Montgomery County Edition
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™ e n i z a g a M
Texas Treasures A Shuttle For Texas
Gotta Get Away? Painted Churches
A Day in Your Life Tim Schenk
Do You Know?
Stan "The Man" Curtis
Business Focus
Primrose School of Conroe
February – March 2013
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 3
February /March 2013 | Volume 2, Issue 1
14
Texas Treasures
Do You Know?
14
Gotta Get Away?
18
A Day in Your Life
24
Business Focus
30
A Shuttle For Texas
Stan "The Man" Curtis
Painted Churches
18
24
Tim Schenk
Primrose School
Favorites
6 From the Publisher
30
8
6 Letters from our Readers 7 Glorious Grandkids 12 Star Students 18 What Are You Reading 22 Things My Granddaddy Said
Features
8
23 Pet Pals 34 Recipes 35 Postcards From Our Readers 36 Calendar of Events 38 Mustard Seed Moments On the Web Postcards Magazine: postcardslive.com
Magazine™ Published bi-monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. Publisher: Karen Altom Editor: Wes Altom Advertising Sales: Janet T. Jones Contributing Writers: Kristin Humphrey, Matthew Jackson, Claude Wooley, Mike Yawn, Zachary Toney, Wes Altom, Karen Altom Designers: Chris Blair, Mary Partida Cover Photo by: Lisa Saleme
Photographer: Kelly Lawson, www.kellysuephotography.com Webmaster: Lisa Gilbert, www.lisaGdesigns.com
4 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
Facebook: facebook.com/ PostcardsMagazineMontgomeryCounty Correspondence
Postcards Magazine™ welcomes reader correspondence using the following venues. Email: postcards@usa.com Address: PO Box 690 Huntsville, TX 77342 Phone: 936.293.1188 Fax: 936.293.1171 We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any unsolicited material. No material from Postcards Magazine™ can be copied, faxed, electronically, or otherwise used without express written permission. © 2013 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in Texas.
YOUR STORY
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 5 8/15/2012 3:38:15 PM
From the Publisher The Proper Motivation D
After patting each other on the back for our good deed, we drove on and I started thinking about how very Karen Altom, much like that calf we are. Publisher It seemed obvious that this calf had determined that the other side of the fence looked pretty good. And jumping that cattle guard didn’t seem so tough to do...if he really wanted to. And it wasn’t. He did it. I’m sure he was quite pleased with himself – until he looked back.
uring the recent holidays our family was traveling through the country on the way home from visiting relatives. As we rounded a curve, we saw a lone calf standing on the side of this rural road. It was beside a fence and looking at a herd of cows on the other side of the fence that stood across a cattle guard from where this fella was bawling his head off. This was not a small calf. No newborn here. This was a calf that was several months Sometimes excitement motivates us to do things that are old and of pretty good size. Kind of a “teenager” in cow not really in our best interest, but we still think it’s worth the world. I didn’t exactly realize this until we four, The Altom jump. Have you ever wanted to go back and couldn’t? I am Angels (hey – The Fantastic Four is taken), found ourselves guessing we all have but may have decided we “can’t” or it’s trying to do a good deed and convince this bovine that he “too scary.” Fear can keep us from doing what’s smart or even belonged back across that cattle guard on the other side what’s best for us if we give in to it. As we journey into this with his mama. Now, if you aren’t familiar with a cattle year, I encourage you to not let fear rule your decisions. I guard, it’s basically pieces of pipe that are arranged over a encourage you to develop a plan – whether for things you deep ditch. It allows trucks to cross but not cattle unless need to move forward or even for things you need to go they are the jumping kind, which this fellow appeared to be! back and fix. If you can’t overcome the fear, find someone As we all edged closer to him, he seemed to determine (and to help give you the “proper motivation.” God will provide rightly so), that I would be the easiest one to take down. that if you’re willing to jump. When I saw that look in his eye, I decided to stand up taller Until next time ~ Karen and wave my arms wilder so as to look bigger and “badder” and NOT be someone with whom he wished to tangle! P.S. – Have you thanked a Postcards advertiser lately? As we moved in closer to him he decided that he, in fact, THANK YOU to those of you who have! If you’ve got a WAS capable of jumping that cattle guard after all! He just great experience to share about a new business you needed the proper motivation. discovered through Postcards, we would love to hear about it!
Email me at postcards@usa.com
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Letters from Our Readers
We just moved here last March and Postcards Magazine has helped us know what's going on. It really makes us feel like part of the community. Thank you! Rhonda Teague
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I love your magazine. As soon as it comes, I read it cover to cover and then share it with my sister. I just can't wait for each issue to come out! Joanne Dillard
I really enjoy your magazine. The last issue I received you had an article on a Polar Express. I can't seem to find my magazine, could you please email me a phone number to get in contact with me. Thanks and keep up the good work. Robin Allen
Editor's Note: We were happy to provide Robin the number but you don't Editor's Note: All photos and informa- have towith wait on us to respond. All editions tion can be emailed to postcards@usa.com. of Postcards are online all the time at www.PostcardsLive.com so you can always find that article or ad you're looking for!
postcards@usa.com facebook.com/PostcardsMagazineMontgomeryCounty 6 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
G G
lorious s d i k d n ra
Brayden Wolf
Grandson of: Mr. & Mrs. Wayne Colby
Jordan Christine Rodriguez Granddaughter of: Roy & Gloria Levee
Madeline Cain and Kennedy Chtay
Grandkids of: David & Gail Cain
The Legacy Group Announces the opening of their Woodlands location! Hunter Loving
Grandson of: Bill & Brenda Loving
Share your precious grandkids with us! Send in your photos to: postcards@usa.com
2203 Timberloch Place • Suite 100 The Woodlands, TX 77380
Call Today
281-210-5567 mylegacygrouponline.com February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 7
S X E T Treasures
S
ometimes—for some events— a date tells it all. Everyone knows Columbus sailed the ocean blue in 1492. Then there’s the famous July 4, 1776, the infamous December 7, 1941, and the never to be forgotten 9-11-2001. Does anyone remember April 12, 2011? How about August 1, 2011? Me neither. I choose, however, to inscribe in my memory February 1, 2003. Let me explain. Many in our state were offended and angry when the locations for display of the retiring space shuttles were announced in April 2011, and Texas didn’t make the cut. After all of its investment
8 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
by Wes Altom
A Shuttle for Texas
and commitment to the program, how could the home state of Space Center Houston be shunned? The wounds hadn’t healed by August, when a tiny news story got buried beneath bigger headlines. In the summer of record drought and wildfires, maybe you missed it. It was a short snippet about Lake Nacogdoches receding so much from the drought that a large piece of debris from the Columbia disaster was uncovered after over eight years. In the aftermath of a decision that seemingly gave other states the gold mine and Texas the shaft, a subtle reminder that our state already has our shuttle, and has for the last ten years.
