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Understanding Texas Power: How the ERCOT Market Shapes Your Electricity Options

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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When it comes to electricity, Texas does things a little differently. Unlike most states, Texas operates its own independent power grid, overseen by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). This unique setup gives residents and businesses in the Texas Forest Country—and across most of the state—the power to choose their electricity provider. But how does it all work, and what does it mean for you?

Let’s take a closer look at ERCOT’s role in Texas and how it impacts your energy choices.

What is ERCOT?

ERCOT manages the flow of electricity to over 26 million Texans, covering about 90% of the state’s energy load. It acts as the “traffic controller” of the grid, balancing supply and demand in real-time to keep the lights on.

Unlike most states, Texas’s electricity grid isn’t connected to the national grids, giving ERCOT greater flexibility—but also greater responsibility.

The Deregulated Energy Market: Freedom to Choose

One of the key benefits of ERCOT’s structure is Texas’s deregulated energy market, which allows residents and businesses to choose their electricity provider from a competitive field of options. Instead of being tied to a single utility, consumers can shop for plans that fit their needs and budgets.

What Does This Mean for You?

  • Competitive Pricing: Providers compete to offer the best rates.
  • Variety of Plans: Choose from fixed-rate plans for stability, variable-rate plans for flexibility, or renewable energy options for sustainability.
  • Personalized Solutions: Tailor your electricity plan to your energy usage patterns.

The Players Behind Your Power

The process of delivering electricity to your home or business involves several key players:

  1. Power Generators: Produce electricity from sources like natural gas, wind, solar, and coal.
  2. ERCOT: Manages the grid, ensuring there’s enough power to meet demand.
  3. Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDUs): Maintain the poles, wires, and infrastructure that deliver electricity.
  4. Retail Electricity Providers (REPs): Sell electricity to consumers and offer a range of plans.

This system creates a competitive environment, empowering consumers to find the best deals while ensuring reliable power delivery through TDUs.

Why Texas’s Energy Market is Unique

  1. The Energy-Only Market

Unlike many regions that pay generators to maintain reserve capacity, ERCOT operates an energy-only market. Generators are paid solely for the electricity they produce, which incentivizes efficiency but can lead to challenges during periods of extreme demand.

  1. Leadership in Renewables

Texas leads the nation in wind energy production and is rapidly expanding its solar capacity. These renewable sources are helping to diversify the grid and provide more environmentally friendly options for consumers.

  1. Price Volatility

Because prices are determined by supply and demand, the ERCOT market can experience significant fluctuations. During periods of extreme heat or cold, when demand surges, prices often spike—especially for those on variable-rate plans.

How to Navigate the ERCOT Market

While the freedom to choose your electricity provider is a major advantage, it also requires Texans to be proactive about their energy decisions.

Tips for Managing Your Energy Costs:

  • Understand Your Plan: Know whether you’re on a fixed-rate or variable-rate plan and how it affects your bill.
  • Monitor Usage: Seasonal spikes in demand can lead to higher costs. Adjust your energy usage during peak times to save money.
  • Consider Renewable Options: Many providers offer green energy plans that help reduce your carbon footprint while supporting Texas’s growing renewable energy industry.

Why It Matters for East Texans

For residents and businesses in the Texas Forest Country, the ERCOT market provides opportunities to save money, embrace sustainability, and secure reliable energy. By understanding how the system works, you can make more informed choices about your electricity provider and plan.

Take Control of Your Energy Choices

Navigating the complexities of the ERCOT market can feel overwhelming, but resources are available to help. Local companies like Amerigy Energy specialize in guiding consumers through their options, comparing rates, and finding plans that fit their specific needs.

By choosing the right plan and staying informed, you can keep your energy costs manageable while supporting a reliable and sustainable grid.

This article is part of our ongoing efforts to educate and empower the Texas Forest Country community. Stay tuned for more insights on energy, sustainability, and smart living choices that matter to you. For tailored energy solutions, contact Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial electricity plans in East Texas.

Majestic Winter Visitors: Your Guide to Eagle Watching at Lake Sam Rayburn

By
Rachel Lauren
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Image by harrycollinsphotography on Envato ELements

As winter’s chill settles over the piney woods of East Texas, our region welcomes back some of its most magnificent seasonal residents – bald eagles. These remarkable birds of prey return to Lake Sam Rayburn each year, drawing wildlife enthusiasts and families alike to witness nature’s grandeur in our own backyard.

When and Where to Spot Eagles

The best time to observe these majestic creatures is from late November through February, when they migrate south seeking warmer waters and abundant fish. Lake Sam Rayburn’s expansive shoreline and tall pines provide perfect perching spots for eagles to survey their hunting grounds.

Some prime viewing locations include:

  • The Twin Dikes Park area, especially during early morning hours
  • The shoreline near Powell Park
  • The quiet coves around Cassels-Boykin County Park
  • The Sam Rayburn Dam area, where eagles often fish in the tailrace

Tips for a Successful Eagle Watch

Start your adventure early – eagles are most active during the first few hours after sunrise when they’re fishing for their morning meal. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope, as these sophisticated hunters often maintain their distance from humans. Look for their distinctive white heads gleaming against the deep green of our pine trees, or watch for them soaring gracefully over the water’s surface.

Dress warmly and in layers – as of late, our winter mornings can be surprisingly crisp. Pack a thermos of hot coffee or cocoa to make your wildlife watching more comfortable. Remember to bring your camera – while eagles can be challenging to photograph, capturing one in flight or perched majestically in a lakeside pine creates an unforgettable memory.

Respecting Our Feathered Friends

As you enjoy these incredible birds, remember they’re protected under federal law. Keep a respectful distance and never attempt to approach an eagle or its nest. If you spot a nest, avoid drawing attention to its location to help protect these magnificent birds.

More Than Just Eagles

While bald eagles might be the stars of our winter wildlife show, keep your eyes peeled for other winter visitors. Ospreys, various hawks, and waterfowl also call Lake Sam Rayburn home during the colder months. Each sighting adds another chapter to your outdoor adventure story.

Remember, you don’t need to be an experienced birder to appreciate these magnificent creatures. Whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting our slice of East Texas, watching a bald eagle soar over Lake Sam Rayburn’s waters is an experience that reminds us all of nature’s enduring beauty in the Piney Woods.

Spring Fling Market (Sabine County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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We’re starting a new tradition and want YOU to be a part of it!
Join us for Spring Fling at Pineywoods Vineyard, a three-day event in our Downtown Event Space, where amazing vendors, great shopping, and incredible wine come together.

Location: Pineywoods Vineyard – Second Floor Ballroom 101 N Oak St Hemphill, TX 75948

Vendor Information:
-Indoor Spaces (10’ long) Climate Controlled
-Bring Your Table (6’ or 8’ with a tablecloth)
-Electricity Access
Affordable Vendor Pricing:
-$20 per day
-$50 for all three days

Important Notes:
-This is a second-floor event with stairs only.
-Vendors must leave their space clean.
We would love to have you join us for this exciting new tradition. Ready to secure your spot?

CLICK HERE TO BECOME A VENDOR https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLScTFdQlRMu…/viewform…

Fighting Pine Pollen: 4 Tips for Surviving Seasonal Allergies in the Piney Woods

By
Rachel Lauren
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Image by FabrikaPhoto on Envato Elements

Anyone living in East Texas knows the struggle: that familiar yellow dust coating everything in sight means allergy season is here again. While our majestic pines are part of what makes East Texas special, they can make life miserable for people who have allergies. It can be tough to weather the storm, especially when the storm is full of pollen, but it’s not impossible. That’s why Texas Forest Country Living has a few tips for you to get by smoothly this allergy season.

1. Track and Time Your Outdoor Activities

Just like checking the weather before planning a picnic, making a habit of monitoring local pollen counts can be a game-changer. Pine pollen is typically highest in the early morning and on warm, dry, breezy days. Use a weather app to track pollen levels, and try to schedule your outdoor activities for low-pollen times.

Most local weather stations and apps now include pollen forecasts alongside regular weather updates. Pay special attention to wind patterns – strong breezes can carry pine pollen for miles. The best times for outdoor activities are usually after rain, which helps clear the air, or in the late afternoon when pollen counts naturally decrease.

2. Start Your Allergy Defense Early

Here’s something that many people learn the hard way: waiting until you’re already miserable to start allergy treatment. Most local allergists recommend beginning your medication regimen about two weeks before pine pollen season typically starts – usually in mid-February. Whether you prefer over-the-counter medications or prescription options, getting ahead of your symptoms can make a world of difference.

Don’t forget to consult with your healthcare provider about the best prevention plan for your specific needs. Some people find relief with antihistamines alone, while others might need a combination of medications. Plenty of individuals have success with nasal sprays or eye drops as part of their preventive routine. The key is finding what works for you before the heavy pollen season hits.

