For the Drug-Free All-Star November meeting, the All Stars visited with Judge Todd Kassaw, 159th District Court, and attended Drug Court. The Drug-Free All Stars of Angelina County are a group of high school seniors who serve as role models for the community by living an alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free life. The Drug-Free All-Star program, in partnership with TxDOT, aims to reduce crashes, injuries, and deaths on Texas roadways. Judge Kassaw discussed the consequences of alcohol and drug misuse and the impact of students’ current choices for their future. Students also heard directly from Drug Court participants and alumni about how the program has positively affected their lives. Drug-Free All Stars also observed participants during Drug Court who have committed to their sobriety. The Coalition, Inc. appreciates Judge Kassaw and the Drug Court for allowing the All Stars to visit and see the Drug Court’s positive impact on our community.
Since 1988, The Coalition has focused on eliminating harmful substances by affecting public policy, laws, attitudes, and behaviors to foster healthy life-long choices for the local community. For more information about the Drug-Free All-Star program, contact Abby Baker at The Coalition at 936-634-9308.
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – More than four million real Christmas trees are sold annually in Texas, supporting farms and agriculture businesses throughout the state. As the holiday season nears, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages purchasing real Christmas trees to help boost the Texas economy.
A 2022 Texas A&M Forest Service economic study revealed that the Texas Christmas tree industry generated economic impacts amounting to more than $714 million, including direct, indirect and induced impacts while supporting nearly 6,000 jobs. Of $714 million in total impacts, the Texas Christmas tree industry had a direct economic impact of $397 million, employing 3,896 people with a payroll of more than $97 million.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2022 ranks the Texas Christmas tree industry second in the U.S. South based on average annual employment and wages.
“It’s a tradition in many households to have a real Christmas tree,” said Dr. Aaron Stottlemyer, Texas A&M Forest Service Forest Analytics Department Head. “The process of going as a family to pick out a tree is a fun activity that supports rural economies across the state.”
Texas Christmas trees also boost the state’s economy through strong agricultural businesses and tourism which exposes families and visitors of all ages to the forestry and agriculture industry.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, agritourism revenue has more than tripled from 2002 to 2017, with human interaction and visitor engagement majorly contributing to its rise in popularity.
“Many Christmas tree farms across the state have made enhancements to their businesses to incorporate more engaging and educational activities for visitors along with selecting and purchasing a Christmas tree,” said Stottlemyer. “The demand for this type of experience is also consistent with the demand for live, community-oriented activities across the country.”
The USDA also found that agritourism, including Christmas tree farms, aided in the economic sustainability of local, rural farms and created new jobs.
The most widely grown Texas Christmas trees are the Virginia pine, Afghan pine, eastern redcedar shortleaf pine, Arizona cypress and Leyland cypress.
The first recorded Christmas tree plantation was established in Jasper, Texas, in 1935. Since the 1970s, institutions like Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M University and Stephen F. Austin have worked toward optimizing the health and growth of Christmas tree species to enhance the State’s Christmas tree industry.
“The Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association and Texas A&M Forest Service have been collaborating since the early 1980s,” said Fred Raley, Texas A&M Forest Service Tree Improvement Coordinator. “The collaboration has worked to develop locally adapted Virginia pines, especially hardy and adapted to the Texas climate, to ensure that those that prefer a live tree can continue to have that Christmas experience for a very long time.”
Since the introduction of the Virginia pine improvement project, beginning in Magnolia Springs, Texas, the demand for this Christmas tree species has grown to 150,000 seedlings among growers in Central, East and North Texas.
“The demand for real Christmas trees and associated activities among Texans continues to grow alongside the demand to expand the overall Texas Christmas tree industry and species variety,” said Raley. “As this industry continues to grow, we’ve also seen an increase in younger individuals who are interested in establishing Christmas tree businesses.”
In anticipation of spring 2025 planting, the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association recently reported that Texas growers have already purchased more than 130,000 seedlings.
