4743 Variance
Larry Kerns asked the court to consider approving a variance which would allow a County Road 4743 property owner a 20-inch variance from the subdivision rules. The property is 20-inches short of meeting the subdivision requirement. Larry Kerns explained that in previous years when a pastor retired, he was going to have to sell his house and wasn’t sure where he’d go. Kerns suggested carving out about an acre of his property for the retired pastor and his wife to reside on as long as they live.
Kerns, in the last few months, has decided to sell his 104-acres of land. He wants to give that land to the pastor and his wife so they won’t have to worry what will happen to them if someone else buys the Kerns property. When the property was carved out for the pastor, no surveyor was used, and it was discovered to be 20-inches shy of an acre. Allowing the variance would also allow Kerns to give the property to the pastor and his wife without having to pay an estimated $4,000 platting fee. Kerns said he does not plan to carve it out into a new subdivision, but does plan to sell it.
Precinct 4 Commissioner Joe Price made the motion, which was seconded by Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker, to allow the variance. The Commissioners Court unanimously agreed to grant the 20-inch variance as requested for 605 County Road 4743.
County Road 3501 Variance
A variance was also requested for 346 County road 3501, to allow Kevin and Yazmin Weaver to put a tiny house on their property so they can care for the resident’s mother. Precinct 3 Commissioner Wade Bartley currently has no regulations for tiny houses. He proposed allowing the residents to put the tiny house on the same 6/10ths of an acre where there are residents, so they can care for the mother while she is living. However, the variance should stipulate that the tiny house is allowed only as long as the mother lives there. When the mother no longer lives there, the tiny house must be removed from the property, Bartley proposed.
“It does not continue to be a piece of that property. It’s just to allow them that convenience to take care of her mother while she’s here. So I move that the court accept that variance,” Bartley said. “I’m asking for the variance. It’s up to the court whether ya’ll grant it or not. We don’t really have any guidelines to go by with these tiny houses, and I don’t know if their existing septic system wouldn’t handle that tiny house.
The Precinct 3 Commissioner said he’d talked with the residents about their septic system. As he understands it, they plan to put the tiny house on a separate septic system from the one they currently use for their residence.
Hopkins County Fire Marshal Andy Endsley said to make sure it meets environmental requirements, the family might have to look at a multifamily septic system instead of one system for the tiny home.
“That’s somethings we’ve been talking in work sessions about, updating our rules and regulations for tiny houses. At the time, there isn’t any,” Endsley said.
“Each variance is an individual variance by itself and, Wade, if you think this piece of property will handle it, then I’m with you,” Precinct 2 Commissioner Greg Anglin said.
“I know it has a traditional septic system. I don’t know if that makes a difference or not. We hired someone who does the septic and he said the only way he would be able to put one is if I get a permit from you guys. So, that’s where we are,” Yazmin Weaver told the court.
Judge Robert Newsom asked if she would be working with county officials such as the fire marshal and fire department to see that all requirements are met.
Endsley noted Mrs. Weaver would need to get with Kristy Springfield, the county’s environmental officer who makes sure septic systems are adequate to meet the needs of those who use them and meet environmental standards. Springfield would work with whoever the Weavers hire to install the system, then check off the requirements when they are met, if the court were to approve the variance request with the contingency included as proposed.
Currently, the variance is case by case because there is no guidelines or regulations in place at the county level regarding tiny homes.
“She is trying to go through the proper channels to take care of this. I’d like to be able to help her take care of her mama. I would move that we would grant this variance, and they’ll work with Kristy Springfield, our environmental officer, to get that worked out,” Bartley said.
Anglin seconded the Bartley’s motion. The variance request receive unanimous approval of the court, with the contingency, provided all other requirements are worked out with the environmental department.
Partial Closure of County Road 3507
A request was made to close the last 500-plus feet of County Road 3507 at the south east end of of the dead end road. The same person owns the property on both sides of the road and are planning to build a house on their property. They’d like to have that portion closed. All of the proper documents have been filed and notices posted the proper amount of time with no objections, Bartley told the court when recommending that the request to close that portion of the county road be approved. Barker seconded the motion, which was then receive unanimous approval of the Commissioners Court during their Oct. 15, 2021, court session.
The Access Physicians MultiSpecialty Clinic of Sulphur Springs Will Be Closing
By Holly Ragan, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, [email protected]
Access Physicians MultiSpecialty Clinic – CLOSING
Access Physicians Multispecialty Clinic of Sulphur Springs will be closing, and ending Neurology and Pulmonology services effective November 1, 2021.
It is recommend that you find another specialist to take care of your Neurology and Pulmonology medical needs. If you do not know another specialist, you may contact the Texas Medical Board for resources or refer to your Primary Care Physician.
If you wish to obtain copies of your medical records, please go to the office and complete a “Medical Records Release Form” to have your records released to you or to have your records sent to another provider. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed for lunch from 12 to 1 p.m.). Please call ahead at 903-919-5034.
Access Physicians MultiSpecialty Clinic of Sulphur Springs address is 105-III Medical Plaza, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482.
No Excuses – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Nothing will keep us from making your breast health a priority, whether you need a mammogram, help choosing the right physician or treatment plan, from chemotherapy to radiation to surgery. We provide safe, high-quality care in our brand new, state-of-the-art Ruth & Jack Gillis Women’s Center.
Schedule an appointment for your local 3D mammogram today by calling 903-438-4325.
COVID Testing
Do you need a COVID test, but are unable to get in to see your provider for testing or an appointment?
- CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Primary Care in Sulphur Springs is now scheduling patients who are unable to schedule an office or urgent care visit for COVID testing.
- These appointments must be scheduled by calling 903-885-3181, then press option 0.
- We will open the schedule daily by 8:30 a.m. depending on staffing availability for the COVID drive-through.
- Current tentative available times from testing are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
- Patients will be instructed to come to the parking lot of 100 Church Street at their scheduled appointment time and remain in their vehicle. Someone will be out shortly to check them in and begin the appointment.
- Patients will be required to sign up for MyChart.
- Results of COVID testing will be available to patients via MyChart.
Thank you for your patience
With a spike in COVID-19 cases in Hopkins County, please expect “longer than usual” wait times in the Emergency Department. Rest assured we are doing everything we can to provide high quality care in a timely manner. Thank you in advance for allowing us to provide for your healthcare needs, while extending grace to our staff.
COVID Vaccine Clinics
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will host a COVID Vaccine Clinic every Friday morning from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the main lobby of the hospital until further notice. The available vaccines include Moderna (2-doses, ages 18 and older) and Pfizer (2-doses, ages 12 and older). Appointments not required, but parent/guardian must accompany anyone 17 and younger.
Boosters are available for fully vaccinated people who received their second dose of Pfizer or Moderna vaccine at least 6 months ago, and for those 65-years of age and older, and/or immunocompromised. Right now, boosters are only recommended for patients who completed their Pfizer or Moderna vaccine series and meet the current eligibility criteria. Updates will be provided in the near future, as the CDC determines guidelines.
Missing COVID card?
Don’t worry – We manage your medical records if you had your vaccine administered at a CHRISTUS location. You may log in to your “MyChart” account to access the record. If you don’t have a MyChart account, you can call 903-885-3181 to get that setup. You will need a working email address. Or, you may contact Health Information Management. If you need medical records, please use one of the following options:
- Please call 903-439-4045 to speak to staff members who can send your records to care providers for you or to request your medical records. You will need to complete an authorization form, complete and return, along with a copy of your identification, to our office via fax or email. The fax number is 903-439-4704.
- We are available Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Hospital Visitation
Please note the following guidelines:
- Visitors must acquire masks themselves prior to entering our facility; cloth masks are acceptable. Masks must cover both the nose and the mouth. Visitors must remain masked during their time in the hospital.
- Minor-aged visitors must be accompanied by an adult, be free of symptoms and able to comply with masking and hygiene expectations throughout the visit.
- Emergency Department entrance open 24/7
- Main Entrance open 5 a.m. to 5 p.m, Monday – Friday
- Gift Shop open
- Visiting hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Types of Visitors:
- COVID receiving aerosol treatments: via tele-visitation only;
- COVID not receiving aerosol treatments: 1 Essential support person for the duration of hospital stay – Essential support person will be given a visible wrist band for identification purposes;
- ICU/ER: 1 Essential support person only;
- All other patients may have 1 Essential support person and 1 visitor (up to 2 persons in room at a time)
- Types of Visitors:
CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic Urgent Care Hours of Operation
The CHRISTUS Urgent Care hours of operation are as follows:
- In-Person Care Hours
- Monday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Tuesday, closed
- Wednesday-Saturday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Sunday, closed.
- Virtual Visit Hours
- Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- To schedule a virtual visit, please visit urgentcare.christushealth.org, then select your location and click “Virtual Visit”
The Urgent Care is located at 1339 South Broadway St., and the phone number to call is 903.951.1001.
CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System includes CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospitals – Tyler, South Tyler, Jacksonville, Winnsboro and Sulphur Springs; the CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Louis and Peaches Owen Heart Hospital – Tyler; CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rehabilitation Hospital, a partner of Encompass Health; Tyler Continue CARE Hospital at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital, a long-term acute care facility; and CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic.
CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic is the area’s preferred multi-specialty medical group, with more than 400 Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers representing 36 specialties in 34 locations serving Northeast Texas across 41 counties.
For more information on services available through CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System, visit christustmf.org
- Bed count – 402 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Tyler
- Bed count – 8 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – South Tyler
- Bed count – 25 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Jacksonville
- Bed Count – 96 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs
- Bed count – 25 – CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Winnsboro
- Bed count – 94 – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rehabilitation Hospital
- Bed count – 96 – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Louis and Peaches Owen Heart – Tyler
- Bed count – 51 – Tyler Continue CARE Hospital at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital
