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My five cents…A monthly column from Sen. Robert Nichols

By
Senator Robert Nichols
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One hundred and eighty-five years ago this month, the Republic of Texas passed a piece of legislation that set the framework for education funding to this day. On January 26, 1839, a bill passed that set aside land for public schools in Texas and two public universities. It fulfilled the vision President Mirabeau Lamar had for a public education system endowed by public lands in the state. Though not immediately successful, the program had lasting impacts and earned Lamar the nickname “Father of Texas Education.”

Here are five things happening around your state:  

1. Senator Zaffirini becomes first female Dean of the Senate

Sen. Judith Zaffirini officially became the Dean of the Senate with the retirement of Sen. John Whitmire last month. The Dean of the Senate is the position bestowed on the longest serving senator. The dean oversees much of the timing, procedure, and function of the Senate. Sen. Zaffirini was first elected in 1986, making her the first Mexican American woman to serve in the upper chamber. Over her decades in service, she has been a well-respected and consistent member of the Senate. In fact, she has a record 72,132 consecutive votes. It has been an honor and privilege to serve alongside such a distinguished member. Congratulations on this well-earned honor, Sen. Zaffirini!

2. Southeast Texas ports receive $66 million from state to improve safety, infrastructure

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) recently announced $240 million in grant funding for Texas ports. Approximately $66 million of those funds will go to four Southeast Texas ports to split between six projects. The Port of Port Arthur, Port of Beaumont, Port of Orange, and Port of Sabine Pass will all benefit from the funding. The six projects include building a flyover project in Port of Port Arthur, increasing cargo capacity, and adding stop lights in Port of Beaumont, building a trans motor yard and truck queuing area in Port of Orange, and repairing sheet piling in Port of Sabine Pass. ­Authorities anticipate these projects increasing safety at the ports and promoting economic development in the region.

3. Rural law enforcement grant applications now available

The Comptrollers Office announced that rural law enforcement grants became available for departments to submit applications starting January 1. These grants stem from Senate Bill 22, passed during the 88th regular session by Senator Drew Springer. The bill established a grant program within the Comptroller’s Office to provide financial assistance to sheriff’s departments, constable’s offices, and district and county attorney’s offices in eligible counties. The funding is intended to supplement salaries for various positions in rural areas. Eligibility requirements mandate an office or department must serve counties with overall populations of 300,000 or less and certain conditions related to specific salary levels are met. If a county already pays the minimum salary levels for the sheriff, deputies, and jailers, the county may still apply for funds for additional personnel or equipment. To apply or find more information, visit https://comptroller.texas.gov/economy/development/grants/rural/. 

4. General Land Office approves increase to Veteran Home Loan amounts

This month, the General Land Office announced an increase to the Veterans Home Loan amount from $726,200 to $766.550. All qualified veterans will continue to receive competitive interest rates. Veterans with a qualified service-connected disability rating of 30 percent or greater qualify for a discounted interest rate. Veterans utilizing this benefit may be eligible for home loans with no down0payment and no private mortgage insurance. Veterans can also use the program more than once. For more information, visit the Veterans Land Board’s website at https://s3.glo.texas.gov/vlb/loans/home-loans/.

5. Freezing weather delays crawfish season  

According to local boil shops, the weather conditions we have recently experienced are causing a delay in the crawfish supply. Due to a drought in Louisiana last year and the freezing temperatures in January, crawfish are not expected to reach harvest size until March. That is causing many boil shops to delay their opening for at least two months as many were set to open in January.

Blood Drive at the Chamber (Polk County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Date and Time Information:

Tuesday, Jan 30, 2024
9:30 AM – 2:00 PM CST

Use the link to schedule your time to give…

Location:

Polk County Chamber office
1001 Hwy 59 Loop N
Livingston, TX 77351

Website

Schedule Time here…

Contact Information

936.327.4929
Send Email

Texas Craft Fair Grand Opening (Polk County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Texas Craft Fair is a vibrant and dynamic outdoor market located at Hwy 190 west & Park Avenue in Livingston. We are more than just a market; we are an immersive experience that aims to bring together the local community and visitors from all walks of life. With our bi-weekly markets throughout the year, there is always something exciting happening at Texas Craft Fair.

During the week, stop in and grab a bite from one of our food vendors between events.

From Farmers Markets bursting with fresh produce to Craft Shows showcasing local artisans and their incredible creations, there is a little something for everyone. But it doesn’t stop there. We also host a variety of special events that cater to different interests, such as car shows, cook-offs, and other unique gatherings. These special events add an extra touch of excitement and variety to our already bustling venue.
But our venue doesn’t stop at delicious food and fantastic vendors. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of events throughout the year. From seasonal festivities like our Haunted Hill – Livingston event in the fall of 2024 to other captivating performances and entertainment, there is never a dull moment at Texas Craft Fair.
Speaking of the Haunted Hill event, it promises to be an unforgettable experience. Imagine walking through a haunted woods attraction, shrouded in mystery and filled with spine-chilling surprises at every turn. With up to 50 vendors participating in a market setup out front, you’ll have the opportunity to discover unique treasures while enjoying the thrills and scares of our haunted woods.
So whether you’re looking for a place to shop, eat, or get your adrenaline pumping, Texas Craft Fair is the place to be. Join us for our exciting events throughout the year and create cherished memories with friends and family. We look forward to welcoming you to our remarkable venue nestled in the heart of Livingston.

Date/Time Information:

Saturday, Jan 27, 2024
Sunday, Jan 28, 2024
Location:
3300 US 190 West Livingston TX 77351

Fees/Admission:
Free
To Become a Vendor please see our website here http://www.texascraftfair.com


Work Zone to Impact Traffic on Relief Route Construction

By
Rhonda Oaks
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LUFKIN – As work progresses on the Corrigan Relief Route being constructed on the west side of Corrigan, motorists will experience a work zone near the main lanes of US 287.

In coming days, crews will close the eastbound shoulder of US 287, from west of Reily Street to Bear Creek Crossing, west of US 59. Work will include the construction of temporary asphalt pavement in preparation of an upcoming traffic shift on US 287. The traffic switch is estimated to occur in March, weather permitting, and will include moving traffic from the main lanes of US 287, south onto the temporary asphalt pavement. The traffic switch will be necessary to continue work that will widen US 287 near the Corrigan Relief Route construction.

Construction began in late 2023 on the Corrigan Relief Route after Texas Transportation Commissioners approved the $172.8 million construction for Polk County.

James Construction Group LLC, Baton Rouge LA, is serving as a contractor for the project that will bring US 59 to interstate standards with the construction of new US 59 northbound and southbound lanes with controlled access.

The 7-mile project will include overpasses at the United Pacific Railroad, US 287, and Union Springs Road; entrance and exit ramps at US 59 tie-ins, and at the US 287 overpass. The project is being built to interstate standards and will promote public safety, improve emergency evacuations, and support freight transport.

For more information, contact Rhonda.Oaks@txdot.gov or call (936) 404-7485.

Chamber Member Awards Banquet (Nacogdoches County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Exciting news!

Tables and tickets are now on sale for the Crockett Chamber Member Awards Banquet! Join us as we celebrate Texas Independence Day and our MEMBERS with a steak dinner, awards, door prizes, raffles, and a Scholarship Dessert Dash!

Date/Time Information:
Saturday, March 2, 2024, at 6 PM

Location:
Crockett Civic Center

Grab your tickets/tables now – click the link below!
https://form.jotform.com/240184603124143

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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A huge (YUGE) week for the Angelina College basketball teams, with some upsets of Top 20 teams over the past few days. The Lady ‘Runners knocked of the No. 7 Lady Cardinals from Trinity Valley Community College on Wednesday, and the Roadrunners rolled over the No. 9 Lee College Navigators Saturday in Baytown.

Add to all that excitement the looming baseball and softball seasons (baseball opens this week), and one can see there’s a whole lot of runnin’ taking place with our Roadrunners.

