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Capitol Update: Back-to-School Savings & Flood Preparedness for East Texans

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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It’s that time of year again—when store aisles fill with sharpened pencils, new sneakers, and the hopeful anticipation of a fresh school year. As families across Deep East Texas gear up for the classroom, don’t miss out on one of the most practical money-saving opportunities of the season. The 26th Annual Texas Sales Tax Holiday is set for August 8–10, 2025, and it’s expected to save Texas shoppers over $140 million at the checkout counter.

Since its creation in 1999, this tax-free weekend has saved Texans nearly $2.2 billion on back-to-school essentials. During the holiday, shoppers can purchase clothing, footwear, school supplies, and backpacks priced under $100 without paying sales tax. It’s a modest break that can make a meaningful difference, especially as families prepare for the year ahead.

To see which items qualify for the exemption, visit the Texas Comptroller’s website at: https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-490/

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

Capitol Update

Over the past several weeks, the Texas House and Senate Select Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding have convened to examine the recent catastrophic floods that impacted Central Texas. These hearings go beyond reviewing the past—they focus on learning vital lessons to ensure our communities, especially those in rural areas, are better equipped for future disasters.

Officials from both state and local levels have shared firsthand accounts of the flooding’s aftermath, the preparations made ahead of time, and the ongoing efforts to recover. One urgent takeaway is clear: many rural and underserved communities still lack sufficient emergency warning systems. Without dependable sirens or alerts, families face increased danger when floods occur, losing precious moments to act.

Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd highlighted the critical importance of readiness during his testimony, stating, “The strength of our emergency response lies in the preparation and support we provide before disaster strikes.” This powerful reminder calls on us to prioritize investments in training, resources, and infrastructure—especially for those first responders in rural areas who are often the first line of defense.

East Texans know the harsh reality of flooding all too well. But what truly defines our region is not just the challenges we face, but the resilience and unity we show in response. When disaster hits, neighbors reach out, communities rally, and together we rebuild stronger than before.

As the Legislature continues these essential discussions during the First Called Special Session, I remain committed to advancing policies that equip rural and underserved communities with the tools and support they need. 

The mobile office is on the road again in August, and our District Director looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: August 6 at the San Augustine County Courthouse from 9:30-11:30am; August 13 at the Polk County Commissioner’s Court Room in Livingston from 9:30-11:30am, or at the Tyler County Courthouse in Woodville from 1:30-3:30 pm;  August 20 at the Houston County Courthouse Annex in Crockett from 9:30-11:30am, or at the Trinity County Courthouse in Groveton from 1:30-3:30pm.

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 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/.

The $5,000 Mistake Many Local Business Owners Are Making

By
Lee Allen Miller
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Electricity review savings for Texas businesses

And How a Simple Electricity Review Could Save You Thousands

We talk a lot about stretching a dollar here in the Forest Country.
Whether you’re running a small business in Crockett, keeping a church cool in Alto, or powering a feed mill in Diboll—you already know that every expense matters.

But what if I told you that many local businesses are overpaying for electricity by thousands of dollars each year, without even realizing it?

It’s not because they’re doing anything wrong.
It’s because no one ever told them they could do it better.

 The Mistake? Letting Your Energy Contract Auto-Renew (or Expire Quietly)

In deregulated parts of Texas, commercial electricity contracts don’t renew themselves fairly. In fact, many businesses are rolled into “month-to-month” plans with inflated rates, and they never know it—until the bill gets out of hand.

Others sign a contract once and assume it’s a good deal forever. But the market changes constantly. What was a good rate last year could now be 10–20% too high.

 Real Example from the Forest Country

We worked with a business in Wells that was paying nearly 16¢ per kWh—well above market. With one quick review, we helped them secure a rate closer to 9¢—saving over $400 a month.

That’s $4,800 a year back into their operation.
No new equipment. No headaches. Just a smarter plan.

 What You Can Do Today

Here’s the good news: You don’t have to be an energy expert to save like one.
You just need someone who knows how to read your usage, understands the providers, and speaks the language of contracts.

