POSTCARDS MAGAZINE - Piney Woods - April 2023

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Cover Photo by Cade Crippin Postcards 2022 Photo Contest Submission

We would like to express our deepest gratitude for your unselfish contributions to SAAFE House. Your donation of radio spots during the Holiday Giving Season was a blessing. It helped with our commitment to serving the victims of Family Violence and Sexual Assault in our community. Postcards Magazine was directly responsible for having at least two new donors (that we know of) find out about SAAFE House and what we provide to the community. I am sure there were others, but we know of these two. Thank you for all you do and know that you are appreciated.

SAAFE House, Tammy Farkas

Postcards Magazine is read from cover to cover at my home (even my 10 year old grandson reads part of it)!

It is obvious to the multitudes that anything or anyone involved with Postcards Magazine must be considered every way. This is our personal observation at Montgomery United Methodist Church. Thank you to Karen Altom for speaking and sharing with us. We look forward to the next visit!

Thank you for highlighting our local people within our community. We have many talented and resourceful people right here in Huntsville, TX.

Tracy Schaub

I wanted to tell you I have had so many people on my tour tell me that they read the article Ruth Fields did for Lamplight Ghost Tours and decided to book with me. I am so thankful for Postcards Magazine!

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Springing Forward

I love spring. Aside from the sneezing, it may be my favorite time of year--warm enough to enjoy the sunshine, but still cool enough to enjoy being outside. It is the time of year many of us feel the deepening urge to get out in the yard and attempt to find our inner “green thumb.” I know that’s what it does to me.

Wes and I were engaged to be married before I ever met his parents. I will never forget our first meeting, and one of the first things my future mother-in-law Ann said to me. She hugged me and said, “My bridal wreath bloomed just in time to meet you.” I only knew what bridal wreath was because my sweet mother also loved it. (In fact, at that time, it was one of the very few things that would grow in her shady yard.) As Ann walked me around her lovely yard, I quickly realized she was a green thumb personified. She could grow anything!

Over the years, as she shared with me, I learned the names of plants and trees I had never paid attention to before. I learned to recognize the difference between azaleas and gardenias (don’t laugh), even when they weren’t in bloom. I discovered one of her favorite flowers, the Gerbera daisy, which soon became my most favorite. Without fail, every spring, and every trip to the garden center, brings sweet memories of her along with it.

Of course, there are a few other things that go with spring, too. I tend to believe winter is really past when the “lovely” yellow-green pollen arrives. Coating everything outdoors, it is a sight that makes car wash owners giddy and convinces homeowners of the need to own a power washer. The sound of woodpeckers working, the buzzing of wasps searching for places to build nests, the arrival of hummingbirds, and the wildflowers popping up along roadways and in pastures are all included in the sights and sounds trumpeting the arrival of a new season.

Spring also reminds me that sometimes good and bad go together. Flowers come because of rain, and while too much rain can be a frustration, it will fill our lakes and rivers and aquifers. Warmer weather means more “critters” (some I like and some I don’t), but all are a marvel of creation. Even mistakes, whether gardening or otherwise, are an opportunity for growth and wisdom.

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. © 2023 by Altom Consulting

Every year, I cherish the memories of a second mom who helped teach me about plants and flowers. I see a new plant she would love, and I wish we could talk about it. Instead, I’ll smile and look forward to passing it on. And speaking of passing it on, please share with our advertisers how much you appreciate their role in bringing you Postcards each month. We couldn’t do it without them.

Until next time,

Let’s Celebrate!

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Greg McBee, President

Jim and Nancy Gaertner Jim and Nancy Gaertner

Jim Gaertner first visited Sam Houston State University (SHSU) as a teenager, when the institution was named “Sam Houston State Teachers College.” He traveled from Yoakum, Texas (where he grew up), and decided, without a lot of thought, he wanted to attend SHSU. Reflecting on this decision decades later, he said, “It was the right decision, possibly for the wrong reasons.” Nancy Gaertner had planned to move from her hometown of Port Lavaca, Texas and go to college out of state, but a month before embarking on her journey, she decided on SHSU. “My decision,” she recollected, “wasn’t very scientific.” It was, however, fortuitous.

Story by Mike Yawn

Submitted Photos

When did the two of you meet?

Nancy Gaertner: It was at Garner State Park, and we were on (separate) family vacations with our parents. The meeting was an incidental one. But four years later, in 1963, one of my friends who was on that trip with my family, said, “I saw Jim Gaertner the other day, and he goes to SHSU, too!” Anyway, Jim called me, and we went out on a date, but when we met for the date, I don’t think either one of us recognized the other from Garner State Park.

Faded memories aside, the date must have been a good one.

NG: When I was a child, our family had a 50th anniversary party for my grandparents,

and I remember thinking, “Lord, they are old. They’ve been together a long time.” But my first date with Jim was almost 60 years ago! So, yeah, I’d say it went well.

The Gaertners married in 1964, and they will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary next year.

The campus you attended was very different than today’s campus.

Jim Gaertner: That’s true. The LSC hadn’t yet been built. The Margaret Houston building was our student center, and it had the only cafeteria on campus.

During Gaertner’s first year on campus, SHSU’s unofficial mascot, “Tripod,” was still

alive and part of campus life. This mutt, who had been abandoned in the 1940s, had only three working legs, hence his name. But he was communally adopted by the student body: he was fed; lavished with attention; and provided with shelter. He died in 1962, and he is buried on campus.

Jim, did you ever meet Tripod?

JG: I did, and I had heard a lot about him before I ever met him. One day, I was walking to class, and there he was. I walked over to pet him, and he didn’t really respond. He

was old at this time, and he had likely been petted so much and given so much attention, he just wasn’t impressed with my affection. But I went to his funeral. They dismissed classes for the service, President Lowman spoke, and there was a three-gun salute, one for each working leg. Tripod was a celebrity.

Nancy, the early 1960s was a different time for females on college campuses. Was there a curfew?

NG: Yes. We had to be in at 9 pm during the week, unless you were at the library, in which case you could come in later. I went to the “library” a lot. (laughter)

Where did you live?

NG: Before Jim and I married, I lived at Elliott Hall. After we married, we lived in Gintz apartments. Interestingly, our neighbors included Ron and Ruth Blatchley. After we all left SHSU, we lost touch. But after Jim became SHSU’s President, we attended an alumni event in Bryan, Texas, and we ran into them again. We didn’t recognize each other at first, but then we realized we had been neighbors long ago!

JG: Ron has been very successful in business, was Mayor of Bryan, and he served as Chairman of the Board of Regents. They also have been generous donors to SHSU, funding, among other things, the Blatchley Bell Tower on campus.

Although less than 20 years old, the Blatchley Bell Tower is now a key landmark on campus and central to many SHSU traditions. It is a major stopping point on prospective student tours. According to campus superstition, freshmen, sophomores, and juniors should avoid walking under it, lest they not graduate on time. And it is one of the most popular backdrops for graduation photos.

MR BRASIL

Jim, you graduated with your Bachelors in 1965 and your Masters in 1970, both from SHSU; what followed?

JG: I earned my doctorate from Texas A&M in 1977, then we moved to Indiana, and I taught at Notre Dame for seven years. They had a London MBA program, and I directed that one year.

NG: The move to London really provided amazing opportunities. We had two children at the time, Scott and Denise. Jim had a job; he had a schedule to keep. I didn’t! I planned my week out each Sunday. I’d get the kids off to school, then I would go explore. It was wonderful; I took a gourmet cooking class, among many other things. I didn’t stay home one day.

What was it like adjusting from the states to London?

NG: In some ways, it was a bigger adjustment going from Texas to Indiana. We had both lived in Texas our entire lives before going to Indiana. Also, there was a big difference in campus culture between Texas A&M and Notre Dame. Social gatherings were more relaxed in Texas, too, I think. It was just a different life, but we made many friends in Indiana, and we enjoyed ourselves. We would take the train from South Bend to Chicago, and we would visit museums or go shopping. We traveled when we could.

Nancy, you graduated from Indiana?

NG: Yes, from Indiana University South Bend (IUSB), but we moved from Indiana to San Antonio before I graduated. Once we moved back to San

President Gaertner speaking at SHSU

Antonio, I did my student teaching and completed a couple of classes, which then transferred back to IUSB, and I officially graduated. Nancy’s formal teaching career lasted two decades, and she was selected “Teacher of the Year” at Curington Elementary (Boerne) in 1989. Her teaching career was varied, working with all levels of students and multiple grades. She led an environmental club, worked with students to build a reading garden, a butterfly garden, and to implement a recycling program. Jim served as professor, chair, dean, and interim provost at the University of Texas San Antonio.

Jim, when did you think about possibly becoming a university president?

