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Drug-Free All Stars Tour the Angelina County Jail

For the Drug-Free All Star October meeting, the All Stars toured the Angelina County Jail and received training to participate in alcohol compliance checks. The Drug-Free All Stars of Angelina County are a group of high school seniors that serve as role models for the community by living an alcohol, tobacco, and drug-free life. The Drug-Free All Star program, in partnership with TxDOT, aims to reduce crashes, injuries and death on Texas roadways. The All Stars saw first-hand the results of substance misuse and what daily life is like for inmates.  During the meeting, Texas Alcohol & Beverage Commission (TABC) Sergeant Bryant Jones trained the Drug-Free All Stars to conduct compliance checks to prevent the sale of alcohol to minors by local businesses. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (2020), 50.0% of people aged 12 or older used alcohol in the past month and compliance checks are an important prevention strategy to reduce sales to minors. A special thank you to Sheriff Tom Selman, Warden Nick Gardner, Judge Billy Ball, Captain Alton Lenderman, TABC Agent Jeremy Alexander, and Sergeant Bryant Jones for providing this experience for the All Stars.  To find out more about the Drug-Free All Star program, contact Abby Baker at (936) 634-9308. 

Since 1988, The Coalition has focused on eliminating the use of harmful substances by affecting public policy, laws, attitudes and behaviors, to foster healthy life-long choices for the local community. Visit The Coalition’s website at www.angelinacoalition.org or follow @TheCoalition936 on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. 

Giving Back to the Community During the Holiday Season

Have a Giving Heart

With Halloween just around the corner, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s aren’t so far behind either. It’s really fun to receive gifts because it makes everyone feel loved, happy, and that they belong. So, keeping that in mind, you shouldn’t only be on the receiving end. It’s important to give back not only to those who’ve given to us, but also to those who don’t have anyone to receive anything from. If you’re worried about the cost of things, that’s okay! Giving back doesn’t always have to involve materialistic things. They say that time is worth more than money or any materialistic gift. A great way to give your time to give back to the community is by volunteering. Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t have the luxury to sit by the fireplace or near the Christmas Tree to open gifts, nor do they have the ability to have a feast with their family. They may not even have good memories of the holidays. This is where you come in.

Thanksgiving in the Park

Thanksgiving in the Park is something that Greg Sims, the Shelter Manager at Family Crisis Center of East Texas, holds every year on Thanksgiving from 11am-3pm at Kiwanis Park, Lufkin. This has been a tradition for 7 years already. He truly has a wonderful passion to help those in need. The mission behind Thanksgiving in the Park is to give a sense of fellowship and belonging to those who don’t have that, and to feed the hungry. But really, it’s open to anyone who needs it. No one should be alone and without food for the holidays, so help make that a reality!

Sign up for volunteers are still open! Contact Greg Sims at (936) 229-0273 to ask about volunteering and anything else you may be curious about!

Center of Hope Polk County

The Center of Hope in Polk County is a Christian-based organization that empowers people of all faiths in need to break the vicious cycle of poverty, hunger, and hopelessness through prayer, education, and assistance. Their mission is to provide emergency food and other necessities to the needy of Polk County. They have a food pantry, they take part in disaster relief, they give support to those suffering from cancer, and they do so much more. Reach out and make a difference by volunteering with them!

Feed My Starving Children

The holidays, namely Thanksgiving, are almost here. What better way to celebrate than by giving back to the community and the world? Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) is a worldwide organization that fights hunger. It feeds people in need around the world, including victims of poverty, war, and natural disasters. FMSC has reservation-only volunteer opportunities. You can pack meals by yourself or with friends at a permanent packing site or at a MobilePack event that pops up around the country. When you volunteer, you’ll be helping to feed starving children in your own community and around the world. You’ll also be making a difference in the lives of those who are in need.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is an international charitable organization that supports a wide range of causes. They provide job training and aid for veterans, domestic abuse survivors, trafficking victims, and the homeless. They also provide services for the poor. During the holidays, they’re very active in giving back. Look for the person ringing the red bell! Volunteer opportunities are available in most locations. Contact your local Salvation Army to find out if they have any volunteer opportunities for the coming holidays.

Families First

Families First is a charitable organization that sponsors families in need during the holidays. Volunteers can sign up to sponsor a family and then purchase items from their holiday wish list. Sign-ups have not yet begun for the 2024 holiday season, but family information is expected to become available during the first week of November. If you don’t manage to assign yourself to a family in time, there are plenty of other resources and opportunities available on the site, including year-round volunteer jobs and information on organizing toy drives in your own community.

Go Out and Make a Difference!

By volunteering at various places like these or some other places, you’re putting your time, effort, and care into the people that you help. By showing others that you care, you make a difference in their day. Even a simple compliment or smile to someone could lift their spirit. It may not always be obvious, but it still matters. While it’s also plenty great to give money or gifts, it means even more to give your time.

Thanksgiving in the Park 2024

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It’s almost that time again for Thanksgiving In The Park. Please get in touch with Greg Sims at (936) 229-0273 if you plan on donating food or to help serve food. Please share so it reaches as many as possible! Without all of you, this event would not be possible. Volunteer sign ups are still open!

Thanksgiving in the Park will be held on Thanksgiving day from 11am-1pm.

26th Annual Christmas Home Tour

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Please unite with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) by supporting the 2024 CASA Christmas Home Tour set for Thursday, December 5th, 2024. It is through the generous partnerships of community members and businesses that they are able to ensure permanency and stability for abused and neglected children. CASA thanks you for your valuable time, continued kindness, and community support.

Come-and-go Locations:

  • 3 LaMadera St.
  • 275 Plantation Dr.
  • 1302 Tom Temple Dr.
  • 110 Willow Oak Dr.

Individual Tickets are $20.00 now, and will increase to $25.00 on December 1st.

Mid-Morning Coffee (Houston County)

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Next week, join us for a special Mid-Morning Coffee, hosted by the Family Crisis Center of East Texas. October is an important month as we raise awareness for Domestic Violence. We’ll hear from the team at the Family Crisis Center about the vital work they’re doing and how we can all play a part in raising awareness and offering support. Join us for coffee, connection, and an inspiring conversation on how we can make a difference together.

Mid-Morning Coffee
Thursday, October 17th at 9:30 am
Family Crisis Center
1512 E Loop 304, Building 200
Crockett, TX

Christmas Merry Market and Lighting of the Courthouse (Jasper County)

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Make sure to put this down in your calendar. It has always been a special event for the whole family to watch as the courthouse lights up with the holiday spirit. Come join us as the Merry Market will be open and filled with amazing vendors that make this evening even more spectacular! Help us, as we make our very own Downtown Jasper fit right into a Hallmark Movie. If you’re a store owner on the square, we would love for you to participate in the spirit with lights, storefront painting, etc. Working, growing, and succeeding together.

Date/Time Information:
November 23, 2024, from 5 pm to 8 pm

Location:
Downtown, Jasper

How One Central Texas Company Cut Their Energy Costs by 20% with Amerigy Energy

Managing operational costs is critical for businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to large commercial operations. Energy expenses often account for a significant portion of those costs, and making smart energy decisions can free up funds for other priorities, whether it’s new equipment, staffing, or expanding your services.

At Amerigy Energy, we specialize in helping businesses of all sizes—from small shops to large commercial operations—find the right energy plan to maximize savings. Here’s how one Central Texas company was able to cut its energy costs by 20% after switching to Amerigy.

The Challenge: Rising Energy Costs

Lone Star Printing,” a mid-sized print shop based in Central Texas, had been experiencing rising energy bills for the past two years. With 50 employees and a large amount of energy-intensive equipment, the business’s monthly electricity bill was steadily increasing, cutting into its profitability.

“We were in a long-term contract with our previous provider, and the costs kept creeping up every month,” said Mark Robinson, the owner of Lone Star Printing. “We didn’t realize how much we could save by exploring other options.”

Like many businesses, Lone Star Printing was out of contract on a variable plan, where market fluctuations led to unpredictable energy bills—especially during periods of peak demand.

The Solution: Switching to Amerigy Energy

After a neighboring business recommended Amerigy Energy, Mark decided to reach out for a free consultation. Our team worked closely with him to analyze the company’s energy usage and identify opportunities for savings. Based on our analysis, we suggested switching to a fixed-rate longer term energy plan, which would stabilize their rates and lower their overall energy costs.

“Amerigy showed us the breakdown of our usage and explained how a fixed-rate plan would help us save in the long run,” Mark said. “The process was seamless, and we saw the savings almost immediately.”

The Results: 20% Energy Savings

Within the first month of switching to Amerigy, Lone Star Printing saw a noticeable reduction in their energy costs. Over the year, the company saved approximately 20% on its monthly electricity bill.

Before switching, their average monthly energy bill was $5,000. After switching to a fixed-rate plan, their monthly energy costs dropped to $4,000—a savings of $1,000 per month. Over the course of a year, this totaled $12,000 in savings.

For Lone Star Printing, these savings allowed them to reinvest in new printing technology and expand their marketing efforts, driving further growth for the business.

Why Amerigy Energy?

  • Competitive Rates for All Businesses: Whether you’re a small, medium, or large business, Amerigy Energy offers some of the most competitive rates in the Texas market, thanks to our extensive network of energy providers.
  • Custom Solutions: We tailor our energy plans to suit your business’s unique needs, providing cost-effective solutions for small businesses as well as large commercial operations.
  • Transparent Pricing: We believe in clear, straightforward pricing. No hidden fees or complicated terms—just energy savings that help you manage your budget more effectively.

A Call to Action for Texas Businesses

Whether you run a small business, a mid-sized company, or a large commercial operation, the chances are you could be paying too much for electricity. If you’ve noticed your energy costs rising, it’s time to explore more competitive options. Don’t let outdated contracts and variable-rate plans eat into your profits.

Contact Amerigy Energy today for a free consultation. Our experts will review your current plan, analyze your energy usage, and help you find the best solution to cut costs and boost your bottom line. 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 the ERCOT Market of Texas.

TxDOT Campaign Asks People to be Cautious and Alert During Deadliest Month for Pedestrians

AUSTIN – While fall and winter give Texans a much-needed reprieve from the summer heat, the change in seasons also brings fewer daylight hours, making it harder for drivers to see pedestrians and keep them safe.

October was the deadliest month for pedestrians last year, with 80 pedestrians dying in Texas traffic crashes. It was also the month that Lisa Torry Smith was killed in a crash in 2017 as she was walking her 6-year-old son to kindergarten in Missouri City. A motorist drove through a crosswalk, hitting Lisa and leaving her son with a broken leg and fractured pelvis—and without a mother.

A new law in her honor now requires drivers to stop and yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks. Lisa’s sister, Gina Torry, is now advocating for pedestrian safety.

Sadly, Lisa’s story is just one of many. Over the last five years, pedestrian traffic fatalities in Texas have increased by 22%, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is reminding everyone to be extra cautious and alert.

“As the fall and winter months usher in shorter days and less light, pedestrians are at increased risk on our roads,” TxDOT Executive Director Marc Williams said. “Drivers may struggle to see pedestrians in lower-light conditions and must stay alert to avoid preventable collisions. Likewise, pedestrians can take extra precautions to be seen by drivers when walking after dark.”

TxDOT is taking to the streets with its “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign during October’s National Pedestrian Safety Month, reminding drivers to slow down and watch for people walking.

TxDOT’s educational campaign includes TV and radio spots, billboards, and digital advertising. TxDOT will also bring 34 street teams­­­­—walking billboards wearing safety messages—to areas that saw the greatest number of pedestrian fatalities last year. The street teams will be deployed in places where motorists and pedestrians share the road.

TxDOT encourages everyone to follow the safety tips below to prevent a deadly crash.

For drivers:

  • Stop and yield for pedestrians in crosswalks.
  • When turning, yield the right of way to pedestrians.
  • Put your phone away before you begin driving and pay attention so you’re prepared if pedestrians enter your path.
  • Be cautious when passing stopped buses or other vehicles that can block your view of pedestrians.
  • Follow the posted speed limit and drive to the conditions.

