February 2019 Texas Propane magazine

TexasPropane February 2019

Volume 75 No. 2

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

HTTP vs. HTTPS: Why It Matters

PSC to Launch NEW E-Shopping Site PERC Relaunches Consolidated Propane.com Site, Rolls Out Propane Can Do That!

Consumer Marketing Campaign

Maintaining the Legacy You’ve Built

You have worked hard to build your business. Pinnacle Propane is committed to preserving your legacy.

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. We focus on providing local service to our customers and empowering our employees via competitive pay, a robust benefits package, and advancement opportunities.

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.

Bill Webb Senior Vice President Business Development 936-329-1440

Matt Terry Director Business Development 210-560-5418

Call us today for more information and a confidential assessment of your business.

About Pinnacle Propane: Pinnacle Propane is a leading propane distributor in the U.S. and is part of a global group of

LPG companies owned by SHV Energy, the largest dedicated global LPG distributor. Pinnacle Propaneʼs operations include bulk gas storage and delivery, cylinder filling and distribution, and community gas systems. Learn more at www.pinnaclepropane.com.

TexasPropane February 2019

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

Features PSC to Launch NEW E-Shopping Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Propane Service Corporation

Propane.com: Find Everything Under One Roof at Improved, Consolidated PERC Site & Relaunched PERC Catalog. . . . . . . 10

Debbie Simpson 800-392-0023 dsimpson@txpropane.com

Propane Can Do That! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Publisher

HTTP vs. HTTPS: Why It Matters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Kim Scheberle Account Manager/Managing Editor Sail House Publishing 512-346-0892 kscheberle@austin.rr.com

PERC Launches New Digitally Focused Campaign

How to Protect Your Computer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Departments

Joanne Pantaze Advertising Sales 512-273-2639 jpantaze@pvco.net

Highlights from Headquarters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Kiki Pantaze Art Director 512-924-7566 kpantaze@pvco.net

Autogas News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

TPGA Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 People in Propane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Inside the Industry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Classified Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Propane with Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Highlights from Headquarters

Propane Service Corp to Launch E-Commerce Website Bill Van Hoy TPGA Executive Director For almost the past year, TPGA and PSC staff have been busy working with developers to transform the PSC website into an e-commerce site set to launch in the first quarter of 2019. The goal is to make your online PSC purchasing experience the easiest and best it can be. The issue’s feature story on page 6 goes into more detail about the new website.

With this e-commerce site you will be able to order what you need, when its convenient for you, and you will be able to request a quote for custom or promotional items. The old tried-and-true methods of

ordering (email, phone, fax) won’t be disappearing – you can still place your orders those ways if you prefer. All orders will follow the new Shipping Policy: orders received by 3:00pm CST, Monday-Friday (excluding holidays), will receive same day processing. Otherwise your order will be processed on the next business day.

TPGA and Association members will receive substantial member discounts through the website once the customer has registered and their membership status has been verified by staff. FREE Shipping will be offered to all customers (members and non-members).

And remember, any time you have a question about a product or need assistance with an order, pick up the phone and call PSC.

New Member

Supplier DRAGON PRODUCTS Beaumont, TX AFFILIATE Morton Lumber Borger, TX

2019 CROSSROADS SPONSORS Golf Tournament Targa Resources Expo Lounge PERC Lanyards Keyera Energy

AFFINITY PARTNERS BASYS • Lone Star Energy Group

2018-2019 TPGA Board of Directors President: Jack Walzel, Tri-Co Propane, 254-642-3885 President Elect: Mark Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946 Secretary: Harris Baker, HBH Systems, 512-587-8347 Treasurer/Finance Chair: Josh McAdams, McAdams Propane, 936-598-7444 District 1 Director: David Collett, Gas and Supply, 903-780-2488 District 1 Alternate: Open 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: Open District 4 Director: Danny Meyers, Bellville Butane 979-865-2698 District 4 Alternate: Matt Peterson, Buster Brown Propane, 281-689-3946 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: Rodney Sladek, Fayetteville Propane, 979-836-7044 District 8 Alternate: Open 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: Chad Gregg, Enderby Gas, 940-482-3225 District 11 Director: Steve Adams, Hardwick LPG, 254-647-3402 District 11 Alternate: Open District 12 Director: Laci Jo Stone, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109 District 12 Alternate: Open District 13 Director: Open

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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 Walter, Schneider Distributing, 800-901-9109 Past President: Ben Wood, Northwest Propane, 972-247-6121 Past President: John Kelly, Kelly Propane, 940-586-1208 Past President: Todd Dorris, Roadrunner Energy, 830-278-5317 Vice President: Allen Wells, Baygas, Bay Gas, 281-332-2630 Vice President: Matt Terry, SHV-Pinnacle Propane, 210-560-5418 Vice President: Larry Baty, Cadenhead Servis Gas, 800-722-8654 Sr. Vice President: Don Heinrich, Slaton Gas, 806-828-6501 Sr. Vice President: Bill Collins, Collins Propane, 972-442-1078 Sr. Vice President: Joe Green, Green’s Blue Flame Gas, 713-462-5414 Assoc. Supplier Service Director: Rusty Walker, Marshall Young Insurance, 817-645-9155 Assoc. Supplier Service Alternate: Don Hankins, Alamo Corporate Group, 817-615-8393 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Director: Jimmie Grant, Martin Gas Sales, 713-851-6155 Assoc. Producer/Marketing Gas Alternate: Anna May Etheredge, Bishop Energy, 940-665-4672 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Director: Mark Smith, Leran, 512-318-1840 Assoc. Manufacturer/Distributor Alternate: Jim Diehl, Squibb Taylor, 214-357-4591 Assoc. At Large Director: Tracy Wells, Gas Equipment Company, 214-638-8018 Assoc. At Large Director: J.R. Anderson, Gas Equipment Company, Nominating Chair: Todd Dorris, Roadrunner Energy, 830-278-5317 NPGA Director: Jim Bishop, Bishop Energy, 940-665-3457

SAVE the DATE

TPGA Propane Expo & Conference August 9 – 11, 2019 Corpus Christi, TX

CALLIE STEWART Marketing Representative o / 713.381.4586 m / 832.264.4775 CBStewart@eprod.com BRIAN WILKIN Senior Manager, Wholesale Propane o / 713.381.3923 m / 832.803.2304 BDWilkin@eprod.com

www.enterpriseproducts.com

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Featured

COMING SOON

PSC to launch New E-Shopping Site For more than 20 years, the Propane Service Corporation [PSC] – the products-provision arm of TPGA – has helped propane marketers around Texas and across the country comply with state and federal regulations, run their businesses efficiently, and advertise their companies with cost-effective custom promotional goods. From DOT compliance items to standard tank lease forms to company-logo’d calendars for customers, PSC supplies its customers with a broad spectrum of affordable solutions, delivered with helpful expertise and personalized service.

