Postcards
Lake Conroe
Publisher’s Post
New Year, Take Two
I’ve always believed we get two chances each year to start fresh.
There’s the obvious one in January—with fireworks, countdowns, black-eyed peas, and the best of intentions that tend to fade before we’ve even hung up the new calendar.
And then there’s August.
August doesn’t come with party hats or parades. But for as long as I can remember, the start of the school year has felt like a second “New Year”—one filled with fresh notebooks, full planners, new routines, and a sense that this might be the year we finally get our act together.
Maybe it’s the feel of a clean desk. Maybe it’s just the shift in rhythm. But come August, I always get the itch to straighten up my space, clean out a file folder, or finally tackle that project I’ve been putting off since, well…January.
I’m a list maker. Always have been. It’s one of my “strengths” (according to a personality test I took while procrastinating something else). There’s just something satisfying about seeing a to-do list with checkmarks next to all the tasks. In fact, I’ve been known to write something down after I’ve already done it, just for the sheer pleasure of highlighting it. Don’t judge. I know I’m not alone.
There’s a word I recently discovered that made me laugh out loud because it’s exactly what I do: procrastiworking. It’s when you put off the work you’re supposed to be doing by working on something else that feels productive—but isn’t exactly urgent. Like color-coding your inbox instead of replying to emails. Or reorganizing your office drawer instead of preparing that presentation. Or writing a column about lists when you’re supposed to be processing payroll.
But here’s what I’ve learned: sometimes, procrastiworking leads to the kind of productivity that actually matters—the kind that restores a little peace, clears a little space, and reminds you that progress doesn’t always come in straight lines.
So here’s to New Year, Part Two.
To fresh starts, blank pages, and highlighters…to doing the hard things (eventually)…and to writing “make a list” on your list—just so you can highlight it done.
Until next time,
Progress doesn’t always come in straight lines— sometimes it takes the scenic route past your highlighter collection.”
houstonmethodist.org/orthopedics 713.790.3333
I
don't like reading
I read Postcards Magazine EVERY month, cover to cover. That says a lot, because I don’t even like to read. Between my Sunday school lesson, fishing and hunting, working in my garden, and taking care of chores, I just don’t have time for much reading. The only book I read is the Bible, and the only magazine I read is Postcards Magazine.”
Jerry Reed
Caught by surprise
In the Lake Conroe June 2025 edition of Postcards, the article "The Kroger Dogs" caught me by surprise. Several months ago, while leaving my grandkids home in Willis, I stopped to buy something at Willis Kroger and as I came out, this gorgeous huskie ran up to me and from a distance, looked in my eyes then ran away just as fast. I spoke to a Kroger employee who told me there were two of these beauties running about. I had to get back, but have thought often about them and wondered what happened to them. Thank you for this article and the happy ending for the K9
family. My heart was touched by this story and my mind put to ease. The family in New York must be special people. Hope the puppies have a great home as well.”
Sylvia Acker
Wonderful
The article was so wonderful, and I want to thank you again for such a terrific opportunity! I am so grateful and pray God’s best over your family and all your endeavors.
Mary Gautreaux
P COMMUNITY BUILDERS
Hives Heroesfor
Empowering our nation’s heroes to continue service through beekeeping.
STORY AND
AtBY TRACY DOWNEY
913 East Oak Street in Houston, a little white house sits sheltered between two gated townhouse communities. This is the headquarters of Hives for Heroes, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit. The narrow front door opens to a mighty-sized network stocked with $250 cases of Texas Tallow and Wildflower Honey harvested by veterans. What once began as a party of twelve has
now grown into 9,000 members across 32 states. Hives is on a mission to save honeybees from extinction, increase the national food supply, and prevent suicide by giving veterans and first responders a continued purpose to serve…and a sweet life. Postcards sat down with four members of Hives for Heroes (including one from New Waverly!) to discuss the buzz surrounding their growing notoriety.
attaching the white “Heroes for Honey” label to each $20 amber-colored bottle.
How long have you been affiliated with Hives for Heroes?
About a year and a half. My wife sent me an article from a magazine and said, “Why not try this?” So, I came down
Mike Bussman
my zippers. <laughs> I went home, took a shower, and my wife and daughter picked fifty y notoriety.
Diagnosed with MS Bussman is a retired U and a former stockbro hand-cranks the labe
for fifteen years, U.S. Navy veteran stockbroker. He slowly label machine, gently
Troy pumps cedar smoke into the air to calm the bees. Why this? one day, and I’ve been coming ever r since.
T smo
Tell us about your first time the bee yard.
PHOTOS
stingers out of my head. But it’s been a lot of fun and educational. I learn something new every day.
How has Hives for Heroes transformed your life?
When I showed up here, it was like coming home. I’ve heard about men without this built-in group. They’re lost, and I feel bad for them. This organization allows you to have a purpose.
Cleveland Glenn
A retired, soft-spoken U.S. Army Sergeant, Glenn served in the Gulf War and is a resident of Houston’s Fifth Ward. He points to the slogan on his white T-shirt: ‘21 healthy benefits of raw honey.’ After his mother passed in 2011, Glenn began his journey in community farming. Then in 2020, COVID-19 hit, and his master gardener passed away. Soon after, Glenn’s son met Jimenez, and they eventually met up. Glenn, a corporate beekeeper, gives back to his community through networking with Hives for Heroes honey and assisting his aunt in distributing food to the Fifth Ward.
Talk about your purpose with Hives.
One morning, I was going to work and asked God to feed abused and oppressed, financially poor people of the world. A voice that sounded like the one in the movie The Blues Brothers told me, “YOU do it.” God promoted me from the dirt to the water to the plain. We did hydroponic gardens inside a forty-foot trailer.
Share your first experience with the bees.
I joined Steve (the founder) at headquarters. He had five hives in the backyard. Troy (who handles IT) was my mentor. Best honey I ever had. I said, “I don’t know tech, but I know how to sell.”
How do you sell the honey?
Word of mouth and my T-shirt. I have a couple of partners that help as well.
Steve Jimenez
The founder of Hives for Heroes, Jimenez is a retired U.S. Marine.
You started Hives for Heroes in Houston. How did you spread the word across the country? We call ourselves a word-of-mouth
Mike Bussman gently attaching the white "Heros for Honey" label
Cleveland Glenn, Troy Yard & Steve Jimenez strategize on a new marketing campaign.
Hives for Heroes members indicated on a U.S. map.
network that brings a lot of people with a lot of skillsets together in a singular mission to stop suicide. It’s a peer-topeer mentorship platform. There are 9,000 members across the country, with 1,700 of those in Texas.
Do you promote events?
On July 5th, we have a bottling event In Houston at the American Legion from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm, and we have a gala in the first part of November.
What is the cost of a start-up?
It doesn’t cost a veteran anything. No shipping, no handling, no anything. We take care of it all at headquarters, and they get a percentage of the sales. Whether it’s getting started or benefits like education, we say, “No excuses.” That’s what we call removing financial barriers and roadblocks for their success.
The organization is supported through product sales and a growing list of sponsors, including Hewlett Packard Enterprises, Rice University, Texas AgriLife Extension Center, Kodiak Gas, HEB, and the University of Florida.
Share about product quality.
80% of the honey sold in stores is filtrated, imported, is heated, and has no pollen content. It’s sugar water. So, we’re providing a premium product at a pretty darn good deal for you to take care of your health.
Have you talked about selling your honey in stores like HEB?
Yes, HEB are good friends of ours. They
provide a tremendous amount of money and scholarships to our organization. The truth is, the hands of a veteran touch every bit of this organization. That is more important to us than money.
Troy Yard
A U.S. Army Veteran, Yard is a corporate beekeeper from New Waverly and the IT Web Developer for Hives.
Working at headquarters, you seem to touch just about every aspect of Hives.
On the administrative side, that’s true. The sales piece really started with Cleveland. Mike served as the bottler, and Cleveland grabs cases and goes out there and spreads the news.
When it comes to communication, Hives has a monthly nationwide meet up on Zoom. We’ll also have YouTube live events where we’ll have a prominent beekeeper do an interview.
How do you view the mission of Hives?
All the money goes back to veterans in many ways. The Bee More Scholarship is for secondary beekeepers. They can win a thousand dollars to continue their education. The Bee U Scholarship is for every veteran and first responder to become a master beekeeper. We have an affiliation with all thirteen schools. Connection, purpose, relationship, and service. That’s our mission. We connect veterans and first responders with beekeepers to give them a purpose while they’re learning to serve our nation by taking care of bees.
Without bees, we have no food, and we have no you.
Do natural disasters and pesticides impact beekeeping?
Absolutely. Commercial beekeepers lost 62% of their bees last year. In North Carolina last year, we had a huge loss of bees and sent money directly to beekeepers within our organization to help them reestablish their apiaries. Everything we do in this organization is always for those out there supporting and providing for this nation.
What is your theory about beekeeping helping veterans?
In the military, when chaos happens, we calm down; we relax. We stay focused (much like bees). We quickly assess a situation, because that’s where we feel at home.
We need ‘m&ms’—money and mentors. Sign up and become a mentor in a veteran or first responder’s life.”
Whenever asked how many veterans he wants to join Hives for Heroes, founder Steve Jiminez always says, “Just one more.” For more information, to donate, or if you’re a veteran or first responder and would like to become involved, visit hivesforheroes.org
Dear Gabby
Welcome back to the August edition of the Dear Gabby advice column. Don’t blame me for the weather; I tried to warn you in July that Texas was just preheating. Looking for a hot date? Pick any date in August. They don’t get much hotter than that. Keep calm and stay cool. The good news is that summer (in Texas), too, shall pass. It may pass like a kidney stone, but it will pass. Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share.
DEAR GABBY
There is a lot of discussion regarding artificial intelligence in the news lately. What do you think about AI and how it will affect us in the future?
COULD USE A LITTLE BOOST
DEAR BOOSTER
I don’t think AI will be accepted widespread in Texas. A local Texas bank tried it in their drive-thru. I was going to give it a go, and the automated teller asked, “Hello, how can I assist you today?’ I replied, “Withdrawal.” Miss AI teller spoke again. “How are y’all doin’? What do you reckon I can help ya with today?” It’ll never work.
Gabby
CONFIDENTIAL TO “HOW DO YOU DECIDE?:
DEAR GABBY
I recently married a very nice man, after a whirlwind romance. My new husband decided he would question me about my previous dating history. I think, if he wanted statistics, he should have thought about that before we married! I am a faithful wife, and I’m not comfortable with having this conversation now.
YESTERDAY’S GONE
DEAR GONER
During our courtship, my husband/hero Dud asked me if he was the only one I ever dated. I honestly answered, “No, there were a couple of sevens and eights.” He never caught on that the statement wasn’t very complimentary to him. But he has many other redeeming qualities, and we’re still happily married!
Gabby
That’s a no-brainer. You know how, when you buy a bag of salad, it gets all brown and soggy? Cookies don’t do that.
Postcardslive.com
Submitted by: Brian B. Smith, CFP®, Bryan M. Masten, CFP® & Riley W.
The Removal of the Windfall Elimination Provision: What It Means for Retirees
The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), a controversial rule within the U.S. Social Security system, has long affected the retirement benefits of public employees who also worked in nonSocial Security-covered jobs. However, recent legislative developments have brought an end to WEP, signaling significant changes for millions of retirees.
The WEP was introduced in 1983 as part of a broader Social Security reform effort. Its purpose was to prevent “double-dipping” — receiving full Social Security benefits while also drawing pensions from employment not covered by Social Security, such as certain federal, state, or local government jobs. Under the WEP, affected individuals saw a reduction in their Social Security benefits, sometimes amounting to hundreds of dollars per month. This often came as a surprise to retirees who had paid into Social Security for part of their careers and expected full benefits.
In response to these concerns, bipartisan efforts in Congress have pushed for years to eliminate the WEP. After considerable advocacy from unions, retiree associations, and individual citizens, Congress passed legislation in January 2025 repealing the Windfall Elimination Provision. This means that individuals who previously had their Social Security benefits reduced due to the WEP will now receive their full benefits, and retroactive payments will be made to cover the reductions since January 2024.
With the WEP removed, individuals who qualify for both a public pension and Social Security benefits from other employment will now receive their full Social Security benefit based on their actual earnings history. This change is expected to increase monthly Social Security payments for approximately 2 million Americans, with average monthly increases ranging from $150 to $400, depending on the individual’s work record and pension amount.
The repeal also simplifies the retirement planning process. Financial advisors and individuals alike will no longer need to account for the unpredictable impact of the WEP, making retirement income projections more accurate and transparent.
While the removal of the WEP represents a major shift in Social Security policy, it also raises questions about long-term funding for the system. Lawmakers have indicated that the cost of repeal will be offset through other adjustments to Social Security’s funding mechanisms, ensuring the system remains solvent.
The elimination of the Windfall Elimination Provision is a welcome change for many retirees who have been subject to reduced benefits. It restores fairness and transparency to the system and honors the service of those who dedicated their careers to public service. Please give us a call at Global Financial Partners if you have any questions regarding the WEP, as we have helped many clients navigate this complex landscape. Let us be your “Financial Partner for Life.”
Smith, CFP®
Tasty Bites
Tirmoussa Semifreddo
Frozen Italian Coffee Dessert
INGREDIENTS
4 large eggs, separated
2 ½ tsp instant dark roast coffee
½ cup white sugar
1 Tbs marsala wine
¼ pinch salt
1 ¼ cups heavy cream
small amount of cocoa or shaved chocolate (for garnish)
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Combine egg yolks, instant dark roast coffee, marsala wine, and sugar in a metal bowl and whisk together until smooth.
Step 2: Place bowl in the top of a double boiler over lightly simmering water. Whisk constantly until mixture thickens and drippings from the whisk form ribbons on the surface that are visible for 1/2 second to 1 second (about 10 minutes).
Step 3: Beat egg whites in a glass, metal, or ceramic bowl until foamy. Gradually add salt and continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
Step 4: Beat heavy cream in a chilled glass or metal bowl with an electric mixer until medium-stiff peaks form.
Step 5: Using a spatula, fold in egg yolk mixture until combined.
Step 6: Add half of the egg whites and fold in until combined. Then fold in remaining egg whites until well combined.
Step 7: Transfer mixture into small 4 ounce jam jars and close with lids. Freeze for 4 hours or overnight. Garnish before serving.
COOK’S NOTES:
This can be also made by pouring the mixture into a cold, plastic lined loaf pan, and then served by cutting it into slices once frozen.
Shaved chocolate, cookie crumbs, or crushed candy bars can be folded in at the end for a more decadent dessert.
Tasty Bites
Club Chicken Pasta Salad
INGREDIENTS
8 oz macaroni or corkscrew-shaped pasta
¾ cup Italian-style salad dressing or to taste
¼ cup mayonnaise
2 cups chopped, cooked rotisserie chicken
12 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled
8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cubed Muenster cheese
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 avocado - peeled, pitted, and chopped
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook pasta in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 10 to12 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Step 2: Whisk Italian-style dressing and mayonnaise together in a large bowl.
Step 3: Stir in pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cheese, celery, green bell pepper, and avocado until evenly coated.
Glorious Grandchildren
Adrián (panchito) Vargas
Grandchild of Obdulia Roble
Israel Valentin
Grandchild of Debbie McDonald
Ellen Jupiter Ness
Grandchild of Heike Ness
The Garden Post
Get that Garden Started
Did you know the fall planting season starts on August 1st? Till under the spring/summer garden and refresh the soil with an additional 1-2” of compost/ humus. Rake the garden clean of plant debris and get started.
Ideal garden spots should have a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight, water easily accessible, no animal access (deer and rabbits mostly), and the area is not a low spot that holds water.
Don’t have time to do a full garden? Tuck those tomatoes, beans, and squash into the rose garden and they will do great. Limited on space and only have a balcony? No problem. I have seen bumper crops of tomatoes literally grown in a 40 lb potting soil bag with holes punched in the bottom for drainage. Where there is a will, there is a way (nobody ever said redneck doesn’t...it’s just not attractive).
Here are a few frequently asked questions…remember, everyone starts somewhere on their gardening journey.
*Isn’t it just too hot? For us, it can be miserable, but for seeds, it is perfect.
* If planting directly in the ground, should the area be raised? The row or mound should be elevated for better drainage and the lower area makes a great reservoir for water.
*Is planting veggies hard to do? No, it is quite simple. Maintaining the garden takes a bit more effort, but the reward is incredible and gratifying.
*What if I fail and it’s a disaster? So what if you do?! Fear has no place in gardening, and you never fail if you never quit.
Here are some timing guidelines for small fall gardens from the Texas A&M website:
• Beets – 30-60 days to harvest
• Broccoli – over 80 days to harvest (starter plants cannot be planted until late Sept. or Oct. due to the heat)
• Beans – 30-60 days to harvest
• Bush squash – 30-60 days till harvest
Kim Bius
President, Kim's Home & Garden Center
• Cabbage – 60-90 days till harvest, but tolerates cold weather
• Carrot – 60-90 (but not a great choice for our area)
• Eggplant – 80 days until harvest (but does better in the spring)
• English pea – 55-75 days till harvest and prefer cooler temps.
• Garlic - generally planted in fall and harvested in May
• Green bean – 50-65 days from seed till harvest
• Herbs – harvest within 30 days (only cut off what you need, never pull up the plant)
• Lettuce – 30-45 days, depending on variety
• Onion – onion sets take about 80 days and from seed 110 days
• Parsley – 30-45 days
• Pepper – 60-90 days, depending on variety
• Radish – 30-60 days till harvest (easy to grow)
• Spinach – 30 days, prefer cooler temps and need more shade in August
• Tomato – 45-65 days till harvest, depending on variety and heat
Our first freeze date is generally late November. In the past 40 years, I have seen the first killing freeze as early as Halloween and as late as January. Weather in 2025 has proven to be at best “unpredictable.” (The first freeze date is noted so you can have your early veggies and fruits (tomatoes) harvested prior.)
This gardener is excited about the fall season. It is my favorite time of year. With a garden, it just might become yours, too. Happy Gardening!
Tuesday to Saturday
9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday Noon to 4:30 p.m. Scan
“Ten
Miles Outside Damascus”
After half a century, an eclectic Christian rock opera, in its own conversion experience, is revived into a modern musical.
OnMarch 21, 2025, Susan Kite was so nervous and excited, she could barely sit still. After seven years of pondering and prodding—and some might even say pestering—”Ten Miles Outside Damascus,” a Christian musical, was about to premiere. Even though Susan was in the audience, she had a starring role.
A Meaningful Performance
In 1972, Susan was a junior high student in Humble when her brother, Dr. Michael Davis, played Paul in Paul:
A Rock Opera at First Baptist Church of Humble. David Meece, a musical prodigy and native of Humble, composed the rock opera while he was a student at Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, Maryland (now the Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University).
“At the time in our culture in America, the word ‘love’ was being thrown around in everything,” David says. He wanted to write songs about what love really meant, so he studied the Bible. “I began writing a
musical about love and it led me to 1 Corinthians 13. I read it repeatedly. I put it on the wall of my dormitory. First Corinthians 13 was written by Paul, and I read somewhere it may have been the culmination of his encounter with Jesus on the way to Damascus.”
