The Texas Forestry Museum invites you and your family to attend it’s newest event, Heritage Skills Festival. Heritage Skill Festival is on Tuesday, March 14th from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. At the event, guests will learn and experience heritage skills by watching live demonstrations of local crafts people like woodturners and participate in hands-on activities such as making butter. There will be plenty for the whole family to do. This is a free event and we hope to see you there! Photos will be taken at the event for promotional materials. For more information call 936-632-9535.
Shelby County Grill Fest (Shelby County)
Grill Fest is a sanctioned barbecue cook-off.
Included are:
-Cash Prizes
-Washer Pitching Tournament
-42 Tournament
-Music
-Free and open to the public
-Great barbecue samples and a fun time!
Top 5 Smartphone Features You Can’t Live Without
Smartphones are our lifeline – we use them to connect us to just about everything and everyone in our world. Americans check their phones an average of 344 times a day — once every four minutes — according to a 2022 Review.org survey. But when was the last time you upgraded your phone? If it’s been more than two years, you may be missing out on some of the latest tech upgrades. Here are five must-have features to consider when shopping for a new smartphone:
• Battery Life: When it comes to battery life, you may not realize what you’ve been missing out on until you start using your new phone. A decade ago, smartphone battery capacity ranged from 1560mAh to 3200mAh, according to findings from Android Authority. Today, that capacity typically ranges from 4000mAh to 5000mAh, with some batteries as large as 6000mAh. And, the latest development of USB-C ports has allowed for faster charging capabilities, charging a near dead phone in just 30 minutes. Look for phones with fast charging technology, from 15W to 20W, and wireless charging options.
• Phone Storage: Storage matters, especially if you’re a business owner, gaming enthusiast or social media influencer. Read-Only Memory (ROM), the internal main storage on your phone, allows you to store media, files and games, and ranges anywhere from 64GB to 128GB, even 256GB and higher in some of the latest models. Random Access Memory (RAM) is used for short-term data like apps, photos and videos. The more RAM you have, the more multitasking you can do. When purchasing a new phone, look for at least 6GB to 8GB of RAM and 128GB of ROM.
• Camera: Phones have nearly replaced traditional cameras, with 90% of people using only their smartphones to take photos versus digital cameras, according to 3D Insider. If you’re an avid photo taker, make sure your new phone features editing software, a variety of camera lenses, like ultra-wide and telephoto, and special functions like night mode to optimize lighting.
• Network: How you stay connected is an important decision. The latest deals can help you select a phone and wireless provider. For example, Samsung just unveiled its latest Galaxy S23 lineup, and T-Mobile is the only provider that can light up 5G standalone three-carrier aggregation, unleashing faster speeds and better responsiveness for some of the newest 5G smartphones – 16% faster speeds on average than phones without it. And switching to what studies have shown is America’s largest, fastest and most reliable 5G network comes with perks. New customers can get $200 off via a virtual prepaid card (allow 8 weeks) for each line they switch to T-Mobile – that’s $800 off for a family of four. And paired with T-Mobile’s offer to save $800 on the new Samsung Galaxy S23 lineup via bill credits when they choose the Magenta Max plan, that family gets four new phones and saves a total of $4000. To learn more about Samsung’s latest Galaxy S23 Series lineup, visit www.t-mobile.com/cell-phones/brand/samsung.
• Security: Gone are the days of remembering a PIN or typing in a password to safely access your phone’s data. Biometric security features like fingerprint, facial or voice recognition are crucial for keeping your private data secure. Most new smartphones feature in-display fingerprint screening and facial recognition, and more institutions like online banking apps are using this method now over passwords.
Other important deciding factors include overall phone display, size and water resistance. Priorities may vary from person to person, but selecting what’s important for your new smartphone is something only you can determine.
How to Shop for Spring Household Essentials With Ease
Whatever your spring plans include cleaning your living spaces top to bottom or taking up an outdoor fitness routine, you’ll likely need some household supplies to fuel your seasonal endeavors.
With so many new products being introduced all the time on both store shelves and online, you may be wondering which items have already passed muster with other consumers. Fortunately, resources exist to help you quickly hone in on the best of the bunch. Product of the Year USA, the largest consumer-voted awards program centered around product innovation, recently announced the winners of the 2023 Product of the Year Awards. Determined through a national study of 40,000 American shoppers in partnership with Kantar, a global leader in consumer research, each winner’s packaging boasts a red seal of approval.
“Today’s savvy consumers expect products that are smart, efficient and easy to use. At the same time, the amount of access they have to different merchandise is unprecedented,” says Mike Nolan, global CEO of Product of the Year Management. “We’re proud to be providing shoppers and their families with trusted guidance and information as they sort through their many options.”
Demonstrating the ever-evolving trends seen in the U.S. market, the year’s winners are a round-up of the top products for function, design, packing or ingredients. As you stock up on spring essentials, consider the following 16 winners in household and personal care categories:
• Auto Dish Care | Cascade Platinum Plus – Procter & Gamble
• Body Cleanser | Dial Body Wash – Henkel
• Car Care | Rain-X Truck & SUV Wiper Blade – ITW Global Brands/Rain-X
• CBD | CBD Sleep Gummies – Sky Wellness
• Children’s Health | Children’s ZYRTEC Allergy Chewables – Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health
• Digestive Health | Dulcolax Chewy Fruit Bites – Sanofi Consumer Healthcare
• Hair Growth | Nature’s Bounty Optimal Solutions Hair Growth – Nestlé Health Science
• Home Cleaning | FamilyGuard Brand Disinfectants – S.C. Johnson & Son
• Home Essentials | Ziploc Endurables – S.C. Johnson & Son
• Immediate Relief | Carmex Weather Guard Lip Balm – Carma Laboratories
• Mattress | Nectar Premier Mattress – Resident Home LLC
• Topical Pain Relief | Icy Hot Pro – Sanofi Consumer Healthcare
• Weight Management | Nature’s Bounty Optimal Solutions Metabolism Booster – Nestlé Health Science
• Wellness Device | Aspercreme Flexi-Motion – Sanofi Consumer Healthcare
• Wellness Supplement | Nature Made Wellblends – Pharmavite LLC
• Women’s Daily Supplement | Nature’s Bounty Optimal Solutions Advanced Hair Skin & Nails – Nestlé Health Science
For additional information about this year’s winners, visit productoftheyearusa.com.
Whether you tend to shop for household essentials online or in brick-and-mortar stores, it’s smart to rely on resources that can help you make better choices.
HOW TO DECORATE
Decorating can be the most demanding and stressful task. Hopefully, I can make that a little easier for you. There are simple rules for how to decorate appropriately. First, give everything some space because you don’t want everything too crowded. Secondly, create layers when you’re decorating. When decorating, you do not want to throw everything in a room and call it done, instead layer by color, greenery, and lighting.
INSPIRATION
When decorating your home, make sure you are doing what looks good to you, not what’s trending, because you are the one that has to see it every day! Also, it’s okay to want to change your decor when inspiration strikes. I rearrange my room once a week. It also helps to look up pictures of what you want your house to look like to help you make sure everything looks great.
SHOP LOCAL
Before going to big chain furniture stores, check your local boutiques and furniture stores. They will always have something unique to put in your home that no one else has. There are so many great local boutiques that have so much to offer. So before you go to a huge furniture store, check your local boutique first.
IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS
The most important thing is the details. Details make your decoration specifically unique to you and your home. They are what really make your decor pop! The details are all that you like, not what anyone else likes. Details are accents in your decorations to complete the perfect look. It could be a dresser that completes the look or even a tiny throw pillow.
Three Perfect Nail Salons in Lufkin Texas
I have really sensitive hands so i’m picky about where I go to get my mani-pedis, there are many different nail salons in Lufkin, but these are my regular locations from experience!
Le Nails
Le Nails is located in the Lufkin Mall, and they have so many different offers for you to receive. They can do anything from acrylic nails to permanent makeup. The staff is extremely talented with there work and the store is always packed! I got a full set for prom at Le Nails and they lasted three weeks with no imperfections, so it’s definitely worth every penny.
Rose Nails & Spa
Rose Nails & Spa has beautifully done work and the most relaxing spas you’ll ever know! I’ve only been here a couple of times but it’s definitely worth it. The demeanor in the shop is very quiet and peaceful to soothe your body and be as relaxed as possible, and it definitely does the job. This location is at 502 N Brentwood Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904.