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Featured

February 2019 •

Texas Propane

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Featured

Now, PSC stands at the beginning of a new journey – into the world of e-commerce. Over the past near-year, TPGA staff has

been working to determine the best way to transform the PSC website into an interactive shopping site.

“We want to give our members and other propane businesses a quick and simple way to purchase what they need, when they need it,” says TPGA Executive Director Bill Van Hoy. “We selected the Shopify platform, which works well with other platforms, doesn’t require tons of coding or add-ons, is easy for staff to manage, and – most importantly – offers an always-open, one-stop shop for propane marketers.”

The whole PSC website – www.propaneservicecorp. com – will re-launch in the first quarter of 2019 as an allnew, e-shopping site; here’s what you need to know about this improved refresh of your favorite propane-supplies source:

How Association Members Will Receive Member Pricing on the PSC Website 1. Go to www.propaneservicecorp.com.

2. Click on the Login/Register button on the top right.

3. Click on Create an Account.

4. Enter your First Name, Last Name, Email and Password. Then Click Create.

5. You will be logged in and taken back to the home page.

6. Once staff have verified your membership status and set you as a PSC customer (member or non-member), you will receive an email that you have registered.

7. If you are an Association member, you will then receive member pricing on your orders.

Notes/Tips On your first time Registering, if you are an Association member, please wait until staff set you as a member to place your order. You must be set as a member in our system to receive member pricing.

Our website uses emails, not company names, to set members. Multiple staff members can use the same email to order, or each person will have to register separately with their email.

Some member customer emails have been pre-loaded into the site so that you will receive member pricing. We may not have all of your employee emails loaded, or if you are using a personal email to order, you will need to register those emails to receive member pricing.

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It will be the ultimate convenience for you.

The new and improved PSC site will offer 24/7 shopping availability, so you can order compliance materials or promotional items whenever you’re ready, without having to wait until regular business hours come around again. Orders submitted by 3:00 p.m.

CST, Monday-Friday excluding holidays, will have their orders processed the same day. Orders submitted after 3:00pm CST, or on weekends and holidays, will process the next business day. Customers will receive emails with order and shipping information so that they will know where their order is in the process.

You’ll also be able to request quotes for customized items (RIN decals, Property Of decals, etc.) or promotional items online, and PSC staff will follow up with you as soon as possible.

Featured It will feature all the same great products and goods.

“We’ll be re-launching with all the tried-and-true merchandise marketers have come to count on from PSC, the things they need every day,” confirms Van Hoy. “PSC prides itself on providing superior-quality products and backing up each item we sell with a guarantee, and all that will still hold true.”

It will offer deep member discounts and free shipping for all.

While the PSC website will continue to be open to the whole industry – members and nonmembers alike – members of TPGA or other state propane gas associations will receive some substantial discounts over nonmembers on products at PSC. Additionally, the new site will launch with FREE SHIPPING for everyone on every order, and multiple payment options.

The PSC e-commerce site will continue to offer: • State and Federal Required Materials • Compliance Decals and Signs for Storage Tanks, Bobtails, and Transports • Safety Signs and Decals • Safety Materials • Hazardous Materials Placards • Conversion and Installation Tags • Cylinder Requalification [RIN] Decals • Business Forms • Compliance Forms and Materials • Compliance Starter Package • Hardware and Compliance Support • Special and Custom Orders • Non-LPG Decals • Calendars and Promotional Items

It will require one-time member verification.

The first time you use the new PSC site, you will need to register and set up your account, including getting verification of your membership status in order to receive your member discount. “We’re working hard to make the process as fast and easy as possible,” assures Van Hoy. “Some members might have to wait until the following business day for staff to confirm their membership status, but once registered and verified, they’ll be able to make purchases instantaneously.”

Ordering options, fulfillment, and service will remain the same.

While propane marketers will be able to buy their PSC products on the internet, the traditional ways of ordering – by phone, fax, or email – will still be available. And while the purchase end of the transaction may be automated, the fulfillment end will be as personal as ever. “Our PSC lead, Debbie Simpson, will still be providing the same stellar service,” Van Hoy affirms, “ensuring orders are filled and shipped promptly. And customers can always

call us and talk with a human – that will never change.”

In addition to being a huge benefit for TPGA members, the new PSC e-commerce website will provide the association and its membership with a potentially money-saving, by-product: a growing source of income unrelated to dues.

“If we can expand this non-dues revenue stream enough, then it may be able to help us minimize member dues,” explains Van Hoy. “There’s a whole oil-and-gas industry out there, and they need to buy the same sorts of products from someone – why not PSC? If a supplier’s going to pop up on the computer screen in front of some guy who’s ordering stuff at 10 p.m., I hope it’s us.”

February 2019 •

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Featured

Propane.com

Find Everything Under One Roof at Improved, Consolidated PERC Site & Relaunched PERC Catalog

The Propane Education and Research Council (PERC) has recently pulled back the curtain on the newest iteration of www. propane.com. The current website is a BIG departure from what it was before. Today, the website is the one-stop shop for propane information, be it for the propane industry, consumers and the different markets like construction professionals, farmers, on and off-road.

Ingrid Bechard, Director of Market Communications for PERC, says that feedback on the site before the switch indicated that users had a tough time knowing which site to visit and where to find items they needed.

One Site

The three primary sites consolidated included propane.com, propanecouncil.org and buildwithpropane.com., and 10 total microsites like ResidentialMarketGrowth.com, were consolidated into the one site.

Now it’s all in one place. Marketers never have to remember where to visit to find something. “Feedback so far has been that it’s easier to find what they are looking for,” Bechard said. “Which is good. We worked really hard on the user experience.”

Propane Resource Catalog

The Propane Education & Research Council has re-launched

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the Propane Resource Catalog. PERC’s online shop where propane industry can find consumer safety educational materials, training resources as well as marketing assets for all facets of the industry from consumers to builders to farmers.

The catalog’s search capabilities are more defined and there are quicker download speeds for those who download or order any resources.

To fully take advantage of everything the new Propane. com has to offer, you’ll want to create a new user account.

You’ll need to do this even if you had an account previously and will be required if you want to download or order any products or resources.

In addition to a more efficient and user-friendly catalog, PERC has moved fulfillment providers and operations to the Lone Star State.

Help Desk

NEW to the site is a help desk. “If a marketer has a question, from where to find something, to how to pay for an assessment, they just fill out a basic form,” Bechard said. When they press send, someone in the PERC office is pinged. PERC’s goal is to respond via phone call or email in that same business day.

“I hope marketers will go and visit the site and explore,” Bechard said. “You do have to create an account to download assets, but it’s a quick and easy process.” She also hopes marketers don’t get shy with using the help desk if they need it. “Your feedback with help us continue to make improvements.”

