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Lufkin Christmas Parade Cancelled Due to Inclement Weather

By
Lee Allen Miller
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TFCLiving file phot: Lufkin Christmas Parade

Other Parades Postponed

This year’s Lufkin Christmas Parade, a cherished local tradition, has been canceled due to cold, rainy weather, leaving many in the community disappointed but understanding of the circumstances. Organizers said the decision, made after extensive evaluation, was driven by safety concerns for participants and attendees.

“With the forecast showing rain and temperatures near 40 degrees, it simply wasn’t safe or practical for families to spend hours outdoors,” said an event spokesperson. “Our primary concern is always the well-being of our community.”

Why the Parade Was Canceled

Organizers shared several key reasons for canceling the event, emphasizing that it wasn’t a decision made lightly:

  • Safety of Participants: Over half of the registered participants, many representing local schools and churches, expressed concerns about exposing children to cold and wet conditions for several hours.
  • Weather Impact on Floats: Most floats featured intricate designs made of materials like paper mâché, cardboard, and butcher paper, which would have been severely damaged by rain.
  • Permitting Challenges: The parade’s downtown route includes state-managed roads, which require permits issued at least 30 days in advance. This made rescheduling particularly difficult.

Event organizers delayed making the decision for as long as possible in hopes the forecast would improve. Ultimately, the conditions remained unfavorable.

Community Reaction

The cancellation has sparked widespread discussion among Lufkin residents, with many taking to social media to share their thoughts.

Jennifer Coogler, a local resident and parade participant, voiced her understanding. “If you’ve ever decorated a parade float, you know how rain can ruin everything,” she said. “It’s disappointing, but I understand why the city made this decision.”

Others, like Stephen Hammond, called for more flexibility in planning. “This is one of the few big events we have each year,” Hammond said. “It’s hard to accept that it couldn’t just be moved to next week. I’d love to see a backup plan for future years.”

Neighboring Communities Extend Invitations

While Lufkin’s parade won’t take place this year, neighboring towns have extended open arms to participants and spectators:

  • Nacogdoches Nine Flags Christmas Parade: Originally scheduled for the same evening, this parade was rescheduled for Sunday, Dec. 15, at 6:30 p.m. Parade organizer Maury Littleton encouraged Lufkin groups to join. “We’d love to have Lufkin entries and attendees be a part of this year’s event,” Littleton said.
  • Huntington Christmas Parade: Huntington organizers are also regrouping after weather delays and are working to reschedule for next weekend.

Looking Ahead to Next Year

Although the cancellation has disappointed many, there’s hope for the future. Organizers announced that this year’s theme will carry over to the 2024 parade, ensuring that the hard work and creativity of participants won’t go to waste.

“I know people are upset, but this is about safety,” said a city official. “We look forward to coming back even stronger next year.”

A Time for Celebration

Despite the parade’s cancellation, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate the season in Lufkin and surrounding communities. Local merchants, churches, and organizations are hosting events throughout December, and details can be found at www.visitlufkin.com.

“While we’re all disappointed about the parade, this season is about more than one event,” said a downtown business owner. “It’s about coming together, celebrating the joy of the holidays, and finding ways to make the season magical no matter what.”

From all of us at Texas Forest Country Living Magazine, we wish you a warm, safe, and joyful holiday season.

Upcoming East Texas Christmas Parades: Updates and Reminders

As the holiday season approaches, several East Texas communities are gearing up for their annual Christmas parades. Below are the latest updates and important information for participants and attendees:

Livingston Hometown Christmas Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024
  • Time: Festivities from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; Parade begins at dusk
  • Location: Downtown Livingston on Jackson Avenue
  • Registration: Participation is free, but registration is required by Wednesday, December 11, 2024. Contact persons will receive lineup details via email by Friday, December 13. Jotform

The event will feature a variety of activities, culminating in the lighted parade at dusk. Participants are encouraged to decorate floats with festive lights and themes.

Coldspring Lighted Parade

  • Date: Saturday, December 14, 2024 6pm

Please contact the Coldspring Chamber of Commerce for parade forms and more information! (936)653-2184 or email ChamberColdspringTexas@gmail.com Judging Times: 4 PM (Golf Carts/ATVs, Firetrucks, Businesses) 4:30 PM (Churches, Schools, Organizations, Family/Individuals) Location: Through Downtown Historic Coldspring TX

Newton Festival of Lights and Parade

  • Original Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
  • Status: Canceled due to inclement weather; rescheduling under consideration

Organizers are exploring the possibility of rescheduling the parade for the following weekend. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Jasper Christmas Parade Successfully held as scheduled

San Augustine Christmas Parade -San Augustine hosted its parade last night, adding to the region’s festive spirit.

Editor’s Note:
As East Texans, our resilience shines brightest in the face of challenges. The cancellation of the Lufkin Christmas Parade is a reminder of the unpredictability of life but also of the enduring strength and spirit of our community. See you all next year!

Chamber’s Favorite Things (Angelina County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Join us for Chamber’s Favorite Things, a part of our Women’s Networking Series presented by Regions Bank. It’s just around the corner on Tuesday, December 10, 11:30 AM to 1 PM and the best part, over 20 lucky attendees will walk away with a prize!

Don’t miss out—secure your spot by registering today! Capture the Christmas spirit with a snapshot with The Big Picture Events; rumor has it, a special guest might make an appearance!

Register today >>> bit.ly/WNL-1224

Lighted Christmas Parade (Coldspring County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

Many have been asking.
The Lighted Christmas Parade will take place on Dec. 14th at 6 pm. Please contact the Coldspring Chamber of Commerce for parade forms and more information! 
(936)653-2184 or email ChamberColdspringTexas@gmail.com

Judging Times:
4 PM (Golf Carts/ATVs, Firetrucks, Businesses)
4:30 PM (Churches, Schools, Organizations, Family/Individuals)

Location:
Through Downtown Historic Coldspring TX

Governor Abbott Announces Over $15 Million In Career Training Grants Across Texas including Angelina College

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today announced 60 career training grants totaling over $15 million have been awarded to Texas higher education institutions and independent school districts (ISD) to train students for high-demand, good-paying jobs after graduation. These Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants awarded through the the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) will help public junior, state, and technical colleges; school districts; and open-enrollment charter schools buy equipment for career and technical education (CTE) programs that help students across the state go into high-demand industries. 

“As Texas’ economy continues to grow, it is critical that we invest in our future workforce,” said Governor Abbott. “This $15 million in career training grants will support career and technical training programs for thousands of Texas students across our great state. I thank the Texas Workforce Commission for their continued partnership with Texas’ high schools, colleges, and universities to help students achieve high-demand, good-paying jobs after graduation. The work being done at the Texas Workforce Commission and in our educational institutions across Texas ensures Texans have opportunities that lead to a better job and a bigger paycheck.”

This $15 million in career training grants will give Texas students the chance to earn licenses, certificates, or college degrees that lead to good-paying jobs in high-demand industries. In the first year alone, the new equipment will help train more than 6,900 students.

“As the Texas economy grows, so does the demand for a skilled workforce,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “The JET grant program helps meet that demand by providing opportunities for Texans to gain valuable, hands-on experience that will prepare them to step into those high-demand careers.”

TWC is now accepting applications for the 2025 JET grant program. Texas public junior, state, and technical colleges; school districts; and open-enrollment charter schools may apply.

The complete JET application packet can be downloaded from the TWC Procurement Portal website. For questions or more information about this opportunity, e-mail RFAGrants@twc.texas.gov.

The 2024 JET grants will be used to purchase and install equipment at the following public junior, technical, and state colleges: 

  • Alamo Colleges District-San Antonio College: a $332,507 grant to train 250 students as software developers and software quality assurance analysts and testers.
  • Alvin Community College: a $349,980 grant to train 165 students as petroleum pump system operators, refinery operators, and gaugers.
  • Amarillo College: a $311,476 grant to train 120 students as emergency medical technicians and paramedics.
  • Angelina College: a $337,026 grant to train 90 students as welders.
  • Austin Community College District: a $64,774 grant to train 120 students as HVAC and refrigeration mechanics and installers.
  • Clarendon College: a $97,025 grant to train 11 students as nursing assistants.
  • College of the Mainland: a $324,916 grant to train 85 students as registered nurses.
  • Collin County Community College District: a $144,827 grant to train 101 students as medical assistants.
  • Dallas College: a $164,293 grant to train 108 students as heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.
  • Del Mar College: a $313,833 grant to train 85 students as automotive service technicians and mechanics.
  • Frank Phillips College: a $331,298 grant to train 100 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Grayson County College Junior College District: a $350,000 grant to train 24 students as semiconductor processing technicians.
  • Hill College: a $260,870 grant to train 96 students as heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.
  • Lamar State College Orange: a $98,799 grant to train 94 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Lamar State College Port Arthur: a $142,500 grant to train 12 students as heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.
  • Lee College: a $94,227 grant to train 60 students as HVAC and refrigeration mechanics and installers.
  • Lone Star College: a $245,317 grant to train 90 students as automotive service technicians and mechanics.
  • Navarro College: a $349,009 grant to train 100 students as industrial machinery mechanics and technicians.
  • North Central Texas College: a $331,656 grant to train 130 students as registered nurses.
  • Paris Junior College: a $332,450 grant to train 60 students as industrial machinery mechanics and technicians.
  • San Jacinto Community College: a $109,020 grant to train 20 students as radiologic technologists and technicians.
  • Temple College: a $224,136 grant to train 20 students as industrial machinery mechanics and technicians.
  • Texas Southmost College: a $84,614 grant to train 30 students as welders.
  • Victoria County Junior College: a $227,050 grant to train 75 students as chemical plant and systems operators.
  • Wharton County Junior College: a $316,189 grant to train 35 students as automotive service technicians and mechanics.

JET grants awarded in 2024 will be used to purchase and install equipment at the following Texas ISDs and open-enrollment charter schools: 

  • Academy ISD: a $330,535 grant to train 218 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Banquete ISD: a $350,000 grant to train 35 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Blooming Grove ISD: a $314,047 grant to train 16 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Boerne ISD: a $319,709 grant to train 200 students as registered nurses.
  • Bullard ISD: a $ 89,480 grant to train 266 students as registered nurses.
  • Calhoun County ISD: a $ 79,277 grant to train 150 students as registered nurses.
  • Carthage ISD: a $135,027 grant to train 50 students as welders.
  • Corpus Christi ISD: a $ 57,312 grant to train 30 students as electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians.
  • Cotulla ISD: a $350,000 grant to train 25 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Culberson County Allamoore ISD: a $265,620 grant to train 50 students as registered nurses.
  • Cumby ISD: a $181,574 grant to train 31 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Denton ISD: a $271,638 grant to train 72 students as heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers.
  • Denver City ISD: a $319,520 grant to train 141 students as registered nurses.
  • Dilley ISD: a $179,403 grant to train 76 students as welders.
  • Edinburg CISD: a $350,000 grant to train 505 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Forestburg ISD: a $131,838 grant to train 33 students as welders.
  • George West ISD: a $314,945 grant to train 20 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Granger ISD: a $341,180 grant to train 75 students as welders.
  • Harmony Schools Houston North: a $233,225 grant to train 125 students as civil engineers.
  • Harmony Schools South Texas: a $350,000 grant to train 100 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Iraan-Sheffield CISD: a $277,101 grant to train 40 students as welders.
  • Palacios ISD: a $105,970 grant to train 21 students as medical dosimetrists, medical records specialists, and health technologists and technicians.
  • Paris ISD: a $328,894 grant to train 175 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Queen City ISD: a $277,590 grant to train 70 students as welders.
  • Quitman ISD: a $350,000 grant to train 70 students as mechanical engineers.
  • Rice ISD: a $134,671 grant to train 90 students as registered nurses.
  • Roma ISD: a $216,226 grant to train 100 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • San Diego ISD: a $350,000 grant to train 87 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • Seagraves ISD: a $340,145 grant to train 100 students as industrial engineering technologists and technicians.
  • Shepherd ISD: a $350,000 grant to train 130 students as licensed practical and licensed vocational nurses.
  • South Texas ISD: a $215,184 grant to train 50 students as medical assistants.
  • Vidor ISD: a $254,777 grant to train 100 students as welders.
  • Warren ISD: a $298,470 grant to train 60 students as welders.
  • Weslaco ISD: a $308,490 grant to train 1455 students as nursing assistants.
  • Windham School District: a $295,742 grant to train 77 students as welders.

