Hopkins County Genealogical Society to Hold Next Lunch & Learn October 23rd
October 22, 2024 – The Fourth Wednesday Lunch & Learn will be held this coming Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 611 North Davis St., Sulphur Springs, TX. The Hopkins County Genealogical Society invites anyone who wants to learn more about doing genealogical research to come on in. Bring your sack lunch, salad or drive-through meal and your tablet or laptop, if you wish.
Last month we viewed a FamilySearch virtual presentation on how to create a family tree and how to read a fan chart. This month we are going to return to Amy Johnson Crow with Generations Connections and her class on “Vital Records Substitutes.” This class has 4 Lessons: 1. Intro and Substitutes for Many Types of Records 2. Birth and Marriage Records Substitutes 3. Death Records Substitutes 4. Substitutes for Veterans; Evaluating and Finding Substitutes. We have all really enjoyed Amy Johnson Crow in the past and she always provides wonderful handouts with her presentations. We should be able to complete all four lessons in the hour allotted.
We hope that you will join us and bring a friend!!
Just a reminder: This will be our last “Lunch & Learn” for 2024, as we will not meet in November or December. However, we will
begin again in January 2025 and we plan to bring you more programs to improve and/or enhance your research techniques.
League Street Church of Christ Trunk or Treat
Hello, this is Josh Moyer, preaching minister with the League Street Church of Christ.
We are having a trunk or treat on October 31st, 2024 starting at 5:30pm with free foods, games, bounce houses and free candy. Whole community invited to League Street CofC!!
Joshua Moyer
Preaching Minister
League Street CofC
Sulphur Springs, TX
405-570-5048
Attorney General Ken Paxton Investigates ActBlue
Paxton Uncovers Large Number of Suspicious Donations Made Through Obscured Identities and Untraceable Means; OAG Demands FEC Action
October 22, 2024 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a Petition for Rulemaking to the Federal Election Commission (“FEC”) detailing how suspicious actors appear to be using ActBlue’s political fundraising platform to make a large number of straw political donations.
In December 2023, Attorney General Paxton opened an investigation into ActBlue to determine whether the platform’s operations were compliant with all applicable laws. In August 2024, Attorney General Paxton announced that due to the investigation, ActBlue began requiring donors using credit cards to provide “CVV” codes, a common security measure. But this is not a full solution to the problems that Attorney General Paxton’s team has identified on ActBlue. Namely, it appears that straw donations are systematically being made using false identities, through untraceable payment methods.
Today, Attorney General Paxton transmitted partially redacted findings to the FEC through a Petition for Rulemaking. The petition recommends regulations that would close fundraising loopholes that jeopardize American election integrity. The FEC previously considered rules on the loopholes that the Attorney General has found here. But ActBlue was a vocal opponent of such rules. That opposition is no longer tenable in light of the Attorney General’s findings. If not corrected by the FEC, bad actors can—with trivial ease—illegally funnel foreign money into American elections, exceed political contribution limits, and more.
“Our investigation into ActBlue has uncovered facts indicating that bad actors can illegally interfere in American elections by disguising political donations. It is imperative that the FEC close off the avenues we have identified by which foreign contributions or contributions in excess of legal limits could be unlawfully funneled to political campaigns, bypassing campaign finance regulations and compromising our electoral system,” said Attorney General Paxton. “I am calling on the FEC to immediately begin rulemaking to secure our elections from any criminal actors exploiting these vulnerabilities.”
To read the partially redacted Petition for Rulemaking sent to the FEC, click here.
Longtime Stallings Family Friend Honors Johnny with Paris Junior College Endowment
Longtime Stallings family friend honors Johnny with PJC endowment
October 21, 2024 – Paris native John W. Welch, now of College Station, recently found a wonderful way to honor his friends Ruth Ann and Gene “Bebes” Stallings and the legacy left by their son, John Mark “Johnny” Stallings. That legacy is now inspiring and supporting future generations of students at Paris Junior College.
John, who graduated from Paris High School in 1956 and from Texas A&M University in 1960 is a longtime friend of the Stallings family. Johnny Stallings’ life was filled with love, joy, and a deep connection to those who knew him. As the son of Gene Stallings, former NFL coach and longtime supporter of individuals with special needs, and Ruth Ann Stallings, Johnny’s journey affected people from Paris, Texas, to College Station, Alabama and beyond.
“Johnny was a bright light to everyone who knew him, and his legacy continues to touch hearts,” said John. “I wanted to create something that would extend that light into the future, helping young people who are dedicated to working in special education.”