In the U.S., the sale of real Christmas trees has decreased since 2018, and the sale of artificial trees has been higher than real trees since 2020. But choosing a real Christmas tree should always be considered. Not only is harvesting Christmas trees good for our economy, but it is also beneficial to the natural environment.
After the holiday season, real Christmas trees can be repurposed and recycled for many uses. Real Christmas trees can be used as landscape mulch in yards and gardens as soil erosion prevention, nest-building materials for birds and natural water habitats for fish and wildlife in ponds or lakes.
“Christmas tree farms are young forests,” said Stottlemyer. “They provide us the same benefits as traditional forests by sequestering carbon, providing a natural habitat for wildlife, cleaning our water and providing recreational opportunities.”
Become a Voice for Nursing Home Residents: Volunteer Ombudsmen Needed!
For many nursing home residents, having someone to talk to can make all the difference. Volunteer ombudsmen serve as patient advocates, ensuring residents’ concerns are heard and their rights protected.
The Ombudsman Program, supported by the Deep East Texas Area Agency on Aging, works with 34 nursing facilities and 15 assisted living facilities across the region. Volunteers are paired with a specific facility, committing just two hours each week to visit and advocate for residents.
Free Training and Mentorship Becoming an ombudsman is simple and rewarding. Training is provided free of charge, and volunteers receive mentorship to build skills in communicating with residents, addressing concerns, and resolving issues at their own pace.
Patient Advocacy at Its Heart Ombudsmen are champions for residents, working closely with families and facility staff to address concerns before they escalate. Whether ensuring a resident has enough water or addressing broader care concerns, ombudsmen advocate for the highest quality of care. Last year, 96% of complaints in the Deep East Texas Region were resolved locally, avoiding state-level intervention.
Are You Ready to Make a Difference? If you care about the needs of older adults, enjoy working with diverse people, and want to make a tangible impact, consider becoming a volunteer ombudsman. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring that residents have a voice and that their needs are met with dignity and respect.
Contact Us Today! To learn more or become a volunteer, contact: Tonya Jackson-Simpson, Managing Local Ombudsman Sherinaka Hewitt, Local Ombudsman Deep East Texas Area Agency on Aging Phone: 936-634-2247, Ext. 5326 or 5351Step up and be the difference. Volunteer today!
As a business owner, every dollar counts. When it comes to managing expenses, energy costs often represent a significant portion of your budget—but they’re also one of the most overlooked opportunities for savings. The key to uncovering these hidden savings? An energy audit.
At Amerigy Energy, we specialize in helping businesses identify inefficiencies, optimize energy usage, and unlock savings through a tailored energy audit process. Here’s why scheduling an energy audit now is one of the smartest investments your business can make.
What is an Energy Audit?
An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of your business’s energy usage, designed to pinpoint areas where you’re wasting energy—and money. It examines everything from lighting and HVAC systems to insulation, equipment, and operational practices.
The goal? To provide you with actionable insights that can reduce your energy consumption, lower your bills, and improve the overall efficiency of your business operations.
The Top Benefits of an Energy Audit
1. Identify Cost-Saving Opportunities
Most businesses have inefficiencies they’re unaware of—whether it’s outdated equipment, energy-draining habits, or improperly sized systems. An energy audit reveals these inefficiencies and offers solutions to eliminate them.
Example: Upgrading to LED lighting or installing a programmable thermostat could cut your energy costs by 20% or more, with payback periods often as short as a year.
2. Lower Operating Expenses
Reducing energy waste doesn’t just help the environment—it directly impacts your bottom line. For businesses with energy-intensive operations, even small changes can translate to significant savings over time.
Pro Tip: By addressing energy inefficiencies, you can reinvest those savings into other areas of your business, from staffing to marketing.
3. Enhance Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Consumers and partners are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. Conducting an energy audit is a tangible way to reduce your carbon footprint and show your commitment to the environment.
Bonus: Many energy-efficient upgrades, such as renewable energy systems or high-efficiency HVAC units, may qualify for tax incentives or rebates, further increasing your savings.
4. Plan for the Future
Energy costs aren’t static—they fluctuate due to market conditions, demand, and regulatory changes. An energy audit helps you plan for these fluctuations by identifying areas where you can gain control over your energy consumption.
In the ERCOT Market: With the volatility of Texas energy prices, a proactive approach ensures your business isn’t caught off guard by sudden rate hikes.
What Happens During an Energy Audit?
Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss your current energy usage and concerns to understand your goals.
On-Site Inspection: Our team will assess your facility, analyzing lighting, HVAC, insulation, and other systems.
Energy Usage Analysis: We’ll review your historical energy data to identify patterns and inefficiencies.
Customized Recommendations: You’ll receive a detailed report with actionable steps to optimize your energy usage and save money.
Why Amerigy Energy?
At Amerigy Energy, we take a relational approach to energy audits. Our team is invested in understanding the unique needs of your business and providing customized solutions that deliver measurable results. As representatives of over 50 energy providers, we don’t just help you optimize your energy usage—we also ensure you’re on the best plan to maximize your savings.
Take Action Now: Schedule Your Energy Audit Today
Don’t wait for your next utility bill to remind you of rising energy costs. A professional energy audit could be the key to unlocking thousands of dollars in savings for your business. Contact Amerigy Energy today to schedule your energy audit and discover how we can help you save money, improve efficiency, and prepare for a sustainable future.
This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas.
Everyone knows that peppermint is a staple flavor for the Christmas season. Peppermint candy, peppermint hot chocolate, peppermint coffee, and many more things always come about more when Christmas is close. The question is, why is peppermint such a popular flavor for Christmas? Who decided that fact that’s now a widely known tradition for the Christmas season? Let’s find out.
A Short History of Peppermint
Photo by 2H Media on Unsplash
An article on Young Living Essential Oils website says that peppermint’s uses can be traced back to ancient Egypt, with records from 1550 B.C. in Egyptian medical texts highlighting its ability to alleviate stomach issues. It was so valuable that it was even used as a form of currency in Egypt, a practice that led to the modern term “mint,” referring to a place where money is coined.
Peppermint eventually spread to northern Europe from the Middle East, where its culinary and medicinal benefits gained popularity. During the Middle Ages, monks used peppermint to freshen their breath and clean their teeth. Its strong menthol scent also made it effective in keeping rodents away from cheese storage areas. By the mid-1700s, peppermint was recognized as a medicinal remedy for various ailments, including diseases and migraines. As its uses in cooking and medicine expanded, it was increasingly cultivated in gardens and eventually grown commercially on farms.
The Benefits of Peppermint
Photo by Samer Khodeir on Unsplash
mountsinai.org explains a lot of ways Peppermint is beneficial to your health. Peppermint has long been recognized for its therapeutic properties, offering a wide range of benefits that extend beyond its refreshing taste and aroma. One of the most notable qualities of peppermint is its ability to produce a calming and numbing effect. This is primarily due to the presence of menthol, a natural compound that not only provides a cooling sensation but also acts as a mild analgesic. When applied topically, peppermint oil can help alleviate discomfort by numbing the affected area and reducing sensations of pain or irritation. It is commonly used to soothe conditions such as sore muscles, skin irritations, and headaches, providing relief through its soothing properties.
Peppermint’s medicinal uses extend to a variety of other ailments as well. It has long been used to treat digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. The menthol in peppermint helps relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting smoother digestion and reducing symptoms of bloating and cramping. This makes peppermint an effective remedy for indigestion and other digestive discomforts. Additionally, peppermint has been shown to ease menstrual cramps by relaxing the muscles of the uterus, helping to reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstruation.
Beyond its digestive and pain-relieving properties, peppermint has also been recognized for its potential to support mental health. It is often used to manage anxiety, particularly when it is linked to depression. The cooling sensation of peppermint can have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This makes it a popular choice in aromatherapy, where its soothing aroma is used to promote relaxation and mental clarity. Whether consumed as a tea, applied topically as oil, or used in aromatherapy, peppermint continues to be a versatile and effective natural remedy for a variety of physical and emotional ailments.
A Christmas Flavor
Photo by Rachel Kelli on Unsplash
Peppermint contains chemical menthol, which is what produces that icy taste. Menthol tricks our brains into perceiving a cool sensation because it activates the same nerve ending receptors involved in sensing cold! While scientists aren’t quite sure why, we are hard-wired to enjoy the refreshing, cooling sensation, as it can satiate thirst, increase alertness, and ease breathing. The cooling sensation of peppermint feels like winter. However, this is not the sole reason Peppermint has completely taken over the Christmas season.
According to epicurious.org, the strong connection between peppermint and the holiday season likely stems from the popularity of peppermint candy canes, although several theories exist about how this iconic treat became associated with Christmas. Peppermint, a plant native to the Middle East and Europe, has been used for centuries, including for medicinal purposes, and many American candy-making techniques can be traced back to these regions. The origin of the candy cane itself dates back to around 1670, when a choirmaster in Cologne, Germany, sought a way to keep children quiet during a live Nativity performance. He asked a local confectioner to create a special hard candy to occupy the children, which was shaped like a cane, or more specifically, a shepherd’s staff.
Christmas is Near and Peppermint is Everywhere
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
While Peppermint is widely known as a popular Christmas season flavor, it’s a lot more than that. Peppermint stands as a remarkable herb with a rich history and a wide array of therapeutic benefits. Its soothing properties, from relieving headaches and muscle pain to easing digestive issues like nausea and flatulence, have made it a go-to remedy for many. The calming effects of peppermint, often attributed to its menthol content, also extend to mental health, where it helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress. Its versatility across various forms—whether as an essential oil, tea, or topical application—ensures that peppermint remains an accessible and effective natural remedy. It’s the perfect flavor to encourage and spread Christmas cheer this month.
We experience a light week in sports (not counting our Thanksgiving plates), but there was still plenty taking place to keep us moving.
The Roadrunner basketball team picked up a huge road win in Waco, and the soccer teams released their lists of individual postseason accolades (there were a lot of them).
The men’s basketball team tips off conference play with a big home game this Wednesday, the Lady ‘Runners are on the road again, and our Roadrunner Baseball program is hosting its annual winter evaluation camp in two short weeks.
Oh, and there are only 24 days left until Christmas. The AC campus will close for the holidays on Friday, Dec. 13, and we’ll return the week of Jan. 6.
Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next:
Roadrunner Basketball Knocks off McLennan in Waco
Angelina College’s Roadrunners made sure they’d enjoy their Thanksgiving break by posting a huge road win on Monday.
The ‘Runners held off McLennan College in a nerve-wracking 78-75 win in Waco, getting some clutch individual plays down the stretch – especially on defense.
Daemon Ely’s block of a potential game-tying Highlanders shot helped preserve the win and ensure Kanaan Holder’s 21-point night wasn’t for naught.
AC’s Jordan Mathews just missed out on a double-double with 13 points and nine rebounds; Christian Jones added 12 points; and Kyle Morgan dropped 10 to lift the Roadrunners to a 6-1 record heading into conference play this week.
AC’s first conference matchup is a big one: The ‘Runners host defending conference champs Lee College at 7 p.m. this Wednesday at Shands Gymnasium. The game will be live streamed on TSBN Sports.
On Saturday, the Roadrunners will be in Beeville, TX to take on Coastal Bend Community College in a 4 p.m. start. That game is not on the TSBN schedule as of yet.
Lady Roadrunners, Roadrunners Earn Postseason Soccer Honors
Both Angelina College soccer teams posted outstanding seasons in 2024, with both the Lady Roadrunners and Roadrunners earning berths in the conference tournament and the men holding onto Top 20 rankings throughout the year. The Lady ‘Runners also finished as the Region XIV South Zone champions.
Because of their efforts, several players earned postseason honors:
Lady Roadrunners: Estephany Aguilar and Paula Suarez earned 1st Team All-Region honors, Sofie Iverson and Camila Rico earned 2nd Team All-Region and Brenda Izaguirre picked up Honorable Mention honors.
Aguilar, a sophomore from Bogota, Colombia, was her team’s lead facilitator on offensive, finishing the season with five goals, eight assists and 18 accumulated points.
Freshman Suarez, also from Bogota, led the team in goals scored with 10, adding five assists to finish with 25 points.
Iversen, a freshman defender from Aabenraa, Denmark anchored an AC defense that allowed just 1.2 goals per match, with the Lady ‘Runners holding opponents scoreless in six matches.
Rico, a sophomore from Ibague, Colombia, finished with five goals, two assists and 12 accumulated points.
Izaguirre, a freshman from Lufkin, posted four goals – including a game winner – and finished the season with eight points.
The Lady Roadrunners finished the season with a record of 11-5 – including a nine-game winning streak – under first-year head coach Sergio Gardea.
Roadrunners: Abdallah Traore and Patricio Villalobos earned 1st Team All-Conference honors; Elias Taj, Jacob Blach and Casper Madsen earned 2nd Team All-Conference honors; and Filliph Kamfjord landed on the Honorable Mention list for their work with the nationally ranked Roadrunners in 2024.
Sophomore Traore, of Trondheim, Norway, was a defensive mainstay for the Roadrunner back line throughout his two seasons. Traore added two goals – including a game winner – and four points in his 2024 campaign.
Villalobos, a freshman from Aguascalientes, Mexico, provided a steady presence in the AC offensive attack, finishing with a pair of goals, an assist and five points.
Taj, a freshman from Copenhagen, Denmark, led the team in goals scored with nine, adding three assists to finish with 21 points.
Blach, a high-flying freshman defender from Nykøbing Falster, Denmark, was a key player in a Roadrunner defense that allowed a miniscule .79 goals per match. Blach added a goal and two points on the season.
Madsen, the freshman goalkeeper from Slagelse, Denmark, allowed just six goals in 11 matches, finishing the season with 45 saves.
Kamfjord, a sophomore from Sandes, Norway, was second on the team in goals scored with five, adding five assists and a total of 15 points.
The Roadrunners under second-year head coach Martin Melchor finished the season with a record of 10-4-2 and reached as high as No. 5 in the NJCAA national rankings.
In an effort to find more future Roadrunners, the AC baseball team in December will hold its annual winter evaluation camp for prospective players 9th grade and older. The session will take place starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at Poland Field on the Angelina College campus.
The fee for each camp is $50.00. Participants should pre-register for the session by visiting the following link:
Walk-up registration will be available at the gate the day of the camp by credit card only. No cash transactions will take place.
The camps will focus on skill evaluation only. There will be no game. Staff will grade on running, arm strength, fielding, hitting and power. Pitchers will throw brief bullpens in order to grade pitches and velocity.
For further information, contact Roadrunner head coach Jeff Livin at jlivin@angelina.edu or by calling (936) 633-5367.
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, Dec. 4:
Roadrunner Basketball vs. Lee College, 7 p.m., Shands Gymnasium
Friday, Dec. 6:
Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Cisco College, 5 p.m. at Temple Classic in Temple, TX
Saturday, Dec. 7:
Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Temple College, 2 p.m. at Temple Classic in Temple, TX
Roadrunner Basketball at Coast Bend CC, 4 p.m. in Beeville, TX
For any other information, contact Sports Information Director Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu.
This week we celebrate one of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving. Enjoy food, family, and football – including the return of a historic in-state rivalry. Happy Thanksgiving!
Here are five things happening around your state:
1. Comptroller announces awards for broadband programs
The Broadband Development Office (BDO) announced it has notified the first wave of awardees for its Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) II program. This represents $580 million in funding that will connect almost 80,000 locations to high-speed broadband in 15 counties across the state. The BOOT II program is funded in part by federal Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund and by the state’s Broadband Infrastructure Fund. The BDO identified two counties in each of the Comptroller’s 12 economic regions that demonstrated a high-level of need, measured by percentage of unserved or underserved broadband locations. This program will ensure that eligible locations in those counties will receive internet service at speeds of 100/20 Mbps – the federal definition for broadband service. Three counties in Senate District 3 were included in the program: Liberty, Newton, and Trinity Counties. The BDO will post awardee information on their website once agreements have been signed.
