Fall Armyworms: How to Spot Them and What to Do, by Mario Villarino
Developed by Dr. Mario A. Villarino, County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources Hopkins County, Texas
Recent rainfall events have been a major problem this summer.
As a result of this rainfall, fall armyworms (Spodoptera frugiperda) are thriving across the northern, central and eastern portions of Texas.
Below is some information on the biology of the pest, how to scout for them, and control options to mitigate damage. Fall armyworm caterpillars are primarily identifiable by two features. The head will have apparent white markings that form an upside down “Y” pattern.
The second feature is that the last couple segments of the caterpillar will have black bumps that form a square or rectangle. There are multiple methods that are available to scout for FAW caterpillars. The more common method is to get on your hands and knees and closely inspect the grass. During hot days, check the lower parts of the plant or soil surface where they may be hiding from the harsh temperatures.
Sweep nets are a very good and easy to use tool for sampling for FAW in tall grass. Another method is to run your hands across a 1-2 square foot area and knock the caterpillars to the soil surface. Then, simply inspect the soil for dislodged caterpillars.
Regardless of the scouting method, take note of the size of the caterpillars. Smaller caterpillars (<1/2 inch) are less damaging. Larger caterpillar (>1/2 inch) should be treated soon to prevent greater damage. If using a sweep net, then treat at 2 or more caterpillars ½ inch or larger per sweep.
If making visual inspections, then treat if you have 2 or more FAW caterpillars per square foot. If you are picking up larger numbers of small caterpillars, then treatment is also justified. Most of the time fields are either well below or well above threshold.
If the grass is being used for hay and is near harvest, then harvest early to prevent extra feeding damage. However, be aware that the caterpillars may consume the cut hay, so this is not always a wise option.
Insecticide applications should be made early in the morning or late in the evening if possible, to ensure caterpillars come into contact with insecticide. During hotter parts of the day, caterpillars may be out of the canopy and avoid maximum insecticide exposure.
There are many insecticides that can be used to control FAW caterpillars. Pyrethroids are relatively cheap and readily available. These insecticides take roughly three days to achieve maximum effectiveness against small and large caterpillars.
Pyrethroid insecticides tend to have a short residual period and can be washed off by rains. This lack of rain fast protection can be a problem with the recent weather and possible overlapping generations of fall armyworm caterpillars.
Addition of a product like Dimilin (or generic products with diflubenzuron) can increase the residual control period to 10-12 days, eliminating caterpillars that emerge in that timeframe. Neither pyrethroids nor Dimilin will continue providing control if rain occurs though.
Another fairly inexpensive option in Intrepid (or generic products with methoxyfenozide). This product will provide residual control for about 7 days, but it must be eaten to kill the caterpillar and is not rain fast.
If rain is a continuous issue, the only truly rain fast options are products such as Prevathon, Vantacor, or Besiege. All of these products contain the active ingredient chlorantraniliprole, but Besiege also contains a pyrethroid. These products are absorbed by the leaf tissue and are rain fast upon drying.
While these products are more expensive, they do provide excellent residual activity and will persist longer at the higher rate. For example, Prevathon at 14 fl-oz/ac will typically provide 14 days control, and a 20 fl-oz/ac rate will provide 20-21 days of control.
For additional questions about FAW control, please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443. Always use an insecticide according to the label.
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is not responsible for insecticide applications, damages, or other issues encountered.
Three Men Served With Felony Warrants Over Last 3 Days
At least three men were served with felony warrants in the last three days in Hopkins County, according to arrest reports.
SH 11 East Arrest
(HCSO jail photo)
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Nick Marney reported responding to a complaint that a 50-year-old Greenville man had failed to return a vehicle which had been loaned to him.
Marney, in arrest reports, stated Olen Shane Gillean was located around 11 p.m. Monday, July 19, 2021, at a State Highway 11 east address in Hopkins County. Aware Gillean had an outstanding warrant for his arrest, the sheriff’s deputy took the Greenville man into custody on the charge.
Gillean was booked into Hopkins County jail and was held on the warrant for violation of parole, which arrest reports show he was on for theft of property valued at $20,000-$100,000. The offense occurred on March 17, 2021.
CR 4748 Disturbance Complaint
HCSO Deputy Dan Turrentine and Deputy Kevin Lester responded at 1 p.m. July 17, 2021, to a disturbance on County Road 4748. Upon arrival, the sheriff’s deputies reported finding Donald Henry Murphy at the location.
A records check showed the 36-year-old Sulphur Springs man to be wanted.
The deputies took Murphy into custody and transported him to the county jail, where he was booked at 1:33 p.m. Saturday for violation of parole. Murphy was held in Hopkins County jail without bond on the warrant Tuesday, July 20, 2021.
Murphy too was found to have an outstanding Titus County warrant for burglary of vehicles as well; it was added to his list of charges later July 17.
SH 19 North/CR 1106 Traffic Stop
HCSO Deputy Chris Baumann and Sgt. Scott Davis stopped Tidwell Clyde Henry just before 7 p.m. July 18, 2021, on State Highway 19 north at County Road 11065 because the Hyundai he was driving had an expired registration.
A records check showed the Dekalb man to be wanted in Lamar and Cass County. The deputies transported the 32-year-old man to Hopkins County jail, where he was booked on a Lamar County bond surrender on forgery charge and a Cass County warrant for violation of probation, which he was for a larceny charge.
Henry remained in Hopkins County jail Tuesday, July 20, 2021. The Dekalb man’s bonds totaled $20,750 – $20,000 on the Lamar County charge and $750 on the Cass County charge.
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.
Summertime Is Fun – But Heat-Related Illness Is Nothing To Joke About
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs has ONE mission: To Extend the Health Ministry of Jesus Christ.
By Holly Ragan, Senior Market Development, CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, [email protected]
Safe Summer Measures
The July heat is here! With temperatures frequenting the triple digits this month, be aware that heat-related injuries are a real threat.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke result from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, usually in combination with dehydration, which leads to failure of the body’s temperature control system. Common symptoms include nausea, seizures, confusion, disorientation, and sometimes loss of consciousness or coma. Symptoms that do not go away in a reasonable amount of time by going to a cool place, drinking water, or loosening clothing can indicate the onset of serious medical issues like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
With the rise in temperatures, it is best practice to be prepared and seek medical help immediately when required. Summertime is fun – but the heat-related illness is nothing to joke about!
COVID Vaccine Clinics:
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will host a COVID Vaccine Clinic every Friday morning from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the main lobby of the hospital beginning July 23, 2021 through August 27, 2021. The available vaccine brands will be the Moderna (2-doses) and Johnson & Johnson (1-dose), and are available for ages 18-years and older. Appointments not required.
**Please help us preserve our masks for clinical use, and BRING YOUR OWN MASK**
We are asking that all visitors to the hospital bring their own mask, and continue to wear a mask while present inside the hospital at this time. Thank you for your continued support of the safety of our patients and associates.
Hospital Visitation – *UPDATES
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.
- Emergency Department entrance open 24/7
- Main Entrance open 7 a.m. to 2 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 at a time and 1 visitor
- Essential support person will be given a visible wrist band
- ICU/ER: 1 essential support person only
- All other patients may have 1 essential support person at a time and 1 visitor
- Types of Visitors:
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
We are needing volunteers to help in various different roles throughout our hospital. We are asking, if you are willing to give your time, so that together we can bring a smile to someone in our hospital! For more information, contact Meredith Caddell at 903.438.4678.
We love our patients, and it shows!
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital Sulphur Springs strives to make sure every patient and their family feel like they are important and receiving the highest quality of care. This success is reflected in our Patient Experience Scores.
Every patient will receive a survey following their encounter in our hospital or clinics. Please take the time to let us know how we are doing, and how we might better serve you. We appreciate your feedback!
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
A Government Class at the Paris Junior College Sulphur Springs Campus
GOVERNMENT REVIEW
Harrison Allen and Patrick Miller listen as their instructor, Cynthia Loftin, reviews information in their government class at the PJC-Sulphur Springs Center campus.
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.
NETBIO Present Scholarships at Sale
Sulphur Springs Livestock Commission
Public Information Services (NETBIO)
NETBIO PRESENT SCHOLARSHIPS AT SALE
Cattle producers and buyers attending the Northeast Texas Beef Improvement Organization (NETBIO) cattle sale at the Sulphur Springs Livestock Auction Friday witnessed the presentation of college scholarships to students majoring in agriculture.
NETBIO awards these scholarships each year to young college students from the Northeast Texas area that are interested in completing their degrees and returning to the area to practice their agriculture-related trades. The scholarships were established in the names of Veterinarian J. D. Norris and cattleman Jim Jacobs, both of whom were instrumental in organizing NETBIO.
NETBIO CEO Kregg Slakey presented the $1,500 scholarships and introduced the recipients to the livestock sale audience. Slakey is the new CEO, just taking over this month from retiring CEO Dwyatt Bell, who has held the office since NETBIO was established in 1996.
Receiving the J.D. Norris scholarship was Lauren Labay of Altair, Texas, a first-year student in the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Receiving the Jim Jacobs NETBIO scholarships were Haley Byrd of Daingerfield, a sophomore Ag Leadership and Communications major at Texas A&M-Commerce; Kelley Smith of Sulphur Springs, who is seeking a Master’s Degree in Ag Science from A&M-Commerce; and Ann-Marie Robinson of Seagoville, working on her masters in agriculture at A&M-Commerce.
Slakey said NETBIO members are proud of the young people seeking agriculture degrees and glad that through these scholarships NETBIO member/producers can help them attain their dream.
NETBIO was organized to promote pre-conditioned stocker and feeder calf production and to hold sales offering producers the opportunity to sell their cattle in truckload lots. Eight sales are held each year in Sulphur Springs.
To receive a brochure and additional information about the organization and upcoming sales, call 903-885-2455.
NETBIO SCHOLARS
Receiving the 2021 Northeast Texas Beef Improvement Organization (NETBIO) college scholarships at the NETBIO cattle sale Friday were, from left, Kelley Smith of Sulphur Springs, Ann-Marie Robinson of Seagoville and Hailey Byrd of Dangerfield. Presenting the awards was Kregg Slakey, right, CEO of NETBIO.
Wildcats Football 2021 Season Schedule Released
On Monday, July 19, Wildcats football head coach and Athletic Director Greg Owens released the 2021 season schedule to KSST Radio.
The season kicks off on August 27 when the Wildcats host the Frisco Wakeland Wolverines. The Wildcats lost their season opener to the Wolverines in Frisco last year at Toyota Stadium, home to FC Dallas.
Coach Owens’ squad will have a chance to avenge their lopsided loss to Lucas Lovejoy last year when they travel to the metroplex for two straight games; on Sept. 3, the Wildcats will take on Lovejoy, and the following Friday, Sept. 10, Sulphur Springs will take on Kaufman.
Coach Matt Young, OC for the Wildcats, said the first five scrimmages and games for Sulphur Springs come fall will be against top-10 programs; Pleasant Grove will be featured in the top-10 this season, Frisco Wakeland sports a top-10 defense, Lovejoy is a top program in the state, and Kauffman won the state 7-on-7 tournament in the summer.
After a tough season-opening stretch in which the Wildcats will be tested early and often, they will have a chance to win one at home on Homecoming, Sept. 17, when they host Crandall.
The last time those two teams played last year, it was a game full of fireworks as the Wildcats beat the Pirates on the road by a score of 72-44.
After homecoming in mid-September, though, Greg Owens and his staff will be taking on several opponents that they did not get the chance to play last year due to COVID-19 cancellations.
Over a seven week stretch, Sulphur Springs will be playing three of six teams that they were set to play last year but could not due to various COVID-19 cancellations.
On Sept. 24 the Wildcats will travel out to Ennis to take on the Lions. After a bye on Oct. 1, the following week Sulphur Springs will be back at home to host Royse City, another opponent Greg Owens and his players were set to take on last year.
As the season progresses to the home stretch, the Wildcats will be taking on familiar foes that they played last year; in mid-October they will travel to Corsicana and the week after that Sulphur Springs is back at home hosting Greenville.
On Oct. 29 the Wildcats will celebrate Senior Night when they host Forney, and Sulphur Springs will round out their season with a game at North Forney on Nov. 4.
But before the season gets underway versus Wakeland on Aug. 27, the Wildcats will have two scrimmages the two Fridays leading up to that; first versus Liberty Eylau on August 13, then taking on Pleasant Grove on August 20.
KSST is proud to be the official Wildcat and Lady Cat Station. We broadcast Sulphur Springs ISD games year round live on radio. When allowed, we also broadcast games via our YouTube channel.
Sulphur Springs Turns Page On New Chapter With Downtown West Planning
The City of Sulphur springs turned the page Monday on a new chapter in downtown development, with the start of planning for Downtown West, which Ian Lockwood of Toole Design Group calls “the next step in the evolution of downtown.” Downtown West is the area loosely bounded by Mulberry, Rogers/Magnolia and Van Sickle streets and the Kansas City Southern railroad tracks.
Lockwood and his team of urban design professionals crafted, based on community input, the design for downtown, specifically Celebration Plaza. The Toole Design Group team returned to Sulphur Springs Monday to kickoff the Downtown West design process with a presentation, then, sharing of ideas from a room filled almost to capacity with community members eager hear and share their concerns and visions for the space.
The idea is create a new compelling project that fits the communities wants and needs, while tying into Celebration Plaza and the improvements on Connally and Main Street, that offers additional housing and attractions to bring community residents and visitors to the area for a break, activities or a quiet stroll by the water.
Taken into consideration when planning the renovation of the downtown square were views, far and near, keeping it in sight. The team will take into consideration the bones of the area, the block size and structure; street designs such as on-street parking, lighting and sidewalks, bridge designs; lot dimensions; and of the space available for redesign.
Lockwood presented a couple of sketch of a few possible ideas, but noted that the official plan will be developed using ideas pitched by the community the July 19 meeting as well as during two charrettes, hosted throughout the day by appointment Tuesday and Wednesday, with two times designated for open comments. That is a two hour block set aside July 20 and 21 that is open for anyone to drop by and talk with the design team, to relay ideas about what they’d like or not like to see, and what community members feel are important to see in the area to be renovated in the future.
Anyone can stop by the new HW Grays Building between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 20, or 10 a.m. to 12 noon Wednesday, July 21, 2021, for the “open studio,” to discuss ideas and needs for the Downtown West project. The team will then come up with based on top ideas relayed during the three days a possible design for Downtown West. That preliminary data will be part of a final planning presentation from Toole Design Group from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 22, at the Grays Building in Pacific Park.
Some of the potential opportunities include housing options, such as town houses with little or no yard to tend, passive open spaces designed for all ages and abilities, water experiences such as a stream, canal, lake and accessibility for utilizing natural structures such as Town Branch.
The area could incorporate open spaces such using park and water features to define the area, include active and passive spaces, regular and routine activities, event potential and flexibility of space.
Alignment, widgth, edge designs, water access, bridge and viewing opportunities, seating, paths and lighting and town history are aspects of the Town Branch to consider. One thing proposed is a lake close to downtown. Things to work out for that would be the shape of it, embankment design, public access, a boardwalk, incorporating it as a key factor in development of Downtown West, views, plants and fluctuating water levels due to the natural flow of drainage in the area and potential drought./
Art and themes could be educational, interpretive, comfortable and enjoyable and be reflected in buildings, landscape, bridges and spaces but each be unique.
Shade from the heat, possible edible landscape such as a community garden, materials and best use of native plants should be considered when developing the landscape.
After Lockwood’s presentation Monday evening, those present were asked to work with others at their table using markers, a poster board and map provided to respond to two prompts:
- List key values that should shape the area.
- What is missing that you would like to see created?
After about 25-30 minutes of table discussions, some including Toole Design team members, Lockwood then asked one spokesperson for each of the 12 tables to share what they came up with.
The community did not disappoint, each with several similar priorities but varied ideas of how to achieve them.
The first table reported that while downtown has various weekend events, it’s missing permanent fun activities, something exciting for all, play areas with safe spaces for kids and water features other than the spray fountain on the square shaded and varied seating options, maybe porch swings, food trucks, patios with fun environments in any structures in the area, a hotel or other lodging where people who come to Sulphur Springs can stay in or near downtown instead of having to drive from the interstate, maybe a carousel, train rides or something similar that kids can jump on and ride for fun.
Another table noted Downtown West should remain a quiet area, neat area where people can stop and hear the water running through it as they walk it sit reflecting. Also suggested was the incorporation of elements from the city’s history, maybe finding ways to reflect that and play it up on structures, something to remind people of the horses that people rode to town and the dairy industry. The suggested using the area behind city hall to park food trucks, where people could get a snack or meal, then walk the area to the bottom of the “canal.”
Table three also expressed a desire for Downtown West to be family friendly, with a walkable and bike trail, something to draw retail traffic downtown to it. If a bridge were installed across Main Street, it’s need to be pedestrian friendly, with a safe walkway over it. Suggested was concrete platform near the Brewery where bands could play, a splash pad for people to enjoy since the city no longer has a public pool. The area, the community members said, should be Wi-Fi accessible, had a drought plan to address potential times of drought which would impact water levels of any water attractions or bodies, including perhaps a lake behind the police station, and additional parking.
Group four asked for benches and kid attractions, art pieces, a walking path and casual seating along a walking path and perhaps a waterfall. They also suggested housing that is more like cottages than condo, to better reflect small town life with a quiet, quaint community feel. Food options different from those currently available at downtown restaurants without ruining the ambiance of the space, which they’d like to include some type of “funky draw” like the glass toilets on the square but different, as well as a reflection area where one can go to sit and calm the mind or perhaps even a prayer garden. Table four would like to see an amphitheater by a lake.
Table five suggested multifamily structures, quiet tranquil patios and something for younger people who are living downtown to do on a regular basis, and retail for the housed population, underground utilities so they don’t obstruct the planned landscape. A dog park was suggested as so many have pets these days. They’d like to see more parking incorporated, electric charging stations for cars that seems to be the direction things are going. The members of that table noted the need in any street for roads wide enough to accommodate public safety vehicles, such as fire trucks and ambulances. A large permanent water source like a river walk for people to enjoy visiting as well as options for things such as boat rides were also suggested. The group recommended marketing to make it clear where the money is coming from: that it is a city project, not a county-funded project. They liked the idea of edible landscape such as a community garden and would like to see some type of public transportation, maybe even bike or scooter rentals to help those enjoying the area to get from point A to point B.
Table six also would like to see a livable, walkable neighborhood with attractions for family interactions, while incorporating the town’s history, such as the natural springs behind the police department. Those community members suggested a change in topography.
One resident asked for an urban grocery incorporated into the design to serve those living in the area, so they wouldn’t have to drive south for food and basic home supplies.
Community members at another table suggested adjusting lighting so that there’s plenty of lighting to make Downtown West a safe space where people want to be, to drawn them to the area after dark as well as during the day, but that isn’t so bright you can see the lights from space or the interstate. The area, they noted, should interconnect with downtown, which should be visible, but have it’s own feel while complementing the feel established downtown. A drought and storm water reduction plan should be devised to best maximize without exhausting the water supply to the area. A board walk wouldn’t be too appealing without water. They group would also like to see historic ties to the area, perhaps kiosks with information.
Another table focused on water features that would appeal to the masses, as well as visible, accessible gathering spaces, while incorporating history and being a calming destination. Parking and a biking/walking trail also were important to that group of individuals. They took would like there to be a place for visitors to stay a few nights while enjoying the culture of the beautiful downtown area
Table 10 said while many of the previously mentioned visions were discussed, having shade trees and focusing on the architecture of the area were important to them. They’d like each area to be a photo destination, from walks to bridges. They too would like it to tie into the downtown while having it’s own unique features as well. They suggested perhaps an entrance on Main Street welcoming people to the area, making it seem more like a destination. Suggested was a white canvas cover in the shape of boat sails to provide additional shade. being sure to include the people and animals that are part of Sulphur Springs’ history too was suggested.
Table 11 suggested after addressing parking, making the area more of a promenade than a city street, putting parking elsewhere. It should be water accessible, perhaps with fountains. With all that walking, however, people should have the ability to rehydrate nearby, maybe with food trucks, kiosks or small stands where people can grab a lemonade and corndog for the kids. Dark Sky lighting which illuminates down, not up similar to the solar lighting at Coleman Park that is motion activated. They’d like to see more homes and a hotel or overnight lodging space as well.
Another individual said she’d like to see Downtown West connect to downtown, yet be so visible inviting that people won’t want to get in their cars to leave, but to stroll the area and enjoy it. It shouldn’t feel separate from downtown, she said.
One group suggested providing for everyday needs downtown, so that individuals who live downtown won’t have to drive to the store. Pocket parks and structures with open seating looking out over the area were recommended. Capturing the historic past, the sulfur springs that earned the city its name and the values of the forefathers too should be incorporated into other design, the community members recommended. Outdoor structures and murals were also noted.
Another community member suggested a windmill feature to draw more water to an area that’d be more intimate, quieter than downtown.
Finally, dog parks, unusual structures, restaurant patios that blend into the design, water features such as paddle boats or kayaking, were among the suggestions offered by the community members present at Monday’s Downtown West planning meeting.
Travel Tuesday: Atlas World Navigator Set To Sail August 4th
Atlas Ocean Voyages’ new ship will take it’s inaugural voyage on August 4th from Athens, Greece. The World Navigator will spend nine days at sea and wind up in Alexandria, Egypt with stops in several ports throughout Greece and a special opportunity for it’s passengers to view the pyramids in Cairo at night. The smaller Atlas ships are designed to visit smaller ports that larger ships cannot. The 196 passengers on the inaugural cruise will have six different dining options spread across the six passenger decks. This new ship is packed with the latest technologically advanced systems including a hybrid propulsion system that uses one-fifth the fuel of conventional cruise ships.
Atlas Ocean Voyages is a new cruise line with smaller luxury ships that specializes in bucket-list worthy adventures. Their first ship, World Navigator, is the first of what will be a fleet of five similar sized ships to be released by the end of 2023. From the Black Sea to South America and even voyages to Antarctica, Atlas offers destinations for spirited travelers that larger cruise ships cannot reach. Atlas’ signature “All Inclusive All The Way” program provides all guests a complete and seamless experience by including complimentary round-trip air travel, choice of a shore excursion at every port, prepaid gratuities, polar parkas, emergency medical evacuation insurance, premium wine and spirits, international beers and coffees, Wi-Fi, L’OCCITANE bath amenities, and regionally inspired gourmet dining. In every stateroom, guests enjoy binoculars to use on board, en suite coffee, tea and personalized bar service, and butler service in suites.
Atlas welcomes travelers to ‘come back to something brand new’ in the brand’s ongoing marketing campaign “At Last… Atlas” (www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com/itstime.) To learn more, please visit www.AtlasOceanVoyages.com.
9-Night Athens to Cairo: Immersive Egypt:
For more information or to request pricing contact us at: [email protected]
Sulphur Springs Hosts Final Round Of Texas WaterX Championship
It’s finally here! Make plans to attend the professional Jet Ski race event in Sulphur Springs THIS weekend: July 24th to 25th. Saturday 8-5 pm and Sunday 8-3 pm.
Admission is free to the public and features food venders, local business booths, jet ski performances, and action-packed racing!
Jettribe is proud to be the Title Sponsor of the final round of the Texas WaterX Championship watercraft race series, sanctioned by the IJSBA, in our hometown of Sulphur Springs. Winners of the Sulphur Spring’s Championship will be crowned Texas State Champions.
Watercraft racers from all over Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Kansas, and guest Jettribe Team Riders from California will be battling it out for the championship. This inaugural event at Lake Coleman is the final battleground for the Jettribe Texas WaterX Series, and only the best riders with fine-tuned race machines will find themselves on top of the podium.
Jettribe wishes many thanks to the City of Sulphur Springs, EDC, Hopkins Chamber of Commerce, and our sponsors’ for hosting this historic event! A huge shoutout to race organizers Terry and Justin from Nauti Water Racing, along with their staff and the race competitors for making this event happen.
Details for vendors, hotel information, and racer registration can be found on our website www.jettribe.com/events/.
Cumby Man Jailed On 2 DWI With Child Passenger Warrants
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Scott Davis and Deputy Justin Wilkerson stopped a GM Safari at 8:42 p.m. Saturday on State Highway 11 at FM 3134 for a traffic violation. A records check showed driver Victor Miranda-Cervantes to be wanted on two warrants for driving while intoxicated with a child passenger 15 years of age.
Miranda-Cervantes was accused March 20, 2021, of driving drunk with 3 children under 10 years of age in the SUV with him. He was stopped around 10 p.m. that Saturday for a traffic violation and had red eyes, and alcohol was smelled on his breath. Beer cans were visible in his SUV, including one can between a child’s feet in the center of the back seat. He was arrested and booked into Hopkins County jail early March 21, on one DWI with child passenger charge; the children were released to Miranda-Cervantes’ son.
The 60-year-old Cumby man, who is also known by Victor M. Miranda-Sirvantes, was released from the county jail March 21, 2021, on a $5,000 bond on the driving while intoxicated with children under 15 years of age charge.. He was indicted in May 2021 on one DWI with child passenger charge.
He was arrested following the traffic stop July 17, 2021, on two additional DWI with child passenger charges, and released from Hopkins County jail Monday, July 19, 2021, on $15,000 per felony charge.
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.