John’s donation establishes a scholarship endowment for students interested in special education, a cause close to the Stallings family. Johnny, who was born with Down syndrome, became a symbol of strength and resilience. His life not only transformed the Stallings family but also ignited a deep passion in Gene and Ruth Ann for advocating for individuals with disabilities. Gene Stallings famously led the University of Alabama to a national championship, but his most cherished title was “Johnny’s Dad.”
Inspired by Johnny’s story, John sought to honor both his memory and the lifelong dedication of Gene and Ruth Ann to special needs education. His generous gift to Paris Junior College ensures that students passionate about special education will have the financial backing they need to follow their calling.
The scholarship endowment represents more than financial support – it’s a tribute to a family that has given so much of their lives to this cause. Gene and Ruth Ann Stallings’ dedication to improving the lives of people with special needs has left an indelible mark on the Paris community and beyond. This gift, established in their honor and Johnny’s memory, ensures that their work will continue for years to come.
PJC students who receive this scholarship will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals with special needs, furthering the vision of inclusivity and empowerment that the Stallings family has always stood for.
“We are incredibly thankful to John W. Welch for this meaningful gift,” said Dr. Stephen Benson, President of Paris Junior College. “This scholarship is a testament to the power of kindness and generosity, and it will have a profound impact on our students and the broader community.”
John’s contribution comes at a pivotal moment for Paris Junior College, as the institution celebrates its centennial anniversary. This new endowment not only supports the college’s mission but also honors a family whose influence has long shaped the values of compassion and care within the community.
“Johnny Stallings was a remarkable individual who touched so many lives, and we are deeply grateful to John W. Welch for this wonderful gift in his memory,” said Baleigh McCoin, Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni.
“This scholarship will make a lasting difference for students dedicated to special education and reflects the caring and compassionate spirit of both Johnny and his parents, Gene and Ruth Ann Stallings.”
The Stallings family’s long-standing ties to Paris and their passion for advocating for individuals with special needs are deeply appreciated by the community. This endowment is yet another testament to the power of their influence and their commitment to education.
For more information about the scholarship or to contribute to the endowment, please contact the Paris Junior College Foundation at [email protected] or 903-782-0276.
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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.
John Mark and Dr. Steeber Discuss Cell Phones in the Classroom and More on A Second Cup Of Coffee
October 21, 2024 – In this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark had a chat with Sulphur Springs ISD Superintendent Dr. Deana Steeber. John Mark and Dr. Steeber chatted about such topics as cell phones in the classroom, Wildcat of the week, school grading, and more. Learn about some of the policies Sulphur Springs ISD has and more in this episode of KSST’s A Second Cup Of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey.
Tabernacle Baptist Church Pickton Announces 2024 Fall Festival with Trunk or Treating October 26th
October 21, 2024 – Tabernacle Baptist Church Pickton announces that the Community of Pickton will shut down CR 2419 from the fire department to the post office for Fall Festival October 26, 2024. There will be Trunk or Treating! You can also expect games, costumes, candy, and more! The festival will be held from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. Bring the little ones and come join in the family fun!
Looks Like it will be Stew Weather on Saturday
October 21, 2024 – The weather forecast is in, and it looks like it will be stew weather on Saturday.
At the time that stew service starts – 10:45 a.m. – the forecast is showing the temperature will be in the upper 60s. Not too hot and not too cold for a healthy serving of Hopkins County stew.
The 55th Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest, sponsored by Alliance Bank, is coming to Buford Park on Saturday with more than 170 pots of stew in contention for the title of World Champion Hopkins County stew cook.
Chicken and beef stew is prepared onsite, and the winners in each category win not only cash awards by one-of-a-kind homemade trophies.
Those who are hungry for stew can purchase tickets for just $8 per person (13 and older) for all-you-can-eat stew. Tickets are available at the Chamber of Commerce office at 110 Main St., online at HopkinsChamber.org or at any of the local banks and lending institutions. For children 12 and under, Signature Solar is sponsoring Kids Eat Free, so they get a free bowl!
For carry-home stew, quart tickets are available for $15.
In addition to stew, there will be a Fun Zone set up with Gellyball, bounce houses and more for kids for free, provided by One Church. If you want to do some shopping, there will also be a market, opening at 8 a.m. with more than a dozen vendors.
In addition to the market, the Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce will have a vendor site selling all things stew-related including T-shirts, hoodies, mugs, tumblers, stickers, towels and more. If you want stew merch before Saturday, come to the Chamber office.
On Friday night, Oct. 25, come out after the home football game to enjoy a free concert by Dubb and the Luv Machines, sponsored by City National Bank.
Blackleg; Highly Infectious Disease Affecting Cattle by Mario Villarino
October 21, 2024 – Blackleg is a highly infectious bacterial disease affecting cattle, primarily young calves between six months to two years old. It is caused by Clostridium chauvoei, a spore-forming bacterium that is naturally present in the soil. The disease is often fatal, with affected animals showing sudden symptoms such as lameness, swelling, and high fever, leading to rapid death. In Texas, where cattle ranching is a significant part of the agricultural economy, managing and preventing blackleg is a priority. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service plays a critical role in providing information, education, and resources to help ranchers combat this disease.
Understanding Blackleg: Blackleg spores can remain dormant in the soil for long periods. When cattle ingest the spores through grazing or from contaminated feed, the spores can activate in the animal’s body, leading to infection. Blackleg typically affects well-nourished and fast-growing calves, and the sudden onset of the disease means many cases go unnoticed until the animal has already died. Symptoms include swelling in the affected muscle areas (usually the legs), lameness, fever, and depression. Upon death, the affected areas may be dark, spongy, and filled with gas, hence the name “blackleg.”
Education and Outreach: Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers educational programs to raise awareness about blackleg, helping ranchers recognize symptoms, understand transmission, and learn effective prevention strategies. The Extension Service provides workshops, seminars, and printed materials that cover essential topics such as vaccination schedules, biosecurity measures, and best practices for herd health management. By educating ranchers, they aim to reduce the prevalence of blackleg and minimize economic losses for the cattle industry.
Prevention Through Vaccination: Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent blackleg. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension strongly advocates for vaccinating calves around the age of three to four months, with a booster given four to six weeks later. This two-dose approach ensures immunity during the period when calves are most susceptible. Vaccines are inexpensive and can save ranchers from significant economic losses due to sudden cattle deaths. The Extension Service provides guidelines on proper vaccine storage, handling, and administration to ensure maximum efficacy.
Best Practices and Management: Effective blackleg management involves more than just vaccination. Good biosecurity practices can prevent the spread of the disease. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension advises ranchers to maintain clean and dry pastures, avoid overgrazing, and properly dispose of dead animals to reduce environmental contamination. Regularly monitoring cattle for signs of illness and implementing quarantine protocols for new or sick animals can also help minimize the risk of an outbreak.
Research and Collaboration: The Extension Service engages in ongoing research to understand more about blackleg outbreaks and the environmental factors contributing to the disease. By collaborating with veterinarians, researchers, and cattle industry professionals, they can develop new prevention strategies and refine existing ones. Their research findings are shared with the community, helping ranchers stay updated on the latest recommendations.
Through education, vaccination promotion, and practical management advice, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service assists cattle producers in Texas in effectively managing and preventing blackleg. Their goal is to safeguard the health of livestock, ensure the sustainability of cattle operations, and support the broader agricultural economy of the state. For more information on cattle disease, consult your veterinarian.
The 2024 State Fair of Texas Welcomed Nearly 2.4M Visitors
October 21, 2024 – As the Texas Star slows and Big Tex bids farewell, the 2024 State Fair of Texas comes to a close, but the memories made this year linger on throughout Fair Park. Until the gates open again next fall, the spirit of the Fair lives on in the hearts of everyone who joined us. THE 2024 STATE FAIR OF TEXAS IS ESTIMATED TO HAVE WELCOMED NEARLY 2.4 MILLION PEOPLE THROUGH THE GATES DURING ITS 24-DAY RUN.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Fair aims to support the community, both locally and statewide. The proceeds from the Fair are used to preserve and improve Fair Park; underwrite community initiatives, support scholarship programs for students throughout the Lone Star State pursuing higher education, and Fair Park’s museums; and help improve State Fair operations. The annual State Fair of Texas serves as the organization’s largest fundraiser of the year – a successful 24-day run for the Fair means more support for Fair Park and the surrounding community. In 2023, due to the success of the prior year’s Fair, the State Fair of Texas was able to contribute nearly $15.8 million through philanthropic and Fair Park giving.
“At the heart of the State Fair of Texas is a commitment to creating lasting memories and celebrating what makes the Lone Star State unique. This year we’ve seen incredible moments of joy and connection that remind us of the power of this tradition here at the most Texan place on Earth. It’s always a privilege to witness people from all walks of life come together to share in the fun, culture, and community that makes the Fair so special,” said State Fair of Texas President Mitchell Glieber.
Serving as our largest community program and fundraiser of the year, the 2024 State Fair of Texas proved to make a difference in more ways than we can count. Below are just a few of the noteworthy successes from this year’s exhibition:
- The State Fair of Texas is estimated to have welcomed NEARLY 2.4 MILLION FAIRGOERS through the gates.
- MORE THAN 549,000 VISITOR’S GUIDES were handed out, informing fairgoers of all the State Fair fun they can enjoy during their visit.
- The Fair’s busiest day for the 2024 season was Saturday, October 12 – the Allstate® Red River Rivalry. Big Tex welcomed more than 211,000 FAIRGOERS that day.
- The Big Tex Contact Center answered NEARLY 12,200 CALLS from fairgoers during the run of the Fair.
- The State Fair of Texas marketing team made 55,559 NEW FAIR FRIENDS across all social media channels during the Fair, with one video reaching MORE THAN 9.7 MILLION VIEWS.
COMMUNITY
- 1,100 ADMISSION TICKETS were donated to local nonprofit organizations for the community to enjoy the Fair.
- MORE THAN 180,000 CANNED FOOD ITEMS, INCLUDING JARS OF PEANUT BUTTER, were collected during the State Fair of Texas and donated to the North Texas Food Bank.
- NEARLY 135 FAITH LEADERS AND COMMUNITY PARTNERS came together for fellowship during the annual Pastors Luncheon hosted by the State Fair of Texas during the Fair on October 3, 2024.
- MORE THAN 1.88 MILLION FREE ADMISSION TICKETS were given to students throughout North Texas, and MORE THAN 300,000 TEACHERS received a voucher for free admission.
- MORE THAN 300 NONPROFIT LEADERS attended Community Engagement Day, which was hosted by the State Fair of Texas during the Fair on October 15, 2024.
- The State Fair of Texas and the Juanita J. Craft Civil Rights House & Steering Committee hosted the SEVENTH ANNUAL JUANITA CRAFT HUMANITARIAN AWARDS, honoring seven individuals following in Mrs. Craft’s footsteps. NEARLY 200 COMMUNITY MEMBERS were in attendance.
- As of 2024, Big Tex Urban Farms has donated more than 26,360 POUNDS OF FRESH PRODUCE. This equates to more than 1.7 MILLION SERVINGS donated to help feed the South Dallas/Fair Park community since 2016.
- In 2024, the Fair’s Big Tex Scholarship Program awarded more than $1.3 MILLION IN NEW COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS to 225 students throughout the Lone Star State.
- With college applications right around the corner, the Fair encourages eligible high school seniors and seasonal employees to go online to com/Scholarship and APPLY NOW FOR A 2025 BIG TEX COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP.
- MORE THAN 17,300 FIRST RESPONDERS and their families visited the Fair over 24 days, utilizing the special discount offer in gratitude for their service.
- MORE THAN 52,000 MEMBERS OF THE MILITARY and their families visited the Fair over 24 days, utilizing the special discount offer in gratitude for their service.
ENTERTAINMENT, ATTRACTIONS, AND MIDWAY
- MORE THAN 144,000 FANS were in attendance for the State Fair Classic and the Allstate® Red River Rivalry at the historic Cotton Bowl® Stadium during the Fair.
- The Kroger® Starlight Parade featured brand-new floats that illuminated the fairgrounds each night, with MORE THAN 800 RIDERS adorning the floats during 24 PROCESSIONS.
- During the fifth year of the Lone Star Music Series, MORE THAN 60 TEXAS MUSIC ARTISTS performed throughout the grounds.
- MORE THAN 35 ACTS took to the Chevrolet Main Stage this year, with LOS PESCADORES, JESSE & JOY, WYATT FLORES, AND THE COMMODORES drawing the largest crowds at their FREE concerts.
- The Bud Light Stage hosted 30 ACTS this year, with LUNA LUNA, LOS GRAN REYES, AND SARAH JAFFE drawing the largest crowds.
- Throughout the 24 days of the Fair, 3,099 ACTIVITIES happened across the fairgrounds, including shows like Steve Goodtime, Dino Time with Professor T. Tex, live music shows, and more.
- Fairgoers joined the SHOWSTOPPERS in the Cupid Shuffle OVER 95 TIMES.
- Little Big Tex made OVER 150 APPEARANCES across the fairgrounds, taking over 10,000 PHOTOS with fairgoers.
- SARA TWISTER split 33 APPLES WITH BARE HANDS, with one split by the hands of a member of the audience.
- MORE THAN 1,200 PLAYING CARDS were torn by our resident strongman, MIGHTY MIKE.
- The Love Bug horn blew more than 4,000 TIMES throughout the 24-day run of the Fair.
- MORE THAN 400,000 PRIZES WERE won at the State Fair Midway, with an estimated value of $1.4 MILLION.
- MORE THAN 100,000 RIDES were taken on the iconic Texas Star Ferris Wheel.
EXHIBITS AND CREATIVE ARTS
- The State Fair welcomed 20 NEW SHOPPING BOOTHS this year, creating 186 shopping locations for fairgoers to enjoy.
- The Texas Auto Show showcased 288 CARS and SEVEN GOLF CARTS, featuring the latest vehicles—from electric models to spacious family SUVs—at one of the largest automotive displays in the Southwest.
- Mundo Latino was the heart of the State Fair’s HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH, with stunning Catrina figures, symbolizing Día de los Muertos and 15 ALTARS showcasing the vibrant traditions of the Hispanic culture.
- Community members got crafty with more than 12,000 ENTRIES in the Fair’s Creative Arts competitions. The State Fair AWARDED 4,434 RIBBONS to folks celebrating their creativity this year.
- The State Fair Creative Arts contests featured 3,604 PARTICIPANTS from across the state.
- A total of 1,172 INDIVIDUAL COOKIES entered the gates of the State Fair of Texas on the day of the Cookie contest.
FOOD AND BEVERAGE
- More than 60,000 INDIVIDUAL TAQUITOS WERE HAND ROLLED AND SOLD IN 24 DAYS at Tony’s Taco Shop — home of the Big Tex Choice Awards Finalist, The Drowning Taquitos.
- SEVEN new vendors joined the State Fair of Texas community of vendors this year, bringing in a total of 14 new concepts.
- During the 24-day duration of the State Fair of Texas, APPROXIMATELY 550,000 FLETCHER’S ORIGINAL CORNY DOGS were sold, accompanied by 1,800 GALLONS OF MUSTARD and 850 GALLONS OF KETCHUP!
- ABOUT 100,000 PIECES OF ROUSSO’S COTTON CANDY BACON ON A STICK from Magnolia Beer Garden, Holy Biscuit, and Who Dat Daquiri were enjoyed throughout the run of the Fair.
LIVESTOCK AND AGRICULTURE
- Ag Awareness Day gathered 203 chapters of 4-H, FFA, and FCCLA to participate in the canned food drive, donating MORE THAN 30,090 POUNDS of food to the North Texas Food Bank.
- More than 71,250 FOLKS ATTENDED 15 FREE RODEO EVENTS across the 24-day run of the State Fair.
- The Fair’s livestock and agricultural events hosted MORE THAN 13,190 LIVESTOCK ENTRIES.
- The Grand Champion Market Steer of the Big Tex Youth Livestock Auction broke a record this year, selling for $180,000 TO FRANK DEEL.
- The Livestock Birthing Barn celebrated 76 ANIMAL BIRTHS throughout the run of the Fair: 43 piglets, 13 calves, 12 kids (baby goats), and eight lambs.
The State Fair of Texas is privileged to be an integral part of the year for so many families, and we hope y’all will join us again next year for the 2025 STATE FAIR OF TEXAS, running in historic Fair Park from FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26 THROUGH SUNDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2025.
Attorney General Ken Paxton’s Cold Case Unit Helps Solve Decade Old Homicide in Texarkana
October 21, 2024 – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit assisted the Texarkana Police Department in solving a 2014 homicide, leading to the arrest of 27-year-old Cameron Cheatham for the murder of Xavier Rollins.
On June 17, 2014, Rollins was found shot to death outside his apartment located on the 1000 block of College Drive in Texarkana. Numerous witness interviews were conducted at the time and evidence collected at the crime scene underwent DNA testing but the case remained unsolved. In March 2024, the Texarkana Police Department requested assistance with forensic testing from Attorney General Paxton’s Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit.
The OAG collaborated with Texarkana detectives throughout the 2024 investigation and provided resources including expedited forensic testing, assistance in the location and arrest of the suspect, and additional investigatory assistance.
Attorney General Paxton established the Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit in 2021 to assist local law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting unsolved cases. In 2023, the Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit received a federal grant from Bureau of Justice Assistance to help solve cold cases that have DNA profiles development from crime scene evidence which have not been linked to a suspect. Because forensic testing can be cost prohibitive for many agencies, the federal grant allows the Attorney General Paxton to provide testing at no charge to police departments across the state of Texas. The grant also funds a full-time investigator for the Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit to assist agencies with their investigations that fall under the terms of the grant.
If you have additional information about the Xavier Rollins case, contact Crime Stoppers at 903-793-STOP, or Texarkana Detective Thomas Shaddix at 903-798-3151.
If you have information about another unsolved cold case in the state of Texas, submit a tip at https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/coldcasetips.
For more about Attorney General Paxton’s Cold Case and Missing Person’s Unit, click here.
