When emergencies strike—whether it’s a tornado, flood, or prolonged power outage—preparedness can make all the difference. In this episode of Casting the NET, we sit down with Brandon Moore, Smith County’s Emergency Management Coordinator, and Russell Hopkins, Director of Public Health Emergency Preparedness at NET Health.

Together, we explore the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR), a vital tool that helps emergency planners identify residents who may need extra help during a disaster. We also highlight local programs that empower residents to get involved, including the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC).

From seasonal weather threats to county-wide response plans, this conversation breaks down how Smith County and NET Health are working together to build a more resilient and better-prepared East Texas.

• NET Health's Public Health Emergency Preparedness

• Smith County Emergency Management Office

• State of Texas' Emergency Preparedness Website

• City and/or County Signup for the Free 'Smart 911' Notification System in East Texas

• S.T.E.A.R. Enrollment page for the General Public to Sign Up

In this episode, we sit down with representatives from the Sustainable Food Center (SFC) to explore the Double Up Food Bucks program — a powerful initiative that helps SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) participants stretch their food dollars while supporting local farmers. This episode unpacks how the program works, where it’s available in East Texas, and how it brings healthier choices to more tables by doubling the value of fruits and vegetables at participating markets.

We also discuss the importance of food equity, the role of community partnerships, and how this program empowers both shoppers and growers alike.

Topics Covered:

🍎 What is the Double Up Food Bucks program?

🌽 How SNAP recipients can benefit from the dollar-for-dollar match

🛒 Participating farmers markets and retailers in our region

🌱 Why local food access matters for public health

🤝 How NET Health and SFC are partnering to promote food equity

Resources & Links:

🔗 Sustainable Food Center — https://sustainablefoodcenter.org/

🔗 Double Up Food Bucks Texas — https://doubleuptexas.org/

📸 Follow SFC on Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/sfclocal/

📘 Like SFC on Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/SustainableFoodCenter/

In this episode, hosts Thomas Alford and Terrence Ates unpack how employers across East Texas can create healthier, more supportive workplaces. From Mother-Friendly Worksite certification to better food options in the breakroom, we spotlight how these simple steps can lead to lasting health impacts—and even statewide recognition.

Topics covered:

• What makes a workplace “Mother-Friendly”
• How food culture affects employee health
• The Worksite Wellness Awards: who qualifies and how to apply
• Why NET Health is spotlighting these efforts through grant funding

🔗 Learn more at: https://www.mynethealth.org/departments/community-wellness/net-health-awards/

🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube