Shorter Days Bring Higher Risk for Pedestrians
October 2, 2024 – TxDOT campaign asks people to be cautious and alert during the deadliest month for pedestrians.
While fall and winter give Texans a much-needed reprieve from the summer heat, the change in seasons also brings fewer daylight hours, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and keep them safe.
October was the deadliest month for pedestrians last year, with 80 pedestrians dying in Texas traffic crashes. It was also the month that Lisa Torry Smith was killed in a crash in 2017 as she was walking her 6-year-old son to kindergarten in Missouri City. A motorist drove through a crosswalk, hitting Lisa and leaving her son with a broken leg and fractured pelvis—and without a mother.
A new law in her honor now requires drivers to stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Lisa’s sister, Gina Torry, is now advocating for pedestrian safety.
Sadly, Lisa’s story is just one of many. Over the last five years, pedestrian traffic fatalities in Texas increased 22%, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding everyone to be extra cautious and alert.
“As the fall and winter months usher in shorter days and less light, pedestrians are at increased risk on our roads,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians in lower-light conditions and must stay alert to avoid preventable collisions. Likewise, pedestrians can take extra precautions to be seen by drivers when walking after dark.”
TxDOT is taking to the streets with its Be Safe. Drive Smart. Campaign during October’s National Pedestrian Safety Month, reminding drivers to slow down and watch for people walking.
TxDOT’s educational campaign includes TV and radio spots, billboards and digital advertising. TxDOT will also bring 34 street teams—walking billboards wearing safety messages—to areas that saw the greatest number of pedestrian fatalities last year. The street teams will be deployed in places where motorists and pedestrians share the road.
TxDOT encourages everyone to follow the safety tips below to prevent a deadly crash.
For drivers and walkers
- Stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks.
- When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians.
- Put your phone away before you begin driving and pay attention so you’re prepared if pedestrians enter your path.
- Be cautious when passing stopped buses or other vehicles that can block your view of pedestrians.
- Follow the posted speed limit and drive to conditions.
- Cross the street only at intersections and crosswalks. Look left, right, then left again before crossing.
Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Don’t assume traffic will stop for you. - Follow all traffic and crosswalk signals.
- When walking, put away electronic devices that take your attention off the road.
- Stay visible. Wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.
- Be Safe.
Drive Smart. is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths. Nov. 7, 2000, was the last deathless day on Texas roadways.
County Extension Agent Lisa Sprague Chats About Fall Festival on this Episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Office Delta County Extension Agent Lisa Sprague sat down with John Mark and had a chat. The two talked about “Christmas Joys”, the Fall Festival Creative Arts Contest, the Fall Festival Craft Fair and Vendor Market, and much more. Be sure to check out this informative segment of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee below.
2024 United Way Campaign is Underway with “Believe” as the Theme
October 1, 2024 – The Hopkins County United Way has kicked off their 2024-2025 campaign at full speed. The theme for this year is “Believe.”
The 2024-2025 Hopkins County United Way Officers are Co-Presidents Jessica McInnis and KK McKenzie, Campaign Chair Lyndsay Palmer, and the Executive Secretary is Susan Berning.
The Hopkins County United Way has already held their 2024 Ribbon Cutting, the Campaign Lunch event, and their Lead Donor/CEO Appreciation Luncheon. These three events can be observed in the videos below.
The 2024-2025 Board of Directors of the Hopkins County United Way are… David Burns, Larry Crowson, Markeda Fisher, Shelby Gibson, Emily Glass, Clay Harrison, Mike Horne, Chelsea Mayes, Sherry McGraw, Jessica McInnis, KK McKenzie, Kristy Landers Moseley, Bill Owens, Lyndsay Palmer, and Hillary Young.
Members of the Budget and Allocation Committee include… Brandon Brewer, Ashley Crump, Emily Glass, Jessica McInnis, KK McKenzie, Lyndsay Pamler, and Michelle Wallace.
The Hopkins County United Way is a very honorable group of individuals with drive and compassion, and a belief. They “Believe” in our community and the good in us and what we can help them accomplish to help out so many groups. Hopkins County needs to come together and support this worthy organization and it’s great cause. Every little bit helps. Give as much as you can, even is it’s just $10.
Hopkins County Health Care Foundation Elects New Officers
October 1, 2024 – Sulphur Springs, TX –
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation has elected new officers for the 2024-2026 term. Outgoing members are Chair Maleta Reynolds, Vice Chair Pam Black, Treasurer Jessica Kultgen, and Secretary Sally Toliver.
Black and Toliver will remain on the Executive Committee while Reynolds and Kultgen have maxed out their years of consecutive service to the Board and rolled off at the end of August.
New officers are Chair Pam Black, Vice Chair Steve Rutherford, Treasurer Sally Toliver, and Secretary Bob Weaver.
The Board consists of 15 members, all of whom live in Hopkins County. Terms are for three years, and members may only serve two consecutive terms.
The Foundation began in 1997 when community leaders determined there was a need to promote local healthcare opportunities for the benefit of everyone. Originally it supported the work of the local hospital, Memorial Hospital, which was operated by the Hopkins County Hospital District. In 2016, CHRISTUS Health added Memorial Hospital to its System, creating CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs. The Foundation now supports the efforts of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs and the Hopkins County Hospital District.
The Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization that runs three fundraising events: the Gala, Designer Handbag Bingo, and Man Bingo. In addition to donating to the local hospital and the Hopkins County Hospital District, the Foundation conducts three health-related programs of its own: a free mammography clinic, a man’s health initiative, and In My Closet which is a resource for women going through breast cancer.
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Texas AG Commissioner Miller Invites all Texans to go to the Texan Pavilion at the State Fair
AUSTIN – Today, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller invites Texans to the State Fair to experience the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) GO TEXAN Pavilion, presented by Southwest Dairy Farmers. The Pavilion showcases the finest Texas-made products from GO TEXAN partners, offering a true taste of the Lone Star State. Conveniently located near the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium in the heart of Fair Park, the Pavilion will be bustling with food samples, Texas wine tastings, family-friendly activities, and the daily Texas Whiskey Hour where fairgoers can meet local distillers. Commissioner Miller is excited to announce that this year’s Preview Night set a new record, with the Pavilion leading 2023 sales.
“The GO TEXAN Pavilion, sponsored by Southwest Dairy Farmers, plays a huge role in promoting Texas agriculture and supporting agribusinesses across the Lone Star State,” Commissioner Miller said. “For 25 years, GO TEXAN has showcased the excellence of local producers and fostered community engagement, making it a cornerstone of Texas pride and economic growth.”
The Pavilion at the State Fair of Texas is celebrating 25 years of the GO TEXAN program, which has supported Texas agriculture since 1999. GO TEXAN promotes the state’s diverse products, from vast plains to flourishing vineyards, while driving economic growth. For a quarter-century, it has connected consumers with local farmers and producers, fostering pride for Texas businesses.
The 25,000-square-foot GO TEXAN Pavilion, sponsored by Southwest Dairy Farmers, highlights the best of Texas agriculture, featuring hundreds of products made by GO TEXAN-certified businesses. A must-see inside the Pavilion is the GO TEXAN Pioneer General Store, packed with a diverse array of Texas-made goods. You’ll find unique specialty items ranging from barbecue sauces to handcrafted ornaments, all made with pride in Texas.
Families and children will also enjoy TDA’s Farm to School booth in the Pavilion. The engaging, hands-on exhibits in the booth will encourage children and families to learn how food travels from their local farms to their school cafeteria or childcare center. Don’t miss out on the delicious apples handed out to every visitor, fresh from a Texas orchard.
“Each year at the State Fair of Texas, GO TEXAN showcases the best Texas-grown and Texas-made products, giving Texans a firsthand look at the excellence our state has to offer,” Commissioner Miller noted. “When you’re at the State Fair, make sure to stop by the Pavilion and show your support for local Texas businesses.”
To plan your trip and experience the best of Texas in the GO TEXAN Pavilion, presented by Southwest Dairy Farmers, please visit this link to see the Pavilion schedule:
The Pavilion is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The State Fair runs from September 27th through October 20th, 2024.
Governor Abbott Celebrates Texas Stock Exchange At Governor’s Mansion
October 1, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the Texas Stock Exchange (TSXE) and the state’s historic economic milestones during a press conference at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin.
“Texas has become the home of capital in the United States,” said Governor Abbott. “Today, our great state is staking claim as a home of capital markets with the addition of the Texas Stock Exchange. This is another step that expands our financial might in the United States and cements our economic power on the global stage. The Texas Stock Exchange will ensure that businesses have access to capital and that market participants have more choices. Texas is the modern embodiment of the American Dream, where everyone has an opportunity to succeed, and the Texas Stock Exchange will ensure even more businesses have that opportunity.”
The Governor was joined at the press conference by TXSE Group Inc. Founder and CEO James Lee, former U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry, Senator Tan Parker, Representative Giovanni Capriglione, Representative Morgan Meyer, and other business and community leaders.
World Communion Sunday is October 6, 2024, and is Discussed on this Second Cup Of Coffee
On this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark had a visit from Rev. Peter McNabb and Pastor Christina Hardy. The three chatted about Terrific Tuesdays, World Communion Sunday, First United Methodist Church of Sulphur Springs’s plans for World Communion Sunday, and so much more. Be sure to check it out and learn what’s coming up in your community.
Free Mammography Clinic is Full, But Waiting List Available
September 30, 2024 – Sulphur Springs, TX –
The free mammography clinic offered to uninsured Hopkins County women over 40 is full. All sixty appointments have been claimed and, a waiting list has been created. If you missed securing an appointment, please call the Ruth & Jack Gillis Women’s Center at 903-438-4325 to get on the waiting list.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation sponsors the clinic which is paid for with proceeds from the 5th Annual Designer Handbag Bingo and direct donations from local ladies.
This is the fifth year the clinic has been offered. The clinic is offered in October as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The Foundation encourages all women to make an appointment for their annual mammograms. Since early detection is so important in the outcome of breast cancer, women are reminded not to skip a year.
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Fire Event Encourages Young Women to Explore a Career in Wildland Firefighting
September 30, 2024 – HUNTSVILLE, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service hosted the fourth annual Sisters in Fire event on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Sam Houston State University Bearkat Camp. Twenty-three young women between the ages of 12 and 18 from across 23 Texas counties participated.
“For the fourth year, we’ve shown young women the comradery, integrity and excitement that comes with a career in wildland firefighting and natural resource protection,” said Heather Gonzales, Texas A&M Forest Service Program Specialist. “We strive to make Sisters in Fire engaging, educational and fun every year and incorporate new activities and experiences. I loved seeing the laughter and teamwork from girls who were mostly strangers only a few hours before. It’s a reminder for all of us to take a step back and appreciate the work we get to do every day in serving the state of Texas.”
Participants were split into squads, or teams, for the day and rotated through four stations. Each station introduced them to various topics and skills relating to the wildland firefighting profession, including how to suppress wildfires with fire engines, bulldozers, chainsaws and hand tools. They also learned leadership and communication skills that are critical for wildland firefighting crews.
“Starting the chainsaw was hard, but once I got it to start and got to hold it and pull the trigger, I felt so strong,” said Charlie, Sisters in Fire participant.
At this year’s event, a Fire Boss from Dauntless Air, an amphibious aircraft frequently used on Texas wildfires, made two water drops to demonstrate the vital coordination between aerial firefighting resources and ground personnel during a wildfire incident. Participants were also able to interact and board a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department helicopter—a craft commonly used to haul buckets of water to provide pinpoint water drops or conduct initial attacks on remote wildfires.
“Most people only see aircraft as a part of commercial travel, but showing these young women and their families how important and unique these firefighting aircraft are introduces them to other paths,” said Cassidy Ince, Texas A&M Forest Service Fixed-Wing Program Coordinator. “These participants may be the next generation of our fire aviation professionals, and we will lean on all of them to protect our communities in the future.”
Participants put everything they learned to the test during the final event of the day—a prescribed fire demonstration. While the instructors burned a small area of grass, the young women answered questions and applied what they learned to a real-world scenario.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, women account for a small percentage of career firefighters, including 5% of all career firefighters, 11% of volunteer fire service and 12% of federal wildland firefighters.
“Getting to show the participants how all of the skills they learned all day work together during the prescribed burn is a great feeling,” said Britney Stinson, Texas A&M Forest Service Resource Specialist. “Seeing all of the participants and their families realize how all of these firefighters from multiple states and agencies can come together, make a team, and successfully lead an event is one of my favorite parts of the event.”
The Sisters in Fire event was hosted in cooperation with Texas A&M Forest Service, USDA Forest Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute and Kansas Forest Service.
“Getting to not only work with other women with careers in the outdoors but to teach other young women is phenomenal,” said Kimberlee Peterson, Texas A&M Forest Service Woodland Ecologist. “Getting to see these young women realize they can have a career in natural resources is my favorite part of the event every year.”
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Hopkins County Announces Fire Prevention Week
September 30, 2024 – During a special session of the Hopkins County Commissioner’s Court held Monday morning, a proclamation was read announcing “Fire Prevention Week” to take place October 6th through October 12th. Fire Prevention Week was established nationally to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire. In 1871. That fire killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The jGreat Chicago Fire began on October 8th, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871.
President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9th falls.
This years theme for Fire Prevention Week in Hopkins County is “Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work For You”
Hopkins County Fire Chief Andy Endsley stressed to the public the importance of Fire Safety all year, but wanted to highlight the importance during Fire Prevention Week. Endsley said, “this is a great time to be reminded to make sure you have working smoke detectors throughout your home.”
