Governor Abbott Announces Sentinel School Safety System
July 26, 2024 – Governor Greg Abbott announced the launch of Sentinel, an innovative and comprehensive system designed to enhance the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff in school buildings across Texas. Sentinel is provided by the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) Office of School Safety and Security and is available to all schools in the state at no charge to the schools. Sentinel will enable robust monitoring of school systems’ implementation and operation of safety and security policies and improves the threat assessment process.
“As a new school year approaches, the safety of students, school faculty, and staff across Texas remains a top priority,” said Governor Abbott. “To bolster school safety standards, we are launching Sentinel—a new, sweeping system to enhance the safety and security of students and teachers across our great state. This cutting-edge technology is available to all schools in Texas and will expand the state’s threat assessments process, improve real-time communication capabilities, and better safeguard our children, teachers, and school communities. I thank the Texas Education Agency and Chief Scott for partnering with superintendents and school safety personnel from every corner of our state to create and implement this innovative system.
“TEA’s Office of School Safety and Security continues to search for ways to better support the 1,200 school systems in Texas and their efforts in keeping students and staff safe,” said School Safety and Security Chief John P. Scott. “The launch of Sentinel represents this continued focus, and I’m grateful for the Governor’s support in getting this critical safety infrastructure off the ground and operational.”
Sentinel standardizes Behavioral Threat Assessments (BTAs) into a single reporting mechanism so that schools have a clear way of conducting BTAs and managing threats. This uniform approach helps school systems identify, assess, and mitigate risks to students and staff.
In addition, Sentinel will serve an important role in statewide emergency operations by giving state leaders timely and accurate information to support quick decision-making regarding resource allocation and support. Schools will be informed in the event of a local or statewide emergency through Sentinel’s mass communications capability. This will enable TEA to securely communicate guidance, resources, or other important information to schools.
Sentinel was developed following the passage of House Bill 3, which strengthened state monitoring of school safety and increased the school safety allotment. Senate Bill 30 provided an additional $1.1 billion for school systems to bolster the safety of their facilities.
In 2022, Governor Abbott directed TEA Commissioner Mike Morath to create the position of Chief of School Safety and Security to ensure increased communication and collaboration among state agencies to provide a safe environment for Texas students and school faculty.
Good News Christian Bookstore Celebrating 50 Years in Business With a Sale on July 27th
Gary and Gena Jordan, who have owned the Sulphur Springs Good News Christian Bookstore for the past 33 years, wish to celebrate and honor the shop’s 50th Anniversary, and the public is invited to share in this joyous occasion! The Jordans shared just a bit of the store’s history with KSST.
The happy couple shared that the, “Good News Christian Bookstore has been doing business in Sulphur Springs for 50 years and we will be celebrating on Saturday, July 27th! … The actual anniversary day was June 27th, but we are celebrating on July 27th. Since the Christian Bookstore is 50 years and 1 month old, God showed us to allow our customers on that day to choose any one item in the store and receive 50% off on that one item…. their choice. Also God said to tell them it is only one item because Jesus is the one and only way to heaven and they get to choose their item for the sale price just like each person has to make their own choice to receive Jesus as their Savior. … God bless you from Good News!” The Jordans are well loved members of the Sulphur Springs, Texas, Community. Not only is Gary a businessman, he also pastors at Calvary Baptist Church. Gary Jordan is also the brother of Larry Jordan, who brings KSST’s listeners the Christian program, “Wake Up America,” every Sunday morning.
Before Gary and Gena Jordan purchased the Good News Christian Bookstore in 1990, the store had been owned and sold by five different sets of owners over the previous 16 years. The Bookstore was originally opened for business for the very first time in 1974. The Bookstore has had different names and has been located in different areas of Sulphur Springs during it’s 50 years of business. Previous owners include Dr. Martin Miller, Bill Watts, Bobbie Gallagher, Dan and Susan Stanley, Dwayne and Nancy Davis, and Carroll and Dot Asbill. Through out the store’s 50 years it has faced the threat of permit closure due to fire, flooding, financial woes, and other factors, but the Good Lord has continued to Bless the Christian store and it’s various owners throughout it’s history. Today, The Good News Christian Bookstore continues strong, standing as a well liked local small business here in Sulphur Springs. It remains one of the few stores to offer a variety of Christian themed books and other merchandise between here and Dallas, Texas.
The Good News Christian Bookstore is now located at 1181 South Broadway Street. They have a large variety of items for sale, including Bibles, wind chimes, Christian books, crosses, pictures, greeting cards, jewelry, and so much more! The Anniversary sale event on Saturday, July 27th, will also include refreshments, with customers having the chance to chose one item to purchase from the store at 50% off! The Good News Christian Bookstore’s hours are Monday through Saturday, 10:00am to 6:00pm, and closed on Sundays.
PJC Nursing Students Help Meal-A-Day with ‘Project Chicken’
July 25, 2024 – Five lovely volunteers from the Paris Junior College Nursing Program arrived at the Senior Center bright and early Thursday morning. They cheerfully went to work on ‘Project Chicken’.
The PJC students are required to perform community service hours as part of their academic program. Meal-A-Day is grateful they chose to give back here in Sulphur Springs. Their service was exceptionally well timed as a sizeable donation of raw chicken was made this week.
Meal-A-Day received a large donation of fresh chicken this week. To make sure the donation would not be wasted, MAD volunteers have cooked and processed birds every day. The windfall has either been served for lunch, or deboned for later use. By Friday the refrigerator and freezer will be back to normal.
Meal-A-Day director Amanda Dietlin is working with her crew to make sure clients don’t get tired of chicken. They are reviewing the menus, and making changes to keep things a fresh as possible. Seniors can expect chicken in their lunches frequently until room is made in the refrigerator. Frozen birds will be kept for meals later in the year.
If you would like to volunteer to cook or deliver meals, give Amanda a call at 903 885 1661.
Winnsboro ISD Facing Lawsuit Over Alleged Bullying
July 24, 2024 – A family is suing the Winnsboro school district over what they say are ignored reports of verbal and physical sex-based and disability-based harassment of their child by two Winnsboro ISD students.
K-L-T-V television reports the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, was brought because of “actions and omissions” of Winnsboro ISD and the board of trustees. The suit alleges they failed to comply with legal mandates under federal law when the family made complaints of serious bullying, harassment, discrimination, stalking and retaliation committed toward their child.
The suit alleges that the child was subjected to the abuse on at least six different occasions. The parents say they made complaints about the incidents to the district and the school board on at least twelve occasions, by phone, in person, by email, and through public comment at school board meetings. However, the suit states that the district failed to investigate and resolve the incidents of bullying or abuse.
The suit further alleges that the Winnsboro I-S-D retaliated against the family by making up stories about each parent and the student, and shared the stories verbally and in writing, in the child’s permanent record and in the mother’s permanent employment record. She was an employee of Winnsboro ISD at the time. Allegedly, the mother was suspended from employment and her contract was not renewed.
Texas A&M Commerce Highlights Money Management Center
July 24, 2024 – Financial literacy is essential to higher education, and the new Blue to Gold Money Management Center at Texas A&M-Commerce is already making an impact. Opened on May 1, the center aims to help students successfully navigate money matters in college and beyond.
The center, funded partly by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Postsecondary Education, is staffed by trained money coaches. It supports students in many ways, from helping them decipher their financial aid packages to teaching them techniques for budgeting money.
Empowered through financial wellness
Christina Yoakum, assistant director of the Blue to Gold Money Management Center, said money centers are part of an upward trend in higher education, and research reflects they are a much-needed resource.
A 2020 Study on Collegiate Financial Wellness revealed that around one in three students (out of almost 25,000 respondents) considered dropping out of college due to financial concerns. Nearly 75% reported feeling stressed about their finances in general. The study also points out that financial stress is linked to lower academic performance and diminished mental and physical health.
Niki Pettit, also an assistant director of the Blue to Gold Money Management Center, explained that students often feel overwhelmed by large student account balances for tuition, fees, housing and more. Feeling hopeless and confused, many students stop attending college altogether.
“It’s easy to give up when you aren’t sure what to do or have been restricted from registering for future terms until the past due balance has been paid off,” Pettit said. “We all have a tendency, if something is overwhelming and we don’t understand it, to just kind of freeze.”
The money center can reduce overwhelm by helping students understand their student account charges and create a plan to pay. The center can also help students understand the impacts of financial aid, learn to use monetary assistance to its greatest advantage, and explore options for reducing debt load.
In addition, the center provides personal finance coaching, teaching students how to plan for income, track expenses and savings, establish an emergency fund, build credit, and read credit reports. Yoakum explained that these skills are transferable from college into life after graduation.
In a nutshell, money coaching can give students a sense of confidence and control as they build financial literacy, empowering them to stay on track through graduation and beyond.
Making financial literacy accessible
Historically, financial literacy has been out of reach for many students in the U.S. At A&M-Commerce, around 67% of students are first-generation, which means their families may not be familiar with the economic aspects of higher education and, therefore, cannot provide information or support in that area.
“Many students are potentially coming from households that don’t understand the federal aid system and don’t understand higher education, and so students don’t have that knowledge base to make good, informed decisions … ” Pettit said.
The money center brings financial education within easy reach of every A&M-Commerce student, helping them feel confident as they develop an understanding of and sense of control over their college finances. The sessions are free for enrolled students.
A wraparound approach
Uniquely, the money center at A&M-Commerce is part of a set of wraparound services that provide student support in several areas. When it relocates to the library in August, the center will be next to the Academic Advising Team, Student Transition and Support, and the Office of Student Career Preparedness, providing a complete set of supportive services in one accessible location.
“All of these programs are considered wraparound services that we’re putting together in the same area of the library to create a more holistic approach for our students,” Yoakum said. “The shared space will create a culture of collaboration among key student support units.”
Scheduling a coaching session
Undergraduate and graduate students are invited to schedule coaching sessions at tamuc.edu/Blue-to-Gold-Money-Management-Center. Face-to-face, phone and Zoom options are available.
During the 30-minute appointment, a trained money coach will assist the student with money-related questions or concerns in a confidential, one-on-one session. Students are encouraged to schedule a session, even if they don’t know what they need help with or what to ask.
Expanding financial literacy at TAMUC
Both Pettit and Yoakum are excited about the future of the Blue to Gold Money Management Center and have plans for future expansion. For one, they plan to invite financial experts to campus for student-centered presentations on various money-related topics. They also plan to introduce a peer mentorship program where certified student mentors provide supplemental support.
The center promises to enrich students’ lives, empowering them to take control of their financial futures and equipping them for their college years and life beyond graduation. As financial literacy grows at A&M-Commerce, the university will foster a new generation of financially savvy and confident Lions.
Chamber Connection – July 23, 2024
By Butch Burney
Even if you think you know Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County, you are sure to learn a lot through Leadership Sulphur Springs, which is back on this year, with applications online!
The leadership class is for Hopkins County men and women who want to learn and become more invested in their local community. It’s an intensive nine-month program that immerses the participants in the business and government of Sulphur Springs and Hopkins County.
The tentative dates for this year’s program are attached to the application, which can be accessed at HopkinsChamber.org.
You can also have an application mailed to you by emailing me at [email protected]. The deadline is Aug. 9, so get your information in as soon as possible.
The registration fee is $500 and that covers the cost of the food, drinks, transportation, etc. for the year.
Stew Contest
The anticipation has been growing and now it is time for the actual preparation. We are looking forward to a fantastic 55th Annual Hopkins County Stew Contest on Oct. 26, and it’s time for stew cooks to start registering.
Registration for last year’s cooks are going out in the mail and email this week, so be looking for it in your mailbox and inbox. You can also register online at HopkinsChamber.org/stewcooks.
We are keeping the registration fee the same as in past years at $100 per stew site, with the sponsor asked to provide $150 to each cooking team for ingredients.
If you have been a Stew Cook in the past, we look forward to seeing you again and tasting your delicious stew. If you have won the contest in the past, you are eligible to enter the Super Stew competition.
Each returning stew team will have the option of keeping their 2023 site. These sites will be reserved until Monday, September 30, and then on Tuesday, October 1, the “unclaimed” stew sites will be open to “new cooks” and to returning cooks who would like a new site location. After Sept. 30, all sites will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. As in 2023, we will have sites open on both the north and the south side of Connally Street, where we will have a serving tent and market vendors.
We will have a Stewcomers meeting at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 15 for any new cooks or those who are thinking about entering. You can get all the information you need to start planning for the largest annual single-day event in Hopkins County.
If you need more information, call the Chamber at 903-885-6515 or email [email protected].
The theme for this year’s stew contest is Stewper Heroes, and we would love for you to participate and be a Stewper Hero!
Cocktails and Conversation
Join us for our main networking monthly event when Heritage Home Health and Hospice hosts our Cocktails and Conversation on Thursday, Aug. 1, at the Chamber office.
You don’t have to be a Chamber member to attend. It is free to everyone, and a prime time to make friends and contacts.
Please make plans to attend to enjoy some cocktails, snacks and great conversation.
Back to School Fair
CANHelp in Sulphur Springs is gearing up to host their annual Back-to-School Fair, which assists children in low-to-moderate income families prepare for the new school year, by providing school supplies, haircuts and other needs. The fair is on August 1, but pre-registration is required for students to receive school supplies.
You can pick up an application at CANHelp (613 Gilmer Street).
Businesses may also register to participate as a vendor.
Designer Handbag Bingo
The Hopkins County Healthcare Foundation’s extremely popular Designer Handbag Bingo event is coming Aug. 8, and tickets will go quickly.
Tables of eight for the event are currently on sale, and individual tickets will be up for grabs on July 13.
The link to access sponsorship and ticket information is handbagbingo24.givesmart.com
Quilt Show
The Lone Star Heritage Quilt Show is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 21-22 at the ROC on Putman Street. Numerous projects will be on display, and one special quilt will be up for raffle during the event.
If you’re interested in entering your own quilt project, those arrangements must be made by July 31. To request entry, email [email protected].
Ribbon Cutting
Data Point Surveying will host a ribbon cutting at their office on Dabbs Street at noon Wednesday, July 24. Please make plans to attend.
Birthright Midwifery will host a ribbon cutting at the Chamber office, 110 Main St., on Friday, July 26, at noon. Everyone is invited to attend this event.
Trees play a Significant role in the Landscape by Mario Villarino
July 23, 2024 – Trees play a significant role in the landscape, specially in east Texas. There is a strong association between the east Texas and the presence of big oaks or pecans. We all have memories of our childhood playing or spending time around a big tree. Trees are, from my perspective, magnificent creatures. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides detailed guidance on tree care to help maintain the health and vitality of trees in Texas. Here are some essential practices recommended by the extension service: Tree Selection: Right Tree, Right Place: Choose tree species that are well-suited to your local climate, soil type, and available space. Consider mature size, growth rate, and water needs. Chinese Pistache, Oaks, Pecans and crape myrtle trees can be a great selection depending of the expected impact in the landscape.
Planting: Optimal Timing: Plant trees during the fall or early spring when the weather is cooler and rainfall is more likely. Dig a hole that is 2-3 times wider than the root ball and the same depth as the root ball. Place the tree in the hole so the root flare is at or slightly above ground level.
Watering: New Trees: Water newly planted trees regularly and deeply. For the first two years, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Established Trees: Water established trees deeply once or twice a month during dry periods. Apply water slowly to allow deep penetration.
Mulching application: Spread a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, extending to the drip line if possible. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Pruning: Timing: Prune trees during their dormant season (late winter to early spring) for most species. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season.
Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches first. Use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just outside the branch collar. Do not over-prune; maintain the tree’s natural shape. Fertilization: Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient needs. If needed, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring or late fall. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Check trees regularly for signs of pests or diseases, such as discolored leaves, abnormal growths, or insect activity. Control Methods: Use integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, which may include cultural practices, biological controls, and chemical treatments if necessary.
General Care : Keep the area around the tree base free of weeds and grass to reduce competition for water and nutrients. Stake young trees only if necessary for stability. Remove stakes after one year to encourage strong trunk and root development. Protect trees from damage by lawn equipment and animals with physical barriers or guards. For detailed guidance and region-specific advice, refer to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s tree care resources or call the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Texas A&M-Commerce President Asks Board to Hold Off on Name Change
July 23-, 2024 – Current TAMU-C President, Dr. Mark Rudin, recently asked the Texas A&M System Board of Regents to hold off on making any name change at the Commerce location as the Board has an upcoming meeting July 31-August 2. There has been much discussion over the rumor from June that the A&M System Board of Regents has considered changing the name to include “Dallas” in the name as the East Texas University location in Commerce also controls a small satellite campus in the Dallas area. The reasoning behind the name change remains unclear to most, especially to alumni. Proponents of the name change suggest that “Commerce” as a city is not well known outside the metroplex, and the word “commerce” is confusing to some outsiders. With those that don’t know that “Commerce” is a city in East Texas, they may think that the “Commerce” in the name of the university is descriptive to what the university focuses on as some colleges may have “Technical”.
The recent confusion probaly stems from the last name change in 1996 when East Texas State University joined the A&M system becoming Texas A&M University – Commerce. For the previous more than 100 years, the name has contained “East Texas” as the College was first established in Cooper in 1889 as East Texas Normal College. A fire destroyed the original campus in 1894 and the college moved to Commerce where it has remained and expanded ever since. The following list shows the various names of the University over the years, always including “East Texas”.
Former Names
East Texas Normal College (1889–1917)
East Texas State Normal College (1917–1923)
East Texas State Teachers College (1923–1957)
East Texas State College (1957–1965)
East Texas State University (1965–1996)
Texas A&M University – Commerce (1996-present)
The Texas A&M University System was established in 1948. The Texas A&M System Board of Regents are scheduled for “Board Committee Meetings and Regular Board Meeting” July 31, August 1, & August 2, 2024 in College Station.
St. James Catholic Church Garage Sale Coming Up
July 23, 2024 – Sulphur Springs’ St. James Catholic Church is planning a garage sale for the first two weekends in August. The Women’s Auxillary at the local church will be hosting their annual garage sale two consecutive Fridays and Saturdays on August 2nd & 3rd, as well as August 9th & 10th. The sale times will be from 8:00am until 4:00pm each day and the items will be located inside the Education Building behind St. James Catholic Church located at 297 Texas St. in Sulphur Springs.
John Mark has Another chat with Hopkins County Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson on This Episode of A Second Cup Of Coffee
On this exciting episode of KSST’s A Second Cup of Coffee With John Mark Dempsey, John Mark sat down, again, with Hopkins County Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Master Gardener Ronnie Wilson. The two continue their conversation about water and watering plants from their last chat. The two also talk about lantana. In one of the pictures of lantana there is a green humming bird. And, at the end of the episode, after the credits, there is a close up at a different angle of that green humming bird. Be sure to check it out.