So, David wrote one song after another about Paul’s conversion on the way to Damascus. Underlying each song was the subtext of love.
David had grown up playing the piano at First Baptist Church of Humble, working often with Dr. Jack Taylor, a local dentist and an
STORY AND PHOTOS BY RUTH FIELDS
accomplished musician who directed the church’s youth choir. The choir, chock-full of All-Area and All-State Choir members, had performed several musicals. So, David decided to write some songs specifically for them. “I sent the music back to Dr. Taylor, and he said, ‘Keep going,’” David says. “The whole thing turned into a full-length rock opera, and we performed it in the summer of 1973.” The choir took Paul: A Rock Opera throughout Texas, and it was featured at a national youth
conference in Glorieta, New Mexico.
Shortly after the rock opera’s debut, David’s career exploded. He was offered a recording contract with a major recording company and subsequently recorded 15 albums. He ultimately recorded more than thirty top ten hits, including several number-one songs. His signature song, We Are the Reason, has been performed in several languages by more than 200 artists. David was inducted into the Christian Music Hall of Fame in 2008 and was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Artists Music Guild in 2012.
While pursuing his solo recording career, David left the only copy of Paul: A Rock Opera, a
hand-written manuscript, in Humble. It was later destroyed in a house fire, but during David’s prolific career, there wasn’t much time for him to lament the loss. “And by the time I finished my recording career,” he says with a chuckle, “I was old!”
From the Ashes
Over the years, Susan thought about the rock opera which had been so inspirational to her as a teenager. “It was just so different,” she
Susan Kite, David Meece, & Denny Willen
says. “The music was raw and edgy with the rock band instrumentation, and it pushed the envelope of what was the norm in Christian music. Plus, the scenes of the stoning of Stephen and Paul’s physical persecution of the Christians were jarring. Paul was so arrogant and sure of the law and how the Christians were blasphemous in their worship of Jesus, but the love and empathy shown to him through the persecutions unnerves him. I found myself identifying with Paul and trying to grasp the concept of a loving savior who would die on a cross for our sins. I think every Christian has experienced these thoughts, and to see it played out on stage was powerful.”
Susan doesn’t really remember how she acquired a cassette tape of a performance of the rock opera, but she listened to it now and then, wondering about a gap in the recording. (She later realized that someone had taped over part of the original recording with a guitar solo.)
In 2018, Susan was one of the most tenured members of the Kingwood Pops Orchestra (KPO), a community orchestra affiliated with Lone Star College-Kingwood. Susan, a clarinetist, had been playing with the orchestra since its second concert in 1994; she was also the orchestra’s librarian and had served on its board of directors. At the time, Jack (the dentist who had directed the choir in Paul: A Rock Opera) was in his eighties, but was still playing violin in the orchestra. Susan often talked to Jack before and after rehearsals about the feasibility of resurrecting the rock opera.
She then approached Dr. Dennis “Denny” Willen, a resident of The Woodlands, who was nearing
retirement after a long career as a geophysicist. Although quiet and unassuming, Denny is a talented trumpeter with a fascination for the technical aspects of music, like chords and rhythms. After joining KPO in 2007, Denny experimented with arranging, ultimately arranging several pieces for KPO. He read books by professionals to learn more about the methodology. According to KPO’s conductor, Dr. Robert Hunt, Denny has become a prodigious arranger “with a remarkable ear for instrumental combinations.”
So, Susan bounced an idea off Denny. Would he be willing to listen to the rock opera and transcribe the songs? By this time, Jack had discovered a reel-to-reel recording of the Glorietta performance in a closet cubbyhole.
Denny hadn’t really planned to transcribe and arrange every song, but one song led to another, and when he was almost finished, he decided to carry the project to completion. He even wrote a few original compositions to fill gaps. “In order to make it performable, I tried to take melodies that David had written and twist them into something that would fit that action,” he says. “
Along the way, Denny learned that David, even in his twenties, had been a versatile, eclectic musician. There were nearly 30 songs in the rock opera with varying styles, including rock, swing, pop, and Latin. “I leaned into whatever I heard on every song. When I finished, I thought, ‘this isn’t very homogenous, is it?’ But that’s David’s style.”
Meanwhile, David was pleased that Susan had plans to resurrect his compositions. “It was a joy to hear it. It brought back memories. I didn’t know
how she could possibly do it,” he says. “She did it! I am just so overjoyed that it’s being used today.”
As Denny’s work progressed, Susan thought ahead, sending brochures and letters to 25 theaters around the country. Several were interested, but one suggested updating it by converting it to a musical. So, Susan wrote a script, adding details to make the songs easier for modern audiences to understand. In addition, based on one of the pivotal songs, she changed the title to Ten Miles Outside Damascus. In 2024, Larry Joost of Christ Memorial Productions in St. Louis, MO, a fan of David Meece, agreed to present the musical at Christ Memorial Lutheran Church. It had been more than 50 years since the songs were originally composed.
