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Piney Woods

POSTCARDS Norman Ward / Spring Break Favorites! / Old Main / Dominque Sachse / Morgan Ashley / The Wells Team

Magazine

February 2022 Postal Customer

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

FEATURES

February 2022 | Volume 12, Issue 2

14 Do You Know? Norman Ward

30 You Said It! Spring Break Favorites!

40 Local Treasures Remembering SHSU’s Old Main

58 A Special Conversation Dominque Sachse

68 Texas Talent

Cover Photo by Michele Miller Submission in 2021 Postcards Cover Photo Contest

Morgan Ashley

82 Business Focus

FAVORITES

The Wells Team

6 9 20 24 28

From Our Readers Publisher’s Post Dear Gabby Star Students Pet Pals

35 38 50 52 56

Glorious Grandkids 20 Questions Kidding Around Creative Corner Snapshots!

66 74 92 96 100

Things My Granddaddy Said What’s Cookin’ Sudoku Marketplace Giggles and Grins Community Calendar

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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EARLY VOTING FEB. 14-25

From Our Readers

RE-ELECT

TONY LEAGO Tony Leago

The article “Bella Becho - Book & Print Binder” was very interesting. Keep up the good work in providing us with news of our community and county. Sara Bartee Editor’s Note: If you missed the article on Bella Becho, you can find it on our website at PostcardsLive.com.

for

Madison County Judge

I enjoy reading your magazine each month. I especially enjoy Mustard Seed Moments, Out of the Mouths of Babes, Pet Pals, and Glorious Grandkids. I read your magazine from cover to last page. Congratulations on a great magazine and God Bless You. Wanda Bedenbaugh

Bringing level-headed business experience to Madison County. We have made great improvements in our county during the past three years: • Upgraded communication systems Our law enforcement officers can finally talk to

Wonderful magazine.

Leonard Chenevert

each other from one side of the county to the other • Update to County Library facilities • Replaced outdated body armor for law officers • Repaired leaks in County Courthouse • New vehicles with computers for Sheriff's office • Body cameras for Sheriff's uniforms • Upgraded dispatch system

...and more! All with NO tax increase! But, there is more to do, and I would appreciate your vote once again. POLITICAL ADVERTISING PAID BY THE TONY LEAGO CAMPAIGN 6

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

I wanted to thank you for a special magazine I have enjoyed for years. I read, and keep, every edition and have shared many of the recipes. Thank you again for sharing such a wonderful publication! Marke Montgomery

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

We’re Moving!

New Location Coming Soon. We are pleased to break ground on our newest and more convenient Huntsville location at 2506 Pine Shadows. This beautiful, state-of-the-art branch will open soon to put You First!

YOU FIRST | FFIN.com | 936-295-2224

Susie Garza Vice President NMLS# 493275

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Kyle Whisenhunt Senior Vice President NMLS# 1182532

Publisher’s Post Karen Altom publisher@postcardslive.com

Your Local Community Magazine! @PostcardsMag

It’s the Little Things.

PostcardsLive.com

If you would like to receive our magazine and are not currently on our mailing list, subscriptions are available.

I would not be surprised if, when you read the title of this column you thought, “Here she goes again about her grandbaby!” Well, now you can be surprised. That is not what I am writing about, but since you mentioned him…he’s adorable!

MAILED to select postal routes in Huntsville, New Waverly, Midway, Madisonville, Riverside and Trinity. FREE rack copies at advertisers and businesses in towns listed above. Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. Publisher Karen Altom Editor Wes Altom Advertising Team Nancy Jolly Jennifer Abbrat Marshall Altom Design Team Mary Partida April Key Social Media Management Abby Altom Boyd

Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media

Online: www.PostcardsLive.com

Today, while lunching at a restaurant with a friend and client, I noticed the plate on which my lunch was served. It had a sizable chip in it. The kind of chip, in my mind, that would warrant it no longer being in service. Apparently, the staff disagreed. Maybe the manager would have made that decision but hadn’t noticed? The problem with that theory is that it leads to the thought of, “What else has gone unnoticed? I wonder what other little things are being left undone?” Thoughts like that can lead you down a scary path, so I stopped.

Those who know me well know this--I am a nut about excellent customer service. I want everything we do and touch to show this. It is why things like the cracked plate get my attention. It is why I pay a little more to shop in local establishments who offer excellent service (Although, I do have a story for you for next month once I recover from the shame.). It is why I frequent the restaurants I do…you get the idea. You can tell when someone CARES.

I write this because I want you to know we care. Every single person who is involved in putting this magazine together for you each month really and truly cares about every reader and every advertiser we do this for. If ever you feel like we don’t, my email address is above. I want to know.

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 unsolicited material. No material from Postcards Magazine™ can be copied, faxed, electronically, or otherwise used without express written permission. Publication of articles, advertisements or product information does not constitute endorsement or approval by Postcards Magazine™ and/or its publisher. Business Focus stories printed in Postcards Magazine™ are drawn at random from contract advertisers.

This month, take a moment and let our advertisers know how much you care and thank them for bringing you this issue. It’s a little thing, but it lets them know we love them BIG!

Until next time,

Karen

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

What Are You Reading? Sara Bartee

Stacey Shirley

reading

Fast Falls the Night

The CrossShaped Life

By Julia Keller

By Jeff Kennon

Wanda Bedenbaugh reading

In the Eye of the Storm By Max Lucado

Tell us what you’re reading!

PostcardsLive.com

m Your

Homegrown H E A R I N G E X P E RT S m

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Call today to learn more about our February offers! Schedule your diagnostic hearing evaluation with a complimentary hearing aid test-drive.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Dr. Christie Cahill, Au.D.

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

awesome apps!

www.benbiusfortexas.com

This Month’s App We want to share one of our favorite awesome apps with you. If you have an amazing app you’d like to share with our community, let us know online at postcardslive.com

H Lifelong Conservative H Successful Huntsville Businessman H SHSU, Class of ‘79

Republican Primary Early Voting - Feb. 14 - 25

The Bump – Pregnancy Tracker The Bump is the #1 baby tracker app for first-time moms, providing features you won’t find anywhere else. Interactive tools help you navigate pregnancy and parenting with ease.

From the creators of The Knot and The Nest, The Bump gives parents the lowdown on fertility, pregnancy, birth and babies with stage-bystage content, expert advice, breaking news, style inspiration and interactive tools—across all platforms (including apps, mobile and desktop site). The Bump aims to empower new parents and parentsto-be with expert content and advice, personalized advice and checklists and more... • Expert articles on fertility, pregnancy and childbirth and baby. • Product research tools to start your baby registry.

Election Day - March 1, 2022

• Breaking news stories about the latest research, safety alerts and trending stories.

Pol. adv. paid for by Ben Bius for Texas 12 campaign, 3011 Hwy 30 West #231, Huntsville, TX 77340

• Interactive tools that will help you with everything from tracking ovulation to picking a name for baby.

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Let’s Celebrate!

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

This Month’s Business Anniversaries:

1890 Celebrating 132 years

First Financial Bank See their ad on page 8

1960 Celebrating 62 years

Stover & Crouch Insurance See their ad on page 19

Annual FUNDRAISER

1997

Raffle and BBQ Sandwich Sale

Celebrating 25 years

11th St. Vet See their ad on page 90

1998 Celebrating 24 years See their ad on page 63

2001 Celebrating 1 year

Rejuv See their ad on page 53

Friday February 25th 3891 Hwy 30 W. • Huntsville For more information Check out our event on Facebook! TH

NIVERS AN AR

Generations Salon

1 9 9 7 -2 0 2 2

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Do You Know? Story by Claudia Kirkwood Photos by Libby Rogers

Norman Ward 14

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Hard work, a love for music, and a patriotic spirit are three traits that admirably portray Norman Ward, who serves tirelessly to bring about the best for our community. Let’s be inspired as we get better acquainted with Norman Ward.

M65 Atomic Cannon: Fired in 1953 at the Nevada Test Site

Please share some information about your early years. I was born near Luling, Texas, and my family moved to Beaumont when I was five years old. My parents had grown up in farming families and were well acquainted with arduous work. Therefore, at ten years of age, it was no surprise to find me running a paper route. I, too, was learning the discipline of hard work.

In fact, I was throwing my route on December 7, 1941, the day that the United States was attacked by the Japanese at Pearl Harbor. If ten-year-olds could serve in the military, I would have signed up that day. Patriotism runs deep in my family line. In fact, throughout the years, my family has contributed to one war effort or another through the lives of at least thirty members. We love our country.

How has your love for baseball played a part in your life? Beaumont was a AA farm club of the New York Yankees, the Beaumont Exporters of the Texas League. I had not planned to attend college, but instead was aiming for a future in professional baseball. My high school baseball coach knew the manager of the Beaumont Exporters and made it possible

» February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

part of the occupation forces, a destination for which I became thankful. Most of the men from my basic training group went to the Korean War, and many did not return.

for me to go out and pitch batting practice to some of them. We didn’t have Little League, so this is how I learned baseball. I was eventually persuaded to attend college and enrolled in Hardin Simmons in Abilene. I played on the school team, and we competed against as many professional teams as we did other colleges.

What interests guided you after college? While at Hardin Simmons, I met June Hardy

and in 1954, during the last semester of our senior year, we were married. We both shared a love for music and were involved in various musical groups including the acapella choir, a ladies’ trio, and a men’s quartet. After getting married, I began rethinking a career in baseball and felt that it would not be the best choice for raising a family. I majored in music education and minored in physical education, and June majored in English. As soon as I graduated, Uncle Sam stepped in, and I was drafted into the Army in 1954. I went through basic training and was sent to Germany as a

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

While in the service I played on the baseball, volleyball, and football teams that were formed to provide servicemembers a recreational outlet. I was the pitcher for the Fourth Army team at Baumholder, and our camp, the former tank training headquarters for General Rommel, had been the site for extensive training and preparation for Rommel’s forces. I spent two years there pitching and playing infield, and we played many of the guys who had been on college and professional teams. It was a good brand of baseball. We came in second place, and I was selected for the Fourth Army All-star team. I also quarterbacked the flag football team and was on the championship volleyball team. When not on service duty, I was playing sports. While there, I served in the radar section that helped aim the big 280mm atomic cannon. This cannon could fire over a distance of twenty miles, and although it was obsolete when we got to Germany, we still used it for training purposes.

When did Huntsville become your home? After Germany, June and I came back to the states. June had been in Germany for eleven months and did substitute teaching for children of the families stationed at Baumholder. Upon returning, I got my master’s degree from Baylor on the GI bill. We both taught school for two

years in Odessa, then a phone call from June’s dad sent us into a new direction. Mr. Hardy, who was a World War I veteran, had started a furniture business in Huntsville and made us a proposition. “Try this business, and if it fits your aspirations, I’ll sell it to you.” We knew nothing about the furniture business but decided to give it a try. Learning this business proved to be tough, but after a lot of demanding work, diligence, and thoughtful planning, we bought the business in 1965 and changed the name to Ward Furniture. The business has grown and expanded over the years and has proven to be a solid decision for our family. We encouraged our two children, Laura and David, to leave home after high school so they could have more experiences and opportunities to enrich their lives and gain a broader outlook on life. Laura has a doctorate in piano accompaniment and David, after attending A&M, decided to join the family business, and has played a highly successful and productive role in growing the company. He and his wife Jackie eventually purchased the business and have continued to expand and grow it, all the while retaining its high quality and trusted standard of honesty and integrity.

Norman & June Ward

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Please share some ways in which your love for music has figured prominently in your life. It has been a driving passion in my life. When we came to Huntsville, I formed a barber shop quartet which included George Vick, Dan Slater, H.C. Rogers, and me. We all loved music, were all veterans of various branches of the military, and all from different religious denominations, but music brought us together. In 1992, Norman Diehl, a local Baptist pastor, heard our quartet and asked us to assemble a group of men to sing for the dedication of their new Sanctuary/Family Life Center. We gathered a group of thirteen men and sang for this event, with June serving as piano accompanist. Everyone was impressed with the sound of the group, so this marked

the beginning of the Huntsville Men’s Choir. It began to grow and eventually grew to a membership of sixty-five men. The group was composed of about ninety percent military veterans with seven different religious affiliations represented. Most of these men were regularly active in their churches.

for the Bill Glass prison ministry, for the First Baptist Church 150th anniversary, and for two sell-out Houston Astros crowds. We have performed with the Senior Adult Community Choir, the Sam Houston State University Symphonic Chorus and SHSU Men’s Choir and the SHSU Women’s Choir. We were also thrilled to sing in Houston at the presentation by Ken Burns of his documentary “The War.” Interestingly, as I told Ken, our group included Dan Slater, a B-24 bomber pilot who flew thirty-five missions over Germany, Wayne Spivey who flew a B-52 bomber on 150 missions over Vietnam, another veteran who served in France and was a Purple Heart recipient, another who survived the Iwo Jima invasion, and helicopter pilot who flew countless missions in Vietnam. These were among many in our group who were veterans and served in all branches of the military.

Over the years we have been pleased to be able to perform in some high profile and esteemed venues. We sang for the Sam Houston State BiCentennial Celebration, the dedication of the Sam Houston statue,

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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Someone with your creativity, tireless energy, and love for people is always looking for new endeavors and ways to improve the life of the community. In what ways are you involved?

Strength Through Experience

EXPERIENCED

Over 20 years of public administration experience serving the citizens of Walker County

I have been involved at the Veteran’s Museum since its inception, serving three terms on the Board of Directors. I also served three terms on the HISD School Board, have served on the Chamber of Commerce Board, and on several occasions was the Interim Minister of Music at the First Baptist Church. I also directed the production of “The Seven Last Words of Christ,” taught Sunday School for junior age young people and was a Deacon. In 2001, I received the honor of being voted “Citizen of the Year” by the Huntsville Item. Presently, I am helping to prepare the site for a permanent display of a replica of the Traveling Vietnam wall at the Hearts Museum. This museum is a cut above many others and includes a library of over four thousand books. All branches of the military are represented, and thousands of volunteer hours of work have resulted in outstanding displays of photographs, uniforms, and a plethora of memorabilia ready to educate the viewer. My desire is to make the rose garden into a beautiful “first impression” for visitors as they tour this remarkable museum and Vietnam wall.

CONSERVATIVE A strong believer in the constitutional freedoms, citizen’s rights, and founding principals of this great nation

TRUSTWORTHY Committed to public input, transparency and open government #IsbellforWCJudge

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Thank you, Mr. Ward, for your commitment to making our community a better place for all. We look forward to the dedication of the Vietnam wall and hope it will include a performance by the Huntsville Men’s Choir!

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Dear Gabby

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

Welcome to 2022... and the Rest of Your Life It happens every year about this time, and each time, many of us commit to being better, different, more organized, and disciplined. Sometimes we make some progress. Too often, however, life gets in the way. Or we take, like water, the path of least resistance--the “easy or easiest” way. I saw a quote last week: “The easy road feels good, but it’s a thief!” It steals our future, it keeps us from doing the things we must, to improve our health, whether spiritual, physical, or financial. And it keeps us from being what we were designed and called to be. What are your goals? What do you really want for you and your family? Ultimately, that’s all that matters. Clearly you seek the guidance of a higher authority, but even that guidance comes with the freedom of choice, the freedom to act…or not, the freedom to succeed or fail, and maybe the most important: the freedom to choose the attitude and frame of mind in how you respond to any of the above. In reading a financial report from a so-called expert last week, I was amazed at how many “bad” if not “cataclysmic” events he called upon to possibly impact us and our world in the very near future. According to him, “it” was all spinning out of control by forces beyond our control. Contrasting the negativity, we also see so-called experts with all the “right” answers that will solve all your issues forever (currently hot real estate, crypto, or precious metals). The menu of “hot stuff” cycles, but their exuberance for “do it now” never does. Note: I’ve seen these guys and their missives and warnings for the 36 years we’ve celebrated being in this business. They are never as right as they insist they will be. At best or worse, an event is short-lived. It’s particularly manageable for those with a well thought out financial plan and a focus on “liquidity, access, and control” of their financial resources. Control includes leaving flexibility and options, as well as how well we manage the income taxation of our federal government. Let us help you and yours to build such an investment & financial plan designed specifically for your goals and circumstances. Let us help you to “Enjoy More & Worry Less.” Cheers to the New Year and Godspeed!

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Welcome to February’s Dear Gabby column! It’s time to get an extended weather forecast from a jittery, inconsistent marmot. Marmots are cousins to squirrels, who can’t even decide whether to finish crossing a road. In any case, if the groundhog ate as much as I did over the holidays, there’s no way he can miss seeing his shadow! Spring is sure to be right around the corner. The date I’m really looking forward to is February 22nd! It’s 2/22/22. We can call it 2’s day! Drop me a line to Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com. If you need more time, March has more days.

DEAR GABBY I have recently been spending time with another female co-worker. We get along well and enjoy each other’s company, but I have caught her in several lies. I even told her a story of something that happened to me once, and she later repeated it back to be as if it happened to her. What on earth do you make of that? TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES?

DEAR TRUTH While I am no expert (on anything), I did do some research on the subject of prevarication. Don’t I sound smarter already? I read that sociopathic liars are the most damaging types of liars because they lie on a routine basis without conscience and often without reason. In contrast, pathetic liars lie to get along, and narcissistic liars use it to cover their inaction, drama, or ineptitude. Sociopaths lie simply because they feel like it. Lying is easy for them, and they lie with no conscience or remorse. The bottom line is…don’t loan this person any money. The next thing you know, you will owe her. GABBY

CONFIDENTIAL TO “DANCE LIKE NO ONE IS WATCHING”: Yes, but word your email like the contents may one day be read aloud in a deposition.

Endorsement for Woolley “Leslie Woolley is the only candidate in the Walker County District Clerk’s race that has experience working in all four components of our court system. Leslie uniquely combines over 30 years complex working experience in Pre-Trial, Trial, Incarceration and Parole”. – Austin McComb Retired Asst. Warden TDCJ - ID

“I had the privilege of working with Leslie Woolley while she was Program Director of the Serious & Violent Offender Reentry Initiative Program at W.J. Estelle - High Security unit. Leslie is hard-working, trust worthy and a true leader. You can depend on Leslie who always has the community’s safety and interest in mind. I know she will serve Walker County well and go above and beyond to do the job as your next District Clerk.”

Experience • Federal Grant Project Coordinator with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice overseeing a $1 million dollar budget program. • Administered State and Federal Reports and Audits.

• Former Program Director and Parole Officer for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. • The Only Candidate with Paid Court Experience.

Training / Qualifications / Awards • A Native of Walker County who is the Only Candidate who is a Lifetime Member of the Walker County Republican Party. • Trained in Texas DPS Crime Records and HIPPA.

• Volunteer and Supporter of Good Shepherd Mission, Pregnancy Care Center, and Rita B Huff Animal Shelter. • Member of SHSU Alumni.

- Sara Magallanes Retired TDCJ Captain

District Clerk is a position that should possess an individual with a strong passion and commitment to serve the community. The individual charged with the responsibilities of District Clerk must display a level of fortitude in their duties that produces an example for others to follow. Leslie Woolley is that individual! Leslie has proven through her 30 years of public service that she is capable and equipped to serve as the District Clerk of Walker County. Affording her the opportunity to serve in this capacity would be a holistic benefit to the community – Dr. Pam Carey, Retired Deputy Director, SATPRPD-TDCJ

• Member of Fellowship of Huntsville Church.

• Graduated Huntsville High School 1984, SHSU - B.S. Criminal Justice 1988

Political Ad paid for by Leslie Woolley for Walker County District Clerk Campaign

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

The Garden Post By Kim Bius

Spring Preparation February in southeast Texas marks the beginning of rose season. It is also the prep month or “foundation” month for spring. There is so much to do, address, plan, and put into action. It seems the “action” gear is the one many of us have the most problem with. Gardeners are such fair-weather participants…if the weather is beautiful, we flood the local garden centers, like birds in migration; if it is brutally cold and wet, we look out the window and look at magazines or online. We have to chuckle; such is our nature. As we move into late January through early

February, the “to do” list is large, and the following should help you decide which priorities you should address first in your landscape, because each is a bit different. Planting time - Late winter is the best time to purchase and plant fruit trees, blueberries, grapes, blackberries, and roses. Selection is at its best during late winter. If you are looking for hard-to-find selections, look now. Roses and fruit trees require a full sun area

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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(a minimum of direct, unfiltered sun on roses and 8 hours on fruit trees). Fruit trees and roses do not play well with clay soils, so prepare your area with 1/3 peat moss, 1/3 sandy topsoil, and 1/3 black humus, and raise the area 2”- 3” + above grade for added drainage. Correct placement of “site” is 30% of successful fruit tree and rose production. For instance, pecan trees prefer rich, sandy river bottom land, and peach trees require excellent drainage but consistent watering. Pruning time - Valentine’s Day is the target date for fruit tree and rose pruning. Fruit trees should be pruned 20%; thin out crossing branches for easy harvest and removal of dead wood. Roses should be pruned to 12” to 18” from the graft, with 3-5 main canes left only. Antique ramblers, pillar roses, and many hybrid climbing roses will bloom on last year’s wood; be careful, and do not prune old growth more than 20%, and remove dead wood. Side shoots and crossing branches should be removed as well. Apply pruning paint to canes or limbs over 1.5” in caliber, and always prune directly above (1”) the outwardly facing bud and cut at a 45-degree angle. Sharp pruners are a necessity; Corona makes the best! If wood is diseased, please wipe blade in bleach or alcohol between cuts. Perennials, such as daylilies, hydrangea, mums, can be pruned to a few inches above the ground. If a late winter freeze is expected or winter is lingering, wait a few additional weeks. Fertilization - Fruit trees and roses should be planted with a good dose of root stimulator upon installation and again in 4-6 weeks. At this time, depending on the variety of plant, your regular fertilization schedule would begin. Roses are fertilized once a month through the growing season. The first fertilizer application on fruit trees is late winter before they break dormancy and new growth appears. Basically, now! Fruit trees require .01 pounds of fertilizer per 1” of trunk diameter and a 3-1-2 ratio. Fertilome makes an excellent fruit and nut tree fertilizer. Pest control - Dormant oil is an excellent choice for the gardener who is staying away from chemical applications. Dormant oil basically “smoothers” insects and fungi growth and works as a preventative. It is inexpensive and can be applied until full leaf out occurs. Best Wishes for a bountiful spring.

Happy Gardening.

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Star Students Kailyn Fisher Terius Maxie

Trinity High School

Favorite Movie: Princess and the Frog Favorite Music/Artist: Beyonce Favorite Movie: A Walk to Remember

Favorite Food: Chicken Spaghetti

Favorite Music/Artist: Hip Hop / Rod Wave

Favorite Quote: “I came; I saw; I conquered.”

Favorite Food: Burgers Favorite Quote: “The sky has no limits. Neither should you.” –Usain Bolt

erius is a senior at Trinity High School and is the son of Anthony Maxie and Frenchell Dunn. His activities include football, basketball, baseball, and track. Following graduation, he plans to go to college, continue his athletics involvement, and major in kinesiology. Terius believes in being respectful, hardworking, and having a great mindset.

ailyn is a senior at Trinity High School and is the daughter of Donald and Leshia Fisher. Her activities include powerlifting, dance captain, track and field, softball, Beta Honor Society, and student council. Following graduation, she plans to attend college to major in business. Kailyn believes, “Always act from personal power.”

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Lead Pastor: David Valentine 24

Address: Church Phone:

606 FM 1791 N. • Huntsville (936) 435-0993

So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer. ~ Ezra 8:23

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Brooke Kelley

Kaelan Patel

Trinity High School

Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: The Breakfast Club

Favorite Movie: Fast and Furious

Favorite Music/Artist: Mercy Me

Favorite Music/Artist: Post Malone and Lil Uzi Vert

Favorite Food: Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Favorite Food: Enchiladas

Favorite Quote: “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for

Favorite Quote: “The process of becoming is better than being.

you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ ...For when I am weak, then I am strong.” –2 Corinthians 12:9-10

rooke is a senior at Trinity High School and is the daughter of Lisa and Carl Kelley. Her activities include FBLA, Garden Club, yearbook, UIL events, and working at Trinity Pines Conference Center. Following graduation, Brooke plans to attend East Texas Baptist University to major in ministry and mental health. She hopes to become a Christian counselor and start her own practice.

Set big goals and love the work that gets you to them. Even if you fall short, you’ll still be winning.” –Des Linden

aelan is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the son of Sheetal Patel and Ajay Patel. His activities include cross country, track, National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, National English Honor Society, student council, and senior council. Following graduation, Kaelan plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree, attend medical school, then become a doctor with his own practice. He believes, “Don’t make excuses; make improvements.”

WIEGHAT FOR COMMISSIONER 4 Every Commissioner should have a firm understanding of the regulations, guidelines, building codes, and inspection procedures for providing and maintaining roadways and facilities while adhering to budgetary guidelines. These skills are owned by Craig Wieghat. He has spent 40+ years in private industry, working to meet customers needs. Put Craig Wieghat to work for you!

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Touching Tomorrow

Shambrail Woods Trinity ISD Head Coach – Cross Country, Track & Field, and Middle School Basketball 7th Grade Math

Honoring teachers who work with our kids day in and day out. They go above and beyond and really do “Touch Tomorrow.”

Sponsored by:

Nominated by Haden Coleman Coach Woods has pushed me to be the person I am today. From middle school to my senior year, she has always been caring, considerate, and the most amazing person.

Nominate a special teacher today by going online: www.PostcardsLive.com. Those chosen for publication are given a gift card to 1836 Steakhouse.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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936-348-3522 We can handle all your building material needs! ~ Randy & Rita Lowery Owners February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

You Said It! Submitted Story & Photos

Spring Break! With this time of year rapidly approaching, Postcards asked our readers for some of their favorite spring break destinations or memories. Here are some of your responses:

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Shannon Loredo We love to go to Corpus. It’s a great, quick getaway! Corpus is our go-to, because it’s just a few hours drive and fairly low cost. Mustang Island has beautiful beaches and sand dunes. Good times.

Leah Lineback We have never been travelers on spring break…we usually find fun, local things to do together. Or spring clean! In the past, the statue has had fun scavenger hunts/ activities, we explored the Sam Houston Museum/duck pond area, maybe go to a movie, have pizza at home or eat at a local restaurant.

Deanna Irwin We’ve never been big spring break travelers. We just did local or nearby things spending time together.

Lara Gryder We usually have sports or band activities during Spring Break, so we don’t travel. However, we always try to squeeze in a day or two in Galveston. Sometimes, it’s really sunny and warm, and sometimes very cold. We always stop for a seafood meal at Benno’s Cajun Seafood Restaurant on the Sea Wall. Fresh, and always so good.

Kristine Tibbitt

Over the last several years, we would travel with my sister and family. We went to Acapulco a few years ago and had so much fun. There were 14 of us. Spending time with family was the best! Every time we went somewhere, it was like herding cats! We have been to the Florida Gulf Coast 30A, Gatlinburg, Phoenix...all have been fun, because it was shared with family--sights to see, experiences to be had, nieces and nephews to love on!

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Matt Gledhill Favorite place is probably Mexico usually the Moon Palace in Cancun. I love the friends we go with, love the food and cocktails, and love the fishing.

o w k w s i n a

Marilyn Rawls We love spending it with the Grands. We try to find unique things to do. Seismique is one. It is an interactive art experience in Houston.

NEED A WILL? 227 SH 75 N., Ste. 230 Huntsville, Texas 77320

Tel.: (936) 291-6660

raneriley@parklawfirmtx.com 32

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Rane Riley

Attorney at Park Law Firm Serving Walker, Grimes, Madison, Trinity and Montgomery Counties

Here are some other ideas within driving distance!

Karen Denman Spring break is another work week for me, but we are planning a few days in Colorado before Spring Break, and then to Cancun in May!