2. Temple Foundation President, CEO named new Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board commissioner
This month, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) announced Dr. Wynn Rosser as the new Commissioner of Higher Education. Dr. Rosser previously served as President and CEO of the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, an East Texas-based organization dedicated to building up rural East Texas communities and alleviating poverty. During his time at the Temple Foundation, Dr. Rosser continued the foundation’s commitment to education, healthcare, regional community development, and community resilience in East Texas. In his new position, he will oversee initiatives at THECB that equip students to enter the workforce, enable more students to access higher education, and build a stronger Texas economy. I would like to thank Dr. Rosser for his incredible work at the Temple Foundation and wish him success as he moves forward at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
3. Lufkin High School band wins third straight state title
The Lufkin High School Band has once again claimed a state title. This is the third win in a row for the band which performs in the military marching style and competes in that category. Military Marching is a traditional straight-line style of marching, and everyone moves in a forward direction. This differs from the corps style, in which the band generally always faces the front. Most modern-day marching bands perform in the corps style, however the largest notable military-style marching band in the nation is here in Texas at Texas A&M University. The National Association of Military Marching Bands (NAMMB) has traditionally sponsored the state contest. However, in 2020 the University Interscholastic League (UIL) decided to try hosting a Military Marching Band contest. The Panther Band won UIL state titles in 2021, 2023, and 2024 (no contest was held in 2022). Previously, the Panther Band also won NAMMB state titles in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2019. Lufkin High School Band has a winning tradition, congratulations on your continued success!
4. Entergy awarded $54 million in federal funds to enhance grid resilience
Entergy Texas was awarded nearly $54 million in federal funding this month in a bid to enhance grid resilience particularly in the Port Arthur area. Entergy will focus the funding on a project aimed to help lessen the impact of future extreme weather events in the coastal community. The funding comes from the Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The GRIP program is aimed at enhancing the power grid and making it more resilient in the face of extreme weather.
5. DPS announces new leadership
This month, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced a new director, Senior Deputy Director Freeman F. Martin. Earlier this year, current Director Steve McCraw announced his intention to retire by year-end. The Public Safety Commission (PSC) gathered this month and approved the selection of Deputy Director Martin. Martin has been with DPS since 1990, when he started as a Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Trooper in Winnie. Over the past thirty plus years, he has served as THP Corporal, Narcotics Service Sergeant in Houston, and a Texas Ranger Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Major in several cities across the state. He later was appointed Deputy Director of Homeland Security Operations by the PSC and promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2018. He will be sworn in at a ceremony on December 2.
Questions from new homeowners are commonplace. Even if you are moving across town, you inherit a new landscape with some new plants. One new homeowner asked me how difficult would it be to care for the Canna lilies already planted at his new home would be. “Not difficult at all,” was my response.
This herbaceous perennial goes by a few common names: Cannas, Canna Lily, or maybe Garden Canna is most likely the hybrid of Canna indica and Canna glauca or Canna iridiflora. The genus name, Canna, is from the Greek word “Kanna,” which means reed-like. Currently, all Canna hybrids are included under the scientific name of Canna x generalis.
These tropical looking plants are very large, growing up to 6 feet tall. You’ll find them in lots of landscapes and whether planted as an accent or in a mass planting. Depending on the cultivar, they have large colorful flowers and tropical appearing foliage.
Cannas are hybrid plants found in tropical and subtropical regions of North and South America as well as India. The plant has been widely cultivated old home sites and some have escaped to roadsides, ponds, or streams.
Cannas prefers sunlight to light shade, soils with high organic matter, and slightly acidic pH- perfect for East Texas. Even without these preferred conditions, they grow best in moist, well-drained soils, but they can tolerate some standing water or drought once they are established. They have a high heat tolerance, but they are prone to wind damage.
