The Whole Kid and Kaboodle Fall 2020

FR EE

Fall 2020

KE TA E! ON

An Activity and Resource Guide for Families

Value of Vitamins

Lessons from my mirror Who Is your hero

The Wash House Donald’s Bible Kids Eat Free

¿Quién es tu héroe?

Getting Back to School with Flexibility and Innovation

ATA S C O C I TA • H U M B L E • H U F F M A N • K I N G W O O D • P O R T E R • N E W C A N E Y ROMAN FOREST • SPLENDORA • SUMMER CREEK

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The Team

Fall 2020 Table of Contents Jerri Bankston

CEO/Owner/Publisher/Editor

Kids Eat Free....................................................6 Value of Vitamins........................................8-9 Who is your Hero?..................................10-11 Events..............................................................12 Local Parks and Activities ......................... 14

Sherrie Stone Graphic Designer

The Wash House......................................16-17 Getting Back to School with Flexibility and Innovation .....................................................20 Donald’s Bible.................................... ......23-26 In the Midst of the Storm.............................28 Just Ask Mrs. Thelma...................................29 Lessons from my mirror...............................30

On the Cover The little doll on the cover is Reeves, the great nephew of Judy Ryder Vinson of Spring.

Find Us Online!

Kid-and-Kaboodle.com facebook.com/WholeKidAndKaboodle/

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Advertise with Us!

Contact us to reserve your ad in this publication.

Jerri Bankston 281-703-7742 jerri42@embarqmail.com

All publications of The Whole Kid and Kaboodle can be viewed on our website: kid-and-kaboodle.com and also on our Facebook A TiMMark Publication Page, The Whole Kid and Kaboodle. To receive the magazine by mail, submit your address to: jerri42@embarqmail.com.

Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcomed and encouraged, but we reserve the right to edit and reject all submissions. Advertisers assume all liability for content in their ad, and Kid and Kaboodle assumes no responsibility for sales or misleading advertisements.

Jerri’s Corner “What a day”

2nd Timothy 3: But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God Luke 21:11 There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven Matthew 24:21-22 For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been from the beginning of the world until now, no, and never will be. And if those days had not been cut short, no human being would be saved. But for the sake of the elect those days will be cut short.

Matthew 24:7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various place When you read those scriptures, does it make you think of the time we are living in? It is definitely something to ponder. It is time to be diligent, to be prepared, not only for the physical needs of your family but for their spiritual needs.

Pray with and for your children, your spouse, your friends and even your enemies.

I love to sing these words from this beautiful hymn…

“What a day that will be when my Jesus I shall see, When I look upon His face the one who saved me by His Grace and when He takes me by the hand and leads me to the promised land, What a day, Glorious day that will be” I am looking to the Heavens for His return. Will you join me?

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KIDS EAT FREE! –

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Three B’s Bar and Grill

Kings Crossing - 4590 Kingwood Dr., Kingwood Tuesdays, 3 – 10 PM – 12 and under. Kids meal Only with purchase of adult entree.

Marsala’s Italian Grill

12 and under. Kids meal Only with purchase of adult entree.

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Denny’s

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La Casita, Porter

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Hectors Mexican Restaurant

Huffman - 24501 FM 2100 E, Huffman, TX 77336 Atascocita - 5324 Atascocita Road, Atascocita, TX 77346

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IHop Humble

Sunday-Saturday 4 – 10 PM

Fiesta Azteca Kingwood Tuesdays after 5 PM

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Zachary’s Cajun Café Kingwood Saturday 11 – 4 PM

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Texas Roadhouse Kingwood Dress-Up Mondays - Call for details.

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24110 FM 2100 Suite 100, Huffman, TX 77336 Mondays and Tuesdays

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Tuesdays, 3 – 10 PM.

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Huddle House Huffman

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Tuesdays and Saturdays – 4 PM – 10 PM Kingwood - 22671 Eastex Fwy, Kingwood, TX 77339 1314 & 59 Porter, Texas 242 & 59 - 23412 TX-242, New Caney, TX 77357

Monday and Tuesday with purchase of adult meal

Sundays and Tuesdays – 10 and under

Dickey’s Pit Barbeque Kingwood Sundays

Jason’s Deli’s Tuesdays

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Th e Valu e o f V i t a m i n s

by Amy Plummer

In this time of mask wearing and fear of COVID, it is important to stay our healthiest; to hopefully boost our immune system and prevent stress wearing our bodies down. There are multiple ways of doing this, one of which is a good vitamin regimen. There are several vitamins that help with fatigue and strengthen our immune response.

One of these is vitamin D. Approximately 70% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin after exposure to sunlight. It is found in few foods and added to others. This vitamin is essential in the metabolism of calcium and bone growth.

It also plays a role in decreasing inflammation and helps boost the immune system. People who are vitamin D deficient often are fatigued and can have muscle or joint pain. We recommend a daily dose of 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 to maintain levels that are beneficial for your health.

Another important vitamin is Vitamin C. Vitamin C is available in many foods – including many fruits and vegetables. It is an important physiological antioxidant and has been shown to regenerate other antioxidants within the body.

It is thought that vitamin C might help prevent or delay the development of certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and other diseases due to its antioxidant activity. Vitamin C also plays an important role in immune function and improves the absorption of nonheme iron thus helping to prevent iron deficient anemia. Most multi-vitamins or supplements carry vitamin C in them. Up to 1000 mg daily can be beneficial to boost the immune system. It is a water-soluble vitamin, so toxicity is rare.

Individuals should also consider adding a B complex to their supplements. Most B

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complexes have B6, B12, and folate. B6 is important in many enzyme reactions and plays a role in the immune system by promoting lymphocyte and interleukin 2 production. Often it can be taken by pregnant women to reduce nausea. B12 and folate are both important in the production of red blood cells. B12 also plays an important role in neurologic function and DNA synthesis. B12 is best absorbed under the tongue or via injection. Folate is thought to play a role in the prevention or treatment of cancer, cardiovascular disease, autism, and depression.

Daily dosing for adults should be 400 to 600 cg.

Vitamin E can also help with the immune system. Another antioxidant, Vitamin E has been shown to play a role in preventing cell destruction due to free radicals. Due to its antioxidant properties it has been thought to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. Vitamin E also has a direct role in immune function. It can prevent platelet aggregation and clotting. Often it is used to prevent breast tenderness caused by fibrocystic breast disease. Approximately 400 IU daily can be beneficial.

Vitamin A is the last vitamin I am going to discuss. Vitamin A plays a role in the development and growth of bones. It also plays an important role in the maintenance and function of the eye. Readily available in our diet, vitamin A can also help boost the immune system. Daily recommendation for adults is 700 – 900 mcg.

Other minerals and supplements that can help the immune system include Magnesium, CoQ10, Zinc and Selenium. Increasing these in your diet and with supplements can help prevent many illnesses.

Maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, and not smoking are some of the most important ways to help keep your immune system healthy and reduce your chances of infection and disease.

If you decide that you want to try a supplement, speak with your healthcare provider first, as some supplements may interact with medications or are inappropriate for some people.

Amy Plummer started practicing Ob/Gyn in the Kingwood/Humble area during the summer of 1996. Prior to that she attended Baylor University, where she graduated with Honors in Biology. Amy completed medical school and residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.. She continues to grow and learn as a physician, maintaining her board certification and is a certified DaVinci Robot surgeon. Amy has served as the chief of Ob/Gyn at both Northeast Medical Center Hospital and Kingwood Medical Center Hospital and maintains privileges at Kingwood Medical Center. Amy loves her job, especially her patients. She views it as a “calling’. Amy is honored to have received the Family Time Woman of Achievement Award for Human Services in 2005. She is pleased to be part of a practice that recognizes the importance of community service.

Biote is a bioidentical form of hormone therapy for men and women. It helps with Increased energy, strength, weight loss, better moods, memory and mental clarity. It also helps restore libido and it helps you feel younger healthier and happier.

MiraDry is a non-surgical treatment using technology that targets heat on sweat glands, destroying them. On average there is an 82% reduction in sweat and 70% reduction in hair growth in one treatment.

Conveniently located at: 23802 HWY 59 N. Kingwood, TX 77339 Hours: Mon - Thurs 8:30 - 5:30 Fri 8:30 - 2:00 Schedule your appointment today call: (281) 312-5463 or visit us online at: info@healthinprogress.net

truSculpt is a non-surgical body sculpting device that uses radiofrequency energy to target heat and destroy fat cells beneath the skin. Target those areas of the body that don’t respond as well to diet and exercise.

Viveve is a choice for women who desire a quick and effective procedure to improve symptoms of laxity, loss of sensation, changes in sexual function and urinary stress incontinence.

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Who Is Your Hero?

By Eric Alan Scott

As an icebreaker to open a meeting of several dozen well regarded people in our community where most of us were acquainted but didn’t know much about each other, our host asked those attending to tell who their hero was and briefly share a little bit about them. My Christian brother, John, sat closest to the podium, so naturally he was called on to go first.

“My brother is my hero,” he began coyly. “He’s the one who introduced me to his father who adopted me when I was a wayward youth. He took me in after I messed my life up and didn’t have any place else to turn. I can’t believe he noticed or considered me. I owe him everything. Even if you don’t know me, chances are you’ve heard of our father. And I see a few other adopted brothers and sisters scattered about the room who were brought home by the same character. He’s been around forever and knows everybody, though he’s not popular or well received in all circles. I still talk with him virtually every day, and over the years we’ve grown quite close. Intimate, I’d say. I trust him with my soul.

“My brother is the purist, wisest, strongest, most welcoming and benevolent spirit you will ever encounter. He cares for everyone, even strangers who pay him no mind. But he’s particularly drawn to vulnerable young children who are easily influenced and led astray. It would take several books to capture the stories I could tell about how he’s intervened in the lives of people who crossed his path and changed the course of their lives forever.

“Years ago, through no fault of his own, my brother suffered badly. He took a risk and lost everything, but he’s gained it back a thousand-fold. After the meeting, let me know if you’d like to meet him and I’ll introduce you. He’s the only one who can bring you to our father, who has all the resources in the world. I’m sure he would be glad to welcome you into the family and provide you with an inheritance, if you’re willing and so inclined. My God, he’s amazing!”

No one else cared to offer anything about their various heroes, so we began our meeting. I’ve never been to a more productive gathering. And I’ve never been prouder of a brother. Amen, John.

Eric Scott lives in Atascocita.

He has been married to his wife Diana for 45 years.

They have two daughters and three grandchildren.

He has degrees in Biology, Business and Theology. He has written five books.

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¿Quién es tu héroe?

Por Eric Alan Scott Como rompehielos para abrir una reunión de varias docenas de personas bien consideradas en nuestra comunidad, donde la mayoría de nosotros nos conocíamos pero no sabíamos mucho el uno del otro, nuestro anfitrión pidió a los asistentes que dijeran quién era su héroe. Pidio que compartieran brevemente un poco sobre ellos. Mi hermano cristiano, John, se sentó más cerca del podio, así que naturalmente fue llamado a ir primero.

“Mi hermano es mi héroe”, comenzó con timidez. “Es el quien me presentó a su padre quien me adoptó cuando era un joven descarriado. El me recibio despues que yo habia arruinado mi vida y no tenia a otro lugar donde ir. No puedo creer que me noto y considero. Le debo todo. Incluso si no me conoces, lo más probable es que hayas oído hablar de nuestro padre. Y veo a algunos otros hermanos y hermanas adoptados esparcidos por la habitación que fueron traídos a casa por la misma persona. El a estado presente siempre y conoce a todo el mundo, aunque no es popular o bien recibido por muchos. Todavía hablo con él prácticamente todos los días, y con el transucrso de los anos nos hemos acercado bastante. Una intimdidad profunda, diría yo. Confío en él con mi alma.

“Mi hermano es el espíritu mas puro, más sabio, más fuerte, más acogedor y benévolo que jamás encontrarás. Se preocupa por todos, incluso por los extraños que no le hacen caso. Su mayor carga son los niños pequeños vulnerables, que son fácilmente influenciados y desviados. Se necesitarían varios libros para capturar las historias que se pueden contar sobre cómo ha intervenido en la vida de personas que se cruzaron en su camino y cambiaron el curso de sus vidas para siempre.

“Hace años, sin culpa suya, mi hermano sufrió mal. Se arriesgo y lo perdió todo, pero lo ha vuelto a ganar mil veces. Después de la reunión,avísame si quieres conocerlo y te presentaré. Es el único que puede llevarte a nuestro padre, que tiene todos los recursos del mundo. Estoy seguro de que estaría encantado de darte la bienvenida a la familia y proporcionarte una herencia,si estas dispuesto. ¡Dios mío,es increíble!”

A nadie más le importo ofrecer nada sobre sus diversos héroes, así que comenzamos nuestra reunion.

Nunca he ido a una reunión más productiva. Y nunca he estado más orgulloso de un hermano. Amén, John.

Eric Scott vive en Atascocita.

Ha estado casado con su esposa Diana durante 45 años y tiene dos hijas y tres nietos.

Es licenciado en Biología, Negocios y Teología y ha escrito cinco libros.

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EVENTS October

November 07-08

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Take a beautiful scenic bike ride through the National Forest.

The long route is 51.8 miles and the short route is 28.4 miles.

With 4 -5 rest stops and then a live band, complimentary tacos and refreshments.

Contact the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce for registration information

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Sat 2 PM Town Center Park Kingwood

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3rd Annual Rock N Ride November 14,2020

Too much to do & not quite enough time on your hands?

In the 1950s, scholars worried that, thanks to technological innovations, Americans wouldn’t know what to do with all of their leisure time. What wishful thinking!!

Today, Americans are overworked, putting in more hours than ever. Technology disturbs our leisure time, our family time and even our consiousness. Juggling between work, family and personal needs makes it easy to get sucked into the never-ending list of to-dos and end up feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

Christmas, New Year’s and YOUR Valentine Need helping hands from time to time Specializing in Unique and Delicious Entrees and Sides ANYtime

346-600-1509

chelsea.sgc@gmail.com

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LOCAL PARKS AND ACTIVITIES

Due to precautions related to Coronavirus (COVID-19), some Precinct 4 programs and activities may be curtailed, postponed, or canceled.

Please check with the appropriate venues and sponsors before making plans.

Precinct 4 Parks Spring Creek Park

Offers free camping to the public, offers full hook-up tent and RV campsites. Primitive camping is also available exclusively to nonprofit groups at Fritsche Park and Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve.

Carter Park, Collins Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Jesse H. Jones & Nature Center, Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve, and Pundt Park

Offers canoe/kayak launches at for those interested in canoeing/kayaking Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and associated waterways. Reservations are required to use a launch in a Precinct 4 Park to access Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, or associated waterways. Reservations are not required to use the launch at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve to access Marshall Lake. Precinct 4 does not rent or sell canoes or kayaks, but offers free canoeing activities on a regular basis through Trails As Parks (TAP) events .

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can experience many unique fishing opportunities year-round in Precinct 4, with access to fishing in Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and stocked fishing lakes. Precinct 4 does not rent or sell fishing equipment, but offers free fishing activities on a regular basis through Trails As Parks (TAP) events.

Picnics

Offers free picnic pavilions with electricity and grills by reservation only at Burroughs Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Meyer Park, and Spring Creek Park. Jesse Jones Park & Nature Center and Mercer Botanic Gardens also offer free picnic pavilions by reservation only, but electricity is not available at these locations.

Any parks not listed above that offer small picnic pavilions, picnic tables, or grills are available for use without a reservation on first come, first served basis only during normal park hours.

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Trick or Treat

Tricks and Treats Among the Trees is held the last Saturday in October at Jones Park.

Enjoy a free trick-or-treat nature trail along with other outdoor activities including crafts, live creepy critters, games, costume contest and more at this fun, safe JJPV sponsored event. Costumed trick-or-treaters are encouraged!

Pioneer

At Pioneer Day, held the second Saturday in November, and Homestead Heritage Day, held the second Saturday in February, (both at Jones Park) visitors can travel back in time by making corn husk dolls, bonnets, lye soap, beeswax candles, and much more. See how the early inhabitants of Texas made and used their tools and weapons. A skirmish provides a livinghistory look at the authentic weaponry, costumes, and significance of the Texas Revolution. Volunteers and staff show visitors how early settlers built and protected their homesteads. You might even get to taste some authentic pioneer cooking or make new friends!

TOWN CENTER KINGWOOD

Texas WIC is here for you. As a WIC Client, you’ll get: • Healthy food • One-on-one counseling with nutritionists • Easy recipes • Breastfeeding support • Health and immunization screenings • Personalized support Are you eligible?

Eight million women, infants, and children get WIC benefits.

WIC is for pregnant women, new parents, infants, and children under five.

If you are on Medicaid, SNAP, or TANF you already qualify.

Come see us at our Humble WIC Center: 8950 Will Clayton Parkway, Humble, TX 77338 or Call us at (713) 407-5800

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The Wash House Emi Lynn

It started as a chicken coop and then upgraded to a wash house. It sheltered puppies and kittens during its’ reign in my back yard but now it was my club house.

Actually, it was a bunch of boards with holes in them put together fairly well by my Daddy and actually sitting on blocks with a wood floor and a real roof (well the roof had shingles on it so I guess that makes it real.) It had been taken apart in the back corner of the yard when it was a chicken coop and re-assembled by the back door of our house. By the time I claimed it there was a wire ran in for electricity so when my friends and I gathered in there which was more often than not, we could heat things on a little electric plate that we had. In actuality, the only thing I ever remember about the hot plate was my friend Rose Mary heating orange peelings to eat because she said she was that hungry. (I didn’t believe her then and I still don’t) There were three of us that started our little gang when we were still in elementary school and although two more friends were added later and one or two came and went, we were the mainstays of the Bowrey Boys. The Bowrey Boys or in later years came to be Our Gang were movies made in the era of Roy Rogers and Gene Autry and we had a steady diet of them on Saturdays.

It did not matter to us that we were girls, when we were together, we were them, totally. I was named the chief (Mugsy) and Rose Mary was Slip so I got to hit her on the head all the time with my hat when she did stupid stuff. Alonah was the handsome pretty boy who did not say much.

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One night when the three of us were staying all night in the club house, Rose Mary and Alonah became unusually scared and alarmed. They kept turning the light on, and as the wise chief, I was calmly turning it off explaining to them that with the light on, if anyone were out there they could see quite a bit through the knot holes in the walls which were the size of a silver dollar. It was a losing battle as they became more frantic while we lay there in the dark. I was trying to sleep with both (one on either side of me) holding on to an arm and squeezing.

Then they began making shrieking noises and Rose Mary was scratching me. I reluctantly sat up and with my bravest, most chiefly voice I said, ok show me what you are so scared of.

They both pointed to the door. Now,.. the “door” was a bunch of boards nailed together (yes also with knot holes) and hinges attaching it to the opening. Then a piece of rope was attached to the other side and looped on a nail in the wall for closure. It was not a tight fit and therefore about an inch or more was open. They were shivering and began to tell me, as they continued to press me and pinch me, that they were seeing white fly by the opening. I knew the little scaredy cats were thinking of ghosts such as Caspar fame so I proceeded with my mature intelligence and told them that the next time it went by I wanted each one to whisper in my ear in what direction it was moving. So, we were waiting a couple of minutes and then, at the exact same time as I saw something fly by, both of my arms were being pulled and pinched.

I said meekly, “Never Mind”. I remained

calm and very chiefly and stood up with them hanging onto me. I took a few steps and unhooked the rope off the nail, turned on the light and swung the door wide open so the light would spread onto the yard. Both of my friends were holding tight with their heads and faces ducked behind me and more than willing to sacrifice me to whatever. In clear view, just a few feet from me, was our family’s yellow lawn chair with its’ back to me.

The frightening thing was that a man was sitting in it with his head turned looking back at me with a grin on his face. I calmly pulled the rope back toward me and hooked it back up, turned off the light and grabbed a baseball bat that was in the shed. The rest of the night, we all were at various holes in the walls looking out and each armed with some sort of weapon, mine being the best. There wasn’t much conversation going on but there was some discussion about the green and yellow lawn chairs. No one

was really sure where they were at the beginning of the evening, but I felt sure they were where they usually were and that was beside the clothesline strung up behind my clubhouse. We were some happy kids when the sun came up, but I was totally confused because both lawn chairs were at the back of the yard sitting by the back fence. We had two large lots and there was just no reason for them to be there that far away from the house.

I spent hours trying to find and think of some logical explanation for everything that happened that night. I can still see his face and grin after all these years.

Could he have been an evil presence who delighted in our torment? The grin was more mischievous than evil so could he have been an angel watching over us?

I’m just not sure of his intent but he was definitely in the yellow lawn chair... not the green one.

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By Dr. Elizabeth Fagen, Humble ISD Superintendent For the last 24 years as a professional educator, I have loved back-to-school – a wonderful moment when we welcome a new school year and all of the fresh, new opportunities that come with it. There is a familiarity and a rhythm to it that I have always enjoyed -- as a student, a teacher, a principal, a parent, and now a superintendent; and while this year is going to be different from the past 24, I know that our Humble ISD family and both our values and our principles will continue to guide our decisions and our work. We will make it through together.

Safety

Humble ISD continues to be committed to student and staff safety. There are so many aspects of safety when you consider mental health, physical health, and emotional health. We have been constantly evolving -- innovating and improving in all of these areas.

We know that if our students and staff are not safe, nothing else matters. This year we continue with all of our work in school safety, and we add a healthy focus on virus prevention.

More specifically, this year, we are providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for our staff, adding plexiglass dividers to reception desks and other appropriate areas, limiting visitors, requiring self-screening for all, reducing class sizes and building capacities, installing UV light (germ killers) to air handlers and HVAC units, changing water fountains to bottle fillers, moving to MERV 13 filters, creating outdoor learning/ eating spaces, increasing sanitizing and cleaning, limiting shared materials, increasing hand washing and sanitizing, and rethinking all aspects of “school” that have historically required larger groups in smaller, indoor areas like specials in elementary schools.

Instructional Excellence

In addition to safety, we will continue our commitment to instructional excellence. The Humble ISD family is well known for excellence in education and we are very proud of that. We know that our teachers go above and beyond to do what is best for our students. Our teachers have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to their students this summer by filling over 11,000 seats during summer professional development. Our teachers have

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strengthened their skills regarding online learning, as we know that our fall plans require that of nearly all teachers in our district. With A/B schedules in our secondary schools to create social distancing and with the need for all teachers to be able to pivot to online if the need arises, they have exceeded expectations in their preparation once again.

Personalized Learning

Finally, Humble ISD is committed to personalization.

We believe that matching our skills to the goals of our students, and staff, creates a personalized success model. We are dedicated to empathetically meeting the needs of each member of the Humble ISD family. This year, more than ever before, it is important that we understand the unique needs of each student and each staff member and design a system that strategically matches them. We have students who prefer online learning and we have staff that prefer online learning. There is a synergy that is created when we seek first to understand and maximize the win-win.

It is a very challenging time for everyone and it is going to take the incredible partnership we have in Humble ISD between staff, students, and families to be successful. We have demonstrated time and time again that we are a phenomenal team; and I know that we are going to rise above difficulty and emerge stronger once again.

– Dr. Elizabeth Fagen Humble ISD Superintendent of Schools Follow Dr. Fagen on Twitter @ ElizabethFagen

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The True Story of Donald’s Bible presented by:

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A very bad virus came to the United States of America and all over the world people stayed home with their families and prayed.

They didn’t go out to eat at restaurants or have parties and celebrations because this virus was very easy to pass from person to person. There were a lot of very sick people and when the governor announced that everyone should stop traveling and stay where they were, Sammy and Lindy were sad

because their Daddy was out of town working.

They were happy because their older cousin, Zannie, was visiting and especially because she had Harvey, the turtle, with her. Aunt Sassie had come over to visit her niece and brought her grandson, Benny, and granddaughter, Lauren. So, everyone just stayed put and enjoyed each other’s company.

Benny said to Lindy one day. “I wish Sammy could play. Why is he in bed? I am so bored and I am tired of playing these same games and I don’t like the puzzles very much. “

Lindy shouted at Benny, “Don’t you think I miss him. He is my brother. He just doesn’t feel good. Anyway, you are not good at putting puzzles together like I am and I am tired of you being in such a bad mood all of the time.”

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Aunt Sassie walked into the room in time to hear the argument and she said, “Stop fighting, I have an idea” and she went to look for Zannie.

Everyone got comfortable and Zannie began the true story.

“About 70 years ago which is a very very long time ago, your parents were not even born yet at this time , something very special happened on a small island in the Hebredes. The Hebredes is the name of some islands off the coast of Scotland. Scotland is a country that is far away across the ocean from our country.”

Zannie was on the patio playing with Lauren.

Aunt Sassie said, “Zannie, Honey, I need you to tell a very important true story to all of the children. It is the one I told you about yesterday.”

“There were two ladies that lived there that were sisters and they were very old. They were like 83 and 84.”

“Do you know any ladies that are that old?”, Zannie asked.

Lindy said “what about Aunt Sassie, she is Benny’s grandmother.”

Zannie laughed,” no, Aunt Sassie is not that old but if you look around, maybe at your church, you might see someone that has a hard time walking and they might have a cane and their face would be wrinkled. The older people usually love kids and they pray a lot and worry a lot.”

“Anyway,” Zannie continued with the story, “these two ladies wanted a revival to come to their church and their little island.

A revival happens when people start getting saved and want to follow after Jesus.

They wanted it so bad that they decided to pray all of the time and they started hearing from God.” “How did they do that”, Benny wanted to know.

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“Well, God gave them dreams and visions when He wanted them to know what to do. One day they went to their pastor to ask for others to pray with them. It just so happened that there were some men in that little church that were praying for a revival also.

When everyone prayed together it caused God to be moved in His heart and everyone started seeing visions which are like pictures from God and they were also having dreams about Jesus.

Lindy jumped up and asked “Can me and Sammy have those dreams if we ask God?” “You sure can.” said Zannie. “You have to pray and talk to Him and just be patient but He will answer you.”

Zannie went on with the story. “People on that little island that never went to Church started coming. There were stories of men that were just out working on their farm and they became so sad that they were not living for Jesus that they stopped what they were doing and ran to the church or just knelt down and prayed right where they were for Jesus to forgive them. There were children and teen-agers that were all convicted of their sins.”

“What does that mean?”, asked Benny, crying.

“It means that they knew that there is not a truly good person in this world and every one of us has done bad things. We can all ask God to forgive us and ask Jesus into our hearts so we can go to Heaven and live with Him when the time comes. When I finish the story, we will all pray together so you can have Jesus and be saved.

“Ok, this next part is very exciting. These two old ladies that started the great revival had a niece named Mary. Mary was raised on that island and went to the little church as a child. Mary also had a cousin named Donald that was doing mighty things in the church when he was only 15 years old. Right before this great revival began, she moved across the ocean to live in the United States. She fell in love with a man named Fred. Now remember this was so long ago that none of us were born. Anyway, she and Fred had 5 children and the 4th child was named Donald just like her cousin. Who do you think this 4th child is? He is old but he is alive today.

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“Who is he?” they all asked.

Zannie smiled, “Mary’s 4th son is our president Donald Trump, the 45th president of the United States of America. Also, the two aunts presented their beloved niece, Mary, with their Bible. So, where do you think that Bible is today?”

“Does Mary still have it?” Benny asked

No, Mary passed away,” said Zannie. “That Bible is in the Oval office of the President and that is the most important office in the country.”

“Do you think God planned this all?” asked Lindy.

“I think so”, said Zannie. “He has everything planned. Now let’s all pray.”

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of Houston, Inc.

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Providing compassionate and faithful services for patients and their families is our number one priority.

Patients are treated like family and we tailor to the special needs of each.

Care providers are all highly qualified, experienced and carefully screened.

When someone is very ill, everybody in the family is affected. Bethel Hospice care extends beyond the treatment of physical symptoms, to consider the emotional and social needs of patients, families, and friends.

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Mary Lewis

Marketing Director

Office: 281.359.9551 Fax: 281.359.9552 Cell: 936.537.7301 bethelhospice@embarqmail.com

1110 Kingwood Drive Suite 265 Kindwood, Texas 77339

Providing compassionate and faithful services for patients and their families Kid-and-Kaboodle.com 27

In the Midst of the Storm

Deborah Elum, Author

Joan’s world seemed like it was turned upside down. She was, like the rest of us, caught in the midst of a pandemic. She was faced with the loss of her job, a husband who had recently filed for a divorce, having to homeschool her three children, and taking care of her disabled parents.

She never thought she would be a caretaker for her parents, a teacher for her kids, without a job, and a single parent. Trouble came rushing into her life like a flood. Many days, wave after wave of hopelessness was sweeping over her.

After reading the article about Joan, I began to wonder how many women were facing similar circumstances. How many are feeling hopeless? They are in the midst of troubled waters of sickness, business closures, divorce, and other hard situations.

Yes, we are definitely in uncharted waters, but we are never without hope and without God. Even in the midst of the storm. Like Noah, we must believe that God is there to help us and is steering our ark in rough seas. Every storm that comes into our lives is always temporary. We must take courage that God’s plan of victory is at work. As for the storm, this too shall pass.

The word of God says in 2 Corinthians 4:8-10: “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

For Miss McDoogle, a hilarious school teacher, the funny antics have just begun! She always has a silly time before going to bed. Each night, her routine makes her giggle and wiggle.

As she claps, leaps, spins, sings, and dances around her house, her adorable cat, Jingles, joins the fun. Miss McDoogle Has the Giggles is a picture book that is packed with humor.

Available on Amazon.com, ISBN: 978-0-9903422-8-1, 8.5 x 8.5 inches, 32 pages, $10.95.

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Mommy is on the go! She loves to drive fast and always gets into trouble. With such a busy schedule, she never slows down even when she takes her son to school. Anything can happen when Mommy is behind the wheel! Slow Down Mommy! is a picture book that is packed with adventure.

Available on Amazon.com, ISBN: 978-1-7339510-1-2, 8.5 x 8.5 inches, 46 pages, $10.95.

Join the hilarious First Lady of Comedy, Mrs. Thelma Johnson, with her nononsense wisdom and her sassy “tell-it-like-it-is” attitude each issue.

Dear Mrs. Thelma, My friend has it so easy. She has a good husband, a good job, and three children in college. Here I am, struggling, trying to make ends meet, and no husband. I wish I had her life, Ms. Thelma! - L. W. Dear Wishing Woman, The grass may look greener on the other side, but it still has to be mowed, Baby. Sometimes, when you look across the fence, the other side usually looks pretty good. But let me tell you from experience, we all have problems. Just because it looks good, does not mean it is right for you. We should not covet what other people have just because it looks better or easier. You do not know the things your friend gave up or the pressure she might be under right now.

Baby, you need to stop complaining about what you do not have.

Your problem is you are too busy looking and not working on YOU! Do something about your situation. Look for ways to improve your own condition. Go to college or find a better paying job. In other words, keep your eyeballs in your own yard and get busy planting some new grass.

Remember, Mrs. Thelma loves ‘ya, Sugar.

Visit Mrs. Thelma at www.itsathelma.com. Used by permission.

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A Lesson in Letting Go I never intended for anyone to read the sticky notes that covered my bathroom mirror. On each note was written a quote or encouraging word to help me to let go of who I once was and become who I was meant to be.

I remember as a young adult being so confident. I believed I could be anything I wanted to be. But after a series of personal failures, I became afraid to make decisions for myself. I developed this great need for approval of others. So, I began trying to be somebody, anybody, other than myself. However, in doing so my confidence got buried even deeper and my insecurities grew.

God had to teach me some hard but necessary lessons about myself, and my relationship with others. He had to wean me from those I held on to just to make me feel better about myself. God never designed us to be insecure. He never created us to be somebody else. Our worth was never meant to be found in the approval of others.

I spent so much of my life putting my hands to things that were not meant for me that after so many mistakes, I have learned to wait on God for every movement. I am so convinced that God works all things for my good, that even when it seems like He has turned against me and it is painful right now, I know that God is working on something that will be for my good.

Change is never easy. When I found the freedom that comes with surrendering and letting things go, I watched in astonishment as things started to fall into place. Don’t let fear, disappointment, or failure defeat you. Let it be the catalyst that sends you into what God has planned for your life.

You can’t go back and change the beginning, but you can start where you are and change the ending. – C.S. Lewis All you can change is yourself… and sometimes that changes everything.

Paula Enloe is a wife, mother, and grandmother. She has been a paralegal for over 25 years and is a certified family mediator. She and her husband, Noble, speak and minister to churches testifying of how God brought them healing into their home and their marriage, after he was diagnosed with Stage IV NonHodgkin’s Lymphoma in 2016. They count it as their greatest privilege to share the healing and transformational power of the Name of Jesus to each person they come in contact with daily.

Writing I AM A RAMSEY KID has been more fun!

I’d like to thank my dear friend, Jerri Bankston (Owner, CEO, & Editor of THE WHOLE KID AND KABOODLE) for giving me this chance to have this column. Also, let me thank each of you, the faithful readers, who have enjoyed traveling down memory lane with me.

My best to each of you, Beth Ann

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