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Blessing Bags for N.A.C.: Helping Those in Need in the Nacogdoches and Angelina Counties

Blessing Bags for N.A.C. has only been around for five years, already making a big difference in the Nacogdoches and Angelina County communities. They help the homeless, veterans without a place to call home, and those who are struggling by providing them with toiletries, meals and other necessities. Blessing Bags is committed to developing methods to fight against homelessness and poverty; to be the driving force and advocate for keeping homeless awareness issues before the community leaders. Seen as a leader in the community, having field experience with homeless encampments, Blessing Bags is called on by other non-profits agencies and individuals to provide support for at-risk persons with physical necessities for survival.

Inspired to Act

Because Stephanie Hess’s family–owner and CEO of Blessing Bag for N.A.C.–and they were once homeless in Arkansas, they were having to live everyday not knowing if they were going to have any food or a place to sleep for months.

Stephanie explained, “One day God sent us the help we needed. We started going to a church where we found hope again. My husband was introduced to someone who actually changed our lives forever by giving him a job with a company that he is with to this day.”

This allowed them to get an apartment and slowly get back on their feet. Through her husband’s job they were asked if they wanted to move to Texas. Her and her family prayed hard and once they were sure that’s what God wanted for them, they accepted the offer to move. After moving and being in Nacogdoches, Texas for a few months, Stephanie wanted to give back to the community and help those who are in the same kind of situation that she experienced in Arkansas, so she started Blessing Bags for N.A.C. Stephanie wanted to help others in Nacogdoches and Angelina Counties who are homeless and struggling with toiletry products, food, summer/winter essentials and with resources they may need.

A Heart for the Community

Every event that Blessing Bags for N.A.C. has, they help over 200 people with necessities and meals for the homeless. Blessing Bags truly cares about their community and love to help those in need. On Christmas of 2023 in Nacogdoches at the HOPE Center, they helped over 350 individuals and families with Christmas presents and a hot Christmas meal.

“What a joy it brought to all of us to be able to help the community,” Stephanie added. She truly has a giving and caring heart, and so do the others who work for Blessing Bags.

Blessing Bags Vision for the Future

Stephanie envisions a future for Blessing Bags to have a physical building where they can offer all that they have; products, help with getting a job, and so much more. By providing a physical address to receive what they need so those struggling can get back on their feet, all of their work and more will become both easier and possible. Their physical location would also serve as somewhat of a day center to allow them to get out of the heat or cold, to wash clothes, take showers and enjoy a warm meal.

Stephanie, and her family, know the struggles of being homeless. She knows the anxiety, the instability, and the hardship of it all.

Stephanie’s heart reaches out to those in the same kind of situation she and her family once was in, “I know the struggles and I want to be able to get people the help with what they may need and what they deserve.”

Thanksgiving 2024

Blessing Bags for N.A.C. has a Thanksgiving Blessings Community Meal at the HOPE Center in Nacogdoches on November 23rd at 12 p.m. They will be offering a hot Thanksgiving meal, toiletries, and other necessities. They are desperately needing donations for this upcoming Thanksgiving meal. Turkey’s, Dressing or Boxed Stuffing, Boxed Potatoes, Rolls, Gravy, Green Beans, Pumpkin, Sweet Potato Pies, or any other food item you can bring. They also accept monetary donations to help buy what is needed. If you would like to donate anything Stephanie and everyone at Blessing Bags would greatly appreciate it. Nacogdoches residents can drop off their donations at Blue Eyed Cocos – 412 E Main from 10-6, Tuesday – Saturday. If Lufkin residents would like to donate please contact Stephanie Hess at her office number, 936-875 8706 or her cell at 501-504-3077. If Stephanie is not available, call Gabriel Hernandez at 936-240-8641.

Commercial Energy Efficiency: Top 5 Upgrades That Pay for Themselves

Reducing operational costs is a priority for any business, and one of the most effective ways to achieve this is by investing in energy-efficient upgrades. Not only do these upgrades lower your energy bills, but they also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly business model. Here are the top five energy efficiency upgrades that pay for themselves through substantial savings and quick payback periods.

1. LED Lighting

Switching from traditional lighting to LED lighting is one of the simplest and most cost-effective upgrades any business can make. LED lights use up to 75% less energy than incandescent and fluorescent bulbs, last significantly longer, and emit less heat, which can also reduce cooling costs.

  • Cost: While initial installation costs can vary, replacing traditional lighting in a small office can cost around $1,000–$3,000.
  • Estimated Savings: LEDs can reduce lighting energy costs by up to 50–75%, resulting in savings of around $500–$1,500 annually for a small business.
  • Payback Period: Approximately 1–3 years.

Bonus: Many utility companies offer rebates for LED lighting upgrades, further reducing the payback period.

2. Smart Thermostats

Heating and cooling account for a substantial portion of a commercial building’s energy usage. A smart thermostat can automatically adjust the temperature based on occupancy, reducing energy waste when spaces are unoccupied. Many smart thermostats can also be monitored and controlled remotely, giving business owners greater control over energy use.

  • Cost: Smart thermostat installation typically ranges from $500 to $2,000, depending on the size and complexity of the system.
  • Estimated Savings: Businesses can save around 10–15% on heating and cooling costs, translating to $300–$800 annually for a small office.
  • Payback Period: 1–2 years.

Tip: Combining smart thermostats with programmable schedules can further optimize energy use and increase savings.

3. Energy Management Systems (EMS)

An Energy Management System (EMS) allows businesses to monitor, control, and optimize their energy usage across multiple systems, from lighting to HVAC. EMS provides data-driven insights that reveal patterns of energy waste and areas where consumption can be reduced, making it easier to manage energy costs effectively.

  • Cost: Depending on the size and functionality, installing an EMS can cost between $5,000 and $20,000.
  • Estimated Savings: An EMS can reduce energy consumption by 10–30%, saving a medium-sized business between $1,500 and $5,000 annually.
  • Payback Period: 2–5 years, depending on the scale of implementation and usage patterns.

Long-Term Benefit: EMS systems not only offer immediate savings but also enable ongoing optimizations, providing continuous returns on your investment.

4. Efficient HVAC Systems

Older HVAC systems can be a major source of energy inefficiency in commercial buildings. Upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC system reduces energy consumption, enhances indoor air quality, and minimizes maintenance costs.

  • Cost: The cost of a new HVAC system varies greatly, with small systems starting around $3,000 and larger commercial systems reaching up to $50,000.
  • Estimated Savings: New, efficient HVAC systems can reduce heating and cooling costs by 20–40%, translating to potential savings of $1,000–$5,000 per year.
  • Payback Period: 3–7 years.

Tip: Regular HVAC maintenance can prolong system life and efficiency, further enhancing your savings.

5. Insulation and Window Upgrades

Improving insulation and upgrading to energy-efficient windows can dramatically reduce heating and cooling costs by minimizing heat transfer. Well-insulated buildings retain heat during winter and keep out the heat during summer, reducing the load on HVAC systems.

  • Cost: Insulation upgrades can range from $1,000 to $5,000, while high-efficiency windows cost around $500 to $1,000 each.
  • Estimated Savings: Proper insulation and windows can cut heating and cooling costs by up to 30%, resulting in annual savings of $800–$2,500 for small to medium businesses.
  • Payback Period: 3–5 years.

Environmental Benefit: These upgrades not only reduce energy costs but also contribute to a smaller carbon footprint by lowering overall energy consumption.

Additional Savings Tip: Switch to a Competitive Energy Provider

In addition to making these upgrades, switching to a competitive energy provider that Amerigy Energy can help you find, can amplify your savings. By securing a lower rate through Amerigy, your business can maximize the financial benefits of these energy-efficient improvements. Our fixed-rate plans also help to protect your budget from market volatility, providing predictable costs that make it easier to see the returns on your energy efficiency investments.

Ready to Save on Energy Costs?

By investing in these top five energy efficiency upgrades, your business can achieve significant savings, reduce its environmental impact, and improve its bottom line. Contact Amerigy Energy today to learn more about optimizing your energy plan and maximizing savings through efficiency improvements at 877-631-8875.


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

Roadrunners Power Past Strength ‘N Motion in Season Opener

Five AC Players Reach Double Figures in Win

The early part of a basketball season features a “mix and match” approach from the coaching staff, as teams strive to identify which players can do what when the bright lights start shining.

In Saturday’s season-opening win, Angelina College head coach J.J. Montgomery made sure every available player had the opportunity to show what he can bring to the team.

The Roadrunners got double-figure scoring from five different players on the way to a 94-55 win over Strength ‘N Motion at Shands Gymnasium.

Freshman Qasim Boyd led the ‘Runners with 16 points and four steals, while Jordan Mathews (14 points), Kanaan Holder (13 points), and Kyle Morgan and Milton Rice III (10 points each) all reached double figures. 

Chris Carpenter added five assists in the win. 

Boyd was 4-for-5 from the field and 8-for-9 from the free-throw line, and Christian Jones hit both of his three-point attempts. The ‘Runners finished with nine treys, with Morgan, Holder, and Rice drilling two each.

Christian Jones (24) of Angelina College drives around a defender during Saturday’s game against Strength ‘N Motion. The Roadrunners powered through to a 94-55 win in the season opener at Shands Gymnasium. (Clara Sonet photo for AC Athletics)

The Roadrunners will host Dallas College-Eastfield at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Shands Gymnasium.

Commissioners Approve Projects for District

LUFKIN – Texas Transportation Commissioners on Thursday approved more than $1 billion in new construction projects statewide, with more than $15 million earmarked for the Lufkin District.

Houston County was approved for a $13.1 million construction project that will resurface SL 304 in Crockett from just east of SH 21 to just west of SH 19. Texas Materials Group, Inc., Cedar Park Tx, will serve as the contractor. No timeline for completion has been set.

Shelby County was awarded $2 million that will be used to replace the bridge on CR 3012 at the tributary of Prairie Creek, CR 4054 at West Creek, and CR 4098 at Blackwater Creek. In addition, the project includes the replacement of a bridge in Nacogdoches County on CR 905 at Beech Creek. THK Construction LLC, Longview Tx, will serve as contractor for the project. No timeline for completion has been set.

Pre-construction meetings will be held prior to these projects beginning. Signage will be installed announcing the impending work. Motorists should stay alert near the work zones and obey all traffic control once work begins.

Commissioners also approved $162,000 for the Center Municipal Airport in Shelby County that will be used to replace the airport’s automated weather system. A local share of $18,000 will be added to total a $180,000 contract.

For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 633-4395.

Workplace Safety Training (Angelina County)

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In today’s fast-paced world, situational awareness and verbal de-escalation are essential skills. Join us as Chris Powell, with Arcuri Group, presents an introductory overview on perceiving, comprehending, and predicting events in our environment—helping prevent volatile situations before they escalate.

These skills can make a real difference in business, public service, or any field. Don’t miss out on this vital learning opportunity with Chamber University!

Thank you to our sponsors: Lufkin Economic Development CorporationEtech, and the Arcuri Group.

Date: November 6
Time: 10 AM to 12 PM
Location: Chamber Office
Cost:Investor: $30 | Non-Investor: $40
Register online: bit.ly/CU-1124

Texas A&M Forest Service Celebrates Texas Arbor Day with School Presentations, Over 10,000 Trees Given Away

COLLEGE STATION, Texas —Texas A&M Forest Service foresters and staff celebrated Texas Arbor Day today with school presentations, tree plantings, and tree giveaways across the state.

Over 10,100 tree seedlings were given to students and community members throughout the day.

More than 70 Texas A&M Forest Service employees made Texas Arbor Day presentations at 31 schools and organizations. The presentations reached more than 6,900 students at campuses in Baytown, Chilton, Copperas Cove, Dallas, El Paso, Gladewater, Killeen, Laguna Vista, Longview, Marshall, Manvel, Mesquite, Mexia, Moulton, Palacios, Palestine, San Antonio, San Benito, Stonewall, Tyler, and Waco.

“Texas Arbor Day is a special day to celebrate trees and the benefits they provide, benefits like clean air, clean water, cooler temperatures, and even improved health,” said Gretchen Riley, Texas A&M Forest Service Forest Interim Management Chief. “What better place to talk about the importance and value of trees than with the next generation of stewards.”

Along with presentations, Texas A&M Forest Service staff planted 3-gallon-sized trees on school campuses and gave students over 7,000 bur oak, chinkapin oak, escarpment oak, overcup oak, Afghan pine, and loblolly pine seedlings.

The presentations, customized to the students’ grade levels, explained the life cycle of trees, the many benefits trees provide humans and our economy and the history of Texas Arbor Day.

Mac Martin, Texas A&M Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Program Leader, said Texas Arbor Day is about more than planting trees, it serves as a reminder that our lives are connected to forests and the trees around us.

“Trees and forests are integral to the daily lives and values of all Texans. They influence everything from our health and the economy to culture and recreation,” said Martin. “We protect what we cherish, and we can only cherish what we understand. By sharing conservation and tree education with schools and students throughout the state, we are cultivating a brighter future for both our forests and the residents of Texas.”

Separately, over 2,400 Shumard oak, live oak, escarpment oak, Mexican white oak, southern red oak and bur oak seedlings were given away to community members across the state at 21 Texas A&M Forest Service offices.

In Dallas, 600 mature trees were planted at the Great Trinity Forest Gateway Park and Horse Trail in a Green Futures corporate sustainability partnership coordinated by Texas A&M Forest Service.

The tree-planting project is an effort to address the impacts of the emerald ash borer (EAB) pest affecting the greater Dallas area and Great Trinity Forest. EAB is a highly invasive pest that specifically targets ash trees, causing significant damage and often leading to tree mortality. In the Great Trinity Forest, ash trees comprise a significant percentage of the forest’s canopy. By introducing a wider variety of native trees, the project aims to strengthen the forest ecosystem, mitigate flooding at the park, and improve water quality in the nearby Trinity River.

The project is sponsored by PepsiCo and was made possible with partners from the Texas Conservation Alliance, Trinity-Blacklands Urban Forestry Council, and City of Dallas Drinking Water Utility.

Each year, Texas celebrates Arbor Day on the first Friday of November, increasing awareness of the benefits and value of trees. This year’s theme is Treet Texas Well.

Texas Arbor Day partners include the Texas Forestry Association and the Texas Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture.

For details about the history of Arbor Day in Texas, visit tfsweb.tamu.edu/arborday.

For Texas Arbor Day photos, visit https://agrilife.photoshelter.com/galleries/C00004ctr0uNLkTQ/G0000Rpd8MU7x8m0/Texas-Arbor-Day-2024.

Angelina College Weekly Update 

Hey, sports fans,

Basketball’s here, and soccer’s not finished.

Both AC basketball teams tipped off their regular seasons this weekend, with a Lady Roadrunner coach earning his very first win as a head coach. 

The men’s soccer team won on Tuesday to advance to the Region XIV Conference Tournament semifinals taking place this week in Tyler. A win likely would earn the Roadrunners a berth in the upcoming national tournament for the third straight season. 

And on Saturday, the Roadrunner men’s basketball team opened the new season with a win at home. 

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

No. 13 Roadrunners Blank Paris in Tournament Quarterfinal

Before the 2024 season began, the Angelina College men’s soccer team had as its goal another trip to the national tournament. Having been there the previous two seasons in succession, the Roadrunners were looking for a “three-peat.”

On Wednesday, the ‘Runners took their first big steps toward another trip to Wichita, Kansas.

AC, currently ranked No. 13 in the national polls, blanked Paris 2-0 in the Region XIV Conference Tournament quarterfinals at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex on the AC campus.

Alek Melo received a nice feed in the box and used a hesitation move to freeze the Paris keeper for the first goal of the match. The Roadrunners led 1-0 in the 17th minute.

Later in the first half, Melo had his shot attempt blocked, but teammate Samuel Bouable was there for cleanup duty, ripping the nets for the 2-0 AC lead.

Thanks to a sticky ‘Runner defense and stellar goalkeeping from AC’s Casper Madsen, AC’s men were able to finish off the match and eliminate the Dragons from the postseason.

Next up for the Roadrunners is a road trip to perennial postseason rival Tyler Junior College. AC will face the No. 10 Apaches on Tuesday, Nov. 5 in Tyler. A win would have AC hosting a finals match (date and time TBA) and could possibly cement a berth in the upcoming NJCAA Division I Soccer National Tournament in Wichita, Kansas. 

Kickoff time is 6 p.m. The match will be live-streamed on Tyler’s YouTube channel (TJCApacheAthletics). 

Lady Roadrunner Basketball Splits Games at McLennan Classic in Waco

The Lady Roadrunner basketball team got off to a nail-biting start to the season on Friday, beating Weatherford College 50-49 at the McLennan Classic in Waco – despite suiting up just eight players, with others on the roster sidelined with injuries. First-year head coach (and long-time assistant coach) Randy McKelvey earned his very first win as a head coach.

India McMahon led AC in scoring with 20 points, and Maria Andrade notched a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. Andrade also added three assists, three steals, and two blocks to her totals. Alicia Rivera-Scott added seven points in the win.

On Saturday, the short-handed Lady Roadrunners pushed the host team McLennan College hard before falling in a 61-56 loss.

AC’s ladies will host their home opener on Wednesday, Nov. 6 against Hill College. Tipoff at Shands Gymnasium is 6 p.m., and the game will be live-streamed on TSBN Sports.

Roadrunner Basketball Opens Season with Win over Strength ‘N Motion

The early part of a basketball season features a “mix and match” approach from the coaching staff, as teams strive to identify which players can do what when the bright lights start shining.

In Saturday’s season-opening win, Angelina College head coach J.J. Montgomery made sure every available player had the opportunity to show what he can bring to the team.

The Roadrunners got double-figure scoring from five different players on the way to a 94-55 win over Strength ‘N Motion at Shands Gymnasium.

Freshman Qasim Boyd led the ‘Runners with 16 points and four steals, while Jordan Mathews (14 points), Kanaan Holder (13 points), and Kyle Morgan and Milton Rice III (10 points each) all reached double figures. 

Chris Carpenter added five assists in the win. 

Boyd was 4-for-5 from the field and 8-for-9 from the free-throw line, and Christian Jones hit both of his three-point attempts. The ‘Runners finished with nine treys, with Morgan, Holder, and Rice drilling two each.

The Roadrunners will host Dallas College-Eastfield at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday at Shands Gymnasium. The game will be live-streamed on TSBN Sports. 

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:

Tuesday, Nov. 5:

No. 13 Roadrunner Soccer at No. 3 Tyler Junior College, Region XIV Conference Tournament Semifinals, 6 p.m. in Tyler. 

Wednesday, Nov. 6:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Hill College, 6 p.m., Shands Gymnasium

Roadrunner Basketball vs. Dallas College-Eastfield, 7:30 p.m., Shands Gymnasium

Friday, Nov.8:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Collin County CC, Tyler Classic, 3 p.m. in Tyler

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. South Plains CC, Tyler Classic, 1 p.m. in Tyler 

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

Roaches Getting into Your Home

Talking with a dear friend at church earlier this week, the subject of roaches (cockroaches) trying to get into our homes as the winter approaches became our topic of discussion. Perhaps few pests bring as much disdain as these! I think even termites receive more love than roaches. 

And that’s not without just cause. Cockroaches carry diseases that can cause food poisoning or diarrhea. Their saliva, feces, and cast skins can irritate allergies and asthma in people, especially children. From restaurants, hospitals, warehouses, offices, and any building with food-handling areas, roaches can be major pests. In addition to disease and, they secrete a substance that stains surfaces and produce irritating odors. 

Some of the more common ‘roaches’ in our area include the German cockroach, a Smokey-brown cockroach, the American cockroach, and the Oriental cockroach. There are more variants and a new one to the list is a Turkestan cockroach, scientifically known as Blatta lateralis.  

During extreme temperatures, all manner of insects (including cockroaches) try to find a more comfortable environment, preferably one where they can also locate food and water. Yes, your home is generally a great place to find food and water.  

Thought tempting as your home may be, there are several steps one can take to keep these insects (and others as well) outside your house.

First, keep debris and firewood away from the house. Stacking firewood against the side of your residence provides a “ladder” for roaches and other pests (termites for example to reach above a treated foundation and make an entrance.

Be sure to also prune any trees or shrubs touching or hanging over the house. Again, these overhanging branches might not only damage the roof, but provide a conduit for entry.

Take some time to check and replace weather-stripping around doors and windows as necessary. A quick trip to the hardware store and you’ll be armed with all you need to seal up your house. While you are at it, seal cracks, crevices, and areas of pipe penetration in exterior walls with a recommended sealant. 

For brick homes with weep holes, fill that up with a breathable barrier such as steel wool, copper mesh, or screen wire. While it is important for your house to ‘breath’, we can allow the “breathing” to not permit insects to enter. 

The obvious first step is to keep your home clean. If you limit access to food and water, roaches cannot survive and reproduce.

Keep all food stored in a refrigerator or in insect-proof containers made of plastic, metal or glass with tight-fitting covers. Do not leave pet food and water out overnight. Wash your dishes, pans and utensils as soon as you are done using them. Remove all food or spilled drinks from countertops, and clean counters, sinks and tables with soapy water.

Vacuum floors and all cracks and crevices to remove debris and food. Take garbage out daily in closed plastic containers. Keep waste containers clean. 

Repair any leaky water pipes or faucets.

Recycle cans and bottles on a regular basis. Letting them build up provides just enough residue for roaches to feed upon. Additionally, wash and clean recycling those bins.

Baits are a fantastic next step. Baits can be placed in hidden locations in warm damp rooms, as well as those close to food sources, within the home. For most, you don’t event have to touch the pesticide to put it out. 

Boric acid is a pesticide considered by many to be organic. In truth, you will find it categorized as inorganic, because of its chemical make-up. Boric acid does not contain carbon, leading to the chemical category of ‘inorganic.’ However, it is a low toxicity pesticide, and therefore many call it ‘organic.’ 

Place boric acid in isolated places, such as behind and under refrigerators, stoves and sinks. Do not apply boric acid where children and pets can reach it.

As with any pesticide, there are safety precautions to take. Just because a product is considered ‘organic’ or has low toxicity, it is still a pesticide! In humans, and when ingested in high doses, boric acid can harm the stomach and intestines. It can also irritate the respiratory tract and skin, so be sure to wear gloves and a mask to prevent inhaling the powder. 

The final step was probably what many thought should have been first- treat the foundation of the home with a pesticide labeled for exterior home insect control. Some good options include any product with ingredients such as permethrin, cypermethrin or deltamethrin.

Apply pesticides around doors, windows, eaves, and other potential points of entry. Indoor treatments should be directed at potential points of entry as well as corners, cracks and crevices. Follow label directions for dosage, mixing and application methods.

Should your infestation become serious and your efforts do not control them, do not hesitate to contact a professional exterminator. 

Governor Abbott Lauds Texas’ Manufacturing Industry In Corrigan

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today celebrated the grand opening of the new Corrigan OSB, LLC (“Oriented Strand Board”) facility and lauded Texas’ robust manufacturing industry at the opening ceremony in Corrigan.

“We are proud that Texas is home to a booming manufacturing sector,” said Governor Abbott. “Corrigan OSB’s expanded manufacturing facility will be the largest OSB facility in all of North America. It will provide needed, high-quality building materials to Texas’ growing economy. Thanks to our strong manufacturing sector, ‘Made in Texas’ has never been a bigger brand. This $211 million expansion of this facility is an important investment in the future of Corrigan and an important piece in the economy of a bigger, better Texas.”

Following a tour of the new facility, Governor Abbott touted the booming Texas economy while addressing a crowd of more than 200 entrepreneurs and workers, pointing to the state’s Best Business Climate ranking and reasonable regulations as primary factors for Fortune 500 companies flocking to the state and CEOs continuing to rank Texas as the Best State for Business for 20 years in a row. The Governor also praised Texas’ young, diverse, growing, and highly skilled workforce as a major draw for employers from across the world to continue to do business in Texas.

The Governor was joined at the opening ceremony by RoyOMartin Chairman & CEO Roy Martin, Polk County Judge Sydney Murphy, Polk County Sheriff Byron Lyons, Polk County Commissioner Milt Purvis, Polk County Constable Ray Myers, City of Corrigan Mayor Johnna Gibson, and other business leaders and local officials. 

In 2021, Governor Abbott awarded Corrigan OSB, LLC a Texas Enterprise Fund grant of $278,000, which included a $3,000 Veteran Created Job Bonus.

Learn more about Corrigan OSB, LLC.

(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 10/30/2024)
(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 10/30/2024)
(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 10/30/2024)

No. 13 Roadrunners Blank Paris in Tournament Quarterfinal

AC to Face No. 3 Tyler in the Semifinals

Before the 2024 season began, the Angelina College men’s soccer team had as its goal another trip to the national tournament. Having been there the previous two seasons in succession, the Roadrunners were looking for a “three-peat.”

On Wednesday, the ‘Runners took their first big steps toward another trip to Wichita, Kansas.

AC, currently ranked No. 13 in the national polls, blanked Paris 2-0 in the Region XIV Conference Tournament quarterfinals at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex on the AC campus.

Alek Melo received a nice feed in the box and used a hesitation move to freeze the Paris keeper for the first goal of the match. The Roadrunners led 1-0 in the 17th minute.

Angelina College’s Alek Melo prepares to slam home a goal during Wednesday’s match against Paris Junior College. The No. 13 Roadrunners blanked the Dragons 2-0 in the Region XIV Conference Tournament quarterfinal match on the AC campus. (Clara Sonet photo for AC Athletics)

Later in the first half, Melo had his shot attempt blocked, but teammate Samuel Bouable was there for cleanup duty, ripping the nets for the 2-0 AC lead.

Angelina College’s Samuel Bouable (3) works around a Paris Junior College defender during Wednesday’s match. The No. 13 Roadrunners blanked the Dragons 2-0 in the Region XIV Conference Tournament quarterfinal match on the AC campus. (Clara Sonet photo for AC Athletics)

Thanks to a sticky ‘Runner defense and stellar goalkeeping from AC’s Casper Madsen, AC’s men were able to finish off the match and eliminate the Dragons from the postseason.

Next up for the Roadrunners is a road trip to perennial postseason rival Tyler Junior College. AC will face the No. 10 Apaches on Tuesday, Nov. 5 in Tyler. 

The tentative kickoff time is 7 p.m. The match will be live-streamed on Tyler’s YouTube channel (TJCApacheAthletics). 

The email address for AC’s Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu