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Public Hearing Planned on US 59 Upgrade (Future I-69)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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LUFKIN – A public hearing on proposed improvements to US 59 from Shepherd to the Trinity River is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 19, in the Shepherd High School cafeteria, 1 Pirate Lane, in Shepherd. The proposed construction project is being designed to upgrade the roadway to meet interstate standards.

The public is invited to attend and view the proposed schematic of the project, speak to TxDOT officials, and leave comments. All comments must be received online, in person, or postmarked by January 10, 2025.

The proposed improvements to US 59 will include the reconstruction of US 59 main lanes providing two lanes in each direction, and the construction of a new one-way, two-lane northbound and southbound frontage roads. The project will be designed to meet interstate standards for potential future designation as I-69.

Proposed improvements also include the construction of new Trinity River bridges with turnarounds (U-turns); overpasses with U-turns at FM 1127 and SL424/Lake Pool Road; a U-turn at FM 223 from southbound US 59 to northbound US 59; and pedestrian accommodations along the frontage roads from FM 223 (Church Street) north to SL 424/Lake Pool Road.

The existing right-of-way ranges between 190 and 456 feet. The proposed improvements would require additional right-of-way ranging between 455 and 835 feet.

The proposed project is approximately six miles in length and extends from the city of Shepherd in San Jacinto County to north of the Trinity River in Polk County. The proposed project is anticipated to enhance safety, improve mobility, provide a more efficient hurricane evacuation route, and provide system connectivity to I-69.

Schematic and environmental studies will be done through early 2025, with right-of-way acquisitions and utility relocations tentatively scheduled for 2025–2028.

For more information, visit txdot.gov and search “US 59 Upgrade Shepherd to Trinity River”, or contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 633-4395.

 

Cedar Fever Season Begins in Texas

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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It’s time for Texans to brace for cedar fever season once again. Cedar fever is an allergic reaction to the pollen released by mountain cedar trees, and unfortunately, you don’t have to be allergic to the pollen for it to affect you.

In Texas, the predominant species of mountain cedar is Ashe juniper, making cedar fever especially irritating in the Hill Country west of I-35 where there are primarily juniper trees mixed in with oaks and a few other species.

“Cedar fever is irritating to many due to the quantity and density of Ashe junipers in Central Texas that all produce pollen at the same time, which leads to a high concentration of pollen in the air,” said Robert Edmonson, Texas A&M Forest Service Biologist and ISA Certified Arborist.

The pollen from Ashe junipers isn’t particularly allergenic or harmful, but its concentration is what irritates most because your body perceives it as a threat and begins to fight it.

Since the pollen is spread by wind, cedar fever can even affect individuals who are not near a high concentration of juniper trees. And the source isn’t limited to Ashe junipers. In more eastern parts of the state there are also eastern redcedars that pollinate around the same time and can induce a similar response from people’s auto-immune systems.

Besides the massive quantity of pollen released, cedar fever is also problematic because of the timing of the pollen release. Most trees pollinate in the spring when many are expecting to have allergies. Ragweed pollen and mold spores can contribute to allergies in the fall, but very few plants pollinate during the winter. Juniper trees are the exception.

These trees typically begin producing pollen in mid-December, often triggered by colder weather or the passage of a cold front. Pollen production reaches its peak in mid-January, before slowly tapering off toward the beginning of March.

“Cold fronts are marked by very dry and windy conditions with rapid pressure changes which trigger pollen cones to open and release pollen grains,” said Edmonson. “In certain conditions, you can even see the pollen blowing off trees.”

For people new to the Central Texas region, or unfamiliar with cedar fever as a whole, it can also lead to confusion since the pollination period of mountain cedar trees occurs during the peak of cold and flu season. It’s not uncommon for people experiencing cedar fever to mistake their symptoms for a cold or the seasonal flu, especially given the variety of symptoms triggered by cedar fever. These include fatigue, sore throat, runny nose, partial loss of smell and some people run a slight fever. However, if your fever is higher than 101.5°F, then pollen likely isn’t the cause.

You can treat cedar fever by taking allergy medications and antihistamines, but you should consult with your physician or health care professional before taking new medications. You can also try and anticipate the pollen by tuning in to your local news station, many of which will give you the pollen count and can predict when it’s going to be a particularly pollen-heavy day. On those days, it’s smart to keep windows and doors closed, and to limit the amount of time you spend outdoors. It can also be helpful to install higher MERV-rated air filters in home and auto HVAC systems and invest in home air purifiers.

Removing juniper trees from your property isn’t recommended primarily because the pollen is airborne and—since they often wait to release their pollen until it’s cold, dry and windy—that pollen can blow for miles. It’s also important to note that only male juniper trees release pollen.

“The male trees have larger pollen cones, while the female trees have much smaller reproductive cones, which are very inconspicuous, but that’s what is pollinated from the male trees,” said Edmonson.

While cedar fever might sound and seem particularly hostile, Ashe junipers are really just a species like any other, feeling out the conditions and waiting for the perfect moment to release their pollen in order to set their offspring up for success come springtime.

For more information about how to identify Ashe junipers and/or eastern redcedars in your own backyard, check out the Texas A&M Forest Service’s Texas Tree ID webpage or the My Tree ID mobile app. You can also see the distribution of junipers, as well as a variety of other tree species across the state, via our Forest Distribution App.

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

Shands Gymnasium was rockin’ on Wednesday (with some help from the Lufkin Jr. Panther Cheer team) for the men’s basketball conference-opening win against a big rival, the Lady Roadrunners split a pair of tough games on the road in Temple and the baseball team will spend this Saturday looking for some more Roadrunners. 

And this reminder: The AC campus will close for the holidays on Friday, Dec. 13, and we’ll return the week of Jan. 6.    

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

Roadrunner Basketball Takes First Two Conference Games

The Roadrunner men returned from the Thanksgiving break with no time for downtime, heading straight into the Region XIV conference opener – against the defending conference champs, no less.

The Roadrunners faced rival Lee College on Wednesday and sent the Shands Gymnasium crowd into a frenzy with a 66-52 win in the league opener for both teams. 

With both teams grinding for every bucket, AC’s Kyle Morgan came off the bench to lead the ‘Runners with 18 points. Kanaan Holder drove his way to 15 points while dishing out four assists, Chris Carpenter added 13 points and Jordan Matthews scored 11 to help boost the Roadrunners to the win.

A hotly contested matchup saw both teams putting forth strong defensive efforts leading to a low-scoring affair with no commanding leads. With 7:05 remaining in the contest, Lee College converted a free throw to tie the game at 45-45.

Holder then would drive for another bucket in the paint, and the Roadrunners would outscore the Navigators 21-7 over the final seven minutes to secure the win.

On Saturday, AC’s men rolled past Coastal Bend Community College, beating the Cougars 75-57 in Beeville. 

The Roadrunners (8-1, 2-0) will face two more conference opponents this week: AC will travel to Athens on Wednesday to face Trinity Valley CC at 7 p.m. TVCC will live stream Wednesday’s game on its YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/live/7yizjw2MmaQ?si=5mS3-5RNa01-xGeq). 

AC then returns home on Saturday to host Bossier Parish CC at 4 p.m. That game will be live-streamed on TSBN Sports. 

Lady Roadrunners Split Games at Temple Classic

The Lady Roadrunners split a pair of games during this past weekend’s Temple Classic in Temple, Texas, beating Cisco College on Friday before falling to the host team Temple College in double overtime on Saturday.

In Friday’s win, Alecia Rivera-Scott smoked the nets from long range, drilling seven three-pointers to lead the Lady ‘Runners in scoring with 21 points in AC’s 61-54 win over Cisco’s Lady Wranglers. Lanaijha Johnson doubled down with 12 points and 12 rebounds, and India McMahon added another 12 points in the win. 

Saturday saw the Lady ‘Runners push Temple’s Lady Leopards to two extra frames, with AC falling 86-80 in double OT.

The Lady Roadrunners (6-5) will host Southwestern Christian College at 5:30 on Wednesday at Shands Gymnasium. AC’s ladies then host the Dallas Angels at 2 p.m. on Saturday as part of a women’s/men’s home doubleheader. 

