What inspires a young artist to transform boredom into brilliance? Join us as we chat with Jordan Shepherd, the talented winner of last year's Old Bolivar Station Songwriter Festival, as he prepares to headline the event this year. From the small towns of Northeast Louisiana to the grand stage, Jordan shares his heartfelt journey, painting vivid memories of his childhood along the Mississippi River, the idle moments that sparked his creativity, and the long drives through fields that birthed his soulful songs. Listen in as he reflects on his song "When I Go Back," capturing the evolving landscapes and people of his hometown, and the nostalgic beauty he now cherishes.

Ever wondered how a secret guitar session can lead to a flourishing music career? Jordan takes us back to his early days, practicing in secret on his great-grandma's old Harmony guitar, and the invaluable support he received from his family. From his first gigs at Bennigan's to the unexpected inspiration from a Clay Aiken Christmas special, Jordan recounts the pivotal moments that shaped his path. We also dive into his recording experience with Kent Wills, Dolly Parton's lead guitar player, detailing the highs and lows of the journey, including a major setback that turned into a profound learning experience.

How does one balance a blossoming music career with family life? Jordan opens up about the challenges of crafting authentic and uplifting songs, the transformative impact of social media on the music industry, and the dedication it takes to transition to a full-time musician. He offers valuable advice for aspiring artists on balancing practice with natural inspiration and shares heartwarming stories of homeschooling, family road trips, and outdoor adventures. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with Jordan Shepherd that promises to leave you uplifted and motivated.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

What makes two entrepreneurs from opposite sides of the Atlantic choose the quaint town of Sanger, Texas as their business haven? Join us as we unravel the captivating journeys of Renee Richardson, a Texas native, and Joanne Dela Cruz from London. Discover how Renee transitioned from corporate life to become a thriving small vendor and eventually opened her own store, Vintage Variety. Hear Joanne’s heartfelt story of moving from Pennsylvania to Texas and falling in love with Sanger’s small-town charm, which inspired her to establish Whistle Stop Coffee, Tea and More.

Vintage Variety, which began as a vintage clothing store, has blossomed into a treasure trove offering everything from eclectic furniture to fresh honey and locally-sourced produce. The serendipitous addition of the Whistle Stop tea room underlines the power of community support and collaboration. Inspired by the movie Fried Green Tomatoes, Whistle Stop offers a quirky menu featuring air-fried delights and creatively named dishes. Listen in as we explore how Renee and Joanne’s businesses have thrived through mutual cooperation and a shared vision, becoming cornerstones of Sanger’s downtown district.

Exciting times are ahead with our upcoming events, including a bustling August 3rd featuring fried green tomatoes, a Back to School Bash, and the Moonlight Market with extended hours and special menus. Don’t miss out on our Facebook Live event this Tuesday night, where we’ll be sampling fried green tomatoes live on air. Join us at 308 Bolivar Street, and be part of our vibrant community spirit. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the 266 Express, this episode promises to inspire and engage with stories of small-town entrepreneurship and camaraderie.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transform a community's economic landscape? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Shani Bradshaw, the Economic Development Director who turned her diverse background in marketing, social media, and community engagement into a thriving career in economic development. Learn how her initial hesitations were overcome with encouragement from a police chief and the power of a robust professional network. Shani shares her journey, the mentors who shaped her path, and the certifications that paved the way for her role today.

Discover the strategic efforts behind workforce development in Sanger as Shani details the innovative programs spearheaded by the Economic Development Corporation (EDC). From collaborations with the local school district and the Texas Workforce Commission to on-site business visits addressing workforce challenges, you'll gain insight into the crucial components that support local businesses. Shani also breaks down the unique structure of Sanger's Type A and Type B corporations, explaining how they drive industrial and quality-of-life projects through strategic funding and marketing initiatives.

Networking is the backbone of economic development, and Shani sheds light on the importance of trade shows and major events like ICSE in Texas and Retail Live in Austin. Understand the meticulous criteria businesses evaluate before setting up shop in Sanger and gain clarity on common misconceptions about business decisions. Finally, explore the role of the EDC in funding significant projects such as Porter Park Phase 2 and the collaborative synergy between the EDC, city, and chamber of commerce to foster a thriving business environment. Tune in to uncover the dynamic strategies propelling Sanger's growth and the multifaceted challenges of economic development.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

What if a simple scrapyard could transform into a thriving business that uplifts an entire community? Join us as we welcome David Fulton, the driving force behind DEF Recycling, and uncover the remarkable 38-year journey that took him from working in his father's scrapyard to becoming a pivotal figure in Sanger's metal recycling industry. David's story is a testament to the power of family businesses and the significant economic impact of the scrap industry on local economies. Learn why DEF Recycling focuses solely on metals and avoids plastics and newspapers, and discover where these recycled materials go, including steel mills and foundries in nearby towns like Melothian and Durant.

But that's not all—this episode also dives into the cutting-edge advancements in recycling technology, such as sorting plastics by color, and the exciting implications these innovations have for job creation and community involvement. Hear firsthand from David about his motivations for sponsoring local events like Freedom Fest and Sanger Cleanup Days and how these initiatives foster a sense of community and promote recycling awareness. We’ll also share our fascinating visit to DEF Recycling, highlighting the impressive equipment, and discuss the potential for school visits to inspire the next generation. Tune in to celebrate the industrious spirit of North Texas and discover how one man's vision is making a lasting impact.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Step into the world of civic innovation with Jim Bolz, the Director of Public Works for the City of Sanger, as he unveils how a municipality breathes life into its infrastructure. With a wealth of knowledge from his nearly two-decade tenure, Jim walks us through the complexities of managing a city's vital systems. He enlightens us on the pioneering replacement of water and electric meters that will revolutionize efficiency and transparency for residents. Not only does this technology spotlight leaks in real-time, but it also marks Sanger’s commitment to water conservation and its synergistic road improvement efforts with the county. This episode promises a fascinating look at how a city stays ahead of the curve, maintaining robust growth and infrastructure resilience.

Delving deeper, experience how the Public Works Department champions water quality and navigates the City through emergency scenarios, like Winter Storm Uri, with grace and expertise. Jim discusses the annual water quality report, the City's proactive measures to ensure safe drinking water, and the robust response systems in place for potential issues. We also applaud the City’s brush removal program, which is a testament to the department’s success and tenacity. Amidst the challenges, listen to how Sanger maintains a laser focus on growth and community involvement, keeping its pulse on public needs and expectations. Join us for an episode that captures the essence of a city’s heartbeat through the stories and insights of those who keep it ticking.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Embark on a historical adventure as we sit down with Tona Batis, the dedicated president of the Sanger Area Historical Society, and uncover the evolution of Sanger, Texas. Our guest brings the past to life, revealing how the Sanger brothers and the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa Fe Railroad were instrumental in transforming the town from a humble cattle stop into a thriving hub of activity. We'll hear how a devastating fire became a catalyst for architectural innovation and delve into the stories of influential figures like Mr. Reddy, who served not only as the postmaster but as a cornerstone of the community.

The narrative tapestry of Sanger is rich with the legacies of its residents, and this episode is no exception. Listen closely as we recount the tale of a local girl who left an indelible mark on the world of country music and celebrates the life of Sanger's own Perle Mesta, whose social grace charmed dignitaries across five presidential terms. We'll also explore the vibrant community spirit through enduring traditions like the weekly Saturday drawing and the cherished first bale of cotton, showcasing how these rituals bind the townspeople together even as the world changes around them.

As Sanger marches toward the future, the Sanger Area Historical Society stands guard over its history. In our dialogue with Tona, we confront the challenges of preserving this invaluable heritage while embracing the town's growth. We emphasize the importance of intergenerational collaboration, like the Sangaropoly game creation with local students, and outline ways the community can contribute to keeping Sanger's story alive. For those with historical photos or a piece of Sanger's history to share, we extend an invitation to join us in safeguarding these memories for generations to come.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Join the conversation as Sanger's own Mayor Thomas Muir sits down with John Noblitt for a heartfelt look behind the curtain of small-town governance. With his unique blend of humor and dedication, Mayor Muir unpacks the misconceptions surrounding the mayoral role and shares tales from his time conversing with school kids about civic responsibilities. Peek into the balancing act of immediate community needs versus long-term city vision and the strategy behind managing taxpayer dollars with purpose and care—all part of the day in the life of a mayor who truly embodies the spirit of Sanger, Texas.

Our dialogue takes us through the corridors of Sanger City Government and its vibrant economic landscape, where Mayor Muir demystifies the day-to-day workings of the City council and the collaborative efforts that drive the City's growth. Discover the policies shaping Sanger's "When you're here, you're home" charm as we explore the city's initiatives to invite new businesses while cherishing the tight-knit community fabric. Not just a tale of development, this episode reveals how Sanger's community spirit shines bright, especially when banding together during a severe ice storm, illustrating the resilience and involvement that make our town stand out.

Wrapping up, we peer into the future with Sanger's latest collaborations and community improvement endeavors. Mayor Muir gives us the inside scoop on innovative projects like the mock grocery store that's educating high schoolers, the key role of infrastructure in the county bond package, and the city's vision for family-oriented growth. As we close out this episode, we extend an open invitation to those who resonate with the heart of Sanger's mission to join us in nurturing a thriving community that's ready to welcome you home.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org

Have you ever met someone whose dedication transformed a volunteering gig into a journey of leadership and impact? That's the story of Valerie Foster, Executive Director of the Sanger Education Foundation, who joined us to unravel the tapestry of her work and the foundation's pivotal role in propelling Sanger ISD's educational programs forward. Valerie's narrative is one of passion and perseverance, guiding us through the meticulous process of awarding scholarships and grants that bolster academic excellence and sustain community initiatives. The foundation's vision is a beacon, shining a light on the importance of private funding and community involvement, ensuring that Sanger's educational legacy continues to flourish.

Step inside the fervor of the Sanger Education Foundation's upcoming gala, an event that promises to be a highlight in the community's calendar. Whether you're looking to lend a hand, contribute to a cause that nurtures future generations, or want to be part of a legacy that echoes in the halls of education, Valerie illustrates the myriad pathways to get involved. As the gala's preparations gain momentum, we uncover the essential role of volunteers and the unique opportunity for families to create lasting legacies through endowments. It's a revelatory behind-the-scenes glimpse into a foundation that, while operating independently from the school district, is inextricably woven into the fabric of Sanger's educational aspirations. Stay tuned as we continue to journey alongside the Sanger Education Foundation, heralding the achievements of its scholars and the success of its schools.

You have been listening to The 266 Express, the official podcast of Sanger, TX. IF you have comments or suggestions, please send them to dgreen@sangertexas.org