February 2025 Texas Propane magazine

Texas Propane T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E T E X A S P R O PA N E G A S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEBRUARY 2025

Playback: 2024 in Review Your ProCOT Dollars at Work

A Look Back: PERC TV Campaigns PERC Approves 21 Projects at Winter Meeting

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800-325-7427 EXT 6 info@txpropane.com

Texas Propane T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E T E X A S P R O PA N E G A S A S S O C I AT I O N

CONTENTS FEATURES

9

Mark Your Calendar: TPGA Board & Committee Meetings, March 4-5, 2025

10 Playback: 2024 in Review Your ProCOT Dollars at Work 16 PERC 2024 Fox Square Integrations & Campaign Highlights 18 PERC Approves 21 Projects at Winter Meeting

DEPARTMENTS

6 Highlights from Headquarters

14 PERC 2024 OLYMPIC TV CAMPAIGN RECAP

By strategically investing in NBC’s Olympic coverage, PERC’s media plan overdelivered.

30

8 TPGA Board of Directors

JET POWER Propane jetters provide the plumbing industry extra oomph to clear pipes.

20

Inside the Industry

20

In Memoriam

21

New Members

22

People In Propane

28

lassified C Advertising

29

Advertising Index

29

Calendar of Events

HIGHLIGHTS FROM HEADQUARTERS

Texas Propane THE MAGAZINE FOR THE TEXAS PROPANE GAS ASSOCIATION

Highlights from Headquarters Bill Van Hoy

TPGA Executive Director

As winter continues, TPGA is preparing for a busy spring with key meetings and events. Be sure to mark your calendars for the TPGA Board and Committee Meetings on March 4-5, 2025, in San Antonio. TPGA members are encouraged to participate and RSVP through the TPGA website.

This issue offers an in-depth look at how your Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) and Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) dollars are making a meaningful impact across Texas. From consumer and business education to securing millions in grants, ProCOT’s efforts are making an impact.

We also spotlight successful PERC TV campaigns, including national media coverage that reached millions in 2024.

Additionally, read about 21 new projects and programs approved by the Propane Education & Research Council for 2025 from industrial engine line expansion to metal recycling facilities.

Check out our Inside the Industry for a last chance to apply for the NPGA Scholarship, the upcoming LPG Charity Fund Poker Tournament, In Memoriam, People in Propane, New Members and more.

We conclude with our popular Propane with Purpose to showcase how propane powered equipment helps plumbers clear clogged pipes.

TPGA staff Bill Van Hoy..................bvanhoy@txpropane.com Executive Director Jackie Mason...................jmason@txpropane.com Education & Marketing Director Regulatory & Sr. Legislative Affairs Director Julie Novinger............accountant@txpropane.com Bookkeeper Soo Teal.................................steal@txpropane.com Membership & Meeting Manager Propane Service Corporation Soo Teal.................sales@propaneservicecorp.com Manager 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

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

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

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2024-2025 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: Billy Bob McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444 District 2 Alternate: Joe January, McAdams Propane, 254-723-4210 District 3 Director: Stephen McClendon, Ferrellgas, 972-730-0469 District 3 Alternate: Open District 4 Director: Matt Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946 District 4 Alternate: Garrett Green, Greens'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: Alex Hinojosa, Hino Gas Sales, 956-423-9178 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, 940-665-4672 District 12 Director: Laci Jo Stone, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109 District 12 Alternate: Shawn Owens, Heart of Texas Propane, 325-313-0748 District 13 Director: Lane Worthington, WTG Fuels, 432-682-4349

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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: Matt Carr, All Star Fuel, 888-572-0174 District 16 Director: Clay Crist, Crist Fuel, 806-426-3412 District 16 Alternate: Open 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: Rusty Walker, Marshall Young, 817-645 9155 Assoc. Supplier Service Alternate: Andy Brus, Crum & Forster, 682-220-4812 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Director: Jim Fulton, 4JEnergy, 832-529-4768 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Alternate: John Becraft, Targa Resources, 713-594-7485 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Joe Ezernack, Meeder Equipment, 903-877-9401 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Troy Hicks, Squibb Taylor, 915-613-7534 Assoc. At Large Director: Crystelle Markley, Superior Energy Systems, 512-944-4177 Assoc. At Large Alternate: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155 Nominating Chair: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109 NPGA Director: Mark Garrison, Allstar Fuel, 806-296-6353

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Save the Date: March 4-5, 2025 TPGA Board & Committee Meetings

Host Hotel

• Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. San Antonio, TX 78251 For hotel accommodation options, please visit meeting homepage.