What’s Next? Next year, PERC will add a Learning Management System (LMS) to Propane.com to stream and track workforce training like CETP and sales training.

Propane Can Do That Also, brand new to the site is PERC’s new digital campaign, Propane Can Do That. This campaign replaces the Blue campaign from a few years ago. (See the next story for details on all the assets in the new campaign available to marketers.)

Featured

Propane.com Has It All Commercial client information here, from ag uses, to school buses to mowers.

Send your Residential customers here! Info on building or remodeling with propane, along with grilling, outdoor living and standby generators.

All kinds of industry data here, including market outlooks & profiles, assessment resources, CETP learning and the PERC Help Desk!

Appeals to everyone! All products that use propane.

Check it out!

Purchase or download safety, training & marketing resources.

In addition to press releases from PERC, and news about propane printed elsewhere, you can sign up for PERC newsletters here.

February 2019 •

Great consumer safety info you can pass along.

Texas Propane

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Featured

Propane Can Do That!

PERC Launches New Residential Consumer Marketing Campaign Have you heard the news? The Propane Education & Research Council is launching a new residential consumer marketing campaign with the theme Propane Can Do That, to replace the Blue the Dog campaign. Now is a great opportunity for you to leverage the Propane Can Do That residential customer campaign for your business. To make it easier, a comprehensive suite of marketing materials was created for you to promote your business using the campaign messaging. campaign toolkit guide

Residential Homeowner

TOOLS TO MAKE YOUR MARKETING EVEN STRONGER

All Market

Digital Ads

Use these ads online to send customers to your website. One ad is directed at customers building a home or beginning a remodel, and one ad is for customers who may be adding or replacing an appliance.

You also have the option of customizing either ad with your logo to direct people to your business.

ONLINE Videos

Use these videos on your website and social media platforms to promote propane’s advantages. The general video explains how “Propane Can Do That” for all markets, and the other video is written for homeowners. While these may not be used on TV, you can use the TV commercials listed under “Broadcast” for that purpose.

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Featured BROADCAST

PRINT Print Ads

Place these print ads in magazines or other print media to reach customers. They’re appropriate for customers considering building or remodeling a home, and customers in the market to add or replace an appliance. Add your logo to customize the ad for your business.

Radio Ads

Use the 20-second radio ad to add a customized 10-second message advertising your business. Use the 10-second tag to promote your website, phone number, and any additional information customers would need to contact you. Work with your local radio stations for assistance creating your tag and getting the ad on air. If you don’t want to customize the radio spot, we also have a 30-second version that drives listeners to propane.com.

power more. save more. propane can do that

powering the american dream one tank at a time

If it’s about time to replace an appliance in your home, make it a worthwhile switch. With propane, you have a lot to gain from powering more of your home with this low-cost, clean fuel. No matter the appliance, propane operates more efficiently than electric, cutting your costs for years to come.

Ask us about the advantages of propane for your project, including easy installation options.

PROPANE.COM

Standard Full Page 8096-AD-18 Trim: 8" x 10.75" Bleed: 8.25" x 11" 4/C Swanson Russell

propane can do that

Local TV Commercial – Homeowner

Building a home. Raising a family. Living on your own terms. The American dream is different for everyone. But for more and more homes across the country, those dreams are powered by propane. Clean, efficient, and able to work anywhere, propane is the can-do fuel that brings you one step closer to your dream home.

Ask us about the advantages of propane for your new construction or remodel project.

PROPANE.COM

Standard Full Page 8094-AD-18 Trim: 8" x 10.75" Bleed: 8.25" x 11" 4/C Swanson Russell

This 20-second ad covers the benefits of propane for homeowners. You may add a 10-second customized tag to the end advertising your business. The visuals include scenes of families at home enjoying the comforts of propane appliances. Work with your local TV stations for assistance creating your tag and getting the ad on air.

Where Will the Ads Run? The national digitally focused marketing campaign will use a variety of different sites, vendors, and placements to reach the target audience of current and potential propane residential customers who are building a new home, remodeling their current home, or are searching for information on home appliances.

Paid search ads for appliance-specific messages will be served to users who input specific keywords into an online search. For example, if a user is searching for water heaters, an ad from PERC promoting the benefits of propane water heaters will show up on their screen to direct them to propane.com to learn more.

Instead of purchasing ads on specific websites (for example HomeDepot.com), PERC will serve ads through Programmatic advertising vendors — these vendors are able to take PERC’s target audience (people building or remodeling homes in propane zip codes) and place digital ads on sites that they’re already searching on (for example HomeDepot.com could receive ads along with multiple other sites). This better allows PERC to speak with the right people, in the right places, at the right time.

Ads will appear on sites where homeowners are searching for home plans: Eplans.com, DreamHomeSource.com, HousePlans.com, FloorPlans.com, and BuilderHousePlans.com.

Ads will additionally appear on Facebook, YouTube, and Weather.com.

PERC will utilize remarketing to reconnect with users who visit propane.com but don’t take action

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Featured Local TV Commercial – All-Market

Door Hangers

This is a 20-second ad that covers the benefits of propane for residential, commercial landscape and golf, agriculture, fleet, and material handling customers. You may add a 10-second customized tag to the end advertising your business. It includes visuals from all of the markets above.

Work with your local TV stations for assistance creating your tag and getting the ad on air.

Leave behind a message of comfort with this door hanger. It explains to customers that propane provides better comfort, and lists the different appliances they could be powering with propane. It includes space for your logo to promote your business. Choose between the door hanger written for customers who are building a home, or the one for customers who may be adding or replacing an appliance.

Place it in magazines or newspapers to reach more people. Add your logo to customize the ad for your business.

COLLATERAL Postcards

Add your logo and make a house contact information to a home the customizable area propane can do that and send this mailer to customers about to undertake a new home build or remodel, or those who may be adding or replacing an appliance. The postcard includes a list of all the home appliances that can be powered with propane.

Postcard 8100-MA-18 Trim: 6" x 4.25" Bleed: 6.25" x 4.5" 4/C Swanson Russell

COME HOME TO BETTER COMFORT PROPANE CAN DO THAT Let us help you add propane appliances to your new build or home project.

HOME HEATING | WATER HEATING | FIREPLACES CLOTHES DRYING | COOKING | OUTDOOR LIVING

8097-DH-18

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Bill Stuffers

Include this piece with POWERING THE AMERICAN DREAM customer bills to remind them that propane could increase their comfort year-round. It includes space for your logo to promote your business. One version is targeted at customers building a home, and one is for customers adding or replacing an appliance.

PROPANE CAN DO THAT

If you’re kicking off a new build or remodeling project, we want to help. Let’s talk about how propane can give you the comfort you’ve been dreaming of.

HOME HEATING | WATER HEATING | FIREPLACES CLOTHES DRYING | COOKING | OUTDOOR LIVING

Bill Stuffer 8099-MA-18 Trim: 9.25" x 3.875" Bleed: 9.5" x 4.125" 4/C Swanson Russell

Action Steps Using the marketing pieces listed here is a strong first step to leveraging the campaign for your business. But don’t forget these other important to-dos. To get the most out of this PERC campaign, begin your journey at www.propane.com.

1. Check the schedule, make a budget.

Below is the basic schedule of PERC’s national Propane Can Do That campaign for residential customers, which will promote different appliance types depending on the season. Reference it to determine what your key messages as a business will be for 2019, which audiences you want to reach, and how much budget you want to devote to each message. This is only the schedule for the first part of 2019; look for details about the continuation of the campaign as the year progresses.

2019 Schedule General Awareness Water Heating Home Heating Cooking Generators Outdoor Living

January-July February-July February-March February-July April-July April-July

2. Download your residential opportunity insights report.

This report will help you understand the residential customers in your market, provides building and media consumption data, and even showcases local builders that are building with propane. Use the report to determine customers that would be receptive to ad messages about building and remodeling homes.

3. Attend a webinar.

As a follow-up to the Can-Do Conference, PERC will be hosting a series of webinars on different marketing topics throughout 2019.

Keep an eye on your email inbox for details on how to register for a webinar.

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Featured

Brochure

IN-STORE

This is a tri-fold brochure you can hand out to customers to help them learn more about what makes propane a great fuel for the home. It covers propane’s benefits, from more savings to better comfort, as well as explanations of different propane appliance options.

ONE TANK. ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.

Window Clings

Available in a variety of headline options, these are made to be easily attached to your storefront windows to catch customers’ attention.

propane can do that

PROPANE.COM

Counter Mat

A conversation starter that can help you talk to a customer about the benefits of adding more propane to their home.

WATER HEATERS

COME HOME TO BETTER COMFORT

Switch out your electric or heating oil storage

8105-OT-18

tank water heater for a propane model, and you

Not sure where to begin when adding propane appliances in

could save up to 16 percent on your energy bills.

your home? Talk to your local supplier about easy installation

Want hot water on demand, and a lot of it? Go

options, and which appliances fit your needs. Whatever you

for a propane tankless model, a small unit that

choose, when you want reliable performance from the front

hangs on the wall and can supply hot water for

door to the back patio…

powering the american dream one tank at a time

multiple uses simultaneously.

PROPANE CAN DO THAT

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RANGES AND OVENS Your kitchen is the spot where everyone gathers.

Give it the upgrade you want with propane appliances. Many homeowners choose gas cooking appliances for unique features like precise temperature control and instant-on burners. Even if you’re short on space, you can

PROPANE CAN DO THAT

opt for a range that combines a cooktop and oven for high performance in a compact size.

STANDBY GENERATORS Power outages happen. Adding a propane standby generator gives you peace of mind

Counter Sign

that your home can keep running as normal, no matter what. And unlike gasoline and diesel, propane doesn’t degrade over time, making it an ideal standby fuel.

A reminder for customers about why they should add more propane appliances to their home for better comfort.

OUTDOOR AMENITIES Don’t stop at the propane grill. Complete your dream patio with propane firepits, heaters, and lighting. And if you’ve got a pool, propane can power the heater for it, too. There’s no reason that fun has to end when the sun goes down.

POWER MORE. SAVE MORE.

CLOTHES DRYERS Give your clothes, and your iron, a break. Propane clothes dryers are gentler on clothing, because they deliver warm air that has more moisture than electric models. You’ll notice fewer wrinkles in clothes — while the efficient performance of

propane can do that

propane dries them faster.

Ask us how adding more propane appliances to your home can boost your comfort and cut your energy bills.

propane appliances for the home 8107-BR-18

8108-OT-18

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5.625"

5.6875"

5.6875"

The Propane Council of Texas will also look at ways to complement the campaign. One way they are already doing that is through their social media efforts. Like & follow them on their Propane Can Do That Texas consumer facing Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ PropaneCanDoThatTexas.

YOUR BOBTAIL

HEADQUARTERS White River Distributors, Inc. has loyaly served Texas since 1949. White River is an active and responsive force in the Texas propane industery. We have tanks 600 to 8000 gallons, your choice of chassis. White River can customize your bobtail to your specifications. New, used, and refurbished propane bobtails, change-overs, and repairs. Financing available.

69 Y e Fabr ars of T a icati on fo nk Truck r Tex as

REFINED FUEL TANK WAGONS • PROPANE BOBTAILS VACUUM TANKS • WATER TRUCKS • OIL/WATER SEPARATORS • FRAC SAND Contact

Danny McElroy at the Southwest Sales Center • Dallas, Texas

www.lpgbobtails.com

“Class was above & beyond my expectations.”

1-800-483-9971 • 214-326-8661 cell danmcelroy@aol.com Kayla Buch, Cuero VFD February 2019 •

Texas Propane

15

Safety Talk

Basic Fire Prevention Rules and Procedures Safety Meeting 3 Report any leak to your supervisor immediately.

STEPS TO FOLLOW WHEN A FIRE OCCURS:

Because propane is flammable, everyone involved in its handling must know and follow fire prevention and containment rules at all times. Your knowledge will help protect against property damage and ensure the safety of you and your customers.

RULES TO FOLLOW WHEN WORKING WITH PROPANE: 3 Observe all fire prevention signs posted at the plant and

warnings marked on containers with flammable material.

3 Note the location of emergency shutdown controls and fire extinguishers at the plant and on the truck.

3 Never block access to fire control equipment, including fire alarms, fire extinguishers, sliding fire doors, fire escapes, and sprinklers.

3 Know how to use the fire extinguishers and inspect them frequently to verify they are properly sized, properly rated, and fully charged.

3 Keep all ignition sources — including cigarettes and open flames — away from propane transfer areas. Never turn on or off any electrical switch in the area of a propane discharge. If power must be turned off to avoid a fire, turn it off from the circuit breaker in another location not affected by the discharge.

3 Know the telephone number of the local fire department.

16

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

In the unlikely event of a fire or an uncontrolled propane leak, remain calm and take the following steps, if it is safe to do so.

3 If there is an emergency shutdown device, activate it.

3 Immediately eliminate any sources of ignition.

3 Evacuate the immediate area, contact the fire department, and do not re-enter until it has been determined safe. Move and stay upwind of a propane leak, fire, or vapor cloud.

3 Shut off the electrical power at the main power source.

3 If the fire involves a propane delivery vehicle on a highway, block off the roadway at least 2,500 feet in both directions from the accident.

3 Contact your supervisor from a safe location. Do not approach the fire.

3 Evacuate the area and wait for fire fighters to arrive.

Discussion Topics 1. How do you verify your plant’s extinguishers are fully charged?

2. There is a fire at the plant and you left the area but realize you did not activate the emergency shutdown device. What should you do?

LEARNING ACTIVITY Set up a situation with potential hazards (incorrect signs, missing fire extinguishers, etc.). Have participants identify problems and discuss what may occur if these issues are not remedied.

Source: Propane Delivery Operations and Cylinder Delivery (PERC) For more information on fire prevention rules and procedures, visit propane.com.

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 to get a quote or call Curtis Heptner, Master Agent H (940) 397-2771 H Curtis@certessentials.com

FEATURING SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS FOR LP GAS DEALERS

• Worker’s Compensation • General Liability • Business Auto Insurance • Property • Commercial Umbrella

Building and Maintaining Confidence in the Insurance Industry since 1949

Member

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

1305 South First Street • Lufkin, Texas (936) 634-3326 • 1-800-223-1289 Emails: john.porter@lumbermen.net • mark.vandover@lumbermen.net mmcfann@austin.rr.com • www.lumbermen.net

February 2019 •

Texas Propane

17

Business Beat

Is Your Website Secure?

HTTP vs. HTTPS: Why It Matters like Google are requesting users move to secure URLs for their company websites.

Previously, the thought to have secure URL was just for banks, other financial institutions and e-commerce where information like login and credit card numbers were at risk of being intercepted by hackers. But that is not the case anymore.

What it HTTP?

Internet browsers like Google Chrome, Apple Safari and others have started a

“Let’s Encrypt” effort to combat malicious activity over the net. Companies

For all your compliance materials & promotional needs.

Decals, Signs, RIN decals, Red Tags, Meter Tickets, Books, Bill Stuffers, New Customer Packets, RTIC products, calendars, magnets, keychains … and more.

8408 North IH 35 Austin, TX 78753 800.392.0023 512.836.6112 fax sales@propaneservicecorp.com www.propaneservicecorp.com

18

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

FOLLOW US @PropaneServCorp Propane Service Corporation

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (http) is a system for transmitting and receiving information across the Internet.

Basically, it is how data gets from point Point A (browser) to point B (website) or (server).

Ultimately, HTTPS is HTTP, just a secure version of it. Elephate, an SEO and content marketing company describes the difference like this: “Using HTTP is like sending an important letter in an unsecured envelope. In contrast, using HTTPS is like sending important documents by courier, in a safe which only you and the receiver have the combination to.”

HTTPS works in partnership with another piece, the SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), to transfer data securely. You have probably heard the term “SSL certificate”; in order for your website to be secure, you need an SSL certificate and for the SSL to be installed into your website.

According to Tech Radar, the encryption used for HTTPS effectively encrypts or scrambles the data being sent between the two parties (e.g. web surfer and the website owner) in order to conceal it from hackers or other possible web eavesdroppers.

Does It Matter?

Risks

According to Search Engine Watch, “There are more than 100,000 known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by hackers to extract customer data, plant cryptomining software, or even setup hidden form fields to steal credit card information users have saved in their browsers.”

• When you have an unsecured web-

site and your customers connect to public Wi-Fi, anybody using that same public Wi-Fi network or hotspot can hack the site.

• Malicious code can be added to your website and unwanted ads could appear.

• Visitors can be redirected from your websites to fake websites with a technique called DNS hijacking / DNS Spoofing so their usernames and passwords can be intercepted.

Benefits Credibility. This past Summer, Google started flagging websites that do not have SSL and are not HTTPS. If consumers use Google and come to a website that doesn’t have an SSL, then in the browser you will notice the words “Not Secure” in the browser URL. If a site is secure, a padlock will appear in the browser.

Security. If you are taking payments online or having customer login to your site, not having an SSL is putting your customer information at risk. With HTTPS, communications are presumedly are securely encrypted. So, if a hacker breached the connection between your customer and your website, they would presumedly not be able decrypt any of the information that passes between your customer and your website.

SEO. Having a secure website helps in the Google search rankings and has since 2014. Secure websites get an extra boost.

How to Switch to HTTPS? Secure an SSL certificate.

• You or your web hosting company (e.g. Promit, GoDaddy, etc.) will need install your SSL certificate on your website’s hosting account.

• Make sure that any website links are changed from HTTP to HTTPS, so they are not broken after you make the transition to HTTPS. • Google recommends using 301 redirect when migrating, something you can check with your web hosting company to ensure they do when they are transitioning the website to HTTPS. Lastly, Geek Powered Studios, a Texasbased digital marketing company, recommends make sure that all the components on your page are not vulnerable. They say by linking to unsecure components, it can nullify website security. In order to have a truly secure site, all the components on

the page, and related links must be secure.

If a website owner is having difficulty identifying unsecure links, they suggest,

https://www.whynopadlock.com/, which is a tool to help identify anything thwarting website security.

Brush Up on the Lingo Not sure what some of these terms mean? Check Cybrary’s glossary of web security terms at https://www.cybrary.it/glossary/.

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.

WWW.MARSHALLYOUNG.COM

“We chose Marshall Young as our insurance agent because of the personal service, value and the ability to meet all of our insurance needs. When we need anything we get immediate and personal service with just a phone call.”

— John Walter Schneider Distributing

401 N. Ridgeway Drive, Cleburne TX 76033 | 817-645-9155 MEMBER

February 2019 •

Texas Propane

19

Business Beat

How to Protect Your Computer

With HTTPS, you have secured your website, now have you secured your computer?

Install or Update Your Antispyware Technology

“If you don’t lock your car, it’s vulnerable; if you don’t secure your computer, it’s vulnerable.”

– FBI

Keep Your Firewall Turned On

A firewall helps protect your computer from hackers who might try to gain access to crash it, delete information, or even steal passwords or other sensitive information. Software firewalls are widely recommended for single computers. The software is prepackaged on some operating systems or can be purchased for individual computers. For multiple networked computers, hardware routers typically

provide firewall protection.

Install or Update Your Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is designed to prevent malicious software programs from embedding on your computer. If it detects malicious code, like a virus or a worm, it works to disarm or remove it. Viruses can infect computers without users’ knowledge. Most types of antivirus software can be set up to update automatically.

New SC415

• Low total cost of ownership • 15 year average battery life • Class 1 / Div 1 certification - dialer can be mounted anywhere on the propane tank • Completely sealed gauge face - better protection from the elements

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20

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Spyware is just what it sounds like— software that is surreptitiously installed on your computer to let others peer into your activities on the computer. Some spyware collects information about you without your consent or produces unwanted pop-up ads on your web browser.

Some operating systems offer free spyware protection, and inexpensive software is readily available for download on the Internet or at your local computer store.

Be wary of ads on the Internet offering downloadable antispyware—in some cases these products may be fake and may actually contain spyware or other malicious code. It’s like buying groceries—shop where you trust.

Keep Your Operating System Up to Date

Computer operating systems are periodically updated to stay in tune with technology requirements and to fix security holes.

Be sure to install the updates to ensure your computer has the latest protection.

Be Careful What You Download

Carelessly downloading e-mail attachments can circumvent even the most vigilant anti-virus software. Never open an email attachment from someone you don’t know, and be wary of forwarded attachments from people you do know. They may have unwittingly advanced malicious code.

Turn Off Your Computer

With the growth of high-speed Internet connections, many opt to leave their computers on and ready for action. The downside is that being “always on” renders computers more susceptible. Beyond firewall protection, which is designed to fend off unwanted attacks, turning the computer off effectively severs an attacker’s connection—be it spyware or a botnet that employs your computer’s resources to reach out to other unwitting users.

Source: FBI

TPGA News Corpus Christi Convention Preview:

Fun but Educational Activities Your Kids Will LOVE When you join us in Corpus Christi for the upcoming TPGA Convention + Expo this coming summer make sure to bring the entire family. Corpus is custom-built for family fun. It can seem like a catch-22 to find both an educational experience AND one your kids will actually enjoy.

Luckily, Corpus Christi is home to a TON of kid-friendly activities and experiences that also happen to be educational.

so far and their anticipated hatch dates here. Seeing Kemp’s ridley sea turtles is something that must be done in person!

2. Old Bayview Cemetery

Corpus Christi has played a big part in quite a few events in the United States’ history. You’d think that a cemetery wouldn’t be the place to learn about these events,

1. Sea Turtles Padre Island National Seashore Baby Turtles

the public releases take place at 6:45 AM at Malaquite Beach in front of the Visitors Center on North Padre Island. So, if you want to catch a glimpse of the little ones before they reach the sea, you’ll have to rouse the kids extra early! You can keep track of the nests researchers have found

Did you know Corpus Christi has other frequent tourists that don’t walk on two legs? Sea turtle releases tend to occur between mid-June and August. Most of

Protect your customers and your reputation by choosing FlashShield.

FlashShield the only CSST to meet both LC1024 and LC1027 standards for performance. The industry's only metallically shielded CSST, FlashShield outclasses the competition by far surpassing the level of lightning protection required by LC1024.

Call about Product Certification, Pricing and Product Availability Atlanta GA

(800) 241-4155

Chandler OK

(800) 763-0953

Houston TX

(800) 334-7816 Little Rock AR

(800) 643-8222

Dallas TX

(800) 821-1829

Indianapolis IN

(800) 241-1971

Orlando FL

(800) 821-0631

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

(800) 447-1625

Kansas City MO

(800) 821-5062

Richmond VA

(800) 368-4013

www.gasequipment.com

22

Fayetteville NC

St. Louis MO

(800) 423-4685

Tracy Wells East Texas

John Percy West Texas

Mike Armstrong South Texas

right? Wrong! Old Bayview Cemetery is the oldest federal military cemetery in Texas, so you can be sure there are some stories hidden amongst the headstones.

When the cemetery comes alive through the Voices of South Texas, you can speak with some residents of the cemetery and learn about their lives and what brought them to the cemetery.

3. Geocaching

cret treasure! Make sure to leave a record of who found the cache and when you found it for the next group to find.

4. Texas Surf Museum

Chill and laid-back, the appeal of the surfer is obvious. Who wouldn’t want to live the life of a surfer? Teach your little ones about the history of surfing and the Lone Star state’s place in that history.

Take your kids on a real-life treasure hunt with geocaching. Mustang Island is a goldmine of caches if you know just where to look. Rely on your iPhone or Android app to track down the hidden store of goodies. Your kids will feel like pirates digging up the boxes to reveal a se-

5. Funtrackers Family Fun Center

Located in Corpus Christi’s Southside, Funtrackers is the ultimate entertainment and amusement center, whether you’re looking for that perfect place to spend your date night, or you’re ready to enjoy

hours of fun with the whole family!

Test your skills at our 18-hole miniature golf course, bumper boats and go karts. Then, head inside to the arcade to try your hand at over 80 different games, with chances to win tickets redeemable for prizes. Have little ones in tow? Kiddie rides are also available for children ages 10 and under.

From activities, rides, games and adventures for every age, Funtrackers has something for everyone!

Fun and educational activities don’t have to be mutually exclusive. There are tons of events and activities in Corpus Christi to enrich your kids that they’ll go wild for.

February 2019 •

Texas Propane

23

Inside the Industry

People in Propane The Railroad Commission has announced Jason Modglin as the new Director of Public Affairs for the Chairman’s office. Modglin previously served as Chief of Staff to State Representative Drew Darby. Modglin is a native of Houston and a graduate of Southwestern University with a degree in Political Science and the University of Texas at Austin with a master’s degree in Public Affairs.

LPG Charity Fund Texas Hold’em Tournament

The Annual John L. Hinsey Memorial Texas Hold’em Tournament will be held on Friday February 8, 2019 at 6010 Richmond Ave. Houston, TX 77057.

Proceeds benefit the LPG Charity Fund.

A professional Texas Hold’em dealer will be available beginning an hour and a half before tournament for instruction and to answer any questions. The dealer will remain during tournament play.

Learn more or register at https://lpgfund.com/index.php/event-calendar/ texas-holdem-tournament.

LPG Charity Fund Offers Annual Sponsorships

The LPG Charity Fund is pleased to offer Annual Sponsorship opportunities for 2019!

In order to make it easier for you to support the Fund and our events, we are pleased to now offer a sponsorship package that will allow our industry members to choose an annual sponsorship from one of three levels. For more information, visit lpgfund.com.

Platinum Sponsorship: $1,800 • Golf Sponsor: Includes 4 Golfers and Hole Sponsorship.

• Houston Bowling Sponsor: Includes Team of 5 and Lane Sponsorship.

• Texas Hold’em Houston Sponsor: Includes One Player and Table Sponsorship.

• Texas Hold”em Tulsa Sponsor: In-

24

cludes One Player and Table Sponsorship.

• As a Platinum Sponsor, your company name will be prominently displayed at each Event.

• Gas Fitting • Electrical • Commercial Truck Driving If so, the National Propane Gas Association Scholarship Foundation (NPGF) is awarding two $1,000 competitive scholarships specifically for those pursuing a trade career path.

Applicants only need to complete the regular NPGF Scholarship application to compete as there are no other additional requirements. Applicants need to go to www.npga.org/scholarship to learn more, view eligibility requirements and apply. The deadline to apply is February 15, 2019.

Gold Sponsorship: $1,200 • Golf Sponsor: Includes 4 Golfers and Hole Sponsorship.

• Houston Bowling Sponsor: Includes Team of 5 and Lane Sponsorship.

• Texas Hold’em Houston Sponsor: Includes One Player and Table Sponsorship.

• Texas Hold’em Tulsa Sponsor: Includes One Player and Table Sponsorship.

NPGF College Scholarship Application Period Closing

Silver Sponsorship: $800 • Golf Sponsor: Includes 1 Golfer and Hole Sponsorship • Houston Bowling Sponsor: Includes Lane Sponsorship • Texas Hold’em Houston Sponsor: Includes One Player Registration • Texas Hold’em Tulsa Sponsor: Includes One Player Registration

In addition to the vocational scholarships mentioned above, the National Propane Gas Association Scholarship Foundation (NPGF) is currently accepting scholarship applications from NPGA members’ children for the 2019/2020 college and university school year. If you are NPGA member and you have a high school senior going to accredited college full-time next year or you have child that will be full-time undergrad next year, they can compete in NPGF’s scholarship competition.

NPGF $1,000 - $2,000 non-renewable scholarships per scholarship winner.

Applicants need to go to www.npga. org/scholarship to learn more, view eligibility requirements and apply. The deadline to submit is also February 15, 2019.

Any questions on all NPGF scholarships can be referred to Lori Dec, NPGA Scholarship Coordinator at ldec@npga. org or (202) 355-1328.

NEW! NPGF Vocational Trade School Scholarship

In addition to its regularly slated scholarship competition round, the National Propane Gas Association Scholarship Foundation (NPGF) has introduced a new scholarship. NPGA members, do you have son or daughter attending a vocational or technical school and studies concentrating in one of these 6 areas?

• Plumping • HVAC • Pipe Fitting

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Have an obituary or an announcement for People in Propane, send submissions to info@txpropame.com.

February 2019 •

Texas Propane

25

Autogas News Propane School Buses Featured in Texas Monthly

Over the past decade, the Propane Council of Texas has helped promote cleanerburning propane school buses to school districts. Over the last decade, the council has attended expos targeting school transportation directors, school board members and superintendents educating school leaders on the benefits of propane.

Additionally, over the last year, Propane Council of Texas has offered a grant writing service dedicated to helping school districts find grants and apply for grants.

In the February 2019 edition of Texas Monthly, Love Letters to Texas, a collector’s edition, The Council has a full-page ad targeting the 2.45 million Texas Monthly readers made up of parents, teachers, and others who may be concerned with clean air for kids. The advertisement highlights how propane school buses significantly reduce NOx over clean diesel buses. NOx gases react to form ground level ozone also known as smog which adverse health effects like aggravating asthma in our school kids.

Check out the Council’s ad, the February edition is on newsstands now.

Central Texas School Districts Receive Accolades for Propane School Bus Adoption

Central Texas School Districts, Leander and Eanes ISDs received the 2018 Air Central Texas Outstanding Organization award for their adoption, leadership, advocacy, on propane-fueled school buses. The conversion of a diesel school bus to propane is estimated to reduce Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions by 1,488 pounds of NOx annually, and combined the ISDs are operating over 80 propane school buses. The districts were nominated by Lone Star Clean Fuels Alliance (LSCFA), the Central Texas Clean Cities Coalition.

Where in the World: New Ad Campaign Uses Monster Trucks to Debunk Autogas Myths

Aygaz Autogas, a Turkish company, has launched a new ad campaign with two new Super Bowl worthy commercials, seeking to debunk myths about propane autogas.

The Turkish Autogas Brand partnered with two well-respected institutions in Turkey to research and test propane autogas’ performance as is a high-octane fuel.

In order to highlight their findings, Aygaz built Turkey’s propane-powered monster truck for the new ad campaign to spotlight propane autogas’ performance.

The funny commercials showcase drivers who are dubious about the propane autogas’ performance. Drivers end up being impressed by propane autogas. The commercials ask the drivers to test the performance of propane autogas with the slogan “Don’t Say That Without Driving It First.”

Established in 1961, Aygaz is an only fully integrated LPG company in Turkey operating in all LPG processes, including procurement, storage and filling, as well as production and the sale of LPGoperated devices.

View the Monster Truck Commercials at https://www.youtube.com/user/AygazOtogaz.

26

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

TPGA News

Texas Energy Day – February 20, 2019 legislative offices in your region, as well as networking and talking to numerous legislators & their staff who attend the evening reception.

See more details on the Inside Back Cover of this issue.

Register at http://www.texasenergyday.com/

Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) members are invited to join TPGA for a grassroots advocacy day at the Texas Capitol. Formerly our Texas Propane Days, the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) has joined the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA), Texas Alliance of Energy Producers, Texas Independent Producers & Royalty Owners Association (TIPRO), Texas

Pipeline Association (TPA) & others to host a Texas Energy Day at the Texas Capitol Austin on February 20, 2019 from 9:30am - 6:00pm.

500 members from the propane, oil & gas community promoting Texas fuels to Texas policymakers, hearing from government leaders at the breakfast briefing, lunch with legislative offices on the Capitol lawn, quick group meet & greets with

D.L.Morrison Welding & Construction L.P.

Rural Computer Consultants, Inc.

Complete Back-Office Software

Version 10 Faster

MC 330 & 331 Transport & Bobtail Testing & Inspecting MC 330 & 331 Transport & Bobtail Repair & Re-furbish Storage Installation

Smarter

BETTER

Also offering: MOBILE OFFICE ON THE GO

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

Delivery Service Work Orders Meter Reading Cylinder Exchange 1-800-722-6659 • www.rccbi.com Bird Island, MN • Birmingham, AL • Portland, ME

February 2019 •

Texas Propane

27

Classifieds

Garrett Insurance Agency, Inc Formerly, Southern Star Insurance Agency, Inc Cecil Joiner, Risk Manager cecil@garrettinsurance.com 1-800-545-2565 www.garrettinsurance.com

RAILROAD COMMISSION APPROVED TRAINING

1.1 Introduction to Propane

2.1 Dispenser Operations—

DOT/ASME Refueling

2.3 Bobtail Operations and Delivery

3.3 Appliance Conversion

3.8 RV Technician Your place or mine. Call for pricing.

Jack Harrison • 210-680-5096 propanesystems@gmail.com

Bobtails For Sale • Texas trucks, no rust, good to excellent condition • 1998 Peterbilt, 6 speed, 2500 gal, tank, LC Register, Steel deck, Aluminum wheels, 45,386 miles on new motor in 2009 • 2005 Freightliner, Automatic, 3000 gal. tank, LC Meter, Aluminum deck, 222,765 miles on 230hp CAT • 2005 Freightliner, Automatic, 3000 gal. tank, LC Meter, Aluminum deck, 180,968 miles on 230hp CAT • 2008 Peterbilt, 6 speed, 1800 gal. tank, Neptune meter, Veeder Root Register, Low profile truck w/ bolt on scale for bottles, 84,642.6 miles • 2010 Kenworth, 6 speed, 2600 gal. tank, LC Meter, Steel deck, Aluminum wheels, 282,054.2 miles on Cummins motor Call or email for Pictures and Pricing @ 512-276-7800 or 1-800-696-3493 or sturner@directpropaneservices.com 2006 Freightliner Bobtail with 3000 gallon tank, Automatic Allison, Cat diesel, AC, Air ride seat and Air Suspension rear with 142,000 miles.

New 1” hose, 2 driverside alluminum tool boxes, remote shutdown. $59,500.00 800-826-5734

Cheryl@longhornpropane.com or Latisha@longhornpropane.com, 830-964-2525

28

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Calendar February

1 TPGA Member Renewals Due 8 LPG Charity Fund Texas Hold’em Tournament Houston, TX 10-12 National Propane Gas Association Winter Board of Directors Meeting Charleston, S.C. 12–14 World Ag Expo Tulare, CA 15 NPGF Scholarship Deadline 18 TPGA office closed for President’s Day

PetroStar Equipment Resources Purchase & Sale Pre-Owned Propane Tanks 5,000 gallons to 120,000 gallons FOR SALE (2) 30,000 gallon, 250 psi, Stubby (2) 18,000 gallon, 250 psi, 2007 Contact: Jim Oliver (936) 755-6108 petrostar@pdq.net

THE FUEL MANAGER Comprehensive Computer Software for Small to Medium Size Propane Dealer • A/R Billing • Inventory • Tank Control • Routing • Management Reports • Customized Programming • Can Convert Your Records C & P Associates Texas Owned & Operated 888/FUEL- MGR

19–20 TPGA Board & Related Committee Meetings/ Texas Energy Day Austin, TX 19–21 International Builders’ Show Las Vegas, NV

MARCH

5–8 NTEA Work Truck Show Indianapolis, IN 10 Daylight Savings Time Begins Spring forward!

10-12 NPGA TS&S Meeting Oklahoma City, OK

APRIL

12 PERC Meeting Atlanta, GA 13-15 2019 NPGA Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo Atlanta, GA 19 TPGA office closed for Good Friday 23-26 ACT Expo Long Beach, CA 25-26 NPGA Benchmarking Council (Groups A-H) San Diego, CA

14-16 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo Dallas, TX

Click Like on the Texas Propane Gas Association Page Follow Us with TPGA’s twitter @txpropane1

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE IN TEXAS PROPANE Magazine?

For Advertising, contact: Joanne Pantaze at 512-273-2639 or by email at jpantaze@pvco.net February 2019 •

Texas Propane

29

Propane With Purpose

High Efficiency Fryer Counts on Propane

I

n 1918 J. C. Pitman and Sons Hotel & Restaurant Equipment Manufacturers (now Pitco), while attempting to work out a more satisfactory method of frying, made some important discoveries. One was that if the small particles of food that ordinarily settled to the bottom of the French Fry pot (where they collected and burned) could be kept away from the intense heat of that part of the kettle, the quality of fried food could be greatly improved.

The Pitco Frialator was invented on this basic principle - - and patented. This brought about a complete change in the method of deep fat frying. The fat medium was heated by tubes running through the center of the fat container. This construction permitted all sediment from the food being fried to drip below the heating tubes into a cool zone where it could not carbonize and break down the frying fat.

Fast forward a century and Pitco is still a mainstay in the commercial fryer business. (In addition to donut fryers and other related technologies.) And of course, their products today can utilize propane to generate efficient heat.

The Solstice Supreme product, for example, provides extremely dependable atmospheric heat transfer and fuel saving performance, without the need for complex power blowers. This patented atmospheric burner system, with its longlasting alloy heat baffles, reaches up to 70% thermal efficiency and delivers lower flue temperatures. The new Self Clean Burner (patent pending) goes through a daily 30 second cleaning cycle to keep burners tuned to operate in the most energy efficient manner. Ventilation troubles are virtually eliminated with the Down Draft Protection (patent pending) that safely monitors the fryer, making this a low maintenance, highly reliable fryer.

If you have commercial clients who rely on frying (or you do!), visit www.pitco.com for information on their products, many of which can be used with propane.

30

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

TPGA 1st quarter board meeting & Texas energy day February 19-20, 2019 Courtyard Austin Downtown 300 E. 4th Street Austin, TX RSVP by February 1, 2019

1st quarter board meeting The TPGA President invites you to attend the TPGA 1st Quarter Board Meeting & Texas Energy Day in Austin, TX. TPGA is partnering with TXOGA for Texas Energy Day.

February 19 8:00a – 9:30a 9:30a – 10:30a 10:45a – 11:45p 11:45a – 2:00p 2:15p – 3:15p 3:30p – TBD

Breakfast – all invited Convention Planning Executive Committee Lunch on your own Finance Committee TPGA Board Meeting

All TPGA meetings are open to TPGA members

February 20 9:30a – 6:00p

Texas Energy Day

Board Meeting Agenda

A detailed agenda is being finalized and will be distributed before the meeting.

TPGA Meetings

All TPGA meetings will take place at the Courtyard Downtown Austin Hotel, 300 E. 4th Street.

Texas Energy Day

February 20, 2019

9:30a – 10:00a Breakfast at Schmidt-Jones Family Life Center 10:00a - 11:30a Program at Schmidt-Jones Family Life Center 11:30a – 11:45a Walk to the Capitol 12:00p – 1:30p Lunch on the South Capitol Lawn; Viewing of energy displays/exhibits on Colorado Street 1:30p – 4:00p Legislative Office visits at Texas Capitol 4:00p

Final briefing & photo on South steps

4:00p – 6:00p Reception at 800 Congress Ave

Register at www.texasenergyday.com by February 4, 2019.

Accommodations

Courtyard Downtown Austin Hotel │ 300 E. 4th Street │ Austin, TX 78701 Group rate: $160+tax per night Group Name: TPGA Texas Energy Days 1st Qtr Online reservations: https://book.passkey.com/go/texasenergydays Reservation phone number: 888-236-2427 Group block cut-off: February 4, 2019

Additional Meeting Venues

Schmidt-Jones Family Life Center │ 1300 Lavaca │ Austin, TX 78701 800 Congress Event Venue │ 800 Congress Ave │ Austin, TX 78701

JOIN THE TPGA COMMUNITY

REGULATORY

ADVOCACY

NETWORKING

T

PGA IS THE CONNECTION that successful propane industry professionals turn to first. TPGA provides relevant information, ideas and insight you can use every day, along with knowledge, resources and networking that help you grow your business.

60%

OF OUR RETAIL MARKETER MEMBERS ARE 5 BOBTAIL OR LESS OPERATIONS

73%

OF TPGA MEMBERS ARE RETAIL MARKETERS

TPGA members are from both small, familyowned companies and large, multicity corporations (and everything in between) in various sectors of the industry.

Bill Van Hoy Exec. Director

Texas Propane Gas Association 8408 North IH 35 │ Austin, TX 78753 │ 800.325.7427 │ 512.834.0758 fax info@txpropane.com │ www.txpropane.com