Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods February 2021

Piney Woods

POSTCARDS Honor the Texas Flags / Chris Supan / Remnant Stew Podcast / Foot & Ankle Specialists of Huntsville

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FEATURES

February 2021 | Volume 11, Issue 2

10

38

Texas Treasures

Texas Talent Remnant Stew Podcast

Honor the Texas Flags

20

52

Do You Know?

Business Focus Foot & Ankle Specialists of Huntsville

Chris Supan

FAVORITES 6 8 9 14 15 16 17 18 25 26 32 36

Cover Photo by Kelly Gray

From Our Readers What Are You Reading?

From the Publisher “Seens” from our World Dear Gabby Things My Granddaddy Said Garden Post Pet Pals Milestones What’s Cooking Star Students Along the Road

43 Vet Connect 44 The Grands 46 Glorious Grandkids 49 From the Mouths of Babes 50 Happenings 57 Health Matters 58 Wildlife Wonders 59 Giggles 60 Sudoku Marketplace 64 20 Questions 65 Community Calendar 66 Mustard Seed Moments

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From Our Readers POSTCARDS introduced me to many local people that I was not familiar with. I even enjoy reading the ads.

The best magazine on the market and I read it from cover to cover.

I really like the fact that you cover people that we all know and highlight their accomplishments and things about their lives that some of us didn’t know!

Good job!

Betty Nelson

Lynda Churchwell

Thanks to Postcards and one of your advertisers, I found out there is a treatment for dry eyes that doesn’t involve drops every day. You can be evaluated to see if you are a candidate. Thank you!

Local spotlight on our community. Great publication.

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 7

What Are You Reading?

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS

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Mr. & Mrs. - 366 Devotions for Couples

By Rob & Joanna Teigen

Vicki Prentice reading

Woman of Troublesome Creek

By Kim Richardson

Tell us what you’re reading!

PostcardsLive.com

From the Publisher Karen Altom

publisher@postcardslive.com

Your Local Community Magazine!

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PostcardsPineyWoods

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

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Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc.

Publisher Karen Altom Editor Wes Altom Advertising Team Janet T. Jones Nancy Jolly Marshall Altom Design Team Mary Partida April Key Social Media Management Abby Altom Boyd Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media ADVERTISE IN POSTCARDS Call our Office: 936.293.1188 Online: www.PostcardsLive.com Address: PO Box 690 • Huntsville, TX 77342 Phone: 936.293.1188 We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted.

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Living in the Present Here we are...already a month into 2021...and, just when you think life might be getting back to “somewhat normal,” the unexpected happens. It happens to everyone. It happened in our world this week, when one of our team members ended up in ICU with a major heart attack. As we were celebrating the publication of our 10th anniversary issue, celebration turned to concern and prayers for our sweet friend.

This last year of pandemic has taught us the unexpected should be expected. There will always be those of us who are experiencing heartache and loss--those struggling with broken relationships, financial woes, and the loss of loved ones. The past year has just multiplied those things and how many are dealing with them at once. The truth is, this is life. 1920, 2020, or 2021, life is made up of highs and lows, sunny days and rainy ones, memories that will make your sides hurt with unbridled laughter, and those that make you smile through tears.

We are thankful our friend is still with us--thankful we have another day with her to enjoy and make more memories--thankful we have one more moment to cherish, before the unanticipated or the unforeseen makes an abrupt change in our life.

I love the old adage that says, “Today is a gift of God; that’s why we call it the present.” What will you do with your gift today? Whatever it is, make it count.

To all who have reached out about our anniversary edition, thank you! It is our joy to be a part of your days. Be sure to thank one of our advertisers, too. That is a gift to them as well!

Until next time,

~

Karen

© 2021 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 9

Texas Treasures

By Wes Altom

Most are probably familiar with “Six Flags Over Texas,” both as a theme park and as the conceptual depiction of the banners of the six countries which have ruled over Texas: France, Spain, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States of America, and the United States of America. But are you fully acquainted with the standards associated with Texas as an entity to itself? There is more to the story than “A Lone Star.”

Honor the

The Three Official National or State Flags The first official flag, the “National Standard of Texas,” was passed by the Congress of the republic and approved by President Sam Houston on December 10, 1836. It consisted of an azure ground with a large golden star central. President David G. Burnet proposed the design in a letter to Congress on October 11, 1836, hence the design is known as the Burnet Flag. It served as the national flag until January 25, 1839, and the war flag from that date until December 29, 1845.

Texas

as Flags

The second official flag was the 1836 national flag for the naval service, or war ensign. This was the same flag Burnet adopted for the navy at Harrisburg on April 9, 1836. It was similar to the United States flag and showed thirteen stripes and a blue canton with a single white star. It was passed by Congress and approved

by Houston on December 10, 1836; it remained in use until January 25, 1839.

The third standard is the Lone Star Flag we recognize today. The Lone Star Flag was the legal national and state flag from January 25, 1839, to September 1, 1879, and the de facto state flag from September 1, 1879, to August 31, 1933.

The Lone Star Flag was also the legal national ensign from January 25, 1839, to December 29, 1845. The Sixteenth Legislature promulgated the Revised Civil Statutes of 1879. Since the revised statutes neither included legislation concerning the flag nor expressly continued in force the 1839 flag law, the 1839 law was repealed. Texas therefore had no legal flag from the date of the repeal, September 1, 1879, to the effective date of the 1933 flag act, August 31, 1933. The Mexican National Museum of Artillery has two revolutionary Lone Star flags, one dating from 1836 and the other from 1835-1837. Both of these flags display the red stripe over the white stripe, but otherwise resemble the 1839 national flag.

The 1933 description of the flag was extremely detailed and included precise instructions for the design and location of the Lone Star. The colors of the stripes, blood red, azure blue, and white, were said to impart the “lessons of the Flag: bravery, loyalty, and purity.” Despite these specifications, there was no standard reference to define what constituted “blood red” and “azure blue,” and few Texas flags were manufactured in the official proportions (hoist to fly) of two to three. In 1993 the legislature revised the description of the flag: “The state flag consists of a rectangle with a width to length ratio of two to three containing: (1) a blue vertical stripe one-third the entire length of the flag wide, and two equal horizontal stripes, the upper stripe white, the lower red, each two-thirds the entire length of the flag long; and (2) a white, regular five-pointed star in the center of the blue stripe, oriented so that one point faces upward, and of such a size that the diameter of a circle passing through the five points of the star is equal to threefourths the width of the blue stripe.” The 1993 law stipulates that the red and blue colors of the state flag are the same colors used in the United States flag, the so-called “Old Glory Red” and “Old Glory Blue.”

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 11

»

Chris and Kathy Cunningham Owners

Unofficial or unapproved flags Stephen F. Austin designed a proposed Texas flag that was never adopted.

Austin designed his flag in New Orleans between December 1835 and January 1836, while he was serving as a commissioner to the United States.

The design apparently used sixteen green and white stripes, a red and white English jack in the canton, and a red and white star in the fly.

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Some authorities claim Lorenzo de Zavala designed a Republic of Texas flag. The “Zavala flag” was allegedly adopted in Convention of 1836 at Washington-on-the-Brazos.

It is usually portrayed as a blue field with a white star of five points central and with the letters “TEXAS,” one letter at each star point. This description of the flag, however, is inconsistent with the journal entries of the convention for March 3, 1836, and March 12, 1836, which do not indicate that the convention accepted Zavala’s design.

In addition, the actual configuration of the flag is unknown because the journal does not describe Zavala’s proposal of March 11, 1836, though it does state that William B. Scates’s motion to add a “Rainbow and star of five points above the western horizon; and a star of six points sinking below” was accepted. Finally, the journal reflects that Charles Stanfield Taylor, not Zavala, suggested that the letters “TEXAS” be placed around the star. Although several books claim that the “Zavala flag” is the first official Texas flag, the historical record does not support this assertion.

Other official flags In addition to the three national and state flags, Texas has recognized five other official flags: the 1835 flag for registered civil vessels and vessels sailing under letters of marque and reprisal, the 1839 pilot flag, the 1839 revenue service flag, the 1839 coasting trader flag, and the 1985 county sesquicentennial

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flag. The flag for registered civil vessels and vessels sailing under letters of marque and reprisal was an ensign adopted by the provisional government on November 29, 1835. It consisted of the Mexican flag with “1824” replacing the eagle and signifying loyalty to the Mexican federal Constitution of 1824. This flag disappeared from use

12 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

after the adoption of the 1836 national standard and the 1836 national flag for the naval service. The revenue service, pilot, and coasting trader flags were auxiliary naval flags authorized by the 1839 act that gave specifications for the Lone Star Flag. Official art for these flags was drawn by Peter Krag. The revenue service flag consisted of a white star on a blue square surrounded by white and red borders, the pilot flag consisted of a white star on a blue stripe with a white stripe above and a red stripe below, and the coasting trader flag consisted of a white star on a vertical blue stripe with swallowtail white and red horizontal stripes.

These flags were probably used from January 25, 1839, to December 29, 1845. The pilot flag has been portrayed erroneously at times as the Texas national flag at sea, civil ensign, or merchant flag.

An Interesting Note About the Pledge In 1915 the legislature declared Texas Independence Day, March 2, as Texas Flag Day. In 1933 the legislature passed a law establishing rules for the proper display of the flag and providing for a pledge to the flag: “Honor the Texas Flag of 1836; I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one and indivisible.” The pledge erroneously referred to the 1836 national flag, known as David G. Burnet’s flag, instead of the Lone Star Flag.

Senator Searcy Bracewell introduced a bill to correct this error in 1951, but the legislature did not delete the words “of 1836” until 1965. The words “one state under God” were added in 2007.

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 13

“Seens” from our World

On the other Saturdays, we are going to gouge you!

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Dear Gabby

Generation after generation,

Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. February is a wonderful month. If you are into Baked Alaska, groundhogs, tater tots, carrot cake, golden retrievers, kite flying, fairy tales, umbrellas, public sleeping or innumerable other folly, there’s a day for you. For normal people (who might get a day off or a box of chocolates), we’re down to St. Valentine’s Day and George Washington’s birthday. If Valentine’s Day came before George’s birthday, that’s probably why he needed wooden teeth! Drop me a line at Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com/share if you have questions about any subject, serious or silly, but only if you really want my candid opinion.

DEAR GABBY I just had a major birthday and have been obsessing lately about how I will probably die. I don’t think of it as a morbid obsession, just a curiosity.

Have you ever thought about that?

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DEAR PRE-OCCUPIED I don’t think that’s necessarily a harmful fixation, but I’m not a physcologyst pyscologist head doctor. It has occurred to me, on occasion, that I would like to be remembered for dying while performing some heroic deed, but it’s more likely I’ll trip over my dog and choke to death on a spoonful of frosting.

GABBY

DEAR GABBY From time to time, I tell a little white lie, but only to prevent causing harm or discomfort to someone else. Otherwise, I am totally honest. I was once told that there are no degrees of integrity; you either have it, or you don’t. Do I? OCCASIONAL FABRICATOR

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DEAR FAB The actor/singer Richard Chamberlain addressed that about as well as I’ve ever heard it. He commented, “I suppose everyone tells little white lies.

Quite often, they’re necessary to make someone feel better or prevent feelings from being hurt. Whopper? No, that’s dangerous, and they’ll boomerang.”

GABBY

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The Garden Post

From natural to volume sets

By Kim Bius

Everything’s Coming Up Roses (and Fruits) Winter in southeast Texas is “like a box of chocolates,” if I may parrot a phrase from Forrest Gump. You never know what you are going to get! As I write, 3” of snow blankets the garden center grounds, whereas just a week prior, wearing shorts to work seemed a better plan.

If you follow the Almanac, 2021 in our area is predicted to be a fairly mild winter, with spring temperatures headed our way in March. A bit of research shows nighttime temperatures in the 40s fairly consistently through February and more than a few nights in the 30s. What does this mean for gardeners?

The time to plant fruit, nut, and shade trees is now, before the trees break dormancy. Citrus trees should be protectively planted after the last killing frost date. To plant successfully, choose a spot with 8-10 hours of direct sunlight a day, good drainage, and an area that can be easily irrigated consistently. Fruit tree varieties that have zero tolerance for drought are peach, apricot, and plum.

Apples can be a bit more moderate, but figs and pears will be more drought tolerant, with citrus and pomegranate being the most tolerant of inconsistent watering. Fruit trees will take several years to establish themselves and should be planted with a root stimulator and followed up with a fertilizer program beginning in March. My “go-to” is Fertilome’s fruit and nut tree granular. It is especially important to shop where the correct fruit tree varieties are being offered for your area, according to chill hours. A chill hour, is the amount of time below 43 degrees a tree must receive to set fruit. Low 250 chilling hour apples will do well into south Texas but a Red Baron Peach with a 900 chilling hour requirement will do best in the Dallas/Tyler area. Cold winters bring about massive fruit production from older heirloom trees.

In choosing your fruit tree, do not be so worried about how straight the tree is or how many branches. Most trees on the market are from 1-2 years old, and they will quickly grow out of any apparent shape. What you should look for is a tight graft, with 2” of trunk below the graft. Choose trees with no lesions on the bark and in biodegradable peat pots. This prevents transplant shock (you plant “pot and all”).

February is the month of roses, and like fruit trees, the earlier you shop, the more likely you will find the “hard to find” and new varieties. Like fruit trees, choose roses in biodegradable peat pots for easy planting. Newer rose varieties are patented, thus the $12.00 plus royalty on the price.

Patents last for 7 years, and roses are always “going out of patent” yearly. Varieties that DO NOT SELL WELL are dropped from production by growers. I am a rose fanatic and choose them over all other bloomers. Are they easy to grow, and will they require maintenance to look their best?

Yes. Water consistently, keep fertilized, give adequate air flow, keep away from deer, prune 2-3x a year, spray biweekly for insect/disease, and you are done.

Landscape roses, such as knockouts and drifts, are even easier and look fabulous year-round.

If you would like to learn more about planting fruit trees and/or roses, visit our website at kimshomeandgardencenter.com for seminar and workshop info. January 30th is Fruit Trees and February 13th is Roses.

As always, Happy Gardening

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Pet Pals

JASMINE

PETE

BART

loved by

loved by

loved by

Shanah & Trinity Grisham

Tim & Kelli Fraley

Amando & Pam

Share your pets with us by submitting a photo and information to:

PostcardsLive.com

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Dewitt Oleinik, CPA

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 19

Do You Know?

By Claudia Kirkwood Photos by Libby Rogers

20 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

Chris Supan

After almost 40 years of unrelenting hard work to earn a living, most people would hastily and enthusiastically retire to their couch and TV, their favorite fishing hole, or other place of repose to spend their remaining years in unchallenged comfort and peace. Not so with Chris Supan. In his own words, “The good Lord guided me into a retirement of servanthood.” The good Lord found His man (and woman, as wife Cindy has done the same). Dare we peek in and see what real servanthood looks like? Let’s open that door now and meet Chris Supan.

Please share a brief bio, including why Huntsville was chosen for your retirement years.

My wife Cindy and I lived in Houston for our entire married life, almost 50 years now. I worked for Fluor Corporation for almost 40 years, retiring in 2011. Cindy taught elementary school in Ft. Bend and retired in 2008. We had promised ourselves a quieter life away from the big city upon retirement and found Huntsville to be the perfect place.

It is peaceful here, yet near our children and grandchildren in the Houston area.

I enjoy fishing and golfing, and we both are active in our church, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church.

Who or what brought you into

The good Lord guided me into a retirement of servanthood.” the world of volunteerism, and where do you serve?

Cindy began serving as a CASA volunteer in October 2012, and I was always interested in her work. Of course, her work was confidential, so she could never share details, but I knew it gave her great satisfaction. A volunteer is called a Court Appointed Special Advocate®, or CASA. I became

a volunteer in 2013, and it is a decision I have never regretted.

What criteria must CASA volunteers meet?

For those who may be interested in becoming an advocate, an overview of the program called CASA 101 is taught by Training Coordinator Janet Davidson. For attendees who accept the role of advocate, 20 hours of highquality training are provided through in-class and online training, reading assignments, and monitoring actual court cases. Once a person becomes an advocate, twelve hours of additional training are required each year. CASA has an incredible Executive Director, Kimberly Weiser, and an outstanding group of office personnel who support

Below: CASA Supervisors Rosa Hoadley and Rachel Drake pictured with Cindy and Chris Supan

»

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 21

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What responsibilities do you have in your role as Advocate?

It’s quite simple. As an advocate, I am to work in the best interest of the child or children. I am responsible to interact with everyone on the case, which includes parents, attorneys, Child Protective Services (CPS) workers, counselors, physicians, the judge, and others. My job is to consider all the information and facts of the case and to make a recommendation I believe to be in the best interest of the child. And although the attorney ad litem shares with me the wishes of the child, there are times when my recommendation is not what the child wishes. As unpopular as it may be, I must stand by my decision.

Has this volunteer responsibility been fulfilling to you?

It is not about fulfillment for me, but I would rather say it gives me great satisfaction to know that I have helped a child move into a better life. For example, I helped one boy over a seven-year period. The average length of time for a case is usually 12-18 months, but this one took much longer. Over time, I was able to develop a trusting relationship with this young man through playing football and other activities. Within CASA, the guidelines call for visitations with the child(ren) once a month where the placement is within an hour’s distance, quarterly where the driving distance is 1-3 hours, and annually if more than 3 hours away. Cindy and I have always made monthly visits, regardless of distance, except for a case we shared where the kids were in Brownsville. For the child I had seven years, it was important to me to make sure he knew I was there for him, no matter the driving distance. From the age of six through twelve, he had thirteen placements. I was the only constant and stable influence in his life. He was finally adopted into a wonderful family, and we were thrilled to receive a Christmas card showing a picture of him with his new family. He had a huge smile on his face.

Why do I serve as a CASA volunteer? That’s why.

You also serve in the Kairos prison ministry. Please give a brief description of what this ministry is.

Kairos means “God’s special time.”

Kairos, the ministry, is found across the nation and globally. It is very active in Texas, and events are scheduled in over fifty percent of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice units. Both Cindy and I are heavily involved in this ministry. Ed Davis and Mike Gary (long-time Kairos volunteers) got me involved for the Wynne Unit, and Cindy

22 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

Cindy & Chris Supan

quickly followed with her commitment to the Hobby Unit.

The goal of Kairos is to serve the spiritual needs of incarcerated men and women by bringing them God’s word and love while inside. It is equally important our teams feel this love not only for God, but for each other. An event usually involves forty-two inmates who, based on specific criteria, have been chosen to attend. The attendees are divided into groups and have meals and discussions within this framework. Each “family” group is named after an apostle or other Biblical personality, and three Kairos volunteers serve within each group. Over a three-anda-half-day period, the inmates are showered with cookies and food, a factor which many of them later admit drew them to the event. They also admit to coming away with so much more than food!

What is your role in this ministry?

I go into the prison unit with other Kairos volunteers, and we lead a well-planned and progressive program that, step-by-step, seeks to help the inmate understand his relationship with God and how God stands ready to forgive him because of what Christ did on the cross in the inmate’s behalf. We encourage them to examine themselves, to accept themselves as they are, and to accept forgiveness. Many of them have never forgiven themselves. They are paying the consequences for their actions and trying to become better human beings. They are learning they must forgive themselves and others.

How do volunteers train for this ministry role?

Working as a Kairos volunteer involves a deep level of commitment and training. Generally, before COVID-19 was a factor, we had two events at each prison per year. Prior to an event, there are five daylong training sessions during which we become acquainted with team members and are thoroughly briefed on the information to be shared.

Additionally, the TDCJ Volunteer training and background check is required. The full-day training and background check must be retaken

»

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every two years for access into the prison for this ministry. Let me also say that the Kairos ministry involves more than just the yearly events. After a weekend, these men and women can gather weekly with Kairos free world team members and other Kairos graduates for an inmate-led Prayer & Share session. And, once a month, we have reunions where all inmate Kairos graduates and free world team members participate.

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The transformed lives and astounding testimonies bring such a satisfaction to us, and watching the spread of Christianity within the prison walls is exciting. Many inmates repent of sin and trust Christ as their Savior. We also see inmates who are finally able to forgive themselves and forgive or ask forgiveness from others. Those who attend have now established relationships with others within the prison population, and these friendships can develop and grow as they study God’s word together.

What advice would you give to others wanting to volunteer in these ministries?

Serving Huntsville & surrounding areas since 1981

D.L. Shiver II (936) 291-2902 Member of Walker County Chamber of Commerce License: TPCL 0774786

Volunteering in any organization or in any capacity involves a deep level of commitment, dedication, and time. These are serious endeavors affecting people’s lives, so one’s commitment to training and understanding the responsibility is huge.

You and your wife have become instruments of good in Huntsville, with the scope of your volunteer work reaching wide and deep into this community. What are your future plans?

Our plans are to keep doing what we are doing. Unfortunately, since Covid-19 arrived, we have not been able to go into the prisons for any Kairos ministry. Instead, our communication with inmates has been limited to letters and Christmas cards. With regard to CASA visits, this has been an ever-changing process. During the pandemic, we have had periods of no face-to-face visits and such visits being optional at our discretion. Cindy and I have done both and continue to make this decision each month. Please understand…there are many folks in Walker County and Huntsville who do more volunteer work than we do. We are fortunate to be retired and able to give these ministries the time they deserve. Thanks for the opportunity to share about CASA and Kairos, and we pray others will see the value in giving their time, talent, or treasure.

24 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

Milestones

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Congratulations to Lacey Price on receiving her Masters degree from Sam Houston State University.

Lacey is the daughter of Barbara & Stanley Lesikar and Carey & Mary Price.

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“Ruffles and Rifles, TuTus and PewPews!” Happy 5th Birthday to Blakely Spencer!

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Weston Slocum turned 6 months old. Son of Kelsey & Matthew Slocum. Grandson of Gregg & Nancy Jolly.

Great grandson of Charles & Voyce Park.

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 25

What’s Cookin’ Popa’s Simple White Chili Ingredients 1 ¼ lb ground turkey 1 Tbs low-sodium chicken base 3 cups boiling water 3 (14.5 oz) cans Great Northern beans, drained 1 (28 oz) can green enchilada sauce 2 (4 oz) cans diced green chiles, undrained 1 onion, chopped 1 Tbs granulated garlic ¼ tsp ground cumin 2 tsp dried Mexican oregano 1 bunch fresh cilantro, finely chopped 1 onion, diced Directions Step 1: Crumble ground turkey into a Dutch oven over medium heat; cook and stir until turkey is browned, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and discard any excess grease.

Step 2: Stir chicken base and boiling water together in a bowl until base is dissolved; pour over cooked ground turkey. Add Great Northern beans, enchilada sauce, green chiles, chopped onion, granulated garlic, cumin, and oregano; stir well. Simmer until flavors have blended, about 1 hour. Spoon chili into bowls.

D B

I

Step 3: Combine cilantro and diced onion in a bowl; sprinkle over chili for serving.

Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole Ingredients 3 chicken breasts, cut into cubes

D

2 cups water 2 cups instant white rice 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of celery soup 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup salt and ground black pepper to taste ½ cup butter, sliced into pats Directions Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Grease sides and bottom of a casserole dish.

Step 2: Stir chicken, water, rice, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and cream of mushroom soup together in the prepared casserole dish; season with salt and pepper.

26 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

Step 3: Arrange butter evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.

Step 4: Bake in preheated oven until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through, 1 hour to 75 minutes.

Cool 15 minutes before serving.

Kickin’ Collard Greens Ingredients 1 Tbs olive oil 3 slices bacon 1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper 3 cups chicken broth 1 pinch red pepper flakes 1 lb fresh collard greens, cut into 2-inch pieces Directions

Deborah’s Slow Cooker Spicy Black-eyed Peas

Step 1: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add bacon and cook until crisp. Remove bacon from pan, crumble and return to the pan.

Ingredients 4 (14 oz) cans black-eyed peas, rinsed and drained ¼ cup butter 1 cup chopped onion

Step 2: Add onion, cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until just fragrant.

Step 3: Add collard greens, and fry until they start to wilt.

1 cup diced cooked ham 1 ½ cups chopped green bell pepper 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, drained

Step 4: Pour in chicken broth; and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until greens are tender.

2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbs seasoned salt Directions Step 1: Combine black-eyed peas, butter, onion, ham, bell pepper, diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, garlic, and seasoned salt in a slow cooker.

Step 2: Cook on Low for 4 hours.

Bakers Tip: If you forgot to take your stick of butter out a few hours before baking, don’t worry. You can soften a cold stick of butter by placing it in a sealed bag and using a rolling pin to flatten the butter into a thin layer. A rubber spatula will help you scoop the soft butter out.

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 27

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Directions Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Set jalapeño halves on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, open side up.

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Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet; saute until vegetables are tender and mushrooms have released their liquid, about 8 minutes. Transfer vegetables to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up the excess moisture.

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Step 3: Mix mushroom mixture, cream cheese substitute, 3/4 cup shredded cheese substitute, salt, and pepper together in a bowl. Spoon into the jalapeño pepper halves on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

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28 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

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Step 5: Remove from the oven and top with the remaining 1/4 shredded cheese substitute. Broil until the cheese is melted and slightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes.

Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

Directions Step 1: Cream butter, peanut butter, and sugars together in a bowl; beat in eggs.

1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup crunchy peanut butter

Step 2: In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; stir into butter mixture. Put dough in refrigerator for 1 hour.

1 cup white sugar 1 cup packed brown sugar 2 eggs

Step 3: Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on baking sheets.

Flatten each ball with a fork, making a crisscross pattern.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder

Step 4: Bake in a preheated 375 degrees oven for about 10 minutes or until cookies begin to brown.

½ tsp salt 1 ½ tsp baking soda

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FamilyHearingCenter.com February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 29

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

Amber Bryant Special Education Huntsville ISD

Nominated by Cathy Schweitzer

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Mrs. Bryant is patient, but firm and pushes her students to work hard. She also comes to after-school events to watch her kids perform. Additionally, she is involved with Special Olympics and the Hornet Buddy Club. She is truly a blessing.

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

30 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 31

Star Students Jalyn Elliott Huntsville High School

Emma McNiel Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Harry Potter Series Favorite Music/Artist: Harry Styles Favorite Movie: Dirty Dancing

Favorite Food: Chicken

Favorite Music/Artist: Khalid

Favorite Quote: “The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain” Dolly Parton

Favorite Food: Hamburgers Favorite Quote: “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop

E

mma is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Deborah and Steven McNiel.

Fo l l ow i n g g ra d u a t i o n , s h e p l a n s t o a t t e n d S a m H o u s t o n S t a t e U n iv e r s i t y a n d p u r s u e a c a r e e r i n e d u c a t i o n . E m m a b e l i e ve s , “ D o wh a t m a k e s yo u happy.”

J

aylyn is a senior at Huntsville High School and i s t h e d a u g h t e r o f Ja s o n a n d Ta m i E l l i o t t . H e r activities include National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, English Honor Society, Technical Honor Society, volleyball, and Refuge 980.

Fo l l ow i n g g ra d u a t i o n , Jay l y n p l a n s t o a t t e n d S a m Houston State University to study biomedical science, then become a physician’s assistant. She believes, “Take responsibility for your world.”

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32 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | January 2021

When you support a local realtor Lexie Davis Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Shrek (all of them) Favorite Music/Artist: Hip-Hop Favorite Food: Chicken Strips Favorite Quote: “Be yourself; everyone else is taken.”

– Oscar Wilde

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exie is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Tisa Littleton and Robert Littleton.

Her activities include volleyball, Mu Alpha Theta, National Spanish Honor Society, Art Honor Society, student council, class council, HOSA, Hornet Heart, a n d A c a d e m i c A l l - D i s t r i c t . Fo l l ow i n g g ra d u a t i o n , Lexie plans to attend Sam Houston State University to major in nursing. She believes, “Too many people ove r va l u e wh a t t h e y a r e n o t a n d u n d e r va l u e wh a t they are.”

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January 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 35

Along the Road Pecan: Texas State Tree

Your key to great service starts here.

The pecan, (Juglandaceae Carya illinoinensis,) is a large species of hickory tree native to North America. The pecan became the Texas state tree by act of the Texas Legislature in 1919.

It bears sweet edible nuts, deep brown in color, that range from 1 to 2 inches in length. Texas is the largest producer of native pecans, and joins Georgia and New Mexico as top producers in the production of hybrid varieties. Mexico produces nearly half of the world total.

It takes between 7 to 10 years before a pecan tree begins to produce a full supply of nuts. Once the process starts, the tree can produce for a very long time, sometimes more than 100 years. The seed is an edible nut used as a snack and in various recipes, such as praline candy and pecan pie. (Technically, a pecan, like the fruit of all members of the hickory genus, is not truly a nut, but is a drupe, a fruit with a single stone or pit, surrounded by a husk.) A pecan nut is 4% water, 72% fat, 9% protein, and 14% carbohydrates.

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“Pecan” is from an Algonquian word variously referring to pecans, walnuts and hickory nuts. There are many variant pronunciations, some regional and others not. The most common American pronunciation is /pi'ka:n/. There is little agreement in the United States, even regionally, as to the “correct” pronunciation.

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Pecans first became known to Europeans in the 16th century. The first Europeans to come into contact with pecans were Spanish explorers in what is now Louisiana, Texas, and Mexico. These Spanish explorers called the pecan, nuez de la arruga, which roughly translates to “wrinkle nut”.

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 37

Texas Talent

By Ruth Fields Photos by Gina Turner

“If you have an appetite for the strange and bizarre, then pull up a chair and grab a spoon for another intriguing serving of Remnant Stew.”

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w e r C w e t S “ e h t d n (a

So begins another episode of Remnant Stew, a homegrown podcast recorded in downtown Conroe. After its inaugural broadcast in August 2020, the podcast quickly garnered a loyal following. While most listeners live in Conroe and The Woodlands, some are from other states, including Colorado, Oklahoma, Washington and California, and a few are from Europe and Asia. So far, podcasts have covered a smorgåsbord of topics, including imposters, great escapes, and things that glow.

Remnant Stew was the brainchild of longtime Montgomery resident Leah Lamp. She hand-picked her co-host, Dr. Steven Meeker, who had taught two of her four children, Joe and Tori, at Montgomery Junior High. She also selected her sound engineer, Philip Sinquefield, who has worked with her on the media team at Conroe Church of Christ for more than a decade. Leah and Steven—with help from Steven’s wife, Judy—research the topics. Meanwhile, Phil, in addition to doing the technical work, contributes spontaneous, unrehearsed jokes during broadcasts.

“We are having a blast!” Leah says.

The Postcards team recently met with Remnant Stew’s funloving “Stew Crew” and discovered the energy behind this entertaining podcast.

38 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

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“curious and bizarre”

Leah Lamp, Lamp, creator and co-host According to her email signature, Leah is Remnant Stew’s creator, researcher, writer, host, and--yes, its taco enthusiast.

In addition, she likes to read true crime novels and listen to podcasts, particularly those that cover crime stories and legends.

“I actually was chosen to be a co-host of an emerging true crime podcast, but that one never got off the ground,” says Leah, who has a professional background in media and graphic design.

“It did result in me having done a lot of research into creating and producing podcasts, though, and I decided to put that information towards creating my own.”

Leah opted for the theme of the “curious and bizarre” rather than true crime because she “didn’t want to have to constantly stay emerged in the horrible things people do to each other.” Besides, “to be successful as a podcaster, you have to choose a subject you can talk about for hours and hours without getting bored or running out of ideas. We want to provide something positive, interesting, and funny to tune into,” she says, noting podcasts can be great entertainment while performing repetitious tasks, like commuting, cooking and exercising.

To name her podcast, Leah wanted something compelling that had no existing internet footprint. “Naming something is so difficult,” she says, but from her time working at the Texas

Renaissance Festival, she remembered a band named Flying Fish Sailors, which performed a quirky song called Remnant Stew. It seemed appropriate, because Leah planned to gather “bits and pieces of stories and ‘stew’ it together.” With blessings from the band’s lead singer, the podcast became Remnant Stew.

Leah had been collecting strange stories for years, and with a new outlet to showcase them, she got busy. Once she had assembled her Stew Crew, the first podcast, titled Balloonacy, was recorded in March and released in August 2020. Soon, fivestar reviews began appearing on iTunes. “The balloon episode is great!” reported one listener. “Such a fun, lighthearted show with entertaining and fascinating historical stories.” Balloonacy remains one of Leah’s favorite podcasts, along with Yuletide Tomfoolery. “We record our episodes several months in advance, and we recorded that one in August, when it was super-hot outside,” she says. “When we showed up to the studio, Steve had Santa hats for us to wear and Christmas candy to snack on. The three of us were in such a fun mood, and I think it comes through in the recording. Plus, there’s a lot of fascinating information about the holiday, which has wild and varied origins, with crazy traditions from all over the world.”

»

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 39

Dr. Steven Meeker, Meeker, co-host Leah wanted a conversational podcast “rather than me just droning on,” she says, so she needed a co-host. She made a list of the “kindest, most interesting people” she knew, and her children’s former teacher Steven landed on the list. “He’s a phenomenal teacher everybody remembers,” Leah says. “He’s not dry and boring. He makes it interesting and fun.”

So, Leah emailed Steven and told him her idea. He told her he would think about it. He also prayed about it, and soon felt inclined to proceed.

Leah later left a meeting with Steven and Judy “on cloud nine.” She had found her co-host. “I could not have picked anybody better,” she says.

“He brings so many stories and such personality and quirkiness. He hit the ground running.”

Steven finds there is never enough time in class to share all the interesting stories he has collected during 41 years of teaching history and world geography, so he’s pleased Remnant Stew provides him with another audience. One idea began to brew when Steven and Judy visited Auschwitz several years ago. “I have never been anywhere that you can feel sadness hanging in the air like you can there,” Steven says. There, the couple learned that a miniscule percentage of prisoners escaped the concentration camp. Among them were five who acquired guard uniforms, made a copy of the commandant’s car key and audaciously drove out the main gate. Intrigued, Steven did more research, which resulted in a segment on the podcast titled Great Escapes.

Another favorite story was aired on a podcast called Four Legged Soldiers. Cpl. Bill Wynne, while serving in New Guinea during WWII, adopted a homeless Yorkshire terrier, named it Smoky and taught it dazzling tricks that entertained fellow soldiers. When Wynne was hospitalized for dengue fever, a fellow soldier brought Smoky to visit.

Medical personnel soon discovered servicemen suffering from shell shock, now known as post-traumatic stress disorder, became responsive

s s t P a g c a

for the first time while holding Smoky. Thus, Smoky, later called “Yorkie Doodle Dandy,” became the first documented therapy dog.

Steven enjoyed introducing Remnant Stew to family members—now ardent listeners—who had never before heard of podcasts. In addition, he is pleased some of his sixth-grade students have become podcast listeners. “I am really honored it is taking off and doing well,” he says.

At the beginning of Yuletide Tomfoolery, a faint jingling noise can be heard in rhythm with the distinctive music of the podcast’s intro.

Leah: Those are not jingle bells! Those are keys. Those are Steve’s keys.

Steven: Well, it’s all I had with me, Leah. I had to do something to get in the spirit.

Phil: What key was that in?

Phil Sinquefield, Sinquefield, sound engineer 40 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

It’s the kind of impromptu quip listeners have come to expect from Phil.

In addition to sound editing and patience with open-source software, Phil brings his love of “dad jokes, one-line puns, and plays on words” to the podcast. “They’re jokes that will either make you roll your eyes or laugh,” he says.

Phil is “funny, laid-back, and easy-going,” Leah says. So, when she asked him to help with the podcast, he said, “Okay, that’s cool. That will be fun.” He was right. By day, Phil is an IT professional in the financial services sector, accustomed to reading boring tech journals. During the pandemic, he encountered the additional challenge of working from home, so he is pleased podcasting has provided some variety to life.

While Leah and Steven research and prepare their podcast material in advance, Phil first hears it during recordings, allowing impromptu bursts of his sharp wit. He listens to the podcast a second time while editing. “I

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t

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sit on the couch with a laptop and headphones, and I am giggling,” he says. “I think the shows are funny. There’s lots of good information, and they keeping you thinking.”

Phil was surprised by how quickly Remnant Stew gained avid listeners and hopes for more success as the podcast matures. One possibility for growth is through shout-outs to independent bookstores throughout the country. When a bookstore is featured, the Stew Crew sends it a poster and bookmarks advertising Remnant Stew.

Coming up on Remnant Stew Remnant Stew’s entire 2021 schedule has been planned and recordings are underway. “We have so many great episodes coming up!” Steven says, noting that, in honor of Presidents Day, the podcast will report bizarre tidbits about presidents. “Did you know George Washington was also a fireman?” For April Fool’s Day, the Stew Crew will discuss some of the most noteworthy pranksters in history. As before, Leah and Steven will accept listener suggestions for future podcasts. And some recurring features will continue, such as the trivia challenge (which listeners can answer on the podcast’s Facebook page) and Oddity Du Jour—“a little nugget of a story that is completely off-topic and off-kilter, but always bizarre,” Leah says. As always, the podcast will stay true to its objective, which is announced at the end of each podcast: “Remember, please choose to be kind, and always stay curious!”

For more information, visit www.RemnantStew.com, or follow on Instagram or Facebook at @Remnant Stew Podcast. Listen on any podcast platform, such as iTunes and Spotify, or on local Lone Star Community Radio FM 104.5 on Wednesdays at 1 p.m.

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 41

Creative Corner I’ve traveled alone on this path called life, Through mountains of joy and valleys of strife.

The mountains are small and hard to overcome.

The valleys are easy; created by the evil one.

He lurks in the dark to catch you astray.

He waits ‘til you think you have no other way.

You then look up and see His shining face.

He says, “Don’t fear my child, I’ll help you finish the race.”

Just as the devil gnashes his teeth, He sweeps down and rescues me.

The Traveler

By Abby Altom Boyd

42 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

He carries me up, out of the devil’s reach.

“Oh Lord, I lay my life at your feet.”

You walk then, hand-in-hand; You and your Creator across the land.

Vet Connect:

By Dr. Steve Van Wagner

Pregnant Mare (Vaccinate or Not?) The pregnant mare should be vaccinated to ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Vaccinations serve two main purposes. The first is to protect the mare herself from viruses that may cause her to abort the pregnancy. The second is to stimulate antibody production that will help protect the newborn foal after parturition.

Pregnant mares should be vaccinated for Equine Herpes Virus type 1 (EHV-1) at five, seven, and nine months of gestation. EHV-1 is the number one cause of infectious abortion in the mare. Foals can also be born weak and nonviable.

Pre-foal vaccinations are another important group of vaccines that are recommended to be given at four to eight weeks before foaling. Typical vaccines given at this time are Rabies, Encephalomyelitis, West Nile, Influenza, and Rhinopneumonitis. Consult with your veterinarian in case there are additional vaccines necessary for your geographic region.

The pre-foaling vaccinations stimulate an antibody response in the mare that is passed in the colostrum (mare’s first milk) to the foal during the first 12 to 24 hours of life. They are only absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract during the first 24 hours of life, so foals must ingest this colostrum to insure a strong immune system. This will protect the newborn for approximately 6 months, at which time the foal will receive vaccines themselves.

Vaccinations are only a part of the management practices for the pregnant mare. Pregnant mares should be housed in the foaling area for at least 30 to 60 days before foaling to enable them to build up antibodies to any pathogens that will also be passed in colostrum, to again ensure a newborn with a strong immune system.

On a side note, this country that I love is in turmoil, and appears headed on a downward slope. I am an ardent patriot, but I am reminded that my hope is in Jesus and not in the USA. This does not mean I would not die for my country and its freedoms and liberties men and women have fought so bravely to defend. I would hope to go out the way my forefathers did, praying, seeking, and trusting God as they fought for this great nation. GOD BLESS THE USA!

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The Grands

Tonie SIKES

1

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

Nonie. My older sister is Nena and my younger sister is Nana, so before we ever had grandchildren, my girls decided I would be Nonie.

2

Number of grandchildren and age range?

We have eight. Three girls and five boys. The oldest is 15 and our youngest just turned one month old!

3

Favorite activity with grandkids?

Sikes Cousin Camp! No parents are allowed, and we have a fun theme for the day. A few years ago we decided to start giving back. This past summer was our fourth year to do a Lemonade Stand for CASA!

4

Advice to other/new grandparents?

Listen. You’ve got time. And sing!

5

What do you hope your grandchildren remember about you?

That I introduced them to Jesus and was not a fake…that I was as faithful and close to the real deal as they can get before meeting Jesus.

6

What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents?

Porches. My grandparents on both sides had porches, and I have a lot of memories there. My grandmother on dad’s side always had little devotionals with us and read her Bible on the porch. Mom’s side was big Sunday meals and 42 on the back porch or swinging on the front porch.

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Frank KELLY

1

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

Pappy. My oldest granddaughter, Anna, started calling me that when she got here and she’s almost 9 now! All the others just copied her. It’s special because that’s what they call me!

2

Number of grandchildren and age range?

I have 6 grandkids and I love ‘em all! They range from 4 months to 8! We have 3 sons and I’m not sure if they are all done or not! Haha!

3

Favorite activity with grandkids?

We love to go trail riding as a family. We hook up our team and all pile in. We ride in our wagon for the annual Christmas parade in Madisonville every year too.

4

Advice to other/new grandparents?

Spend time with them. That’s the main thing. Just let ‘em know you care about them. Go to all of their events. Be there. They know it when you are there.

5

What do you hope your grandchildren remember about you?

I hope they always know that I loved and cared about them and was always there if they needed me.

6

What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents?

My mom’s dad was Therman Colquitt. What’s so important to me with my grandkids is the same thing that was most important for me with my Pawpaw.

Time. He was the janitor at our Junior High School and we loved to stay after school to just hang out with him. He also had a big garden and we would spend time with him there. He was such a hard worker.

Haney, Paschal & Romoser ATTORNEYS AT LAW

David Moorman, thank you for your 20 years of service as a partner at Haney. Moorman. Paschal, PC. Your integrity, wisdom, leadership and your commitment to your clients will always be remembered. We wish you all the best as our newly elected Judge of the 12th Judicial District Court of Walker County, Texas.

We welcome Jeremy Romoser as our new partner to the firm, Haney Paschal & Romoser, P.C. After graduating Baylor Law School, he joined our firm in 2015.

In addition to Jacob Paschal and Jeremy Romoser, Devan Dawson and Sarah Hebert are associates with our firm.

At Haney Paschal & Romoser, BIG OR SMALL, WE WILL STAND BY YOUR SIDE.

(936) 295-3712 www.Huntsville-Texas-Attorneys.com 1300 11th Street, Suite 405 Huntsville, Texas 77340 February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 45

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46 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | January 2021

Chris and Gunner Great-Grandchildren of: Diana Pelham

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Logan Kellar Grandson of: John & Mary Kellar

“Hindsight is Always 2020” While we have heard this phrase for most of our adult lives, we never could have been mentally (or otherwise) prepared for what 2020 turned out to be.

2020 “vision” took on a whole new meaning that no one ever envisioned. True?

Late in 2019, after a great year in the investment world, clients began to ask about what 2020 was going to be like. Our standard and best answer has always been, “Who knows for sure?”

But also, some other facts like: • 2020 is an election year, expect volatility • History has shown a steady “up” over the long-term • There are valid questions about our economy, but lots of positives. 2020 “should” be a good year.

Sure enough, 2020 took off like a rocket! But on February 21st, things suddenly went the other way, with COVID-19 creating a panic among investors. The panic persisted through most of March and resulted in the fastest market decline seen in years. During the period of February 21st – March 23rd, the S&P 500 Index was down just over 33%. Nobody knew how long the virus or market downturn would last. Uncertainty and fear were widespread.

Landon Grandson of: Larry & Cindy Woods

By April, markets began to recover. In fact, April was one of the best months markets have had in many years. Again, the question became how long can this last. Many “experts” argued the market could not maintain growth while the economy was struggling through the pandemic.

Well, with 2020 hindsight, we know the markets did maintain that growth through the rest of 2020, and we ended the year with very solid returns across US markets.

The point of this lookback for 2020 is to reiterate the value of having a process for investing.

2020 was a very hard year in many ways, but a process may allow you to block out the noise and emotions that certainly can impact investing. We are not talking about “market timing,” but following trends and keeping investments balanced into the correct asset classes--a process that allows the ability to move out of investments if appropriate, and back into them when the time is right. We use data based on facts--not guesses, assumptions, or hearsay--with a 30+ year history behind it.

This year, many that followed the process were up double digits at year-end. They have been quite surprised to see what their positive outcomes were after enduring all the negative media sources.

How would a “Process” fit your circumstances? It is what we do. In the meantime, have a fabulous 2021.

www.financialpartner.net (936) 294-0201 • 1211 Financial Plaza • Huntsville Noah Grandson of: Angela Jeter

Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member, FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a registered investment advisor. Cambridge and Global Financial Partners are not affiliated. Cambridge does not provide tax advice.

January 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 47

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

Today’s Kids Suffer a Lack of Common Sense in Their Lives A journalist asks, “What is the biggest challenge facing today’s children?”

“The real world,” I said.

For the last fifty years or so, good parenting has been defined as protecting one’s children from frustration, defeat, difficulty, stress, loss, deprivation, negative consequences, mistakes, and just about every other real-world experience. The result of this coddling has been a dramatic increase in child and teen mental health problems, chief among which have been anxiety and depression.

We know the key to good mental health is something called emotional resilience, which is simply the ability to cope successfully with the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune. As Shakespeare inferred, those setbacks and bruises are inevitable. Coping with them is learned behavior, and the earlier it is learned, the better.

I am a member of the last generation of American children whose parents had no problem standing by and watching as we were pommeled with consequences we had brought upon ourselves.

“You made this bed,” went the popular parenting adage of the era, “so you have to lie in it.”

Paradoxically, kids who had to lie in beds they had made grew up and willingly lay in beds their children made. We boomers were told by mental health professionals our old-fashioned upbringings had left us with psychological wounds, so we resolved to abstain from our parents’ supposed mistakes. Ironically, that very resolve has fueled an exponential increase in children whose parents pay large sums of money for mental health services their children require because their parents took mental health professional advice.

A fifteen-year-old girl recently told me she was experiencing lots of anxiety, even about little things.

“That’s perfectly normal,” I told her. “Adulthood is right around the corner, and adulthood can be scary. Certain things about being an adult still scare me, in fact. Anxiety is not necessarily a bad thing. If you don’t let it take over, it is a great motivator.”

She doesn’t need a therapist, a diagnosis, or medication. She just needs a pep talk every now and then, and the pep talker doesn’t need to possess a doctorate in psychology, just a modicum of common sense.

That may, in fact, sum it up: Today’s kids are suffering a lack of common sense in their lives. Common sense is acquired from people who have acquired it. When all is said and done, common sense is more valuable than academic achievement, athletic prowess, or artistic genius. The “common” in common sense refers to a proper perspective on life, which children have a right to gain. Helping them do so is what parenting is all about.

Parents should certainly filter the real world down somewhat, but they should take care--lest they filter it completely out.

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Our four-year-old daughter said, “Daddy, your job is to kill spiders in our house.”

We heard a loud crash from the bathroom followed by crying. The explanation was, “I accidentally kicked my brother into the bathtub.”

Dana B

Morgan H.

“I have to go with Dad everywhere he goes so he won’t forget stuff.”

We told our 4 year old daughter her grandparents were coming for a visit. She said, “They are really old, are they dead?”

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y

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 49

Happenings Congratulations to the Madisonville High School FFA Ag Issues Team on their State Championship! They placed first out of 142 teams. Their advisor is Lynita Foster.

Pictured L to R: Thomas Dean - Freshman Carlie Stubblefield - Senior Taylor Barrett - Senior Rayce Hudson - Sophomore Kate Hagaman - Freshman Caleb Corley - Sophomore

The Mance Park Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Reagan Cooksey. The award is sponsored by Huntsville ISD and is the highest honor the Huntsville Walker County Chamber of Commerce presents annually. Pictured are Dale Underwood, Vicki Cooksey, Reagan Cooksey, Ray Hernandez and Laura Green.

S

P 2801 Sam Houston Ave. Huntsville, TX 77340

50 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

Physical therapy keeps you

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Leah Lineback, owner of Sweet Karoline’s Floral Shop sponsored the Huntsville/Walker County Chamber’s Small Business Breakfast in January. Leah shared information on monthly design workshops she hosts for the community to allow them to learn basic floral design.

She also talked about upcoming Mommy and Me classes.

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 51

Business Focus Story by Janet Davidson Photos by Libby Rogers

Foot & Ankle Specialists of Huntsville

“This is where we want to be; this is where we want to raise our kids.”

The old adage “You can never go home again” did not ring true for local podiatrist Dr. Clayton Toole. Although this young man’s journey started in the halls of Huntsville Independent School District’s buildings, and he followed in his family’s footsteps becoming a Bearkat during his undergraduate years, he attended podiatry school in Cleveland, Ohio, and completed his residency in Brooklyn, New York. Although his desire was to stay in Texas to pursue his higher education, there were not any podiatric schools in the Lone Star State.

After moving a number of times as he pursued his degrees, he and his wife Marci decided “to plant their roots, settle down and not move anymore.” He returned home to begin serving this community in 2018.

Being a part of this community was always the end goal. “This is where we want to be; this is where we want to raise our kids. This is where I hope to finish my career. There are a lot of friends and family in this town that have mentored me and made me who I am. I understand the time and effort they put into helping me…I want to be a person in this community that people can trust, not only from a doctor standpoint, but also as a citizen of the population,” Toole added.

t w b I p a c J t b m

b a i a

Far left: Dr. Clayton Toole, Marci Toole Christina Orgovan Left: Dr. Toole examining a patient Bottom left: Marci Toole Christina Orgovan

Dr. Toole’s father, who practiced dentistry, impacted his son’s decision to pursue a path in the medical field. “I saw how my dad interacted with his patients. He was influential in my life. Dad was always at every baseball game, etc. I knew that whatever profession I chose in life, I wanted to be there with my kids, to participate in family. Podiatry provides that route for me. I am able to enjoy raising our children along with my wife,” Toole shared. He and Marci met while they were completing a two-year service mission for their church. Lincoln (12), Julia (9), and Logan (6) keep the Tooles “on their toes.” “Each one has their own interests and likes, and what they enjoy doing. They each bring a different perspective and different personality to our family. It makes life exciting.”

Outside of the flexibility of his schedule, Dr. Toole highlighted another benefit of working in the field of podiatry. “In medicine, there isn’t always an instant gratification of solving the issue presented. However, if someone comes into my office with an ingrown toenail, I can perform a procedure that will generally get the individual out of pain relatively

quickly. It is great to help the patients to return to their normal routines.

Podiatry can also help identify other issues that might be going on in the body, such as diabetes or problems with circulation. We can point the patients in a better direction for their health.”

Dr. Toole joined Foot & Ankle Specialists of The Woodlands; the Huntsville location is a branch of the main office. They offer many aspects of podiatry to those in need of care: wound care, sports medicine, surgical procedures, intervention, conservative treatment, diabetic foot care, ingrown toenails, fungal toenails, etc. “Although we see patients in our office, a large part of our practice is visiting people with podiatric needs in their homes. We have a House-Call-Podiatry Department within the company. Many of our elderly patients can’t get out or don’t want to get out, especially during these times,” Toole noted.

“I don’t think very many people in this-day-and-age have seen a doctor inside their house. For some of the elderly, it becomes difficult to travel.

It is a great feeling to bring that service to them.” Toole and his Medical Assistant, Christina Orgovan, see individuals in Huntsville, Livingston, February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 53

“I want to be a person in this community that people can trust, not only from a doctor standpoint, but also as a citizen of the population.”

Dr. Clayton Toole

Conroe, and even some in the New Caney area. He sees patients in the office three days a week and spends the other two days traveling with his Medical Assistant to see those in need.

Another personal touch this practice adds to their repertoire is access to Dr. Toole through his mobile device. “His cell number is on his business card. We have people who send pictures of their problems or text him at night and on weekends. We want them to know their care isn’t limited just to the office,” Marci shared. “It is a comfort to know patients can get a hold of me if they need to…That has been a blessing; it has not been a hindrance. People are very respectful,” Dr. Toole added.

After Orgovan performs an initial screening during an office visit, decisions will be made to determine the proper course of action dependent on the needs of the patient. If the doctor feels bone might be involved in the issue presenting itself, an x-ray will be taken. “It is a digital x-ray, so as soon as we take the picture, we upload it and go over it with the patient immediately.

We can even provide a copy of the x-ray to the patient if they need it,” Toole pointed out. As the staff showed Postcards the treatment rooms, a special chair was highlighted.

p i s t O n r h s

p “ f i o a t s i m

“This is probably the biggest selling point of my practice. Everyone wants to sit in that chair and take it home. Oftentimes, we will come into the room and someone waiting for our care will be asleep in the chair,” the staff quipped. At the conclusion of the appointment, Office Manager Marci Toole will set appointments that need to be made and accept payment for the services rendered. “We always want to make sure that people have had a pleasant experience, and not just strictly a sterile, medical interaction.”

Christina Orgovan, Marci Toole, & Dr. Clayton Toole

The practice makes relating with the clients a precedence. But they also prioritize connecting with the community.

“We are involved with the Chamber of Commerce. We created a float for the Lion’s Club Christmas Parade this past year. We also participated in Discover Local. We have tried to get our name out there and make ourselves known to the community. We want people to know who we are, where we are, and realize what we do. We want the community to know we are here to help people…Although Covid has prevented some of the face-to-face meeting with doctors, we have had a steady increase of people getting to know us, coming to us, and trusting us to make them better,” Dr. Toole commented.

What our advertisers are saying...

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It has been my pleasure to work with Karen Altom and the Postcards team since day one. I have returned year after year, and advertise in both the Piney Woods Edition and the Lake Conroe Edition, for two reasons: first, it produces a great return on investment and is a quality product. Second, they provide a topnotch, professional staff dedicated to helping my business be as successful as possible. When 10% of new customers let us know they came to visit as a direct result of our ad, the ad has paid for itself and we have increased our customer base! (investment/not an expense)…..win/win for everyone!

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For an appointment with Dr. Toole, contact Foot and Ankle Specialists at 281-909-7722.

Their office is located at 640 I-45 on the east feeder road south of Margarita’s Restaurant in Huntsville.

For tips on Foot Health visit the American Podiatric Medical Association: www.apma.org

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 55

Whether you like to get a pedicure in the nail salon or at home, follow these easy Dos and Don’ts to keep your feet looking and feeling their best.

Dos

Don’ts

If you have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet, consult a podiatrist so he or she can recommend a customized pedicure that both you and your salon can follow for optimal foot health.

Resist the urge to shave your legs before receiving a pedicure. Freshly shaven legs or small cuts on your legs may allow bacteria to enter.

If you are receiving a pedicure and manicure, don’t use the same tools for both services as bacteria and fungus can transfer between fingers and toes.

Schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning. Salon foot baths are typically cleanest earlier in the day. If you’re not a morning person, make sure that the salon filters and cleans the foot bath between clients.

When eliminating thick, dead skin build-up, also known as calluses, on the heel, ball and sides of the feet, use a pumice stone, foot file or exfoliating scrub. Soak feet in warm water for at least five minutes, then use the stone, scrub, or foot file to gently smooth calluses and other rough patches.

When trimming nails, use a toenail clipper with a straight edge to ensure your toenail is cut straight across. Other tools like manicure scissors or fingernail clippers increase the risk of ingrown toenails because of their small, curved shape. See a podiatrist if you have a tendency to develop ingrown toenails.

Although certain salons offer this technique, don’t allow technicians to use a foot razor to remove dead skin. Using a razor can result in permanent damage if used incorrectly and can easily cause infection if too much skin is removed.

Emery boards are extremely porous and can trap germs that spread.

Since they can’t be sterilized, don’t share nail files with friends and be sure to bring your own to the salon, unless you are sure that the salon replaces them with each customer.

If you suffer from thick and discolored toenails, which could be a sign of a fungal infection, don’t apply nail polish to cover up the problem. Nail polish locks out moisture and doesn’t allow the nail bed to “breathe.”

Once you fix the underlying issue, then it is safe to paint nails. If the problem persists, be sure to visit your podiatrist.

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Health Matters Safeguard Your Body from a Covid Third-Party and Remain Hearty We are programed to be alert to danger if detected by the five senses of the body. Unfortunately, viruses, especially those which poison our lungs, are not detectable. To accomplish something, it is best to understand the mechanism involved. Go to within an inch of a mirror, blow out a sizable breath, and the mirror will fog up. This fog is composed of nearly countless infinitesimally tiny water droplets otherwise too small to be seen. These precipitations come from the lungs, where a total moist body surface area the size of a swimming pool absorbs the oxygen to keep us alive. The Covid monsters live in infected people’s lungs.

Make no mistake the Covoid mess is the vilest seen in our lifespan, and hopefully the worst we will ever encounter. I have a grandson who played college football and is a super healthy guy. He was incapacitated

by Covid for over a week and told me it was the sickest he had ever imagined one could be. Bad cases are hospitalized for weeks and running up gargantuan hospital bills. Also, this virus allows an infected person to infect others before becoming symptomatic. OMG! You do not want this, but millions have be become sickened by it, and millions more will.

While not the most uplifting idea, when we are around other people, they continually breathe out air containing droplets from their lungs--if we are too close, we breathe their air into our bodies. This is why distancing

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is important. Six feet has been determined to keep from breathing another person’s possible contaminated air. But when shouting, coughing, or sneezing takes place, as much as ten feet should be observed. When in stores with narrow aisles, I will briefly hold my breath (even when masked) as we pass to avoid possibly breathing in any contaminated air.

Masks can be reasonably effective if properly adjusted. When going into public places, one can frequently see people with face masks under their noses. What are they thinking? Such flawed use has no protection for them at all and may be harmful when they behave as if they are being protected. Plastic air shields are not protective--don’t bother.

Contamination from hands is much less frequent as a cause, but any entry into your body should be avoided. When touching any cautious.

Open doors with your non-dominant hand and, if your sleeve will reach, cover your hand. When opening and holding open doors, use the forearm or back of the hand not the palm or fingers. Whenever finger food is munched, wash using the recommended twenty second scrub and concentrate on the palms, especially the fingertips. Fingers (especially the tips) are the danger zones and should receive extra attention.

Vaccinations should lead to herd immunity, but that may take a specific majority getting vaccinated. Let’s hope for the best.

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109 Medical Park Lane (Behind Hospital) • Huntsville February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 57

Wildlife Wonders IT’S TIME TO CLEAN HOUSE

By Cheryl Conley, TWRC Wildlife Center

If you provide “rental property” for Purple Martins, then you know it’s time to clean out your houses to get ready for their arrival.

The first Martins to arrive are referred to as the “Scouts,” and they are the oldest birds. Older females arrive next, followed by the younger birds. Martins will return to the same colony site where they resided the previous year. Once they arrive, nest-building will begin in 4 to 6 weeks.

They use twigs, pine needles, and straw. Once the nest is complete, they add a layer of green leaves. Ornithologists can only guess why they do this, but think the leaves may act as an insecticide, may help keep the nest clean, or help regulate the temperature and moisture levels. The female lays one egg per day for a total of 2 to 8 eggs. In about 15 days, the eggs begin to hatch, which can take 2 to 3 days. Babies are fed up to 60 times a day by both moms and dads.

It takes 2 years for Martins to acquire their full adult plumage. Purple Martins aren’t really purple. Mature Martins are a glossy deep blue—almost black-looking. They feed mostly on flying insects and can eat thousands of mosquitoes in a day. They catch most of the insects in mid-air and even drink water from ponds, lakes and streams while flying.

If you’ve never had a Purple Martin house and you’d like to get one, there are some things you need to know. You’ve heard realtors talk about “location, location, location?” As a Purple Martin landlord, this holds true as well. They prefer large, open areas where the nearest building is a minimum of 30 feet away and from 25 to 60 feet away from trees. Make sure your house is secure and doesn’t spin around when it’s windy out.

The birds can become disoriented.

You may be lucky and get renters your first year. Sometimes it takes a couple of years for them to discover your house. There are a couple of things you can do to increase your success. One website I checked suggested playing Purple Martin vocalizations near your Martin house very early in the morning. There are several recordings on YouTube. You can also place life-sized black decoys on your house. If you have a large house with several compartments, you can construct a fake nest in one of them. Don’t forget to put green leaves on the top of the nest.

You should protect your Martin houses with predator guards. You can purchase owl and hawk guards. Predator baffles, or pole guards, will help keep snakes and raccoons from climbing the pole.

In late fall, you can take your Martin house down and put it back up when the Martins return in the spring. The other option is that you can leave it up, but make sure you clean it well and block the entrances so other species of birds don’t move in. Remove the blockages in spring when the Martins return.

TWRC Wildlife Center is gearing up for another busy year. Because of Covid-19. we’ve had to cut back on volunteers to work at our Center, but we are in need of volunteers who would like to learn to rehabilitate wildlife in their homes. We train you and help you every step of the way.

Rehabbing wildlife is the most rewarding thing you will ever do. www. twrcwildlifecenter.org. 713.468.TWRC

Cherish

your loved ones for forever...

We can help you prepare

936-291-7300

1700 Normal Park Dr. • Huntsville

58 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

shmfh.com

Giggles A whale swims all day, only consumes fish and water, and is fat. A rabbit only eats vegetables, runs and hops all day long, and only lives 5 years. Meanwhile a tortoise doesn’t run and does nothing energetic, yet it lives for 450 years. And you tell me to eat well and exercise! I don’t think so.

I exercised once, but found I was allergic to it. My skin flushed and my heart raced. I got sweaty and short of breath. Very dangerous.

I don’t need a personal trainer as much as I need someone to follow me around and slap the unhealthy foods out of my hand.

I hate brushing my teeth at night because that signifies that you can’t have any more food. I’m just never ready for that kind of commitment.

Nutritionist: You should eat 1,200 calories a day. Me: OK, and how many a night?

All my life I thought air was free… until I bought a bag of chips.

I never thought I’d be the type of person who would get up early in the morning to exercise. I was right.

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276 IH 45 South • Huntsville, TX 77340 February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 59

Do you owe the IRS $$$ Chester Crawford, EA

Since 1981 Income Tax • IRS Representation • Insurance • Notary Public (936) 291-1887 (Direct) (936) 661-0692 (Cell) (936) 291-1789 (Fax)

100 Hwy 190 East Huntsville, TX 77340 Email: onecdcrawford@aol.com

National Association of Enrolled Agents • National Society of Tax Professionals

www.Joettas.com is always open!

located inside West Hill Mall

Suduko Marketplace Easy Sudoku

936-661-6125

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

MUSTANG TITLE

Commercial • Residental • Refinancing • Land Services M-F 8 am - 5 pm

(936) 349-8515

Email: dean@mustangtitletx.com 114 S. Elm Street • Madisonville

mustangtitletx.com

A Division of Walker County Title Co. 60 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

Valentine!

Get your orders in now for your special

y Happ ! ear New Y

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see answers on page 31 Medium Sudoku

McCAFFETY Jerry B. Register, P.C. * Family Law

* Child Custody

* Assault

* Criminal Law

* Adoption

* Probate

* Oil and Gas

* CPS Cases

* Wills and Trust

* Divorce

* DUI

* Estate Planning

* Child Support

* Felony Misdemeanor

* Mediation

Jerry B. Register Attorney At Law

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

ELECTRIC CALL US For All Your Wiring Needs Huntsville: (936) 295-2831 Conroe: (936) 539-5411 Licensed • Bonded • Insured

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Visit our lighting showroom at 1711 Sycamore or visit us online at

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February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 61

EE

FR h Band wit Resistanceof Combo Sign-up ership* Memb

inery First W lker a W in County

Gift Baskets Available!

Richard and Debbie Henriksen Wine Makers Friday 2-6 PM Saturday 11-6 PM Sunday 12-6 PM Conroe • 936-890-7299

*With annual membership.

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104A Knox Circle • Huntsville

936-293-8855

Suduko Marketplace Hard Sudoku

62 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

We have what it takes.

Receive one-on-one service www.myuhcagent.com/Lauri.Wenzel 832-244-1973, TTY 711

ZERO-TURN MOWERS • UTILITY VEHICLES 141† HORSE POWER CAB TRACTORS

Fax: 832-201-5359

see answers on page 31

Huntsville Truck & Tractor

Serving Walker County for over 30 years.

Very Hard Sudoku (936)291-8103

2124 HIGHWAY 30 EAST • HUNTSVILLE, TX 77320

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-04-HTT-PM-1

Exhibit Now Showing

El Camino Real de los Tejas: Its History, People and Places January 12 – March 21, 2021 Exhibit Gallery Katy & E. Don Walker, Sr. Education Center 1402 19th Street, Huntsville, TX

samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com M E M B E R T H E T E X A S S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y S Y S T E M

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 63

Twenty Questions

FREE A CHILD’S POTENTIAL

Shannon

Duncan

Shannon is the Director of Communications for Huntsville Independent School District.

She is married to Kirk and mom to Hannah and Sarah. She shares a smile on her face wherever she goes!

1

SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED? Huntsville High School and Sam Houston State University

2

FAVORITE MOVIE? The Notebook

3 HOW DID YOU MAKE YOUR FIRST DOLLAR? Babysitting

AND YOU’LL HELP TRANSFORM THE WORLD!

4

BOOK THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION ON YOU? Turning the Page: A Memoir by Manny Scott

5

LAST THING YOU BINGE-WATCHED? Longmire

6

WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU RIDING DOWN THE ROAD LISTING TO? I love all kinds of music but mostly contemporary Christian

7

YOUR FAVORITE DISH? My mother’s chicken spaghetti

8

YOUR GO-TO BARISTA ORDER? Hot chocolate

9

FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY? Having both sets of grandparents involved in my life and learning from all four of them

10 SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU?

I worked at Huntsville Funeral Home…for a hot minute!

11 WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF?

Spending time with family 12 HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN?

Prayer, quiet and a happy family

Additional space opening February 2021!

13 HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY?

A hot bath 14 ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT?

Receiving compliments 15 BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE?

Traveled with my mother to Canada, just us!

16 TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

I would like to go to Hawaii 17 IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE?

I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!

Montessori Child Care 6 wks to 12 yrs. old

936-435-0303 2817 Old Houston Rd. • Huntsville Monday - Friday 5:00 AM - 6:30 PM

18 WHO DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHY?

My parents: because no matter what has been thrown at them, they have stayed together and shown us what true love and commitment means.

19 BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN?

“Be still and know” 20 ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

Always believe everything will work out for the good

64 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

CALENDAR

CRAWFISH SEASON IS HERE

FEBRUARY

thru the 15

Huntsville

Step UP Step Back: Quilts of Mary Laura Gibbs thewynnehome.com

thru the 26

Conroe

5th Annual Art Show and Auction (Virtual) conroeartleague.com

12-28

Conroe

“The Odd Couple”

crightontheatre.org

• Live Crawfish

12-28

Houston

• Boiled Crawfish

“A Speck-tacular Evening of Stories & Songs” with Emily and Jake Speck (Virtual)”

adplayers.org

19

Houston

Shenandoah and Restless Heart

arenatheatre.net

21

Houston

Creole Heritage Festival 2021

• Alligator • Frog Legs

• Boudin

• Oysters

• Gumbo

• Crabs

• Étouffée

• Axis

• Catfish

• Nilgai

• Shrimp

• Wings

• Steaks

• Po ‘Boys

Live Music

Saturday Nights • 7:30 pm

houstoncreolefest.com

February 6 Chris Crisp & Logan Beard Accoustic

March

8-9

• Hamburgers

Huntsville Online Walker County Master Gardeners Spring Sale

facebook.com/walkercountymastergardeners

February 13 Buford Snowden Live Valentines Special February 20 Jerrett Zoch Live February 27 Sarah Green Live

13-14

Huntsville

Rusty, Chippy, Vintage, Hippy & Garden Show

(936) 295-2003

huntsvilleantiqueshow.com Due to concerns over the spread of coronavirus, some events have been postponed or canceled. 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.

2707 S. SAM HOUSTON AVE. HUNTSVILLE, TX 77340

facebook.com/bigecrawfish

February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 65

Mustard Seed Moments

by Linda W. Perkins Like Snow in Texas Ask anyone in America if 2021 is off to a great start, and most would say no. Between the COVD-19 situation and the political unrest, watching the news can be pretty depressing. But there, right in the middle of all of the negative topics, was a bright spot--it snowed in Texas!

Suddenly, people were building snowmen and sharing photos of their backyard winter wonderlands. Whatever pain there was in the world, it just seemed to disappear in a blanket of white. That rare, short-lived weather event brought something people needed so much in that moment--joy!

The Bible talks a lot about finding joy during trials, but that can be a challenge. It is easy to get so caught up in stress and sorrow, fear or anxiety, that we don’t see the good things. They are there, though, starting with the Father’s everlasting love for us. When we see through the lens of the God’s love, we see things anew. We know He has placed in our lives things that will bring us joy; we just have to look for them.

Like snow in Texas, God’s blessings are beautiful, yet often unexpected.

They may come when the sun is shining or may appear in the darkest of nights. Regardless of our circumstances, we find joy when we hope in Him.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” - Romans 15:13 “For all the gods of the nations are idols, but the LORD made the heavens. Splendor and majesty and before Him; strength and joy are in His dwelling place.” – I Chronicles 16:26-27 “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.” – John 15:11

Get 10 FREE Gallons delivered with your minimum purchase of 100 gallons or more when you mention this AD or $ 3 Off on your 1st bottle fill Residential/Commercial Delivery • Propane Tanks Sales/Rentals • Cylinder Re-filling

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440 FM 2821 W • # B • Huntsville 66 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2021

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:

NormangeeStateBank.com February 2021 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition 67

KEEP YOU MOVING without joint pain

Live life without joint pain.

Conroe The Woodlands

At Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we know that joint pain affects every part of your life. With treatment plans customized for you, our specialists in The Woodlands offer a full range of advanced nonsurgical and surgical techniques. Our expert joint care includes: • Innovative pain control methods • Physical therapy to improve mobility and range of motion • The latest technology, including minimally invasive surgical techniques that help reduce recovery time And, with enhanced safety measures in place, you can rest assured your safety is our priority.

Schedule an appointment: houstonmethodist.org/jointpain 936.321.8000