Royale Nail Spa
My Granny and I go to this store frequently, and she adores this shop! We love the staff and the professionally done nails for results. My Granny and I love trying out the hot stones every once in a while, and they feel fantastic if you have sore and aching muscles. This shop is located at 4206 S Medford Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901
Are You in a Weight Loss Plateau? 5 Reasons Why the Scale is Stuck
So, you took the leap and signed up for a weight loss program. But once you got started, it was a whole different story. While you may feel like you’re doing everything to a T, the scale is stuck and you can’t figure out why. Plateaus are a normal part of any weight loss journey, but there are many reasons for them. Check out these six reasons why the scale may be stuck:
- Overeating. Weight loss is dependent on “calories in” being lower than “calories out.” Eating too much for your current activity level and weight could be a reason why the scale is stuck. “Meal delivery programs can help eliminate any guesswork,” says nutrition expert Chris Mohr, PhD, RD. “Plans like Nutrisystem are perfectly portioned to provide the right balance of nutrients at every meal. The program boasts SmartAdapt science, which provides personalized plans that adapt to your unique metabolism and weight loss goals and help minimize plateaus.”
- Not Keeping Track. Overeating, skipping meals and portion control can all be eased if you get more diligent with food tracking.
Take it from the experts: According to research published in the journal “Obesity,” self-monitoring your diet is the number one predictor of weight loss success, and it takes less than 15 minutes each day.
Try tracking your diet at least 80% of the time or at least five to six days of the week. Be sure to include all eating occasions (even nibbling), portion sizes and ingredients. This way, when the scale is stuck, you can evaluate where you may be overdoing it. The NuMi app by Nutrisystem is a useful tool to keep your meal plan organized.
- Skimping on Protein and Fiber. Try maximizing protein and fiber in your diet. “Protein helps preserve lean muscle mass while losing weight to help maintain metabolic rate. Also, protein and fiber keep you feeling full longer. What’s more, protein is more thermogenic than carbohydrates and fats — meaning you’ll burn more calories digesting and absorbing high-protein foods. Fiber isn’t fully digested, so the calorie contribution from fiber is less than other carb sources,” adds Mohr.
- Increasing Muscle. If you’ve been hitting the gym and putting on muscle, you might also experience a stall on the scale. Find other measures of success in the meantime. For example, your jeans may be fitting better or you may have more energy. These non-scale victories are just as valuable as a number on the scale.
- Other Lifestyle Factors. Lack of sleep can disrupt weight loss. The National Sleep Foundation recommends sticking to a regular sleep schedule. Limit caffeine and screen-time in the hours before bed. The light emitted by screens on electronic devices reduce your body’s production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates your sleep and wake cycle, according to Harvard Health. You can also try a before bed exercise routine.
Did you know that chronic stress can halt weight loss? Address your stress with self-care. Try meditation, daily exercise and breathing techniques. You should also seek out a support system and engage in your community. Feeling overly stressed? Be sure to speak with your doctor.
- Illness or Injury. A recent illness or injury can cause increased inflammation that results in water retention. Additionally, injury or illness can decrease daily activity and overall calories burned. Some medications may also stall weight loss. Keep in mind that your overall health should always take precedence over the number on the scale. Consult your doctor. It may mean modifying your weight loss program temporarily. This setback is not the end of your journey though. Once you’ve recovered, you should be able to start where you left off, pending your doctor’s approval.
“Ultimately, your goals should be realistic. Don’t expect the pounds to fall off instantly. Have patience and give yourself some grace. If you’re doing the work, that’s all that matters,” says Mohr.
You Can Help Find Inaccuracies in New Broadband Map
Inaccuracies in the New Texas Broadband Map could decrease the amount of money available to improve Broadband Internet Services in Deep East Texas. However, you can help your county or city in their efforts to have these mistakes corrected!
Initial studies have found up to 30% of the addresses of homes and businesses in the region are not even represented on the Map! Deep East Texas Council of Governments is working with local governments in the region to gather proof of errors in the New Texas Broadband Map. You can do your part by taking their Broadband Internet Survey from your home or business internet – not from your phone. The survey is posted at:
https://survey.alchemer.com/s3/7218052/Deep-East-Texas-Internet-Speed-Test
The information taken from these surveys will be gathered and submitted to the Texas Broadband Office. To have enough time to prepare the information for submission, all surveys need to be completed by Friday, February 24, 2023. Challenges to the Map must be submitted to the Texas Broadband Office by the following Monday.
As more people take the survey the report to the Broadband Office will become more accurate. Encourage as many of your extended family, friends and co-workers take the survey as possible!
Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update
February 19-26, 2023
It was quite a busy and eventful week for Angelina College Athletics programs. With baseball, softball and basketball (women’s and men’s) all playing simultaneously, there was no lack of action on the courts or on the diamonds.
Following are some re-caps and a little insight on what’s coming up.
Roadrunner Baseball:
The week opened on a high note, with the Roadrunners hosting a highly-ranked Blinn College team in a single, nine-inning game on Monday. In front of a home crowd at Poland Field on the AC campus, the ‘Runners celebrated a walk-off win when Sam Hardcastle drove a ball to the opposite field in right field to score the game winner in the bottom of the ninth inning.
On Wednesday, the Roadrunners swept Spartan Post Grad by 13-2, 14-0 scores. Mason Swidersky knocked in five runs, and Hardcastle and Dalton Mullins each drove in three runs in the opener.
In the nightcap, Christian Letendre, Hayden Hupe and Will Krenek each drove in a pair of runs in the win.
In Saturday’s conference opener against Paris College, the Roadrunners ran into a conference-leading Dragon team and fell 5-2, 9-0 at Poland Field.
The ‘Runners next will play at Navarro College on Wednesday in a conference doubleheader scheduled for a 12 p.m. start in Corsicana. AC then will travel to Louisiana on Saturday for a doubleheader against Bossier Parish Community College scheduled for a 1 p.m. start.
With this week’s wins, AC head coach Jeff Livin is just eight wins away from his 800th career win as a head coach.
Roadrunner Softball:
As expected, the Lady ‘Runner softball team – unable to play a game for the first two weeks of the season because of inclement weather – showed a little rust in its season opener.
AC’s ladies on Monday traveled to Louisiana to face Louisiana State University-Eunice in a doubleheader. The Lady ‘Runners fell 10-4 and 9-1 to the Lady Bengals.
On Wednesday, the Lady Roadrunners were in Tyler, where they lost a heartbreaker in the opener – falling 11-10 on an Apache walk-off homer – before bouncing back in the nightcap for AC’s first win of the season: A 14-4 win in five innings, backed by homers from Bailey Frenzel and Skyler Martin (grand slam).
The win marked the first career win for first-year head coach Brette Kohring.
On Friday, facing conference foe Kilgore College, the Lady ‘Runners earned the sweep; AC took the opener on a two-RBI single from Madi Davis and seven shutout innings from pitcher Mia Gilmore.
In the nightcap – a 13-5 Lady Roadrunner win – Bailey Frenzel homered and drove in four runs, Emma Kovasovic rocked her first collegiate homer while driving in three runs; Martin and Lace Tangianau also drove in a pair of runs each.
The Lady ‘Runners will host the Angelina Invite beginning on Friday and running through Sunday, February 26 at Lady Roadrunner Field on the AC campus. Visit angelinaathletics.com for the weekend’s full schedule.
Lady Roadrunner Basketball:
The Lady Roadrunner basketball team pulled out a big win Wednesday at home against Panola College, racing to a 66-50 win over the Fillies at Shands Gymnasium. Shanbriah Rule erupted for 17 points to lead AC, followed by Marie Kenembeni (14 points, 14 rebounds) and Makenzie Paul with 11 points.
Saturday against No. 5 Trinity Valley Community College didn’t turn out the way the Lady ‘Runners would have hoped, with AC battling but falling 81-62 to the Lady Cardinals.
AC’s ladies travel to Tyler Junior College on Wednesday for a 5:30 p.m. start. The Lady ‘Runners then host their final home game of the season on Saturday against Blinn College starting at 2 p.m.
Roadrunner Basketball:
The ‘Runner guys must be addicted to drama: Wednesday at Victoria College, AC’s men rallied from nine points down in the closing minutes to beat the Pirates 72-64 behind 19 points from Cade Holzman and 14 points each from Xavier Owens and Kanaan Holder.
Saturday at home, the ‘Runners faced Lamar State College-Port Arthur in a thriller at Shands Gymnasium. Down by a point late in the game, the ‘Runners got a huge three pointer from Kanaan Holder followed by an incredible reverse layup from Xavier Owens to secure the 58-53 win over the Seahawks.
AC will be at Lee College in Baytown on Wednesday, Feb. 22 (7 p.m. start) before closing out the home schedule on Saturday at 4 p.m. against Jacksonville College.
NOTE: Both the Lady Roadrunners’ and Roadrunners’ basketball teams will celebrate Sophomore Day on Saturday, Feb. 25 at Shands Gymnasium. In addition, the men’s game vs. Jacksonville College will be an NJCAA national broadcast on ESPN+.
For further information, contact AC Sports Information Director Gary Stallard at gstallard@angelina.edu.
Tyler County Bee Club (Tyler County)
TBA Events held each month include local beekeeping association meetings throughout Texas, our TBA Summer Clinic (June) and Annual Convention (November). Simply view the calendar to find association meetings, click on the meeting title for all details about organizer, location, and time.