Porcupine Family,

At approximately 10:30 a.m., Springtown Independent School District was notified by law enforcement that an individual carrying a firearm was walking through the Springtown area. Law enforcement immediately began actively monitoring the situation and made contact with the individual. At that time, the individual was not in proximity to any Springtown ISD campuses. Police advised district administration that the individual was not violating any laws and stated that the individual explained they were exercising their Second Amendment right to carry.

As soon as district administration was notified, the district crisis team, including all campus principals and school resource officers, was immediately alerted and placed on high alert in the event the individual moved closer to any campus. At that time, the direction and destination of the individual were unknown, so the district began proactively monitoring the situation and implementing safety protocols as needed. 

Out of an abundance of caution, Porcupine Academy and the Administration Building were placed in a Hold status at approximately 10:49 a.m. due to the direction the individual was walking. During a Hold, students and staff remain inside classrooms and offices, and all outdoor activities are paused.

As the individual continued walking and moved in the direction to Springtown Elementary School, the campus was placed into a Lockdown at approximately 11:35 a.m. Additional law enforcement officers were stationed at the campus and continued monitoring the individual to ensure the safety and security of students and staff should the individual enter district property. The campus was then moved to a Secure status at approximately 12:06 p.m., meaning students and staff remained inside the building until the individual vacated the area.

Thankfully, there was never an actual threat made toward any of our campuses. We also want to commend our students and staff for doing an excellent job following directions and safety procedures throughout the situation.

We take every situation involving campus safety seriously and will always respond with the highest level of caution and protection for our students and staff. The safety of our students and staff will always remain our top priority.

All campuses have resumed normal schedules and operations.

• Kimberly Deon Fuller, 48, of Springtown was arrested Saturday, April 25 by Parker County Sheriff's deputies and charged with possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 1/1-B, 1-4 grams. Fuller posted $10,000 bond and was released the following day.
• Toby Theodore Houchin, 47, of Azle was arrested Friday, April 24 by Parker County Sheriff's deputies and charged with possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 2, 4-400 grams; possession of marijuana, 2-4 ounces drug free zone; and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Houchin posted a total of $35,000 bond: $20,000 for the possession charge, $10,000 for the marijuana charge, and $5,000 for the weapon charge and was released from the Parker County jail the following day.
• Barry Dwight Jackson, 52, of Azle was arrested Friday, April 24 arrested by Parker County Sherrif’s deputies and charged with continuous violence against the family and with possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 1/1-B, less than 1 gram. Jackson’s bond was set at $60,000 for the family violence charge and $10,000 for the possession charge; however, he remains in custody in the Parker County jail as Monday, May 11 where he is also held for a parole violation.

In his appeal, James Earnest Blackmon claimed he should get a new trial because the judge did not strike jurors he claimed could not fairly consider the entire range of punishment. The Corpus Christi court rejected that argument, writing that if the jurors were so objectionable, Blackmon should have eliminated them from consideration with his peremptory, or discretionary, strikes. He did not.

“Our trial and appellate prosecutors ensured that this dangerous predator will never again have the freedom to victimize Parker County children,” Parker County District Attorney Jeff Swain said. “With victims past and present courageously describing what Mr. Blackmon did to them and jurors listening to heartbreaking testimony, our community truly came together to protect our children.”

In the trial, the victim testified that Blackmon used to date her grandmother and that on more than a dozen occasions he sexually assaulted her in a trailer park in Springtown. She said that she cried during the abuse, that it hurt, and that Blackmon told her to stop crying and be a “good girl.”

In trial, through his lawyer, James Earnest Blackmon claimed the way the victim described being abused was not possible because his genitalia is so large he would have caused her medical injury if he had penetrated her. Blackmon’s girlfriend testified on Wednesday that she had to seek medical attention the first time she had sex with Blackmon due to his size. The defense then introduced into evidence a picture of Blackmon’s genitals.

However, during Blackmon’s interview with a Parker County Sheriff’s Office investigator, he claimed that he could not have sexually assaulted the victim because he had what he described as “a limp noodle.”

Two other women testified that Blackmon sexually abused them when they were young girls. One described the abuse as occurring between the ages of 5 and 7 while the other said that it happened when she was around 4 years old. One of them also told jurors that she walked in on Blackmon fondling a 6-month-old boy.

One of those cases resulted in Blackmon being placed on deferred adjudication for indecency with a child in 1994. He successfully completed that term of supervision and did not go to prison.

“Sentences for continuous sexual abuse of a young child are served without the possibility of parole, so a 40-year sentence ensures that Mr. Blackmon will not be released from prison until he is 100 years old,” said Assistant District Attorney Brian Wolfskill, who handled the appeal for the prosecution. “Our goal at trial and on appeal was to make sure Mr. Blackmon will never get out of prison. With the mandate the court of appeals handed down Wednesday, we have accomplished that goal.”

In a victim impact statement after Blackmon was sentenced, his victim on the current case said, “You’re the reason why parents have to worry about their kids. You will forever be a monster in my eyes, no matter what. Today, me and everyone else has one less person to worry about.”

The original case was tried in the 415th District Court, Judge Graham Quisenberry presiding.

With strong connections throughout the Oklahoma City metro, the University of Central Oklahoma is dedicated to developing in students the confidence to succeed through transformative learning experiences.

UCO is a campus community in motion — leading, innovating and creating transformative learning opportunities that foster success for students. As Oklahoma’s largest metropolitan university, UCO provides high-quality, nationally recognized programs that are always evolving and adapting to the needs of students and the community. This commitment is rooted in its founding in 1890 as the state’s teacher’s college, training those who would educate the next generation of leaders and innovators.

Guided by the motto “ubi motus est” — which translates to “where movement is” — UCO continues to evolve and grow, offering 120 undergraduate and 79 graduate programs to its more than 12,000 students from its main campus in Edmond, Oklahoma, and facilities throughout the Oklahoma City metro. The university is governed by the Regional University System of Oklahoma Board of Regents and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

For more information about UCO, visit uco.edu.

According to information obtained from the Texas Department of Public Safety, A 2024 Subaru was stopped at the stop sign on Veal Station Road at its intersection with FM 51. A 1984 Freightliner towing a semi-trailer was traveling north on FM 51 when the Subaru pulled onto the roadway, failing to yield the right-of-way to the Freightliner. The truck was unable to avoid the collision and struck the Subaru.

The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the deceased as Shrader Lynn Gant, 77, and listed his cause of death as multiple blunt force injuries.

The grand jury handed down indictments against two Azle residents, one Weatherford resident, and two Springtown residents.

• Lisa Fay Cain, 49, of Springtown, was indicted on a charge of possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 1 or 1-B, less than 1 gram. The charge is a state jail felony.
• Clendon Lee Davis, 62, of Springtown, was indicted on a charge of possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 1 or 1-B, 4-200 grams. The charge is a second-degree felony.
• Jorge Herrera, 35, of Springtown, was indicted on a charge of assault of a family or household member with a previous conviction. The charge is a third-degree felony.
• Juan Alexandro Quiroz, 31, of Weatherford, was indicted on a charge of possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 2, less than 1 gram. The charge is a state jail felony.
• Ryan Michael Chamberlin, 41, of Azle, was indicted on a charge of possession of a controlled substance in penalty group 1, less than 1 gram. The charge is a state jail felony.
• Tammy Jo Lawrence, 48, of Springtown was indicted on two counts of intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle as well as two counts of intoxication assault with a vehicle causing serious bodily injury. The manslaughter charges are second-degree felonies, while the assault charges are felonies in the second degree.

“Today is one of those days where we lose some our council members,” Bas said while acknowledging the transition following the May 2 election.

“Ed Payne, I want to thank you for your service on the P&Z (Planning and Zoning Commission) and the council. I know you’re planning on a well-deserved break. I wish you the best. Shelli Swift, you have been an outstanding council member since I took office in 2023. You’re going to be deeply missed,” Bas said.

Swift, who did not seek reelection for Place 3, reflected on her tenure during council comments.

“Thank you to the current and previous council members. I have learned something from every single one of you,” Swift said.

“Thank you to the employees that continue to do their job despite uncertainties. Through the tough times in this seat — I stayed. I realized I can’t fix everything and everybody. I had to lay all the stress, hate, fears and tears at God’s feet. No looking back. He will handle it all. This chapter of my life is complete. I will continue to help my neighbors and community and take on whatever God places in my path,” Swift said.

Swift also welcomed her successor, Ryan Mott, and incoming Place 5 council member Darrin Talley.

“Thank you Darrin and Ryan for stepping up where good leadership is needed,” she said.

Talley defeated Payne in the Place 5 election. Payne congratulated Talley during council comments before sharing farewell remarks.

“First, congratulations to Darrin. I really enjoyed my time on city council,” said Payne. “There’s been ups and downs. My heart has always been to serve others — that’s what city council is really about — helping others, working with others, being the voice of the people.”

“I’ve made mistakes — (it’s a) learning process. I can say that everything I ever did, I prayed about and at that time I thought it was the right thing or I wouldn’t have done it,” Payne continued while reflecting on his tenure.

Payne ended his remarks by calling for unity within the community.

“I really would love to see our city heal. We are a fractured city still. It is a city that is broken in every way,” he said.

“Everybody’s at each other’s throats and that needs to end at some point. There needs to be healing of this city and there needs to be peace. I’m just really proud to be a citizen of Reno. I love this place — whether I agree with all of you or disagree with you, I don’t have animosity to anybody in the city. I love you as fellow children of God,” Payne said.

Following council comments, Kevin Vandenberg, who ran unopposed to defend his seat in Place 1, along with Mott and Talley, were sworn into office. Residents attending the meeting applauded the transition and Payne embraced Talley as he stepped down from his council seat.

After presenting the city’s current budget, Mayor Hector Bas said the city is spending more money than it is generating, which is negatively impacting the general fund.

Bas said auditors reviewing previous city audits informed officials the water fund owes the general fund approximately $828,213 related to a tax note taken out under previous city leadership that was not properly accounted for during financial transfers in 2024.

Council then approved a resolution allowing the city to transfer money from the water fund whenever the general fund drops to $65,000 or less. Council members also agreed to revisit the resolution in March 2027.

Council members also approved a motion to apply for a bank line of credit to help sustain the general fund. During discussion, officials said city property or equipment can potentially be used as collateral for the line of credit; members of the council emphasized the move is a temporary financial solution.

Place 3 council member Ryan Mott said the council should establish “guardrails” and develop a plan to pay future debt to ensure fiscal responsibility.

“With a line of credit, you only take out what you need that you know you can pay back quickly,” he said. “I would like to believe there would be guardrails on this. If we are going to take money off our line of credit, it has to be approved by council. We’ll vote in council with discussion and we get to determine the amount we’re going to take.”

Bas told residents the city will make the final payment on a $1 million tax note incurred by a previous administration in August. Additionally, he noted he renegotiated the lease of police motorcycles executed by former City Administrator Paul Lilly; the lease term has been reduced to six months and a cost approximately $20,000, reducing the impact on the city’s budget. The motorcycles have been returned to the dealer.

Residents attending the meeting applauded the update.

Auditors are expected to provide additional financial information, specifically regarding the $828,213 balance during the council’s Monday, May 18 meeting.

Council members later discussed whether to continue the Deputy Mayor Pro Tem position, which has held by Place 4 council member Ed Braun.

After consulting with City Attorney Debra Mergel, council members noted the role is not included in the city’s statutes. Vogle entered a motion to reappoint Braun as deputy mayor pro tem, but the motion failed.

The council then voted not to appoint a deputy mayor pro tem, eliminating the position.

This marks the ninth consecutive year the district has been recognized.

Robin Hidrogo, SISD director of fine arts, said the repeated recognition exemplifies the district’s long-term investment in music education programs followed by the support of educators and the community.

“Springtown ISD is committed to fine arts education,” Hidrogo said. “With dedicated educators, strong administrative and community support, our district ensures our students have continuous access to high quality music programs at every level.”

Hidrogo also noted the recognition shows how music education continues to remain an influence in shaping student experiences both inside and outside the classroom as it builds important life skills and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

“Our students have access to qualified teachers, well-supported programs with experiences that encourage student growth, creativity and achievement,” she said. “Students develop discipline, teamwork and time management skills. They learn to collaborate, listen and work toward a shared goal which results in building leadership and communication skills which are valuable for any career path.”

As the fine arts program enters its 27th year, Hidrogo said it will continue to provide an opportunity for students to thrive and express their artistic talents.

“Our programs provide a sense of belonging, confidence and self-expression,” she said. “Springtown Fine Arts believes in the whole child while preparing them to be well-rounded and resilient individuals both in school and life.”

“I grew up here in Springtown. I went from kindergarten until I graduated, so it’s kind of a full circle moment,” Thompson said.

Before stepping into administration, Thompson said her path was anything but traditional as her career developed gradually over time while balancing family life.

“(In) hindsight, I was a nontraditional student,” she said. “I didn’t even go back to college until I was like 27 and had four kids of my own.”

Prior to returning to college, Thompson noted she held a variety of roles throughout the district.

“I actually started as an instructional aide in the classroom and then I jumped to being a PEIMS secretary,” Thompson said.

“So, I’ve kind of done a lot of different things in the education field — from being an assistant in the classroom to doing secretarial work, eventually moving into the classroom and to where I am today.”

Thompson earned her teaching degree in 2011 and began her classroom career as a second-grade teacher at Springtown Elementary School, followed by pursuing her master’s degree with the goal of becoming a principal.

“(I) have 11 years of teaching in elementary,” she said. “When I got my master’s degree, that’s when I started to look to grow in those opportunities — and Springtown had an opening.”

She returned to SISD where she spent the last four years serving as an assistant principal at Springtown Middle School. Thompson emphasized the career transition helped her hone the role of an administrative leader while working alongside SMS principal, Brittney Chavez.

“I’ve used those four years to learn the ropes of being an assistant principal,” Thompson said. “Learning from Mrs. Chavez and developing our culture and campus — (it’s) going to help me move to the next level at Reno to be ready to be that principal there.”

For Thompson, the promotion represents not only professional growth, but also the culmination of years of perseverance and support from family and coworkers who have encouraged her throughout the process.

“It feels really good. It’s a testament to just having a lot of support around me with my family and my husband encouraging me along the way — just being able to persevere through the hard times and the struggles,” she said.

She also believes her varied experiences in education, from aide to secretary to teacher and administrator, have helped shape her leadership style and ability to relate to fellow staff members across different positions within a campus.

“I’ve done all of those roles, so I can look at things and be empathetic to what those positions are going through and what they need,” Thompson said. “So, I definitely feel like walking in those shoes helps me able to build those relationships and relate more to each position.”

As a lifelong Springtown resident, Thompson noted the sense of empathy also extends to students. She hopes her hometown roots and personal knowledge of the communities will help build trust with Reno Elementary families.

“I went to the original Reno Elementary as a third grader,” she said.

“I definitely feel very proud to be able to say that I grew up here and that it grew me to where I am today — I’m not just from some random place. I do think it helps the kiddos — I can talk to them and be like, ‘I grew up here; I know what you’re going through, what it feels like and what’s going to be expected along the way,’” she said.

Thompson noted that though she will miss the students and staff at SMS, she is thrilled to lead an elementary campus.

“I’m really excited to get back to the little kids — the excitement of learning that comes with elementary,” Thompson said. “You get to go through those seasonal things with the culture of an elementary campus. It’s always exciting and there’s always fun stuff going on.”

Thompson said one of her primary goals is to continue building on the success established at Reno Elementary under the leadership of Principal Jenna Showers, who will now lead Littleton Springs Elementary.

“My goal is to keep it going without missing a beat — (a) seamless transition and then elevate from there,” Thompson said.

Thompson also expressed gratitude for the unwavering support she received from district leadership, fellow principals and staff members.

“Just to have the opportunity to start, to be able to be honored with such a successful campus — I look forward to working with the other principals to learn and grow from them (and) elevate our campus,” she said.

Porcupine Academy is an SISD program designed for nontraditional students seeking a flexible path to graduation and offers a self-paced online learning platform tailored for students balancing jobs, family responsibilities and other commitments while working toward a diploma.

Families and SISD leadership celebrated 11 graduates of Porcupine Academy’s class of 2026.

“We saw that they had some tornadoes here in the area,” said owner Chip Barker, who heard reports of the destruction from his home in Bangs. “We actually headed to Mineral Wells and folks at Mineral Wells pointed us in this direction. So, we made the connections and here we are.”

After arriving in Springtown, Barker parked his food truck outside City Hall and his team spent the day serving food to residents and volunteers involved in storm recovery efforts.

Barker referenced his faith in God and community when asked what motivated him to make the trip to Springtown.

“Since the inception of Chipster’s Grill, we’ve always found it to be a part of the community,” he said as he described the businesses’ volunteer efforts to support its local fire department and recovering communities that were affected by the tragic flooding in Kerrville last year.

“It’s just something God has inspired us to do and we believe that’s what God expects us to do — to give back,” he said.

Barker said he planned to return home later in the day but emphasized that even a short visit can make a difference in someone’s life.

“We like to a be a part of that transition to where they may be having a bad day here,” he said.

“They walk up (here), they hear us joking, screaming and yelling on the trailer — having a great time. We put a smile on their face,” Barker said. “We put some food in their bellies and hopefully our little bit of inspiration will carry into whatever problems they are having for the day. Hopefully we can touch people’s lives by what we bring to them.”

District officials were told construction crews are expected to remain on track for completion of the campus in 2027.

The presentation also included aerial drone footage of the Littleton Springs Elementary construction site, showing excavation work and planned locations for playgrounds, courtyards, parking areas and fire lanes.

The representatives also noted adjustments made during the moisture conditioning process helped reduced costs and save time. The firms will continue to identify additional cost-saving measures throughout the construction process.

Local organizations, businesses and community groups awarded scholarships to students pursuing college, trade school and military service opportunities.

One of the highlights of the ceremony came when the Springtown Education Foundation announced it will award $78,900 in scholarships to students in this year’s graduating class. The SEF scholarships support students who are pursuing a variety of post-secondary paths, including four-year universities, junior colleges and trade schools.

Award presenters noted the SEF scholarships were made possible through annual fundraisers and support from donors, local businesses and SISD staff.

Graduating seniors then walked the stage as their post-secondary plans were announced while they received their graduation sash and cords, highlighting their achievements.

The ceremony concluded with the recognition of SHS’s Top 10% graduates and announced McKenzie Bratcher as salutatorian and Alyssa Forbes as valedictorian for the Class of 2026.

Andrew Coffin, co-founder and CEO of Ranchbot, said the company has submitted a grant proposal through the USDA’s NWS Grand Challenge, an initiative that is part of the department’s comprehensive strategy to combat the flesh-eating parasite that preys on cattle herds.

Initially, Ranchbot utilized its technology to provide insight to ranchers about the water infrastructure on their ranches using sensors.

“We provide insights to the ranchers so they can see their water availability, leaks, pumps, controls, etc., without ever having to go there,” Coffin said.

“We put a Ranchbot sensor at the location — it might be on the well, on the reservoir or the water storage. It talks directly to the asset or the water source and monitors the water flow or whatever it is being asked to look at — and it talks direct to satellites and then beams that back to the rancher’s cellphone via our platform and can tell them in real time what’s happening with their water,” he said.

Coffin, whose company currently monitors thousands of water resources utilized by more than 10 million cattle and about 15 million sheep in the United States and Australia, said the system is specifically designed to cover remote ranch areas.

“(It’s) a real game changer,” he said. “A lot of places on ranches (have) no cellular communication, so we could provide them with that sort of insight.”

As NWS remains approximately 60 miles from the Texas border, Coffin believes Ranchbot’s monitoring systems could help detect potential NWS infestations among cattle as they graze and drink from water sites.

“Cows go to drink every day — each cow drinks about 35 to 40 gallons of water a day — so that’s a prime location where ranchers can look at their cattle or we can have AI cameras for early detection of this parasite,” Coffin said.

Instead of relying on ranch workers to physically inspect every animal, Coffin said AI technology can analyze images and behavioral patterns of animals that may need closer inspection.

“Keeping track of a few million cattle across the southern border states is challenging to say the least,” he said.

“If you and I had to physically go and look through a million photos of a million cows to see if they were good or not — our trained eye may not even pick up the cows behaving differently than all the other cows. AI, through its computing power, can look at a million photos of cows and say these three are behaving differently than those other 100,000,” said Coffin as he referred to behaviors seen in infected cattle such as isolation or excessive headshaking.

Currently, the most effective strategy to combat the spread of NWS is through the Sterile Fly Insect Technique, a process of releasing sterile male flies to mate with their female counterparts; the flies only mate once in their life cycle — effectively halting their reproduction rate.

The USDA has recently opened a sterile fly breeding facility in Edinburg and has invested in renovating an additional facility in Metapa, Mexico. Both facilities would release approximately 100 to 300 million flies per week.

Coffin noted that despite these aggressive efforts, eradicating NWS will still be a challenge.

“(A hundred) million flies a week sounds like a lot, but it’s probably a drop in the ocean of what’s really required,” he said.

He referred to a variety of opportunities that allow NWS to continue to move northward.

“When you’re talking about a parasite that essentially is a fly — it’s airborne,” Coffin said. “It can jump on the back of a truck, a horse trailer, an 18-wheeler transporting cattle. If there’s a strong (wind) blowing from Mexico into Texas — you can’t build a wall to stop flies, air and dust. So, the challenge is this thing is mobile — it can move with animals.”

Coffin said other factors of NWS spreading include cattle competing for pasture and water resources along with warmer temperatures that come in the summer months that give the parasite more opportunities to thrive.

“There’s just more prospects of getting (NWS) to expand its footprint over the next three to six months,” he said.

“There is no one single (issue), it’s just a whole bunch of issues. Just like there’s no one single solution. There’s a whole bunch of silver shrapnel that we need to forge to make a silver bullet to dismiss this thing. In times of peace, prepare for war. We have to be ready for this,” Coffin told the Springtown Epigraph.

Regarding economic implications, Coffin said the spread of NWS across the border will be costly to livestock producers and consumers.

“Demand for beef is at an all-time high. So, this is not an opportune time for us to be taking more beef out of the supply chain,” he said.

“If this thing spreads vastly and everywhere — we’re going to have to go around and cull cattle because they’re infected or treat cattle because they’re infected. All that costs money and takes time. So, the best thing we can do is stop this thing.”

With its grant submission to the USDA NWS Grand Challenge, Ranchbot will be partnering with Texas A&M Agrilife Extension to help early detection of NWS. Coffin is hopeful to hear back this month if his company’s proposal is accepted.

Coffin emphasized that while NWS is a threat, his intention is to educate and help people, not to induce fear.

“We’re trying to educate people. We’re not trying to scare people,” he said.

“We need to educate people and let them know it’s all going to be OK. There is no transmission of New World screwworm from cows to humans. You can’t catch it by eating beef. None of that is possible. The ramifications here are really about the animal’s health and welfare — the impacts on ranchers, business operations and the impacts on supply and demand on beef. That’s why we’re so concerned and working hard to make sure it doesn’t happen,” Coffin said.

In the meanwhile, Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller encouraged all ranchers to remain vigilant in a press release issued Friday, May 1 as another NWS case has been detected in Coahuila, Mexico.

To learn more about NWS detection, prevention and reporting protocols, visit Screwworm.gov.

“We need more people to donate RVs that are ready to go,” Crutsinger said. “We have like seven different families right now that need help. They are staying with their relatives and it’s like nine people in the house instead of two.”

Crutsinger, a tow truck driver by trade, has operated the nonprofit organization for more than 12 years and has helped a variety of individuals throughout Parker and Wise counties. Along his journey, Crutsinger has witnessed the miracle of the community giving back to someone in need.

“When a disaster like this has happened — I’m a firm believer about God — God’s amazing,” he said. “People pull together and get stuff done.”

Crutsinger noted he is aware the ask for housing is a substantial request but through the grace of others, his organization and volunteers have already begun securing RVs for storm victims.

“We gave away six RVs in the past two days,” he said. “I know how it is to do without. I know exactly how it feels — I don’t want people hurting out here.”

Operation Texas Strong was able to secure another RV that was in Florida for a local family and is hopeful to now locate a single-wide home from Amanda Wilson’s family of seven.

“That was our family home,” Wilson said. “Just seeing the whole back end torn off — it was terrifying and heartache. What do you do? How do you pick your life up from that? It’s just hard.”

Wilson said she created a GoFundMe to help raise the funds to secure a home and is very appreciative of the ongoing support from donors and Operation Texas Strong.

“Bobby (Crutsinger) has been amazing,” she said. “He’s been trying to reach out to as many people as he can, just to find us something. My husband’s a disabled vet, so all the help is greatly appreciated.”

Former Parker County Precinct 4 Commissioner and retired Navy veteran Jim Webster was on scene at the Wilson residence, demolishing what was left of the house. It was through Operation Texas Strong that Webster felt compelled to volunteer his time and resources to help those in need.

“I feel for these people,” Webster said. “They’re tearing down their entire life. You can imagine what’s going through their hearts and minds when they do this. For me, I’m trying to help them. For them, it’s their entire life. So, I feel really bad about it. There’s nothing I can do except help out.”

The 81-year-old retiree was determined to continue helping the family remove the home, despite being injured when a part of the storm-damaged home snapped back and broke through the protective window of his skid steer loader — inflicting a gash on his right shin.

Webster remained optimistic and encouraged others to join in on the cause.

“Come pitch in,” he said. “It’s all about helping your neighbor and brother in time of need.”

Aside from housing, Crutsinger noted Operation Texas Strong is also seeking storage units, tools and furnishings for families.

“We’re not asking for money, we’re asking for donations of stuff to be able to help the families,” he said.

“We need conexes (conex boxes are rugged shipping containers used for secure storage and transport) so (families) could actually put their stuff in sheds to be able to lock their stuff up. Tools, chainsaws, generators — couches or beds.”

Cole Hughes, a Springtown resident who is also a Wise County EMS worker, is one of many locals whose homes were damaged and their storage sheds destroyed by the storm.

“It’s an indescribable feeling,” he said. “I’ve never been in this position before where I needed help — it’s very humbling.”

As the hardest-hit communities of Springtown, Mineral Wells and Runaway Bay move toward recovery, Crutsinger said he will continue to actively seek donations for those in need.

“You don’t have to have millions of dollars to build something,” he said. “You got to have faith, strength and you got to have the willpower.”

To donate an RV or additional materials to Operation Texas Strong, call 682-415-2067 or email peggycrutsinger@rocketmail.com.

Disaster relief supply hours updated

The city of Springtown has updated distribution hours for disaster relief supplies available to residents affected by the April tornadoes and severe weather.

Supplies, including food, water, cleaning products and hygiene items remain available at the public works facility located at 501 Martin Ave.

Updated hours are:

• Wednesday, May 13: 3-6 p.m.
• Saturday, May 16: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Sunday, May 17: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

FUMC hosts SBA Outreach Center

First United Methodist Church in Springtown is hosting an SBA Disaster loan Outreach Center where residents, renters and businesses affected by recent storms can receive assistance submitting disaster loan applications and ask questions about the process.

Hours of operations are Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

To apply for disaster assistance online, visit the SBA Disaster Assistance website at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance.

Parker County seeks volunteers

The Parker County Office of Emergency Management is asking individuals and groups interested in supporting response and recovery efforts to register online before volunteering.

Officials said in-person registration is no longer available and all volunteers should sign up at tcr.communityos.org.

Wild Wonder open house May 14

Wild Wonder welcomes everyone to experience the magic of learning, connection and community at its open house Thursday, May 14, from 6-9 p.m.

The evening will feature live student performances by theater, ASL and music students while also showcasing every class.

Come see what happens when education feels like home.

Community Clean Up Day May 16

The city will host its Community Clean Up Day beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 16, inviting residents to take part in cleanup efforts across the community. Volunteers can preregister by contacting Volunteer Coordinator Amy Hedges at ahedges@cityofspringtown.com or register in person the day of the event.

Storm Benefit Relief Concert May 17

Fink’s Backyard, located at 120 Eastwood Road, welcomes everyone to attend its Storm Relief Benefit Concert beginning at noon Sunday, May 17.

Come for live music all day with a silent auction, a crawfish boil and much more.

More details will be available soon, so mark your calendars and come support the community, where many have lost so much.

Memorial Day Ceremony May 23

The city of Springtown invites the public to a free ceremony honoring veterans and service members at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 23 at Veterans Memorial Park, located at the corner of Walnut Creek Drive and Lake Drive.

City Farmer’s Market returns May 30

The city of Springtown’s Farmers Market is slated to return from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, May 30 at the Newby Pavilion.

Come support local businesses by shopping for fresh produce, homemade baked goods, handmade goods and special foods. For more information, contact rortega@cityofspringtown.com.

Cars for Cause Fundraiser set May 30

The We Are Our Brothers Keeper Overdose Awareness Group will host its sixth annual Cars for the Cause car show at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 30 in downtown Springtown, with all vehicles welcome to participate. Vehicle registration is $25.

Proceeds support the group’s back-to-school event which provides students with supplies and free haircuts. For registration or more information, contact event organizer Jessica Castro at 469-597-9403.

City, Carter BloodCare Drive set June 12

The city of Springtown and Carter BloodCare will host a mobile blood drive June 12 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its Municipal Annex Building located at 200 N. Main Street.

Residents interested in donating blood are encouraged to reserve an appointment in advance as walk-in availability may be limited. To reserve an appointment visit https://ww2.greatpartners.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/168830.

Despite the playoff exit, the Lady Pines finished with one of the most successful seasons in program history, posting a 24-12 overall record and a 10-2 district mark while advancing deep into the postseason.

In Game 1 Thursday night, Springtown battled West Plains in a tight contest before falling 5-4. Senior pitcher Kylee Spray turned in another strong performance in the circle, pitching five innings while striking out eight batters.

Spray also provided the offensive spark for the Lady Pines. The senior slugger helped her own cause at the plate by driving in all four Springtown runs. She collected a double and a home run in the loss.

West Plains completed the sweep Friday with a 7-1 victory in Game 2.

Freshman pitcher Jayci Notgrass worked four innings and struck out four batters before Sage Jacobson came on in relief for two innings. Springtown’s lone run came in the bottom of the fifth inning when Kaylee Falcon blasted a home run to get the Lady Pines on the scoreboard.

While the season ended one step short of the regional finals, the postseason run capped a memorable year for head coach Carey Robertson and the Lady Pines program.

The success of the season was also reflected in the District 7-4A All-District selections voted on by the district’s coaches.

Freshmen Sagelyn Jacobson and Harmony Flores were both named First Team All-District selections along with Addyson Fyffe.

SHS catcher Reiss De La Fuente earned one of the district’s top honors when she was selected Defensive MVP, while senior Kylee Spray was named Utility Player of the Year following her standout season both in the circle and at the plate.

Named to the Second Team All-District squad were Sydney Masterson, Kaylee Falcon and Ryleigh Morris.

Honorable mention All-District selections included Makinze Nation, Jayci Notgrass and Addison Garrison.

The postseason honors highlight a young and talented Springtown roster that made a strong statement this season and figures to remain a contender in District 7-4A for years to come.

                                                                                           Eddy Prather | Springtown Epigraph

Springtown claimed the series two games to one and earned the title of 2026 area champions after shutting out the Yellow Jackets 3-0 in the decisive Game 3 Saturday, May 9.

The Porcupines opened the series Thursday, May 7 with a strong 4-0 victory behind timely hitting and solid pitching. Springtown scored three runs in the bottom of the second inning and added an insurance run in the sixth inning to secure the shutout win.

Junior shortstop Omar Hernandez led the offensive effort with two RBIs as the Porcupines controlled the opener from start to finish.

Stephenville answered in Game 2 Friday, May 8, using a big offensive performance to defeat Springtown 7-3 and even the series at one game apiece.

With the season on the line Saturday, the Porcupines responded with another dominant pitching performance. Springtown blanked Stephenville 3-0 in Game 3 to capture the series and continue its postseason run.

The Springtown defense and pitching staff were outstanding throughout the deciding contest, keeping the Yellow Jackets off the scoreboard while the Porcupine offense manufactured enough runs to secure the victory.

The series win advances Springtown into the regional semifinals against West Plains in another best-of-three playoff matchup.

Game 1 of the series is scheduled for Thursday, May 14 at 7 p.m. at Midland Greenwood High School. Game 2 will be Friday, May 15 at 1 p.m., with Game 3, if necessary, to follow after the completion of Game 2.

The Porcupines continue what has been an impressive postseason run as Springtown looks to keep its playoff momentum rolling deeper into the UIL baseball playoffs.

                                                                                            Photo Courtesy Springtown ISD

Crain, a sophomore at Springtown High School, finished fourth at the 2026 UIL State Golf Tournament held at Legends Golf Course, continuing an already remarkable high school career. As a freshman in 2025, Crain placed fifth at the state tournament, giving her back-to-back top five finishes against the state’s best competition.

Crain was named to the Texas Association of Golf Coaches First Team All-State squad alongside Rylen Darter of Taylor, Avery Glanzer of Fort Worth Benbrook, Brylee Mokry of La Vernia and Nicole Thomas Subia of Andrews.

The All-State recognition adds another milestone to Crain’s rapidly growing resume as one of the top young golfers in the Texas high school game.

Crain season was not yet complete at press time — she was scheduled to compete Wednesday, May 13, in the U.S. Women’s Open qualifying event at Cross Timbers Golf Course in Azle.

The 36-hole qualifying tournament will award two spots into the U.S. Women’s Open championship field, bringing elite amateur and professional talent from across the region to Cross Timbers for the official USGA qualifying event.

The action follows the swift issuance of a Local Disaster Declaration by Judge Pat Deen immediately after the storms. The court formally upheld that declaration, solidifying the county's commitment to providing direct financial and logistical assistance to those impacted by the catastrophic weather events.

The primary focus of this emergency funding is the removal of construction debris, including collapsed structures and damaged roofing materials. While the State of Texas provides certain types of disaster assistance, state programs do not provide financial support for the removal of construction-related debris on private property. The court has stepped in to fill this critical gap, authorizing funding for debris cleanup, in addition to other measures, to ensure residents can begin rebuilding without an undue financial burden.

“When the state could not step up in this specific area, the Parker County Commissioners Court led the way,” said County Judge Pat Deen. “Our priority is our residents. By moving these funds today, we are ensuring that the recovery process begins immediately and that our community has the resources necessary to overcome this destruction.”

The $4 million allocation, which is approximately 12.5% of the remaining fund balance, represents a comprehensive response to the devastation seen across the county. Beyond debris removal, the funds will cover various emergency expenses incurred during the response and provide additional avenues of assistance for storm victims.

Don’t know when I am going to go.

When it’s exactly the right time,

Only God in Heaven is in the know.

I’m really going to go on that trip.

I’ve been promising myself I would.

Won’t be anytime soon, that’s for sure —

Definitely won’t be going before I should.

I think my reservation calls

For an extended stay,

Which is okay, because I heard

Two thousand years there is like just one day.

I’ve already got my ticket purchased;

There are only first-class, one-way seats.

The flight to get there is turbulence-free —

No need for any carry-ons or special treats.

I’ve heard they have many mansions there;

I hope there is one constructed for me.

They are prepared for all who live in Heaven,

Built by the “Carpenter King,” the One from Galilee.

They say the streets there are unbelievable —

That they shine like polished gold.

I’ve also heard of a kind of fountain of youth

Where it seems people there never grow old.

I believe the plants sparkle and shine,

Glow like rubies, pearls, and jewels of every shade.

The leaves on the trees are the greenest green,

Like perfect emeralds, peridot, and jade.

There’s a “Tree of Life” that grows on a riverbank;

My understanding is its fruit is a life-giving treat.

It was transplanted from a garden called Eden,

Has been around from the beginning for mankind to eat.

There’s an ocean that sparkles like dancing lights —

Deep, pure blue, clean, and pollution-free.

I know I will be amazed when I gaze across its surface

And understand how it got its name: the Crystal Sea.

Some friends and family that I know

Have already moved to that Heaven place.

I believe that they are happy at their new address,

Living with the Owner, touched by His love and grace.

I’ve read there is a Trinity of proprietors:

The Father, the Spirit, and His Son.

It’s said all of Them are unique, distinct, and separate,

But always act as just One.

The accommodations are all-inclusive,

And the trip and stay are covered by the Boss.

It has something to do with your bill being paid by His Son,

When He went up on a hill and let Himself be hung on a cross.

The place must be some kind of a health retreat too,

Because people with bodies that are broken, sick, and lame

Enter the gates and are healed —

And nothing for them is ever the same.

Only in my dreams alone

Have I imagined such a place.

It will be the greatest thing I have ever known

When I get to meet Jesus and His Father face to face.

So, I am going to wait until I’m in a lot worse shape

Before my itinerary gets set in stone.

Just wait until I hear my number called —

Putting the whole trip in Someone else’s hands,

Leaving it up to Him and Him alone.

These are not the scams many people think they can easily spot. They are structured, believable and increasingly difficult to detect in the moment.

Recently, a local senior couple was targeted by an individual claiming to be connected to federal court in Tarrant County. The caller used a calm, professional tone, referenced real names and institutions, and created a situation involving a missed court appearance and potential legal consequences.

Everything about the interaction felt legitimate.

That’s what makes this type of scam so dangerous.

According to our local law enforcement, these scams are evolving rapidly — combining real public information, spoofed phone numbers, and carefully scripted conversations designed to create urgency and compliance.

This is not just fraud. It is influence.

One of the most important patterns to understand is what happens early in the call. Victims are often given a limited set of options:

• Pay immediately
• Turn themselves in
• Post a bond 

While those choices feel real in the moment, they are part of a controlled framework designed to move the victim toward a financial transaction.

What is missing is the most important option of all: None of the above. Hang up.

As Parker County Sheriff Russ Authier emphasizes: “No legitimate law enforcement agency will ever call you and demand payment to avoid arrest. If you receive a call like this, hang up and contact our office directly using a verified number.”

These scams often rely on more than just information—they rely on control. Victims may be instructed to:

• Stay on the phone continuously
• Avoid speaking to others
• Travel to a bank or payment location
• Use unfamiliar methods such as cryptocurrency kiosks

Each step is designed to reduce outside input and keep the victim moving forward without interruption. By the time doubt sets in, the situation has already escalated.

One of the most common misconceptions is: “If they knew so much about me, they must be legitimate.”  In reality, the opposite is often true.

Scammers frequently gather and confirm information during the call itself — turning small details into what appears to be a complete and convincing profile.

So what should residents do?

Law enforcement and cybersecurity professionals agree on a few simple but critical safeguards:

• Never confirm personal information on an incoming call
• Never send money to resolve legal matters over the phone
• Never stay on a call that creates urgency or fear
• Always hang up and verify independently

The safest response is simple: “I will call the official number back.” Then disconnect.

These scams are not successful because people are careless. They are successful because they are carefully engineered to bypass normal decision-making.

Awareness is no longer optional—it is essential.

As these tactics continue to evolve, one thing remains constant: The moment you slow down, verify and break the interaction … you take back control.

They know who’s been sick, who’s recovering, who just got home from the hospital, and who is trying to make a prescription last a few extra days because money is tight. They answer questions after hours, track down medicine that should’ve already been delivered, and spend a good part of their day solving problems that have nothing to do with counting pills.

In small towns, this happens across a counter where people know your name, know your family, and notice when you haven’t been by in a while.  

And just like the rural hospitals, volunteer fire departments, and public schools we talk about so often in these pages, many hometown pharmacies are carrying more weight than ever while operating with less room for error.

Now imagine that pharmacy gone.  Not next year. Not someday down the road. Right now.  Because across rural Texas, that’s exactly what’s happening.

More than 4 million Texans now live in what are called pharmacy deserts — places where access to medications and pharmacy care is limited or disappearing altogether. Some rural counties no longer have a pharmacy at all. Others are hanging on by a thread.

And the reason is pretty simple: many independent pharmacies are being paid less to fill prescriptions than what it actually costs to put the medicine in the bottle.

No business can survive losing money every time somebody walks through the door.

That’s the part of the healthcare debate that often gets missed. In Washington, the conversation turns into talking points about drug prices and government negotiations. But out here, the issue feels a lot more practical.

When the pharmacy closes, people don’t just lose convenience. They lose access.

For an elderly patient, that might mean driving an hour for medication. For a parent with a sick child, it might mean waiting another day to start treatment. For someone managing diabetes or heart disease, it can become the difference between staying healthy and ending up in the emergency room.

Two big policy fights are driving a lot of this conversation right now.

The first involves Pharmacy Benefit Managers, better known as PBMs. Most people have never heard of them, but they sit in the middle of nearly every prescription transaction in America. They help decide what drugs are covered, what pharmacies get paid, and how much patients pay at the counter.

Rural pharmacists will tell you the system has become badly out of balance. Many say reimbursement rates no longer cover the actual cost of dispensing medication, while large middlemen continue collecting rebates and fees behind the scenes.

That’s why there’s growing bipartisan support for PBM reform — more transparency, fairer reimbursement, and making sure savings actually reach patients instead of disappearing somewhere in the system.

The second debate is over what’s called “Most Favored Nation” pricing, or MFN. The idea is to tie U.S. drug prices to the prices paid in foreign countries.

On paper, that sounds appealing. Everybody wants lower prices.

But there’s concern about what happens long term when government starts setting prices based on systems in other countries that ration care and tightly control what treatments are covered. Critics argue that eventually it slows innovation and reduces investment in developing new drugs.

And whether people agree or disagree on that larger debate, one thing is clear: none of it solves the immediate problem facing rural Texas pharmacies.

A pharmacy can’t stay open if the math doesn’t work.

That’s why this conversation matters beyond healthcare policy circles. In rural communities, the local pharmacy is infrastructure just like the hospital, the school, or the volunteer fire department. Once it disappears, getting it back becomes incredibly difficult.

Rural Texans don’t need more political slogans. They need policies that keep healthcare local, keep small-town pharmacies alive, and make sure families can still get the medicine they need without driving two counties over to find it.

Because when the pharmacy on Main Street closes in a rural town, the loss is bigger than a business.

It’s one less piece of local healthcare. One less place where people are known by name instead of account number. One more sign of how fragile rural infrastructure has become when decisions made far away collide with the realities of small-town life.

And like so many of the kitchen-table issues we talk about in rural Texas, most people don’t pay attention until it’s already gone.

The decisions being made in Austin and Washington have real consequences on Main Street in places like Spearman, Stratford, Gruver, and hundreds of towns just like them.

Rural Texas does not stay strong by accident. It stays strong when local people pay attention, show up and fight for the things their communities cannot afford to lose.

Nearly 20 camps have sued to block the law requiring them to install a fiber-optic network, arguing that it does not make their properties safer and would cost millions of dollars. So far only nine Texas summer camps are licensed to open, with fewer than two weeks before the season begins. Nearly 300 are still working to obtain licenses. The Department of State Health Services said last week that camps will be allowed to operate under existing licenses while their applications are reviewed.

The laws were passed in the aftermath of last year's July 4 flooding, which killed more than two dozen campers at Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River. In addition to fiber optic networks, camps must install emergency warning and public address systems and provide safety training for campers.

PATRICK BACKS MIDDLETON IN ATTORNEY GENERAL RUNOFF

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is backing state Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston, in the GOP runoff for Texas attorney general on May 26. Early voting runs from May 18 to May 22. In the runoff, Middleton faces U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, R-Austin.

“Mayes Middleton has established a record as one of the most conservative senators in Texas history,” Patrick said on social media.

The News quoted Patrick as saying Middleton will make the post “the strongest and most impactful AG office in the nation."

Democrats Joe Jaworski, a former Galveston mayor, and state Sen. Nathan Johnson, D-Dallas, are in a runoff for their party’s attorney general nomination. Incumbent Ken Paxton opted not to run and is locked in a primary runoff with incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn.

CORNYN, PAXTON IN TIGHT RUNOFF RACE

Paxton is locked in a tight race against incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn for the GOP nomination, the Texas Standard reported. The Hobby School of Public Affairs at the University of Houston recently conducted a poll that showed Paxton leading Cornyn, 48% to 45% with 7% still undecided.

The poll of those indicating they were likely to vote in the GOP runoff had a 2.83% margin of error.

In the first quarter of this year, Cornyn raised nearly $9 million, including $3.4 million after the March primary. Paxton raised $2.2 million. Democratic nominee state Rep. James Talarico, D-Round Rock, raised a record $27 million in the first quarter, the largest-ever sum for a Senate candidate in the first quarter of an election year in any state.

TEXAS HAS BIGGEST TEACHER WORKFORCE, BUT THEY GET PAID LESS

Texas has the country’s largest teacher workforce but lags behind the national average in teacher pay and per-student spending, according to a report in the Austin American-Statesman.

A National Education Association report said teacher pay in Texas is about $10,700 below the U.S. average. Texas public school teachers earned an average of $63,749 in 2024-2025, which put it 33rd among states and Washington, D.C. The national average was $74,495.

Texas had nearly 370,000 public school teachers in 2024-2025, the highest number in the country.

SMOKABLE HEMP AGAIN PULLED FROM TEXAS SHELVES

Smokable hemp products such as flower buds and rolled joints must again be pulled from store shelves as the state appeals the latest court ruling, according to The Texas Tribune. The ban was set to take effect March 31, but lawyers for the hemp industry filed suit challenging the plan. A Travis County district judge temporarily halted imposition of the ban, but with the 15th Texas Court of Appeals agreeing to hear the state’s appeal of the lower court ruling, the ban is now back in effect.

“We are confident that the 15th Court of Appeals will reinstate our temporary injunction so that our vets, elderly, and adult consumers have reasonable access to these products,” said David Sergi, an attorney for the hemp industry.

Hemp retailers have said their businesses have lost over half their revenue since imposition of the new rules, which also include much steeper licensing fees.

TEXAS LEADS IN IMMIGRATION DETENTION AS CROSSINGS PLUMMET

Texas continues to lead the country in the number of people held in detention centers, even as unauthorized border crossings plunge, the Houston Chronicle reported.

As of early April, the daily average in Texas was nearly 18,000 people. That's more than twice the average number of immigrants held in Louisiana, the second highest, with about 8,100 per day.

Texas’ high numbers are partly due to the state’s numerous detention centers and a ruling from the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals that upheld the practice of holding immigrants until their removal proceedings conclude.

“The 5th Circuit is not immigrant-friendly, and it's easier to remove people who are detained in the Texas facilities,” said Zenobia Lai, executive director of the Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said decisions on where detainees are held are made on a “case-by-case basis in accordance with U.S. law.”

TEXAS MOST AT-RISK STATE FOR HAIL DAMAGE

Everything is bigger in Texas, including the hail, according to Cotality’s 2026 Severe Convective Storm Risk Report, published in the Statesman. The state ranks as the most at-risk for hail damage, with 8 million homes exposed and a combined reconstruction value exceeding $3.1 trillion.

Four Texas cities rank among the top 10 for homes at greater risk of hail damage. Dallas ranks second nationally, behind Chicago, followed by Houston in third, Austin in ninth, and San Antonio in tenth.

“Although most hailstones are typically pea- or dime-size, hail can grow to as large as golf balls and baseballs. In extreme cases, hail can reach the size of a softball, grapefruit or even a pineapple,” Statesman meteorologist Mary Wasson wrote.

A pineapple?

The DAR Good Citizen Award recognizes select graduating senior from high schools in Parker County for their outstanding character, leadership, service and patriotism demonstrated in their homes, schools and communities. Each student was selected by their high school to receive this honor.

This year’s recipients are: Deogracias Mulenga, Aledo; Macey Brim, Brock; Branson Adams, Garner; Luke Camarrillo and Calissa Marbut, Millsap; Katie Sears, Peaster; Natalia Menchaca, Poolville; Kallie Conway, Springtown; and Mia Arena, Weatherford.

Since 1924, the Weatherford chapter has provided loans or scholarships annually to deserving young men and women to further their educational goals. This year, the chapter received applications from across the county from very deserving graduating seniors. The scholarship committee, after much deliberation, awarded scholarships to three Parker County high school seniors. Chosen were Adalyn Hayward of Peaster High School, Kallie Conway of Springtown High School and Gerardo Miranda Jr. of Weatherford High School.

DAR is a women’s service organization with chapters in every state of the union and in many foreign countries. For membership, any woman 18 years of age or older, regardless of race, religion or ethnic background, who can prove lineal descent from a Patriot of the American Revolution, is eligible for membership. If you are interested in learning more about DAR go online to dar.org. You can also contact the Weatherford Chapter by email at weatherfordnsdar@gmail.com.

What is your name and grade?

“Bailey Walker, I am a senior.”

How long have you played volleyball?

“I have played volleyball since fourth grade.”

Do you have any pets?

“I do. I have two dogs, CJ and Uno.”

Do you have a shout out to anyone?

“Yes, my parents, and coach Z.”

Give me an example of one moment you’ll never forget about sports.

“It has to be when we played Decatur for the third time this year.”

Tell me one pregame ritual or preperformance routine you go through.

“I would say I always have the same hair, and me and my friend Libby always make a TikTok before our games.”

Lebron or Michael

“Michael for sure.”

What has sports taught you about life?

“It has definitely taught me mental toughness and going through adversity.”

What does life after high school look like?

“Yes, I will be attending Southern Arkansas University and play volleyball.”

What advice would you give younger athletes?

“I would say to keep up with what you want and put in a lot of work.”

Ten SHS seniors were honored as they announced their post-graduation plans, with coaches, teachers, administrators and directors sharing highlights of each student’s journey and accomplishments.

Head volleyball coach Abby Zippoy led a strong group of signees following the Lady Pines’ regional finals appearance last fall. Bailey Walker signed to continue her education and volleyball career at Southern Arkansas University, while Kallie Conway will play at Northwestern Oklahoma State University. Yancy Martinez rounded out the trio, signing with Seminole State College.

On the soccer pitch, four-year letterman Rylen Passmore will continue his academic career at Southwestern Adventist University.

Springtown’s fine arts students also took center stage. Sarah Grazer signed to attend West Texas A&M University to pursue dance, while Miguel Vavazos will join the band at Austin College. Rylan Dishneau will continue his musical career at Tyler Junior College.

Three seniors committed to military service, continuing a proud tradition in Springtown. Sean Rose will enlist in the U.S. Air Force, while Callee Gaston has pledged to serve in the U.S. Army.

Highlighting the ceremony was valedictorian Alyssa Forbes, who accepted a congressional appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Forbes will report for basic training in June before beginning her studies in the fall. She plans to pursue a career as a pilot in the Air Force, with aspirations of flying cargo aircraft. A former volleyball player at SHS, Forbes will focus on her academic and military path at the academy.

The signing day event reflected the wide range of opportunities available to Springtown students, as the Porcupines continue to send graduates into collegiate athletics, fine arts programs and service to the nation.

                                                                                             Eddy Prather | Springtown Epigraph