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What’s Really on Your Power Bill?

By
Lee Miller
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A Closer Look at Those “Mystery Charges” Texans Keep Paying

If there’s one bill every Texan dreads, it’s the electric bill. Especially in a region like ours, where the weather flips from humid to frigid in a heartbeat and we rely heavily on keeping our homes cool or warm.

But what if the real pain of your power bill isn’t the energy use—it’s the charges hiding in plain sight?

We’ve heard from readers across the region:
“I’m using less energy, but my bill hasn’t gone down.”
“I signed up for a cheap plan, so why am I still paying so much?”
“I thought I was going green… but I don’t remember agreeing to these fees.”

Let’s dig in.

The Hidden Charges Most Texans Never See

Here in East Texas, we like things simple and fair. But energy bills? Not so much. Here are just a few fees that might be sitting quietly on your next bill:

Delivery Charges – You’re not just paying for electricity—you’re also paying the utility to deliver it. That’s fair, until the seasonal spikes sneak in.

Minimum Usage Fees – Ironically, if you conserve too well, you could be hit with a fee for not using enough power.

Base Fees – Even if you turn off every switch, some providers charge a monthly flat fee just to keep your account open.

Green Energy Riders – That little green leaf on your plan? It might come with a surcharge you never signed up for.

It’s like ordering a $10 burger and getting a bill for $18 because someone added mystery fries, an extra plate fee, and a seat charge.

So, What Can You Do?

We’re not saying everyone’s being taken advantage of… but we are saying it’s worth a second look. Many folks in Lufkin, Nacogdoches, Livingston, and across the Pineywoods have found that with just a little guidance, they could cut hundreds off their annual power cost—without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re curious, reach out to a trusted local advisor who understands our area and the unique challenges of rural and small-town energy pricing. It doesn’t cost anything to ask the right questions—and it might just save you more than you think.

 Local Tip: Bring Your Bill to the Experts

Amerigy Energy, a Texas-based company that works right here in the Forest Country region, offers free bill evaluations—no strings, no pressure. They’ve helped homes and small businesses across our counties find better rates, dodge hidden fees, and finally understand what they’re paying for.

You can call Bryan at 936-465-2821 or visit AmerigyEnergy.com to learn more.

Final Thought

In East Texas, we take pride in hard work, fair prices, and neighbors helping neighbors. Don’t let confusing bills chip away at your peace of mind—or your pocketbook.

Next time that electricity bill arrives, give it a second look. You might be surprised what’s hiding there.

Roadrunner Basketball Players Selected for All-American JUCO Event 

By
Gary Stallard
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July Showcase Takes Place in Atlanta, GA

Three members of the Angelina College men’s basketball team have been selected to participate in the upcoming All-American JUCO Showcase Invitational taking place July 11-13 in Atlanta Georgia. 

The invitation-only event is billed as “the top event of the summer for the top JUCO players in the U.S.”

AC’s list includes a pair of returning players from the 2024-2025 Roadrunner team that reached the Elite Eight at the NJCAA Division I National Tournament held back in March in Hutchinson, Kansas. Daemon Ely and Jordan Mathews were key contributors to the team’s record-setting run to the Big Dance.

Joining them will be incoming teammate Clarence Payia, a 6’6” Beaumont United product who spent last season with South Plains College before recently joining head coach J.J. Montgomery’s Roadrunners. At the same national tournament, South Plains reached the Final Four before bowing out to Connors State.

Ely, a 6’6” sophomore from Taos, New Mexico, earned Region XIV Honorable Mention All-Conference honors and was among contenders for Defensive Player of the Year after finishing the year with 45 blocked shots – among the nation’s leaders in that category. Ely also averaged 7.9 points and 7.2 rebounds per game.

Mathews, a sophomore from Alexandria, Louisiana, also earned a spot on the Region XIV Honorable Mention All-Conference list. The 6’6” forward averaged 9.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per game for the Roadrunners. 

According to the Showcase’s official website, “Each player will play multiple games with exposure to National Media (ESPN, CBS Sports, JucoRecruiting.com), NBA Personnel, and numerous other national media and scouting services.”

In addition, an estimated 300 college coaches are expected to attend the event for the purpose of recruiting. 

For further information, contact Angelina College athletic director/head men’s basketball coach J.J. Montgomery at jmontgomery@angelina.edu. 

East Texans of the Year: Alabama-Coushatta Tribe Recognized by DETCOG

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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The citizens of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas were named the 2025 East Texans of the  Year on Thursday, in recognition of almost two centuries of service, friendship, and support to East  Texas and the entire State of Texas.  

The recognition came during the Deep East Texas Council of Governments and Economic  Development District’s annual membership and awards luncheon, which also marked the 50th  anniversary of the Ralph Steen Memorial East Texan of the Year award. The award was announced  by former Steen Award winner, State Representative Trent Ashby. 

“This year we are not recognizing a person – we are recognizing a People,” said Ashby. “This year’s recipient has played a major role in shaping the history of Texas – and they have a rich history right here in Deep East Texas,” he added. 

The Alabama and Coushatta Tribes migrated across the Sabine River into present-day Texas in the 1780s. Ashby noted that without their contributions, the Republic of Texas might never have been. 

“In 1836, Sam Houston met with them before the Texas War of Independence. They gave General  Houston their assurance that they would not side with Mexico, but would help him and his Texan army.  Their support proved to be invaluable – they served as guides, and provided provisions to feed  Texas refugees fleeing from Santa Anna’s army.” 

“On behalf of my people that came before all of us, to their resilience as a people to survive and to make East Texas our home, we thank our neighbors,” said Chairwoman Cecilia Flores, who spoke on behalf of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe. “We’ve always been a good neighbor; we continue to be  a good neighbor to this day, and I just want to say thank you to DETCOG for recognizing our  people.”

Rep. Ashby described the honor as richly deserved. He noted that when Hurricane Harvey devastated the counties of East and Southeast Texas, the Alabama-Coushatta were the first people to step forward to help. “They provided funding for immediate emergency assistance for people who were suffering, not just in their community, but throughout our region,” he said. “Their generosity  made it possible for people who were suffering to get immediate help while still waiting for federal  and state recovery programs to get set up and operate.” 

The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe owns more than 11,000 acres of land in Polk County and is a fully functioning sovereign government and a major contributor to the economy of Deep East Texas.  They contribute more than $200 million a year to the regional economy. And they are investing in people – providing scholarships, housing, health care, day care, and many other services that improve the quality of life for their own community and many others in surrounding communities. 

Joining Rep. Ashby in making the presentation were Senator Robert Nichols and DETCOG Board  President Brandon Prescott. Accepting the award on behalf of the Tribe were Principal Chief  Mikko Kanicu Donnis Battise, Second Chief Mikko Maanaatiika Herbert Johnson Jr., Tribal  Council Chairwoman Cecilia Flores, Tribal Council Vice Chairman Rick Sylestine, Tribal  Councilwoman Nita Battise, Tribal Councilwoman and DETCOG Board Member Tina Battise, and other Tribal staff members. 

The East Texan of the Year award was first presented in 1976 to Dr. Ralph W. Steen who was  retiring as President of Stephen F. Austin State University. DETCOG named the award in his honor and has presented it annually for the past 50 years. 

My Five Cents: A Weekly Column from Senator Robert Nichols

By
Senator Robert Nichols
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As we approach the Fourth of July, we celebrate the anniversary of our nation’s independence and honor those who have fought to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. Whether you’re enjoying fireworks, grilling with family, or simply taking a day off, I wish you a safe and joyful Independence Day.  

Here are five things happening around your state: 

  1. The 89th Texas Legislative Session has come to a close

The 89th Texas Regular Session ended on June 2, with the Governor’s deadline to sign or veto bills falling on June 22. Over 1,200 bills passed both chambers. Of those, the Governor signed 1,155 into law and vetoed 28. Any bill not vetoed by the deadline became law automatically, even without a signature. I’m proud to report that I successfully passed 33 bills this session, in addition to several others that were amended onto other legislation and ultimately signed into law. These measures focused on school safety, rural infrastructure, tax relief, transportation improvements, digital crime enforcement, public safety, and stronger accountability in state and local government. 

Although the regular session is over, Governor Abbott has called a special session beginning July 21 to revisit several vetoed bills and unresolved issues, including measures on hemp product regulation, property records, water infrastructure fees, trafficking victim protections, environmental standards, and judicial administration. I look forward to returning to the Capitol to continue working on behalf of the people of Senate District 3.

  1. In-state tuition ends for undocumented students 

Earlier this month, a federal judge struck down a 24-year-old Texas law that allowed certain undocumented students to qualify for in-state college tuition. The law permitted non-citizen students to receive in-state tuition at public colleges and universities if they lived in Texas for at least three years before graduating from a Texas high school and lived in the state for at least one year prior to enrolling in college. Students were also required to sign an affidavit stating their intent to seek legal immigration status. Following the court’s decision and a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board has directed public colleges to begin reclassifying affected students as non-residents by the fall of 2025. Several legal challenges have already been filed in response to this policy change. 

  1. Texas’ Rainy Day Fund expected to hit constitutional cap

Texas’ “Rainy Day Fund,” officially called the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF), is the state’s savings account. Created in 1988 to help Texas during economic downturns or other emergencies, it’s funded mostly from oil and gas taxes. The ESF is expected to reach nearly $27 billion at the end of fiscal 2025. This is the first time the fund has hit its cap, which is set at 10% of the general revenue deposited in the previous biennium according to the Texas Constitution. Once the cap is met, any extra oil and gas tax revenue that would normally go into the ESF instead stays in the state’s general budget. That additional money then becomes available for other priorities, such as road projects, education, or even short-term tax relief. Hitting the cap reflects the strength of Texas’ economy and gives the Legislature more tools to plan responsibly for the future.

  1. Paper license plates are coming to an end

Starting July 1, Texas will phase out paper temporary license plates for new vehicle purchases. This change is the result of a law passed in 2023, known as House Bill 718. Under the new system, licensed car dealers will issue metal plates at the time of sale. In special cases, such as out-of-state sales or certain exemptions, the state will use temporary metal tags in distinct colors to indicate the status of the vehicle. Private sales are unaffected, and buyers still have 30 days to register their vehicles and obtain plates through their local tax office. This change is aimed at combating fraud linked to counterfeit paper tags, which have been tied to criminal activity and lost state revenue.

  1. Texas wins 12th Gold Shovel Award for economic development 

Texas has been awarded the 2024 Gold Shovel Award by Area Development magazine, a national recognition given to states with exceptional records of job creation and business investment. This marks the 12th time Texas has received the award, highlighting the state’s continued success in attracting major economic development projects. In the past year, Texas secured more than $10.6 billion in new capital investment across multiple industries. Texas has now received either a Gold or Silver Shovel Award for 20 consecutive years, demonstrating the long-term strength of our business climate and economic development strategies.

Understanding and Managing Blue-Green Algae in Ponds

By
Cary Sims
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Photo credit: https://aquaplant.tamu.edu/blue-green-algae/

An infrequent but troublesome problem in East Texas ponds is blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria. These microscopic aquatic organisms thrive in warm, nutrient-rich waters.

Under certain conditions, cyanobacteria form harmful algal blooms. These blooms produce toxins, called cyanotoxins, which can harm livestock, pets, aquatic life, and humans. Ingesting water contaminated with cyanotoxins can cause illness or even death in animals. Additionally, cyanobacteria create taste-and-odor compounds that foul the water, disrupt ecosystems, and interfere with recreational use.

Many ponds in our area contain algae, but not all are harmful. Common types include filamentous or planktonic algae. The filamentous algae grows on the bottom then floats to the top. I always think of it as the “green, slime” hung up on my lures when I go fishing. The planktonic algae can simply turn a pond pea-green and gather up in clumps but, because it is a single celled plant, doesn’t get hung on lures. 

Most folks who have called me, have easily noticed a very different colored algae (pond scum or slime) than what they have always had. Pond owners can identify the potentially harmful blue-green algae by its surface coloration, also called the “bloom”. The bloom can appear as a single cell or, filamentous (thin and stringy or hair-like), or colony-type algae. It is buoyant and will form “scum” layer or floating mats on water surface. It can cause blue, green, brown, or reddish-purple coloration of water. A paint-like sheen or mats on the water. True to its name, a distinct ‘blue’ coloration is evident on the surface.

If livestock or pets drink contaminated water, look for symptoms such as weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, or sudden death. Fish kills or reduced aquatic activity may also indicate the presence of cyanotoxins. To confirm, send water samples to the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory (TVMDL). You can contact them at 979-845-3414 or visit their website at tvmdl.tamu.edu.

To prevent harmful blooms, monitor your pond water quality regularly, especially during the hot, dry summer. Reduce nutrient runoff from fertilizers and livestock waste to reduce algae food sources. If you are already near a source of electricity, aerate your pond water to disrupt algae growth and encourage oxygen flow.

If found, be sure to restrict access to the contaminated pond by livestock and pets. Next, remove algae mats if possible. Though difficult, try raking the blue=green algae onto the shoreline. 

Finally, use an approved algaecides and follow the label closely. Approved algaecides can be found at most every feed store. Again, follow the label closely as misuse, and certainly overuse, can kill fish. 

For a long-term solution, allow plant buffer zones around ponds to filter runoff that may contain excess nutrients from animals and fertilizers. 

While I have seen countless ponds with algae, it has been uncommon (in my experience) to see this problematic alga. Left unchecked, Blue-green algae contains cyanobacteria which can pose a direct threat to livestock health, wildlife and pets.

Proper protection of our water sources ensures long-term sustainability for East Texas landowners. For much more information about this and other pond weeds, look up the Texas A&M AgriLife’s AquaPlant website here: https://aquaplant.tamu.edu/ .

Republican Rocky Thigpen Announces Candidacy for Texas House

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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LUFKIN, TX – Long time community leader and East Texas native Rocky Thigpen  announced today that he will run in the Republican Primary for State Representative in  House District 9, which includes all of Angelina, Houston, Polk, San Augustine, Trinity,  and Tyler Counties. 

With the announcement that current State Representative Trent Ashby will run to  represent Senate District 3, House District 9 will be an open seat. 

“Trent represented this district with dignity and brought back many wins for our region,”  said Thigpen. “I look forward to building on those successes and continuing that tradition  of effective, conservative leadership here in East Texas.” 

With deep roots across all six counties of the district, Thigpen brings many years of law  enforcement experience and a lifetime of public service to the race. A retired sergeant  with the Texas Department of Public Safety, Thigpen patrolled every county in the district  during his distinguished career as a highway patrolman before retiring in 2018. 

“I’ve spent my life serving the people of East Texas, and I’m running for the Texas House  to continue that work at the next level,” said Thigpen. “We need strong, conservative  leadership that prioritizes public safety, supports our small businesses, and helps rural  communities thrive and prosper.” 

A graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, Thigpen has previously served as a city  council member and currently represents Precinct 1 on the Angelina County  Commissioners Court. His past civic involvement includes service on the Planning and  Zoning Board, as President of the Board of Crime Stoppers of LuZin, as a member of the  Airport Advisory Board, on the State Bar of Texas District 2B Grievance Commi\ee, and  the Mosaic Center board. 

In addition to his public service, Thigpen is Vice President of the Texas Division of  Overseas Hardwoods Company, an importer and distributor of high-performance  lumber products, where he oversees day-to-day operations and sales.

A member of Harmony Hill Baptist Church, Thigpen credits his faith as a cornerstone of  his life and leadership. “I believe in servant leadership rooted in Christian values, and I  will always fight to protect the strong faith, family, and freedom that define East Texas,”  he said. 

Rocky and his wife Terri—who spent nearly 30 years as a teacher in East Texas—raised  four sons, all of whom now live and work in East Texas. 

“I’m running to fight for families, rural communities, and to build on the progress that  has been made in this region in years past,” Thigpen said. “I look forward to meeting  with voters across the district and earning their trust and support.” 

Wired for Growth: Why Smart Businesses Are Investing in Low Voltage Infrastructure

By
Alec Castleberry
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0
A construction electrician cuts a voltage cable during a repair, close up.

Hidden Wiring, Big Impact — Is Your Business Falling Behind?

In the age of automation, smart devices, and always-on connectivity, one of the most overlooked investments for local businesses is also one of the most essential: low voltage infrastructure.

Whether you run a commercial building, a manufacturing facility, a school, or a church—your daily operations depend on the silent, invisible network of cables behind the walls. And if those systems are outdated or poorly installed, they could be costing you more than you think.

The Quiet Backbone of Modern Business

Low voltage systems power the tools you rely on every day:

  • Security cameras that protect your property
  • Access control systems that safeguard your people
  • Phones, servers, and Wi-Fi networks that keep you connected
  • Smart technology that helps you monitor, automate, and grow

When those systems run through messy, aging, or disorganized cabling, the result is slower service, unexpected failures, and costly downtime.

Local Solutions, Built for Growth

That’s where Castleberry Services comes in. Based right here in East Texas, Castleberry specializes in low voltage design and installation for businesses across the region. Their team works with local organizations—large and small—to build reliable, scalable systems from the ground up.

Whether it’s structured cabling for a new building or upgrading old lines in a facility that’s ready to grow, Castleberry delivers:

  • Clean, professional installs
  • Future-ready wiring that supports automation
  • Local service you can trust—no outsourcing

Why It Matters for East Texas

In a rural region like Texas Forest Country, being connected is more important than ever. Remote management, real-time security, and seamless communications aren’t luxuries—they’re the baseline for growing businesses. And having the right infrastructure behind the scenes helps local companies compete on a national level.

Thinking of Expanding? Start With the Right Wiring.

From retail shops to factories, investing in smart low voltage infrastructure is a move that pays off for years to come. Don’t wait for your systems to fail before upgrading.

Call Castleberry Services at (936) 237-3030 or visit castleberryinc.com to learn how they can wire your business for success.

This article is part of a regular column presented by Castleberry Services—East Texas’ trusted provider for IT, low voltage, and security solutions.

Republican State Rep. Trent Ashby Announces Candidacy for Texas Senate

By
Rep. Trent Ashby
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Following the announcement that State Senator Robert Nichols will not seek re-election, State Representative Trent Ashby (R–Lufkin) announced today that he will run to represent District 3 in the Texas Senate.

“For nearly two decades, Senator Nichols has been a steady and respected voice for East and Southeast Texas,” Ashby said. “Throughout his time in office, he has exemplified what it means to be a public servant – leading with humility, integrity, and deep commitment to the people he represents. His legacy is one of quiet strength and principled service, and the people of Senate District 3 owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for his years of faithful service.” 

As the State Representative for House District 9, Ashby serves a six-county district that falls entirely within the boundaries of Senate District 3. Over the course of his service in the Texas House, Ashby has built a reputation as a principled, effective conservative for rural Texas—someone who leads with integrity and delivers meaningful results. Born and raised on a dairy and diversified livestock operation in Rusk County, Ashby brings a lifelong connection to the region he hopes to continue serving in the Texas Senate. His East Texas roots continue to shape his public service, grounded in faith, family, and a commitment to putting his constituents first.

“It’s been the honor of a lifetime to represent the people of East Texas in the Texas House,” Ashby said. “But this is a time of great change and opportunity for our region, and we need a strong, experienced voice in the Senate—someone who will defend our conservative values, fight for rural communities, and ensure the region remains a priority in Austin.”

In the Texas Senate, Ashby will continue to defend the conservative values that define East and Southeast Texas, standing up for private property rights, strengthening law enforcement, supporting public schools and teachers, and protecting our constitutional freedoms. He’ll work to strengthen rural communities through investments in infrastructure, such as rural roadways, water systems, and emergency preparedness, while also safeguarding our children from harmful ideologies in the classroom and dangerous online threats. Ashby will fight efforts by foreign adversaries like Communist China to buy up Texas land and support President Trump’s plan to fully secure the border, enforce immigration laws, and deport violent criminals. 

Ashby currently represents a six-county region that includes Angelina, Houston, Polk, San Augustine, Trinity, and Tyler Counties. Throughout his campaign, Ashby will be working to earn the support of voters living in Anderson, Cherokee, Hardin, Henderson, Jasper, part of Jefferson, Liberty, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Sabine, and Shelby counties in Texas Senate District 3.

The History of The Lufkin Host Lions Club

By
Diana De Leon Bon
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0

July 11 @ 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

There’s always a seat at the table, and in July, it’s one with deep community roots.

Join us Friday, July 11 at 12 PM for our First Friday Luncheon, presented by Lufkin Coca Cola Bottling Company! Lions Club President Will Alvis will share the history of the Lufkin Host Lions Club and its lasting impact on our community.

Reserve your seat by Wednesday, July 9 at 5 PM and be entered to win $100, courtesy of Servpro of Lufkin & Nacogdoches!

Save your seat now: bit.ly/July-FFL-25

Interested in sponsoring a future luncheon or event? Email us at Admin@LufkinTexas.org

Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce

View Organizer Website

Crown Colony Country Club

Senator Robert Nichols Will Not Seek Re-Election

By
Senator Robert Nichols
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AUSTIN – Today, I am announcing that I will not be running again for the Texas Senate. I do intend to continue serving the people and communities of Senate District 3 until the end of my current term, ending January 12, 2027.

I feel truly blessed to have had the honor to represent the people of East and Southeast Texas in the Legislature. By the end of my term, I will have served 20 years in the Legislature and an additional 8½ years, serving the State as a Transportation Commissioner under both Governor George W. Bush and Governor Rick Perry. I appreciate their trust in me.

It has been a real honor to have served with an incredibly dedicated and quality staff at the State Capitol as well as our three District offices. These men and women have been truly committed to the people and communities we have served. They have given extra effort to help those we represent. I will forever be thankful for their work.

I also want to thank my wife, Donna for her support over the years as well as our three children, Brittney, Joshua and Collynn’rae who have always supported my efforts.

It had always been my goal to make things better, to stop bad things, to do it in a way I thought was right, never forgetting who I represented and to work at it long enough, but not too long.

It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to have represented the people of East Texas in the Texas Senate.

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Texas Forest Country Living is a digital online magazine featuring the lifestyle and community of the Texas Forest Country region. The Counties include Angelina County, Nacogdoches County, Sabine County, Tyler County, Newton County, San Jacinto County, San Augustine County, Jasper County, Houston County, Shelby County, Trinity County and Polk County

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