French Solar Company Plans Virtual Town Hall Presentation
Shortly after the Save Dike From Solar Group planned a meeting of their supporters, the French Solar Company, Engie, announced that they will be hosting a Virtual Town Hall Presentation on March 22nd at 6 pm. The online-only meeting will be a struggle for a lot of Dike residents as many do not have sufficient internet service to support the Zoom meeting. In their announcement, the local project known as Hopkins Energy, LLC, has said that the virtual meeting, “will be an opportunity for neighbors to ask questions and learn more about the project.” If this actually happens, some Dike residents say that it will be completely different than their previous experience with this solar company as well as the previous German company that was in charge of the project. Residents have felt neglected in getting information from either of these companies in the past, and have felt like decisions have been made without their consent or approval.
You can click on the following link to register to join the virtual meeting: Click Here
For those that cannot access the meeting, Engie is working with Hopkins County to provide the Hopkins County Civic Center as a location interested parties can go and access the meeting as well as ask questions during the Virtual Town Hall Presentation.
Saltillo Lady Lions Softball Falls to Detroit, 6-1
It was a tough season opener for Saltillo’s softball team.
The Saltillo Lady Lions softball team fell behind early and could not recover, losing at Detroit 6-1.
The Lady Lions fell behind 1-0 in the bottom of the first, then Detroit pushed their lead further by scoring three more runs in the bottom of the second to quickly take a 4-0 lead.
While Saltillo was able to chip in to district foe Detroit’s lead in the top of the third to make it a 4-1 game, the Eagles responded in kind scoring another run in the bottom of the third to make it a 5-1 lead. Detroit added another run in their last at bat in the bottom of the sixth en route to a 6-1 victory over the visiting Saltillo Lady Lions softball team.
Chandler Bain, a senior who was voted as co-MVP of District 24-1A in basketball, was the starting pitcher for Saltillo, pitching 4 innings, surrendering 2 walks and giving up 5 runs.
Paisley Kastner, another Lady Lion who fared very well in basketball and was named to the All-District First team, came in as a relief pitcher and pitched the final two innings, managing one strike out and giving up two walks against district foe Detroit.
In hitting, Chandler Bain was 0-2, was walked once, and managed to get a run. Paisley Kastner fared a bit better against Detroit, going 2-3 at the plate, recording 2 doubles and an RBI. Mckenza Morris was 1-3 and got a double in the loss.
With the loss, the Saltillo Lady Lions softball team falls to 0-1 for season (0-1 district).
Next up, the Saltillo Lady Lions will travel out to Fruitvale on Friday for what will be Saltillo’s second district game of the year. That game is scheduled to tee off at 6 P.M.
Purdue Pharma Files Bankruptcy Plan, Establishing Trust for Nationwide Opioid Abatement Efforts
AUSTIN – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton today announced that Purdue Pharma filed its estimated $7 billion bankruptcy plan, which places the value of the company into a trust set up to allocate funds toward opioid abatement efforts across the nation. Texas is a leader on an instrumental committee in this bankruptcy, negotiating these abatement dollars which includes additional amounts in excess of a billion dollars from the Sackler family, which owned Purdue. This brings a total of $4.275 billion of family earnings into the bankruptcy estate and will end the Sackler family’s hold on the opioid industry.
“For years, my office has aggressively worked to hold Purdue Pharma accountable for its reckless contributions to the opioid crisis. Countless lives have been destroyed and derailed by the nationwide opioid crisis, but today’s bankruptcy plan is a sustainable, transparent solution with necessary accountability measures in place,” said Attorney General Paxton. “We hope that communities can begin turning Purdue dollars into new treatment facilities, educational programs, foster homes, and much more by the start of 2022. And while victims of the opioid crisis heal, I will continue pursuing other companies to hold them accountable and recover resources for Texans.”
Be Well, Live Well
By Johanna Hicks, B.S., M.Ed., FCH Extension Agent, Hopkins County, [email protected]
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension prides itself in providing quality, research-based, evidence-based programming. A relatively new program, targeted toward individuals ages 50 and over, covers topics that are relevant to that age group. Before I get to the details of the upcoming program, I want to share a little background information.
Nutrition professionals have identified several nutrients which are often not consumer in adequate amounts by adults over the age of 50. Some of these might surprise you:
- Protein – this is an important nutrient for optimal immune function, wound healing, fluid balance, and maintenance of muscle mass. Major sources are beef, poultry, milk, cheese, fish, eggs, pork, and ham. All of these sources contain saturated fat, so moderation and portion control are important. Select lean cuts of meat, low-fat/skim milk and eggs. Plant proteins include legumes, edamame, and soy milk-beverages.
- Omega-3 fats – These are obtained from fish, shellfish, soybean oil, canola oil, walnuts, and flaxseed. It is recommended that you consume two servings of fish per week.
- Calcium/Vitamin D and physical activity help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a disease that causes bones to become brittle and break. The majority of dietary sources of calcium are milk, cheese, and calcium-fortified orange juice. Major sources of vitamin D are milk and breakfast cereals.
- Vitamin B-12 – This is vital for nerve function including cognitive performance and healthy blood cells. Natural dietary sources include beef, milk, and fish. However, the absorption of Vitamin B-12 diminishes with age. Therefore, it is recommended that adults over the age of 50 get their vitamin B-12 from fortified foods such as breakfast cereals or a vitamin supplement.
- Folate or folic acid – This is needed for growth and repair of all body tissues include healthy blood cells, and may help reduce the risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer. Look for folate in fortified grain products such as bread, rice, breakfast cereals, orange juice, dark green vegetables, and beans.
- Zinc – This is required for wound healing. Major sources of zinc are beef, some breakfast cereals, and whole grains.
- Potassium – may help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing kidney stones, and decrease bone loss. Major dietary sources are fruits and vegetables.
- Fiber – improves digestive health and promotes fullness without additional caloric intake. Major dietary sources are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Water – the ‘forgotten nutrient.’ Water helps with temperature maintenance and transportation of oxygen, nutrients, and medications to every cell of the body. It is recommended that adults consume liquids throughout the day regardless of thirst. With age, the ability to detect thirst diminishes. Therefore, older adults are more susceptible to dehydration which can cause bladder infections, kidney stones, and confusion.
“Be Well, Live Well” is a 5-topic, 4 session series designed for the 50+ crowd. The series was cancelled in 2020 due to the Corona Virus, but we are back on track to hold the face-to-face series in 2021! I would love for you be part of the action! Below are the details:
- When: Mondays and Thursdays, April 12, 15, 19, 22
- Topics: Be Independent, Eat Well; Be Able, Read the Label; Be Safe, Eat Safe; Be Creative, Plan Meals/Be Fit, Move More
- Time: 10 a.m.
- Where: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension – Hopkins County Office
- Address: 1200-B West Houston St., Sulphur Springs
- To sign up: call 903-885-3443
- Limited to first 10 participants
There is no charge for the series. Each participant will receive a copy of the power points, recipes from each session, and a “graduation” gift.
Closing Thought
If Davy Crockett and James Bowie can survive 13 straight days of fighting at the Alamo, surely we can cut out some of the garbage in our diets. Let’s be Texas proud! – Mike Lopez
Chamber Connection: Safe-T Anniversary Celebration, Pacheco Spine Ribbon Cutting Scheduled Later This Month
By Lezley Brown, President/CEO, Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce
This weather is making us think about golf, and our annual tournament is getting close to full! If you are interested in playing, call the Chamber at (903) 885-6515 to reserve your spot. We will have morning and afternoon tee times available. The tourney is set for Friday, April 9. It’s going to be a great day!
SAFE-T Crisis Center to celebrate their 14th Anniversary
SAFE-T Crisis Center is celebrating their 14th Anniversary on Wednesday, March 24, in their new facility located at 1716 Posey Lane in Sulphur Springs. Mark your calendars!
Pacheco Spine & Sport has scheduled a ribbon cutting
Pacheco Spine & Sport has scheduled a ribbon cutting celebration on Tuesday, March 30, at noon. The celebration will be held at their chiropractic office located at 1067 Gilmer Street, Suite C, in Sulphur Springs. Please make plans to attend!
Ribbon Cutting
McCullough Paint, located at 3913-B Wesley Street in Greenville, Texas, hosted their ribbon cutting celebration on Wednesday, March 10 at noon. McCullough Paint offers Benjamin Moore painting solutions for your home and office, so give them a call for your next project.
Business Highlight
The Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce is highlighting a member of the Chamber each week. Please join me in congratulating our Business of the Week for March 17, Janeen’s Country Cottage. You can read biographical stories at the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce’s Facebook page and Instagram page.
Wildcats Baseball Team Gets District Win at Mount Pleasant Exploding for 15 Runs
The Wildcats Baseball Team scored runs in six out of seven innings in a 15-6 district win at Mount Pleasant Tuesday (March 16) night.
The Wildcats scored 3 runs in 4 different innings while adding 2 in the fourth inning and one run in the seventh. The Wildcats had 12 hits.
Kaden Wallace led the offense going 4 for 6 with 2 RBI’s, 3 runs scored, a double and a stolen base. Hayden Hurst was 1 for 4 with 3 RBI’s and a walk. Mayer Millsap was 1 for 6 with an RBI and 2 run scored. Colt Silman was 1 for 4 with an RBI, 3 runs scored and 2 walks. Ty Stroud was 1 for 1 with an RBI, 3 runs scored, a double, 4 walks and a stolen base. Aiken Owens was 1 for 3 with an RBI, a run scored, 2 walks and a stolen base. Matthew Sherman was 2 for 4 with an run scored. Colby Albritton was 1 for 3 with 2 runs scored and a walk. Dawson Carpenter walked twice and stole a base.
Hurst got the pitching win throwing 97 pitches over 5 innings allowing 4 hits, 3 earned runs with 6 strikeouts. Hector Martinez pitched the last 2 innings allowing 2 hits, 1 earned run with a strikeout and 3 walks.
The Wildcats are now 2-0 in district play and 5-10 overall. Friday the Wildcats continue district play at Texas High.
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.
Wildcats Soccer Team Wins Shooutout at Hallsville to Claim Playoff Spot
The Wildcats Soccer Team won a shootout, 6 penalty kicks to 5, to claim a playoff berth in a showdown at Hallsville Tuesday (March 16) night.
Wildcats Coach Alexi Upton said goalkeeper Tai Nguyen made two key saves to help secure the win.
The stakes were high with the winner earning a playoff spot and the loser facing the end of the season. The two teams tied 1-1 in regulation and neither team could score in overtime. That sent the game into the shootout.
The Wildcats lone goal came on an unassisted goal by Alejandro Diasdado. The Wildcats end district play with a 6-6 record with the one win by shootout. Their season record improves to 14-10-2.
Coach Upton the Wildcats would face either Lufkin or Whitehouse on March 26 in a bi-district playoff game.
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.
Wildcats Golfers Battle High Winds and Extremely Brutal Course Monday
The Wildcats Golf Team saw their scores soar Monday (March 15) when they played a most difficult course and encountered very strong winds.
The Wildcats played in the Warrior Shootout Monday at the Dye Course at Stonebridge Ranch Country Club. The Wildcats finished 14th out of 16 teams firing a 394. Kip Childress finished tied for 33rd place with a 90. Rylan Brewer tied for 64th with a 98. Grant Mohesky was 71st with 102. Luke Dietze tied for 73rd with 104. Caleb Kesting tied for 80th with a 107.
Wildcats Golf Coach Jeremy DeLorge said this tournament does not reflect his team’s playing abilities. He added this was by far the hardest course his team members will ever play in high school. Next the Wildcats play at a district preview at Tempest Golf Club in Gladewater next Monday.
The district tournament will take place at Tempest on March 29-30.
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.
Lady Cats Soccer Team Just Misses Playoffs After Home Loss to Hallsville
By the narrowest of margins the Lady Cats Soccer Team missed the playoffs. With the Lady Cats 5-0 loss to Hallsville at The Prim and Mount Pleasant’s 8-0 win at Marshall on Tuesday (March 16), the Lady Tigers squeezed by the Lady Cats by a single point.
The Lady Cats ended with 17 points and Mount Pleasant and Pine Tree grabbed the last two playoff spots with 18 points.
The Lady Cats ended the season with a 6-6 district record (one by shootout) and an 11-10-4 record overall. Tuesday night, Hallsville, the district’s second place team dominated the first half scoring four goals with a wind to their backs. The Lady Cats played better in the second half but still could not penetrate the tough Lady Bobcats defense. Hallsville scored one second half goal.
Still Lady Cats Coach Javier Aguayo says the future is very bright for Lady Cats’ soccer. The Lady Cats recognized only two seniors of Senior Night Tuesday: Chloe Jones and Janine Yamaguchi. Their roster also included two juniors with six sophomores and six freshmen.
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.
Two Traffic Stops Result In 3 Controlled Substance Arrests
Two traffic stops Monday night resulted in three controlled substance arrests. A woman also turned her in on a warrant for violating probation on controlled substance charge Monday night, according to sheriff’s reports.
Davis Street Traffic Stop
Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Tanner Steward and Deputy Zack Horne reported stopping a Toyota Venza after noting the driver failed to signal a turn on South Davis Street at Connally Street.
While speaking with the occupants, identified in arrest reports as 40-year-old Tiffany Dawn McCrary and 53-year-old Kathy Denise Johnson, the deputies obtained permission to search the sport utility vehicle. Steward located on the passenger’s side floorboard a bag with a crystal-like substance which weighed 0.950 gram and tested positive for methamphetamine, the deputies alleged in arrest reports.
Both Sulphur Springs women denied ownership of the substance and were taken into custody around 11:35 p.m. on the charge. Then, the passenger claimed the driver tossed it on the floor while being pulled over, Steward alleged in arrest reports.
Johnson and McCrary were booked into jail at approximately 1:15 a.m. Tuesday, March 15, 2021, for possession of less than one gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance in a drug-free zone, the latter added due to the proximity to a church and child care center.
Both Tiffany McCrary, and Kathy Johnson, who is also known as Kathy Hughes, Kathy Hines and Kathy Dee Johnson, remained in Hopkins County jail Tuesday evening, Marc 16, 2021. Bond on the charge was set at $10,000, according to jail reports.
Monday was the second time McCrary has been jailed less than a month. She was also jailed Feb. 23 for possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance, then released the next day on a $5,000 bond, according to jail records.
Industrial Drive Traffic Stop
Just after 9:45 p.m. March 15, Deputy Zack Horne reported initiating a traffic stop on a blue Toyota Camry that failed to signal a lane change while traveling west on Industrial Drive near Bill Bradford Road. The car stopped in the bowling alley parking lot.
When he contacted the driver, Horne reported the 56-year-old Sulphur Springs man appeared to be nervous to the point his hands were shaking. Horne obtained permission to search the car, the deputy noted in arrest reports.
Deputies located a blue pipe with a small amount of suspected marijuana in it. After being placed into custody, Jeffrey Bryant Knutson allegedly admitted he had additional contraband hidden in his underwear. He removed a bag with a crystal-like substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine and weighed 0.705 gram. Knutson was booked into Hopkins County jail around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 16, 2021, on a possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1controlled substance charge, Horne and Sgt. Tanner Steward alleged in arrest reports.
Knutson was released from Hopkins County jail later Tuesday, March 16, on a $5,000 bond on the charge, according to jail reports.
Warrant Arrest
Brandy Lynn McCullough turned herself in at 10:45 p.m. March 15, 2021, at Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office on a warrant.
The 36-year-old San Antonio woman was escort by Deputy Nick Marney into the county jail, where she was booked at 12 a.m. March 16, 2021, for violation of probation, which she was on for a July 31, 2018 possession of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance offense, according to arrest reports.
McCullough was arrested July 31, 2018 for allegedly handing a deputy a driver’s license with too many numbers on it, flagging it as false, and also was found to be in possession of controlled substances; and was wanted on a theft charge, deputies alleged in reports at the time of her arrest.
She was indicted in April 2019 on a possession of a Penalty Group 2 controlled substance charge as well as possession of less than 1 gram of a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance and tampering with a government or school record, license, seal or permit charge, according to court records. She remained in Hopkins County jail from Oct. 31, 2019 to Jan. 2, 2020, for bond forfeiture on both controlled substance charges and the tampering charge, according to jail reports.
McCullough was held in Hopkins County jail Tuesday evening, March 16, 2021 on the violation of probation charge, according to jail reports.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