Through funding provided by the Texas Legislature each biennium, TWC uses JET grants to defray start-up costs to develop career and technical education programs for public community, state, and technical colleges; school districts; and open-enrollment charter schools. Equipment funded through JET grants must be used to train students for jobs in high-demand occupations.  

Learn more about TWC’s JET grant program.

Drug-Free All Stars Attend Drug Court

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Front row from left to right: Kennedi Peters, Joeana Alvarez, Emily Ramos, Lynzie Thompson, Hailey Lovelady, Isis Luna, Alexis Pelletier, Karisma Herrera, and Sidnee Thompson. Second row from left to right: Rigoberto Bautista, Asael Side, Sierra Havard, Rocio Arredondo, Keyla Contreras, Addison Aguilar, Ashlyn Wells, Heyde Serrano, and Oscar Barboza. Third row from left to right: Alexandra Molina, Lila Knapp, Makenzi Delaney, Caelyn Ford, Cristian ShawOscar Cruz, Kyna Rios, and Chezni White. Back row from left to right: Savoy Burton, Natalie Murray, Anna Denby, Samantha Nichols, Reagan McDonald, Jewelissa Servin, Sacorian, and Isaac Gonzalez.

For the Drug-Free All-Star November meeting, the All Stars visited with Judge Todd Kassaw, 159th District Court, and attended Drug Court. The Drug-Free All Stars of Angelina County are a group of high school seniors who 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 deaths on Texas roadways. Judge Kassaw discussed the consequences of alcohol and drug misuse and the impact of students’ current choices for their future. Students also heard directly from Drug Court participants and alumni about how the program has positively affected their lives. Drug-Free All Stars also observed participants during Drug Court who have committed to their sobriety. The Coalition, Inc. appreciates Judge Kassaw and the Drug Court for allowing the All Stars to visit and see the Drug Court’s positive impact on our community.  

Since 1988, The Coalition has focused on eliminating harmful substances by affecting public policy, laws, attitudes, and behaviors to foster healthy life-long choices for the local community. For more information about the Drug-Free All-Star program, contact Abby Baker at The Coalition at 936-634-9308.

Real Texas Christmas Trees Boost Economy, Agritourism Shows Continued Growth

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – More than four million real Christmas trees are sold annually in Texas, supporting farms and agriculture businesses throughout the state. As the holiday season nears, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages purchasing real Christmas trees to help boost the Texas economy.

A 2022 Texas A&M Forest Service economic study revealed that the Texas Christmas tree industry generated economic impacts amounting to more than $714 million, including direct, indirect and induced impacts while supporting nearly 6,000 jobs. Of $714 million in total impacts, the Texas Christmas tree industry had a direct economic impact of $397 million, employing 3,896 people with a payroll of more than $97 million.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2022 ranks the Texas Christmas tree industry second in the U.S. South based on average annual employment and wages.

“It’s a tradition in many households to have a real Christmas tree,” said Dr. Aaron Stottlemyer, Texas A&M Forest Service Forest Analytics Department Head. “The process of going as a family to pick out a tree is a fun activity that supports rural economies across the state.”

Texas Christmas trees also boost the state’s economy through strong agricultural businesses and tourism which exposes families and visitors of all ages to the forestry and agriculture industry.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, agritourism revenue has more than tripled from 2002 to 2017, with human interaction and visitor engagement majorly contributing to its rise in popularity.

“Many Christmas tree farms across the state have made enhancements to their businesses to incorporate more engaging and educational activities for visitors along with selecting and purchasing a Christmas tree,” said Stottlemyer. “The demand for this type of experience is also consistent with the demand for live, community-oriented activities across the country.”

The USDA also found that agritourism, including Christmas tree farms, aided in the economic sustainability of local, rural farms and created new jobs.

The most widely grown Texas Christmas trees are the Virginia pine, Afghan pine, eastern redcedar shortleaf pine, Arizona cypress and Leyland cypress.

