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Governor Abbott Honors International Holocaust Remembrance Day

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 28, 2025

Governor Abbott Honors International Holocaust Remembrance Day

Governor Greg Abbott today honored the millions of people killed during the Holocaust by lighting the Governor’s Mansion yellow in honor of International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

“Today, we remember and pray for the millions of people who were killed during this atrocious period of history,” said Governor Abbott. “It’s a solemn reminder of the intense oppression the Jewish people faced and continue to face. In recognition of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, Cecilia and I lit the Governor’s Mansion yellow to honor those whose lives were taken. Antisemitism and hate have no place in our state, in our country, or in the world. Texas proudly stands with the Jewish people and with Israel today and every day.”

(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 1/26/2025)

Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

Sports

Gary Stallard

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January 27, 2025

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Angelina College Athletics Weekly Update

Hey, sports fans,

This week saw our men’s basketball team enter the NJCAA Division I rankings for the first time this season, and on Saturday we saw our basketball and baseball teams summon four wins in four games – with baseball notching a pair of walk-off wins just to add to the excitement.

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

No. 19 Roadrunners Enter Rankings, Take Down Navarro College

The big snowstorm affecting our neighbors down south of the Pineywoods caused one cancellation, but the red-hot Roadrunners celebrated their recent entry into the Top 20 with a home win over a big rival on Saturday.

Tuesday’s NJCAA Division polls greeted the Roadrunners with a No. 19 ranking, and after Wednesday’s scheduled game at Lamar State College-Port Arthur was postponed because of weather, AC’s men hosted Navarro College (where current AC assistant coach Eric Colbert once roamed the sidelines) at Shands Gymnasium on Saturday.

The ‘Runners continued to do what they’ve been doing, putting together the nation’s best defense with an opportunistic offense to beat the Bulldogs by a 73-60 final.

AC’s Jordan Mathews led all scorers with 21 points while grabbing eight rebounds. Chris Carpenter and Christian Jones chipped in with 11 points each and Kanaan Holder added another 10 points.

The Roadrunners (16-2, 9-1) will hit the road for a big game against No. 9 Panola College Wednesday in Carthage. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

On Saturday, Feb. 1, AC returns home to host Paris Junior College at 4 p.m.

Lady Roadrunners Split Week’s Conference Games, Beat Paris on Saturday

After dropping a road game in Kilgore on Wednesday, the Lady ‘Runners bounced back with a big win over Paris Junior College at home on Saturday, holding off the Lady Dragons by a 57-51 final at Shands Gymnasium.

India McMahon’s huge day included a 20-point, 13-rebound effort. Lanaijha Johnson scored 13 points and pulled down six rebounds and Alecia Rivera-Scott finished with nine points and five assists.

The Lady ‘Runners (9-9, 2-3) will play in Carthage on Wednesday against Panola College, with tipoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

AC’s ladies then return home on Saturday for a showdown with No. 15 Trinity Valley Community College starting at 2 p.m. at Shands Gymnasium.

Baseball Opens Season with a Bang, Sweeps Galveston on Pair of Walk-Offs

What a way to open a new season.

The Roadrunner baseball team hosted Galveston College on Saturday in the season opener for both teams, and the ‘Runners cranked the volume knob on the excitement level early.

Leadoff hitter Connor Ficarra’s first at-bat in Game 1 was a deep drive to centerfield ending in a spectacular catch from Galveston’s centerfielder.

In the bottom of the seventh inning and the score even at 2-2, however, Ficarra made sure no one was going to catch his shot.

Ficarra launched a solo homer over the right-field wall to give the Roadrunners the walk-off win in AC’s first game of the year.

The Roadrunners weren’t finished.

In Game 2’s extra-inning affair, the Whitecaps took a 7-6 lead in the top of the 9th, only to see AC’s Diesel Gonzalez rip a bases-loaded, game-ending single off the wall for yet another walk-off win to celebrate Opening Day.

In the early win, AC’s Ryan Lewis drove in two runs, with Ficarra adding the other. Starting pitcher Ethan Jezierski struck out six hitters in three innings, and David Wilson earned the win in relief with his three-inning, four K performance.

In the nightcap, Ryan Beaty drove in three runs, while Landon Bailey added two more. Gonzalez, Ashton Wagner (3-for-5 at the plate) and Cooper Molnes added an RBI each.

AC’s Sam Nitzke got the start, striking out seven ‘Caps in four innings. Ashton Martinez followed with two scoreless innings, Josh Munoz tossed an inning of relief and Colby Turner picked up the win after throwing two innings and allowing a single unearned run.

The Roadrunners (2-0) are scheduled to play doubleheader at Wharton College on Thursday, with first pitch set for 1 p.m. AC then will host those same Pioneers in a Sunday doubleheader starting at 1 p.m. at Poland Stadium on the AC campus.

Lady Roadrunner Softball Hoping to Start This Week

First, the weather wiped out the Lady Roadrunner softball team’s Prospect Camp scheduled for this past Sunday (now rescheduled for March).

Then came word the scheduled home/season opener against Cisco College set for this Wednesday also has been canceled.

The Lady ‘Runners are so ready to get going, they held an intrasquad game on Saturday just so they could feel some sort of competition.

After all the shuffling, AC’s ladies are hoping to get the 2025 season underway this week, when they’re schedule to participate in the Mardi Gras Invitation in Youngsville, Louisiana on Friday and Saturday.

AC will face Northwest Florida CC at 3:30 p.m. and Hinds College at 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 31. The Lady ‘Runners on Saturday will take on Bishop CC at 12:30 p.m. and Meridian CC at 3 p.m.

The home opener now is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, Feb. 5 against Tyler Junior College. That doubleheader will start at 1 p.m. at the Lady Roadrunner Softball Field on the AC campus.

Soccer Teams Hosting ID Camps in March

Both Angelina College soccer teams will be hosting ID camps in March as the programs continue to identify new talent.

The Roadrunner men will host their ID Camp from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. on Saturday, March 1 at the AC Soccer Complex on the AC campus. The camp is for prospective players in 9th through 12th grades. Cost for the camp is $60 if players register by Feb. 21. After Feb. 21, the cost will be $75.

The Lady Roadrunners’ ID camp takes place from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 8 at the AC Soccer Complex on the AC campus. The camp is for prospective players in 9th through 12th grades. Cost for the camp is $30 if players register by Feb. 21. After Feb. 21, the cost will be $50.

Here’s the link for registration and other information for both Soccer ID camps:

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

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 website, 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:

Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball at Panola College, 5:30 p.m. in Carthage.

No. 19 Roadrunner Basketball at No. 9 Panola College, 7:30 p.m. in Carthage.

Friday, Jan. 31:

Roadrunner Baseball at Wharton College, DH starting at 1 p.m. in Wharton.

Lady Roadrunner Softball vs. NW Florida CC (3:30 p.m.) and Hinds College (6 p.m.) at Mardi Gras Invitational in Youngsville, LA.

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025:

Lady Roadrunner Basketball vs. No. 15 Trinity Valley CC, 2 p.m., Shands Gymnasium.

Roadrunner Basketball vs. Paris College, 4 p.m., Shands Gymnasium.

Lady Roadrunner Softball vs. Bishop CC (12:30 p.m.) and Meridian CC (3 p.m.) at Mardi Gras Invitational in Youngsville, La.

Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025:

Roadrunner Baseball vs. Wharton College, DH starting at 1 p.m., Poland Stadium on the AC campus.

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

Capitol Update: Texas Budget Highlights, Property Tax Relief, and Community Outreach

Rep. Trent Ashby

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January 27, 2025

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Capitol Update: Texas Budget Highlights, Property Tax Relief, and Community Outreach

On January 25th, 1839, the Republic of Texas adopted the iconic flag we know and cherish today. A simple but bold design that features a single five-point star surrounded by a blue field with two horizontal stripes, the upper stripe white, and the lower red. Colors in the flags of both the United States and Texas mean red for courage, white for purity and liberty, and blue for loyalty.

Among the several designs considered for our state flag, the Lone Star stood out as particularly meaningful to those who created it. I am proud that Texas still serves as a beacon for all who believe in personal freedom, limited government, and family values. Texas has prevailed and cemented itself as the preeminent state representing the American Dream and the land of opportunity.

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

Capitol Update

With the 89th Legislative Session underway, House members had the opportunity to review the initial draft of the State’s budget, or the base budget, for the next two years. The House’s base budget, which was very similar to the Senate’s base budget, includes $335.7 billion in total spending and $154.1 in general revenue spending.

One of the largest aspects of the base budget is the $26.3 billion reserved for the continued property tax relief the Legislature provided last session and $6.5 billion for further property tax relief. I appreciate the dedication exhibited in the base budget to addressing the needs of Texas homeowners.

Additionally, the base budget provides for $4.85 billion in new funding for public education in Texas. This includes a $3.4 billion increase to fully fund student enrollment, $400 million for school safety improvements, and $450 million to the Teacher Retirement System to address rising insurance premiums for our retired teachers.

The base budget also includes $139 million to operationalize new mental-health beds and to raise personal attendant nurse wages to $12 at state hospitals, $174 million is for the Early Childhood Intervention program, $73 million to expand access to Youth Crisis Outreach Teams, and $20 million for three new Women’s Preventative Health Mobile Units, one of which will be dedicated to serving the Deep East Texas region.

Finally, the base budget also includes $36 billion for highway projects, $6.5 billion for border security, $2.5 billion for water infrastructure, $1.1 billion to address high-risk security threats and secure Texans’ data, $402 million for 600 new state troopers, $363 million for correctional officer raises, and $34 million for flood control dam projects.

I am grateful for the dedication to the needs of all Texans the base budget exhibits. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Legislature to, among many things, deliver meaningful property tax relief, explore appraisal reform, address the mental health needs of Deep East Texans, and deliver a much-needed pay raise to our hardworking public educators.

The mobile office is on the road again and looks forward to seeing you on the following dates, in the following locations: February 5 at the San Augustine County Courthouse from 9:30-11:30am; February 12 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; February 15 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 our Capitol office 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/

Growing Mayhaws in Your Backyard

Cary Sims

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January 24, 2025

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It was a gentleman this week from Huntington who was asking me how to grow fruit in his clay-ey, often saturated soils. We discussed the work and expense regarding the creation of a massive, raised bed to have enough internal drainage to give the roots of many fruit trees the chance to survive and thrive.

Eventually, I shifted our conversation to what might do well in the soil he had. The topic of mayhaws was explored.

Mayhaws have the notoriety of growing in swamps and often without full sunlight. It was two gentleman named Haywood Quarles and Donald Capps of Burke that got me started on mayhaw fruit. Mr. Quarles gave me a few germinated seedlings of mayhaws that I planted at my previous residence on Lancewood Circle north of Hudson almost 15 years ago.

Though Mr. Quarles has passed away, his family still maintains his orchard and sells fruit. Mr. Capp’s late wife, BJ, put up some of the best Mayhaw jelly in the county.

Those trees at my old home were not in a low-lying area, they thrived and did well. They bloomed and bore their first fruit the spring before we moved to our farm in Clawson.

Mayhaws are native to Angelina and surrounding counties. In fact, they are native to the entire southeastern United States. Mayhaws are in the rose family and the hawthorn genus. They are medium-sized trees that produce white blooms in the spring. Like many fruits, you will need space for two mayhaws as they will need to cross pollinate for best production.

Mayhaws produce a small apple-like fruit that is usually less than 1 inch in diameter. They usually bloom in late February and sometimes sustain crop loss due to a late winter freeze. The fruit usually ripens in early May.

The trees are also valued as an ornamental species. Mayhaw trees are cold hardy and, if properly conditioned, they can survive freezing temperatures in their native range. Mayhaws are often found along river bottoms and along streams and in swamps.

Common insect pests of Mayhaw include aphids, apple maggot, flat headed apple borers, and white flies. Plum curculio is the most debilitating insect.

Regarding disease, the most common that I have noticed is the cedar-apple rust. While few products exist to combat this frequent issue, proper pruning and other management practices can help overcome it.

Although they are often found in low areas subject to perennial flooding, Mayhaws perform best in well-drained soils. Historically, Mayhaws have been collected from native stands, however, there are many named cultivars. If my memory serves me right, Donald Capps told me the largest mayhaw tree he ever saw was on top of a hill in, what was then, property of Temple Inland. Others have told me about how they would gather the floating fruit from creeks and sloughs after they had ripened and fallen into the water.

With two mayhaws planted in a landscape that may not have optimal soil for most finicky fruit species, it should not be too long before you enjoy their wonderful spring blooms and late spring fruit of a native mayhaw.

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

Senator Robert Nichols

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January 24, 2025

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

Session is starting to heat up in Austin – the budget has been filed, committees have been appointed in the Senate, and our first hearings are scheduled. We hit the ground running this year and are prepared to accomplish as much as we can in the short time we have.

Here are five things happening around your state:

Senate committee assignments for 89th Session released

Last week, Lt. Governor Dan Patrick announced committee assignments for the 89th Legislative Session. I am honored to once again serve as the Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. I am also on the Senate Business and Commerce, Local Government, and Finance Committees. These committees cover a variety of subjects including infrastructure, broadband development, the state’s budget, local regulation, and more. In fact, next week the Senate will begin work on crafting the state’s budget. Senate Bill 1, the Appropriations Bill, was filed this week by Senate Finance Committee Chair Senator Joan Huffman. We will go through each article of the budget, line by line, to ensure that we are responsible stewards of state and federal funds.

BOOT II awards announced by Broadband Development Office

This week, the Broadband Development Office, which is within the Comptroller’s Office, announced awards totaling over $700 million for broadband projects across Texas to connect more than 93,000 homes and businesses that lack access. The Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT II) Program sought to support countywide infrastructure projects in counties with the greatest need. To ensure equity across the state, two counties from each of the Comptroller’s 12 regions were selected based on the percentage of unserved and underserved locations in the county. The program prioritized the deployment of fiber technology to bring connectivity to these areas. In Senate District 3, three counties were selected – Liberty, Newton, and Trinity. These three projects alone will connect more than 23,000 locations.

Winter Storm Enzo brings snow to East and Southeast Texas

For the first time ever, Southeast Texas was under a blizzard warning that stretched from the Golden Triangle east along I-10 into Louisiana. Winter Storm Enzo brought freezing temperatures and snow across the Gulf Coast – coating normally white sand beaches in white, powdery snow. The area saw accumulations up to five to six inches, a new record. The electric grid faired well during the freeze; only local outages due to downed distribution lines were reported. Texas had enough electricity to power the state through the storm. As always, we appreciate our first responders, linemen, and other officials who kept Texans safe and warm during the worst of the weather.

State employees fired after data breach, stolen funds

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) announced last week it suffered a data breach in which account information for 61,000 individuals was improperly accessed by agency employees. Information accessed included personal identifying information like full names, home addresses, telephone numbers, dates of birth, email addresses, Social Security numbers, health information, and more. It may have been accessed between June 2021 and December 2024. HHSC took action and terminated the employees and referred the case for investigation. Individuals should carefully review their accounts and information from health care providers, insurance providers, and financial institutions to ensure their activity is correct. If errors are found, the agency is asking individuals to report any questionable activity to the provider and contact law enforcement. Additionally, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients should check their Lone Star Card transactions for potentially fraudulent activity. If you think you are the victim of SNAP fraud, call 2-1-1 and choose option 3 to report the fraud to the OIG. You should also contact your local HHSC benefits office to have benefits replaced.

East Texan to be inducted into Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame

Ann Thomasson-Wilson of Jasper, TX is set to be inducted into the Texas Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. She is a two-time bass fishing World Champion, fishing tackle innovator, and owner of Ann’s Tackle Shop which she opened in 1986 near Lake Sam Rayburn. The shop is a destination for anglers. Additionally, she even designed some of the gear in her store, including baits and hooks. At the end of last year, she retired and handed over the daily operations of the shop to her daughter, Debra Pryor, and long-time employee Laren Bush.

Angelina College to Celebrate ‘SFA at AC Day’: Public Invited to Event Taking Place Jan. 28

Diana De Leon Bon

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January 24, 2025

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Angelina College to Celebrate ‘SFA at AC Day’: Public Invited to Event Taking Place Jan. 28

Angelina College and Stephen F. Austin State University will celebrate their long-time partnership in an event titled “SFA at AC Day” and scheduled to take place starting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 28 at the Angelina Center for the Arts Gallery on the AC campus.

The public is invited to attend.

The event will recognize some of the partnership’s biggest accomplishments, including articulation agreements and the Transfer Alliance Partnership. Currently, SFA is accepting 90 credit hours from Angelina College, helping to strengthen the pathways for all AC students looking to transfer.

Tuesday’s reception with SFA representatives will include activities and opportunities for the students, faculty, staff, and the entire community. Those in attendance will enjoy light refreshments while networking with colleagues and leaders from both institutions.

Following the 10 a.m. reception, there will be an “SFA at AC Day” Student Fair, where students will be able to explore transfer opportunities while meeting with SFA representatives to learn about programs, scholarships and campus life as a Lumberjack.

Pre-registration for the Student Fair is encouraged and available at the following link: https://lumberjacks.sfasu.edu/register/?id=f09ea3b9-e49e-45d6-974f-6cbb0d9897e5

For further information, contact Krista Brown at kbrown@angelina.edu.

The Power of Storytelling: How Local Businesses Are Winning Hearts in East Texas

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January 24, 2025

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The Power of Storytelling: How Local Businesses Are Winning Hearts in East Texas

Walk into any shop in the Texas Forest Country, and you’ll notice something unique. It’s not just the products or services on offer—it’s the story. Whether it’s the family-owned café that’s been passed down for generations or the solar company making a difference in rural communities, every business here has a tale worth telling.

Storytelling has always been part of our East Texas heritage. It’s how we connect, build trust, and keep traditions alive. But in today’s world, it’s also a powerful business tool. Companies big and small are discovering that sharing their story isn’t just about preserving their legacy—it’s about standing out in a competitive marketplace.

Why Stories Matter in Business

Think back to the last time you chose one brand over another. Was it just about price or convenience? Or was there something more—a personal connection, a sense of trust, or even a feeling of pride in supporting someone local?

That’s the magic of storytelling. It transforms businesses into more than just names on a sign. It makes them relatable, authentic, and memorable.

Take the example of Sarah and John Thompson, owners of a boutique furniture store. They started their business after inheriting John’s grandfather’s woodworking tools.

“It’s not just about selling furniture,” Sarah says. “It’s about sharing pieces of craftsmanship that people will cherish for years.”

When they began sharing the story of John’s grandfather on social media, customers responded overwhelmingly.

“People started coming in just to hear about Grandpa’s tools,” Sarah laughs. “They’d say, ‘I feel like I know you already.’”

That’s the power of a good story—it builds connections that last.

How to Find Your Business’s Story

So how can other businesses in the Texas Forest Country harness this same storytelling power? It’s simpler than you might think:

Start with Your Why
Every business begins with a spark of inspiration. Maybe it was a dream to be your own boss, or a desire to solve a problem in your community. Whatever it is, your “why” is the heart of your story.
Focus on Impact
How does your business make life better for your customers? Share those moments—like the family that saved money on energy bills after switching to solar, or the couple who found their dream home with the help of a local realtor.
Put Faces to the Name
People connect with people. Share photos and stories of your team, your customers, and even your family. It’s these personal touches that make your business stand out.

Real-Life Success Stories

One of the best examples of storytelling in action comes from right here in East Texas. A bakery, struggling to compete with national chains, began sharing the story of their founder on Instagram—how she learned to bake from her grandmother and decided to open the shop to keep those family recipes alive.

Within months, their posts were drawing hundreds of likes, and their sales began to climb.

“It’s amazing what happens when people see the human side of your business,” the owner said. “They want to support you because they feel like they’re part of your journey.”

Why Storytelling Is the Future

In a world where big-box stores and online retailers dominate, storytelling is a way for local businesses to thrive. It reminds customers why they love supporting East Texas businesses—the authenticity, the connection, and the shared values that make our community special.

At MSGPR, we believe every business has a story worth sharing. From crafting social media campaigns to creating video content that tugs at the heartstrings, we help businesses connect with their audience in meaningful ways.

So, the next time you’re shopping local, take a moment to ask the owner about their story. You might just find it’s the best part of what they’re selling.

With a Little Help from Their Friends: Comptons, Fellow Local Artists to Perform at Kennedy Center

Gary Stallard

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January 24, 2025

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Over the past few years, Angelina College’s Beckie Compton and husband Bryan have had the privilege of performing at one of the nation’s most revered venues: Carnegie Hall. Just last summer, the couple were part of the performers backing Grammy- and Dove Award-winning artist Lauren Daigle.

Beckie and Bryan Compton, who have performed twice at Carnegie Hall, will take a group of friends along for a Feb. 3 performance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. (Gary Stallard/AC News Service photo)

Shortly after the Daigle concert, Beckie received another request from True North Presents, the organizers of the previous performances. This time, the organization was inviting Beckie and Bryan to a performance at yet another hallowed hall: The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

And this time, the Comptons were asked to bring along some friends.

“The organizer of this upcoming event contacted me and told me they had some openings,” Beckie said. “First he asked about the orchestra, and I was like, ‘Yeah, I definitely know some people.’ The main thing is he wanted to be sure they are high-caliber musicians who were willing to work on the music before we go up there.

“I looked at the music and I knew our friends could do this.”

The Comptons and friends will be a big part of “Saviour: A Modern Oratorio,” which will celebrate the 30^th anniversary of the composition and will take place on Monday, Feb. 3. in Washington.

Beckie said the performance will offer two parts: The first will feature guest performers, including Dove Award nominee Travis Cottrell, among others. The group from Lufkin will back Cottrell and the other vocalists.

The second half will consist of the full performance of “Saviour: A Modern Oratorio.”

Beckie, who currently serves as Chair of AC’s School of Visual and Performing Arts, regularly hosts concerts on the Angelina College campus. Musicians and vocalists from all over East Texas perform with her, with nearly all of them having some sort of connection to Angelina College – including current and former employees and students, with most of them members of the East Texas Praise Symphony or the AC Chorale and Friends.

Angelina College’s Beckie Compton directs the orchestra and choir during a recent concert at Temple Theater on the AC campus. (Clara Sonet/AC News Service photo)

From such a deep pool of talent, Beckie was able to fit the requested needs for the upcoming Kennedy Center performance.

“I wish I could have invited all my friends here, but there were only so many openings offered to us,” Beckie explained.

Joining the Comptons (Beckie on piano and Bryan as a vocalist-bass) at the Kennedy Center will be vocalists Billy Forrest (tenor), Cliff Layton (tenor), Keith Elliott (tenor), Dana Forrest (alto), Cheryl Sims (alto), Tammy Oliver (soprano), Shelby Brown (soprano) and Sarah Jackson (soprano).

Instrumentalists include Steven Brown (trumpet), Stephen Sterling (tuba), Evelyn Walker (flute), Lori Letney (flute), Ramona Elliott (flute), Karen Mitchell (clarinet), Connor Ainsworth (timpani) and Martha Johanna (harp.)

Angelina College’s Beckie Compton presents the orchestra to the crowd during a recent concert at Temple Theater on the AC campus.(Elizabeth Craig/AC News Service photo)

Bryan noted that his wife’s reputation had a lot to do with bringing along an entire contingency of East Texas performers.

“It really says a lot about her name in the music community that the organization trusted her to find quality musicians and singers,” Bryan said. “We’re going to be sitting alongside professional performers, and they knew Beckie would find the right people for the job.”

“It’s an absolute honor to get to be a part of this,” Beckie said. “I’m particularly pleased that the college allows me to participate in this as part of professional development.

“But even more awesome is getting to bring my friends with me and to see their excitement building. We’ve been rehearsing – mostly they’ve been coming to my house – and it’s just so much fun to do this together.”

Angelina College’s Beckie Compton (front row, far left) poses with husband Bryan (top row, second from right) and friends during a recent rehearsal. The Comptons and these other musicians and vocalists will perform as part of “Saviour: A Modern Oratorio” on Feb. 3 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. (Gary Stallard/AC News Service photo)

Take a Break Outdoors to Boost Your Productivity

General

Lee Allen Miller

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January 23, 2025

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Take a Break Outdoors to Boost Your Productivity

In the fast-paced world of modern business, the drive to achieve can often leave us chained to our desks. But what if the secret to greater productivity isn’t grinding harder, but stepping away? Taking intentional breaks outdoors can refresh your mind, boost creativity, and recharge your energy—all essential elements for success.

The Science Behind Nature and Productivity

Studies consistently show that spending time in nature has profound benefits for mental and physical health. Exposure to green spaces reduces stress, improves focus, and enhances problem-solving abilities. For leaders and entrepreneurs, these moments of clarity can spark innovative ideas and provide the reset needed to tackle challenges with fresh energy.

How Outdoor Breaks Enhance Leadership

As a leader, your energy and mindset set the tone for your team. By modeling the practice of stepping away and engaging with nature, you demonstrate the importance of balance and self-care. This not only enhances your own productivity but encourages your team to adopt healthier work habits.

Some key benefits include:

Mental Refresh: A short walk or break in a park can alleviate mental fatigue, helping you return to tasks with sharper focus.
Increased Creativity: Nature has been shown to inspire innovative thinking, making it the perfect antidote to creative blocks.
Enhanced Decision-Making: Stepping away from high-pressure situations allows for more thoughtful and balanced decisions.

Practical Steps to Integrate Outdoor Breaks

Incorporating outdoor time into your routine doesn’t require a major lifestyle overhaul. Try these simple strategies:

Schedule Regular Breaks: Block 10-15 minutes on your calendar each day for a quick walk outside.
Hold Walking Meetings: When possible, take your one-on-one discussions outdoors.
Create Outdoor Workspaces: If you have the option, work from a patio or park for a change of scenery.
Reflect and Recharge: Use outdoor breaks as a time for prayer, reflection, or simply soaking in God’s creation.

Aligning Work with Faith and Balance

Taking breaks outdoors aligns beautifully with the principles of faith-driven success. It’s a reminder to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters. As Psalm 23:2-3 reminds us, “He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.” Allowing yourself these moments of restoration equips you to lead and serve with renewed purpose.

The ROI of Hiring an MSP: How It’s Helping Texas Forest Country Businesses Thrive

Alec Castleberry

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January 23, 2025

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The ROI of Hiring an MSP: How It’s Helping Texas Forest Country Businesses Thrive

For businesses in Texas Forest Country, technology plays a vital role in day-to-day operations and long-term success. However, many organizations struggle with the high costs and challenges of managing their IT in-house. That’s where Managed Service Providers (MSPs) come in, offering an efficient and cost-effective way to handle IT needs while delivering a strong return on investment (ROI).

The Hidden Costs of In-House IT

Managing IT internally might seem like a straightforward solution, but hidden costs can quickly accumulate. From hiring and training skilled IT staff to maintaining hardware and software, the expenses often outpace the perceived benefits. Unexpected outages or cybersecurity breaches add another layer of financial strain, diverting valuable time and resources away from core business activities.

MSPs provide an alternative that delivers exceptional value by streamlining operations, reducing downtime, and offering expert support tailored to your business needs.

How MSPs Add Value to Texas Forest Country Businesses

1. Predictable Monthly Costs

With an MSP, businesses can enjoy predictable, budget-friendly pricing. Instead of dealing with surprise repair costs or urgent upgrades, a fixed monthly fee covers comprehensive IT support. This helps businesses plan more effectively and avoid financial surprises.

2. Reduced Downtime

Every moment of IT downtime impacts productivity and revenue. Whether it’s a server crash or a software issue, downtime can strain customer relationships and hurt business reputation. MSPs proactively monitor systems 24/7, identifying and resolving issues before they disrupt operations.

3. Access to IT Expertise

Finding and retaining top IT talent is a challenge for many businesses in the region. MSPs bring a team of experienced professionals who stay updated on the latest technologies and trends. This ensures businesses have access to the best solutions without the costs of recruiting and training.

4. Enhanced Cybersecurity

The risk of cyberattacks continues to rise, and older IT systems are particularly vulnerable. MSPs provide advanced security measures, including threat detection, encryption, and routine updates, to protect sensitive business data and maintain customer trust.

5. Scalability to Support Growth

As businesses expand, their IT needs grow too. MSPs offer scalable solutions that adapt to changing requirements, whether it’s adding new employees, upgrading systems, or implementing new technologies. This flexibility ensures IT infrastructure can grow alongside the business.

Why ROI Matters for Local Businesses

For businesses in Texas Forest Country, every dollar counts. The ROI of partnering with an MSP goes beyond financial savings—it empowers businesses to focus on their goals while leaving IT management to trusted experts. From enhanced productivity to improved security, MSPs are transforming how local businesses operate and compete in an increasingly digital world.