CID Monthly Newsletter

January Volume 2, Issue 2
January Volume 2, Issue 2
Lonie Baker
Noel Beltran
Jason Berdeaux
Katherine Bowman
Orlando Caridad
Marl Ehrlich
Christopher Gage
RRC has taken measures to prepare for extreme winter weather events. Beginning in early November, CID started weatherization inspections of critical natural gas facilities in the state’s electricity supply chain. The inspections are crucial to keep natural gas flowing during severe winter weather.
CID has conducted 2651/6357 inspections All 426 Tier One facilities were inspected by the end of December, in addition to ongoing inspections of other facilities on the map.
Weatherization inspections will continue through the end of March.
Daniel Bracey joined the CID West Region as the new Engineering Specialist, I on January 6, 2025.
Daniel moved to Lubbock to pursue his education at Texas Tech University, where he majored in Economics focused on environmental and energy policies and minored in Renewable Energy. His hobbies include participating in CrossFit challenges, open nature photography and traveling abroad.
Recent winter storms caused widespread disruptions across various regions, bringing heavy snow, gusty winds and freezing temperatures These storms are a reminder of how unpredictable weather can be, and they’re also a warning about the need to stay prepared for emergencies. Here are some helpful resources for weather emergencies available on the RRC website:
1.Driving Conditions:
•Winter storms can lead to hazardous driving conditions, with snow and ice accumulation on the road it is best to avoid traveling, but if travel is necessary, you can view real time driving conditions and closures via the Texas Department of Transportation at Drive Texas.
•If state highway road treatment assistance is needed, report road issues using the Road Condition Form below RRC will forward them to TxDOT. Railroad Commission of Texas - State Operations Center - Roadway Survey
2.Power Outages & Electric Utility Information:
•Contact your utility provider for updates and to report outages You can view the electric contact information from the Public Utility Commission of Texas: STORM | Contacts
•To view the electric power grid conditions in Texas: Texas Power Outages Map, Jan 2025
3.Gas Utility Contacts & Major Gas Utilities Services Areas:
•If your gas service has been interrupted, please call your gas utility to report the outage. You can find gas utility contact information below: Gas Utility Contacts
4.Weather Alerts & Updates:
•National Weather Service (NWS) Alerts: The NWS provides real-time updates on weather warnings, advisories, and storm tracking. You can also get detailed regional reports and road condition alerts: National Weather Service.
On December 18, 2024, during the Commission conference, a service award was presented to Joseph Nicholas Stasulli for reaching a 5 year employment milestone with the Railroad Commission.
Joseph started at the Commission five years ago as an administrative assistant in the Damage Prevention team in the Oversight and Safety Division and stayed in that role for about 2 years. When he learned that the Critical Infrastructure Division would be the agency’s newest division, he applied and landed the role of administrative assistant. Being a part of a new division, he took the time to really understand the rules, requirements and new systems. His efforts paid off, leading him to a leadership role. What he enjoys most about working at RRC is the people he’s had the chance to work with. He’s met so many incredible people who have supported his growth and development, making each day at work something he truly looks forward to.
By: Andrea Meyer, Director - South Region
This past fall the South Region celebrated Ronnie and Claudette Conyer and threw them a shower at our staff meeting. We shared a meal and then showered them with gifts like diapers and everything first time parents need ahead of a baby arriving. We all were excited for the arrival of baby girl Conyer.
On January 8, Ronnie and Claudette welcomed baby Molly Ann Conyer at 1:23 p.m. at 7 lbs. and 1 oz. Mama and baby Molly are healthy and now at home.
January Safety Topic January Safety Topic January Safety Topic
By: CIX Team
Tips for being safe with alternative indoor heating systems during winter
With the colder temperatures, millions of Americans are turning on their heating systems for the very first time. Alternative heating systems such as space heaters and gas wall heaters are com-monly used in homes with no built in HVAC system. The US Department of Energy records about 25,000 house fires every year that are linked to a space heater fire. Alternative heating systems are an affordable option to heat your home however it is important to remember these few safety concerns.
Always remember to keep your heater clear of any obstructions. All it takes is a thrown piece of laundry or a long curtain to drape over your heater to start a fire.
Never leave your heater running when you are not in the house. Unattended heaters can be very dangerous, especially if you have children or pets running around!
Many gas wall heaters require routine maintenance during the offseason. Dirt and debris can cause poor burn quality and, in some events, start fires.
When running gas wall heaters, it’s important to invest in carbon monoxide detectors. Poor burning conditions for natural gas can lead to the buildup of carbon monoxide within the house. Carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to death!
“Thank you, South Region for inspecting all priority 1s by the early due date and accomplishing our goal ahead of time.”
-Andrea Meyer, South Region Director
Seth Terrell, Garry Blankenship, Chris Gage, Inspectors
“Shout out to Seth, Garry and Chris for hitting the ground running again on inspections as we entered the new year! We are lucky to have them on our team!”
-Amanda Cupp, East Region Director Vol.02/Issue2
Sam Muniz, Inspector
“I’d like to give a shout out to Sam Muniz. He is doing a tremendous job in his scheduling of inspections, being efficient while in the field, and turning in complete reports. Keep up the good work!”
-Jarrod Eberly
Hal McLelland, Inspector/ Wellness Coordinator
“Shoutout to Hal McLelland for his incredible dedication and consistent contributions to the wellness program at RRC! Your hard work and commitment make such a difference, and we’re all grateful for everything you do to keep the program thriving. Thank you !”
-Wellness Committee
All RRC employees are required to complete the agency’s annual online cybersecurity awareness training. The training will be provided by KnowBe4 and will be offered online. All employees must complete the training by March 31, 2025.