The first recorded Christmas tree plantation was established in Jasper, Texas, in 1935. Since the 1970s, institutions like Texas A&M Forest Service, Texas A&M University and Stephen F. Austin have worked toward optimizing the health and growth of Christmas tree species to enhance the State’s Christmas tree industry.

“The Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association and Texas A&M Forest Service have been collaborating since the early 1980s,” said Fred Raley, Texas A&M Forest Service Tree Improvement Coordinator. “The collaboration has worked to develop locally adapted Virginia pines, especially hardy and adapted to the Texas climate, to ensure that those that prefer a live tree can continue to have that Christmas experience for a very long time.”

Since the introduction of the Virginia pine improvement project, beginning in Magnolia Springs, Texas, the demand for this Christmas tree species has grown to 150,000 seedlings among growers in Central, East and North Texas.

“The demand for real Christmas trees and associated activities among Texans continues to grow alongside the demand to expand the overall Texas Christmas tree industry and species variety,” said Raley. “As this industry continues to grow, we’ve also seen an increase in younger individuals who are interested in establishing Christmas tree businesses.”

In anticipation of spring 2025 planting, the Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association recently reported that Texas growers have already purchased more than 130,000 seedlings.

In the U.S., the sale of real Christmas trees has decreased since 2018, and the sale of artificial trees has been higher than real trees since 2020. But choosing a real Christmas tree should always be considered. Not only is harvesting Christmas trees good for our economy, but it is also beneficial to the natural environment.

After the holiday season, real Christmas trees can be repurposed and recycled for many uses. Real Christmas trees can be used as landscape mulch in yards and gardens as soil erosion prevention, nest-building materials for birds and natural water habitats for fish and wildlife in ponds or lakes.

“Christmas tree farms are young forests,” said Stottlemyer. “They provide us the same benefits as traditional forests by sequestering carbon, providing a natural habitat for wildlife, cleaning our water and providing recreational opportunities.”

Real Christmas tree shoppers can visit Texas Christmas Tree Growers Association website to explore the different Christmas tree farms in each Texas region.

Volunteers Needed to Advocate for Nursing Home Residents in Deep East Texas

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

Become a Voice for Nursing Home Residents: Volunteer Ombudsmen Needed!

For many nursing home residents, having someone to talk to can make all the difference. Volunteer ombudsmen serve as patient advocates, ensuring residents’ concerns are heard and their rights protected.

The Ombudsman Program, supported by the Deep East Texas Area Agency on Aging, works with 34 nursing facilities and 15 assisted living facilities across the region. Volunteers are paired with a specific facility, committing just two hours each week to visit and advocate for residents.

Free Training and Mentorship
Becoming an ombudsman is simple and rewarding. Training is provided free of charge, and volunteers receive mentorship to build skills in communicating with residents, addressing concerns, and resolving issues at their own pace.

Patient Advocacy at Its Heart
Ombudsmen are champions for residents, working closely with families and facility staff to address concerns before they escalate. Whether ensuring a resident has enough water or addressing broader care concerns, ombudsmen advocate for the highest quality of care. Last year, 96% of complaints in the Deep East Texas Region were resolved locally, avoiding state-level intervention.

Are You Ready to Make a Difference?
If you care about the needs of older adults, enjoy working with diverse people, and want to make a tangible impact, consider becoming a volunteer ombudsman. You’ll play a critical role in ensuring that residents have a voice and that their needs are met with dignity and respect.

Contact Us Today!
To learn more or become a volunteer, contact:
Tonya Jackson-Simpson, Managing Local Ombudsman
Sherinaka Hewitt, Local Ombudsman
Deep East Texas Area Agency on Aging
Phone: 936-634-2247, Ext. 5326 or 5351Step up and be the difference. Volunteer today!

Why Your Business Needs an Energy Audit Now

By
Lee Allen Miller
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0

As a business owner, every dollar counts. When it comes to managing expenses, energy costs often represent a significant portion of your budget—but they’re also one of the most overlooked opportunities for savings. The key to uncovering these hidden savings? An energy audit.

At Amerigy Energy, we specialize in helping businesses identify inefficiencies, optimize energy usage, and unlock savings through a tailored energy audit process. Here’s why scheduling an energy audit now is one of the smartest investments your business can make.

