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Capitol Update: Legislative Milestones and Rural Advocacy in Texas

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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As we approach the 50-day mark of the 89th Legislative Session, legislators are putting the finishing touches on the bills they intend to file before bill filing deadline, and the hallways are bustling with visitors from across the state.

One of the highlights this week was welcoming the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe to Austin for their annual Legislative Day. It was so great to see so many warm faces from back home as the tribe graciously served the entire Capitol with great Texas Barbeque. 

It was also a special treat to see so many public school teachers and FFA students who were in town to celebrate National FFA Week. As a reminder, all of you are welcome at your Texas Capitol during the legislative session. Never forget that our beautiful Capitol belongs to every Texan, and if my office can help facilitate a visit, please don’t hesitate to contact either our Capitol or district office.

With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol…

Capitol Update

The Texas House was hard at work this week as members of the House Appropriations Committee met multiple times to consider our state’s budget as it relates to higher education. The subcommittee heard testimony from the Texas Comptroller, the Texas Education Agency, and the Texas Water Development Board. 

Each agency was given the opportunity to lay out its budget requests and answer any questions members of the Committee may have. The Committee will continue to hold similar hearings over the next several weeks as members work to finalize the House budget. Outside of the budget hearings, the workload around the Capitol is steadily increasing.

The Speaker of the Texas House recently unveiled four priority bills for this session. While these four bills are only a starting point, the Speaker will soon announce his complete list of priorities for the House. Two of these bills, House Bills 2 and 4, are critically important to our rural schools.

The first bill, HB 2, is a sweeping public education bill that expands teacher pay and retention incentives, increases the basic allotment for school funding, and expands pre-K access. HB 4 eliminates the STAAR test, and reshapes Texas’s public school accountability framework, Additionally, the bill, while maintaining campus standards, implements long-term changes to our current school rating systems.

If you’ve been keeping up with my columns, you’re familiar with my passion for increasing services to the rural areas of our state. This week, I filed House Bill 3010, which will provide small rural counties and local governments with state assistance to repair critical infrastructure. 

All too often in Deep East Texas, vital resources, such as roads and water treatment plants, are left in disrepair following an extreme weather event. Oftentimes, it can take weeks, months, or sometimes years to return those resources to working order due to a lack of resources. HB 3010 seeks to provide relief to our underserved folks in rural areas. I’m proud to work on this important policy initiative and will continue to prioritize legislative efforts that empower and serve rural Texans during this session.   

The mobile office is on the road again and looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: March 5 at the San Augustine County Courthouse from 9:30-11:30 am; March 12 at the Polk County Commissioner’s Court Room in Livingston from 9:30-11:30 am, or at the Tyler County Courthouse in Woodville from 1:30-3:30 pm; March 19 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30 am, or at 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. 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/.

Choosing Healthy Beverages for Kids and Teens

By
Rachel Lauren
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PHOTO SOURCE: (c) PeopleImages / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) Choosing healthy beverages for children and adolescents is just as important as choosing healthy foods, as it impacts everything from oral health to chronic disease risk. That’s why leading health and nutrition organizations developed new healthy beverage recommendations for families with children ages 5-18.

These evidence-based recommendations were created as part of a collaboration by experts at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American Heart Association, who were brought together by Healthy Eating Research (HER) with funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

To make choosing healthy beverages easier for families, the organizations created these three categories:

Beverages to Drink

These beverages are recommended as part of a healthy diet because they provide essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, and don’t contain added sugars.

  • Plain drinking water is still the best option to keep kids healthy and hydrated. It’s also often the most accessible and affordable.
  • Plain, pasteurized milk is another healthy option because it provides important nutrients that growing kids and teens need.

Beverages to Limit

  • 100 percent fruit and vegetable juice can be part of a healthy diet, but daily consumption should be limited. Whole fruits and vegetables are generally better choices because they provide dietary fiber, contributing to a feeling of fullness.
  • Plant-based milk alternatives like oat milk and almond milk should be limited because they are not nutritionally equivalent to cow’s milk, which provides essential nutrients that kids need to grow up healthy. Many also contain added sugars and non-sugar sweeteners, which are harmful to kids’ health. If your child is allergic to dairy milk or has a dietary restriction, talk to your doctor or registered dietitian about finding the plant-based milk alternative that is best for your child.
  • Flavored milks, like chocolate milk and strawberry milk, should be limited because they contain high amounts of added sugars and non-sugar sweeteners. If your child does not like drinking plain milk, it’s best to consider other foods from the dairy group (like unsweetened yogurt) before offering flavored milk.

Beverages to Avoid

These beverages are not recommended as part of a healthy diet because they offer no nutritional value and have ingredients that can be harmful to kids and teens.

  • Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sports drinks, sodas, fruit drinks, fruitades, aguas frescas and sweetened waters are high in added sugars, which can put children at risk for dental cavities, and diet-related diseases like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
  • Drinks with non-sugar sweeteners, such as aspartame, stevia and monk fruit, should also be avoided. Just because a drink is advertised as sugar-free doesn’t mean it’s healthier. In fact, new research shows non-sugar sweeteners may not help control body weight and may increase the risk of diet-related chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
  • Drinks with caffeine or other stimulants like taurine should be avoided. These include energy drinks, energy shots, coffee, and tea. Evidence suggests that there is no safe amount of caffeine consumption for children under 18 and that even small amounts can lead to poor sleep quality, increased blood pressure, and depressive moods and anxiety.

You can learn more about healthy drinks at healthyeatingresearch.org.

“We all want our kids to grow up healthy, and research shows that what kids and teens drink is an important part of a balanced diet, not just what they eat. But there are so many drink products on the market, it can be hard to figure out what’s healthy and what’s not,” said Megan Elsener Lott, MPH, RDN, deputy director of HER. “These recommendations provide a gold standard based on the latest research and can be goals that families work toward together.”

My Five Cents: A Weekly Column by Senator Robert Nichols

By
Senator Robert Nichols
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This week will mark the anniversary of the “Travis Letter.” On February 24th, 1836, William B. Travis wrote a letter addressed “To the People of Texas and All Americans in the World” ending his letter with the powerful “Victory or Death.” 

Here are five things happening around your state:  

  1. Bill filed to give teachers pay raises 

Senator Brandon Creighton filed Senate Bill 26 this week which would give permanent teacher pay raises to all teachers across the state. The bill would increase teacher pay in accordance with experience and additional increases for teachers at smaller schools. Teachers with 3-4 years of experience would receive an increase of $2,500 per year at schools of more than 5,000 students and $5,000 at schools with 5,000 students or less. Teachers with 5 or more years of experience will receive a $5,500 pay increase at schools of more than 5,000 students and $10,000 at schools with 5,000 students or less. Additionally, the bill would expand the existing Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) which was created in 2019. This bill would create an additional category for teacher designations which will create additional pay. Under this legislation, the number of teachers designated would increase from 33 percent to 50 percent. Additionally, the bill would provide free pre-K for teachers’ children in the district where they’re employed. Texas teachers deserve a pay raise and I look forward to supporting our teachers this session. 

  1. Bail reform bills pass Senate

This week the Texas Senate passed a package of bills reforming the state’s bail system. Three bills, all by Senator Joan Huffman, will require a denial of bail to certain violent offenders and will increase accountability of bail setting. SJR 1 will ask voters to approve an amendment to the state constitution that would require judges to deny bail to any illegal immigrant arrested on suspicion of a felony offense if the judge has probable cause to believe the suspect committed the alleged crime. SB 9 will increase judges access to criminal history and will require that bail be set by an elected judge as opposed to a magistrate for certain offenders, including those accused of the most serious violent crimes. Lastly, SB 40 would prohibit any taxpayer funds from being donated to charitable bond organizations. 

Senator Huffman offered SJR 1 in memory of Jocelyn Nungary, a 12-year-old girl from Houston who was allegedly attacked and murdered by two illegal immigrants. 

  1. FCIC successfully investigates and prosecutes card skimming 

A Smith County court issued a life sentence to Fabrizio Slatineanu who illegally entered the country and was found guilty of stealing credit card information through a “skimmer,” a small device that can be inserted into ATMs or gas pumps. Officials stated that Slatineanu stole more than $280,000 from Smith County residents in a single weekend. The case was prosecuted by the Smith County District Attorney’s Office. The conviction was a result of a multi-agency investigation involving the Smith County Sherriff’s Office, the Tyler Police Department, the Lindale Police Department, and the Texas Financial Crimes Intelligence Center. The FCIC coordinates with law enforcement across the world to protect consumers and the Texas economy by preventing, identifying, and investigating organized financial crimes. 

  1. TDA launches downtown revitalization program 

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) will continue a program to provide funding to improve infrastructure for economic activity within designated downtown districts or Main Street areas. Eligible applicants must be incorporated municipalities. TDA states that Downtown Districts can typically be described as a city’s historic area of commerce, an economic center of the community, or the areas around a courthouse or city square. Communities can apply now and applications will be due April 3rd.  

