Page 104 | Texas Forest Country Living

The Men’s Fieldhouse 12-Week Classes (Angelina County)

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 8, 2025

The Men’s Fieldhouse 12-Week Classes (Angelina County)

The 12 Week-Classes is starting soon!

Start Date: Thursday, January 20, 2025
Evening Classes: Monday, Tuesday, & Thursday
Time: 5 to 8 pm
Location: 1813 E Lufkin, Avenue Lufkin, TX 75901
Contact: Clay @ 936-632-2035 or clay@themensfieldhouse.org

18 years and older can attend. Share this info to someone who needs help!

About The Men’s Fieldhouse: (Check out their website HERE)

Our goal at The Men’s Fieldhouse is to teach men to be self-sufficient and productive members of our community and to enhance the men’s lives and the lives of their families. We serve in a 12-week class session.

We believe strong families, led by a father who is a positive role model, are essential in eliminating one of the common denominators on children growing up in poverty, ending up in prison, committing crimes, gang participation, dropping out of high school, and many more negative choices. The long-term goal of The Men’s Fieldhouse is stronger families. If families are strong, our community is strong.

Our classes teach them to support their family and become a positive influence in the lives of their children. Our classes, workbooks, and teaching materials are provided to them at no cost, and use the bible as a tool of instruction. We offer basic computer skills, Jobs For Life curriculum (soft job skills), financial literacy, and character-building (video-based bible study). We also teach resume development and a practical way of online job searches and application submission.

Additionally, we provide a healthy, catered meal at each class. Most of the men entering our program are in poverty and may have a past of abused childhoods, alcoholism, drug addiction, and/or incarceration. Our motto is “Equip Men…Strengthen Families.”

WVO Custom Rods: Crafting Unique Fishing Rods in the Heart of East Texas

Rachel Lauren

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January 7, 2025

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WVO Custom Rods: Crafting Unique Fishing Rods in the Heart of East Texas

Nestled in Nacogdoches, Texas, WVO Custom Rods has become a standout name for those seeking high-quality, personalized fishing rods. Founded and operated by Will Van Ostrand, this business specializes in creating one-of-a-kind rods designed to meet the unique specifications of each customer, all while maintaining a focus on durability and performance.

Fishing with Family

William first started fishing with his Dad and Grandmother at about 6 years old in Galveston. His Dad had an old Helton boat, and they would go out at night fishing. Will continued fishing with his grandmother on the Galveston piers well into her 70s, maintaining a deep connection to the waters and the memories shared with his family.

A Passion Born from a Distance

William’s journey into rod building started in Lobito, Angola. He found himself repairing rods corroded by the harsh environment. As he began to watch YouTube videos and teach himself the craft, Will ordered enough parts to build his very first rod. “By the time I went home for R&R, I had enough materials to build a rod,” he recalled. “I still fish with that same rod today.”

Over the years, Will honed his skills, adding intricate thread wraps and even creating segmented wood grips, all of which would later define the unique offerings at WVO Custom Rods.

Building a Reputation on Quality and Craftsmanship

Before relocating to Nacogdoches, William established his business in Tomball, Texas. There, he relied on word-of-mouth marketing, building rods primarily for inshore saltwater fishing. Since moving to Nacogdoches, his customer base has expanded to include a diverse range of rod types: bass, crappie, bream, and both offshore and inshore saltwater rods.

His work is defined by a commitment to excellence. “I only use high-quality blanks, guides, and reel seats,” he explained. “Every step of the build is done with care, ensuring that each rod performs as expected when it faces that fish of a lifetime.”

Unique Offerings for Every Angler

What sets WVO Custom Rods apart from others in the region is the level of detail and personalization William offers. His signature rods feature segmented patterned wood and EVA foam grips, as well as thread wraps with over 30 intricate patterns. Each rod takes between 6 to 8 hours to complete, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of craftsmanship. A segmented wood grip takes about 4 days to complete, and a full rod build can take up to 2 weeks.

“I build rods that are customized to each customer’s requests,” he explained. “I rarely build spec rods for sale; most of my work comes from specific orders with detailed features and designs.”

A Community-Centered Business

While William’s work focuses on creating premium custom rods, his dedication to the community is equally important. He is actively involved in local charitable efforts, often donating rods to causes like Delta Waterfowl and the Nacogdoches Hero Foundation. Recently, he donated a set of his-and-hers bass rods to the Nacogdoches Hero Foundation, supporting local heroes in the community.

“I also work part-time at the Nacogdoches Cigar Company and display my rods there,” he shared. “It’s a great way to connect with the community and talk about fishing.”

In addition to his rod building work, William is involved in several rod building groups, including Southern Rod Builders, South Coast Rod Builders, and the Custom Rod Building Guild. He also shares his knowledge by teaching others how to build rods.

Overcoming Challenges

Running a business is not without its challenges, and William has faced his share. One such instance occurred when a customer broke three guides on their rod. William was quick to step in, replacing the damaged guides at no cost. This commitment to customer satisfaction is a cornerstone of his business.

“My goal is to ensure every customer is happy with their rod, not just when they first get it, but throughout its lifetime,” he said.

Looking Ahead

As he reflects on his business’s success, William is committed to continuing to provide his customers with rods that meet their highest expectations. His vision for the future is clear: “To continue to provide one-of-a-kind rods of the highest quality that exceed customer expectations.”

Running a custom rod business has taught him a variety of lessons, particularly in guiding customers toward successful design choices. “I’ve learned to gently steer customers away from color combinations that may not work,” William explained. “When a customer says ‘Wow’ after seeing their rod, that’s the most satisfying part of the process.”

In the competitive world of custom rod building, WVO Custom Rods stands out by offering personalized, high-quality craftsmanship. As William puts it, “My rods look beautiful but are built to catch fish.” Whether for a seasoned angler or someone new to the sport, WVO Custom Rods delivers a truly unique fishing experience.

Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Winter Weather

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 7, 2025

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Governor Abbott Activates State Emergency Response Resources Ahead Of Severe Winter Weather

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources ahead of severe winter weather expected to impact the state this week.

“The State of Texas is working around the clock to ensure Texans have the resources and support needed as severe winter weather impacts communities across Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “As temperatures begin to drop below freezing and regions of Texas face snow, ice, and freezing rain, it is crucial that everyone remain weather-aware, check DriveTexas.org before traveling, and heed the guidance of state and local officials. Texans can find the warming center nearest them at tdem.texas.gov/warm. I thank emergency management personnel and first responders for working tirelessly to help Texans prepare and stay safe during this winter weather.”

According to the National Weather Service, temperatures at or below freezing are expected across large areas of the state. Some areas may face disruptive snow, ice, and freezing rain, causing potentially hazardous travel conditions throughout the rest of the week.

Over the weekend, more than 700 Texas Department of Transportation personnel prepared for winter weather by pre-treating roads, bridges, and overpasses with over 500,000 gallons of brine and approximately 800 cubic yards of granular material.

At the direction of Governor Abbott, TDEM has activated the following state emergency response resources to support winter weather response operations:

Texas Department of Transportation: Winter weather roadway equipment and crews pre-treating and treating roadways; personnel and equipment to assist with traffic control and road closures
Texas Division of Emergency Management: Incident Management Teams; personnel working with local partners to update warming center maps
Texas A&M Forest Service: Saw crews; motor graders and personnel to assist with snow/ice clearance
Texas National Guard: High-profile vehicles and personnel responding to support stranded motorists

Additionally, the following state emergency response resources have been placed on standby for deployment as needed:

Public Utility Commission of Texas: Power outage monitoring and coordinating with utility providers across the threat area
Railroad Commission of Texas: Monitoring of the state’s natural gas supply and communication with the oil and gas industry
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality: Air/water/wastewater monitoring
Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Winter Weather Packages including medics and ambulances
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service: Disaster assessment and recovery agents
Texas Animal Health Commission: Coordinating animal/agricultural resource needs
Texas Department of Public Safety: Texas Highway Patrol Troopers to patrol Texas roadways
Texas Parks & Wildlife Department: Game Wardens to support local law enforcement; high-profile vehicles to assist stranded motorists
Texas Department of Information Resources: Monitoring technology infrastructure
Texas Education Agency: Monitoring school district needs across the state

Texans are urged to monitor local forecasts, check road conditions before traveling on roadways, and follow instructions from emergency officials.

Texans can access winter weather safety tips by visiting TexasReady.gov, locate warming centers opened and operated by local officials at tdem.texas.gov/warm, and check road conditions at DriveTexas.org.

Knowledge is Power: Think When You Eat (San Augustine and Angelina County)

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 7, 2025

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Knowledge is Power: Think When You Eat (San Augustine and Angelina County)

Join San Augustine & Angelina County Extension as we host the first Lunch & Learn at First Baptist Church in Broaddus! This program goes over how to be more mindful when picking food choices, and more!

When: Thursday, January 23rd @ 12:00 pm

Where: First Baptist Church Broaddus

Cost: Suggested $5 donation to cover food costs

ERCOT Issues Weather Watch

Lee Allen Miller

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January 7, 2025

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(Austin, TX) ERCOT has issued a Weather Watch from January 6-10 due to forecasted cold weather across the ERCOT region, higher electrical demand, and the potential for lower reserves. Grid conditions are expected to be normal during an ERCOT Weather Watch.

ERCOT is monitoring conditions closely and will deploy all available tools to manage the grid, continuing a reliability-first approach to operations.

ERCOT encourages everyone to sign up for grid condition notifications through the Texas Advisory and Notification System (TXANS). Texans can also monitor real-time and extended grid conditions at ercot.com.

What is an ERCOT Weather Watch?

An ERCOT Weather Watch is an advance notification of forecasted significant weather with higher electrical demand and the potential for lower reserves. At this time, grid conditions are expected to be normal, and there is no current expectation of an energy emergency. Texans should continue to monitor real-time and extended grid conditions at ercot.com.

What Action is Needed?

No action is needed. You can monitor current and extended grid conditions on ercot.com.

Did You Know?

Reducing electric use during peak demand times can help you save and lower demand on the grid. Energy-saving tips can be found on the TXANS webpage.

Stay Updated

Sign up for TXANS notifications on the TXANS webpage. You can also subscribe to ERCOT Emergency Alerts, which are not sent through TXANS notifications, and download the ERCOT Mobile App for additional notifications: iOS | Android.

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

Sports

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 6, 2025

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Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

Hey, sports fans,

Hope you had a beautiful and restful holiday season, and cheers to the new year.

Yes, we’re back and heading into the spring semester full blast. Our Roadrunner basketball team made its return with a couple of big wins to kick things off, the Lady Roadrunners are ready to hit the floor again this week and our baseball and softball teams open their 2025 seasons in just a few short weeks.

Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next:

Roadrunner Basketball Returns from Break with Pair of Wins

The point of scheduling non-conference games after a break is to help shake off any holiday rust before resuming league play.

If the Roadrunners were rusty after the recent break, they didn’t show it.

AC’s men returned to the court Thursday at Shands Gymnasium, hammering Temple College in a 64-47 win. Chris Carpenter and Milton Rice III led the ‘Runners in scoring with 12 points each, while Qasim Boyd added eight points and three assists.

The key to the win – as has been the case in most Roadrunner games – was a solid defensive effort. AC held the Leopards to just 30 percent shooting from the field and a meager 12 percent from three-point range.

On Saturday, AC resumed conference play with the long road trip to Paris Junior College, where the ‘Runners again put on a defensive display in a 65-38 win while holding the Dragons to their lowest-scoring output of the season.

AC (11-2 overall) remains atop the Region XIV standings, locked in a three-way tie with a conference record of 4-1 along with No. 3 Trinity Valley Community College and Tyler Junior College.

The Roadrunners will host No. 7 Panola College at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 8 as part of a women’s/men’s doubleheader at Shands Gymnasium. The Lady ‘Runners play Western Gulf Collegiate starting at 6 p.m., and the men follow at 8 p.m.

Both games will be live-streamed on TSBN Sports.

Baseball, Softball Schedules Available

January in JUCO sports means Opening Days for baseball and softball, and both the Roadrunners and Lady Roadrunners will play their season openers in just a few weeks.

Roadrunner Baseball will start the season on the road in Galveston on Friday, Jan. 24 in a doubleheader scheduled to start at 1 p.m. AC then will host those same Whitecaps on Sunday, Jan. 26 at Poland Stadium in a twin bill set for a 1 p.m. first pitch.

Lady Roadrunner Softball will open its 2025 campaign in a home doubleheader against Cisco College scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 29 at Lady Roadrunner Field. First game is set for a 4 p.m. start.

Both teams’ schedules are now available at angelinaathletics.com.

Lady Roadrunner Softball Hosting Prospect Camp in January

Angelina College’s Lady Roadrunner softball program is looking for some new Lady Roadrunners.

The program will host a Prospect Camp on Saturday, Jan. 26 at the Lady Roadrunner Softball Field on the AC campus.

The camp is for high schoolers scheduled to graduate in 2026 or 2027.

For registration information, use the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prospect-softball-camp-january-26-2025-12-pm-registration-1084409902209?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawHMkjVleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHQEM6U8A_w_nEbZBZIf1AOI4VmjokQZfCkWP6XohMbT96b9gOgDQiPiHUA_aem_F2d6FBi9yaQTXfTq0IClOQ

For any other inquiries, contact Lady Roadrunner head coach Brette Kohring at bkohring@angelina.edu.

Live Streaming Reminder:

All AC Athletics regular-season home games will be live streamed on TSBN Sports (a free streaming service for fans), with most of the conference road games also available for streaming. (This does not include baseball and softball fall games, as those are not considered official games.)

Once TSBN posts its schedules, AC fans simply need to visit the AC Athletics web site, look at the scrolling schedule in the middle of the page and click the blue “Video” link.

TSBN also offers an app great for smart phones, devices and smart TVs. (You’ve GOT to see those matches and games on the big screen.)

Reminder II: Admission to ALL Angelina College Athletics sporting events is free, as is the TSBN live streaming. Any other links offering streaming are scams.

Reminder III: For the most current schedule updates, visit the official Angelina College Athletics website (angelinaathletics.com).

Upcoming schedules:

Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Western Gulf Collegiate, 6 p.m., Shands Gymnasium.

Roadrunner Basketball vs. No. 7 Panola College, 8 p.m., Shands Gymnasium.

Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball at Coastal Bend CC, 2 p.m. in Beeville, TX.

Roadrunner Basketball at Tyler JC, 4 p.m. in Tyler, TX.

For any other information, contact Sports Information Director Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu.

We’ll see you at the games.

Gary Stallard
Email: gstallard@angelina.edu.
Phone: (936) 465-4614

Texas Legislative Updates: Judiciary, Civil Jurisprudence, and Insurance Reforms

Rep. Trent Ashby

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January 6, 2025

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Texas Legislative Updates: Judiciary, Civil Jurisprudence, and Insurance Reforms

With the holidays officially behind us, I’d like to wish you all a Happy New Year! As we turn the page on one year and begin another, we’re afforded a unique opportunity for new beginnings. The 89th Legislative Session starts on Tuesday, January 14th, and we have a unique opportunity to seize new opportunities and chart the course for the future of Texas.

With the 140-day legislative session just around the corner, I want to remind you of the many resources our office can provide to ensure that you, our constituents, remain at the forefront of the legislative process. If you have any questions about a piece of legislation or wish to share your thoughts on a proposal, our capitol office can be reached at (512) 463-0508.

Additionally, if you plan on making your way to Austin, which I highly encourage during a legislative session, our Capitol office can help facilitate capitol tours, reserve meeting rooms, and provide recommendations for nearby places of interest. If you do find your way to Austin, I’d like to invite you to our Capitol office located at E2.806, and you’re more than welcome to drop in, as our doors are always open.

With that, we’ll dive back into our final examination of House interim charges. . .

House Interim Charge: Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence

The House Committee on Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence has jurisdiction over many matters related to civil law, including civil penalties and fines, civil court procedure, and creating, changing, or otherwise affecting judicial districts. The Committee also has jurisdiction over a number of state agencies and courts, including the Texas Supreme Court, the State Commission on Judicial Conduct, and the Office of the Attorney General.

During the interim, the Committee will monitor the implementation of House Bills 17, 841, and 2384 from the 2023 Legislative Session. HB 17 allows for the removal of District or County Attorneys should they not enforce penalties for criminal offenses in Texas. I was proud to support HB 17 to reinforce Texas’s commitment to law and order in this state and signal to all criminals, and their enablers, that the State of Texas will not stand for lawlessness in our communities.

HB 841 requires the Texas Judicial Council to gather case-level data that measures how efficiently courts are serving the public. These performance measures provide the legislature, the judiciary, and county commissioners courts with valuable information to identify inefficiencies.

HB 2384 implements knowledge, efficiency, training, and transparency requirements for candidates for, or holders, of judicial offices. The bill was passed so that voters have access to all pertinent information regarding judicial candidates and be assured that elected judges are the most qualified individuals for the job.

House Interim Charge: Insurance

The House Committee on Insurance has jurisdiction over any matters relating to insurance and the insurance industry, as well as all insurance companies or other organizations of any type issuing insurance policies in Texas. The Committee also has jurisdiction over the Texas Department of Insurance, the Texas Health Benefits Purchasing Cooperatives, and the Office of Public Insurance Counsel.

Over the interim, the Committee will monitor the implementation of House Bills 1553 and 2259. HB 1553 carves out vinyl waterslides that are less than 200 feet long and non-mechanically inflated so that they are not subject to the same inspection and insurance obligations as an attraction at large amusement parks.

These waterslides, which are primarily located at summer camps, were subject to the same regulations as large rollercoasters at amusement parks. As the author of HB 1553, I was proud to carry this piece of legislation to ensure fairness and proportionality for our great Texas summer camps.

HB 2259 requires that all retail fireworks permits are to be sold online. Previously, the State Fire Marshall’s Office was required to accept physical permits that were overly cumbersome to accept, register, and administer. HB 2259 streamlines the fireworks permitting process to ensure an efficient permitting process for fireworks retailers.

The mobile office is on the road again in January and our District Director will look forward to seeing you on the following dates in the following locations: January 8 at the Polk County Commissioner’s Courtroom in Livingston from 9:30-11:30 am and the Tyler County Commissioner’s Courtroom in Woodville from 1:30-3:30 pm; January 15 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30 -11:30 am and the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 pm.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and our Capitol office at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will post regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and share information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/

How to Prepare for Extreme Cold Weather: Energy-Saving Tips for Your Home or Business

Lee Allen Miller

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January 6, 2025

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How to Prepare for Extreme Cold Weather: Energy-Saving Tips for Your Home or Business

When extreme cold weather strikes, it often catches Texans off guard. With plunging temperatures comes a surge in energy demand as heating systems work overtime to keep homes and businesses warm. This increased demand can lead to higher bills, grid strain, and, in some cases, power outages.

At Amerigy Energy, we understand the challenges of extreme cold weather in the ERCOT market. With the right preparation, you can reduce energy consumption, keep costs manageable, and ensure your home or business stays safe and comfortable.

Why Extreme Cold Weather Affects Energy Costs

In Texas, heating systems are typically less robust than cooling systems, meaning they must work harder when the mercury drops. This increased usage leads to higher energy bills, especially for those on variable-rate plans. Additionally, extreme weather events can cause grid disruptions, driving prices up further.

7 Energy-Saving Tips to Prepare for Extreme Cold

Insulate Your Home or Business

Proper insulation in your walls, attic, and floors prevents heat from escaping. Seal windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk to block drafts.

Bonus Tip: Use heavy curtains to retain heat and insulate windows at night.

Service Your Heating System

A well-maintained furnace or heat pump operates more efficiently, consuming less energy. Schedule a tune-up before cold weather hits and replace air filters regularly.

Pro Tip: If you rely on space heaters, ensure they are energy-efficient and never leave them unattended.

Adjust Your Thermostat Strategically

Set your thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature, especially when you’re asleep or away. Every degree you lower can save about 1% on your energy bill.

Consider: Installing a programmable or smart thermostat to automate temperature adjustments and maximize savings.

Reverse Ceiling Fans

Switch your ceiling fans to spin clockwise at a low speed. This pushes warm air that rises back down into the room, improving comfort without overworking your heating system.

Prepare for Potential Outages

Extreme cold can strain the grid and lead to outages. Be ready with blankets, portable heaters, and battery-powered lights. If you own a generator, ensure it is operational and never use it indoors.

Proactive Step: Keep electronic devices charged and consider investing in a backup battery system for essential appliances.

Use Energy Wisely During Peak Demand

In the ERCOT market, energy prices can spike during peak usage periods. Try to reduce usage during these times by avoiding energy-intensive tasks like laundry or dishwashing.

Switch to a Fixed-Rate Plan

Extreme weather often exposes the risks of variable-rate plans. Fixed-rate plans offer stability by locking in your electricity rate, protecting you from price spikes when demand surges.

At Amerigy Energy, we specialize in finding fixed-rate plans tailored to your needs, ensuring peace of mind no matter the weather.

Why It’s Important to Prepare Early

As we’ve seen in past winter storms, extreme cold weather can have devastating effects on homes, businesses, and the grid. By preparing early, you not only protect yourself from unexpected energy costs but also reduce your impact on the grid during critical times.

How Amerigy Energy Can Help

At Amerigy Energy, we believe that preparation is key to navigating extreme weather. Whether you’re looking to switch to a fixed-rate plan, optimize your energy usage, or simply need advice on winterizing your property, our team is here to help.

Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can help you stay ahead of extreme cold weather while keeping your energy costs under control.

This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas.

105th Annual Chamber Banquet and Meeting (Angelina County)

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 6, 2025

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105th Annual Chamber Banquet and Meeting (Angelina County)

Join us for the 105th Annual Chamber Banquet & Meeting, presented by Lufkin Ford, on January 30! Start the evening with a reception at 6 PM, followed by dinner and awards at 7 PM. Tables are $600, and individual seats are $60.

Location: Pitzer Garrison Convention Center

Reserve yours today by going online at bit.ly/ACBM-25.

Interested in sponsoring? Email Admin@LufkinTexas.org for details.

Staying Safe in Freezing Weather: Tips for Texans During a Cold Wave

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 5, 2025

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Staying Safe in Freezing Weather: Tips for Texans During a Cold Wave

As an unusual cold wave hits the Texas Forest Country, temperatures are dropping to dangerous lows, bringing risks to health, homes, and local infrastructure. While winter weather is not a constant in our region, the current conditions call for careful preparation and awareness to keep you and your loved ones safe. Here’s how to stay warm and protected during this frigid blast.

Cold Weather Risks to Watch For

Even in Texas, cold weather can be hazardous. Be mindful of these common risks:

Frostbite: Freezing temperatures can damage exposed skin in just minutes. Areas like fingers, toes, ears, and your nose are the most vulnerable.
Hypothermia: Prolonged exposure to cold can lower your body temperature dangerously, leading to confusion, exhaustion, and even life-threatening conditions.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: With increased use of space heaters and generators, improper use can lead to deadly carbon monoxide buildup inside homes.

Outdoor Safety

If you have to go outside for work, errands, or chores, take precautions:

Dress in Layers: Use a thermal base layer, insulated outerwear, and waterproof boots. Don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect exposed skin.
Limit Time Outside: Take frequent breaks indoors to stay warm.
Know the Warning Signs: Frostbite often presents as numbness or pale, waxy skin. Hypothermia symptoms include shivering, disorientation, and slurred speech. Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know exhibits these symptoms.

Indoor Safety and Comfort

Keep your home safe and warm by following these tips:

Be Cautious with Space Heaters: Place heaters on flat, non-flammable surfaces, keep them three feet away from curtains or furniture, and never leave them running unattended.
Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Make sure your detectors are working and replace batteries if needed.
Seal Windows and Doors: Use weather stripping, towels, or blankets to block cold air drafts and conserve heat.

Emergency Preparedness

Cold weather can strain power grids and disrupt water supplies. Be ready with these essentials:

Stock Supplies: Keep extra food, water, warm clothing, flashlights, and batteries on hand.
Plan for Power Outages: Use blankets and layers to stay warm, and never run a generator or grill indoors for heat.
Stay Informed: Follow local news and weather updates through your favorite Texas Forest Country Living channels or emergency alert services.

Protecting Your Home and Pipes

Cold snaps can wreak havoc on plumbing in Texas homes. Prevent costly repairs with these steps:

Drip Faucets: Let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.
Open Cabinets: Allow warm air to circulate around pipes, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Thaw Pipes Safely: If pipes freeze, never use an open flame to thaw them. Instead, use a hairdryer or call a professional plumber.

Caring for Others in the Community

Check on Neighbors: Make sure elderly or vulnerable neighbors have heat, supplies, and are safe.
Bring Pets Indoors: Our furry friends need warmth, too. Create a cozy space for them inside with blankets or pet beds

If You Must Drive

Texas drivers may not always be prepared for icy roads. If travel is unavoidable:

Winterize Your Vehicle: Check your tires, antifreeze levels, and battery.
Pack an Emergency Kit: Include blankets, snacks, water, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
Drive Slowly: Keep a safe distance between vehicles and be extra cautious on bridges and overpasses, which freeze faster than regular roads.

Stay Connected and Prepared

Follow Texas Forest Country Living for the latest updates on weather conditions and community resources. If you need a warm place to stay, contact local shelters or call 211 for assistance.

With a little preparation and caution, Texans can weather the storm safely. Remember, staying informed and taking small steps now can prevent big problems later. Let’s face this cold wave together, one warm layer at a time!