Podcast Episode 1

The weather forecast for Texas predicts extreme cold temperatures across the state on MLK Day. This has caused concerns about the reliability of the power grid. ERCOT has issued an Operation Condition Notice (OCN) to monitor the grid's condition. Cities are setting up warm stations for those without a warm place to go. The homeless population may not have access to information about these stations, so it's important to help and provide them with resources. Additionally, it's important to check on elderly, disabled, and solitary neighbors. Keep pets indoors for their safety. This is a time to strengthen community bonds and support each other. Reach out for help if needed. Stay warm, stay safe, and let's make a difference together. Greetings fellow Texans. You're tuned in to Boots on Ground with me, Sarah Smith, your dedicated voice for Texas Representative District 126 in this upcoming crucial November 5, 2020 for general election. Now it's a beautiful Saturday and I mean beautiful. The sky is a beautiful, beautiful blue and the sun is out and we have just a little bit of a crisp cold, but there's a cold front on the horizon that we need to prepare for. So let's dive in. First things first, the weather forecast. By Monday, MLK Day, we're expecting some extreme cold across our state. Amarillo is bracing for sub-zero temperatures, DFW for single digits, teens in Waco and Austin, and 20s in San Antonio. Even El Paso down to Brownsville might face freezing conditions. These aren't just numbers, they're a call to action for all of us. With such cold, the reliability of our power grid comes into sharp focus. This morning while out for groceries, the buzz was evident. People worried, obviously. Shelves are empty and faster than usual with water, canned goods, and batteries in high demand. It's a sign, and we all remember the past winter, the last winter storm. And I guess everyone wants to be prepared, better prepared. So now let's talk about ERCOT's Operation Condition Notice, or OCN, which has been issued for MLK Monday through Wednesday, January 17th. An OCN is not an alarm, but it's a proactive step. It's part of a four-level ERCOT system used to communicate with power market participants about the grid's condition. Level 1, which is what we're under, means watch, the conditions are normal, but ERCOT is monitoring the condition and the situation closely. Now as your representative, I assure you I'm also keeping a close eye on this, and I'll keep you updated. Now what can we do? For those without a warm place, cities are setting up warm stations. In Houston and surrounding areas, if you're unsure where to go or how to help, call me at 832-560-7063 or send a text to that number. Or you can email me at admin at smithfortexas.com. That's admin at smithfortexas.com. This morning, I had a heartwarming experience. Before a community class I was giving, I distributed essential supplies to our homeless neighbors. I included some business-size cards that I made up with details of nearby warming stations and some quarters for bus fare. It's a small gesture, but in times like this, every bit of help helps. It's kind of misinformation or I guess a misguided mindset to think that those that are homeless, if they're under the bridges or in a camp or a tent community, it's because they want to be and they have not taken initiative to go to a shelter, when really in reality by talking to some of these people and past experience of working with the homeless, they do not have the information. Keep in mind, some do not have telephones or social media. Thankfully, we do have neighbors and organizations in our areas that go by to check on them. But if you can, do something small like I did today and try to help out and help those organizations that may not be able to reach everyone. Just a thought. Now also, let's not forget our elderly, disabled, and our neighbors that are living alone. Check on them. Make sure that they have medication stocks. Help them with insulating any pipes or covering any plants. Just remember, give them a helping hand as well. Maybe prepare them some food that maybe you're cooking and freeze it for them, put it in their freezer so they can just pop it in the microwave and have some items on hand for a quick meal as well. As for our furry friends, keep them indoors as much as possible. Their safety is just as important. In closing, let's use this time to reinforce our community bonds and help those who might need an extra hand. Remember, Boots on Ground isn't just a slogan, it's a way of life. It's about being there for one another, especially in challenging times like these. Stay warm, stay safe, and reach out to me if you need help. Together we can make a difference, one act of kindness at a time. I'm Sarah Smith, here to serve and support you. Call on me. I'm your Boots on Ground. Thanks for listening and let's make today count.