For people walking:

  • Cross the street only at intersections and crosswalks. Look left, right, then left again before crossing.
  • Make eye contact with drivers before crossing. Don’t assume traffic will stop for you.
  • Follow all traffic and crosswalk signals.
  • When walking, put away electronic devices that take your attention off the road.
  • Stay visible. Wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night.

“Be Safe. Drive Smart” is a key component of #EndTheStreakTX, a broader social media and word-of-mouth effort that encourages drivers to make safer choices while behind the wheel to help end the streak of daily deaths. Nov. 7, 2000, was the last deathless day on Texas roadways.

The information contained in this report represents reportable data collected from the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3). This information was received and processed by the department as of August 6, 2024. To view additional traffic safety data, visit TxDOT’s Traffic Safety Data Portal online.

The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, maritime, rail, and public transportation across the state.

Connecting You with Texas

Your Voice, Your Vote: Key Dates and Legislative Updates

As we near the 2024 Election Day on November 5, I’d like to offer a friendly reminder that the early voting period will begin on October 21 and will end on November 1. While I always encourage folks to take advantage of the early voting period to avoid Election Day lines, what’s most important is that you plan to participate in the process by exercising your right to vote. For more information about early voting locations, what you’ll need to bring with you to the polling locations, or any other questions you may have, please visit www.votetexas.gov.

With that, we’ll step back into our examination of House interim charges. . . 

House Interim Charge: Licensing & Administrative Procedures

The House Committee on Licensing & Administrative Procedures has jurisdiction over all matters related to the oversight of businesses and industry in Texas, the regulation of the sale of alcohol, and the Alcoholic Beverage Code. The Committee also has jurisdiction over the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, the Texas Real Estate Commission, and the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. 

During the interim, the Committee will monitor the implementation of a number of bills, including House Bill 1859 and 3579. HB 1859 waives certain renewal fees for an air conditioning and refrigeration contractor license and allows students in certification programs to act as air conditioning and refrigeration technicians. HB 3579 allows the executive director of the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to issue an emergency order halting the operation of a massage establishment if law enforcement or TDLR believes human trafficking is occurring at the location. 

House Interim Charge: International Relations and Economic Development 

The House Committee on International Relations and Economic Development has jurisdiction over many matters including the relations between Texas and other nations, workforce training, and economic development. The Committee also has jurisdiction over a number of agencies including the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office and the Texas Workforce Commission. 

During the interim, the Committee will monitor the implementation of House Bill 1755 and 4451. HB 1755 established the Lone Star Workforce Fund and a grant program to support workforce training programs to help fill the demand for a skilled workforce in Texas. Additionally, it will provide Texans with the opportunity to be trained and equipped with the skills necessary to obtain sustaining, full-time employment. HB 4451 seeks to address current and future workforce needs. The bill requires the Texas Workforce Commission to work with Texas’s 28 local workforce development boards to determine the availability of apprenticeships aligned with the industries represented on the high demand occupation list.

Additionally, the Committee will study the early childhood education industry. Specifically, the Committee will evaluate the current state of the industry and review current early childhood policies and evaluate their effectiveness.

The mobile office is still on the road again this month, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on October 16 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30  a.m. and the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 p.m.

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 my Capitol office may be reached at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will be posting regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and sharing information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/

Ranch Style Fall Festival and Bonfire

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Go on down to Stargazer Ranch in Livingston for a free admission, open venue & vendor event. There will be a good selection of vendors, food, live music, fun and bonfire. Entertainment for the whole family!
Ranger Eric from Lake Livingston State Park will have a booth and educate the kids on wildlife & conservation.
-Over 20 Vendors (11a-5p)
-Yard Games
-Food Truck, plus more food options
-Raffle: Free 2 Night Stay on the Ranch
-Photo Mini Sessions by Holly
-Bounce Houses by Sarah
-Face Painting by Sheri
-Live Music by Brian