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TPGA insurance members share straightforward guidance on

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Texas Propane

Highlights from Headquarters

Bill Van Hoy

TPGA Executive Director

As we head into summer, it’s time to take care of the backend of business, and take care of ourselves with a little R&R and continuing education.

This month we compiled highlights from an excellent panel discussion during a recent TPGA board event. These TPGA insurance members share straightforward guidance on today’s market, from rising costs and claim trends to cyber risk, fleet safety and driver challenges. Now is a great time to make sure you have the coverages you need to protect your business.

We also touched base with David Collett, our state’s newest NPGA state director. David has spent his life inside the Texas propane industry, and we talk with him about his career, as well as his priorities for the coming years in this new role.

We’re gaining momentum on plans for our Crossroads Propane Expo + Conference in Las Colinas August 6-8. Remember, this year is a joint event with the Oklahoma Propane Gas Association, so it will be an extra special event, with more participants, vendors and opportunities to connect and grow. Don’t miss it!

If an employee quits, can they get unemployment benefits? You might be surprised. We’ve included information from the Texas Workforce Commission on this question.

TPGA’s second quarter board meetings in Waco included a lovely Cinco de Mayo dinner. Check out some photo highlights from the events. Thank you again to our sponsors for making these events special.

We’ve got you covered for calendars for 2027. We have both PSC custom calendars and Safety and Recipe wall calendars through ProCOT. Check out the possibilities; summer is the best time to cross these to-dos off your list.

Last, our propane with purpose this month details all the many applications propane can be used in maintaining water temperatures with high-volume aquatics.

Texas Propane

TPGA staff

Bill Van Hoy ................. bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director

Jackie Mason................... jmason@txpropane.com Deputy Executive Director

Julie Novinger...........accountant@txpropane.com Bookkeeper

Propane Service Corporation ........................... sales@propaneservicecorp.com

Pete Casias 800-392-0023

Publisher Kim Scheberle ............. kscheberle@austin.rr.com

Account Manager/Managing Editor

Sail House Publishing 512-346-0892

Joanne Pantaze ................. jpantaze@zochnet.com

Advertising Sales 512-273-2639

Kiki Pantaze ....................kpantaze@zochnet.com

Art Director 512-924-7566

AFFINITY PARTNERS

Basys Processing Lone Star Energy Group Warm Thoughts Communications

8408 North Interstate 35 Austin, TX 78753

512-836-8620 or 800-325-7427 512-834-0758 fax E-mail: info@txpropane.com www.txpropane.com

2025-2026 TPGA Board of Directors

President: Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas, 972-771-8654

President Elect: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001

Secretary: Matt Terry, Matador Gas, 210-861-6545

Treasurer/Finance Chair: Bill Collins, Propane Exchange, 214-629-5118

District 1 Director: David Collett, Gas and Supply, 903-780-2488

District 1 Alternate: John Minton, Gas & Supply, 903-490-0605

District 2 Director: Joe January, McAdams Propane, 254-723-4210

District 2 Alternate: Shane Hill, Nelson Propane, 903- 641-7381

District 3 Director: Stephen McClendon, Ferrellgas, 972-730-0469

District 3 Alternate: Bill McHargue, Welch Gas, 210-508-3058

District 4 Director: Matt Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946

District 4 Alternate: Garrett Green, Green's Blue Flame Gas Co. 713-562-5341

District 5 Director: Brody Newton, Busters Propane, 361-852-8161

District 5 Alternate: Regina Betancourt, Ferrellgas, 361-429-8548

District 6 Director: Omar Garcia, Mr. G Propane, 956-581-1063

District 6 Alternate: Open

District 7 Director: Sharon Seal, Bell Hydrogas, 210-533-7103

District 7 Alternate: Duston Cox, Chaparral Propane, 830-329-0871

District 8 Director: Rodney Sladek, Fayetteville Propane, 979-836-7044

District 8 Alternate: Doyle Fevig, Legacy Propane 830-995-5015

District 9 Director: Brad Quisenberry, Gene Harris Petroleum, 817-295-1091

District 9 Alternate: Larry Hearn, Yellow Rose Propane, 870-648-8241

District 10 Director: Josh Nowlin, McCraw Propane, 903-583-7481

District 10 Alternate: Chad Gregg, Enderby Gas, 940-482-3225

District 11 Director: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402

District 11 Alternate: Anna May Etheredge, Enderby Gas, 940-665-3457

District 12 Director: Laci Jo Stone, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109

District 12 Alternate: Shawn Owens, Heart of Texas Propane, 325-313-0884

District 13 Director: Lane Worthington, WTG Fuels, 432-682-4349

District 13 Alternate: Casey King, WTG Fuels, 432-894-4240

District 14 Director: Terry Perez, Perez Propane, 512-318-9780

District 14 Alternate: Elizabeth Perez, Perez Propane, 915-764-3382

District 15 Director: Don Heinrich, Slaton Gas, 806-828-6501

District 15 Alternate: Kenneth Waters, Charles Oil & Gas, Inc (dba) Farwell Fuels, (806) 481-3222

District 16 Director: Clay Crist, Crist Fuel, 806-426-3412

District 16 Alternate: Jacob Acuna, TG Fuels, 303-514-6061

Past President: Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444

Past President: Mark Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946

Past President: Jack Walzel, Tri-Co Propane, 254-642-3885

Past President: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109

Past President: Allen Wells, BayGas, 281-332-2630

Vice President: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402

Vice President: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001

Vice President: Matt Terry, Matador Gas, 210-861-6545

Sr. Vice President: Todd Dorris, Roadrunner Energy, 830-278-2915

Sr. Vice President: Bill Collins, Propane Exchange, 972-442-1078

Sr. Vice President: Joe Green, Green’s Blue Flame Gas, 713-462-5414

Assoc. Supplier Service Director: Andy Brus, Crum & Forster, 682-220-4812

Assoc. Supplier Service Alternate: Rusty Walker, Marshall Young, 817-645-9155

Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Director: John Becraft, Targa Resources, 713-594-7485

Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Alternate: Brittany Greer, Enterprise Products, 318-299-0540

Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Troy Hicks, Squibb Taylor, 915-613-7534

Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Tracy Wells, GEC, 214-683-8018

Assoc. At Large Director: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155

Assoc. At Large Alternate: Jim Fulton, 4-J Energy, 832-529-4768

Nominating Chair: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109

NPGA Director: Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel, 806-296-6353

Tracy Wells Mike Armstrong East & West Texas South Texas

TPGA’s Insurance Members Offer Guidance for Today’s Market

The Texas Propane Gas Association convened a panel of its own insurance industry members to address the questions operators across the state are asking — and the answers were candid, practical, and insightful

The energy in the room was unmistakable. When the Texas Propane Gas Association brought together a panel of its own insurance industry members at a recent gathering, the conversation that followed was exactly what TPGA does best — connecting the right people around a topic that matters. The state of the insurance market has been on the minds of propane business owners across Texas, and who better to address it than the association members who navigate it every day on their clients’ behalf: underwriters, agents, and risk management specialists who know this industry from the inside out.

The panel brought together insurance specialists who work in the propane space — people who understand that insuring a bobtail truck is not the same as insuring a personal vehicle, and that

sThank you to our insurance panelists: Chuck Tucker & Rusty Walker, Higginbotham; Bob Spurgin, Ben Spurgin Insurance, Lance Thompson, Cordell Insurance; Andy Brus, Crum & Forster; & Ryan Fauchier, Acrisure.

the stakes in this industry call for coverage that reflects its unique demands. What followed was a candid, informative, and ultimately practical conversation about where the market is, where it’s headed, and what propane operators can do to stay well-protected.

A Changing Market, and the Value of Good Advocacy

Anyone who has renewed a commercial policy in the last few years already knows the insurance landscape has shifted. Premiums have climbed, carriers have become more selective, and deductibles have risen in many lines. The panelists acknowledged the reality squarely — while also making clear that operators who work closely with experienced agents are far better positioned than those going it alone.

One of the more illuminating exchanges centered on just how much influence a knowledgeable agent can have on behalf of a client. “A lot of it comes down to how we present the account,” one panelist explained. “The more information we can provide about safety programs and proactive measures, the better we can advocate for you. We’re trying to negotiate the best rates possible, but we need information from the insured to do that.”

The relationships agents carry with carriers are a genuine asset. “Underwriters trust us to be their eyes and ears when we inspect operations and review claims histories,” another panelist added. “There may be cases where a company experienced losses even though they did everything correctly. We can help explain that context to underwriters.” That kind of advocacy — grounded in

long-standing relationships and industry knowledge — is something operators simply can’t replicate on their own.

The reasons behind tighter market conditions are largely structural: reinsurance costs have surged globally, driven by natural disasters, social inflation in jury awards, and systemic losses across commercial lines. Those costs flow downstream to primary carriers and eventually to policyholders. But with the right partner in your corner, the panelists agreed, the path through is navigable.

The Claims Picture: What’s Most Common and What Hits Hardest

Understanding where claims actually come from is the first step toward preventing them. When the panel was asked about the most common claims they see for propane companies, the answer was clear: auto. Fender benders, property damage, minor accidents on the road — these make up the bulk of claim frequency. General liability claims are less common, but when they do occur, the severity can be substantial.

Physical damage claims on bobtails are also increasing, and the numbers can be startling. “You roll over a bobtail and that can be a $250,000 loss immediately,” one panelist noted, describing a real incident where a driver reached for something, overcorrected, and rolled the truck — a tragedy made worse because he wasn’t wearing his seatbelt. The reminder was pointed: simple habits matter, and the cost of ignoring them goes well beyond insurance.

Younger Drivers: Challenges and a Path Forward

The driver shortage is a reality that the propane industry shares with much of the transportation sector, and the insurance implications of bringing younger drivers into the fleet came up directly. The panel’s message was measured and practical: carriers are adapting, and exceptions can be made — but operators need to show their work.

“If you have a younger driver with a CDL and a good record, carriers may consider an exception — especially if you have a strong training program,” one panelist explained. But that exception doesn’t come automatically. Carriers want to understand what training is provided, how long new drivers ride alongside experienced ones, how they’re monitored, and what the full onboarding process looks like. The more detailed and documented the program, the stronger the case an agent can make on the operator’s behalf.

The panel was also candid about the limits of written policies. “Policies can help, but only if you actually follow them,” one panelist said plainly. “A policy that sits on a shelf and gathers dust doesn’t help anybody.” When panelists point something out during an inspection or a conversation, they noted, it isn’t a “gotcha” — it’s an attempt to help operators avoid problems before they happen.

General Liability: The Coverage You Can’t Afford to Shortchange

One of the panel’s most consistent themes concerned general liability coverage and the risk of treating it as a line item to trim when budgets feel tight. A customer claiming improper installation caused a leak, a technician’s work alleged to have caused property damage, someone injured on a job site — these scenarios are not exotic. They happen, and the resulting claims can be substantial.

The panelists encouraged operators to work with agents who specialize in propane, read their policies carefully, and not assume that last year’s coverage is identical to this year’s. Carriers can modify terms and add exclusions year to year even on renewals, and a careful annual review with a knowledgeable partner is one of the simplest protections available.

