Postcards
Nate Burnham
Boxley Valley, Arkansas
Lake Conroe
Publisher’s Post
When Did That Happen?
Inever thought I’d be here.
Well, that’s not entirely true — I knew “older” would happen eventually. I’ve just always imagined it as a slow, gentle stroll. But lately, it seems that stroll has turned into a sprint… and someone’s trying to shove me aboard a bullet train!
Case in point: I glanced at my calendar this morning — two appointments scheduled. Normally, those are with clients. Today? Both were doctor’s appointments. Sigh. While I am truly thankful for good healthcare, is it strange that I hate having to use it?
So there I was, sitting in the waiting room with my sweet husband. I casually mentioned I didn’t have my reading glasses with me. He asked, “Didn’t bring them at all, or just left them in the car?” I replied, “Didn’t bring them at all — but I have plenty in the car.” He laughed out loud.
And that’s when it hit me… When did I reach the point where I have extra reading glasses — in multiple strengths, no less — stashed everywhere? Purse. Car. Kitchen drawer. Desk. Bathroom counter. Nightstand. I might even check the toolbox just to be sure.
Growing older comes with its quirks. Some days, it makes me chuckle. Some days, it makes me shake my head. But every day, it reminds me how precious life—and laughter—really are.
So, here’s to embracing every season, every stage, and every pair of glasses that help us see the beauty along the way.
Until next time,
Growing older reminds me how precious life— and laughter—really are.
Sincerest Gratitude
On behalf of CASA of Walker, San Jacinto and Trinity Counties, we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude for your incredible support and involvement in the All About Kids Expo. This event was structured to provide valuable resources for families in our community while creating a magical day for the kids.
Your contribution played a vital role in making it a resounding success! Thank you for believing in our mission and providing a fun activity for children to take home and have fun!
Kim Weiser, Executive Director
Laura Green, Development Director
Pat Stephenson, CASA Board President
Heartfelt Thanks
On behalf of everyone at SAAFE House, I wanted to extend our heartfelt thanks for your generous sponsorship to our Lucky Charm Bingo fundraiser. Your support means the world to us and plays a crucial role in helping us continue our mission in Walker County. With your contribution, we are able to provide vital services to those in need and make a positive impact in our community. Your commitment to our cause is truly appreciated, and we are incredibly grateful for your partnership.
Thank you once again for your kindness and generosity. We look forward to continuing our work together and creating more meaningful change in the lives of others.
Tammy Farkas, Community Relations Director
Marty Urand
“How to Swim” Kinesiology Professor at Lone Star College the past 22 years
Marty Urand, Instructor
Nate Burnham
It’s definitely
“better late than never” for this Texas artist finding footing in his forties.
BY AMY BARNETT | SUBMITTED PHOTOS
At43, Texas country artist Nate Burnham is hitting his stride with a fresh sound and a growing fanbase. After years of running his own business, this husband and father of four is focused full-time on music, blending heartfelt songwriting with energetic performances. His latest release, a bluegrass-tinged duet with Randall King on “Mirror, Mirror,” reimagines the Texas hit with a new twist. With two albums and more than 35 songs released since 2021, Burnham is making his mark on the Texas Music Scene.
You have taken a song by country artist Randall King and given it a completely different feel – almost bluegrass. Tell about the decision to record “Mirror, Mirror.”
Grace Partridge (who plays fiddle and is also a western swing artist) and I were both listening to Randall King at the time and decided to make a TikTok. We decided to play “Mirror,
Mirror” a little upbeat. We started playing around with it and laughing, but we thought it sounded good, so we recorded a version of it and tagged Randall King. He said, “This is great. You should record it and have me sing on it with you.” So, we did!
What a nice surprise! How does it feel to have a duet with Randall King? When Randall’s voice comes in, it sounds great. It’s really cool to be able to work with Randall, who is one of the biggest acts in Texas now. You are always looking for a break, and something like this doesn’t come around often, so I am very grateful.
You’ve had many songs out on streaming now. Share how you got started in music.
I grew up listening to Pat Green, Cory Morrow and Charlie Robison and all the Texas Red Dirt singers and Oklahoma guys, and I thought that
was the coolest thing in the world – to have people write music and it be a window to the world of what’s going on in their life.
When I started playing guitar, I realized it’s cheaper than therapy— being able to put your emotions and feelings into a song. When I started writing songs, I wrote the songs just for me. It was an outlet, but then opportunities happened. I put a song out, and learned people connected to what I was doing. That ultimately pushed me to pursue music.
After I got married, I started doing open-mic nights in Austin. Then in 2012, I cut an album and released it. Wire Road Studios had just opened in Houston, where Beyonce, Pat Green and Seinfeld have all recorded. But right when they opened, I got to be the guinea pig.
Then I moved to Idaho and started a pest control company the same year. I was naïve to think I could do both.
Starting a business just starts taking everything over, and so I released the album, but never toured with it. I just made a CD and still have boxes of CDs that I never sold or gave away. The album was called “Crash Course,” because the whole process was a crash course in music and recording; plus, I have a song on the album called “Crash Course with Lonely,” so the title just kind of worked out.
When did you decide it was time to give up the pest control business and do music full time?
My family and I left Idaho to move back to Texas in 2020, and then COVID happened, so I started really pursuing music – recording and playing shows –in January 2021. I’ve released 35 songs and two albums since then.
What is your favorite song you have written?
Someone asked Pat Green this a long time ago, and he said, “My favorite song is my next one.” That always rang true with me. Every song tells a story, so they are each a part of you. The most recent song before “Mirror, Mirror” –“If it Kills Me” – is super special to me. It’s about: There is a bad storm, but I have been gone so long that I have to get home, and I am going to be there if it kills me. When I wrote it, I was traveling a lot for business and was gone on a 2-week run and living in Idaho. I flew into Salt Lake City and had to drive three hours home that night; it was snowing, like a blizzard. It was really bad and had me thinking – maybe I should wait. But I had been gone for so long that I was like – I am going to drive through this storm and crawl into bed with my wife tonight if it kills me. About halfway through my drive, the whole idea came to me. I started humming and coming up with a melody, and I pulled over at a gas station. I got my guitar and wrote the song, and then I drove home.
What artists inspire you?
I feel like I have all these phases of music – but Dirks Bentley, Dwight Yoakum and Chris LeDoux have always inspired me – Miranda Lambert, too. I met her and her dad before “Kerosene” came out. She had just finished Nashville Star, and I was going
to college in Arizona. I was starving for Texas music, and this girl from Texas was coming to play at the bar. I sat in the back and talked to her dad for a while. He was the nicest. I watched her career from that moment on, so I’ve always been a Miranda fan. Her songwriting is phenomenal.
What can people expect when they see you perform live?
People say I am funny, and I didn’t realize that was part of my schtick. I tend to blurt things out and I hope people find it funny, but I like talking to the audience and connecting with people. I love to bring the energy, but I like the highs and lows and sharing the stories of my life. I feel people are connecting just like I was when I would go hear my favorite artists tell the stories behind their songs. I like taking people on the journey with me.
Do you have a favorite venue to play?
There are so many. I recently got to play Gruene Hall for the first time with Hayden Baker. That’s been a bucket list place for obvious reasons. My daughter’s middle name is Gruene. Our favorite dance hall is Coupland Dance Hall. It’s where my wife and I fell in love, and I got to play there last year. I love Southern Junction, too. I live in Rockwall; it’s a great dance hall, and it’s cool to have a hometown show there. Around Texas – those are the three I love the most.
How do you like to spend your time when you are not playing music?
I am a big hunter, a big outdoorsman. As a family, we love to go to state parks and museums. We are always looking for new places to explore. I like archery elk hunting, so I go to the mountains every September to hunt. I also do a lot of duck hunting with my boys in the winter. It’s like songwriting; getting outdoors is cheaper than therapy. My wife will tell you, when I get back from the mountains I am as stress-free as I am all year.
Anything else you want new fans to know about you?
My wife and kids are the best things going on in my life. We have four kids, so it’s a challenge to be an up and comer in the music industry; but somehow, I have been lucky enough that they all support me. One of the challenges of being gone is being away from them. If I’m gone for three or five days, it starts to hurt. I have two boys and two girls, and you just want to get hugs from your girls and wrestle with your boys. It wears on you after a while, but we feel we have something with the music. I am fortunate to have a wife who is willing to let me have a run at it. You hear people say it’s never too late to start over; I guess I am in the process of trying to answer that question, so wish me luck.
Visit www.nateburnham.com to learn more about Nate and find out where he will be playing next.
Dear Gabby
Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Our federal holiday this month is Independence Day, which is observed on Friday this year, the Fourth of July. In the words of Reverend Peter Marshall: “May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.” Swimsuit season is upon us. How are your summer bodies coming along, so far? Mine is looking like I have a great personality. Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share
DEAR GABBY
I am expecting my first baby and, the way that I love my fourlegged fur babies, I don’t think the transition will be very hard. Love is love, and I am so looking forward to becoming a mom. I hope I’m ready. Maybe the dogs and cats will have helped pave the way.
ANXIOUSLY EXPECTING
DEAR ANXIOUS
Wishing you all the best for your growing family! Being a little uneasy is perfectly normal for your first baby. Pets were a good first step. Being a dog mom can definitely help prepare you for babies. Being a cat mom will more likely prepare you for teenagers.
Gabby
DEAR GABBY
I live in Maine, and a Texan friend sent me a copy of Postcards Magazine, so I thought I’d send you a question. I’m contemplating a trip to Southeast Texas next month and keep hearing jokes about the heat. I think they must be pulling my leg. Seriously, how’s the weather there around August?
COOL DUDE
DEAR COOL
Have you ever been cremated? Now, calm down. If you wanted a serious answer, you should have asked a serious person. While summer here is hotter than a jalapeño’s armpit, everyone should experience summertime in Texas, at least once. Where else will you wonder if you’re still wet from the shower or already sweating? Come on down, the hospitality here makes up for a little discomfort. That’s how we got so tough!
Gabby
CONFIDENTIAL TO “WHEN IS THE ONLY TIME RED, WHITE AND BLUE DO NOT REPRESENT FREEDOM?:
When they are flashing behind you! Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
Dustin Cook, P.T. Physical Therapist
Dr. Yanelly Hinojosa Chiropractor
Todd Custer, DC Chiropractor Athletic Trainer
Jeanne McMullen, PtA Physical Therapist Assistant
Glorious Grandchildren
Kennedy
Grandchild of Cynthia Bowman
Waylon & Scarlett McClure
Grandchildren of the McClure, Stiner, & Wunderlich families
Augustus (Gus) Leroy DeBorde
Great Grandchild of Jean Tinsley
Grandchild of David & Stephanie Bailey and Phil & Michelle Smith
HOURS OF OPERATION
Tuesday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday Noon to 4:30 p.m. Scan
The Garden Post No Pansies in a Texas Summer Garden
ATexas summer always separates a pansy from a seasoned Texan (literally and figuratively)! It is July, and the heat is on. It is time (actually past time) to replace the spring annuals with heat tolerant plant varieties. Here’s a list of tips to get your garden through the heat and prep for fall.
• Spring annuals and some perennials can be revived by moving the plants (such as geraniums, petunias, and calibrachoas) to a morning sun-shady afternoon location. Hanging baskets that have become “leggy” should be trimmed to the rim, fertilized, and new growth will appear in weeks.
• Hardy, blooming, summer annuals for ½ day sun to all day sun are: vinca, blue daze, purslane, portulaca (moss rose)
• Hardy blooming, summer perennials are numerous, but here are our favorites: salvia, echinacea, gazanias, plumbago, coreopsis, lantana, buddleia, bee balm, roses, daylilies, and iris.
• Blooming, deer resistant annuals or perennials for deep shade: hmmm, God has not sent the memo on that one yet! Try heuchera (coral bells) or ajuga. Both are ground cover perennials that are deer resistant and have a variety of blooms during the summer. A summer favorite for bright color in deep shade is caladiums and coleus; neither are deer resistant, but a must in a summer landscape. P.S. – there are sun tolerant and shade loving caladiums and coleus, too.
“Can I plant in the summer”? The answer is YES, providing you will be watering on a consistent basis and keeping a vigilant eye on the landscape. Almost all commercial landscape projects begin in mid-summer and end in late August, because that is the nature of the construction business (and landscape is always the tail end of the dog, so to say). These landscapes always do well; so yes, you can plant during the summer months.
• If the rains stop and the summer becomes extremely dry, watch out. For those who live in an area with a heavy deer presence, nothing is off limits—and your irrigated landscape can become the buffet. If you feed the deer, it is a guarantee they will start into your landscape, because a precedent has been established.
• July 1st is the date to plant pumpkin seeds for harvest by Halloween, and it’s also a great time to get in that second crop of watermelon and cantaloupe. Till under spring selections that have gone to seed; add humus and be ready for fall seed planting that begins the first of August.
• Heavy rains and frequent watering leech the soil of needed nutrients. Consider using a liquid organic fertilizer by
Kim Bius President, Kim's Home & Garden Center
Foxfarm, Medina, or a slow release such as Osmocote to keep the landscape lush. Iron sulphate, aka copperas, is a great granular additive for plants such as hydrangea, gardenias, and azaleas that are showing an iron deficiency. Green veins and lime yellow leaves are dead giveaways.
• Be on the lookout for spider mites, chinch bugs, and lace bugs. They are “visiting” and leaving destruction in their path. Lace bugs are notorious for loving azaleas and lantana. The white crispy leaves are telltale signs of lace bugs. Check the underside of the leaves and you will see tiny black dots. Spider mites are microscopic and cannot be seen, but their webbing and the overnight brown leaves are a sure sign they are present. Systemic insecticide is the only viable treatment once spider mites become an issue. Work in the garden early or late in the evening, stay hydrated, and garden on.
Enjoy the summer!
Tasty Bites
Cornbread Salad
INGREDIENTS
Cornbread: cooking spray
1 (16 oz) pkg cornbread mix
1 ½ cups water
Salad:
10 slices bacon
1 ½ cups sour cream
1 ½ cups mayonnaise
1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
2 (15 ounce) cans pinto beans, drained
3 ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 cup chopped green onion
2 (11 ounce) cans whole kernel corn, drained
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
DIRECTIONS
Step 1: To make the cornbread: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Spray the bottom and sides of an 8x8-inch pan with cooking spray.
Step 2: Combine cornbread mix and water in a large mixing bowl until smooth; pour into prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool; crumble and set aside.
Step 4: Meanwhile, make the salad: Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels.
Step 5: Whisk sour cream, mayonnaise, and dressing mix together in a medium bowl.
Step 6: Crumble 1/2 of cornbread in the bottom of a large serving dish. Evenly layer with 1 can of pinto beans, 1/2 of the tomatoes, 1/2 cup green bell pepper, 1/2 cup green onions, 1 can of corn, 1 cup of cheese, 1/2 of the bacon, and 1/2 of the sour cream mixture. Repeat the layers. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
Boxley Valley, Arkansas
While parts of the area are difficult to access, it’s easy to “fall” for the breathtaking beauty.
My husband and I have taken many road trips throughout Texas, hiking at scenic spots such as Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Big Bend National Park, and Palo Duro Canyon State Park. There’s a lot to see and do in Texas. In April, however, we ventured to an adjacent state. In about the same amount of time it took us to reach the aforementioned Texas parks, we arrived at Boxley Valley, Arkansas. Although the area had been suggested by a friend who is from Arkansas, we weren’t fully prepared for the natural beauty that awaited us.
Buffalo National River
In 1972, the Buffalo River became the first national river. Now managed by the National Park Service (NPS), the Buffalo National River remains one of the few undammed rivers in the contiguous 48 states. Meandering through the Ozark Mountains for 135 miles, it is popular among people who like to float down the river. It’s not hard to find outfitting companies that provide canoe and kayak rentals. Elk graze along the riverbank. According to the helpful people at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s Ponca Nature Center, the seven-mile strip along the Buffalo National River between the tiny towns of Ponca and Boxley is considered one of the best places in Arkansas to view elk from the safety of an automobile. At dawn and dusk, elk are often spotted in the verdant pastures along the river. Be careful! Elk sometimes cross the road.
We saw plenty of elk on our spring trip, but to see impressive antlers visit in the fall, because elk shed their antlers in early spring before growing them again during the late spring and summer. In the fall, visitors also have the opportunity to hear the bull elks’ impressive bugling as they attempt to gain the affection of the cows—and might even see them battling with their long antlers.
If that’s not enough to make a trip seem worthwhile, consider that the mountain creeks which feed into the Buffalo National River are known for a proliferation of waterfalls. They are especially impressive in the spring. According to Tim Ernst, author of Arkansas Waterfalls, “The Buffalo River region in northwest Arkansas is a land
of towering limestone and sandstone bluffs, caves, springs, rivers, and countless waterfalls.”
Some of these waterfalls are hiking destinations. One of our favorites was Glory Hole Falls, which is one of the most easily recognized waterfalls in Arkansas. Water pours through a hole in the roof of a cavern, and hikers can view this spectacle from above and below. The out-and-back hike is rated “moderate” in difficulty. It is about two miles roundtrip and features a muscleburning uphill section on the way back to the trailhead. There were slippery rocks to navigate, but we took our time and managed to return to our vehicle without injury. It was worth the walk.
Twin Falls (sometimes called Triple Falls) was our favorite waterfall. It is located on the edge of the Boy Scouts of America’s Camp Orr. The road to the trailhead is treacherous, and we found ourselves wishing our vehicle had four-wheel drive. The walk to the falls, however, is short, and we knew we were getting close when we could hear the roar of water. The scene is breathtaking: water pours over a cliff in three distinct streams nearly 50 feet before splashing in a pool below.
Eden Falls is also a popular destination. The trail begins at the Lost Valley Trailhead, which is managed
by the NPS. The hike allows people to see several named waterfalls, as well as many unnamed ones, including one in a cave. (The rocks at the mouth of the cave looked quite slippery, and the trip necessitated a jump over a stream, so we decided to bypass the cave waterfall.)
Meanwhile, we also decided against attempting the hike to one of the most well-known waterfalls in Arkansas, Hemmed-in Hollow Falls, which is in the area. The water cascades more than 200 feet, making it the highest waterfall between the Appalachians and the Rockies. The NPS warns that the hike to access Hemmed-in Hollow Falls is on an “extremely steep and strenuous trail that will humble even the most experienced hiker.” Noted. (One website mentions an easier hike, but it is only accessible during canoeing
Natural Bridge Falls
Glory Hole Falls view from above
Glory Hole Falls view from below
Sweden Creek Falls
The creeks that provide the water for destination waterfalls contain many smaller, unnamed falls. We lost count of the waterfalls we saw in just a few days of hiking. Thankfully, I had a well-charged camera battery. Everywhere I looked, I seemed to find a photo opportunity.
You can’t get there from here
One of the first things we discovered on our trip was that some hiking destinations seemed to exemplify Gary P. Nunn’s song You Can’t Get There from Here. One situation was almost comical: according to Google Maps, Eden Falls was a scant .7 mile from our cabin. Our Airbnb host pointed out the location but warned the area is “muddy and snaky.” (Nope.) To get to the trailhead, we drove 9.9 miles, which took nearly 25 minutes, but it was worth the trip.
Also, be aware that, because of the mountainous terrain, roads in the area are serpentine and change in elevation. Many road signs warn the roadways are “crooked and steep.” We are used to the wide, open spaces of Texas,
where a 20-mile drive takes about 20 minutes (even less when headed toward west Texas on I-10); however, in this mountainous region of Arkansas, a 20-mile trip takes about an hour.
More than once, we wished we had a four-wheel drive vehicle, and we quickly discovered we needed to do our research before driving to a trailhead. Not only were some access roads steep, many were unpaved, and some trailheads had little or no parking available. Fortunately, Arkansas Waterfalls (available on Amazon) gives pertinent details about 200-plus waterfalls, including more than 60 in the Buffalo National River region. The book provides photos, plus detailed directions to trailheads, parking information and the GPS coordinates of waterfalls, as well as difficulty ratings of hikes. Don’t worry: some waterfalls can be seen from vehicles or after easy hikes of less than a mile. Some trailheads have adequate parking, too. We also observed that cell service in the area is spotty (sometimes nonexistent). We learned to take careful written notes of our directions before leaving our cabin, because Google Maps often became confused
when cell service flickered.
One of the most surprising things about our visit was the lack of commerce in the area. We saw many isolated farms, but we never saw a single grocery store. We were glad we had stocked up on groceries before we arrived; otherwise, we would have had to drive for more than a half hour on snaky roads to find one. Furthermore, there were few restaurants. We saw only one or two. Gas stations were equally hard to find, so we were relieved we had topped off our tank before we plunged deep into mountain territory.
Much of the land in the Buffalo National River area is privately owned; our Airbnb host told me her farm has been in the family for nine generations. The farm has serene mountain views and lush grass, where healthy cows graze. Elk sometimes visit. She said, “I don’t know why I am the one who gets to be so blessed.” For once, I thought of the right thing to say. I told her, “Just be grateful.”
For more information, visit nps.gov/ buffaloriver.
HEALTHCARE COMPREHENSIVE,
CONVENIENT
Abbie loved by The Lanes
Junie loved by Wrenley
Aspen loved by Yvette & Brian
Big D Marine & Powersports
A Legacy of Service, A Future on the Water
ForSteve Dawson, owning a successful boat dealership wasn’t just a business move— it was the next chapter in a lifelong legacy of serving customers with honesty, hard work, and hometown pride. Before there were boats, motors, or fishing rods in the picture, there were mobile homes. Steve’s parents launched their family’s business in 1967, establishing deep roots in Huntsville. That property on Highway 19 in Huntsville remained in the family for over 50 years. Steve grew up in the mobile home business, helping build what became one of the area’s most recognized names. After selling that company in 1998, he spent time in other ventures before finding his way back into business ownership with a new goal in mind: boats.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY MARSHALL ALTOM
Family members Coleman Wyatt; Steve and Tricia Dawson; Trey Dawson
From dry land to open water
In 2017, Steve acquired the former Gullo dealership property off Highway 19 and secured a Yamaha franchise. That opportunity was the spark that launched Big D Marine.
“The Yamaha franchise was what really attracted me,” he shares. “It was a solid brand and a good entry point into the marine industry. Once I got in, I realized how strong the boat market really is.”
What started as a single location in Huntsville has grown into a four-location operation—including full dealerships in Huntsville, Conroe, and Hitchcock, as well as a consignment outlet on the I-45 frontage road in Huntsville. Each location plays a unique role in the business, but together they represent a complete, customer-focused marine experience.
A name with meaning
The “Big D” in Big D Marine is more than just a catchy name—it’s a tribute. “My dad called our first business Big D Mobile Homes. The ‘D’ was for Dawson,” Steve says. “When I opened this business, it felt right to bring that name back. He had passed by then, but it was a way to honor where we came from.”
That sense of legacy runs deep. From the layout of the showroom to the tone of every customer interaction, Big D Marine isn’t just family-owned—it’s family-driven. Steve’s wife Tricia handles the company’s accounting and oversees their corporate office in Huntsville, where all title work and internal operations are managed. Their son Trey is involved in financing, especially at the Hitchcock and Conroe locations. And Coleman Wyatt, Steve’s stepson, takes the lead on service operations—ensuring customers not only leave with the right product, but also receive the support they need long after the sale.
Just a few of the vehicle offerings for land and sea available at Big D Marine.
Boats for every lifestyle
Big D Marine carries a lineup of boats as diverse as the Texas waters. Whether you’re fishing on a secluded creek, duck hunting in the marsh, or cruising on Lake Conroe, they offer something for every type of boater.
• Phoenix Bass Boats: Considered one of the most elite brands in the bass fishing world, Phoenix represents performance, craftsmanship, and status. “It’s the Porsche of bass boats,” says Steve. “When someone sees a Phoenix, they know you’re serious about the sport.”
• Excel Boats: A leader in aluminum models, Excel is known for duck boats and bay boats that can handle rough water and rugged terrain. Their versatility makes them ideal for both sportsmen and casual boaters.
• Blazer Bay Boats: Built in Florida and growing in popularity across the Gulf Coast, Blazer Bay offers high-quality bay and hybrid models. The company recently acquired molds from Blue Wave and is set to release new Pure Bay models under the Blazer Bay name—something Dawson is particularly excited about.
• G3 Boats by Yamaha: These dependable, family-friendly boats are owned by Yamaha and built for allpurpose lake use. They’re especially popular among new boat owners.
• Four Winns: Ideal for tubing, skiing, and weekend cruising, Four Winns boats are crafted in Cadillac, Michigan, and built with luxury and comfort in mind.
• Key West Boats: Known for their durability and fishing-ready features, Key West offers center console options with a reputation for value.
• Crestliner Boats: Available at their I-45 Huntsville consignment location, these aluminum boats are built for long-term use and serious anglers. “We’ve been very intentional about the brands we carry,” Steve explains. “We’re not just trying to have the most—we want the best options for the kind of boating people actually do here in Texas.”
More than a dealership
While Big D Marine is known for boat sales, many customers come to rely on them even more for their service department. Their facilities in Huntsville and Hitchcock offer
full-service maintenance, installations, and repairs on a wide range of marine engines and equipment.
“We service what we sell—and a lot of what we don’t,” Steve says. “If someone buys electronics or a trolling motor online or from another dealer, we’ll install it for them. Our job is to help people stay on the water.”
They handle everything from routine oil changes to complete motor rebuilds and electrical system upgrades. The service team is also trained on the latest trolling motor technology, and Dawson is constantly working to expand what they can offer in-house. “The goal is to do as much as we can for our customers, right here, without sending them somewhere else.”
Powersports & WaveRunners
Boating isn’t the only thing Big D Marine offers. Their locations also carry a wide selection of motorcycles, ATVs, and side-by-sides from brands like Yamaha and Suzuki, as well as WaveRunners, Yamaha’s personal watercraft line.
“This store has been a WaveRunner and motorcycle shop for a long time— even before we took it over,” Steve explains. “We’ve just continued to grow that side of things.” These options provide customers with even more ways to enjoy the outdoors, whether it’s on water, trails, or open road.
A one-stop, family-first experience
From financing and registration to service and upgrades, Big D Marine takes pride in offering a full-circle experience. Whether it’s someone buying their first boat or a longtime customer upgrading their setup, the goal is always the same: treat people right.
“We’ve always worked hard—and that’s what we continue to do,” notes Steve. “We listen to our customers, take care of them, and treat them how we’d want to be treated.” That mindset, combined with years of industry knowledge and a deep commitment to family values, is what sets Big D Marine apart. Whether you’re ready to hit the lake, chase the next trophy bass, or just need a place that knows boats inside and out—Big D Marine is ready to help. After all, they’ve been serving Texas families for generations... and they’re just getting started.
bigdmarineandpowersports.com
CONROE/MONTGOMERY
17720 Hwy 105 W Montgomery, TX 77356 936-703-5026
HUNTSVILLE
256 State Hwy 19 Huntsville, TX 77340 936-295-5175
I-45 HUNTSVILLE
740 IH45 Huntsville, TX 77340 936-339-0532
HITCHCOCK
4120 Hwy 6 Hitchcock, TX 77563 409-938-4408
The Business Focus is chosen each month by random drawing from among Postcards contract advertisers.
Dr. Gary L. Rhame, DO
SHSU College of Osteopathic Medicine
DGot Aches and Pains?
There’s a Hands-On Treatment That Might Help
o your knees ache after working in the yard? Does your child get headaches during allergy season? Maybe your back feels stiff after a long day, or your teenager is sore from sports.
There’s a kind of hands-on medical care that may help. It’s called osteopathic treatment. Some doctors are trained to use their hands to gently stretch, press, or move parts of the body. This can help ease pain, improve movement, and support healing.
Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment, OMT for short, can help with sore muscles, stiff joints, breathing trouble, stomach aches, and more. Some people feel better after one visit, and others come back for more over time. The goal is to ease pain and help your body heal without immediately needing medication or surgery.
OMT is one part of osteopathic medicine, which focuses on whole-body care. It’s used by doctors called DOs, or Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine. Like MDs, DOs are fully licensed physicians who go through four years of medical school and residency. During their
training, they learn how to treat the whole person, not just the person’s symptoms, by understanding how the body’s systems work together to support healing and good health.
Not every visit with a DO includes OMT. It’s a specific type of treatment that can be added to your care plan when it fits your needs or requested as a special kind of appointment.
What Can OMT Help With?
