Ever wondered how a couple's online meeting could spark a small-town revolution? Join us as Todd and Vanessa Benson share their journey from a digital encounter 18 years ago to becoming the visionary minds behind Uptown Rail Brewery in Sanger, Texas. The Bensons' entrepreneurial spirit led them to create community-centered businesses that breathe life into small-town charm. Discover how their ventures, including a creamery and a brewery, are not only revitalizing Sanger's evening scene but also offering local youth valuable job opportunities.

Get ready to be inspired by the Bensons' creative initiatives designed to bring people together. From a Crawfish Roll event on Fat Tuesday to introducing live music and line dancing, Uptown Rail Brewery is shaping up to be a vibrant hub for all ages. Their thoughtful renovation of the brewery space—honoring Sanger’s historical essence while incorporating modern design—reflects their commitment to fostering a welcoming community space. You’ll hear about their ambitious plans, like setting up outdoor stages and diverse food truck offerings, all guided by community feedback to ensure there's something for everyone.

In this episode, we also look at the broader theme of community involvement and its essential role in business success. Todd and Vanessa discuss the power of volunteerism and how it helps nurture a sense of belonging. With their low-voltage company, Paxia, they balance multiple ventures while investing in young talent. Their story is a testament to the importance of local support in achieving growth and prosperity. We express our gratitude to the Bensons for their commitment to Sanger's vibrant future and look forward to seeing their continued impact in 2025 and beyond.

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

Wondering how a community can come together to support local education while having a blast? We've got you covered with Executive Director Valerie Foster from the Sanger Education Foundation, sharing her insights on the much-anticipated Education Foundation gala. This event isn't just about raising funds; it's about celebrating collaboration and growth, with local businesses and community members joining forces to support the education sector. Valerie talks about the foundation's exciting expansion, a testament to the community's commitment, and how it has enhanced their ability to foster future leaders.

What's the secret to transforming sixth-grade students into ambassadors of local history? It's passion and creativity, which were on full display with the creation of a board game that took the community by storm. This episode honors the student's hard work and highlights the importance of community involvement, not just in terms of financial support but also in the invaluable contributions of time and effort from dedicated volunteers. These individuals are the backbone of events like the gala, ensuring they are engaging, successful, and impactful, with initiatives like community lunches further connecting Sanger's leaders with its future generation.

Get ready for a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Education Foundation gala the event of the year. From the golden ticket raffle and unique travel opportunities to exclusive experience-based packages, Valerie gives us a sneak peek into what attendees can expect. This gala is more than just a fundraiser; it's a networking feast where community spirit takes center stage, and connections are made that propel Sanger's growth. We encourage anyone interested in being part of this vibrant atmosphere to secure their tickets fast, as they're selling out quickly. Join us as we celebrate the power of partnership in nurturing a thriving educational environment!

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 us on a whimsical adventure to the North Pole with the enchanting Mrs. Claus as our special guest. You won't want to miss her sharing the delightful tale of meeting Santa in 1830 and the secrets behind Santa's favorite cookies—spoiler alert: chocolate chip and snickerdoodles reign supreme! Mrs. Claus also spills the beans on the magical carrots that fuel the reindeer's flight and dishes on the mystery of the elves' origins, their love for snowball fights, and their unique fashion sense. Not to mention, she gives us the lowdown on maintaining the legendary naughty and nice list with her trusty laptop, ensuring every child gets a fair shot at making the nice list.

We also take a peek at the quirky holiday traditions of the North Pole, from the idea of a Santa cam to the challenges of keeping the internet running in such a snowy wonderland. Picture Santa maneuvering around foggy weather, sneaking veggies onto his plate, and avoiding chimney mishaps—all while his suit remains spotless thanks to magical laundry soap. As we gear up for "Christmas on the Square," Mrs. Claus wraps up our chat with a heartfelt message about the importance of kindness and family during the holidays. Mark your calendars for December 7th when she'll join us for crafting and storytelling, while Santa poses for photos and creates unforgettable memories for all.

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 us for a captivating discussion with Ramey Hammonds, the dynamic Director of Development Services for the city, as we explore the bustling world of urban planning and community growth. Ramey unveils the intricacies of her role, from managing planning and zoning to collaborating with third-party engineers. You'll gain insights into exciting new projects, including a 50,000-square-foot grocery store set to anchor a vibrant mixed-use development. These initiatives promise not just to transform the city's landscape but also to boost its economy, enriching the community with a blend of residential and commercial spaces.

Ever wondered how new developments cleverly blend into an existing community without causing chaos? Ramey shares her expertise on the importance of comprehensive plans and navigating the complexities of city growth. We tackle the real challenges faced by the engineering sector, the misunderstandings with developers, and the meticulous planning required to ensure utilities and drainage systems do not negatively impact existing properties. This episode offers a fascinating look into the nuanced world of city planning, where careful strategy meets community objectives.

Sanger, a small town with a big heart, takes center stage as Ramey reflects on its unique charm and tight-knit community spirit. Discover the vital role of code enforcement in preserving Sanger's quality of life and how the city prioritizes compliance over citations to maintain high community standards. We celebrate the camaraderie that defines Sanger, inviting you to become part of this welcoming community, where cooperation and support are woven into the town's fabric. Whether you're a resident or just passing through, this episode highlights the developments that promise to enhance Sanger's environment and foster an even stronger sense of togetherness.

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

Picture a city on the brink of transformation—how does a 50,000-square-foot grocery store fit into the puzzle? Join us as we promise to unravel the ambitious plans and strategies that are reshaping Sanger, from the determined efforts of the Economic Development Corporation to the strategic incentives that have attracted a major grocer. Our discussion spans new residential developments necessitating enhanced City infrastructure, with insights into what these changes mean for the community at large. Donna Green and John Noblitt explore the intricate web of planning that supports Sanger's growth, bringing you closer to the vibrant future envisioned for this thriving City.

Dive into the heart of downtown revitalization, where the Porter Park redevelopment project stands as a beacon of progress. Listen as we share the City's vision for a dynamic live-work-play environment, with a focus on community involvement and private investment as key catalysts. We bring to light the critical role of existing attractions like Uptown Rail Brewery and the Old Bolivar Station Songwriter Festival in fostering this vibrant atmosphere. Discover the transformative potential of creating a bustling hub in the City center, where community participation and strategic funding elevate Sanger's downtown landscape to new heights.

From parks to public safety, this episode is rich with updates on infrastructure and community projects. Explore the creation of Porter Park Phase II and the innovative Miracle Field, designed with accessibility in mind, as we highlight the
City's commitment to inclusivity. Get a glimpse into the proactive strategies behind managing the City's electric system and the exciting advancements in fire and police department operations. We round off with updates on the I-35 and 455 expansion projects and a preview of upcoming community events that promise to engage and excite. Prepare to be captivated by the dynamic changes unfolding in Sanger, as we guide you through the milestones shaping the City's future.

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 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