The announcement seemingly snubbing Texas was noteworthy, but not “dateworthy.” And the news snippet date is insignificant, a subdate pointing back to the date…February 1, 2003. Such events and dates fade into oblivion, but it is often difficult to gain a “big picture” perspective in day-to-day moments. Whether you have the Columbia disaster date committed to memory or not (hopefully you will now), you probably remember where you were when you heard. That’s the hallmark of something dateworthy. Columbia was the first shuttle to fly a space mission and was at the end of its 28th mission when it disintegrated during re-entry over the Piney Woods of Texas on February 1, 2003. The Columbia Accident Investigation Board determined that a hole was punctured in the leading edge on one of Columbia’s wings. The hole had formed when a piece of insulating foam from the external fuel tank peeled off during the launch 16 days earlier and struck the shuttle’s wing. During the intense heat of re-entry, hot gases penetrated the interior of the wing, destroying the support structure and causing the shuttle to break apart. There were nearly 84,000 pieces of debris collected in the subsequent recovery and investigation effort. The debris field encompassed hundreds of miles across northeast Texas and into Louisiana. When it rains, it pours. And when it rained down debris in the Piney Woods, local residents, volunteers, and emergency responders poured out their hearts, their labor, their love, and their support for the astronauts’ families and NASA. Where we come from, it was a solemn honor, even a duty, to do so. This kind of honor can neither be granted nor taken away by the stroke of a pen. In a memorial service in Lufkin a week after the disaster, NASA Administrator
February 1, 2013 marks the tenth anniversary of the Columbia shuttle disaster. A decade later, we reflect back and add some perspective to a tragedy which hit “close to home.”
»
Shuttle debris found in Lake Nacogdoches during the 2011 drought.
February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 9
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Sean O’Keefe said, “Just as words reaching and far more meaningful. cannot fully express the admira- We have heart ties to Columbia tion that our entire nation and which will never change or be indeed the people of the world broken. The efforts weren’t just feel right now for the Columbia about recovering pieces of a spaceastronauts, we at NASA are strug- craft to learn what went wrong gling to find the proper words to and to prevent further tragedy. thank the people of Lufkin and We were picking up pieces of the surrounding communities for broken lives—hurting and healing your vital help in this important alongside our own. Our challenge recovery effort.” continues today…to keep alive Adversity has a way of form- the memory of Columbia and the ing and strengthening bonds as sacrifices of so many. So, on this we face challenges together. So tenth anniversary, remember the California, New York, Florida, and date. February 1, 2003 ensured D.C. can keep their tourist attrac- that Space Shuttle Columbia tions. Texas has blood, sweat, and would forever be in the heart— tears invested in something far and hearts—of Texas.
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10 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
The seven crew members who died aboard this final mission were: Rick Husband, Commander; William C. McCool, Pilot; Michael P. Anderson, Payload Commander; David M. Brown, Mission Specialist 1; Kalpana Chawla, Mission Specialist 2; Laurel Clark, Mission Specialist 4; and Ilan Ramon, Payload Specialist 1
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• Wrinkling and Thinning of the Skin • Cognitive Decline • Depression and Stress
A proposed lake in East Texas originally was to be named the Mud Creek Reservoir. It was later called Lake Eastex. The project is now called Lake Columbia, so named by Senate Bill 1362 following the space shuttle disaster in 2003. When compared to some Texas lakes, Lake Columbia, if it is ever built, will not be large. It will have about 95 miles of shoreline and a volume of 195,000 acre feet. The purpose of the Lake Columbia project is to serve as a water supply. The proposed Lake Columbia dam will be about five miles southeast of Jacksonville in Cherokee County, and plans are for the lake to be about 15 miles long up Mud Creek into Smith County just west of Troup. The first engineering study was completed 28 years ago. The Angelina and Neches River Authority’s application, submitted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was delayed for years as additional reports and an environmental impact study were required. That application was eventually denied. The ANRA is in the process of reapplying for the construction permit; however, funding has delayed the project once again.
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 11
StarStudents
John Michael Hackleman
Rachel Harris
Senior – Lifestyle Christian School
Senior – Montgomery High School
Favorite Movie: Lord of the Rings trilogy
Favorite Movie: Fireproof
Favorite Music: Kim Walker / Jesus
Favorite Music: Christian and
Culture
Country
Favorite Food: Chinese Food
Favorite Food: Chinese
Favorite Quote: “What we do in this life echoes in eternity.”
J
ohn is a senior at Lifestyle Christian School and is the son of Jeff and Eileen Hackleman. He participates in basketball, football, and tennis. Away from school, he enjoys hunting and playing in the church band. His philosophy is to live by the Bible and follow the Word of God. After graduation, John plans to finish college with a degree that helps him achieve financial security, work or volunteer at Family Faith Church, and keep on living for God.
Nominate a Star Student
Email us: postcards@usa.com
Ryan Irby
Favorite Quote: "Hang In There, Baby"
R
achel is a senior at Montgomery High School. Her family came to Montgomery as early as the 1830s and some even fought in the Battle of San Jacinto. She still lives on inherited land in one of the antique farm houses. Her greatest accomplishment so far has been her 14+ years perfect attendance in the Montgomery School District. At age 14 she used Montgomery County Fair winnings to obtain her CPR/First Aid certificate. At 15, she helped deliver her sister's baby. Rachel is currently working with children from all walks of life. She believes God is the center of her life and lots of prayer, good health and motivation help her reach her goals. Her perseverance and hard work will pay off when she starts EMT and fire school when she graduates. She has also been the Medical Athletic Trainer for the last 3 years at Montgomery High School. Proverbs 3:26 reads " For the Lord will be your confidence and will keep your foot from being caught."
D
Senior – Willis High School Favorite Movie: The Harry Potter series
Favorite Music/Artist: Pentatonix Favorite Food: Bacon Cheese Fries
Favorite Quote: "It is easy to sit up and take notice. What is difficult is getting up and taking action." - Honore de Balzac
R
yan is a senior at Willis High School and is the son of Marvin and Theresa Irby. His activities include Computer Science UIL and bowling. After graduation, he hopes to attend college majoring either in computer science or music. Ryan's philosophy is to live and let live, until someone tries to stop you from living.
12 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
o you know a "Star Student"? Please tell us about them!
We are looking for high school seniors who are involved and interested in making a difference in their world. These are the students who are often considered "unsung heroes"! Email the name of your senior and why you feel they are a "Star Student" to postcards@usa.com. Be sure to include your contact information as well.