3. Master Your Daily Routine

Some simple changes to your daily habits can provide significant relief. Shower before bed to wash away pollen, especially from your hair. Wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors to keep pollen out of your eyes and hair. If you exercise outdoors, consider using a light mask or bandana during peak pollen times.

Planning your day around pollen patterns might seem excessive, but it can be worth it in the long run. For instance, scheduling outdoor chores like gardening or mowing for late afternoon can make a big difference in your exposure levels. If you must be outside during high pollen times, wearing a hat and changing clothes immediately after coming indoors can help lessen the impact pollen has on your allergies.

4. Use Your Car as a Shield

Your vehicle can either be your worst enemy or best friend during the allergy season. Park in a garage or under a carport whenever possible to avoid the morning pollen coating. If your car must stay outside, run your AC on recirculate for a few minutes before driving off to help clear the air. Keep your car’s cabin air filter fresh, and consider replacing it more often during pollen season.

Drivers should keep their cars clean during pollen season, not just for appearance but for health. A weekly car wash can prevent pollen buildup — whether you do it at home or go to a car wash — and keeping windows closed during your commute can make a significant difference. It would be wise to keep a small supply of allergy medication in your glove compartment for emergencies.

Living in the Piney Woods means learning to dance with the pollen, but it doesn’t have to control your life. With these strategies in your arsenal, you can enjoy the coming seasons while keeping those pesky allergies at bay.

Governor Abbott Honors International Holocaust Remembrance Day

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Governor Greg Abbott today honored the millions of people killed during the Holocaust by lighting the Governor’s Mansion yellow in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day. 

“Today, we remember and pray for the millions of people who were killed during this atrocious period of history,” said Governor Abbott. “It’s a solemn reminder of the intense oppression the Jewish people faced and continue to face. In recognition of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Cecilia and I lit the Governor’s Mansion yellow to honor those whose lives were taken. Antisemitism and hate have no place in our state, in our country, or in the world. Texas proudly stands with the Jewish people and with Israel today and every day.”

(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 1/26/2025)

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

This week saw our men’s basketball team enter the NJCAA Division I rankings for the first time this season, and on Saturday we saw our basketball and baseball teams summon four wins in four games – with baseball notching a pair of walk-off wins just to add to the excitement. 

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

No. 19 Roadrunners Enter Rankings, Take Down Navarro College

The big snowstorm affecting our neighbors down south of the Pineywoods caused one cancellation, but the red-hot Roadrunners celebrated their recent entry into the Top 20 with a home win over a big rival on Saturday. 

Tuesday’s NJCAA Division polls greeted the Roadrunners with a No. 19 ranking, and after Wednesday’s scheduled game at Lamar State College-Port Arthur was postponed because of weather, AC’s men hosted Navarro College (where current AC assistant coach Eric Colbert once roamed the sidelines) at Shands Gymnasium on Saturday. 

The ‘Runners continued to do what they’ve been doing, putting together the nation’s best defense with an opportunistic offense to beat the Bulldogs by a 73-60 final. 

AC’s Jordan Mathews led all scorers with 21 points while grabbing eight rebounds. Chris Carpenter and Christian Jones chipped in with 11 points each and Kanaan Holder added another 10 points.

The Roadrunners (16-2, 9-1) will hit the road for a big game against No. 9 Panola College Wednesday in Carthage. Game time is 7:30 p.m. 

On Saturday, Feb. 1, AC returns home to host Paris Junior College at 4 p.m. 

Lady Roadrunners Split Week’s Conference Games, Beat Paris on Saturday

After dropping a road game in Kilgore on Wednesday, the Lady ‘Runners bounced back with a big win over Paris Junior College at home on Saturday, holding off the Lady Dragons by a 57-51 final at Shands Gymnasium. 

India McMahon’s huge day included a 20-point, 13-rebound effort. Lanaijha Johnson scored 13 points and pulled down six rebounds and Alecia Rivera-Scott finished with nine points and five assists. 

The Lady ‘Runners (9-9, 2-3) will play in Carthage on Wednesday against Panola College, with tipoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

AC’s ladies then return home on Saturday for a showdown with No. 15 Trinity Valley Community College starting at 2 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium. 

Baseball Opens Season with a Bang, Sweeps Galveston on Pair of Walk-Offs

What a way to open a new season.

The Roadrunner baseball team hosted Galveston College on Saturday in the season opener for both teams, and the ‘Runners cranked the volume knob on the excitement level early. 

Leadoff hitter Connor Ficarra’s first at-bat in Game 1 was a deep drive to centerfield ending in a spectacular catch from Galveston’s centerfielder.

In the bottom of the seventh inning and the score even at 2-2, however, Ficarra made sure no one was going to catch his shot.

Ficarra launched a solo homer over the right-field wall to give the Roadrunners the walk-off win in AC’s first game of the year.

The Roadrunners weren’t finished.

In Game 2’s extra-inning affair, the Whitecaps took a 7-6 lead in the top of the 9th, only to see AC’s Diesel Gonzalez rip a bases-loaded, game-ending single off the wall for yet another walk-off win to celebrate Opening Day.  

In the early win, AC’s Ryan Lewis drove in two runs, with Ficarra adding the other. Starting pitcher Ethan Jezierski struck out six hitters in three innings, and David Wilson earned the win in relief with his three-inning, four K performance. 

In the nightcap, Ryan Beaty drove in three runs, while Landon Bailey added two more. Gonzalez, Ashton Wagner (3-for-5 at the plate) and Cooper Molnes added an RBI each.

AC’s Sam Nitzke got the start, striking out seven ‘Caps in four innings. Ashton Martinez followed with two scoreless innings, Josh Munoz tossed an inning of relief and Colby Turner picked up the win after throwing two innings and allowing a single unearned run.

The Roadrunners (2-0) are scheduled to play doubleheader at Wharton College on Thursday, with first pitch set for 1 p.m. AC then will host those same Pioneers in a Sunday doubleheader starting at 1 p.m. at Poland Stadium on the AC campus. 

Lady Roadrunner Softball Hoping to Start This Week

First, the weather wiped out the Lady Roadrunner softball team’s Prospect Camp scheduled for this past Sunday (now rescheduled for March). 

Then came word the scheduled home/season opener against Cisco College set for this Wednesday also has been canceled.

The Lady ‘Runners are so ready to get going, they held an intrasquad game on Saturday just so they could feel some sort of competition.

After all the shuffling, AC’s ladies are hoping to get the 2025 season underway this week, when they’re schedule to participate in the Mardi Gras Invitation in Youngsville, Louisiana on Friday and Saturday.

AC will face Northwest Florida CC at 3:30 p.m. and Hinds College at 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31. The Lady ‘Runners on Saturday will take on Bishop CC at 12:30 p.m. and Meridian CC at 3 p.m. 

The home opener now is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, Feb. 5 against Tyler Junior College. That doubleheader will start at 1 p.m. at the Lady Roadrunner Softball Field on the AC campus. 

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.

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

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 website, 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:

Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball at Panola College, 5:30 p.m. in Carthage. 

No. 19 Roadrunner Basketball at No. 9 Panola College, 7:30 p.m. in Carthage. 

Friday, Jan. 31:

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

Lady Roadrunner Softball vs. NW Florida CC (3:30 p.m.) and Hinds College (6 p.m.) at Mardi Gras Invitational in Youngsville, LA.

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. No. 15 Trinity Valley CC, 2 p.m., Shands Gymnasium.

Roadrunner Basketball vs. Paris College, 4 p.m., Shands Gymnasium. 

Lady Roadrunner Softball vs. Bishop CC (12:30 p.m.) and Meridian CC (3 p.m.) at Mardi Gras Invitational in Youngsville, La. 

Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025:

Roadrunner Baseball vs. Wharton College, DH starting at 1 p.m., Poland Stadium on the AC campus. 

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

Capitol Update: Texas Budget Highlights, Property Tax Relief, and Community Outreach

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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On January 25th, 1839, the Republic of Texas adopted the iconic flag we know and cherish today. A simple but bold design that features a single five-point star surrounded by a blue field with two horizontal stripes, the upper stripe white, and the lower red. Colors in the flags of both the United States and Texas mean red for courage, white for purity and liberty, and blue for loyalty. 

Among the several designs considered for our state flag, the Lone Star stood out as particularly meaningful to those who created it.  I am proud that Texas still serves as a beacon for all who believe in personal freedom, limited government, and family values.  Texas has prevailed and cemented itself as the preeminent state representing the American Dream and the land of opportunity.

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

Capitol Update

With the 89th Legislative Session underway, House members had the opportunity to review the initial draft of the State’s budget, or the base budget, for the next two years. The House’s base budget, which was very similar to the Senate’s base budget, includes $335.7 billion in total spending and $154.1 in general revenue spending. 

