March 2019 Texas Propane magazine by Texas Propane Gas Association

TexasPropane March 2019

Volume 75 No. 3

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

Crisis Communications: Preparedness, Presence & Positivity Pay Off

National Propane Contests & Offers

Two-Way Radios Oldies and Goodies

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 March 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 Propane Service Corporation

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

Features Oldies and Goodies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Two-way radios are staging a comeback to propaneâ&#x20AC;Śbut why?

Crisis Communications: Preparedness, Presence & Positivity Pay Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 The Cost of Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Countdown to Convention: Plan a Side Trip to King Ranch While in Corpus Christi. . . . . . . 18 National Propane Contests & Offers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

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

How to Market to Millennials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

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

TPGA Board of Directors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

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

Departments Highlights from Headquarters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Safety Talk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 People in Propane. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Inside the Industry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Say Cheese. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Classified Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Propane with Purpose. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Highlights from Headquarters

Sometimes “Old School” Is the Way to Go Bill Van Hoy TPGA Executive Director As propane marketers you use all types of leading-edge technology, but Mother Nature sometimes wreaks havoc (tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes - to name a few), and that technology can be rendered useless. What to do? Are you prepared? Turn to page 6 and read this month’s feature article - sometimes “old school” is the way to go and might result in some unforeseen benefits, like operational efficiencies.

This month’s issue also gives you pointers on crisis communication. Weather events and customer incidents are almost completely out of a propane marketer’s control, and the industry does a pretty good job on the things it can control. Most propane businesses are not doing nearly enough to ensure they’re ready to deal with any sort of crisis. The article gives you good techniques that will help walk you through the event. I want to thank all of you who attended the 2019 Texas Energy Day in February. A recap of the events and photos will appear in next month’s issue of Texas Propane.

2019 CROSSROADS SPONSORS Golf Tournament Targa Resources Propane Genius Bar PERC Lanyards Keyera Energy

AFFINITY PARTNERS BASYS • Lone Star Energy Group

New Member Supplier Ensida Energy Houston, TX

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: Ryan Tudyk, Howdy Propane Services, 361-771-1900 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: Terry Perez, Perez Propane, 512-318-9780 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

March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Featured

Oldies and Goodies

Two-way radios are staging a comeback to propane ... but why? By Kristen Card “The staff here at Texas Propane magazine pride themselves on finding new and exciting technology to enhance your company’s knowledge and efficiency. We find these ideas everywhere, as an example during a brief conversation with a California propane energy marketer who I consider a good friend and consummate professional. He was expounding on the importance of two-way radios to his company. Either I mistook what he said, or California is really behind the times! Two-way radios became obsolete the day cell phones made their debut, right? Boy, was I wrong! Read the article and you too will appreciate some ideas from the past that are likely still the best ideas.” – Bill Van Hoy

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Featured

March 2019 â&#x20AC;¢

Texas Propane

Featured

“Technology is a market differentiator for us,” says Jeff Stewart, president of California-based Blue Star Gas. “We deploy all sorts of leading-edge technology, and truly use it to benefit our customers. All of our delivery trucks are electronically ‘smart,’ and our drivers use tablets with service software. Our employees have an immense amount of information at their fingertips, all of it designed to better support our customers.” Embracing advanced technology has worked well for Blue Star Gas, now in its 80th year in business, with Stewart as a thirdgeneration owner. Operating in 14 locations in California, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Arizona, Blue Star is a full-service propane marketer – selling, installing, and servicing propane appliances, as well as converting company fleets over to propane autogas. So why is this technology-savvy success story of a business investing in two-way radios? “Like many propane marketers, we used two-way radios for decades in our operations,” Stewart begins. “As cellular became more common and more affordable, coverage got better and better, and there was significant overlap between the old and new communications technology. So when the Federal Communications Com-

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mission altered the frequencies and upgraded the system, rendering our old radios useless, rather than investing in new narrowband technology, we chose to simply abandon the two-ways and transition wholly over to cellular.” “We found the loss of the two-way radios changed how our teams interacted,” he continues. “It dramatically decreased team members’ awareness of day-to-day service issues; people used to listen to what was happening with their colleagues as they drove from delivery to delivery. Now, it’s much more separate and solitary. We lost that kind of constant connection, but it didn’t seem worth the investment to bring back the two-ways.” Then, on March 11, 2011, the Tohoku earthquake hit northeastern Japan. A 9.0-magnitude event, the quake killed about 16,000 people, crumbled hundreds of thousands of structures, and unleashed a savage tsunami. “Whenever a big earthquake happens along the Pacific Rim, we’re at risk for tsunamis,” explains Stewart. “Our Crested City [CA] division has an underground distribution system we’ve been actively operating since 1956, so we’re extremely tuned in to tsunami risk. When the tsunami threat was issued from Fukushima, our team scrambled to get to Crested City, per our emergency plan. But when we got there, we had no cellular coverage.” Luckily, while the tsunami destroyed the city’s harbor, it just missed the city itself. But the local emergency service personnel had forced Blue Star to shut down its underground delivery system, so once the storm had passed, Blue Star’s teams had to relight the whole city. “It was a massive task,” Stewart recalls. “It takes tremendous coordination among the different sectors to get the system back on-line – and with no cellular coverage, we had no way to efficiently communicate with each other. It was extremely difficult, and turned into a real game-changer. That experience illustrated clearly for us the importance of bringing back two-way radios.” As propane marketers know too well, natural disasters tend to be extra-disastrous for fuel businesses. The U.S. is second only to China in the average number of natural disasters per tornadoes, year – events such as heat/drought, extreme cold/winter

Featured storms/heavy snow, hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, wildfires, earthquakes, tsunamis, and mudslides. In 2018, California alone experienced dozens of disasters, including devastating wildfires, sweeping floods, and decimating mudslides. So it’s essential for propane businesses to be prepared, have emergency plans, stay informed, and have the right tools for the work at-hand. By 2012, Blue Star had begun the process of reinstating two-way radios into the company’s communications system, investing in the new-generation narrowband technology and deploying the radios to a couple of locations each year. The two-way radios are a critical element in Blue Star’s emergency preparedness strategy, and were put to the test in 2017, when the Tubbs Fire – California’s secondmost destructive wildfire ever – invaded Sonoma County and the city of Santa Rosa. “Cellular was useless, but we were ready,” remembers Stewart. “Our Santa Rosa division had just gotten and begun using their new two-way radios; each division has their own radios and

their own frequencies for their market, as well as handheld radios that can be used on all of our frequencies in every market. Having those radios in Santa Rosa contributed terrifically to our response – not just in the first hours or even days of the crisis, but for a couple of months following.” Stewart recommends propane teams responding to natural disaster-related emergencies plan on not having cellular service, have a two-way radio system, have backup power like a generator, use automated call/text services to keep employees and customers updated, and make sure all their equipment is ready to go at any time – radios charged, vehicles fueled, and vests, masks, and cones easily accessible. “Bringing back two-way radios has been a huge success,” Stewart confirms. “Sometimes, older technologies can serve us better than the high tech of tomorrow; it’s just a matter of knowing what works best. Our emergency preparedness strategy is stronger than ever, and the value we’re getting from the two-ways in terms of daily operations, and team communications, knowledge, cooperation, and support is immeasurable.”

As propane marketers know too well, natural disasters tend to be extra-disastrous for fuel businesses.

March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Featured

Crisis Communications:

Preparedness, Presence, and Positivity Pay Off By Kristen Card

“It’s going to happen – crises are going to happen,” warns Crystal DeStefano, APR [Accredited in Public Relations], owner and president of Syracuse-based Strategic Communications, LLC. “Crises are especially going to happen in a fuel industry, and especially in a fuel industry that can be seriously impacted by weather events, which are beyond human control – an industry like propane.” DeStefano’s firm has served the propane industry, among many others, for more than a decade, helping marketers get out in front of potential crisis situations through good communication habits and smart communications strategies. “In any industry, crisis communications means communicating

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with your stakeholders – employees, customers, community, officials, agencies, etc. – during a sensitive situation that might negatively affect your business operations or company reputation,” DeStefano states. For propane marketers, such situations can vary from a regional propane shortage to a fatal traffic accident involving a fleet vehicle. But DeStefano says the top two crises she sees most often with propane marketers are related to natural weather events and customer “DIY” incidents. “A so-called ‘DIY’ incident occurs when a customer either actively does something on their own – like trying to repair part of a propane tank – or passively neglects to do something, like clearing vents of debris following a flood to help prevent carbon monoxide from building up in their home,” clarifies DeStefano. “We’ve even encountered incidents where teens were huffing propane, then surprised when they ended up in the hospital, or worse.” The good news is, the most common kinds of crises – weather events and customer incidents – are both almost completely beyond propane marketers’ control, which means the industry must be doing a pretty good job on the things it can control. But, DeStefano notes, most propane businesses aren’t doing nearly enough to ensure they’re ready to deal with any sort of crisis at all. Which is why the Propane Education & Research Council [PERC] tapped DeStefano to lead a series of crisis communications training sessions – titled The Best Defense is a Good Offense – at the organization’s National Safety & Trainers Conference, held in San Antonio in January. “In crisis communications, when we talk about the best defense being a good offense, it’s not how it is in warfare, where you attack

Featured first to avoid being attacked,” explains DeStefano. “It isn’t issuing a news release even before the media has contacted you about a situation. Having a strong offense means you’ve been preparing for a crisis since long before the situation ever came up – and not only preparing your company management, but also your employees, your community, and even the news media.” But considering the urgent, unpredictable, and totally unknown nature of crises, what’s the best way to begin to prepare? DeStefano generously shared some of her key recommendations:

Meet and Talk

“One of the fundamental pieces of advice I give my clients is this,” DeStefano offers. “Every person on the leadership team of every company – whether that’s a husband, wife, and son of a mom-and-pop shop or a dozen people at the helm of a propane business serving 15 states – they should be getting together at least monthly, if not weekly, to talk about the issues going on in the company, in their geographic market, and in their industry, so that they can be prepared.” Crystal DeStefano says these consistent, continual, communications meetings are the backbone of a solid crisis communications strategy. Examples of topics to be discussed include employee or customer issues at the company level, political or economic issues in your geographic market, or, at the industry level, any issues nationally that can affect either the operations or reputation of propane overall.

Select Your Spokespeople

Identify now who will serve as your spokesperson for different types of incidents that might occur. If you’re a smaller business, then you might have the same spokesperson for anything that happens. “But if the scenario is, for instance, a safety issue, and your safety director is calm, collected, and well-spoken in front of an audience or on camera,” suggests DeStefano, “then yes, you might want to use your safety director as your spokesperson on safety issues. But if the issue is related to customer service, or supply, or pricing, then you’ll probably want someone else to speak to those.” Also, DeStefano urges caution in sending out your company president or CEO at the first sign of crisis. If you might need to address the public about the event many times over the coming days, weeks, or months, then remember – you can always have someone higher up the chain of command take over as spokesperson, but it can never happen the opposite way; it will look like you’ve lost interest or caring about the crisis or issue at-hand.

Share Good News First

“Be proactive with your communications; don’t let a crisis be the first time people hear from you,” counsels DeStefano. “Whether it’s through a statement stuffer, an email blast, a blog post, or your social media accounts, communicate with your customers as often as possible about the good stuff your company is doing or being recognized for. And whenever a newsworthy good thing happens, share it with the media; even if they don’t do a story, it helps establish credibility. “We’ve seen it happen both ways,” she continues. “And we know for sure, when a company communicates proactively about good news, a crisis scenario does much less damage to their business.”

Share with Employees First

DeStefano says your employees should be your number-one audience all. the. time. Communicate with them early and often. When it’s good news, it boosts worker pride, increases productivity, and raises retention rates; when it’s a crisis, employees will be better defenders knowing all the positive work being done by your company. “Keeping your employees in the business’ loop not only empowers them,” affirms DeStefano. “But also turns them into amazing ambassadors for your industry. And truly, they should never go home or to the grocery or to the park, they should never see a newspaper headline or hear through the neighborhood grapevine what’s happening in their own company before they hear it from their boss.” Of course, once a crisis situation happens and the spotlight is glaring down on you to respond, all that preparatory foundation you’ve laid might feel like small comfort. Fortunately, Crystal DeStefano also possesses a treasure trove of proven techniques to help you as you address critical issues; here’s a top-ten sampling of her firm’s best tips: March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Featured member it better and say it more eloquently. Additionally, if you bring them with you into an interview, you can give them to the reporter once you’re through; not only will it help he or she write the story accurately, but it will also provide a sense of transparency and honesty on your part. 5. Get comfortable with quiet: “Reporters are trained to use silence to get or keep you talking,” DeStefano claims. “So you must learn how to answer only the question asked, and how to be okay with shutting up. If you keep on talking just to fill the void, it’s simple to stumble into speculation, or tap into something new for the reporter to explore, or accidentally answer all their questions at once. If I ask you whether you have the time, your answer should be yes or no; I didn’t ask what time it was – yet!”

1. The “Critical Ten”: Once the media has been alerted to a crisis and have contacted you for a response, you must take what DeStefano calls the “Critical Ten” – ten minutes [if you’re lucky, a little longer] to talk with your business’ leadership team and make sure you know about every possible issue happening within your company, within your geographic market, and within the propane industry as a whole. You don’t want to be surprised in a media interview by a journalist who knows more about your business than you do. 2. Holding statements: A holding statement is a brief statement intended to hold people over until you have more substantive information to share. “It’s never okay to say ‘no comment’,” DeStefano insists. “Particularly in a crisis situation, because ‘no comment’ implies guilt.” A holding statement – which includes a fact, a showing of empathy, and an allusion to what’s next – lets you say something even when you can’t say much. An example: We can confirm that X incident occurred on A date, at B time, at C location. Our hearts are with the families of those affected, and we’re working closely with Z authorities. When we have more information, we’ll share it. 3. Key messages: Key messages are the six or seven main points you want to make at your next response opportunity – whether it’s a media interview, a news conference, an employee meeting, a customer letter, a town hall, or any other public forum. These are your talking points, and DeStefano recommends limiting them to a single word-document page with text no smaller than size 14 font. You want an easy-to-read “cheat sheet” you can reference to make sure you hit all of the most important points. 4. Write it down, hand it over: Always type up or write down your key messages, and bring them with you. According to DeStefano, the act of writing something down helps you re-

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6. Build a bridge: Bridging is a way to transition from a question you can’t or don’t want to answer, to a key message you can and do want to deliver. “You can’t just randomly start talking about something unrelated to the question; that’s weird and a reporter will call you out on it,” confirms DeStefano. “You want to acknowledge the question, then use this magical six-word phrase as your bridge: What I can tell you is …. Then follow it with the key message that most closely relates to the question asked.” 7. Use their deadlines: Whenever a journalist calls, take a message that includes their name, media outlet, reason for calling, contact info, and deadline. If they’re inquiring about an issue not specific to your company and you want to be included in their story, return their call promptly. If you don’t want to be included in their story, return their call, but wait until 20 to 30 minutes prior to their deadline. Often, they will have already talked to someone else and they don’t need you – but they will know you responded and did so prior to their deadline. If they’re inquiring about issues specific to your company, you don’t want them talking to anyone else; do your Critical Ten and return the call as soon as you can. 8. Say yes to dessert: At the close of an interview, reporters frequently ask whether you have anything else you want to add. “We call that dessert, and the answer is yes!” DeStefano exclaims. “This is a chance either to redo an answer from earlier that you want to deliver better, or to review your key messages and add one that you haven’t been asked about.” 9. There is no such thing as “off the record”: Monitor what you say and how you say it accordingly. 10. Realize that you are always on the record: “You are an official spokesperson for your company with anything you say to anyone – not just to the news media,” cautions DeStefano. “Whether you’re at the grocery store, at a barbeque, at your kids’ soccer game, it doesn’t matter. You’re always representing your business and your industry, so do your best to remember that in your everyday interactions with your friends and neighbors.” For more information about Crystal DeStefano or Strategic Communications, LLC, please visit www.StratCommLLC.com.

