Workers, Businesses Benefit from Keystone XL Pipeline

EAST TEXAS — It continues to generate its share of controversy. But KETK reports a lot of people are moving to East Texas to work on the Keystone XL Pipeline. That’s giving our local economy a boost. After working all day, the laborers spend their hard-earned money in local restaurants. Dick’s Cajun Bar and Grill in Mt. Selman is a favorite spot for the pipeline workers to hang out. Also, the area’s drawing positive comments from the newcomers. Laura Grife is from Minnesota, but she’s made East Texas her temporary home; she currently resides in Jacksonville. Grife says, “I love Texas; this winter has been really nice. When you look at all the weather like where I’m from, Minnesota, this has been like a summer.” Another worker says the “people are wonderful; Southern hospitality is awesome.” Yet another is struck by the East Texas scenery.