Sulphur Springs Residents Prepare to Address City Council on Proposed Zoning Change
November 26, 2024 – Sulphur Springs residents are preparing to make their thoughts known at the December 3 City Council Meeting.
The heart of the issue is a proposed Zoning change. The change would take approximately 40 acres in the northwest part of the city from Single-Family all the way to Heavy Industrial. Planning and Zoning has already submitted their recommendation to proceed with the zoning change.
A “heavy industrial” setting typically contains large-scale manufacturing operations involving heavy machinery, producing raw materials or large-scale components like steel, chemicals, oil products, ships, locomotives, large infrastructure components, and often includes processes like mining, refining, and large-scale assembly lines; essentially, industries that produce heavy, bulky goods and chemicals.
Currently, Heavy Industrial zones are already adjacent to Single-Family Zones in this area. The change would extend the Heavy Industry zoning south. This would bring the possibility of industrial nuisances closer to existing homes and other existing areas like Melhaven Cemetery.
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If the zoning change is approved by the City Council, a Hot Mix Asphalt Plant is slated to be built. This type of plant is regulated by the EPA and requires a permit for operation. Homeowners near the proposed site are concerned about the smells that this type of plant produces. The odors from hot mix asphalt plants can include:
- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
- Asphalt fume
- Particulate matter (PM)
- Sulfur dioxide
- Hydrogen sulfide
- Nitrogen oxides
- Carbon monoxide
While the odors can be irritating, the risk of adverse health effects is very low. However, neighbors and passersby may become concerned and file complaints, which can lead to regulation and operational restrictions.
Residents point out that there is plenty of open space already zoned for Heavy Industry around Sulphur Springs. In an industrial park setting, the potential nuisances of a asphalt plant would be mitigated.
The rezone (ZC-241101) request by John Heilman and Rick Scherer for 25.997 acres on Seventh Street being further described as Lot I, Blk 76 1 (Parcel ID #5093) and 15.909 acres on Seventh St. being further described as PT. Lot I, Blk 110 (Parcel ID #5645) to rezone from Single-Family to Heavy Industrial.
An online petition in opposition of the zoning change has been started, and at the time of publication, 240 people have already signed it. You can visit the site by clicking here.
Greenville Officer Involved in Monday Night Shooting Dies
November 26, 2024 – Greenville, Texas – The Greenville Police Department is deeply saddened to report the tragic loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, badge number 366, who was killed in the line of duty on November 25, 2024.
On Monday, November 25, at approximately 7:40pm, Officer Dawson initiated a traffic stop which led to a foot pursuit in the 3500 block of Pickett Street. While pursuing the suspect behind the address of 3517 Pickett Street, Officer Dawson was ambushed and shot multiple times. Despite his critical injuries, Officer Dawson displayed exceptional courage, returning fire, and striking the suspect.
Both Officer Dawson and the suspect were transported to a local hospital. Officer Dawson was later airlifted to a larger area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Tragically, this marks the first Line of Duty death for the Greenville Police Department in over 100 years.
Officer Dawson was a highly respected member of the Greenville Police Department and had previously served with the Garland Police Department. His dedication to public service and his unwavering commitment to protecting the Greenville community will never be forgotten.
“We are heartbroken over the loss of Officer Cooper Dawson, who selflessly put his life on the line to serve and protect our community,” said Greenville Police Chief Chris Smith. “We ask that you keep Officer Dawson’s family, our department, and the Greenville community in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
Further details regarding memorial services and ways to support Officer Dawson’s family will be announced in the coming days.
A squad car is displayed in front of our police department in Officer Dawson’s honor.
Celebrate the Holiday Season Outside at a Texas State Park
November 26, 2024 – AUSTIN— The weather has cooled and the leaves are falling, which means the holidays have finally arrived in Texas. Starting this weekend, Texas State Parks are hosting a suite of different seasonal activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including themed guided walks, crafting events and more.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) highly encourages anyone planning a trip to a Texas State Park to reserve their day pass in advance since some parks are expected to reach their capacity limit. Reserve day passes online or over the phone by calling (512) 389-8900.
For more information about all holiday activities at Texas State Parks and TPWD sites, visit the TPWD calendar page or on Holidays in the Parks.
November
If you’ve ever wanted to learn about Dutch oven cooking and try some tasty new recipes, Lake Corpus Christi State Park’s Dutch Oven Friendsgiving event is the perfect fit. From 2-3 p.m. Nov. 26, visitors can see and taste how some of Thanksgiving’s iconic dishes are made using a camp-style Dutch oven.
Join park staff at Fort Parker State Park from 10-11 a.m. Nov. 28 to give thanks and create a turkey craft to take home for your holiday dinner. Visitors should meet at the Group Pavilion. Supplies will be provided.
If you’re opting to be outside on Black Friday rather than at a store, wanting to walk off those Thanksgiving calories or just enjoy the weather, multiple state parks will have events and activities happening Nov. 29.
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is getting into the Christmas spirit from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 30. Visitors can learn how early Texans got ready for the holidays at the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Staff will be stringing popcorn for the Christmas tree while visitors learn how to make wreaths out of local cedar and dip candles.
December
Get creative with corn husks from 10-11 a.m. Dec. 1 at Goliad State Park and Historic Site. Corn husks have been used for hundreds of years to make dolls for children. Participants in this family-friendly event can use their imagination and creativity to create a doll or angel of their own to take home.
Learn to paint stunning, custom holiday cards to send to friends, family or keep as keepsakes from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 7 at Palo Duro Canyon State Park. This fun and relaxing workshop is perfect for experienced artists and beginners.
Sit by a cozy campfire and listen to a ranger tell some classic Christmas stories with a Texas twist from 6-7 p.m. Dec. 7 at Martin Creek Lake State Park. Visitors will meet at the Twin Oak Amphitheater. Dress for the weather and bring a chair or blanket.
How do you make a snowman without snow? Visit Fort Boggy State Park from 2-3 p.m. Dec. 21 to find out! Visitors will meet at the gazebo and should visit the park event page to register.
Visit Galveston Island State Park from 9-10:30 a.m. Dec. 26 for a Boxing Day bird walk on the beach. Whether you’re an experienced birder or just starting to explore the world of birdwatching, this guided walk is the perfect way to enjoy the park’s winter wildlife.
Outdoor explorers and armchair adventurers: get the best of the Texas outdoors dropped into your mailbox 10 times a year. A subscription to Texas Parks & Wildlife magazine is just $2 a month and includes full access to our digital app library featuring more than 800 stories spotlighting the best of Texas’ wild things and wild places. Visit https://tpwmagazine.com/specialoffers to subscribe today.
John Mark and Dr. Steeber Discuss the Construction Plans of the new Campuses for SSISD on this Second Cup Of Coffee
John Mark Dempsey and Sulphur Springs ISD Superintendent Dr. Deana Steeber discuss the development plans under way for the new campuses for the Sulphur Springs ISD on this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey. They talked about such topics as where some of the future facilities are going to be located, the time frames for the various stages of the new campuses, the renovation plans for some of the campuses in the district, the estimated time frames for the beginnings and endings of some of these projects, and more. Take a look at this episode and learn what’s to come for the Sulphur Springs ISD!
Paris Junior College Renews Articulation Agreement with University of Texas – MD Anderson Cancer Center
November 25, 2024 – Opportunities for students wanting advanced careers in biology will continue at Paris Junior College after an articulation agreement with the University of Texas – MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston was renewed again.
“This has been an amazing program for a select group of students,” said Dr. Jack Brown, PJC biology faculty and Division Director of Math and Sciences. “That connection shows how strong our laboratory sciences are. At the beginning of the agreement 10 years ago, UT-MD Anderson came into our labs to make sure we had the proper equipment and were operating at the right level.
“Since then, the students we’ve sent there have all just knocked it out of the park. They’ve graduated and been at the top of their class,” Brown said. “UT-MD Anderson likes that PJC students arrive having used pipettes and done electrophoresis; they have hands-on experience that most kids just out of high school – or even at most community colleges and universities – have not had.”
ELISA lab f24: Emmi Price (left) and Catherine Smith use pipettes to insert antibody samples into wells. At the end of the experiment, the presence of a virus causes the solution to turn blue.
PJC has a huge advantage due to small classes sizes, making upper level techniques and equipment affordable. With large undergraduate classes, most universities reserve these experiences for seniors or post-graduate students.
“At PJC, you’re going to get to actually interact with lab equipment such as PCR machines that copy DNA and perform high end procedures you would not get in touch for a while elsewhere. Everyone gets their own microscope here; they don’t have to share or wait to use it,” Brown said. “It does take time to learn how to use one.”
biomedical 1: Maegan Martinez (left) and Jessica Sanchez perform gel electrophoresis. The process separates DNA fragments from a virus and results in DNA fingerprinting.
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) machines are used in research labs and clinical diagnostics to replicate DNA, detect DNA sequences, perform DNA fingerprinting, forensic analysis, molecular cloning, and diagnose genetic diseases, and detect pathogens. Where students previously had to share one PCR machine, PJC has acquired more and now students may work with them through an app on their phone.
UT-MD Anderson’s program is strong on hands-on learning in the lab, Brown says. There are some classes, but the final year is spent entirely in the lab. Students must meet all the conditions and go through an interview process, but to date all PJC students have been accepted.
ELISA lab 2 f24: From left, Alexis Forsythe-Hill, Rebekah Flowers, and Nathallie Tarrant review produces for a new ELISA lab test. ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) is a plate-based assay technique designed for detecting and quantifying soluble substances such as peptides, proteins, antibodies, and hormones.
The five programs covered by the agreement are medical laboratory science, cytogenetic technology, cytotechnology, histotechnology, and molecular genetic technology. These programs produce graduates in high demand nationwide in places such as hospitals, reference laboratories, corporations, cancer and constitutional genetic laboratories, academic or research facilities, biotechnology companies, pathology labs, chemical industry labs, pediatric and genetic counseling labs, and many more.
Graduates from UT-MD Anderson have gone on to stellar careers, according to Brown. One of the first students to finish, Madison Stripland, started her own genetic testing company at the beginning of the COVID pandemic.
Another student, Michael Edenhoffer, graduated from UT-MD Anderson’s Molecular Genetics Program in 2020, interned at Yale University, and subsequently attended Semmelweis Medical School in Budapest, Hungary.
For more information about the program, call or email 903-782-0319 or [email protected].
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
Dinner Bell for November 27, 2024
DINNER BELL, First United Methodist Church
WEEK OF: Thanksgiving Week—November 27, 2024
The Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry will not be preparing meals on November 27 so that our dedicated volunteers may share the Thanksgiving Holiday with friends and families.
Wishing you a Thanksgiving filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. Enjoy the time with your loved ones! See you December 4 in Fellowship Hall of First United Methodist Church for food and fellow ship!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
MENU:
Take care of YOURSELF by following safe health practices as flu and COVID are lurking in our midst! Wear masks where required! Wash your hands often! Get inoculated and boosted
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH !!!
Texas Officials Celebrate Approval of Bluebonnet Curriculum for K-5 Students
Now approved by the State Board of Education, the materials will be available for teachers and students in the 2025-2026 school year.
By Sydnie Henry | November 22, 2024 – The State Board of Education has approved the Texas Education Agency’s Bluebonnet Learning curriculum for K-5 reading and math.
The Texas Education Agency describes the new instructional materials as Open Education Resources, which means they are owned by the state, free to everyone, and can be modified over time.
School districts can choose whether or not to use Bluebonnet Learning, and districts that decide to use the materials will receive an incentive of $60 per student.
Gov. Greg Abbott celebrated the passage, stating, “The passage of Bluebonnet Learning is a critical step forward to bring students back to the basics of education and provide the best education in the nation.”
These transformative educational materials are voluntary and free for schools and teachers to use. And with parents also able to access these materials online, we will ensure young Texans have access to high-quality, grade-level appropriate curricula that will provide the necessary fundamentals in math, reading, science, and other core subjects and boost student outcomes across Texas. I thank the Texas Education Agency for working tirelessly to bolster students’ educational foundation and equip them with the knowledge they need to lead bright, successful lives in Texas.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick also signaled his support for the materials on social media.
“Improving public education has been one of my top goals since I arrived in the Texas Senate,” wrote Patrick. “In districts where high-quality curriculum has already been implemented, results have been fantastic, showcasing strong improvements in student outcomes. Today’s @txsboe vote for high-quality curriculum will ensure all students are receiving appropriate grade-level instruction and is an important step to boosting student outcomes statewide.”
While some have raised concerns about the incorporation of materials such as biblical stories about the Golden Rule and Good Samaritan in the curriculum, this has given cause for others to celebrate.
Pastor Richard Vega, an advocate for ensuring children’s educational materials are age-appropriate, wrote, “The Bluebonnet curriculum represents an opportunity to revitalize public education, honor our nation’s heritage, and support both students and teachers.”
The SBOE members initially approved the curriculum on Wednesday in a preliminary vote of 8-7. Today’s vote remained the same, with Republican members Evelyn Brooks, Patricia Hardy, and Pam Little joining the four Democrats in voting against the materials.
The curriculum will be available to teachers and students in August 2025.
This article originally appeared here.
Texas Expands Floating Marine Barriers To Secure The Border
November 22, 2024 – Austin, Texas – Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the Texas National Guard continue to work together to secure the border; stop the smuggling of drugs, weapons, and people into Texas; and prevent, detect, and interdict transnational criminal activity between ports of entry.
Since the launch of Operation Lone Star, the multi-agency effort has led to over 526,600 illegal immigrant apprehensions and more than 48,700 criminal arrests, with more than 41,900 felony charges. In the fight against the fentanyl crisis, Texas law enforcement has seized over 553 million lethal doses of fentanyl—enough to kill every man, woman, and child in the United States and Mexico combined during this border mission.
Texas has decreased illegal crossings into the state by over 86% due to our historic border security mission. Fewer illegal crossings into Texas means fewer migrants to transport to sanctuary cities. Since the start of Texas’ transportation program, the state has transported:
- Over 12,500 migrants to Washington, D.C. since April 2022
- Over 45,900 migrants to New York City since August 2022
- Over 36,900 migrants to Chicago since August 2022
- Over 3,400 migrants to Philadelphia since November 2022
- Over 19,200 migrants to Denver since May 2023
- Over 1,500 migrants to Los Angeles since June 2023
Operation Lone Star continues to fill the dangerous gaps created by the federal government’s refusal to secure the border. Every individual who is apprehended or arrested and every ounce of drugs seized would have otherwise made their way into communities across Texas and the nation due to open border policies.
CEA Mario Villarino Visits with John Mark Dempsey on this Episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Hopkins County Agent Mario Villarino-Gutierrez stopped by the KSST studios and visited with John Mark Dempsey on this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee… The two talked about such topics as fire ants and how to deal with them, the amount of rainfall we have had in Hopkins County and how it’s effecting the area, hay in Hopkins County and how the amount of rain has affected it’s growth, and so much more. Give this episode a viewing and see what you learn!
Diatomaceous Earth for Vegetable Plant Protection From Master Gardener David Wall
November 24, 2024 – When searching for organic ways to control vegetable garden pests without harming the plants or soil, an effective tool is diatomaceous earth (DE). For those not familiar with it, DE is a chalky rock made from microscopic sea algae plants called diatoms that had silica-lined cell walls.
After death, the silica cell walls didn’t decompose, allowing them to be mined forever after, thus providing gardeners with a worry-free and non-toxic way to fight insect invasions into your garden. DE works by being abrasive on a microscopic level. Rub some between your fingertips, and it’ll feel like chalk dust or even talcum powder. It isn’t harmful to birds, animals, or fish.
The DE silica acts like tiny shards of glass which “chew” into insect exoskeletons and get into joints. The resulting “cuts” remove the exoskeleton protection, causing dehydration, and death, usually with 24 hours.
There are several types of DE. The ones you want in your garden and in your home is food grade or house grade DE. They don’t contain unwanted additives such as chemical pesticides in them.
DE is effective against fungus ants, slugs, spider mites, gnats, aphids, ants, beetles and more. It works on leaves and the soil surface for crawling insects.. Since DE doesn’t discriminate between good and bad insects, it should not be used around the flowering portions of vegetable plants. It’s fine on flowering plants in your home.
To use DE dry, make a salt-type shaker using a jar with holes in the lid, fill with DE and shake on the plant leaves and soil. For wet use, mix one tbsp of DE in a quart of water and put in a spray bottle. Weekly spray on leaves and soil or just the soil. While wet DE is ineffective, it works great when it dries.
