Tickets are on sale now for the Chamber President’s Banquet on January 24 at Maroon Ridge Event Center. You don’t want to miss this extravaganza of Hollywood Throughout the Decades! Wear your red carpet best! Tickets are $35 each. Come see who wins the big awards and enjoy an Italian feast. Cake auction by Scott Droddy and music by the Pegwinders. Call for tickets. 409-384-2762.
Date/Time Information:
Friday, January 24, 2025, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Location:
Maroon Ridge Event Center
Abuse, Human Trafficking, & Mental Health Awareness, Prevention, and Reporting Workshops
The purpose of this workshop is to raise awareness, and provide tips for prevention and reporting and is hosted by SpeakTruth Global Outreach and sponsored by Kalin’s Center. Leanne Henson and Janet Napper are among the experts you will hear from on this important issue.
$45 per session or all three sessions for $99.
Lunch is included (Wednesday and Thursday).
For tickets, scan the QR code or visit: https://buy.stripe.com/7sI3de8xic9Y0rSaFq.
Call (936) 931-7770 for more information.
When:
January 15th-17th
Where:
SpeakTruth Global Headquarters
502 E. Houston Avenue
(former The Loft location)
Crockett, TX 75835
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – On Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Texas A&M Forest Service honors its Law Enforcement investigators and officers for their dedication to public safety and the protection of Texas’ natural resources.
For 110 years Texas A&M Forest Service has worked to conserve and protect the natural resources of Texas, and for nearly as long, agency law enforcement officers have played a significant role in upholding those values.
The Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement department is comprised of 10 investigators and up to 15 officers led by Chief Law Enforcement Officer Connor Murnane. Investigators and officers are located throughout the state, primarily in East Texas, and investigate timber theft and wildfires.
The department was created in the 1920s after a series of East Texas wildfire outbreaks and has since grown to include timber theft investigations and public education.
“Those who served in our positions in the beginning were referred to as education officers,” said Murnane. “They spent a large portion of their time speaking with and educating landowners about fire. This was during a time when all fire, even prescribed fire, was seen as bad. Now, prescribed fire is a widely used tool for forest management and wildfire mitigation.”
Similar to the agency’s wildfire response process, the Law Enforcement department investigates wildfires in a tiered approach. Following a wildfire, local law enforcement and investigators initiate investigations but will often request Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement officers to assist.
In 2024, the Law Enforcement department investigated 151 wildfires, including the Smokehouse Creek Fire—the largest wildfire in Texas history that originated near Stinnett, Texas, in February 2024 and burned 1,054,153 acres. The department also assisted the Brewster County Sheriff’s Office with an arson investigation that led to the grand jury indictment of a suspected serial arsonist in 2024.
During the cause and origin investigation of a wildfire, investigators examine contributing factors such as weather conditions, vegetative fuel consumption, as well as macro and micro burn pattern indicators. Grass stems, scorching patterns on tree bark and ash color are all indicators that allow investigators to determine the origin of a fire. Based on the totality of the circumstances and evidence, investigators will conduct a criminal investigation into the cause of the fire and any potential arson suspects.
“It is always important to attempt to determine the cause of any fire,” said Murnane. “We have a unique relationship with our Wildfire Mitigation and Prevention department that allows us to share wildfire data to be used for future targeted mitigation and prevention communications to the public.”
The Law Enforcement Department investigates fires, but it also protects the integrity of the timber sale process. In 1977, the state legislature added statutes to the Natural Resources Code regarding damages for unauthorized harvesting, bill of sale documentation requirements and penalties for noncompliance.
Murnane expressed that there is a common misconception that timber theft is the theft of trees from a property in the dark of the night. However, more often than not, timber theft and fraud occurs face-to-face in broad daylight.
“There are several ways landowners can be taken advantage of during a timber sale,” said Murnane. “Skimming is a common method where a harvester only informs the landowner of a percentage of the hauled timber and profits off of undeclared loads. Diversion is another method where loads are hauled to a different mill than what was agreed upon.”
When selling timber, Murnane encourages landowners to visit their property frequently, check references of the buyer, get bids for each product class and mark all property lines prior to beginning any harvest. The use of a consultant forester ensures timber is sold for a fair price and harvesters are held to the terms of the contract.
Many times, landowners are unaware of the crime until after it takes place and is realized by discovery months later or discussions with friends and neighbors. When this occurs, landowners may report the event to Law Enforcement officers to initiate an investigation.
“I often refer to our investigators as forensic accountants or auditors due to the amount of time devoted to examining the significant volume of scale tickets, loader sheets and financial statements that are generated during a timber harvest,” said Murnane. “In order to determine any criminal intent or neglect, it is imperative to know where the wood was harvested, where it was delivered and who did and did not get paid their fair share.”
As a result of the 71 timber theft investigations conducted by the department in 2024, approximately $53,000 has been recovered to landowners through a rectification agreement between the buyer and landowner. In the event of legal action, Texas A&M Forest Service investigators testify in court and present the findings of their investigation to the local district attorney for criminal prosecution.
While their main duties lie within protecting the lands from wildfire and the integrity of the timber industry, legislative action has been taken to address arson and timber theft. In 2023, the Timber Asset Protection Act, heavily advocated for by the Texas Forestry Association and East Texas state legislators, was passed to enhance the Natural Resources Code through the clarification of bill of sale laws and mill and landowner sale laws, as well as the application of fraud penalties.
When Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement officers aren’t conducting investigations or educating landowners and communities, they lead trainings for other local and state law enforcement investigators. As mandated by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), officers also participate in at least 40 hours of training every two years in areas such as active shooter response, firearms proficiency, emergency vehicle operations, defensive tactics and more.
Whether they are in the depths of East Texas forests or the plains of the panhandle, Texas A&M Forest Service Law Enforcement officers continuously strive to educate and protect all Texans.
“In a day and age where people are too often deferred to generic online resources, we are here to provide face-to-face interaction with landowners and boots-on-the-ground expertise for investigations that lead to criminal prosecution and restitution,” said Murnane.
If you believe timber theft may have occurred on your property, you can file a report through the timber theft hotline at 1-800-364-3470.
Every year, on January 9th, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day serves as an opportunity for the public to express their gratitude to the dedicated men and women who work tirelessly to protect our communities. Whether through a small gesture or a heartfelt thank-you, it’s a time to recognize the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers, and to show them that their hard work does not go unnoticed.
Police officers, sheriff’s deputies, and other law enforcement professionals put their lives on the line each day, often facing difficult, unpredictable situations. Their commitment to keeping us safe, maintaining order, and ensuring justice is vital to the functioning of society. However, it’s easy to forget just how much they give—emotionally, physically, and mentally—until an event like National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day reminds us.
This day isn’t just for officers—it’s an invitation for everyone to take a moment to thank these courageous individuals who serve and protect us, often without the recognition they deserve. It’s a day to acknowledge their role in making our communities safer and stronger.
There are many meaningful ways you can observe this day and show your appreciation for local law enforcement. Whether you’re an individual or part of a larger community, these ideas can help you express your gratitude:
Taking the time to write a heartfelt letter or note to your local police department is an easy way to show appreciation. You can send your note to the department or hand-deliver it to an officer on duty. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in brightening their day and reminding them that their work matters.
A care package filled with snacks, drinks, or other thoughtful items is a great way to lift the spirits of local officers. Many police departments are open to donations of such packages, and it’s a tangible way to show your support. Consider reaching out to your local precinct to see how you can contribute to their efforts on this special day.
Many law enforcement agencies are partnered with charities or foundations that help officers in need. On National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, consider making a donation or participating in charity events to support your local officers and their families.
Many communities organize events like “Coffee with a Cop” or other meet-and-greet opportunities to bring civilians and law enforcement together. These events are an excellent way to connect with local officers in a casual, friendly setting, allowing you to personally express your thanks.
If you’re active on social media, take a moment to share a post about National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. A simple message of gratitude or sharing a story of how an officer helped you or your community can highlight the importance of the profession and inspire others to join in the celebration.
While National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day is a dedicated occasion, it’s important to show support for local law enforcement year-round. Attend community meetings, engage with officers in public settings, and always take the opportunity to offer a word of thanks when you see them in action.
In times when law enforcement may face heightened scrutiny, it’s especially important to recognize the dedicated officers who serve with integrity and compassion. National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day offers an opportunity to build stronger connections between law enforcement and the communities they protect. A little gratitude can go a long way in reinforcing the bond between citizens and those who work tirelessly to ensure safety.
Remember, the small gestures we offer today—writing notes, sending care packages, or participating in community events—serve as a reminder of how much law enforcement officers give every day. As we honor them on January 9th, let’s continue to support their efforts and express our appreciation in ways that make our communities stronger and more connected.
Join us Tuesday, January 14 at 5:30 PM for our first Cheers with the Chamber of 2025, hosted by Total Point Emergency Center – Lufkin.
Location: 501 N. Brentwood, Lufkin TX
Cheers with the Chamber is a great opportunity for networking and building connections within the community. It is also a wonderful way for Chamber Investors to showcase their business and all that they have to offer.
We will see you there!
It was a couple days ago that, at last, our region had its first, hard, killing freeze. Now, I’ve heard many say that we had a frost in December. While that is true that we saw ice crystals on the windshields of our vehicles as well as some on the ground, none of my tropical plants in my landscape showed evidence.
It was this past week, fully into 2025, that temperatures got low enough to kill all warm season vegetables that were still producing, as well as knock back tropical plants like banana trees, Canna lilies. and more.
But with a freeze behind us and looking months ahead to gardening, let us use this downtime to focus on your soil. Preparing your ground to grow vegetables can be an intimidating task. The soil you walk upon and dig in, is full of minerals, nutrients, microbial activity, living organisms, and more. Quality garden soil needs to be well-drained, amended with organic matter, and possibly limed.
A well-drained soil has everything to do with how quickly water will percolate through the soil. Many gardeners wrongly believe that a sloping ground that sheds water across the surface is “well drained”. Not so. Water must be allowed to move into the soil and then move thru out below it. Surface run-off is not to be confused with internally well-drained soil.
Much of our area is shallow topsoil over a clay subsoil that often holds water for a while. The question is often asked, “Can I just dig out a deep hole, fill it full of good soil,l and create a well-drained soil that way?”. Digging a hole like that will only create a big bowl of clay that will still hold water quite well.
The solution is a raised bed. Whether in rows down your garden or landscape beds edged with timber, stone, or other items, raising the level of the soil, in which the desired plants will grow, should aid greatly.
In addition, gardens always benefit from the addition of organic matter. That is so important that it bears repeating. All gardens benefit from the addition of organic matter.
Organic matter should be composted material. This compost can be from manures, lawn clippings, leaves or anything natural you can find. Many seasoned gardeners will till in leaves, pine straw, or other raw material into the soil many months before it is to be used. This allows the soil to create its own compost. At this writing in January, I would not advise new gardeners to till in a batch of tree leaves as they may not have enough time to break down before your early planted crops.
Organic matter really is the miracle cure for bad soils. Is your soil too sandy? Add organic matter. Is it nothing but clay? Add organic matter. The benefits of organic matter to soil are too numerous to extol here. Suffice it to say, composted organic matter adds nutrients, increases water holding capacity, improves soil structure, has numerous beneficial microbes, and prevents erosion.
If you wish to learn more about building your soil or building a raised bed, the Angelina County Extension office will be hosting a noon gardening seminar later this month on Tuesday, January 21. The focus is preparing your garden for the coming spring. Held from 12 noon to 1 pm, we will have two of our volunteer Master Gardeners speak. The Master Gardeners will be talking about how to use a raised bed, prepare the soil, and amend your soil for a tremendous growing season. Feel free to bring your lunch. There is no fee to attend.
The energy landscape is rapidly changing, and renewable energy is at the forefront of this transformation. For businesses, integrating renewable energy isn’t just a way to support sustainability—it’s a smart financial decision that can reduce costs, enhance your brand, and future-proof your operations.
At Amerigy Energy, we’re committed to helping businesses across Texas transition to renewable energy solutions through innovative plans and partnerships, including our own solar company, MCF Solar. Here’s why renewable energy, paired with battery storage options, is more than just a trend—it’s a competitive advantage.
Renewable energy, particularly solar power, offers cost-saving opportunities that can significantly impact your business’s bottom line. By generating your own power with MCF Solar, you can reduce or eliminate your reliance on traditional energy sources. Pairing solar with battery storage takes these savings even further by allowing you to store excess energy for use during peak demand or outages.
Key Savings Opportunities:
Example: A medium-sized Texas warehouse cut their energy costs by 25% with a solar installation from MCF Solar, paired with a battery system that ensured operations continued during peak pricing hours and power outages.
Sustainability matters to consumers. A growing number of customers prefer to do business with companies that prioritize environmental responsibility. By integrating solar and renewable energy into your operations, you position your business as a leader in sustainability.
How This Impacts Your Brand:
Pro Tip: Highlight your solar installation and battery storage system as part of your green initiatives to connect with eco-conscious clients and stakeholders.
Investing in solar and battery storage is an investment in your business’s future. As energy regulations and market trends increasingly favor clean energy, businesses that adapt early will be better positioned for long-term success.
Why This Matters:
Switching to renewable energy significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions, helping combat climate change while aligning your business with environmental goals. Solar and battery systems contribute to sustainability by providing clean, reliable power.
Environmental Impact:
Did You Know? Many businesses that install solar and battery systems qualify for tax incentives, making the transition to renewable energy even more affordable.
How Amerigy Energy and MCF Solar Can Help
At Amerigy Energy, we simplify the transition to renewable energy through partnerships and expertise:
Take the First Step Toward Renewable Energy
The shift to renewable energy isn’t just good for the planet—it’s good for your business. Lower costs, a stronger brand, and a more sustainable future are all within reach when you partner with Amerigy Energy and MCF Solar.
Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how renewable energy, paired with battery storage, can transform your business while keeping your costs competitive. Let’s build a sustainable future—together.
This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas.
AUSTIN — First Lady Cecilia Abbott today announced that the Governor’s Response Against Child Exploitation (GRACE) initiative will host the fifth annual Week of Prayer to End Human Trafficking from January 6 through January 12, 2025. The statewide interfaith week of prayer coincides with Human Trafficking Prevention Month in the state of Texas and serves as a call to action to the faith-based community to unite in prayer, learn more about human trafficking, and discern opportunities to prevent exploitation and support survivors.
“During this Week of Prayer to End Human Trafficking, Texans of every faith will come together to generate hope and healing for survivors of human trafficking,” said First Lady Abbott. “This year, I encourage everyone to take a moment and join GRACE in its efforts to provide a network of nurture as we work together to end this horrific crime.”
GRACE will launch the Week of Prayer to End Human Trafficking through a virtual interfaith event on Monday, January 6 at 7:00 pm on Facebook. First Lady Abbott will be joined by Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Commissioner Stephanie Muth, Child Sex Trafficking Team Administrator Janet Kasper, DFPS Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Director Blanca Denise Lance, Human Trafficking Survivor and Pastor Yvette Christy, Magdalene House Austin Executive Director Toni McKinley, Bishop Aaron Blake, Rabbi Neil Blumofe, and Pastor Samuel Velez.
Daily Prayer Intentions for the Week of Prayer include:
Launched in 2019, GRACE is a collaboration between the Office of the Texas First Lady, the Governor’s Child Sex Trafficking Team, DFPS, and a diverse group of faith leaders across Texas that works together to develop effective strategies to end human trafficking.
Governor Abbott officially proclaimed January 2025 to be Human Trafficking Prevention Month in the state of Texas.
The First Lady encourages all Texans to wear blue on Saturday, January 11 for the National Day of Human Trafficking Awareness.
Faith, survivor, and service leaders providing the daily prayer intentions on Governor and First Lady Abbott’s social media pages include: