Issuu

TexasPropane January 2017

Volume 73 No. 1

T H E M AG 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

Getting to Know the TPGA Staff

What Your Association Can Do For You!

Youâ€™re in Good Hands Staying Local is Your Priority and Ours Have you considered selling your propane business but concerns for your customers and employees are holding you back? At Pinnacle Propane, our values of Customer Service, Integrity, and Safety emphasize providing the best possible experience for our customers and employees. As a Texas-based company, we focus on providing local service to our customers in the communities we do business and empowering our employees via competitive pay and a comprehensive benefits package.

Matt Terry Acquisitions and Strategic Development 210-560-5418

As you think about next steps, let us work with you to develop a fair purchase plan and a seamless transition so that you can relax and enjoy the results of your efforts. For more information and a confidential assessment of your business, please call us today.

www.pinnpropane.com

Pinnacle Propane is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

TexasPropane January 2017

8408 North IH 35 Austin, TX 78753 (512) 836-8620 or (800) 325-7427 (512) 834-0758 fax E-mail: info@txpropane.com www.txpropane.com

T H E M AG 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

TPGA staff Bill Van Hoy Executive Director bvanhoy@txpropane.com Jackie Mason Education & Marketing Regulatory & Legislative Affairs jmason@txpropane.com Debbie Simpson Executive Assistant Membership Meeting Planner Publication Coordinator dsimpson@txpropane.com Propane Service Corporation

Debbie Simpson (800) 392-0023 dsimpson@txpropane.com Publisher

Sail House Publishing 3510 Crowncrest Drive Austin TX 78759 (512) 346-0892 kscheberle@austin.rr.com Kim Scheberle Account Manager/Managing Editor Kiki Pantaze Art Director (512) 924-7566 kpantaze@pvco.net

What Your Association Can Do For You! Getting to Know the Texas Propane Gas Association Staff

6 9

Features Texas Propane Historical Library. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Safe Driving Practices Safety Meeting Guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Legal Beat: Summary Judgment Granted in Lawsuit Alleging Failure to Warn, Odor Fade and Gas Detector Claims. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 5 Necessary Website Elements Customers Want. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Radio Station Receives Grant to Purchase Propane System, Backup Generators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Departments Highlights from Headquarters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 TPGA Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 People in Propane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Inside the Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 ProCOT Corner. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Where in the World. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Say Cheese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Classified Advertising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Index to Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Propane with Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Highlights from Headquarters

A New Year, A New Legislative Session Bill Van Hoy TPGA Executive Director Well, 2017 is here and with it a new legislative session at the Capitol. TPGA staff have been hard at work combing through pre-filed legislation since November. Shortly the session will start and TPGA will be there. I am getting my comfy shoes prepped for the many miles of walking the halls of the Capitol. Staff continues to work with and monitor the Railroad Commission on adopting their proposed rules. We expect the process to be complete in the near future. With that

will mean an updated LP Gas Safety Rule book and new editions of NFPA 54 and 58. TPGA members will be in the know when it happens. In this first issue of 2017 we focus on the benefits that TPGA membership brings, and let our Texas Propane readers get to know the staff a little better. I bet there are things in the article that you didn’t know! Also included this month is a recap of the projects from the Propane Council of Texas (ProCOT) so you can see your PERC dollars at work here in Texas. Many of the projects prove time and time again that they are needed here in Texas by their continued popularity. Happy New Year!

from the Texas Propane Gas Association

AFFINITY PARTNERS BASYS • Lone Star Energy Group

2016-2017 TPGA Board of Directors President: Ben Wood, Northwest Propane, 972-247-6121 President-Elect: John Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109 Secretary: Harris Baker, Pinnacle Propane, 512-306-0073 Treasurer/Finance Chair: Sam Fox, McCraw Propane, 461-261-1148 District 1 Director: Jim Vines, Cooper Propane, 903-785-5242 District 1 Alternate: April Welch, WelchGas, 903-577-1446 District 2 Director: Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444 District 2 Alternate: Open District 3 Director: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001 District 3 Alternate: Keith Stone, Alford LP Gas, 214-801-2000 District 4 Director: Mark Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946 District 4 Alternate: Allen Wells, Baygas, 281-332-2660 District 5 Director: Open District 5 Alternate: Open District 6 Director: Omar Garcia, Mr. G Propane, 956-581-1063 District 6 Alternate: Open District 7 Director: Steve Smith, Smith Gas, 830-393-2533 District 7 Alternate: Sharon Seal, Bell Hydrogas, 210-533-7103 District 8 Director: Jack Walzel, Tri-Co Propane, 254-642-3885 District 8 Alternate: Rodney Sladek, Fayetteville Propane, 979-836-7044 District 9 Director: Bill McCullough, Butane Gas, 800-242-69010 District 9 Alternate: Brad Quisenberry, Gene Harris Petroleum, 888-336-4474 District 10 Director: Josh Nowlin, McCraw Propane, 9003-583-7481 District 10 Alternate: Sam Fox, McCraw Oil, 469-261-1148 District 11 Director: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402 District 11 Alternate: Lane Worthington, Sunoco, 325-835-3031 District 12 Director: John Gordon, Bob’s Fuels, 325-647-3619 District 12 Alternate: Laci Jo Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

District 13 Director: Trini Hernandez, Fuel Mark, Inc., 432-381-4277 District 13 Alternate: Open District 14 Director: Open District 14 Alternate: Open District 15 Director: Don Heinrich, Slaton Gas, 806-828-6501 District 15 Alternate: Open District 16 Director: Open District 16 Alternate: Open Past President: John Kelly, Kelly Propane, 940-586-1208 Past President: Todd Dorris, Roadrunner Energy, 830-278-5317 Past President: Hobie Sibley, 281-455-3673 Past President: Doug Maclay, Huffhines Propane, 972-225-2347 1st Vice President: Jeremy Gentile, Hill Butane, 409-296-2001 2nd Vice President: Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444 3rd Vice President: Allen Wells, Baygas, 281-332-2630 Sr. Vice President: Joe Green, Green’s Blue Flame Gas, 713-462-5414 Sr. Vice President: Wes Welch, WelchGas, 903-577-1446 Sr. Vice President: Jack Walzel, Tri-Co Propane, 254-642-3885 Assoc. Service Director: Anna May Etheredge, 940-665-4672 Assoc. Service Alternate: Jeff Severson, BAM Propane, 817-738-8224 Assoc. Producer Director: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155 Assoc. Producer Alternate: John Becraft, Targa Resources, 817-416-7757 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Mike Armstrong, Gas Equipment Company, 214-733-6328 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Mark Smith, Leran, 512-318-1840 Assoc. At Large Director: Jim Diehl, Squibb Taylor, 214-357-4591 Assoc. At Large Alternate: Tracy Wells, Gas Equipment Company, 214-638-8018 Nominating Committee Chair: Chad Gray, Dixie LP Gas, 254-582-2261 NPGA Director: Jim Bishop, Bishop Energy, 940-665-3457

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Featured

What Your Association Can Do for You!

for example, TPGA assisted 192 members with problems they had which varied from violations to expediting Hazmat renewals (2015) On the more personal level, it can look more like what Nicole Boatright, office manager for Propane Plus LLC in Cedar Park, encountered. “The value is immeasurable,” Boatright said, recounting a recent incident where the city’s fire marshal was insisting on their interpretation of information compliance and not listening to anything that varied with their ideas. “It got so frustrating. They wouldn’t listen. I didn’t know what to do, so I called TPGA.” Boatright says that Jackie Mason and Bill Van Hoy filled in all the gaps for her, starting with educating her on the rules, and went so far as facilitating a letter to the city’s fire marshal. “They came back and apologized and completely reversed their decision. I would have wasted an enormous amount of my time had I not reached out to TPGA. They’re fantastic.” In addition, the advocacy team sends out updates and alerts on rule changes in both state and federal law, sends out reminders on important compliance deadlines and provides assistance in completion of some required filings and reports. TPGA is also an important voice for the propane industry in the

The idea of banding together for shared strength is not a new concept. There are examples back to the beginning of written history of strength in numbers. Cavemen had clans. Cities had walls and turrets. Parish leaders looked out for their flock. This concept extends to all creatures, where “prides” and “packs” of animals stay together to better protect themselves. Trade groups, like the Texas Propane Gas Association, are no different, leaning on each other for support and protection, while making work light with many hands. TPGA was born in 1939, just 8 years after a national association was created. Throughout these many decades, the role TPGA plays in the propane gas industry has grown more prominent, helping members in a variety of areas. There are three membership types: marketer, supplier and affiliate.

Advocate Part of TPGA’s current mission statement says that it will “provide a clearinghouse for issues that affect the propane industry and generate a consensus to represent propane marketers before other businesses, governmental or regulatory bodies.” So what does this advocacy look like to members? In sheer numbers,

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Featured state Capitol and in Washington D.C. During the 84th Legislative session they held 42 meetings with Texas legislators.

NPGA Has Your Back

Discounts for Your Business In addition to the important work they do advocating for propane marketers and vendors, TPGA provides a host of cost savings to our members through: • Competitive workers’ compensation insurance; • Discounted emergency response number; • Reduced prices on compliance and promotional materials through PSC; and • Cost-competitive credit card processing services.

Community One of the most enriching aspects of being part of TPGA is the community that surrounds it. District and board meetings provide opportunities to learn about critical issues. There are also opportunities to participate in specialty committees, develop position statements and discuss trends and issues on the local level. Sam Fox, who is currently serving as TPGA Treasurer and works at McCraw Propane, points out that TPGA is very fortunate to have so many suppliers that support the association. “They provide technical expertise to our committees and many are members of our board. Our suppliers are also a friendly face for new members that get involved. They’ll gladly meet you there and make you feel at home as they introduce you to other members,” Fox said. “Most marketers see our suppliers at the trade show but don’t necessarily know how involved they are in supporting the propane industry. Ask your suppliers if they are members and if they believe propane marketer membership is beneficial- I bet they’ll answer yes to both questions.” Fox also says that you can’t overlook the relationships that being a TPGA member brings. “The association is strong because of the wisdom and talent of the folks who are involved. Something I’d like for everyone to know is that our committees are open to any member interested in attending. Come be a part of it and make the association even better by investing your talent, wisdom and experience.” “The committee work has been of great value to me because it’s

The National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) is our watch dog on the national level. NPGA staff monitor hundreds of proposed federal rule proposals and legislation to ensure the propane industry’s best interests are being served. They go to bat for the industry, striking down proposals that can have a negative impact on your businesses or coming up with mutual agreement that collective industries are happy with. NPGA also generates compliance documents and white papers, getting its members through the most tedious regulations. In addition to being the industry voice on Capitol Hill, NPGA has a number of member discount programs including tires, uniforms, office supplies, collections and more that help members save over the course of the year. Members can stay on top on latest of national’s initiatives and benefits by reading the weekly member only digital newsletter, the NPGA Reports.

increased my knowledge of our industry, and I believe it’s made me a better operator. I love the exposure to the gas code revisions, the regulatory and legislative changes and just learning from the incredible people who are involved.”

Other Benefits While the intangibles are hard to put a price tag on—having a knowledgeable advocate to call in times of crisis, creating a circle of colleagues to whom you can turn to for advice—there are other tangible items that TPGA membership affords. Some include: access to a members only section of the TPGA website, a monthly membersonly newsletter, access to TPGA and NPGA scholarships and access to NPGA programs for marketers. Sam Fox says his membership is invaluable. “It’s true that iron sharpens iron and I’ve been mentored by some of the greatest minds in the propane industry simply because I showed up and got involved.”

The History of TPGA 1939 The Texas Butane Gas Association is created. 1944 The Texas Butane Gas Association is renamed the Texas Butane Dealers Association.

1944 TPGA Wranglers The Texas Butane Dealers Association is organized “for the purpose of placing the Butane Dealer and all associate members on a higher plane in the LPG industry.” The first executive board includes President Elmer Atkins; Vice President James White; and Gus Moos, secretary/treasurer.

January 2017 •

Texas Propane

Texas Propane â€¢ www.txpropane.com

Featured

Getting to Know the Texas Propane Gas Association Staff By Laura Mohammad

The TPGA staff manages multiple functions. The association lobbies, plans events, makes sure important regulatory and legislative information gets to you quickly and accurately, provides discounts that help you run a better business, organizes a successful convention and tradeshow each year, and more. But who are the people behind all these good works? We checked in and learned more about them, including some surprises.

Bill Van Hoy Executive Director After serving as an active duty U.S. Marine officer for many years, Bill transferred to the reserves and pursued a civilian life. As fate would have it, he was hired by Ferrellgas and became a district manager for Northern California. The three years with Ferrellgas exposed him to many of the challenges of the

propane industry. “I suppose it was the Russian River flooding and watching tanks float out to the Pacific Ocean during my first month that clearly taught me this industry is challenging,” Bill recalled. Bill then returned to Texas to run a manufacturing company serving the oil and gas industry. In 2003, he got a call from his brother-in-law, who thought Bill would

ist

ion Preservat

be a good choice for the TPGA executive director post. “All you have to do is play golf and take people to dinner,” Van Hoy jokes that that was how he described the position. “I haven’t played five times in 15 years. I’m still friends with him but I often remind him that he did not provide an ac-

1944 The first annual meeting of TBDA takes place at the Stephen F. Austin Hotel in Austin. 1946 TBDA’s first convention takes place at the Texas Hotel in Fort Worth. More than 500 people attend. 1958 Sam Strong, chairman of TBDA’s Safety Committee, receives a letter from Texas Gov. Price Daniel commending the association for its work in safety education.

January 2017 •

Texas Propane

Featured curate job description.” Indeed. In addition to managing his staff, Van Hoy’s primary role is that of lobbyist and representative of the industry. The position is dynamic –literally every day brings new challenges. Bill met Page, his wife of 24 years, at Southwest Texas State.“I look back at pictures and realize we were babies! Page and I have shared the same challenges and great moments as I suspect anyone who is reading this can appreciate. I suppose it’s a matter of always willing to respect one another.” Their daughter, Katie, is studying maritime administration at Texas A&M University.“She helps out during the convention and tradeshow. Prior to her being old enough, she just hung out … until she was old enough to take on a real role at some events,” Bill says.“She is personable and absolutely loves to take on a challenge and help people. We look forward to the times all three of us have together including stressful work functions.” Bill and Page’s family also includes one “spoiled” family member—Ember Blue Bea, their year-old Labrador.

Why do you love your job? When you know the staff has the same passion for helping a member resolve an issue as you do, it’s fantastic. The staff is loyal to the purpose of the association. I have had the honor of leading these same staff members since 2003. I want each staff member to maximize their strengths; working as a team we are able to accomplish this effort.

Where are you from? I was born in Dallas, and moved to Houston the summer prior to middle school.

Debbie Simpson Executive Assistant

What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted the opportunity

to fly.

When did you start with TPGA?

January 2003

What are you most proud of about working with TPGA? There

is not one particular moment or event. It’s our long-term ability, long-term consistency with successes resolving issues.

Although the staff is strong and healthy, I am the only guy on staff and happen to be the tallest. So I have the honor of occasionally helping those more vertically challenged. I take pride in the association facilities and grounds. If you asked the staff, I announce a day of organization and cleaning fairly often so wear appropriate clothing!

Debbie wears many hats that include membership coordination and managing the Propane Service Corporation (where she notes that members get 30 percent off on everything from decals and signs to books). She also creates the monthly newsletter and sends it out, assists in other publica-

1965 The first “Friends of Flame” consumer publication is published. 1966 The Miss Friendly Flame beauty queen is chosen at the 1966 convention. 1967 The Ground Breaking ceremony for the association offices.

re; a f l e W l a Anim aven M g n i l c y Rec

What’s the weirdest thing you do or have done for TPGA?

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

tions, maintains websites, and Twitter and Facebook accounts for TPGA, PSC and the annual conference. Before joining TPGA, Debbie worked for a company that made software for the telecom industry. In all, she worked in that field for 10 years. She also worked at UTAustin for seven years. About working for an association, she says: “The whole culture’s a little bit different between corporations and associations. People are more personable. In the corporate world there are certain things that can’t be said like calling someone ‘Hon’. Here it’s fine, and I like it. How often does she get

1969 The Texas Butane Dealers Association is renamed the Texas LP-Gas Association. 1975 Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Texas join forces for the first time to hold the 1975 Southwest LP Gas Trade Show and Convention in Dallas.

Featured called “hon”? “At least five times a week.” Debbie graduated in 1990 from UT with a degree in interior design, and has been married to Frank for 24 years. They have one fur baby, that Debbie named Purrsephone, an abandoned cat hanging around at the TPGA office she rescued 3 years ago. She also feeds two feral cats that live in the TPGA parking area. Where are you from? I grew up in Greenville, 50 miles northeast of Dallas. What did you want to be when you grew up? That’s a good question.

I’m still trying to figure that one out.

When did you start with TPGA?

July 2003

Why do you love your job? It has to be the people. These are some of the nicest, most compassionate people I’ve ever met. What are you most proud of about working with TPGA?

We’ve actually rebuilt our numbers by former members rejoining and gaining new members. What’s the weirdest thing you do or have done for TPGA? In the

city of Austin, there’s a mandate that you have to recycle. I took on the challenge in trying to get people to recycle. I go through the trash to make sure recyclables aren’t there. I’m the cat lady and the recycling lady. Trash taker-outer too.

Best way to reach you? Pick up the phone and just call or email, either way.

Page Van Hoy Controller Page handles all of the financial aspects of the organization, as well as HR and insurance. Page holds a bachelor’s degree from Southwest Texas State, a master’s degree from the University of Central Oklahoma, and has completed advanced coursework in accounting. While her husband, TPGA’s Bill Van Hoy, was active duty as a major in the U.S. Marine Corps in Southern California, Page was serving as the CEO of two hospitals of a four-hospital system. While both are from Houston, they did not meet until they were in school in San Marcos. Married for 24 years, the two have a daughter, Katie, who is at Texas A&M University. Where are you from? Houston When did you start with TPGA?

2003

Why do you love your job? I love helping the association improve. I like the staff. We have a successful, functioning team. It’s just a pretty easy-going, happy place to work. What are you most proud of about working with TPGA? Help-

ing lead the association to sound financial health.

p Traffic Co

What’s the weirdest thing you do or have done for TPGA? The

most unusual thing that I do … is setting up and instructing the parking of all the large trucks and bobtails at the convention. I would definitely be considered the traffic cop at those events. Best way to reach you? By office

phone or email.

1991 The Texas Legislature creates a new division of the Texas propane check-off program – The Alternative Fuels Research and Education Division (AFRED). 1992 The Texas LP-Gas Association is renamed the Texas Propane Gas Association.

January 2017 •

Texas Propane

Featured Jackie Mason Regulatory & Senior Legislative Affairs Director Jackie’s responsibilities for the association include monitoring, tracking, reviewing and analyzing legislation; reviewing and analyzing local, state and federal regulations and standards; assisting with member compliance; and being the resident “grant sleuth”. She also assists with communications for the association; assists in the administration of the scholarship program; scholarship marketing and fundraising; assists with member relations and recruitment; and assists with events. “We all wear multiple hats and we fill in where we see something that needs to be done,” Jackie said. Jackie, who holds a BA in government from UT-Austin, got her start in college working for the Texas Senate and then interning for now-Congressman John Carter. She started with TPGA as a legislative assistant, monitoring legislation for the association. Jackie has been married since 2009 to Michael. The two have a son, two-and-ahalf-year-old Colin David. Where are you from? Richardson,

Texas

What did you want to be when you grew up? My mom wanted me to

be a lawyer or doctor. Picking apart regs

fulfills that once aspiring lawyer part of me. When did you start with TPGA?

