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