POSTCARDS MAGAZINE - Piney Woods - September 2025

Postcards Magazine

Piney Woods

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Years of

September 2025 Byron McAdams • Texas Rivers • Exotic Bird Sanctuary • Circuit PT

Contents September 2025 | Volume 15, Issue 9

Piney Woods | September 2025

Features

Postcards

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14 30 54

Do You Know?

Favorites

Advertiser Anniversaries ......................12

Byron McAdams

Calendar - Making Tracks.....................80

Just For Fun

Creative Corner..................................... 34

Texas Rivers

Community Builders

Exotic Bird Sanctuary

Dear Gabby............................................ 41 Feedback ................................................. 8 Funspace................................................ 62 Giggles & Grins ..................................... 36 Glorious Grandchildren ....................... 26 Kidspeak ................................................37 Library Picks......................................... 10 Milestones ............................................. 29

BUSINESS FOCUS

Mustard Seed Moments ....................... 82 Pet Pals ..................................................60 Puzzle Solutions.................................... 25 “Seens” from Our World........................ 28 Snapshots..............................................20

70

Sudoku Marketspace ............................ 68 Tasty Bites .............................................44 Teachers Touching Tomorrow ..............21

Circuit PT

Columns

Publisher’s Post ...................................... 6 Medical Matters .................................... 38 20 Questions..........................................40

Things My Granddaddy Said......................24

On The Cover 2024 Postcards Photo Contest 1st Place Winner Sesons

Garden Post .......................................... 42 Your Best AgriLife ................................. 76 Wildlife Wonders .................................. 78

Cover Photo by Christa AshworthPerkins

Postcards Magazine

Community.

It's what we do!

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Owned and Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. PUBLISHER

Karen Altom EDITOR

Wes Altom OPERATIONS MANAGER

Marshall Altom

ADVERTISING TEAM

Nancy Jolly Leah Lamp Marshall Altom DESIGN TEAM

Mary Partida April Key Online: www.PostcardsLive.com Address: PO Box 690 Huntsville, TX 77342 Call our Office: 936.293.1188 We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any material without written preauthorization. No material from Postcards Magazine™ can be copied, scanned, 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. © 2025 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.

Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media

Publisher’s Post Back to School… and Back to Dreams

Piney Woods | September 2025

S

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eptember always feels like the real settling-in month. The crayons are starting to wear down, the new shoes have lost their shine, and the excitement of the first day has given way to the rhythm of early mornings, homework, and after-school activities. It’s also the time when routines take hold—and (sometimes) when we start thinking about those big plans and dreams we’ve put on the shelf.

When I was in college, like many of you, the plans I started with shifted as I explored and discovered my strengths and loves. Still, two “what ifs” have always lingered in the back of my mind.

The first was my dream as a young radio/television major who adored radio—to move to Nashville and work for WSM, the home of the Grand Ole Opry. The history of that station and the role it played in shaping country music fascinated me. With family roots in Tennessee, it seemed like a perfect fit. But this Texas girl just couldn’t bring herself to be that far away from her East Texas family.

The second big one? A scholarship offer to attend law school at Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. The thought of earning a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree intrigued me—but my sweet momma wasn’t quite sold. She gently reminded me that, whatever I did as a career choice, I needed to be sure I could go to heaven and always tell the truth—so help me God! The other day, as I was getting dressed, I reached for one of my favorite treasures: a necklace with an engraved heart bearing my grandmother name, Sassy, and the initial charms of my five grandsons—our newest, Jedson, just added. Our son’s boys are on one side of the heart, and our daughter’s sons on the other.

I looked down, then froze.

On the Altom side, in the order they arrived—Walker, Sutton, Myles—the initials spelled WSM. On the Boyd side? JD for Jedson and Deacon. For those who may not know, “JD” is the abbreviation for Juris Doctor— the standard law degree in the U.S. I had to stop and smile.

Turns out, God had given me both of those “big dreams”—just in a way far sweeter than I could have planned or imagined.

And honestly, I think I got the better deal. After all, this way I get to enjoy my WSM and my JD without having to move to Nashville, take the bar exam, or pay California rent!

Until next time,

Sometimes the sweetest dreams are right under your nose.”

130

Have the kids or dog with you? Use our drive-thru instead and get a special treat for your passengers!

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Feedback Old People

I just read your publisher’s post in the July issue. Bunk!!!!! You are the most vibrant “old” person I know and respect. Let’s have lunch soon and compare old folks notes!

Chris Supan

Piney Woods | September 2025

Granddaddy

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I had never seen your magazine until recently. A friend in Huntsville sent it to me after he read the story about the 100th Anniversary Celebration of the Huntsville Fire Department. The article mentions my grandfather, C.E. Bobbitt, several times. I never knew him because he died several years before I was born.

Even so, I appreciate the work that Barbara Kievit-Mason and the University Archives/Thomason Room at Sam Houston State University and

Chrissys Beillo did to produce the article. I had always wondered how my grandfather became the city fire chief in 1925. The article explains that he was appointed by then Mayor Sam McKinney, and your article answered an important question for me.

Growing up, I remember hearing my daddy, Fred Aubrey Bobbitt, talk about Sam McKinney, but I never really knew who he was. My daddy took me to the original fire station building on 11th Street (across from the old post office, now the District Attorney's office) several times and showed me the cornerstone of the building with my Granddaddy's name on it.

After my father's death in 1989, my sister and I donated Granddaddy's Fire Chief badge to the City of Huntsville. I have copied the article and sent to several relatives.

Moved

We recently moved down the road a little and really enjoy reading your magazine. Can you update your records with our address change?

H.T.R. Editor's Note: Our monthly mail distribution is accomplished through the purchase of select entire mail routes. As such, we are unable to add, delete, or change individual addresses in the bulk distribution. The magazine is always free to read online at postcardslive.com; available for pickup at drop locations in the distribution area; or individual print copies are available to be mailed through paid subscription by contacting our business office.

Margaret Bobbitt Lindsey - San Marcos

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Library Picks

Tell us what you’re reading!

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Piney Woods | September 2025

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Postcards

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Advertiser Anniversaries Normangee State Bank

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Normangee State Bank

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Founded 1912

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Piney Woods | September 2025

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McGilberry Mechanical

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Tomorrows Promise Founded 1997

Sam Houston Funeral Home

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DO YOU KNOW?

Piney Woods | September 2025

Byron

Meet “Il Segreto,” aka “The most famous coach you’ve never heard of.”

BY CLAUDIA KIRKWOOD | PHOTOS BY TOM MILLER

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McAdams A

nd who might this famous coach be? Enter, Byron McAdams of Huntsville, Texas, who labeled himself with this intriguing moniker. Let’s find out why.

Byron McAdams coaching the team

September 2025 | Piney Woods

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Byron McAdams proudly showing the team's trophy.

Piney Woods | September 2025

First things first, Coach McAdams. Give us a brief glimpse of your background.

I grew up in Houston and graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in physical education and health.

I then attended Stephen F. Austin and earned a master’s degree in secondary education and a superintendent’s certification. In 1980, I worked under Roger Tedford at Huntsville High School and then was hired as the freshman football coach, a position I held from 1981-1983. During those years, I coached three sports: football, basketball, and baseball. It was a real grind with one hundred straight days of coaching football each season. Afterwards I went to Texas City, then to Kaufman before landing my first job as a head coach at Reicher High School in Waco for the 1987-1988 season.

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Cutline here

Coaching can involve some twists and turns in one’s career. Where to next?

I was head coach at Strake Jesuit in Houston from 1989-91. During that time, private schools only played other private schools. I started the push with UIL to allow Strake Jesuit Houston and Dallas Jesuit to play public schools, and this finally passed, although with restrictions. After this time, I took a head coaching job in Huntington for two years, then an offensive coordinator position at Friendswood ISD from 1994-95. I then left coaching for a while before getting a call from a coaching friend who offered me a position at St. Thomas High School in Houston in 2002. He had a Division 1 quarterback and three Division 1 receivers that year, guaranteeing an exciting year ahead!

My wife Margaret, born and raised

in Huntsville, was always supportive of all this craziness. She posed the idea of moving to the Hill Country, which we did, and I coached the eighth-grade team in Comfort for a year. During the following years, I also served as Assistant Superintendent of Brenham ISD before retiring in 2014. During most of my years, I always had two to three jobs going simultaneously, whether it was teaching driver’s education, putting up bouncy houses, or even working at Easterwood Airport in College Station in the evening and serving as an academic advisor at Blinn College during the day.

Backing up in time a bit, I met Margaret at Gibbs Elementary in Huntsville in 1981. She was a secondgrade teacher, and I was teaching 2nd and 3rd grade P.E. We married in 1987.

She had two children at that time,

Everyone wants a Texas football coach, a player developer who can take guys and turn them into players.

Byron & Margaret McAdams

When did you first become interested in coaching overseas?

Secret!” I love the players in Florence and would be thrilled to take that team all over Europe.

What does American Football look like on the international scene? Are the rules, the officiating, and the football fields like what you find in the States?

There are similarities and differences.

As a coach, I received an apartment, a phone, a meal plan, and a small salary.

Many teams are supported solely by

17 Postcards

I was in Florence, Italy in 2019 when I saw an advertisement about an American football game. I went to the game and thought that I would love to coach in this league. Covid hit and shut down football for a couple of seasons. When the league announced its 2023 season, I accepted a position as defensive coordinator for a team in Ingolstadt, Germany. The team went bankrupt before the season began, and I was hired by the Munich Cowboys for the 2024 season. Two of us and ten players from the Ingolstadt

team went, and all ten players started.

We had a great season, and I was asked to return, but my dream job was Florence, Italy, so I held out for a position on Firenze Guelfi.

I was hired as the defensive coordinator for Guelfi, but when the head coach decided not to return, that position was handed to me for the 2025 season. We went 12-0 and won the championship game against another Italian team. The game was held in Toledo, Ohio, and the fraternities came out in droves to tailgate and watch the game. There were five thousand in attendance. Guelfi had been in the championship game three years in a row. They won in 2022 but lost in 2023 and 2024. When losses like this occur, a lot of the guys will move on to another team, so we entered the season with only ten returning players. They didn’t expect to win. When they accomplished this unexpected victory, they started calling me “Il Segreto,” meaning “The

September 2025 | Piney Woods

and we now have four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, with another on the way. She has always been supportive of my career moves, along with all the twists and turns that come with coaching Texas high school football.

Piney Woods | September 2025

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sponsors, and this support is not a given. Sponsors could easily back out of the commitment the next season, making a team go bankrupt overnight.

Each country has its own league and its own rules. The American players were paid, but the locals had to pay to play and provide their own equipment as well. When the teams were in Toledo, the players went to a Dick’s Sporting Goods store and came out with armfuls of equipment because it was far less expensive than in Italy.

Ages of players are generally between 17-40 in Florence. There are limits on the number of American players who can be on a team, and usually one of these must have dual citizenship.

For instance, in Italy, we had three American players, and one of these was also a citizen of Italy. And you can only play two Americans at a time.

One of my American guys had played linebacker at Texas Tech, and the other two had played at D2 schools, one as a receiver and one as a quarterback.

Some players would use this experience to send highlight films back to the NFL in hopes of a future position in the league. My main goal was to develop the Italian players. Everyone wants a Texas football coach, a player developer who can take guys and turn them into players. One of my players played for Bridgeport College in New York on a scholarship he had gotten because he played in Italy. After the season, he would come back to Italy and finish our season.

There is a football stadium in Florence, but many games are played on soccer fields where there are no clocks or scoreboards. We were always asking the officials how much time was left on the clock. A goal may be erected using PVC pipe, athletic tape used for sidelines, and yardage less than the standard American one hundred yards, usually eighty yards. Games are played by NCAA rules, although there is a mercy rule included whereby if a team is ahead by thirty-five points, there will be a running clock.

What were your main challenges in coaching overseas?

The language barrier was the biggest challenge. My mother was full-blooded Italian, so I had some familiarity with the language. Fortunately, a couple of the assistant coaches were fluent in English, with the others knowing a limited amount, and I usually helped the situation by speaking slowly. We got it done!

In Florence, we begin the season in mid-February and finish in midJune. Practices consist of two 1½ hour sessions each week, one on Wednesday night and the other on Friday night, both from 9-10:30 pm. On Wednesday, only the locals from Florence would practice, and on Friday, players would come from Bologna, Milan, and Modena.

So, we only had three hours each week in which to cram everything we could into our practice time.

Was this a rewarding experience, and do you plan to return?

Relationships make this rewarding.

No matter where or what level you coach, you make lifelong friends. I was never publicized as the head coach, so I named myself, “The most famous coach you’ve never heard of.” But I didn’t mind because it put the focus on the team and not me, which was very motivating for them. I have yet to make a decision about returning. Margaret and I loved the adventure, but with family that we miss here, it makes it tough. I’m grateful for the opportunity and experience and hope that I’ve been a positive influence toward my goal of making players a better version of themselves through the process.

Writer’s note: Use the QR code to watch American Football in Italy. There are three Divisions in Italy: Division 1 (Guelfi), Division 2 (a little less skill than Division 1), and 9 man ( fun to watch).

But have an Italian dictionary by your side. The commentary is all in Italian.

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September 2025 | Piney Woods

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Piney Woods | September 2025

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24 Postcards

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Publisher Karen Altom and her Granddaddy J.C. Farris

As I grow older, more and more often I find myself saying, “Like my Granddaddy used to say…” In an effort to keep some of these old sayings alive, we are sharing them here. Please feel free to share yours with us!

Puzzle Solutions Sudoku from page 68-69

Answers Challenging Sudoku by KrazyDad, Volume 22, Book 1 Intermediate MEDIUM Sudoku by KrazyDad, Volume 22, Book 1 HARD Sudoku #2 5 4 2 9 7 3 1 6 6 8 9 7 9 2 8 4 4 6 3 5 1 5 7 8 8 1 4 3 3 9 5 2 2 7 6 1

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Sudoku #5 #6 Sudoku 1 17 79 83 32 25 48 96 6 4 5 8 46our 4 61 95 77 52 19 8 33 Path 2 to 5Rehabilitation 9 82 98 47 16 54 31 73 2 and6Wellness 9 87 78 33 16 44 61 95 22 5 • Balance Training 5 41 • Orthopedic 2 58 77Rehab 3 19 84 3 6 2 6 9 & Fall Prevention • Pediatric Rehab 2 93 54 • Cardiac 5 Rehab 6 77 68 4 11 3 29 8 • Pain Management 1 8 6 45 29 63 12 84 57 7 • Neuro Rehab3 9 • Wellness 7 12 29 56 74 81 38 63 45 9 4 65 87 92 58 49 26 31 1 3 7

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Sudoku #3 #4 Sudoku #4 Sudoku 3 75 12 87 54 39 48 21 96 6 2 9 3 5 8 6 It always seems impossible until it's done.

9 26 57 95 11 88 64 42 33 7 7 4 1 9 3 2 - Nelson Mandela 8 44 36 22 73 99 55 87 1 6 8 5 7 4 1 1 6 5 14 63 51 27 96 48 3 2 89 7 5 7 2 3 6 9 4 47 31 52 78 96 83 19 65 2 4 3 6 8 1 7 6 93 68 29 45 17 32 74 51 8 8 1 9 2 5 4 8 11 89 73 96 62 55 37 24 4 1 6 7 4 2 5 5 52 26 68 37 44 11 83 79 9 9 2 8 6 7 3 7 34 93 41 89 25 76 68 12 5 3 5 4 1 9 8

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

September 2025 | Piney Woods

Sudoku #1 #2 Sudoku 5 53 92 44 18 37 66 81 2 9 7 1 17 45 83 76 28 92 59 3 4 6 8 82 36 27 61 99 55 74 43 1 6 27 92 39 75 51 84 13 68 4 5 13 48 76 22 34 61 59 97 8 1 59 84 63 98 47 16 35 22 7 6 25 81 59 62 73 48 14 9 7 3 3 48 79 54 17 85 92 21 36 6 1 18 36 23 49 87 75 5 2 94 6

Piney Woods | September 2025

Glorious Grandchildren

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Darlene Abramski

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We will bring your car back to life.

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Piney Woods | September 2025

"SEENS" from our World

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strophic Empty tanks are CATa events!

Seen by: PC Staff

This is why some places have a no cellphones in the bathro om policy Seen by: PC Staff

Share the funny and unusual things you’ve seen!

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Milestones

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Rick & Carla Smith

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his Birthday

their 35th Anniversary

his 88th Birthday

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Piney Woods | September 2025

JUST FOR FUN

P

The Lure of

Texas Rivers One man shares how, in a state as large as Texas, rivers are a big deal and a big draw.

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BY DANIEL HOULIHAN | SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Early experiences I fell in love with the rivers of Texas at a very early age. Growing up in East Texas, we lived near the East Fork of the San Jacinto River. The water was so clear you could see the pebbles in the shallows. My dad was an avid fisherman (partly because in those days, we ate fish every Friday). He would take me and my younger brother Mike along when he went to the river to fish in the summertime. Mike and I would swim, wade, splash, and lie in the current for hours on end. One day I was lying in the ripples, scooping up rocks and letting them wash off my thighs. Suddenly, one of the dark pebbles would not wash off; a leach had attached itself to my thigh! Scared me, I can tell you for sure. I jumped up and quickly scratched it off. I didn’t put

rocks on my legs anymore, though.

We also scoured the tall sandbanks for arrowheads. One day, we noticed what looked like an old campfire at the top of a tall bank. We started scraping away the sand along the edge and found several broken arrowheads and some broken pottery pieces. What a treasure for two young boys who were forever playing “cowboys and Indians.” Our closest friends lived about a mile and a half through the Piney Woods. They lived in oil company camps where their dads worked. Mike and I would walk to the camps and spend the summer day playing there with the boys our age. We could often be found making forts in the woods and wading the clear creeks close to the camp. These streams

were shallow with sandy bottoms and beautifully clear. This was an idyllic life for us all.

Paying it forward Later in life, I got involved in helping other boys enjoy the outdoors by teaching canoeing to the boy scouts who attended summer camp at Camp Strake in Conroe, Texas. My wife and I took training from the local Red Cross office and became certified to teach canoeing to the troops there. It was an ideal way to share our love of the outdoors and how to safely enjoy a skill that would lead to a merit badge for the boys as they began to work toward the rank of Eagle Scout.

Primetime My next adventure was to learn how to teach “kayaking” to adults. I became a “level two” instructor certified by the American Canoe Association. Paddling lakes and rivers in Texas and the southwest has been a great way to keep this 82-year-old body in a semblance of physical shape. I particularly enjoy paddling my 12 foot, sit-on-top Prowler Trident Ocean Kayak. On a lake or stream, with three good strong strokes, that craft begins to plane. When it

does, the ripples coming off of the bow are “pure Zen.” In recent years, I have paddled many rivers: the San Marcos River; the Colorado River in Texas and in Colorado; the Devils River; the South Llano River; the Trinity River; the Nueces; and the San Juan River in Utah. We did 40 miles on the Devils River in 4 days. My “to-do” list includes: the Rio Grande/Santa Elena Canyon; the Pecos River; and the Arkansas River in Colorado.

Piney Woods | September 2025

Dan enjoying a bright, clear day on the Llano River

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Dan navigating a small rapid on the San Marcos River

Giving back In recent years, I have become involved with the Texas Rivers Protection Association. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural purity of Texas waterways. Founded in 1989 by a coalition of conservation and recreation groups, TRPA has been at the forefront of safeguarding Texas rivers from pollution and overdevelopment.

The organization is committed to ensuring these rivers remain thriving ecosystems and serene retreats for generations to come. The organization offers individual memberships starting at $25 per year, which includes benefits such as a newsletter and voting rights at general meetings.

One of TRPA’s hallmark events is the annual cleanup of the San Marcos River. This event brings together volunteers from across the state to remove debris and pollutants, fostering a sense of community responsibility and environmental stewardship.

“A whole river is mountain country and hill country and flat country and swamp and delta country, is rock bottom and sand bottom and weed bottom and mud bottom, is blue, For more information about the Texas River Protection Agency, visit txrivers. green, red, clear, brown, org. There is a wealth of information, wide, narrow, fast, slow, including education, as well as descriptions, maps, and paddling trails for the clean, and filthy water, is many Texas river basins. all the kinds of trees and grasses and all the breeds of animals and birds and man that pertain and have ever pertained to its changing shores...”

”

John Graves​​, Goodbye to a River​

Creative Corner Daddy’s Pocketknife

by Glynda Turner

Piney Woods | September 2025

D

addy used a pocketknife for everything from picking his teeth (which appalled my mother) to cutting rope, scraping mud off his boots, or a handy screwdriver.

It was an extension of his hand.

He owned a lot of pocketknives people had given him from time to time. The one he carried was just a small plain yellow one. He showed me how to open and close a pocketknife without cutting myself. “Here, you try it.” Then he sharpened the blades, instructing me as he did it. “Sharp as a razor. A dull knife is not worth a damn. Here. This can be yours. A little gal needs a pocketknife, too. Take care of it. It’ll come in handy.” As I grew up

Glyn Turner died in 1995.

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and was home for holidays, he would ask if I needed my knife sharpened.

It was like the maestro tuning up. I’m sure it hasn’t been sharpened since the last time he did it.

I remember one Christmas Eve, early 1970s, we were in Dallas at his brother’s house. We decided to go to NorthPark Mall and watch the crowds. We got so hungry we thought we’d faint. Everywhere had huge lines, and we were dog-tired. Dad spotted a Hickory Farms store, and their express lines were moving fast.

He dashed over and bought a small cheese, salami, and crackers gift pack.

He reached in his pocket as he found a ledge around one of the large planters, and we had a seat. He pulled out his knife, wiped it down with his handkerchief from a back pocket. He sliced through the shrink wraps and flattened the box as a makeshift tray. He cut a little piece of cheese and salami, stuck his knife in them and pointed it to me. We had a little picnic right in the middle of the mall.

FedEx delivered a box today. I reached for my little yellow pocketknife and thought about Daddy.

Therapist-Led Recovery for Real-Life Movement Cassie Fry, PTA

Tony Delclos, PTA

Hab Españ lamos ol Talk T —Let’s herapy 3200 Robinson Creek Parkway • Suite B • Huntsville • 936-439-4770

Giggles & Grins I have decided to cut back on being sarcastic. I solemnly swear to only be sarcastic on days that begin with T... like Tuesday, Thursday, Today, and Tomorrow.

•••••••••••••••••••• My young coworkers asked me to show them pictures of me in high school. I said I'd go home and dig some out. They said, "Can't you just look on your phone?"

Wife: Why are you shirtless?

Husband: *looks at himself* Wife: And covered in...oil?

Husband: Well, you say I never glisten.

Wife: Listen! You never listen!

Waitress asked me if I wanna box for my leftovers.

It's going to be one of those days...

We went three rounds before she knocked me out.

My imaginary friend is running with scissors.

The voices in my head are fighting.

••••••••••••••••••••

And one of my personalities wandered off.

The cashier told me, "Strip down facing me."

••••••••••••••••••••

By the time I realized she meant the debit card...it was too late, and I was being escorted out of Walmart.

••••••••••••••••••••

Eight years ago, I made an appointment at my dentist, and under "What do you wish to be called?" I wrote "The Chosen One" and forgot about it.

Every horse in the 2025 Kentucky Derby traced back to Secretariat--a clear case of Neighpotism.

Today, I overheard the receptionist say, "Please let the doctor know The Chosen One is here." They've been using it this whole time.

••••••••••••••••••••

••••••••••••••••••••

If I could only use one word to describe myself, it would probably be: "Not very good at following instructions."

I never finish anything. I have a black belt in Partial Arts.

No Job too big or too small

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VE

In Memory of a loved ones life

E

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••••••••••••••••••••

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Piney Woods | September 2025

And I laughed and laughed and laughed... and then cried.

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Teacher: Your son said you threatened to beat him?

Me: At checkers!

Teacher: And forced him to sleep outside?

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Teacher: And made up his peanut allergy so he couldn't share your Snickers?

Me: Yeah...that one I did.

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Start the School Year with a Bloom!

He wants shoes like his friend Jacob (there is no Jacob).

September 2025 | Piney Woods

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I was in a very bad mood today. Then my 3-yo walked over, handed me a rock, patted my face, and said, "Mommy, you're perfect; here's a present for you."

And I smiled.

Medical Matters A Clear Start:

Grant Means

The Importance of Back-to-School Eye Exams s students sharpen pencils and zip up backpacks for the new school year, many families check off supply lists, sports forms, and annual physicals. But one essential health step often slips under the radar: a comprehensive eye exam.

Clear vision plays a bigger role in a child’s learning than most people realize. It’s estimated as much as 80% of classroom learning is visual. From reading textbooks and solving math problems to catching a ball in PE, good vision is essential for academic performance and overall confidence.

The challenge is that vision problems in children often go

Piney Woods | September 2025

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unnoticed. Kids may not realize they’re seeing the world differently, and even the most attentive parents may miss the subtle signs. Difficulty reading small print, frequent headaches, sitting too close to the television, or losing place while reading can all signal a vision issue.

Left unchecked, these problems can impact grades, behavior, and self-esteem.

A back-to-school eye exam isn’t just about reading the big “E” on the chart. A comprehensive exam checks visual acuity, depth perception, eye alignment, and focusing ability.

It can detect common issues like nearsightedness (difficulty seeing far away), farsightedness (difficulty seeing up close), and astigmatism (blurry or distorted vision at all distances). These conditions are highly correctable with glasses or contact lenses — but only if they’re identified.

Eye exams can also reveal more than vision problems. The eyes are often called the “window to your health” because they can show early signs of systemic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain autoimmune disorders. For children with existing health concerns, regular eye exams can be especially important in monitoring changes.

O.D.

For students spending increasing amounts of time on screens — whether for school assignments, research, or social connection — eye care is even more critical. Digital eye strain, sometimes called computer vision syndrome, can cause tired eyes, dryness, blurred vision, and headaches. While limiting screen time isn’t always realistic, proper lighting, regular breaks, and the right corrective lenses can make a big difference.

The start of a school year is a natural time to schedule an exam, ensuring any needed corrections or treatments are in place before learning ramps up.

For children already wearing glasses or contacts, an annual check-up helps ensure their prescription is still accurate and their eyes are healthy.

Healthy eyes set the stage for success both in and out of the classroom. By prioritizing eye care alongside other back-to-school preparations, parents give their children the clear vision they need to thrive.

After all, when a child can see the board, read with ease, and fully engage in their environment, they’re not just seeing better — they’re learning better.

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September 2025 | Piney Woods

We’ve Got Your Finances Covered.

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Piney Woods | September 2025

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How Would Your Perfect Day Begin?

How Did You Make Your First Dollar?

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How Do You Clear Your Mind After A Bad Day?

Book That Left A Lasting Impression On You?

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One Thing You’re Epically Bad At?

School You Attended?

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Favorite Movie?

Walk the Line

Working at Dairy Queen If I go Missing

Putting together a puzzle Going to bed on time!

Bucket List Item You’re Most Glad You’ve Done?

Ginny and Georgia

family

What Would We Find You Riding Down The Road Listening To?

16 Visit Florida 17

Top Thing Left To Do On Your Bucket List?

Spanish Music

If You Could Live Abroad, Where Would That Be?

Your Favorite Dish?

I don’t want to! Staying in Texas.

Your Go-To Barista Order?

18 My mom, she’s a strong person that has Who Do You Admire?

Favorite Childhood Memory

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Waking up in a good mood

15 Visiting Georgia to meet my Mom's

Last Thing You Binge-Watched?

7 Chicken Alfredo 8 Java Chip Frappachino 40 9 Playing hide and seek 10 Originally from Georgia 11 Cleaning. I'm kinda OCD.

Server

survived and persevered a lot.

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Something Surprising About You? What Would We Find You Doing On Your Day Off?

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Don't let other people dictate your life Advice To Your Younger Self?

Finish what you start!

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Dear Gabby

Send me your questions at

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Welcome back to the September edition of the Dear Gabby advice column. The national holiday this month is Labor Day, on September 1st. How convenient it falls on a Monday. I recently had a birthday, and I told my grandkids I was older than Google. They didn’t believe me. By the way, if you were born before September 4th, 1998, you’re older than Google, too! Fall begins on the 22nd, so stock up on your pumpkin spice items. I can live without pumpkin spice; just give me some cooler weather and high school football. Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share.

DEAR GABBY I asked my big brother about some stories I read about pirates.

I really like pirates and their stories are so exciting, but some things I don’t understand. Like earrings, eye patches, and parrots. He told me to ask you because you probably remember pirates.

Jolly Roger

DEAR JR

CONFIDENTIAL TO “WALKING ON EGGSHELLS?: I can commiserate. At the rate we’re going, we’re going to have to cancel shampoo so bald people don’t get offended.

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Cambridge and Global Financial Partners are not affiliated. Cambridge does not provide tax advice.

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WE CLEAN.YOU RELAX.

Gabby

September 2025 | Piney Woods

Ahoy, Matey! That’s a real funny brother you’ve got there.

Earrings, eye patches, and parrots, oh my! Some pirates believed gold had magical powers and could ward off evil spirits, seasickness, and even prevent drowning. They thought it gave improved night vision for raids after dark. Nope, but stay tuned. Since there are no banks on the high seas, gold earrings were a good way to keep some valuable gold where you could keep an eye on it. Some pirates would engrave their home port inside their earrings. It was widely believed, if you were lost at sea or battle, the gold in your earrings would cover the cost of whoever found you to ship you home and bury your

bones. (But these are pirates we’re talking about.) Regarding patches, pirates did not go around poking each other’s eyes out. Patches truly were good for improving night vision. By covering one eye, if you had to go down into the dark belly of the ship, you would switch the patch to the other eye and your unpatched eye would be much more able to see in the dark areas. Ditto for unexpected night raids. The high seas are a lonely place on long voyages, and parrots make good pets.

Some could be taught to talk, and they worked cheap…for seeds and nuts. Being a pirate was an exciting life, and what kid wouldn’t want to sleep in a hammock and have a parrot for a first mate? Yo Ho Ho

The Garden Post

Let’s Do This Right!

Piney Woods | September 2025

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he fall planting season has begun, and everyone is ready to get started. To start your season properly, let us discuss some of the tried-and-true basics for installing your landscape...with tips formulated especially for our growing area. Walker County and Montgomery County share a woodland environment and dealing with clay; acid based soils and poor drainage are often a challenge to contend with.

If you are a new contractor, gardener, or a do-it-yourselfer, I have found most folks “get into trouble” or have limited success by not following the three basic rules of landscape.

Yes, there is a ton more info on the subject, but let us start with the bare basics and discuss.

Light requirements: Know how much sun you have and what plants grow in these conditions.

1. In the landscape industry, morning sun till 12:00 noon is considered ½ day sun, or a shady environment.

2. Direct sun from 12:00 noon – 6:00 pm is considered a full sun area.

Getting the correct plant variety for the amount of light the plant will receive is crucial to its growth and success. Much money is thrown away by planting that plant “you had to have” in the area where “you had to have it,” but failing to ensure it fulfills the light or space needs of the plant, and the plant dies.

Placement: (Someone needs to hear this.) All plants grow and will not stay the size they are at purchase. Pruning it heavily (to keep it at 50% less than its intended mature size) will eventually kill it.

1. Plants should be planted at least 24” – 36” away from the foundation of the house and not under the dripline of the roof. Heavy rains will/can damage shrubs, and the plant needs to have room to grow vertically and horizontally from the center of the plant.

2. Shrubs that grow to 3’ will need to be placed 3’ apart, measuring from the center of each plant. Plants that grow to 6’ in width can be planted on 6’ centers, with a minimum of a 4’ center. Large shrubs, such as vitex and dwarf crape myrtles, should be placed a minimum of 6’-8’ from a foundation (with 8’-10’ being preferred).

3. Shade trees with a 40’ height x 25’ wide are recommended to be a minimum of 15’ away from a foundation.

Kim Bius President, Kim's Home & Garden Center

Planting: Due to the heavy clay content often found in our soil and the use of contractor’s fill to build a foundation (which cannot be avoided), the area around the foundation is rarely without the need to be amended.

1. To make a planting medium sufficient to grow plants successfully, a soilless planting mix or a high-grade topsoil mixed with humus makes an excellent base when tilled into the existing soil.

2. On average, the top 3”- 6” of soil are removed on new home builds. Then soil additives are applied. Ensure your prepared beds are several inches below the weep holes when mulch is applied. If clay is still prevalent, apply garden gypsum. The gypsum will break the clay into smaller particles, allowing for better aeration and drainage.

3. Remember to plant 1” above grade. This means 1”-2” of the root ball is above the existing soil level, giving weight of the plant room to settle and elevation from poor drainage.

These basic rules will save tons of money and frustration and as always, your local independent garden center can always help answer questions.

Happy Gardening….fall is on the way.

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September 2025 | Piney Woods

• Concrete Construction, Paving, Refinishing, Removal, Resurfacing and Repair.

Tasty Bites Garlicky Grilled Pesto Chicken

Piney Woods | September 2025

INGREDIENTS

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2 cups firmly packed fresh basil leaves, plus chopped basil for garnish 1/4 cup walnut halves and pieces 2 garlic cloves 1 ice cube 1 1/2 tsp kosher salt, divided 1/2 tsp lemon zest 2 Tbs fresh lemon juice, divided 2/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil 3/4 oz Parmesan cheese, grated 4 (8-oz) skinless, boneless chicken breasts, pounded to 1-inch thickness 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Combine basil, walnuts, garlic, ice cube, 1/2 teaspoon salt, lemon zest, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice in a food processor. Process until very finely chopped, about 30 seconds, stopping to scrape down sides as needed. With processor running, slowly stream in oil until emulsified, about 15 seconds. Add Parmesan cheese and pulse until well combined, 3 to 4 pulses.

Step 2: Transfer 1/2 cup of the pesto into a large resealable plastic bag; add remaining 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Divide remaining 1/2 cup pesto into 2 small bowls, 1/4 cup each; cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Season chicken evenly with pepper and remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Add chicken to the bag with pesto; seal, and gently massage to coat.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.

Step 4: Grill chicken, uncovered, until grill marks form, 3 to 5 minutes. Flip chicken; grill until an instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of chicken registers 160 degrees F. Step 5: Transfer chicken to a cutting board. Brush top of chicken evenly with 1/4 cup reserved pesto.

Loosely cover with foil and let stand 5 minutes.

Step 6: Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Serve remaining 1/4 cup pesto on the side and garnish with basil.

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We have you covered.

Attorney at Law

September 2025 | Piney Woods

Complete Pest Control

Tasty Bites Chocolate-Hazelnut Spread No-Bakes INGREDIENTS

Piney Woods | September 2025

1 cup butter 2 cups white sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup peanut butter 1 cup chocolate-hazelnut spread (such as Nutella®) 3 cups rolled oats

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DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Line an 8-inch baking dish with aluminum foil.

Step 2: Melt butter in a large saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Stir sugar, vanilla extract, and salt into the melted butter; bring to a boil and cook and stir until the sugar dissolves, about 1 minute.

Step 3: Reduce heat to medium; add the peanut butter and chocolate-hazelnut spread. Cook and stir until smooth, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add the oats; stir to coat evenly. Dump the mixture into the prepared baking dish; spread into an even layer using a spatula or spoon.

Step 4: Allow the mixture to cool completely, at least 30 minutes. Remove from baking dish, lifting by the foil. Cut into bars to serve.

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Tasty Bites Easy Caramel Apple Salad INGREDIENTS

Piney Woods | August 2025

1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple 1 (3.4 oz) pkg instant butterscotch pudding mix 2 cups chopped apples 1 cup skinless peanuts

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DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Stir whipped topping, pineapple, and butterscotch pudding mix together in a bowl until smooth. Fold apples and peanuts into pudding mixture until salad is well mixed.

Step 2: Refrigerate salad until completely chilled, at least 30 minutes.

Postcardslive.com Harvest Hope, Share Love You’re Always Welcome Here.

Sunday Worship Service 10:45 AM State of the Art Hearing Technology Available Adult Bible Study and Children’s Sunday School 9:30 AM Nursery Available

Worship services are live streamed @ First Christian Church - Huntsville, TX 1800 Ave. R. • Huntsville

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September August 2025 | Piney Woods

Wednesday Bible Study 10:00 AM

Tasty Bites Oven Fried Okra INGREDIENTS

1 (16 oz) pkg frozen cut okra butter flavored cooking spray ¼ cup yellow cornmeal ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs ½ tsp garlic salt ¼ tsp ground black pepper (optional)

Piney Woods | September 2025

DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Place a baking rack on top of a baking sheet or sheet pan.

Step 2: Cook the frozen okra in the microwave using your microwave’s frozen vegetable setting, or on high for 8 minutes. Drain and cool on paper towels for about 5-10 minutes. Spray generously with butter flavored cooking spray. Add the cornmeal, panko breadcrumbs, garlic salt, and pepper to a plastic food storage bag. Place the okra into the bag and shake to coat the okra with the cornmeal mixture.

Step 3: Remove the okra from the bag and spread it on the prepared baking rack. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and crispy, about 15-20 minute

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Still accepting Fall Enrollment Rita’s Playschool & Day Care 114 York Drive • Madisonville 936-348-0276 Curtis & Donna O’Brien, Owners

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51 Postcards

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Tasty Bites Pasta with Basil, Tomatoes and Cheese

Piney Woods | September 2025

IINGREDIENTS

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2 lbs vine ripened tomatoes, seeded and diced 3 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup chopped fresh basil 1 Tbs chopped fresh mint leaves ¾ tsp salt ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup cream sherry 12 oz spaghetti ½ cup freshly grated Asiago cheese 2 cups fontina cheese, shredded

DIRECTIONS

Step 1: In a medium bowl, toss together tomatoes, garlic, basil, mint, salt and black pepper, hot pepper flakes, olive oil, and cream sherry. Let stand at room temperature for up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender, but firm to the bite.

Step 3: Drain the pasta and transfer to a large serving bowl. Drain 1/4 cup of the liquid from the tomato mixture and toss with the pasta to coat. Add cheese and toss until it begins to melt. Add the tomato mixture and toss until mixed.

Piney Woods | September 2025

P COMMUNITY BUILDERS

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Magnolia Exotic Bird Sanctuary

How a dedicated non-profit is transforming the lives of exotic birds in captivity.

STORY & PHOTOS BY TRACY DOWNEY

N

estled in the heart of Magnolia, Texas, the Magnolia Exotic Bird Sanctuary (abbreviated as MEBS) stands as a beacon of hope for exotic birds in urgent need of compassionate care. Founded by siblings Sharon Markland, Rick Markland, and Candace Tanner, this remarkable 501(c)(3) non-profit is devoted to creating a

haven for birds facing extraordinary adversity such as illegal trafficking, significant health issues, or having lost their beloved human companions. Postcards spoke with Communications Director Candace Tanner to discuss the importance of the sanctuary and what people can do to save the third most popular pet from extinction.

Share your sister Sharon’s inspiration for MEBS. What is she like?

The Sibling Brain Trust of MEBS poses for a rare photo at their annual spring fundraiser May 17, 2025. From left, Sharon Markland (77), Rick Markland (72), and Candace Tanner (70).

You started working for MEBS in 2014?

Yes, I was still working a full-time job, and part time for MEBS. Now, I work full time on the business end as a grant writer.

With grant writing, there’s a whole language you must learn.

We work really hard in bringing in the funds to care for all these birds.

Where do these birds come from, and how many can MEBS hold?

They came from Hurricane Harvey, the Houston SPCA, out of state, elderly people who can no longer take care of them, natural disasters—everywhere. Right now, MEBS has 164 birds. At one time, we had 220 small birds from a law enforcement seizure. On average, there are between four to six rescues per week.

These birds are often between 25-30 years old.

That makes them senior citizens, right?

Yes, their health issues are similar to what happens to humans, like heart and vascular disease, arthritis; it’s pretty traumatic.

And then where do they go?

There’s nowhere for them to go except for us.

There's nowhere for them to go except for us.

”

55 Postcards

Tanner travels from San Diego to Magnolia TX three to four times a year, updating their social media, and website.

She also raises funds by writing grants while organizing four fundraisers a year for the non-profit.

September 2025 | Piney Woods

They love her. Everyone calls her the ‘mayor’ because she’s physically on the ground, always rehabilitating these birds. It started in the 80s with Sharon’s cockatoo “Sammy” that her husband bought for her. He lived with her till he passed away.

By 2004, Sharon started working for her father-in-law’s bird breeding business and raised baby cockatiels and African gray parrots. Soon after, Sharon realized that she had a calling that went way beyond breeding birds.

Sharon said, ‘This is not what I am supposed to do,’ so she started rescuing birds brought into the Houston SPCA. At that time, she had 42 rescued birds, and it just kept growing.”

The current size of MEBS is 1.33 acres with eight aviaries, three temperature-controlled bird buildings, and three storage buildings. With donated funds, MEBS plans to repurpose one of their buildings exclusively for adoptable birds. This project is expected to cost $30,000.

The Sanctuary’s Mission: “To protect and prevent the suffering of parrots living in captivity.”

Piney Woods | September 2025

At MEBS, each bird’s story is unique. Many birds range from 25 to 30 years old, bearing the scars of past neglect, health challenges, or emotional trauma. Some arrive with chronic illnesses requiring lifelong medical attention, while others, once swept up in the shadowy currents of the black market, are finally free to experience gentle hands and genuine care for the first time.

Sylvester’s story:

Tanner shared, “Sylvester is a seven-year-old keel-bill toucan that loves fresh blueberries. We got a call from a mom in Austin whose 19-year-old-autistic son bought him for five thousand at a pet store, but he never intended to keep the bird because his cage was too small. MEBS has kept Sylvester for over two years. I have found a specialist in Louisiana that rescues and rehabilitates toucans. Soon, Sylvester will be transported to Louisiana, where he’ll spend the rest of his life in a large aviary equipped for his species. He’s had a great life, but he will eventually have an even better life.”

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56 Sylvester – A seven-year-old, Keel-billed Toucan was purchased from a pet store in Austin for $5000.00. Unable to care for him properly, siblings Rick & Sharon Markland drove to Austin to bring him to the sanctuary in 2023.

Quinn’s story:

“Quinn is a Moluccan Cockatoo, about 25 to 30 years old, purchased for $800 on Houston Craigslist,” said Tanner. “His new owner knew there was something terribly wrong with him and took Quinn to the vet immediately. He was given fluids, medications, and had both his wings wrapped. His owner realized that neither they nor that vet could take proper care of him, and they reached out to MEBS.” After receiving Quinn, Sharon immediately took him to her avian vet. Tanner recalls, “He had suffered the worst case of abuse the vet and Sharon had ever seen.

Quinn had many broken bones (old and new), sepsis, malnutrition, and lacerations. He lives his days in comfort, with care and medications from Sharon.”

Quinn: Moluccan Cockatoo - 25 to 30 years old, was purchased in Houston for $800.00 on Craigslist. Quinn had suffered the worst case of abuse their vet and Sharon had ever seen. With the owner unable to care for him, he now lives his days with Sharon in comfort, with care and medications.

Confronting the hidden crisis of parrot trafficking in Texas

How the community can help

Running a sanctuary for aging, sick, or traumatized birds is a monumental undertaking. It costs upwards of $1500 to care for each bird each year. Said Tanner, “Let’s do the math. $1500 x 164 birds a year. That’s $246,000 a year including land taxes, water, electricity, food, and labor. Just consider the electric bill. Summer electric bills average $600 per month. Winter is between $1200-1500 per month. The annual average cost for electricity is $10,800. We also spend a lot of money on fresh fruit and veggies too, so yeah, it adds up.”

MEBS relies on the generosity of donors to provide medical care, enrichment, nutritious food, and sanctuary maintenance. Community support enables the sanctuary to accept more birds in need and to expand outreach programs that educate the public about parrot welfare and the dangers of the illegal pet trade.

• Donate: Contributions of any size go directly to help fund veterinary treatments, specialized diets, and habitat improvements.

• Volunteer: From daily care to enrichment activities and event organization, volunteers are the lifeblood of the sanctuary. Email mebssanctuary@yahoo.com.

• Spread Awareness: Share the sanctuary’s story on IG @ birdslivesmatter2 • In-Kind Gifts: Contact the sanctuary for a list of current needs.

For more information on how to support Magnolia Exotic Bird Sanctuary, visit their website at magnoliaexoticbirdsanctuary.org.

For boarding your birds, reach out directly at (619)379-1779. Every gift helps give birds in need a chance to heal and to love once more.

57 Postcards

MEBS annual spring fundraiser and some of the items donated for their private auction held on May 17, 2025.

MEBS hosts four fundraisers a year and all proceeds go to care for the birds at the sanctuary.

SCAN TO DONATE

September 2025 | Piney Woods

According to the American Veterinary Medicine Association, due to high demand, parrot trafficking is estimated to net between $45-50 billion per year. Birds on the black market are cheaper than those from legitimate breeders. Poachers capture baby birds by cruel means by using mist nests and birdlime, a particular glue that’s spread on tree branches. Many of these birds are kept in unsanitary conditions, injured upon capture, and sold on Craigslist. In 2023, Savannah Nicole Valdez of Houston was sentenced to fifteen years in federal prison, followed by three years’ probation for selling keel-billed toucans and yellow-headed Amazon parrots on Craigslist. Both birds are federally protected under the Endangered Species Act. Tanner cautions about purchasing birds on Craigslist, “There’s a lot of scammers out there; beware.”

Despite the vivid beauty and remarkable intelligence of parrots, their plight in Texas often goes unnoticed.

Many trafficked birds suffer untold hardships—torn from their native habitats, smuggled in inhumane

conditions, and deprived of proper care.

Even after rescue, these birds face uphill battles against disease, malnutrition, and psychological distress.

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Piney Woods | September 2025

Business Contracts

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Piney Woods | September 2025

Pet Pals

Share Your Pets Photos with Us!

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Winnie

Pootie

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loved by

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Willow

Lorenzo (Enzo)

Sir Ivan

loved by

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Cassie & GMA

Lane & Chelsi Bowen

Cassie & GMA

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Donna & Joe

Agustin & Stephany Rodriguez

Sherri Molitor

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BACK TO SCHOOL SALE GOING ON NOW!

109

$

Buy one Get one Free SINGLE VISION LENS W/FRAME*,** POLYCARBONATE MATERIAL AND STANDARD ANTIREFLECTIVE COATING INCLUDED. Sale August 1 - September 30, 2025

Check your FSA or HSA Benefits & use before they expire!

**Restrictions Apply Frames included are from our select line. All other frames will be sold at retail price. Cannot be combined with insurance.

Frames have a one year one time manufacturer warranty with a $20 warranty processing fee. Most lens have a one year one time scratch warranty.

936-291-8282

109 Medical Park Lane, Ste. A Huntsville, TX 77340

Stephen H. Means, O.D. Grant P. Means, O.D.

Identify the things that are most important to you Learn from your loved ones Bring peace of mind to all involved Save your family money Consider ways to pass on your legacy

Serving families of Madison and surrounding counties "The Walters Way" for over forty years.

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61 Postcards

Guiding Families with Compassion – One Life, One Memory at a Time.

September 2025 | Piney Woods

*Some prescriptions do not qualify for the single vision special.

Ask your optician about other specials!!

Piney Woods | September 2025

Funspace

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62

LIGHTING IS OUR BUSINESS! Let us help you design and illuminate your unique space!

A wide selection of styles for all decor types and tastes PLUS an experienced staff to help you create and design your space to perfection!

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September 2025 | Piney Woods

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Postcards Piney Woods | September 2025

Funspace Spot 8 Differences

64

Funspace

Piney Woods | September 2025

What is a tree’s least favorite month?

Sep-timber

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66

How many seconds are there in one year?

12 of them: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd, April 2nd, May 2nd, June 2nd, July 2nd, August 2nd, September 2nd, October 2nd, November 2nd, and December 2nd.

What is the longest name in the world?

JASON, it takes 5 months to spell it.

(July, August, September, October, November)

Join Us For The 2nd Annual

FLY-IN & CAR SHOW FREE TO PUBLIC Visit and Dine with Local and Visiting Pilots

Bounce Houses

Variety of Airplanes and Classic Cars

Food and Local Vendors

Fire Trucks Displayed

Raffle for a Discovery Flight and more!

sponsored by The City of Madisonville and Lazy 8 Flight School Madisonville Municipal Airport 2207 Airport Lane Madisonville, Tx 77864

For more information and to register your vehicle shelby.stallings@ci.madisonville.tx.us 936-348-9333

See you there!

27 september 10AM - 2PM

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September 2025 | Piney Woods

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Rodent Control

Ants

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Serving Huntsville and Madisonville for more than 40 years!

Weed Control

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11th Street Veterinary Hospital Your Pet, Our Priority!

Exams • Ultrasound • Boarding •Day Care • Therapeutic Laser Dental Procedures • Radiographs • Microchipping • More Mon., Wed., Thur., Fri.

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Sudoku Medium #2 9 4 1 8 3 2 7 2

4 7 5 6 1

5

5

6 8 9 5 3

6 1 9 4 8

1 3

7

© 2023 KrazyDad.com

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

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

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

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

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Piney Woods | September 2025

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Solutions on page 25 Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 thru 9.

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

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

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

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69 Postcards

1

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September 2025 | Piney Woods

Are You Ready For Some Football?

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Piney Woods | September 2025

P

BUSINESS FOCUS

Circuit Physical Therapy For those living in pain, there are solutions available.

BY KATHERINE E. STEPHENS | PHOTOS BY TOM MILLER

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W

e only have one body, so we better take care of it, right?

Circuit Physical Therapy, located on Highway 19 in Trinity, Texas believes they have the tools and means to help you feel better and get on a path to wellness. Catherine and Nino Mallari, owners of Circuit Physical Therapy, believe that is about helping repair what has been injured, and even planning ahead for future issues that could occur.

Services Offered: Balance Training Fall Prevention Pain Management Neuro Rehab Orthopedic Rehab Pediatric Rehab Cadiac Rehab Wellness Meet Catherine and Nino

Here is a married couple who proves working with your spouse can mean two heads are better than one! They have teamed up to serve Trinity and the surrounding area. While opening an office in the Huntsville area or further north might have been the more obvious choice, Catherine and Nino opted to set up base where they saw the need in Trinity.

While previously working in home health, Catherine encountered patients who would express the struggle of traveling to Huntsville or even further to The Woodlands for their care. “It takes too much of their time to get there, especially with I-45 being such a busy highway.”

Before moving to the area, Catherine was already a practicing physical therapist, with experience in home health, nursing homes, acute rehab, and preventative rehab.

Nino, with a degree in engineering, began to ponder

what life would look like for his family as they settled in the Piney Woods of East Texas. One day, Catherine pitched the idea of Nino shadowing her to see if he would be interested in physical therapy. And as they say – the rest is history! After obtaining his associate physical therapy degree at Blinn College, Nino broached the idea of going into business together and opening their own clinic. Catherine said, “Let’s go!”

The couple poke fun at each other about working together, because all married couples know not everyone could do this! As they laugh and joke about working in such close proximity, it is obvious they have found the formula to make it successful. Together at Circuit for the past two years, they offer numerous services to help people live a better life.

Why “Circuit” Physical Therapy?

Catherine explains, “It’s not only catchy, but because we provide a lot of services to our patients—pain management, neuro rehab, ortho rehab, pediatrics, balance training, fall prevention—we selected a name that will cover everything.”

Helping those in pain…and a heart for an aging community According to reports from the 2023 National Health Survey, approximately 24 percent of United States adults reported experiencing chronic pain. For those living in pain, there are solutions or pain management available. Catherine says, “When people get stressed out, it causes pain, because the body releases all these inflammatory substances. We want to help people who are in pain—neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain, elbow pain, foot pain – anything! We offer them dry needling and pain modalities like ultrasound, TENS unit, cupping, etc. We make use of a lot of different exercises tailored for each patient, as well as manual methods. We do joint mobilizations and soft tissue mobilizations to help restore range of motion, relieve muscle spasms, and increase blood flow, therefore relieving pain.”

Having taken notice of an aging community, Catherine and Nino—both Equipment and space for all therapies offered

with work experience in nursing homes—have a heart for those who are aging and need assistance in multiple ways. Some of those ways are preventive. “I’d say ninety-nine percent of our patients are elderly people. So, okay, let’s do fall prevention.” Nino explains how teaching patients a game plan for a fall can make all the difference.

There is a moment before a fall where the patient has to decide.

“Where does your foot go; are you falling forward or on your side?” Nino says all these factors play a big role in the level of pain and injury which result from the fall.

“Let’s say, their phone is all the way in their bedroom, and they fall in their living room but can’t find anything to hold onto. So, we will train them how to stand up after a fall.”

Although the aging community is a focus of Circuit, the age of their patients also ranges to pediatrics, young children who are injured or have a special need that requires attention.

Josh & Nino

Teaching older patients a game plan for a fall can make all the difference.

Getting started

The Business Focus is chosen each month by random drawing from among Postcards contract advertisers.

73 Postcards

If you think physical therapy might help you, call Circuit Physical Therapy at (936)594-9224 or visit their website at gocircuitpt.com. Located at 2210 South Robb Street in Trinity, they are open Monday – Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

September 2025 | Piney Woods

First, referral. If you are a good candidate for physical therapy, you may be referred by a physician or chiropractor; from there, Catherine and Nino can start the process of helping you improve your quality of life.

When you arrive, you will be greeted by the office manager, then meet Catherine to plan a course of action. “I see patients for their initial evaluation. The plan of care will be based on the deficits I see,” says Catherine. When Catherine has finished her assessments and care, she will typically either continue seeing the patient or be assisted by Nino and technicians moving forward.

Catherine and Nino want to help you be pain free and live your best life. Their vision is: “To create a place of excellent and compassionate care to all members of the family to achieve a better and healthy society.” When asked about the future, Nino says, “Aquatic therapy is the goal!”

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Family owned and operated since 1977 Piney Woods | July 2025

Full Service Meat Case • Custom Deer Processing Gift Baskets • Home Cooked BBQ • And More

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Let me find you a home you love!

I’m YOUR Real Estate Expert.

terricolemanrealestate@gmail.com

Your Best Agrilife Why Kids Should

Join 4-H

Piney Woods | September 2025

A

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re you looking for a place where your child or grandchild can learn by doing, grow confidence, or have a heart to give back to their community? If so, Walker County 4-H is the place for you. 4-H programs involve hands-on projects with caring adult mentors who help young people discover their talents and set goals that stick. These projects vary from child to child and are available for a wide range of interests.

Research shows that the 4-H model works. The 4-H model blends experiential learning, positive

The projects that are offered in Walker County 4-H are: • Beef Cattle (Steers, Heifers, Commercial Heifers, Commercial Steers, Scramble Heifers) • Clover Kids • Community Service • Consumer Education • Dog Care and Training

Sam A. Moak

Kristy Titzman Walker County Extension Agent

youth-adult partnerships, and leadership opportunities, to give kids both the skills and support to thrive. Studies from Tufts University and National 4-H Council find that 4-H members excel academically, are more civically active, and make healthier choices than their peers that are not in 4-H. In Walker County, youth can explore projects in livestock, vet science, food and nutrition, photography, leadership, shooting sports, and more. Our partnership with the Walker County Fair Association and other local businesses and organizations allows members to

showcase their work at community events, from livestock shows to creative competitions.

For families, 4-H is a safe, affordable way for kids to gain real-world skills, build confidence, and make lifelong friends. Curious? Join us at any Walker County 4-H meeting or event and see what your child or grandchild can start building, one project at a time.

For more information, please contact the Walker County Extension Office at 936-435-2426 or visit our website at https://walker.agrilife.org/4h/.

• Entomology • Fashion and Interior Design (Clothing and Quilting) • Food and Nutrition • Horse • Horticulture • Leadership • Market Goats • Photography • Poultry (Broilers and Turkeys)

• Public Speaking • Rabbits • Robotics • Sheep • Shooting Sports (Archery, Rifle and Shotgun) • Sportfishing • Swine • Veterinary Science • Wildlife & Fisheries

PROFESSIONAL

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Licensed by The Texas Supreme Court

Postcardslive.com Have a Hunter in your Life?

September 2025 | Piney Woods

BOUTIQUE

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Our attorneys have been staples of the legal community in Walker County and surrounding counties for many years. We will walk you through each step of the legal process to help ensure you achieve the best results possible. At Haney, Paschal & Romoser, we are here for you.

Haney, Paschal & Romoser ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1300 11th St. • Ste 405 • Huntsville • 936-295-3712

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Wildlife Wonders The Crawl of Shame:

Roaches on the Run

Piney Woods | September 2025

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hen you’re number one in something, you usually feel darned good. It brings a sense of pride. Over the years, Houston has claimed that spot in several areas. In 2021, Houston was named #1 for being the most diverse city in the United States. According to a study by Penske Truck Rental in 2024, Houston was ranked as the #1 moving destination.

Everyone knows The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo holds the title for having the world’s largest rodeo. There is another #1 spot I am sure it’s not thrilled about. A study by Pest Gnome, a company that specializes in connecting people to exterminators, declared Houston the city with the most cockroaches—a title few would dispute.

Cockroaches love heat and humidity—and there’s no denying Houston offers ideal conditions for them. Globally, there are 4,500 species, but only 69 live in the United States. Texas has about 30 species, but there are 4 prevalent species in Houston-American, German, Oriental, and Brown-banded cockroaches.

The largest you are likely to see in and around your home is the American cockroach, growing up to 2 inches long. They are also known as water bugs or palmetto bugs. They are reddish-brown in color and can fly. The German roach is smaller, brown, and has two dark stripes. They have wings, but they don’t fly. They are the most prolific breeders, and it only takes 100 days to produce a new generation. They are usually found near food and water sources. They spend their entire lives inside.

The Oriental roach is dark brown or black and grows to about 1.25 inches long. Like the German roach, they have wings but don’t fly. They prefer cooler, ground-level sites such as basements, crawl spaces, and wet areas. The brown-banded roach likes warmer and drier areas and you’re likely to see them in appliances. They can grow to 1.5 inches long and have antennae that are as long as their body. As their name implies, adults have distinctive brown bands. Younger ones are black with two white bands on the body and white-tipped antennae. American, Oriental, and Brown-banded roaches live mostly outdoors, but will move indoors in search of food and water.

By Cheryl Conley

Lake Creek Nature Preserve Board of Directors

Cockroaches aren’t just an annoyance; they are a health hazard. They carry bacteria that can cause salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus. Cockroaches have been known to play a role as carriers of intestinal diseases, such as dysentery, diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid fever according to the World Health Organization. In an article in the Journal of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research, cockroaches are one of the most common sources of indoor allergens.

Most homeowners I know have a professional pest control company treat their homes on a regular basis, both inside and outside, but you can help reduce the cockroach population by limiting their access to water, food, and shelter.

According to healthline.com, here are some things you can do: • seal entry points such as cracks in floors and walls • fix leaky pipes • keep typically damp areas dry • use cockroach traps and bait • tightly cover all trash containers • store food in airtight containers (including food in cabinets) • clean dirty dishes immediately after use • clean pet food bowl (don’t leave pet food out) • sweep up food crumbs from tables, counters, stovetop, and floors • wipe up spills immediately • vacuum and mop floors regularly • clean (at least annually) around and under furniture that is rarely moved • clear out clutter from storage closets, shelves, and drawers Cockroaches are squatters and may act like they own the place, but show them the door. With a little diligence, you can evict these six-legged squatters and reclaim your home—one squeaky-clean corner at a time.

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“Fiddler on the Roof”

ArtBeat in Concert

Local Churches Blood Drive

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Piney Woods | September 2025

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“A Gentleman’s Guide to Love & Murder”

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Mustard Seed Moments

By Ruth Fields

The Race of Life: On Your Mark, Get Set, DOUGH!

Piney Woods | September 2025

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t all started when I read a high school friend’s Facebook post about growing sourdough starter from scratch. My interest was aroused. A few weeks later, I was surprised and delighted when I was gifted a small jar of sourdough starter. I soon delved deep into the sourdough world, where I learned it is customary to give a starter a name.

My high school friend named hers Lucy Ricardough; other popular names include Jane Dough and Edgar Allan Dough. Because I am a musician, I named my starter Dough-re-mi.

Dough-re-mi did its job admirably, and I was amazed. After a sourdough baking frenzy that lasted several weeks, I began to notice something: there are lessons to be learned from sourdough.

Lesson one: Sourdough starter must be fed. If left at room temperature, sourdough starter must be fed a mixture of flour and water at least once a day; if stored in the refrigerator, it must be fed at least once a week. If neglected, the starter will die and will no longer be useful in breadmaking. Christians, likewise, need to be fed. Matthew 5:6 states, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

Lesson two: Sourdough starter grows.

I learned quickly that I must only fill a Mason jar half full of starter, because otherwise, it will bubble right out of the jar. Christians should grow, too. II Peter 3:18 admonishes us: “But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Colossians 1:10 tells us we should “live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God. . .”

Lesson three: Sourdough should be shared. Friends, family members,

and neighbors were thrilled when I gave them loaves of fresh, homemade sourdough bread. Already, two friends want some of my starter. Oddly, I’m in no danger of running out of sourdough starter. I can always grow more. In the same way, when we share the love of Jesus, our supply of love is never diminished. In John 13:34, Jesus said, “As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Lesson four: Sourdough starter makes something wonderful, but it does so on its own schedule. Making sourdough bread is a process, so I learned to bake when I planned to be at home

all day. One website warns sourdough bakers to “watch the bread, not the clock.” Likewise, we often tend to want God to do things on our own timetable.

Sometimes, we are even impatient with God when we ask him to make us more Christlike. The good news, however, is that even though we sometimes feel like nothing more than blobs of sourdough starter, we will one day be great loaves of bread.

“Then Jesus declared, ‘I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.’” –John 6:35

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