June 2002 Why do you love your job? I love our

membership. They’re the salt of the earth. It’s a close-knit family. I love the versatility of my work day. What are you most proud of about working with TPGA? I’m

proud of all that has been accomplished. We’ve really made a lot of headway with some of the laws we’ve passed, and with initiatives with cities. We have a good relationship with the Railroad Commission. We make sure membership isn’t negatively impacted by capricious rules from cities or other agencies. We’ve done a really good job with communication.

Why should you be a member? It’s a way to stay in the know. People have businesses to run. They rely on us to be their eyes and ears on all things legislative & regulatory. Members can stay in formed each our weekly Monday Morning Messenger & TPGA Member Only Monthly Newsletter and they have access to regulatory & technical expertise.

Best way to reach you? Office phone.

Have a Question?

Jackie is proud of the member benefits the association offers, including the scholarship program, which has given nearly $85,000 to members’ and their employees’ children and grandchildren. The scholarship opens up this year on Feb. 16. “With the high cost of education, that is just one way to pay for college.”

2007 TPGA passes pertinent legislation to further limit propane marketers liability. 2011 TPGA passes monumental legislation that alleviates regulatory burdens that marketers still use today. 2016 TPGA secures an attorney general opinion that strengthens previous propane legislation passed in 2011, allowing marketers to more easily do business in Texas.

k Grant Haw

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

1-800-325-7427 Bill Van Hoy bvanhoy@txpropane.com Debbie Simpson dsimpson@txpropane.com Page Van Hoy pvanhoy@txpropane.com Jackie Mason jmason@txpropane.com

Featured

Texas Propane Historical Library Preserving Propane History for Posterity

Texas’ propane and association’s past is preserved through a historical library and museum in the making. The historical library includes archived association magazines dating as far back as the first in 1944, photos, trinkets, memorabilia and propane-powered devices. In 2013, TPGA Executive Director Bill Van Hoy realized there was a need to preserve the history of the Texas propane industry and made huge strides to safeguard and expand Texas propane history. Van Hoy has collected numerous items including a propane-powered iron, lantern, heater, and collector LG-gas tractors. NPGA propane consumer ads from the 1950s and 1960s blanket the walls along with other historical photos. Perhaps one of the most interesting items Van Hoy has been gifted as a temporary lone item is a tiny pocket booklet from July 1, 1962, with the regulations from that time. “Lot more rules now,” he says. “Rules don’t go away; they just keep growing. In all, he has collected 40-50 items, not including publications. But he is always looking for more items to contribute to the preservation project. “As I travel around, occasionally I ask marketers if they have anything to contribute. I would like to spread the word through this article, and get people to be more proactive and rummage around for older items,” Van Hoy says. Let him know if you find any items you think are worth preserving.

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Safety Talk

Safe Driving Practices Safety Meeting Guide

Safe driving practices are a must for propane delivery drivers. Since your vehicle is larger and heavier than most other on-road vehicles — and you have a higher center of gravity — you need to know how to maintain vehicle control; drive safely; and manage accidents, breakdowns, or emergencies quickly. DEFENSIVE DRIVING TIPS: 3 B efore setting out, note any issues with your route, surrounding

area, or weather conditions.

3 Schedule appointments with these in mind. 3 Keep a safe following distance between you and the vehicle in

front of you.

3 Understand how to accommodate load and suspension shifts

and manage skids.

3 Check your blind spots often, keep your eye on other drivers

by using your mirrors, and use your lights or horn as needed to make other drivers aware of your presence. 3 Keep your vehicle well serviced to ensure proper tire pressure and condition. BE COGNIZANT OF ROAD CONDITIONS:

Adverse weather and road conditions can be especially hazardous. Be alert and cautious as you manage your vehicle. When driving in poor conditions, remember to: 3 Clean the vehicle’s windows before heading out, and use your wipers and defroster as needed. 3 Turn on your headlights and marker lights. 3 Reduce speed, increase your following distance between vehicles, and pay close attention to othermotorists.

3 Distribute the weight of cargo evenly. 3 Monitor tire pressure and condition. Excessive wear or im-

proper inflation can increase risk. In the case of a blowout, steer your vehicle in a straight line, then reduce power and gradually brake as you steer out of traffic lanes. 3 Regain control of the vehicle before making any change in direction or speed. Regain control of the vehicle before reducing speed, and then apply controlled braking. If possible, gradually maneuver completely off the road and onto the shoulder. 3 Compensate for blind spots. Larger vehicle size and higher center of gravity result in blind spots to the sides and rear. Check mirrors frequently, use turn signals, and maintain proper lane location. Consider blind spots whenever backing the vehicle to ensure your cylinder deliv-ery vehicle or bobtail will not strike anything. Discussion Topics

1. I nclement weather is creating hazardous conditions in transit to a customer site. How should you handle this situation? 2. What should you do in the event of a tire blowout? LEARNING ACTIVITY

Review the various sources available to propane drivers for gaining information on road and weather conditions. Discuss situations where it is safe to proceed to the next job site versus those that are not.

ADDITIONAL WAYS TO REDUCE RISKS:

Combined with a high center of gravity, liquid surges and suspension shifts can cause changes in vehicle performance or loss of vehicle control, which could result in a rollover. To reduce risks:

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

For more information on safe driving practices, visit propanesafety.com. Source: Propane Delivery Operations and Cylinder Delivery (PERC)

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Texas Propane

Legal Beat

Summary Judgment Granted in Lawsuit Alleging Failure to Warn, Odor Fade and Gas Detector Claims By Kathryn A. Regier started in the Elliotts’ bedroom near a propane heater. The fire spread to the ceiling, and forced the Elliotts to evacuate the home with their grandson and infant granddaughter. As the family tried to escape through the front door, the home exploded killing Joe Elliott and injuring Alma Elliott and the two grandchildren. Based on initial indications after the incident, the Elliotts’ home had high levels of either propane or natural gas throughout it when the fire started. However, neither Mrs. Elliott nor her grandson remembered smelling propane or natural gas before the explosion.

The Mississippi Supreme Court affirmed summary judgment for two defendants and reversed the circuit court’s denial of summary judgment as to a third defendant in a residential gas explosion case arising out of an incident which resulted in one death and serious injuries to three others, including two children. In the Elliot v El Paso Corp. et al. case discussed below, the Court analyzed plaintiffs’ claim that the defendants had a duty to warn about odorant fade and the

alleged need for in-home gas detectors. Ultimately, the claims were dismissed against the pipeline company, as well as the claims against the manufacturer and seller of the odorant added to the gas.

The Incident Joe and Alma Elliott had a propane tank on their property which fueled heaters throughout their residence in Holly Springs, Mississippi. On April 8, 2008, a fire

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Incident Background and Investigation The morning after the explosion, investigators saw gas bubbling out of a crack in the street about 60 to 70 feet away from the Elliott home. The Holly Springs Utility Department “maintained an odorized natural gas distribution pipeline” running underneath the street in front of the Elliotts’ home. The city’s utility department received unodorized natural gas through an interstate natural gas pipeline network operated by Tennessee Gas Pipeline (“TGP”) at a transfer point on the outskirts of the city. The Holly Springs Utility Department added the odorant, Scentinal S-20, where the natural gas is transferred into the city’s distribution pipeline. The odorant was manufactured by Chevron Phillips Chemical Company (“Chevron Phillips”), and sold to Holly Springs by a distributor, Tri-State Meter and Regulator Service (“Tri-State”). The Utility Department determined that a natural gas main under the street in front of the Elliott house had fractured. Further testing showed the soil in the Elliotts’ front yard was saturated with natural gas. Experts retained by the Elliott family theorized that (1) the explosion was caused by natural gas migrating through the soil and into

the home and (2) the odorant added to the natural gas had been stripped from the gas as it migrated through the soil, resulting in odorant fade. The Court provided an apt description of its view of the incident and investigation as follows: A city pipeline buried beneath a road leaked odorless natural gas which infiltrated a nearby home, causing an explosion. Residents—who were not natural gas customers—alleged that the natural gas lacked its distinctive rotten egg smell, and that the odorant that is designed to provide the warning odor was defective because it faded.

The Lawsuit The Elliotts sued the City of Holly Springs’ Utility Department; TGP and its parent company El Paso Corporation; Chevron Phillips and Tri-State. The plaintiffs resolved their claims against Holly Springs early on in the litigation. The claims left to be litigated were the negligence, strict liability and products liability claims against TGP, Tri-State and Chevron Phillips. The Elliotts’ propane supplier also was joined as a defendant in the plaintiffs’ Fifth Amended Complaint but per the Court, the Elliotts “freely admitted” the propane supplier was added to avoid an “empty chair defense,” i.e. to thwart a defense tactic at trial where defendants attempt to convince the jury to allocate or shift fault for an injury to a third party absent from the lawsuit. The Elliotts asserted in their lawsuit that all the defendants had a duty to warn the public about the alleged dangers of odorant fade and the alleged need for the public to use in-home gas detectors. They claimed natural gas was defective without properly installed gas detectors to act as a warning device if the odorant was absent or undetectable by smell. As indicated above, the defendants filed motions for summary judgment and the circuit court granted the motions of Chevron Phillips and TGP, but denied Tri-State’s motion. The Elliotts and Tri-State appealed the decisions to the Mississippi Supreme Court. The Mississippi Supreme Court’s Analysis and Decision 1. Duty to Warn

The Mississippi Supreme Court determined TGP, as an interstate transmission pipeline company, had no duty to warn the public about odorant fade and the alleged

need for gas detectors. The Court noted under 49 U.S.C. Section 60116, the owner or operator of a pipeline facility must have a public education program in place which encourages the public to ‘call before you dig’

and provides other advice about precautions to take in an emergency. However, “the statute does not require a pipeline transmission company to warn about the possibility of odorant fade or the availability of gas detec-

D.L.Morrison Welding & Construction L.P. MC 330 & 331 Transport & Bobtail Testing & Inspecting MC 330 & 331 Transport & Bobtail Repair & Re-furbish Storage Installation Compressor Repair 217 Morrison Hill Lane • Gainesville,Tx. 76240 Ricky Taylor 940-727-8608 • Mason Day 940-727-1355 Fax 940-612-2055 E-mail ricky_taylor62@yahoo.com January 2017 •

Texas Propane

tors.” The Court also pointed out that similarly, under 49 C.F.R. Section 192.616(a), a pipeline operator must provide public education, but a pipeline transmission company is not required to warn about odorant fade or the use of gas detectors. Additionally, the Court stated TGP did not own or maintain the natural gas main at issue nor did it sell or add odorant to the gas distributed by Holly Springs and even assuming a duty to warn, no evidence existed that TGP’s alleged breach of duty led to the harm - “TGP simply transported natural gas through a

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transmission pipe located several miles from Plaintiffs’ home to the utility department’s distribution pipeline.” The Court affirmed summary judgment in favor of TGP. 2. Defective Design Claim

Plaintiffs asserted the odorant used in the gas was defectively designed but the Court determined plaintiffs failed to provide evidence of a feasible alternative design which could have prevented the harm. The Court also rejected plaintiffs’ design defect claim because they had not offered expert testimony as to an alternative chemical makeup for the odorant, but instead asserted the alternative design would be to require the public to use gas detectors. The Court stated plaintiffs’ premise was not an alternative design for the odorant product, but instead was a supplemental warning system. The Court also noted plaintiffs’ expert testified that a different odorant would not have made a difference and the odorant in question was a good one. 3. Product Liability Claims

The Court addressed plaintiffs’ product liability warning claims against all the defendants. The Court noted under Mississippi product liability law, a plaintiff must show by a preponderance of the evidence that when the product (here, the odorant) left the manufacturer or seller’s control the manufacturer or seller knew, or should have known, about the potential danger and that the ordinary user or consumer would not realize the danger associated with the product. Although the Court agreed with the Elliotts that Chevron Phillips (the manufacturer) and Tri-State (the seller) both knew about odorant fade, the Court determined the plaintiffs had failed to provide any evidence that Holly Springs (the product user or consumer) was unaware of the possibility of odorant fade. Significantly, the Court pointed out ordinary users and consumers of gas odorant products are utility and pipeline companies and not the general public. The Court expressly stated “even more importantly, it is undisputed that the Elliotts were not ‘ordinary users or consumers’ of natural gas.” Therefore, the Court affirmed summary judgment for Chevron Phillips and reversed the denial of summary judgment to Tri-State. 4. Other Points

The Court also noted plaintiffs’ punitive

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

damages claim failed as a matter of law because the underlying claims for compensatory damages were not viable. In essence, the Court determined summary judgment was warranted as to all of plaintiffs’ claims against the remaining defendants and dismissed the lawsuit. In a footnote to the decision, the Court stated it was unfortunate the Elliotts did not have the benefit of a clarification to Mississippi law as to discretionary-function immunity for cities and other governmental entities when they settled their claims against the Holly Springs Utility Department. Notably too, three months after the decision discussed above was issued, the Court denied plaintiffs’ motion for a rehearing.

“

Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence. – John Adams

“

The opinion discussed above outlines multiple potential issues facing companies involved in the distribution chain of providing propane and natural gas to consumers in the context of product liability claims involving odorants, warnings and gas detectors. However, the Court also pointed out on multiple levels that plaintiffs had not met their burden of proof as far as facts and evidence in support of their claims, which brings to mind the following quote: “Facts are stubborn things; and whatever may be our wishes, our inclinations, or the dictates of our passion, they cannot alter the state of facts and evidence.” – John Adams Kathryn A. (“Katy”) Regier is a shareholder in the law firm of Schlee, McMullen, McCarthy & Hansen, P.C., in Kansas City, Missouri. She can be contacted through her email address: kregier@schleelaw.com.

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Inside the Industry

People in Propane AmeriGas has appointed Paige O’Dell to serve as one of its operations vice presidents. In this position, she will be responsible for AmeriGas’ operations in the central US, overseeing safety performance, profit, growth and distribution. She has worked for AmeriGas for 23 years in various positions. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of the following: Charles Bethel of Snyder passed away on November 29, 2016. He was the owner of Propane Performance and worked alongside his dad at Bethel Oil. He was an active member of the Texas Propane Gas Association previously serving as District 13 Director on our Board of Directors. A great career accomplishment was building the fastest propane drag boat in the world. James L. Hanak, Sr., 82, of Columbus, passed away on December 12, 2016. Mr. Hanak returned to Columbus from overseas in 1975 to continue the family business, Columbus Butane. He retired in 1997.

Leslie Howard Armstrong, father of Mike Armstrong of Gas Equipment Company passed away in December 2016. Mr. Armstrong worked for Universal Gas in Devine and Lufkin from 1977 to 1986, and retired from Ferrellgas in 1991.

Masterbuilt Recalls LP Gas Smokers These smokers were sold as Masterbuilt and Cabela’s brands 7-in-1 gas smokers. Masterbuilt has received five reports of the PVC gas hose becoming disconnected during use, including one report of property damage from a fire. There have been no reports of injuries. These smokers were sold at Army, Air Force Exchange, Cabela’s, Gander Mountain and other stores nationwide and online at www.amazon.com from April 2011 to October 2016. Masterbuilt will replace the rubber gas hose free. Contact Masterbuilt at 800-489-1581 or online at www.masterbuilt.com and click on Support then choose Contact on the upper right hand corner of the page for more information.

The 2nd Annual LPG Charity Fund Mixer

how you or someone you know can apply in times of need. The LPG Charity Fund would like to invite everyone in the LPG industry from logistics to marketing, from IT to trading, from brokers to back office support, to attend an evening of complimentary appetizers, great drink specials and amazing raffle prizes. Visit http://www.lpgfund.com for more information or feel free to contact Ben Scriber at bscriber@opisnet.com or (832) 679-7224.

40 Hr. Propane Emergencies Course: March 6-10 On March 6-10, 2017, Texas A&M University’s Engineering Extension Service (TEEX)’s will hold a 40-hour Propane Emergencies Training at the Brayton Training Field in College Station as part of its Annual Spring School. This course is directed toward emergency responders, plant fire brigades, propane marketers and personnel, law enforcement, incident commanders, hazardous material responders, and propane companies. Topics include: recognition of various LP gas tanks and equipment, damage assessment, handling liquid and vapor gas propane leaks, propane truck rollover incident and uprighting, pullaway accidents, railroad car accident and transport fires. Class size is limited. Register at https:// teex.org/. Have questions? Please contact Harvie Cheshire at (866)878-8900 or esti@teex. tamu.edu. National Scholarship Available to NPGA Members’ Employees’ Children

Ring in another year of giving with your colleagues! Make plans now for the 2nd Annual LPG Charity Fund Mixer on Tuesday January 10, 2017 at the Kirby Ice House in Houston, TX! The 2nd Annual LPG Charity Fund Annual Mixer has been organized to inform, educate and make aware all individuals that impact the LPG industry exactly what the LPG Charity Fund’s mission is, how we all as an industry are helping our own and

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

February 15, 2017 is the deadline to apply for the National Propane Gas Association Foundation (NPGF) Scholarship. Did you know if the applicant is from Texas, their parent is an employee of a TPGA member company and completes an NPGF Scholarship Application, they are automatically entered into the TPGA Scholarship Competition? NPGA members’ children can go online to www.npga.org to complete a scholarship application.

Inside the Industry If you or your employees have questions about the NPGA Scholarship, please contact Joanne Casey at 202-355-1328 or at jcasey@npga.org.

Auto Manufacturer GM Expanding Propane Autogas Options

Chevrolet and GMC announced in November that they are partnering with Power Solutions International, Inc. (PSI) to introduce heavy-duty pickups and full-size vans powered by 6.0-liter V-8 compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)-capable engines starting in the first quarter of 2017. Chevrolet also

LPG Models Chevrolet Express Cargo Express Passenger Express Cutaway Silverado HD Low Cab Forward 3500 and 4500 GMC Savana Cargo Savana Passenger Savana Cutaway Sierra HD will offer CNG and LPG versions of its new Low Cab Forward commercial truck. The announcement follows the selection of PSI, based in Wood Dale, Illinois, as General Motors Fleet’s preferred upfitter for CNG and LPG trucks. PSI is one of North America’s largest and most experienced providers of integrated turnkey alternative-fuel powertrain solutions. Ship-through will be offered, allowing customers to seamlessly order and take

delivery from the same dealer. GM will supply vehicles equipped with the 6.0L V-8 engine with hardened valves and valve seats to PSI, which in turn will install the fuel system and other hardware and ship directly to Chevrolet and GMC dealers in all 50 states. All PSI-modified vehicles are covered by Chevrolet and GMC’s fiveyear/60,000-mile (whichever comes first) limited powertrain warranty. Also, in November, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced 55 routes that will serve as the basis for a national network of “alternative fuel” corridors spanning 35 states. Though the network is nearly 85,000 miles long, more miles will be added in the future to accommodate electric, hydrogen, propane and natural gas vehicles as additional fueling and charging stations are built. The FHWA is working with different organizations to post signage on these routes to help fleets find alt fuel locations. For more information about available alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, please visit GMFleet.com.

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Contact John S. Porter, CIC Mark D. VanDover, CIC Miles T. McFann

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Texas Propane

ProCOT Corner

2016: A Year in Review Your State PERC Dollars at Work In this month’s ProCOT Corner, the Propane Council of Texas takes a look back at last year’s projects.

Propane emergency responders & retailers trained

Over 165,000

Duty to Warn safety brochures mailed to Texas propane customers

For 10 years, the Propane Council of Texas has assisted Texas propane retailers in getting safety information to their customers through its annual Duty to Warn Safety Mailing Program. This program has the broadest reach of all the 2016 ProCOT programs. The reason it’s so popular? Jackie Mason, Education & Marketing Director, touts that ProCOT covers the large costs, the postage. A 1,000 piece mailing could cost a marketer nearly $500 in postage plus time and labor and the cost of the brochure. With the ProCOT program, the non-profit organization alleviates that cost burden. The 2016 program, which in ended in December, will commence again in late spring of 2017.

Nearly 75,000

newsletters distributed this last quarter The Propane Living newsletter is designed for the residential propane consumer and reminds current customers about important seasonal propane safety information, as well as all the exciting advantages of propane. ProCOT highlighted the versatility of propane and encouraged customers to expand their propane use into all as-

pects of the household. The newsletter is branded with participating propane marketers’ names and offered to marketers at a minimal cost. The program was renewed for 2017 and will offer a Spring, Fall and Winter newsletter.

Over 68,000 calendars distributed

Our longest running project is our Propane Consumer Safety Tip & Recipe Calendar. Safety months covered subjects like propane 101, propane safety checklist, a recipe for safer grilling, the importance of not running out of gas, residential tank basics, appliance maintenance, and what to do in case of a leak. In addition to safety, the 2016 calendar featured delicious recipes from Caramel Latte Pancakes to several mouthwatering grilling recipes. ProCOT offsets a portion of the costs of printing, as well as ships calendars at no cost.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

For the fifth year in a row, ProCOT held our very popular Propane Emergency Responders Conference for Texas firefighters and the propane industry at the world renowned TEEX Brayton Training Field. Both emergency responders and propane retailers received continuing education credit for the two-day course, and the event received high marks from the emergency response community.

2,460 gallons per vehicle 495gallons per mower

increased in Texas with 2016 on & off-road incentives awarded For the past seven years, the Propane Council of Texas has had an incentive program to increase the use of propanepowered on- and off-road equipment. Both programs give seed money so fleets and landscapers can upgrade to propane. It is the Council’s hope that demo units will encourage fleets and landscapers to further adopt propane into their companies. Incentive recipients hail from both rural and major metropolitan areas. (It’s not just for bad air quality areas.) Plus, in 2017, we have expanded the vehicle program to include public fleets like city, county, police, and school white fleet vehicles to be eligible for the incentive. The Propane Council of Texas looks forward to 2017. Stay tuned to the ProCOT Corner each month to stay on top of the latest programs and deadlines.

The Marketing Minute

5 Necessary Website Elements Customers Want

Your website is your business’ home on the internet. It’s like a digital storefront the place where people can do some window shopping before they decide if they’ll take a step necessary website elements inside to check out what you have to offer. To help them take that step inside, it’s important to give them exactly what they’re looking for. But that’s easier said than done. Here are five necessary website elements your customers want and why it’s important to give it to them: They want to know who you are in an interesting, compelling, and honest way. ‘But why does that matter?’ you might ask. Well, people like to connect with other people. It’s as simple and as complex as that. An ‘About’ page is a necessary website element that can do a lot for you, if it’s written in a way that will interest readers. Use storytelling techniques to show your customers who you are and how your business was created. Let them into your world and allow them to peek into the inner workings of your products if you are supplier or service for propane retailers. Tell them who you are and why they should care - and do it honestly. Every business owner has a story about how they got to where they are today. Your job is to tell it so that potential customers connect with you. They want to find out what you offer, quickly. A home page is the most important page on your website and should always give a couple of general sentences about your business and what it can offer potential customers. If you offer a call-to-action button with that text that leads them straight to a page

about your products (e.g. valves, trucks) or services (e.g. residential, autogas), they’re going to get into the details of exactly what they’re looking for much faster. If they can’t find what they seek, they’ll bow out and go somewhere else pretty quickly after all, attention spans are very short nowadays. They want to know how to contact you. A contact page is a must. It should have an email address and/or form so that a potential customer can make further inquiries, a phone number for more immediate needs, and an address so they can stop by. If you freely give out your location, it also lends you some credibility instead of a place that seems to only exist on the internet, you’ll show potential customers that you have a

storefront, and that they can stop by if and when they need to. They want to know if you are legitimate. Testimonials, case studies, awards the list goes on. Provide things that show your potential customers that you know what you’re doing, and you have the content to prove it. Create a testimonials slider at the bottom of the home page. If you show people that you’ve proven yourself in your field, they’re more likely to trust that you can provide what they need as well. They want you to guide them through to conversion. Calls-to-action are buttons, signs, or text that give your potential customer a clear understanding of what comes next. ‘Let’s talk’ will bring them to a page with a contact form where they can set up an appointment.“Pay my bill” will lead them to answer on where to send payment or even pay online if you offer that option. These five necessary website elements are only some of the things customers want, but they’re the most important. Copyright © 2016, The Maine Edge. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission. Modified from its original version.

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Texas Propane

Where in the World

U.K.’s Tiny House Using LPG to Serve Up Coffee

When stay-at-home parent Joe Marjoram in Leeds, England started envisioning

returning to work, the thought of office life didn’t sit well. So he created a new business,

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

one that was built upon his values of sustainability and eco-friendliness. In addition to building his own tiny house out of chemical free timber, he chose to outfit his traveling coffee shop with LPG, knowing that it was the most portable and safe fuel for his needs. He purchased a GreenGear generator from Calor. One cylinder alone can last him two full days of serving coffee non-stop. Tiny House Coffee, which travels to shows and special events, can serve up to 200 cups of coffee an hour. People come to Tiny House for coffee because of the story it tells and their interest in knowing more about its sustainability and efficiency. Joe has even received interest from other caterers in the LPG aspect, sparking a newfound enthusiasm for the application on LPG in catering.