“
Each of the seniors selected will be awarded a prize in recognition of this honor. Prizes sponsored by Northshore Church.
KNOWING THE PEACE, POWER & PRESENCE OF GOD
Proudly sponsoring the Star Students of our area.
We invite you to join us for the following services: Celebrate Recovery Starting February 7th @ 7 p.m. See church website for details
Men’s Bible Study Every Tuesday @ 7:30 a.m.
Good Friday Service March 29th @ 6 p.m.
Women’s Bible Study Wednesday Mornings: James Mercy Triumphs @ 9:30 a.m.
Easter Services Sunrise Service @ 6:30 a.m. Sunday Service @ 9:00 a.m. Sunday Service @ 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday Nights: “Everything is possible with God” @ 7:00 p.m.
Registration going on now for Spring! Sign up now
www.northshorechurch.org
18501 W. FM 1097 • Montgomery, TX 77356 • 936-597-7000 February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 13
Stan "The Man" Curtis
Written by Mike Yawn
Do You Know?
S
tan Curtis, a Spring resident, has been a baseball fan for a long time. He was a fan before Houston had a major league team and before Willie Mays started professional baseball— back when Bob Feller and Joe Dimaggio were in their primes. He is, in his own words, an “absolute nut” about baseball. He has been to more major league parks than there are major league teams and, most recently, he has written a book, Covering All The Bases, about his experiences. He refers to baseball joyously, describing it as “American” and “number one” and, if so, he’s the sport’s number one fan, and he has the memories and the memorabilia to prove it.
Postcards: How many baseball parks have you been to? Stan Curtis: I’ve been to 54 different major league ballparks. PC: What was the first game that you attended? Top: Stan throwing out first pitch at Houston Astros game Middle: Stan holds his book, Covering All The Bases Opposite Page: Stan's baseball memorabilia and his Stan the Man shirt signed by Stan Musial
SC: I grew up in Silver Spring, Maryland. I first attended a baseball game in old Griffith Stadium in Washington, DC in 1947. PC: That was sixty-six years ago. SC: I’m very proud of that, and I would like to point out that I have attended games in sixty-six consecutive seasons. PC: With a streak like that, do you think it’s too much to call you the Lou Gehrig or Cal Ripken of baseball fans? SC: I would consider that a tribute. I was a high-school senior in 1946, and my final assignment in speech class was to present a
14 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
seven-hundred fifty word eulogy on a hero of my choosing. I chose Lou Gehrig. I didn’t realize where that was going to lead me in life, but I guess it was a tribute to my love for baseball. PC: In your book, you say that sometime in the 1980s you made it an explicit goal to see all the major league ballparks. Can you discuss that? SC: In 1984, I was at a game in Fenway Park. Someone questioned me and asked me whether this is a love of mine. I said, ‘yes.’ He asked if I was planning on visiting more ballparks, and I said, ‘yes.’ And I think that got me thinking explicitly about visiting all the parks. By 1995, the company I had worked for (editor: Shell) did a magazine article on me as a retiree. I was interviewed, and they asked what my goals were. At that time, I had been to all the parks, so I had achieved
that goal, although I have continued to see new parks as new teams come in or old teams build new parks. Number two, Nolan Ryan had just retired, and I was confident that he would go in the Hall of Fame when he became eligible in 1999. And I wanted to be there, at Cooperstown. He was inducted in 1999, and I was there. Number three, coming back to Lou Gehrig, Cal Ripken was on his quest to break the all-time “ironman” streak, set by Gehrig. I believed Ripken would break Gehrig’s record, and I wanted to be there. He did break the record, and I was there. Number four, I had been encouraged to write a book about my quest to visit all the ballparks, and I reflected on that and thought, maybe I’ll do it. And I did that, too. PC: That’s a thousand batting average. Let’s talk about the book a bit. What did you learn from the writing process? SC: It was a personal satisfaction. As much as I personally love the game, I did not have the skills to fulfill the dream of playing. So writing about it was a way of fulfilling the dream.
PC: Do you have a favorite baseball author or book? SC: Well, I really enjoy factual approaches to the game, and I have a lot of baseball books and encyclopedias. But as far as biographies, I liked Cal Ripken’s autobiography. PC: You mentioned Cal Ripken a couple of times. Can you tell us about some of the players of Cal’s caliber that you’ve seen play over the years? SC: Well, I saw Cal Ripken, Jr. and George Brett, who played for the Kansas City Royals. I also saw Brooks Robinson, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle and Hank Aaron play. Some players I met at baseball events in Houston, including Ferguson Jenkins, Joe Niekro, Phil Niekro. More recently, I had the honor of attending a dinner in honor of Milo Hamilton, the Astros’ announcer. Hank Aaron was there because Hamilton called his 715th home run. I had never met Aaron, but did that night, and I was like a kid in a candy store. It was one of the highlights of my life as a baseball fan. He is an absolute credit to the game of Major League baseball.
»
February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 15
Stan Curtis at home
PC: How about some local heroes? Which Houston players have you met?
SC: Yes I do. He’s an avid baseball fan and I'm a fan of his in general.
SC: I had the pleasure of meeting Nolan Ryan. I saw him pitch for his 300th win against the Yankees. He didn’t get the win that night, but the Rangers won and, of course, Ryan went on to win his 300th in a subsequent start. I met Jeff Bagwell. I’ve met Craig Biggio several times, and I was at the game at which he got his 3,000th hit. I also saw Mike Scott pitch a no-hitter to clinch the playoffs in 1986. I went into my office that day, and I saw that I didn’t have anything on my calendar that afternoon. So I took a half day vacation, went to the game, and I watched Mike Scott throw his no hitter.
PC: That’s right. You may know that when he got married, he did so at Camden Yards. People asked him why, and he said, ‘I wanted my wife to know that she was just as important to me as baseball.’
PC: It’s not easy to get tickets to some of these games. Can you tell us how you go about that?
SC: I love that line! My wife is a knowledgeable baseball fan, and she attends many games with me. PC: How about other people that you share your baseball passion with? SC: I serve on the board of trustees with a NAM organization here – that’s Northwest Assistance Ministries—and I serve on the Houston Golf Association. A number of them are baseball fans, and they’ve followed what I have done, and they’ve gotten groups together to attend games.
SC: Well, it’s not always easy. My wife and I went to New York in 2009 when both the PC: Tell us a little bit about the Northwest Mets and the Yankees were opening new Assistance Ministries. stadiums. We were able to see the Mets SC: The organization is in their 27th year, game at Citi Field without much trouble, and their goal is to help people through and we were honored to be there. But Yankee volunteers. They help people who are hungry, Stadium was a bit more difficult, though it who are homeless, who don’t know English, turned out fine. In fact, they ultimately gave who are abused, especially women and chilme two tickets, and they only charged me dren. I have a love for children’s charities, and ten dollars for both. I had been reading about I am donating the net proceeds of my book the high costs of tickets at the new stadium, to a whole series of children’s charities: The but I have been in sales long enough to know Sunshine Kids, The Make-a Wish Foundation, that when you make the sale you shut up and First Tee program at Redstone, the children’s move on. He told me to go through the VIP clinic at the church to which I belong, and entrance and added, ‘You’ll like these tickets; to our children’s clinic at NAM. they are good seats.” So we went in, and we were sitting about 17 or 18 rows behind PC: You’ve talked NAM, which is a faithhome plate in Yankees Stadium. I found based organization, and baseball. Did you out later those tickets sell for $375 apiece. know that God was a baseball fan? PC: We’ve talked a little about the writing process, and you’ve mentioned your wife. Do you know the writer George Will? 16 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
SC: No.
“
To me, baseball is the epitome of sports from youth on. I think there’s nothing that is more American, more family-oriented than baseball. – Stan Curtis
PC: Well, he did start the Bible with, “In the ‘Big Inning,’ God created heaven and earth…” SC: Touché.
PC: Who are your three favorite baseball players? SC: Ted Williams, Lou Gehrig, and Stan Musial.
SC:Crane I likeCabin Camden Yard. by When they opened donated in 1992, they created a park for baseball. It Carroll and Mae Tharp helped baseball move away from cavernous stadiums they play football in, and revived the idea of an intimate baseball experience in a smaller, more open stadium with real grass. Camden brought those things back.
I should also note that I like Minute Maid Park. I’ve attended every opening game there since 2000, the year the park opened, and I’m lookSC: I met the real Stan the Man at a golf tour- ing forward to going this year. We’re moving nament. I was visiting relatives in Illinois in into the American League and building. We 1991, shortly after I had retired. For my retire- went from making the World Series in 2005 ment, Shell had given me a t-shirt with the all the way down to being one of the most Cardinals’ logo on it and “Stan the Man” on losing teams over the last couple of years. But the back. When I was about 15 (playing fast I’m a diehard, and as we get closer to spring pitch softball) a good friend of mine put that training, hope surfaces in me every year. I’m tag on me. I heard about a golf tournament a typical baseball fan. When spring training at which Stan Musial would be playing, and I starts, I’m thinking: ‘This is the year.’ went to the tournament wearing the shirt. I PC: The four most beautiful words in the met Musial, and he was so cordial. He signed English language: “Pitchers and catchers my shirt, which is now in my memorabilia report.” room upstairs, along with a picture of the two of us together. SC: Amen. PC: You share a nickname with one of those players. Tell us about that.
PC: What’s the best park you have been to?
PC: What’s the best game you’ve attended? SC: For me, the culmination of my years in baseball was when Cal Ripken broke Lou Gehrig’s record. It’s the only game in which I’ve found the announcers absolutely speechless. PC: What makes baseball stand out from other sports? SC: I live in a state now that is big on football. I’m a huge supporter of football, a season ticketholder of the Houston Texans…they disappointed me again up in New England. But I think that football—the great game that it is—I look at it as brute force and awkwardness. Basketball is a fast-paced game with a minimal number of players. To me, baseball is the epitome of sports from youth on. I think there’s nothing that is more American, more family-oriented than baseball. From the peewee leagues, to little leagues, to the minor leagues, and those fortunate ones that make it to the major leagues, I don’t think there’s any sport in our country that surpasses how far-reaching baseball is. To me it is number one.
”
Did You Know Stan Musial? Three days following Yawn’s interview with Curtis, former St. Louis Cardinals’ great Stan “The Man” Musial passed away at the age of 92. Musial’s Hall-of-Fame career is well known, but did you know? • Musial was married for seventy-two years • Musial enjoyed playing the harmonica and, in fact, performed on the television show Hee-Haw • Musial missed the 1945 baseball season while serving in the U.S. Navy • President Lyndon Johnson appointed Musial as the nation’s physical fitness advisor • Musial was awarded the “Presidential Medal of Freedom” in 2011, where the President described Musial as “an icon untarnished, a beloved pillar of the community, a gentleman you'd want your kids to emulate”
Stan Curtis has been at this a long time but, when spring arrives, and sunshine and light fill the air, he’ll be at a ballpark, awaiting the words of opening day, “Play Ball!” Stan and his wife, Pat, at Minute Maid Park
Newspaper article, photo, and ticket featuring Stan throwing out the first pitch February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 17
Dallas
San Antonio
Conroe
X Houston
Gotta Get Away?
Story and Photos by Wes Altom
Austin
n b u rg S c h u lem il e s 130
Corpus Christi
I
Ammannsville
Step Back to Schulenburg
n our previous issues, this feature has emphasized GO and DO (and eat)! Even the feature name is a form of the word—Gotta Get Away. The beginning of a new year is always a good time to slow things down and re-assess. In Psalm 46:10, He tells us, “Be still and know that I am God.” Though every person reading this may not claim Him as Father, I think we can all agree on the wisdom of slowing down and evaluating our circumstances now and then. Logic dictates that, if we constantly move forward, our field of view is always narrowing. The way to gain perspective (literally and figuratively) is to stop and take a step back—so join us as we step back to Schulenburg and its Painted Churches. In the mid-1800s, many Czech and German settlers came to Texas looking for economic opportunity and religious freedom. As they developed small communities, among the first buildings they constructed were churches to comfort their spirits and sustain their faith. While the exteriors of these buildings were typically Gothic Revival style, the interiors include rare decorative painting techniques and brightly colored murals, hence the name “Painted Churches.” There are some 20 such places of worship in the state; however, four of these treasures are in small communities near Schulenburg, 100 miles west of Houston on the eastern edge of the Hill Country—leading the Texas Legislature to formally designate Schulenburg as the Official Home of the Painted Churches of Texas. Visiting these four charming notes in Texas history makes for a pleasant day trip. All are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, but aren’t necessarily easy to find on a map since their communities are so small! A good starting point is the Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce for an official map. With advance notice, guided tours are also possible through the chamber (www.schulenburgchamber.org or (866) 504-5294).
Wyohuat Raeraeding? Tell us what you’re reading! Send your information to: postcards@usa.com. 18 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
Barbara Padgett
Courtney Dye
reading
reading
Wool
The Wedding Dress
By Hugh Howey
By Rachel Hauck
Discover more at: Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce www.schulenburgchamber.com (866) 504-5294
Ammannsville Ammannsville, named in honor of immigrant Andrew Ammann, was once an agricultural center for surrounding farms. Today, the major remaining building is St. John the Baptist, a painted wooden church. The church was established in 1890. The original building was destroyed by a hurricane in 1909. A second building burned in 1917, but villagers braved the fire to rescue some statues which are now on display in the current building, completed in 1919. The right side of the church has stained glass windows depicting male saints, while the windows on the left side feature female saints. In the early days of these churches, men and boys sat on the right side, and women and girls sat on the left. The vaulted ceilings feature ornamental paintings of cherubs, palm ferns, and lily blossoms.
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Ammannsville
Ammannsville
Paul Lamp
Mona Vance
reading
reading
The Shack
The Elephant Whisperer
By William P. Young
By Lawrence Anthony
February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 19
High Hill
Dubina The community of Dubina, which means “land of oaks,” was the first Czech settlement in Texas. It was named because the first residents spent their first night there under the shelter of a large oak tree. The present St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church was constructed in 1912 after the 1909 hurricane destroyed the original building. The only surviving elements from the first building are a chandelier, the bells, and the cross on the steeple. The original interior painting has been fully restored.
Dubina
20 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
Dubina
High Hill The hurricane which wiped out the churches at Ammannsville and Dubina caused only minor damage to St. Mary’s Church at High Hill. The first church building at High Hill was completed in the mid-1860s. A second church was built in 1875, and the first building became a school. Due to continued growth, the current building was finished in 1906, completed in part with materials from the second building, which was dismantled. The interior of St. Mary’s features 18 stained glass windows purchased and shipped from Germany in the late 1800s. The ceiling paintings include angels, birds, vines, and a variety of religious symbols.
Praha At Praha, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church had humble beginnings, as poor residents built a stone chapel measuring 17 feet by 15 feet in 1865. The current building was completed in 1895. As a finishing touch, a cross was to be placed on top of the 100 foot steeple. Folklore says that no one was brave enough to climb the steeple to complete the task. A parishioner offered a keg of beer to the person who would scale the steeple. A man claiming to be a steeplejack took them up on their offer—he scampered up the steeple, anchored the cross, and then did a handstand on it, shocking the crowd. Praha’s altar is adorned with splendid statues carved of wood from Germany’s Black Forest. Swiss artist Gottfried Flurry painted the ceiling with angels, religious symbols, and more than 60 different flowers, vines and shrubs. The ceiling has never had to be repainted. Schulenburg means “school town,” and education has always been a priority to those living in the area. This certainly seems fitting. At some level—whether spiritual, historical, or cultural—there are lessons to be learned for each of us from the Painted Churches. Stop by, step back, and take a look.
Praha
High Hill We’ve been baking the same great recipes from scratch for 4 generations!
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s Valentine
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Don’t forget Easter is just around the corner! February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 21
Things my Granddaddy said...
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You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. submitted by Jack Shepherd
Words that soak into your ears are whispered...not yelled. submitted by David Ely
My stepfather had a saying if you complained about anything, “I was born tired, hungry and sleepy, and never got caught up. Get over it.”
318 South Main Street • Conroe, Texas 77301
submitted by Marjory Bollier
It’s a sorry man that won’t keep his wife in a good lawnmower. submitted by Kenneth Farris
When my Granddaddy heard about someone who was spending too much money or getting into too much business activity he would say, “Well, that man may be getting his legs spread too far apart.” submitted by Jim Lanier
She’s a butterhead. Everythin’ looks good on her but her head! submitted by Jon Stevens
When we did something incorrectly, my daddy would say, “You need to lick that calf over again.” submitted by Harold Altom
Tell us what your Granddaddy (or Grandmother) said! Submit your information to: postcards@usa.com or go to our Facebook wall facebook.com/PostcardsMagazineMontgomeryCounty 22 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 23
Tim Schenk E
by Zachary Toney
A Day in Your Life
veryone knows that there is no place like home. In the south especially, we like to take pride in our “neck of the woods.” For baker Tim Schenk, not only is making community important, but also emphasizing the “sweet” in “home sweet home.” Owner and operator of Montgomery Bakehouse, Tim, with the help of his wife and children, has dedicated himself to providing the community with quality baked goods and keeping the people sweet as a pecan pie! Originally from Pennsylvania, Tim is a third generation baker who has been using recipes handed down from his father and grandfather for most of his life, and he continues to pass on the traditions to his children. My mouth began to water immediately as I received this assignment, and it was almost overwhelming to think that I would be in a bakery surrounded by delicious goodies for the whole day. Along the way, however, I had the pleasure of meeting a hard working man who enjoys giving back to his community. We hope that the pictures of the tasty treats will not distract you too much as Postcards tags along with Tim and his family for a day in their life!
5:00 a.m. – Not accustomed to being up at five in the morning,
Abigail Davidhiz
ar
photographer Abby and I walk in yawning to see Tim already at his table rolling out dough for some fresh, homemade kolaches. He slides a pan into what is called a “proofer” to help the dough rise. Tim says, “There are a lot of steps to make these. That’s why I’m here so early!”
K2 Images
24 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
Texas Tornado Cookies
Shop's Bestseller the proofer and put into the oven to cook. My stomach is grumbling, and I’m not sure how much longer I am going to last!
5:10 a.m. – Tim gives us a quick background of growing up in Pennsylvania working in his dad’s pastry shop. I asked if he ever got tired of baking. He told us that he tried construction, was “bored out of his mind,” and missed baking too much.
5:25 a.m.
– Tim uses this time to look into the display. He makes a list of what needs to be made and looks over the day’s orders to be filled. “Not every day is the same. You have to feel out what you need to make and see what the customers are ordering. It’s a challenge sometimes to be efficient, but we are small enough for just the family to work. Many times when I need something, they already know and get it for me. It’s cool working with a core group.”
5:15 a.m.
– “Boot Scootin’ Boogie” comes on over the radio, and I ask Tim if he ever gets caught dancing. “No, that would be scary. Sometimes I sing, but that’s scary too!”
5:17 a.m.
– While the kolaches are in the proofer, Tim starts preparing pecan sticky buns, which he says are popular up north. His customers here in Texas have also become very stuck on them.
5:20 a.m. – The air is filling with delicious smells as the kolaches are pulled out of
5:30 a.m. – Texas Tornado cookies, the shop’s bestseller, begin to bake. The cookies are so popular that people from all over Texas place orders and have them shipped from the shop.
Abigail Davidhizar
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Baked from Scratch daily.... 5:37 a.m. – Pineapple upside down and turtle cakes are thrown into the oven, which stands right behind the counter of the store. “We wanted to keep the oven in front of people. The people really like that. They can engage you in
conversation while you’re baking. One time we had an oven go out, and one of the customers watching knew an oven guy who she called, and he came right over and fixed it. We were thankful she was watching!”
5:45 a.m. – The industrial size mixer fires up as leftover breads are ground up for the soon to be made apple strudel, and then it is time for a coffee break to energize for the long day ahead.
5:54 a.m. – Pie crusts are in the proofer crisping up for the upcoming pie orders.
6:00 a.m. – Lights go on in the front, and pans go out on display as we get ready for the breakfast crowd. The shop is filled with a mix of sweet and salty aromas as most of the foods are placed up front for the customers to see.
6:10 a.m. – The first batch of Texas tornados comes out of the oven, and Tim starts drizzling chocolate over the cookies. He shows us some of the techniques that he learned while working with his father in Pennsylvania. 6:30 a.m. – Kolaches, cookies, cinnamon rolls, oh my! There are delicious treats everywhere, and the racks are filled as it gets closer to opening time. Tim lets Abby and me try the kolaches. So delicious!
Abigail Davidhizar
The
6:45 a.m. – Luc, Tim’s help, arrives to help with the cleaning and filling up the display cases. “This is kind of a dead time for me waiting for everything to come out. I mostly use this time to handle business work, or I just stand here and reflect.”
6:55 a.m. – Tim slices some biscuits for the breakfast sandwiches and pulls some croissants out of the oven. Everything is out for display, and Tim starts boxing up the first orders that
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are to be picked up. Now we are just waiting for the first customer to come in.
7:14 a.m.
– “Morning y’all!” Tim says with his northern accent as a little girl and her mother walk in the front door and start picking out some cinnamon rolls. After helping his first customers, Tim walks a tray of breakfast goods over next door to a group which meets every Tuesday at McKenzie’s BBQ. They have a few extra visitors today but Tim does not mind making more.
Photos by Butch Ireland Photography
We’ll do all the work. Where elegance enhances
Abigail Davidhizar
7:38 a.m. – More custom-
warmth, Magnolia Lake
ers are rolling in and moving down the line getting their “usual” as Tim asks about their family or how their week is going.
is the perfect setting for you to sit back and enjoy your event.
7:50 a.m. – Tim pulls the
pie crusts out of the proofer and grabs a huge bucket full of pecans. “We sell a lot of pecan pies down here!” he explains as he generously shovels pecans and filling into the crusts. That’s Texas for you!
8:20 a.m. – Tim takes a break from baking to help a customer carry out her order to her car, even though it is drizzling and near freezing outside. The customer just happens to be Postcards sales representative, Janet Jones, on her way to a local breakfast meeting!
8:30 a.m. – Two gentlemen are enjoying coffee and kolaches up front in the sitting area as Tim and Luc switch from breakfast foods to mixing batter for the day’s cake orders.
8:55 a.m. – “See you later, Mr. Tim!” says one of the patrons as he walks out of the store. Another customer stands in front of the register and begins talking to us while Tim sets out some blueberry muffins.
9:05 a.m. – “Now the fun people are here,” says Tim as his wife Heather and son Ethan walk in from the back. Tim also mentions employee Elise Tunstall who is “almost” a member of the family. She is engaged to Tim and Heather’s oldest son, Jason. Tim says Elise is so important to their business because she maintains the company’s website and Facebook pages.
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9:15 a.m. – After introductions, Ethan starts stacking cakes for his dad and Heather starts icing and decorating those already made. “Cooking is usually not my cup of tea. That’s why I’m thankful to have a husband and son who know how to cook!” she explains as she ices the cakes.
9:45 a.m. – All three of the Schenks are in the front working under a sign that says “Life is sweet.” Ethan is placing meringue pies in the oven, Heather is icing the cakes, and Tim is laying out a yardstick next
»
2001 Hwy 30 East • Huntsville, TX • 936.294.0991
magnolia-lake.com • info@magnolia-lake.com February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 27
936.756.1745
The Schenk Family
montgomerybakehouse.com to the brownies, marking slices like a carpenter getting ready to cut wood. The atmosphere is so comfortable I feel almost like part of the family.
10:30 a.m. – Ethan helps a little boy with his face glued to the display case pick out some cookies for a midmorning snack. The weather outside is dreary, but Tim and his family are joyous nonetheless as they whip up more treats.
10:38 a.m. – “This is Montgomery Bakehouse! How can I
10:50 a.m. – I ask Tim what he does with his leftover goods, and he shares that he freezes them. Later he gives them to the community center and some of the local churches.
Abigail Davidhizar
help you?” Ethan says cheerfully as he answers the phone for a cake order. “We do not refuse orders. If someone calls me and wants a cake that afternoon, we stop what we’re doing and make it. It’s a challenge, but I like it,” explains Tim as he stacks more cakes for Heather to decorate.
up north is that the customers talk to each other. They’ll ask each other, ‘Have you tried this place?’ and help promote our products. Sometimes people just wander over saying they smelled us all the way next door!”
11:10 a.m. – I finally catch Tim and Ethan performing a duet to one 12:00 p.m. – Tim retreats to the back of the store to handle the of the songs playing over the radio—a fun way to attract customers and not scary at all!
11:30 a.m. – The lunch crowd is growing larger at the restaurant next door and thanks to a connecting doorway, more and more people keep finding themselves in front of Tim’s displays gazing at all the vibrant colors and smelling the sweet aromas. “Oh, wow!” seems to be the most popular saying of the day. “What I love about down here compared to
business end of the shop or as he refers to it the “fun stuff.” As he starts to wrap up his day, Tim tells me that he still has to run a few errands around town but, more importantly, he has to be at his daughter’s basketball game. He’s only missed one so far, and he does not plan on missing any more. As Tim Schenk gets ready to leave the business, it is plain to see that family and community are very important to him—all a part of keeping life sweet.
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 29
Business Focus:
By Wes Altom
Primrose School of Conroe
Primrose Conroe Franchise Owner, Jennifer Millington
Photos provided by K2 Images
H
ave you heard of Primrose curriculum in a “stay and play” industry. The Primrose location undergoes review in the Schools? If you haven’t, you company’s proprietary Balanced Learning accreditation process by Primrose corporate will—because a new loca- System is research-based and includes personnel as well as the accrediting body in tion is opening in Conroe multiple components that support chil- order to ensure consistency and compliance this spring! Primrose Schools is a trusted dren’s social-emotional, cognitive, creative, with the high standards required. private preschool organization that provides and physical development. Primrose students consistently demonpremier educational child care experiences In 1998, Primrose became the first educa- strate a high attainment of school readiness for children and families. The schools serve tional preschool company to earn national concepts as measured by the nationally children from six weeks to six years old, and accreditation from CITA/SACS CASI (now recognized Bracken Assessments. In most also offer after school programs for children part of AdvanceED). In 2012, Primrose cases, Primrose students scored at twice the up to twelve years old. developed and piloted the new AdvanceED level of their peers on these assessments From the first location in Marietta, Standards for Quality Early Learning designed especially for young children. All Georgia which opened in 1982, Primrose Schools and was awarded the first inter- Primrose teachers have a degree, and all has grown to more than 245 schools in 17 national AdvanceED Corporation Systems of the school’s programs exceed the ministates serving 30 U.S. markets. Primrose Accreditation under the new Standards for mum requirement in the state for ratio of has revolutionized the concept of child care, Quality Early Learning Schools. In addition students to teachers. making education the key component of its to review of the overall organization, each
30 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
"Primrose students scored at twice the level of their peers on these assessments designed especially for young children." Conroe franchise owner Jennifer and chose Primrose. The feeling of trust I got Millington was a teacher for 13 years in along with seeing the way they were set up public school in the Spring area. For the last was just phenomenal. We fell in love with it, four years, she was a curriculum administra- and it became a big part of our family.” That tor at an elementary school. “Education has was the beginning of Millington’s dream of always been very important to me,” says owning and working with her own Primrose Millington. “As an educator, when I sat in school. She and her husband Ric join the student placement meetings, I repeatedly 80% of Primrose franchise owners that are saw cases where Primrose students were parents who decided to join the business out that Primrose curriculum is written at ahead of the game in their educational devel- after their own positive experience with the corporate level by experts in the field. opment and were placed in GT (Gifted and the school. Her son, now 6, will be in the “This is one of many advantages we have in Talented) programs.” This really made an school’s first kindergarten class. being a franchise and having a corporate impression on her. “When I had my baby When asked what distinguishes Primrose office that offers so much support.” The and it was time to place him in child care, from other offerings for children, Millington curriculum is revised every year to keep it it was one of the hardest decisions a parent says one big difference is the curriculum. on the forefront of childhood education. can make—trying to find some place to send “Our curriculum starts in our infant room. All of the lessons at Primrose have learnyour kid where you know they are safe and Our teachers constantly are reading books ing outcomes and assessments attached to you know they are being loved. As an educa- to the kids. We make sure that our teach- them, so it’s never going to be a unit that’s tor it was very important to me that it was ers are engaged in dialogue with the kids, just “fun.” But Millington says the kids are time well spent—that he was going to be because that’s the way the kids learn constantly having fun! The school regularly learning while he was there, and his develop- language—when they are exposed to it, shares assessments with the parents, so ment would be accelerated. I was diligent. I and they realize there’s a way to communi- parents always know exactly where their shopped and checked every location near us cate with someone.” Millington also points child is developmentally in all areas.
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While the core of Primrose philosophy is their Balanced Learning curriculum, Millington also points out another difference in Primrose. “We do offer all of our enrichment programs—music, Spanish (in the pre-school area), something called mudpies (which is ecology), and character
will have an active role behind the scenes at the school and both will be actively involved in parent and family programs and events. Says Millington, “These kids are going to be together for a long time, and it’s important to build relationships and the sense of community.”
"Good character doesn’t happen by accident—these things are taught. Good character happens when you teach them what honesty is." development programs that are all included in At Primrose, the children are divided by age, tuition. Not only do we feel these are so impor- with each age group having their own class area tant to the child’s development, we also believe and connecting playground tailored specifiparents shouldn’t pay extra to get these things cally for them. There are no common areas. at their child’s school. Good character doesn’t Within the age groups, academic small groups happen by accident—these things are taught. are formed and are scaffolded to even better Good character happens when you teach them customize the learning experience for where what honesty is.” children are developmentally. “The groups are An additional area of emphasis at Primrose very fluid,” says Millington. “Just because the is community. Jennifer says her husband Ric child is in one group for a specific subject area,
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Primrose Conroe At-a-Glance • Operating Hours: 6:30 am – 6:30 pm that doesn’t mean that’s their group for other areas or even that it will always be their group in that area. Groups change along with the child’s development. There are also activities such as stories and playground time where everyone in the age group is involved together.” Because the buildings are designed in this manner of separate areas for separate age groups, the construction of Primrose schools is also consistent across all Primrose schools. Millington says that this can be a huge advantage to a family that has to relocate one or more times during a child’s preschool years. Between the consistency in schedule, curriculum, and facility, it minimizes the stress to the child which can come from moving and changing schools. Operating hours for the school will be 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. Admission is now open and not based on any minimum assessment level. The school accommodates special needs students as well. According to Millington, the school works
very closely with parents to determine the best placement with clear expectations and goals. Enrollment capacity is 204, and Millington says there will never be any additions or changes which will take the facility over that cap. “We are not about quantity. We are about quality.” The building for the Conroe location is under construction, and the school set to open this spring. Millington says pre-enrollment has been strong and she is very excited to get underway. Staff interviews and hiring will begin in February. The facility is located at 965 Longmire, at the intersection with Loop 336. Millington wants prospective families to know that she will be a full-time on site owner and expects to have roles both in and out of the classroom working with children, teachers, and parents. For additional information on Primrose School of Conroe, visit www.primroseconroe.com or phone Jennifer Millington at (936) 756-8100.
• Enrollment now open • 204 student capacity • Staff interviews and hiring begins in February 2013 • Conroe location at Longmire and Loop 336 • More info: PrimroseConroe.com (936) 756-8100
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 33
Recipes
Share your favorite recipes with us!
postcards@usa.com
Old-Time Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Smashed Potato Soup
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
1 teaspoon sugar
2 pounds stew beef
3-1/2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into 3/4-inch cubes
1/2 teaspoon pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped yellow and/or red sweet pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoons bottled roasted garlic
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 clove garlic, peeled
4-1/2 cups chicken broth
3 ribs celery, chopped
1 medium onion, sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions Sliced green onions (optional)
ground cloves 3 large carrots, sliced
1 or 2 bay leaves
1/2 cup whipping cream, half-and-half, or light cream
dash ground allspice or
Directions:
In a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker, combine potatoes, sweet pepper, garlic, and black pepper. Pour broth over all.
Brown meat in hot oil. Add water, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, bay leaves, onion, salt, sugar, pepper, paprika, and allspice. Cover and simmer 1 1/2 hours.
Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 8 to 10 hours or on high-heat setting for 4 to 5 hours.
Remove bay leaves and garlic clove. Add carrots and celery. Cover and cook 30 to 40 minutes longer. To thicken gravy, remove 2 cups hot liquid. Using a separate bowl, combine 1/4 cup water and cornstarch until smooth. Mix with a little hot liquid and return mixture to pot. Stir and cook until bubbly.
Mash potatoes slightly with a potato masher. Stir in whipping cream, cheddar cheese, and the 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions. If desired, top individual servings with additional sliced green onions. Makes 8 servings.
