The Nacogdoches Main Street Program is excited to announce the unveiling of a beautiful new 12-foot lighted angel in Historic Downtown Nacogdoches. This new angel represents the spirit of the season while honoring the cherished memories tied to the original angels that have graced the downtown area for many years.
The original angels, purchased by community members in honor or memory of loved ones, have become a beloved part of Nacogdoches’ holiday tradition. However, due to their age and condition, the Nacogdoches Main Street Program is introducing this new decoration as part of a gradual update to downtown’s holiday displays.
To preserve the legacy of the original angels, the Nacogdoches Main Street Program will host an Angel Lighting Ceremony and will reveal a commemorative plaque listing all the names they represented that will be placed at the base of the new angel. The ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, December 8th, 2024, at 5:00 PM at Eugenia Sterne Park (700 E Main St.). The lighting ceremony is open to the public, and families and loved ones of those honored by the original angels are invited to attend the unveiling ceremony to celebrate this meaningful tradition.
“We’re thrilled to bring this beautiful new addition to downtown while honoring the deep significance of the original angels,” said Tori Huddleston, Nacogdoches Main Street Manager. “This new lighted angel serves as a tribute to our community’s past and a beacon of holiday spirit for years to come. We are also offering the original angels back to the families who purchased them, giving them the opportunity to keep these meaningful decorations as cherished keepsakes.”
Those wishing to reclaim their original angel as a keepsake may contact the Main Street office at 936-559-2562 to schedule a convenient time for pickup.
Join us on December 8th as we unveil the new angel and celebrate this blend of tradition and renewal in the heart of downtown.
For more information about this event please contact the Nacogdoches Main Street Office at 936-559-2562 or mainstreet@nactx.us.
The Bacon Brothers have spent the better part of three decades exploring their own mix of folk, rock, soul, and country music. They call that diverse sound “forosoco,” and it’s taken them around the world, from headlining gigs in Japan to American performances at iconic venues like Carnegie Hall, the Grand Ole Opry, and Gruene Hall.
The exploration continues with the band’s twelfth release, Ballad Of The Brothers. It’s a record that highlights not only the similarities between Kevin Bacon (known worldwide as an A-list Hollywood actor) and Michael Bacon (celebrated as an Emmy-winning composer), but the differences, too. The two siblings may be bound together by blood and a mutual love of American roots music, but they’ve grown into sharp songwriters and cinematic storytellers with their own distinct approaches. Ballad Of The Brothers makes room for both of those approaches, offering a mix of edgy alt-rock (“Take Off This Tattoo”), Motown-inspired soul (“Put Your Hand Up”), fingerpicked folk (“Let That Be Enough”), and everything in between. The album also marks the continuation of a musical partnership that began long ago in Philadelphia, where the Bacons were raised on a soundtrack of 1970s singer/songwriters, Philly soul bands, and classic rock acts. Multiple decades and countless shows later, they’re creating their own soundtrack, saluting their old-school influences while making music that’s undeniably modern.
Lufkin, Texas(November 19, 2024) – The ovens are warm at The Salvation Army as volunteers and staff begin preparations for the annual community Thanksgiving meal. The Salvation Army is planning on feeding between 150 to 200 guests Wednesday, November 27 from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm at 412 S Third St. Celebrating “family,” the current residents of The Salvation Army will have their meal served by our wonderful volunteers.
Volunteers will begin to arrive on Wednesday, November 27 at 1 pm to start carving turkeys and slicing pies to be served on Thanksgiving Day. Over 20 volunteers have signed up this year to help with the Thanksgiving meal.
“We are fortunate to have our volunteers assist us with this every year. We could not do this without the support of our Lufkin community,” said Captain Cavon Philips, Commanding Officer of the Salvation Army.
Sam Greenberg has once again donated their delicious Greenberg smoked turkeys. This year’s meal will also include cornbread dressing, gravy, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, candied yams, dinner rolls and either pecan or sweet potato pie. Volunteers will also be giving out food boxes and chickens donated from Pilgrims. The Salvation Army is supported by many in the community during this time to help offset the costs of the meal. We are so thankful for the community and their generous support!
“Thanksgiving weekend is also the time when our Red Kettle Campaign increases to include all of our locations,” said Captain Philips. “All the monies raised through Christmas go to make meals like Thanksgiving possible, as well as the social services, programs, and outreaches we run all year round. We have a lot to be thankful for this year at The Salvation Army, and we are so thankful for our supportive community of volunteers and donors!” For those interested in volunteering to ring a bell for the Red Kettle Campaign, they may sign up at www.RegisterloRing.com.
Choosing an energy provider is an important decision that can have long-lasting effects on your budget, comfort, and peace of mind. With so many options in the deregulated ERCOT market, you might wonder: what makes one energy provider stand out from the rest? At Amerigy Energy, we pride ourselves on offering more than just competitive rates. Our unique combination of superior pricing, customer service, a trusted broker network, and transparency sets us apart in the crowded energy market.
1. Superior Pricing with Comprehensive Options
One of our strongest assets at Amerigy Energy is our ability to offer superior pricing by representing over 50 reputable energy companies. This extensive network means we’re not limited to the rates and plans of just one or two providers. Instead, we can shop around to find the best rate and contract terms for your specific needs, whether you’re a homeowner or a large commercial business.
What this means for you: You don’t have to spend hours comparing providers and plans on your own. With Amerigy, you get access to a range of competitive offers, ensuring you always secure the best deal available.
Customer Highlight: “I was amazed at how much time and money Amerigy saved me. Their team reviewed several energy options and found a plan that was perfect for my business needs.” — Sarah L., Business Owner, Central Texas.
2. Excellent, Relationship-Focused Customer Service
At Amerigy Energy, we believe that relationships matter. Our team is dedicated to building long-term connections with our clients based on trust and reliability. Unlike many energy brokers who treat customers as just another account, we see each client as a partner. From the initial consultation to ongoing support, our service is personalized to ensure that you feel informed and valued every step of the way.
What sets us apart: Our relationship-focused approach means we’re here for you, whether you have questions about your plan, need help optimizing your energy usage, or are looking to explore new options as your needs evolve.
Customer Testimonial: “The Amerigy team didn’t just find me a good deal; they explained everything clearly and made sure I was comfortable with my choice. I’ve never experienced such personalized service in the energy industry.” — Tom R., Homeowner, Lufkin, TX.
3. A Trusted Broker Network
Our network of experienced brokers is one of our greatest strengths. These brokers are not only experts in the energy market but are also committed to finding the most advantageous solutions for each client. Their deep industry knowledge and strong relationships with top energy providers mean they can negotiate the best terms for you, making the switching process seamless and stress-free.
How this benefits you: Working with a trusted broker network gives you access to insights and deals that you won’t find by approaching providers directly. Our brokers leverage their expertise to guide you through the energy procurement process, helping you make well-informed decisions that align with your financial goals.
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This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas. They can be reached at 877-631-8875 or info@amerigyenergy.com
Handcrafted by Jake is a very unique business because every material used has a story. Unlike its namesake, the Pineywoods harbors a diverse ecosystem of tree species of which Jake has the joy and privilege of exploring. The wood grain alone is breathtaking, but the origin stories of these trees adds another level of value that cannot be replicated. For example, turning a century old elm that was a landmark tree on family property or turning the antlers of a kid’s first buck. Stories of origin paired with the natural beauty of material equates to an unforgettable gift.
“For over a decade, I have enjoyed hand-crafting writing instruments, bowls, ice-cream scoops, wildlife calls, Christmas ornaments, and candlesticks. Quality, functionality, and natural beauty are the hallmarks of my products.” Joseph (Jake) Guy says, owner and founder of Handcrafted by Jake.
“God is the great artist. God’s creativity is evident in everything, especially in wood. Every shade of oak, every swirl, knot, and pattern of grain is a testament to his creativity. I hope that I can share with you the beauty of Texas hardwoods and the magnificence of God’s creation through my work!”
Image by Joseph (Jake) GuyImage by Joseph (Jake) GuyImage by Joseph (Jake) Guy
The Spark of Inspiration
At 13 years old, Jake went with his mom to a library book sale. His mom, not appreciating his obvious boredom there, picked up a book on woodturning.
“I read that book cover-to-cover in one sitting–a record for me. Having been greatly inspired, I researched the equipment and expenses needed for such an endeavor. I desperately wanted a lathe, the machinery that spins the wood, and was persistent in asking my dad for permission. He wisely wanted to see if this passion would stand the test of time. It did, and after a few months had passed, he allowed me to purchase a lathe with the money I had saved.” Jake continued to describe that with the help of some local woodturners and a lot of reading, research, and plenty of failures, he was able to begin his woodturning adventures.
A Look into Jake’s Journey
As a young woodturning apprentice, Jake had more questions than he did answers. Luckily, he was able to locate a group of experienced woodturners that invested much time into developing his basic wood turning skills.
“During this phase of my journey, I tried my hand at a variety of projects,” Jake explains. “I experimented with as many materials, using different techniques and strategies I learned from various artists. My ambitions led me to taking an in-person class from a world renowned woodturner in Ireland.”
Throughout his woodturning journey, Jake experimented with exotic woods such as; acrylics, and other oddball materials like corn cobs, deer antler, honeycomb, snake skins, and more. During his high school years, he entered into the Angelina County Youth Fair and won Best of Show for his woodworking projects three years in a row.
Over the years, Jake got better at handling the different materials he experimented with. From novice years to now, his most notable evolution is the selection of his materials.
“I now exclusively hand-select high quality woods–burly oaks are my favorite–and deer antler. I have invested in the durability and quality of my components, to include even the ink. I am a lifelong learner and I have enjoyed the process perfecting my craft! Throughout college and now Texas Game Warden academy, I still enjoy getting out in the shop and turning a block of wood into something unique.”
His Products
“Bolt action and lever action pens are most popular,” he explains. “My hybridized resin and wood materials are one of many signature materials, and my bolt action and lever action pen hardware are most popular amongst hunters and gun enthusiasts alike.”
Jake also takes custom orders. Not only that, but he enjoys bartering wood and antlers in exchange for a pen or other handcrafted services.
Jake takes great pride in the quality of his work, especially when it comes to the wood finish. “I have tested nearly every method of finish under the sun and have settled for the most durable, marble-like finish you will ever see,” he states. Nearly every material is stabilized by infusing resin acrylic into the wood grain which is then hardened with added heat. The result is an indestructible writing instrument that will last a lifetime.
Image by Joseph (Jake) GuyImage by Joseph (Jake) GuyImage by Joseph (Jake) GuyImage by Joseph (Jake) GuyImage by Joseph (Jake) Guy
Community Involvement
“My business is grounded in the community. I attribute my skills to a group of gentlemen known as the Friday Woodturners, based in Lufkin, Texas, who taught me the fundamentals. They also supply me with local hardwoods used to craft my writing instruments.”
Jake loves his community. Right now, he is not able to do much with the community due to being in the Texas Game Warden Academy, but he would be open to supporting local events/charities when he is able and the opportunity presents itself.
Lessons Learned
“Quality takes time. Never compromise quality by rushing–anything worth doing is worth doing well.”
As Jake explains his lessons learned, he brings it back to God, “Every rotation unravels yet another layer of God’s creativity.” Jake loves what he does, and he loves that he can glorify God with the gifts he was given.
LUFKIN – The City of Lufkin, in partnership with the Texas Forest Service, is excited to announce the start of the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI – pronounced “wooh-e”) Project at Kit McConnico Park. This project is designed to improve safety, enhance the trail experience, and support the health of the park’s natural environment.
What’s Happening? Crews are beginning work in the back of the park near the wood line and will start mulching thick vegetation over the next couple of weeks. The mulching will make the trail more open and accessible for park visitors, improve sightlines, and help reduce wildfire risks. Visitors will continue to enjoy the trail until work begins in the trail area.
Trail Closures and Detours During the mulching process, some parts of the trail will be temporarily closed for safety. Visitors are asked to follow posted signs and detour routes. The trail will remain open until mulching work begins, at which point closures and detours will be announced. The trail will reopen as soon as the mulching is completed.
What’s Coming Next? Once mulching is finished, a controlled burn is planned for the spring. The controlled burn will help clear any remaining brush, reduce fire risks, and encourage healthy plant growth throughout the park.
Why Is This Important? The WUI Project will make Kit McConnico Park safer for visitors and help protect it from potential wildfires. The project will also create a more enjoyable trail experience, providing a safer and more open path for everyone to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
“We are excited to begin this important work with the Texas Forest Service,” said Lufkin Fire Chief Jesse Moody. “This project will help make Kit McConnico Park safer, more beautiful, and a better place for the entire community to enjoy.”
Stay Informed For more information and updates on the WUI Project and trail closures, please visit www.cityoflufkin.com or follow the City of Lufkin on social media.
This past week saw our men’s basketball on the road for three games (and pulling off a massive upset) while the Lady Roadrunners stuck around for some work at home, including the weekend’s Angelina Classic.
Here’s a quick rundown of the week’s events, along with what’s coming up next:
Roadrunner Basketball Spends Week on the Road, Shocks No. 1 South Plains
A week’s worth of traveling saw the Roadrunner men’s basketball team finish with its biggest win of the young season.
At Saturday’s East/West Challenge in McKinney, Texas, the ‘Runners beat No. 1 South Plains CC in a 68-60 shocker. Christian Jones led AC in scoring with 30 points, including the game-clinching free throws in the final seconds.
The Roadrunner defense locked down a high-powered Texans team averaging more than 80 points per game.
In Friday’s game at the East/West Challenge, AC pushed Collin County CC before a late run propelled the Cougars to a 63-48 win at the ‘Roadrunners’ expense. Jordan Mathews led AC with 10 points and 12 rebounds.
Earlier in the week, the ‘Runners topped Dallas College-Eastfield by a 59-50 score, with AC’s Kyle Morgan leading the team in scoring with 13 points. Quasim Boyd added 10 points and four steals, and Kanaan Holder and Chris Carpenter chipped in with nine points each.
The Roadrunners host Strength ‘N Motion at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday as part of a women’s/men’s basketball doubleheader at Shands Gymnasium.
Lady Roadrunner Basketball
(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)
On Tuesday, the Lady ‘Runners got big nights from India McMahon (25 points) and Lanaijha Johnson (19 points, 9 rebounds) to pull away from Southern University-Shreveport in a 74-63 AC win. Shanice Ferguson added 11 points and eight boards, while Maria Andrade led both teams with 13 rebounds.
(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)
Friday saw the Lady Roadrunners hosting the Angelina Classic, and AC pushed No. 13 McLennan College hard before fading late in a 59-50 loss to the Highlanders. McMahon led the Lady ‘Runners in scoring with 21 points, followed by Ferguson and Lanaijha Johnson with nine points each.
Saturday vs. LSU-Eunice, AC’s ladies built a 20-point lead in the second half and hung on to hold off a late Lady Bengal charge, with the Lady Roadrunners taking the 65-57 win to close out the Classic. McMahon finished with 18 points, Johnson added a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds and Andrade just missed the double-double with 10 points and nine boards.
The Lady Roadrunners (4-4) host Western Gulf CC at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20 as part of a women’s/men’s basketball doubleheader at Shands Gymnasium.
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, Nov. 20:
Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Western Gulf CC, 6 p.m., Shands Gymnasium
Roadrunner Basketball vs. Strength ‘N Motion, 7:30 p.m., Shands Gymnasium
For any other information, contact Sports Information Director Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu.
From time to time, I’ll have questions about a good forage grass that we love to hate: Johnson grass. Johnson grass is a member of the sorghum family. Its scientific name is Sorghum halepense. If you’ve ever seen the plump yellow to orange heads of grain sorghum being grown in the dryer, grain-producing areas, you may be surprised to learn this robust grain is related to the (often cussed) Johnson grass.
Over my years in this job, I’ve had a number of questions about properly identifying Johnson grass. I grew up with lots of Johnson grass in our pastures in Johnson County, just south of Fort Worth. Here in east Texas, the predominant, large grassy weed is Vasey grass, which is sometimes, locally called “bull grass”.
From a distance, you can easily recognize Johnson grass with its upright, airy seed head with pink-ish color.
Look up images of both on a search engine. You’ll quickly notice the difference. While much less prominent, the typical location for Johnson grass in our area is roadsides where management and input differ greatly.
Vasey grass (Paspalum urvillei) is related to Bahiagrass. I have a book entitled Common Texas Grasses and it eight species of Paspalum grasses listed in it. Even crabgrass is in the Paspalum family.
Vasey grass is very prominent in local pastures and, as I’ve learned, is often mistaken for Johnson grass. Vasey’s seed head has little color, being ‘greenish grey’ with the seed head clumped together, often leaning over a bit.
