Section Of I-30 West Of Franklin-Hopkins County Line Shut Down Due To Truck Fire
A section of Interstate 30 west was shut down for a short while Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021, due to a truck fire. Motorists traveling west from Franklin into Hopkins County were warned to be prepared for traffic delays or find an alternate route travel.
Hopkins County, Pickton-Pine Forest, Saltillo, Brinker and Mount Vernon firefighters, deputies and Texas Department of Public Safety troopers responded around lunch time Saturday to the reported vehicle fire on I-30 west. The fire unit arriving reported a truck-tractor and box trailer were on fire near the 139 mile marker on I-30 west. Firefighters were still working to fully extinguish the blaze which damaged the truck cab and front end of the box transport trailer which was reported to contain fertilizer.
Traffic was diverted off I-30 west onto the north service road at the 141 exit, down FM 900 to US 67. Unfortunately, some vehicles had become stuck between FM 900 and the damaged units with no immediate way to turn around, while emergency crews worked.
One lane of I-30 west had reopened just before 1 p.m. Saturday, but traffic was slow going for a couple of miles while emergency crews worked to ensure the fire was out so the damaged truck could be safety moved from the roadside.
Eastbound I-30 traffic was not impacted by the vehicle fire, emergency officials reported.
Paris District Road Report for the Week of December 13, 2021
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district during the week of Dec. 13, 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.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Construction began Nov. 29 on this new-location roadway. The new roadway will be two lanes with shoulders and will be an extension of the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway. Local traffic on CR 60 (Marilee Road) and Stiff Chapel Road should expect occasional road work at those intersections with flaggers present to control traffic.
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 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.
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 and Wednesday during the nighttime.
FM 898, Grayson County: in Whitewright from US 69 to the Fannin County line. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
FM 996, Grayson County: in Pottsboro from FM 120 to FM 1417. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
At Bethany Road near FM 1417, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to end of state maintenance. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs on 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.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for occasional daytime lane closures as workers build the new SH 34 bridge over the future Lake Ralph Hall.
FM 1552, Fannin County: from SH 78 to County Road 3710. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 898, Fannin County: from the Grayson County line to SH 121. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 824, Fannin County: from SH 56 in Honey Grove to the Lamar County line. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from County Road 3330 to SH 34. Watch for temporary one-lane closures as workers rehab and widen the roadway.
SH 121, Fannin County: from the Collin County line to SH 56. Watch for temporary daytime lane closures and shoulder closures as workers install sloped end treatments on pipes and install guardrail.
US 82, Fannin County: from SH 121 to the Lamar County Line. Watch for slow-moving construction equipment as crews work on 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 68, Fannin County: from SH 78 to SH 34. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
SH 37, Franklin County: from the elementary school to US 67. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews install sidewalk.
IH 30, Hopkins County: from Hunt County Line to Franklin County Line. Watch for lane closures and short traffic delays as crews perform concrete repair.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
US 271, Red River County: from SH 37 to Titus County Line. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews resurface the roadway.
FM 906, Lamar County: from FM 2648 to CR 47400. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
FM 195, Red River County: from the Lamar County line to SH 37. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and replace bridge rail.
FM 1487, Red River County: from FM 909 to FM 910. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews widen and rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 1159 to the Bowie County line. Watch for work zones and drive safely through construction areas as final work is being performed.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the North Loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures.
FM 79, Lamar County: from 0.6 miles Northeast of State Loop 286 to 0.8 miles Northeast of State Loop 286. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews complete cross structure work.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
US 82, Red River County: from FM 44N to FM 44S. Watch for temporary shoulder closures while crews construct safety lighting.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
Sidewalk and Curb Ramp Project (several counties): The contractor has set barricades at the Wolfe City, Texas, location. This project will improve pedestrian sidewalks and construct ADA-compliant curb ramps at these locations: Hunt County, SH 34 at Crockett Street to SH 34 at FM 816 in Wolfe City. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 275, Rains County: from SH 19 to FM 514. The contractor has set barricades and plans to begin preparing the right-of-way soon. The contractor has reworked base material and widened subgrade from Lake Fork Creek to the north for one mile, graded out and prepared for new flex base, and began hauling base material. The contractor has demolished the bridge and will continue placing flex base on the first mile. Cleanup operations in preparation for installation of drilled shafts will begin shortly. Please be aware of lane closures, detours, and watch for work zones and workers when traveling in this area.