That’s where Amerigy Energy comes in.
They’re based here in Texas, and they’ve helped small-town businesses across the Pineywoods cut their electricity costs—without switching providers, installing anything new, or spending a dime.

 Want Someone to Take a Look?

You can call 877-631-8875 and ask for Lee—he works with businesses, nonprofits, schools, and churches.
Or if it’s easier, email a copy of your last electric bill to info@amerigyenergy.com for a free analysis.
You can also explore options at your own pace at AmerigyEnergy.com/shopnow.

Final Thought

In towns like Diboll, Crockett, Alto, and Wells, running a business already takes grit, grace, and long hours.
Don’t let a quiet mistake on your electricity bill be the reason you come up short.

A quick review could save you thousands—money that belongs back in your business, your church, or your family’s hands.

Kids Talk About God by Carey Kinsolving and Friends

By
Carey Kinsolving
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How Does God Protect Us From Danger? (Psalm 23:5)

“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over” (Psalm 23:5).

As I sit down to write, there’s a table before me with many interpretations of this well-known Bible verse. One of my favorite attempts to unravel this Scripture comes from Elizabeth, age 8: “Be kind to your enemies, and I’ll make you a king.”

King David treated his enemies with kindness and became a king. But I think he had something else in mind when he wrote this psalm.

“God prepares a life with enemies in it for us,” says Jessica, 9. Well, this also has possibilities. David was an unknown shepherd boy until he heard Goliath taunt the armies of Israel. Certainly, the Lord can use enemies to test us and to teach us how to trust him. As David said when facing Goliath, “The battle is the Lord’s.”

“The enemy is around you, and God can help you,” says Scott, 10.

Some experts believe the scene shifts to the banquet table of the king; however, I’m going to stick with the shepherd and his sheep. The summer grazing ranges in the high mountains are known as tables. In Spanish, the word for such a place is “mesa,” which means “table.”

The picture here is fit for a postcard: sheep grazing in a luxurious pasture on a high mountain plain. Before the sheep arrive, the shepherd has removed poisonous weeds, killed venomous snakes and driven away lurking predators.

Now, we come to the oil as in “You anoint my head with oil.” Bethany, 7, has the right idea when she says, “When he puts oil on our heads, he blesses us.” Adrianna, 8, is also on track: “God anoints our head with the Holy Spirit.” Both are true in the lives of God’s people.

But in the context of sheep peacefully grazing on a high mountain plain, there’s a fly in the ointment. Except here it’s more than a figure of speech.

The nose fly can harass sheep literally to death. They deposit their eggs in the damp mucous membranes of the sheep’s nose. The eggs hatch to form worms, which make their way into the sheep’s head. For relief from the severe inflammation, sheep will beat their heads against rocks and trees.

At the first sign of these pesky flies, the alert shepherd will apply a special ointment to the heads of his sheep so they can continue to graze peacefully.

Life is full of small things beyond our control that can “bug us.” By allowing the Good Shepherd to anoint us, these irritations are counteracted by the presence of God’s Spirit.

“‘My cup runs over’ means that God gives you so many blessings that they are uncountable,” says Sean, 10. Or it could mean “God is more than you ask for!” says Derek, 9.

One picture the overflowing cup suggests is the shepherd providing water for his skittish sheep. They’re thirsty but instinctively fearful of rushing river water because their heavy wool makes them vulnerable to being swept away by the current.

Running water has to be channeled into a vessel so that it’s still. “He leads me beside still waters.”

“Jesus’ love is filling my cup,” says Ester, 8.

Think About This: God has prepared a place for you where he will pour blessings into your life.

Memorize This Truth: Please see Psalm 23:5 above.

Ask This Question: Are you willing to follow the Good Shepherd to the place where he can bless you?

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Kids Talk About God is designed for families to study the Bible together. Research shows that parents who study the Bible with their children give their character, faith and spiritual life a powerful boost. To receive Kids Talk About God three times a week in a free, email subscription, visit www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org/email. 

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

By
Gary Stallard
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Hey, sports fans,

We have a game this week! 

OK, it’s a scrimmage, but we’re still pumped about it since it signifies the beginning of a brand-new series of sports seasons for Angelina College Athletics teams. Our Lady Roadrunner soccer team will play its first scrimmage on the road this Thursday, and on Tuesday (Aug. 12), they’ll kick off a home scrimmage doubleheader with the men’s team. 

We’re attaching a couple of schedules (thanks to Melissa Durham for the cool graphics) to help you keep up with all the upcoming “futbol” action. 

We’ve also got the 18th Annual Guy Davis Golf Tournament on the way, along with our annual Meet the Roadrunners Banquet and Dinner at the Diamond.’

FYI, our faculty and staff report back full-time on Monday, Aug. 11, and the first class day for the new semester is Monday, Aug. 18.

See? We’re back and ready to Run ‘Em. 

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

 Lady Roadrunners to Open Season with Thursday Scrimmage

Lady Roadrunner head soccer coach Sergio Gardea heads into his second season with a solid list of returning players from his 2024 South Zone winners, and his squad will square off against McNeese State University Thursday evening in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

Since this is a scrimmage, the match will not be live-streamed. 

Coming Soon: Big Events for Angelina College and AC Athletics

The 18th annual Guy Davis Golf Tournament will take place on Saturday, August 16 at the Crown Colony Country Club in Lufkin. The kickoff dinner will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday, August 15 at Crown Colony. The tourney features a five-man scramble format with two separate shotgun starts: One in the morning, and another in the afternoon. 

Click this link for more information on the golf tournament: https://angelina.prestosports.com/information/directory/guydavistourney

On Sunday, August 17, we’ll host our annual “Meet the Roadrunners” banquet featuring all our incoming student-athletes and their families, along the all the Athletics staff. The event runs from 2:30-5 p.m. inside the AC Conference Center.

In addition, AC’s Sixth annual “Dinner at the Diamond” event will take place on Saturday, Sept. 27 down on the baseball field at Poland Stadium on the AC campus.

The golf tournament and Dinner at the Diamond are very important fund-raisers for Angelina College and its students – not to mention just a lot of fun for everyone involved. 

We’ll have registration links and other information for these events to send out in the coming weeks. We just wanted to give you enough time to mark your calendars. 

Soccer Schedules Set for 2025 Season

The Lady Roadrunner and Roadrunner soccer teams have released their schedules for the upcoming season (which is rapidly approaching), so fans can start making plans to show up and show out while cheering on both AC teams.

Included in the schedule are five home doubleheaders, one of which is the Tuesday, August 12 scrimmage against Wiley College. The ladies kick off at 5 p.m. while the men follow at 7:30 p.m. Both AC soccer teams will kick off the regular season at home on Friday, August 29 against Northeast Texas Community College. Again, the ladies will start at 5 p.m., and the guys will follow immediately afterward. Those matches will be live streamed on TSBN, the home doubleheader on Saturday, August 30 against Paris Junior College. 

Baseball ID Camp Scheduled for August 6

The AC baseball team under new coaches Jon Phillips and Cody Crowder in August will host a camp for possible future Roadrunners. 

The camp, open to all high schoolers and current college transfers, will take place from 11:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, August 6 at Poland Stadium on the Angelina College campus. 

Here’s the link for registration and other info:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/baseball-august-prospect-camp-august-6th-2025-registration-1470720307029?aff=erelexpmlt&fbclid=IwY2xjawLqA3hleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFqUlJkWmd2eFhhcHBVd2VpAR5pqUjJWsG8j7R1JxHgRakCKTfgzgTdaSTzlfvI_gfvh2xLShp5sjc2xxJ4Pw_aem_jY5cENivwnIS2p9jvrI7yg

For further information, contact Jon Phillips (jphillips@angelina.edu) or Kory Blandford (kblandford@angelina.edu). 

All AC Teams Have Schedules Up and Running Online

Lady Roadrunner and Roadrunner fans can now find their favorite teams’ schedules on the Angelina College Athletics website (www.angelinaathletics.com). For now, only the fall schedules for baseball and softball are in place (with the potential to add more events later), but all other teams, including both women’s and men’s basketball, are ready for viewing and planning. 

We’ll update any changes as we receive them. 

We can’t wait to see you at the games. 

Live Streaming Reminder: 

All AC Athletics regular-season home games are 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/Twitter, and Instagram pages. 

Upcoming schedules: 

Thursday, August 7:

Lady Roadrunner Soccer at McNeese State University (scrimmage), 7 p.m. in Lake Charles, Louisiana. 

Tuesday, August 12:

Lady Roadrunner Soccer vs. Hinds College (scrimmage), 5 p.m. at the AC Soccer Stadium/Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex.

Roadrunner Soccer vs. Hinds College (scrimmage), 7:30 p.m. at the AC Soccer Stadium/Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex.

Friday, August 15:

Roadrunner Soccer vs. LSU-Shreveport (scrimmage), 3 p.m. at the AC Soccer Stadium/Larry Phillips Family Sports Complex.

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

Ruth Lake Summer Festival

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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August 30, 2025 @ 9:00 am – August 31, 2025 @ 9:00 am

Get Ready for an Unforgettable Summer Experience! 

The excitement is building for the 30th Annual Ruth Lake Summer Festival, happening August 30-31, 2025, at the beautiful Ruth Rec Campground! Join us for a weekend filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit!

What’s in store for you? Check out our amazing lineup:

Vendor Booths: Discover unique treasures and local crafts! 
Live Music: Dance to the rhythm of fantastic bands!
Fishing: Cast your line and reel in the big one!
Camping: Experience the great outdoors under the stars!
Delicious Blueberry Pancakes: Indulge your taste buds with mouthwatering treats!
Food Vendors: Savor a variety of delectable options!
Dutch Raffle: Try your luck and win fabulous prizes!This festival isn’t just about fun; it’s about giving back. All proceeds support the Southern Trinity Volunteer Fire Department, Southern Trinity Area Rescue, Trinity County Food Bank, and other vital local projects.

Mark Your Calendars:

 Saturday, Aug 30: 9 AM – 5 PM

 Sunday, Aug 31: 9 AM – 4 PM

Don’t miss out on the perfect way to celebrate the last days of summer with family and friends! For more details, visit us at htraonline.org or reach out at htraruth@gmail.com or contact Patsy at 707-382-5176.

Trinity County Chamber of Commerce

Georgia-Pacific Donates in Support of Angelina College Programs

By
Gary Stallard
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Georgia-Pacific officials recently presented Angelina College with a ceremonial check commemorating a $15,000 donation in support of AC programs directly aligning with workforce needs. Pictured are (L-R) Krista Brown, AC’s Vice President of Student Services; Dr. Michael Simon, AC president; Pat Aldred, Vice President and General Manager of Composite Panel; Yana Ogletree, Public Affairs Manager (Texas); Andrew Dover, Diboll Plant Manager; and Derek Roche, Diboll Plant Manager. (Gary Stallard photo for AC News Service)

GP, AC Partnership Enhances Region’s Workforce Opportunities

Officials from both Angelina College and Georgia-Pacific gathered this past week as part of their long-time collaborative effort to create opportunities for future entrants into the East Texas workforce.

GP officials presented AC with a ceremonial check commemorating a $15,000 donation in support of the enhancement of technical job skills for students in the Electromechanical Technology program, which directly aligns with workforce needs at Georgia-Pacific locations throughout the Deep East Texas region, according to Janice Huffman, AC’s Senior Director of Grants and Sponsored Programs. 

In an issued statement, Huffman provided details on the plans for the generous donation:

“These funds will be used to upgrade PLC’s (programmable logic controllers), purchase advanced training equipment, tools, and instructional supplies that will help students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard technology. Key courses such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), industrial motor controls, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, and AC/DC drives have benefited directly from (Georgia-Pacific’s) support. By investing in these resources, we aim to strengthen students’ technical proficiency, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the workforce.”

For further information, contact Krista Brown, AC’s Vice President of Student Services, at kbrown@angelina.edu. 

My Five Cents: A Weekly Column from Sen. Robert Nichols

By
Senator Robert Nichols
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Recently, our state experienced a tragedy in the Hill Country. We mourn the lives lost during the flooding over the Fourth of July holiday on the Guadalupe River. Texas lost 135 men, women, and children with some still missing. We pray for the recovery of the missing, the Texans we lost, and the communities impact by this tragedy. 

Here are five things happening around your state: 

  1. Governor Abbott calls First Special Session

This month, Governor Greg Abbott announced the Legislature would convene for the first called special session of the 89th Legislature. The Governor put 18 items for the Legislature to consider on the call. During a special session, the Legislature may only consider those specific topics that the Governor has called us to consider. Some of the 18 items include flood preparedness, emergency communications infrastructure and flood relief funding, elimination of the STAAR test, reducing property taxes, hemp-derived product regulation, protecting unborn children, prohibiting tax-payer funded lobbying, redistricting, and other more specific bills that were vetoed after the regular session. The Legislature convened for the special session on July 21 and has 30 days to address the items on the call. Committee hearings and floor votes are well underway in Austin.

  1. House Natural Resources Committee holds hearing on East Texas groundwater issue

On July 15, Chairman Cody Harris convened a hearing at the Capitol of the House Natural Resources Committee to hear testimony regarding the impact of high-capacity and large volume groundwater production in the Neches and Trinity Valleys Groundwater Conservation District (NTVGCD). Over 11 hours, members of the committee, additional interested House members, Senate Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Committee Chairman Charles Perry, and myself heard testimony regarding the role of groundwater in our state, the proposed projects, and the possible impact those projects could have on groundwater in the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifier which covers the northern part of Senate District 3. The testimony highlighted the risk East Texas faces of overuse of the aquifer which may cause depletion of the aquifer. This is an issue I care about deeply and will continue to pursue remedies to ensure communities in East Texas maintain access to the groundwater under their land.   

  1. Ban on THC products passes Senate

This week, Senate Bill 5 by Senator Charles Perry passed on a bipartisan vote in the Senate. The bill would prohibit the sale of consumable hemp products that contain THC. Hemp products that contain cannabidiol (CBD) or cannabigerol (CBG) will remain legal. Products that remain legal under the law would have to comply with a strict regulatory framework set up in the bill. The bill also prohibits the sale of consumable hemp products to anyone under the age of 21, prohibits marketing those products to minors, and requires certain packaging and labeling of the products. Intoxicating forms of THC endanger the health and safety of children and families and it’s time to rigorously regulate these substances. The existing Texas Compassionate Use Program or laws related to the farming of hemp will not be impacted by these changes. 

  1. TPWD, Animal Health Commission form task force to address New World Screwworm

The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced the formation of a joint response team to coordinate effort in combating New World screwworm (NWS), following a directive from Governor Abbott. New World screwworm is a fly that carries NWS disease, which attacks warm-blooded animals through open wounds. The disease can be fatal. The pest was eradicated in US in the 1960s, but has recently reemerged in Central America and Mexico. Due to the size of Texas’ border with Mexico, extensive animal agriculture industry, and wildlife, the risk of the reemergence in Texas is of strong concern, especially in our agriculture industry. This joint effort has provided training and education to agency personnel, members of the public, veterinarians, and stakeholders to identify and respond to the threat NWS poses. 

  1. Lufkin teens place 2nd in national rodeo

Two eighth-graders in Lufkin recently won national reserve champion for ribbon roping at the National Junior High Rodeo in Des Moines, Iowa. Ribbon roping involves a “roper” on a horse who ropes and holds a steer, and a “runner” who grabs a ribbon from the steer’s tail and races to cross the finish line. Bella Bardwell and Colt Sanders have competed together for three years. To make it to the national rodeo, the pair competed regionally and statewide. They won first place at the state rodeo for ribbon roping. Congratulations, Bella and Colt! 

Summer Annual Forages for Cattle 

By
Cary Sims
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Portrait of herd of cows in rural green field
Portrait of herd of cows in rural green field

This time of year, when the sun is bearing down and our perennial pastures begin to show signs of fatigue, more and more cattle producers are looking for ways to maintain both forage quality and animal performance. One of the tools that gets attention is the use of summer annual forages—fast-growing, high-yielding crops like sorghums, Sudan grass, millet, and even some legumes.  

While no one is suggesting that we eliminate the Bahiagrass or Bermudagrass pasture systems used by nearly every stockman in the region, there are some definite advantages to incorporating some high-quality annual grazing options. Summer annual forages can be a part of the total forage program of many livestock producers. They are used to provide a plentiful supply of high-quality forage for grazing in mid-summer when perennial grasses are often relatively low in yield and/or quality.

Because summer annuals must be established each year, their production costs are usually higher than warm-season perennial pastures. Summer annuals can provide the quantity of forage at a time when it often cannot be supplied any other way. They therefore can serve as a useful part of the total forage program. But if our cattlemen take a hard look at the quality and quantity of grass these crops can provide, it could very well be profitable.

Summer annuals can be used to supplement permanent pastures and enable better management of perennial pastures. Since cost is involved in the production of summer annuals, forage alternatives must be considered in relation to costs, returns, and type of livestock enterprise involved. Potential quality of forage provided by summer annuals is usually most profitable when used by producing high quality or high gaining livestock.

Terms such as grass tillers and ratoon crops become a part of our language. Potential problems such as prussic acid and nitrate poisoning are also issues to address.  

The options are plenty and our local producers will need to learn a new skillset to manage them correctly.  Some popular summer forage options include sorghums, forage sorghum, sudangrass, millet, and some legumes. Options like Crabgrass, Dallisgrass, and (gasp!) Johnsongrass really sound like weeds but may also become a viable crop to grow. 

Sorghums for forage can be grouped into two general categories based on frequency of harvest and use. These are: 1) those harvested frequently as grazing, green-chopping, hay or haylage (Sudan hybrids, Sudan varieties, Sudan-johnsongrass types) and 2) those that are harvested only once or twice during the season for silage, green-chop and sometimes hay and bundle feed (forage and grain sorghum varieties and hybrids).

Sudangrass was first introduced and grown in Texas in 1909. It soon became an important pasture plant. After the original introduction, several improved varieties were developed and have been used widely. Then came the development and introduction of the Sudan-johnsongrass types which are classified as weak perennial.

Forage sorghum varieties were first introduced and grown in Texas in 1857. Many hybrids have since been developed, introduced and widely used. More recently, forage sorghum hybrids have been developed and are in use. These hybrids have resulted largely from grain sorghum x forage sorghum crosses.

Pearl millet (also cattail millet) is grown to some extent to furnish forage for the same purposes as the Sudan varieties and hybrids. Yields are usually lower than the Sudan hybrids except under certain sandy, acid soil conditions in East Texas, and in other areas where iron chlorosis is a severe problem. Pearl millet is equal in quality to Sudan and the Sudan hybrids and is leafier.

Several warm-season annual legumes are used to some extent for forage production. Legume forage is of excellent quality if harvested at the proper time with leaves retained. However, the yield is usually quite low when compared to summer annual grasses. The most important annual legumes are cowpeas and soybeans grown primarily for grazing and hay.

And yes—crabgrass, Dallisgrass, and even Johnsongrass (gasp!) may have a role to play. When managed correctly, some of these often-scorned species can actually provide decent forage during the dog days of summer.

To be clear, no single forage will fit every operation. Success comes down to matching your land, soil, labor, and livestock goals with the right option—or mix of options. Summer annuals are not a silver bullet, but in the right situations, they can be a valuable piece of the grazing puzzle.

In closing, summer annual forages aren’t new, but they should get a second look for good reason. They offer a way to stretch our grazing season, reduce stress on perennial pastures, and improve cattle performance during the hottest months of the year. If you’re planning your forage strategy for next summer—or even looking for a quick fix for worn-out paddocks—summer annuals may be worth a test plot or two.

As always, if you’d like help evaluating forage options or figuring out which one best fits your operation, reach out to your local County Extension Office. A tremendous online resource is foragefax.tamu.edu. Be sure to sign up for the weekly updates.

Ribbon Cutting Celebration – King’s Corner, LLC (Nacogdoches County)

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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August 13, 2025 @ 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Join the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce as we welcome King’s Corner, LLC – Country Grocery & Café to the community!

Locally owned and operated, this charming Mom & Pop country store and grill offers a warm welcome and a taste of home. From a hearty full breakfast and lunch menu to their mouthwatering Friday & Saturday Fried Catfish and Shrimp specials, there’s something for everyone!

But that’s not all — King’s Corner also serves as your convenient local grocery stop with Live Bait & Tackle, including Minnows and Nightcrawlers for all you anglers out there. 

Celebrate with us at this fun-filled afternoon featuring:

Delicious finger foods straight from their kitchen

Refreshing R&K specialty beverages

Possible surprise live music 

Door prizes and networking opportunities – don’t forget your business cards!

Check them out on Facebook: King’s Corner, LLC

Come show your support for this new family business and help us give them a warm community welcome!

Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce

(936) 560-5533

View Organizer Website

4931 FM 2864, Nacogdoches, TX

Related Events

Nacogdoches, Texas to Join Mid America League

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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New Baseball Franchise Begins Play in Summer 2026

NACOGDOCHES, TX – The Mid America League is thrilled to announce that Nacogdoches, Texas has been awarded a franchise set to debut in May, 2026. This addition marks a significant milestone for the City of Nacogdoches, Nacogdoches County and the rapidly expanding Mid America League.

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Nacogdoches into our league,” said Nick Weisenborn, Executive Director of Mid America League. “It’s a market with deep baseball roots, a vibrant university community and a need for inexpensive family entertainment community and fans ready to embrace summer baseball.”

Launched in 2024 as a premium developmental league, the Mid America League brings together top collegiate athletes, undrafted prospects, and former professional players in a unique “hybrid” format. The league currently features teams across Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, and is growing toward a 10-team lineup in 2026.

“The Mid America League will be a fantastic fit for Nacogdoches”, stated SFA Athletic Director, Michael McBroom.  “Baseball games are a great way to spend an evening with family and friends and we are proud to share Pilgrim’s Park with the new team.  Kudos to Rick Beverlin, Randy Johnson and the City of Nacogdoches for leading the way to get this deal done, and thank you to Mark Schuster and Nick Weisenborn for seeing the value in Nacogdoches that we all see on a daily basis.  I’m personally looking forward to many fun nights at the ballpark with my family!”, McBroom added. 

“We’re thrilled to welcome a summer league team to Nacogdoches — it’s the next step in our growing baseball culture. With a thriving youth league, a strong college program at SFA, and now a new hometown team, we’re adding another exciting reason to enjoy summer in Nacogdoches — one that brings families together, draws in visitors, and celebrates community spirit,” said Randy Johnson, Mayor – City of Nacogdoches.  

Nacogdoches’ franchise will play a 64-game schedule—32 home, 32 away—from midMay through early August. Home games will be hosted at Jaycees Field at Pilgrim’s Park, equipped to offer a fantastic summer baseball atmosphere. 

“By leveraging public-private partnerships — from the city, SFA, youth sports, private donors, and now the Mid America League — we’re seeing exactly the kind of outcome we aimed for: year-round use of our sports facilities, stronger community engagement, and increased economic impact through sales and hotel tax revenue,” said Rick Beverlin, Nacogdoches City Manager.

The team joins other recent league additions, including Fort Scott, Kansas and Beaumont, Texas —growing the Mid America League into a major summer sports attraction by 2026 

Join Us
Please visit www.baseballinnac.com to submit your entry in the “Name the Team” contest and official details on seasonticket packages, and special events leading up to the inaugural season.

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