CJAA Texas Jet Blast Is a Soaring Success Over Memorial Day Weekend
Over Memorial Day weekend, several retired jets recommissioned for training were flown at Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport to get pilots’ certifications.
Russell Armstrong, Host of the CJAA (Classic Jet Aircraft Association) Texas Jet Blast, also hosted in 2019.
Armstrong, when not hosting air training, is a certified financial planner, owning an investment practice, AIS Financial, in Commerce.
The host of this year’s CJAA Texas Jet Blast is a pilot, and an aircraft owner who hosted a similar event in 2019, but in terms of the number of air training exercises that took off, 2020 was “…pretty much a wash all across the board” due to COVID-19.
As a result, Armstrong was all too ready to get back in the air for the 2021 edition of the CJAA Texas Jet Blast. While the event is not an air show, it is training, or as Armstrong put it, formation clinics.
Up to four planes went up at a time, practicing several maneuvers and formations in the hopes of getting most of the pilots training in Sulphur Springs over the weekend wing cards.
Wing cards are documentation which shows pilots have state proficiency in flying classic jets, like the ones shown pictured. se of the wing training, Armstrong said, is that if a pilot gets their wing card, then they are qualified to fly in an air show in formation.
Over the course of the Memorial Day weekend, Armstrong flew 11 times from Thursday to Sunday.
Not only did the pilots have the formation clinics going on, but there was also an FAA approved aerobatic box at the airport.
The “low-level” box stretched anywhere from the ground to 6,000 feet up, and was about 6,000 feet long (for a frame of reference, the runway at Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport is about 5,000 feet long).
In other words, the box stretched from 1,000 feet south of the airport to 1,000 feet north of the airport, in to Lake Sulphur Springs.
The jets practiced two, three, and four-ship jet formations, as 11 jets came and went to Sulphur Springs Municipal Airport over the holiday weekend. Eight of the 11 total aircraft were Aero L-39 Albatros jets, made in former Czechoslovakia.
The frequency at which the L-39 was found over the weekend can be explained due to the fact that the Albatros jets are the most popular ex-military, civilian-owned aircraft in the country.
According to Armstrong, up to 300 Albatros jets are owned and flown by private citizens in the United States.
Armstrong said this is due to the the L-39 being extremely stable jet trainers and were used as such by Russia, Germany, Czechoslovakia, and many other countries.
One MIG-17S (Picture one, the gray aircraft numbered 1613 in blue) was flown over the weekend and was present from Thursday to Saturday, leaving for the San Marcos air show but returning later that day, and was flown and featured at the 2021 CJAA Texas Jet Blast on Sunday.
Other jets flown over the weekend were an L-139 (pictured above with the lion on its tail) that was made and shipped from the former Czechoslovakia that had an engine inside built in the United States (the only of it’s kind!), a T-33 built by Lockheed Martin (pictured below in the foreground) a Tucano A-27, and a gun-metal gray turbo prop named Valkyrie.
While several of the jets flown over Memorial Day are from Texas, Russell Armstrong said CJAA members are all over the country. Two planes were from Mobile, Alabama and one was from New York City. In fact, the aforementioned Tucano A-27 flew from Los Angeles.
Armstrong said that several pilots came over the Holiday weekend that are certified to instruct, and the CJAA 2021 Texas Jet Blast host said that many members of the CJAA are former military servicemen, coming from the USAF, the Navy, Army, and more.
While these fighter jets have been rebuilt and recommissioned for training, it is no small feat to get state certification for these particular types of jets.
“In order to fly one of these as the pilot in command,” Armstrong said, pilots have to have “a minimum of 1,000 hours as a pilot in command.”
Not only that, but pilots who wish to be found as state proficient in flying these types of jets must be instrument-rated as well.
“Those are the minimum requirements to fly these types of jets,” Armstrong said. The 2021 CJAAA Texas Jet Blast did say that there are times, such as when pilots wish to hone their skills and learn to fly in formation, where instructors will hop in the back seat and are on board in the event they need to take control of the plane.
Armstrong said this is mostly due to the fact that when flying in four-ship formation, jets are only four feet apart while still traveling about 220 knots (approximately 250 mph), and will use hand signals from the lead jet instead of talking through the onboard radio.
“It’s an exciting organization, Russell Armstrongs said about the CJAA, but admitted that “it doesn’t come without danger.”
Armstrong said that pilots, generally, feel it is more dangerous driving more to the airport than when they are actually flying, which statistically, Armstrong said, is true.
“All of the people that are flying these jets are trained,” Armstrong said, adding that “each year [pilots take] check rides to maintain proficiency.”
One of the checks that pilots do under that is the procedure for when an engine might fail. Armstrong said that this is important because when something like this may happen, the gut reaction is not to eject, but instead put the fighter down where they can to ensure the pilots’ safety, and the safety of those on the ground.
Practice, safety, and different types of procedures being practiced is crucial to flying.
For all of these reasons and more, Armstrong was all too happy to get back out in the air for this past weekend’s air training.
“People that fly,” Armstrong said, “tend to want to fly a lot.”
The CJAA 2021 Texas Jet Blast host said that this is critical due to the fact that if pilots want to fly they must stay proficient.
Armstrong said that everyone involved at CJAA were disappointed that all the shows in 2020 were cancelled due to COVID-19, so the pilot said that he was super excited everything was opening back up.
“We meet people all over the world who share the same passion [to fly],” Armstrong said.
Armstrong said he now has lifelong friends who now fly aircraft such as the ones flown over Memorial Day weekend.
“To be able to get back together with these large groups and enjoy the camaraderie,” Armstrong said, “…to share the passion [of flying], is tremendous.”
To learn more about these jets and the CJAA organization, check out classicjets.org
From Ashes, We Rise. A Documentary on Jerry Schemmel’s Fight in the Toughest Bicycle Race in the World – Coming Soon!
By Christopher Michell – It’s often been said that the end of one finish line is the start of an entirely new race. This is especially true for a man named Jerry Schemmel, a tough-as-nails cyclist competing this year for the second time in the ultra-distance road cycling competition, The Race Across America. Beginning its earliest days as “The Great American Bike Race”, RAAM is not only the longest-running and most respected cycling event, but also to be one of the single toughest ultra-endurance challenges in the world. The individual cyclists start the race by meeting at a sponsored kickoff event in Oceanside, California. The cyclists then race to travel over 3,000 miles, climb 175,000 feet, cross 12 states, and ultimately finish at City Dock in Annapolis, Maryland.
At 61 years of age, Jerry Schemmel has quite a prolific career and life portfolio. Not only is he a survivor of a devastating plane crash who went back into the fiery inferno to rescue an infant, he is also a respected sportscaster of 30 years for the MLB and NBA, as well as a speaker, author, and attorney. Moreover, Jerry still managed to find time to not only compete in, but also be a winner of the 2015 Race Across America 2-man relay. Jerry has an incredibly inspiring philosophy in how he approaches his life, in that he uses the hardships he has experienced in his life as fuel to drive him to be so accomplished in everything he puts his mind to.
On June 15th of this year, in Oceanside, California, Jerry will finally attempt his greatest challenge yet – The Race Across America, this time as a solo cyclist. He will travel from California to Maryland, across 13 states in a little over 12 days, completely solo. Where previously he would switch off with a partner cyclist throughout the journey, this time it will be all Jerry. His intentions with a solo race to this magnitude are to not only face a challenge that will push him to his furthest-most physical and mental limits, but that his experience may inspire others to push through, no matter how fiery the inferno they face. Everyone has their own plane crash. From ashes, each of us have the potential to rise up, just so long as we never give up.
With RAAM being a charity event, the race is also an opportunity for Jerry to raise money and support for The Kyle Pease Foundation, an incredible non-profit organization whose mission it is to “create awareness and raise funds to promote success for persons with disabilities by providing assistance to meet their individual needs through sports.”
In addition to all of this, there is one more exciting announcement to make. This summer, emerging production company, Riseup Films, has partnered with Jerry to send a team of documentary filmmakers to follow him in his quest to compete solo in the toughest race in the world. From Ashes, We Rise will document his physical and mental struggles leading up to and throughout the race, along with an exploration of his life, stories, and the tension that will come with those wondering whether such an accomplishment can even happen.
The budget for From Ashes, We Rise will take upwards of $37,000 to make at the level desired to truly capture the empowering and inspiring story at its fullest potential. This includes pay for the crew, equipment resources, travel expenses, food, marketing and advertising, a 10% buffer, and finally 10% to go towards The Kyle Pease Foundation. The rest of the budgetary breakdown can be seen on the fundraising page that recently went live, over at gofundme.com/f/fromasheswerisemovie.
If you or someone you know would like to support Jerry in his race, the documentary, and the percentage that will be given to those at KPF, please consider contributing. We can’t do this without you. Let’s each of us rise up and encourage one another to root for Jerry as he pushes through the toughest race of his life. To follow the production of the film and Jerry’s journey on social media, visit the official From Ashes, We Rise Facebook page and Instagram page. Be sure to stay tuned here as KSST releases EXCLUSIVE content throughout the race. It’s crunch time.
Find out more about the film From Ashes, We Rise. Donate to Riseup Films here, your contributions will assure the film is completed. Learn more about the subject of the film, Jerry Schemmel, at his website available here.
Four SSHS Sports Programs Begin The Edge Next Week
Next week (June 7-10), four Sulphur Springs ISD sports programs begin The Edge conditioning program with sport-specific skills work.
In addition, there will a sports camp for tennis. Football, cross country, and boys and girls soccer start The Edge.
The Edge will continue Mondays through Thursdays for six weeks ending July 15.
The Edge for football takes place in the Multi-Purpose Building. The first session, for entering 10th through 12th graders, is from 8 A.M. until 10 A.M.
A second session, for entering 7th through 9th graders, is set for 10 A.M. until noon. Wildcats Head Football Coach Greg Owens and his football staff will conduct The Edge for football.
Cross Country Edge originates at Gerald Prim Stadium. It begins at 7:15 A.M. and wraps up at 8:45 A.M. Athletes will be divided into two groups: those entering 9th through the 12th grades and ones entering 7th and 8th grades.
Wildcats and Lady Cats Cross Country Coach Ross Hicks along with several assistants will run The cross country Edge.
Boys and Girls Soccer will share Gerald Prim Stadium for The Edge for soccer. It will run from 8:30 A.M. until 10 A.M. Attending will be soccer athletes entering 9th through the 12th grades.
Wildcats Soccer Coach Alexi Upton will run The Edge for boys’ soccer and Lady Cats Soccer Coach Javier Aguayo will conduct The Edge for girls’ soccer.
There is no charge for The Edge.
Meanwhile The Edge for tennis will be continuing next week running through July 25. Wildcats Tennis Coach Tony Martinez is having sessions Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:30 P.M. until 9:30 P.M. and Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 A.M. until 10:30 A.M.
The Edge for tennis invites athletes entering 7th through the 12th grades. Speaking of tennis, Coach Martinez and several assistants will be offering Tennis Camp next week Monday through Thursday.
It will take place at the SSHS Wildcat Tennis Complex from 9 A.M. until noon. and will be open for any boys and girls entering kindergarten through 12th grade.
Cost of Tennis Camp is $50.
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.
City Council Approves Rezoning Requests, Grant Application, Hears Project Updates
Sulphur Springs City Council approved rezoning requests and a grant application for a new project this week. City Finance Director reports March sales tax numbers were up.
Rezoning Requests
The city council approved on second and final reading ordinances granting rezoning requests from Larry and Linda Evans and Chuck Sickles during the the regular council meeting on June 1, 2021.
The Evans asked that their property at 1340 South Hillcrest Drive be changed from single family to heavy commercial to better fit the existing uses and potential use of the 0.9-acre property along the State Highway 19/Interstate 30/Loop 301 corridor.
Essentially, when property in the area of Wildcat Way was annexed into the city, some properties received a single family place-holder designation. The property is currently surrounded by a mix of zoning designations, light commercial to the north, east and south; and heavy to light commercial to the west.
Ordinance 2780 making the zoning change was first approved during the May City Council meeting, at the recommendation of city staff, who reported heavy commercial zoning would be appropriate given the context of the area, and the Planning and Zoning Commission, who recommended approval during their April meeting.
Sulphur Springs City Council also approved Ordinance 2781 on final reading. Chuck Sickles at the same April 2021 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting asked that 2.5 acres of property at 1079 Rockdale Road and 1084 Rockdale Road be rezoned from single family to heavy commercial as well.
Sickles reported body body shop facilities are currently operated on the properties, which have split zoning across property lines on the lots. In order to clean up the zoning, Sickles asked that the property be zoned heavy commercial, which is consistent with the body shop use, which the property frontage is zoned.
Surrounding the Rockdale Road properties are a mix of zoning designations: heavy commercial to the west and south, and single family to the north and east. City staff reported at the May 2021 City Council meeting that rezoning the Rockdale Road properties to all heavy commercial would also be an appropriate use given the context of the area and the fact that it fits the land use plan of commercial property along I-30 and Rockdale Road. The P&Z Commission too approved the request in April, sending it to the city council for first reading in May.
Grant Application, Branch Project
The City Council was also asked to consider Resolution 1242 approving an application for a Texas Department of Transportation 2021 Transportation Alternatives Set Aside Project grant. The council gave city staff the go ahead to proceed with an application which would help fund development of a linear open space area just west of downtown, a linear open space with the town branch and lake drainage detention basin as key features.
City Manager Marc Maxwell explained to the council that the grant is the same type of grant the city received for the Cross Town Trails project, which connects Coleman and Buford Parks to the downtown area via construction of sidewalks along Connally Street to the square. The deadline for the grant application is this month. Getting it in puts the city in line for federal grant funding awarded through the Department of Transportation. The linear area would span from Van Sickle to the railroad and City Hall to Rogers Street on the west side. This had been planned for development along with other open space projects, but funding did not allow.
The grant would fully fund the project, with no funding or matching required by the city, if approved.
After giving approval to city staff to apply for the grant funding, the City Council then considered a proposal from Toole Design Group to provide design services for that linear area west of downtown. This first includes Ian Lockwood and his team, who would spend four days in Sulphur Springs holding design charrettes, during which city residents’ input would be sought, then used to devise a plan for that space using that input, Maxwell explained. This would follow the same process used for the parks plan devised and including renovations and additions at Pacific Park and the Senior Citizens building.
The council also gave approval for Toole Design Group to provide design services for the space.
Project Updates
The City Council held a brief executive session meeting 30 minutes before Tuesday’s regular open session to discuss two potential economic development projects, labeled Project Hold Fast and Project Flourish. The council during regular session voted to allow the city manager to sign an agreement for Project Flourish. Information regarding the project will be available only after the agreement is signed.
Maxwell, in his monthly manager’s report, told the council that the new HW Grays Building in Pacific Park is nearly completed. The generator will be installed next along with various plumbing fixtures and appliances. The big remaining issue is the 3 large roll-up doors. The city manager reported the “delivery date is a moving target,” which as of Tuesday night, he had no reason to believe that the doors have even been manufactured. He said he’d been given more than one excuse as to why the doors have not arrived, including delays due to COVID-19’s impact on the construction industry. He noted he would be meeting with project manager Don Roundtree to discuss whether a breach of contract should be declared and to determine how to proceed regarding the matter of the as yet unseen rollup doors.
The building will be available for Juneteenth, but the roll-up doors may not be in, according to the city manager.
Maxwell also reported there had been some staff changes at REES Associates, the architectural firm preparing the design for the new Senior Citizens Center, which prolonged the design process. Tandem Consulting, the company overseeing construction of the Grays Building, has been hired to oversee construction of the Senior Citizens building. He said he is nervous due to the continued increases in costs of construction materials during the intervening time since the start of the design process for the new facility.
City Finance Director Lesa Smith reported notices had been posted that the city is currently seeking bids for pre-engineering for a new metal building to become the senior citizens center. Those bids are due in by 11 a.m. June 29, 2021.
Maxwell also noted Duckworth Street will receive improvements this year as part of the city’s annual Street Improvement Program. The street, will be funded not by the street maintenance free budget. Maxwell said the street department had some extra funding left, which will be applied to help fund repaving of Duckworth Street. That bring the total budgeted for street maintenance to $1.1 million this year, including $502,000 from the $5 street maintenance fee attached city utility bills.
Overall, 19,391 linear feet or 3.67 miles of city streets have been identified for improvements this year, including on Austin Street from Davis to Brinker Street, Beckham Street from Oak Avenue To Elm Street, from the cul de sac to the end of Gena Drive, South League Street from Bellview Street to Pampa Street, Lee Street from Davis Street To South Broadway Street, North Davis Street from Houston to Bonner Street, Patton Street from College Street to Weaver Drive, Phyllis Court from College Street to the cul de sac, Texas Street from Tate to Lee Street then from Lee Street to Industrial Drive, and various spots on Woodbridge Crossing.
Maxwell reported the Saputo sewer main project did not progress as quickly as they’d hoped due to the wet weather, with 50 percent of the project complete (10 percent more than in May). In fact, he said, there have been whole days in which crews were unable to do any work at all on the project to install a new sewer main starting at Saputo, continuing under Interstate 30, then continuing south for 3,500 feet before connecting to an existing trunk line. The project wraps around the sides and back of KSST studios on East Shannon Road. This week crews have begun working in front of KSST, which has included periodically stopping to scrape red clay off red clay, where it has piled up on chains and tires of heavy equipment.
Affiliated Driving School 1-Day Class is Forming in July, Receive Insurance Discount, Ticket Dismissal Upon Completion
The Affiliated Driving School one-day course is returning to Sulphur Springs, and the first class is forming for July 29, 2021. The course lasts from 10am til 4pm that day at the Sulphur Springs Senior Citizen Center at 150 MLK Drive in Sulphur Springs, Texas. Drivers of any age are welcome to attend. Also, this class is an excellent way to save 10% off of your Liability Insurance. The Discount is good for 3 Years. Cost is $15 to take this one-day course. This class can also be used for a Ticket Dismissal, and the cost for that course is $25. With questions or to sign up, call (903) 885-1661, or email [email protected]. There must be at least 6 persons to sign up for the class to form.
Infant Tested Positive For Methamphetamine
A 29-year-old Sulphur Springs woman was charged with child endangerment after her infant tested positive for methamphetamine, according to police reports.
Sulphur Springs Police Department Special Crimes Unit investigators assisted Child Protective Services agents with a 1-year-old child after arresting the child’s mother on May 23, 2021, after finding more than 4 grams but less than 200 grams of suspected methamphetamine in a the vehicle she and the child were traveling in. During CPS’ investigation, a drug screen was performed on the child. The baby tested positive for “extremely high levels of methamphetamine,” SSPD SCU Lt. Mark Estes alleged in arrest reports.
After Kelsey Devon Carrillo was arrested, CPS was called. They instructed police to release the infant to either a friend or family member of the woman. The infant was released to the woman’s friend.
A warrant was sought for the mother’s arrest. Estes served Carrillo, who jail reports show is also known by the alias Sarah Andrea Kijinitchee, with the child endangerment warrant at 2:20 p.m. Wednesday, June 2, 2021, at the county jail.
Carrillo has remained in Hopkins County jail in lieu of $30,000 bond since her arrest on the May 23, 2021, on a possession of 4 grams or more but less than 200 grams of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance with intent to distribute charge. Bond had yet to be set on the child endangerment charge Thursday morning, June 3, 2021.
KSSTRadio.com publishes Sulphur Springs Police Department reports and news. The Police Department is located at 125 Davis St., Sulphur Springs, Texas. Non-emergency calls can be made to (903) 885-7602.
If you have an emergency dial 9-1-1.
The Sulphur Springs Police Department continues to serve its citizens with pride in its overall mission and will strive to provide the best possible police force in the 21st century.
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.
Tira News: Aiguier Cemetery Association, Quarterly City Council Meetings To Be Held
By Jan Vaughn, Tira News Correspondent
I received word this week that the Aiguier Cemetery Association meeting will be held at the North Hopkins School Cafeteria, rather than the cemetery grounds, on Sunday, June 6. A covered dish lunch will be shared at noon, followed by a brief business meeting. Please make plans to bring a covered-dish and share a meal and memories. After lunch there will be a brief business meeting. Donations for the upkeep of the cemetery are always needed and appreciated. You can contribute that day or mail your donation to the Aiguier Cemetery Association, c/o Peggy Beck, Treasurer, 332 CR 3620, Sulphur Springs, Texas 75482.
The Tira Homecoming will be coming up on Sunday, July 4. The program will start at 11 a.m. in the Tira Methodist Church, followed by a pot-luck lunch at the picnic tables on the grounds.
The regular quarterly Tira City Council Meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 7, 2021, at 6 p.m.
Laiken Joslin picked up Dixie on Saturday to spend a few days with her family here in Tira. On Monday evening, Dixie and her brother, Slaiden, celebrated their May birthdays with Landon, Laiken, Rylan, and Brailon at Cooper Lake. Chip, Grace, and I went over for a visit and took Dixie and Slaiden their birthday presents. They’ve been enjoying swimming and playing games at their campsite.
Perry and Tiffany Gilbert and Jaidyn came from Malvern last Thursday for Slaiden Joslin’s kindergarten graduation. Afterward, we went out for lunch in Sulphur Springs, before they had to return to Arkansas that afternoon. Jaidyn had volleyball camp that evening and she and Tiffany had school on Friday. Also there for Slaiden’s graduation were his parents, Landon and Laiken Joslin, Laiken’s mom and brother, Leigh Ann and Kasen, and her grandparents, Randy and Fran Harris.
I always need and appreciate input from my friends to help keep me informed of news in our community. If you have any news pertaining to Tira residents, past or present, please contact me, Jan Vaughn, at 903-438-6688 or [email protected].
Cumby Junior High Students Receive Awards
Cumby Junior High School recent held an awards program to recognize students with academic awards for being on the honor roll. Class awards were also given for excellence, growth and GRIT in science, English language arts, social studies, math, algebra, fine arts and art classes
Honor Rolls
Recognized for being on the A Honor Roll at Cumby Junior High were:
- 7th Graders Chloe Groves, Mylee Hall, Ella Horne and Isaac Taylor; and
- 8th Graders Jenna Elmore, Macyn Pettit and Gaby Vizcaya.
CJH students recognized for being on the AB Honor Roll included, by grade level:
- 6th Grade – Aliyah Atchley, Gunner Campbell, Riley Evans, Channing Herman, Jaxon Hudson, Amare Jones, Hunter McPherson, Makayla Morgan, Denise Rogel, Osvaldo Ruiz and Carissa Ybarra;
- 7th Grade – Jenna Bearden, Jace Evans, Dakari Johnson, Sandra McCraw and Gaby Osornio; and
- 8th Grade – Hanna Davis, Justin Green, Gabriel Medrano and Jacie Morales.
Class Awards
Shelbi Thomason presented for outstanding students in science and fine arts classes the following awards:
- Excellence in Science – Justin Green, Kierstin Walden, Gaby Vizcayo, Osvaldo Ruiz, Sandra McCraw and Hunter McPerson.
- Growth in Science – Beaux Williams, Laura Gilbert, Landon Tadlock, Montgomery Benton, Jace Evans, Noah Fuentes and Traveor Mabery.
- Grit in Science – Ayla Smith, Ethan Ybarra, Addey Owens, Denise Rogel, Kadee Pettit and Robert Goode.
Students receiving English Language Arts awards from Ms. Brianna Harrison included, by award category:
- Excellence Award – 6th Graders Denise Rogel and Trevor Mabery, and 7th Graders Gaby Osornio and Cheyanne McGee.
- Growth Award – 6th Graders Gunner Campbell and Robert Goode, and 7th Graders Jennalynne Bearden and Laura Gilbert.
- GRIT Award – 6th Graders Kassandra Camargo, Sammy McCarter and Adrian Radney; and 7th Graders Jace Evans, Dominick Glick and Jayden Vandiver.
Teacher John Dobson awarded a GRIT Award to Zeb Massey.
Social studies awards were presented by Dayton Gifford and Ryan Petty, as follows:
- Excellence Award – Osvaldo Ruiz, Kassandra Camargo and Jenna Elmore.
- Growth Award – Gunner Campbell and Hunter McPherson.
- GRIT Award – Robert Goode and Denise Rogel.
Math awards were presented as follows:
- Excellence Award – 6th Graders Jaxon Hudson and Hunter McPherson; 7th Graders Isaac Taylor and Cheyanne McGee; and 8th Grader Adrianna Redell.
- Growth Award – 6th Graders Zeb Massey, Robert Goode and Sonny Pierce; 7th Graders Jayden Vandiver, Mylee Hall and Kadee Pettit; and 8th Grader Addey Owens.
- GRIT Award – 6th Graders Denise Rogel, Gunner Campbell, Kassandra Camargo and Aliyah Atchley; 7th Graders Dominick Glick, Kierstin Walden and Cole Bloyed; and 8th Grader Beaux Williams.
Jeff Simons also presented algebra awards to students. Jenna Elmore received the Excellence Award, Chett Vaughan the Growth Award and Gaby Vizcaya the GRIT Award.
Students receiving art and fine arts awards included:
- Most Creative/Fine Arts- Jaxon Hudson.
- Most Artistic/Fine Arts – Dylan Daniel.
- Excellence Award/Art – Riley Evans and Aliyah Atchley.
- Growth Award/Art – Robert Good and Canyon Tally.
- GRIT Award – Hunter McPherson and Kassandra Camargo
TWC, TRA Porter Offers Free Restaurant Industry Training
AUSTIN – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) in partnership with the Texas Restaurant Association (TRA) is launching a new Restaurant Recovery Training certification portal for prospective restaurant workers. Part of the larger Restaurant Recovery Initiative, which launched recently, the training allows free and flexible online training to quickly prepare workers for restaurant industry jobs.
“This portal is another example of TWC’s commitment to providing tools to better connect Texans to jobs,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “Quality training programs like the Restaurant Recovery Training Initiative ensure greater access to jobs, many of which are at small businesses.”
As one of the most regulated industries for the health, safety, and sanitation of its employees and customers, a career in the foodservice industry requires a certification in food and/or alcohol safety. All restaurant employees in Texas are required to have a valid food handler certification card. Employees in establishments that serve beer, wine, and mixed beverages are also required to have a valid Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) approved seller-server certification.
TWC’s new portal makes these courses available online at no cost to the employer nor potential employee. Jobseekers interested in obtaining one or both of the certifications can access the training online.
“State licensing requirements are vital for health and safety, but they shouldn’t be an impediment to getting people hired and restaurants opening fully,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “This new training program provides the quality, training and standards of excellence that are required, conveniently online, and for free.”
Neither the businesses nor trainees will need to pay for the online classes. The cDurriculum in both the ServSafe Food Handler and #1 TABC Certification by TRA program are tailored to maintain rigorous adherence to state guidelines and ensure the participants successfully demonstrate their knowledge of and adherence to safe and responsible practices.
“The pandemic has demonstrated the importance of health and safety protocols and Texas employers have gone above and beyond to meet these protocols, and create innovative solutions to run their businesses successfully,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “TWC has been a longstanding partner with our restaurants, especially since the pandemic, and we will continue to provide them with legendary customer service to ensure their overall success.”
The initiative is part of the Restaurant Recovery Initiative, which launched in May with a series of employer-focused videos outlining innovative new business models and technologies that allow restaurants to operate much more safely and efficiently, not just in a pandemic, but for the future beyond.
“Ensuring that new employees are able to be trained to meet the standards for food sanitation and alcohol safety required is key to supporting the revival of Texas restaurant industry, the state’s 2nd largest private employer,” said Emily Williams Knight, Ed.D., President and CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association. “We are grateful for the continued partnership and support of the TWC to make entering the industry as attainable as possible for those interested in a career in foodservice.”
The costs for this project come from a one-time grant from IKEA, which was accepted by the commission in December.
CHRISTUS To Host COVID Vaccine Clinics At Morning Chapel, St. James Churches
Sulphur Springs, Texas, June 2, 2021 – 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]
June is National Men’s Health Month: What better time than now, than to schedule annual screenings such as a physical exam, blood test and urinalysis, colorectal health, prostate, bone, and heart health. Whether you need to see a Family Practice provider or a specialist, we have you covered! Call us today to schedule these important screening exams at 903.885.3181.
COVID Vaccine Clinics
CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs will host the following COVID Vaccine Clinics:
- Morning Chapel Missionary Baptist Church (208 Fuller Street), Saturday, June 5, 2021, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- St. James Catholic Church (297 Texas Street), Sunday, June 27, 2021, from 12:30pm to 3pm
- Several of the vaccine brands will be available.
- No appointment required.
Contact Holly Ragan at 903.439.4033 to find out about future vaccine schedules.
Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation
Save the Date
- Designer Handbag Bingo – Thursday, August 12, 6-8pm: Hopkins County Civic Center
- Health Care Foundation Golf Tournament – Friday, October 1: Sulphur Springs Country Club
Updates on Funds Raised
The Healthcare Foundation recently gifted the hospital $90,365.23 for the purchase of five new Panda Warmers for the nursery. A note from the department:
We have had roughly 250 babies born since we received the new Panda Warmers. We absolutely love them! We have had several NICU babies that have stayed 10-12 days and the new Pandas have been such a blessing. On behalf of the staff, we are so thankful to have these, and I know the parents love them as well. Everyone especially loves the feature of the built-in scale; we can show the parents their baby’s weight at delivery.
- Sarah Mills, BSN, RN Director of Perinatal Services
Universal Masking Still in Place at all CHRISTUS Facilities
We are glad to see that the CDC continues to update its guidance about COVID-19 vaccines as more research and information become available. This week, that included guidance for fully vaccinated people (over two weeks after their final vaccine dose) who now no longer need masks indoors or outdoors in most cases.
However, this guidance does not apply to health care settings, so we will continue to require all those in our hospitals, clinics, ambulatory surgery centers and other locations where care is provided to remain masked. As these locations remain open to the public, and as we will continue treating all those who need us, including those with COVID-19 and those without, it is important that we ask our Associates, physicians, volunteers, patients and visitors to remain masked while in our facilities for now.
We will also continue to require masks in our offices and administrative areas. While we remain open to considering changes for these areas, we are evaluating this new guidance while we wait for further instruction from OSHA.
What won’t change is our commitment to serving all those who need us. CHRISTUS will continue to provide COVID-safe care and offering life-saving vaccinations across our system. We remain committed to continuing to update our policies and procedures as more data becomes available and look forward to emerging from this pandemic together with the communities we are privileged to serve.
Hospital Visitation
We continue to ensure a safe and compassionate process for families and essential support persons to visit patients, while preventing person-to-person transmission of infectious diseases in our acute care settings. All visitors will continue to be screened to make certain they do not fit a COVID-19 profile, based on CDC guidelines. To safely regulate access to patient care areas within our hospital, visitor-screening stations are placed at the entrance of our facilities.
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 pass screening before entry
- Emergency Department entrance open 24/7
- Main Entrance open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday – Friday
- Gift Shop open
- All visitors are screened at the door, including a temperature taken
- All associates are screened at each shift, including a temperature taken
- Visiting hours are 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- COVID Unit limited to (1) visitor (age 16 and over)
- ER and ICU limited to (2) visitors
- ALL hospital visitors are required to wear a mask. Visitors should bring their own mask; homemade cloth masks are acceptable.
Effective March 17, 2021
We will no longer restrict the number of visitors per patient, however, we strongly encourage to limit visitors to ONE (1) essential support person and for all other visitors – continue utilizing virtual communication through mobile devices to monitor your loved ones in our care.
Clinic Services
New Staff
CHRISTUS Trinity Orthopedic Clinic is excited to welcome Christopher Lutz, PA-C, our new Orthopedic Physician Assistant. He will work collaboratively with Dr. Chris Meltsakos, Orthopedic Surgeon. Lutz will be accepting new patients at 103B Medical Circle, beginning on Tuesday, June 2. To schedule an appointment, call 903.885.6688.
Primary Care
Do you have a Primary Care Provider? As part of our ongoing commitment to the health and wellness of our community, we partner with you to maintain your health with preventative care and treatment of illnesses and injuries. With a number of providers to serve you close to home, we are happy to assist with annual well visits, sick visits, and much more. Call our office today to be established with a local provider: 903.885.3181.
Urology
Did you know we can take care of almost all of your medical specialty needs right here in Sulphur Springs? Just one of many is our Urologist Dr. Loren Ost, and his Nurse Practitioner Leah Irving. Dr. Ost and Leah see patients who have concerns of the urinary system in both male and females, as well as the reproductive organs of the male. They are located at 113 Airport Road, Suite 300, and may be reached by calling 903.885.1770.
COVID-19
Don’t Delay Care
We want to be perfectly clear – CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances remains a safe place for all to receive quality care. Go to the Emergency Department or call 9-1-1 if you are urgently ill. While COVID-19 is new, our processes and procedures in place for infection prevention and preventing the spread of illness are not. To learn more about COVID-19, go to ChristusTMF.org or www.cdc.gov.
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