Following is a recap of the week, along with upcoming events.

Roadrunner Basketball

What a week for the Roadrunner men’s basketball team, which made a pair of emphatic statements in a pair of key conference games.

At home in the Palace at the Pines on Wednesday, AC manhandled a good Navarro College team in a 71-48 blowout. Eddie Evans came off the bench to lead the team in scoring with 15 points, followed by Xavier Owens with 13 points. Nehikare Igiehon notched a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds, and Patrick Johnson distributed five assists over the night.

On Saturday, the ‘Runners posted what might be the biggest win of head coach J.J. Montgomery’s young career. AC traveled to Baytown to take on the nationally ranked (No. 9) Lee College Navigators (whose head coach is former AC coach Nick Wade) and proceeded to blow out the highly ranked Lee squad 70-53. At one point, the Roadrunners led by more than 30 points.

The Roadrunners’ Igiehon and Evans each finished with 15 points, with Igiehon adding his second straight double-double with 11 rebounds. Keddrick Mays added 14 points and Xavier Owens 12 in the win. Johnson finished with 10 assists and Chris Carpenter six in AC’s well-balanced attack.

The two wins pushed AC’s record to 13-6, 4-4. The Roadrunners get a night off on Wednesday before hosting Jacksonville College Saturday at Shands Gymnasium. Game time is 4 p.m.

Lady Roadrunner Basketball

Truthfully, the Lady Roadrunners kicked off the impressive week with Wednesday’s upset over No. 7 Trinity Valley Community College at Shands Gymnasium. AC’s ladies came out on fire, opening the game by hitting six of their first nine three-point attempts and building a 26-point lead in the first half. TVCC rallied in the second half, but the Lady ‘Runners held on for an 82-78 win over the Lady Cardinals.

Four Lady Roadrunners finished in double figures in scoring: Marie Kenembeni (21 points), Amyria Walker (18 points), India McMahon (16 points) and Jade Fry (10 points). McMahon was 3-for-3 from three-point range in the win.

On Saturday, the Lady ‘Runners hit the road against No. 20 Blinn College in Brenham, and AC wasn’t able to pull off another upset bid, falling to the Lady Bucs by a 65-57 final. Walker scored 19 points and Kenembeni 16 in the loss.

The Lady Roadrunners (11-7, 3-1) will host Tyler Junior College Wednesday at Shands Gymnasium. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

Baseball, Softball Opening Seasons

Spring has officially arrived. OK, maybe not weather-wise, but as far as baseball and softball fans are concerned, spring starts with the first pitch of the season.

For the Roadrunner baseball team, that means this Friday, Jan. 26. AC travels to Galveston College for a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m.

Then, on Sunday the 28th, the ‘Runners host their home opener against the same Whitecaps at Poland Field on the AC campus. That doubleheader also starts at 1 p.m.

Softball’s first pitch takes place on Wednesday, Jan. 31at Tyler Junior College. The first game of the twin bill starts at 1 p.m. The Lady Roadrunners’ first home games are set for Sunday, Feb. 4 against Kilgore College with a doubleheader starting at 1 p.m.

The 2024 Lady Roadrunner roster is now available on the Angelina College Athletics web site.

FOR SCHEDULE CHANGES AND UPDATES: Any changes to AC Athletics schedules are posted on the Angelina College Athletics web site (www.angelinaathletics.com), along with posts on Twitter (@ACAthletics) and Facebook (Angelina College Athletics).

Partnership with TSBN Sports

Angelina College Athletics has partnered with TSBN Sports to handle all our live-streaming needs. TSBN’s crew will handle all AC home games, and because of the way TSBN’s influence spreads throughout the conference, viewers will be able to catch many of our Lady Roadrunner and Roadrunner road games.

Visit the TSBN web site (https://tsbnsports.com/click-title-of-game-to-watch/) to see the group’s broadcast schedule. In addition, viewers can look for the blue “Video” link on the scrolling schedule on the Angelina College Athletics web site (www.angelinaathletics.com).

Finally, one can download the TSBN app on smart TVs, computers or mobile devices to catch all the game action.

Lady Roadrunner Softball Evaluation Session Rescheduled

The Lady Roadrunner Softball program’s scheduled “Recruiting Showcase” has been moved from its original date of Sunday, Jan. 14 to Sunday, Jan. 28. All other information remains the same.

For registration and other information, click the attached link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/prospect-softball-camp-january-14-2024-9-am-registration-772282777577?aff=oddtdtcreator

That’s it for now. It’s about to get even busier and more hectic around here, with plenty of options for our AC sports fans. As always, thanks for your continued support.

I’ll see you at the games.
Gary Stallard
Email: gstallard@angelina.edu
Phone: (936) 465-4614

The Economics of a Backyard Garden

By
Cary Sims
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Does home gardening make sense financially? I believe it can.

Last week at lunch, a good friend was telling me how much he had been enjoying all manner of fresh greens harvested each week from his small garden. Cheap, abundant, healthy greens harvested a couple times each week and plenty so share.

I know in my own garden, I can buy a cherry tomato plant for $6 and get several harvests off of it. Each harvest would be at least as much as a $3 basket of cherry tomatoes at the grocery store. Picking twice a week for a few weeks over a couple months certainly adds up.

Looking online, both Forbes and Investopedia had articles saying that growing your own produce can save you money. They cited, from the national Journal of Extension, that the average value of produce from a home garden could be as much as $677 with costs could be kept below $300. To be honest I was pleasantly surprised.

Now, please do not think that you can go buy a large tiller and all kinds of fancy equipment and tend a small garden the size of a bedroom and make the numbers work out. As with all economic endeavors, you have to be mindful of your upfront expenses in addition to your ongoing input costs.

Last year I had the pleasure of reading a book “The $64 Tomato”.  It is a fun read as it shares how one man went to ridiculous lengths to have the perfect garden and the perfect tomato. Truthfully, one can go way overboard.

But with a raised bed and some good soil growing vegetables 12 months of the year, one could see a small, to modest financial return. I think the biggest hinderance is keeping your garden plot going year-round.

Bear in mind your input costs of seeds or transplants, soil and nutrients, all the tools, structures such as fences or cages, and the water bill that will certainly peak in the summer.  They will add up over time.

If you want to drill down and get serious about saving money on your grocery bill and enjoy the outdoors, consider the following. First, grow only what you like and what you need. Even a flat of six transplants of any certain vegetable can out-produce what most households can consume. See if you can buy fewer transplants or swap with friends.

Second, consider the square-foot gardening method. This gardening system looks at each square foot as a production unit. Forget the three-foot-wide rows with lots of bare ground exposed, and interplant smaller, earlier maturing produce between longer maturing types.

Lastly, for the really frugal, start everything from seed. From a $3 package of seeds, you will have worlds of seed that you can use in successive crops to spread out the harvest, or to use half in the spring garden and the other half in a fall garden. If you are still a little hesitant, try out growing some herbs that you really like on your back porch in a pot. The idea is to make it enjoyable and worth your time outside, in the kitchen, and in the wallet.

2024 Chamber Days (Angelina County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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Save the date & book your hotel NOW for the 2024 Chamber Days in Austin.

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce is once again joining forces with the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce for Chamber Day 2024 as Deep East Texas residents travel to Austin, February 13-15, 2024.

Join us Tuesday afternoon to meet with agencies and legislators and then again Wednesday for our agency updates at the Capital. More details regarding the full schedule are to follow in the coming weeks.

To RSVP for the reception at the Austin Club on Wednesday, Feb 14th, contact the Chamber at 634-6644 or email RSVP@LufkinTexas.org. For additional questions, you may contact Shameka Stewart at SStewart@LufkinTexas.org.

BOOK HOTEL >>> bit.ly/ChamberDays24

Capitol Update: Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural Texas

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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As the mercury drops, it is crucial for us to be proactive in safeguarding our homes and well-being against the challenges posed by extreme cold weather. With last week’s drop in temperatures, I want to emphasize the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure that every household is adequately prepared for the uncertain Texas winter. From insulating homes and sealing drafts around windows and doors to protecting pipes with proper insulation, these are fundamental steps we can all take to fortify ourselves against these chilly conditions. Additionally, weather-stripping doors and windows and maintaining a well-stocked emergency kit can further assure you are ready for what lies ahead. Additionally, here are a few useful websites:

You can check road conditions at DriveTexas.org
 
For warming center information, visit tdem.texas.gov/warm
 
To monitor and report any local outages to electricity providers, visit puc.texas.gov/storm

With that, here’s an update from your State Capitol . . .

Capitol Update

Despite the current legislative interim, I’m excited to share that the fruits of our past endeavors are now in full bloom. As of January 1, 2024, a notable set of 30 new measures have taken effect, focusing on essential areas including the electric grid, water infrastructure, broadband development, and other critical areas such as a cost-of-living adjustment for retired teachers. These victories emphasize our unwavering commitment to meeting the needs of a growing and diverse state.

As rural Texans know all too well, access to broadband internet is a challenge in many rural communities. House Bill 9 provides for a strategic investment to incentivize broadband providers to help bridge the digital divide. This bill is part of a broader initiative aimed at connecting all Texans to this critical service. Complementing HB 9, House Joint Resolution 125 was overwhelmingly approved on the November ballot, paving the way for the establishment of the Broadband Infrastructure Fund. The fund’s primary objective is to enhance broadband access and affordability through strategic infrastructure investments, working in conjunction with federal funding programs. Beyond this, the fund will provide crucial support for emergency response technology, reduce fees on monthly phone bills, and fund programs such as next-generation 911 services and school safety initiatives.

As a native East Texan, ensuring rural Texas is not left behind has always been near to my heart. As we navigate further into the digital era, the urgency for every citizen to be able to access digital learning, telehealth, work remotely, apply for jobs, market their businesses, and so much more is vital to our region. This bill provides our state with the necessary tools to continue its work to provide greater connectivity in rural Texas, and I am proud to see it move fully into effect.

Reminders

The mobile office is on the road again and our office looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: February 7 at the San Augustine County Courthouse from 9 – 11:00 am; February 14 at the Polk County Commissioners Courtroom in Livingston from 9 – 11:00 am, or the Tyler County Courthouse in Woodville from 1:30 – 3:30 pm; February 21 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9 – 11 am, or at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30 – 3:30 pm.

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. Additionally, I welcome you to follow along on my Official Facebook Page, where I will post regular updates on what’s happening in your State Capitol and share information that could be useful to you and your family: https://www.facebook.com/RepTrentAshby/.

Texas A&M Health Launches Rural Engagement Program to Improve Health Care Delivery in Rural Texas

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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State-funded program is collaboration between the Rural and Community Health Institute, School of Medicine, and School of Nursing

BRYAN-COLLEGE STATION, Texas – The Texas A&M University Health Science Center (Texas A&M Health) is stepping up its support for rural health care in Texas by launching the Rural Engagement Program. This new initiative combines efforts from the Texas A&M Schools of medicine and Nursing and the Rural and Community Health Institute to expand the healthcare workforce and bolster the viability of healthcare organizations to better serve rural Texans. 

Declining access to health care has become a crisis for many rural communities, and Texas A&M Health has long been committed to addressing this challenge. Now, thanks to funding from the 88th Texas Legislature, the Texas A&M Health Rural Engagement Program is consolidating and amplifying these efforts to expand support for rural healthcare organizations and professionals throughout the state.

The new program brings together resources from the Rural and Community Health Institute (RCHI)—which has 20 years of experience supporting rural communities—with the School of Medicine and School of Nursing to provide a coordinated, interdisciplinary, and innovative response to rural health care challenges.

“Although there are common challenges facing rural health care, each rural community in Texas is unique, with specific needs. By integrating the resources of the Texas A&M School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and RCHI, the Rural Engagement Program can provide a robust menu of support capabilities and assistance that best fits the needs of each community,” said Kia Parsi, MD, executive director of the Rural and Community Health Institute. 

The Rural Engagement Program plans to provide support to help rural healthcare organizations keep their doors open and strengthen their services. Participating organizations will be supported by a dedicated one-on-one regional technical assistance coordinator along with virtual and on-site facilitation. Through a comprehensive needs analysis, the Rural Engagement Program will work alongside healthcare organizations in the program to formulate and implement sustainable action plans to improve their financial performance, increase operational efficiencies, improve quality of care, expand workforce capabilities, provide leadership support and staff training opportunities, and assist with the transition to newer, value-based care payment models that incentivize higher quality of care.  

The program is also aimed at addressing the critical shortage of healthcare professionals in underserved areas. With additional funding and improved coordination, the Texas A&M medical and nursing schools are committed to providing more than just clinical experiences for students. Through innovative partnerships with local rural communities, healthcare facilities, physicians, advanced practice providers and school districts, the program offers a unique and immersive approach to rural clinical experiences.  

The program will also engage K-12 students through initiatives like the School of Medicine’s Mini Med Camp, Youth Adventure Program (YAP), and a spectrum of new and existing healthcare career exploration activities designed to inspire the next generation of health care professionals and bridge the gap between rural students and health care career opportunities.  

The program’s inaugural Rural Practitioners of Texas Conference, hosted by the School of Medicine in Fredericksburg on March 22-23, 2024, will provide a platform for healthcare professionals serving rural areas to share insights, explore strategies, and foster collaboration in addressing the unique health care needs of rural communities across Texas. 

“I take immense pride in the work being done by the Texas A&M Health Rural Engagement Program and the role the School of Medicine undertakes,” said Amy Waer, MD, dean of the School of Medicine. “Over the past several years, our Rural Medicine Program has played a pivotal role in advancing health care, particularly in developing our physician workforce. The Rural Engagement Program will enable us to make even more meaningful contributions to the well-being of our rural communities.” 

To support the growth of the nursing workforce, the School of Nursing will annually award $350,000 in scholarships for registered nurses working in rural areas to obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing or an advanced nursing degree or certificate. The School of Nursing also plans to integrate a rural-specific curriculum into its degree and certificate programs and develop a rural fellowship for nurse practitioners. Its nurse-led clinics will also seek certification as Rural Health Clinics. 

“All Texans deserve access to high-quality health care, and the next generation of Aggie nurses must be well-prepared to care for the rural communities that need them most,” said Leann Horsley, Ph.D., RN, CHSE, CNE, dean of the School of Nursing. “Nursing’s participation in the Rural Engagement Program signifies our continued commitment to serving the underserved and addressing the complex challenges facing health care in a mostly rural state.” 

In coordination with the Texas A&M Health Telehealth Institute, the Rural Engagement Program is also working on expanding health care organizations’ telehealth capabilities. The Telehealth Institute will enhance the availability of behavioral health care by extending access to patients’ homes, local clinics and hospitals over the next two years, and will lay the groundwork for other tele-specialty services in our rural communities. The institute will also foster innovations with the School of Nursing in expanded clinical care and telehealth training. 

Read more about the new Rural Engagement Program at Vital Record, the online newsroom of Texas A&M Health.

About Texas A&M Health Rural Engagement Program 
The Texas A&M Health Rural Engagement Program supports small-town healthcare providers in delivering high-quality care to the rural communities they serve. Leveraging the expertise of the Texas A&M School of Medicine, the School of Nursing, and the Rural and Community Health Institute, the Rural Engagement Program is developing a dedicated workforce deeply committed to rural health care outcomes. We are also bolstering the operational and financial viability of rural healthcare organizations through comprehensive technical assistance. Together with each provider we support, we are broadening access and fortifying healthcare delivery for the millions of rural Texans who make up the backbone of our state. 

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