All AC home games are live-streamed on TSBN Sports. 

Roadrunner Baseball Holding Winter Evaluation Camp

In an effort to find more future Roadrunners, the AC baseball team in December will hold its annual winter evaluation camp for prospective players in 9th grade and older. The session will take place starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 14 at Poland Field on the Angelina College campus. 

The fee for each camp is $50.00. Participants should pre-register for the session by visiting the following link:  

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/baseball-winter-evaluation-showcase-december-14-2024-registration-1053552105709?aff=oddtdtcreator. 

Walk-up registration will be available at the gate the day of the camp by credit card only. No cash transactions will take place. 

The camps will focus on skill evaluation only. There will be no game. Staff will grade on running, arm strength, fielding, hitting and power. Pitchers will throw brief bullpens in order to grade pitches and velocity. 

For further information, contact Roadrunner head coach Jeff Livin at jlivin@angelina.edu or by calling (936) 633-5367.

Live Streaming Reminder: 

All AC Athletics regular-season home games will be live-streamed on TSBN Sports (a free streaming service for fans), with most of the conference road games also available for streaming. (This does not include baseball and softball fall games, as those are not considered official games.)

Once TSBN posts its schedules, AC fans simply need to visit the AC Athletics website, look at the scrolling schedule in the middle of the page, and click the blue “Video” link. 

TSBN also offers an app that is great for smartphones, devices, and smart TVs. (You’ve GOT to see those matches and games on the big screen.)

Reminder II: Admission to ALL Angelina College Athletics sporting events is free, as is the TSBN live streaming. Any other links offering streaming are scams.  

Reminder III: For the most current schedule updates, visit the official Angelina College Athletics website (angelinaathletics.com). 

Upcoming schedules:

Wednesday, Dec. 11:

Lady Roadrunners vs. SWCC, 5:30 p.m., Shands Gymnasium

Saturday, Dec. 14:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Dallas Angels, 2 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium

Roadrunner Basketball at Bossier Parish CC, 4 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium 

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

Christmas is Near and the Festivities Are Here

By
Rachel Lauren
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Image by NomadSoul1 on Envato Elements

Christmas is only 15 days away! Crazy, right? It feels as though last Christmas was just the other day, but now it is already December of 2024 with Christmas approaching yet again. A lot of people are excited for the Christmas season, but also stressed out with how much shopping they need to get done in time for the holiday. But shopping is not the only thing to do for Christmas. There’s plenty of festivities happening in East Texas! Take the time with your family and go out to experience some Christmas fun.

1. Nine Flags Lighted Christmas Parade

Image by Nacogdoches Nine Flags Christmas Parade

Take a drive and visit Texas’ oldest town, Nacogdoches, on Saturday, December 7th for a spectacular show of Christmas cheer! Downtown Nacogdoches turns into a scene from a Hallmark movie, with fabulous holiday displays in shop windows and luminous light displays. Families line the brick streets while Christmas lights sparkle, and local organizations put on a show with decorated floats. The theme this year is Home for the Holidays, honoring our veterans and remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

2. Christmas on the Square

Image by Coldspring Chamber of Commerce

Celebrate the magic of the season at the 42nd Annual Christmas on the Square in Coldspring, Texas, on December 14, 2024, starting at 9 AM. This years’ theme is “A Hometown Christmas”. This Christmas celebration promises a day full of festive fun for the whole family. Enjoy pictures with Santa, live entertainment, local vendors offering unique gifts, delicious food, and a special Kid Zone for the little ones to explore. At 10:30 AM, join in on the Gingerbread House Contest at the Coldspring Community Center, where participants can compete for 1st and 2nd place prizes, along with other exciting rewards. The festivities wrap up with the highlight of the evening — the spectacular Lighted Parade at 6 PM, lighting up the town square with holiday cheer. Don’t miss this cherished tradition, perfect for making memories and spreading Christmas joy!

3. 4th Annual Christmas Party Dance

Image by Aggie Christine Hall

Get ready to dance the night away at the 4th Annual Christmas Party Dance on December 14, 2024, from 8 PM to midnight at the Trinity Community Center. Doors open at 7 PM, giving you plenty of time to get settled before the fun begins. Enjoy live entertainment from Landon Dodd & The Dancehall Drifters, bringing country music and holiday cheer to the dance floor. Tickets are just $25 each, and it’s a BYOB event, so feel free to bring your favorite drinks to enjoy throughout the evening. Don’t miss this festive night of music, dancing, and holiday spirit — it’s the perfect way to celebrate the season with friends and family!

 

4. Wreaths Across America – Wreath Laying

Image by Ford Chapel and Cemetery Association

REMEMBER the Fallen…HONOR those who Serve…TEACH the upcoming generations the value of Freedom. On December 14, 2024 at 4:00 pm (Wreath Placement Immediately Following Ceremony), Wreaths Across America will be at Ford Cemetery in Newton, Texas, to Remember and Honor veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud.

 

5. Kids Winter Festival

Image by natika on Envato Elements

The Kids Winter Festival is a brand-new holiday event coming to Heritage Village in Woodville, TX, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM. This festive evening will feature pictures with Santa, holiday music, and a special movie screening, creating a perfect winter wonderland for families. RSVP is required for this event, so be sure to contact Heritage Village at 409-283-2272 for more information and to reserve your spot. Don’t miss out on this magical celebration of the season!

 

A Weekend of Holiday Fun and Cheer

With so many exciting events happening this weekend, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the Christmas season in style. Whether you’re looking to enjoy some holiday shopping at local vendor markets, experience a festive parade, or gather with friends and family for a fun-filled evening of live music and dancing, there’s something for everyone. From classic traditions like Christmas on the Square in Coldspring to the Kids Winter Festival, these events offer the perfect opportunity to make lasting memories and share in the joy of the season.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these holiday celebrations provide a wonderful way to spread cheer, enjoy the company of loved ones, and make the most of this magical time of year. So grab your calendar, gather your friends and family, and make plans to take part in these festive happenings — it’s a weekend you won’t want to miss!

Angelina College Law Enforcement Academy Celebrates Class 117 Graduation

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Eleven New Peace Officers Enter the Profession

Angelina College’s Law Enforcement Academy on Thursday graduated the 11 members of Class 117, sending those men and women into their new careers as peace officers. 

AC’s Chief of Police Doug Conn addresses the cadets and crowd, sharing the storied history of the academy. 

“We’ve come a long way with this academy, reaching this Class 117, and we’ve made history along the way,” Conn said. “We’ve placed law enforcement officers out on the streets all over the United States, from Washington all the way down to Zavalla, Texas, and we’re very proud of that record.”

Members of Angelina College’s Law Enforcement Academy Class 117 pose before Thursday’s ceremony inside AC’s Hudgins Hall. A total of 11 cadets graduated and will begin their careers as peace officers. (Gary Stallard photo/AC News Service photo)

Conn said the recent crop of graduates endured more than 700 hours of instruction covering 43 different topics, all of which ended in a big payoff: The class finished with a 100 percent pass rate on the TCOLE (Texas Commission on Law Enforcement) exam.

Keynote speaker Chuck Havard, a former AC academy graduate and a member of the second class, served under Conn back in 1994. Havard’s career includes time as a Texas State Trooper; recently, Havard was elected the new sheriff of the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.

Jasper County Sheriff-Elect Chuck Havard, keynote speaker for Thursday’s Angelina College Law Enforcement Academy graduation, addresses the crowd and cadets inside AC’s Hudgins Hall. A total of 11 women and men walked the stage and will begin their careers as peace officers. (Gary Stallard/AC News Service photo)

“I want to thank each and every one of you in Class 117 for the sacrifices you’ve made over the past several months,” Havard told the cadets. “You’ve answered the call from your communities, and you will now undertake one of the most strenuous – but most noble – professions on the face of the planet. 

“The perseverance you’ve shown speak volumes about your dedication and your work ethic. This is just the beginning for you, and I’d ask you to serve as peace officers with the same dedication and tenacity that has led you to where you are tonight.”

Valedictorian Christopher Dame cited Theodore Roosevelt’s “Man in the Arena” speech to inspire his classmates.

“In moments of self-doubt, remember why you chose this profession and take pride in the fact that you’re the one in the arena,” Dame said. “You’re willing to take on a profession the majority of the population can’t or won’t do.

“While the exact reasons we chose to join this profession may differ, they all come down to a desire to protect and serve our communities. It’s our turn to step into the arena.”

Lt. Logan Finch, Academy instructor, closed with his own words of wisdom. 

“You’re about to go on an adventure,” Finch said. “This is not a job. You’ll have ups and downs, you’re going to meet new people, and you’re going to feel a rush of emotions. You’ll have a whole new family: those behind and beside you wearing the uniform.

“But there are people you do not leave behind, and those are your immediate family. Put them first. Include them, and let them join your new family as well. Do good work, and come home safe.”

Graduating cadets and their hometowns were as follows:

Jennefer Cruz (Crockett), Christopher Dame (Lufkin), Sarah D. Early (Early), Devon B. Franz (Lufkin), Brody M. Fulcher (Splendora), Rafael Herrera, Jr. (Cleveland), Austin B. Jenkins (Chester), Brayden K. McDaniel (Lufkin), Ryan A. McNabb (Nacogdoches), Trinity W. Mitchell (Huntington) and Robert G. Turpin III (Kirbyville). 

Individual student awards included Christopher Dame, Valedictorian; Jennefer Cruz, Physical Fitness Award; Trinity W. Mitchell, Top Gun; Ryan A. McNabb, Best Driver; and Robert G. Turpin III, Perseverance Award. 

Academy Staff includes Doug Conn, Chief of Police; Lt. Logan Finch, Training Manager; Sgt. Ashley Jowell, Training Specialist; and Kim Capps, Administrative Assistant. 

For further information on Angelina College’s Law Enforcement Academy, email policeacademy@angelina.edu. 

How to Choose the Right Electricity Provider for Your Home

By
Lee Allen Miller
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Choosing an electricity provider in Texas’s deregulated ERCOT market is an important decision that can impact your budget, comfort, and peace of mind. With so many providers offering a wide range of plans, knowing how to make the best choice for your home can feel overwhelming. At Amerigy Energy, we simplify the process and help you find the plan that fits your needs.

Here are the key factors to consider when choosing the right electricity provider for your home.

1. Price: Get the Best Rate for Your Energy Usage

Price is often the first thing homeowners consider when comparing electricity providers—and for good reason. Electricity rates can vary significantly depending on the provider, the type of plan, and your usage patterns. It’s important to look beyond the advertised rate and consider how it aligns with your household’s energy consumption.

Tips for Evaluating Price:

  • Understand Your Usage: Review your past bills to see how much energy you typically use in a month. This will help you choose a plan with the best rate structure for your needs.
  • Beware of Hidden Fees & Gimmicks: Look out for additional fees like early termination charges, base fees, or minimum usage requirements that could impact your overall cost.
  • Shop Around: That’s what we do for you! With over 50 providers in the market, Amerigy Energy can compare rates for you and ensure you’re getting the most competitive pricing.

Example: By locking in a fixed-rate plan at a competitive rate, many Amerigy customers save hundreds of dollars annually.

2. Contract Terms: Fixed vs. Variable Rates

Electricity plans come with varying contract lengths and rate structures. Understanding these terms is crucial to choosing the plan that works best for your lifestyle and budget.

  • Fixed-Rate Plans: These plans offer a stable rate for the duration of the contract, usually ranging from 6 to 36 months. Fixed-rate plans are ideal for homeowners who want predictable bills and protection from market volatility.
  • Variable-Rate Plans: These plans fluctuate with the market, meaning your rate can change month-to-month based on energy demand. While they offer flexibility, they can also lead to higher bills during peak demand periods, especially in the ERCOT market.

Why Contract Terms Matter:
Think about how long you plan to stay in your home. If you’re in it for the long haul, a fixed-rate plan offers stability and savings. If you’re planning a move soon, a shorter-term contract or a month-to-month plan may be more suitable.

3. Reliability: Choose a Provider You Can Count On

Reliability is about more than just keeping the lights on—it’s about having a provider who communicates clearly, offers excellent customer service, and ensures no surprises when your bill arrives.

What to Look For:

  • Provider Reputation: Research the provider’s track record for reliability and customer satisfaction. Look for reviews or ask for recommendations from friends and neighbors.
  • Service Availability: Make sure the provider services your area and offers plans tailored to your local needs.
  • Support When You Need It: A reliable provider should have excellent customer service that’s easy to reach when you have questions or concerns.

Amerigy Energy Difference: As a customer-first company, we prioritize transparency, reliability, and service. With Amerigy, you can trust that your energy needs are always our top priority.

How Amerigy Energy Makes Choosing Simple

At Amerigy Energy, we take the guesswork out of choosing the right electricity provider. As representatives of over 50 energy companies, we compare plans, rates, and terms to find the best fit for your home. Our relationship-focused approach ensures you get personalized advice and a plan tailored to your unique energy usage.

Why Choose Amerigy?

  • Competitive rates that fit your budget
  • Transparent terms with no gimmicks
  • Expert guidance to simplify the decision-making process

Take Action: Let Amerigy Energy Help You Choose Today

Your electricity plan should fit your home, your budget, and your lifestyle. If you’re unsure where to start, let Amerigy Energy do the hard work for you. Contact us today for a personalized consultation, and we’ll help you find the perfect electricity provider with a plan that delivers both savings and peace of mind. Call us 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.

Angelina College Vocational Nursing Program Holds Pinning Ceremony

By
Gary Stallard
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New graduates of the Angelina College Vocational Nursing program participate in the traditional lighting ceremony during Monday’s celebration held inside AC’s Hudgins Hall. The program launched 17 new nurses into their new professions. (Gary Stallard/AC News Service Photo)

Angelina College’s Vocational Nursing program recently launched a new group graduates into the nursing profession with a traditional pinning ceremony held inside Hudgins Hall on the AC campus. 

A total of 17 new nurses walked the stage to receive their awards from friends, family members or faculty.

Nursing graduate Keshawna Taylor offered the invocation, AC Nursing instructor Mary Hastings conducted the presentation of the graduates, Dr. Charlet Blades led the Nightingale Pledge and graduate Amia Williams closed with the benediction. 

Dr. Winifred Ferguson-Adams, Dean of Angelina College’s School of Health Careers, shared the range of emotions and experiences the new nurses can expect – experiences fluctuating between both the beginning and the end of life. In her comments, Ferguson-Adams quoted a popular social media post geared toward new nurses. 

“’You might have the book smart’” Adams quoted. “’You might have some critical thinking skills. However, if you don’t have the heart, the compassion, the will to fight each and every one of your patients battles as your own, please choose something else [for a career].’

“What we tell you tonight is that we’re very proud of the fact you’ve reached this point, and we expect you to be that nurse with the compassion and the fight, because above all, you are an Angelina College Nursing graduate. Live up to those expectations. God bless you.”

The list of new nurses and their listed home towns were as follows:

Erika Alvarez (Corrigan), Yesica Angeles Bailon (Nacogdoches), Jazmin Balderas (Nacogdoches), Christian Bosquez (Hudson), Yessica Damian (Livingston), Lexis Evans (Wells), Janet Landeros (Lufkin), A’Neka McKind (Lufkin), Jessica Moreno (San Augustine), Jayme Pittman (Huntington), Margarita Ramos (Lufkin), Lynette Salto (Nacogdoches), Keshawna Taylor (Woodville), JoAnna Thigpen (Burke), Jennifer Whitaker (Nacogdoches), Callie Whitworth (Lufkin) and Amia Williams (Huntsville). 

Angelina College Nursing Program faculty include, Dr. Winifred Ferguson-Adams, Dean of School of Health Careers; Dr. Sandra Brannan, Director, Nursing programs; Dr. Charlet Blades, Faculty VN Instructor; Mary Hastings, Faculty VN Instructor; Dr. Susan Adams, Faculty VN Instructor; Patricia Hooks, Faculty VN Instructor; and Anna McReynolds, Faculty SIMS Coordinator.