One of the largest aspects of the base budget is the $26.3 billion reserved for the continued property tax relief the Legislature provided last session and $6.5 billion for further property tax relief. I appreciate the dedication exhibited in the base budget to addressing the needs of Texas homeowners. 

Additionally, the base budget provides for $4.85 billion in new funding for public education in Texas. This includes a $3.4 billion increase to fully fund student enrollment, $400 million for school safety improvements, and $450 million to the Teacher Retirement System to address rising insurance premiums for our retired teachers. 

The base budget also includes $139 million to operationalize new mental-health beds and to raise personal attendant nurse wages to $12 at state hospitals, $174 million is for the Early Childhood Intervention program, $73 million to expand access to Youth Crisis Outreach Teams, and $20 million for three new Women’s Preventative Health Mobile Units, one of which will be dedicated to serving the Deep East Texas region. 

Finally, the base budget also includes $36 billion for highway projects, $6.5 billion for border security, $2.5 billion for water infrastructure, $1.1 billion to address high-risk security threats and secure Texans’ data, $402 million for 600 new state troopers, $363 million for correctional officer raises, and $34 million for flood control dam projects. 

I am grateful for the dedication to the needs of all Texans the base budget exhibits. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature to, among many things, deliver meaningful property tax relief, explore appraisal reform, address the mental health needs of Deep East Texans, and deliver a much-needed pay raise to our hardworking public educators.

The mobile office is on the road again and looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: February 5 at the San Augustine County Courthouse from 9:30-11:30am; February 12 at the Polk County Commissioner’s Court Room in Livingston from 9:30-11:30am, or at the Tyler County Courthouse in Woodville from 1:30-3:30 pm;  February 15 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30am, or at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30pm.

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

Growing Mayhaws in Your Backyard

By
Cary Sims
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It was a gentleman this week from Huntington who was asking me how to grow fruit in his clay-ey, often saturated soils. We discussed the work and expense regarding the creation of a massive, raised bed to have enough internal drainage to give the roots of many fruit trees the chance to survive and thrive.

Eventually, I shifted our conversation to what might do well in the soil he had. The topic of mayhaws was explored. 

Mayhaws have the notoriety of growing in swamps and often without full sunlight. It was two gentleman named Haywood Quarles and Donald Capps of Burke that got me started on mayhaw fruit.  Mr. Quarles gave me a few germinated seedlings of mayhaws that I planted at my previous residence on Lancewood Circle north of Hudson almost 15 years ago.  

Though Mr. Quarles has passed away, his family still maintains his orchard and sells fruit. Mr. Capp’s late wife, BJ, put up some of the best Mayhaw jelly in the county.

Those trees at my old home were not in a low-lying area, they thrived and did well.  They bloomed and bore their first fruit the spring before we moved to our farm in Clawson. 

Mayhaws are native to Angelina and surrounding counties.  In fact, they are native to the entire southeastern United States. Mayhaws are in the rose family and the hawthorn genus. They are medium-sized trees that produce white blooms in the spring. Like many fruits, you will need space for two mayhaws as they will need to cross pollinate for best production. 

Mayhaws produce a small apple-like fruit that is usually less than 1 inch in diameter. They usually bloom in late February and sometimes sustain crop loss due to a late winter freeze. The fruit usually ripens in early May. 

The trees are also valued as an ornamental species.  Mayhaw trees are cold hardy and, if properly conditioned, they can survive freezing temperatures in their native range. Mayhaws are often found along river bottoms and along streams and in swamps. 

Common insect pests of Mayhaw include aphids, apple maggot, flat headed apple borers, and white flies. Plum curculio is the most debilitating insect.

Regarding disease, the most common that I have noticed is the cedar-apple rust.  While few products exist to combat this frequent issue, proper pruning and other management practices can help overcome it.

Although they are often found in low areas subject to perennial flooding, Mayhaws perform best in well-drained soils. Historically, Mayhaws have been collected from native stands, however, there are many named cultivars.  If my memory serves me right, Donald Capps told me the largest mayhaw tree he ever saw was on top of a hill in, what was then, property of Temple Inland. Others have told me about how they would gather the floating fruit from creeks and sloughs after they had ripened and fallen into the water.

With two mayhaws planted in a landscape that may not have optimal soil for most finicky fruit species, it should not be too long before you enjoy their wonderful spring blooms and late spring fruit of a native mayhaw.  

My Five Cents… A Weekly Column from Sen. Robert Nichols

By
Senator Robert Nichols
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Session is starting to heat up in Austin – the budget has been filed, committees have been appointed in the Senate, and our first hearings are scheduled. We hit the ground running this year and are prepared to accomplish as much as we can in the short time we have. 

Here are five things happening around your state:  

  1. Senate committee assignments for 89th Session released 

Last week, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced committee assignments for the 89th Legislative Session. I am honored to once again serve as the Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. I am also on the Senate Business and Commerce, Local Government, and Finance Committees. These committees cover a variety of subjects including infrastructure, broadband development, the state’s budget, local regulation, and more. In fact, next week the Senate will begin work on crafting the state’s budget. Senate Bill 1, the Appropriations Bill, was filed this week by Senate Finance Committee Chair Senator Joan Huffman. We will go through each article of the budget, line by line, to ensure that we are responsible stewards of state and federal funds. 

  1. BOOT II awards announced by Broadband Development Office

This week, the Broadband Development Office, which is within the Comptroller’s Office, announced awards totaling over $700 million for broadband projects across Texas to connect more than 93,000 homes and businesses that lack access. The Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT II) Program sought to support countywide infrastructure projects in counties with the greatest need. To ensure equity across the state, two counties from each of the Comptroller’s 12 regions were selected based on the percentage of unserved and underserved locations in the county. The program prioritized the deployment of fiber technology to bring connectivity to these areas. In Senate District 3, three counties were selected – Liberty, Newton, and Trinity. These three projects alone will connect more than 23,000 locations. 

  1. Winter Storm Enzo brings snow to East and Southeast Texas

For the first time ever, Southeast Texas was under a blizzard warning that stretched from the Golden Triangle east along I-10 into Louisiana. Winter Storm Enzo brought freezing temperatures and snow across the Gulf Coast – coating normally white sand beaches in white, powdery snow. The area saw accumulations up to five to six inches, a new record. The electric grid faired well during the freeze; only local outages due to downed distribution lines were reported. Texas had enough electricity to power the state through the storm. As always, we appreciate our first responders, linemen, and other officials who kept Texans safe and warm during the worst of the weather.  

  1. State employees fired after data breach, stolen funds

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announced last week it suffered a data breach in which account information for 61,000 individuals was improperly accessed by agency employees. Information accessed included personal identifying information like full names, home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, email addresses, Social Security numbers, health information, and more. It may have been accessed between June 2021 and December 2024. HHSC took action and terminated the employees and referred the case for investigation. Individuals should carefully review their accounts and information from health care providers, insurance providers, and financial institutions to ensure their activity is correct. If errors are found, the agency is asking individuals to report any questionable activity to the provider and contact law enforcement. Additionally, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients should check their Lone Star Card transactions for potentially fraudulent activity. If you think you are the victim of SNAP fraud, call 2-1-1 and choose option 3 to report the fraud to the OIG. You should also contact your local HHSC benefits office to have benefits replaced. 

  1. East Texan to be inducted into Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame

Ann Thomasson-Wilson of Jasper, TX is set to be inducted into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. She is a two-time bass fishing World Champion, fishing tackle innovator, and owner of Ann’s Tackle Shop which she opened in 1986 near Lake Sam Rayburn. The shop is a destination for anglers. Additionally, she even designed some of the gear in her store, including baits and hooks. At the end of last year, she retired and handed over the daily operations of the shop to her daughter, Debra Pryor, and long-time employee Laren Bush. 

Angelina College to Celebrate ‘SFA at AC Day’: Public Invited to Event Taking Place Jan. 28

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

Angelina College and Stephen F. Austin State University will celebrate their long-time partnership in an event titled “SFA at AC Day” and scheduled to take place starting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at the Angelina Center for the Arts Gallery on the AC campus.

The public is invited to attend. 

The event will recognize some of the partnership’s biggest accomplishments, including articulation agreements and the Transfer Alliance Partnership. Currently, SFA is accepting 90 credit hours from Angelina College, helping to strengthen the pathways for all AC students looking to transfer. 

Tuesday’s reception with SFA representatives will include activities and opportunities for the students, faculty, staff, and the entire community. Those in attendance will enjoy light refreshments while networking with colleagues and leaders from both institutions. 

Following the 10 a.m. reception, there will be an “SFA at AC Day” Student Fair, where students will be able to explore transfer opportunities while meeting with SFA representatives to learn about programs, scholarships and campus life as a Lumberjack. 

Pre-registration for the Student Fair is encouraged and available at the following link:  https://lumberjacks.sfasu.edu/register/?id=f09ea3b9-e49e-45d6-974f-6cbb0d9897e5

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

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