The Next Hopkins County Genealogical Society Monthly Meeting to be Held September 19th
September 13, 2024 – Thursday, Sep 19, 2024 @ 7:00 p.m. @ 611 N. Davis St., Sulphur Springs Tx– Gwen Takes Horse
Join us on Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. for Mississippi Choctaws: Journey To The Dawes Roll. Gwen Takes Horse, Choctaw and Chickasaw, has been a Genealogist with the Choctaw Nation Membership Department for the past 11 years and a Choctaw Nation employee for 25 years. A graduate of Southeastern Oklahoma State University with a Masters of Behavioral Science in counseling Psychology, she has worked as a counselor in Indian boarding schools, public schools, and prior to working in Genealogy, she was a Counselor for the Choctaw Nation Upward Bound program. A member of the Oklahoma Genealogical Society and National Genealogical society, Gwen is the current Vice-Chairperson of the Johnson-O’Malley Program and on the Indian Education Board at Colbert Oklahoma Public Schools.
Register in advance for this meeting: Sep 19, 2024 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcrf-GuqjIvHdbN-gSHEoyip6MoH0UngSvR
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
We are frequently asked about researching Native American ancestors here in the library, so we hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to hear from an expert!
Paris Junior College Officially Installs Ninth President
September 13, 2024 – Music and testimonials from two college presidents highlighted the official inauguration of Paris Junior College’s ninth president, Dr. Stephen Benson, at the Love Civic Center in Paris, Texas on September 10. The ceremony blended old and new as part of PJC’s 100th anniversary celebration.
Hundreds watched the inauguration ceremony featuring an invocation from Christopher Withrow, president of Phi Theta Kappa, the two-year college honor society, and performance of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” by Dr. Michael Holderer, PJC music faculty. Dr. Lisa Elliott, Vice President of Student Services, was the master of ceremonies.
Demonstrating his love of music, Dr. Benson directed a volunteer choir in two songs, “Joy in the Morning,” and “For Good.” The first was written by Natalie Sleeth for the inauguration of her husband, Dr. Ronald Sleeth, as president of West Virginia Wesleyan College in 1976. The second was “For Good” (from the musical, “Wicked”), arranged by Mac Huff with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz.
Both selections were accompanied by retired PJC music faculty Patricia Fowzer on piano and the first by Randy Bunch on trumpet. The choir was made up of community volunteers from Paris and Sulphur Springs, PJC alumni, staff and faculty, and the North Lamar High School choir.
Curtis Fendley, PJC Board of Regents president, presented the President’s Medal to Dr. Benson, formally installing him as the ninth president of PJC.
“This medal is considered a cornerstone of presidential regalia, proudly worn by the President at commencement and ceremonial occasions,” said Fendley, explaining that it was designed by President Emeritus Bobby R. Walters and retired jewelry faculty Ulla Raus.
Dr. Ted Spring, former president of New River Community & Technical College in West Virginia.
“Being here this morning is very, very special to me,” said Dr. Spring. “It’s honoring the legacy of those who served here at Paris. This is a moment for all of you to look back with pride at your history and look forward to building an even stronger institution.”
Spring relayed how he first met Dr. Benson when he was building New River Community College from scratch. He wanted someone with drive and vision and he was drawn to Benson’s background in music.
“Leading a choir requires bringing people together, diverse voices and talents, to create harmony, much like leading a college requires uniting the governing board, the administration, the faculty, the staff and the students to achieve common goals. His leadership was instrumental to the success of our institution and I have no doubt he has brought that same dedication and passion to Paris Junior College.”
Next to speak was Dr. Johnette McKown, president of McLennan Community College in Waco where Dr. Benson previously worked. She also worked for 14 years at PJC and she and her husband have fond memories of their time in the Paris community 35 years ago.
“When Dr. Benson told me he was considering being the president of PJC, I was sad and when he left our campus was in mourning,” said McKown, “but I was so excited for you [Benson] because I knew it was a great place to work.”
“He [Benson] was a change-maker and an innovator for us,” said McKown. “In his quiet way he proposed ideas that just made us better. I was seeking a real leader, not a manager or accountant, and in Stephen I found an individual with incredible leadership skills and compassion for students and employees.”
McKown shared laudatory messages from MCC staff, faculty and students, and Waco community artists. She also warned the audience they were all about to become University of West Virginia fans.
In his comments concluding the ceremony, Benson said, “we will always celebrate and honor the past because our mission has not changed over time. We have always been and will continue to be a place that transforms lives, nurtures our students, and supports our communities. In a changing world, I am however reminded of a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson ‘Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.’ The path of the last 100 years has been paved by faculty members who inspired countless students, staff who have supported our students through the trials of life and the struggles of going to college, administrators and board of regents who shaped the vision and plans for the College, alumni, friends, and communities who saw the value in our work and supported us in many ways, and most important… the many students who entrusted us to help them grow. Together, they all forged a legacy that I am committed to upholding and advancing. I see a bold and exciting future for PJC, one that may not always have a clear path, but with confidence, we will as Emerson said, go where there is no path and we will leave a trail.
“I am excited for the future of Paris Junior College, for what we can do for our communities, for the impact we can make on the lives of our students, and for the ways that we as a college can become even stronger.”
He also singled out audience-member Ouida Edmiaston Black, a 1943 PJC graduate.
“Mrs. Black was inducted in the PJC Hall of Honor for her long-standing support in 1999,” said Benson. “Just as PJC is now 100 years old, so is Mrs. Black and we are honored that today, Mrs. Ouida Black is here in this place with us. These stories are all part of what makes this place special to many people.”
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.
TxDOT Warning Drivers of Spike in Texting Scams Targeting TxTag Customers
AUSTIN – Texting scams are targeting toll customers in Texas saying they’re from TxTag, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is warning everyone to be on the lookout.
There have been multiple reports of TxTag customers receiving text messages claiming to have a balance due or past due. These SMS text phishing scams, also known as smishing, have been occurring since April, but appear to have increased recently. TxDOT is working to have fraudulent websites taken down in hopes of preventing customers from becoming victims.
TxTag takes customer account security and verification very seriously. While TxTag currently communicates with customers via email, text and outbound phone calls, it will not send text messages regarding final payment reminders or past due balances. Any text messages sent to TxTag customers will be sent from 22498.
TxDOT asks TxTag customers to be vigilant of these ongoing scams and contact TxTag Customer Service directly at TxTag.org or by calling 1-888-468-9824, should customers receive an unsolicited text, email or message purporting to be from TxTag or another toll agency. They should also not click on or open any links.
Emails and texts are sent to the email address and/or the phone number that customers provide in their account. Customers are required to opt into email and/or text notifications in order to receive emails and/or texts from TxTag. If customers are unsure if they are opted into email and/or text notifications, they can log into their TxTag online account or contact TxTag customer service to confirm.
TxTag requires all customers to confirm their account information and verify their identity before providing any information to ensure they are speaking with the correct person on the account.
If a customer receives a phone call, email or text message they believe may be a scam, they should contact TxTag customer service directly at TxTag.org or by calling 1-888-468-9824.
Anyone who believes they have received a fraudulent text can file a complaint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov.
Tips on Preparing Your Garden for Fall in this Episode of Second Cup Of Coffee
With this one of two chats with Hopkins County Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson on KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, Ronnie and John Mark discuss tips on preparing your gardens for Fall. The two also talk about what flowers to plant in your Fall Garden, what vegetables to plant in your Fall Vegetable garden, dates to make note of, and much more. Be sure to check out the episode below and see what you need to do to prepare your Fall Gardens.
Free Mammography Clinic Still Has Openings
September 12, 2024 – Sulphur Springs, TX –
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s free mammography clinic still has openings for uninsured Hopkins County women over the age of 40. The Foundation is offering 60 appointments and hopes that each appointment is filled.
The mammograms are conducted by the staff of the Ruth & Jack Gillis Women’s Center, a part of CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs, on the 3D mammography equipment.
The October clinic is being offered this year on Friday, October 4, Monday, October 7, and Wednesday, October 9, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 903-438-4325 to find out the full schedule of available appointments, as other days and times may be added.
Early detection of breast cancer is key to survival. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in her life. Mammograms continue to be important throughout a woman’s life since the risk of breast cancer increases with age.
If you are eligible for a free mammogram, please call 903-438-4325 to schedule an appointment.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation was founded in 1997 to promote Hopkins County healthcare opportunities. The Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization. Funds raised by the Foundation are used for the benefit of Hopkins County citizens.
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Sulphur Springs ISD Police Department Addresses Concerns Over Social Media Threats
September 12, 2024 – The Sulphur Springs ISD Police Department, in coordination with the Sulphur Springs Police Department and the Hopkins County Sheriff’s Department, is aware of growing concerns regarding alarming social media posts about potential threats of school violence. These posts have been circulating not only in Northeast Texas but also across neighboring states, impacting school district operations and causing anxiety within our communities. We want to remind everyone that making threats against a school, whether real or a hoax, is a serious crime. Our law enforcement agencies take these threats extremely seriously, especially when the safety of our school-aged children is involved. We will take swift action, including arresting anyone found responsible for creating or spreading these types of posts.
At this time there is no credible evidence suggesting that the recent social media posts represent an actual threat. It is believed that these posts are part of a hoax intended to cause unnecessary alarm in our communities. SSISD Police Chief Pat Leber, Sulphur Springs Police Chief Jason Ricketson, and Hopkins County Sheriff Lewis Tatum are working closely together to address the situation. This collaboration includes an increased law enforcement presence on our campuses as we continue to monitor and respond to any potential concerns. We appreciate the community’s vigilance and encourage anyone with information to contact local law enforcement.
Sulphur Springs ISD Police Department
Pat Leber
Chief of Police/Emergency Management Coordinator Office SSHS: 903-885-2158 ext 2225
See a story about Leber’s swearing in by clicking here.
Official Media Statement: Accidental Death of Franklin Mountains Goat
Sept. 11, 2024 – As Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) staff begin the process of moving historically native desert bighorn sheep back into the Franklin Mountains this October, they captured “Bob”, a domestic non-native goat, to minimize the risk of disease transmission to incoming bighorn populations.
Limiting disease exposure and transmission of fatal bacteria known as Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovi) presents one of the biggest challenges in successfully reintroducing native desert bighorn sheep into the Franklin Mountains. M. ovi is highly transmissible between domestic and wild goat and sheep species alike, and its impact on desert bighorn sheep in Texas has been devastating.
The risk of “Bob” the goat spreading the disease was too great to allow it to remain on the mountain during restoration efforts. Keeping it there would have jeopardized the successful establishment of a healthy desert bighorn population.
A local farm owner kindly agreed to welcome the goat as a new resident, and on Aug. 13, TPWD staff captured “Bob” by roping him, but he unfortunately died during the relocation process.
The goat was known to be at least nine years old but was suspected to be significantly older. The typical life span of domestic sheep and goats in free range settings is about 10 to 13 years.
“The death of the ‘Bob’ the goat was an unfortunate and unintended result of the relocation effort,” said Froylán Hernández, TPWD Desert Bighorn Sheep Program Leader. “Staff took the opportunity to collect tissue samples to better understand the cause of death and determine if the fatal bacteria, Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovi) which causes infectious pneumonia in bighorn sheep, is present in the Franklin Mountains.”
Apex Learning Lunch Program Cut Short Without Fielding Questions
September 11, 2024 – The much anticipated Lunch and Learn provided by Apex Energy left attendees with unanswered questions.
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After a free lunch of BBQ, Apex presenters took to the podium and promised to be open and honest about Wind Power Plants. They also requested attendees hold any and all questions until the end of the presentation. The presenters intimated that questions would be handled after the slide show.
The presentation was a very basic, as promised by Apex, and contained little to no information about the project slated for Hopkins County. Find out more about project by clicking here.
At the conclusion of the presentation, the presenters appeared to become nervous as they began refusing to field questions. “I hate being a gatekeeper, but we have limited time today for questions.” said one presenter.
Many attendees grumbled about the abrupt change in the promise to answer questions. The few questions they allowed to be asked, only received basic answers. It was clear the answers given did not satisfy the person that voiced them.
Apex is under no obligation to answer questions, or even participate in a Town Hall style meeting. No such event has been announced by Apex.
KSST News asked several questions of the presenters one-on-one after the presentation and did not get many answers as well. KSST did try and ascertain whether or not Apex Clean Energy would go forward with a project in Hopkins County without a tax abatement. The short answer from an Apex representative was that, “Apex considers many aspects of the project, not just the tax abatement.” When pressed for a more definitive answer, Development Manager Callie Chaplain said, “Apex will be applying for a tax abatement from Hopkins County and has already entered into discussions with Jeff Snowden, the consultant representing Hopkins County.” She continued by saying, “But the level of the tax abatement, and what it’s effect on the project are not known at this time.”
One item that is an absolute deal breaker for Apex is a road agreement with Hopkins County for the use, repair, and improvement of roads that will need to be repaired after damage during construction. Some roads may have to be widened or altered to accommodate the enormous trucking requirements during the build process as each blade of the three that make up one windmill can be over 200 feet long. Apex representatives confirmed that they cannot move forward with the project without this cruicial “road agreement” with Hopkins County. The negotiations of the road agreement will not begin until the majority of leases are in place and the layout of the entire project is known so that Apex and Hopkins County can ascertain which roads may be included in the road agreement.
Future Hopkins County work sessions including Apex will be made known through normal public notice by Hopkins County. All work sessions are open to the public.
SSISD Clarifies Rules For Student Bus Transportation
September 11, 2024 – Effective Monday, September 16, 2024, SSISD Transportation Department will only provide before and after school bus services for students to and from their place of residence (or designated bus stop). Public school districts in the state of Texas receive funds allotted for the transportation of students from home to school or from school to home. These funds cannot be used to transport students to a destination other than their place of residence or designated bus stop. In some cases, a student may qualify to be transported to a grandparent residence. Students cannot be dropped off at a parent’s workplace, dance class, medical appointment, etc.
Separate from this not being allowable transportation costs for reimbursement, it poses a safety hazard for our students. Thank you for your continued support as we work to ensure the highest level of safety standards for our Wildcats.
New Concessions Join the 2024 State Fair of Texas Food Lineup
September 11, 2024 – The State Fair of Texas is proud to announce six brand new food vendors, a new seating area, and seven new food stands for the 2024 lineup. Offering new and unique foods and experiences for all at the Most Texan Place on Earth, the Fair prides itself on its hand-picked selection of vendors and concessionaires who bring in droves of fairgoers each year and keep them high tailing it back for more with their delicious fare. Enjoy some of the best eats the Lone Star State has up its sleeve at the 2024 State Fair of Texas, themed “24 Days of Fun!”
The following new concessions that are “fixin’” to be at the 2024 State Fair of Texas:
New 2024 State Fair of Texas Vendors
Rita’s Italian Ice
Located on Grand Avenue
Rita’s Italian Ice is serving up the ultimate refreshment with their Fair-ly new signature menu item the Cool Combo. This layered treat features freshly made Italian ice paired with a generous layer of rich, creamy vanilla frozen custard. Made fresh daily, the Italian ice is crafted with gluten-free ingredients and fresh fruit, offering a refreshing option for everyone. Fairgoers can choose from five delicious flavors: blue raspberry, cotton candy, mango, mango-strawberry, and sugar-free dragon fruit. It’s the perfect blend of smooth, sweet, and icy to cool you down on a hot day!
Korean Corn Dogs
Located on Coliseum Drive
Corn dogs are a fair food staple, and this year, we’re kicking it up a notch. Korean corn dogs are making their hot and spicy State Fair debut with the introduction of the Hot Cheetos® Korean Corn Dog. These Korean corn dogs are half hot dog and half mozzarella cheese, battered with wheat and rice flour, coated with panko breadcrumbs, and deep-fried for an extra crispy crunch. The fun doesn’t stop there! This delectable dog gets an even tangier flavor once it is coated with spicy mayo. To tie it all together, it is then coated with Hot Cheetos® crumbs.
Crepes and Co.
Located in the Tower Building
Crepes and Co. is ready to wow your taste buds with their new Fried Apple Cinnamon Crepe, a deep-fried masterpiece that takes indulgence to the next level. A crisp, golden crepe is filled with creamy Biscoff® cookie butter spread and sweet, caramelized apple cinnamon. It’s then topped with additional caramelized apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, creating layers of flavor and texture. To elevate this treat even further, it’s served with Biscoff® mousse, fluffy whipped cream, and a crunchy Biscoff® cookie on the side. This creation is all about adding a Texas twist to a French favorite. Get ready for a truly magnifique dessert experience that combines crispy, sweet, and creamy in every bite. À la vôtre!
So Eggciting Deviled Eggs
Located in the Tower Building
Introducing So Eggciting Deviled Eggs, here to bring bold flavors to beloved classics! Their signature creation, the Texas BBQ Rib Deviled Eggs, is a mouthwatering twist on the classic deviled egg. With the creamy, savory traditional deviled egg filling you know and love, this treat is topped with crisp coleslaw and tender barbecue rib meat tossed in a beer barbecue sauce. It’s the perfect mix of smoky, tangy, and rich flavors all in one bite. Get ready to indulge in an egg-cellent experience that’s sure to be a State Fair favorite!
Smith Spot BBQ
Located in the Tower Building
Smith Spot BBQ is serving up something unforgettable for their debut at the State Fair of Texas. Their signature dish, “The Nephew,” is inspired by owner Terrance Smith’s nephew and combines the best of sweet and savory. Picture this: a warm glazed donut topped with tender brisket, gooey mozzarella cheese, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It’s a flavor-packed creation that’s sure to satisfy every craving. Get ready to dig into a truly unique Fair treat that’ll leave your taste buds wanting more!