The good news is that Vasey grass does not have the prussic acid issues. And Vasey grass is by far the more common vegetation of the two that you may find.
What may not be known is that Johnson grass can be a great forage. It’s protein and digestibility are up there with Coastal bermuda grass, and the productivity (tons per acre) is right up there as well. Johnson grass in its younger stages of growth is so desirable that it can be grazed out of a pasture if not stocked correctly.
Now that we know more about each of these grasses, let’s talk more about the potential for Prussic acid and what we can do as stockmen to safeguard against it.
Prussic acid, more correctly called hydrocyanic acid (a cyanide based compound), develops in Sudan grass or sorghum grasses which are severely stressed. One of these stressors is frost. The hydrocyanic acid develops within only a few hours after the frost and should dissipate within a few days
As of this printing in our part of the world in east Texas, we have yet to have our first frost.
According to my favorite pasture reference book, Southern Forages, stockmen should wait seven days after a frost event before retuning livestock to graze on pastures with Johnson grass. By waiting, you will ensure that the prussic acid levels have subsided to safe levels.
Often, I’ll find myself recommending waiting 14 days to give producers and myself an added margin of safety.
If you bale a hay meadow with Johnson grass shortly after a frost, you only have to wait until the hay has properly cured (as you should be doing anyways) to be free of worry.
However if you are one that is working with the new ensiled hay bales (wrapped in plastic) you’ll need to wait much, much longer. Research results vary, but studies from Iowa State University and others strongly suggest you delay feeding silage for eight weeks after ensiling. If the forage likely contained high prussic acid levels at time of harvest, hazardous levels of prussic acid might remain, and the silage should be analyzed before feeding.
At 10:00 AM, a friendly competition took place between the mayors of Lufkin and Nacogdoches. The event was held at Brookshire Brothers, located at 1807 W. Frank in Lufkin, with the Mayor of Lufkin competing against the Mayor of Nacogdoches, whose location was at 1420 N. University Dr.
KSWP conducted a live remote broadcast from Nacogdoches, while Kicks 105 did the same from Lufkin, both airing from 10 AM to 12 PM. During this time, Brookshire’s pledged to match a portion of the funds raised. A live band performed in Lufkin, represented by Central High School, and another band played in Nacogdoches, represented by The Salvation Army Divisional Headquarters and local musicians from The Salvation Army church.
The Red Kettle Campaign is more than just a holiday tradition—it’s a symbol of the deep generosity and community spirit that defines East Texas. As the familiar bells ring outside local stores and businesses, they serve as a reminder of the powerful impact we can have when we come together to support those in need.
A Community of Generosity
In East Texas, where neighbors take care of neighbors, every contribution to the Red Kettle represents more than just a donation. It’s a tangible expression of hope and solidarity for families and individuals facing difficult circumstances. Whether it’s dropping in a few coins or a larger bill, each donation plays a vital role in funding the life-changing services provided by The Salvation Army.
“East Texans are known for their warm hearts and their willingness to lend a hand,” said Lee Miller, Vice Chairman of the Salvation Army Advisory Board. “This season, every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps provide essential programs and services that uplift families, children, and individuals in our area.”
Funds that Make a Real Difference
The funds raised through the Red Kettle Campaign go toward a range of critical programs and services. These include feeding the hungry, providing clothing and shelter for those in need, and offering emergency financial assistance. In times of hardship, The Salvation Army serves as a beacon of hope, offering a lifeline to those who need it most.
A Call to Action
As the holiday season unfolds and the bells ring in the weeks to come, it’s a reminder that each contribution is a chance to make a real difference. Whether it’s through giving a little or a lot, the Red Kettle Campaign helps bring out the best in our community—a community that is always ready to show kindness, compassion, and support.
“I hope that as we hear those bells, we remember that each ring is a call to action,” Miller continued. “It’s an opportunity to show the kindness and giving spirit that make our community so special. Let’s make this Red Kettle season one of the most impactful yet.”
Strengthening Our Community
This holiday season, as we join together to support the Red Kettle Campaign, we continue a long-standing tradition that uplifts our neighbors and strengthens the bonds of our community. Every donation counts, and together, we can make a meaningful difference.
From left to right: Wendy Walker advisory board Chairperson, Lee Miller, Mayer Mark Hicks, Callie, Macy
