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Gear Up For Grilling Season by Family Features
Graduations and Transitions! by Sarah Morrow Rotthier
Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor by Edward Jones
Father’s Day: Honoring the Men Who Shape Our Lives by Kelly Thomas
Preparing Your Family For Hurricane Season by Kelly Thomas
Events June 2025
Darst Funeral Home Where Care and Community Meet by Kelly Thomas
A Legacy of Service: Janet and Dan Huberty’s Gift to the Local Community by Kelly Thomas
Put Your Best Face Forward- 5 Tips for Better Virtual Business by Family Features
A Tribute to Freedom and Sacrifice by Kelly Thomas
Creature Connections: The Three C’s by Martin de Vore
Sun, Smiles, and Sweet Summer Memories by Kelly Thomas
Advertisers Map June 2025
Kingwood, Humble, Atascocita, Huffman, Porter, New Caney and The Highlands
Care and Community Meet Page 18
Gear Up For Grilling Season
By Family Features
As the days get longer and the temperatures rise, it’s time to fire up the grill and elevate your outdoor cooking game. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, success comes down to three essentials: quality ingredients, the right seasonings and reliable equipment that gives you full control over heat and timing.
If you’re ready to turn up the heat this season, explore high-performance grilling solutions from Nexgrill – built to match every cooking style and skill level. From backyard barbecues to weeknight dinners under the open sky, its lineup is designed to help you serve up unforgettable flavors all season long. Visit nexgrill.com to learn more and get inspired.
Unlock a New Level of Outdoor Cooking Versatility
Transform your backyard into a chef-inspired kitchen with the Gourmet Pro 6-Burner Stainless Steel Gas Grill featuring the Griddle Max Cooking System. Designed to go beyond traditional grilling, this powerhouse lets you grill, saute, griddle and smoke all at once or on demand. The innovative system makes it easy to achieve restaurant-quality results, delivering unmatched versatility for any meal. Built with stainless steel burners, angled flame tamers and porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grids, it ensures consistent heat and fewer flare-ups. With 811 square inches of cooking space, six main burners and a high-heat searing side burner, you’ll get 75,000 BTU of total cooking power.
Take on Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
From sizzling fajitas at your backyard bash to earlymorning pancakes before your next adventure, the Daytona 4-Burner Propane Gas Griddle delivers the heat, flavor and performance you need. Designed for versatility, this powerhouse features a 792-square-inch cooktop and four stainless steel burners, giving you the space and control to cook multiple dishes at once. Builtin convenience comes standard with dual side shelves, a lower storage rack to keep tools within reach and a removable grease cup for quick and easy cleanup. When it’s time to pack it in, a heavy-duty lid protects your cooking surface.
From Kitchen to Patio, It Goes Where You Go Grilling isn’t just for the backyard. When weather or space keeps you inside, the Fuse 22-inch Electric Griddle delivers bold, flame-free cooking anywhere there’s an outlet. Ultralightweight and easy to transport, it’s built for seamless indoor-outdoor use. With 308 square inches of edge-to-edge heat, a durable nonstick surface and digital temperature control, this electric flattop offers precision and power. A hinged lid with a built-in viewing window locks in heat and flavor so you can cook efficiently. From weekday breakfasts in the kitchen to weekend feasts on the patio, it can be your all-access pass to delicious, flexible cooking –wherever life takes you.
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Graduations and Transitions!
Congratulations to all the recent graduates and their families! So much time, effort, and love has gone into raising your human and helping them transition into the world and independence. If your teen has just graduated from high school and is looking forward to college or joining the workforce, or your young adult child has graduated from college/graduate school and is joining the workforce, this is a time to reflect on these accomplishments. It
treatments and medications if it is ever determined by a court that they lack the ability to understand the nature and consequences of a proposed treatment.
(3) Financial POA and Designating beneficiaries (pay-on-death) on financial accounts – we seldom think about young adults needing an “estate plan” for two reasons: (1) young adults generally do not have a lot of money, and (2) young adults rarely die. While both of these are true, it is a good idea to take at least minimal steps to deal with the unlikely. If your young adult child has a checking, savings or other financial account, I encourage you to talk to them about naming a pay-on-death beneficiary. Having to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars in court costs or legal fees to access a “small” financial account of a deceased person is dreadful and can be so easily avoided. In addition, as your child begins to accumulate assets, buys a car or home, signs a lease, begins working, and/or establishes a 401k or IRA, it becomes important for them to consider executing a durable (financial) POA in the event they experience an unexpected medical event or get into an accident and need someone to manage their finances and bills while they are unable to do so.
If your young adult child likes the idea of getting some of these documents in place but does not want to expend funds on a lawyer, you can find some forms on Texas’ Health and Human Services website. However, for documents related to the handling of one’s property (financial) interests, it is a good idea to consult with an attorney.
Sarah Morrow Rotthier ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW
We’re
Questions to Ask Your Financial Advisor
You should always be able to ask as many questions as you’d like when working with your financial advisor. So, before you have your annual review, think carefully about what you’d like to ask.
Here are a few suggestions:
• Are my goals still realistic? When you first began working with your financial advisor, you may well have articulated several financial goals. For example, you might have said that you wanted to pay for most of your children’s college education, or that you’d like to retire at age 55, or that you hope to travel internationally every year during retirement. In fact, you could have many different goals for which you’re saving and investing. When you meet with your financial advisor, you’ll certainly want to ask whether you’re still on track toward meeting these goals. If you are, you can continue with the financial strategies you’ve been following; but if you aren’t, you may need to adjust them. The same is true if your goals have changed. You and your financial advisor will want to build a strategy to address any new or different goals such as emergency cash needs, having adequate insurance protection or estate planning.
• Am I taking on too much - or too little -risk? Put market declines in perspective. The financial markets always fluctuate, and these movements will affect the value of your investment portfolio. Suppose you watch the markets closely every day and track their impact on your investments. You may find yourself fretting over their value and wondering whether you’re taking on too much investment risk for your comfort level. Conversely, if during an extended period of market gains your own portfolio appears to be lagging, you might feel that you should be investing more aggressively, which entails greater risk. In any case, it’s important to consult with your financial advisor to determine your risk tolerance and use it as a guideline for making investment choices.
• How will changes in my life affect my investment strategy? Your life is not static. Over the years, you may experience any number of major events, such as marriage, remarriage, loss of a spouse, birth of children or grandchildren, changing jobs or illness leading to early retirement. When you meet with your financial advisor, you will want to discuss these types of changes, because they can affect your longterm goals and your investment decisions.
• How are external forces affecting my investment portfolio? Generally speaking, you will want to create an investment strategy based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. And, as mentioned, you may need to adjust your strategy based on changes in your life. But should you also make changes based on outside forces, such as interest rate movements, political events, inflation, new tax legislation or news affecting industries in which you have invested substantially? Try not to make long-term investment decisions based on short-term news. Yet, talk with your financial advisor to make sure your investment portfolio and spending strategy are not out of alignment with relevant external factors.
By making these and other inquiries, you can help yourself stay informed about your overall investment picture and what moves, if any, you should make to keeр advancing toward your goals. A financial advisor is there to provide you with valuable guidance so take full advantage of it.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Father’s Day: Honoring the Men Who Shape Our Lives
By Kelly Thomas
Every June the opportunity to celebrate the fathers and father figures who have profoundly influenced our lives. Father’s Day is more than just a date on the calendar—it’s a heartfelt acknowledgment of the love, guidance, and strength that dads provide.
The origins of Father’s Day in the United States trace back to the early 20th century. In 1908, Grace Golden Clayton of Fairmont, West Virginia, organized a memorial service to honor fathers, particularly those who had perished in a mining accident. However, it was Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, who, inspired by Mother’s Day, advocated for a day to recognize fathers. Her efforts led to the first statewide Father’s Day celebration on June 19, 1910 . Despite initial resistance, the idea gained traction over the decades, culminating in 1972 when President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation establishing Father’s Day as a national holiday, observed on the third Sunday of June.
While presents are a wonderful way to show appreciation, the essence of Father’s Day lies in the moments shared and the gratitude expressed. Consider these heartfelt gestures: Quality Time: Plan a day filled with dad’s favorite activities, whether it’s hiking, fishing, or watching a movie together. Handwritten Letters: A sincere note expressing love and appreciation can be more meaningful than any material gift. Family Gatherings: Organize a family meal or barbecue to celebrate and create lasting memories.
This Father’s Day, let’s honor the men who have shaped our lives with their wisdom, strength, and unwavering support. Whether through gifts, words, or shared experiences, expressing our gratitude can make this day truly special.
Happy Father’s Day to all the incredible dads out there!
Top Father’s Day Gift Ideas for 2025
Finding the perfect gift to express appreciation can be challenging. Here’s a curated list of thoughtful and popular gifts that cater to various interests. All of these can be purchased at Amazon.
Nekteck Neck and Back Massager –
A soothing device to help dad unwind after a long day.
Galaxy Light Projector –
Transforms any room into a starry night, perfect for relaxation
“Exceptionally Bad Dad Jokes” Book –
A humorous collection that celebrates the classic dad joke.
Personalized Keychain Film Roll –
A sentimental keepsake featuring cherished family photos.
Image3D Create Your Own Reel Viewer –
A nostalgic gift that allows customization of photo reels.
Aura Mason Digital Picture Frame –Displays a rotating gallery of family memories.
“Your First Word Will Be Dada” by Jimmy Fallon –A delightful book for new dads.
Fatherhood in America: By the Numbers
Today, approximately 72 million men in the United States are fathers, accounting for about 55% of men aged 16 and over. These fathers come from diverse backgrounds and family structures, including married dads, single fathers, and stay-at-home dads. Notably, in 2021, about 7% of fathers were stay-at-home parents, reflecting the evolving dynamics of modern families .
However, it’s important to acknowledge that around 19.5 million children in the U.S.—more than 1 in 4—live without a biological, step, or adoptive father in the home . This statistic underscores the vital role that fathers play in the emotional and social development of their children.
Preparing Your Family for Hurricane Season
By Kelly Thomas
As hurricane season approaches, prioritize preparedness for your family to ensure safety and resilience. The Texas Department of Insurance emphasizes that hurricanes can bring heavy rains, powerful winds, tornadoes, and deadly storm surges, affecting areas far inland.
Understanding Alerts and Taking Action
A hurricane watch indicates that hurricane conditions are possible, while a hurricane warning means such conditions are expected. Warnings are typically issued 36 hours in advance, providing crucial time to prepare.
Essential Preparedness Steps
Secure Your Home: Install storm shutters or board up windows with 5/8-inch plywood. Secure outdoor items like grills and bicycles to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
Assemble an Emergency Kit: Include at least one gallon of water per person per day, non-perishable food for several days, medications, flashlights with extra batteries, and a NOAA Weather Radio.
Protect Important Documents: Store vital records in waterproof containers or digitally back them up to ensure accessibility after the storm. Texas Department of Insurance
Plan for Pets and Livestock: Identify pet-friendly shelters or accommodations in advance, as emergency shelters may not accept animals.
Stay Informed: Keep your cell phone charged and have backup power sources like portable chargers or solar-powered devices. Program emergency numbers into your phone for quick access.
Community Collaboration: Check on neighbors, especially the elderly or those with special needs, to ensure they have a preparedness plan. Sharing resources and information can strengthen community resilience.
Proactive preparation is key to safeguarding your family and property during hurricane season. By understanding alerts, securing your home, assembling emergency supplies, and fostering community support, North Houston families can navigate the challenges of hurricane season with greater confidence and safety.
For a comprehensive guide on hurricane preparedness, refer to the Texas Department of Insurance’s Hurricane Preparation Fact Sheet at www.tdi.texas.gov.
2420 W. Lake Houston Pkwy, Kingwood Wednesdays 11:45 am - 1:00 pm
Kings Harbor Waterfront Village 1660 W. Lake Houston Pkwy, Kingwood 4 pm
SATURDAYS
Brunch at the Brass Tap Food, Fun and Live Music 4635 Kingwood Drive #800, Kingwood 11:30 am - 2:30 pm
TUESDAY - SUNDAYS
Walden On Lake Houston Golf & Country Club Happy Hour
18100 Walden Forest Dr. , Atascocita
Tuesday - Sunday 1 pm - 4 pm
COMING IN JULY
Kingwood’s 31st Annual Fourth Of July Festival & Fireworks Show
Kingwood Town Center Park 8 N. Main St. 3 pm - 9 pm
4th Valley Ranch Festival Ultimate 4th of July Celebration On The Hill At Valley Ranch Bands and Entertainment 6 pm - 9 pm Fun Festivities and Patriotic Spirit Fireworks 9 pm
Darst Funeral Home
Where Care and Community Meet
By Kelly Thomas
In every community, there are a few places that become trusted over time—not because we visit them often, but because we count on them during life’s most meaningful moments. For over a decade, Darst Funeral Home has been a steady presence in North Houston, guiding families with compassion and care through life’s most difficult goodbyes. Locally owned and operated, Darst Funeral Home stands as a legacy of integrity, empathy, and heartfelt service.
The story behind Darst Funeral Home is one of vision, legacy, and deep-rooted commitment. Founder John Darst quite literally grew up in the funeral profession, working alongside his father in a cemetery beginning in 1971. After earning his funeral director license and managing multiple cemeteries, John followed his dream of opening a family-centered, welcoming funeral home. In 2012, that dream became a reality with the opening of Darst Funeral Home in Kingwood—a place that many families in our area are grateful for today.
Now retired, John remains closely connected to the business he built with so much heart. His vision lives on through a compassionate team who shares his commitment to service. The staff at Darst are members of this community—they understand what families need in times of loss, and they meet those needs with gentleness, respect, and professionalism.
At Darst Funeral Home, personalization is more than a promise—it’s a priority. Whether you’re planning a traditional burial or choosing cremation, the team works alongside each family to create a meaningful and memorable tribute. Their burial packages include a selection of quality caskets and burial vaults, while their on-site crematory allows for simple and affordable cremation services carried out with care.
One of the most distinctive aspects of Darst Funeral Home is its peaceful, shaded service garden—a sanctuary under the open sky that brings a sense of calm and comfort to every service held there. With winding paths, porch swings, fountains, and even a beautifully designed outdoor kitchen for catering, the garden offers families a space that feels more like home than a formal venue. It’s wired for audio and video, beautifully lit at night, mosquito-controlled with safe flower oils, and often visited by butterflies. For those who wish, butterfly and dove releases can add a meaningful touch to the ceremony. Darst also has a beautiful chapel and reception hall inside the property with seating for 150 guests, full kitchen, offices, and a modern reception area. Families now have flexible options for hosting services in any area—while still enjoying the warmth and beauty Darst is known for.
Darst Funeral Home is also committed to honoring veterans with the dignity and benefits they deserve. Their team ensures that military service members receive all qualifying honors and support, reflecting a deep appreciation for those who have served our country.
Looking ahead, Darst encourages families to consider the thoughtful act of pre-planning. This process not only helps avoid emotional and financial stress during a difficult time but also ensures that your wishes are clearly documented and respectfully followed. Preplanning allows families to come together, make informed choices, and create a plan that truly reflects a loved one’s life and legacy.
“At Darst Funeral Home, we take great pride in caring for our families,” says the team. “We work tirelessly to provide a beautiful, lasting tribute to your loved one. No matter what choices you make for your ceremony, our family-owned funeral home offers a space to gather in grief, comfort, and love.”
With each passing year, Darst Funeral Home continues to grow—not just in facilities, but in the hearts of the families they have served. In a fast-paced world, it is comforting to know that some places still prioritize compassion, connection, and community above all.
To learn more, stop by Darst Funeral Home located at 796 Russell Palmer Rd, Kingwood, TX 77339 for a tour, meet the team, or start the conversation about pre-planning. You can also call them at 281-312-5656 of visit them online at www.darstfuneralhome.com. At Darst Funeral Home, care continues—year after year, family after family.
HEARTS IN ACTION
A Legacy of Service: Janet and Dan Huberty’s Gift to the Local Community
By Kelly Thomas
If you have lived in the Lake Houston Area and surrounding communities for any length of time, chances are you have heard the names Janet and Dan Huberty. The couple has called this community home since 2001, raising three children here and weaving their story into the fabric of local life through public service, family values, and now, an extraordinary act of generosity that will benefit generations to come.
Showcasing those who give back through
Dan Huberty is no stranger to leadership. A native of Ohio, Dan brought his business acumen to Texas after earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business. He quickly found a calling in public service, representing District 127 in the Texas House of Representatives from 2011 to 2023. During his time in office, he became a key figure in education reform, serving as Chairman of the House Committee on Public Education and authoring House Bill 3—one of the most transformative pieces of education legislation in Texas history.
Throughout his tenure, Dan was widely recognized for his efforts by educational and community-focused organizations. From his early days as a school advocate to his later work with Moak Casey, a consulting firm specializing in school finance and leadership, his commitment to Texas schools never wavered.
But behind every great leader is a support system—and for Dan, that is his wife, Janet. Janet Huberty has been Dan’s steadfast partner through years of public service, policy battles, and parenting. While Dan’s role in the Texas House often put him in the spotlight, Janet was the unwavering foundation at home. Raising their three children with grace and strength, she also supported countless community events and initiatives along the way. Her deep care for the Kingwood community has always mirrored Dan’s passion for service, and now, together, they are channeling that shared love into a project unlike any other.
In October 2024, a unique opportunity arose when Walden on Lake Houston Golf & Country Club came up for sale. Rather than seeing it as a business transaction, the Huberty’wws saw potential—a chance to preserve and enhance a beloved community landmark for the long haul.
Their solution was visionary. The couple worked to convert Walden into a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization working alongside MUD. Dan floated a bond on the New York Stock Exchange, which was picked up by BlackRock under strict financial covenants. The Huberty’s do not own the club, they are simply its caretakers. Over the next 25 years, they will manage Walden in accordance with the bond terms. Once the bond is paid off, the club will be sold to the Walden HOA for just $10, permanently ensuring it remains in the community’s hands.
And to protect that vision even further, the legal framework ensures the HOA can not sell the property. Instead, they will hire a professional management company to maintain and operate the club, preserving its role as a hub for community life.
Since taking over, the Huberty’s have made significant renovations to the club, breathing new life into every corner of the property. From expanding pickleball and tennis offerings to upgrading golf facilities and refreshing the fitness and pool areas, Walden is fast becoming the vibrant family destination it was always meant to be.
Perhaps one of the most exciting updates is the addition of a renowned chef from New York, who has completely redesigned the kitchen and the menu. Members and guests are now treated to a fresh culinary experience that rivals top-tier city clubs—all in the comfort of their own backyard.
With a full calendar of activities and events, Walden continues to grow as a place where neighbors gather, friendships are formed, and memories are made.
The Huberty’s decision to convert Walden Country Club into a nonprofit and eventually donate it back to the community is more than a generous act, it is a powerful testament to their belief in giving back. For Janet and Dan, this isn’t just about golf or real estate. It is about preserving the heart of the community they have called home for more than two decades.
Their story is a reminder that leadership takes many forms. Sometimes it’s in the laws we write, the schools we support, or the communities we protect. And sometimes, it is in the quiet, deliberate decision to plant seeds of legacy that will bloom long after we’re gone.
In a world where personal gain often overshadows public good, Janet and Dan Huberty stand out—not just for what they’ve done, but for what they have chosen to give away. And for Lake Houston areaa communities, that gift is priceless.
Put Your Best Face Forward
5 Tips for Better Virtual Business
By Family Features
Spending a good portion of each day on camera is no longer a job description reserved for the rich and famous. Working professionals across a wide range of industries spend more time than ever on video chats and virtual meetings.
The ultra-connected working world has distinct advantages, especially for those who wish to work from the comfort of home, but the connectivity comes with a price. While meeting fatigue is a familiar workplace challenge, video fatigue brings a new layer of challenges, including the pressure of always being “on” with a camera sitting mere inches from your face.
Avoid exhaustion, burnout and digital eye strain from a rigorous video meeting schedule with these tips from ZEISS Vision Care:
Avoid digital eye strain: Back-to-back virtual meetings can leave your eyes dry and exhausted. The most important consideration in protecting your eyes is taking frequent breaks. Experts recommend the 20-20-20 rule: look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This lets your eyes rest and minimizes the physical and mental exhaustion of screen time.
Create a comfortable setting: There’s nothing worse than realizing halfway through an important meeting you’re either too hot or too cold. Rather than visibly disrupting the meeting, make sure you have what you need to adjust your climate in easy reach, such as a fan you can flip on or a blanket you can pull over your lap. Invest in a chair you’re content to sit in for extended periods of time, and if you’re prone to fidgeting, be sure to get up and move around before your meeting starts.
Look your best: It’s human nature to worry about your appearance on camera, so take a few minutes before the meeting to smooth your hair and straighten your collar. Wearing video-ready attire and accessories can put you ahead of the game. One example is incorporating subtle style such as eyeglasses featuring ZEISS
DuraVision Gold UV AR. This high-clarity, anti-reflective lens coating has a striking gold residual reflectance that radiates luxury, elegance and sophistication. The coating also offers several functional advantages including durability, improved cleanability, reduced blue light reflections and enhanced clarity in low-light conditions.
Eliminate disruptions: It’s not easy to stay focused and engaged in a video meeting when you have noise and disruptions in your background. In fact, it’s a good way to get flustered. Turn off your music and mute your phone. Put curious cats and friendly pups in a safe place, and if you share your workspace, consider closing your door and hanging a sign that indicates a meeting is in progress.
Be mindful of lighting and angles: Lighting that comes from behind your screen will illuminate your face without awkward shadows. Avoid overhead lights or a table lamp behind you if possible. When it comes to setting your camera, be sure it sits at eye level or slightly above for the most flattering angle. A good rule of thumb is to have the same portion of your upper body (head and shoulders) visible as you would in a traditional head shot photo so your colleagues don’t have a close-up of your face the entire meeting.
For more advice on protecting your vision, visit zeiss.com/vision.
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A Tribute to Freedom and Sacrifice
By Kelly Thomas
As the Fourth of July approaches, we begin to see signs of celebration all around. Flags proudly waving, families planning barbecues, and communities preparing for dazzling fireworks displays. But amid the excitement, it is important to pause and reflect on what this day truly represents: the gift of freedom and the deep sacrifices made to preserve it.
Independence Day marks the birth of our nation, a moment in history when brave men and women stood firm in their belief that liberty was worth fighting for. Their courage during the Revolutionary War paved the way for the freedoms we enjoy today. That legacy of service continues through those who wear the uniform, our military personnel, first responders, and law enforcement officers who put themselves on the line to protect and serve.
At the heart of this holiday is a profound reminder that freedom is never free. The families of those who serve also bear the weight of sacrifice, standing strong behind their loved ones. Their quiet courage often goes unseen but is no less worthy of honor.
As we prepare to celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember the true cost of our freedom. Let us teach our children about the heroes of our past and present, and express gratitude to those who continue to defend our way of life.
Whether you gather around the grill, attend a parade, or watch the night sky light up, may your celebration include a moment of thankfulness for the blessings of liberty, the strength of community, and the hope that unites us as Americans.
THE THREE C’S
by Martin de Vore
As spring segues into summer, snakes are more frequently encountered by area residents. These include a variety of common harmless species such as ratsnakes, ribbonsnakes and watersnakes. However, it also includes "The Three Cs" -copperheads, cottonmouths and coralsnakes.
The copperhead species found in our area is the astern Copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix). This attractive snake has a broad beige or pink body covered by 13-20 hourglass-shaped dark brown bands that provide excellent camouflage among the fallen leaves and pine straw in Harris County. The bands are wide at the belly line and then narrow into the distinctive hourglass shape on the top of the snake's body over the spine.
Usually between 18 and 38 inches long, the copperhead seems to rely more on its camouflage than on its fangs and venom for protection from its main predator – humans. Because they are venomous, copperheads have developed a reputation for aggressiveness, much like their congeneric cousin, the Northern Cottonmouth. However, copperheads are masters of disguise, generally avoiding a fight by hiding until danger passes, whether that peril comes from a cat, dog, or human And that ability to remain hidden may be the key to its success.
Found in a variety of urban habitats, copperheads prefer to live in "copperhead condos. " iles of firewood, rocks, and leaves all make great homes for this beneficial snake Beneficial? es, beneficial Copperheads feast on various things, including mice and rats – the same vermin that can spread disease and cause local dining establishments to appear on television news reports –offering effective pest control
Despite these benefits, a bite from a copperhead can indeed have serious medical consequences o, what should be done if someone encounters this common inhabitant of Harris County? Quite simply, leave it alone Although most bites result from
someone trying to kill or capture a copperhead, other bites happen when a person accidentally steps on a hidden copperhead hould you ever suffer the unfortunate experience of receiving a bite from a copperhead, don't panic They are responsible for few fatalities. However, as with all medical emergencies, quick treatment by medical personnel is necessary
Although not as common as the copperhead, another venomous snake that can be encountered is the cottonmouth, specifically the Northern Cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus leucostoma). Once referred to as “Water Moccasins, cottonmouths are a dark, stout, thick-bodied venomous snake When frightened, the cottonmouth will pop its mouth open The skin inside its mouth is bright white-and the reason it is called "cottonmouth. "
Look for the black mask bordered by white lines above and below the black directly over its eyes. It has an elliptical (cat-like) pupil. By day, the pupil appears as a narrow slit; at night the pupil is wide and may even look round
Most adults average 30-42 inches (76-106 7 cm) long ery old cottonmouths may be entirely black Its broad, flat head is distinctly wider than its neck.
Frogs, fish, smaller snakes (including other cottonmouths), small water birds and small mammals, carrion, and sometimes fish on stringers make up the Northern Cottonmouth's diet The young wiggle their tails so that the tip appears to be a small worm When small frogs and li ards see the wriggling tail, they think it's something to eat and rush forward to eat it, only to be eaten by the baby cottonmouth Cottonmouths will eat other snakes, including their own kind.
Cottonmouths are preyed upon by other snakes, birds, mammals, large fish and humans.
Like other pit vipers, cottonmouths do not lay eggs Instead, the eggs are kept inside the female's body until the eggs are ready to "hatch " o, their young are born alive Females bear only three to 12 offspring per litter Newborn cottonmouths are 6 to 11 inches
(1 2 to 28 cm) long They have brownish or reddish bodies with lines that are wide on the sides and narrow across the back. Cottonmouths are born with yellow or greenish-gray tail tips and come complete with functional fangs and a full supply of venom
When swimming, the cottonmouth holds its head above water with most of its body barely touching the surface Cottonmouths are nocturnal, most active at night. ottonmouths avoid contact with humans or any other possible predator. (All those stories about swarming Cottonmouths attacking people are myths!) But like any animal, when threatened, Cottonmouths will attack to protect themselves In some places, especially around woodland ponds, you can find Northern Cottonmouths every few yards ometimes, you can smell their musky odor in the air Heat sensors on either side of the snake's face detect heat and help the cottonmouth to find food
Northern Cottonmouths prefer lowland swamps, lakes, rivers, sloughs, irrigation ditches, rice fields and salt marshes, but are not confined to living in moist habitats
The third member of the reptilian trinity is the Texas Coralsnake (Micrurus tener). This is a species of venomous snake in the family lapidae, which also includes mambas, cobras and taipans
The Texas Coralsnake has the traditional coloration associated with coral snakes: black, yellow, and red rings The species is endemic to the southern United tates and northeastern and central Mexico.
It is capable of growing to 48 inches (122 cm) in total length, including the tail, but most are closer to 24 inches (61 cm). Males are typically smaller than females Coralsnakes have smooth dorsal scales, a rounded head, and the eyes have round pupils In the United tates, coralsnakes can be identified by the red rings contacting the yellow rings A common memory aid is the rhyme, "Red touch yellow, kill a fellow Red touch black, friend of Jack. "
Coralsnakes are shy, secretive animals, and spend most of their time hiding in leaf litter or under logs. They can often be seen crawling on the surface, after heavy rains When grabbed suddenly, or sometimes just when touched, they may thrash about, swing around, and bite. However, even sometimes when they are calm, they can suddenly swing around and bite, for no apparent reason
Coralsnakes are proteroglyphous, meaning it has a pair of deeply grooved, semihollow, chisel-shaped, fixed fangs in the front of its upper jaw, through which the venom is injected and encouraged via a chewing motion Coralsnakes do not necessarily need to bite and hold on for a brief time to deliver a significant amount of venom. evere envenomations have occurred after a quick bite. Many bites from coralsnakes do not inject any venom at all and are known as a dry bite However, a bite from any coralsnake should be considered an extremely serious medical emergency, and medical treatment should be sought immediately, because symptoms of envenomation are known to sometimes delay manifestation for as long as 24 hours, but once present, often progress very rapidly
The primary diet of the Texas Coralsnake consists of other snakes, primarily earthsnakes, and other small fossorial species It is also cannibalistic It also occasionally eats small li ards such as skinks, but the consumption of rodents by coralsnakes is rare, although it may happen from time to time
Unlike copperheads or cottonmouths -- whose young are born alive Texas coral snakes are egg-layers, laying clutches of 7 to 9 eggs in June or July The young coralsnakes hatch about two months later and are able to care for themselves immediately after hatching
To possibly see some of these remarkable snakes in person, visit Jesse H. Jones Park & at re Center. It is locate at 20634 ens ick rive in mble All programs are free of charge an open to the p blic.
Sun, Smiles, and Sweet Summer Memories Making the Most of the Season with Your Family
By Kelly Thomas
Summer is here—and it’s more than just sunshine and swimming pools. It’s the season of freedom, family, and fun. Whether your summer is packed with road trips and adventures or filled with backyard barbecues and late-night stargazing, this time of year invites us all to slow down and soak up the moments that matter most.
Did you know that the average American family takes two vacations a year, with summer being the top season for travel? But even if you’re staying close to home, there are countless ways to make this summer unforgettable. From popsicles on the porch to outdoor movie nights and splash pad playdates, summer magic is found in the simple things.
Summer Bucket List Ideas for Every Family:
Visit a local farmer’s market and try a new recipe together.
Create a backyard water park with sprinklers and inflatable pools. Go on a “no phones allowed” nature walk. Host a lemonade stand for a cause.
Plan a themed dinner night (Taco Tuesday or Italian Night!).
Watch fireflies and make a wish.
Have a sidewalk chalk art contest with your neighbors. Build a blanket fort and read your favorite books together. Bake homemade ice cream or fruity popsicles. Start a family gratitude jar and add to it every day.
Summer also means longer days, which means more time for connection—game nights, cookouts, catching up with cousins, and creating new traditions. And let’s not forget about the value of boredom! Experts say boredom actually fuels creativity and problem-solving in kids, so don’t be afraid to let your little ones unplug and imagine.
Whatever this season looks like for your family, we encourage you to be present. Laugh loud. Capture the moments, but don’t forget to live them too. Because in the blink of an eye, the school bells will ring again, and these sweet summer memories will be what we carry with us.
So here’s to poolside giggles, melted ice cream, grass-stained knees, and hearts full of joy. Happy summer, friends!
Top Ten Family Vacation Destinations in 2025
Orlando, Florida
Orlando remains a premier family destination with its array of theme parks. Notably, Universal’s new Epic Universe park is set to open, featuring immersive lands like Super Nintendo World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter –Ministry of Magic.
San Diego, California
San Diego offers beautiful beaches, the renowned San Diego Zoo, and familyfriendly resorts. It’s an ideal spot for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming/Montana/Idaho
America’s first national park provides families with opportunities to witness geysers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Great Wolf Lodge, Various Locations
These indoor water park resorts offer year-round fun with themed suites and activities, providing a cost-effective alternative to other theme parks.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Families can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring the rugged coastline in this picturesque New England park.
Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
This Appalachian-themed park combines thrilling rides with cultural experiences, including crafts and music, nestled near the Great Smoky Mountains.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
In summer, Lake Tahoe offers boating, hiking, and beach activities, making it a versatile destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
With its charming towns, sandy beaches, and family-friendly activities, Cape Cod is a classic summer getaway for families.
Camp Fimfo, New Braunfels, Texas
This unique campground offers resort-style amenities, including pools and themed events, set in the scenic Texas Hill Country.
Tybee Island, Georgia
Just a short drive from Savannah, Tybee Island provides families with beach fun, biking, and a laid-back atmosphere.
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