Home Blog Page 73

Why More Local Businesses Are Turning to Managed IT Services

Alec Castleberry
-
0
Why More Local Businesses Are Turning to Managed IT Services

By Alec Castleberry

Running a business today means relying on technology more than ever. But when things break down—when email stops working, files go missing, or your internet drops at the worst possible time—it’s not just an inconvenience. It’s lost time, lost sales, and rising stress.

That’s why a growing number of East Texas businesses are moving away from the old “call when it breaks” model and switching to managed IT services.

What Is Managed IT, Really?

Think of it like hiring an entire IT department—but without having to build one yourself. A managed IT provider handles everything from network security and system updates to backups and support.

The key difference? Instead of reacting to problems, they prevent them from happening in the first place.

Why It’s Catching On in East Texas

More and more local businesses are discovering the benefits of:

  • Predictable monthly costs (no more surprise tech bills)
  • Stronger protection against cyberattacks and downtime
  • Fewer disruptions thanks to around-the-clock monitoring
  • Expert guidance from professionals who know your systems inside and out

Signs It Might Be Time to Make the Switch

If you’re regularly dealing with slow systems, outdated software, or overwhelmed staff trying to “fix IT stuff” in between their actual jobs—it might be time.

Because when technology works, your business works.

And when it doesn’t… everything stops.

Peace of Mind, On Call

For growing businesses in East Texas, managed IT isn’t just tech support—it’s peace of mind, better focus, and a smarter way to grow.

Why More Local Businesses Are Turning to Managed IT Services

By Alec Castleberry

Running a business today means relying on technology more than ever. But when things break down—when email stops working, files go missing, or your internet drops at the worst possible time—it’s not just an inconvenience. It’s lost time, lost sales, and rising stress.

That’s why a growing number of East Texas businesses are moving away from the old “call when it breaks” model and switching to managed IT services.

What Is Managed IT, Really?

Think of it like hiring an entire IT department—but without having to build one yourself. A managed IT provider handles everything from network security and system updates to backups and support.

The key difference? Instead of reacting to problems, they prevent them from happening in the first place.

Why It’s Catching On in East Texas

More and more local businesses are discovering the benefits of:

  • Predictable monthly costs (no more surprise tech bills)
  • Stronger protection against cyberattacks and downtime
  • Fewer disruptions thanks to around-the-clock monitoring
  • Expert guidance from professionals who know your systems inside and out

Signs It Might Be Time to Make the Switch

If you’re regularly dealing with slow systems, outdated software, or overwhelmed staff trying to “fix IT stuff” in between their actual jobs—it might be time.

Because when technology works, your business works.

And when it doesn’t… everything stops.

Peace of Mind, On Call

For growing businesses in East Texas, managed IT isn’t just tech support—it’s peace of mind, better focus, and a smarter way to grow.

Headed for Home: Angelina College Names Softball Legend James Head Coach

Gary Stallard
-
0
Headed for Home: Angelina College Names Softball Legend James Head Coach

When Kassie James walked out onto the Angelina College softball field this past Monday, she knew exactly where she was going.

Home.

Angelina College has named Kassie James as head coach of the Lady Roadrunner softball team. James, an AC Athletics Hall of Fame member, was a two-time All-American and a member of the Lady ‘Runners’ 2014 national championship team. (Gary Stallard photo for AC Athletics)

After all, she’d left plenty of her own footprints there 10 years ago. 

James, a two-time NFCA All-American and a member of the Lady Roadrunners’ 2014 national championship team, has been named the program’s new head coach – a position she said she’s dreamed of holding since finishing her playing career at AC.

Kassie James poses with the 2014 Division I Softball National Championship trophy. James, a member of that Angelina College team, recently was named head coach of the Lady Roadrunner softball program. (Gary Stallard photo for AC Athletics)

“It definitely doesn’t feel real yet,” James said while looking around the field. “I’ve dreamed of having this job since I left here. When I first started my coaching career, I dreamed of coming back here, so having it become reality now is just unreal. 

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity.”

James, elected to the Angelina College Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016, left more than footprints in the batter’s box. She still holds numerous Lady ‘Runner softball records, including the single-season (79) and career (140) marks for runs batted in, among others. 

Those RBIs, she said, helped her understand even more the importance of establishing an overall “team-first” culture in a program. 

“When I broke the record for RBIs, people were so cool about it, but I always remembered: People have to be on base for a hitter to get an RBI,” James said. “Learning that at such a young age, in my first year of junior college softball, made me realize I couldn’t do anything without my teammates.

“It’s (the culture) definitely something that can grow throughout the season, but looking back at our championship team, every single player – even when they weren’t playing – bought into their roles. When we had the starters having big games and big moments, those on the bench were just as thrilled for them.”

Along with cultivating a “team-first” approach, James said her emphasis is to maximize every player’s potential. 

“Full player development is the key, from academics to athletics to who they are as people,” James said. “I care about developing the whole player and person. I want them to leave Angelina College and be part of the conversation later when we talk about how proud we are of our alumni. 

“I want players who come here wanting the chance to develop enough to play at the next level, whether it’s Division I or whatever.”

Following her playing career at AC, James played two seasons at Houston Baptist University (now Houston Christian University), where she earned Southland Conference Honorable Mention honors before graduating with her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies. Afterward, she served as a graduate assistant coach at the University of Dallas, where she earned her Master of Leadership degree. She continued building her coaching resume with such programs as McNeese State University, Stephen F. Austin State University and Otero College, where she served as head coach. In 2024-2025, James was head coach at Kirbyville High School, where she led the Lady Wildcats to a 27-8 record and a postseason berth.

 All that experience, she said, has helped her better define and identify the types of players she believes will help the AC program remain among those in the top tier and make the Lady Roadrunners’ games “must-see” events throughout the season.

“Honestly, when we won here in 2014, the energy was palpable every game,” James said. “It was absolutely electric. You could feel it coming from the stands, you could feel it on the field, you could feel it from player to player. 

Former Angelina College softball player Kassie James, shown here celebrating her homer in the 2014 regional tournament, has been named the head coach of the Lady Roadrunner program. James was a two-time All-American at AC and still holds numerous individual records. (Gary Stallard photo for AC Athletics)

“I think it’s just going to take kids who want to come in and compete at the absolute highest level no matter what it takes to be successful. They have to want to win, and they have to care about this program as much as I do.”

The email address for AC’s Sports Information Director is gstallard@angelina.edu.

Governor Abbott Sets Hurricane Preparedness Expectations With Texas Energy Providers

Diana De Leon Bon
-
0
Governor Abbott Sets Hurricane Preparedness Expectations With Texas Energy Providers

AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott yesterday met with Texas energy providers to discuss preparedness expectations for this year’s hurricane season.

The Governor was joined in the meeting by CenterPoint Energy, Inc. President and CEO Jason Wells, CenterPoint Energy, Inc. Executive Vice President of Regulatory Services and Government Affairs Jason Ryan, American Electric Power Texas President and COO Judith Talavera, American Electric Power Texas Director of Government Affairs Isaac Albarado, Entergy Texas, Inc. President and CEO Eli Viamontes, and Entergy Texas, Inc. Vice President of Regulatory Affairs Ryland Ramos. 

During the meeting, Governor Abbott discussed the strength of Texas’ power grid, highlighting Texas as the energy capital of the world. The Governor received assurances from the energy executives that they are prepared for and ready to respond this hurricane season, including increased deployment of emergency linemen. The energy executives updated the Governor on their system resiliency investments, emergency preparedness plans, customer communications, and local emergency response coordination plans. The Governor concluded the meeting by reiterating the importance of having an effective and efficient restoration effort to protect the lives of Texans during hurricane season.

(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 6/10/25)
(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 6/10/25)

East Texas Leaders Invited to Join Groundbreaking AI Mastermind Collective

Lee Allen Miller
-
0
East Texas Leaders Invited to Join Groundbreaking AI Mastermind Collective

LUFKIN, TX — As artificial intelligence reshapes industries across the globe, one East Texas entrepreneur is stepping up to ensure our region isn’t left behind. Leadership author and innovation strategist Lee Allen Miller is launching a new weekly initiative to empower local business owners, marketers, and decision-makers to harness the power of AI—right here in Texas Forest Country.

Introducing the AI Mastermind Collective

Beginning Thursday, June 12 at 8:00 AM Central, the AI Mastermind Collective will kick off its first weekly session, offering practical, no-fluff strategies for integrating AI into everyday business operations. Hosted via Zoom, this initiative invites leaders from every industry to learn, collaborate, and grow in a supportive and results-driven environment.

“AI isn’t coming—it’s already here,” said Miller. “But many small business owners and professionals are unsure how to apply it. This group is about real tools, real use cases, and real wins.”

With decades of experience in media, technology, and leadership development, Miller created the Mastermind Collective as a way to bridge the gap between East Texas values and modern innovation.

 What to Expect

Each Thursday morning session will feature:

  • AI tools and workflows you can implement that same day
  • A hot seat challenge where one member gets real-time input
  • Peer accountability and weekly progress check-ins
  • A growing network of like-minded leaders and doers

Rather than chasing hype, the AI Mastermind Collective focuses on proven strategies that save time, reduce costs, and help businesses stay competitive.

 Who Should Join?

This group is ideal for:

  • Small business owners and entrepreneurs
  • Marketers, sales professionals, and consultants
  • Local leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve
  • Anyone interested in using AI to work smarter—not harder

No technical background is required—just a willingness to learn and implement.

 Details & How to Sign Up

 A New Chapter in Local Innovation

Texas Forest Country has always been a place of hard work and ingenuity. Now, with the AI Mastermind Collective, there’s an opportunity to combine that spirit with cutting-edge tools shaping the future of business.

“This is about giving East Texas a seat at the table in the AI economy,” said Miller. “You don’t need to be in Silicon Valley to lead—you just need the right support and strategy. Together, we’ll learn the ever changing landscape of AI”

If you’re ready to unlock new possibilities, join the AI Mastermind Collective this Thursday—and take the first step toward a smarter future.

Drug-Free All Star Scholarship Recipients

Diana De Leon Bon
-
0
Drug-Free All Star Scholarship Recipients

With the help of community sponsors, The Coalition, Inc. presented scholarships to seven outstanding Angelina County Drug-Free All Stars. The Drug-Free All Stars of Angelina County, funded by a grant from TxDOT, are high school seniors in Angelina County who serve as role models in the community throughout the year. Seven Drug-Free All Stars were honored for their commitment to promoting a drug and alcohol-free lifestyle to their community and their involvement in the program throughout the year. The 2024-2025 Drug-Free All Stars went above and beyond to share a message of prevention, including social media posts, press conferences, videos, school presentations, and more. The Drug-Free All Stars selected to receive a scholarship were Rocio Arredondo, graduate of Central HS; Alexandrea Foy, graduate of Central HS; Emily Ramos, graduate of Central HS; Heyde Serrano, graduate of Lufkin HS; Alexandra Molina, graduate of Huntington HS; Jewelissa Servin, graduate of Diboll HS, and Isis Luna, graduate of Diboll HS. Thank you to the community partners who made these scholarships possible: Abeldt’s Pharmacy; Southside Bank; Southwood Drive Animal Clinic; KSWP/KAVX; Contractor’s Supplies, Inc.; Commercial Bank of Texas; Whataburger/GVCS; Texas Materials Group; VeraBank; Pineywoods OB/GYN; and Morgan Insurance.  We are proud of the accomplishments of the 2024-2025 Drug-Free All Stars and wish them luck in all their future endeavors. 

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

 Alexandrea Foy, a graduate of Central HS, with her scholarship from Commercial Bank of Texas. Pictured with Michelle Briley, Commercial Bank of Texas.
Alexandra Molina, graduate of Huntington HS, with her scholarship from Whataburger/GVCS. Pictured with Sharon Kruk, The Coalition. 
Emily Ramos, a graduate of Central HS, with her scholarship from Contactor’s Supplies and Southside Bank. Pictured with Lauren Karber and Clayton Corley, Southside Bank; and David Butler, Contractor’s Supplies.
 Heyde Serrano, graduate of Lufkin HS, with her scholarship from Morgan Insurance and KSWP/KAVX. Pictured with Sarah Taylor, Morgan Insurance. 
 Isis Luna, graduate of Diboll HS, with her scholarship from Pineywoods OB/GYN. Pictured with Dr. Cheryl Suiter, Pineywoods OB/GYN. 
 Jewelissa Servin, graduate of Diboll HS, with her scholarship from VeraBank and Southwood Drive Animal Clinic. Picutured with Lauren Cox, VeraBank; and Shawn Penn, Southwood Drive Animal Clinic.
 Rocio Arredondo, a graduate of Central HS, with her scholarship from Texas Materials Group and Abeldt’s Pharmacy. Pictured with Christi Finch and Kelly Maglothin, Texas Materials Group.

Crisis Management 101: Protecting Your Business Reputation in Texas Forest Country

Lee Allen Miller
-
0
Crisis Management 101: Protecting Your Business Reputation in Texas Forest Country

When a Crisis Hits, Your Good Name is on the Line

In East Texas, reputation means everything. In a close-knit community like ours, word travels fast—and so does news online. A single bad review, misunderstanding, or public mistake can hurt your business if not handled quickly and carefully. The good news? With the right plan, you can protect your reputation and even come out stronger on the other side.

Essential Steps for Handling a Crisis

1. Act Quickly, But Calmly

When something goes wrong, the worst thing you can do is wait too long or react poorly.

Local Tip: Have a simple plan ready so you can respond quickly with honesty and heart.

2. Tell Your Side of the Story

If you stay silent, people may assume the worst. It’s important to speak up—with kindness and clarity.

Local Tip: Acknowledge the situation, apologize if needed, and share what you’re doing to make it right.

3. Keep Your Message Consistent

Mixed messages only create confusion and more frustration.

Local Tip: Make sure everyone on your team knows exactly what to say and how to respond.

4. Meet Your Audience Where They Are

Sometimes that means social media, sometimes that means a local newspaper, and sometimes it means a community meeting.

Local Tip: Focus on the places where your customers are most likely to hear from you.

5. Learn and Grow

Every tough moment is a chance to improve.

Local Tip: After the dust settles, take time to figure out what you learned and how you can do better in the future.

Why Texas Forest Country Living Cares About Your Business

At Texas Forest Country Living, we believe that strong businesses make strong communities. Protecting your reputation isn’t just good for you—it’s good for all of us. That’s why we love sharing tips to help our local businesses stay strong, trusted, and thriving.

Need a little extra help getting your story out during tough times? Reach out to Texas Forest Country Living—we’re here to help!

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

Gary Stallard
-
0
Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

Hey, sports fans,

I’m also including (again) the AC men’s soccer released its full schedule of instructional and ID camps for the summer. I’ve added an easy link and graphic containing that information.

Our youth summer camps kicked off with baseball this past week, with basketball and soccer on tap for the coming week. We hope to add a youth softball camp once we have a new head coach in place. 

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

Baseball’s Camp Roadrunner Sessions Draw Crowd

From hitting to throwing to running the bases – and sliding on a giant, soapy tarp – more than 50 area youngsters got to put some “fun” in the fundamentals during this past week’s camps. Featuring experienced coaches on-hand to offer instruction, the camp showed young players various ways to enhance their games. The camp ran Monday through Thursday at Poland Stadium at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex.

Roadrunner Soccer Sets Summer Camp Schedule

Along with the already-announced Camp Roadrunner youth camps for Summer 2025, the Roadrunner men’s soccer team has added both a Developmental Camp and an ID Camp to its list.

The Developmental Camp for players ages 8-14 will take place from 6-7:30 p.m. June 26-27 at the AC Soccer facility at the Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex. 

The ID camp, used to identify prospective future Roadrunners, is for grades 9-12 and will take place from 6-8 p.m. on August 1 at the same location. 

Click the following link for all registration and other information:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/mens-soccer-camp-collection-3998183

AC’s Camp Roadrunner Sessions Set for Summer 2025

Over the past few years, Camp Roadrunner has become a “gotta do” event for youngsters throughout East Texas, with the recreational and youth sports camps drawing bigger crowds every summer. 

To view the available sports camps and locate the links for registration, visit https://www.angelina.edu/camproadrunner/ and look for each specific sport. 

Following are the dates for each Youth Sports Camp:

Soccer: June 9-12; July 7-10

Basketball: June 9-12

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 (especially for potential weather issues) visit the official Angelina College Athletics website (angelinaathletics.com). Fans can also receive updates on the AC Athletics Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), and Instagram pages. 

Upcoming schedules: No further games scheduled until August. 

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

Investing in Sustainability: How the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe Is Leading East Texas in Rainwater Innovation

Lee Allen Miller
-
0
Investing in Sustainability: How the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe Is Leading East Texas in Rainwater Innovation

Nestled in the heart of the Big Thicket, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas is quietly pioneering one of the most inspiring sustainability success stories in East Texas. Their 11,706-acre reservation, the oldest in the state, is more than a home—it’s a living testament to generations of environmental stewardship.

Now, in the wake of the 2022 drought, that stewardship has taken on a powerful new form: rainwater harvesting.

Turning Rain Into Resilience

Faced with increasingly unpredictable weather and growing demands on local water systems, the Tribe saw an opportunity to honor their environmental legacy with forward-thinking action. Partnering with the USDA Southern Plains Climate Hub and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Southern Plains Region, they launched a rainwater harvesting initiative designed to protect and replenish their most vital natural resource.

A 100-by-200-foot rooftop on the Tribe’s Veterans Pavilion now funnels rainfall through a precision-engineered gutter and downspout system into a massive 65,000-gallon Pioneer water tank. Installed entirely by the Tribe’s own Natural Resources team—led by Gesse Bullock, Deputy Tribal Administrator—the project showcases how sustainable infrastructure can be built from within the community, for the community.

As of this spring, the tank has already captured more than 35,000 gallons of rainwater. Once a few final adjustments are completed, it’s expected to consistently operate at full capacity.

Water With a Purpose

This isn’t just about conservation—it’s about transformation. The harvested water is already being used to irrigate community gardens, playing a central role in the Tribe’s movement toward food sovereignty and improved health through local nutrition. It also supports essential functions like dust control during events and prescribed burns—an increasingly critical land management tool as fire seasons grow longer and more intense.

Educating for Empowerment

Perhaps most remarkable is the Tribe’s commitment to sharing knowledge. Through hands-on community workshops, tribal members learn how to build and maintain their own rainwater systems. Each participant leaves with a 55-gallon rain barrel and the confidence to install it at home. These sessions go beyond practical skills—they deepen environmental awareness and empower families to take sustainability into their own hands.

The Tribe has also turned its attention to long-term water health, restoring vegetation along local waterways to improve groundwater recharge. These efforts are helping to protect clean water access for future generations across East Texas.

A Ripple Effect Across the Region

This innovative project hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe was awarded the Texas Rain Catcher Award by the Texas Water Development Board, recognizing their excellence in water conservation. More importantly, their success has sparked action in other tribal nations—spreading inspiration from Oklahoma to California and even as far as Washington State.

As Lee Miller, publisher of Texas Forest Country Living, noted:

“The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe exemplifies the kind of leadership that honors tradition while innovating for the future. Their rainwater harvesting program is not only a smart environmental investment—it’s a shining model for all of Texas Forest Country.”

A Vision Rooted in Heritage, Built for the Future

The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe’s rainwater harvesting initiative is a powerful reminder that sustainability doesn’t always start in big cities or research labs. Sometimes, it starts with community, commitment, and a deep-rooted respect for the land.

For East Texas and beyond, this is more than a success story—it’s a blueprint for resilience.

Want to learn more about sustainable living across Texas Forest Country? Stay tuned to TFCLiving for stories that inspire and empower our region’s communities.

Angelina College Fire Academy Honors Graduates

Gary Stallard
-
0
Angelina College Fire Academy Honors Graduates

Twelve New Fire Fighters Earn Certifications

Angelina College on Monday celebrated the achievements of 12 new firefighters, as AC’s Fire Academy held its graduation ceremony for Class 25-63 inside the Hudgins Hall Auditorium.

Cadet Andrew C. “Cole” Caldwell won the award for Highest Academic Achievement, while cadet Brian Barnes received the Most Outstanding Cadet award after votes from his fellow fire fighters. 

Valedictorian Cole Caldwell addresses his fellow cadets of the Angelina College Fire Academy’s Class 25-63 during their recent graduation ceremony. A total of 12 new fire fighters received their certifications inside AC’s Hudgins Hall. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)

Justin Guynes of the Houston Fire Department served as the keynote speaker, and he reminded the new fire fighters that while they’ve overcome plenty of challenges to make it to the stage, there are bigger challenges ahead. 

Houston Fire Department’s Justin Guynes addresses the cadets of the Angelina College Fire Academy’s Class 25-63 during their recent graduation ceremony. A total of 12 new fire fighters received their certifications inside AC’s Hudgins Hall. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)

“You’ll face fires, hurricanes and other natural disasters,” Guynes said, “and you may be away from family for weeks at a time. The support of your family and friends will make a big difference.

“With this career, you have to have a work ethic, and you’ve got to love the job. If you pick this profession, you’ll fall in love with it. You get to serve others, and there’s nothing better.”

Guynes also reminded the new fire fighters of the profession’s motto: Courage, Commitment and Compassion. Guynes said every department makes those qualities part of its overall mission. 

“This is just to remind us of what citizens expect of us,” Guynes said. “We all wear gear – even the clothing these cadets are wearing tonight – that has the Maltese Cross on it, and we have to keep in mind that it represents our commitment to courage, honor and selflessness.” 

Caldwell reminded his classmates of just how far they’d come since first walking through the doors of the academy.

“We weren’t sure of what lay ahead, but we quickly learned there were going to be pushups,” Caldwell said. “This academy wasn’t just about physical fitness or classroom learning. It was about discipline and respect and learning to carry ourselves with a purpose.

“The path to get here wasn’t easy, nor was it supposed to be. Every day offered a new set of challenges, and we know this profession will do the same thing.” 

Graduating fire cadets, along with their hometowns of record, were as follows:

Austin D. Ajamian, Redding, CA; Brian A. Barnes, Nacogdoches, TX; Andrew C. Caldwell, Nacogdoches, TX; Case E. Cavness, Centerville, TX; Bradley M. Davison, Jr., Chester, TX: Joachim N. Gutierrez, Lufkin, TX; Delaney M. Hancock, Cushing, TX; Justin W. Mitcham, Jr., Colmesneil, TX; Rene Ramirez, Jr., Lufkin, TX; Camden M. Varkadoz, Lufkin, TX; Alex Villafuerte, Corrigan, TX; and Mason C.D. Wilson, Lufkin, TX. 

Instructors and staff for Class 25-63: Jason Pope, Chief Training Officer, Angelina College Fire Academy; Shawn Dillon, Assistant Coordinator, Angelina College Fire Academy/Nacogdoches Fire Department; Ashley Jowell, Angelina College Police Department/Director of Public Safety Training Fire/Law Enforcement; Kim Capps, Public Safety Specialist; Jeffery Barker, Needham FD; Adam Inman, Porter FD; Robert Anthony, Nacogdoches FD; Larry Tutt, Lufkin FD; Jason Stuck, Lufkin FD; Chayce Holcombe, Lufkin FD; Mason King, Nacogdoches FD; Justin Guynes, Houston FD; and William Gates, Angelina College Fire Academy.   

For further information regarding Angelina College’s Fire Academy, contact Jason Pope at jpope@angelina.edu. 

Diseases in The Garden

Cary Sims
-
0
Diseases in The Garden

Home gardeners in our area are no strangers to plant diseases. Each year, I review afflicted plants and their fruits. In the past couple of weeks, I’ve already found anthracnose on tomatoes, bacterial scab on potatoes, and tomato mosaic virus.  

Ever wonder why some years your tomatoes flourish and other years they struggle? Gardeners often experience plant diseases in their home gardens and orchards. Fruits and vegetables are always susceptible to several pathogens. Once a plant becomes infected, there is little to do other than pruning out the diseased part or removing the entire plant in the case of root rot or a viral infection. In light of this, preventing diseases is more effective than controlling them once they have begun. 

Effective disease prevention involves using an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Disease prevention begins with cultural practices, supplemented by pesticides if necessary. 

Preventative practices often control the spread of disease-causing organisms. These practices should be followed on all fruit and nut crops to help ensure that the fruits and nuts are free of disease.  The basic steps include:  Remove dead and diseased tissue, maintain proper plant nutrition, apply water properly, and rotate vegetable’s locations each year in the garden.

All diseases that infect fruit and vegetables are caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses or nematodes. Though nematodes are a microscopic roundworm, they are studied as a pathogen rather than included in an entomologist’s studies.

 Several bacteria cause serious problems on fruit plants. Fire blight of pear and apple is seen annually in home fruit production. Bacterial leaf spot, bacterial wilt, bacterial rot, and bacterial canker are some of the more frequently observed diseases in the home garden. Bacterial diseases are found in all areas, but they are generally more severe in areas of high to moderate rainfall. Bacterial diseases are controlled by resistant varieties, antibiotics, and cultural practices.

Viruses can be spread by insects, nematodes, carried on seeds, and mechanical methods. Symptoms can often be confused with those of plant mutations, nutrient deficiencies, toxicities or other pathogens. Virus diseases are controlled with the use of resistant varieties, rotations, and weed and insect controls.

The fungal group of organisms is the most widespread and damaging. Fungi survive on diseased plant material or on alternate crops. Wilts, fruit rots, and leaf spots are all symptoms of fungal infection. Fungal problems are most severe during periods of high humidity or when the plant tissue is covered by a thin film of moisture. Temperatures between 70 and 85 F are favorable for most fungi. 

Many disease-causing organisms are blown by wind from diseased trees or plant parts to nearby healthy plants. Brown rot of peaches, for example, is spread by spores. Once plants become infected, rain or irrigation water splashing on diseased parts further spreads this fungus.

Too many times, it is our own activities as gardeners that spread problems. Disease-causing pathogens can be spread mechanically during pruning, thinning, irrigating, or cultivating. These injuries create wounds through which harmful pathogens can enter. And if you don’t clean your pruning shears you can be spreading disease worse than a doctor from the early 1800’s that didn’t know about germs! 

If you know you are going to prune out diseased tissue on plants, you can easily disinfect your garden tools with a variety of options. I like to use a weak bleach solution. A bucket with 1 part bleach and 9 parts water does the trick. 

In advanced cases, pesticidal treatments are required to supplement cultural practices to produce high-quality, disease-free, fruits and vegetables. Whether you use conventional or organic pesticides, they should be used according to the instructions on the label. 

Applications of fungicides should be sufficient to maintain control but not excessive. When applying any material for disease control, make sure the foliage, fruit or vegetables are covered with a protective fungicidal film. As with any product, always follow pre-harvest interval (the waiting period between spraying and harvesting) from the time of application to the time a crop can be harvested. 

With these preventive measures, your garden can thrive season after season, rewarding your efforts with healthy produce.

1...727374...744Page 73 of 744