SH 276, Hunt County: from FM 36 to SH 34 (Quinlan Bypass). The contractor has placed project barricades and has prepared and cleared the right-of-way. 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 is completing mile six 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.
Maintenance crews in Hunt County will be performing seal coat preparation on FM 512 north of I-30 at various locations and overlaying on FM 499 at various locations. 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 SH 276 to the Kaufman County line. Crews will be performing various sign installations, potholing, edging, and debris removal. Maintenance crews will be performing herbicide operations on various roadways. Please watch for lane closures, work zones and workers along the roadway, and maintain a safe distance from work crews.
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Hopkins County Records – Dec. 11, 2021
Land Deed Transactions
- Revolve Capital Group LLC to Manuel Romero and Shanna Romero; tract in the F. Carroll survey
- Nancy Ashcraft to Matt Petty and Sharon Petty
- City Cemetery Society Sulphur Springs to Julie Morgan
- Joseph Louis Saucier to Nancy Ashcraft
- Norma Jean Wilkinson to Roxanne Raber; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Hall Oil Co. Inc. which is also known as Hall Oil Company Incorporated to Jason P. Lacomfora and Jennifer Jill Lacomfora; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Church Street Professional Building LLC to KSBR Real Estate Holdings LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Craig Lesley Stuart and Traci Stuart to Stuart Ranch Texas LLC; tract in the Precious Seats survey
- Dewell Byrd Hawkins to Kennon Darwin Rawls Jr. and Patty Diane Rawls; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Dianne Kurn Green to Lindsey Nicole Kurn; tract in the RM Fant survey
- Barbara McKinnerney and Donald McKinnerney to Jaime Escandon; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Cathy S. King and WC King to Roberto Nino; tract in the Daniel Fuller survey
- Juston Burton to Ana Laura Burt; tract in the Manuel Y’Barbo survey
- Milton Dwain Asbill and Barbara Joan Hall to Jeffrey Wayne Asbill; tract in the ES Davis survey
- Aaron Adkins to Leslie Deann Miller; tract in the Hayden Arnold survey
- Glade Creek Partners to Aaron Adkins; tract in the Hayden Arnold survey
- Patricia Tidwell and Ralph M. Tidwell to Jeremy Gregory Herman and Kerry Leann Herman; tract in the John F. Keller survey
- Larry D. Shaw to Tiofila Pantoja Padilla; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Besma LLC to Rover Real Estate Investment Inc.; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Kellis Gene Parker to Melissa Parker and Tony Parker, tract in the William B. Hodges survey
- Emmett Loper and Haley Marie Nettles to Miramontes Properties LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Elwyn R. Denson to SS&JRS Development LLC; tract in the BN Hampton survey
- Catherine Suzanne Bundy independent executor for the James E. Wilkins Jr. Estate to Catherine Suzanne Bundy; tract in the John Blocker survey
- The Old Saltillo United Methodist Church to The Old Saltillo Cemetery Association; tract in the J. English survey
- Michael & Sandra Trammell Family Trust, Michael Douglas Trammell and Sandra Ann Trammell trustees, to LK Pop DFW LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Tom F. Washington Jr. to Christal Ford; tract in the James Gahagan survey
- Mary Glover to Ruth Mary Hawkins; tract in the James Webb survey
- Elmer Anderson “EA” Junell Jr. Estate, Thomas Charles Sellers independent executor, to Summit Ranch Investments LTD; tract in the SR Cherry survey
- Charlene Ray Duke and Steven Ray Duke to Justin Rodriguez and Maxie Thompson; tract in the Ferdinand Carroll survey
- TMI North Texas Holdings LLC to GSC Enterprises Inc.; tract in the Lovick P. Dikes survey
- Kelly Ann Mabe and Lance Ernest Mabe to Kaden Angus Mabe and Kallie Ann Mabe; tract in the A Caro survey
- Omar A. Jaime and Maribel L. Prado to OAJ Investments LLC; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- Rosetta Lane to Clyde Vaughn and Dakota Vaughn; tract in the RC Graves survey
- Jaime Escandon to Ladera RV Resort LLC; tract in the E. Melton survey
- Barbara Moore and Edward Moore to Rawdy Nevil Brown; tract in the John S. Bowen survey
- Nancy Ashcraft to Matt Petty and Sharon Petty; tract in the George W. Downing survey
- Pamela Petty and Ray Petty to Candace Lee Ashmore and Casan Layne Ashmore; tract in the Nacogdoches University survey
- Lee Warren and Myra Sue Warren to Edgar Clements Jr. and Theresa Ann Clements; tract in the James Lee survey
- Jennifer J. Flowers to Rhyannon S. Page; tract in the Santos Coy survey
- Lester Paul Flora Jr. Estate, Terry Lynn Flora independent executor, to Cody L. Flora; tract in the John Procello survey
- Donna J. Scott to Kenneth W. Jourdan and Rebecca J. Jourdan; tract in the James Teer survey
Two Pickton Men Jailed On Felony Assault Charges Following CR 2382 Disturbance
Two Pickton men were jailed on felony assault charges following a CR 2382 disturbance early Friday morning, according to sheriff’s reports.
