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Fire Event Encourages Young Women to Explore A Career in Wildland Firefighting

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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HUNTSVILLE, Texas – Texas A&M Forest Service hosted the fourth annual Sisters in Fire event on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Sam Houston State University Bearkat Camp. Twenty-three young women between the ages of 12 and 18 from across 23 Texas counties participated.

“For the fourth year, we’ve shown young women the comradery, integrity and excitement that comes with a career in wildland firefighting and natural resource protection,” said Heather Gonzales, Texas A&M Forest Service Program Specialist. “We strive to make Sisters in Fire engaging, educational and fun every year and incorporate new activities and experiences. I loved seeing the laughter and teamwork from girls who were mostly strangers only a few hours before. It’s a reminder for all of us to take a step back and appreciate the work we get to do every day in serving the state of Texas.”

Participants were split into squads, or teams, for the day and rotated through four stations. Each station introduced them to various topics and skills relating to the wildland firefighting profession, including how to suppress wildfires with fire engines, bulldozers, chainsaws and hand tools. They also learned leadership and communication skills that are critical for wildland firefighting crews.

“Starting the chainsaw was hard, but once I got it to start and got to hold it and pull the trigger, I felt so strong,” said Charlie, Sisters in Fire participant.

At this year’s event, a Fire Boss from Dauntless Air, an amphibious aircraft frequently used on Texas wildfires, made two water drops to demonstrate the vital coordination between aerial firefighting resources and ground personnel during a wildfire incident. Participants were also able to interact and board a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department helicopter—a craft commonly used to haul buckets of water to provide pinpoint water drops or conduct initial attacks on remote wildfires.

“Most people only see aircraft as a part of commercial travel, but showing these young women and their families how important and unique these firefighting aircraft are introduces them to other paths,” said Cassidy Ince, Texas A&M Forest Service Fixed-Wing Program Coordinator. “These participants may be the next generation of our fire aviation professionals, and we will lean on all of them to protect our communities in the future.”

Participants put everything they learned to the test during the final event of the day—a prescribed fire demonstration. While the instructors burned a small area of grass, the young women answered questions and applied what they learned to a real-world scenario.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, women account for a small percentage of career firefighters, including 5% of all career firefighters, 11% of volunteer fire service and 12% of federal wildland firefighters.

“Getting to show the participants how all of the skills they learned all day work together during the prescribed burn is a great feeling,” said Britney Stinson, Texas A&M Forest Service Resource Specialist. “Seeing all of the participants and their families realize how all of these firefighters from multiple states and agencies can come together, make a team, and successfully lead an event is one of my favorite parts of the event.”

The Sisters in Fire event was hosted in cooperation with Texas A&M Forest Service, USDA Forest Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature Conservancy, Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System, Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute and Kansas Forest Service.

“Getting to not only work with other women with careers in the outdoors but to teach other young women is phenomenal,” said Kimberlee Peterson, Texas A&M Forest Service Woodland Ecologist. “Getting to see these young women realize they can have a career in natural resources is my favorite part of the event every year.”

Angelina College Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

This week saw our Lady Roadrunner soccer team run its win streak to two straight games, our basketball and softball teams hold their respective media days. In addition, the Angelina College Foundation held its 5th Annual Dinner at the Diamond – only one of the most creative and important events in the entire East Texas area. 

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

Lady Roadrunners Earn Two-Match Win Streak

AC’s ladies followed last Friday’s win at Blinn College with their biggest win of the season, a 4-1 victory over No. 16 LSU-Eunice on Friday. 

With team captain Tannia Diaz lost to an injury, the Lady ‘Runners posted a pre-game tribute before running out on the pitch and over the Lady Bengals. Nerea Garcia got the rout rolling with a goal just two minutes into the match, taking a feed from Estephany Aguilar and looping the ball over the LSU-E keeper.

Following a Lady Bengals equalizer in the 26th minute to leave the teams even at the half, AC’s Camila Rico benefitted from another Aguilar assist for a 2-1 lead. The Lady ‘Runners then benefitted from an LSU-E own goal – with Paula Suarez the main instigator on the score – and Aguilar capped the win with a goal (off a feed from Suarez) with just 37 seconds remaining in the match.  

With the win, the Lady ‘Runners (4-4, 3-3) retain possession of first place in the Region XIV South Zone.

AC’s ladies host Texas Southmost College in a Tuesday matinee scheduled for a 2 p.m. kickoff at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex on the AC campus.

The Lady ‘Runners then travel to Jacksonville College on Friday for another 2 p.m. start against the Lady Jaguars. 

Both matches are scheduled for live streaming on TSBN Sports.

No. 9 Roadrunner Soccer Beats Ranger, Drops Heartbreaker to Coastal Bend CC

The Roadrunners picked up a convincing 2-0 win on Tuesday against Ranger College, getting goals from Abdallah Traore (38th minute) and Elias Taj (23rd minute). Max Juhl and Elden Reneau earned the assists on those goals. 

On Friday, however, the ‘Runners dropped a heartbreaker at home to conference rival Coastal Bend Community College, with the lone score a Cougar penalty kick with just eight minutes remaining in the match. A highly contested battle saw the Roadrunners just miss on several scoring opportunities, dropping AC to 6-2, 4-2 on the season. 

AC’s men will host Southmost College at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday before traveling to Jacksonville College on Friday for a 4:30 p.m. kickoff. 

Both of this week’s matches will be live streamed on TSBN Sports.

Baseball Hosting Home Game on Thursday

The Roadrunner baseball squad continues its fall schedule with a home game this Thursday (Oct. 3) against Spartan Post Grad.

First pitch is scheduled for 2 p.m. 

AC Basketball Schedules Now Available

We may be several weeks away from the opening tip for basketball season, but both the Lady Roadrunners and Roadrunners now can boast of having their schedules posted and ready to rock.

The women’s and men’s schedules are available at www.angelinaathletics.com. 

The Lady Roadrunners will host a home scrimmage against Western Gulf Collegiate at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 28 at Shands Gymnasium. AC’s ladies will open the regular season on the road at the McLennan Classic scheduled for Nov. 1 and 2. The Lady Roadrunners then host their first home game at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6 against Hill College. 

On the men’s side, the Roadrunners will spend some scrimmage time in Fort Worth for the JUCO Jamboree (Oct. 11-12) and at the GASO Jamboree in Carrollton (Oct. 20). AC will host a home scrimmage against Legacy at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at Shands Gymnasium. 

AC’s men open the regular season on Saturday, Nov. 2 against Strength ‘N Motion in a home game scheduled for a 4 p.m. start. 

AC Athletes Assist on Dinner at the Diamond

(Dinner at the Diamond photos by Jessica Deel; Men’s Soccer photos by Clara Sonet)

The Angelina College Foundation held its 5th Annual Dinner at the Diamond fundraiser on Saturday, and the event received huge assists from AC athletes.

The unique ceremony features a full dinner and auctions held on the field at AC’s Poland Stadium – the home of the baseball Roadrunners. The event raises funds for such AC student services as the Food Pantry and other emergency student funds.

Former major league baseball player Brandon Belt and his wife Haylee have served as contributing sponsors for years, and Belt on Saturday met with several members of the ‘Runner baseball team.

In addition, AC athletes manned the games for soccer, basketball and baseball.

(Dinner at the Diamond photos by Jessica Deel; Men’s Soccer photos by Clara Sonet)

Finally, as a fitting touch, the musical performance came from none other than Hayden Baker – a former All-Conference shortstop with the Roadrunners who now makes his home in Nashville, where he’s considered a major up-and-comer in the music business. Baker played selections from his recent album “Barley Getting By,” which features an appearance from music legend Brad Paisley.

(Dinner at the Diamond photos by Jessica Deel; Men’s Soccer photos by Clara Sonet)

After the event, Baker and former teammate Dylan Murphy (the current Roadrunner assistant baseball coach) caught up with a game of catch in the outfield. 

New-Look Website is Up and Running

If you haven’t given it a peep already, check out our new-look website (www.angelinaathletics.com). While we’re proud of the result, we’re also still working to build some key components, and those will take some time. In addition, we’ve already encountered some minor (and expected) glitches, but we’re working through those as quickly as we can. 

In the meantime, we’re thoroughly enjoying the cool new look along with the easier-to-navigate pages. 

We’d love to hear your feedback. Feel free to email Sports Information Director Gary Stallard (gstallard@angelina.edu) or Manager of Athletics Operations Brett Reeves (mareeves@angelina.edu) with your comments. 

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: Admission to ALL Angelina College Athletics sporting events is free. Any link offering streaming for a fee is a scam. 

Upcoming schedules:

Tuesday, Oct. 1: 

Lady Roadrunners vs. Southmost College, 2 p.m., Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex on the AC campus.

No. 9 Roadrunner Soccer vs. Southmost College, 4:30 p.m., Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex.

Thursday, Oct. 3:

Roadrunner Baseball vs. Spartan Post Grad, 2 p.m., Poland Stadium on the AC campus. 

Friday, Oct. 4: 

Lady Roadrunner Soccer at Jacksonville College, 2 p.m. in Jacksonville, TX

No. 9 Roadrunner Soccer at Jacksonville College, 4:30 p.m. in Jacksonville, TX

For any other information, contact Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu. 

We’ll see you at the games.

Gary Stallard
Email: gstallard@angelina.edu.
Phone: (936) 465-4614

Breaking the Cycle: Joseph Caesar’s Mission to Empower Communities Through Financial Freedom

By
Caiden Cruse
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Empowering East Texas: Joseph Caesar’s Legacy of Financial Transformation

In the heart of Lufkin, Texas, a community leader is making a profound impact on the financial futures of East Texans. Joseph Caesar, founder of the Legacy Institute for Financial Empowerment (LIFE), is on a mission to help families break free from the cycle of poverty by providing the tools and knowledge necessary for long-term financial independence.

Founded nearly a decade ago, LIFE is more than just an organization—it’s a lifeline for many low to moderate-income households across East Texas, particularly within the African American and Hispanic communities. What began as a local initiative has now expanded to serve individuals and families from Houston to Washington, D.C., proving that the work happening here in Lufkin resonates far beyond our region.

The Vision Behind LIFE

Joseph Caesar’s journey to founding LIFE started with a realization—too many people, particularly young adults, lack basic financial knowledge that could change their lives for the better.

“There’s a gap in understanding when it comes to finances,” Caesar explains. “Many don’t know about disability insurance, life insurance, or how to properly plan for the future, and that gap can keep families stuck in a cycle of financial struggle.”

In response, Caesar created LIFE to fill that gap, offering tailored programs that address both immediate financial needs and long-term planning. Through its two main departments, the organization provides comprehensive financial services and workforce development programs, all aimed at helping people gain control over their finances.

Practical Solutions for Everyday Challenges

The Financial Opportunity Center at LIFE offers one-on-one financial coaching, small business development services, income support, and employment coaching. The center also provides access to the LIFE Empowerment Fund, a small-dollar loan program designed to help individuals avoid the trap of payday loans and high-interest debt.

Meanwhile, the LIFE Works initiative focuses on career advancement, offering training and apprenticeship programs in high-demand fields like carpentry, information technology, and landscaping. These programs equip participants with the skills they need to secure stable employment and improve their financial standing.

Innovation and Growth

Not content with simply offering traditional financial services, Caesar launched LIFE Tech in 2019, a program designed to give East Texans a leg up in the fast-growing tech sector. From providing tech-related training to fostering entrepreneurship, LIFE Tech is an example of how the organization is always evolving to meet the changing needs of the community.

“As technology continues to play a larger role in all industries, it’s important that we equip people with the tools they need to succeed,” Caesar explains. “We want to make sure our community isn’t left behind in this digital age.”

Building Homes and Futures

Looking to the future, Caesar is focusing on an even larger goal: affordable housing. Over the next several years, LIFE plans to develop a portfolio of affordable rental properties and eventually help families transition into homeownership.

“Our aim is to move clients from financial stability to homeownership,” Caesar says. “We want to build homes and help people take that step toward creating generational wealth.”

For Caesar, this work is personal. With an MBA in Finance from the University of Houston and over two decades of experience in the investment industry, he felt a calling to return to his roots and give back to the community that shaped him. “I want to see more people who come from backgrounds like mine involved in investing, whether it’s in the stock market or real estate,” Caesar reflects.

A Community-Focused Mission

LIFE’s success is built on a foundation of trust and transparency. By actively engaging with local stakeholders, churches, and community leaders, Caesar ensures that the organization’s mission aligns with the needs of East Texas residents. “The support we’ve received from the community has been incredible,” he says. “It’s proof that when you invest in people, you invest in the future of the entire community.”

Through LIFE’s work, individuals and families aren’t just learning to manage their finances—they’re gaining the confidence and skills to build better futures for themselves and their children. From financial literacy workshops to job training and now affordable housing, LIFE is truly transforming lives in Texas Forest Country.

A Brighter Future for East Texas

As LIFE continues to grow, one thing remains clear: Joseph Caesar’s commitment to empowering his community is unwavering. Whether through financial coaching, workforce development, or future housing projects, Caesar’s vision is to ensure that everyone in East Texas has the opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and build a more secure future.

For more information about LIFE and its programs, visit legacyinstitute.org or call 936-209-2085.

Horse Flies Are Pestering More Than Horses

By
Cary Sims
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One of the more common insects affecting livestock is the horsefly. Much larger than a typical house fly or stable fly, horseflies can grow to be just over an inch and have a terrible bite. 

I noticed them first in unusual numbers while driving slowly through a local national forest as I was studying the area for our upcoming hunting season. My truck was surrounded by enough of these flying insects that, for a moment, I thought I may have stirred up a hornet’s nest. Making sure to keep my windows up, I stopped to identify what was buzzing and hitting my truck. It was horse flies.

Since then, I’ve received calls from area residents about these ornery flies, where they come from, and how to control them.

Entomologists have identified 52 species of horseflies. They range in size from 3/8 to just over 1 inch long and vary in coloration by species. Some are all black while many have colored patterns on their abdomens and wings.

Few flies can be confused with horse flies as there are very few other tough flies which are capable of biting man and animals. They commonly feed on cattle and horses. Other mammals at times are certainly part of their diet, and given the chance, they certainly can pester humans.

Horse flies are significant livestock pests with their painful and persistent biting behavior.  Heavy attacks can lead to reductions in weight gains of beef cattle, reduced milk yield, reduced fed utilization efficiencies and hide damage from the puncture wounds.  Horses under attack will be irritable and distracted by trying to avoid being bitten.

Their biting activities can be annoying in outdoor areas, as the bites can be very painful and remain swollen for several days. Yet while this fly may be ‘quite annoying’ to people, their incessant attacks on livestock can cause them to lose weight. Additionally, their biting and feeding is capable of mechanically transmitting animal diseases, including viruses, bacteria, protozoans, and nematodes of animals.

Like the mosquito, only adult female horse fly species are attracted to man and animals in search of a blood meal. The female mouthparts are modified for piercing and sucking blood. Male horse flies are nectar feeders and often hover at certain times of the day, presumably to attract females and maintain a territory. 

Once the females have had enough ‘blood meals’, they will lay eggs later in the season. Females often lay eggs in specific locations, such as on vegetation overhanging water. Eggs are laid in masses that darken to brown or black before larvae hatch out and drop to the ground or into water. 

Their larvae are generally whitish, spindle-shaped, and develop through six to thirteen stages (instars) over one or more years before pupating. Larvae have chewing or tearing mouthparts; adult Larvae live in species specific habitats, although most are aquatic, semi-aquatic or terrestrial. They are generally predaceous and cannibalistic, feeding on other insect larvae and earthworms

Come spring, horse fly larvae will pupate and begin emerging as adults in late spring and summer. Unlike many common horse flies typically have one generation per year.

Controlling them is difficult. One author suggested that adult horse and deer flies can be ‘collected by swinging an insect net around one’s head’. This activity could be accomplished while walking through an infested area, such as along a wooded path, near swampy areas, on the beach or other bodies of water at the right time of the year. 

Special traps developed by researchers, called malaise traps, are baited with a source of carbon dioxide (such as dry ice), and visually attracting objects (simply a black plastic sheet or sphere) are very effective for obtaining large numbers of the flies. This set up may be quite effective at a farm/ranch or large outdoor venue. 

Using topical pesticides is ineffective due to horse fly behavior, but short-term control is possible.  Aerial applications (fogging) and treating for the larvae are ineffective.  The best option is to provide shelter for the animals and people, or pasturing livestock away from infested areas.

From Gonzales to the Capitol: Texas’ Legacy of Defiance and Ongoing Fight for Property Tax Relief

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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On a foggy morning of October 2nd, 1835, a fight erupted in Gonzales, marking the beginning of the War for Texas Independence. The conflict began when a Mexican commander, informed that Texas settlers had refused to hand over a small cannon, sent 100 soldiers to reclaim it. Facing them were about 140 Texan rebels, standing their ground under a hastily made flag that defiantly proclaimed, “Come And Take It.” With that, the first shots of the Texas Revolution rang out.

This pivotal day would forever change the course of Texas history. The iconic “Come And Take It” flag has since become a lasting symbol of Texas pride, representing the unwavering courage and determination that still define the Texas spirit, nearly two centuries later. The events at Gonzales ignited a movement that ultimately shaped our state’s enduring identity.

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

House Interim Charge: Ways and Means

The Texas House Committee on Ways and Means oversees matters related to state revenue, encompassing taxation, state funding, and financial resource administration. The committee has jurisdiction over the Office of Multistate Tax Compact Commissioner for Texas and the Comptroller of Public Accounts. Its primary focus includes shaping economic policy, managing property taxes, and ensuring effective revenue collection for the state budget, playing a pivotal role in the fiscal health of Texas and the allocation of state funds.

During last year’s second special session, the committee was instrumental in passing Senate Bill 2, a significant piece of legislation that provided approximately $18 billion in broad property tax relief. This bill reduced school district property tax rates by compressing the maximum tax rate, effectively lowering the overall tax burden for Texas homeowners and businesses. Complementing Senate Bill 2, the committee also advanced Senate Bill 3, which raised the homestead exemption for school district property taxes from $40,000 to $100,000, significantly reducing the taxable value of homes and easing the financial strain on homeowners. Together, these measures reflect the committee’s commitment to delivering property tax relief while balancing the needs of school districts and local governments.

Over the interim, the Texas House Committee on Ways and Means has been tasked with monitoring the implementation of key legislation passed by the 88th Legislature, including overseeing the effects of Senate Bill 2 and House Joint Resolution 2, which provide property tax relief through reforms in public school finance and property tax administration.

Perhaps most importantly, the committee has been directed to assess the effectiveness of Senate Bill 2 and House Joint Resolution 2 in lowering property taxes and make recommendations for future policy proposals to further reduce the property tax burden on Texas taxpayers. 

The mobile office is on the road again in September, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on the following dates at the following times: October 2 at the San Augustine County Courthouse in San Augustine from 9:30-11:30 a.m.; October 9 at the Polk County Commissioner’s Courtroom in Livingston from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and the Tyler County Commissioner’s Courtroom in Woodville from 1:30-3:30 p.m.; and October 16 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30  a.m. and the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30 p.m.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 and my Capitol office may be reached at (512) 463-0508. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will be posting regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and sharing information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/. 

Public Meeting Scheduled for US 59 Improvements in Livingston

By
Rhonda Oaks
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LUFKIN – The Lufkin District will hold a Public Meeting on Thursday, Oct. 3 from 5-7 pm at the Polk County Commerce Center, 1017 US 59 Loop North, Livingston TX. There will also be a virtual public meeting available online at TxDOT.gov by 5 pm. Comments will be taken at the meeting, by phone, by mail, and by email and must be received on or before Oct. 18.

The proposed project in Livingston is designed as a US 59 upgrade (future I-69) in Polk County. It will include the construction of cable barrier-divided main lanes along US 59 that consist of four 12-foot-wide travel lanes, two in each direction, 6-foot inside shoulders, and 12-foot outside shoulders.  Frontage road construction will include two 12-foot-wide travel lanes 4-foot-wide inside shoulders and 10-foot-wide outside shoulders. Improvements will also include newly constructed interchanges on US 59, at FM 1988, and US 190.

The proposed project is anticipated to enhance safety, improve mobility and connectivity, provide a more efficient hurricane evacuation route, and provide system connectivity to Interstate 69.

Comments may be submitted by mail to the TxDOT Lufkin District Office, 1805 N. Timberland Drive, Lufkin, TX 75901. Written comments may also be submitted by email to Jennifer.Adams@txdot.gov. 

If you require special accommodations or an interpreter, or if you are a person with a disability in need in of assistance, or special arrangements in order to attend, contact Rhonda Oaks at (936) 633-4395.

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

Elected Officials Reception 2024 (Angelina County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Join us NEXT Tuesday, October 1, from 5 pm to 7:30 pm for the annual Elected Officials Reception, presented by Oncor. We are excited to show our appreciation for Angelina County’s elected officials and hope you can attend.

Location:
Crown Colony Country Club

Please register for this FREE event so we can get a head count >> bit.ly/elected2024

We hope to see you there!

Governor Abbott Announces Over $1.4 Million In Grants to TFC Area Agencies

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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(PHOTO: Texas Veterans Commission, 9/24/2024)

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott today announced eight Fund for Veterans’ Assistance (FVA) grants totaling more than $1.4 million were awarded to eight organizations in East Texas as part of the Texas Veterans Commission’s (TVC) Grants Across Texas presentations. Presented by TVC today, the funding will provide services to more than 690 veterans and their families across 38 counties.

“Texas will always stand with the brave men and women who fought for the freedoms we enjoy today,” said Governor Abbott. “These Fund for Veterans’ Assistance grants will provide financial support and other crucial services to veterans and their families in East Texas. Texas is home to more veterans than any other state, and we will continue to support them to help ensure our nation’s heroes prosper for generations to come.” 

“The Pineywoods of Texas is home to many veterans who have served our country and now call East Texas their home,” said TVC Commissioner and Marine veteran Chuck Wright. “These grant awards will improve the lives of veterans in the area with important services, such as home modifications in the Housing for Texas Heroes program to transportation programs to help veterans get to their appointments and other necessities.”

Commissioner Wright presented the grants at Habitat for Humanity of Smith County in Tyler. This is the sixth stop of Grants Across Texas. The grant presentations will continue through the second week of October with a total of 10 stops.

The FVA grant recipients and their services include:

  • Cass County: a $300,000 grant for financial assistance
  • Deep East Texas Council of Governments and Economic Development District: a $70,000 grant for financial assistance
  • Habitat for Humanity of Smith County: a $250,000 grant for home modifications
  • Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity: a $230,000 grant for home modifications
  • RISE-Resource Information Support and Empowerment: a $145,000 grant for transportation programs and services
  • Sabine Valley Regional MHMR Center: a $145,000 grant for peer support services
  • The Salvation Army – Lufkin: a $100,000 grant for financial assistance
  • Trinity County: a $180,000 grant for financial assistance


In May, the Governor announced 181 grants totaling over $44 million to 161 organizations across Texas. It is projected to provide direct services to more than 41,000 veterans, their dependents, and surviving spouses.

Since 2009 through the current 2024-2025 grant cycle, more than $313 million in grant funding has been awarded through 1,400 FVA grants.

The grants support a wide range of services from emergency financial assistance to transportation, legal services to family support services, and home modification to rental and mortgage assistance. The TVC awards grants in five categories: General Assistance, Housing for Texas Heroes, Veterans Mental Health Grants, Veterans Treatment Courts, and Veteran County Service Officers.

Funding for these grants is generated primarily by the Texas Lottery Commission’s games designated for veteran support. Other sources of funding for the grants come from individual donation options on drivers’ licenses, licenses to carry a handgun, outdoor recreation licenses for hunting and fishing, and vehicle registrations.

Texas veterans in need of assistance can find the organizations providing help in their area and how to contact them at https://tvc.texas.gov/fund.

(PHOTO: Texas Veterans Commission, 9/24/2024)

Stesti Benefit Bingo Night (Houston County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Join us for weekly Bingo every Thursday at Stesti Beer Garden! This month’s charity is Mickey’s House in Trinity!

Doors open – 4:00 p.m.
Games start – 6:00 p.m.

When:

Thursday, September 26, 2024, 6:00 PM
Where:

720 Commerce Street
Lovelady, TX
For More Info:

936-636-9267
stestibrewingcompany@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/khLQ7rwm2iVSN6cz/

Why Switching Electricity Providers Could Save Your Business Thousands

By
Lee Allen Miller
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As a business owner, managing operational costs is always a priority. One area often overlooked is your electricity provider. With fluctuating energy prices and varying plan options, sticking with your current provider could mean missing out on significant savings. In fact, switching to a more competitive electricity provider, like Amerigy Energy, could save your business thousands each year.

Here’s why making the switch is a smart financial move for your business:

1. Access to Competitive Rates

The energy market is dynamic, with rates constantly changing based on factors like supply, demand, and seasonal fluctuations. Many businesses stay locked into outdated plans with higher rates simply because they haven’t explored their options. By switching to a provider like Amerigy Energy, which monitors market trends daily, you’ll have access to the most competitive pricing available. Amerigy partners with top retail energy providers, ensuring your business gets the best possible rate for your energy needs.

Potential Savings:
Even a small reduction in your rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) can result in significant savings over the course of a year, especially for energy-intensive businesses. For example, a business consuming 50,000 kWh per month could save thousands annually by switching to a more competitive provider.

2. Tailored Plans for Your Business

No two businesses are alike, which is why flexible energy plans are crucial. Amerigy Energy offers a range of customizable options, from fixed-rate plans that provide stability and protection against rising prices, to variable-rate plans that allow businesses to take advantage of market dips. This flexibility enables you to choose a plan that aligns with your specific energy usage patterns and budgetary needs.

Fixed vs. Variable Plans:

  • Fixed-rate plans lock in a consistent price, shielding you from market volatility and making it easier to budget.
  • Variable-rate plans fluctuate with the market, giving you the chance to benefit from lower rates during periods of reduced energy demand.

With these options, you have the freedom to choose what works best for your business, ensuring that your electricity plan supports your financial goals.

3. Avoid Hidden Fees and Unfavorable Contracts

Many businesses are unknowingly paying hidden fees or stuck in contracts with unfavorable terms that limit their ability to save. Amerigy Energy is committed to transparency. When you switch to Amerigy, you can expect clear contract terms and no hidden fees. This kind of honesty in pricing helps businesses avoid costly surprises and focus on running their operations smoothly.

Contract Transparency Benefits:

  • No hidden fees: Know exactly what you’re paying for without unexpected charges.
  • Favorable contract terms: Flexible agreements that prioritize your business needs over long-term commitments that may not suit your evolving goals.

4. Expert Guidance and Support

Navigating the energy market can be confusing, especially for businesses with unique energy demands. Amerigy Energy provides personalized support to help you understand your options, review your current energy usage, and select the plan that delivers maximum savings. Our team of energy experts is always available to offer advice and assistance, ensuring that switching providers is a seamless, stress-free process.

5. Sustainability and Future-Proofing

Many businesses are also looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace sustainability. Amerigy Energy can help you transition to renewable energy options, whether through 100% green energy plans or integrating solar solutions into your operations. Making sustainable energy choices can not only save your business money in the long run but also align your brand with environmentally conscious values, appealing to customers who prioritize sustainability.

Ready to Start Saving?

If your business hasn’t reviewed its electricity provider in the last year, now is the time. With the potential to save thousands annually, plus the flexibility to choose a plan that fits your needs, switching providers could be one of the most impactful financial decisions you make this year. At Amerigy Energy, we’re committed to offering the best rates and personalized service, ensuring your business stays competitive and energy-efficient.

Contact Amerigy Energy today for a free consultation and find out how much your business could save by making the switch! 877-631-8875

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