MHC Kenworth - Longview Price International

Safety Talk

Handling Vehicle Accidents and Emergencies Safety Meeting 3 Call your supervisor from a safe location to report the incident. Your supervisor will make the determination whether to call 911. 3 Move and direct other people away from the area. ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS SPECIFIC TO YOUR VEHICLE:

With a cylinder delivery truck: 3 Check the condition of the cylinders and their valves and make sure they are all still present. 3 Also, look for any fuel spills. With a bobtail: 3 If involved in a rollover, exit if you are able to and it is safe to do so. 3 You may not know the condition of the vehicle and may need to rely on emergency response personnel to assess and handle the situation. Do not move the vehicle on your own. Accidents and emergencies that involve propane vehicles are particularly dangerous because of the chance of a hazardous material leak or fire. Hazards can also arise from fitting problems, overfilled containers, or transportation issues and may be detected en route. It is critical that propane drivers are prepared to handle these situations in an efficient and safe manner. HANDLING ACCIDENTS OR ISSUES WITH NO PROPANE LEAK OR A CONTAINED LEAK: 3 Move the vehicle off the road and position it for safety

— Set the parking brake, shut down the engine, activate signal flashers, set the wheel stops, check valves and containers for damage, and put out safety triangles to keep unauthorized people away from your vehicle. 3 Ensure safe conditions at the accident site — Check for fuel spills or hazardous materials, then move and stay a safe distance away. Make sure no one is hurt and call your supervisor.

HANDLING ACCIDENTS OR ISSUES WITH A PROPANE LEAK: 3 Stop, park your vehicle, and shut off your engine a safe dis-

tance from the road, other vehicles, and potential ignition sources. 3 Use hazard warning signal flashers and warning triangles. However, flashers should be considered as a possible source of ignition. 3 Immediately exit the vehicle, take your documents with you, and get your fire extinguisher as a preventive measure to contain non-propane fires. 3 Determine if anyone is injured, and assist them if you are qualified to do so. 3 Move up-wind of a leak or vapor cloud, and only activate emergency shutdown devices away from the leak if it is safe to do so. Do not pass through an area with a leak or vapor cloud.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

ADDRESSING NON-PROPANE FIRES: 3 Stop your vehicle in a location away from highly populated

areas or buildings, shut off the engine, exit the cab, and call the fire department. 3 Use your fire extinguisher to contain small fires if it is safe to do so. 3 One of the greatest risks of fire is caused by driving on a flat or soft tire. Never leave a smoking tire unattended.

All accidents must be detailed on your company’s Accident Report Form and reported to the DOT. In addition to DOT reporting, you may be required to report to the Railroad Commission of Texas. Please see RRC LP Gas Safety Rule §9.36 for more on LP Gas Accident/Incident reporting. Discussion Topics 1. While driving a cylinder delivery truck, you smell a faint odor of propane. How do you respond? 2. You have been in a collision, and you detect a strong propane smell but cannot detect the source. What steps should you take? LEARNING ACTIVITY Stage an imaginary accident involving a vehicle that has a propane leak. Discuss all potential hazards and talk participants through your company’s safety actions.

Source: Propane Delivery Operations and Cylinder Delivery (PERC) For additional information about handling accidents and emergencies, visit www.propane.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

March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Member Perks

The Cost of Compliance The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) of the U.S. Department of Transportation has recently raised its penalties. Penalties for both organizations range from $481 to $186,610 depending on the penalty. For example, the minimum penalty for hazardous materials training violations is $481, the maximum penalty for a hazmat violation can be up to $79,976 and the maximum penalty for a hazardous

materials violation that results in death, serious illness, or severe injury to any person or substantial destruction of property can be up to $186,610. One way to help with compliance is to join the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA). TPGA is always alerting our members of new DOT rule changes, reminding them of current requirements and providing guidance on current regulations when members have questions. Hear from one member how we have helped them.

Danny Meyers President Bellville Butane Company Bill Van Hoy and the rest of the TPGA staff, I’m writing to express my appreciation for all that you do for the members of the Association. Your representation on behalf of the Association as a whole and your one-on-one help with the members is invaluable. The information supplied through the weekly newsletter helps us keep on top of current issues, upcoming events and reminders of deadlines. We as members have access to webinars, white papers, rule interpretations and regulatory guidance. The last, regulatory guidance, as it turns out, was of paramount importance to me recently. My company had a surprise inspection by the U.S. DOT. It was a bit nerve-racking to begin with, not knowing what they would ask for and if we were to be in compliance. But as we moved through the inspection, I found myself becoming more and more confident. They were asking for information and documentation and we were able to supply everything they asked for. At times the inspector, seeming surprised that we had what he asked for, wanted to know how we had all of this so readily available. He was particularly impressed with our Hazmat Security Plan. He asked if I had done that on my own. I was proud to say that I was able to have it because of the help of my propane gas association. He told his coworker, a new man in the training, that having an association to help with things like this sure pays off. He threw around large numbers when he was talking about fines for noncompliance. I’ve been in the propane business for many years; 42 to be exact. And I’ve learned a lot through the years. But I could not have come through the inspection with “no probable violations noted” if it had not been for your help. Your help and guidance through the years proved to be a life saver. I have been on the phone many times in the past and I’m sure I will be on the phone again in the future asking questions and getting answers. If I don’t get an immediate answer, I can always count on getting a call back with an answer. And also considering all of the discounts we get as members, the annual membership fee has paid for itself without question. You can know I will always renew my membership with TPGA. If you have anyone questioning whether they should become a member or if renewing their membership is “worth it”, you can refer them to me. Danny Meyers Bellville Butane Company P.S. Both of the US DOT officers were courteous, professional and personable. The experience ended up being a positive one.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