For further information, contact AC’s School of Health Careers at healthcareers@angelina.edu.

Advancing Texas Highways and Ports

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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As we move past Thanksgiving and approach Christmas, I want to encourage you and your loved ones to embrace the spirit of giving during this season. It’s a wonderful time to find ways to lend a hand to those in need within our communities. While many of us are fortunate to have a warm meal and a safe place to sleep, it’s important to remember that many are not as fortunate. 

Over the next few weeks, I hope you’ll consider contributing to your local food pantry, dropping some spare change in the Salvation Army’s red kettle, or volunteering your time at a nearby church. What better way to show our gratitude than by supporting one another?

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

House Interim Charge: Transportation

The House Committee on Transportation has jurisdiction over all matters related to commercial and passenger vehicle operations and licensing, the Texas highway system, airports and air traffic in  Texas, water transportation in Texas, and many other issues. The Committee also has jurisdiction over the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, the Texas Department of Transportation, and the Texas Transportation Commission. 

During the interim, the Committee will study the long-term needs of the maritime industry in Texas, evaluate the implementation status of the Maritime Port Mission Plan, and make recommendations to improve port planning, safety measures, and project completion. 

Additionally, the Committee will evaluate state-maintained bridges’ current status, existing bridge safety standards, and long-term financial needs for bridge planning, construction, maintenance, and inspection. They will also examine ways to improve bridge project completion. 

Finally, the Committee will identify Texas’s most congested roadways and review state forecasts for future congestion and the expected impact on economic development. The Committee will evaluate TxDOT plans for alleviating congestion and consider the necessity of additional options to ensure economic development, congestion, and safety goals are achieved in a timely manner with reduced cost to public tax dollars. 

The mobile office is taking a break from the road in December but will be back after the Christmas holiday. In the meantime, 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/.

Have You Had Your First Frost?

By
Cary Sims
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Folks like us who garden or are in agriculture can get obsessed by frost.  We know that the first frost is an important date. We understand that this first frost of a winter season heralds the end of the current growing season.  

I called around the county to speak with a few gardeners and cattlemen. From Ann in Huntington, Stott in Hudson, Ian in Zavalla, and Jesse in Pollock, all reported that they’ve had some frost that has set back gardens and pastures alike. 

I’ll never forget how some of our local gardeners that brag on getting fresh tomatoes into the onset of winter due to a late frost.  They had to protect the tender plants from cold weather with a simple row cover, bed sheet, or other method.  

Where did you notice your first frost?  Was it isolated in the low lying areas of your field?  Was it located down the hill in the lower part of the neighborhood? Frost will do that. It will find low-lying pockets where cold air settles and the temperature there can be a couple degrees cooler.  

Urban areas have their own “heat island”.  Brick and concrete and asphalt can absorb and hold heat, slowly releasing it as the evening progresses.  

According to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) data, temperatures can range as much as three degrees warmer in the middle of an urban area where brick, concrete, and asphalt are found abundantly to the country where field and forest are going to dominate the landscape.  

Look at any weather data site or grower’s data on weather patterns for this area and you’ll find our average first frost for Lufkin is mid-November. From a quick internet search for Angelina County, the internet will say anything from November 12 to November 20.  I always hedge myself and tell folks ‘mid-November’ for this very reason.  

Keep in mind that this is the average and recognizing it as an average is important.  According to data kept by the National Gardening Association, we have a 10% chance of getting frost by Oct 29.  On the other end, there is a 10% chance that we won’t get a frost until after Dec 2.  

So, what really happens when we get a “frost”? When water gets below 32, ice crystals that form inside tender plants will rupture the cells and, effectively, kill it. Anything from 32 down to 29 degrees is generally considered a light freeze (or frost). Temperatures that dwindle down to the 28 to 25 range is expected to be widely limiting to most vegetation.  Only a few native or well adapted plants will continue to grow with temperatures below 25. In years past, we have truly learned what were the toughest plants in our area as temperature went far into the single digits. 