OMT can be used for people of all ages. It may help with:
• Back and neck pain
• Headaches and migraines
• Sinus pressure and allergies
• Sports injuries or joint pain
• Asthma or breathing trouble
• Stomach issues like constipation
• Pregnancy-related aches
• Stress or sleep issues in kids
• Stiffness or balance problems in older adults
Even kids with growing pains or older adults with sore joints may feel better after treatment.
What Happens During a Visit?
If OMT is right for you, the visit starts with a talk about how you’re feeling.
The doctor will gently check how your muscles and joints are working. Then they’ll use their hands to stretch or move the areas that need care.
The treatment is gentle and safe. Many people say it feels relaxing.
Why It Matters in Communities Like Ours
In busy, active communities like ours, families are always looking for effective, convenient ways to stay healthy and manage everyday aches and pains. Whether it’s from weekend sports, time on the water, or juggling work and family life, OMT offers a hands-on option to help you feel better. You don’t always have to rely on medication or referrals. With its whole-body approach to care, osteopathic medicine supports your health in a way that fits into your lifestyle.
Where Can I Learn More?
OMT is offered by DOs across the country, including at SHSU Physicians in Conroe. Whether it’s for sore muscles, growing pains, or a sports injury, this hands-on approach may be worth asking about. It’s just one more way to care for your family’s health, supporting both mind and body.
Inspiration Around Every Corner
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July 2025
Great DuBois: Masters of Variety thebarnhillcenter.com
Thimble Trail: Vendor Market texasthimbletrail.com
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ATHENA Leadership Awards Luncheon chamber.conroe.org
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PALESTINE
“Alice in Wonderland” onthestage.tickets/palestine-community-theatre-inc 18 THE WOODLANDS
Rick Springfield woodlandscenter.org 19 BRYAN
Wish Upon a Butterfly brazosvalleymuseum.org 19 HOUSTON Hot Wheels Monster Trucks
Live: Glow-N-Fire toyotacenter.com 19 HUNTSVILLE
Lone Star Skynyrd oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org 19
Making Tracks
Wine in the Pines Train Ride texasstaterailroad.net 19 THE WOODLANDS Kansas & .38 Special woodlandscenter.org 21-25
CONROE Camp Oz Day Camp nationalyouththeater.org 23 THE WOODLANDS Houston Symphony: Music of Led Zeppelin woodlandscenter.org
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BRENHAM “Snow White Goes West” unitybrenham.org
SHENANDOAH Strikeout Hunger Bowling Tournament cac-mctx.org 29 THE WOODLANDS Russ woodlandscenter.org
31- Aug 2
CONROE
“Hadestown: Teen Edition” crightontheatre.org
Mustard Seed Moments
By R.J.A.
The YES Mindset
My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
-James 1:2-4
When James penned these words, I picture him sitting and thinking back on scripture from the beginning of time. I believe he was remembering Abraham, Moses, Daniel, Joseph, Elijah, Elisha, and the many others who said “yes” to their Lord. Our Lord Jesus said “yes,” even to the cross, and look where He is now, sitting at the right hand of the Father. Notice the last two words in verse four, “wanting nothing.” These people were not in want of anything because they said “yes,” and even often before they were asked or informed what God wanted them to do.
In June, the McMichaels (BJ, Holly, Elijah, and Trinity) went on their fourth trip to Sandy Bay Children’s Home in Roatan, Honduras. They led a group of adults and teenagers (from University Heights Baptist Church in Huntsville) in a building/ construction project for the Home.
Many of these volunteers said “yes” to this trip in June a year ago. They worked in the heat/humidity of Honduras for 7-8 days doing the project at the direction of Orsy, the director of the Home.
Besides working, this group also had opportunities to interact with children, playing games with them. As BJ often says, “Children speak the language of fun.” There was also time for worship; singing and praising; and learning about God, Jesus, and the Bible.
Like many in the Bible, these volunteers (and many more like them in other churches) have a YES mindset.
I just wonder what the world would be like if more professing Christians had a YES mindset? This world needs people with a mindset that says, “The answer is YES! Now Lord, ask me the question or tell me what you want me to do.”
I believe we would later also hear them saying, “We wanted nothing, because we said YES.”
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That’s the difference between practicing medicine and leading it. For you.
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