The Dumpling Experience
Located in the Funway
The Dumpling Experience is bringing a taste of tradition to the State Fair of Texas. Inspired by the cherished family tradition of making dumplings together, The Dumpling Experience is offering three mouthwatering varieties: pork and vegetable, chicken and vegetable, and edamame. Grilled to perfection and topped with sliced green onions and cilantro, these dumplings can be customized with one of five flavorful sauces, including ponzu lime, Thai chili, sriracha, homemade barbecue, and the fiery reaper barbecue. Get ready to explore fun new flavors and create your own perfect dumpling experience!
New 2024 State Fair of Texas Seating Area
The Cavalcade
Located on Gateway
Calling all bacon lovers! Experience everything wrapped in bacon along with their new signature menu item, the Candied Pork Belly Bacon Bites. Try your classic fair foods with a twist; funnel cake with brisket or spicy chicken and bacon-wrapped turkey legs. Inspired by the 1936 Texas Centennial, fairgoers can experience a variety of foods, from sweet and savory to hot and cold. In the meantime, relax at the large seating area with a live DJ and a wall that will showcase vintage movies. Also, don’t forget to take a selfie with Neon Big Tex and cool down with a Cavalcade Cool Down Sundae!
New 2024 State Fair of Texas Food Stands
Smashed by Nevins Concessions
Located on Gateway
Celebrating their 75th Anniversary at the State Fair, Nevins Concessions is pleased to present their reimagined food stand, Smashed by Nevins Concessions! Their menu includes five smashed patty burgers named in honor of the generational owners of Nevins Concessions: The Joe, The Gary, The Tami Jo, The Josey, and The Kent. Their signature smash burger, The Joe, is a delicious two-patty smash burger with American cheese, crispy bacon, fried jalapeño caps, and a sunny-side-up egg!
Waffle Works
Located in the Tower Building
Debuting at this year’s State Fair of Texas are the Waffle Works’ Waffle Stix– a warm, sweet, fluffy waffle on-a-stick dipped in the finest Belgian milk, white, or dark chocolate. These stix are then hand-rolled in your choice of candy toppings like crunchy salted caramel pearls, chocolate chips, M&M’S® Minis, marshmallows, and candy sprinkles, adding a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. At Waffle Works, you can find both sweet and savory delights, ranging from Waffle Stix, chicken, and waffles, fresh strawberries with Belgian chocolate, and bacon mac and cheese egg rolls.
Milton’s Amish Doughnuts
Located on Grand Avenue
Of course, everything is bigger in Texas, and these Amish sourdough, Texas-sized doughnuts are no exception! Handcrafted from scratch with the freshest ingredients, these fluffy sourdough treats are fried to golden perfection and dipped in sweet vanilla glaze, delivering a burst of intricate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Watch the magic unfold with their viewing window, which gives you a mesmerizing look into the doughnut-making process.
DOLE SOFT SERVE®
Located on Coliseum Drive
Beat the Texas heat with a cool and spicy twist: Introducing the TAJIN™ TWIST SUNDAE! There’s nothing more satisfying than this ice-cold treat. The TAJIN™ TWIST SUNDAE is available in your choice of pineapple, strawberry, or a delightful swirl. This refreshing sundae is topped with a combination of chili lime Tajin™ seasoning and Chamoy Mega sauce, offering a perfect blend of sweet and spicy to two-step your taste buds.
Kona Ice
Located on First Avenue
Keep cool and treat your taste buds to fun and exciting flavors of shaved ice. Ten of the most popular flavors will be featured, giving you the freedom to invent your flavorful creation and enjoy endless combinations. From Tiger’s Blood to Monster Mango, create the flavor combinations of your dreams. As a one-of-a-kind, gourmet shaved ice experience, Kona Ice will keep you cool and refreshed on a hot Texas day. This refreshing treat is sure to bring a smile to your face and fun to your day!
Johnz Deli
Located in Cotton Bowl Plaza
Welcoming the Big Apple to the Big D, New York City comes to the State Fair of Texas with a new concept, Johnz Deli. Their signature item, the Pastrami sandwich, features a generous portion of juicy, prime pastrami prepared in the traditional New York Deli method with the flair of a Texas smokehouse. It is then served on fresh-baked seedless rye bread with stone-grown mustard and a kosher pickle spear with a side of steak fries.
Pat’s Pizza & Subs
Located on Coliseum Drive
Say howdy to Pat’s Pizza & subs, featuring the Mexican Street Corn. This unique fusion consists of a delicious, charred crust topped with chipotle mayo, yellow corn, chili powder, cilantro, and cotija cheese. We promise you’ll want a “pizza” this and a second slice!