JG: Let me preface that response with a side note. When I was at Notre Dame and serving on a committee there, our president, Father Theodore Hesburgh, wanted to meet and speak with the committee members. He spoke with us about committee service, and about doing what is right. He capped that discussion with a comment made in passing, noting that, “Some of you will be university presidents one day.” And I remember thinking, “Man, I just want to get tenure.” The thought of becoming president did not seriously occur to me until I became acting provost at UTSA. I worked closely with the president during that time, and that was the first time I thought that might be a role for me.

Were you actively seeking a president’s position when the vacancy occurred at SHSU?

JG: No, not really. I had applied for the position of president at UTSA,

and I was a finalist, but I wasn’t selected. I thought my time had passed for that position, and I was content. But when I heard about the SHSU opening, it caught my attention.

What type of questions do they ask candidates for university president?

JG: The questions were straightforward, as I remember them. They asked me what made me qualified for the job; what my priorities would be, if selected. One thing that was interesting, when I had been dean at UTSA, I had denied a couple of professors tenure, and one of them sued me for $2,000,000. I remember calling the UT System office and asking if I was covered for this. They told me I was covered for $200,000, and I said, “I don’t have the other $1.8 million.”

I remember that vividly—

I’d remember that vividly, too—

JG: As it turned out, the suit didn’t amount to anything, but I thought it would hurt me when applying to SHSU. But after I was selected president, a member of the committee told me it helped me, because the committee thought, “Well, here’s a guy who will stick his neck out to uphold standards.”

Mrs. Gaertner speaking at a cultural event at SHSU

You mentioned they asked you what your priorities as president would be. What was your first objective?

JG: I think if you are running a university, you must think of academics first. One thing I worked to implement was reducing the teaching load to nine hours a semester, so professors could do more research. I was convinced this would allow us to continue to attract high-quality professors and give them the chance to pursue the kind of career they wanted.

The look of the campus changed under your tenure as president.

JG: I became President of SHSU in 2001, and the University had not built a new dorm since 1968, so new dorm construction was a priority. I believed newer and nicer dorms would attract more students to campus. This also involved removing some of the older dorms, such as Wilson and Frels, which were in the middle of campus and were eyesores. With Wilson and Frels removed, the center of campus became an open plaza, now named “The Frank Parker Plaza.” Urban design

specialists refer to open and accessible areas as “civic spaces,” places that attract people—who, in turn, congregate. From such designs, communities form, much as has happened at SHSU. The Frank Parker Plaza—graced by the Blatchley Bell Tower—is now the key campus gathering place, somewhat akin to the “agora” in the Greek city-states.

What other physical changes did you initiate on campus?

JG: We created The Woodlands Center, giving us a presence in

that growing community. We also built the College of Humanities and Social Sciences building. We renovated the Peabody Library, turning it into a place to host special events. And, of course, the Performing Arts Center; Nancy and I are very proud of that.

The James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center is the most impressive of the buildings constructed since the 1920s. In 2015, College Degree Search identified the structure as one of the “25 Most Amazing Campus Arts Centers” in the United States.

Gaertner with students

What other goals did you have when you returned to SHSU?

JG: I thought more focus should be given to athletics. This is an area that all people— students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the surrounding community—can rally around, and I thought that would help build institutional pride and provide publicity.

During his tenure as President, Gaertner also created an online program at SHSU, bringing in Bill Angrove from UTSA as director. He expanded the University’s alumni and advancement offices, creating an infrastructure capable of initiating the University’s first-ever capital campaign.

Nancy, what was the adjustment like for you when Jim became President?

NG: It was an adjustment. I really loved teaching, and before Jim took the SHSU job, we had just built a house. I remember driving home from school one day, and I thought, “I just love my life.”

Man plans, and God laughs.

NG: That is true! I was supportive of Jim applying for the presidency, but it was an adjustment for me to stop teaching and to assume the role of what people referred to as “first lady.” It turned out to be a much larger role than I ever imagined. I really thought I would just be going to a lot of dinners. (laughter)

JG: She quickly developed her own reputation,

as people picked up on her competency and her ability to get along with people and to get things done.

NG: At one point, I told Jim, “I don’t know what I am supposed to be doing,” but he encouraged me to make the role my own, specializing in what I enjoy. This prompted me to think, “What do I want? What can I add to the university and to the community?” It then seemed simple: I love fitness, education, children, and wellness. One of the things we did was to provide employees with the opportunity for 30 minutes of work time each day for wellness activities. I thought this was important not only for individuals’ wellbeing, but also institutionally. Healthy employees miss less work and are more productive while at work.

During Jim’s nine years as President of SHSU, Nancy—to paraphrase a recent movie—did almost everything, everywhere, and all at once. She was on the CASA Board, the Friends of the Library, the Huntsville Memorial Hospital Board, and the Chamber of Commerce Board. She served as President of the Huntsville Study Club. She was selected as President of the Friends of the Wynne. She chaired the City’s Cultural District Committee, working with state officials to secure a “Cultural District” designation for the community. She also co-chaired the “Let’s Talk” committee on campus, which raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships for SHSU students.

Nancy received the Alumni Service Award in 2006; she and Jim were given the “Sandhop Spirit of Huntsville Award” by the Chamber of

Ambassadors with Mrs. Gaertner

Commerce in 2015; and in 2017, Nancy was recognized as the “Outstanding Supporter of the Arts” by SHSU’s Department of Art “because of the many ways she has positively influenced the Huntsville community and the University community through her tremendous support of the arts.”

JG: I really cannot emphasize enough how instrumental she was in helping lead the University. She was so involved on and off campus that it really lightened my load, led to advantages for the institution, and built important bridges between the community and the University. She was an ambassador for SHSU and the larger community.

The titles “ambassador” and “first lady” turned out to be more appropriate than anyone might have thought. When Jim and Nancy went to Thailand, they had lunch with Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, an SHSU alum. When the Prime Minister came to Texas, he made an eleventh-hour decision to visit SHSU. With little more than a day’s notice, the couple (and friends) pulled together a dinner, which they hosted at their house, entertaining the head of state—and his security entourage.

Jim, you retired in 2010, after nine years as President. What led you to think that was the right time?

JG: It wasn’t a hasty decision, and it wasn’t prompted by one single factor. It was partially that I had done most of the things as President I had set out to do; it was partially that I wanted to spend more time with my family; it was a little bit of burnout, and I think it’s natural and usually positive to have turnover at the top of a university every decade or so. It wasn’t one single thing. It was just a rational decision.

The Gaertners visiting Monument Valley & Banff

You are now President Emeritus, and you still go into the office. How do you balance staying active in things without appearing to overreach?

JG: This can be a problem, especially when you stay in the same town. It is a continuum, and you don’t want to come off as uninterested or as uncaring about the University; you also don’t want to be seen as trying to still run things. It’s important not to go too far in either direction. I have tried to err on the side of being less involved rather than being thought of as too involved.

How do the two of you spend your time now that you are retired?

NG: I am still very involved with the Wynne Home, continuing to serve as President of the “Friends of the Wynne.” I have taught a Pilates class for several years now. I also bake and cook, and we love to travel.

JG: Let me add to that: Nancy is a wonderful cook. She is really capable of some culinary craftsmanship. In fact, when we came back to SHSU, one of the areas she took on was the dining at special events. She worked with Aramark to ensure we would have top-notch food, excellent service, special menus for special events, and the like.

NG: I thought it was important that the University be presented very positively during special events. I love good food, and the food and its presentation are important.

Jim, what kinds of things do you do now?

JG: I still do work, but not as much as I did immediately after retiring. I do some unofficial mentoring, just people stopping by the office now and then, and asking, “What should I do about this situation?” I give presentations occasionally, as well. I golf, and I enjoy travel. I also write about our family, stories that we enjoy and want preserved.

Speaking of family, you raised three children—Scott, Denise, and Amanda—and you also have two grandchildren. You suffered a loss in 2020 when Denise passed away. I am sure some of our readers have had this befall them as well. Could you discuss the impact of losing an adult child?

JG: You know, it’s really tough. You think about it a lot. She had diabetes and was having heart problems, so we knew she was in poor health. It wasn’t a shock, but it was tragic for us.

NG: I don’t know how to describe it. Your children are a part of you, and when they are here, you think about them on a day-to-day basis. But when they are gone, the memories come in floods: I remember when she learned to walk; when she started school; and when she went to Okinawa in the military. Your children are a part of you, and they are a part of you forever.

The Gaertners established the Denise Gaertner Tippy Endowment for Veterans, a scholarship that, as the name suggests, will benefit student veterans at SHSU. At the time of its establishment, Jim noted: “I hope the students who receive the scholarship will appreciate her and then also be inspired to give back in the future and pay it forward to someone else. It is a tremendous way in which Denise can be remembered forever.”

Denise had a son, one of two grandchildren you have.

NG: That is correct. Her son, Cody Tippy, is living in Laramie, Wyoming, and he is a state trooper. Our youngest child Amanda is living

Denise Gaertner Tippy

in the San Antonio area. And our son Scott is married to Wendy, and they live in the Austin area. They have a son named Riley Gaertner. He is attending Colorado University— Boulder.

Your grandchildren seem to enjoy the west, and if I recall correctly, so do you two.

NG: We love the southwest and the west. One of our favorite towns is Santa Fe, and we go there and then explore some of the towns and even states nearby. In the past few years, we’ve done that a couple of times, visiting St. George, Utah and Monument Valley, Arizona. It’s just a beautiful area in which to spend time. We’ve traveled so much, sometimes the trips run together.

What’s a recent trip you enjoyed?

NG: A couple of years ago, we traveled for an entire month! We drove up to Montana, then into Canada, and we visited Banff. On that same trip, we went to Victoria, British Columbia, which is one of our favorite places. And then we drove south through California’s wine country. It was a wonderful trip.

Jim, after you retired from Sam as President, you went back to work for the Texas State University System. Any chance of you taking another job?

JG: That’s very unlikely. And even when I took the TSUS position, which was 12 years ago, I initially turned it down. The Chairman of the Board of Regents then reached out and asked me to reconsider. I met with the Chancellor and told him I would consider it, but the interim position would have to end in May, because I wanted the summer to do things. I had more things I wanted to do than I had summers left to do them in.

Do you ever miss being President of SHSU?

JG: No, not anymore. When I first retired, I’d miss seeing friends at the University every day, or being actively involved in the big decisions. I think everyone who retires misses aspects of their job at the beginning. It may have been a bit harder for me at first, because I loved the University so much, and I still do. I just don’t miss the day-to-day work that goes into being president. Nancy and I are remarkably fortunate, and life is good.

Things My Granddaddy Said

Be true to your teeth and they won’t be false to you. Honesty is the best policy, but insanity is a better defense.

If you can’t stand yourself, neither can anybody else. People who live in glass houses might as well answer the door.

You are only young once, and if you work it right, once is enough.

Sometimes the road less traveled is less traveled for a reason. Age is strictly a case of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.

Marriage is a mistake every man should make.

You don’t build a fence in the middle of a stampede.

GOOD LUCK

MC Dance Competitive Teams

THIS SEASON!

Dustin Sorenson

Owner, Texas Generator Solutions

10 SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU?

adjuster for 8 years. 11 WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF? Relaxing with the dogs in front of a TV. 12 HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN?

A call from the installers informing me that the day before went good. 13 HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY? Take time to myself on a walk with the dogs 14 ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT? Nothing, I think I am pretty good at everything. 15 BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE? Experienced different countries & cultures.

16 TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? Visit Denmark.

17 IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE? A tropical paradise.

18 WHO DO YOU ADMIRE?

My mother & father, I would not be the person I am today without them.

19 BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN?

Hit problems head on, always be honest. 20 ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Make smart decisions.

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA

City of Huntsville officials recently celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Huntsville City Hall. Pictured are council members Bert Lyle, Pat Graham, Vicki McKenzie, Karen Denman, Jon Strong, Deloris Massey, Mayor Andy Brauniger, and Mayor Pro Tem Russell Humphrey.

your Snapshot! PostcardsLive.com/Share

APRIL EVENTS

Dance SENIOR STUDIO

April 13 – 15 | 8 p.m.

Dance Theater, GPAC

Art GRAPHIC DESIGN SENIOR EXHIBITION

April 17 – 29

Reception | April 20 | 5 p.m.

University Gallery, HFAB Free Admission

Music

WIND ENSEMBLE CONCERT

April 20 | 7:30 p.m.

Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

College of Arts & Media

CAM ARTIST SERIES: DIEGO & FRIENDS: A SOIRÉE OF PIANO TRIOS FT. MATT LAMMERS & CAIO DINIZ

April 24 | 7:30 p.m.

Recital Hall, GPAC

Music

CONCERT AND SYMPHONIC BANDS CONCERT

April 27 | 7:30 p.m.

Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

Theatre & Musical Theatre

SWEENEY TODD

Music & Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Book by Hugh Wheeler from an Adaptation by Christopher Bond

April 27 – 29 | 7:30 p.m.

April 29 | Matinee | 2 p.m. Erica Starr Theatre, UTC

FOR TICKETS

& INFORMATION

shsutickets.com | tickets@shsu.edu | 936.294.2339

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 awarded a gift card to 1836 Steakhouse.

Donald Baiter

Scott E. Johnson Elementary

Huntsville ISD

Nominated by Nathan Schweitzer

At Stewart Elementary, Mr. Baiter allowed me to learn in a positive environment, and he never let me give less than my best effort. This taught me at a young age how to approach situations I face in life.

Dear Gabby

Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Ready or not, spring has sprung. I’m ready, how about you? We are blessed to live in Texas, where we are surrounded by beautiful wildflowers in the spring. Easter renewal is evident everywhere! Easter egg hunts are proof your children can find things when they really want to. Personally, I don’t hunt Easter eggs anymore. I can’t even find my car keys, and I spend way too much time looking for things, as it is! Send your questions to me by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share. Easter eggs aside, remember that it’s not about the bunny; it’s about the lamb.

DEAR GABBY

Spring cleaning is such a bore. I know it’s necessary, but what a pain! Do you have any advice on making the chore a little less dreadful?

NOT SUSIE HOMEMAKER

DEAR SUSIE

There is a serenity prayer just for your situation. “Lord, grant me the serenity to accept the messy state my house is in, the courage to start cleaning, and the wisdom to not let it get this way again.” Upbeat music is a great distraction, but don’t wear headphones while vacuuming! I once vacuumed the whole house, then realized the vacuum wasn’t plugged in. You can always simply drink wine and spray everything with Febreze. Just don’t get them confused!!

DEAR GABBY

I’m not a day sleeper because of my job, but I do love to sleep in on Saturdays. The guy across the street prefers to do yardwork with power tools on the weekend at the crack of dawn. He’s retired and could do his lawn anytime. I’m ready to take drastic measures. I need my beauty rest! SLEEPY

DEAR SLEEPY

I have the same problem. Take him some cookies on Friday afternoon and ask nicely if he would mind picking another day to do his yard work. With that being said, do as I say and not as I do. I just sold a lawnmower on Craigslist. That’s the last time my neighbor wakes me up on a Saturday!

CONFIDENTIAL TO “FELL FOR IT, AGAIN”:

If you’re that gullible, I have some advice for you.

If you see a rabbit laying little brown eggs, don’t eat them. It’s not chocolate!

GABBY

GABBY

Old Man Grady was dying, so his family gathered around his deathbed and tried to comfort the farmer in his final hours. In a weary voice, he whispered to his wife, Darlene, “After I’ve left for the hereafter, I want you to marry Wade, the farmer over in the next county.”

“No, I can’t marry anyone after you,” she protested. “Dadgummit, woman, I insist!” He wheezed. Perplexed, Darlene asked, “But why?”

With his final breath, Grady replied, “He cheated me in a horse trade.”

When I was a boy, my dad gave me money to go downtown and pay the electric bill, but I bought raffle tickets for a chance to win a new truck instead. When I got home, I told my dad, and he whipped me... But the next morning, in the driveway sat a brand new truck. We all held each other and cried--especially me, because it was the truck from the electric company there to cut off our power...and my dad whipped me again.

Grandma once said, “Sometimes you have to hug the people you don’t like...so you know how big to dig the hole in your backyard.”

Mother story from P. Browning:

Mama (age 93 - on the phone): I think I have HIV.

Aunt Geneva (age 93): Really? Why would you say that?

Mama: My hair is thinning out. Hair Intertwine...and I can’t remember what the V stands for. But I think that’s HIV when your hair falls out.

Aunt Geneva: I don’t think that’s HIV.

Mama: Well, maybe not. I can’t remember what HIV is. Well, who knows. My hair is thinning out.

Did you know diarrhea is hereditary? It runs in your genes.

I’m scared to get dental work done!

Oral sedation is a type of dental sedation used to help patients relax during dental procedures. This treatment, which is administered by a trained dental professional, involves the patient taking a sedative, typically in pill form, prior to the start of the procedure. This sedative helps to reduce anxiety and fear, while allowing the patient to remain awake and alert throughout the procedure.

Oral sedation is generally safe and effective, and is often used for long or complex dental procedures, such as the placement of dental implants or the extraction of wisdom teeth. The dosage is tailored to the individual patient, with the goal of providing a relaxed and comfortable experience. Depending on the level of sedation,

Office (936) 291-6589

some patients may be awake enough to respond to instructions from the dental professional, while others may experience a deeper level of sedation and become sleepy or unaware of the procedure.

This type of sedation is offered here at Logan & Fritsch. Come stop by and see if you are a good candidate!

If you have a question or a topic you want to be discussed, send an email to drlogan@drscottlogan.com

Aaron Fritsch, DDS 3205

Robinson Creek Parkway

Huntsville

By Steve VanWagner, D.V.M.

Equine Joint Therapies (IRAP vs PRP vs Polyacrylamide)

Interluekin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein (IRAP) is naturally produced in the blood. IRAP therapy involves the collection of the horse’s blood, stimulating the growth of the antagonist protein in this blood, isolating the protein rich serum, and then injecting it into the affected joint.

Blood for IRAP therapy is drawn from horse’s jugular vein into a special tube used to stimulate the growth of the antagonist protein. It is incubated for 24 hours, then cetrifuged for 10 minutes. Each blood collection can yield 4 to 6 doses. Dose size is specific to each joint. Any remaining doses can be stored for future use.

Treatment with IRAP consists of four treatments, one week apart. These can be performed in hospital or on the farm. The most dramatic results occur typically after the third and fourth treatments.

PRP

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a regenerative medicine treatment that delivers a high concentration of platelets in the form of blood plasma to a joint, increasing the amount growth factors at the site to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Blood for PRP therapy is collected from the horse’s jugular vein into special tubes and then centrifuged, separating the majority of the red and white blood cells from the platelets and plasma, thus forming platelet-rich plasma.

Treatment of joints with PRP is the same as injecting any other products. This is typically performed at the hospital due to the short-term life of the sample after centrifugation. These samples must be used at time of processing and only allows one treatment per collection.

Polyacrylamide

Polyacrylamide Hydrogel comes in a prepacked application ready for injection. The hydrogel consists of cross-linked polyacrylamide in water. After injection, the cells integrate into the synovial membrane through blood vessel ingrowth. This helps to increase the cushioning and lubrication of the joint.

Treatment of joints with hydrogel can be performed in the field or at the hospital. One application is used per joint treated. Hydrogel is typically reserved for patients with more advanced osteoarthritis, but can be used at any stage.

If your horse is experiencing joint pain/osteoarthritis, consult your veterinarian to see which product is best for your horse’s condition.

Photo by Michelle Blair

IRAP

A Special Conversation

Story By Karen Altom

Submitted Photos

JIMMY FORTUNE

It took me about two minutes to purchase tickets to the Old Town Theatre on April 21 once I saw Jimmy Fortune would be in town. For those who do not know, Fortune was the tenor for The Statler Brothers and, along with them, has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, as well as the Virginia Musical Hall of

Fame as a solo artist. Jimmy began his journey with The Statlers, already a favorite of mine, when I was a senior in high school. In spite of my initial resistance to a change in my favorite group, it took me about two minutes to recognize the special smoothness of this unique tenor. Coming from a family of singers who love harmony, Jimmy Fortune quickly became (for

me) the standard by which other tenors were gauged. When I got on the phone with Jimmy for this interview, it took me about two minutes to decide he had to be one of the nicest people I had ever spoken with. Add to that his love of family, country and God, and you will find a voice and music that touches you where you live.

What was life in the music world like for you prior to the Statler Brothers?

I was playing hotel clubs in Virginia six days a week, four hours a night, and I had a daytime job as a service writer at a car dealership. Working myself in the ground, pretty much. Cover music, top 40 stuff, everything from rock to country to bluegrass to gospel…disco,

you name it. With that kind of job, you just had to do it all.

How old were you when you joined the Statler Brothers?

I was 26, going on 12 (laughs). Thanksgiving 1981, I had a night off and was asked by some

friends to come to a local ski resort and jam with them. To this day, I can’t figure out why I went to play music on my night off. Statler Brothers tenor Lew DeWitt was there and heard me, and we got to sing together a little bit. I didn’t think anything would come of it, but when he had surgery around Christmas, he recommended me to the group as a fill-in.

When he had to leave the group for health reasons, it turned into a full-time blessing. I see so many God things in my life, where He put me in the right places at the right time for the right things. I don’t know how he steered a young, rambunctious guy like me, except for my Momma’s prayers.

In 21 years with the Statler Brothers and your career since, you have performed all over the U.S., internationally, at the White House, for Elizabeth Taylor, and more…what was the most memorable performance experience for you?

Whoa…there are so many! The first time on stage with the Statler Brothers was great, January 28, 1982, in Savannah, Georgia. I realized I was standing on stage with my heroes, and I had never seen that many faces looking at me!

We started the DARE program with President and Mrs. Reagan to keep kids off drugs, and we did several events with them at the White House.

“I don’t know how he steered a young, except for my Momma’s

rambunctious guy like me, Momma’s prayers.”

Also, there were some performances at galas in Los Angeles, with so many actors and actresses, but we had a thing we did in Staunton, Virginia every year on the Fourth of July called “Happy Birthday, USA” that grew to over 110,000 people in our little town. Those events were so memorable because our families also got to be there to celebrate our country, our independence, and our veterans.

You wrote the #1 hit Elizabeth. Was it planned as a Statler Brothers song?

I had never written a song before. I had always been so busy working I never had time to write. After I had been in the group awhile, I asked whether they would record a song if I wrote it. Harold Reid gave me a really honest answer. He said, “Well, little buddy, if it’s good enough… yeah, we’ll record it.”

I had a melody in my head, but I was looking for some words. We were leaving for a performance in Oklahoma and stopped at a Kroger to get some things for the bus. While I was there, I heard a mother fussing at her little girl for taking items off the shelves. She kept saying, “Elizabeth! Why did you do that?” Then on the trip, the Statlers (being big movie buffs), asked me if I had ever seen the movie Giant, with Elizabeth Taylor, Rock Hudson, and James Dean. I hadn’t, so they pulled it out and we watched it on the bus. Then, during the next concert in Oklahoma, this young lady comes up to the stage and grabs my hand. She kept saying, “I’m Elizabeth. I’m Elizabeth.” It just hit me that I had to put that name in this song. It was another God thing. That night in the hotel room, I started putting words down and played the song into my little recorder. The next day, I played it for the guys on the bus, and they loved it. We recorded it, and it went #1. I won songwriter of the year, and it won song of the year for 1985.

Any other personal favorite songs you have?

All my patriotic songs…More Than a Name on a Wall That’s one of my favorites, because I get to say thank you to some very important people. Then I’ve written some…In God We Trust, and a song called Meet Me at Arlington These pay tribute to our veterans and are stories of people searching for comfort. Also, some gospel songs like I Believe, which are pretty much given to me by the Good Lord up above. One more recent special song is called I Love You More; it was inspired by my granddaughter. When I tell her I love her, she says, “I love you more!” That’s the way God is. He loves us more than any mistake we’ve ever made and is always there for us. That’s what that song is about.

How did you connect with the Gaither group as a label?

We have always been fans, and Harold, Phil, Don, and Lew were good friends with Bill Gaither. When the Statlers retired and I was on my own, I didn’t have a record label. I did a few projects here and there, then Bill Carter, an attorney for so many big acts—like Reba McEntire, The

Rolling Stones, and the Gaithers—contacted me. He had heard something I did and asked me to come to Arkansas to open for Dailey and Vincent and Jason Crabb. After that performance, he contacted Bill Gaither and told him he needed to do some projects with me.

How did the group “Brothers of the Heart” develop?

Mike Rogers was playing downtown doing some clubs, and Ben Isaacs and I would go down there and sit in with him from time to time. Eventually, Bradley Walker came and sat in. We got to listening to the blend, and the Gaither group suggested we do a project. We thought “Okay, we’ll see.” We all have our own careers going, Mike is with Ricky Skaggs, Ben is with The Isaacs, and Brad and I each have our own thing. Our first studio project was called Brotherly Love. We recorded another project at the Grand Ole Opry. Don Reid of the Statlers came down and did the video interview portion, and he made the comment, “You guys really are brothers. You’re brothers of the heart.” We are now called “Brothers of the Heart.” We just released the first half of that project, called Listen to the Music. The other half, Will the Circle Be Unbroken, will probably come

out in the fall. We only do about 5-10 live shows together a year, which makes it kind of a special thing.

You work closely with your wife Nina. What are the pros and cons of working together?

It can take its toll on a husband and wife. I write songs, play my guitar, and sing…Nina does the rest. She’s very overworked and underpaid! If it wasn’t for her, none of this would be possible. It’s hard to find people to hire with a strong work ethic who won’t drop the ball. She oversees all the details, and when needed, she steps in and gets it done. Now we are trying to be purposeful and take mini-vacations to not let work rule our lives.

What do you want to be remembered for?

I want people to see a grateful person who has let the Lord lead him and has let them know they are loved—someone the Lord used through music to bring joy and laughter, comfort and healing…because we’re all in this together.

Jimmy Fortune will be performing in Huntsville at the Old Town Theatre

April 21, 2023. Visit oldtowntheatrehuntsville.org for ticket information. For more information about Jimmy, his schedule, and his music visit jimmyfortune.com.

By Daniel Strigenz, MD

5 TIPS FOR AVOIDING SEASONAL ALLERGY SYMPTOMS

A person with seasonal allergies is sensitive to allergens that are only around at certain times of the year. Plant pollens from blooming trees and grasses are the classic examples. Dr. Daniel Strigenz, an otolaryngologist at Houston Methodist ENT Specialists at The Woodlands, has five tips to help you prepare for seasonal allergies now that pollen has returned to Texas.

1. Know when it’s time to prepare

There are three different allergy seasons: spring, summer and fall. Each of these seasons is marked by a different type of plant pollen being released. Know your history of when your symptoms traditionally act up the most.

2. Take steps to reduce your pollen exposure

“Staying indoors is the best way to avoid seasonal allergy symptoms,” said Strigenz. “It is difficult, but at least take steps to limit your exposure.”

Tips to limit pollen exposure:

• Check the pollen count using your weather app and plan your day accordingly.

• Avoid driving with your windows rolled down, especially in the mornings.

• Wear a mask if you need to be outdoors.

• Set your car’s A/C to recirculate the air, rather than drawing it from the outside.

• Change clothes when you arrive home after being outdoors.

3. Pre-treat symptoms if you’re a regular sufferer

Start with an over-the-counter nasal steroid spray regimen or take a daily non-drowsy antihistamine when you know your allergy season is approaching.

“If you prefer a natural remedy for allergies, try frequent saline rinses,” offered Strigenz.

4. Know the allergy symptoms

As soon as you notice these symptoms, it’s time to start treating them:

• Runny nose

• Nasal congestion

• Itchy eyes

• Sneezing

• Scratchy throat

• General fatigue

• Headaches

5. Take an antihistamine

Allergies can hit even if you’re doing everything

right. Non-drowsy oral antihistamines are a preferred method of treatment. “These medications start to act within a few hours and target the histamine response itself,” explained Strigenz. “They are an excellent initial option for treatment of allergy symptoms.”

While nasal steroid sprays are also good options for treatment, he cautioned against using nasal decongestant sprays, as you can become dependent, and they can cause rebound congestion. “Your congestion actually gets worse as your system becomes reliant on the spray,” noted Strigenz. Should you see a doctor for seasonal allergies?

“The symptoms of congestion, drainage and facial pressure can be a bad bout of allergies or a sinus infection. If you’re not getting better in 7 to 10 days, it’s time to see a doctor,” Strigenz added. “There are new in-office procedural treatments that may help with allergy symptoms. For instance, we can try to calm down over-active nerves in the nose that stimulate mucous production and shrink congestion.”

Your primary care provider may refer you for chronic issues to a board-certified ENT specialist.

"BLESSED

ARE THOSE WHO HAVE NOT SEEN AND YET HAVE

Special to Postcards

Submitted Photos

Be An Angel Be An Angel

It is our mission to improve the quality of life for children with multiple disabilities or profound deafness by providing needed adaptive equipment and select services.

We believe that children are the heart and soul of humanity, that they represent all that is good within us, and that we can help children with special needs experience life at their fullest potential.

Be An Angel is a Houston headquartered non-profit to assist children with severe disabilities. The organization is well-established and chaired by former Houston Oilers quarterback Dan Pastorini. Their mission:

The group’ efforts have wide reach, including not only efforts in Houston and statewide, but internationally as well. Below, board member Jim Anderson recounts a recent mission trip to Casa de Luz, an orphanage in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Casa de Luz means “House of Light” and is a bright star in the lives of its young residents. Born into poverty, these children were neglected with no one to care for them. At Casa de Luz, they receive medical care, nourishment, physical therapy and a loving family.

As Close as You Can Get to Heaven on Earth

Well, here we are again. It’s four in the morning, and our group of 11 is headed down Interstate 45 to the airport for a trip we have waited on for over two years. We are headed on a mission trip to the orphanage we have been visiting for over 11 years, the House of Light (HOL), in the Dominican Republic. We had previously visited twice a year before the pandemic hit, then all visits came to a halt. You see, the House of Light is not your typical orphanage--many of the children in this home are described as “throwaway children,” whom parents decided they could not raise, with many being severely disabled. Some actually place their children in dumpsters, where local police find them and take them to the House of Light. On previous trips prior to Covid, we have built a sanctuary and pews to go inside, a large kitchen and dining area so the children could eat meals together, and a laundry room full of washers and dryers (that never stop being used) to keep the children in the cleanest clothes possible. The importance of this trip is that Rotary International has chosen the HOL location to build a water plant to help the orphanage become self-sufficient. The orphanage has been dependent on organizations to provide funding and has continued to receive support from the nonprofit Be An Angel in Houston and North Shore Church in Montgomery to pay the workers and owners who have kept this house open for 14 years. The water plant, being built by Water Works International (which has 8 other water plants in

The water plant

Curtis painting at the water plant

and inside of the large walls that go around HOL. These two projects took us two and a half days to complete, which gave us time to also paint the main stairway from the first to the third floors. While this was being accomplished, half of the team was installing new doors inside the house (that were delivered an inch too long, and they had to be cut to the proper size to fit the doorways.)

Having completed our tasks one day early, this gave us time to spend our last day with the 34 children and the owners and workers at HOL. As we arrived at the HOL on our last day on this trip, the children were starting their day by

having their daily music session. They are brought into one room. Several are provided tambourines to accompany the singing, and it is quite an event to witness. They have memorized several songs, and this shows the happiness they still possess as children. I cannot say enough about the dedicated workers who stay 24/7 to provide care for these beautiful children— true angels.

We learned the new government in the Dominican Republic has taken control of the process of screening all children and deciding whether they should officially be taken from their parents (or those relatives with custody) and placed in HOL. This

Jim Anderson with the newest resident. This girl fell out of a third story window and broke her spine. Her family brought her to HOL for care.

I cannot say enough about the dedicated workers who stay 24/7 to provide care for these beautiful children— true angels.

is a fundamental change in the way this home has operated since its inception. Some children needing medicine or physical therapy have been returned to their homes for treatment, which puts several new requirements and needs on the staff for this to be accomplished. The mission continues to grow for the wonderful sanctuary, but with little or no support from the government. We also had one more important duty to perform on this visit, and that was the dedication of the water plant in the name of our former leader, Raymond Solcher. Ray and his wife Karen were first taken to the orphanage while distributing hearing aids at the School for the Deaf in the Dominican, and they quickly fell in love with the children and staff. Ray, a board member for Be An Angel and member of North Shore Church, established the connection that is still in place

today. Postcards featured The Solchers in our May 2013 Lake Conroe issue. A plaque which recognizes Ray has been placed on the water plant in his memory. It is anticipated the water plant will not be making a profit for another 12 months, so additional support is needed during this interim.

Special thank you to my fellow team members and the continued support provided by Be An Angel and North Shore Church over the last 14 years. The generous donations and offerings have supported these children at the House of Light, and I sincerely hope all will be blessed for their big hearts.

You can donate by attending Be An Angel’s upcoming Gala on April 28th or by providing a donation at beanangel.org.

CONUNDRUM from page 56

Why is everyone talking about recession?

You can’t turn on financial news without hearing speculation about an upcoming recession. While it seems everyone has an opinion to share, the fact is no one knows when we will have a recession or how severe it may be. This uncertainty is what drives volatility in financial markets. Investors, and markets, are trying to predict what will happen several months down the road. So, with the speculation and uncertainty, what is an investor to do?

It helps to have a little context. We need to know what a recession is. You may have heard that a recession is two consecutive quarters of negative growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Gross Domestic Product simply measures the value of the final goods and services produced in the United States. But in reality we have seen multiple time periods with two consecutive quarters of negative GDP that are not recessions. One example is the “Recession of 2020”. In the early days of COVID we saw negative GDP growth in the first and second quarter of 2020. The negative growth was the direct result of an unprecedented shutdown of our economy – not recession. A more accurate definition of recession would be a business cycle contraction that occurs when there is a general decline in economic activity.

Let’s focus on the word cycle in that definition. Cycle is defined as a series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order. So, an economic cycle is a series of economic events that are regularly repeated in the same order. The economic cycle has four parts: expansion, peak, contraction, trough. If that cycle, which has gone on for many decades is to continue, we must go through each part. To get back to expansion, we must go through contraction, and trough.

This is all to help you understand that recessions (economic contractions) are necessary. It is not if they will happen, but when. From an investor’s perspective, what should you do? You should expect that recessions will happen. You should be confident in the plan you have in place and understand the process used to select your investments to support that plan. You should understand when you will need funds from your investments as timing may impact investment selection. Finally, you should be patient while the cycle runs is course.

If you don’t work with an advisor, you may find comfort in someone that has been through multiple economic cycles with clients in various life stages. We would be happy to help you better understand your current financial situation, and how you might be impacted by the economic cycle. We strive to help our clients “Enjoy More, Worry Less”.

Submitted by: Brian B Smith, CFP®, Bryan M Masten, CFP® & Riley W. Smith

Star Students

Kaitlyn Smith Trinity High School

Favorite Movie: Bob’s Burger Movie

Favorite Music/Artist: Lovejoy

Favorite Food: Mozzarella Sticks

Favorite Quote: The universe loves you because you are love.”

Kaitlyn is a senior at Trinity High School and is the daughter of Kimberly Niedermeier. Her activities include UIL, BETA, A/V Club, band, choir, theater, dance, and class officer. Kaitlyn plans to attend Sam Houston State University to major in mass communications, then pursue a career in broadcasting. She hopes to be involved in community theater in her free time. She believes, “You get out of it what you put into it.”

Lillyenne Barnes Huntsville High School

Favorite TV Show: Almost any Marvel movie

Favorite Music/Artist: Billie Holiday or Ella Fitzgerald

Favorite Food: Shrimp

Favorite Quote: “Some make excuses; others make ways.”

Lillyenne is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Shockese Barnes and Heather Barnes. Her activities include Fellowship of Christian Athletes, powerlifting, track and field, choir, cosmetology, and Foreign Exchange and Friends Club. Lillyenne plans to obtain her cosmetology license, obtain a kinesiology degree at Sam Houston State University, then obtain her masters and pre-athletic training certificate. She believes, “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.”

Mike Park, Chrissy Wieghat, Machayla Longfoot, Rane Riley and Rhonda Brown (not pictured)

Nathan Schweitzer Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: John Wick

Favorite Music/Artist: Zac Brown Band

Favorite Food: Chicken Alfredo

Favorite Quote: “You couldn’t hear a dump truck driving through a nitroglycerin plant.” –Grandpa Lewis, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Nathan is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the son of Robert and Cathy Schweitzer. His activities include football, baseball, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, and FFA. Nathan plans to obtain a degree in welding engineering. He believes, “Work hard. Play hard.”

Reese Butler Alpha Omega Academy

Favorite Movie: How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days

Favorite Music/Artist: Lana Del Rey

Favorite Food: Fettuccini Alfredo

Reese is a senior at Alpha Omega and is the daughter of Kelley Butler and the late John Butler. Her activities include Interact and member of FBC Dodge Youth Group. Following graduation, Reese plans to attend Sam Houston State University.

1 What is your grandparent name and does it have a special meaning? Nonnie…that’s just what they started calling me.

2 Number of grandchildren and age range?

A set of twins. They are 25.

3 Favorite activity with them?

When they were little, we always took beach vacations with them, and some of our favorite memories are from that time.

4 Advice to other/new grandparents?

Let your grandchildren know you love them with every fiber of your being--and put Christ first always.

5 What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents?

When I was little, my mom’s mom lived with us. I loved shelling purple hulls and cream peas out on the screened-in front porch. I liked to shell the purple hulls because they turned my fingers purple.

6 What do you hope your grandkids remember about you?

I hope they know that I loved them with all of my heart and there’s nothing humanly possible I wouldn’t do for them.

Fluffy Carrot Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients

Muffins:

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 ½ tsp baking soda

1 ¼ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

3 eggs

1 cup white sugar

¾ cup vegetable oil

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups grated carrot

Icing:

¼ cup cream cheese, softened

2 Tbs butter, softened

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 ½ cups sifted confectioners’ sugar

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease the bottoms only of 12 muffin cups, or line with baking cups. Sift together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside.

Step 2: Beat eggs and sugar until frothy and lightened in color. Stir in oil, vanilla extract, and grated carrot; fold in flour mixture. Pour batter into prepared muffin tins.

Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove to cool on wire racks.

Step 4: Meanwhile, prepare frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and confectioners’ sugar together until fluffy. Frost the cooled muffins and chill until ready to serve.

Unstuffed Pepper Skillet

Ingredients

2 Tbs olive oil

8 oz mini sweet peppers, sliced crosswise (about 10 peppers, mixed colors)

1 cup chopped yellow onion

1 lb lean ground sirloin (90/10)

1 Tbs minced garlic

1 ½ tsp Italian seasoning

1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

¼ cup water

3 Tbs hot cherry pepper hoagie spread

¾ tsp kosher salt

1 (8.8 oz) pkg microwavable white rice, crumbled

1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend

2 Tbs chopped fresh basil or flat-leaf parsley

Directions

Step 1: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 4 minutes. Add beef and cook, stirring to crumble, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Season with garlic and Italian seasoning and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in tomato sauce, water, hoagie spread, and salt.

Step 2: Bring to a boil over mediumhigh heat. Stir in rice until coated evenly with sauce. Cover, reduce heat to medium to maintain a simmer, and cook until rice and vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Uncover, remove from heat, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Re-cover and let sit until cheese melts, 1 to 2 minutes. Serve hot, sprinkled with basil or parsley.

Chef John’s Hot Cross Buns

Ingredients

¼ cup dried currants

¼ cup rum, or as needed to cover currants

¾ cup milk, warmed to 100 degrees F

3 cups bread flour, divided, or as needed

1 (.25 oz) pkg active dry yeast

5 Tbs white sugar

1 large egg, beaten

1 Tbs grated lemon zest

1 Tbs grated orange zest

¾ tsp ground cinnamon

½ tsp fine salt

½ tsp ground cardamom

¼ tsp ground nutmeg

7 Tbs melted butter

Crosses:

¼ cup water

1/3 cup all-purpose flour, or as needed to make thin, pipe-able dough

Glaze:

¼ cup sugar

3 Tbs water

Step 1: Place currants in a small bowl. Heat rum until steaming in a small pan and pour over currants to soften them, about 2 hours. Drain; reserve liquid for another use.

Step 2: Whisk warm milk, 1/4 cup flour, and yeast together in the bowl of a stand mixer. Let sit about 15 minutes to ensure yeast is active; small bubbles should start to rise to the surface. Add sugar, beaten egg, lemon and orange zest, cinnamon, salt, cardamom, nutmeg, melted butter, and most of the remaining flour (you might not need it all). Mix with a dough hook attachment until dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and becomes slightly elastic, 5 or 6 minutes. Continue kneading until dough is soft and shiny, about 10 minutes. Remove dough from dough hook and shape into a ball. Transfer to a lightly floured work surface.

Step 3: Flatten dough into a large oval about 1/2 inch thick. Sprinkle currants evenly over surface of dough. Fold dough into thirds. Turn and fold into thirds again. Reshape dough into a round ball. Transfer to lightly oiled mixing bowl. Cover

and let rise in a relatively warm, draft-free place until double in size, about 2 hours.

Step 4: Poke dough down a bit with your fingertips. Transfer to a lightly floured work surface. Flatten out dough into an even shape. Divide into 16 equal pieces using a bench scraper.

Step 5: Line a baking sheet with a silicone mat.

Step 6: Roll each piece of dough into a round ball. Arrange evenly on prepared baking sheet. Let rise 15 minutes.

Step 7: Mix 1/4 cup water and 1/3 cup flour together in a mixing bowl until mixture is thick enough to hold its shape but thin enough to pipe. Transfer mixture to a piping bag.

Step 8: After buns have risen 15 minutes, pipe a cross on top of each. Let rise until doubled from original dough balls, another 15 or 20 minutes.

Step 9: Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

Step 10: Transfer pan to preheated oven. Bake until golden brown, about 15

minutes.

Step 11: Combine 1/4 cup sugar and 3 tablespoons water in a pan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook until sugar dissolves and mixture starts to thicken, or until it reaches a temperature of 225 degrees. Remove from heat.

Step 12: Let buns cool on a rack for 5 minutes before glazing. Brush glaze lightly over the tops of the buns.

Easy Pineapple Casserole

Ingredients

1 (20 oz) can pineapple tidbits, drained

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, partially drained

2/3 cup white sugar

5 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 stick butter, melted

1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese

1 sleeve crushed buttery round crackers (such as Ritz®)

bowl and sprinkle mixture over pineapple. Spread cheese on top. Cover everything with crushed crackers. Drizzle with melted butter.

Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly, 30 to 40 minutes. Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature. Excellent side dish, especially for ham or pork.

Cook’s Note:

Chef’s Tips:

Any sweet dough will work with this easy technique. Times may vary, but regardless of the dough, simply wait for the dough to double in size, and proceed. When adding the flour, hold back a little of it until you sure you need it all. You can always add, but can’t remove!

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Mix pineapple tidbits and crushed pineapple together in a bowl and layer into the bottom of a 9x13-inch glass baking dish. Mix sugar and flour together in a

To soften your butter quickly, cut or grate butter. If you cut your butter into chunks instead of leaving it in one big stick, it’ll warm up to room temperature much faster.

To melt your cut or grated butter place in a small saucepan on the stove top on low heat. Stir the butter pieces with a wooden spoon until they are fully melted.

Addie Elise May Grandchild of Scott & Shannon Williams

It was love at first sight for Denise, and it will be for you, too, as you step across the front door threshold (as thousands have done since 1904) and become engulfed within the memory-filled rooms of this beautiful old Victorian-style home in Madisonville, now known as the Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. Owners Michael and Denise Emanuelli invite you to create your own memories with family and friends as you greet, dine, talk, and laugh the hours away together in this remarkable inn and dining establishment. Purchased by the Emanuellis in December 2021, the refurbishing has moved forward beginning with the gutting, redesigning, and equipping of a full-scale professional kitchen in which Chef Paul Aguilar brings his culinary expertise to life. Prime rib is only the beginning!

Story by Claudia Kirkwood

Photos by Christi Reeves

Denise, having enjoyed tea in many castles throughout Europe, wanted to offer the same charming experience to others, even to the extent of taking pastry classes to prepare the proper fare for teas. With the purchase of this exquisite property, and the addition of a truckload of antiques from Arizona, the restoration is taking shape, and the parties have begun. From baby showers, birthday parties, anniversary celebrations, and more, the inn is once again brimming with the voices of young and old, couples and families, social and civic groups, book clubs and bridge clubs, all making new memories at Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. As Denise noted, “Everyone in Madisonville has a Woodbine story. We

quickly realized it was more than just a local restaurant. People had a lot of memories attached to her. It was important for us to get this project underway as soon as possible.”

Plans include a bed and breakfast utilizing the eight guest rooms and private baths, and a suite, with all guests welcome to enjoy afternoon tea. The refined-casual dining restaurant is open to the public (serving lunch from 11-2 Tuesday through Friday, dinner from 5:30-9:30 Thursday through Saturday, and Sunday brunch from 11-2). When the inn is fully renovated, those hours may change, so a quick look at the website will be in order. Prime rib, dry-aged steaks, and other fare are procured from local suppliers to ensure the highest quality and freshness possible. Future plans also include a garden to supply fresh herbs and vegetables for Chef Paul’s skillful

artistry, his culinary goal always being to delight to your eyes and thrill your palate.

Now that your interest and appetite are whetted, let’s take a brief look at the lengthy history of this unique property. Built in the late 1800s by Jewish Russian immigrants Jake and Sarah Shapira, the original hotel burned to the ground and was rebuilt in 1904 at the same and present location. The hotel and restaurant were a popular destination for locals and travelers for over 100 years. In fact, the building »

Welcome Michael Foreman

Michael Foreman is an attorney at Haney Paschal & Romoser, P.C. and has been practicing law for over 6 years.

Michael knew he wanted to be a lawyer from a young age. “I think being a lawyer always appealed to me because it combined the hard work demonstrated by my dad and the dedication to public service demonstrated by my mom.” When it came time to pick a college, Michael knew he wanted to move back to the south. Michael obtained his Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in Entrepreneurship from Baylor University. After completing his undergraduate studies, Michael chose to attend Baylor University School of Law where he was on the Baylor Law Review, the school’s National Mock Trial Competition Team, and Dean’s List. During this time, Michael also interned for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and the honorable Judge John Gargiulo in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi.

After graduating from law school in 2016, Michael worked at a law firm in Richmond, Texas, where he handled practice areas such as personal injury, eminent domain, real estate transactions and just about anything in between. Michael joined Haney Paschal & Romoser, P.C. in November of 2022. His practice focuses on personal injury, contract and property disputes, trusts and estates, and family law. In his free time, Michael likes to hunt, fish, golf, or spend time with his wife, Brittany, riding their horses.

entered the national Register of Historic Places in 1980, becoming a Texas Historic Landmark in 1982. It was constructed of two kit houses (most likely purchased at a Sears & Roebuck

from either St. Louis or Kansas City). The original edifice had sixteen rooms with accommodation for eight guests, with the only indoor plumbing found in the owners’ suite. Plumbing was

later added throughout. In its infancy, the hotel prized its reputation of having the only telephone in town (the telephone booth now on display at the Madison County Museum).

Over the years, the property has undergone a plethora of renovations under the watchful eyes of several different owners (and name changes as well). Originally the Shapiro Hotel, it has also been known as the Wills Hotel and The Woodbine Hotel, and with the recent purchase by the Emanuallis, is now renamed the Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. For a more in-depth look at the fascinating history of the property, please visit the website. The Woodbine has played an integral part in the fabric of Madisonville life over the years and is, without doubt, woven into the hearts and memories of many of its families. If one would look in photo albums through past years, you would find family gatherings, birthday celebrations, weddings, and community events all set against the backdrop of this historic and beautiful structure. Michael and Denise hope to encourage families and friends to continue this historic saga, to build new memories, to capture fresh images of celebrations and friendships, to enjoy new experiences around the table with good food and good friends. And, as the weather settles into a springtime feel, the refurbished outdoor seating, the newly installed fountain, and the meticulous landscaping will provide a peaceful setting as guests sip wine and savor the culinary offerings of the day. Beer and wine are now available, with other alcoholic beverages on the menu soon. The Woodbine Inn and Restaurant. Your search for excellent culinary fare, beautiful and cozy surroundings, and a place where friendships can thrive is found at 209 N Madison Street in Madisonville, Texas. Bring your appetite. Bring your senior for photos. Bring your wedding guests and celebrate. Just come and enjoy, and let this historic and beloved inn and restaurant be woven into your future memories. If you have photos and stories to share that took place at Woodbine Inn and Restaurant, recently or in the past, please submit to the email address listed below. Woodbine

936-241-5003

woodbineinnandrestaurant.com

Overheard conversation between 2nd grade boys: “Do you think you’ll ever fall in love?”

“I don’t know. I think if she likes pancakes, then probably.”

WC Auto Center Complete Auto Repair

Serving Huntsville Since 1997

I bought my son a book about bats, and halfway through it, he shouted out, “WHAT??? BATS ARE REAL?!?!” All this time, he thought they were made up for Halloween like ghosts and witches.

I asked my toddler what was in the box she was holding. “Chaos!” she replied. “Chaos! chaos!”

I know she’s trying to say ”crayons,” but it’s not like she’s wrong.

~ Rachelle M.

Our 6-year old: I woke up.

Me: Um, good job?

6-year old: Thanks. I’m done for today.

My 4-year old daughter asked my wife: Mommy, why is your bra in daddy’s car?

Me: What!? (My wife hasn’t been in my car in weeks.) There is no bra in my car!!

Kid: Ya huh, cup thingie with straps! We all go to garage & look in car to find this:

Living with Children

By: John K. Rosemond www.rosemond.com

Who Decides Choices — Parent or Child?

My wife and I were enjoying an evening out in one of our favorite restaurants when a family of three—mother, father, girl of perhaps four— were shown to a table next to ours. Immediately, the parents began asking the little one where she wanted to sit. They both stood while she went about trying each chair until she finally settled on one. As soon as everyone sat, she wanted to move, so she and her father exchanged seats. This entire process took several minutes. Then the parents began reading to her from the menu and asking her what she wanted to eat. She was obviously having difficulty deciding, so her parents began making suggestions. Her parents went through the process again…and again…and again.

Finally, she seemed to make a decision--which the parents conveyed to the very patient waitperson. Then, the little girl wanted to change seats, so they all played musical chairs once

again. When the food came, the girl began whining, so they played musical entrees. Such is the stuff of nouveau, post-1960s parenting, central to which is the notion that children should be given choices. When asked why this should be the case, liberal parenting pundits will say things like, “So children learn how to make choices,” and, “So children learn that their opinions count.,” Funny. My parents never gave me choices about such things as what I was going to eat, or where I was going to sit in a restaurant. Yet, I grew up capable of making choices. Have you ever heard a child say, “My parents give me lots of choices, and because of that, I feel I have value”? No, you haven’t. That is not at all reflective of how children think.

My parents made lots of choices for me. As an adult, I’ve made good choices, and I’ve made bad choices. That’s life. I see no evidence that

today’s young people (many if not most of whom grew up with parents who let them decide where to sit, what they wanted to eat, and so on) have an improved capacity for decision-making. In fact, the escalating age of emancipation suggests they have difficulty making any decisions at all beyond what website they’re going to visit next.

A child does not learn self-control unless his parents first set and enforce clear boundaries. Likewise, a child learns to make reasonably good decisions by being the beneficiary of parents who model authoritative decisionmaking. This is nothing more complicated than good parent leadership, which many of today’s parents are afraid to deliver for fear their children won’t like their decisions and therefore won’t like them.

When all is said and done, letting children make lots of choices is really letting children be in control of things they have no business being in control of. The girl in question would be a happier camper if her parents simplified her life by taking the reins of leadership. Children accept leadership. They abuse control. They don’t mean to, but that’s beside the point.

May 4th – National Day of Prayer

Dr. Alvin Jones, Volunteer Coordinator

The National Day of Prayer is “centered in the Lord Jesus Christ to mobilize united community and personal prayer for our country. It is a day that transcends differences, bringing together citizens from all backgrounds. Our country has a long history of national prayers for our people:

• 1775 - The Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer and Fasting which preceded the founding of our country.

• 1883 - President Abraham Lincoln called for a National Day of Prayer to heal the division of our country.

• 1952 - President Harry S. Truman declared a National Day of Prayer and signed a law establishing the date that was passed by the House and Senate with a unanimous vote.

Current surveys of our people reveal that 7075% believe that our country is headed in the wrong direction. But in our history, when our country drifted away from God, “We the people” have experienced “Great Spiritual Awakenings” on four occasions:

• 1734 - Prior to the founding of our country and our victory in the Revolutionary War.

• 1784 - Spiritual Awakening broke out on college campuses and spread through our land.

• 1858 - The Third Great Spiritual Awakening occurred prior to the Civil War.

• 1904-5 - The Fourth Awakening preceded the “Great Wars.”

History demonstrates when we as a people come together in obedient prayers to God, He brings about a changed culture. Community members are urged to join in prayers for our country.

Come together to pray for our community and nation May 4th at the Walker County Fairgrounds.

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon

Free sack lunch served/special music.

12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m.

Community prayers offered by leaders from our churches, schools, workplaces, families, and government.

After 1:00 p.m., you are invited to join a prayer group of your interest.

By Kim Bius

Gardening Terminology

Spring is here, and everyone has the fever to plant, dig and shop! If you are new to the world of gardening, do not worry about asking questions, seasoned gardeners will welcome them and share information.

Beware of “plant Karens” (plant snobs of the gardening world). These folks are easily identified (male and female) and may ridicule and chastise your efforts--and often know just enough gardening info to be dangerous. The beauty of gardening is in the experience, so feel free to make mistakes and always be in “learning mode.” To get your feet on the ground and build your confidence while shopping, the following garden terminology will be helpful.

damage below 45 degrees. These plants are evergreen in their native habitat and can be seen flourishing in the Caribbean countries and South America.

Determinate vs. Indeterminate Tomatoes --

Annual – The term is often given to bedding plants that will live their entire life cycle in one year and require replanting each year! Cool weather annuals are planted in mid-late October, and warm weather annuals in midlate spring. Do not shy away from annuals;

they are the jewels in every garden and will make it pop. Our growing season is about 6-9 months, and they are definitely worth the expense. Some annuals purchased at box stores “play out” too early. Growers have to meet the demands of large chains and will hit the plants at the seed stage with heavy fertilizers to be shelf ready quickly. You may save a bit up front, but you will pay more on the repurchase.

Reseeding Annual – These will drop seeds and return the following year to grace your garden. Plants such as bluebonnets, zinnias, and vinca are prime examples of reseeding annuals. Ensure these plants are in an area that will stay undisturbed, and they will return year after year.

Perennial – These plants are often deciduous (lose their leaves in the winter months) to return each year in spring. Many perennials are “late,” and folks tend to lose patience and discard before giving them a chance to return. Ornamental grass is a prime example, returning as late as May.

Tropical – This is an industry slang term used to refer to a large group of plants that will not survive freezing temperatures and often incur

Tomato plants generally fall into one of these two categories. Determinate (bush) tomato plants are bred to stop growing around 3-4 feet tall. When flowers blossom at the tips of the branches, the plant has reached its full height. The fruit of a determinate tomato plant ripens all at once. This type of plant is useful for those who want to grow tomatoes for canning. They can also be ideal for the small-space gardener. Indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow seemingly indefinitely. Depending on the variety, they can grow from 6-20 tall. This type continues to produce tomatoes all growing season until a hard frost hits and stops them in their tracks. These plants are particularly desirable if you’d like a continuous harvest for slicing or salad tomatoes. If canning, you may need a few more indeterminate plants so that you have plenty to can at any one time.

Self-Pollinator – In the world of fruit trees, certain varieties do not require a second tree’s pollen to produce fruit--figs, citrus, Santa Rosa Plums, blueberries, grapes and a few others.

My personal favorite are the terms Native and Hardy The assumptions and misunderstandings on these terms are

legendary. Independent garden center buyers spend countless hours choosing plant varieties that will thrive in their climate--taking soils, weather conditions, ease of growth, deer proof, freeze dates, and light requirements into consideration, among a host of other qualities. A native plant in the Austin area often will not thrive in our woodlands, acid-

based area and vice versa. You will miss out on too many amazing plant varieties if you stay with this. Keep in mind, we are in a woodland environment, and what is growing naturally in area also grows from East Texas through Georgia. The past few winters have made the term hardy almost useless. Why? Plants for our zone were not created for single digit temperatures, but they will withstand immense heat and humidity. Plants that easily sustain temps to zero degrees cannot withstand our high soil temperatures and heat, with a few exceptions.

Shade Plants – These plants will thrive in morning sun only and shady after 12:30 to 1:00. Intense shade refers to less than 4 hours of dappled or reflected light-areas. If grass will not grow, this is always a good indicator

of high shade.

Full Sun – Plants require 8 hours or more of direct, unfiltered sunlight--such as fruit trees, crops, roses, and a large list of others.

Spring has sprung, and I hope you are enjoying this glorious season of gardening.

Wildlife Wonders

WHEN MOCKING IS GOOD

By Cheryl Conley

Lake Creek Preserve Board of Directors

Texas is home to many firsts. Some are more well-known than others, like being home to the first domed stadium, the Astrodome, which opened in 1965. Another example is being the location of the worst natural disaster is U.S. history—the 1900 Galveston hurricane that killed over 8,000 people. Lesser-known firsts are the invention of the frozen margarita in Dallas in 1971. That person should be given a medal! Pecos, Texas, was home to the first rodeo in 1883. The word “superbowl” was first used in Texas in 1966. In 1927, Texas became the first state to designate a state bird. The Texas Legislature decided the northern mockingbird would be the most appropriate to hold the title because it is “a fighter for the protection of his home, falling, if need be, in its defense, like any true Texan.” There are now four other states that have named the mockingbird their state bird--Tennessee, Florida, Mississippi, and Arkansas.

From the late 1700s to the early 1900s, mockingbirds were captured and sold as pets. It is believed this is the reason the birds became scarce during that time, almost to the point of extinction. Mockingbird populations are now stable.

“Mockers” got their name from their ability to imitate the sounds of other animals. The scientific name for this bird is Mimuspolyglottos which means “many-tongued mimic.” Males sing day and night and especially enjoy vocalizing on moonlit nights. Amazingly, not only can they whistle and trill, they can also mimic other sounds--like a creaking gate, a car alarm, a dog barking, a chirping cricket, and frogs and toads, repeating each sound three to six times.

Mockers are fearless when protecting their nests. During nesting season, they will fearlessly chase away predators by diving at them, flapping their wings, and pecking at them. One observer reported seeing a mocker deliver 30 minutes of repeated blows to the head of a snake in an attempt to protect its nest. There are many stories of mockingbirds divebombing cats and dogs. Real or imagined, it doesn’t seem to matter how large the predators are. The mockingbird will take them on! In many instances, the animals aren’t even posing a threat. You might even see a mockingbird chasing squirrels. It’s as if the birds enjoy teasing other animals. Think they won’t divebomb you? Yes, they will.

During mating season, males will lift their wings to display his white underparts. He’ll move his tail up and down, make a soft cooing sound and may even try to impress the female by running back and forth in front of her with a twig.

Both males and females share nest-building activities. The male will gather nesting materials, and the female will build the nest. The nest can be completed in as little as one day, or it can take three or four days. The female will lay up to six eggs, and incubation is from ten to fourteen days. The babies stay in the nest for about a week while both mom and dad care for them. The young ones stay closeby for several more days before gaining their independence.

Other fun facts about the northern mockingbird:

• Mockingbirds have adapted to city life. Lawns and parks make perfect hunting grounds for insects.

• They are about 9-11 inches long. Males and females look identical, but the female is a little smaller and has a little less white in her feathers.

• A female mocker set a record of laying 27 eggs in one season!

• In the book Birds of America, John James Audubon wrote about the bird’s singing ability. He wrote, “There is probably no bird in the world that possesses all the musical qualifications of this king of song, who has derived all from Nature’s self.”

• There are sixteen bird species with the name “mockingbird.” The northern mockingbird is the only one native to the United States.

Take some time to stop and listen to nature. Chances are you’ll hear a mocker.

by Wes Altom

That One Sheep…

If you’ve ever felt sad, misunderstood, isolated, beaten down, friendless, overcome by the world; felt like a failure; or felt like a loser when it comes to resisting temptation…you’re not alone. But even if you were…

We belong to the Good Shepherd, who will leave his flock of 99 sheep to go rescue that one sheep who is all alone and has wandered away. And, as in the parable he told in Luke 15, rejoices and celebrates when that lost sheep is found.

“Lord, Thou hast here Thy ninety and nine; Are they not enough for Thee?”

But the Shepherd made answer: “This of Mine Has wandered away from Me.

And although the road be rough and steep, I go to the desert to find My sheep.”

From the Poem The Ninety and Nine

By Elizabeth Clephane,

1868

Like a shepherd he takes care of his flock. He gathers the lambs in his arms. He carries them in his arms. He gently helps the sheep and their lambs. Isaiah 40:11