Black Bean-Corn Salsa 2 cans (11 oz) corn, drained
fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 can black beans, drained and cleaned
2 or 3 Tb red wine vinegar
1 jalapeno, finely chopped
2 Tb Italian dressing
1-2 avocados, diced
fresh lemon or lime juice
1/2 large red onion, chopped
chili powder (to taste)
Combine all ingredients and refrigerate. * Best served as an appetizer or used in place of salad dressing submitted by Kristin Humphrey
3 garlic cloves, minced
. . . ir a e th in is g in r Sp
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Postcards From Our Readers
Over 50 years experience! County Librarian for the Montgomery Laura Harper (c), Children’s children’s epts the donation of 250 new Memorial Librar y System, acc ger (r) and gue President Kathy Berrin books from Assistance Lea (l). President-Elect Kay Richards submitted by omery County Assistance League® of Montg
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For the first time in over two decades, a Willis High School student advanced to the final round of vocal competition for the TMEA all-state choir auditions. WHS Senior Gloria Deveraux will compete in the final round for the chance to sing in the all-state choir in San Antonio. submitted by Erin Leinecke, Willis ISD
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Visit our LIGHTING SHOWROOM at 1711 Sycamore, Huntsville or visit us online at www.mccaffetyelectric.com February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 35
Mark your Calendars AUSTIN NCAA Tournament Mar 22 - 24 ncaa.com
BAYTOWN Tenor Madness Concert featuring The Texas Tenors Mar 9 lee.edu/pac/calendar-of-events
BEAUMONT Sesame Street Live! Can't Stop Singing Mar 8 - 10 fordpark.com South Texas State Fair Mar 21 - 31 ymbl.org The Last Days of Christ Outdoor Passion Drama Mar 28 - 30 lastdaysofchrist.org
COLLEGE STATION Women of Ireland in Concert Feb 12 mscopas.org
CONROE “The Lion in Winter” Feb 1-3, 8-10 “The Fantasticks” - Musical Mar 29-31 owentheatre.com 2013 Mardi Gras Ball Feb 9 mcpas.org A Broadway Valentine Feb 11 conroesymphony.org “The Drowsy Chaperone” Feb 15-17, 22-24, Mar 1-3 Young Texas Artists Music Competition Mar 7 - 9 crightontheatre.org Send your calendar items to: postcards@usa.com
Go Texan Parade Feb 16 conroe.org Free Wedding Show Feb 17 southwestweddingshow.com Aquafina MLB Pitch, Hit, and Run Mar 30 cityofconroe.org/ parks-and-recreation
DAYTON Liberty County Home and Garden Show Feb 1 daytontxchamber.com
GALVESTON
Mardi Gras Galveston Feb 1 - 3, 8 - 10 mardigrasgalveston.com Ronnie Milsap in Concert Feb 16 - 17 "Elvis Lives" Feb 23 - 24 Johnny Mathis in Concert Mar 24 Billy Dean with Jimmy Fortune of The Statler Brothers Mar 30 thegrand.com
HOUSTON Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Feb 25 - Mar 17 www.rodeohouston.com Live Theatre and Musical Performances A.D. Players adplayers.org Alley Theatre alleytheatre.org Arena Theatre arenahouston.com Hobby Center for the Performing Arts broadwayacrossamerica.com Theatre Under the Stars tuts.com
36 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
HUNTSVILLE "Trip to Bountiful" Feb 15 - 17, 22 - 24 huntsvillecommunitytheatre.org General Sam Houston's Birthday Celebration Mar 2 walkercohistory.org Herb Day at the Wynne Home March 16 facebookcom/texasthymeunit
JASPER Azalea Festival Mar 16 jaspercoc.org
JEFFERSON
Route 49 Biker Rally Mar 22 - 24 route49motorclothes.com
KEMAH Yachty Gras Boat Parade Feb 9 yachtygras.com
Out and About NACOGDOCHES
Azalea Trail Mar 1 - 30 nacogdochesazaleas.com
PALESTINE Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration Mar 15 - 17, 22 - 24, 29 - 31 palestinechamber.org
PORT ARTHUR Mardi Gras Southeast Texas Feb 7 - 10 mardigrastx.com
SHEPHERD Kelly Miller Circus Mar 25 sanjacintocountytourism.org
THE WOODLANDS The Woodlands CrawPHish Festival Mar 23 thewoodlandscrawfish.com
TOMBALL
KILGORE
Tomball Honky Tonk Music Festival Mar 16 tomballtx.gov
LIBERTY
German Heritage Festival Mar 22 - 24 tomballgermanfest.org
Lone Star Lug Nuts Car Show Mar 22 - 23 lonestarlugnuts.tripod.com Liberty Opry Feb 2, 9, 16, 23, Mar 2, 9, 16 libertyopry.com Liberty County Clay Shoot Mar 23 daytontxchamber.com
MAGNOLIA
Troupe Winds Canterbury Faire March 2 - April 21 Weekends fourwindsfaire.com
TYLER
BGeO Magnolia Miles Mar 16 magnoliamiles.org
"Ed Asner as FDR" Feb 5 - 6 cowancenter.org
Magnolia Showdown Barbecue Cook-Off Mar 22 - 24 magnoliatexas.org
Azalea and Spring Flower Trail Mar 15 - Apr 7 visittyler.com
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 37
S
Mustard Seed Moments
Crossed Jesus where am I to go, it seems I’m born to run.
The way that is less traveled, seems to be the way to go.
Said some things I may regret, ashamed of what I’ve done.
Truth is, I never went that way, and did not think you’d know.
To believe I could be saved, still worthy of your love.
And when I found myself again, amongst the many lost.
To have a peace of mind in life, let’s seek a higher power.
Him and I now understand, it’s thanks to God above.
The only sign I had from God, was keeping my fingers crossed.
The day will come we need it some, in that our final hour.
I have always lost my way, when I dared walk alone.
Life won’t always go your way, till we bear the cross of Jesus.
Father God I will be there, but only through your Son.
Am I just glad I found you there, on streets I had not known.
No journey ever truly starts, until he finally frees us.
But if I had not come this way, I could not have begun.
The road ahead can be unkind, without a trusted friend.
One sure way to make it home, is accept Christ as our Savior.
Through the blessings had by Christ, we would not know this fate.
Way of life unknown to me, so close to some dead end.
Comes a time in all our lives, we must change our behavior.
Me Lord, I have been taken in, to meet you at the gate.
Loyalty & Commitment
Tours ble availa daily!
Values learned from two great examples
Submitted by Daniel J. Harding
mm
...The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you say to this mulberry tree, ‘be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you. Luke 17:5-6
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38 Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition | February – March 2013
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February – March 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Montgomery County Edition 39
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