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputies Isaac Foley, Justin Wilkerson, Bobby Osornio and Zach Steward, and Sgt. Scott Davis responded at 2:03 a.m. to the County Road 2382 disturbance, in which a female claimed her uncle was in the residence threatening her. While they were en route, dispatchers advised the woman claimed the uncle had forced entry into her room with a weapon.
Upon arrival, the deputies reported seeing Neil Wayne Black exit the residence holding what appeared to be a rifle, it was determined to be a high powered pellet rifle which the sheriff’s officers had him hand over to them while they investigated the situation. The deputies then contacted the female caller, who they learned lives at the residence and has been in an on-and-off dating relationship with a male who lives at the residence, according to arrest reports.
Black and the sometimes beau, identified in arrest reports as 53-year-old Paige Spencer Whitworth, allegedly yelled at the woman to get out of the residence. Then, Black forced entry to the woman’s room, where both men continued yelling at her. Black pointed the pellet rifle at the woman during the disturbance and threatened her with imminent bodily injury, deputies alleged in arrest reports.
Deputies took Black and Whitworth of Pickton, into custody at 4:45 a.m. Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, on one count of aggravated assault of a date, family or household members with a weapon each, as Black allegedly placed the woman in fear of serious bodily injury using what is described as a deadly weapon and Whitworth was criminally responsible for the commission of the offense by provoking it. Evidence from the alleged CR 2382 disturbance and the pellet rifle were seized and both men transported to Hopkins County jail. An emergency protective order to restrict Whitworth from contacting the female resident, according to arrest reports.
Both men alleged to have been involved in the CR 2382 disturbance remained in Hopkins County jail Saturday morning, Dec. 11, 2021, in lieu of $75,000 bond on the first-degree felony aggravated assault charge, according to jail reports.
Friday was not the first time Whitworth has been jailed in Hopkins County for assault and related charges. The 53-year-old Pickton man spent May 30-Aug. 14, 2017 in custody on an aggravated assault of a date, family or household member with a weapon charge. He was assessed a 3-day jail commitment for a felony assault charge and spent March 3-4, 2018, in jail. Whitworth was returned to Hopkins County jail on April 10, 2019, for violation of probation on a family violence assault charge; he was released later that day on a $5,000 bond. He was booked into the county jail May 22, 2019 after his bond was revoked on an aggravated assault of a date, family or household member and remained in custody until July 22, 2019. He was most recently in jail July 31-Nov. 1, 2021 on a warrant for violation probation on an assault charge, according to jail records.
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.
Marijuana Found In Wanted Man’s Lap, Suspected Stolen Items Located During Traffic Stop
Marijuana was found in a wanted man’s lap and suspected stolen items were located in his car during a traffic stop Thursday afternoon, according to sheriff’s reports.
Emergency dispatchers were contacted about a suspicious vehicle, a maroon Nissan Sentra, seen leaving the area of a recent burglary in which firearms were stolen around 3:40 p.m. Dec. 9. The caller then followed the car and reported information so that Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Kevin Lester and Sgt. Richard Greer could locate and catch up to the vehicle, sheriff’s officers alleged in arrest reports.
A Department of Public Safety trooper in the area located the car and stopped it on FM 1567 east, just south of State Highway 11 east. As deputies arrived, the trooper approached the passenger’s side door of the car, the trooper reported seeing marijuana throughout the vehicle and instructed the man in the car to get out, reported Lester, who arrived as the trooper approached the car. As the man got out, Lester reported seeing marijuana not only on the man’s lap but also on the floorboard of the car.
The man was placed into handcuffs as a safety precaution while the officers continued to investigate. A records check showed the man, identified in arrest reports as 49-year-old Brian Alan Hays, to be wanted by the Parole Board in Austin, deputies alleged in arrest reports.
A probable cause search of the wanted man’s car allegedly revealed more than one item reported to belong to the person whose guns were reportedly stolen during the prior burglary. At least one of the items was believed to have been stolen Thursday morning, Dec. 9, 2021, as the person’s family member reported seeing it just that morning, the HCSO officers alleged in arrest reports. The items had not at that time been reported stolen yet. Officers took Hays into custody on the violation of parole warrant issue by Austin Parole Board. The investigation into the alleged burglaries and suspected stolen items was ongoing Thursday afternoon, deputies noted in arrest reports.
The car was impounded and Hays (who is also known to use the aliases Brian Alan Hayes, Brian Allen Hayes, Brian Allen Hayos, Brian Samuels and Brian Wilson) was transported at 3:47 p.m. to Hopkins County jail, where he was bieng held Friday, Dec. 10, 2021, on the parole warrant, according to jail reports.
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.
Paris Junior College President Receives National Award
PJC-Sulphur Springs Center
Public Information Service
PJC President receives national award
Dr. Pam Anglin, president of Paris Junior College, has received the 2021 Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The award was presented as part of the SACSCOC virtual national meeting on Dec. 6. The presentation was made by Dr. Ivan Allen, Central Georgia Technical College president, in his role as President of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees.
“Her colleagues note that her knowledge of the standards and her collegial manner sets a good tone for visits,” Dr. Allen said. “Dr. Anglin, thank you for your service.”
A reliable participant for SACSCOC, Dr. Anglin has served on 21 committee reviews, including two cluster offsite reviews, and has chaired six of them. She served as a member of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees from 2008 to 2013 and also as a member of the Committee on Compliance and Reports during that time.
“Thank you for this honor,” said Dr. Anglin. “Serving on committees and on the Board of Trustees has been a great experience; to be able to work with and learn from so many wonderful professionals from colleges across our region.”
SACSCOC is an educational accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. This agency accredits over 13,000 public and private educational institutions ranging from preschool to college level in the Southern United States.
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Paris Junior College President Dr. Pam Anglin received the 2021 Carol A. Luthman Meritorious Service Award from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Making Holiday Recipes Healthier
By Johanna Hicks, Texas AgriLife Extension Family & Community Health Agent, Hopkins County
Holiday meals can be made healthier without any significant difference in taste by using some basic recipe substitutions or alterations. According to my colleague, Dr. Jenna Anding, specialist in the Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences at Texas A&M University, sugar, fat and sodium content of many holiday recipes can be easily reduced without a noticeable difference in taste.
If a recipe calls for a half-cup of oil, shortening or other fat, try one-third cup instead. If it calls for one cup of sugar, try using three-fourths or two-thirds of a cup. Another suggestion is to use reduced-fat or non-fat cheese, milk, cream cheese, cottage, cheese, yogurt or mayonnaise instead of higher-fat counterparts. For mashed potatoes, try using defatted broth instead of butter to reduce both fat and calories while still adding flavor.
Modifying a complicated recipe may not always produce the desired texture, so Anding suggests testing the recipe on friend or family before going “all in” on a holiday meal. Many holiday foods are already nutritious as long as they are not “embellished’ with too much sugar or fat. he sweet potato, for example, contains fiber a well as vitamins A and C. A medium-sized sweet potato contains about 100 calories, but many people add brown sugar, butter and other ingredients which really ups the calorie count. A baked sweet potato with a touch of brown sugar and cinnamon is far healthier than one topped with butter, sugar, and marshmallows.
Fresh cranberries are another healthy option for the holiday recipes. Unlike canned cranberries or cranberry sauce, which often contain added sugar, fresh cranberries are naturally healthful. They contain phytonutrients and have anti-inflammatory properties that can promote health and may reduce the risk of disease. Adding fresh cranberries to salads and baked items such as muffins, cookies, and pies is also a good way to sneak in some extra nutrition and flavor.
For holiday vegetable dishes, the healthiest method of cooking is either steaming or roasting vegetables using a small amount of oil or cooking spray. Add herbs and spices can enhance flavor for many side dishes without adding fat or calories. You can expect to take in some extra calories during the holidays, but try to plan accordingly so you can keep your calories intake in check. Anding reminds everyone to schedule in some type of physical activity to help burn all those extra calories. Taking a walk is a great way to soak up some sunshine and burn a few calories.
If you haven’t already signed up for AgriLife Extension’s Dinner Tonight website, take note. Dinner Tonight aims to promote family mealtime by providing quick, easy, healthful and cost-effective recipes. In addition to recipes, the program provides free weekly video demonstrations of cooking tips and techniques along with information on nutrition, menu planning and healthy living. Go to https://dinnertonight.tamu.edu/ to sign up for this free resource. While you’re on the site, be sure to check out recipes such as Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes, Cranberry Crunch Salad, Broccoli Salad, and Cornbread Fiesta Muffins.
Master Wellness Volunteer Training Reminder
We are currently taking registrations for the Master Wellness Volunteer program. Participants will be trained in the areas of heath, food safety, childhood nutrition, and more. The training will consist of both face-to-face and on-line sessions. This is a state-wide cohort, and Hopkins County is proud to be part of the effort. There are currently 10 active Master Wellness Volunteers in Hopkins County, and we would love to have interested individuals join the force! Contact my office at 903-885-3443 for more information.
Closing Thought
“If you work on your goals, you goals will work for you. If you work on your plan, your plans will work for you Whatever good things we build end up building us.”
-Jim Rohn
Johanna Hicks may be contacted at Texas A&M AgriLife Extension office in Hopkins County by mail at P.O. Box 518, 1200-B West Houston St., Sulphur Springs, TX 75483; by phone at 903-885-3443 or by email at [email protected].
Grant Writer Selected For TDHCA Grant Application To Help Fund New Larger Senior Citizens Center Building
The delayed start of construction of the new senior citizens center building could in the long run end up helping the city in more ways than one – as the wait meant the city is able to apply for grant which would not only help keep up with the rising costs of materials but allow the design to be expanded.
The project, along with renovations at Pacific Park, were approved by voters in 2019. The city sought bonds which will be paid back over the next 20 years using Economic Development funding. While the city was able to get the new Grays Building built before costs of materials increased too significantly, the same could not be said for the planned senior citizens building has been delayed several months.
“We have a million and a half budgeted to build the senior citizens center and we’ve had the difficulty getting the final work product from the architect. We told the architect that we wanted to base it off of a pre-engineered metal frame it wasn’t designed that way, so we sent it back and said we’re not going to build a wooden building because this will be much less expensive if we build the pre-engineered metal frame route,” City Manager Marc Maxwell explained to the Sulphur Springs City Council during the regular December board meeting. “So they did it, and precisely then, the price of steel went through the roof. So the rescue comes the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs Community Resiliency Program.”
Applicants may request between $500,000 and $5 million in funding to assist with costs of projects. Senior citizens centers are specifically noted as one of the type of projects eligible for funding.
“We want to apply for this but TDA, Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, they do not want to deal with cities directly. They require that we hire a firm that does grant writing and more importantly grant administration if we are receive the grant,” Maxwell noted.
To select a grant writer/administrator, the city sent out four request to firms the staff new were qualified. The city received three responses back with qualifications. A selection committee composed of Maxwell, Mayor Pro Temp/Place 6 Councilman Doug Moore, two of the city’s three assistant city managers scored the responses, and based on the results chose KSBR.
Maxwell said he anticipates applying for $1.5 million. The initial cost for the grant application is $200,000. The award for administration would be 10 percent of the $3 million project cost, not the grant amount. The city officials contacted KSBR, and were told the firm would provide the services for 13% of the $1.5 million, or $195,000. All of that would be covered with grant funding.
“So, basically, we’ve already allocated a million-and-half dollars to the senior citizens center. We got that through that special bond election. So, this additional one-and-a-half million is going to allow us to increase the size of the building?” Place 1 Councilman Jay Julian asked.
Maxwell affirmed that the additional $1.5 million would not only cover additional costs of materials but also allow the city to increase the size of the building.
“Even though costs have gone up considerably because of inflation, this is still going to allow us to get the building that we want, furnished the way we want, designed the way we want. So, it’s going to be a $3 million project?” Julian asked. “We had the original million-and-a-half and we’re going to apply for a grant that we hope we win for another million-and-a-half. So, a $3 million project cost?”
“That’s what we expect, but we are still waiting on final construction estimates from Don Roundtree. That’s kind of where we think we are headed. It might be a little more or a little less, that’s the neighborhood,” Maxwell said.
Julian then asked how big of a size increase a grant expansion would fund.
“I think the original was 8311, but we made a little bit of expansion to that so it might be around 8500 original,” Sulphur Springs Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski said. “I think with this expansion it gets us up in the 11,000-square foot range, which is kind of what our desired output was from the onset, but due to budget constraints we had to reduce things to try to make it work. Which 8500-square foot is what we thought we could get, but as Marc indicated when we went out for steel bids, the price of those was a quarter-million higher just the steel erection package.”
Julian said based on his research using glassdoor.com and salary.com showed the 13% requested was “outrageously above average,” high even for the Dallas area.
“I used a Dallas zip code. The median is $79,038, but adjusting it upwards for the Dallas zipcode pushed the median $82,068. If the firm is outstanding, excellent, master’s degrees, 6-9-10 years in the business with excellent success rates, it pushes it to $90,791,” Councilman Julian said. “So, 13% seems like a lot of money. What I would query is, the other firms that did actually submit bids, did their fees match or close to the 13 percent, or were they under the impression as well it was going to be a project cost versus a grant fee, the $1.5 million?”
Maxwell said the request was for statement qualifications not a proposed fee. Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Lesa Smith reported all did submit fees. One asked for 11.5-12% and the other was 5%. The proposed cost was 20% of the overall score from the selection committee.
A guiding factor in selecting KSBR over the other two firms submitting RFQs was KSBR’s experience doing other local projects and a lot of experience with Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, which the selection committee felt would improve the city’s chances of receiving the grant. Otherwise, all three firms were very qualified, according to Mayor Pro Tem Moore said.
Julian asked if KSBR was selected, how much that would cut down on the work required on the part of city staff related to the preparation of the grant application, then again in tracking the funding if the city is awarded the grant.
Moore said it was his impression that that was the case, that it would lighten the load of city employees when it comes to grant preparation and a administration.
“They’ve done this, they do that, and they work daily at it,” Moore said.
“So this is going to be a friction-free process?” Julian enqired.
“Nothing is friction free, but close to it,” Moor replied
“For that kind of money, I expect it to be pretty light on us,” Julian replied.
“Like I said, one of the main considerations was their experience with this agency,” Moore said. “If we don’t get it, it doesn’t help us.”
Mayor John Sellers recused himself from discussion and voting on the agenda item, citing degree of degree of consanguinity. Stepping from the room until the council completed both.
Place 3 Councilman Oscar Aguilar made the motion, which Julian seconded, to select KSBR LC to prepare the grant application for the TDHCA Community Resiliency Program grant funding as well as contract implementation services for the grant if the City of Sulphur Springs is selection as a grant recipient, with funding for those services to be paid out of the grant. The rest of the City Council then unanimously approved Resolution No. 1284 to employee KSBR at a rate of 13% of the Community Resiliency Program grant and authorized the city manager to execute the agreement with KSBR.
Opioid Abatement Fund
Also during the Dec. 7 meeting, the City Council at the recommendation of Maxwell approved Resolution No. 1283 to join the Texas Opioid Abatement Fund Council in order to receive a portion of the settlement awarded.
Maxwell said Texas Attorney General’s Office called to see if the city wanted to participate and noted that a City Council resolution was needed to make that official.
No Cookie Walk: Amazing Christmas Tree Raffle is CASA Fundraiser 2021
During the Christmas season 2021, 12 beautiful hand-decorated Christmas trees were donated to Lake Country Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) by local business, organizations and individuals to help CASA volunteers in a fundraising promotion. The funding needed is for the work they do for the abused and neglected children within the Lake County CASA 5-county region.
The 2021 fundraiser was titled “Miracles on Connally Street.” Following a period of ticket sales from their 218 Connally Street offices, Gina Law and her staff of volunteers ended the promotion on December 8 by announcing the winners of the trees.
This year’s imaginative fundraiser took the place of CASA’s traditional Cookie Walk; however, Gena and the staff hope to be able to restore the Cookie Walk next year.
Now for the Winners! The Nutcracker Tree was won by Carolyn Clifton, Shannon Kelly the Flowerland Gift Card, Tim Glenn selected the tree donated by CNB, Kristi Brewer the Aggie Tree donated by the Aggie Mom’s Club, Marquita Fisher picked the North Pole tree donated by the Mother’s Culture Club, Todd Connor took the Winter Wonderland Tree by Como Pickton High School Interior Designers, Kim Rogers won the Christmas Express Tree by Alliance Bank, Tom Sellers was awarded the Family Fun Night prize donated by the SSHS Key Club, the Santa’s Elf Tree went to Marie Halcuh donated by Lake Country CASA, Michelle Kultgen took the Moo-ey Christmas Tree from Yorri Franklin and Chick Filet, and Cindy Hill chose the Wreath designed by Rose of Sharon, Laverne Hipp selected the Texas Tech Tree created by Stacy Moore, and Charles Usry the Texas Longhorn Tree, designed by Sarah Goggans of CASA. Congratulations to al the winners!
If you would like to give a gift this Christmas or anytime of year to Lake Country Court Appointed Special Advocates, a nonprofit organization, donation may be mailed to CASA, 281 Connally Street, Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482. Find out more about the organization at lakecountrycasa.org, on the Lake County Casa Facebook page, or by calling 903-885-1173.
Both Basketball Teams in Action, Plus Both Soccer Teams Have First Scrimmage Tomorrow
With Christmas approaching, plenty of teams will be in action this weekend.
Both basketball teams have games, plus both soccer squads have their first scrimmage tomorrow.
The men’s basketball team are the first team in action on this Friday game day, in day two of the Forney tournament.
The tourney is the second for the Wildcats this season.
Yesterday, Coach Brandon Shaver’s squad went 1-1 on day one. They started the tournament at 1:30 P.M. against Wylie on Thursday, Dec. 9 but fell to the Pirates 65-56.
Sulphur Springs did bounce back by beating the host Forney later Thursday afternoon 62-53.
The 1-1 record puts Coach Brandon Shaver’s squad at 11-3.
Next up, the Wildcats will be back in the Forney tournament on Friday, Dec. 10 first against Dallas Carter (9-4) at 12 P.M. The second match for the men’s basketball team is against Waco at 1:30 P.M.
Sulphur Springs will be back in Forney tomorrow as well.
Moving over to the women’s basketball team, the Lady Cats are back on the road for this Friday game day.
Friday, Dec. 10 has Coach Erica Delley’s squad traveling to the coach’s alma mater in Dallas Kimball.
The women’s basketball team head in to today’s match 0-14, still looking to get their first win on the season.
Sulphur Springs lost a tough one on Tuesday when they hosted New Boston, falling to the Lady Lions 56-16.
The match today in Dallas will be a mid-afternoon one starting with JV at noon followed by the varsity at 1:30 P.M.
Moving over to Saturday, Dec. 11, both soccer teams are all too ready to get back on the pitch to begin their season.
The women’s soccer team have their first scrimmage on the road tomorrow.
The Lady Cats, lead by head coach Javier Aguayo, will be in Athens at noon on Saturday, Dec. 11.
JV will get the action going in Athens at 10 A.M. and Coach Aguayo’s varsity Lady Cats will follow at noon.
The men’s soccer team on Saturday, Dec. 11 will be at home for their first scrimmage when they host a quad-match between the Wildcats, Celina, Pittsburg and Lindale.
That scrimmage tourney will commence at 9 A.M. and will conclude later Saturday at 3 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.