Whenever we get our first frost, they will die back and turn to mush. I simply mulch over them to hide the decaying vegetation in the winter and wait for them to resprout in the spring.
If you already have a stand and want to multiply them, the rhizomes should be dug and replanted after the last spring frost. It is best to plant the rhizomes at least 5 inches deep and 12 inches apart. If you want to propagate some from a friend, Cannas may be propagated by seeds, rhizomes, and division.
To keep them blooming throughout the summer, remove spent flowers to encourage continued flowering. In warmer climates such as ours, the rhizomes may be left in the ground over the winter.
Many local homeowners take Cannas for granted, given our climate, and may not realize the work others in colder climates go to keep them. In areas where the plant is not winter hardy, the rhizomes are lifted and stored over the winter. They are then stored in peat or vermiculite in a cool, dry place away from freezing cold temperatures.
Cannas have fleshy, underground stems called rhizomes. Above ground the stems are 3-6 feet tall, glabrous, unbranched, and enveloped by leaf sheaths. Landscaper scan choose from a variety of leaf colors from green, bronze, or variegated, depending on the cultivar.
Its flowers range from 4 to 8 inches long and appear on the ends of the stem as racemes or panicles. Cannas bloom during the summer months, from July to August. Depending on the cultivar, Cannas show off flowers ranging from white, cream, yellow, orange, pink, coral, salmon, red, or bicolored.
The online literature does list a few diseases and insects. I’ve only seen a few slugs and snails. My biggest problem is leaf-rolling caterpillars.
Often bypassed as “everyone already has that”, I think the Canna lily is a great ‘tropical’ addition to any home landscape. Put it by the pool or any other water feature. As always, look for it at a local nursery, but don’t forget to ask your friends and neighbors if you can dig up some roots to move to your landscape next spring.
Organization Recognizes Academic Excellence in Two-Year Colleges
Angelina College on Thursday inducted 15 new members into its Upsilon Rho Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa – the international honor society for two-year colleges – in a ceremony held inside Hudgins Hall on the AC campus.
AC president Dr. Michael Simon greeted the inductees and their families, welcoming the new members to a chapter Angelina College has sponsored since 1969. In his opening remarks, Simon expressed the true definition of a “college.”
“What is a college? One might think it’s the buildings and the land, and I can tell you it’s not the case,” Simon said. “It’s not just the library, even though it’s important. The faculty is important as well. But if you don’t have students, the faculty is just a bunch of really educated folks talking to themselves.
“What makes a college is the students and the fact they come here and entrust us with their education and the opportunity to learn and to grow into responsible citizens, professionals and family members.”
The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Susan Edwards, Associate Vice President of Honors Programming and Undergraduate Research at Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society International.
“Congratulations on your achievement, and we’re very excited for Phi Theta Kappa because you make us stronger,” Edwards said. “You have a lot to do with PTK’s culture and how it evolves.
“You’re entering a very strong chapter here at AC, and you’re helping make it even stronger.”
The new inductees strolled the stage to sign their names into the PTK book while receiving their traditional candles and roses, along with the ceremonial cord presented by Simon. Chapter administrator Dr. Tim Ditoro, along with PTK advisors Dr. Tom McKinney, Gerardo Valladares and Monica Newberg, also addressed the inductees.
AC’s newest PTK members inducted on Thursday include Heaven Antley, Yazmine Gamboa, Mia Guerrero, Melanie Lopez, Anakaren Ovalle, Verania Paulin, Kimberly Raines, Maritza Rios, Sheramie Salazar, Jade Scott, Britton Shoellhorn, Jayden Shoellhorn, Clara Sonet, Dalyn West and Theodore Williams.
From AC’s Phi Theta Kappa page:
“Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for the two-year college. The purpose of Phi Theta Kappa is demonstrated in the four hallmarks of the society: scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service. Through activities the organization strives to honor those hallmarks for the improvement of the community, the college, others and themselves. To be eligible for membership, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and have completed at least 12 hours of college work. Members must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester following their induction. Provisional membership is available to students who have not yet completed twelve hours of college credit.”
For further information regarding PTK, contact Dr. Tim Ditoro at tditoro@angelina.edu.
First of all, we hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving. Angelina College will be closed for the week of Nov. 25 through Nov. 29 and will reopen on Monday, Dec. 2. Our athletes also will take a break, with only one road game (men’s basketball on Monday) on tap for next week.
This past week saw AC teams with some big wins, along with our Lady Roadrunners and Roadrunners making impacts in the community and on the academic stage. In addition, our Roadrunner Baseball program is hosting its annual winter evaluation camp.
Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next:
Roadrunner Basketball Stroll Past Strength ‘N Motion
(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)
The Roadrunner basketball team put on some highlight reels in Wednesday’s win over Strength ‘N Motion, with five AC players reaching double figures in a 90-35 rout at Shands Gymnasium.
AC’s Kyle Morgan went for a season-high 15 points, converting three of his six three-point attempts. Jordan Mathews added 12 points, Qasim Boyd and Milton Rice III chipped in 11 points each and Christian Jones finished with 10 points in the win.
The Roadrunners (5-1) will travel to Waco on Monday, Nov. 25th to face McLennan College in a 6 p.m. tipoff.
Lady Roadrunner Basketball Hammers Western Gulf
(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)
AC’s ladies also played just one game this week, and the Lady Roadrunners showed out in front of the home crowd in Wednesday’s 71-36 win over Western Gulf Collegiate.
Lady ‘Runner India McMahon, who’s currently ranked No. 19 in the nation in scoring average, led AC with 19 points. Alicia Rivera-Scott came off the bench to drill 15 points, and Lanaijha Johnson added 10 points. Maria Andrade yanked down 13 rebounds in the win.
The Lady Roadrunners (5-4) are off until the weekend of December 6-7, when AC will participate in the Temple Classic in Temple, TX.
Lady Roadrunner Soccer’s Sonet Inducted into Phi Theta Kappa
For the second consecutive year, Angelina College has a representative in a national honor society.
This past Thursday, Lady Roadrunner soccer player Clara Sonet, a sophomore midfielder from Barcelona, Spain, was inducted into the Upsilon Rho Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa – the international honor society for two-year colleges – in a ceremony held inside Hudgins Hall on the AC campus.
To be eligible for membership, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and have completed at least 12 hours of college work. Members must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester following their induction.
Baseball Players Spend Time with Broaddus Students
Several members of the Roadrunner baseball team spent Monday visiting with students and athletes at Broaddus High School, discussing various topics ranging from recruiting to college life in general.
AC’s baseball team will open its 2024 season in January.
Lufkin Jr. Panther Cheer Shines at Shands Gymnasium
The Lufkin Jr. Panther Cheer team brought its flipping, stunting performances to the floor of Shands Gymnasium for halftime of Wednesday’s Roadrunners vs. Strength ‘N Motion basketball game. Under the direction of Amber Timmise, the little Panthers have been wowing the AC home crowds for several years.
Keep an eye out for their return after the holiday break.
In an effort to find more future Roadrunners, the AC baseball team in December will hold its annual winter evaluation camp for prospective players 9th grade and older. The session will take place starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at Poland Field on the Angelina College campus.
The fee for each camp is $50.00. Participants should pre-register for the session by visiting the following link:
Walk-up registration will be available at the gate the day of the camp by credit card only. No cash transactions will take place.
The camps will focus on skill evaluation only. There will be no game. Staff will grade on running, arm strength, fielding, hitting and power. Pitchers will throw brief bullpens in order to grade pitches and velocity.
For further information, contact Roadrunner head coach Jeff Livin at jlivin@angelina.edu or by calling (936) 633-5367.
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:
Monday, Nov. 25:
Roadrunner Basketball at McLennan College, 6 p.m. in Waco, TX
For any other information, contact Sports Information Director Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu.