Susan and Denny both attended the premiere of Ten Miles Outside Damascus in St. Louis. Susan was thrilled when the audience clapped along with the last song and commended the cast and musicians with a standing ovation. She was especially pleased when Denny received accolades for his work on reviving the music. Denny humbly deflected praise, saying, “Susan has been the spark plug behind the project.”
Susan and Denny were also glad that David himself, the composer of the original songs, was able to attend the premiere. David was wowed. “Kudos to Denny,” he said. “The arrangements were wonderful—the whole orchestra, choir, production. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was wonderful. It was one of the most memorable things of my entire life,” he says. “I will never forget seeing it performed again. I was just sitting there and had a huge grin on my face.”
Cast members Thomas Wilson, John Jauss & David Fiedler
Cast members Carson Lee, Madi Moyer, John Jauss & Jacklyn Stephens
Cast members Jamie Raliegh, Thomas Wilson & David Fiedler
Medical Matters
Heat and Sun Safety
August is the heart of summer—barbecues, fishing trips, pool days, and family vacations. But as a local family medicine doctor, I want to remind everyone it also brings a few health risks we shouldn’t ignore.
Every year, I see patients with problems that are often preventable: heat exhaustion, dehydration, severe sunburns, and even early signs of skin damage that can lead to cancer down the road. The good news? A few simple precautions can make all the difference.
Let’s talk about two big concerns this time of year: heat safety and sun safety When it’s pushing 100 degrees and the humidity is sky-high, your body has to work extra hard to stay cool. It’s easier than you think to become dehydrated or overheated.
Dehydration often creeps up on people who are active outdoors. By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be behind. Children and older adults are particularly vulnerable because they might not recognize thirst or heat stress as quickly.
with symptoms like confusion, a body temperature over 103°F, hot and dry skin, or loss of consciousness. This is a medical emergency—call 911 right away.
Another important strategy: plan your outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower. Don’t be shy about taking breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Check on elderly neighbors or family members who might not have reliable cooling.
The other big summer danger is the sun itself. Too much unprotected sun exposure can lead to painful burns now and serious skin problems later. Sunburn isn’t just uncomfortable— sunburn is a clear sign your skin’s DNA has been damaged Repeated burns,
Dr. Lane Aiena Family Practice
especially in childhood, increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous type.
UV rays can be strong even when it’s overcast. They also reflect off water, sand, and pavement, increasing your exposure.
The best protection? Consistent, proper use of sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it generously to all exposed skin 15 minutes before going outside. Don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of feet. Reapply every two hours (sooner if you’re swimming or sweating).
To stay hydrated, drink water consistently throughout the just when you’re parched Don’t on sugary drinks, sodas, or alcohol hydrate you—they can actually dehydration worse. Keep a water handy and take regular sips. Beyond hydration, know the of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and clammy skin. If you or someone develops these symptoms, move cooler place immediately. Drink loosen tight clothing, and apply cloths. Heat stroke is even more
he day, not rely to ally make bottle he signs weating, a, headache, omeone else to a rink water, pply cool, wet serious,
And dont u of shade durin
Protective clothing is another smart move: lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses that block UV rays can all help. For kids, rash guards or swim shirts with built-in SPF can save a lot of sunburn drama. And don’t underestimate the power during peak sun hours from 4p.m. Even a short break in can help your skin recover your overall UV exposure. Finally, keep an eye on your skin year-round. Get to know the spots and moles you already have, and look for changes: new growths, changes in color or size, or sores that won’t heal. If you notice anything concerning, see your doctor. Early detection makes all the difference when it comes to skin cancer.
10 a.m. to 4 p. the shade and lower yo t a y m w c lon heal to ma August da filled, and sun
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping you healthy, comfortable, and ready make the most of these warm days. Wishing you a safe, funsun-smart summer!
His Mercies are New Every Morning
by Faith Farris
This morning, I was reminded just how quickly life can change.
What started as a simple task, moving some of our cattle to drier land because the Trinity River had come out, turned into one of the most terrifying moments of my life. My Dad, cousin Reygan, boyfriend Will, and I had just watched a mama cow and her calf cross through water in the pasture where we were needing to go, so it looked safe enough. But once we followed, we knew instantly we had made a mistake.
The current was stronger than we had originally thought, and the water deeper. It took our horses with it; two of them were swept straight into a barbed wire fence that was under water. My foot got caught in that same fence as my horse was struggling to get free, current still trying to take us, swallowing river water myself. Not sure if you’ve ever nearly drowned before, but definitely don’t recommend it. We thought our horses were gone at this point with how much they were fighting, and I have never felt more helpless in my life.
We had already decided to let the horses go on their own, so Dad and Reygan’s horses passed the fence and swam to dry land unharmed. All we had to hold onto against the current was a post under the water. Dad saved the day, pulling my horse from the wire, and Will did the same for his. Having to watch those two animals swim for their lives after getting so tangled up was gut wrenching. One of them even ended up completely submerged, and all we saw was a saddle horn. Thankfully, she fought. I ended up freeing my foot, and Reygan then let the current carry her to dry land. When we saw that the horses had safely made it across, we knew we had to swim,
too. So, we did—through shock and heavy boots.
When we finally made it to dry land, our clothes were soaked, our horses were torn up from the barbed wire and in need of a vet, and our hearts were heavy and worn out. But we were alive. As we hand walked our horses to the trailer after fighting for our lives (horses included), I really thought to myself, “I actually just almost died.” Reygan then accidentally rustled something in the tall weeds, and out popped a brand new baby fawn. It took off running, and we both walked on, tears in our eyes. In that moment, I felt God speak to me.
“New life,” He said. A start over. A reminder. New life had literally just crossed our path. He was everywhere. All over our situation.
I’ve always lived for Christ. But life gets busy, and if I’m being completely honest, I haven’t been walking as closely with Him as I could be. This was a wake up call—loud, clear, and unforgettable. I truly believe God used this moment to remind me what matters most: living for Him, fully and completely, because we never know when our last day will be.
After losing my brother Kyle and my Uncle Mike this past year, this moment hit even deeper. I know they would want us to live to our fullest every day as well.
So let this be a reminder for you: live every day like it’s your last; love the people around you; (most importantly) walk with the Lord, because every day is a gift, and tomorrow is never promised.
Psalms 90:12 - “Teach us to number our days, so that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
Community Service Credit Union
Where members come first—for 70 years and counting.
BY MARSHALL ALTOM | PHOTOS BY TOM MILLER
In1954, deep in the heart of Huntsville, a group of 55 employees from the Texas Prison System came together to solve a problem. Traditional banks offered little flexibility to meet their financial needs. So, these forwardthinking individuals pooled just over $10,000—not to start a business, but to build something far more personal: a financial cooperative rooted in trust, shared goals, and service. They called it the Texas Prison Employees Credit Union, and its mission was simple—to help people
help each other financially. No stockholders. No corporate red tape. Just people looking out for people. Seven decades later, that same mission lives on under a new name: Community Service Credit Union (CSCU). While the name has changed, the heart hasn’t. “Our founding members were problem-solvers, says CEO Brenda Hooker. “They saw a need—financial flexibility and trust— and built something better than the traditional bank model. That’s still who we are.”
Carol is the Executive Vice President of Lending and Operations serving Montgomery County
A Different Kind of Financial Institution
Credit unions like CSCU are not-forprofit financial cooperatives. That means when CSCU makes money, it goes back to the members in the form of lower loan rates, fewer fees, higher dividends, and better service. Unlike banks, which are beholden to shareholders and focused on profits, credit unions exist solely to serve their members.
And joining is easier than ever. If you live, work, worship, or attend school in Montgomery, Walker, Trinity, Houston, Madison, San Jacinto, or Grimes County, you’re eligible to become a member. In fact, Montgomery County was added in 2023, expanding CSCU’s reach even further into the Lake Conroe area. That means many Postcards readers are now eligible to enjoy the benefits of credit union membership right in their own backyard.
There’s more—CSCU has preserved its original charter, so anyone employed by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) across the state can also become a member, no matter where they live.
Modern Banking, Built for Real Life
While CSCU’s roots are deeply local, its technology rivals that of any major financial institution. The credit union has embraced innovation to ensure members can access their accounts and services with ease—anytime, anywhere.
• Open accounts online in just a few clicks—no need to step foot in a branch.
• Deposit checks remotely using the mobile app’s intuitive check capture feature.
• Send money instantly with Zelle®, built directly into online and mobile banking.
an integrated, free credit monitoring tool.
• Set budgets, pay bills, and transfer funds from anywhere, 24/7. Their mobile banking app, available on both iOS and Android, has earned strong reviews from users and offers seamless access to everyday banking needs—plus security tools to keep your finances protected.
• Control your debit and credit cards— turn them on or off, set spending alerts, and track transactions in real time.
• Monitor your credit score through
Whether you’re paying the bills on your lunch break, sending money to your kids in college, or depositing a check from the comfort of your couch, CSCU makes managing your money easy, safe, and convenient.
Educating Members for a Stronger Future
Financial literacy isn’t just a buzzword at CSCU—it’s part of the mission. Through an extensive Financial Wellness Center, the credit union provides interactive learning tools to help members understand how to:
• Build credit
• Create and stick to a budget
• Save for retirement
• Navigate home buying and student loans
Carol Sullivan
Marissa Cano
•Protect themselves from identity theft and fraud
In addition to digital tools, CSCU also supports youth education programs, employee training initiatives, and has worked with organizations like ZOGO to bring interactive, gamified financial education to the next generation. “We believe empowered members make stronger communities, says Hooker. “We equip our members with the knowledge to make smart, confident decisions.”
Built for the Texas Lifestyle
CSCU isn’t just focused on what’s popular—it’s focused on what’s practical. Living in Texas means different financial needs, and CSCU
different financial and CSCU reflects that with tailored offerings like:
• Horse trailer loans
• RV and recreational vehicle loans
Main Branch
250 FM 2821 Rd W Huntsville, TX 77320
•Home equity and land loans
•FlexDrive auto loan options for those looking for more flexible financing They also offer a full range of traditional financial services—checking and savings accounts (including a high yield savings account), credit cards with rewards programs, youth accounts, IRAs, and Certificates of Deposit.
And when life calls for in-person service, CSCU’s friendly, experienced team is available at two convenient branches in Huntsville. They’re also part of the Co-op Shared Branching Network, giving members access to over 5,000 credit union branches nationwide.
Celebrating 70 Years of Service
In 2024, CSCU proudly celebrated its 70th anniversary—a milestone few financial institutions reach. From a desk behind secure prison gates to a modern institution serving seven counties and thousands of members, CSCU has always been about more than money. It’s about people helping people. It’s about solving problems. It’s about building a better financial future together. Hooker observes, “We were born from community. And everything we do—from the tools we offer to the way we treat our members—is still driven by that same sense of togetherness.”
Ready to Open Your Account?
If you live in Montgomery, Walker, Trinity, Houston, Madison, San Jacinto, or Grimes County, or if you’re a TDCJ employee anywhere in Texas— you can join CSCU.
Whether you’re opening your first account or looking to move your finances to a place that puts people before profits, now is the time to experience the CSCU difference. Their goal is “to help people in the communities we serve Bank Happy and Spend Smart so they can live well.”
Visit cscutx.com, stop by a branch, or open your account online to get started. Text or call: (936) 295-3980
South Branch
2526 Montgomery Rd Huntsville, TX 77340
The Business Focus is chosen each month by random drawing from among Postcards contract advertisers.
Retiring CEO Brenda Hooker, pictured with incoming CEO John Hendricks
Matilda
loved by The Chapmans
Texas loved by Daddy Fisher loved by Maria & Tyler
Reggie loved by Scott & Misty Blakeway
Charlie loved by Angie & Pop
Meeka loved by Maria & Tyler
By Kim Hamilton
Mason Luke Brice proudly displays his catch.
Pileated Woodpecker in an Eastern Redbud tree in the backyard of my home.
August 2025
Thru 2
CONROE “Hadestown: Teen Edition” crightontheatre.org
1-3
SCHULENBURG Schulenburg Festival schulenburgfestival.org
1 TOMBALL Tomball Night tomballchamber.org 1 THE WOODLANDS “Weird Al” Yankovic woodlandscenter.org
2
HOUSTON All-Stars Car Show at Daikin Park mlb.com/astros/tickets/car-show
2
HOUSTON George Lopez nrgpark.com
2
HUNTSVILLE Wesley Memorial VBS wesleymemorialmc.mycokesburyvbs.com
2
HUNTSVILLE American Soldier –Toby Keith Tribute oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
2-3
WACO Ink’d Fest worldtattooevents.com 3
HUNTSVILLE Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
6-10
PORT ARANSAS Texas Legends Billfish Tournament txlegends.com 7
WILLIS Get Back to Work Day in Willis ISD chamber.conroe.org 8
CONROE Incredible Pizza 20th Anniversary: Drone Show ipcconroe.com
8-10
CONROE “The Rocky Horror Show” owentheatre.com 8 HUNTSVILLE Concert for Hope with Eric Genuis exorior.org 8
MONTGOMERY Get Back to Work Day in Montgomery ISD chamber.conroe.org
9
COLLEGE STATION Tires and Tracks: A Corvette Cruise In americangimuseum.org 9
HOUSTON Kamayan: A HandsOn Filipino Feast! asiasociety.org 9
HUNTSVILLE Local Churches Blood Drive commitforlife.org
Mustard Seed Moments Flour Power (SELF-rising)
By Lexi Leaf
Today, I’m grateful for the mess… Five minutes, that’s all it took. I wanted to get mad, but my heart wouldn’t let me.
I opened my mouth to yell, but the joy on her flour-covered face forced me to smile instead.
In this moment, I thought of the precious babies lost in the unforgiving floodwaters on July 4th.
I thought of the parents forced to live in a world that keeps turning, but no longer makes sense – one without their child.
My heart ached for the mamas whose love has been turned inside out by unimaginable grief.
Grief that creates a wound that never fully heals and leaves hearts frozen in the moment their child was lost.
Over the last few days, I’ve caught myself weeping for people I don’t even know, but my heart knows….
My heart knows they’d give anything for just one more moment like this, to turn the corner and find a piece of their heart, covered in flour from head to toe.
So, I let her play for a little while longer as I sat back and soaked in every giggle and admired every flour-clad smile.
And later, while I wiped away the little, white footprints from my floor, I wept, because today…I’m grateful for the mess.
Don’t be sad, because the joy from the Lord is your strength!” – Nehemiah 8:10
