Home Blog Page 126

My Five Cents… A monthly column from Sen. Robert Nichols

By
Senator Robert Nichols
-
0

This week we celebrate one of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving. Enjoy food, family, and football – including the return of a historic in-state rivalry. Happy Thanksgiving! 

Here are five things happening around your state: 

1. Comptroller announces awards for broadband programs

The Broadband Development Office (BDO) announced it has notified the first wave of awardees for its Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) II program. This represents $580 million in funding that will connect almost 80,000 locations to high-speed broadband in 15 counties across the state. The BOOT II program is funded in part by federal Coronavirus Capital Projects Fund and by the state’s Broadband Infrastructure Fund. The BDO identified two counties in each of the Comptroller’s 12 economic regions that demonstrated a high-level of need, measured by percentage of unserved or underserved broadband locations. This program will ensure that eligible locations in those counties will receive internet service at speeds of 100/20 Mbps – the federal definition for broadband service. Three counties in Senate District 3 were included in the program: Liberty, Newton, and Trinity Counties. The BDO will post awardee information on their website once agreements have been signed. 

2. Temple Foundation President, CEO named new Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board commissioner

This month, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) announced Dr. Wynn Rosser as the new Commissioner of Higher Education. Dr. Rosser previously served as President and CEO of the T.L.L. Temple Foundation, an East Texas-based organization dedicated to building up rural East Texas communities and alleviating poverty. During his time at the Temple Foundation, Dr. Rosser continued the foundation’s commitment to education, healthcare, regional community development, and community resilience in East Texas. In his new position, he will oversee initiatives at THECB that equip students to enter the workforce, enable more students to access higher education, and build a stronger Texas economy. I would like to thank Dr. Rosser for his incredible work at the Temple Foundation and wish him success as he moves forward at the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

3. Lufkin High School band wins third straight state title 

The Lufkin High School Band has once again claimed a state title. This is the third win in a row for the band which performs in the military marching style and competes in that category. Military Marching is a traditional straight-line style of marching, and everyone moves in a forward direction. This differs from the corps style, in which the band generally always faces the front. Most modern-day marching bands perform in the corps style, however the largest notable military-style marching band in the nation is here in Texas at Texas A&M University. The National Association of Military Marching Bands (NAMMB) has traditionally sponsored the state contest. However, in 2020 the University Interscholastic League (UIL) decided to try hosting a Military Marching Band contest. The Panther Band won UIL state titles in 2021, 2023, and 2024 (no contest was held in 2022). Previously, the Panther Band also won NAMMB state titles in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2019. Lufkin High School Band has a winning tradition, congratulations on your continued success! 

4. Entergy awarded $54 million in federal funds to enhance grid resilience

Entergy Texas was awarded nearly $54 million in federal funding this month in a bid to enhance grid resilience particularly in the Port Arthur area. Entergy will focus the funding on a project aimed to help lessen the impact of future extreme weather events in the coastal community. The funding comes from the Department of Energy’s Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnerships (GRIP) program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The GRIP program is aimed at enhancing the power grid and making it more resilient in the face of extreme weather. 

5. DPS announces new leadership

This month, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) announced a new director, Senior Deputy Director Freeman F. Martin. Earlier this year, current Director Steve McCraw announced his intention to retire by year-end. The Public Safety Commission (PSC) gathered this month and approved the selection of Deputy Director Martin. Martin has been with DPS since 1990, when he started as a Texas Highway Patrol (THP) Trooper in Winnie. Over the past thirty plus years, he has served as THP Corporal, Narcotics Service Sergeant in Houston, and a Texas Ranger Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain, and Major in several cities across the state. He later was appointed Deputy Director of Homeland Security Operations by the PSC and promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 2018. He will be sworn in at a ceremony on December 2. 

Cana Lilies – Common and Resilient 

By
Cary Sims
-
0

Questions from new homeowners are commonplace. Even if you are moving across town, you inherit a new landscape with some new plants. One new homeowner asked me how difficult would it be to care for the Canna lilies already planted at his new home would be. “Not difficult at all,” was my response. 

This herbaceous perennial goes by a few common names: Cannas, Canna Lily, or maybe Garden Canna is most likely the hybrid of Canna indica and Canna glauca or Canna iridiflora. The genus name, Canna, is from the Greek word “Kanna,” which means reed-like. Currently, all Canna hybrids are included under the scientific name of Canna x generalis. 

These tropical looking plants are very large, growing up to 6 feet tall. You’ll find them in lots of landscapes and whether planted as an accent or in a mass planting. Depending on the cultivar, they have large colorful flowers and tropical appearing foliage. 

Cannas are hybrid plants found in tropical and subtropical regions of North and South America as well as India. The plant has been widely cultivated old home sites and some have escaped to roadsides, ponds, or streams.

Cannas prefers sunlight to light shade, soils with high organic matter, and slightly acidic pH- perfect for East Texas. Even without these preferred conditions, they grow best in moist, well-drained soils, but they can tolerate some standing water or drought once they are established. They have a high heat tolerance, but they are prone to wind damage. 

Whenever we get our first frost, they will die back and turn to mush. I simply mulch over them to hide the decaying vegetation in the winter and wait for them to resprout in the spring. 

If you already have a stand and want to multiply them, the rhizomes should be dug and replanted after the last spring frost. It is best to plant the rhizomes at least 5 inches deep and 12 inches apart.  If you want to propagate some from a friend, Cannas may be propagated by seeds, rhizomes, and division.

To keep them blooming throughout the summer, remove spent flowers to encourage continued flowering. In warmer climates such as ours, the rhizomes may be left in the ground over the winter. 

Many local homeowners take Cannas for granted, given our climate, and may not realize the work others in colder climates go to keep them. In areas where the plant is not winter hardy, the rhizomes are lifted and stored over the winter. They are then stored in peat or vermiculite in a cool, dry place away from freezing cold temperatures.  

Cannas have fleshy, underground stems called rhizomes. Above ground the stems are 3-6 feet tall, glabrous, unbranched, and enveloped by leaf sheaths. Landscaper scan choose from a variety of leaf colors from green, bronze, or variegated, depending on the cultivar. 

Its flowers range from 4 to 8 inches long and appear on the ends of the stem as racemes or panicles. Cannas bloom during the summer months, from July to August. Depending on the cultivar,
Cannas show off flowers ranging from white, cream, yellow, orange, pink, coral, salmon, red, or bicolored. 

The online literature does list a few diseases and insects. I’ve only seen a few slugs and snails. My biggest problem is leaf-rolling caterpillars. 

Often bypassed as “everyone already has that”, I think the Canna lily is a great ‘tropical’ addition to any home landscape. Put it by the pool or any other water feature. As always, look for it at a local nursery, but don’t forget to ask your friends and neighbors if you can dig up some roots to move to your landscape next spring.  

Angelina College Inducts New Phi Theta Kappa Members

By
Diana De Leon Bon
-
0

Organization Recognizes Academic Excellence in Two-Year Colleges

Angelina College on Thursday inducted 15 new members into its Upsilon Rho Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa – the international honor society for two-year colleges – in a ceremony held inside Hudgins Hall on the AC campus. 

AC president Dr. Michael Simon greeted the inductees and their families, welcoming the new members to a chapter Angelina College has sponsored since 1969. In his opening remarks, Simon expressed the true definition of a “college.” 

“What is a college? One might think it’s the buildings and the land, and I can tell you it’s not the case,” Simon said. “It’s not just the library, even though it’s important. The faculty is important as well. But if you don’t have students, the faculty is just a bunch of really educated folks talking to themselves. 

“What makes a college is the students and the fact they come here and entrust us with their education and the opportunity to learn and to grow into responsible citizens, professionals and family members.”

The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Susan Edwards, Associate Vice President of Honors Programming and Undergraduate Research at Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society International.  

“Congratulations on your achievement, and we’re very excited for Phi Theta Kappa because you make us stronger,” Edwards said. “You have a lot to do with PTK’s culture and how it evolves.

“You’re entering a very strong chapter here at AC, and you’re helping make it even stronger.”

The new inductees strolled the stage to sign their names into the PTK book while receiving their traditional candles and roses, along with the ceremonial cord presented by Simon. Chapter administrator Dr. Tim Ditoro, along with PTK advisors Dr. Tom McKinney, Gerardo Valladares and Monica Newberg, also addressed the inductees.  

AC’s newest PTK members inducted on Thursday include Heaven Antley, Yazmine Gamboa, Mia Guerrero, Melanie Lopez, Anakaren Ovalle, Verania Paulin, Kimberly Raines, Maritza Rios, Sheramie Salazar, Jade Scott, Britton Shoellhorn, Jayden Shoellhorn, Clara Sonet, Dalyn West and Theodore Williams.  

From AC’s Phi Theta Kappa page:

“Phi Theta Kappa is an international honor society for the two-year college. The purpose of Phi Theta Kappa is demonstrated in the four hallmarks of the society: scholarship, leadership, fellowship and service. Through activities the organization strives to honor those hallmarks for the improvement of the community, the college, others and themselves. To be eligible for membership, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and have completed at least 12 hours of college work. Members must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester following their induction. Provisional membership is available to students who have not yet completed twelve hours of college credit.”

For further information regarding PTK, contact Dr. Tim Ditoro at tditoro@angelina.edu. 

Angelina College Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
-
0

Hey, sports fans,

First of all, we hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving. Angelina College will be closed for the week of Nov. 25 through Nov. 29 and will reopen on Monday, Dec. 2. Our athletes also will take a break, with only one road game (men’s basketball on Monday) on tap for next week.

This past week saw AC teams with some big wins, along with our Lady Roadrunners and Roadrunners making impacts in the community and on the academic stage. In addition, our Roadrunner Baseball program is hosting its annual winter evaluation camp. 

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

Roadrunner Basketball Stroll Past Strength ‘N Motion

(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)
(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)

The Roadrunner basketball team put on some highlight reels in Wednesday’s win over Strength ‘N Motion, with five AC players reaching double figures in a 90-35 rout at Shands Gymnasium.

AC’s Kyle Morgan went for a season-high 15 points, converting three of his six three-point attempts. Jordan Mathews added 12 points, Qasim Boyd and Milton Rice III chipped in 11 points each and Christian Jones finished with 10 points in the win.

The Roadrunners (5-1) will travel to Waco on Monday, Nov. 25th to face McLennan College in a 6 p.m. tipoff.  

Lady Roadrunner Basketball Hammers Western Gulf

(Basketball photos by Clara Sonet)

AC’s ladies also played just one game this week, and the Lady Roadrunners showed out in front of the home crowd in Wednesday’s 71-36 win over Western Gulf Collegiate.

Lady ‘Runner India McMahon, who’s currently ranked No. 19 in the nation in scoring average, led AC with 19 points. Alicia Rivera-Scott came off the bench to drill 15 points, and Lanaijha Johnson added 10 points. Maria Andrade yanked down 13 rebounds in the win. 

The Lady Roadrunners (5-4) are off until the weekend of December 6-7, when AC will participate in the Temple Classic in Temple, TX.  

Lady Roadrunner Soccer’s Sonet Inducted into Phi Theta Kappa

For the second consecutive year, Angelina College has a representative in a national honor society.

This past Thursday, Lady Roadrunner soccer player Clara Sonet, a sophomore midfielder from Barcelona, Spain, was inducted into the Upsilon Rho Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa – the international honor society for two-year colleges – in a ceremony held inside Hudgins Hall on the AC campus.

To be eligible for membership, a student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 and have completed at least 12 hours of college work. Members must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA each semester following their induction.

Baseball Players Spend Time with Broaddus Students

Several members of the Roadrunner baseball team spent Monday visiting with students and athletes at Broaddus High School, discussing various topics ranging from recruiting to college life in general. 

AC’s baseball team will open its 2024 season in January. 

Lufkin Jr. Panther Cheer Shines at Shands Gymnasium

The Lufkin Jr. Panther Cheer team brought its flipping, stunting performances to the floor of Shands Gymnasium for halftime of Wednesday’s Roadrunners vs. Strength ‘N Motion basketball game. Under the direction of Amber Timmise, the little Panthers have been wowing the AC home crowds for several years. 

Keep an eye out for their return after the holiday break. 

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:

Monday, Nov. 25:

Roadrunner Basketball at McLennan College, 6 p.m. in Waco, 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

Thanksgiving: Only a Day Away—The Final Countdown

By
Rachel Lauren
-
0
Image by LightFieldStudios on Envato Elements

With Thanksgiving just a day away, excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a bit of stress are in the air. The holiday marks a time for reflection, celebration, and coming together with family and friends. But as the clock ticks down, many find themselves scrambling to finalize preparations—whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or getting ready for long-distance travel. Here’s a look at the whirlwind of activities and emotions that lead up to Thanksgiving Day, and how to make the most of it.

The Rush to Prepare: Last-Minute Cooking and Shopping

As Thanksgiving draws near, the pressure to get everything ready intensifies. For many, the day before the holiday is spent finishing up the final details. From grocery shopping to last-minute cooking, the hours before Thanksgiving Day are crucial for making sure everything runs smoothly.

If you haven’t already completed your shopping, today’s the day to grab any remaining ingredients. Fresh produce, last-minute spices, and dessert items can often be found in abundance at the grocery store, but don’t wait until the last minute—stores will likely be crowded with others doing the same. Consider organizing your shopping list by category to make the process more efficient and avoid any unnecessary panic.

In the kitchen, the real work begins. Many dishes can be prepped in advance—pie doughs can be rolled, vegetables chopped, and sauces prepared. Desserts are often baked the day before, ensuring that they have time to set and cool. Whether you’re roasting a turkey or making casseroles, the final day before Thanksgiving is all about getting things ready for the big feast.

The Spirit of Gratitude: Reflecting on the Year

While Thanksgiving is about feasting and festivities, it’s also a time to pause and reflect. The stress of preparing the meals, preparing your house, and getting ready over all can often make you forget to slow down and appreciate the fact that you’re even able to do such things. The day before Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to prepare mentally and emotionally for the holiday by taking stock of what you’re thankful for.

In the final hours before the big day, consider taking a moment to reflect on the past year—your successes, challenges, and everything in between. Whether you jot down your thoughts in a gratitude journal or share them with a loved one, this can be a grounding moment before the busy-ness of the holiday kicks in. Thanksgiving is, after all, a time to express thanks for the blessings in your life.

A Day Away from Gratitude and Togetherness

With Thanksgiving just one day away, there’s no time to waste. The final hours are about preparing the meal, the home, and the heart for what promises to be a day of connection, reflection, and joy. Whether you’re finishing up last-minute shopping, getting ready for travel, or reflecting on the year, the day before Thanksgiving is a blend of activity and anticipation.

Don’t forget to take some time to stop what you’re doing for a moment and show your gratitude for both the small and big things in life.

Grateful Hearts, Stronger Together

By
Lee Allen Miller
-
0

This Thanksgiving, I want to pause and express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey. To our customers, partners, employees, and community—thank you for trusting us, supporting our vision, and helping us grow.

As we reflect on this season of gratitude, we are reminded that our greatest achievements are built on the foundation of relationships. Whether it’s powering your homes and businesses, helping you share your story, or partnering to make a positive impact, your trust inspires us to do our best every day.

This year, we are especially thankful for the opportunity to serve the wonderful communities of East Texas and beyond. Your loyalty and feedback continue to shape our growth and guide us toward innovation, integrity, and excellence.

We are also deeply grateful for our hardworking team members, whose dedication and passion fuel everything we do. You are the heart of our mission, and we couldn’t achieve these milestones without you.

As we gather with loved ones to celebrate this season, let’s also remember to reach out to those in need and extend a hand of kindness and generosity—because together, we can make this world a better place.

Wishing you and your families a blessed, joyous, and safe Thanksgiving!

With gratitude,

Lee Allen Miller

Nancy Windham Honored with Silver Bucket Award for Leadership in Economic Development

By
Rachel Lauren
-
0
Image by Misty Boggs

Nacogdoches, Texas— In a moment filled with heartfelt applause and admiration, Nancy Windham, Regional Advisor for the Texas Forest Country Partnership (TFCP), was presented with the prestigious Silver Bucket Award during the 19th Annual Economic Development Summit. This accolade, awarded at the Equity & Elevation Summit hosted at The Fredonia Inn on November 20, 2024, recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to regional economic development and community growth.

As the familiar opening notes of Aretha Franklin’s “RESPECT” filled the room, Nancy approached the stage amid a standing ovation, embodying the spirit of leadership and dedication that the Silver Bucket Award celebrates.

The Silver Bucket Award is a revered honor within the TFCP community, symbolizing resilience, collaboration, and tireless service. Nancy’s contributions to East Texas have not only advanced economic opportunities but also inspired a culture of innovation and equity across the region’s diverse counties.

“Nancy has been a steadfast advocate for our communities, ensuring that every county and every voice is represented in the economic growth of this region,” said Eddie Hopkins, Executive Director of the Jasper Economic Development Corporation, who introduced the award presentation. “Her vision has helped shape a brighter future for East Texas, and this award is a testament to her unwavering commitment.”

As a Regional Advisor, Nancy has been instrumental in fostering partnerships between local governments, businesses, and educational institutions. Her work has facilitated economic initiatives that have strengthened workforce development, expanded infrastructure, and brought investment opportunities to the area. Whether working with county officials or hosting regional summits, Nancy’s leadership reflects a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that define East Texas.

Under her guidance, the Texas Forest Country Partnership has successfully elevated the voices of rural communities, advocating for equitable access to resources and empowering local leaders to take ownership of their economic futures.

Taking the podium, Nancy expressed her gratitude with characteristic humility. “This award is not just about one person,” she said. “It represents the countless hours of work by so many—our board members, local leaders, and community stakeholders—who share the vision of making East Texas a place where everyone can thrive.”

She continued by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community-driven solutions, highlighting that “no challenge is too great when we come together with purpose and determination.”

Nancy’s family joined her at the stage for a commemorative photo, symbolizing the personal connections that have fueled her professional dedication. Surrounded by colleagues and community members, the scene reflected a shared sense of admiration and gratitude for a leader whose impact has touched both the economic fabric and the hearts of those she serves.

The Silver Bucket Award presentation underscored the summit’s overarching theme of “Equity & Elevation: Every County, Every Voice.” Nancy’s work serves as an enduring example of how dedication, compassion, and strategic vision can transform communities and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Nancy Windham’s recognition is a reminder of the profound impact that one leader can have on an entire region. As the applause subsided and the summit moved forward, her words lingered as a call to action: “Let’s continue the work. Together, we can build something extraordinary.”

Angelina College Baseball Holding Evaluation Camp

By
Gary Stallard
-
0

Session for Prospective Players Taking Place in December

The Angelina College Roadrunner baseball program has established itself as a pipeline for players seeking to advance to the next level, including those at the university levels and the major leagues. With numerous former Roadrunners having earned their way to the next level – including Major League Baseball’s ranks – AC Baseball has long been a proven source of locating and developing young talent who launched their careers from the diamonds at Angelina College.

In an effort to find more future Roadrunners, the AC baseball team will hold an evaluation camp for prospective players 9th grade and older in December. 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 the AC baseball staff at (936) 633-5367, or e-mail head coach Jeff Livin at jlivin@angelina.edu.

The e-mail address for AC’s Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu.

Top 10 Energy Myths Debunked

By
Lee Allen Miller
-
0

In a world filled with energy-saving tips and tricks, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. Misconceptions about energy consumption can lead to inefficient habits that cost you money. At Amerigy Energy, we believe in empowering our customers with accurate information so they can make smarter energy decisions. Let’s debunk 10 of the most common energy myths once and for all.

1. Myth: Leaving Lights On Uses Less Energy Than Turning Them Off

Truth: Turning lights off when they’re not in use always saves energy, regardless of how frequently you switch them on and off. Modern light bulbs like LEDs are designed to be energy-efficient and have long lifespans, even with frequent switching.

Tip: Make it a habit to turn off lights when you leave a room and consider motion-sensor lighting for high-traffic areas to maximize savings.

2. Myth: Appliances Don’t Use Power When Turned Off

Truth: Many appliances and electronic devices continue to draw power even when they’re switched off. This “phantom load” can account for up to 10% of a household’s energy use. Items like TVs, computers, and microwaves are common culprits.

Tip: Use power strips to turn off multiple devices at once or unplug items that aren’t used frequently to reduce phantom power consumption.

3. Myth: It’s Cheaper to Leave Your Thermostat at One Constant Temperature

Truth: Setting your thermostat to a constant temperature throughout the day isn’t as energy-efficient as adjusting it when you’re away or asleep. Lowering the temperature by 7-10°F for 8 hours a day can save up to 10% on your heating and cooling costs annually.

Tip: Invest in a programmable or smart thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature when you’re out of the house or asleep.

4. Myth: Closing Vents in Unused Rooms Saves Energy

Truth: Closing vents can actually increase your energy bill. HVAC systems are designed to balance air pressure, and closing vents can make your system work harder, potentially causing duct leaks and inefficiencies.

Tip: Instead of closing vents, consider zoning systems or adjustable dampers to direct air flow more efficiently.

5. Myth: Ceiling Fans Cool the Room

Truth: Ceiling fans don’t cool rooms; they cool people. Fans create a wind-chill effect that makes you feel cooler, but they don’t actually lower the room’s temperature. Leaving them on when no one is present just wastes energy.

Tip: Turn fans off when you leave a room to save on energy costs.

6. Myth: Hand-Washing Dishes Saves More Water and Energy Than a Dishwasher

Truth: Modern dishwashers are often more water- and energy-efficient than washing dishes by hand, especially if you’re running a full load. Energy-efficient dishwashers use about 3 gallons of water per load, whereas hand-washing can use up to 27 gallons.

Tip: Skip the pre-rinse and run your dishwasher only when full for maximum efficiency.

7. Myth: Bigger HVAC Units Are Always Better

Truth: Oversized HVAC units cool or heat a space too quickly, leading to inefficiencies and increased wear and tear. This rapid cycling can make the unit less effective, raise your energy bill, and shorten its lifespan.

Tip: Consult with a professional to ensure your HVAC system is appropriately sized for your space.

8. Myth: LED Lights Are Expensive and Not Worth the Investment

Truth: While LED bulbs may cost more upfront than traditional incandescent or CFL bulbs, they use up to 75% less energy and last 25 times longer. The long-term savings make LEDs a much better investment.

Tip: Replace your home’s most frequently used bulbs with LEDs to see noticeable savings on your energy bill.

9. Myth: Washing Clothes in Hot Water Cleans Them Better

Truth: Modern laundry detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water. Washing in cold water can save up to 90% of the energy used to heat the water, and it’s just as effective for most clothing items.

Tip: Reserve hot water washes for heavily soiled items or specific needs, and switch to cold water for everyday laundry.

10. Myth: Switching Energy Providers Is Complicated and Expensive

Truth: In the deregulated ERCOT market, switching energy providers is simpler and often comes with significant cost benefits. Amerigy Energy makes the process seamless by offering a range of energy plans tailored to your specific needs. Our team handles the details, so you don’t have to worry about hidden fees or service interruptions.

Tip: Contact Amerigy Energy for a personalized consultation to explore how switching plans can lead to better rates and long-term savings.

Busting Energy Myths for Smarter Savings

Don’t let energy myths lead to higher bills and inefficient energy use. By understanding the facts, you can take control of your energy consumption and make choices that are good for both the environment and your wallet. At Amerigy Energy, we’re here to help you navigate the energy market with clear, reliable information and competitive plans that fit your lifestyle.

This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas. They can be reached at 877-631-8875 or info@amerigyenergy.com

The Origins of the Turkey Trot

By
Rachel Lauren
-
0
Image by maginnislaura on Envato Elements

The history of the Turkey Trot dates back to 1896 when the first race was held in Buffalo, New York. The idea was simple: a five-mile race to celebrate Thanksgiving and bring the community together. Only six participants took part in this inaugural event, which took place on the dirt roads of downtown Buffalo. The race was a modest occasion compared to what we know today, but it sparked an idea that would grow into a beloved tradition across the United States. At that time, competitive running events were few and far between, so the Turkey Trot stood out as a unique way to celebrate the holiday.

Though small in scope, the first Turkey Trot laid the foundation for something bigger. As the years passed, the race would see changes and growth, eventually spreading to other cities across the nation. What began as a local race in Buffalo soon became a symbol of Thanksgiving spirit, with communities embracing the idea of starting their holiday morning with a run.

The Rise of Costume Culture

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Turkey Trot is the costume culture that has developed over time. As the event grew in popularity, participants began to add a lighthearted and festive touch to the race by dressing in creative costumes. While some runners still opt for traditional athletic wear, many embrace the opportunity to wear fun and whimsical outfits. Turkeys, superheroes, Santa Clauses, and even bananas have all made appearances at Turkey Trots across the country.

The trend of wearing costumes has become so ingrained in the Turkey Trot culture that many races now offer special awards for the best-dressed participants. This playful tradition has turned the Turkey Trot into more than just a race—it’s a celebration of creativity and fun. Costumes provide a way for people to express themselves, and the laughter and enjoyment that comes with seeing fellow runners in outlandish outfits adds to the festive spirit of the event.

Turkey Trots as a National Tradition

Today, the Turkey Trot is a cherished national tradition. While it started in Buffalo, the race has spread to communities all across the United States, with thousands of Turkey Trots held annually. These races have become an essential part of the Thanksgiving experience for many families. Whether taking part in a race on Thanksgiving morning or the weekend before or after, people across the nation participate to start their holiday on an active note.

The Turkey Trot has also become a way for families to bond and spend time together. Many races are family-friendly, with fun runs and activities for children. For some, it has become a tradition to dress in matching costumes or to race together as a family team. The inclusive nature of these events allows people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds to join in the fun, making the Turkey Trot a symbol of community and togetherness.

With millions of participants every year, the Turkey Trot is the most popular type of road race in the United States. It has grown from a small local event in Buffalo to a nationwide phenomenon, attracting both serious runners and casual participants. The appeal of the Turkey Trot lies not only in its festive atmosphere and family-friendly nature but also in the sense of tradition it fosters. For many, it’s a way to stay active before the big Thanksgiving feast, and the race has become a fun way to burn some calories while raising money for local charities.

What makes the Turkey Trot especially unique is its ability to cater to all kinds of runners, whether they’re seasoned marathoners or someone just looking for a fun, lighthearted race to participate in. It is this inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that has solidified the Turkey Trot as a staple of Thanksgiving morning in communities across the country. As the most popular road race in the United States, the Turkey Trot has truly become an iconic part of American culture.

1...125126127...760Page 126 of 760