Cyber Insurance: A Growing Priority

Perhaps the most eye-opening portion of the discussion concerned cyber liability — a coverage many in the room admitted they had not yet seriously considered. As propane distributors have become more digitally connected — through route optimization software, customer portals, billing systems, automated tank monitoring, and dispatch platforms — the exposure has grown alongside the convenience.

A ransomware attack that locks a company out of its dispatch system doesn’t just cause inconvenience; it can halt deliveries to customers who depend on propane for heat and business operations. The panelists noted that smaller regional operators are increasingly targeted precisely because attackers assume they may have fewer defenses in place. Cyber insurance can cover ransom payments, data recovery, business interruption losses, and legal defense costs — and premiums remain far more manageable than the out-of-pocket cost of a serious incident.

Carriers writing cyber coverage now ask detailed questions about security practices: multi-factor authentication, employee training, backup procedures, and vendor access controls. Companies that can demonstrate good practices tend to see better terms — and the application process itself serves as a useful security self-assessment.

Fleet Technology and the Insurance Connection

The panel touched on fleet cameras and telematics — a subject Texas Propane has covered in depth recently. The short version from the insurance side: the technology largely sells itself, and carriers are paying attention. Operators who can show they’re actively using the data — reviewing footage, coaching drivers, and building a documented safety culture — are finding receptive underwriters. Having the system installed is a starting point; demonstrating it’s genuinely integrated into operations is what moves the needle.

Part of Your Team

The panel closed on a note that felt genuinely warm — and worth remembering long after the specifics of deductibles and exclusions have faded. “At the end of the day, everybody up here is part of your team,” one panelist said. “We’re not trying to work against you. We’re trying to help protect your employees, your customers, and your business.”

Another echoed the sentiment simply: “We appreciate the relationships we have with all of you. We learn from you, and hopefully you learn from us.”

That mutuality — knowledge flowing both directions, trust built over years of shared work — is precisely what TPGA exists to foster. The operators in the room left with practical guidance, yes, but also with a reminder that they’re not navigating today’s market alone. Their insurance partners are in it with them.

A Seat at the Table: Q&A With David Collett, Texas’ New National Propane Gas Association State Director

When the National Propane Gas Association Board of Directors convenes for its June 2026 meeting, Texas will officially have a new voice at the national table: David Collett.

A longtime propane industry veteran with decades of experience spanning retail operations, association leadership, and customer service, the newly elected Texas State Director will also serve as Texas’ representative on the Texas Propane Gas Association Board of Directors. His appointment comes at a time when the propane industry faces increasing policy discussions around energy choice, electrification, workforce development, emergency preparedness, and the growing need for stronger grassroots advocacy in Washington, D.C.

For him, though, the role is less about titles and more about responsibility.

“If we’re not going to advocate for ourselves,” he said, “nobody’s going to pick up the torch.”

In this conversation with Texas Propane magazine, he reflects on growing up in a family propane business, why association involvement matters more than ever, and

what he hopes federal lawmakers better understand about the role propane marketers play in communities across America.

Q: You’ve spent most of your life around the propane industry. How did it all begin for you?

I grew up in it. My granddad started Mallory’s Propane in 1948, so I was around the business from the time I was a kid. I was always up there with him, seeing how everything worked and hanging around the store. Then during high school I worked summers there, and about a year after graduating, I went to work full time.

Back then, a small-town propane company wasn’t just propane. We sold appliances, lawnmowers, TVs, electronics, plumbing supplies, water well pumps — a little bit of everything. That was probably the best education you could get because you learned how to deal with customers and solve problems.

Q: Your involvement with the association also goes back decades. Was that always important to you?

It was. I was active when I was with Mallory’s and later when I worked for Sharp Propane in La Grange. We used to have district meetings back then, and I helped organize some of those meetings. (TPGA notes that for the last several years David has served as the TPGA District 1 Director).

So I’ve really been involved with the association on and off for probably 25 years. I’ve always believed there’s value in getting together as an industry and working toward common goals.

Q: You currently oversee a large footprint in Texas. Tell us about your current role.

Gas & Supply purchased Automatic Gas (Ms. Francis) in Tyler in 2010 and then purchased Mallory’s in February 2011, which is when I joined the company.

Today, I oversee more than five locations in Texas for Gas & Supply. It’s been rewarding to watch the company grow and to see how the industry itself has evolved over the years.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of your propane career?

Honestly, just watching the business grow and hearing positive feedback from customers over the years. And beyond that, watching the industry grow as a whole.

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This industry is built on relationships. A lot of these are family-owned businesses that have served communities for generations. There’s something special about that. People depend on propane companies in ways a lot of folks outside the industry probably don’t fully realize.

Q: What motivated you to step into the role of Texas State Director for NPGA?

I think everybody in this business should be an advocate for the industry — both for themselves and for propane as a whole.

It’s important that we come together and have a plan for how we tell our story and communicate what we do. The best way to do that is through the associations and through relationships with people like fire marshals, mayors, members of Congress, and regulators.

You can accomplish a lot more when the industry is speaking with one voice.

Q: The propane industry talks a lot about grassroots advocacy. What can marketers do to have a stronger voice nationally?

Participate. That’s the biggest thing. Get involved with NPGA and attend events like Propane Days in Washington. It’s a great opportunity to meet with federal representatives or their staff and explain what issues we’re facing and what they can do to help.

A lot of times you may not meet directly with the elected official, but their aides and policy staff matter too. Those conversations are important.

We just have to keep speaking up. If we don’t advocate for ourselves, nobody else is going to do it for us.

Q: As you begin your term, what do you hope to accomplish?

I’d like to see Congress and policymakers better understand who we are, what we do, and how important propane is in people’s daily lives.

There are people across rural America who absolutely depend on propane for heating, cooking, hot water, and backup power generation. Some families rely on propane-powered generators to keep critical medical devices running during outages.

Sometimes I think propane gets over-

looked in larger energy conversations. People don’t always understand the role we play, especially in rural communities. But if we continue knocking on doors, meeting with lawmakers, and telling our story, I think we can change that.

Q: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I’m really good at Jeopardy! and game shows.

Now, whether I’d actually be good if I had to go on television and compete is another story.

Q: Outside of work, what keeps you busy?

Family, mainly. I have two daughters, a son, and two grandkids. My son-in-law recently started working with us in Tyler, so that’s been nice too.

And honestly, I still just enjoy the propane business. I really do. It’s a great industry filled with good people.

That’s one of the things that’s kept me involved all these years.

Quality is more than just our name. We strive each and every day to provide our valued customers with the absolute best products and services available. We are family owned and appreciate the relationship we have with our customers. When you want the best...choose QUALITY.

There’s no better place to experience the power of the propane industry than in person—and no better setting than Irving’s lively Las Colinas. The 2026 Red River Crossroads Propane Expo & Conference, hosted by the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) and Oklahoma Propane Gas Association (OPGA), brings together the very people shaping the future of the industry in one of North Texas’s most accessible and dynamic destinations. With its walkable convention district, incredible dining, and proximity to DFW Airport, Las Colinas makes it an amazing destination to close out the summer.

But what truly sets this event apart is the unmatched value of being there in person—the ability to look someone in the eye, shake hands, and build meaningful, lasting relationships. In an industry like propane, where trust, partnerships, and shared strategy are critical, those face-toface moments matter more than ever.

Why Attend Crossroads in Las Colinas:

• Real Connections: Build stronger relationships with marketers, suppliers, and decision-makers across Texas and Oklahoma.

• Knowledge Sharing: Gain insights, exchange ideas, and learn from real-world experiences that simply don’t translate online

• Hands-On Experience: Explore products, services, and innovations up close on the expo floor.

• The Experience You Don’t Want to Miss: From the Landman Dinner & Casino Party to packed happy hours and the unmistakable feel of a yearly industry reunion, Crossroads delivers the kind of moments—and memories—you simply can’t replicate anywhere else.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just another conference—it’s where the propane industry comes together to reconnect, make new connections and learn new things. And Las Colinas provides the perfect backdrop to make it all happen.

Schedule

Two Venues, Steps Apart

The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas

400 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039

Irving Convention Center

500 E Las Colinas Blvd, Irving, TX 75039

Thursday, August 6, 2026

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.: Registration Noon – 4 p.m.: Regulatory Training (Lunch)

5 p.m. – 6 p.m.: Welcome Reception

Early Bird Registration Ends June 30th www.txpropane.com

6 p.m.: Dinner On Your Own / Supplier Dinners

Friday, August 7, 2026

8 a.m. – Sporting Clays Tournament

7 a.m. – 6 p.m.: Registration

8 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Truck Move-In

8 a.m. – 2 p.m.: Golf Tournament

8 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Propane Technical Workshops

8 a.m. – 12 p.m.: Propane Technology Workshops

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.: Exhibitor Move-In

5 p.m. – 6 p.m.: President’s Happy Hour

6 p.m. – 7 p.m.: Landman Dinner

7 p.m. – Casino Party & Music

Saturday, August 8, 2026

8 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Registration

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.: Expo

Attendee Registration

Information & Pricing

Propane Retailer Registration

Individuals that are full-service propane retailers that deliver propane by bobtails or dispense propane to the end consumer.

Propane Marketer(Full Access)

Early Bird Pricing until 6/30/26

$295.00 | Regular – $395.00

Propane Marketer (Full Access) – Additional Staff

Early Bird Pricing until 6/30/26

$225.00 | Regular – $325.00

Propane Marketer (Expo Only)

For individuals that are only attending the Expo and not the full conference.

Early Bird Pricing until 6/30/26

$100.00 | Regular – $150.00

Propane Marketer (Expo Only) – Additional Staff

Early Bird Pricing until 6/30/26

$55.00 | Regular – $75.00

Thank You to Our Sponsors

CONFERENCE PROGRAM

PRESIDENT’S HAPPY HOUR

CONVENTION ELEVATOR DOORS

WELCOME RECEPTION

CASINO PARTY

DINNER SPONSORSHIP

TOTE BAGS LANYARDS

EXPO HALL REFRESHMENTS

CONVENTION CENTER ESCALATOR

REGISTRATION DESK DAY 1

REGISTRATION DESK DAY 2

ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR

2026 Convention + Expo

Hotel Information

Hotel: The Westin Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas

Address: 400 West Las Colinas Boulevard, Irving, TX 75039

Phone: (972) 505-2900

Event Dates

• Group Rate Available: August 5–8, 2026

• Extended Stay: Group rate may be available 3 days before and after (based on availability)

• Check in: 03:00 PM | Check out: 12:00 PM

Room Rates

• Standard Group Rate: $199 per night

Booking Information

• Reservations will be made via an online booking link or by calling (972) 505-2900.

• Booking Deadline (Cut-Off Date): July 15, 2026

• After this date, rooms are subject to availability and may be offered at higher rates

Parking

• Discounted Self-Parking (Group Rate): $12 per day

• Standard Hotel Rates: Self-Parking $18/night;

• Valet $24/night

• Rates include in/out privileges and are subject to change and applicable tax

Hotel Features

• Complimentary in-room Wi-Fi for Marriott Bonvoy members (free to join at check-in)

• Pet-friendly

Important Notes

• Attendees are responsible for their own room, tax, and incidental charges

• Rooms not reserved by the deadline will be released back to the hotel

Dining + Walkable Las Colinas Experience

In addition to the Mesa Mezcal & Bar, coffee and pool bar dining, steps from Westin is the entertainment district with a wide range of restaurants, live music, and entertainment.

• Scenic canals, walking paths, and waterfront dining are Water Street.

Restaurants within less than 5-minute walking distance

• Cork & Pig Tavern

• Creamistry

• El Famoso

• The Ginger Man (Opening Soon)

• Go Fish Poke

• Hugo’s Invitados

• Olivella’s Neo Pizza Napoletana

• Pacific Table

• Shawarma Bar

• Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

• The Vetted Well Bar & Grill

• Bar Louie

• Boi Na Braza

• Burgerim

• Freshii

• Gloria’s Latin Cuisine

• The Green Gator

• Grimaldi’s Coal Brick Oven Pizzeria

• Kabuki Japanese Restaurant

• Kitchen 101

• Nosh & Bottle

• Pop Factory

• Rayleigh Underground / Violet Room

• Reservoir

• TCBY

• Thirsty Lion

• Yard House

Discounts/specials available at select locations above.

Regulatory, Technical & Technology Training

Thursday August 6, 2026

Join us for a complimentary lunch followed by an afternoon of regulatory, compliance, and safety education at the 2026 Crossroads Propane Expo & Conference in Irving, Texas. Attendees may choose from one of two concurrent training tracks:

Track 1 – Texas Regulatory Training

Presented by the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA), this Railroad Commissionapproved continuing education program provides the latest updates on Texas propane regulations, compliance requirements, and safety initiatives. Designed for branch managers, operations managers, compliance personnel, and others responsible for regulatory matters, the program must be attended in its entirety to receive continuing education credit.

Track 2 – Oklahoma Regulatory Training

Presented by the State of Oklahoma Liquefied Petroleum Gas Administration, this session offers Oklahoma licensees and industry personnel important updates on Oklahoma regulations, compliance requirements, and safety-related issues affecting the propane industry.

Training on both days is FREE for propane industry attendees and includes lunch. Preregistration is required to reserve a seat. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Friday, August 7, 2026

Day 2: Technical (Room I) and Technology Training (Room II) Workshops

Pre-registration is required to ensure you have a seat. Seating is available on a first-come, first-registered basis.

Room I Technical Schedule

8:00 – 8:45 a.m. — Generator Sizing for Homes

8:50 – 9:35 a.m. — Pumps & Motor Maintenance

9:40 – 10:25 a.m. — Meter Troubleshooting

10:30 – 11:15 a.m. — Regulator Selection

11:20 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. — Grounding & Bonding CSST

12:05 p.m. — 1:00 p.m. — Cathodic Protection

Room II Technology Schedule

8:00 – 8:45 a.m. — How to Leverage AI in Your Business

8:50 – 9:35 a.m. — Leveraging Social Media in 2026

9:40 – 10:25 a.m. — Metering & Tank Monitoring

10:30 – 11:15 a.m. — National Propane Construction Incentive

11:20 a.m. – 12:05 p.m. — How to Use PERC Propane Learning Center

12:05 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. — Texas Propane Workforce Recruitment Resources

2026 Convention + Expo

Landman Dinner & Casino Party

Get ready to feel like a wealthy land baron with our Landman inspired dinner on Friday, August 7. Our Western style party will be the perfect opportunity to bust out the pearl snaps and your best boots.

After dinner, keep the good times rolling at the Casino Party from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. Try your luck at blackjack, craps, roulette, or Texas Hold’em. Everyone gets “funny money” to play with at the door, and we’ll cap off the night by giving away some fantastic prizes. It’s an evening of western flair, high stakes (well, funny money stakes!), and unforgettable fun!

Propane Expo

Saturday, August 8, 2026 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

(includes southern-style lunch provided by the Propane Council of Texas) With up to 100 vendors, seize the opportunity to connect with leading suppliers and service providers in one convenient location.

Explore a range of offerings, from insurance and software to equipment, trucks, tanks and more.

Regulatory Pavilion

Returning to the Expo this year is the Regulatory Pavilion. It gives propane industry professionals an opportunity to engage with state and federal regulators on your questions.

Crossroads Exhibitors

4J Energy LLC

Algas-SDI International

All Propane LPG

Anova

Arrow Tank & Engineering

Ben Spurgin Insurance Agency

Bergquist Inc.

Bigway Sales

Cactus Tanks

CageWatch LLC

Cargas

Cordell & Company Insurance Agency

Crum & Forster

CUI Heat

Cunningham Gas Products

Energy Tech Solutions LLC

Enterprise Products

Enterprise Transportation

Exosent Engineering

Fisk Tank Carrier

Folsom Propane Services, LLC

FuelMor Propane Software

Gas Equipment Company, Inc., A Makeen Energy Company

Grammer Logistics

Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP

Higginbotham Insurance

Intermountain Truck

Kozy Operations

Lins Propane Trucks

Linscot Enterprises, Inc.

Lux Industries LLC

Marion Relationship Marketing

Martin Gas

Meeder Equipment Company / Ransome MFG

METSA

Midstream Transportation Company

Mopeka

Nexio

NGL Supply Terminals / Legend LLC

Nixon & Lindstrom Insurance

Omegaflex, Inc.

Otodata

P3 Propane Safety / Consumer Focus Marketing

PDI Technologies

Propane Service Corporation

PT Risk Management Insurance Services

Quality Steel Incorporated

Ransome / Meeder Equipment Company

Rinnai America Corporation

ROUSH CleanTech

Rural Computer Consultants, Inc.

Squibb Taylor

Targa Resources

Tauber Oil

TerraVest Compressed Gas Equipment Division

Tiger Processing

Triarc Tank

Warm Thoughts Communications

Westmor

Worthington Enterprises

Top Convention Area Attractions

0–1 Mile (Walkable Core)

• Toyota Music Factory — 0.2 miles

• Mandalay Canal Walk — 0.3 miles

• Lake Carolyn — 0.3 miles

• Mustangs of Las Colinas — 0.4 miles

• Williams Square Plaza — 0.4 miles

1–3 Miles (Parks + Easy Activities)

• Campion Trail — 1.2 miles

• Las Colinas Flower Clock — 0.8 miles

• Sam Houston Trail Park — 1.6 miles

• Victoria Park — 2.5 miles

• Northwest Park — 2.8 miles

3–5 Miles (Culture + Family Spots)

• Irving Arts Center — 2.7 miles

• Ruth Paine House Museum — 3.8 miles

• Heritage Park — 4.0 miles

• Fritz Park — 4.3 miles

• Senter Park — 4.5 miles

5–10 Miles (Best

• Meow Wolf Grapevine — 7.8 miles

• Great Wolf Lodge Water Park — 8.5 miles

• Dallas Zoo — 9.5 miles

• Perot Museum of Nature and Science — 9.0 miles

2026 Convention + Expo

2026 Convention Sports Tournaments

Hosted by the Texas Propane Gas Association and Oklahoma Propane Gas Association

Elmer L. Atkins Memorial Golf Tournament

The Truth About Quitting & Benefits

By Mario Hernandez, Senior Legal Counsel to Texas Workforce Commission Chair Joe Esparza

Many employers might be surprised to find that voluntarily quitting a job does not necessarily mean that a former employee will be disqualified from unemployment benefits. In fact, there are plenty of claimants who have received benefits when the job separation was the result of resigning or having quit the job voluntarily. But how can that be?

How Do Voluntary Job Separations Get Reviewed in Unemployment Claims?

Generally, if a claimant voluntarily left their last work and files an unemployment claim, the claimant must establish that they resigned or quit with good cause connected with the work to qualify for benefits. While not exhaustive, the following list contains examples of voluntary job separations that have constituted good cause connected with the work for quitting/resigning:

• The employer engaging in criminal activity

• Not getting paid for work

• Health or safety issues

• Substantial / detrimental change to the hiring agreement

• Hostile work environment

• Reprimanding the claimant in an accusatory or humiliating manner in public

• Pay reduction of 20% or more

Conversely, claimants will generally be disqualified from benefits if they voluntarily quit their job – when full-time work was available to them – without good cause connected with the work. Some instances that are generally seen as not having good cause connected with the work for quitting are resignations due to transportation issues (if the employer never assumed the responsibility for providing transportation for the claimant) and lack of childcare.

The section of the Texas Labor Code that deals with Voluntarily Leaving Work and unemployment benefits is Sec. 207.045. This section outlines various instances of voluntarily leaving work and what they mean for a claimant’s qualification for benefits.

Employer Considerations for Unemployment Claims Dealing with Voluntarily Leaving Work

In a lot of instances, an employer should be

prepared to show that a reasonable employee would not have quit for the reason they did. With this in mind, an employer should address any legitimate complaints that an employee brings to its attention. The employer should investigate as necessary and take all reasonable and appropriate steps to remedy the situation. If the employee nonetheless quits the job and files for unemployment (thereby becoming a claimant), the employer should be prepared to show that it took all reasonable and appropriate steps to address the claimant’s concerns.

Conclusion

Claimants who have quit their jobs before filing for unemployment don’t necessarily face

an impenetrable barrier to being qualified for benefits. However, they generally must show good cause connected with the work for having quit. Employers should document all efforts to remedy any legitimate workplace concerns that an employee (and possible future claimant) might bring to their attention. By doing so, the employer will be in a better position to defend itself on an unemployment claim that resulted from the claimant voluntarily leaving work.

This article is reprinted with permission from the May 2026 issue of Texas Business Today, a newsletter of the Texas Workforce Commission.

Inside the Industry

Save the Date: Propane Emergencies Training Returns in 2026

Mark your calendars now. The Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) is bringing back the 2026 Propane Emergencies Training — an intensive two-day, hands-on program designed to strengthen propane incident response skills and emergency preparedness. Training takes place September 28–29, 2026, at the TEEX Brayton Training Field in College Station, Texas.

New this year! Every participating fire station will receive a handheld gas detector, and ProCOT will cover firefighter hotel room costs. Tuition reimbursement will also be available for eligible rural volunteer and municipal firefighters through the Texas Forest Service.

Now is the time to reserve these dates and begin thinking about the firefighters, emergency responders, employees, and local partners in your area who may benefit.

Registration will open by June 25, 2026. Learn more at www. propanecounciloftexas.org/propanefiretraining.

Tulsa Texas Hold’em Tournament Set for August 20

The LPG Charity Fund will host its annual Tulsa Texas Hold’em Tournament on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Hotel Indigo Tulsa Downtown. The event combines networking, lunch, poker, and fundraising to support the LPG Charity Fund’s charitable efforts and raise awareness of its mission.

Event Details

Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026

Location: Hotel Indigo Tulsa

Downtown

Address: 121 S. Elgin Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74120

Lunch: 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. in the 6th Floor Rooftop Bar

Poker Tournament: Begins promptly at Noon in the Avery Room (6th Floor) Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with customers, colleagues, and industry friends throughout the day. Raffle tickets will also be available for a variety of prize giveaways.

The Hotel Indigo is offering a discounted King Room rate of $159 per night through July 27, 2026. The boutique hotel features an on-site restaurant, rooftop bar with downtown Tulsa views, and complimentary airport shuttle service upon request.

Registration at www.lpgfund.com

For questions, contact Tournament Chair Mike Tatum at Michael.tatum@ williams.com

Two Texas Schools Expand Propane Autogas Training

Two Texas schools will soon expand propane autogas training opportunities for students through the Propane Autogas Vehicle Inspection Grant Program.

The Propane Education & Research Council recently announced the following Texas schools were selected to participate in the program beginning this fall:

• Angelina College (Lufkin)

• Future Ready Complex (Georgetown)

The grant initiative helps schools strengthen existing automotive and transportation programs by adding propane autogas curriculum, handson training resources, and instructor education focused on propane-powered vehicles and equipment.

Each participating school may receive up to $7,500 in support, including a propane autogas training aid valued at more than $5,000, instructor participation in a Train the Trainer course, and assistance promoting the program locally.

According to PERC, the goal is to expose students to alternative fuel technologies while helping prepare the next generation of automotive and fleet technicians.

As part of the program, schools also work with propane industry advisers who can provide technical guidance, discuss career opportunities within the propane industry, and connect students with additional training and industry resources.

Additional information about the Propane Autogas Vehicle Inspection Grant Program and the curriculum, visit https://propane.com/ autogasgrantprogram/.

People in Propane

Congratulations to UV Doron, who has been tapped for another term on the National Propane Gas Association Board of Directors as Manufacturers Section Director. Doron is an active TPGA member and president and co-founder of Exosent Engineering, a Texas-based engineering and manufacturing company with facilities in Navasota, just south of College Station. As Manufacturers Section Director, he will represent the interests of propane equipment manufacturers nationwide, helping guide discussions on safety standards, regulatory compliance, product innovation, and supply chain challenges. Section directors play a critical role in ensuring each major segment of the propane industry has a voice in shaping NPGA’s priorities and responses to evolving market conditions and public policy issues. Doron will also work alongside fellow industry leaders to support the association’s advocacy efforts and strengthen the future of the propane industry.

Isn’t it time to trust that your insurance works as hard as you do?

• You will receive good old fashioned customer service.

• You will be educated about your policy coverages and shown where you might be vulnerable.

• You will receive multiple options for your insurance.

In Memoriam

Bennie Lee Moore, 90, of Wildorado, TX passed away April 5, 2026. Ben lived in Wildorado his entire life until his death. When attending school, Ben began delivering propane at the age of 13 after his father had a debilitating illness. He continued delivering propane before and after class until his graduation in 1953. After college, he and his wife, Delores, returned to Wildorado. In 1985 they purchased the AF Moore Phillips 66 Gasoline jobber ship and changed the name to DOBE Fuel. Two years later, they purchased the Phillips 66 jobber ship in Claude Texas. DOBE Fuel provided propane across most of the northern Texas Panhandle delivering to oil fields, convenience stores, and private individuals. After being in business for 54 years, Ben retired in 2000. Our thoughts are with his family.

Ronny Bumpus, 83, died April 12, 2026, at his home in Lampasas. He joined his father-in-law, W.R. Fuller, in business at Lampasas Butane Gas Co. in 1971. Bumpus owned and operated the propane and Whirlpool appliance business until his retirement in 2004. Our thoughts are with his family.

Arnold Alfred “Fred” Moos, 85, passed away on April 13, 2026. He began working full-time 6 months after graduation at Acme Butane Company, now known as Arnold Moos Company, along side his dad who founded the company. His sons, Steve and Jim later joined the company. Since his retirement in 2011, Jim has continued the company. Our thoughts are with the family.

Charlyne Taylor, 75, passed away peacefully in her home in Rockport on May 5, 2026. She worked at Aransas Butane Gas Company for many years until her father’s retirement. She received her LPG gas license to supervise LPG operations in 1976, a time when few women took interest in the LPG industry. She went on to work and retire from the Nueces County District Attorney’s office in 2007 as a legal secretary for the county court at law. Our thoughts are with her family.

Elbert Eugene (Gene) Wheat died May 13, 2026, in his home in Winters, Texas, at the age of 92. Shortly after graduating high school in 1951, Gene was hired by Bob Loyd to work in the office for his fuel business in Winters. He ultimately became a partner in the business and he and Jeanie purchased the company. Their son Doug joined Gene and Jeanie in the business in 1991, and they later renamed the company to Wheat Energy Services, which continues operating today. Our thoughts are with his family.

Help Customers Track the Important Dates in Their Lives with the 2027

Propane Safety Wall Calendars

Now’s the time to order your 2027 Propane Safety Tip & Recipe Wall Calendar produced by the Propane Council of Texas —a practical, affordable tool propane marketers can hand out to customers. These calendars do more than hang on the wall—they keep your company front and center all year long.

Why propane marketers keep coming back for them:

6 months of propane safety tips help with your duty to warn efforts

6 months of easy, crowd-pleasing recipes customers will love

Reminders to check the tank gauge and fill early before winter

Helps customers track important fam-

ily dates, like birthdays and appointments

Starting at just $1 per calendar, with FREE shipping in Texas

Add your name and contact info with custom color imprint options for an additional charge

Back for 2026: Clear calendar hanging bags available—drivers can leave calendars on the door if no one’s home

These calendars are a friendly, helpful way to remind folks who to call when they need propane. The deadline to order calendars is August 12, 2026.

Order at www.procot.org/calendars. Questions? Email frontdesk@txpropane. com or call (800)325-7427 press 7.

Propane Companies, Don’t Miss Out:

Order Your 2027 Calendars with PSC

Propane Service Corporation (PSC) has been selling calendars for over 25 years. Have you ordered your 2027 calendars?

With an extensive range of calendar types to choose from, PSC offers a comprehensive selection to meet all your calendar needs.

• Wall Calendars

• Almanac Calendars

• Pocket Calendars

• Mini Calendars

• Stick Up Calendars

Discover an array of captivating themes, from the Scenic Almanac, complete with weather forecasts, planting dates, and prime fishing days, to the breathtaking Texas landscapes adorned with beautiful photography capturing the spirit of the Lone Star State. Moreover, the American calendar pays tribute to the nation, featuring patriotic images that change with each month.

Notable themes like American Splendor, Landscapes of America, Saturday Evening Post, Norman Rockwell, and Motivational calendars are also available, catering to a wide range of preferences.

Propane companies can order calendars with customized dropdown portion with your company name, address, phone, and logo when ordering through Propane Ser-

vice Corp–all at a great rate (good deal). Calendars ship within 11 business days of proof approval.

For more information or a personalized quote, please don’t hesitate to contact 800-325-7427 press 7 or email frontdesk@ txpropane.com.

Don’t miss out on getting this yearround marketing tool to your customers!

Early Bird Deadline June 30, 2026

Classifieds

PetroStar Equipment Resources

Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks

5,000 gallons to 90,000 gallons

(6) 30,000 gallon, 250 psi, used stubbies (2) 30,000 gallon, 250psi, NEW 2024

Contact: Jim Oliver C: 832-643-7968 petrostar@pdq.net Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc

Formerly, Southern Star Insurance Agency, Inc Cecil Joiner, Risk Manager cecil@garrettinsurance.com 936-756-2222 www.garrettinsurance.com

JUNE

CALENDAR

AUGUST

PROPANE with PURPOSE

The Heat Behind High-Volume Aquatics

Somewhere in an aquarium, a 200,000-gallon shark exhibit holds steady at exactly 74 degrees Fahrenheit. Somewhere else, a tilapia farm is pulling its third harvest of the year from heated recirculating tanks. At a university marine biology lab, researchers are running temperature-sensitive trials that would be compromised if the water drifted more than two degrees.

What these facilities share is a heating requirement that isn’t optional. Water temperature in these environments isn’t a comfort feature — it’s operationally critical. The Aqua Logic ALB Gas Boiler is designed specifically for that kind of application.

What the System Is

The ALB Series is not a residential pool heater. It is industrial-grade aquatic temperature control — engineered for medium to large water volumes in commercial, institutional, and high-volume aquatic environments.

The system pairs a gas boiler (propane or natural gas) with a titanium heat exchanger. The titanium component matters because saltwater is highly corrosive to conventional metals.

Stainless steel and copper degrade in marine environments. Titanium does not, which makes the ALB one of the few systems genuinely suited for saltwater applications without the ongoing risk of corrosion compromising equipment or water quality.

Where It’s Used

The ALB is designed for environments where stable water temperature is non-negotiable. Those applications fall into several distinct categories.

Public Aquariums and Marine Exhibits are among the

most demanding use cases. Large display tanks, coral reef systems, shark exhibits, and touch tanks must maintain stable temperatures year-round, often across tens of thousands of gallons. Aquatic life adapted to specific temperature ranges does not tolerate deviation. The titanium heat exchanger is particularly important here, as most large public exhibits involve saltwater.

Commercial Aquaculture represents a high-volume application where heating efficiency directly affects operating costs. Producers raising tilapia, striped bass, shrimp, or ornamental fish in recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) manage large tank volumes continuously. At that scale, electric resistance heating becomes less efficient and more expensive. Gas boilers provide faster heat recovery and handle large thermal loads more effectively than electric alternatives.

Aquaponic Operations — integrated systems that raise fish and grow produce together in a controlled environment — also depend on consistent water temperatures to maintain the biological balance between fish and plant production. Medium to large-scale aquaponic facilities running year-round require the kind of reliable, continuous heating the ALB is built for.

Research and University Facilities include marine biology labs, government hatcheries, and fisheries research tanks where temperature control is a matter of scientific validity, not just animal welfare. Experimental data in these environments depends on thermal stability maintained within tight tolerances.

Zoological and Specialty Animal Facilities use the ALB in applications such as manatee rehabilitation tanks, sea turtle recovery pools, dolphin holding systems, and large reptile aquatic enclosures. These are care environments where consistent temperature is part of the medical or conservation protocol.

Large Commercial and Institutional Pools — therapy pools, indoor competition pools, and specialty saltwater pools — round out the application list. Here again, the corrosion resistance of the titanium exchanger makes it well-suited for saltwater pool environments where conventional heat exchangers require more frequent replacement.

Why Gas at This Scale

For large water bodies, the physics of gas heating differ from electric resistance heating in meaningful ways. A gas boiler transfers heat more quickly to large water volumes and recovers temperature faster after a cold-water introduction or ambient heat loss. The cost per BTU delivered is generally lower at scale.

The Aqua Logic ALB Gas Boiler is purpose-built for environments where water temperature control is a core operational requirement — public aquariums, commercial aquaculture, aquaponics, research facilities, zoological care, and high-volume pool applications.

Energy Tech Solutions

When Software Matters

Never Used a Propane Software Before...?

We have plenty of companies that were in your shoes. But don’t worry, we make the transition easy. Your only regret will be that you didn’t switch sooner.

U-Save Propane Inc. has worked with several backoffice software companies over the last 20+ years. ETS is by far the best. They offer the best value for our company. The products they provide are great and the customer service is exceptional. I could not ask for more.

-P. Gohil