Just to be clear, there technically is a difference between a freeze at, say, 28 F and a frost at the same temperature. Water obviously freezes at and below 32 degrees F. But 28 F is the threshold for a hard freeze. “Frost” is officially when ice crystals form when moisture in the air is converted to ice without first becoming dew. Informally, a “frost” is any time the temperature drops to that 32-degree range, whether or not we see the ice crystals. 

So, what garden vegetables can tolerate a light frost?  The Michigan State Extension Service lists these as able to withstand a light frost: Beets, Broccoli, Cabbage, Carrot, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Celery, Chard, Onion (plants), Parsnip, and Radish.

Really cold tolerant plants that can sustain hard frosts below 28 F include: Collards, Endive/escarole, Kale, Kohlrabi, Lettuce, Mustard, Onion (sets and seeds), Potato, Rhubarb, Rutabaga, Spinach, and Turnip.

Pearl Harbor Day: A Time to Reflect and Remember

By
Lee Allen Miller
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The sun rises over the USS Arizona Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to the Sailors and Marines who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Diana Quinlan/Released)

Today, December 7th, marks Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day—a moment etched into the soul of our nation. Eighty-three years ago, on a quiet Sunday morning in Hawaii, the course of history was violently altered. The attack on Pearl Harbor claimed more than 2,400 American lives, drew the United States into World War II, and awakened a generation to the reality of sacrifice, resilience, and duty.

For many of our parents and grandparents, December 7, 1941, is not just a page in the history books; it is a memory seared into their consciousness. They recall where they were when they heard the news, just as many of us vividly remember where we stood on September 11, 2001. Both were moments of profound loss and national awakening, and they remain defining chapters in the story of America.

Fewer Voices to Tell the Story

The voices of Pearl Harbor survivors are growing quieter with each passing year. Once numbering in the tens of thousands, only a handful remain to bear witness to that day of infamy. These men, now in their late nineties and beyond, carry with them the weight of history. They are living reminders of what it means to endure, to fight for freedom, and to come together as a nation.

Their numbers may dwindle, but their stories must not fade. As stewards of this history, it is our responsibility to ensure that future generations know the names of the battleships, like the USS Arizona and the USS Oklahoma, that became tombs for so many. It is our duty to teach our children that the freedoms we enjoy were hard-won by those who answered the call to serve.

A Generation of Heroes

We often call them “The Greatest Generation,” and rightly so. The men and women who lived through World War II gave everything to defend liberty. They fought on foreign soil, labored in factories, rationed goods, and bought war bonds. They understood that America’s strength lies not in avoiding hardship but in rising to meet it.

Pearl Harbor wasn’t just an attack on a naval base; it was an attack on who we are as a people. In response, this generation banded together in a way that feels almost foreign in our divided modern world. They didn’t wait for someone else to fix the problem. They got to work, united in purpose, determined to build a better future.

Remembering Through a Modern Lens

For those of us who were shaped by 9/11, there is a poignant connection to Pearl Harbor. The disbelief, the grief, the resolve—it’s all too familiar. Both days remind us of the fragility of peace and the cost of defending it. They challenge us to consider what kind of nation we want to be in the face of adversity.

But there’s an even deeper lesson: the importance of remembering. Just as our parents and grandparents passed down their stories of Pearl Harbor, we must share the memory of 9/11 with our children. These moments, separated by six decades, are threads in the same fabric of resilience and resolve that defines America.

A number of years ago, I was able to visit the Pearl Harbor Memorial. Be sure and include a visit anytime you are on the island of Oahu.

The Legacy We Carry

Today, let’s pause to honor those who perished on December 7, 1941, and the generations who fought to secure the freedoms we so often take for granted. Let’s remember the sacrifices of ordinary men and women who were called to do extraordinary things. And let’s pledge to keep their stories alive—not as relics of the past but as beacons for the future.

Pearl Harbor is not just a history lesson; it’s a legacy. It reminds us that the values we hold dear—freedom, democracy, and unity—are worth defending. And it challenges us to live up to the example set by those who came before us.

As we remember Pearl Harbor Day, let’s honor the past, reflect on the present, and recommit to building a nation worthy of their sacrifice.

“December 7, 1941—a date which will live in infamy.” Let it live, indeed, in the hearts of every American.

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