Tell Us Something Good

Radio Station Receives Grant to Purchase Propane System, Backup Generators Wimberley Valley Radio will be able to purchase an emergency generator and propane system for its radio station and tower thanks to a $20,179 community development grant from the Lower Colorado River Authority and Pedernales Electric Cooperative. The emergency generators will help ensure the station can remain on air to provide critical information to the community during emergencies such as floods. As the only full-service, local interest, non-commercial radio station in the area, the station provides information to more than 5,000 households. “For the first time, residents of the Wimberley Valley will have access to vital information during states of emergency, even if TV and cell phone service has been interrupted,” said DuAnne Redus, treasurer of the Wimberley Valley Radio Board of Directors. “The recent wildfires in Tennessee have demonstrated how quickly and unexpectedly a community can find itself in need.” Wimberley Valley Radio was created after the deadly 2015 Memorial Day floods that struck the Wimberley area. The floods caused widespread interruption of internet, cell phone coverage, cable television and electricity, making it difficult for many in the area to receive timely emergency information. The station became fully operational in February 2016. The City of Wimberley has provided a matching contribution of $5,691. The community grant is awarded through LCRA’s Community Development Partnership Program, which provides economic development and community assistance grants to cities, counties, volunteer fire departments, regional development councils and other nonprofit organizations in LCRA’s electric and water service areas. The program is part of LCRA’s effort to give back to the communities it serves. Pedernales Electric Cooperative is one of LCRA’s wholesale electric customers and a partner in the grant program.

The Lower Colorado River Authority serves customers and communities throughout Texas by managing the lower Colorado River; generating and transmitting electric power; ensuring a clean, reli-

able water supply; and offering access to nature at more than 40parks, recreation areas and river access sites along the Texas Colorado River, from the Hill Country to the Gulf Coast.

A re Y ou

GAMBLING W ith your insurance? Other propane owners have come to our agency to cover their insurance bets: 1) Most tell us they have no idea what companies insure their industry and are surprised to learn there are multiple options available; 2) Many have discovered a gap in coverage after meeting with us; 3) Some have grown frustrated with the lack of timely response and personal service from their current agent. “We recommend Marshall Young Insurance to our business associates who are looking for a family style insurance company for their business needs. Whether by phone, email or in person – our concerns are always met with a prompt & courteous response. They are concerned with our service from the beginning to end.” — Jack Walzel

www.marshallyoung.com

MEMBER

MARSHALL YOUNG INSURANCE Protecting what matters most since 1965 401 N. Ridgeway Drive, Cleburne TX 76033 | 817-645-9155 January 2017 •

Texas Propane

Say

Cheese

Like detectives, TPGA Team dissecting state regs to determine if a member’s enforcement violation had merit.

Texas Propane magazine publication team members: Kiki Pantaze, Graphic Designer; Joanne Pantaze, Ad Sales; Debbie Simpson, Publication Coordinator; Kim Scheberle, Editor & Publisher; Jackie Mason, Education & Marketing; and Page Van Hoy, Controller, meet to discuss the 2017 magazine.

Stay in-touch with Texas Propane Gas Association!

Click Like on the Texas Propane Gas Association Page Check & balances. TPGA Secretary of the Board, Harris Baker reviews association payables with TPGA Executive Director, Bill Van Hoy.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

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January 2017 •

Texas Propane

Classifieds For Sale 3 – 6,000 Gallon Tanks, 250 WP. In Use.

Thinking of selling out? Thinking of buying a competitor? Thinking of opening a new location?

We have the resources and experience to make your thoughts a reality. 817-615-8393 • 800-267-9311 • www.alamocorporategroup.com

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PetroStar Equipment Resources Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks 5,000 gallons to 120,000 gallons FOR SALE (2) 60,000 gallons, 250 psi, Riley Beaird 45,000 gallon, 250 psi, Riley Beaird

RAILROAD COMMISSION APPROVED TRAINING 1.1 Introduction to Propane 2.1 Dispenser Operations— DOT/ASME Refueling 2.3 Bobtail Operations and Delivery Your place or mine.Call for pricing.

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SOUTHERN STAR INSURANCE AGENCY INC Founded in 1981 as INSURANCE ASSOCIATES OF TEXAS Cecil Joiner 1-800-545-2565 www.IAOTX.COM

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For Sale 2 Bobtail trucks. Both equipped with a 2400 gallon LPG tank, plumbing, meter, hose, and hose reel. Ford ’94 F700 Series truck. International ’85 S1900 Series truck. Located in El Dorado, Arkansas. Call for price. 870-863-3301

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Calendar January 2017 2 TPGA office closed

Index to Advertisers 29-31 NPGA Board Meeting San Antonio, TX

10-12 NAHB International Builders Show Orange County Convention Center Orlando, Fl.

February

12-13 Benchmarking Council (A-F) West Palm Beach, FL

15 NPGA Scholarship Deadline

19-20 Benchmarking Council (G-L) West Palm Beach, FL

9 PERC Council Meeting Dallas, TX

27-Mar 2 TPGA Board Meeting/ Propane Days Austin, TX

BAM Propane Consultants 17 BLT Tanks 19 Cunningham Gas Products 15 D. L. Morrison Welding 17 Gas Equipment Company 13 Insurors of Texas 23 Lone Star Energy Group 27 Longhorn Propane 28 Lumbermen’s Insurance Agency 21 Marshall Young Insurance 25 Meeder Equipment Co. Outside Back Cover Metsa Inc. 5 Pinnacle Propane Inside Front Cover Propane Service Corp. 18 Westmor Industries 27 White River Distributors 15

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE IN TEXAS PROPANE Magazine?

COMING Next Issue How You Can Utilize CETP in Texas?

For Advertising, contact: Joanne Pantaze at 512-273-2639 or by email at jpantaze@pvco.net

January 2017 •

Texas Propane

Propane With Purpose

Melt Ice with the Bare Blaster Propane Ice Torch

While Texans usually skip the brutal winter weather that Mother Nature can inflict on our northern shores, it doesn’t mean we don’t get a taste of winter. Most often that taste is in the form of ice, making our sidewalks and byways slippery. The Bare Blaster Propane Ice Torch can quickly melt that ice away, making for safer travel.

cylinder (not included), and uses either the 14 oz. or 26 oz. propane tanks which are available at most hardware stores. The Blaster has a full 31” reach so that you don’t have to stoop and crouch. The flame control is adjustable. As a bonus, you get year round use for summer weed control - just aim and blast them away!

It gets rid of black ice and hard packed snow an ice quickly and easily. The Bare Blaster is made of nickel plated steel and brass to withstand the elements. It weighs under 4 lbs., with the propane

For information about this product, visit www. bareground.com. You can purchase this item, or similar items, at most retail outlets. The ice torch is an affordable $25 to $35 retail.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

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- Propane Council of Texas