TPGA News Corpus Christi Convention Preview:

Countdown to Convention: Plan a Side Trip to King Ranch While in Corpus Christi chance to see the Auction Arena, the horse cemetery, and the Colony—the home of the Kineños or King’s men. There are additionally historic buildings that include Mrs. King’s carriage house, the Commissary with its lookout tower, and the grand home built in 1912 by Captain King’s widow, Henrietta. King Ranch Museum

While you’re planning your convention/vacation, consider carving out some time on either end of your trip to visit King Ranch. Texas natives have, of course, heard of King Ranch since middle school (it’s part of the Texas history curriculum). And you might even be a fan of King Ranch casserole. (Though King Ranch does not lay claim to be the origin of popular dish; its origin remains unknown.) But you may not have ever thought of stopping by. Kingsville is but 40 minutes from Corpus, with the Ranch a few miles west. King Ranch

When visitors tour the King Ranch, they learn about its history and legacy, gain insight into current ranching and agricultural practices in the United States, and view the variety of birds, wildlife, flora, and fauna of majestic South Texas

first-hand. They offer a variety of tours (check online for specifics and to pre-book). The 1.5-hour daily tour runs at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday (12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday). This tour begins at the historic Santa Gertrudis Creek where Captain King first camped in 1852. You’ll see King Ranch Quarter Horses, Santa Gertrudis cattle, their resident Longhorn herd and an abundance of wildlife. Visitors view South Texas brush clearing equipment, conceived and developed on King Ranch to clear mesquite and huisache from the pastures, as well as the Calera Pens and Camphouse, where at roundup time the cattle are vaccinated, branded and tagged. Throughout the trip, the guide will explain the history and the modern-day workings of the ranch. Visitors get the

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

In Kingsville, you can visit the King Ranch Museum to understand how King Ranch Quarter Horses are an integral part of King Ranch’s heritage, the cutting horse industry and the American Quarter Horse Association. The museum is the definitive repository of ranch lore and the items on display clearly evoke the bygone days on Captain King’s legendary spread. The King Ranch Museum’s permanent collections include: Toni Frissell’s awardwinning photographic essay of life on King Ranch in the early 1940’s; saddles from around the world, guns, and rifles including a King Ranch commemorative Colt Python .357 magnum revolver (serial number KR1), a limited edition series of full-scale replicas of historic Republic of Texas flags, and antique carriages and vintage cars, including El Kineño, a custom designed Buick Eight hunting car built for Congressman R. M. Kleberg, Sr., in 1949 by General Motors. Visitors can view videos about the history of King Ranch and its main residence. King Ranch Saddle Shop

Another treat in Kingsville is the King Ranch Saddle Shop. Captain King demanded saddles of great structural integrity, constructed of the very highest quality leather available that could withstand the harsh conditions of the South Texas Rangelands. Unable to find saddles and tack that met his rigorous specifications, Richard King

addressed this problem the way he approached many others – he decided to solve it himself. Captain King assembled a group of first-rate craftsmen at the ranch who made saddles of such fine quality that news of their superiority spread quickly. Within a few years of the end of the Civil War, the King Ranch Saddle Shop was providing saddles and tack not only for King Ranch, but for many others throughout Texas. Today, the King Ranch Saddle Shop is located in the historic John B. Ragland Mercantile Building that’s located in the heart of Kingsville and a few minutes away from the King Ranch Museum and King Ranch Visitor Center. Built in 1909 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building housed the most preeminent department store south of San Antonio for many years. At the King Ranch Saddle Shop, you can find exquisite leather goods and quality outdoor gear for your next adventure. Additionally, you can watch a saddle being hand-made by our master saddle maker who continues to follow the spirit and tradition of the craftsmanship and timeless techniques that King Ranch has been long known for.

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March 2019 •

Texas Propane

PERC News

National Propane Contests & Offers

PROPANE CAN DO THAT

ing, water heating, cooking, outdoor living, and backup generator. Offer pages can be accessed through digital ads or through callouts on Propane.com. Emails will vary based on the information completed in the form (what energy source is currently used, if they are a propane user and know/do not know their supplier, if they are building or remodeling and when they plan to build or remodel). Any current or potential user that does not currently know their propane supplier will receive a “find your supplier” message in each email. Those who do know their supplier will be encouraged to communicate with them as they’re building, remodeling, or looking for new appliances. This email program is automated to send users emails at specific periods of time based on when they complete the form and when they plan to complete their project.

How Will It Work

As part of PERC’s National Propane Can Do That Campaign, consumers who click on PERC’s online ads will be directed to an offer page where they will have the opportunity fill out a form. The form does two things: It gives the consumer an “entry” for a chance to win appliance(s). By completing the form, they are also engaged with PERC’s homeowner database and will begin to receive email communications from PERC. There are six different offer pages based on PERC’s messages — building/remodeling (whole home of appliances), home heat-

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Once a winner is selected, PERC will reach out to the winner via certified mail to let them know that they have won and request that they contact PERC to talk about the prize. The winner will need to verify their propane supplier in order to win. If they don’t have a supplier, they would need to use the locator tool on propane.com to find their supplier before they are eligible to win. PERC will provide the proper tax/legal paperwork to the winner. PERC will communicate with the winner’s marketer to let them know that their customer has won a package of household appliances so that they are aware and can work with their customer accordingly. During this call, PERC would verify with the marketer if they have specific brands of products for the appliance(s) that they do not install or work with.

PERC News Product brands will be determined by PERC and the winners’ marketers after a winner is selected. PERC will coordinate the purchase and shipping/delivery of the appliances with the winner and the marketer. Winners may be contacted by PERC over the following year for testimonial, feedback, information about their propane products.

Offers

Building/Remodeling Offer: This offer is focused on users that interact with PERC’s building/remodeling message ads. It can also be accessed through a callout on the Building a Home, Remodeling a Home, or Adding or Replacing Appliances use pages on propane.com. Offer: Package of home appliances (approximate value of $8,000) that includes: Water Heater ($1,700ish) Back-up Generator ($3,000ish) Range/Oven ($1,200ish) March Whole Home

Water Heater

Furnace

April

June

Product Offers:

These offers are focused on users that interact with PERC’s appliance-specific ads. Each appliance message has its own offer and offer page. The offer pages can also be accessed through callouts on each product page on propane.com. Offer: Product that is specific to the message. Water Heater — $1,700ish Back-up Generator — $3,000ish Range/Oven — $1,200ish Furnace — $1,000ish Outdoor Living Package — $1,400 (includes grill, patio heater, fire pit)

Winners will be selected per the schedule below: July

August

Sept.

Oct.

Range/Oven Generator

May

Furnace ($1,000ish) Grill ($750ish)

Outdoor Living

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Texas Propane

Marketing Minute

How to Market to Millennials By Dale Harris

This generation is always looking for products and services that fit their budget. You should consider offering pay as you go or other budget-friendly options for the millennial market. 4. Brands That Offer Experiences

Generations like Baby Boomers focused on buying the product. In contrast, millennials focus on the experience they are buying. They dream about traveling the world not in having the most expensive house or car. The best millennial marketing strategy for this expectation is telling them your story. For instance, how will propane improve their lives? 5. The Power to Choose from Many Options

Experts are expecting millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) to pass the Baby Boomers population by 2019. According to the Bureau of Statistics, this generation is spending almost 80 percent of what Baby Boomers spend. Between the population and spending growth projections, the millennial generation has become essential to the success of all businesses. Building your brand always requires that you market to your audience. Marketing to millennials demands more than a one-size fits all approach. Maybe it isn’t the first time you have tried marketing to this generation. Don’t think that a prior successful marketing campaign can work for millennials. What does this generation expect from your brand? What is the best millennial marketing strategy for your product or service? Not sure how to develop the right marketing strategy for this generation? We’ve got you covered. Here are the 10 top millennial expectations from today’s brands. 1. Brands That Are Built on Values

Today, brands need to do more than of-

fering a great product or service. Millennials expect brands to help the community. This audience will spend more on a brand that relates to their personal values. Some of the most important values for this generation are honesty, compassion, and commitment to making the world a better place. They expect brands to showcase these values in public and online.

Millennials want to be in control of their purchase at all times. If they are in the market for a product or service, they will compare their options online or ask their relatives and friends. When you are building your brand, it’s important to consider what options you can offer millennials. Some examples include pay as you go, premium services, among other options. Look for options that give the customer control over their decision and purchase.

2. Ease and Convenience

6. Connection to the Brand

The millennial generation is all in for instant gratification. They want everything fast, easy and convenient. An example is how retailers such as Walmart, Amazon, and Whole Foods have added same delivery services. Also, the success of services such as Shipt and UberEats are signs that convenience reigns supreme with millennials.

This generation wants to feel connected to the brand. When building your brand consider developing programs to make a social impact. Helping organizations can help you connect with the community and develop customer loyalty. An example would be a food brand joining Feed America to stop human hunger. How does your company help the community? Besides helping make the world a better place, it will show your customer that your company cares about everyone.

3. Budget-Friendly Products and Services

The student loan debt crisis and low salaries have put millennials in a tough spot when it comes to their finances. They don’t have a lot of money to spend like other generations.

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

7. Social Media Engagement

Millennials are one of the biggest users of technology. They use social media

all the time to engage with family, friends, and brands. Having social media pages for your products and services isn’t enough. This generation expects constant engagement on social media. Make sure to post and update your content on your social media pages. Don’t forget to reply to their comments, your engagement will help develop customer loyalty. Your content should relate to your audience and showcase what makes your product different. An agency such as MAD Group can help you develop the best social media millennial marketing campaign. 8. Brands to Use Technology Online and In-Store

Millennial’s love for technology doesn’t end in social media. They want to use technology to better understand products and brands. This generation wants to learn how the products work and how it fits their lifestyle. In contrast with other generations, millennials prefer using personalized chat and in-store customer service. These expectations push brands every day to find

ways to tailor their customer experience. 9. Recognition of the Brand’s Community

Besides a tailored approach, millennials expect to be recognized. Loyalty rewards and memberships are a great way to recognize this audience while building your brand awareness. Consider using social media influencers and offering giveaways to get on the millennial radar. Recognition by the generation will promote brand loyalty.

Click Like on the Texas Propane Gas Association Page

Can Your Brand Meet Millennials Expectations?

Yes, your brand can meet the expectations of the millennial generation. The key to bringing in this audience is implementing the right millennial marketing strategies. How will your services or products improve their lives? What is your company doing to make the world better? What is the story behind your services or products? These are some of the questions that can guide your millennial marketing strategy. Don’t forget to include ways to engage with the audience online.

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March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Inside the Industry

People in Propane Rick Roldan has served as President and CEO of the National Propane Gas Association (NPGA) for 17 years and the industry for over 24 years. It was announced that he will be stepping down from the position. Mr. Roldan reported that he would remain with NPGA through the end of the calendar year to ensure a smooth transition to his successor, who hasn’t been named.

Nominate Plumbers, HVAC Trainers for Free Trip, Training in Austin

Do you know a plumbing or HVAC instructor who could use some hands-on propane training? Help the Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) train a new generation of propane professionals. Encourage propane industry trainers or

plumbing and HVAC instructors in your area to enter, or nominate someone to win a free trip to Austin, Texas, June 5-6, 2019. Winners will get a trip to Austin, hotel stay and expert training. PERC will train 20 instructors how to teach PERC’s course, Overview of Propane Distribution Systems for HVAC and Plumbing Professionals. Contest deadline is March 27, 2019. Learn more or enter at https://propane. com/train-the-trainer/. PERC Help Desk

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) Help Desk is available to support propane industry members in a variety of ways. If you need assistance

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.

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Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

with training resources, the assessment, or any ongoing campaigns — including new Propane Can Do That Consumer Marketing Campaign— just visit the PERC Help Desk. There, you can submit a question using the form, and PERC will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Check out the video at http://tinyurl.com/ perchelpdesk to learn how it works.

RECALL ALERTS

Navien Condensing Tankless Water Heaters and Combination Boilers Recalled

A recall was issued in late December 2018 on about 3,400 Navien condensing tankless water heaters and combination boilers. A kit installed on the tankless water heaters and boilers to convert them from natural gas to propane can cause the unit to produce excessive amounts of carbon monoxide, posing a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning to consumers. This recall involves only Navien condensing tankless water heaters and combination boilers with model numbers NPE-180A, NPE-180S and NCB-180E that have been or will be converted from using natural gas to propane gas. The recalled water heaters and combination boilers were manufactured between July 9, 2018 through October 14, 2018. The manufacturing date is identified within the serial number. The serial number is printed on a label which is affixed to the side of the unit and on the product packaging. The first two digits identify the year, the next single digit identifies the month, and the last two digits identify the day. For example, 18709 stands for July 9, 2018. X stands for October. Contact Navien at 800-244-8202 or e-mail recall@navien.com or online at https://www.navieninc.com/news for more information. Academy Sports + Outdoors Recalls Turkey Fryer Due to Fire Hazard

This recall involves the Academy Sports + Outdoors Outdoor Gourmet Turkey Keg, which is a turkey fryer made of stainless steel and powered by propane. The fryer, including the legs, measures 34 inches high by 17 inches wide. The item number is 157826 and is located on a label on one of the four legs. This recall affects about 3,000 units. The units were manufactured by Shinerich Industrial, Ltd., of Shenzhen China

Where in the World

The Story of LPG Global Documentary Released

Order in bulk to your office to hand out on your bobtail routes or provide us with a mailing list and the Propane Council of Texas will mail it for you. Just $45 and little over 3 cents per newsletter list processing fee for the spring issue. The Council covers the shipping and postage. Prices subject to change for future editions. Subscribe your customers at http:// www.propanecounciloftexas.org/publications. Deadline is by March 8, 2019. Questions? Call (800)325-7427 or email info@propanecounciloftexas.org.

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

Is the missing Piece

WORTH the risk?

LONG TERM CARE

HEALTH & LIFE INSURANCE

FINANCIAL & ESTATE PLANNING

DISABILITY INSURANCE

HO M AU E & TO

The turkey fryer spout can leak oil, posing a fire hazard. Academy Sports + Outdoors has received two reports of a Turkey Keg leaking. No injuries or property damage have been reported. Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Outdoor Gourmet Turkey Keg and return it to any Academy Sports + Outdoors store for a full refund and a $50 Academy gift card. Consumer Contact: Academy Sports + Outdoors toll-free at 888-922-2336 from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. CT, Monday through Friday, email at customerservice@academy. com or online at www.academy.com and click on the “Product Recalls” at the bottom of the page for more information. Check out the documentary at https:// www.wlpga.org/media-room/wlpga-tv/

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

FARM & RANCH

Last year, the World LP-Gas Association produced The Story of LPG documentary. Recognizing the need for a basic introduction to LPG, WLPGA produced the eight minute global documentary that covers four chapters: 1) What is it? 2) Where does it come from? 3) How is it transported?4) Where & Why is it Used? The documentary is available as one streaming video and is also available in individual chapters. Subscribe Your Customers to the Spring Propane Living

Other propane owners have come to our agency to get help with connecting their insurance pieces: 1) Some have grown frustrated with the lack of timely response and personal service from their current agent. 2) Many have discovered a missing piece of coverage after meeting with us. 3) Most tell us they have no idea what companies insure their industry and are surprised to learn there are multiple options available.

“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 Tri-Co Propane/TPGA President

WWW.MARSHALLYOUNG.COM Subscribe your customers to the Propane Council of Texas’ Spring Propane Living newsletter to get propane educational & marketing information to your customers.

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

March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Say

Cheese

TPGA Executive Director, Bill Van Hoy gives update to TPGA members on what Texas legislation the association is tracking at Legislative Update breakfast on February 19, 2019 in Austin, held in conjunction with the 1st Quarter Board Meeting.

TPGA Members hear about legislation affecting the propane industry at a breakfast hosted by the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) last month in Austin in conjunction with the 1st Quarter TPGA Board & Committee Meetings. Members can stay up to date on legislation affecting their business in the Under the Dome section of the Monday Morning Messenger this session.

Texas Propane â&#x20AC;˘ www.txpropane.com

Eric Sears, State Engagement Program Manager for the National Propane Gas Association gives a NPGA Update and tells the Texas Propane Gas Association (TPGA) Board how to download the NPGAaction app on their phones. NPGAction is an advocacy app and is available at the Apple iTunes store and Android Google Play for all devices.

TPGA Convention Planning convenes in February discusses 2019 conference plans for Corpus Christi and announces the Convention will be in Austin, TX in 2020.

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March 2019 •

Mike Armstrong South Texas

Texas Propane

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 Call or email for Pictures and Pricing @ 512-276-7800 or 1-800-696-3493 or sturner@directpropaneservices.com

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

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

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Calendar MARCH

APRIL

8 Propane Living subscriptions due

13-15 2019 NPGA Southeastern Convention & International Propane Expo Atlanta, GA

5–8 NTEA Work Truck Show Indianapolis, IN

10 Daylight Savings Time Begins Spring forward! 10-12 NPGA TS&S Meeting Oklahoma City, OK 14-16 Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Expo Dallas, TX

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

12 PERC Meeting Atlanta, GA

14-17 GPA Midstream Convention San Antonio, TX 19 TPGA office closed for Good Friday 23-26 ACT Expo Long Beach, CA

Click Like on the Texas Propane Gas Association Page

25-26 NPGA Benchmarking Council (Groups A-H) San Diego, CA

MAY

2 NPGA Benchmarking Council (Groups I-M) San Diego, CA 14-15 TPGA Board & Related Committee Meetings Austin, TX 27 TPGA office closed for Memorial Day

Index to Advertisers BLT Tanks 17 Cunningham Gas Products 9

D. L. Morrison Welding 23 Enterprise Products 5 Flynt Paint Products 19 Gas Equipment Company 27

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

Lone Star Energy Group 19 Longhorn Propane 28 Lumbermen’s Insurance Agency 15 Marshall Young Insurance 25 Meeder Equipment Co.

PERC Outside Back Cover Pinnacle Propane Inside Front Cover Propane Service Corporation 24 Quality Steel Corporation 27 Rural Computer Consultants 23 WESROC Monitoring Solutions 15 White River Distributors 21

March 2019 •

Texas Propane

Propane With Purpose

New 3-D Printed Rocket Fueled by Bio-Propane

rbex has publicly unveiled its Prime rocket for the first time at the opening of its new headquarters and rocket design facility in Forres in the Scottish Highlands. The rocket is designed to deliver small satellites into Earth’s orbit and is fueled by bio-propane.

The completed engineering prototype of the Stage 2 rocket (the stage that will transit into orbital flight after launch) is made from a specially-formulated lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum composite and includes the world’s largest 3-D printed rocket engine. Orbex Prime is a completely re-thought and re-engineered two-stage rocket, designed by Orbex aerospace engineers with professional experience from organizations including NASA, ESA and Ariane, as well as other commercial spaceflight companies. Thanks to its novel architecture, Prime launchers are up to 30% lighter and 20% more efficient than any other vehicle in the small launcher category, packing more power per cubic litre than many heavy launchers. The 3-D printed rocket engine was manufactured in a single piece without joins in partnership with additive manufacturer SLM Solutions. Given the extreme temperature and pressure fluctuations involved in space flight, this gives the engine an advantage over other rocket engines, which can suffer from weaknesses associated with joining and welding. It is also the first commercial rocket engine designed to work with bio-propane, a clean-burning, renewable fuel source that cuts carbon emissions by 90% compared to fossil hydrocarbon fuels, supplied by Orbex’s new exclusive BioLPG fuel partner Calor. 30

Texas Propane • www.txpropane.com

Exclusive Member Benefits Advocacy when it matters to your business and the propane industry

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MAKE YOUR MARKETING EVEN STRONGER

Get ready to put the Propane Education & Research Council’s new homeowner campaign, Propane Can Do That, to work for your business. Here are just a few of the ways PERC can help you succeed: • Visit PropaneLocalListings.com and update your Google business listing today. • Download the customizable Propane Can Do That homeowner toolkit from the resource catalog at Propane.com, and use it to promote your business. • Explore all the other gallon-growing resources available to you at Propane.com.

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