Postcards Magazine Piney Woods March 2022

Piney Woods

POSTCARDS Dr. Rotasha Smith / Escape Rooms! / San Antonio Fiesta / Old Main Extra / Dr. Stephen H. Means & Associates

Magazine

March 2022 Postal Customer

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2 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

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FEATURES

March 2022

| Volume 12, Issue 3

14 A Special Conversation Dr. Rotasha Smith

30 Just for Fun Escape Rooms!

40 Texas Treasures San Antonio Fiesta

Cover Photo by Brittany McClure Submission in 2021 Postcards Cover Photo Contest

58 Following Up Old Main Extra

82 Business Focus Dr. Stephen H. Means & Associates

FAVORITES 6 9 10 12 13 20 22 24

From Our Readers Publisher’s Post What are you Reading?

Let’s Celebrate 20 Questions Dear Gabby Garden Post Star Students

26 28 36 38 50 55 56 64

Touching Tomorrow Pet Pals Milestones Awesome Apps Kidding Around Living with Children Snapshots!

Glorious Grandkids

65 66 67 68 74 88 89 90

The Grands Things My Granddaddy Said Creative Corner Puzzle Me This What’s Cookin’ Vet Connect From the Mouths of Babes Wildlife Wonders

91 92 96 97 98 99 100 102

Along the Road Sudoku Marketplace Giggles and Grins Health Matters The Latest “Seens” for our World Community Calendar Mustard Seed Moments

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Physical therapy keeps you

moving.

From Our Readers Thank you for writing the very thoughtful publisher column, “On the Grandstand.” If you touched and changed just one heart, it was well worth.

I am a great-grandmother now and I hear the words you have written from many of my life long friendships. I, and they, have been in situations with family members that place more value on gifts (as one said recently, “she likes me as long as I am gifting”) than the comfort and everlasting gifts of love that keeps on giving. Perhaps, we are living in a world of too much of everything. Could this be one of the reasons many have lost the true values in this life?

Together, we can... v improve your mobility and motion v reduce pain without medication in many cases

In my eighties, I can still smell and feel the loving touch of my grandmother’s worn and wrinkled hands. Her hands now mirror the ones I see when I look down. Her gifts couldn’t be bought in a store or online! Hers were the ones that are imbedded in the woman I am today.

Karen, you are a treasure, keep writing!

Jo Keller

v improve surgical outcomes I’ve heard so many great things about your magazine and your articles.

Everybody just loves it! You’re doing a great job at building community!

Thank you.

Linda Smith

Huntsville 936.294.0283

• 127 Medical Park Lane • 227 Hwy 75 N Suite 245

6 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Conroe 936.494.1292

• 1020 Riverwood Ct. Suite 120

Interesting layout of Old Main. It was my first semester as an SHSU student with the terrible fire took place to such a Monumental and Absolutely Beautiful Building on Campus...

Great Memories!!

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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We’re Moving!

New Location Coming Soon.

We are pleased to break ground on our newest and more convenient Huntsville location at 2506 Pine Shadows.

This beautiful, state-of-the-art branch will open soon to put You First!

YOU FIRST | FFIN.com | 936-295-2224

Susie Garza Vice President NMLS# 493275

8 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Kyle Whisenhunt Senior Vice President NMLS# 1182532

Publisher’s Post Karen Altom publisher@postcardslive.com

Your Local Community Magazine! @PostcardsMag

The Bell Tolls for Me

PostcardsLive.com

If you would like to receive our magazine and are not currently on our mailing list, subscriptions are available.

MAILED to select postal routes in Huntsville, New Waverly, Midway, Madisonville, Riverside and Trinity.

FREE rack copies at advertisers and businesses in towns listed above.

Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. Publisher Karen Altom Editor Wes Altom Advertising Team Nancy Jolly Jennifer Abbrat Marshall Altom Design Team Mary Partida April Key Social Media Management Abby Altom Boyd

Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media

Online: www.PostcardsLive.com Address: PO Box 690 • Huntsville, TX 77342 Call our Office: 936.293.1188 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. Publication of articles, advertisements or product information does not constitute endorsement or approval

by Postcards Magazine™ and/or its publisher. Business Focus stories printed in Postcards Magazine™ are drawn at random from contract advertisers.

Last month in my column I mentioned a story I would share once I recovered from the shame. I haven’t recovered.

But I am going to share anyway.

As you know, I am a huge proponent of shopping local and shopping at home. In fact, I recently had a fellow magazine publisher contact me, and in our conversation he said, “You know you could get your printing done a lot cheaper elsewhere.” He was referring me to an out of state printer, and I said, “I know you probably think I’m crazy, but I am going to choose to support a Texas business over one who prints out of state.” Note: He didn’t say it, but I think he does consider me a little crazy.

I also tend to never buy anything off Facebook unless it’s a local business or a marketplace item where I meet a neighbor to purchase. In fact, if there is ever anything that gets my attention, I make sure there is an actual website, and I search that to locate a phone number, an address, and find out the story of their business. Technically, I really just want to know I can drive to that place of business (if there is a problem) and talk to a real person.

Back to the shame.

During the holiday season, I was incredibly busy, and I did not follow my self-set guidelines. TWICE. I saw a very cool holiday wreath made with a wagon wheel. They had photos of it hanging on a front door, as well as on a gate. I could envision this on my daughter’s door and my mother’s gate.

So, yes. I bought two. Shortly after, I saw a very unique bell with DEEP tones. They even had a video of it, and it was beautiful! My mother has lots of wind on the prairie where she lives; I knew both of these would be perfect gifts, and I was excited, so I ordered. And I waited. And waited.

The two packages finally arrived, neither as large as I expected. The wagon wheel was approximately 12” across. It looked like a miniature version of what I had ordered. And the bell. Oh, the big, beautiful, resonant bell with the deep tones. I don’t know what they videoed, but the metal pieces they sent me clang like a cowbell. Did I mention I ordered three? What a dope.

Sometimes what we think will be more convenient in the moment, ends up being a hassle and wasted expense.

So if you hear a cowbell around you, look for me. I might be wearing it as my self-punishment for being so gullible. Another reminder that hometown shopping is always best!

Until next time,

~

Karen

© 2022 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

9

What Are You Reading?

Jennifer Knapp reading

The Second Mrs. Astor

By Shana Abé

Joe Shook reading

Let’s talk about building the life you want to live. Text or visit with our award winning personal loan officers today!

An Axene Anthology

By Francis J. Schuck

Wanda Bedenbaugh reading

He Still Moves Stones

By Max Lucado

Tell us what you’re reading!

PostcardsLive.com 10 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

GOD DOESN'T CARE... about your past. about your bank account. whether you are popular. what you wear.

AND NEITHER DO WE. You belong at HCOC. Huntsville Church of Christ 3737 Hwy 30 West Huntsville, TX 77340

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Let’s Celebrate!

This Month’s Business Anniversaries:

1936 Celebrating 86 years

Sam Houston Memorial Museum See their ad on page 95

Spring is in the air... and so are ALLERGIES! Is your pet itching, scratching, & sneezing?

1997 Celebrating 25 years

W.C. Auto Center

2001

Make an appointment, we can diagnose your pet!

Celebrating 21 years

Care Center

We offer allergy testing, hypoallergenic foods, soothing medicated bathes for your fur babies.

11th Street Veterinary Hospital Your Pet, Our Priority!

See their ad on page 33

See their ad on page 76

2003 Celebrating 19 years

American Glass & Mirror See their ad on page 95

2004 Celebrating 18 years

Schedule an Appointment Today for Your Four-Legged Family Members

Madison County Museum See their ad on page 66

(936) 293-8900 2008

1705 11th Street • Huntsville

Celebrating 14 years

Rita’s Playschool & Daycare See their ad on page 62

Mon., Wed., Thur., Fri. 7:30 to 6 • (closed 1-2)

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12 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Sat.

8 to 12

Twenty Questions

Jackie Ward

1

SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED? Bolton High School (Alexandria, LA) Louisiana College (Pineville, LA)

2

FAVORITE MOVIE? Miss Congeniality

3

HOW DID YOU MAKE YOUR FIRST DOLLAR? Babysitting

4

BOOK THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION ON YOU? Bible

5

LAST THING YOU BINGE-WATCHED? Blue Bloods

6

WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU RIDING DOWN THE ROAD LISTENING TO? Pandora Wintley Phipps Radio

7

YOUR FAVORITE DISH? Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, & banana pudding

8

YOUR GO-TO BARISTA ORDER? Plain American coffee with sugar and 1/2 & 1/2

9

FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY Family vacations

10

SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU? I am a twin, my sister’s name is Jill

11

WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF? Grocery shopping, washing, catching up at home from the week

12

HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN? Sitting in front of a fire, drinking coffee & listening to my Pandora

13

HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY? Walk & pray

14

ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT? Patience & cooking

15

BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE? Train ride in Canada (Almost done-scheduled for June)

16

TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? Fall foliage in Northeast

17

IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE? Switzerland; however, I do not like to fly so it would be very difficult to get there.

18

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHY? My husband, David Ward-most patient, honest, kind & generous man

19

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN? Do things right the first time & keep your word

20

ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? You don’t know everything & always be kind!

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A Special Conversation Story by Gracie Barnett Photos by Gina Turner

Dr. Rotasha Smith Dr. Rotasha Smith has spent the past two decades educating and enriching children in Conroe ISD. The Huntsville native shares her lifelong desire to pursue education, encouraging words for young teachers, and the impact she’s been able to have in her career.

“Never forget why you decided to go into education.”

14 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Where did you grow up and what were some of your hobbies?

I was born and raised right there in Huntsville, Texas. I’m a proud graduate of Huntsville High School, Class of ‘96. I was into gymnastics when I was younger and started taking lessons in 1st grade. I decided I wanted to follow in my sister’s footsteps and be a cheerleader. So, I cheered at Mance Park Junior High, where I spent my 6th, 7th, and 8th grade years, then went on to Huntsville High School and also cheered there. Also, one of my best friend’s grandma was Faye Burns who owned Faye Burns Dance Studio in Huntsville, where I took and taught dance lessons. In high school, I knew I wanted to teach

and thought, “Why not just stay home and go to Sam Houston State University?” And that’s exactly what I did.

Was the desire to go into education something you felt at an early age?

Yes, it was my 8th grade year, and I had Mr. Lang for math and thought, “You know what?

I really like math.” Not that I didn’t like math before, but I just fell in love with it. I remember thinking I really liked the way Mr. Lang was getting the information to us and how he involved a lot of realworld stuff. I wanted to be like Mr. Lang when I grew up and teach junior high math. Then in high school, my

Algebra 2 teacher, Mrs. Neville, really sealed the deal for me.

Can you take me through your career up to this point?

Being a proud Huntsville High School graduate, I wanted to be there and teach forever, because I love my community, and my family is still there. But God had a different plan for me, and Huntsville did not have any openings in December of 2000. So, I got a job teaching math in Conroe ISD at Washington Junior High. I was there for eight years and taught math for most of it, but for a couple years I was an Academic Achievement Specialist, so like a campus coach. During all that, I went back to instructional school and got my master’s in math education at Sam Houston State. I really

» March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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enjoyed the instructional coaching capacity on my campus, but then took an interest in possibly becoming an assistant principal. I felt like I was able to impact a lot of kids right there in my classroom, but thought as an assistant principal, my reach would be greater. So, I completed a certification program and became an assistant principal at Conroe High School. Then I became associate principal of operations here at Conroe High School. During that time, I worked under Dr. Curtis Null and was always looking for ways to grow as a leader, and that’s

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something he really helped me with. So, when the position at Peet Junior High came open, I interviewed for it and got the position. In 2018, when I was preparing for my 5th year at Peet Junior High, I got a phone call that Conroe High School was going to have an opening.

I became interim principal here and was in that capacity for a couple months before officially becoming principal in October of that year. That’s what I’m doing right now, and I absolutely love serving our kids and our Conroe community.

away that is what I get to do. One thing I try to make sure of, that I learned from Dr. Null, is being visible and taking care of the students and staff. So I’m out in the hallways, and I try to get into classrooms to see what’s going on.

What does your day-to-day consist of?

Yes, but also preparing students for the next step. I enjoyed teaching and being principal at the junior high, but being able to prepare students for the end result--whether it be college, the workforce, or the military-is special. Not only preparing them, but watching them walk across that stage knowing they’re ready for the next step.

It is different every single day. The only thing that is consistent on my schedule is car-rider duty in the morning and afternoon. So, I get to smile and wave and greet our students, and I know that unless I am off-campus or have a meeting first thing in the morning, I know right

What challenges would you say you face regularly?

I think the biggest one is how creative we have to be to make sure we meet the needs of every single student. We have some students whose families are ready to step in and help in any way they can. Then we have some who, when they leave school, it is the last thing on their minds, because they have to go to work to put a meal on their family’s table.

All our students have different needs, so we try to make sure we’re doing everything we can to ensure they’re successful. That’s one of the things I’ll say about my staff--they are so incredibly compassionate when it comes to that, because they know all our students need different things.

It sounds like you really enjoy the impact you can have on students and the community.

Would you say that is your favorite part of being principal?

What’s changed in education since you started, because of COVID-19 or otherwise?

»

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18 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

I feel like, even before Covid, what’s changed for students and staff is just access to resources. Back when I was in the classroom, technology was a resource for teachers, but not as much for students. But then as I grew in my instructional leadership role and assistant principal, we had this technology we could put in the classrooms to enhance what the kids were getting. That’s the biggest thing — students are able to access their content or lessons anytime, anywhere.

What encouraging words or advice would you give young

teachers who may be just starting out as COVID-19 is becoming the new reality in classrooms?

There is plenty of support. I can’t speak for other districts, but I would hope this statement would be true for all districts. There is plenty of support for you, both at the campus level and the district level. I feel like teaching is a calling, and you do it for a reason. Again, the responsibility is great, but the reward is so much greater. When someone asks, “What is it I can do for you?” don’t be afraid to tell them, “This is what I need.” If I’m not able to

check in with teachers, I try to check in with department chairs and team-leads to figure out what I can do to help. Never forget why you decided to go into education.

When Dr. Smith isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family and going to the gym, often with her husband. She feels very blessed to have an incredible husband and son, and to be enjoying the career she hoped for when she graduated from Sam Houston State University 21 years ago.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Dear Gabby Welcome back to the Dear Gabby column! I’m still working from home, but it has its perks. I’ve been Employee of the Month for two years running! March has us celebrating Mardi Gras and Saint Patrick’s Day. I spent several years in New Orleans during my childhood. They don’t hide their crazy during Mardi Gras; they parade it down the street. And St. Patrick is famous for driving the snakes out of Ireland. That must have been an exciting road trip! I even celebrate the Ides of March. How? By eating a donut. I recommend that you do, too. In fact, eat two, Brute!

Drop me a line to Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com for some tonguein-cheek life coaching.

DEAR GABBY I am a professional man who grew up in a tiny town in Texas. I have worked very hard to erase my accent and always answer “near Houston” when asked about my hometown. Is it normal to want to cloak your identity if you are from “the sticks”?

URBANITE AT HEART

DEAR URB

DEAR GABBY Don’t you hate it when you ask someone for directions, and they start using words like east and west? Whatever happened to “Go that way and turn between McDonalds and Dairy Queen”?

NAVIGATIONALLY CHALLENGED

There is no such thing as normal. You are who you are, and I wish you could embrace it. I, personally, am proud to be from “the sticks.” Friday night was spent driving back and forth on the same street for hours. A traffic jam was 3 cars behind a tractor. If your car broke down outside of town, the news made it back to town before you did.

There wasn’t much to see in a small town, but what you heard made up for it. I thought I had amnesia, because sometimes the gossip had me doing things that I didn’t even remember. And I don’t drink. My hometown was so small, we didn’t even have a town drunk. They had to take turns.

DEAR NAV Yes, I do hate it! And they are so smug about it (like they are actually being helpful). I guess it’s not their fault I can get turned around in a closet. The good news is science has investigated and given our condition a name! It’s called Developmental Topographical Disorientation (DTD).

While that does make me feel slightly vindicated, I’ve often wondered whatever happened to people who have asked me for directions.

GABBY

All these years later, we have fond memories of looking out for each other, and we still do. I’m sorry you erased those recollections, as well.

GABBY

CONFIDENTIAL TO “TRUTH OR DARE”: I’d believe it. Three things that tell the truth: small children, drunken people, and yoga pants.

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21

The Garden Post

By Kim Bius

What’s New for Spring 2022 Spring 2022 is bringing a wide variety of new plants to the market.

Hybridization is a huge market, and programs such as the Southern Living Collection, First Edition and the Proven Winner Collection are bringing new and exciting patented plants to the market by the hundreds.

Gardeners may ask, “Why all this hybridization”? Consumer Demand!

For example, we all love bridal wreath spirea, but we want the plant to be smaller, bloom longer, have variegated foliage, a longer blooming season, or different colors for blooms. Hybridizers are working hard, along with marketing, to find what the consumer wants and is willing to pay for.

Cinnamon Girl® has plum-purple new growth which turns blue-green as the leaves mature. The small leaves and compact growth give this plant a more refined look than other Distylium on the market. It came through the 2014-15 winter without winter burn, while other varieties had moderate to severe dieback. The Cinnamon girl has compact growth (3’x3’), is not particular on soils, is very cold tolerant, deer proof, and has tiny red blooms in the winter months.

These new plants are patented, and a royalty will be paid to the producer for a period of 7 years (thus the patent pending # following each variety). These plants may be in trial production for years before they are ready for mass production and the plant stays true to its hybridization.

Hundreds of hybrids never make it mainstream, so there is a reason behind the higher price tag.

Some new varieties will be great additions to our gardens. They will offer unique features such as dwarf size, growing conditions, or variegation that were not available in the original plant form. There were also quite a few varieties that did not offer enough variation from the original plant to make it worth the price difference (at least to me).

Crimson Fire Loropetalum will be another “winner” by First Edition, with red to burgundy foliage year-round in a dwarf (2.5’x2.5’) shrub, with reddish fuchsia-colored blooms spring till fall.

As a plant buyer and broker since the 80s, I know quality, value, and production are essential in bringing the best value to the customer, and the following varieties should do just that.

From First Edition, Distylium is an evergreen compact shrub that is a great alternative to boxwood.

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The azalea dwarf (2.5’x2.5’) Perfecto Mundo in Double Pink is one of my favorites by Proven Winners. This is the Proven Winner series competition for the encore label, and here is an excerpt from the Proven Winner page: In a perfect world, azaleas would bloom for months instead of just weeks; have big, full flowers with pure and true colors; and resist pests and diseases - and that’s exactly what Perfecto Mundo™ azaleas do. This innovative series from award-winning plant breeder Dr. Tom Ranney of NCSU combines peerless performance with lace bug resistance, a pest that threatens azaleas in many areas. Perfecto Mundo Double Pink azalea is the series debut, a neat, rounded shrub that’s covered with double pink blooms in spring, when other azaleas bloom, but then after a brief rest, begins blooming again in mid-summer and continues through frost.

Spirea was mentioned earlier, and the Proven Winner Series has brought these beauties to the market. Double Play Blue Kazoo spirea is a dwarf (2.5’x 2.5’). The plant displays bluish-green new growth with white blooms.

Double Play Candy Corn spirea will be a huge hit. This dwarf shrub (2.5’x2.5’) displays new growth that is red, then yellow to orange with hot pink blooms. As with all spirea, these plants are deciduous.

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

23

Star Students Katie Pine

Brady Wilson

Huntsville High School

New Waverly High School

Favorite Movie: Cars (1,2, & 3) Favorite Music/Artist: Old Country & Classic Rock

Favorite Movie: Jurassic Park Favorite Music/Artist: Post Malone Favorite Food: Crab legs

K

Favorite Quote: “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude.” – Zig Ziglar

Favorite Quote: “Life’s a climb, but the view’s great.”

Favorite Food: Chinese

– Miley Cyrus

atie is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Karen and Bill Pine and granddaughter of Billy and Charlotte Wilson of Madisonville. Her activities include Buzzer Club, HOSA, student council, senior council secretary, Lady Hornet golf, Beltway Golf member, and member of University Heights Baptist Church. Following graduation, Katie plans to attend Sam Houston State University as a nursing major, then become a NICU nurse. She believes, “Every day is full of opportunities.

It’s up to you to make the most of them.”

just because.

B

rady is a senior at New Waverly High School and is the son of Jana Wilson. His activities include FFA (Chapter and Area IX President, National Voting delegate), class president, student council, 4-H (Poultry Club President, National Congress voting delegate), National Poultry Proficiency Award, basketball manager, and member of Wesley Memorial United Methodist.

Following graduation, Brady plans to attend West Texas A&M University to pursue a degree in agricultural education, then become an Ag teacher or a county agent. He believes, “I want to give back to an industry that has given me success, knowledge, memories, and lifelong career skills.”

“Building the American Dream” A True Custom Home Builder

the best reason to send flowers.

Sullivan Classic Homes, Inc.

Email:

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www.sullivanclassichomes.com Making our customers dreams become a realty in Walker, Grimes, Leon, Madison, Montgomery, and other surrounding counties.

New Construction & Remodeling Metal & Pole Buildings Paul Sullivan: 936-672-4713 Danica Reese: 979-571-4000 Follow us on Facebook to see our current projects!

huntsvilleheartfieldflorist.com 1525 Sam Houston Ave. • Huntsville 24 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

(936) 295-5448

Tabitha Kungu Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Coach Carter, Freedom Favorite Music/Artist: J. Cole Favorite Food: Samosas and Chapati w/Potato Beef Stew (a Kenyan delicacy)

Favorite Quote: “Everything is practice.” --Pele

T

abitha is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Nelly Ngugi. Her activities include soccer, cross country, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, Chichfula Leadership Academy, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Interact, and Business Professionals of America.

She also enjoys braiding hair. Following graduation, Tabitha plans to go to college to study business and psychology, then open her own salon. She believes, “Treat everyone with respect. When you know you are wrong, apologize and don’t let pride have a hold on you. Regret is a wasted emotion.”

Kathleen Williams Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Diana: The Musical Favorite Music/Artist: Taylor Swift Favorite Food: Cinnamon rolls Favorite Quote: “Some things matter, some things don’t.

Some things last and most things won’t.”

K

athleen is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Karin Olson and Robert Williams. Her activities include theatre, dance, National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and church. Following graduation, Kathleen plans to attend college then become a theatre or math teacher. She believes in guiding words she received from her father, “Keep as many doors open and burn as few bridges as possible.”

Same Caring Dentistry - Brand New Logo!

Dr. Scott Logan and Dr. Aaron Fritsch

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Office (936) 291-6589 March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

25

Touching Tomorrow Honoring teachers who work with our kids day in and day out. They go above and beyond and really do “Touch Tomorrow.”

Sponsored by:

Nominate a special teacher today by going online: www.PostcardsLive.com.

Those chosen for publication are given a gift card to 1836 Steakhouse.

Patrick Shevlin New Waverly High School Economics/Government & Geography

Nominated by Brady Wilson Mr. Shevlin has had the most impact during my high school career. We both share a love for history and government.

I appreciate his dedication to his students and his work ethic. He is fair and very caring to all students while maintaining high expectations in the classroom.

Conroe 1351 W Davis St, Suite B Conroe, TX 77304 (936) 283-5450

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

27

Pet Pals

BARON COOPER

KAMI

SPIKE

loved by

loved by

loved by

Marilyn, Kevin & Craig Drouillard

Jack & Carolyn

The Dennis Family

Light A Candle | Feed A Child

Sweet Grace Collection Walker County ACE Hardware & Classy Country Corner 936-295-7751 1006 11th St. Huntsville, TX 77340 www.classycountrycorner.com www.walkercountyhardware.com 28 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

LEN T: N

S!

beginning of Lent

ON TT

T FOR BELLY S JU BU T O Celebrate the

Please join us for a Pancake Supper to celebrate the beginning of Lent.

Tuesday, March 1st at 6:00 PM SKYE & LOLA loved by

Katie & Michelle Cannon

First Christian Church 1800 Ave. R • Fellowship Hall

Special service on Ash Wednesday.

Wednesday, March 2nd at 6:00 PM First Christian Church 1800 Ave. R • Sanctuary

First Christian Church is a wonderful place to worship, and we invite you to come see for yourself!

First Christian Church

(Disciples of Christ) Sunday worship service @ 10:45 AM

HOPKINS loved by

Vicki & John Holder

Sunday School @ 9:30 AM Bible Study @ 10:00 AM on Wednesdays via Zoom See our website for more fun activities

Worship services are live streamed on our FB page

Share Your Pet Photos with Us!

PostcardsLive.com/Share

First Christian Church - Huntsville, TX 1800 Ave. R. • Huntsville, Texas 77340 www.fcchuntsvilletx.org Rev. Larry Garcia, Interim Pastor (936)295-3677 Becky Larkin, Music Minister Email - fcchuntsville@suddenlinkmail.com

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

29

Just for Fun Story & Photos by Abby Altom Boyd

Escape Rooms

30 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

There is no escaping this craze! If you’re looking for a unique activity to enjoy with friends, family or a team building activity, try an escape room! Look no further than Conroe to find one.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

»

31

Postcards Team: Marshall, Ryan, Abby, Karen & Wes

Escape Rooms (or escape games) have grown significantly in popularity across the U.S. over the last 5 years, over 9,000% to be exact! As of 2014, there were only about 22 escape rooms in the United States; however, that number has exploded to over 2,000 and still growing.

With escape room enthusiasts popping up

around the globe, it must be something everyone needs to experience. But what is an escape room?

An escape room is an exciting, immersive, adventure puzzle game. You and your team are “locked” in a room filled with puzzles, clues,

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32 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

hidden codes, locks, keys, and everything you need to “break out” and beat the clock timer.

While that may sound like a great time, there are some who may hesitate after hearing the words: “escape,” “locks,” or “break out.” Are you really locked in? What if you lose? Part of the Postcards Team decided we would make

play and can easily be booked online or by phone. The tickets are affordable and cost approximately $35 per person before tax.

However, they do require a minimum of 4 tickets be purchased to book any of the rooms.

You are welcome to play with less, but you will still pay for 4 tickets, and let’s be honest… the more people you bring, the more fun.

The majority of the rooms can be booked for parties from 4-10 people, with other group event options available for parties, teambuilding retreats, and more.

the sacrifice and find out!

Our team recently visited That Escape Place, a recently expanded and locally family-owned escape room business right off I-45 in the Outlets at Conroe, in hopes of answering all your questions and having a little fun ourselves!

How to Book That Escape Place, like other similar businesses, offers a variety of room themes with activities and challenges that appeal to a broad range of ages. At this location, you don’t have to worry about anything being scary or inappropriate, as all their rooms are family friendly, and there are no age limits for the games.

There are four physical escape rooms and three virtual reality escape rooms to choose from: The Terminal, The Gate, Raiders of the Lost Art, A Christmas Story, Escape the Lost Pyramid

Our team consisted of 5 people, and we decided to book The Gate. While our party was not at full capacity for this room, we only played with those in the group we came with, as all the bookings are private.

What to Expect

(VR), Beyond Medusa’s Gate (VR), and Prince of Persia (VR).

Reservations are required for your party to

We suggest that you arrive approximately 15-20 minutes earlier than your reservation time so that you have time to sign in and even practice some puzzles in the lobby. The play in the room itself will last 60 minutes, and

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

33

then there will be about 10 minutes after play for a team debrief where game coordinators will answer your questions and take a complimentary photo of your group.

All the puzzles range in difficulty; some may need a simply key, while others are riddles that may take several team members to solve.

This allows everyone on the team to utilize their strengths, have fun, and contribute however they feel most comfortable. The great news? You do not need to be a genius or have any prior knowledge to play and solve the puzzles in the room. You don’t even need tools or anything special, just an open mind, willingness to work as a team, and the desire to have fun!

A staff member will walk you through everything you need to know, how the game works, and explain the theme story for your room to your group. Then all that’s left is to Escape the Room!

Frequently Asked Questions While most of our questions were answered by staff upon arrival, you can always reach out prior to your visit with any pressing questions.

However, find some of the most popular questions answered below:

Are You Locked In A Room?

No! You are never physically locked or trapped inside of the room or any puzzle. You can leave at any point in the game, including going to the restroom if needed.

How Old Do You Need To Be To Play?

Utilize Everyone’s Skills

There is not an age limit; however, children 12 & under will need to be accompanied by a paying adult. Very young children might need assistance from older players. The Terminal room is suggested for younger groups.

Escaping is a team effort. Some may be better at visual puzzles or jigsaws, where others are great at patterns or riddles. You have a whole room to cover, so spread out, but keep communication open and work together.

What If We are Stuck?

Stay Positive

Your team is being monitored during the game play by staff. If you are too far off track, taking too long to get past a puzzle, or request a clue, staff will send you an electronic clue or hint to help you along. Their goal is for you to have fun and to complete the puzzle!

It can be discouraging to see the clock ticking down. Don’t give up, and don’t focus on the time. If you don’t know what to do next, take a deep breath, and keep trying; if needed, ask for the hint. Work together and have fun with each other; that is what these rooms are all about!

What Happens If You Don’t Escape In Time?

If you don’t escape in time, that’s okay! While it is exciting to successfully complete the mission, escape rooms are still a blast for those who don’t make it out on their first try – and it gives you a goal to work toward next time.

Tips & Tricks Our team had several takeaways from our game play that may help you and your team when you book:

Look At, In, and Under Everything Examine it all! Does it open? What’s inside?

Time will fly quickly, and the items you find will propel you through the game.

Search for Patterns The answer might not always be obvious.

Look for similarities and irregularities; these might be key to solving a puzzle or riddle.

You deserve the best!

offalyop.com 281-731-6974 34 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

But more than anything, I know what you all are wondering…did we escape? Yes! We escaped from the mummy’s tomb just in the nick of time, literally! We thoroughly enjoyed our game and were incredibly impressed with how well put together the puzzles were and how helpful the staff were when they saw we were stalled. It was well worth the cost and was something we all agreed we should come back and do again.

While our Postcards Team’s experience was fantastic, it is something you should experience for yourself. Whether you are looking for new date night activity with friends, a family friendly outing, or a team-building retreat, escape rooms have something that everyone will enjoy.

Here is info on some escape rooms in our area: That Escape Place

Escape Room BCS

1111 League Line Rd #132 (in Outlets at Conroe) Conroe, TX 77303 (832)241-8898 https://thatescapeplace.com

907 Harvey Rd A&B College Station, Texas 77840 (979) 431-1799 https://escaperoombcs.com

Escape The Room Woodlands

Padlock Escape Games

1201 Lake Woodlands Dr #4006 (in The Woodlands Mall) The Woodlands, TX 77380 (832) 786-8822 https://escapetheroom.com/houston

707 Texas Ave #102E College Station, TX 77840 (979) 704-6494 https://www.padlockescapegames.com

Escape Artist Kingwood

Escape in Time

367 Sawdust Rd Spring, TX 77380 (832) 974-0377 https://www.escapeintime.org/

2628 Chestnut Ridge Rd Kingwood, TX 77339 (832) 412-8842 https://escapeartistkw.com/

Armadillo Escape Room Adventures 417 Gentry St. Units E&F (in Spring Village) Spring, Texas 77373 (832) 592-7645 https://www.armadilloescaperoom.com

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The information contained herein is furnished by sources considered reliable, but is subject to verification by the purchase, and agent assumes no responsibility for correctness thereof. The sale offering is made subject to errors, omissions, and changes of price prior sale or withdrawal with out notice. In accordance with the law, this property is offered without respect to race, color origin, sex, or disabilities. You are advised to obtain a copy of the Texas mandated disclosure about Broker Services at http://www.trectexas.gov/pdf/

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

35

Milestones

Welcome Titus Leander Rogers, born to Luke & Amanda Rogers on 12/8/21, weighing 8 lbs 12 oz.

Big sister Anna welcomes new little brother Caleb Clark.

Caleb arrived weighing 8 lbs even and measuring 18.75 inches long. He is the son of Chris & Kelsey Clark, and the grandson of John & Kim Sanders.

Covenant Fellowship

Come as you are !

Bible Study: Sunday Mornings, 9:30 am

Worship Time: Sunday Mornings, 10:30 am

Celebrate Recovery: Tuesdays, 7 pm Church Email: Church Website:

covenantpastor@gmail.com cfhuntsville.org

Lead Pastor: David Valentine

Address: Church Phone:

606 FM 1791 N. • Huntsville (936) 435-0993

So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer. ~ Ezra 8:23

36 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

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Share your Milestone!

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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awesome apps!

Atlas Obscura Travel Guide Atlas Obscura Travel Guide flips the idea of a conventional travel guide on its head. Whereas most such tomes – digital or otherwise – guide you toward the most famous places and sights within your vicinity, Atlas Obscura is more interested in surprising stories and interesting curiosities.

PLAN & TRACK YOUR ADVENTURES Create custom lists to organize your itinerary or bucket list. Also, use the “Been There” feature to track your progress exploring the wondrous world of Atlas Obscura.

ADD YOUR DISCOVERIES

EXPLORE THE MAP We’ve plotted the entire Atlas Obscura database in a single map, allowing you to easily find unique places nearby or to help plan your next trip.

Contribute new places to be published in Atlas Obscura, and share photos and tips from your travels with the community.

BROWSE BY INTEREST

GET THE BACKSTORY Learn what makes each place so unique. Each entry has detailed information, photos, and tips from the community.

Explore Atlas Obscura by whatever fascinates you. From history and architecture to art and natural wonders, get lost in the never-ending collection of off-the-beatenpath places.

Manage Your Future Well!

We Guide You Through The Entire Process!

This Month’s App We want to share one of our favorite awesome apps with you.

If you have an amazing app you’d like to share with our community, let us know online at postcardslive.com

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DoubleTake DoubleTake transforms a single iPhone into a multicam studio by letting you capture footage from two of your device’s cameras simultaneously. With a supported iPhone (XS/XR or newer), you can shoot two different focal lengths of the same subject, or use front and rear cameras to capture an event and your reaction to it.

THERE REALLY IS A DIFFERENCE

By default, the app uses a picture-in-picture set-up called Discreet. This saves two separate videos, so you

can later edit each one independently. But you can instead opt to ‘burn’ the PiP shot into the main video, or use a 50/50 split-screen view that’s saved as a single file.

There are limitations, most notably the app outputting to 1080p, presumably because two 4K streams at once would melt your iPhone. But for fun and serious work alike, DoubleTake is well worth a download.

This Month’s App We want to share one of our favorite awesome apps with you.

If you have an amazing app you’d like to share with our community, let us know online at postcardslive.com

Now taking applications for Fall 2022!

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For more information visit: alphaomegaacademy.org March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

39

Texas Treasures Story by Wes Altom Submitted Photos

FFiesta iesta San Antonio

40 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

By 1890, San Antonio was a thriving trade center with population of 38,000. In 1891, a group of citizens decided to honor the heroes of the Alamo and Battle of San Jacinto with a Battle of Flowers.

The first parade had horse-drawn carriages, bicycles decorated with fresh flowers, and floats carrying children dressed as flowers. The Belknap Rifles represented the military. The participants pelted each other with blossoms.

The Battle of Flowers was an immediate success. Within a few years, more events were taking place on or near April 21—a carnival, balls, and coronations of “royalty.” The Fiesta tradition had been born. Other early events included street dancing, children’s festivals, a Trades Display Parade and an orphans’ party. Fiesta has taken place every year except for 1918 during World War I and 1942 through 1945.

Fiesta has grown over the years to an 11-day celebration featuring more than 100 events featuring music, food, sports, pageantry, military and patriotic observances, exhibits, and parades—a city-wide party with a purpose. Nonprofit organizations sponsor every activity. Past Fiestas have featured regattas, synchronized swimming, polo matches, a hot-air balloon race, rifle competitions and bowling tournaments.

According to an economic impact study done in 2017 by the UTSA Center for Community and Business Research, more than 2.5 million people attend Fiesta San Antonio every year.

»

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Join Fiesta San Antonio March 31-April 10, 2022!

Here is the lowdown on just some of the highlights.

MEDALS

ROYALTY

As a long-standing tradition, people go on a mission to obtain and wear as many Fiesta medals as possible.

You’ll see people wearing their weight in medals – fastened to sashes, jackets, hats, and more.

Get your own Fiesta medals at the Official Fiesta Store or at the various events.

Queen of the Order of the Alamo In 1909, John Carrington founded the Order of the Alamo, one of the oldest Fiesta organizations. The members meet once a year to choose the next year’s queen and her court. The queen’s court includes a princess, 12 in-town duchesses and 12 from out of town. This royalty is featured in the major Fiesta parades.

King Antonio Over the early years Fiesta royalty included King Cotton, King Selamat (tamales spelled backwards), King Omala (Alamo spelled backwards) and King Antonio. Some years no king was named. John Carrington formed the Texas Cavaliers in 1926. One purpose of the organization was to select King Antonio.

El Rey Feo

Betsy Newman Photography

The second king to reign over Fiesta is El Rey Feo, the “Ugly King.” This monarch comes from a medieval tradition in which peasants elected one of their own as king for a day. The first Rey Feo was crowned in 1947. He became an official part of Fiesta in 1980. The LULAC Rey Feo Scholarship Committee sponsors El Rey Feo. Candidates for

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Betsy Newman Photography Fiesta Teenage Queen The Woman’s Club of San Antonio, organized in 1898, makes this selection. The organization was one of the original twelve members of the Fiesta Commission.

The Reina de la Feria de las Flores Like Rey Feo, this queen earns her crown by raising funds for the Rey Feo Scholarship Committee. The first reina was chosen in 1947, along with the first Ugly King.

» Betsy Newman Photography

the title raise money that’s given to students for their college expenses. The emergence of two Fiesta kings built a bridge between both of the city’s major cultures.

Both kings visit hospitals, schools, and nursing homes in addition to making their appearance at Fiesta events.

Miss Fiesta San Antonio She dates back to 1949 in conjunction with the Flambeau Parade. Today, the Miss Fiesta Scholarship Pageant makes its selection from among San Antonio college students.

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

43

The Charro Queen

Taste of the Republic (March 31)

She represents the San Antonio Charro Association, a San Antonio tradition since 1947. A Day in Old Mexico and the Charreada trace their history back to 1550s Mexico.

For the fifth year, Taste of the Republic helps to kick off Fiesta® 2022 with a culinary event highlighting the cuisine of Texas. The event is in partnership with, and is a fundraiser for, Fiesta San Antonio. Chef Brian West brings together more than a dozen talented local chefs to interpret the “Six Food Republics of Texas.” This tasty, ticketed event takes place in Southtown at The Good Kind. Enjoy gourmet bites paired with wine, cocktail tastings, and beer.

The Queen of Soul The goal of the San Antonio Queen of Soul Inc. is to provide a representative of the African American community at Fiesta activities and other civic and community programs.

Miss San Antonio College students compete for this title.

The winner represents San Antonio in the Miss Texas Pageant in Fort Worth in July.

NOTABLE EVENTS Fiesta® Fiesta (March 31) Kick off the festivities with Fiesta Fiesta at Hemisfair, an opening ceremony complete with locally-themed medal exchanges.

A Day in Old Mexico & Charreada (April 3, April 10) Explore the distinctive culture that upholds the customs and family traditions of Mexican Horsemanship as a way of life. This family event features food vendors, concessions, ballet Folklorico performances, and live mariachi music during the seasonopening of Fiesta’s charreada - Mexico’s official sport, predating and inspiring the American Rodeo.

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Texas Cavaliers River Parade (April 4) For years, King Antonio had no set tradition for his official arrival at Fiesta. He used planes, trains, and automobiles. When the Works Progress Administration completed improvements to the San Antonio River in 1941, the Cavaliers decided to introduce the king in a river parade—the first event to take place on the river after the improvements. Today, the River Parade is one of the few in the nation in which the floats really do float. About 250,000 people line the banks to enjoy the event.

Alamo walls. The ceremony concludes with a brief memorial service.

A Night in Old San Antonio (April 5-8) A Night in Old San Antonio, better known as NIOSA, joined Fiesta in 1948. The San Antonio Conservation Society sponsors NIOSA. The society works to save San Antonio buildings and maintain the city’s cultural heritage. It takes about 16,000 volunteers each year to stage NIOSA. For fun with food and drinks, don’t miss it.

The Pilgrimage to the Alamo (April 4)

Ford Mariachi Festival (April 5-7)

The Daughters of the Republic of Texas has staged its Pilgrimage to the Alamo since 1925. The pilgrimage is a memorial tribute to the Alamo heroes and the heritage of Texas. A solemn, wreathbearing procession of historic, civic, patriotic, military and school groups walks silently to the Alamo. At the same time, an announcer intones the names of the Alamo defenders from within the

Mariachi barges float down the San Antonio River with celebratory music and excitement for Fiesta. The musicians throw beaded necklaces to onlookers and delight people on the River Walk with their vibrant music, which can still be heard long after they pass by. The Ford Mariachi Festival has been a tradition since 1972.

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huntsvilletruckandtractor.com † For complete warranty, safety and product information, consult your local Kubota dealer and the product operator’s manual. Power (HP/KW) and other specifications are based on various standards or recommended practices. KCDA-24-PostcardsMagazine-1

grigsby2@netzero.com nategrigsby2017@gmail.com Nate Grigsby, Owner/CEO Locally owned & operated for 4 generations

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

45

The Battle of the Flowers Parade (April 8) The Battle of the Flowers Parade is the only one in the country to be planned and directed completely by women. Today, it’s the largest parade in Fiesta, second in size nationally only to the Tournament of Roses Parade.

Fiesta Flambeau Parade (April 9) The Fiesta Flambeau Parade began in 1948. The parade’s name comes from the French word for a candlestick or torch. In the event’s early years, four-man brigades marched between the other units, carrying torches on five-foot poles. Today Boy Scouts carry safety flares. All the floats in the Flambeau Parade are lighted.

Betsy Newman Photography

Welcome Trenda & Crystal!!!

Betsy Newman Photography

Chris and Kathy Cunningham Owners

to the Salon Chic team

Trenda and Crystal wanted to let all of their Trendsetters clients know they have a new location and family with Salon Chic & Boutique.

• Ford Diesel Specialist • Repair All Makes & Models

For an appointment with Crystal call or text

• Vehicle Maintenance • Major & Minor Repairs

936-581-0706 For an appointment with Trenda call

936-291-0803

• 70+ Years Combined Tech Experience • Complete Diagnostic Tools “It is a beautiful salon with a great atmosphere and we know everyone will feel right at home! We appreciate each and every one of you and can’t wait to see you at our new home.”

1370 Hwy 75 N • Huntsville • 936-291-7100 46 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

1248 Hwy 75 N. • Huntsvlle, Texas

936.438.4060

GOOD TO KNOW Fiesta is bright – and so is the clothing! Grab the most colorful items in your closet, your flower crown or “corona,” and don’t forget a sash for your medal collection, as well as comfortable shoes for all the walking and dancing.

Purchase tickets at the gate of the events. Don’t forget cash, as many events sell drink/food tickets once inside, and not all non-profit sponsoring organizations accept credit cards.

Betsy Newman Photography

For well over a century, Fiesta® San Antonio has offered fun for all ages.

From parades to carnival rides, there’s something for everyone. So, bring the whole family. Viva Fiesta!

For more information and detailed schedules, visit fiestasanantonio.org.

Madison County Friends: I have been honored to serve as your JP for the last 8 years and am proud of the level-headed, common sense changes and fiscal responsibility we have brought to our office.

I am firm, but fair.

I love Madison County and humbly ask for your continued support! #Experienced #FirmbutFair #JudgeJon #GodBlessTexas PAID POLITICAL ADVERTISING BY THE JON STEVENS CAMPAIGN

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

47

7 6 32 7 4 6 9 5 8 1 1 4 3 8 5 9 2 5 7 9 5 2 8 85 93 78 21 47 16 32 54 69 4 1 28 8 3 5 7 3 5 9 9 6 2 4 6 7 1 1 2

7

Suduko Solutions

2

8 9 7 3 4

6 1

5

Sudoku#5 #6 Sudoku 25 38 82 64 7 51 44 66 18 6 13 77 99 85 1 78 86 37 92 9 44 53 21 76 2 99 62 15 57 5 37 95 78 21 36 9 4 3 6 2 5 4 82 1 3 9 8 1 4 3 4

from page 92-95

46

73 22 15 89 31 64

98 57

EASY#7 #8 7 11 Sudoku 5Sudoku 93 79 1 6 9 7 4 3 8 5 993 857 222 374 1 9 5 6 8 6 1 24 7 5 4 2 5 8 8 9 9 3 6 7 1 31 58 44 66 5 8 3 1 6 2 9 7 245 639 598 416 7 3 1 2 4 2 8 4 3 9 9 65 3 1 1 7 7 4 2 6 8 68 92 37 15 7 5 8 9 2 6 3 4 439 764 885 248 6 7 3 1 2 3 2 1 4 5 8 7 9 827 496 161 533 4 2 8 9 5 9 1 7 6 3 4 5 2 154 373 716 821 8 5 2 7 9 6 4 2 8 9 5 1 3 761 245 657 982 9 4 6 8 3 8 2 8 9 3 7 5 3 26 7 4 1 5 4 1 6

HARD

Sudoku#7 #8 Sudoku 65 42 88 19 93 37 71 84 14 26 59 48 31 13 92 77 86 75 44 21 58 69 27 35 49 94 16 62 72 58 63 96 27 81 35 53

21 96 73 65 52 18 73 37 85 56 49 64 92 68 59 14 83 46 37 75 21 89 21 37 48 14 92

34 46 29 62 91 25 88 33 17 91 72 88 53 14 45 79 66 57

Sudoku #6 9 1 3 2 2 5 8 7 9 3 6 4 2 3 4 3 7 8 1 5 4 2 6 5 1 1 9 5 7 6 2 5 1 4 8 7 6 4 8 7 8 3 9 6 9 EVIL Sudoku #8 2 8 5 1 1 4 6 9 3 9 7 2 7 5 9 6 6 1 2 3 8 3 4 7 5 2 3 4 4 6 8 5 9 7 1 8

8 6 5 2 1 4 7 3 9 1 4 6 3 2 4 7 5 3 9 8 6 1

MEDIUM #8 8 7Sudoku 4 5 6 6 8 9 7 6 4 1 3 2 1 5 2 9 7 7 58 6 4 6 45 1 2 3 9 2 5 2 4 3 9 8 3 1 7 3 2 8 6 38 74 1 7 9 9 8 6 6 13 5 1 5 8 4 5 3 2 9 1 2 1 7 7 4 4 25 9 3 9 6 8

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7 9 3 2 8 5 4 1 6 8 3 2 5 4 7 1 6 9 9 7 8 3 2 1 6 5 4

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

49

Kidding Around

Word Scramble 1-IIRSH ____________________

9-ARDEAP

____________________

2-OABIRWN

____________________

10-ACDNE

____________________

3-ADIELRN

____________________

11-LDOG

____________________

4- MSHOKCRA ____________________

12-KAPCIRT

____________________

5-YKLCU

____________________

13-NLEPHEARCU____________________

6-BACBAEG

____________________

14-HRCMA

7-NETESENEV

____________________

15-ENRGE ____________________

8-TISNA

____________________

16-ORLECV

Tic-tac-toe

50 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

____________________

____________________

2N D come visit us L O C AT I O N 906 10th Street, Huntsville

Your Child Belongs HERE!

Montessori Child Care 6 wks to 12 yrs. old 2817 Old Houston Rd. • Huntsville Monday - Friday 5:00 AM - 6:30 PM

936-435-0303 March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

51

Find the HIDDEN objects

52 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Joke for the Month: Why did the leprechaun turn down a bowl of soup?

Because he already had a pot of gold!

WORD SCRAMBLE KEY: Irish rainbow Ireland shamrock

lucky cabbage seventeen saint

parade dance gold patrick

leprechaun charm green clover

Call TODAY to learn more about our March offers!

Schedule your diagnostic hearing evaluation with a complimentary hearing aid test-drive.

936.755.4296 HUNTSVILLE • 1909 22nd St FamilyHearingCenter.com Dr. Christie Cahill, Au.D.

FAMILY HEARING & SENSORY NEURAL CENTER Serving Huntsville for 40 years

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

53

54 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Living with Children By: John K. Rosemond www.rosemond.com

The Keys to Relatively Quick, Painless Toilet Training Q: I recently tried toilet training my 32-month-old, but after a few days of no success, I decided to stop. A friend tells me to hang in there, but my pediatrician says my son isn’t ready. She suggests I try again in a few months. Your thoughts?

A: What does it mean that a 2 ½-year-old child “isn’t ready” to learn to use the toilet properly? In the absence of serious developmental delays, a child is capable of learning to do this between 18 and 24 months. I prefer the term “capable” to “ready” because the latter implies that toilet training is fraught with psychological pitfalls, which is simply not so. To put this in perspective, consider that a 3-month-old puppy can be house-trained in three days!

You obviously think that if something you do doesn’t bring results in a few days, then you must not be doing the right thing. The fact is, even if you approach the task properly, it can take up to six weeks to toilet train a toddler, and boys are disproportionately represented at the upper end of the scale.

Like most of today’s parents, you bought into the “readiness” myth and have waited past the point where this would have been relatively easy.

You might also have made the mistake of micromanaging. Today’s parents are very anxious about toilet training, and their anxiety drives a lot of hovering and over-directing. Toddlers are not inclined to follow instructions of any sort when someone is hovering over them. As Grandma used to say, “A watched pot never boils.”

The keys to relatively quick, painless toilet training are: Set the stage properly. Put the potty out in the open, where the child spends most of his time during the day. Yes, even if that means the living room.

Make it simple for the child. Either let the child walk around the house naked from the waist down or wearing only thin cotton underwear. Don’t use pull-ups! They only delay a child’s ability to sense when he has to use the toilet. You are helping your child learn something new, so get rid of the old. Also, by letting your child walk around naked or wearing only the thinnest of underwear (note: no training pants either!), when he has an accident, he will know it, and so will you. Stains? Big deal.

When your child is trained, call the carpet cleaner.

Keep your distance. Remember that this is a trial-and-error process. If you hover, trying to prevent errors, you are likely to provoke resistance.

Respond properly to mistakes. When a mistake occurs, be encouraging and supportive. Take your child over to the potty and remind him of what he’s supposed to do. Needless to say, yelling and other outbursts of frustration are counterproductive.

Now, go ahead and get started with what you should have started at least six months ago. And this time, stick with it.

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

55

Snapshots!

Congratulations to Tommy Jackson with Expert Diesel Services now open in Huntsville! He is located at 1027 Interstate 45 S Suite 8, 832-372-9957.

FreeUp Storage Huntsville recently celebrated their ribbon cutting ceremony! Located right off of Hwy 30 at 20 FM 1791. Their phone number is 936-295-1791.

Share your Milestone!

PostcardsLive.com/Share

Committed to quality workmanship and 100% customer satisfaction.

Family owned and operated since 1999

936-295-6556 686 Interstate 45 South • Huntsville 56 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

amayascollision.com

First National Bank of Huntsville Announces New Appointments The Board of Directors of First National Bank of Huntsville is pleased to announce the promotion of Walter Bennett to the position of Chief Operating Officer and Director, and the promotion of John Sanders to the position of President and Director. The announcement was made by Sam H. Burris, Jr., Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer.

Burris said, “Walter and John are both longtime employees with many years of banking experience in various positions throughout our bank. They are experienced and capable bankers and will keep the bank at the forefront as Huntsville’s only locally owned community bank.”

Walter H. Bennett, Jr.

John A. Sanders, Jr.

Walter Bennett is a lifelong resident of Huntsville, and began his career with FNBH as a freshman while attending SHSU. Walter has an undergraduate degree as well as an MBA from Sam Houston State University. He has worked for First National Bank of Huntsville for 31 years.

John Sanders was raised in Franklin, Texas. After graduating from Texas A&M University, John obtained his MBA from Sam Houston State University. He has worked for First National Bank of Huntsville for 37 years.

Chief Operating Officer

President

Since 1890, First National Bank of Huntsville has proudly helped our community grow into the city it is today. We are equally proud to be Huntsville’s only locally owned community bank. FNBH is a subsidiary of First National Bancshares of Huntsville, Inc. with its main office and branch in Huntsville as well as branches in Crockett, Madisonville, Franklin and Bryan/College Station..

936-295-5701 • www.fnbhuntsvilletx.com

Member

HUNTSVILLE • CROCKETT • MADISONVILLE • FRANKLIN • BRYAN / COLLEGE STATION March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

57

Following Up Photos courtesy of SHSU Archieves

Old Main Extra Following last month’s feature on the 40th anniversary of the fire that destroyed the Old Main building on the campus of Sam Houston State University, we received an unusually large and positive response. It seems whether folks experienced the icon before the fire or have simply heard about the landmark and seen photos, the appeal and mystique of Old Main live on. Some have asked about interior photos and schematics of the layout of the building. We are happy to oblige this month with some additional photos.

58 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

First Floor Blueprint

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

»

59

Basement Blueprint

Second Floor Blueprint

60 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Because Pets Are Family Too Quality Veterinary Care

• Internal Medicine • Preventive Care

• Vaccines/Titer testing Old Main sits high atop the hill

• Online Pharmacy and

Scene from the demolition following the fire

Medical Records

• Surgery

• Spay & Neuter

• Digital Dental Xrays • Dental Care

• Microchipping

• Convenient Drop Off and Pick Up Hours

• Geriatric Care

• Laser Therapy

• Equine Reproduction www.vethospitalnewwaverly.com

936.344.8469 455 W SH 150 • New Waverly

»

Like us on Facebook!

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

61

Old Main stained glass 2nd floor auditorium

U-RENT-EM U-RENT-EM, WE-GOT-EM Your Full Service Advertising & Promotional Product Solution Source!

Mini-Ex’s • Trencher Jack Hammer • Generators Trowell Machine • Much More

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Rita’s Playschool & Day Care Infant Program • Preschool Before & After School Programs

Mon. - Fri. 7am - 5pm Sat. 8am - 12pm

103 Hwy 30 East Huntsville

114 York Drive • Madisonville 936-348-0276 • Curtis & Donna O’Brien Owners

Where we LUV your children!

62 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

• In-house Embroidery • Signage, Flags, Banners, Table Coverings and Tents • Corporate Recognition Programs • Premiums and Incentives • Trade Show Programs • Safety Programs • Service Awards • Employee Recognition • …and so much more!

936-291-3222 Check us out at

advantagespecialties.com

Old Main obviously struck a chord with musicians, and hosted many events and practices.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

63

Glorious Grandkids

Nolan Grandchild of Gregg & Michelle Cannon

Annie Rose Crabtree Grandchild of John & Mary Kellar

Share Your Grandkid Photos with Us!

PostcardsLive.com Graclyn Grandchild of Kelly Barringer

NEED A WILL? 227 SH 75 N., Ste. 230 Huntsville, Texas 77320

Tel.: (936) 291-6660

raneriley@parklawfirmtx.com 64 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Rane Riley

Attorney at Park Law Firm Serving Walker, Grimes, Madison, Trinity and Montgomery Counties

The Grands What is your grandparent name and does it have a special meaning?

Grandma. Keeps it simple.

2

Number of grandchildren and age range?

7 grandchildren, ages 7 up to 25

3

Favorite activity with them?

Playing board games

4

Advice to other/new grandparents?

Love them, thank the good Lord for them, and most importantly, lead them to Jesus.

5

What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents?

Listening to the farm report with my Grandfather Harrison while Grandmother prepared breakfast in Wellington, Texas.

Share Your Grandkid Photos with Us!

PostcardsLive.com

Established 1962 Locally owned and operated

by Jerry Larrison

CL

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1

• Top of the industry equipment

• Commercial Grease Traps • Residential Septic • Uniformed, knowledgeable drivers

Reliable Parts Co. Monday - Saturday 7:30 am - 7:00 pm

• Auto, Truck & Tractor Parts • Batteries • Tires • Paint • Hoses & More

Main Street Auto Parts 110 East Main St. • Trinity, TX Bryan Jones Monday - Saturday 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

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936-291-3526 313 FM 3478 Huntsville, TX 77320 A1pumpingandrentals.com

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

65

Things my Grandaddy said...

Don’t whiz on an electric fence.

Don’t smoke in the hayloft.

It’s downright annoying to argue with a fella who knows what he’s talking about!

Hunt every varmint from downwind, except a polecat.

If you run with hounds, expect to get fleas.

It’s hard to plant a seedless grape.

An ignorant fella is hell-bent on proving his limitations.

ARE YOU SUMMER READY?

i s d on a M County Museum

I CAN HELP IF YOU ARE READY!!

281-850-6426

Jan Nell

COPE Certified Health Coach

j219nell@gmail.com

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66 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Keeping Madison County History and Traditions Alive Open Wed - Sat 10 am - 2 pm

(936)

348-5230

201 N. Madison • Madisonville, Tx One block off the Downtown Square

Creative Corner

COMMON BOND

By Betty Jo Stevens as published in English in Texas Winter 1986

Waiting That’s the hard part.

Waiting and not knowing That’s worse.

Strange face after strange face Some smiling Some desperate Some hopeless All needing.

One hundred miles away Remembering a voice saying, “It would be un-Christian of me to say this is more important than your son. Go.” That’s compassion.

Men and women scurrying from hallway to room Clothed mostly in white, some masked in green.

Vague noises ring in the distance Humming television, faint coughs, wobbly wheelchairs, Footsteps— sometimes rapid, sometimes not.

Anxiety, boredom, tears Emotion born out of love A common bond with those strange faces Waiting, hoping, praying.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

67

Puzzle Me This

GRANDS

CREATIVE

BUSINESS

PETS

FUN

PUBLISHER

CELEBRATE

MUSTARD

TEXAS

GARDEN

ROAD

COMMUNITY

STUDENTS

GLORIOUS

MILESTONES

AWESOME

SNAPSHOTS

LATEST

QUESTIONS

CHILDREN

READERS

WILDLIFE

GABBY

CONVERSATION

The creation of these word puzzles is officially attributed to Norman E. Gibat, an American from Norman, Oklahoma. In 1968, Gibat was looking for ways to engage readers with his publication Selenby Digest when he unexpectedly invented what we now know as Word Search games.

68 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

The first crosswords appeared in England during the 19th century. They were of an elementary kind apparently derived from the word square, a group of words arranged so the letters read alike vertically and horizontally, and printed in children’s puzzle books and various periodicals. In the United States, however, the puzzle developed into a serious adult pastime. The first modern crossword puzzle was published on December 21, 1913, in the New York World’s Sunday supplement, Fun.

Across

19-Eccentric person 21- Section of an orchestra 23- River sediment 25-Pitchfork-shaped letters 26-Vietnam’s ___ Dinh Diem 29-Melodies 31- Full-scale 35- Done,to Donne 36- Parasite 38- Midway state 39- Break, card game

41-Brings up 43- Lowly worker 44-Ancient region of Asia Minor 46-Reduces speed 48- Choke 49-Child’s toy 51- Son of Isaac and Rebekah 52- ___ glance 53-Golfer Aoki 55- Foul mood 57-Acts

61- Increase 65- Stead 66-Part of TNT 68- Pulls in 69- Orsk’s river 70- Dutch painter Jan 71-Corrida cries 72- Kind of school; 73- Hang-up 74- Resting place

Down

10-Steinbeck: East of _____ 11- Blend 14- Language with click consonants 15- Marsh marigold 20-Clock face 22- Pickle flavoring 24- Woody inhabitants of forests!

26- Polite refusal 27- Where Columbus was born 28- Praying figure

30- Fish covering 32- Last Greek letter 33- Wolf pack member 34- Friendly Islands 37- ___ Perot 40- Pathetic 42- Farewell appearance 45- Too 47- Clubs, e.g.

50- Merits

54- Leaves out 56- Mortise insert 57- Purple fruit 58- Hibernia 59- Went through, as the paper 60- Type of gun 62- Soccer legend 63- Salt Lake City hoopsters 64-Attention-getting sound 67- “Michael Collins” actor;

1- Broadway opening 5- Infatuated 9- President pro ___ 12- ___ accompli 13- New wing 15- Sign over 16- Sommer of film 17- Hiding place 18- Hurler Hershiser

1- Not many 2- Racer Yarborough 3- Polynesian carving 4- Anatomical passages 5- It flickered, to make Ingrid mad.

6- Hill dweller 7- Chew on 8- Author of fables 9- Polo of “Meet the Parents”

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Rebus puzzles with answers are a kind of riddle. Word games is also a good name. You usually can see a few letters, but actually in the rebus puzzle you see a word or sometimes a sentence. In fact, you just have to read literally what is written in the rebus puzzle. The first one you do can take quite a long time to solve.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

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70 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Bad Boy Mowers

Servicing Madison, Trinity, Walker and Grimes Counties.

We can fix your saw, trimmer and mower.

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7.

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12.

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA SPRING 2022

MARCH EVENTS

Art BFA SENIOR EXHIBITION March 3 - 5 Satellite Gallery Free Admission

Art SIGGRAPH EXHIBITION March 10 - 12 Satellite Gallery Free Admission

College of Arts & Media CAM ARTIST SERIES: TEXAS GUITAR QUARTET March 25 | 7:30 p.m.

Recital Hall, GPAC

Theatre & Musical Theatre DETROIT '67

By Dominique Morisseau March 3 - 5 | 7:30 p.m.

March 5 | Matinee | 2 p.m.

Erica Starr Theatre, UTC

Art BFA SENIOR EXHIBITION March 24 - 26 Satellite Gallery Free Admission

Art 22ND ANNUAL JURIED STUDENT EXHIBITION March 28 - April 9 Reception & Awards March 31 | 5 p.m.

University Gallery Free Admission

School of Music SPRING FLING: A SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT March 5 | 7:30 p.m.

Payne Concert Hall, GPAC School of Music

JAZZ ENSEMBLES CONCERT March 10 | 7:30 p.m.

Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

Theatre & Music Theatre A DOCTOR IN SPITE OF HIMSELF Molière, Adapted by Christopher Bayes and Steven Epp March 24 - 26 | 7:30 p.m.

March 26 | Matinee | 2 p.m.

Showcase Theatre, UTC

FOR TICKETS & INFORMATION shsutickets.com | tickets@shsu.edu | 936.294.2339 To view our full list of events, visit shsu.edu/CAM

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

71

SOLUTIONS

1. Summer 2. Feedback 3. Breakfast 4.Cyclone 5. Icecube 6. Long time no see 7. You are under arrest 8. Stand Up comedy 9. Comfortable 10. No excuse 11. For once in my life 12. Mountain

Two Local Companies Teaming up Together!

Now offering both Heating Cooling & Plumbing to all of Huntsville!

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(936) 226-8358 72 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

109 E Abbey St.

• Livingston, TX 77351

McWilliamsAndSon.com

I've never been so happy to be wrong!

“When I first started advertising with the Lake Conroe edition of Postcards Magazine, the jury was still out. I remember telling my parents that print advertising was 'old school'....Online is the only place to be!

I loved getting to go back to them to say, I was wrong! Lol! My ad in Postcards Magazine works! I am getting new clients coming to me and I am building new relationships. Thanks, Postcards!” ~ Rainey B.

If you're interested in reaching our Lake Conroe readers or you'd like to know more about how we can help your overall marketing plan, give us a call!

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

73

What’s Cookin’ Instant Pot® Barbacoa Ingredients 3 dried guajillo chile peppers 3 dried pasilla chile peppers 1 (4 lb) beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces salt and ground black pepper to taste 1 onion, quartered ¼ cup apple cider vinegar 5 cloves garlic, minced 2 Tbs lime juice 1 Tbs ground cumin 1 Tbs dried oregano 1 Tbs agave nectar 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Peanut Butter Chocolate Chunk Bars Ingredients ¾ cup butter, softened ½ cup white sugar

Directions Step 1: Place chile peppers in a large bowl and cover with hot water. Soak until soft, about 20 minutes. Drain.

½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 egg 1 tsp vanilla extract, or more to taste 1 cup peanut butter 1 ¾ cups unbleached flour ¾ tsp baking soda 10 oz chocolate chunks

Directions Step 1: Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Step 2: Beat butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together with an electric mixer in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Add peanut butter and beat until incorporated.

Step 3: Sift flour and baking soda together in a separate bowl; mix into the butter mixture. Fold chocolate chunks into the mixture.

Step 4: Spread the batter into a 13x9-inch baking dish.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into squares.

74 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chuck roast and season with salt and pepper. Cook meat until dark brown and crispy on all sides, 7 to 10 minutes.

Step 3: While meat cooks, combine softened chile peppers, onion, vinegar, garlic, lime juice, cumin, oregano, agave nectar, and cinnamon in a blender. Process sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Transfer browned meat and all juices to a multi-functional pressure cooker (such as Instant Pot®). Stir in sauce from the blender. Close and lock the lid. Select high pressure according to manufacturer’s instructions; set timer for 60 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.

Step 5: Release pressure carefully using the quick-release method according to manufacturer’s instructions, about 5 minutes.

Unlock and remove the lid.

Slow Cooker French Onion Pork Chops Ingredients nonstick cooking spray 5 (6 oz) pork chops 1 pinch garlic salt, or to taste

Directions Step 1: Spray a skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.

Quickly brown pork chops in the skillet, seasoning with garlic salt, 5 to 7 minutes total. Transfer to a slow cooker and pour French onion soup on top.

1 (18.5 oz) can French onion soup

Hamburger Jazz Ingredients 1 lb ground beef 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice ½ cup long grain white rice ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese salt and pepper to taste

Directions Step 1: Crumble the ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook

1 (8 oz) container light sour cream

Step 2: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.

2 Tbs all-purpose flour

Step 3: Remove the chops and keep warm.

Add sour cream and flour to the slow cooker, mix well, and warm until slightly thickened, 10 to 15 minutes.

Serve sauce over the chops.

and stir until evenly browned.

Drain off grease, and stir in the cream of mushroom soup, tomatoes, and uncooked rice.

Cover, and simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until rice is cooked, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the oven’s broiler.

When the rice is done cooking, transfer the contents of the skillet to a casserole dish. Cover with a layer of cheese.

Step 3: Broil until the cheese is melted and toasty. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and enjoy!

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Directions Step 1: Bring a large pot of cold water to a boil. Drop Brussels sprouts in the boiling water and cook until softened, 7 to 9 minutes, depending on their size. Strain and transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking. Strain once cooled and spread out on paper towels to dry. Pat the tops dry as well.

Step 2: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Step 3: Place Brussels sprouts on a large baking sheet and smash with the bottom of a mason jar. Pat dry with a paper towel to soak up any additional liquid. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt and pepper. Sprinkle pepper flakes over top, then shake the tray a bit to distribute the oil and spices.

Easy Smashed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients 2 lbs Brussels sprouts, washed and cleaned ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste 1 tsp red pepper flakes

Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Gently flip sprouts and sprinkle with Pecorino Romano cheese. Return to the oven and bake until sprouts are soft and cheese is melted, 10 to 15 more minutes.

Step 5: Remove from the oven and set the tray on a wire cooling rack. Squeeze lemon over top, then transfer sprouts to a serving plate.

1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese ½ medium lemon

Care Center Huntsville would like to say thank you to all our faithful supporters and volunteers for making the Sanctity of Life BBQ a wonderful success!

McCAFFETY

HUNTSVILLE

We raised over $14,000 and served over 625 sandwiches.

Special thanks to McKenzie’s BBQ and the McKenzie family for opening their restaurant on a Sunday, providing wonderful food and for working countless hours. Thank you to HEB for the donation of their delicious cookies.

Please remember to support these local businesses throughout the year.

Thank you to the Huntsville Junior Service League and all that volunteered to make the BBQ a possibility, and thank you for your continued support of the Care Center Huntsville.

76 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

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Classic Waffles Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp salt 4 tsp baking powder 2 Tbs white sugar 2 eggs 1 ½ cups warm milk 1/3 cup butter, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions Step 1: In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, baking powder and sugar; set aside. Preheat waffle iron to desired temperature.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Stir in the milk, butter and vanilla. Pour the milk mixture into the flour mixture; beat until blended.

Step 3: Ladle the batter into a preheated waffle iron. Cook the waffles until golden and crisp. Serve immediately.

Bakers Tip: Don’t peek! Trust the recommended cooking time on the recipe. Opening the waffle iron will lower the temperature and prolong the cooking time.

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

77

Topping: 2 Tbs grated sharp Cheddar cheese 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste 1 tsp sliced green onion, or to taste Directions Step 1: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.

Step 2: Place sausages in a dry pan over medium heat until they start to sizzle. Use a spoon or flat wooden spatula to break them up as they cook. Continue to cook until browned and crumbly, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from the heat. Drain grease if desired.

Baked Cowboy Dip Ingredients Cowboy Dip: 12 oz hot Italian sausage links, casings removed 2 (8 oz) pkgs cream cheese, at room temperature 1 cup sour cream 4 oz sharp Cheddar cheese, grated 2 cups frozen sweet corn, thawed and drained 1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles

Step 3: Combine cream cheese, sour cream, 4 ounces grated Cheddar, thawed corn, cooked sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes with chiles, Hatch chiles, jalapeño peppers, green onions, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a large bowl; mix until thoroughly combined. Transfer into a baking dish and smooth out the top. Top with remaining Cheddar, and cayenne.

Step 4: Place the baking dish on a sheet pan and bake in the center of the preheated oven until cheese is melted and dip is bubbling around the outside, about 30 minutes.

Step 5: Sprinkle green onions over top before serving.

1 (4 oz) can diced Hatch green chiles ½ cup diced fresh jalapeño peppers ½ cup sliced green onions 1 tsp kosher salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste

Chef’s Notes: • Any kind of melty cheese will work in place of Cheddar. You can use regular diced tomatoes (without chiles) if you want.

• If you’d like, you can serve this cold—just follow Steps 2, 3, and 5.

• To make ahead and cook the next day, follow Steps 2 and 3, cover, and refrigerate. Follow the remaining steps when ready to cook.

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78 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

2 ½ cups water 1/3

cup tomato sauce

1 Tbs chicken bouillon granules 1 whole serrano chile pepper (Optional)

Directions Step 1: Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook and stir rice and onion in the hot oil until browned, about 5 minutes; season with salt, cumin, and pepper. Pour water over the rice mixture.

Step 2: Stir tomato sauce and chicken bouillon into the water.

Increase heat to medium-high, place a cover on the saucepan, and bring to a boil.

Maria’s Mexican Rice Ingredients 2 Tbs olive oil 1 cup rice ½ large onion, diced ½ Tbs salt 1/8

tsp ground cumin

1/8

tsp ground black pepper

Step 3: Add serrano chile pepper and continue cooking at a boil for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Reduce heat to medium-low until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes more.

Chef’s Notes: The Serrano pepper will add flavor but no heat to this recipe since it is used whole and not chopped. If you would like spicy Mexican rice, remove seeds and chop the Serrano before adding it to the mix.

Come find your pot of gold!

Genera t ions S alon

Dani t a Reed Call or Text (936) 348-0559 2804 Lake Road • Huntsville March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

79

Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup Ingredients 1 lb bacon, chopped 2 stalks celery, diced 1 onion, chopped

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3 cloves garlic, minced 8 potatoes, peeled and cubed 4 cups chicken stock, or enough to cover potatoes 3 Tbs butter ¼ cup all-purpose flour 1 cup heavy cream 1 tsp dried tarragon 3 tsp chopped fresh cilantro salt and pepper to taste

Directions Step 1: In a Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until done. Remove bacon from pan and set aside. Drain off all but 1/4 cup of the bacon grease.

Step 2: Cook celery and onion in reserved bacon drippings until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Add cubed potatoes and toss to coat. Saute for 3 to 4 minutes.

Return bacon to the pan and add enough chicken stock to just cover the potatoes. Cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender.

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80 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Step 3: In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes.

Whisk in the heavy cream, tarragon, and cilantro. Bring the cream mixture to a boil, and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir the cream mixture into the potato mixture. Puree about 1/2 the soup and return to the pan.

Adjust seasonings to taste.

Chef’s Notes: For those who do not wish to use bacon, substitute 1/4 cup melted butter for the bacon grease and continue with the recipe.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

81

Business Focus Story by Claudia Kirkwood Photos by Tom Miller

Dr. Stephen H. Means & Associates

82 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

For almost 30 years, Dr. Stephen H. Means has been providing the best in eye care to the citizens of Huntsville and surrounding areas. Dr. Means and associate Dr. Lindsey Mills continue to stay informed on current developments of diseases and other anomalies of the eye, and using the most up-to-date diagnostic procedures, will provide early detection, diagnosis, and a treatment plan for any problems that are found.

»

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

83

Dr. Means

84 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Dr. Stephen Means received his Doctorate of Optometry from the University of Houston in 1991 and is grateful to have been able to establish his private practice in this family-oriented community. Dr. Lindsey Mills, a therapeutically licensed optometrist, joined the staff in 2017 after graduating from the Michigan College of Optometry in 2012. She, too, is thrilled to be in Huntsville and is enjoying the small-town community life and the many friendships she has made. Dr. Means, Dr. Mills, and their almost 20-member staff are ready to make your visit comfortable and productive as they provide the best in care for your vision.

“The eye is a powerful diagnostic aid for systemic disease,” according to Dr. Means, who adds, “A comprehensive eye examination allows us to look into your body and see living vascular, nervous, and connective tissue without making a cut.

We have been the first to detect the presence of malignant brain tumors, renal failure, melanoma, leukemia, and lymphoma. And very commonly, we are the first to detect the presence of diabetes and hypertension.” Means states a full scope of systemic illnesses manifests themselves in the eye, including lupus and other auto-immune diseases. Any condition that affects vascular, neural, or connective tissue can affect the eye; therefore, periodic eye examinations are recommended.

Dr. Mills

According to Dr. Means, an eye exam is recommended before a child starts school and then, if healthy and no vision problems are present, an exam every other year is advised.

As a person ages, physical conditions may require more attention to eye care and, for those patients with known eye diseases, more frequent visits become necessary. Patients who wear contact lenses should get a yearly exam.

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March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Other conditions may arise which necessitate an exam, and these include: • Change in vision or double vision • New sensitivity to light, sudden flashing lights, or floaters • Eye irritation, stinging, burning or itchiness • Visual distortions • Discharge, redness, or pink eyes • Inflammation or injury to the eye or surrounding tissue • Any other concerns relating to the eyes or vision As a therapeutic optometrist, Dr. Means is licensed to use therapeutic and diagnostic pharmaceuticals, and as an optometric glaucoma specialist, the highest level of licensure in Texas, he can diagnose and manage most eye diseases pharmacologically, including glaucoma. “If surgery is needed, we have established good relationships with several ophthalmic offices, and these surgeons can perform whatever procedures are necessary. We co-manage those cases, including Lasik and cataract surgery, providing post-surgery care.” In fact, he shares that they do a steady amount of co-management of cataract surgeries every day.

His office staff will help schedule these appointments and provide other patient support as needed.

Another eye disease of concern is macular degeneration, which can cause loss of vision. With dry macular degeneration, the center of the retina deteriorates, while with wet macular degeneration, leaky blood vessels grow under the retina. A key symptom of this condition is blurred vision. HVC offers a state-of-the-art diagnostic analysis to detect this condition. A diagnostic device, AdaptDx, can detect macular degeneration up to three years earlier than any other technology. As with all other adverse findings, the diagnosis will be made, a treatment plan or the need for surgery discussed, and if needed, the proper referral to another specialist made. All treatments or surgical procedures will be followed up and co-managed by a plan to ensure the highest degree of eye health and vision possible.

In addition to the professional attention to eye health and vision care Huntsville Vision Center offers, a highly trained optical staff and a wide selection of frames and lenses are available to complete the transition to better vision.

Upon completion of an eye examination, a prescription for new lenses is available. The optical staff is ready to help you find the best frame and lenses to suit your style and comfort. Selections include: • single vision lenses • bifocal lenses • progressive lenses (no-line bifocals)

It’s an Important Step for You and Your Family

Let us simplify your task of getting your personal and financial affairs in order. Protect your assets by having a valid Last Will and Testament. We can help your executor as they work through the process to carry out your wishes. If the deceased has no will, we can help navigate having an administer appointed to represent the deceased’s estate and to disburse the estate according to the Texas intestacy laws.

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Also important are power of attorney documents which will allow you to designate an individual the power to make decisions for you, according to your wishes, regarding your health and finances while you are living, if you are unable to do so.

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www.huntsville-texas-attorneys.com 86 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

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• transitions (tinting when going into the direct sunlight) • polycarbonate (more impact resistant lenses) • high index (thinner and lighter weight lens material) • safety glasses and frames • specialty tints and lenses for various hobbies Specialty contact lenses are available for patients with problems associated with the cornea, including keratoconus, post-surgical corneal ectasia, and post-corneal transplant. These conditions and the possibility of appropriate lenses can be discussed with Dr. Means and Dr. Mills to see if this option would be beneficial.

Your vision is important. A call to Dr. Stephen Means & Associates will ensure you receive the highest quality care for the health of your eyes, and possible early detection of other health risks and concerns. Dr. Means, Dr. Mills, and their friendly staff members will do their absolute best to make you feel welcomed and cared for during a visit to their office. From the exam to the fitting of stylish frames or contact lenses-start to finish--your health and well-being are their focus. Medicare, Medicaid, and most local insurances are accepted. Clinic hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm, and an answering service is available for after-hours emergencies.

Dr. Means expresses his thankfulness to his patients from Huntsville and the surrounding areas for their gracious acceptance of him. He and his family have enjoyed being involved with this community and are very thankful for all it has offered. His children have been involved with the Huntsville Youth Orchestra, and three of the four graduated from

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Dr. Mills & Dr. Means Sam Houston State University. He also expresses his thanks to Postcards Magazine and the Altoms. In fact, upon opening his practice here, his very first contact for advertising was from Karen Altom. He was also her first client with her advertising agency, and one of the very first to advertise in Postcards. Huntsville has been good for Dr. Means, and Dr. Means has been good for Huntsville—a classic win/win situation!

Call today to make your appointment with Dr. Stephen H. Means & Associates!

109 Medical Park Lane, Huntsville, TX 77340 936-291-8282 www.huntsvillevisioncenter.com

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Broker Associate March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

87

Vet Connect:

By Kim VanWagner, D.V.M.

Cancer in Pets Cancer can be a scary topic to read and think about.

Thankfully, the advances in early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment allow pets today to have a better chance of being successfully treated than they did before.

Unfortunately, cancer/neoplasia is as common in our pets as it is in people. The AVMA states approximately 1 in 4 dogs will, at some stage in their life, develop neoplasia.

Almost half of dogs over the age of 10 will develop cancer. Currently, there is less information about the rate of cancer in cats.

What exactly is cancer versus neoplasia?

Neoplasia is the uncontrolled, abnormal growth of cells or tissues in the body that can be benign or malignant.

Benign neoplasms tend to grow slowly; displace, but do not tend to invade, the surrounding body tissues; and do not spread throughout the body.

Malignant neoplasms, on the other hand, can be unpredictable and grow at various rates (sometimes rapidly); invade the tissues around them; and spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. The word “tumor” or “mass” is often used to describe the actual swelling or other physical appearance of a neoplasm. The word “cancer” is often confused with neoplasia, but only malignant neoplasms are truly cancers.

Cancer detection today often starts with a thorough physical exam by your vet and includes a series of detailed questions. Additional tests, such as x-rays, blood tests, and ultrasounds, may be necessary to confirm the suspicion of cancer. For most masses, cytology - withdrawing some cells from a mass to examine under a microscope - can sometimes quickly provide basic information about the tumor type, and can confirm a diagnosis for certain types of neoplasms. For many tumors, a biopsy – taking a tissue sample from the neoplasm to examine under a microscope – is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis and help determine if the neoplasm is benign or malignant. Additional cytology or biopsies of other tissues, such as lymph nodes, may be necessary to determine how far a malignant neoplasm (cancer) has spread. Some would be surprised to hear, but as in humans, advanced imaging such 88 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

as computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron emission tomography (PET) scan can also improve the understanding of the tumor’s location and possible treatment options.

Veterinary oncologists, specialists who have obtained additional training beyond veterinary school and certified by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) in oncology, are available to refer to and consult with your vet. Veterinary oncology is a growing specialty today in vet medicine. Oncologists work with your vet to provide the best care for your pet with neoplasia.

More recent advances in veterinary medicine now allow for cancer screening and early detection. There are currently two companies (PetDX and Nu.Q) that offer blood tests to screen for canine cancer. A cancer blood test sounds crazy, but the technology is here! They are recommended as screening tests in older dogs (>8 years) and for those considered at-risk breeds. While these tests are kind of exciting, they are very new. The PetDx evaluates for genomic mutations. Nu.Q evaluates nucleosomes in the blood which can be associated with cancer. At this time, these tests are limited and not able to determine the exact kind of cancer, but further diagnostics should help determine that. The accumulation of alterations in DNA or genome causes cancer.

A technology called next-generation sequencing can identify and sequence little fragments of DNA that are free-floating in the bloodstream. If a unique signature of cancer is found in those fragments, that is indicative of malignant tumor in the body, since those changes do not exist in healthy cells. The technology is similar to prenatal testing that screens for Down’s syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities. This noninvasive blood screening can look for specific abnormalities in DNA that can indicate the likely presence of cancer.

Your local veterinarian and team would be glad to visit with you if you have further questions or concerns about cancer and your pets.

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‘During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling. He was the only one doing that. I wasn’t scared anymore.’ Cindy - age 8

My mommy loves me more than anybody. You don’t see anyone else kissing me to sleep at night.’ Clare - age 6

Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.’

Elaine - age 5

Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.’ Chris - age 7

Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.’ Mary Ann - age 4

I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones.’ Lauren - age 4

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89

Wildlife Wonders THE ELUSIVE FELINE

By Cheryl Conley Because I live in the suburbs just north of Houston, I feel fortunate to be able to observe many native species of wildlife. One of my favorites is the bobcat. I’ve only seen one, and it took me a minute to realize exactly what was running across my backyard. When I finally realized what it was, he was long gone. Bobcats are elusive and nocturnal, so I was lucky to see one.

Bobcats are North America’s most common wildcat. There are actually two subspecies of bobcats in Texas. The desert bobcat is found in the west and northwest part of Texas, and the Texas bobcat is found in the rest of the state. They’re almost identical, and the general public would never be able to tell the difference. Both are about twice the size of a housecat, measure twenty-five to thirty inches long, and stand fifteen to twenty inches tall at the shoulder. Females generally weigh around twenty pounds, and males weigh about twenty-six pounds.

Bobcats are named for their short, stubby tails and are part of the lynx family. They have black stripes on their forelegs, back legs, and on their

“bobbed” tails. They are solitary animals and territorial, although some male territories will overlap. Female territories are exclusive. Breeding season in Texas begins in February, and this is the only time males and females are together. Litters range from two to seven, but two is the most common. The babies are walking at about a month old, and they are weaned at about two months old. They stay with Mom until fall, then they’re on their own.

Bobcats have excellent eyesight. In bright sunlight, the pupils close and become thin vertical slits which keeps out the light. At night, the pupils open wide which allows the maximum amount of light to enter. The eyes are protected vertically with an eyelid and horizontally with a covering called a nictitating membrane. It is connected to the corner of the eye and sits below the eyelid. It moves from side to side.

Bobcats are carnivores and prefer to eat rodents and rabbits, and are known to eat mice, squirrels, and even deer.

If you’ve ever seen a domestic cat before it “attacks” a toy, you’ve seen it stop, crouch down, and remain perfectly still. Sometimes it will creep slowly towards the target and then pounce. Bobcats do the same. Bobcats are so quiet they often catch their prey off guard and can jump up to ten feet.

In the wild, bobcats live about seven to twelve years, but in captivity they live between twenty and twenty-five years.

When seen in the wild, bobcats are sometimes mistaken for domestic cats.

As a matter of fact, when working at a wildlife center, we had someone bring us a bobcat thinking it was an orphaned domestic cat. Thankfully, we were able to take care of the baby until it could be released back to the wild.

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90 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

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Along the Road

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The Deepest Lake in Texas Lake Buchanan, first flooded 1939. Surface area 22,333 acres; Max. depth 132 ft; Water volume 875,566 acre⋅ft.

Lake Buchanan is the 2nd largest of the Highland Lakes in Central Texas with a length of 30 miles and a width at the widest point of just under 5 miles and a shoreline of 124 miles. It is named for Representative James P. Buchanan (1867-1937), not the 15th President of the United State as some believe, who is credited with securing the funding to build the lake and dam. When it was built, 1938, Buchanan Dam was considered to be the longest multiple-arch dam in the U.S. with a length of just over two miles.

Lake Buchanan is located about 60 miles northwest of Austin.

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For more information contact:

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1202 Sam Houston Ave. Phone: 936-295-9109 Fax: 936-295-4424 Suite 5 jerrybregister.com Huntsville, TX Email: Registerjb@outlook.com

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936-661-6125 Follow us!

located inside West Hill Mall

Locally Owned & Operated

by Sandy Newman

MR BRASIL

Paint & Remodeling Specialist

“No Job Is Too Small” Paint • Stain • Wall Textures Sheetrock • Pressure Wash Carpentry • Wood Floor Fence • Wood Deck & Tile

Mauro is “Mr. Brasil”

(936) 534-4525 Office (832) 768-4829 Cell

www.mrbrasil101.com mrbrasil101@hotmail.com

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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RESOURCES SECURITY, INC. License numbers: C-02898, ACR-1696

In business since 1972

GLYNA & RAY BROWN, P.C.

Locally owned and operated

Certified Public Accountants

Residential and Commercial Service

PO Box 357 710 S. Madison Madisonville, Texas 77864 (936) 348-2705 RAY BROWN, CPA

Rbrown1989@aol.com

Security and Fire Systems Fire Inspections • Access Control Cameras • Alarm Monitoring

Fax: (936) 348-5905

936-291-0068

GLYNA BROWN, CPA

PO Box 425 • Huntsville 7022 B Hwy 75 South • Huntsville

GlynaBrown@aol.com

Suduko Marketplace

member SIPC

Intermediate Sudoku by KrazyDad, Volume 20, Book

Ken Holland Financial Advisor

s s s s

Preparing for Retirement

Sudoku #8 Hard Sudoku 6

Huntsville, TX (936) 355-8396

Paying for Education

edwardjones.com

Living in Retirement

edwardjones.com/financial-advisor/kenholland

Assist with 401k, 403b, 457, Optional Retirement Plans and more.

Email: ken.holland@edwardjones.com

3 1 3

Monday - Saturday 10 am - 7 pm Sunday 11 am - 6 pm

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2 7 1

1 9 4

7 6 4 3

3

7 4 9 2 5

9

1 2

1 7

5 © 2019 KrazyDad.com

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9.

If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.

Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle.

Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page if you really get stuck.

www.MadilenesPianoService.com • HUB Certified

94 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

JIMMY’S DOZER SERVICES, LLC • Pads • Driveways • Final Grade • Clearing • Ponds (936) 438-7749 see answers on page 48 Challenging Sudoku by KrazyDad, Volume 20, Book 50

Sudoku #8 Evil Sudoku 6

Honoring the life & times of Sam Houston 1836 Sam Houston Avenue Huntsville, TX

6 3 7

3 9 4 7 9 6 4 8 6 2 5 7 4 7 2 1 9 3 7 8 5 7 3 8 5

samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com

If you can afford it, please help keep these puzzles free by making a donation.

Give online at http://krazydad.com Or by mail: Krazydad, P.O. Box 303 Sun Valley, CA 91353 USA Thank you!

8

Sam Houston Memorial Museum & Homestead

936-294-1832 Sam Houston State University

We specialize in deliveries!

© 2019 KrazyDad.com

Do you owe the IRS $$$

Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9.

If you use logic you can solve the puzzle without guesswork.

Need a little help? The hints page shows a logical order to solve the puzzle.

Use it to identify the next square you should solve. Or use the answers page if you really get stuck.

Chester Crawford, EA Since 1981

chestercrawford.com Income Tax • IRS Representation • Insurance • Notary Public 100 Hwy 190 East (936) 291-1887 (Direct) Huntsville, TX 77340 (936) 661-0692 (Cell) Email: onecdcrawford@aol.com (936) 291-1789 (Fax) National Association of Enrolled Agents • National Society of Tax Professionals

260 I-45 South • Suite B Huntsville

936-291-2557

*Board certified specialists Fellow American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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There's No Time Like Fair Time!

The Huntsville ISD Board of Trustees & Administration proudly supports the Walker County Fair & Pro Rodeo

Giggles & Grins Q: “Imagine you’re in a room with no windows and no doors, how do you get out?

A: “Stop imagining.”

Good luck to all of our HISD youth participants!

2021 - 2022 HHS FFA OFFICERS

We invite you to join us in helping to support our HISD students participating with projects in this year’s fair...

JOIN THE HISD BUYERS GROUP An investment in our youth through community involvement.

We welcome and appreciate donations of any amount.

Contact Shannon Duncan HISD Director of Communications

(936) 435-6397 or sduncan@huntsville-isd.org

936-435-6300

or visit www.huntsville-isd.org

96 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

“A guy is driving around the back woods of Montana and he sees a sign in front of a broken down shanty-style house: ‘Talking Dog For Sale.’

He rings the bell and the owner appears and tells him the dog is in the backyard.

The guy goes into the backyard and sees a nice looking Labrador Retriever sitting there. ”You talk?”” he asks. ”Yep”” the Lab replies. After the guy recovers from the shock of hearing a dog talk, he says, ”So, what’s your story?”

The Lab looks up and says, “”Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young. I wanted to help the government, so I told the CIA. In no time at all they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping, I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running... but the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn’t getting any younger so I decided to settle down.

I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security, wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I’m just retired.”

The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog. ”Ten dollars,” the guy says. ”Ten dollars?

This dog is amazing! Why on Earth are you selling him so cheap?” ”Because he’s a liar. He’s never been out of the yard.”

Health Matters www.drjimshealthtips.com

By James W. Jones, MD, PhD, MHA

The Emphasis of Emotional Intelligence is Healthfulness With the gargantuan destructive impact the dreaded Covid has brought and continues to dispense, trends have developed to understand and improve lifestyle. In Health Matters, we have appraised how to enhance contentment by improving lifestyle. A recent nascent attempt by scientific psychologists is through EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE. Embracing that enhancement of self-control can greatly enrich one’s life.

Personal emotion is unlike many important aspects of living: it is considered to just transpire; it does so if no control is applied; and (like other aspects of our personality) it can always become better-quality.

According to the American Psychological Association, emotion has three components: an experience occurs in a person’s mind; this triggers one’s bodily physiology to respond in smiles or scowls; and behavior is adjusted accordingly. WOW! The human mind is divisible into conscious selves and a much larger subconscious division. This spontaneous instinctive brain tells our awake “self” what mood to accept and our conscious self-behaves accordingly. Without intervention and taking control, our emotional steerage is on autopilot.

OUR SUBMARINE SELVES! Emotional intelligence presumes we may amend our emotions consciously to achieve a much better-quality, value-added lifestyle. Do away with aftermaths that need to think, “If I had only done it that way, it would have worked out fine”.

To cultivate the capability for possessing and then enhancing emotional intelligence, one must become aware of your emotional state.

Continually inquire as to feelings at this moment and begin to notice when your emotional status modifies. Then ask, “Why is this happening, and in what way can I receive the most good in my life by managing my emotional state?” While

sadness might be considered the most common powerful negative emotion, stress seems to be the leading disrupter.

Stress is a reaction our mind and body have from the consideration of something that needs to be done or will happen or has happened--and generally, stress can easily get out of control unless well-ordered properly. Tell yourself about the many times you have overcome similar difficulties and smile as you realize this, too will pass. Realize you are in control of your life and be reassured you will overcome life’s obstacles without beating yourself up. TREAT your “SELF” BETTER! Promise your “self” that, although we cannot control everything, it often comes out better than we expect; don’t waste effort worrying about things you can’t control. Be a positive thinker, concentrating on what is good in your life and choose to never overextend yourself emotionally.

The next steps are to consider and gauge the emotional states of anyone with whom you have a relationship, because using proper communication, you can impart some of your emotional intelligence and enhance their lives. Expanding the concept, note the overall mood of any group you are with and stay in a healthy framework.

This seeking and securing will not happen at once, but over time as you continue to analyze and improve your overall emotional intelligence, becoming better able to dance life’s tune amazingly well. JUST KEEP GOING.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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The Latest

Aaron Watson

Written by Abby Altom Boyd Visit Postcardslive.com to read the original story in the March 2015.

His 2015 album The Underdog made Watson the first independent male artist to debut at Number One on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart with a self-released and independently-distributed and promoted album.

ly released Red Bandana, a 20-song album.

“Old-school but timeless.” That’s how Aaron Watson characterizes Red Bandana.

Watson’s eleventh studio album Vaquero was released in 2017. Its lead single, “Outta Style,” was his first top 10 hit on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.

Twenty years after he released his debut studio album, 1999’s Singer/Songwriter, he found an imaginative way to commemorate his two-decade journey. The record comprises 20 songs he wrote by himself, with tracks and musical moods that hit on every era of his life.

In 2019, Watson made a further play for national commercial success with independent-

At Red Bandana’s heart is a couple of tunes that give the album its title. First, Riding With

DREAM A LITTLE DREAM OF THE PERFECT SHED

Red elevates the lessons and the example offered by older, wiser cowboys. The real-life inspiration for the touching ballad? Texas cowboy poet Red Steagall, whom Watson considers a friend and mentor. That number seamlessly transitions into Red Bandana’s title track, an elegiac cowboy poetry benediction sure to leave a lump in anyone’s throat.

Watson’s latest release in 2021 is American Soul. Check out aaronwatson.com for more info and touring info.

Ants are NO picnic...

CALL US TO RID YOU OF UNWANTED GUESTS!

Call or stop by our office today to discuss our assortment of storage sheds by Cook Portable Warehouses!

Complete Pest Control Do It Yourself Chemicals Termite Control Rodent Control

Trailer Sales and Rentals

Commercial • Residential

Building Sales and Self-Storage Facility

TPCL #5704

(936) 291-0404 Ask for John Cole 3156 State Highway 19 • Huntsville

www.eastextrailers.com

98 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

Your hometown business since 1983

936-291-9473

130 FM 2821 • Huntsville

“Seens” from our World

Um… No thanks, I’m good.

Look, they made a teenage mannequin!

Seen by: Marti Rodriguez

Seen by: PC Staff

We want to see what you’ve seen!

When you see the unusual, funny or absurd, break out your camera, take a picture, and submit to us with a description at:

PostcardsLive.com

Woods Welding Inc. Shop & Field Serving The Area Since 1976

• Shop & Field Fabrication - Repair • All Type Of Metals • Custom Fabrication • Wholesale Steel

• Pole Barns • Pipe & Cable Fencing • Large & Small Jobs • Free Estimates

No Job to big or to small.

Shop (936)

294-9708

Mobile (936)

577-4300

PO Box 1477 • 1023 FM 1696 West • Huntsville, TX 77342-1477 • Fax # (936) 294-9728 March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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CALENDAR

March

11-12

Thru 20 Houston

shinerheritagequilters.org

Shiner

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

rodeohouston.com

Spring Into Quilting Show

12 Huntsville

Houston “Hamilton”

houston.broadway.com

Master Gardener Spring Plant Sale facebook.com/walkercountymastergardeners

12-13 Huntsville

Thru 25 Corsicana Texas Artists Invitational Show and Sale

pearcemuseum.com

Rusty, Chippy, Vintage, and Repurposed Show huntsvilleantiqueshow.com

14 Montgomery

2

Huntsville Sam Houston’s Birthday and Texas Independence Day Celebration

huntsvilletexas.com

3-5

6th Annual ATKH Charity Golf Tournament allthekingshorses.org

17 Sugar Land Peppa Pig’s Adventure!

College Station

smartfinancialcentre.net

“Detroit ‘67”

mscopas.org

17-Apr 3 Round Top

4-5

Spring Antiques Show

Navasota

exploreroundtop.com

Texas Birthday Bash

texasbirthdaybash.com

19 Conroe

5-6

Greater Conroe Arts Festival

Conroe

greaterconroeartsalliance.com

Home & Outdoor Living Show

Galveston

texwoodshows.com

“An Officer and a Gentleman”

Galveston The Texas Tenors in Concert

thegrand.com

8-9

thegrand.com

20 Willis Free Concert at Calvary Road Baptist

College Station “An Officer and a Gentleman”

mscopas.org

11

crbcwillistx.org

22-Apr 3 Houston “Come From Away”

Corsicana

tuts.com

Crystal Gayle in Concert

corsicanapalace.com Due to concerns over the spread of coronavirus, some events may have schedule changes. Please make sure to check the event website, social media, or call ahead to confirm an event is still taking place if you are interested in attending.

24 – May 26 (Thursdays) Conroe Spring Series Weekly Sailboat Races lakeconroesailing.com

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA PRESENTS

CAM ARTIST SERIES

24-26 Huntsville “A Doctor in Spite of Himself” shsutickets.com

25-26 Galveston Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group in Concert thegrand.com

25-27 Willis National Youth Theater Presents “Peter Pan” nationalyouththeater.org/peter-pan-2

25-Apr 2 Huntsville Walker County Fair and Rodeo walkercountyfair.com

MARCH 25, 2022 7:30 P.M. | RECITAL HALL, GPAC SECURE YOUR SEAT TODAY! shsutickets.com | 936.294.2339

26 Conroe Angel Reach Road Rally/Scavenger Hunt angelreach.org

Huntsville Herb Festival at the Wynne Home texasthymeunit.org

26-27 Conroe

THE ROAD TO SUCCESSFUL WEIGHT LOSS CAN BE FULL OF BUMPS AND CURVES.

TexasFest Houston texasfesthouston.com Three CONVENIENT LOCATIONS

28-29

Huntsville 936-295-0388 Livin ston 936-327-2565 Lufkin 936-699-4933

College Station “Fiddler on the Roof” mscopas.org

31-Apr 10 San Antonio Fiesta San Antonio

fiestasanantonio.org

THANKS TO MEDITRIM, YOU DON'T HAVE TO NAVIGATE IT ALONE.

WITH 30+ YEARS OF PROVEN SUCCESS, MEDITRIM OFFERS MULTIPLE CUSTOMIZABLE WEIGHT LOSS OPTIONS BASED ON YOUR PERSONAL NEEDS.

March 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Mustard Seed Moments

by Wes Altom

The Power of “Not Only” and “But Also” We often shortchange and underestimate our Creator. Deep down, we know we are blessed, but our simple minds sometimes are just too concrete; we frequently gloss over both the vast enormity and the fine detail of the awesome nature of God, as concerns the messages for us in His word and the specific blessings he favors us with.

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego being cast into the fiery furnace in Daniel 3. NOT ONLY does scripture tell us God protected them from the flames, BUT ALSO when they came out, they didn’t even smell of smoke. God does big things in big ways. How does reflecting on this magnify our impression of this event?

Try this:

Next, consider our sin. We all know Christ died so we can be forgiven, but we still struggle with guilt, forgiving ourselves, and accepting fully His grace. We learn from Micah 7 that NOT ONLY does God forgive us, BUT ALSO He “casts all our sin into the depths of the sea.” How comforting is it, as we daily struggle with sin, to be reinforced by how immeasurable His grace is?

“NOT ONLY did God do ‘x’ for me, BUT ALSO He did ‘y’ for me.

“NOT ONLY did God do ‘this’ in that Bible story, BUT ALSO He did ‘this’.

Here are two powerful examples: First, think about the times you have been around something burning…a campfire, burning leaves, someone smoking, or even a barbecue pit or restaurant. You simply can’t be near without the odor of the smoke permeating your person and clothing. Now consider the story of

Let’s NOT ONLY strive to examine our lives and His word with new eyes, BUT ALSO, in doing so, resolve to improve our understanding of the magnitude of our God and all He does for us.

Vision Care for the Entire Family

Ocular Diagnostics and Therapeutics

Dr. Stephen H. Means & Associates Therapeutic Optometrists

102

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | March 2022

936-291-8282

109 Medical Park Lane (Behind Hospital) • Huntsville

NSB

Rock Solid Banking

Normangee State Bank Locally Owned & Operated Open Tuesday - Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM 202 Main St. • Normangee, TX

936-396-3611

Online Banking Available:

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