  1. School safety, broadband, tax-payer funded lobbying bills filed this week

This week I filed several bills regarding a variety of issues in our district and state. Senate Bill 1262 will continue efforts from last session to improve the safety of our public schools by allowing the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers. This added ability will ensure our public school have access to significant safety measures. Additionally, I filed Senate Bill 1405 which will align the state’s definition of internet or broadband speed with the federal standard. SB 1405 will add measures to increase accessibility to high speed internet. I also filed Senate Bill 1420 which will prohibit cities, counties, and school districts from hiring taxpayer-funded, contract lobbyists.

How Businesses in Texas Forest Country Can Simplify Remote Work

By
Alec Castleberry
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Beautiful view on woods and mountains and blurred image of hipster girl with laptop sitting on wooden porch. Shopping or working online outside. Freelance and freelancer

When Mark Stevens, owner of a growing logistics company in Texas Forest Country, made the decision to transition his team to a remote work model, he quickly realized that the shift wasn’t as seamless as he had hoped. Employees were struggling with slow connections, security concerns were mounting, and IT issues piled up. Like many business owners, Mark needed a solution that would allow his team to work efficiently from anywhere without technical headaches. That’s when he discovered the power of Managed Service Providers (MSPs).

The Challenges of Remote Work

While remote work offers flexibility and cost savings, it also presents several IT challenges, including:

  • Cybersecurity Risks: Remote employees access sensitive company data from various locations, increasing exposure to cyber threats.
  • Connectivity Issues: Slow or unreliable internet connections can disrupt communication and workflow.
  • IT Support Needs: Without on-site IT teams, resolving technical issues remotely can be time-consuming.
  • Collaboration Barriers: Employees working from different locations need secure, efficient tools for communication and project management.

How MSPs Solve These Challenges

Managed Service Providers offer tailored IT solutions that address these remote work challenges, ensuring that businesses can operate efficiently and securely. Here’s how:

1. Enhanced Cybersecurity

Mark quickly realized his company’s sensitive data was at risk with employees using personal devices on unsecured networks. MSPs provide:

  • Advanced Threat Protection: Firewalls, endpoint security, and intrusion detection systems.
  • Secure VPNs: Encrypted connections for remote employees to access company networks safely.
  • Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Added layers of security to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Security Awareness Training: Educating employees on best practices to minimize risks.

2. Reliable Cloud Solutions

MSPs help businesses transition to and manage cloud infrastructure by:

  • Implementing Scalable Cloud Storage: Ensuring easy access to company files from anywhere.
  • Optimizing Collaboration Tools: Managing Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and other cloud-based applications.
  • Providing Disaster Recovery Solutions: Ensuring data backup and recovery in case of cyberattacks or hardware failures.

3. Proactive IT Support

Technical issues can bring remote work to a halt. Mark’s team struggled with software glitches and connectivity failures until they partnered with an MSP that offered:

  • 24/7 Helpdesk Support: Remote troubleshooting and assistance for employees experiencing IT problems.
  • Automated Monitoring & Maintenance: Identifying and resolving potential issues before they cause disruptions.
  • Software Updates & Patch Management: Ensuring all systems are up-to-date with the latest security patches.

4. Optimized Remote Access & Networking

Ensuring remote employees have stable and fast connections is critical. MSPs help by:

  • Setting Up Secure Remote Desktops: Providing employees with seamless access to office systems from anywhere.
  • Optimizing Bandwidth & Network Performance: Reducing lag and improving overall performance for remote teams.
  • Managing Business VoIP Solutions: Ensuring high-quality voice and video communications without interruptions.

5. Compliance & Data Protection

Many industries have strict regulations on data security. MSPs help businesses remain compliant by:

  • Implementing Data Encryption & Secure Access Controls.
  • Conducting Regular Security Audits & Compliance Checks.
  • Managing Secure File Sharing & Communication Policies.

Why Businesses Need an MSP for Remote Work Success

Mark’s experience is not unique—many businesses face similar challenges when going remote. Partnering with an MSP ensures:

  • Scalability: IT solutions that grow with your business.
  • Cost Savings: Reduced expenses compared to maintaining an in-house IT team.
  • Increased Productivity: Reliable technology enables employees to focus on their work, not IT problems.
  • Stronger Security: Protection against evolving cyber threats.

Future-Proof Your Business with an MSP

As remote work continues to evolve, businesses in Texas Forest Country need IT solutions that are adaptable, secure, and efficient. MSPs take the burden off internal teams, allowing businesses to focus on growth while ensuring seamless, protected remote operations.

Whether your company is transitioning to remote work or looking to optimize existing operations, an MSP is a strategic partner that helps you stay ahead in the digital workplace.

For businesses ready to enhance their remote work capabilities, Castleberry Service provides expert MSP solutions designed to keep teams connected and secure. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your remote workforce.

Weekend Events Roundup: Family-Friendly Activities Across the Piney Woods

By
Rachel Lauren
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Image by JosieElias on Envato Elements

This weekend offers a variety of engaging activities across our region, from health education to film appreciation, wedding planning, and family adventures. Here’s our roundup of events happening February 21-23, 2025, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

ETX Mega Heart Health Fair

The East Texas Mega Heart Health Fair takes place Friday, February 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center in Lufkin. This free community event features interactive educational displays including the MEGA HEART, MEGA BRAIN, and MEGA LUNG exhibits that make learning about health engaging for all ages.

Visitors can explore modern medical technology, including demonstrations of the DaVinci Surgical Robot with 3D visual learning experiences. Medical professionals, including cardiologists and robotic surgeons, will be available to answer questions throughout the event.

The fair offers free health screenings such as blood pressure checks, heart disease and stroke risk assessments, coronary risk labs, EKG testing, and diabetes screenings. Families can also participate in hourly giveaway drawings and receive complimentary items from vendors.

A blood drive runs concurrent with the health fair, with donors receiving a special gift for their contribution. Those interested in healthcare careers can visit the on-site hospital job fair. For additional information, interested attendees can email jima.hill@commonspirit.org.

Nac Short Film Festival

Film enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Nac Short Film Festival in Nacogdoches on Saturday evening. This celebration of independent regional filmmaking begins at 7 p.m. with screenings of selected short films continuing until 9 p.m.

Following the screenings, attendees can participate in a filmmaker Q&A session from 9 to 9:30 p.m., offering insight into the creative process. The evening culminates with audience voting and the announcement of the $100 Audience Choice Award winner. This free event welcomes all ages, though content may be most appropriate for older children and teens.

While the deadline for film submissions has passed, the festival provides excellent networking opportunities for those interested in regional filmmaking. The evening showcases the creative talent flourishing throughout our communities.

Bridal Fair

Engaged couples planning their special day will find inspiration at the Bridal Fair happening Sunday, February 23, from 1 to 5 p.m. at Eden Hill Event Venue in Lufkin. Located at 521 Asa Read Road, this free event brings together premier wedding vendors from around the region.

Brides-to-be and their guests can tour the stunning venue while meeting with professionals offering various wedding services, from photography to floral design. The fair provides an excellent opportunity to gather ideas, ask questions, and begin planning dream celebrations.

Admission is free for brides and their guests, though pre-registration through the venue’s RSVP form is recommended. Wedding vendors interested in participating can still secure booth space for $250 by completing an inquiry form through the venue’s website.

Crockett’s Downtown Treasure Trot

Families seeking an active outing can participate in Crockett’s Downtown Treasure Trot, a self-guided scavenger hunt adventure through historic Crockett. This two-hour experience challenges teams to solve puzzles, complete tasks, and explore landmarks throughout the downtown area.

The modern-day treasure hunt allows participants to start whenever their group is ready, making it a flexible weekend activity. Teams compete for top rankings while learning about the area’s history and architectural highlights in an interactive, engaging format.

This adventure works particularly well for families with school-age children and teens, combining physical activity with problem-solving skills. The outdoor format provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy February’s typically mild weather while exploring one of the region’s historic communities.

Planning Your Weekend

With events spread across Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, families can create a weekend itinerary that includes multiple activities. The health fair provides educational value on Friday, while Saturday’s film festival offers cultural enrichment. Sunday presents opportunities for both wedding planning and family adventure.

All featured events welcome community participation without admission fees, making them accessible options for families throughout the region. Indoor events like the health fair and bridal showcase provide comfortable environments regardless of weather conditions, while the Crockett scavenger hunt offers flexibility for enjoying fair-weather periods.

Weather Note: February conditions can vary, so checking forecasts before venturing out is recommended, particularly for the outdoor scavenger hunt in Crockett. This week is a cold one, so stay safe and warm out there!

Angelina College to Honor Phillips in Memorial Service: Public Invited to Attend Feb. 23 Tribute

By
Gary Stallard
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Angelina College will on Feb. 23 host a memorial service for former college president Dr. Larry Phillips, shown here addressing a Commencement crowd in 2014. The service takes place at 2 p.m. inside AC’s Shands Gymnasium, and the public is invited to attend. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)

Dr. Larry Phillips served as Angelina College president – just the second president in AC history – for 24 years before retiring in 2015. His tenure as president saw the college’s overall growth and reach expand far beyond Angelina County, and his visions for the institution helped shape Angelina College into an East Texas foundation for building and changing lives. 

Phillips passed away on January 27, 2025, leaving behind a lasting legacy for his family, the college, and the entire community.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, Angelina College will pay tribute to Phillips with a memorial service honoring his life and contributions, and the public is invited. Fittingly, the tribute will take place inside AC’s Shands Gymnasium, where Phillips spent time rooting for the Roadrunners and Lady Roadrunners even after his retirement.

The service is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. 

For further information, contact Krista Brown at kbrown@angelina.edu. 

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

The weather did its best to scramble the whole week’s schedule, but our Angelina College teams nevertheless managed to pack an entire week’s worth of action in a few short days. The No. 17 Roadrunner men’s basketball team rebounded from a buzzer-beating loss on Wednesday to pick up a big Saturday road win, and the AC baseball and softball teams broke out some big bats in some big weekend wins. 

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

No. 17 Roadrunner Basketball Splits Nailbiters in Conference Play 

The 2024-2025 Roadrunner basketball team should come with its own health warning. 

Their finishes definitely are hazardous to one’s health.

Beneficiaries of some last-second heroics all season long, the No. 17 ‘Runners on Wednesday were the ones on the heartbreaker end, with Blinn College banking in a crazy buzzer beater to beat AC 55-53 in Brenham.

The defensive battle featured just one Roadrunner to score in double figures, as Kanaan Holder led AC with 11 points. Chris Carpenter scored nine while doling out seven assists.

On Saturday, the Roadrunners bounced back to beat Navarro College on the road, building a big lead early and hanging on for the 58-56 AC win in Corsicana.  

The ‘Runners (19-5, 11-3) will host Tyler Junior College at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 19 at Shands Gymnasium. On Saturday, AC hits the road to face Bossier Parish Community College. Game time in Bossier City, La. is set for 2 p.m. 

Lady Roadrunner Basketball Falls to Blinn, Kilgore

A banged-up Lady Roadrunner team needing more band-aids than bench seats again faced a pair of tough conference foes this week, and AC’s ladies just didn’t have enough (wo)manpower to beat those stronger teams.

On Wednesday, the Lady ‘Runners fell to Blinn College 73-45 in Brenham, with India McMahon leading AC in scoring with 12 points before leaving the game with an injury. 

Saturday against Kilgore College, AC head coach Randy McKelvey had just seven players healthy enough to suit up against a good Lady Rangers team, and the Lady Roadrunners came out on the short end of an 80-51 loss. Alannah Nerocker led AC with 17 points. Lanaijha Johnson added 13 points and eight rebounds, and Alicia Rivera-Scott chipped in with 11 points.

The Lady Roadrunners (10-12, 3-6) travel to Paris for a Wednesday game against Paris Junior College starting at 5:30 p.m. On Saturday, AC’s ladies will be in Athens to face Trinity Valley CC in a game tipping off at 2 p.m. 

AC Baseball Wins Big against DFW-Post Grad

Rains in the area left the Roadrunner baseball team scrambling all week for some playing time, with this past Wednesday’s scheduled doubleheader against Dallas College-Brookhaven canceled. The pent-up energy showed up on Sunday, when the Roadrunners pounded DFW-Post Grad by a 19-1 score at Poland Stadium on the AC campus.

Diesel Gonzalez knocked in five runs with a 4-for-5 performance at the plate. Mark Henderson drove in another three, and Stefano Ramos and Ashton Wagner added two RBI each. Ramos finished his day with three hits in three at-bats. AC finished with 21 hits and 16 RBI for the day. Starting pitcher Sam Nitzke threw four innings of scoreless ball, striking out four hitters without issuing a single walk. 

The ‘Runners (5-5) on Monday (2/17) will host Alvin College in a doubleheader originally scheduled for Wednesday (2/19). First pitch is set for 2 p.m.

AC then will travel to Temple on Saturday (2/22) for a doubleheader against Temple College starting at 1 p.m.   

Lady Roadrunner Softball Sweeps Hill College

Just like the baseball team, AC’s Lady Roadrunner softball team found itself trying to adapt to the lousy weather, with Saturday’s scheduled doubleheader at Kilgore College a no-go because of the rain and Sunday’s twin bill against Hill College getting an entire change of city. 

On Sunday, AC’s ladies showed their ability to roll with the changes by sweeping Hill College in a pair of mercy rulings, with the Lady Roadrunners pounding the Lady Rebels 11-3 and 12-4 in games played at Rusk High School in Rusk, Texas.

In the opener, Angelina Arevalo rocked a three-run homer and finished with four RBI in the game, while teammate Izzy Allen drove in a pair of runs while adding a homer of her own. Trinnity Blatz also finished with two RBI. 

Starting pitcher Jessi Sumpter went the whole five innings, earning the win after allowing just three earned runs while striking out seven Hill College hitters.

In the late game, Addison Babbs used her bat to plate three AC runs in a 12-4 win, with Blatz and Allen adding two RBI each. Aubrey Graham and Megan Luce teamed up in the circle to hold the Lady Rebels to just four hits and a pair of earned runs. 

The Lady Roadrunners (5-9) on Wednesday are scheduled to travel to Eunice, La. to face Louisiana State University-Eunice in a doubleheader set for a 4 p.m. start. AC’s ladies hit the road to Corsicana on Friday (2/21) for a 1 p.m. doubleheader against Navarro College; the Lady ‘Runners then wrap up a busy week with another twin bill at Tyler Junior College on Saturday (2/22). First pitch is scheduled for 1 p.m.  

Lady Roadrunner Soccer Hosting Spring Game

The Lady Roadrunners’ soccer squad will kick off its Spring 2025 exhibition schedule with a home match this Saturday (2/22) at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex. 

AC will host Louisiana State University-Shreveport in a match scheduled to kick off at 1 p.m. 

Soccer Teams Hosting ID Camps in March

Both Angelina College soccer teams will be hosting ID camps in March as the programs continue to identify new talent. 

The Roadrunner men will host their ID Camp from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 1 at the AC Soccer Complex on the AC campus. The camp is for prospective players in 9th through 12th grades. Cost for the camp is $60 if players register by Feb. 21. After Feb. 21, the cost will be $75.4.

The Lady Roadrunners’ ID camp takes place from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 8 at the AC Soccer Complex on the AC campus. The camp is for prospective players in 9th through 12th grades. Cost for the camp is $30 if players register by Feb. 21. After Feb. 21, the cost will be $50.

Here’s the link for registration and other information for both Soccer ID camps:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/mens-soccer-camp-collection-3998183

AC’s Camp Roadrunner Sessions Set for Summer 2025

Over the past few years, Camp Roadrunner has become a “gotta do” event for youngsters throughout East Texas, with the recreational and youth sports camps drawing bigger crowds every summer. 

To view the available sports camps and locate the links for registration, visit https://www.angelina.edu/camproadrunner/ and look for each specific sport. 

Following are the dates for each Youth Sports Camp:

Baseball: June 2-5

Soccer: June 9-12; July 7-10

Basketball: June 9-12

Softball: June 9-12

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 (especially for potential weather issues) visit the official Angelina College Athletics website (angelinaathletics.com). Fans can also receive updates on the AC Athletics Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Instagram pages. 

Upcoming schedules:

Monday, Feb. 17, 2025:

Roadrunner Baseball vs. Alvin College, DH starting at 2 p.m. at Poland Stadium on the AC campus (games moved up from original date of 2/19). 

Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Softball at Louisiana State University-Eunice, DH starting at 4 p.m. in Eunice, LA.  

Lady Roadrunner Basketball at Paris College, 5:30 p.m. in Paris, TX. 

No. 17 Roadrunner Basketball vs. Tyler Junior College, 7 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium on the AC campus. 

Friday, Feb. 21, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Softball at Navarro College, DH starting at 1 p.m. in Corsicana, TX. 

Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025:

Roadrunner Baseball at Temple College, DH starting at 1 p.m. in Temple, TX. 

Lady Roadrunner Softball at Tyler Junior College, DH starting at 1 p.m. in Tyler, TX.

Lady Roadrunner Soccer vs. Louisiana State University-Shreveport (Spring Game), 1 p.m. at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex on the AC campus. 

Lady Roadrunner Basketball at Trinity Valley CC, 2 p.m. in Athens, TX. 

No. 19 Roadrunner Basketball at Bossier Parish CC, 2 p.m. in Bossier City, LA. 

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

Iowa’s Miller ‘Times It Just Right’ in Weather-Shortened Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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JASPER, Texas — Foul weather trimmed the St. Croix Bassmaster Open at Sam Rayburn Reservoir presented by SEVIIN from a three-day tournament to a one-day derby. So, before competition even began, the 233 competing anglers knew they’d have to go big if they wanted to go home a winner.

Chris Miller of Spirit Lake, Iowa, found the right bites Friday, weighing a limit of five bass totaling 28 pounds, 10 ounces. That clinched the win for the 37-year-old homebuilder who’d fished in only eight B.A.S.S. events prior to his victory at Rayburn.

Miller collected a hefty $52,086 cash prize with the win, part of a $345,850 cash purse split among the top 45 anglers competing on the 114,500-acre reservoir in east Texas.

“I knew it was just a matter of keeping my head down and running into a few (big bass),” Miller said, noting a 41-pound limit caught in a team tournament on Rayburn earlier this month. “And still, you’re either around them or you’re not. You still have to catch them.”

Stiff winds forced Thursday’s Day 1 competition to be postponed, though B.A.S.S. officials remained hopeful they still could pull off a two-day tournament. Saturday’s forecast of severe thunderstorms and sustained winds of 15-20 mph forced that day to be cancelled, as well, which dialed up the pressure to perform on Friday.

Miller shined in the spotlight. He set up near natural drains and fished for spawning bass in as little as 6 feet of water, as well as transitioning fish that cruised ledges some 15 to 20 feet below the surface.

“They were stationed a little deeper in practice, but I knew they would come to the drains,” he said. “These storms had them messed up, but they came to me. I went from shallow to deep all day … I timed it just right.”

Miller jumped to the top of the BassTrakk board around 10:30 a.m. on Friday after boating a pair of monster bass within a 15-minute span. His biggest fish, a 9-6 bucketmouth bass, came on a Strike King Z-Too jerkbait. It paired perfectly with the 7-pounder he caught in the same area using a white, 7-inch Berkley PowerBait Nessie swimbait. He credited Berkley Forward Braid for helping him put the lures precisely where he wanted them over big bass.

“The key was keeping the bait on top of them, not letting it fall,” Miller said.

Miller primarily fishes Spirit Lake and West Okoboji Lake back home in Iowa. He noted the differences between those smaller fisheries and a mammoth reservoir like Rayburn but said he’s getting increasingly comfortable on other water bodies.

“(The lakes I fish at home) are more deep weedlines, a lot of docks,” he said. “There’s no shad. It’s a whole different animal. But these last couple of years fishing in the Opens, I’ve really started to pick up on how these shad lakes work.

“You cut your teeth and learn a lot fishing these big tournaments … Hopefully I can keep the momentum rolling at Kentucky Lake,” which is the next Division 2 Open, scheduled for March 6-8 in Paris, Tenn.

The Top 50 anglers in both the Division 1 and Division 2 Open standings will qualify for the Bassmaster Elite Qualifiers series. Top anglers following the three EQ tournaments, which are scheduled for September through November, will earn invitations into the vaunted 2026 Bassmaster Elites Series.

Rounding out the Top 5 at Sam Rayburn Reservoir are second, Michigan’s Garrett Paquette, 23-15, $20,834; third, Texas’ Pake South, 23-11, $15,626; fourth, Virginia’s Jack Dice, 23-3, $14,584; and fifth, Texas’ Jaden Parrish, 23-2, $13,542.

Missouri’s Brad Jelinek caught a 9-8 largemouth on Friday and won the Phoenix Boats Big Bass Award of $750. He finished sixth overall with 22-7 and won $12,501.

Jasper County (Texas) Development District #1 hosted the tournament.

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Title Sponsor: St. Croix

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Presenting Sponsor: SEVIIN

2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Platinum Sponsor: Toyota
2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Premier Sponsors: Bass Pro Shops, Dakota Lithium, Humminbird, Mercury, Minn Kota, Nitro Boats, Power-Pole, Progressive Insurance, Ranger Boats, Rapala, Skeeter Boats, Yamaha
2025 Bassmaster Opens Series Supporting Sponsors: AFTCO, Daiwa, Garmin, Lew’s, Lowrance, Marathon, Triton Boats, VMC

About B.A.S.S.

B.A.S.S., which encompasses the Bassmaster tournament leagues, events and media platforms, is the worldwide authority on bass fishing and keeper of the culture of the sport, providing cutting-edge content on bass fishing whenever, wherever and however bass fishing fans want to use it. Headquartered in Birmingham, Ala., the organization’s fully integrated media platforms include the industry’s leading magazines (Bassmaster and B.A.S.S. Times), website (Bassmaster.com), TV show, radio show, social media programs and events. For more than 50 years, B.A.S.S. has been dedicated to access, conservation and youth fishing.

The Bassmaster Tournament Trail includes the most prestigious events at each level of competition, including the Bassmaster Elite Series, St. Croix Bassmaster Opens Series presented by SEVIIN, Mercury B.A.S.S. Nation Qualifier Series presented by Lowrance, Strike King Bassmaster College Series presented by Bass Pro Shops, Strike King Bassmaster High School Series, Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Team Championship, Newport Bassmaster Kayak Series presented by Native Watercraft, Yamaha Bassmaster Redfish Cup Championship presented by Skeeter and the ultimate celebration of competitive fishing, the Bass Pro Shops Bassmaster Classic presented by Under Armour.

Honoring the Legacy: Buffalo Soldiers in Texas Frontier Forts

By
Rachel Lauren
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Image by stockfilmstudio on Envato Elements

Along the western frontier of our region, where rolling hills begin to replace towering pines, a remarkable chapter of American history unfolded after the Civil War. The Buffalo Soldiers, regiments of African American troops who served with distinction, left an indelible mark on the landscape that many residents drive past today without knowing the full story.

Warriors of the Frontier

The term “Buffalo Soldiers” originally referred to the men of the 10th Cavalry Regiment, formed in 1866, though it soon encompassed all African American regiments established during that era. The nickname was given by Native American tribes who saw a resemblance between the soldiers’ dark, curly hair and the revered buffalo’s coat. What began as a descriptor became a badge of honor that these brave men carried proudly.

At Fort Griffin, Fort Concho, and other outposts along what was then considered the dangerous edge of settlement, these soldiers stood guard against threats while building infrastructure that would later support growing communities throughout Texas.

Life at the Frontier Forts

Daily life for Buffalo Soldiers stationed at these outposts was challenging by any measure. Beyond their military duties, they constructed buildings, dug wells, built roads, and strung telegraph lines — creating the foundation for towns that would later thrive.

The men faced the harsh Texas elements: scorching summers, unexpected blue northers, and everything in between. Yet perhaps most difficult was the discrimination they experienced, both in military service and when interacting with settlers they were assigned to protect.

Unsung Heroes

Despite these challenges, records show that Buffalo Soldiers had one of the lowest desertion rates in the Army. Their dedication to duty remained steadfast even when respect was withheld. At Fort Griffin, soldiers of the 10th Cavalry protected travelers and settlers while mapping vast stretches of previously uncharted territory.

These men weren’t just fighting external threats — they were fighting for recognition of their humanity and citizenship in a nation still wrestling with its promises of equality.

Building Bridges Between Communities

What many history books overlook is how Buffalo Soldiers often served as unofficial ambassadors between different cultures. They interacted with Native American tribes, Mexican settlers, and Anglo pioneers, sometimes finding themselves in the complex position of maintaining peace between groups with competing interests.

In some frontier settlements, Buffalo Soldiers established relationships with freedmen communities, creating networks of support that helped formerly enslaved people navigate the challenges of Reconstruction-era Texas.

Preserving Their Stories

Today, descendants of these brave men still live throughout the region, carrying family stories passed down through generations. Historical societies across several counties have begun collecting oral histories from families with connections to Buffalo Soldiers, documenting these valuable firsthand accounts before they’re lost to time.

These collections reveal the complex realities of service life – from the long, lonely patrols across harsh terrain to the profound sense of duty that kept these soldiers committed to their posts despite facing discrimination on multiple fronts. The preserved letters, photographs, and military documents provide invaluable insights into an often-overlooked chapter of our country’s heritage.

A Legacy Etched in Texas Soil

The contributions of Buffalo Soldiers extended far beyond military service. Their detailed maps and reports about the region’s water sources, terrain, and wildlife provided crucial information that would later guide settlement patterns and conservation efforts.

At Fort Davis, Buffalo Soldiers of the 24th Infantry planted extensive gardens that demonstrated which crops could thrive in the challenging climate – knowledge that would prove invaluable to farmers who would later establish homesteads throughout the western counties.

Reclaiming History

Recent archaeological work at several former fort sites has uncovered artifacts that help tell more complete stories of daily life. Everything from uniform buttons to modified cooking implements shows how these soldiers adapted military issue items to better suit frontier conditions.

Community efforts to preserve these historic sites have gained momentum in recent years, with volunteer groups working alongside historical commissions to ensure these places and stories remain accessible for future generations.

Connecting Past to Present

The values demonstrated by the Buffalo Soldiers – perseverance, adaptation, and dignity in the face of adversity – reflect the same spirit that continues to characterize communities throughout the region today.

Their legacy reminds us that history isn’t always found in grand battles or famous names, but in the consistent courage of everyday people who shaped our shared landscape through their service and sacrifice.

For families planning spring outings, consider visiting one of the preserved fort sites where Buffalo Soldiers once served. Standing in these spaces offers a tangible connection to a past that deserves to be remembered, honored, and celebrated as an essential thread in our region’s rich historical tapestry.

ERCOT Issues Weather Watch

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

(Austin, TX) ERCOT has issued a Weather Watch from February 19-21 due to forecasted extreme 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 weather conditions closely and will deploy all available tools to manage the grid, continuing a reliability-first approach to operations. In anticipation of the extreme cold weather, ERCOT is coordinating preparation efforts with the Texas Energy Reliability Council, the Public Utility Commission of Texas, the Texas Department of Emergency Management, and other state agencies, as well as with Market Participants.

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.

Media Graphics
Graphics for media use can be found here.

 

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