Local Students Kick Their Way to Championships!
After a season delayed by the pandemic, four Sulphur Springs ATA Martial Arts students captured gold at the South USA District Championship Tournament last month. The invitational tournament featured the top martial artists in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. Two of these competitors also qualified to compete for the title of World Champion at the ATA Tournament of Champions July 28-30 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Karisma Stegient, took home the title of District Champion in combat sparring for 2nd-3rd Degree Black Belts 13-14 years old. Her victory earned her entry to the Tournament of Champions. Ms. Stegient also won silver medals in Creative Weapons and Extreme Weapons. Mr. Daron Bilyeu won Creative Weapons and Extreme Weapons gold and will also compete for world champion.
Abraham Shadix earned victory in his combat sparring competition, bringing home the gold medal. This is the highest championship a color belt student can earn. Ms. Terri Lusher completed the day with a gold medal in color belt sparring.
Harleigh Stegient took the silver medal in combat sparring. Michelle Mejia finished just outside the medals in 4th place in her combat sparring division. Haley Hopkins and Alexis Carlow competed with great skill and honor, but were not able to medal this year.
The ATA World Championship Tournament will conclude the 2019-2020 season and also serve as a world level tournament for the 2021-2022 season. Competing in the opening tournament will be Daron Bilyeu, Susie Chessher, Abraham Shadix, Harleigh Stegient, and Karisma Stegient.
Local students with the Sulphur Springs ATA Martial Arts will be going to the ATA Tournament of Champions July 28-30 in Phoenix, Arizona.
COVID Vaccine Clinics, Blood Drive Hosted At CHRISTUS’ Sulphur Springs facilities
Sulphur Springs, Texas – 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]
Giving the Community Our Best Shot
Our Sulphur Springs ministry is happy to report that we have administered approximately 9,200 COVID vaccines (the combination of all three brands), as well as 1,233 inpatient infusions of Remdesivir to patients in the hospital. We have also administered around 75 outpatient infusions of the MABs (Bamlanivimab/Regeneron combo). In total, we have treated 507 inpatients with COVID, 498 ER patients, and 85 observation patients, since January 1, 2020.
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 vaccines include Moderna (2-doses, ages 18 and older), Pfizer (2-doses, ages 12 and older) and Johnson & Johnson (1-dose, ages 18 and older). Appointments not required.
Carter Bloodcare Blood Drive
The Carter Bloodcare Bus will be parked in the front parking lot of our hospital in Sulphur Springs on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Our local blood supply is at an all-time low creating a serious supply issue.
To sign up to give blood, or for questions, please call Yeon Mi Kim at 903.438.4380 or call/text Carter Bloodcare at 800.366.2834. All donors will receive a free t-shirt.
Please help us preserve our masks for our healthcare providers, and BRING YOUR OWN MASK
With COVID cases rapidly increasing in our community, the hospital requires all visitor to wear a mask while in the facility. There is no entry into the hospital without a mask. Visitors may wear a cloth or medical mask. 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 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 at a time – 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 and 1 visitor (up to 2 persons in room at a time)
- 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
Although A Petition For Temporary Restraining Order, Injunction Denied, Lawsuit To Prevent Construction of Dike Solar Farm Ongoing
Following the announcement of Judge Will Biard’s decision to deny Cynthia Martin’s request that Hopkins Energy LLC and Hopkins County be issued a temporary restraining order and temporary injunction to halt construction of a large scale solar project in Dike, KSST reached out to the parties involved in the lawsuit.
Representatives for all three parties – plaintiff Martin and defendants Hopkins Energy, LLC, and Hopkins County – each provided a statement.
Robert S. Davis, attorney and senior partner at Flowers Davis PLLC, submitted the following statement on behalf of Hopkins County:
Hopkins County agrees with the Court’s decision to deny Cynthia Martin’s Application for Temporary Restraining Order and Temporary Injunction. A plaintiff like Ms. Martin is entitled to an injunction only when she has a probable right to recover, a probable, imminent, and irreparable harm, and no adequate remedy at law. The Court found that Ms. Martin’s alleged injury is too remote and speculative to warrant an injunction. Hopkins County agrees. Now that the injunction has been denied, Hopkins County looks forward to vigorously defending itself in this lawsuit.
Kevin Phelan, ENGIE North America Communications, issued the following statement on behalf of Hopkins Energy LLC:
Hopkins Energy LLC (Hopkins Energy Solar Project) believes the court made the correct decision on the requests for a temporary restraining order and a temporary injunction and looks forward to continuing to responsibly plan for design, permitting, and preparation for construction to continue.
Out of respect for the judicial process and all of the parties involved we do not comment on details of pending litigation.
The Hopkins Energy Solar Project complies with all local, state and federal law, ordinances and other regulatory requirements and will continue to complete that process in advance of construction.
The Hopkins Energy Solar Project aims to be a good long-term participant and neighbor in the Dike community and wider Hopkins County area. The development process which commenced in 2018 has included some nine public hearings as well as Townhall meetings and numerous direct community engagement activities. We are proud of the economic benefits the project will bring to the county, local school districts and the Dike community at large. We will always strive for an open, respectful, transparent and fact-based dialogue.
Joanne Hatton, attorney and counselor with Braun & Gresham Attorneys at Law, submitted the following statement on behalf of Cynthia Martin:
This recent order was only addressing the issue of a temporary restraining order and an injunction. Judge Biard stated in correspondence to the attorneys that the evidence and arguments did not warrant a temporary restraining order or an injunction at this time. We believe this may be because ENGIE’s lawyers represented in the hearing that the plan now was that no work will commence until sometime in September. This order does not speak to the merits of the case, which will be determined at trial. The primary issue here is that the Hopkins County Officials did not follow the law, did not properly inform the community and unlawfully approved an agreement to give a tax abatement to a large solar power plant company without any due diligence to protect the community. All evidence we have indicates the County officials accepted the first agreement proposed by the solar company with no negotiation and without requiring the solar power plant provide any information about the possible impacts to surrounding landowners or roadways.
There are numerous requirements for tax abatement agreements under the Local Government Code and the Texas Tax Code enacted by the Legislature to protect the public. The agreement between the county and the solar power plant company does not contain these required terms. ENGIE’s lawyers claimed at the hearing that the agreement was not required to comply with these terms because the agreement is a “grant” and not a tax abatement. The agreement between the solar power plant company and the county provides that the solar company will pay the taxes each year and then within thirty days the county will give all the tax money back in the form of a “grant.” We are confident a court of law will find that this type of scheme does not constitute a grant, but rather an abatement and that the solar power plant must comply with the requirements put in place by the Legislature to protect the public. We also believe a court of law will find that the County did not have the authority to grant either an abatement or a grant at the time they entered into the agreement with the solar power plant company and that, if the County wishes to enter into such an agreement they must give proper public notice and allow the people of the community to be heard.
Our client is not opposed to solar energy, quite the opposite. However, it is apparent that the location of this extremely large project, which will contain a sea of nearly one million solar panels in a small, unincorporated town, next to county roads that already experience flooding, is not the proper place. A water engineering study completed by Aqua Strategies found that the flow of the water off the nearly one million solar panels will cause water that otherwise would have moved across the ground in sheets to instead be concentrated the way water flows off un-guttered roofs, redirecting and concentrating the flow of water. The study also found that the project is anticipated to expand the FEMA floodplain by an unknown amount and recommended that additional analysis is required. In order to appease fears of flooding, ENGIE has claimed that they are required to submit a storm water run-off plan to TCEQ, but they are simply required to file notice stating they have such a plan on file. In the name of “green energy,” this solar company is building a solar power plant in the middle of a tiny unincorporated town, clear cutting large areas of post oak forest and spraying Round Up over the project area, which consists of over 1,500 acres. While our client is attempting to protect her property and the community of Dike, Texas, Hopkins County is a hotbed of these kinds of projects right now and it appears the Commissioners are simply rubber-stamping project after project for these companies without doing any due diligence to protect their constituents.
Hopkins County Records – July 23, 2021
Land deed transactions
- Glenn Irvin and Margaret Irvin to Andrew Wade Forsman and Story Elizabeth Thompson; tract in the Elizabeth Melton survey
- Sherie McDonald and Timothy McDonald to Hunter Ray Williams and Maison Elizabeth Williams; tract in the Agaton Caro survey
- Sapphire Group LLC to Sapphire Group LLC Series 5; tract in the Jose Y’Barbo survey
- Kevin McCarthy and Joseph Lane to REO Trust 2017-RPLI; tract in the Wm H Ravey survey
- Maria Jaime and Santiago Jaime to Grizelda Campos; tract in the William Ewing survey
- Kyle Koon to Cody Koon; tract in the Stephen Jennings survey
- High Point Estates, Jimmy Masters and Mike Moore to Karen B. Werle and Thomas R. Werle Sr.; tract in the Santos Coy survey
- Jared Reece Caddell and Kimberly Caddell to Sherie McDonald and Tim McDonald; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- Jared Price to Nicholas A. Pannell and Nickie R. Pannell; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- City Cemetery Society Sulphur Springs to Maci Fowler; tract in Sunset South
- Freddy Guante to Triad Properties; tract in the MA Bowlin survey
- John H. Heilman to Andi Leigh Haven, Parker Haven, Mary Elaine Heilman and Brittany Taylor Page; tract in the J. Y’Barbo survey
- Nita Kelty and Tim Kelty, doing business as Sulphur Springs Land Company to Pamela Swanson and Scott Swanson; tract in the JH Crowder survey
- Mark Hall and Dusty Deeann O’Bryan to Alan Screws and Kim Screws; tract in the Santos Coy survey
- Alan Screws and Kim Screws to Morgan McCary Maynard and Peyton Cody Vickery; tract in the Elizabeth Melton survey
- Richie Williams and Teresa Williams to Sam Barcenas; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- Sanfras Investment LLC to Sanfras Investments LLC-Farmhouse; tract in the John K. Kyle survey
- Nauman Anwar and Shehpara Anwar to Sanfras Investments LLC-Farmhouse; tract in the Smith Cherry survey
- Nauman Anwar and Shehpara Anwar to Sanfras Investments LLC-Farmhouse; tract in the WA Junell survey
- R4U Ventures LLC to R4U 25 LLC; tract in the Mary Ann Bowlin survey
- R4U Ventures LLC to R4U 25 LLC; tract in the Samuel McCulloch survey
Applications for Marriage Licenses
- Francisco J. Chavez Varela and Briceida Jacquelin Chavez
- Oscar Rafael Perez Duron and Brenda G. Morales Ramirez
- Jacob Randell Perkins and Lila Dlayne Sears
- Clancy Lawrence Horton and Danielle Renee Patterson
- James Tyler Moorman and Alexis Mekaela Karpinski
Downtown West Redesign Proposal Features Plenty Of Water, Shade Trees, Engaging Interactive Components
Toole Design Group unveiled a Downtown West redesign proposal Thursday evening to a room of about 40-50 people. The plan includes use of water, shade and engaging interactive components for individuals, families and children. The project likely will be completed in stages over the course of several years due to the cost and large scale of the project which will require redirecting the storm water drain system to travel north/south through Downtown West.
Toole Design Group’s Downtown West Redesign Proposal 
Map of current Downtown West area green
The Toole Design Group team, lead by Ian Blackwood, began their presentation by explaining the process they used to incorporate as many of the predominant priorities and ideas voiced by community residents over the course of three days. They noted the strengths of the area, referred to by some as Town Branch District, and fundamentals needed to create vibrant neighborhoods to support downtown, and what each of those requires.
They included five design themes: comfort; water and open space; neighborhood and land use; arts, wonder and history; and urban form. They recommended including Native American tribes, settlers, early industries, the natural sulfur springs, maybe even bathhouses from the town’s history into the design.
Because of the different ideas expressed, the design team suggested mixed use residential structures for the area, with raised housing such as apartments or town houses, that could even be mixed in with retail buildings would be off the ground, giving an element of privacy from people looking directly into residential windows. The design scheme also includes potential for native plants and even edible landscapes, with the flow of the drain water redirected, with paths and bridges. Suggested was a windmill that would actually turn and different levels so people could climb to see the city from different levels. The mill would then carry water to a “tower” that would pump water to a children’s play area.
The design would allow for expansion of city hall if the city experiences the growth that is predicted to continue east to Sulphur Springs from the Metroplex area. There storm water drainage would be rerouted to span north to south through Downtown West expansion with bridges over Connally, Main and Spring Streets, pooling in a nice sized pond in the area of The Brewery and would be bound on the south end by the train tracks.
Parking was recommended for behind the residential structures as well as central parking behind the police department on South Davis Street and a potential triangle shaped building between the police department and Downtown West, and parallel parking on the outside of Downtown West. The latter placement would provide additional parking places so as not to be aesthetically intrusive. Streets would curve to the north, with a walking trail and 8-foot sidewalk on the residential side. As buildings on Main and Connally are updated or constructed, they could incorporate key features of the town’s history.
Natural flora and fauna, perhaps of the kind to draw butterflies native to the area would dot the landscape. Native to the area vegetation, such as oak and cottonwood trees, located on both sides of street along the outside of Downtown West, forming a canopy to shield pedestrians from the extreme Texas heat during warmer months and give the path a more intimate, cathedral feel. Storm water would filer down to the trees, which would help clean and filter the water.
The TDG team broke the overall Downtown West redesign proposal into the North End and the South End.
The North End, the area north of Connally Street, is smaller would include a northern anchor point to be determined by the city, potentially residential townhouses, a formal fountain inside of a heritage star as a nod to the town’s past as Bright Star, an area for public art, children and wildlife themes, natural inviting space, a bridge-like structure with water visible underneath the road as a nod to the natural springs that were once so plentiful in the area, and areas to connect the north end of Downtown West to surrounding residential neighborhood. An edible garden could be added in part of the space along the street. The area would have lots of sitting areas and shade.
Toole Design Group split the South End of Downtown West (referred to by Town Branch District on their PowerPoint slides) into three sections, divided by the three streets that cross through the middle of the area: Connally to Main Street, Main Street to Spring Street and Spring street to the railroad tracks.
At the edge of the area, from Connally and Main Street would be mixed use residential, with potentially one big housing area on one side and townhouses and 2-to-3-story multifamily housing structures. There’s also be a babbling creek would span half the area between Connally and Main Streets. A pedestrian plaza could include a shaded structure with seating at the ends of a bridge. A water feature with scuppers and public art would also be located in that area.
Just past Main Street below the bridge is an area designated for public art work. Brick streets at Main Street would the area into downtown. The closer to Main Street structures could be more urban in nature, with more options for public art and elements from downtown, to form a cohesive Downtown area.
From Main to Spring Street, visitors could access the water and a spring water feature. There’s be varied spaces to explore and seating along the path, some mixed-use buildings and Springs Street would be realigned.
The area from the old railroad building would maintain some elements to provide concert venues. They could even be place around the pond and water walk.
The south end would have sightlines. The windmill and water tower with kids play area are among the features in that area of Downtown West. A large bridge would overlook two ponds with a fountain and seating. A center piece artwork could serve as a gateway tying Downtown West to the square.
From Main to Spring Street, there’s be features and access to the water with about 5-6 feet of falling water. On the other side would be wall seating, wit a bridge to cross to the other side of the plaza and street.
In the middle could be a perennial flower garden or edible landscape (vegetable garden). A bridge will go over the natural spring.
The Main Street bridge is proposed as a show piece which will also help mitigate traffic noise.
The section of Downtown West from Main to Spring Street would have an open main path, which instead of bricks could feature granite, cobble stone or stone streets, which would require motorists to slow down. The bridge, TDG proposed, would be the main bridge and have a little arch and brick.
The main bridge would have a little arch to celebrate the water running beneath it. Columns and railing of a bridge nearest the railroad could have columns and an X design to symbolize the railroad tracks and importance the rail has had in Sulphur Springs history. The smallest bridge to the north could mimic the WPA stonework and have a classic arch, and would be simpler and more rustic.
From Spring to the railroad tracks, there’d be the large pond (the area referred to as a lake, but actually a pond as a lake must be at least an acre in size, according to designer Ian Blackwood) which visitors and residents could walk around. There’s be a styled seat wall that’d serve as a refuge for those seeking quiet and time by the water. There’s space for public art, a board walk, improved drainage to reduce flooding as the water will be redirected to pool in the lake. Suggested on the side of the “lake” nearest The Brewer the windmill with different levels people could climb to enjoy views including of the courthouse, and the water going to the water tower would serve as an interactive splash area for children to play. Maybe even the option for children to float boats or other water toys in a “canal.”
Another circular grassy area across the The Brewery could serve as a dog park which serval residents indicated they’d like to see in Sulphur Springs. An informal market with structures or booths could be placed behind the lake, leaving an area for informal dining with parking behind the market structures, available but concealed.
Lockwood said the proposed design created by TDG is “just the beginning” of the redesign process. Many people will no doubt have input into final decisions for areas, art and many other options.
When asked what will become of the businesses and homes along the planned redesign path, the designers noted that will be largely up to the property owners. Typically, as was the case on Main, Connally Street and around Celebration Plaza, people who share the city’s vision for the area work together to facilitate improvements and changes, sometimes restoring structures to their original glory, perhaps even constructing new structures or facades. That will be up to each individual owner and businessperson.
The timeline of the project will depend on a number of factors, including redirection of the drain water, and ability of the City of Sulphur Springs to obtain funding.
Downtown Parking Poll: Most Want a Garage
Almost 50% of the people who took time to finish the Downtown Parking Poll want a parking garage, or feel a parking structure will solve downtown parking issues.
There is no parking garage in the plans for Sulphur Springs. City Manager Marc Maxwell confirmed this Friday afternoon. He went on say that although a parking structure is possible, it is cost prohibitive. “It is possible, but with a cost per space around 11 times a normal parking space, it does not make sense.” said Maxwell.
Maxwell went on to state that there are 1440 parking spots within 2 blocks of downtown. He feels that one parking lot that is chronically under used is the one owned by the First Baptist Church. The City and FBC have an agreement that allows parking any day but Sunday on the lot just south of Tomlinson St.
Exercise. Walk a little ways. Park at the First Baptist church and walk to the square.
–poll comment
Chalking tires and parking time limits are out too. Maxwell feels these time limits chase off business. “People feel rushed, and maybe have a meal then leave, instead of eating and then shopping.” Consultant that specialize in downtown projects like Sulphur Springs back this up.
[I’m] Against time limit. I like to wander around and visit all the shops, have lunch and/or ice cream. Two hours is not enough time. Four hours might work.
–poll comment
The best solution, with all points considered, would be a voluntary plan, where business owners and employees park and walk into downtown. “You would think that business would realized that enforce it automatically.” said Maxwell.
The results
There is almost no chance of a parking structure coming to Sulphur Springs.
The city charter does not make the city responsible for parking spaces. Let the capitalist free market economy do what it does best. If an entrepreneur identifies a parking need and builds a structure for fee based parking, then so be it. If not, then not.
–poll comment
Not all downtown business need drive up customers. Recently, several business such as the newspaper have relocated to the downtown area. Some business owners feel there is no reason for these business to participate in the current voluntary system of leaving close parking spots open for customers. Customers too suspected that most downtown business do not adhere to the voluntary program.
“Business owners/employees should Not park on the square and take up prime spots. If they want customers, leave close parking for paying customers and walk a block or two to get to work. It’s not going to kill them to walk a bit!”
–poll comment
All business owners, all work[ers] must park off the square and walk to work.
— poll comment
There are 1440 parking spots within 2 blocks of downtown Sulphur Springs. Downtown West will provide hundreds more.
I think we are trying to become Dallas. People will always feel the need to be entitled and need more. There is plenty of parking downtown. Yes you may have to walk. But there is plenty.
–poll comment
This concept probably wont work. The expansion plan “Downtown West’ will hopefully attract even more business. Even with the additional street parking it provide, it’s effect on parking overall will be minimal.
This is an unfortunate finding at first glance, but over the years since Downtown Sulphur Springs has been revitalized, this seems less of an issue. This question would have been more meaningful if it included a time restriction such as, “During the last 30 days…”
Here are a few more comments from respondents.
Get rid of the “river walk” and create a parking lot. Use the the trolley or a trolley to carry people to and from that parking lot. Is the Sr Citizen project completed? Is Pacific Park complex completed? Is the City Park groomed and manicured for kids and families to enjoy? Are there plans for more shopping outside the Square boutiques? Are all the streets repaired? The Square is beautiful, but the rest of the city is being neglected.
–poll comment
People need to stop being whine bags and park where they can and don’t expect the residents of downtown to give up their parking space just to accommodate them!!
— poll comment
This article was published at the same time the poll was closed.
Preparing for a Heat Wave
Preparing for a Heat Wave
DALLAS/FORT WORTH (July 23, 2021) – The American Red Cross North Texas Region reminds North Texans that next week may bring the highest temperatures we’ve seen this summer. A little preparation can go a long way in helping to keep you, your family and your fur babies safe during intense heat.
EXTREME HEAT CONDITIONS
As with severe weather there are several key terms that you need to pay close attention to so that you and those you care about can stay safe or know when to call and ask for help.
Extreme Heat Watch is issued if the potential for extreme heat could occur within the next 24-72 hours.
Extreme Heat Advisory is issued if the forecasted Heat Index is expected to hit 100 degrees. This type of weather condition increases the potential for heat related illness.
Extreme Heat Warningis issued if the forecasted Heat Index is expected to hit or exceed 105 degrees. This type of weather condition significantly increases the potential for heat related illness.
Spending too much time or over-doing it in extreme heat and humidity makes it hard for our bodies to stay cool. When our bodies can’t cool down enough, we can suffer from heat-related illness.
Young children, older adults, individuals with chronic medical conditions such as heart disease, individuals taking prescription medicines, outside workers, and those who live alone are more susceptible to the heat and are at greater risk of experiencing a heat-related illness.
HEAT RELATED ILLNESS
Heat Cramps – the mildest heat-related illnesses, are involuntary muscle spasms and pain that usually occur in the arms, legs, and stomach.
Heat Exhaustion – is more severe than heat cramps and affects the entire body, not just your muscles. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body is unable to cool itself.
Heat Stroke – is the most dangerous of all heat-related illnesses. It develops when the body’s systems are overwhelmed by heat and stop functioning – usually because the signs of heat exhaustion are ignored. Heat stroke can lead to permanent damage of your body’s organs and can be life-threatening.
5 TIPS TO STAY SAFE DURING EXTREME HEAT
- Stay Aware – watch weather warnings and adhere to the safety precautions. NEVER leave children or pets in your vehicle.
- Keep Cool – if you do not have a working air conditioner, seek relief during the hottest part of the day in places such as libraries, theaters or malls.
- Stay Hydrated – drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine.
- Limit Outdoor Activity – avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day and wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing.
- Stay Connected – check on friends, family and elderly neighbors who may not have air conditioning or live alone.
More tips and tools on how to prepare for extreme heat and resources on providing assistance to someone impacted by heat-related illness can be found in the free Red Cross Emergency App.
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The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/dfw or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on Twitter at @RedCrossNTX.
ICYMI: Flyer and QR Code For Next Week’s Youth Soccer Camp
At the end of June, Wildcats soccer coach Alexi Upton released a flyer and QR code pertaining to the upcoming soccer camp that will be held next week.
The camp runs the last week of July and will last four days from July 26-29 (Monday through Thursday).
The soccer camp will be run by Wildcats HC Alexi Upton and is welcome to students ranging from entering kindergarteners to ninth grade.
The cost of the camp is $50 and is welcome to both boys and girls.
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.
Meet Chris Lutz P.A. with CHRISTUS Trinity Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic
During Spring 2021, Chris Lutz joined the Orthopedics and Sports Medicine team in the office of Dr. Chris Meltsakos at CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic. As a Physicians Assistant, Lutz can see patients, also diagnose, treat and prescribe for those patients as well as assist in surgeries done by Dr. Meltsakos. Already, he has seen a wide variety of injuries and pain involving bones and joints in people of all ages at the clinic. “In medicine, you really never stop learning. I learn something new every day”. During a KSST Good Morning Show interview with Enola Gay, he stated that our CHRISTUS Trinity Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Clinic is the first stop in Sulphur Springs for orthopedic care., and now you no longer need to go to another town to receive this kind of care. And if for some reason your need cannot be met through our clinic, we can make sure you are referred to the right specialist for your case. “Our clinic can to do it all, including most surgeries performed here by Dr. Meltsakos and we have a wonderful full-service team. Along with our nursing staff, that team also includes our trainers who can go out to the schools to help prevent athletic injuries through education. They also help with casting in the clinic practice”.
Lutz wanted to be a doctor early on in life, and it was during high school that he decided to pursue a career somewhere in the medical care field. After spending most of his childhood in Ft Worth, the family moved to Arkansas where he began his career path. He earned a Bachelors degree in Biology from Arkansas College at Harrison, later transferring to Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, then South College in Knoxville, Tennessee where he earned a Masters degree in P.A. studies. His first job was in Macon, Georgia at “Ortho Georgia” where he continued learning in spine surgery and orthopedic trauma, then with Urgent Ortho Care, and then further training in hand and elbow surgery. “Since I’ve been in Sulphur Springs, I have seen everything from acute orthopedic injury to the Senior citizen who wants to put off replacement surgery for a painful knee or hip joint. We can help many patients with joint pain through different types of injections. But if and when surgery is needed, we are also here for that, right here in Sulphur Springs. Really, our work is all-encompassing at CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic and Sports Medicine Clinic”.
Early Plan For Jefferson Street-Loop 301 RV Resort Receives P&Z, ZBA Approval
An early plan for a RV resort received approval from Sulphur Springs Planning and Zoning Commission earlier this week, then was forwarded to the Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals, which also approved the early project concept. The Planning and Zoning Commission also approved a Weaver Drive rezoning request this week.
RV Resort
Cole Heitman applied to the city for a special use permit for property on Jefferson Street, which he is purchasing from owners Donald and Barbara McKinneerney, for construction and operation of a RV Resort on a 48.476-acre site.
The RV resort, as proposed, is expected to distinguish itself with a number of guest amenities. The facility would have a welcome center, pavilion, retention pond to manage storm-water runoff that will be surrounded by a walking track, pool and splash pad, playgrounds, cabins, laundry and washroom facility made from reconfigured rectangular containers (if they meet standards), a dog park, general store, free WiFi with a reservation, and RV and trailer storage.
The project, called Ladera RV Resort & Cabins, would be constructed in two phases, with the real estate purchase, construction of 60 slips on the west side of the property, all underground utility work, welcome center and laundry and bath facilities in phase 1. Then, phase 2 would include the remaining 40 slips and resort/splash pad, additional landscaping, firepits and lounge pits.
the second beginning after the property reaches an occupancy of 40, Heitman said. The facility at capacity would have 100 sites with electrical hookups, sewer and water. Each RV site is planned to be at least 35 foot x 65 foot with a 16 foot x 50 foot concrete pad.
While the current address for the property is 1196 Jefferson Street, this is expected to change to Loop 301 as the property begins west of homes just off the Jefferson Street-Loop 301 intersection. The property then spans backward and wraps around the back and one side of the Paris Junior College-Sulphur Springs campus property, where the entrance is planned. An emergency only exit is expected to be designated on Jefferson Street.
The property abuts 9 residences to the south and has vacant pasture to the west of the property. North of the property is a railroad track and the Martin Marietta Ready Mix Concrete plant is just north of the railroad tracks. To the east there is a single family residence, and Paris Junior College. Based on the future land use map, it is anticipated that Jefferson and Loop 301 will develop commercially in the future, Sulphur Springs Community Development Director Tory Niewiadomski noted when discussing the request with the Zoning Board of Adjustments Tuesday evening.
A 6 1/2 foot tall masonry fence will shield the park from adjoining residences and structures at the property line. While there are no special standards for the types of uses identified in zoning ordinances and it’s not technically a trailer park, City Ordinances do regulate house trailers and trailer parks, so a couple of site design standards may apply. That includes a 34 foot by 50 foot lot size for each trailer space as well as a five foot fence around the sides and rear of trailer park properties, according to city staff.
Multiple stacked containers, designed to be ADA compliant, will be incorporated around the resort Women’s and Men’s public facilities will be housed in 40-foot renovated shipping containers with the lower container housing the bath house facilities, and an upper container housing a fitness center, and yet another container housing a laundry facility.
Since the project is in the concept phase, Heitman has applied for a special use permit, which would allow for construction in the the zoning district provided the project use is deemed by city standards to be compatible or consistent with adjacent uses and won’t create negative impacts to the surrounding area. No engineering has yet to be completed. Heitman simply requested the permit before proceeding past the 25-page operations plan submitted with the application. Engineering will need to be determined to have adequate utilities and access, and will be reviewed to the satisfaction of the city engineering, utilities and fire departments. The plan is to utilize a 27-inch sewer line north of the property, which will require boring under a railroad track.
The facility will have established rules and policies, RV standards and guidelines for management, including quiet hours of 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily, operational hours of 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday-Sunday, check-in and check-out times, visitors, boats and trailers, alcohol, swimming, parking, fires and firewood, washing of vehicles, laundry, insurance, recycling, pets, speed limit, conduct and ejection from the RV resort, tarps, tents, shade and other structures. Each slip will have a fire pit. They are planning for a fountain pond stocked with catch and release fishing, a food band beverage bar and pavilion, grand event pavilion with an outdoor fire and barbecue pit, golf cart and bicycle rentals, landscape design, cable TV access, on-site propane, an off-leash fenced dog park, onsite manager,
Notices were sent to 24 owners of property within 200 feet of 1196 Jefferson St. notifying them of the proposal and hearings. They received three responses in favor of, one response opposed to and one response undecided for the RV resort proposal. The property owner opposed to the idea did not comment in the provided space a reason for the opposition.
One property owner in favor of the project expressed a desire to see the east side developed as nicely as the rest of town, but not for it to impact the classification of her residential property.
Another nearby property owner indicated favor for the request, provided the city planning and zoning boards make sure the operation is a reputable one that is required to have a permanent fence to separate it from adjacent properties.
The undecided response asked whether the facility would meet setback requirements and potential impact on the sewer system if they were to tap into the Jefferson Street sewer.
During presentations to the ZBA Tuesday evening it was stated that the modern boutique park would used the outside perimeter for phase 1, would enforce quiet hours, have lighting at camp sites that would not be nearly as intrusive to nearby homes as say the bright lights installed on utility poles at say a car dealership, RVs will have to meet Department of Transportation regulations and in good condition. Plenty of green spaces and privacy hedges are planned, with cabins installed on site in rustic modern style.
“Based on the submittal information by the applicant for the operations plan, it appears that they have provided very detailed information about the operation of the resort. Staff is comfortable that if the applicant is able to provide all of the amenities listed and follow the operations plan, that many issues can be mitigated. Being a special use permit, if
there are problems with the development, it could be subject to review and be revoked in the future,” Niewiadomski told the ZBA Tuesday.
The recommendation for approval of the special use permit for the proposed RV resort was made by city staff then Monday by the Planning and Zoning Commission, provided three conditions are met:
- The items listed in the Special Use Permit Submittal for Ladera RV Resort & Cabins be adhered to or could be subject revocation of their special use permit.
- The site utilities and access need to be verified for adequacy of development and engineered to meet City development specifications and be approved by the City Engineer, Utilities Department, Fire Department and/or City
Council if deemed necessary for public utility extensions. - If modifications to the design concept are changed after engineering the site, it will be subject to review and approval for a Special use permit modification.
If, after the utilities evaluation changes are required, if the design concept changes, or other significant factors in the proposal change, the business would then have to apply again to the Planning and Zoning Commission and Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals for consideration.
The ZBA approved the special use permit for the proposed RV resort off Jefferson Street, conditional on all three of the terms recommended by city staff are met.
Weaver Drive Zoning Request
On Monday, the Planning and Zoning Commission also approved a request by Paulino Reyes to rezone a 1.89-acre property at 125 Weaver Drive from heavy industrial to multifamily, to better accommodate residential development on the lot.
City staff sent out 16 certified letter to property owners within 200 feet of the address, which is one of three lots, one that is 0.58 acre and a second that is 0.73 acre. The third lot, which Reyes is asking to change, is 1.89 acre. The city received no responses to the notification of the requested zoning change and of the July 19 meeting.
Zoning in the surrounding properties is mixed of light industrial and heavy commercial to the south and heavy industrial to the north, west and east. There’s a church to the west of the property, residential to the south and east, and a museum to the north.
According to city staff, changing the zoning to multifamily would be appropriate and fit the the land use plan of residential along properties along Weaver Drive.
The P&Z approved the zoning request to change lot 3R-3 from heavy industrial to multifamily.