What is an Energy Audit?

An energy audit is a comprehensive assessment of your business’s energy usage, designed to pinpoint areas where you’re wasting energy—and money. It examines everything from lighting and HVAC systems to insulation, equipment, and operational practices.

The goal? To provide you with actionable insights that can reduce your energy consumption, lower your bills, and improve the overall efficiency of your business operations.

The Top Benefits of an Energy Audit

1. Identify Cost-Saving Opportunities

Most businesses have inefficiencies they’re unaware of—whether it’s outdated equipment, energy-draining habits, or improperly sized systems. An energy audit reveals these inefficiencies and offers solutions to eliminate them.

Example: Upgrading to LED lighting or installing a programmable thermostat could cut your energy costs by 20% or more, with payback periods often as short as a year.

2. Lower Operating Expenses

Reducing energy waste doesn’t just help the environment—it directly impacts your bottom line. For businesses with energy-intensive operations, even small changes can translate to significant savings over time.

Pro Tip: By addressing energy inefficiencies, you can reinvest those savings into other areas of your business, from staffing to marketing.

3. Enhance Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility

Consumers and partners are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. Conducting an energy audit is a tangible way to reduce your carbon footprint and show your commitment to the environment.

Bonus: Many energy-efficient upgrades, such as renewable energy systems or high-efficiency HVAC units, may qualify for tax incentives or rebates, further increasing your savings.

4. Plan for the Future

Energy costs aren’t static—they fluctuate due to market conditions, demand, and regulatory changes. An energy audit helps you plan for these fluctuations by identifying areas where you can gain control over your energy consumption.

In the ERCOT Market: With the volatility of Texas energy prices, a proactive approach ensures your business isn’t caught off guard by sudden rate hikes.

What Happens During an Energy Audit?

  1. Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss your current energy usage and concerns to understand your goals.
  2. On-Site Inspection: Our team will assess your facility, analyzing lighting, HVAC, insulation, and other systems.
  3. Energy Usage Analysis: We’ll review your historical energy data to identify patterns and inefficiencies.
  4. Customized Recommendations: You’ll receive a detailed report with actionable steps to optimize your energy usage and save money.

Why Amerigy Energy?

At Amerigy Energy, we take a relational approach to energy audits. Our team is invested in understanding the unique needs of your business and providing customized solutions that deliver measurable results. As representatives of over 50 energy providers, we don’t just help you optimize your energy usage—we also ensure you’re on the best plan to maximize your savings.

Take Action Now: Schedule Your Energy Audit Today

Don’t wait for your next utility bill to remind you of rising energy costs. A professional energy audit could be the key to unlocking thousands of dollars in savings for your business. Contact Amerigy Energy today to schedule your energy audit and discover how we can help you save money, improve efficiency, and prepare for a sustainable future.

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

The Christmas Ghost of Peppermint Past

By
Rachel Lauren
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0
Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

Everyone knows that peppermint is a staple flavor for the Christmas season. Peppermint candy, peppermint hot chocolate, peppermint coffee, and many more things always come about more when Christmas is close. The question is, why is peppermint such a popular flavor for Christmas? Who decided that fact that’s now a widely known tradition for the Christmas season? Let’s find out.

A Short History of Peppermint

Photo by 2H Media on Unsplash

An article on Young Living Essential Oils website says that peppermint’s uses can be traced back to ancient Egypt, with records from 1550 B.C. in Egyptian medical texts highlighting its ability to alleviate stomach issues. It was so valuable that it was even used as a form of currency in Egypt, a practice that led to the modern term “mint,” referring to a place where money is coined.

Peppermint eventually spread to northern Europe from the Middle East, where its culinary and medicinal benefits gained popularity. During the Middle Ages, monks used peppermint to freshen their breath and clean their teeth. Its strong menthol scent also made it effective in keeping rodents away from cheese storage areas. By the mid-1700s, peppermint was recognized as a medicinal remedy for various ailments, including diseases and migraines. As its uses in cooking and medicine expanded, it was increasingly cultivated in gardens and eventually grown commercially on farms.

The Benefits of Peppermint

Photo by Samer Khodeir on Unsplash

mountsinai.org explains a lot of ways Peppermint is beneficial to your health. Peppermint has long been recognized for its therapeutic properties, offering a wide range of benefits that extend beyond its refreshing taste and aroma. One of the most notable qualities of peppermint is its ability to produce a calming and numbing effect. This is primarily due to the presence of menthol, a natural compound that not only provides a cooling sensation but also acts as a mild analgesic. When applied topically, peppermint oil can help alleviate discomfort by numbing the affected area and reducing sensations of pain or irritation. It is commonly used to soothe conditions such as sore muscles, skin irritations, and headaches, providing relief through its soothing properties.

Peppermint’s medicinal uses extend to a variety of other ailments as well. It has long been used to treat digestive issues such as nausea, diarrhea, and flatulence. The menthol in peppermint helps relax the muscles in the gastrointestinal tract, promoting smoother digestion and reducing symptoms of bloating and cramping. This makes peppermint an effective remedy for indigestion and other digestive discomforts. Additionally, peppermint has been shown to ease menstrual cramps by relaxing the muscles of the uterus, helping to reduce pain and discomfort associated with menstruation.

Beyond its digestive and pain-relieving properties, peppermint has also been recognized for its potential to support mental health. It is often used to manage anxiety, particularly when it is linked to depression. The cooling sensation of peppermint can have a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. This makes it a popular choice in aromatherapy, where its soothing aroma is used to promote relaxation and mental clarity. Whether consumed as a tea, applied topically as oil, or used in aromatherapy, peppermint continues to be a versatile and effective natural remedy for a variety of physical and emotional ailments.

A Christmas Flavor

Photo by Rachel Kelli on Unsplash

Peppermint contains chemical menthol, which is what produces that icy taste. Menthol tricks our brains into perceiving a cool sensation because it activates the same nerve ending receptors involved in sensing cold! While scientists aren’t quite sure why, we are hard-wired to enjoy the refreshing, cooling sensation, as it can satiate thirst, increase alertness, and ease breathing. The cooling sensation of peppermint feels like winter. However, this is not the sole reason Peppermint has completely taken over the Christmas season.

According to epicurious.org, the strong connection between peppermint and the holiday season likely stems from the popularity of peppermint candy canes, although several theories exist about how this iconic treat became associated with Christmas. Peppermint, a plant native to the Middle East and Europe, has been used for centuries, including for medicinal purposes, and many American candy-making techniques can be traced back to these regions. The origin of the candy cane itself dates back to around 1670, when a choirmaster in Cologne, Germany, sought a way to keep children quiet during a live Nativity performance. He asked a local confectioner to create a special hard candy to occupy the children, which was shaped like a cane, or more specifically, a shepherd’s staff.

Christmas is Near and Peppermint is Everywhere

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash

While Peppermint is widely known as a popular Christmas season flavor, it’s a lot more than that. Peppermint stands as a remarkable herb with a rich history and a wide array of therapeutic benefits. Its soothing properties, from relieving headaches and muscle pain to easing digestive issues like nausea and flatulence, have made it a go-to remedy for many. The calming effects of peppermint, often attributed to its menthol content, also extend to mental health, where it helps alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress. Its versatility across various forms—whether as an essential oil, tea, or topical application—ensures that peppermint remains an accessible and effective natural remedy. It’s the perfect flavor to encourage and spread Christmas cheer this month.

Angelina College Weekly Update

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

Hey, sports fans,

We experience a light week in sports (not counting our Thanksgiving plates), but there was still plenty taking place to keep us moving. 

The Roadrunner basketball team picked up a huge road win in Waco, and the soccer teams released their lists of individual postseason accolades (there were a lot of them). 

The men’s basketball team tips off conference play with a big home game this Wednesday, the Lady ‘Runners are on the road again, and our Roadrunner Baseball program is hosting its annual winter evaluation camp in two short weeks.

Oh, and there are only 24 days left until Christmas. 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 Knocks off McLennan in Waco

Angelina College’s Roadrunners made sure they’d enjoy their Thanksgiving break by posting a huge road win on Monday.

The ‘Runners held off McLennan College in a nerve-wracking 78-75 win in Waco, getting some clutch individual plays down the stretch – especially on defense. 

Daemon Ely’s block of a potential game-tying Highlanders shot helped preserve the win and ensure Kanaan Holder’s 21-point night wasn’t for naught. 

AC’s Jordan Mathews just missed out on a double-double with 13 points and nine rebounds; Christian Jones added 12 points; and Kyle Morgan dropped 10 to lift the Roadrunners to a 6-1 record heading into conference play this week.

AC’s first conference matchup is a big one: The ‘Runners host defending conference champs Lee College at 7 p.m. this Wednesday at Shands Gymnasium. The game will be live streamed on TSBN Sports. 

On Saturday, the Roadrunners will be in Beeville, TX to take on Coastal Bend Community College in a 4 p.m. start. That game is not on the TSBN schedule as of yet. 

Lady Roadrunners, Roadrunners Earn Postseason Soccer Honors

Both Angelina College soccer teams posted outstanding seasons in 2024, with both the Lady Roadrunners and Roadrunners earning berths in the conference tournament and the men holding onto Top 20 rankings throughout the year. The Lady ‘Runners also finished as the Region XIV South Zone champions. 

Because of their efforts, several players earned postseason honors:

Lady Roadrunners: Estephany Aguilar and Paula Suarez earned 1st Team All-Region honors, Sofie Iverson and Camila Rico earned 2nd Team All-Region and Brenda Izaguirre picked up Honorable Mention honors.

Aguilar, a sophomore from Bogota, Colombia, was her team’s lead facilitator on offensive, finishing the season with five goals, eight assists and 18 accumulated points. 

Freshman Suarez, also from Bogota, led the team in goals scored with 10, adding five assists to finish with 25 points.  

Iversen, a freshman defender from Aabenraa, Denmark anchored an AC defense that allowed just 1.2 goals per match, with the Lady ‘Runners holding opponents scoreless in six matches. 

Rico, a sophomore from Ibague, Colombia, finished with five goals, two assists and 12 accumulated points.

Izaguirre, a freshman from Lufkin, posted four goals – including a game winner – and finished the season with eight points. 

The Lady Roadrunners finished the season with a record of 11-5 – including a nine-game winning streak – under first-year head coach Sergio Gardea.

Roadrunners: Abdallah Traore and Patricio Villalobos earned 1st Team All-Conference honors; Elias Taj, Jacob Blach and Casper Madsen earned 2nd Team All-Conference honors; and Filliph Kamfjord landed on the Honorable Mention list for their work with the nationally ranked Roadrunners in 2024. 

Sophomore Traore, of Trondheim, Norway, was a defensive mainstay for the Roadrunner back line throughout his two seasons. Traore added two goals – including a game winner – and four points in his 2024 campaign.

Villalobos, a freshman from Aguascalientes, Mexico, provided a steady presence in the AC offensive attack, finishing with a pair of goals, an assist and five points.

Taj, a freshman from Copenhagen, Denmark, led the team in goals scored with nine, adding three assists to finish with 21 points.

Blach, a high-flying freshman defender from Nykøbing Falster, Denmark, was a key player in a Roadrunner defense that allowed a miniscule .79 goals per match. Blach added a goal and two points on the season.

Madsen, the freshman goalkeeper from Slagelse, Denmark, allowed just six goals in 11 matches, finishing the season with 45 saves. 

Kamfjord, a sophomore from Sandes, Norway, was second on the team in goals scored with five, adding five assists and a total of 15 points. 

The Roadrunners under second-year head coach Martin Melchor finished the season with a record of 10-4-2 and reached as high as No. 5 in the NJCAA national rankings.  

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 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 web site, look at the scrolling schedule in the middle of the page and click the blue “Video” link. 

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

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

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

Upcoming schedules:

Wednesday, Dec. 4:

Roadrunner Basketball vs. Lee College, 7 p.m., Shands Gymnasium

Friday, Dec. 6:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Cisco College, 5 p.m. at Temple Classic in Temple, TX

Saturday, Dec. 7:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. Temple College, 2 p.m. at Temple Classic in Temple, TX

Roadrunner Basketball at Coast Bend CC, 4 p.m. in Beeville, TX

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

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