Mark your calendar! I would like to encourage you to attend the upcoming meetings on March 4-5, 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort in San Antonio.

We will be working on several very important items such as adoption of 2024 NFPA 54 and 58, the current Texas Legislative Session, the upcoming convention in August in Galveston, and kicking off a new membership year.

Everyone’s participation in these important events is needed.

Thank you and see you in San Antonio!

Sincerely, Larry Baty, TPGA President

Resort Perks

• The resort fee has been waived for our group.

• 2 complimentary bottles of water per day • Discounted Self-Parking at $10/Daily • 10% discount on Windflower Spa Treatments • 10% discount off Tee Times at Hyatt Hill Country Golf Club Thank You To Our Sponsors

• Day 2 Coffee Break: Crum & Forster • Lunch sponsors: Higginbotham/ Marshall Young Insurance & Enterprise Products Attendance

Schedule

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 • 9:00am - 10:00am Finance Committee Meeting • 10:00am - 12:00pm Legislative Affairs | T & S Committee Meeting • 12:00pm - 1:00pm Networking Lunch • 1:30pm - 2:30pm Convention Planning Committee • 2:30pm - 3:30pm Executive Committee • 3:30pm - 4:30pm Membership Committee • 5:00pm - Happy Hour • 6:00pm - Dinner

• The TPGA Board & Committee Meetings are OPEN & EXCLUSIVE TO ALL TPGA MEMBERS. • A RSVP IS REQUIRED so we can accommodate adequate seating and space.

• RSVP at www.txpropane.com Questions?

Please email: info@txpropane.com or call 800-325-7427 ext. 6.

Wednesday, March 5, 2025 • 9:00am - 11:00am Board Meeting Agenda: Financials, Legislative Affairs/Technical & Standards Update, RRC Update, Meetings/Convention Update, Executive Director’s Report, Membership Update, Old and New Business

February 2025 • Texas Propane

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Feature

Playback: 2024 in Review

Your ProCOT Dollars at Work Established more than 25 years ago, the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) and the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) undertake numerous initiatives, programs, and projects each year to educate Texas residential consumers, businesses, farmers, builders, plumbers, and others about propane. From marketing campaigns and social media outreach to press initiatives and safety programs, the councils work diligently to ensure your ProCOT dollars make an impact. In this issue of Texas Propane magazine, we spotlight ProCOT’s efforts across the Lone Star State, while also showcasing national social media initiatives that have left a significant mark in Texas.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Up to 107.9M

potential audience each press release

on both desktop and mobile devices across brand-safe websites. Top websites visited by Texans included MSN.com, Yahoo.com, ESPN.com, NYPost.com, and SportsDFW. com. Other prominent examples included FoodNetwork.com, CNN.com, Newsweek. com, AccuWeather.com, Forbes.com, Zillow. com, NBCSports.com, and HGTV.com.

The campaign successfully reached diverse audiences across trusted platforms, amplifying propane’s message statewide.

In 2024, ProCOT continued its impactful bi-monthly press campaign, successfully amplifying the benefits of propane to audiences across the state. Through strategic use of the PRNewswire platform, ProCOT distributed press releases that reached over 1,000 media outlets, including blogs, Texas newspapers, television stations, and the Associated Press. Each release garnered widespread attention, with an impressive pickup rate of 260–265 outlets per distribution.

Highlighted stories include: “Propane Council Educates on Backup Power Solutions as Texans Recover from Severe Storms,” “From Farm to Table: How Propane Fuels the Thanksgiving Food Chain,” and “Propane Council of Texas Recognizes Propane’s Role in Powering Texas on National Propane Day.” By spotlighting propane’s versatility and critical role in everyday life, ProCOT’s campaign is ensuring that propane’s story is told in homes, businesses, and farms across Texas.

ProCOT partnered with PERC and co-funded a Texas Energy for Everyone Campaign, which spanned from May 27 through August 25, 2024. The campaign educated Texans on how propane is a symphony of energy.

The campaign delivered impressive results, garnering millions of views across popular networks like FOX News, HGTV, Food Network, CBS, ESPN, Lifetime, Investigation Discovery and others.

Up to 4.4M

Over 3.7M

campaign’s total spend, Texas generated remarkable results, including 3,747,641 impressions and 29,081 clicks.

The campaign, which launched nationally in March 2024 and ran through the end of the year, showcased creative strategies like carousel ads and holiday-themed content, both of which delivered standout engagement.

The power of Facebook, a key Meta platform, amplified the campaign’s reach.

With 3.07 billion monthly active users worldwide and approximately 194.1 million in the United States, Facebook continues to dominate social media. While precise figures for Texas are unavailable, the state is said to have one of the highest user bases in the country.

Over 3.78M

impressions through 2024 Texas TV Campaign

reached through digital advertising campaign

impressions through PERC Facebook Ad Campaign in Texas.

ProCOT partnered with PERC to launch a highly effective web advertising campaign.

Texas-targeted display web banners garnered over 4 million impressions, appearing

Texas, a cornerstone of the propane industry, played a pivotal role in PERC’s 2024 social media campaign on Meta platforms. Accounting for 20% of the

Over $4.8M

in grant dollars awarded to school districts, with ProCOT grant support In 2024, ProCOT again partnered with the American Energy Institute to offer Texans complimentary grant writing assistance for propane autogas grants.

Through this partnership, millions of dollars were awarded to increase the number of propane autogas school buses and fleet vehicles on Texas roads.

This grant assistance program supports propane marketers looking to purchase bobtails, school districts aiming to acquire propane school buses, and various fleets seeking to integrate propane into their operations. The American Energy Institute helps match each fleet with the appropriate grant, whether private, regional, state, or federal.

Take the guesswork out of finding a grant and let us assist you. Need grant help? Please call us at 512-484-8535 or email heather@americanenergyinstitute.com.

February 2025 • Texas Propane

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Over 639,000

Over 147,000

In 2024, ProCOT actively engaged key market segments, including builders.

ProCOT wrote advertorial articles twice a week for the Texas Association of Builders (TAB) newsletter that reaches over 7,500 residential construction professionals every Tuesday and Thursday.

Additionally, ProCOT participated in the 2024 Sunbelt Builders Expo hosted by TAB, engaging with over 2,100 builders and developers and providing a venue for propane marketers to engage with builders.

First published in 1967 as Friendly Flame and evolving through several iterations since, the biannual consumer newsletter now known as Propane Living continues to educate readers on all things propane.

In 2024, the popular consumer newsletter educated propane customers about the advantages of propane over electricity, seasonal tips, and a variety of heating options, serving as a valuable resource for consumers. Branded with participating propane marketers’ logos, it is available to marketers at a very minimal cost.

Look for the next edition of Propane Living coming Spring 2025 at www.procot. org/propaneliving.

impressions through Texas Association of Builders Newsletter

newsletters distributed biannually

Over 53,500

propane safety tip & recipe wall calendars produced and distributed One of our longest-running projects, the Propane Consumer Safety Tip & Recipe Calendar, has been a staple for over two decades and is ordered by more than 113 branches annually. Since its launch, the Council has produced this invaluable safety resource to educate propane consumers year-round.

The calendar not only features essential residential propane safety tips but also includes helpful reminders, such as checking your gas gauge monthly and scheduling early fills ahead of the heating season.

“Customers love them.”

— Billy Stephenson, Guadalupe Gas “We love all the propane safety reminders, and all the recipes.”

— Rio Propane & Sons

Over 307,000

Duty to Warn safety brochures mailed to Texas propane customers For over a decade, ProCOT has assisted Texas propane retailers in getting safety information to their customers through its annual Duty to Warn Safety mailing program. This program is designed to help educate propane customers on important propane safety from what to if they smell gas to carbon monoxide risks.

More information about our duty to warn program can be found at www.procot. org/dutytowarn.

The program will reopen September 2025 for the 2025-2026 heating season.

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Over 103,000

farmers and ranchers educated during 2024 nearly each quarter The Council spotlighted a variety of propane agricultural solutions and promoted the national propane ag incentives in Texas Agriculture, the official publication of the Texas Farm Bureau distributed to farmers across the state and on newsstands.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Keep an eye out for more information about the 2025 edition this summer at www.procot.org/calendar.

cants and 183 Texas propane company locations signed up on the platform.

Nearly 21,000

Over 731

impressions through PlumbingHeating-Cooling Contractors of Texas newsletter

Texas job seekers registered GeneratioNext Job Board

ProCOT ran advertisements in the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Texas (PHCC) newsletter reaching 1,651 PHCC professionals each week.

ProCOT promoted propane plumbing and HVAC curriculum, technical resources, propane safety and innovative solutions like the heat pump helper.

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propane career presentations given to Texas CDL and technical schools.

In 2024, ProCOT partnered with GeneratioNext Propane Pros to tackle the growing workforce shortage in the propane industry.

With many seasoned employees retiring, the demand for skilled drivers and service technicians became more urgent than ever. This collaboration provided a valuable resource: NextGenPropane.com, a platform where propane employers could post job openings or browse pre-qualified candidate profiles. The program exceeded expectations, delivering three times the anticipated number of presentations and with over 700 active appli-

“Thank you again for the service GeneratioNext Propane Pros is providing to our industry.

The hiring process has always been so frustrating. In the past I have used several services to search for new hires, including some specific to our industry with little to no results. Hiring qualified drivers has always been an uphill battle, this service levels the field. Never have I had the results that I have seen from GeneratioNext. I have made one hire and have two more applicants to interview…These people came to me interested in starting a career in the propane industry based on what they heard in her presentation. Thanks Michelle and GeneratioNext for taking one of the headaches out of the game! You really are Propane Pros!”

- Craig Hill, Owner, Hill Gas The Propane Council of Texas looks forward to 2025 to continue to offer consumer education campaigns, propane industry resources, and market outreach.

Learn more about ProCOT programs and projects later this spring at www.procot.org.

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February 2025 • Texas Propane

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Feature

A Look Back The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) achieved a monumental media presence in 2024, solidifying its influence during the Paris Olympics. By strategically investing in NBC Universal’s Olympic coverage, PERC exceeded expectations, delivering a staggering 145 million impressions—an impressive 168% overdelivery compared to the guaranteed figure of 86 million. Running from July 26 to August 11, the campaign captivated audiences across platforms, showcasing propane’s benefits adjacent to the thrill of Olympic action.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

February 2025 • Texas Propane

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T

he Olympic Campaign wasn’t the only success story for the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) in 2024. PERC also partnered with FOX News Media to bring propane into the spotlight for National Propane Day this past October. With the largest buildout ever on FOX Square, this collaboration featured engaging segments on FOX & Friends and FOX Weather, highlighting propane’s versatility and its role in powering homes during major weather events. This multifaceted campaign also drove audiences to Propane.com, combining on-air, online, and social media efforts to achieve extraordinary reach and engagement.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

February 2025 • Texas Propane

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PERC Approves 21 Projects at Winter Meeting

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) approved the following 21 dockets during its December 2024 meeting for 2025 projects.

• $11,224,600 for PERC’s 2025 integrated marketing and communications plan, which encompasses total programming for all markets, digital development, corporate

communications and market support, and environmental thought leadership.

• $2,250,000 for the 2025 Propane Construction Research and Data Collection Program, which will gather data from builders on homes built or remodeled in 2025.

• $988,100 for 2025 industry engagement, which covers outreach and meeting expenses to educate the industry about consumer education efforts, environmental messaging, market growth and commercialization efforts, and safety and training programs.

• $913,000 for 2025 workforce outreach and education, which supports propane workforce training, external audience training to allied markets, and technical school curriculums.

• $800,000 for a two-year project that will support the creation and updating of

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The new gasequipment.com is designed so you can get online quickly, find what you need and get going.

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Chandler OK (800) 763-0953

Dallas TX (800) 821-1829

Houston TX (800) 334-7816

Indianapolis IN (800) 241-1971

Kansas City MO (800) 821-5062

Little Rock AR (800) 643-8222

Richmond VA (800) 368-4013

St. Louis MO (800) 423-4685

www.gasequipment.com

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Fayetteville NC (800) 447-1625

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Tracy Wells East Texas

John Percy West Texas

Mike Armstrong South Texas

Propane Emergencies curriculum, program outreach and more.

• $725,000 to fund market data and research initiatives in 2025, including data sets that inform the state of the industry and progress toward strategic goals.

• $700,000 to support business development activities for a Reliable Horsepower industrial engine line expansion.

• $650,000 for the Alternative Technology Demonstration & Research Program, designed to collect data from participating commercial and industrial businesses to inform research about propane use in the commercial building industry.

• $604,835 for 2025 autogas market business development activities. $567,250 for 2025 residential market business development activities.

• $550,120 for 2025 agriculture and off-road market business development activities.

• $506,350 for 2025 commercial market business development activities.

• $433,850 for 2025 material handling business development activities.

• $421,000 to support the execution of product development, research activities and business development, plus key components of PERC’s strategic plan.

• $350,000 for the 2025-26 Propane Farm Research Program, which compensates agricultural producers for documenting propane’s performance on the farm. Added research opportunities target diesel displacement and prime power generation.

• $250,000 for disaster recovery as well as a “building back safely” program following the hurricanes that hit the southeastern United States in 2024. Specifically, the funds will benefit homeowners in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The program, administered and promoted by the state associations, will provide funds to match states’ safe appliance rebate funds.

• $203,808 for a direct injection LPG demonstration truck. This docket funds the conversion of a 5.3-liter L8T engine of a 2024 GM Silverado from gasoline to a direct injection LPG system.

• $200,000 to develop and build a durable off-road system demonstration engine (19-56 kilowatts) that is Tier V compliant and a feasible alternative to diesel.

• $200,000 for PERC Education Program (PEP) administration. The project

supports the design and development of online training programs for PEP-recognized instructors, conducting in-person instructor training and virtual instructor training.

• $157,750 to support the creation of curriculum, training and outreach about propane to metal recycling facilities through the Recycled Materials Association and the Recycling Education and Research Foundation.

• $60,000 for the 2024 Utilization Technology Development (UTD) consortium. UTD is a research-based nonprofit organization composed of natural

gas distribution companies focused on the development of safe and efficient enduse gas technologies. PERC continues to work with UTD to co-fund product innovation and development activities.

PERC will meet virtually on Feb. 12 and in person on April 3 in Charlotte, North Carolina, ahead of the National Propane Gas Association’s Southeastern & International Propane Expo.

Article reprinted with permission from LP Gas magazine www.lpgasmagazine.com

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WWW.MARSHALLYOUNG.COM February 2025 • Texas Propane

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Inside the Industry

National Propane Gas Foundation Scholarship Deadline is February 15, 2025 The National Propane Gas Foundation Scholarship Fund is giving away money to help industry children pay for college, trade school, or other programs.

Every year, the NPGF/SF awards $1,000 and $2,000 scholarships to over 100 students.

Since 1994, the NPGF Scholarship Fund has distributed more than $2 million to 1,700+ children of NPGA member company employees!

Here’s what you need to know: Who can apply? Children of full-time employees at propane companies (NPGA members, state propane associations, or PERC) What are the grades you need? At least a 2.6 GPA (or equivalent) What kind of school can you go to? Accredited colleges, universities, or trade schools What can you study? Anything you want, but the below are highly encouraged to also apply • Commercial truck drivers • Electricians • Gas fitters • HVAC technicians • Pipe fitters • Plumbers How much money can you win? $1,000 or $2,000!

How many scholarships are there? Over100 every year!

Important Date: Applications close: February 15th Want to learn more?

Visit the NPGA website: www.npga.org/news-resources/scholarships Have questions? Email scholarship@npga.org.

In Memoriam With heavy hearts, TPGA announces the passing of Mike Welch on January 5, 2025.

Mike was part of a third-generation family business, Cass County Butane, operating as Welch Propane, with locations in Atlanta, Douglassville, Linden, and Texarkana, Texas. After the business was sold, he continued his career in the propane industry with Ferrellgas.

During his time at Welch Propane, Mike served on multiple TPGA committees and the Board of Directors, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.

He is survived by his wife, Martha; three sons; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; his brother, George Welch, Jr. (Mary); his sister, Jana Granberry (Tom); and many other relatives and friends.

Edwin B. Zly, of Ballinger, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, at the wonderful age of 97. He was a devoted father, grandfather, greatgrandfather and great-great-grandfather (known to many as Popo).

Edwin was a member of America’s Greatest Generation.

After serving in World War II as a gunner for a mobile 37-mm anti-tank gun, he returned to Ballinger. Among other jobs, he worked at West Texas Butane for 28 years. Our thoughts are with his family.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

LPG Charity Fund Houston Texas Hold’em Tournament

Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025 Location: Dave & Buster’s Katy Freeway, Houston Registration & Lunch: 11:30 AM Tournament Start: 1:00 PM The Annual John L. Hinsey Memorial Texas Hold’em Tournament, organized by the LPG Charity Fund and chaired by TPGA member Callie Stewart, returns for another exciting year.

Attendees can enjoy friendly competition, networking opportunities, and a chance to win incredible raffle prizes, including a trip for two to Las Vegas. Lunch and cocktails will also be available for those who prefer to mingle rather than play.

Proceeds support the LPG Charity Fund’s mission of assisting industry members facing catastrophic medical or financial hardships.

For more details or to register, visit www.lpgfund.com. Platinum and Gold Sponsors are reminded to claim their complimentary seats. Questions can be directed to Callie Stewart at cbstewart@ eprod.com.

Winter Storm Blair Spurs Waivers to Aid Propane Industry

In response to the challenges brought

by Winter Storm Blair last month, the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) successfully secured a critical five-day

Inside the Industry hours of service (HOS) waiver from the Texas Department of Public Safety. This temporary relief helped propane delivery drivers meet heightened fuel demands during the severe winter conditions.

Under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, state agencies are limited to issuing HOS waivers for no more than five days.

At the national level, the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) achieved a broader victory by advocating for a 21-day Regional Emergency Declaration from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This declaration provided HOS relief across the continental United States, enabling the propane industry to deliver critical fuel despite extreme weather. NPGA’s efforts included tireless communication with federal officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders.

Join or rejoin TPGA for 2025 to stay on top of hours and governmental waivers throughout the year as well as propane pricing for Texas, Gulf Coast and the U.S. Waivers provide relief for drivers during winter inclement weather, power outages, tornados, hurricanes, derechos and wildfires.

Game Changer for Propane Marketers Ultrasonic Smart Gas Meter

• Remote metering with either cellular LTE or LoRa meter options • Provides a familiar customer interface similar to other utilities • Optimize efficient deliveries • Adds control to overall storage efficiency • Ability to shut off service remotely • Accuracy & Durability Sensor • Ultrasonic Flow Sensor

800.448.9504 • bergquistinc.com Bergquist Storefront 24/7

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February 2025 • Texas Propane

21

Inside the Industry Last Chance!

Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program Applications Due March 4, 2025 The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)’s Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program (TNGVGP) is closing soon, offering up to $25 million in grants for upgrading heavy-duty and medium-duty vehicles to propane and natural gas.

Program Highlights: • Grant Amount: Up to 90% of eligible replacement or repower costs.

• Eligible Vehicles: Medium- and heavy-duty fleets, including propanepowered bobtails, school buses, and box trucks.

• Fuel Options: Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG).

Requirements: Vehicles must operate at least 75% of the time in the Texas Clean Transportation Zone (80+ county area) for four years or 400,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Eligible vehicles include new or used (model year 2018 or later) propane or

People in Propane

natural gas models.

Applicants must have owned and operated the vehicle being replaced in Texas for at least two years.

Learn more, download Texas Clean Transportation Zone map and apply at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/terp/ tngvgp.html.

Don’t miss this first-come, first-served opportunity!

SCAN

TO LEARN MORE

Last month, TPGA member Ed Varney of METSA captivated audiences nationwide with his soulful saxophone performance of the national anthem at the Texas vs. Ohio State playoff game. A seasoned musician with over 55 years of experience— playing since the age of 9—Varney’s stirring rendition at AT&T Stadium earned rave reviews, with fans calling it the “best national anthem” of the college football season. His powerful performance received a standing ovation and reached over 20 million viewers tuning into the Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic. Ed’s talent also garnered 50,000 views on his Facebook page and 800+ congratulatory texts immediately after the show. Don’t miss Ed live at the 2025 NPGA Southeastern & International Propane Expo™ opening session on April 4 in Charlotte, NC!

22

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

westmor-ind.com

Inside the Industry Georgetown ISD Secures Over $200,000 for Propane Buses Georgetown Independent School District (GISD) was awarded $240,000 in grant funding to support the purchase of two cleaner-burning propane-powered school buses, replacing two older 2006 diesel models.

In December, the GISD Board of Trustees approved the district’s participation in a grant program offered by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). This initiative provides $120,000 per bus to encourage the adoption of cleaner, propane-fueled vehicles over traditional diesel options.

Each new bus costs $164,197, bringing the total purchase price to $328,394.

Thanks to the TCEQ grant, the district will save approximately 73% on the cost of replacing the aging diesel buses.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality offers numerous grant opportunities throughout the year to help fleets and schools transition to cleaner options. The grants aim to reduce the community’s exposure to harmful diesel exhaust while promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.

Winter’s Test: Propane vs. Diesel

As winter temperatures plummet, many school districts report exceptional performance from their propane-powered school buses. Unlike diesel, which gels in freezing conditions, propane remains unaffected, allowing for reliable starts and consistent operation. Diesel-powered buses often struggle in frigid weather, requiring the use of expensive additives, block heaters, or lengthy idling times just to get running. These challenges can lead to delays, increased maintenance costs, and operational inefficiencies, leaving school districts scrambling to ensure transportation for students. Propane buses eliminate these coldweather headaches, providing a dependable solution that keeps schools on schedule, no matter how harsh the winter gets.

Experts at delivering QUALITY every time.

Visit Us Online: www.propanetank.com

Photo of the Month

TRUSTED & BEST

Quality | Customer Service | Delivery | People Warranty | Distribution Network | Inventory 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. Speaking of winter and kids, PSC manager Soo and her adorable neighbors—Desmond, Will, and Simone—teamed up to create this adorable little snowman masterpiece on the first freeze of 2025.

HOME OFFICE 2914 U.S. 61 Cleveland, MS 38732 800-345-2495 OHIO LOCATION 721 Graham Drive Fremont, OH 43420 419-334-2664 UTAH LOCATION 5601 Axel Park Rd. West Jordan, UT 84081 801-280-1133

Brent Rogers Regional Sales Manager 662-719-0716 • brogers@propanetank.com February 2025 • Texas Propane

23

Inside the Industry Fueling Safety: $21,000 DOT Grant to Fund Texas Fire Training

gencies Training this fall at the renowned Texas A&M Engineering Extension (TEEX) Brayton Training Field in College Station, TX. This world-class training facility features realistic, largescale, hands-on LPG-specific training

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) successfully secured a $400,000 grant from the Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund sub-grants for Hazardous Materials Instructor Training. Seventeen state and regional propane gas associations, including Texas, received grants for 2025. The Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA), in partnership with the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT), was awarded $21,000 from NPGA. With this grant, ProCOT and TPGA plan to host a two-day Propane Emer-

24

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

props. Situated adjacent to the Texas A&M University campus, the 297-acre site draws more than 45,000 emergency responders annually from all 50 states and over 45 countries.

February 2025 • Texas Propane

25

Inside the Industry Flashback: January 2025 In case you missed it with the busy winter weather last month, the January 2025 issue of Texas Propane magazine was packed with timely winter articles Inside the issue: • Navigating Debt Collection and Preventing Non-Payment: A Guide for Propane Businesses • Helping Homeowners Understand Propane’s Value This Winter: Put an End to Propane Price Complaints • How the Texas Energy Assistance

Program Can Help Propane Customers • What’s New in 2025? Key Updates to PERC’s Construction Incentives • Carbon Monoxide Risks in Winter: Guide to Customer Safety • Women in Propane (WIP): Connections, Training & Community • TX Workforce Commission: Personnel Files: More Than Just Paper in Folders?

Read past issues of Texas Propane magazine at https://www.txpropane.com/ magazine

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BRITTANY GREER Senior Marketing Representative a / 713.381.4254 m / 318.299.0540 BLGreer1@eprod.com TRUCK SCHEDULING & SUPPORT Truck&Rail@eprod.com

February 2025 • Texas Propane

27

Classifieds FOR SALE

Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc Formerly, Southern Star Insurance Agency, Inc Cecil Joiner, Risk Manager cecil@garrettinsurance.com 936-756-2222 www.garrettinsurance.com We have two units for sale. Both are 2005 International with 2600g Tank Located in Bonham, TX. For more information please contact PetroStar Equipment Resources Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks 5,000 gallons to 90,000 gallons

Jason Robinson Cell: 580-380-1173 Email: jrobinson@mccrawoil.com

FOR SALE (4) 90,000 gallon, 250 psi, propane (6) 30,000 gallon, 250 psi, unused 2024 Contact: Jim Oliver 832-643-7968 petrostar@pdq.net

2004 Chevrolet C7500 Bobtail with 2600g Arrow tank, 122,590 miles, diesel engine, remote shut-off system, good condition Call Brenham LP Gas 979.836.2331

FUEL YOUR PROFITS WITH LOWER WORKERS’ COMP PREMIUMS Endorsed by:

*Dividends are not guaranteed and past dividends are not a guarantee of future dividends. The Texas Department of Insurance must approve all dividend plans

Call your agent for a quote or call Josh Andrajack, Group Administrator at 940-723-7111 or at josh_andrajack@ajg.com.

28

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

CALENDAR

FEBRUARY

3-5 NPGA Winter Board of Directors, Committee & Section Meetings Clearwater, FL 12 PERC Council Meeting – Virtual

9-12 OPIS NGL Summit Charlotte Harbor, FL 10-12 NPGA Spring Technology, Standards & Safety Committee Meeting Greenville, SC 10-14 Category E Class Week I

15 NPGF Scholarship Deadline 15 Young Professional of Year Nominations Due 17 TPGA Closed Presidents Day 20-21 2025 National Propane Education & Training Conference Orlando, FL

MARCH

4 Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program (TNGVGP) Deadline 4-5 TPGA March Board & Committee Meetings San Antonio, TX

13-14 NPGA Benchmarking Spring Meeting Tucson, AZ 24-28 Category E Class Week II

APRIL

3 PERC Council Meeting Charlotte, NC ​

4-6 2025 Southeastern Propane Expo Charlotte, NC 18 TPGA Closed for Good Friday

INDEX TO ADVERTISERS INDEX TO ADVERTISERS

Texas Propane T H E M A G A Z I N E F O R T H E T E X A S P R O PA N E G A S A S S O C I AT I O N

FEBRUARY 2025

Playback: 2024 in Review Your ProCOT Dollars at Work

ASM- American Standard 26

Marshall Young Insurance 19

Bergquist 21

Meeder Equipment Co. 7

BLT Tanks 3

METSA Inside Front Cover

CUI 8

Nixon & Lindstrom Insurance 26

Energy Tech Solutions Inside Back Cover

Propane Plus LLC 13

Enterprise Products 27 Fisk Tank Carrier Inc. Outside Back Cover Gas Equipment Company 18 Lock America 21

A Look Back: PERC TV Campaigns PERC Approves 21 Projects at Winter Meeting

Propane Service Corporation 24 Quality Steel 23 Tarantin Industries 7 Westmor Industries 22 White River Distributors 24

Lone Star Energy Group 28 Longhorn Propane 25

For advertising opportunities, please contact Joanne Pantaze at 512-273-2639 or at jpantaze@zochnet.com

February 2025 • Texas Propane

29

PROPANE with PURPOSE 30

Propane Jetters Provide Plumbing Industry Extra Oomph

A jetter or pressure jet drain cleaner is a specialized plumbing tool that is used to clear clogged or slow moving pipes.

Jetters are very powerful and work by employing highpressure water jets to clear any obstructions from your pipes.

They are useful for residential and commercial applications.

Jetters Northwest, https:// jettersnorthwest.com/propanefueled/, has introduced a CARB/EPA (California Air Resources Board) Certified Propane Powered Jetter. It utilizes a 30 pound propane tank, provides 3500 PSI and is ideal for facilities, airports, warehouses, facility maintenance, parking garages, and much more.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Their product, called the Cart 3508LP Jetter, comes with all the features and quality of their standard gasoline engine Jetters, such as super duty pumps, panel mounted

pressure gauge, and pulse valve, mounted flow and pressure controls, high quality bearing mounted hose reels with drip pan, and 12-gallon water supply tank.

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Trucks · Trailers · Parts Contact Fisk Today! 920-477-0334 www.fiskinc.net CUSTOM PROPANE TANK SERVICE AND INSTALLATION TRUCKS AND TRAILERS

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