Marianne Stein Holloway What is this Spring Break that you speak of? Lol! We don’t have kids, so it’s just another work week for me. My brother’s family likes to take the kids somewhere that is drivable, like a National Park. The wildflowers are out in time for Spring Break, so I would suggest a drive to see those. One of the fabulous lakes in the Hill Country is always a good idea. When my nieces and nephews come here for spring break, we did a whole bunch of day trips like a NASA tour, Galveston, and museums. We also did an overnight stay San Antonio with them.

Natchitoches, LA – 3.5 hours and you’re there. There’s no place as unique as historic Natchitoches (pronounced “NACK-atish”), Louisiana. Established in 1714, Natchitoches is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase, and it’s a favorite destination for visitors from around the world. There’s something to do for everyone in Natchitoches, Louisiana’s original French Colony. Find fun attractions and recreational activities that visitors of all ages will enjoy. Historic District. Rural Communities. Attractions. Shopping. Recreation. Tours. www.natchitoches.com

Baton Rouge, LA – 5 hours in

Baton Rouge is a city on the Mississippi River and the capital of Louisiana. Antebellum landmarks include the castle-like Old Louisiana State Capitol (now a museum) and Magnolia Mound Plantation, with its French Creole house. LSU Rural Life Museum is a complex of refurbished buildings illustrating 18th- and 19th-century life. On the river, the

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

USS Kidd is a retired WWII destroyer that is now a museum.

Fort Worth, TX – 3 hours Fort Worth is the 12thlargest city in the United States, known for Texas hospitality and a dozen remarkable districts full of culture and fun. The historic western Stockyards featuring the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive, Billy Bob’s Texas (the world’s largest honky-tonk), and the new Mule Alley. The connected downtown has the 35-block Sundance Square entertainment district. Also, check out the stunning museums of the Cultural District, the Botanic Garden, and nearby Fort Worth Zoo.

Georgetown, TX – 2.5 hours Georgetown is a city in central Texas which claims the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas. Buildings in its Downtown Historic District include the Victorian-era Old Williamson County Jail and the 1911 Courthouse. The Williamson

Museum explores local history. East, Southwestern University is known for its Fountainwood Observatory. Blue Hole Park features a lagoon along the San Gabriel River. To the south, Inner Space Cavern is a vast cave with hundreds of stalactites. Georgetown has almost 9 miles of hike and bike trails, multiple parks, fishing ponds, splash pad, and more than seven miles of hiking and equestrian trails (bring your own horses).

Durant, OK – 4 hours Known as the “Magnolia Capital of Oklahoma,” Durant offers everything from downtown shopping to outdoor adventures. Originally settled by a family of French-Choctaw origin, Durant boasts a unique combination of smalltown charm and a highly celebrated Native American heritage in southern Oklahoma. At nearby Lake Texoma State Park, visitors will relish endless opportunities for nature exploration. Fort Washita Historic Site & Museum is a notable attraction that grants visitors a glimpse into Oklahoma’s diverse history. The fort operated in the 1800s to

protect Chickasaw and Choctaw Tribes, then later served as a major supply depot for Confederate troops in Indian Territory.

Abilene, TX – 5 hours Abilene is big on history, culture, innovation, and West Texas hospitality. It is a place to stay and play, to see and feel authentic Texas, and do things you can’t find anywhere else. Abilene owns bragging rights as the Storybook Capital of America and is home to Frontier Texas!, Abilene Zoo, National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, The Grace Museum, Historic Paramount Theatre, and many other museums and fun activities. Abilene is also home to three universities: Abilene Christian, Hardin-Simmons and McMurry.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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Glorious Grandkids

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V O T E Early Voting is Feb 14 - Feb 25 Primary Election Day is March 1st

4 Supporting a business-friendly economy 4 Being fiscally responsible & working to keep taxes in check 4 Working to make and keep administration efficient ALL ACCOMPLISHED WITH THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS • 25+ yrs of Executive Leadership and 40 yrs of Business Management • 40 yrs of handling local, state, and federal regulatory compliance • 6 yrs serving City Councils (Huntsville & New Waverly) • 12+ yrs serving on International and Industry boards • Managed Multi-million dollar budgets and managed a team of 400 global employees • Developed smart policies & procedures and has Effective Communication skills • Proven Negotiation skills (U.S. and Foreign)

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Milestones

Happy 20th Anniversary to Mitch & Tracy Farris!

Happy 30th Anniversary to John & Lynn Stubblefield!

1314 10th St. • Suite 130 Huntsville, TX 77320 936-295-1151

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

February 13, 2022 Happy 60th Anniversary to Dee & Laura Carson!

and

Laughter

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Twenty Questions

If you can dream it, we can build it

Brian B. Smith 1

SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED? Sam Houston State & College for Financial Planning

FAVORITE MOVIE? Open Range & Silverado… Tied

HOW DID YOU MAKE YOUR FIRST DOLLAR? mowing yards

BOOK THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION ON YOU? Stephen Ambrose: Undaunted Courage

LAST THING YOU BINGE-WATCHED? Longmire

WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU RIDING DOWN THE ROAD LISTENING TO? GP Nunn or COJO

YOUR FAVORITE DISH? Mexican or Italian

YOUR GO-TO BARISTA ORDER? coffee…black.

FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY Skiing and other family trips

SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU? Married a former archeologist and beauty pageant winner

WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF? Traveling, tractor, hunt, fish, live music

HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN? Wake up, no rush, in the mountains

HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY? No bad days. That’s a 1st world imagined problem

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ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT? Forgiving liars and cheaters

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BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE? Elk hunt or RV Alaska

TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? RV across Canada

IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE? Texas. Period. Have spent numerous nights abroad, 1st and 3rd world countries. No place like home.

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHY? My Mom & Dad (dec.)… solid & consistent

BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN? Sit tall in the saddle, hold your head up high; Keep your eyes fixed where the trail meets the sky; And live like you ain’t afraid to die; And don’t be scared, just enjoy your ride” The Ride Song by Chris LeDoux

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

ELECT

Madilene

LOOSIER Republican for

District Clerk Political ad paid by Madilene Loosier Campaign. NOTICE: IT IS A VIOLATION OF STATE LAW (CHAPTERS 392 AND 393, TRANSPORTATION CODE) TO PLACE THIS SIGN IN THE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF A HIGHWAY.

A 9th generation Texan and resident of Walker County from age 19, Madilene graduated from SHSU with a BM in Music Therapy in 1996. A proud Air Force Mom and Army Veteran Wife, she has been married to Pct. 2 Constable Shane Loosier for 27 years and they have 3 adult sons-Tommy, Brandon & Dillon. They are members of First Baptist Church-Huntsville where Madilene leads with the worship team. Active in the community, she is a member of Huntsville Study Club, Newcomers and WCRW, as well as a Lifetime Member of the WCFA, SHSU Alumni Assoc. & NRA. Vote Early 2/14-2/25 | Election Day 3/1/2022 “I will add value with my diverse background and proven

Professionalism, Ethics and Integrity”

• Over 25 years of Leadership, Management Experience & Training • Small Business Owner for 18 years- Madilene’s Piano Tuning & Repair • Over 14 years of first-hand experience participating in District Court processes • Huntsville Leadership Institute Class 38 and current Vice Chair of the Board

“I have a passion for public service and I bring a lifetime of experience serving Walker County as a Leader, Volunteer, and Business Owner/Operator.”

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• Former Walker County Sheriff’s Office 911 Dispatcher • Personnel Manager for over 100 musicians with the Conroe Symphony Orchestra • 2018 Marquis Who’s Who for Professional Excellence in Consumer Services • Holds the honor of ‘Woman of the Year’ by Nat’l Assoc.

of Professional Women • The only candidate with a vested interest in the community having served as President, VP & Secretary of Walker Co. Republican Women, President & VP of Huntsville Area Newcomers Club, President & Current VP of SHSU Walker Co. Area Alumni & Friends Club along with Secretary of the Board of HEARTS Veterans Museum • The only candidate with a proven record as a dedicated Republican with long time membership in the Republican Party of Walker Co. & Walker Co. Republican Women • Delegate to numerous GOP State Conventions, Elected to serve as Walker County’s representative on the State GOP Legislative Priorities Committee for 2018 & 2020

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Texas Treasures Story by Mike Yawn Submitted Photos

SHSU Archives

Remembering SHSU’s Old Main In conjunction with the 40th anniversary of the Old Main fire, Mike Yawn will host a Facebook Live on Friday, February 11, 2022 at 2:00pm. Guests will include Linda Bowers Rushing, Chris Tritico, and Jane Monday. Those interested can tune in to https://www.facebook.com/SHSULEAP.

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

The Fire It was after midnight, and Debbie Pecor, an SHSU junior, was tired. Her study session had gone late, and she was driving home on a Thursday night— or, more accurately, a Friday morning. But even accounting for her bleary-eyed condition, she knew something was amiss. This was February 12, 1982, years before the Holliday Unit or Ravenwood Village cast an institutional glow over the town, but a glow there was, in a spot where no glow should be. As she got closer, the glow reified into defined flames and nebulous smoke. Old Main, a building once referred to as the “most beautiful building owned by the State of Texas,” was on fire. Even today, 40 years later, Debbie Pecor—now Debbie Daugette—remembers the scene. “The streets were blocked by emergency vehicles; smoke filled the air. It was chaos, and it was awful.” Just two months earlier, Jay Letney, also a junior at SHSU, had played a concert in Old Main—one of the last such events performed in the structure. But much had changed since that concert, and Letney was now a full-time student and a full-time jailer/ dispatcher at the Walker County Sheriff’s Office. He worked the graveyard shift, and he heard the news unfold in real time. The first call came in at 1:17am. The dispatchers were professional, but the tone was urgent, even frantic. Old Main, the dispatcher noted, was aflame, and Austin Hall, located just feet away, was in jeopardy. Tom Grisham, one of three paid firefighters with the City of Huntsville (and now a retired Chief from the agency), was asleep when the call came in. He awoke at the sound of his pager, and after listening to the dispatch, moved quickly to the scene, arriving shortly after 1:30am. Even as he approached,

Susan Headrick Reiter

SHSU Archives

Susan Headrick Reiter

SHSU Archives February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

he could see the magnitude of the fire. He knew it would be a long night, and he suspected Old Main might be beyond saving. He hoped that, with the assistance of volunteer firefighters and help from Livingston’s Fire Department, the crew “could save the Austin College Building.” It was, he said, the longest and most emotionally draining fire event to which he responded in his career—a career of service lasting more than 40 years. Chris Tritico wasn’t a fireman, but he was an SHSU student in 1982 and, in fact, he was the student body president. He learned of the fire in the early morning by phone, and, firemanfast, drove to campus. He arrived in the early morning. It was still full dark except for the fire’s flames, and he

saw Dean Bobby Marks and President Elliott Bowers, the latter of whom asked him to “stand guard” and discourage memento-seekers. Tritico stood post—just southeast of Austin Hall—for the next fifteen hours, a witness to the unfolding tragedy. Now in his 60s, he still says with certainty, “I’ll never forget Old Main, and I’ll never forget that fire.” Bill Nowlin lived in the avenues, and he and his neighbor, Professor Jimmy Dale Shaddock, had formed the “fat man’s running club,” which, either because of poor marketing or contradictory eligibility requirements, didn’t attract a lot of members. But these two were dedicated, and at 5:00am on February 12, they met for their usual run. Even before starting, however, they knew the morning wasn’t usual: they heard sirens, saw a faint but ominous “glow in the sky,” and smelled the smoke. They strayed from their typical path and headed toward campus, where they soon realized it was Old Main ablaze. They came as close as responders would allow—close enough to feel the heat from the fire—and watched through tear-filled eyes the demise of a oncegrand community landmark. Jane Monday, then a City Council member and the mother of school-age children, did not hear of the fire until 5:30am. Following a regular routine of watching the news, making breakfast, and preparing for the day’s activities, she heard reports of the fire on KPRC. “It was devastating,” recalled Monday. Rather than take her children to school that morning, she drove them to 7th Street, behind Samuel Walker Houston Elementary School, which offered a better view of campus. And although smoke partially obscured her view, she might have been able to see Austin Hall, visible—for the first 42

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

time in 92 years—behind the magnificent ruins of Old Main. Up close, the view was grim. Grisham remembers the front wall of Old Main collapsed before dawn. The building’s interiors were mostly wood, which burned, turned to ashes, and blew away. Skeletal walls remained, teetering over a rubble of bricks, and beams, the collapsed bones of a quondam cathedral. “It’s all gone,” President Bowers told The Houston Chronicle, “the spires, the stainedglass windows, the auditorium.” It was, he said, the “saddest day of my life.”

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genius,” and, incontestably, one of those flashes was his 1890 design of Old Main. The structure possessed many of Muller’s characteristic motifs, which, according to architectural historian Helen Mooty, included effusive “ornamental millwork,” “heavily embellished” surfaces, “beaded and turned spindles,” and “generous and impressive” entry stairs. With Old Main, Muller not only found a physical scaffold for his ideas, but he was provided a budget ($40,000 in 1890 dollars), location (hilltop), and institutional setting (college

SHSU Archives

The Structure Before the stained-glass windows were installed, before the spires were erected, before the auditorium was built, the structural concept was developing in the mind of architect Alfred Muller. Prussianborn, he immigrated to Galveston via Washington, DC and New York City, and, if his own advertisements are credible, he designed as many as 100 structures. His body of work, according to one architectural guide, reflects “flashes of

SHSU Archives

Your Experienced Hands-On Leader • Helped secure federal funding for Stubblefield Lake Rd Bridge • Assisted in getting a turn lane in New Waverly • Applied and received millions of dollars from FEMA • Instrumental in receiving a grant to replace Boswell Bridge on Four Notch Rd from TXDOT • Obtained a CTIF Grant from TXDOT to rebuild Dana Dr. • Secured a Hurricane Harvey CDBG grant totaling almost $1 million to repair roads

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

SHSU Archives

campus) that afforded him the opportunity to express fully his mature architectural style. Although Muller developed the architectural plans for Old Main, execution of the design was left largely to the “supervising

Dr. Ruth Thomas

architect,” Edward Northcraft. In fact, Muller was relieved of his official duties before the project was complete. Historian (and SHSU alumnus) Dan Utley suggests that the dispute involved the “integrity of the foundation,”

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA SPRING 2022

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

had “‘Uncle Jerry’ as a wealthy man… until he started the Old Main project.” On Old Main, Wilson lost all his wealth, “because he miscalculated the number of bricks it would take.” The bricks, notably, were made from clay originating in the Huntsville area, and these bricks would, after the fire, become much sought after. The structure, situated on a hill, with high ceilings, and seemingly sky-scraping spires, was imposing and created an impressive silhouette against the Huntsville sky. Professor of Architecture Willard Robinson praised Old Main’s picturesque massing, which he described as possessing “extraordinary pinnacles, steep-pitched roofs, and pointed arches.” Dan Utley went further, noting that the building “set a standard for other elaborate public buildings to follow.”

SHSU Archives

but whatever the cause, it was Northcraft who completed the design, and a decade later, he designed a (suspiciously) similar building at what was then Southwest Texas University. The builders of Old Main were brothers George H. and J. A. Wilson, who

constructed numerous courthouses in Texas and, according to one news article, also built (unidentified) structures in downtown Huntsville. Interestingly, a descendant of George Wilson—who went by “Jerry”—wrote to President Harmon Lowman in 1963, noting that family lore

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The rapid technological and cultural changes of the 20th century, however, brought changes even to Old Main. The structure was equipped with electricity in 1913; the organ was removed sometime around 1925 to provide more space in the auditorium (this organ is now in the

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Peabody Library); Architect Harry Payne, who designed many structures in River Oaks and Huntsville, renovated the building’s exterior features, particularly along the roof and eaves; the ivy was removed in the 1950s, to prevent further damage to the building; and major

renovations were made in 1966 to “modernize” the structure. Unfortunately, the building wasn’t fully modernized. No sprinkler system, for example, was installed, and the electrical wiring was laughably problematic, so much so that people remember lights

flickering in and out during stage performances. Joe Janczak, who, on February 11, 1982, stopped in Old Main at sunset to see the sun shining through the stained-glass windows, remembers noticing “extension cords plugged into extension cords,” which he described as

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“a violation of basic electrical standards.” It was, according to many sources, a fire trap. The fire, of course, was the most massive and devastating change in the structure of Old Main, but it wasn’t the last. In the fire’s aftermath, University leaders explored building a new “Main Building,” using the Old Main design and incorporating a modern infrastructure. This was rejected as too expensive, and, instead, a memorial was designed on the original site, one that highlighted the building’s footprint and incorporated original elements salvaged from the ruins. It is now typically referred to as “the Old Main Pit,” emphasizing, in sculptural or architectural terms, the negative space left by the absence of the once towering structure.

The Spirit The absence of Old Main isn’t just a physical phenomenon. In the days after the fire, numerous students, citizens, and alumni sent in letters—some handwritten,

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some typed, some by telegram— expressing their sense of loss. Bill Hall described the news as a “great shock and sadness”; Mac Woodward referred to it as a “tragic loss;” Kriss Brink likened it to someone stealing “a piece of my heart.” All mentioned a sense of grieving or loss. Frank Krystyniak, then the University’s

Spokesperson, arrived early in the morning—possibly around 3am— and managed to hold his composure through dozens of media interviews and fact-gathering meetings. Later that day, however, while walking across campus, he noticed that there were an unusual number of pigeons flying around campus, and it dawned on him: “They

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Four decades ago, Paul Culp sought solace after coming to work and seeing Old Main reduced to rubble. But in an eloquent letter to President Bowers, he suggested that in the face of such a “tragedy,” a restoration of Austin Hall might bring forth a “new symbol of the University.” He observed that, “for the first time in nearly one hundred years, Austin Hall is visible from the…foot of the hill,” and he openly hoped that its renewed profile would again be recognized for its preeminence “both in age and in beauty among educational structures west of the Mississippi…” Mike Yawn

had lost their nesting place. They didn’t know where to go.” Confronted with this poignant observation, his eyes filled with tears. For a while, students may also have felt they didn’t have a place on campus. For more than nine decades, Old Main was the natural gathering spot for students, where they played frisbee, sat, conversed, flirted, and made friends. That happens much less frequently at the Old Main Memorial today, but the spirit of sociability and friendliness hasn’t departed or declined, it has simply found new sites and means of expression. Mostly, it has moved eastward, toward the middle of campus, where the Blatchley Clock Tower reminds students that they are—following a welldocumented SHSU student tradition— late for class. More importantly, the students have continued to work toward achieving the best of the University’s traditions, that of defining a life by its service. In so doing, they, too, have helped the University maintain and renew its identity. This identity was perhaps best expressed by alumnus Esteban Gonzales on February 20, 1982, when he wrote to President Bowers, and observed that the conflagration “both took away and added to my life. In concrete terms, [the fire] took away a building that was both beautiful and special to me. In abstract terms, it added a spirit that will always live in my memory and my heart.” Like Gonzales, other alumni have Old

Main memories that live on in their hearts. Bill Nowlin recalls proposing to his wife, Debbie, on the steps of Old Main in 1970. This memory is much clearer than the classes he took inside the structure, as it should be. Bill and Debbie were married in 1971, and they recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. And Nancy Patrick, who began attending classes at SHSU in the 1960s, still has a vivid impression of Old Main. Following a nice first date with her soonto-be boyfriend, Jim, she agreed to meet at Old Main to discuss the logistics of a second date, a costume party. Mike Yawn Many nice dates followed, and in 1964, the two married, and she became Nancy Gaertner. Today, many students and alumni attend events in one of the campus’s newer—and most attractive—buildings: the James and Nancy Gaertner Performing Arts Center. Each time they do, they strengthen University traditions, while also forging new memories, which, in turn, they will likely share with others in future years.

Most on campus would agree that Austin Hall has fulfilled Culp’s hope and, in doing so, these onlookers are implicitly thanking those firefighters who, for 17 hours, fought and contained the flames of Old Main on February 12, 1982. Their efforts salvaged Austin Hall, allowing this building’s restored beauty to be seen on campus today—and from diverse vantage points across the community, including on the 7th Street hill, where, forty-years ago, Jane Monday and her children watched the Old Main fire.

SHSU archivist Barbara Kievit-Mason was instrumental in providing information for this article, and she generously shared artifacts, photos, and knowledge about the University and Old Main. Any person with Old Main artifacts—letters, photographs, bricks, histories, shards of glass, etc.—is encouraged to consider donating these to the SHSU Archives.

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Creative Corner

Grandpa’s Hands Author unknown. Submitted by Gayle Metcalf Grandpa, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. He didn’t move, just sat with his head down staring at his hands.

• Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.

When I sat down beside him he didn’t acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat, I wondered if he was OK.

• They trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse and walked my daughter down the aisle.

Finally, not really wanting to disturb him but wanting to check on him at the same time, I asked him if he was OK.

• They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body.

He raised his head and looked at me and smiled. “Yes, I’m fine, thank you for asking,” he said in a clear strong voice.

• They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw.

“I didn’t mean to disturb you, Grandpa, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK,” I explained to him.

• And to this day, when not much of anything else of me works real well, these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.

“Have you ever looked at your hands,” he asked. “I mean really looked at your hands?”

These hands are the mark of where I’ve been and the ruggedness of my life.

I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point he was making. Grandpa smiled and related this story:

But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home.

“Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled, shriveled, and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life. They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back.

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my grandpa’s hands and led him home.

• As a child my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. • They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots.

And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of Christ.”

When my hands are hurt or sore I think of Grandpa. I know he has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God. I too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

• They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. • They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son.

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How much does it cost to say ‘Thank you’? By Anonymous Recently, I went to a retail store. As I neared the entrance, the door opened, and a young man (probably in his mid-teens) exited. He saw me approaching and held the door open for me to enter. I did as my parents had taught me and said, “Thank you.” As I passed the young man, I saw a smile on his face and he replied, “You’re welcome.” It dawned on me what had just happened had made both of our days a little better. Later, I was thinking about how many opportunities I’ve had to thank someone and didn’t. What would it cost me to say “Thank you”? Maybe 3 or 4 seconds of time? I thought more specifically about the chances I have at work to say it. When someone completes a task I have requested them to do, should I thank them? After all, it is part of their job. But what does it cost me to thank them?

At this point, I did what a lot of IT professionals would do and I GOOGLED “What does it cost to say Thank You?” No surprise, but I had quite a few hits. One of them was ‘What does it cost to say ‘Thanks’ by Alan Morrison at LinkedIn. In his article, he wrote about poor manners in conducting daily business, including saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’. He had also broken the cost down based on how much you earn and gave rough estimates how much it might cost you each year. The article is worth the time to read it if you have the chance. I think when you say ‘thank you’ to someone and they smile, it is because they know you see them and recognize the work they are doing. Sometimes, in a large organization, people think they are not seen or ‘invisible’. Saying ‘thank you’ acknowledges they are recognized and is an ‘investment’, not a ‘cost’.

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Living with Children By: John K. Rosemond www.rosemond.com

GOT PROBLEMS?

When To Use Time-outs I was once an orthodox believer in the power of time-out—the practice of having a child sit in a somewhat isolated chair for five minutes or so immediately after said child has misbehaved. I promoted time-out in this column, my books, and my public presentations. Used consistently, I said, it should take care of just about any discipline problem. I especially liked the fact that time-out was painless, yet still unpleasant enough to a young child to cause him restraint the next time he was inclined to step out of line. I would recommend time-out to parents who were dealing with an errant child and almost invariably receive, a week or two later, a glowing report. If I dare claim—and I’m by no means proud of it—I probably did more to popularize time-out than anyone in the known universe, even the earth. From sea to shining sea I carried the good news: Armed with but a chair, a timer, and a short list of misbehavior, anyone could have a well-behaved child! Hoo-hah! Then I began hearing (or finally started paying attention to) disturbing reports of children who responded well to time out for a few weeks and began backsliding. Not to be undone, I flippantly attributed these reports to parents who’d gotten lazy and inconsistent. Then parents began telling me of children who would sit in time-out for the requisite length of time, get up, and immediately misbehave. Then I heard of children who would cooperate with the procedure for a few days to a few weeks, then suddenly begin refusing to cooperate; they stood their ground, and things in the family grew worse than ever before. These were followed by stories of children who would sit in time-out and scream bloody murder, repeatedly slam their time-out chairs into walls, slide their chairs from room to room, or some equally inventive combination thereof. Finally, it came to me that it was impossible for parents to apply time-out consistently, and that children intuited this rather quickly. It could not be used if a child misbehaved just as his or her parent needed to exit the house quickly to make an appointment, or the family was in the car, or a public place, or someone else’s home. So, guess when these kids began doling out most of their misbehaviors? I also realized—I suppose I qualify as a slow learner—that to many a pre-delinquent child (which they all are), time-out was nothing more than a nuisance. It was the epitome of attempting to thwart off a charging elephant with a flyswatter. The fact is, time out works for a short period of time with almost all misbehaving children. Its novelty upends them, for a while, but wears off quickly. In the long run, it is nothing more than a minor inconvenience, especially for a child who is highly defiant. I concluded: Time-out works with children who are already reasonably well behaved. But then, so does just about anything, including a firm verbal reprimand. As regards chronically ill-behaved children, however, time-out is insufficiently persuasive. That’s my final answer and I’m sticking to it.

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SHSU LEAP Ambassadors enjoyed helping the Huntsville Lions Club put out flags around Huntsville on MLK Day. The LEAP Center offers opportunities for students interested in Law, Engagement, And Politics. The SHSU College of Osteopathic Medicine community, along with their family and friends, celebrated the MLK Day Of Service as a day on, not a day off, by volunteering to clean-up the Conroe Community Cemetery.

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A Special Conversation Story by Linda Perkins Photos by Gina Turner

Dominique Sachse Tall and slender with her hair highlighted and cut in a stylish bob, Dominique Sachse is immediately recognizable to anyone who has lived in the greater Houston area and watched the news on KPRC Channel 2. After 28 years with the station, she recently retired from her position as a news anchor, but is not shying away from the spotlight. She has taken what began as a sideline gig – giving beauty and fashion advice on YouTube – and expanded her online presence to become a full-time social media influencer and author of a new book titled LIFE MAKEOVER: Embrace the Bold, Beautiful, and Blessed YOU. Dominique sat down with Postcards recently to talk about her career as a broadcast journalist and the passion behind her new ventures.

How did you break into broadcast journalism? Did you ever think you would become a primetime news anchor? I was a sophomore in high school when MTV debuted. That was the first time I saw young people as broadcasters, and they were talking about content that mattered to me. Prior to that, all broadcasters were a certain age and demographic. My parents watched the nightly news, and I never saw myself in that way. But seeing these young people talk about music and interview the artists, I thought, “Wow, that’s amazing.” I was a natural communicator; loved to write and express myself, so I thought I would pursue music and entertainment television. After I graduated from University of Houston, where I studied broadcast journalism, my first steps were with a company called Metro Traffic Control. I got a job as a traffic reporter part-time on the weekends for KLOL and KTRH. Then I would fill in for a variety of radio stations during the week. And so I got a regular slot on KHMX (which was Mix 96.5 at the time), and then I heard there was a position open for a disc jockey. So I went after that, and I pursued it and I became an overnight DJ at MIX from midnight to 5:30. I worked during the day as a production assistant. It was just a crazy start. After two years of working as a DJ, I eventually made my way over to Channel 2, where I got hired as a traffic reporter. So that’s how I started there. Then I just worked my way through the ranks. It was an atypical path getting there, for sure, but I’m grateful for the journey. I’m grateful for the radio start to the journey, because I think it made me a better broadcaster in television news and maybe more comfortable in my own skin, and especially in breaking news situations.

You were with KPRC for 28 years. What made you decide to retire and do something completely different?

You know how you just feel that internal tugging? I was beginning to feel that in the past couple of years. I had launched my YouTube channel in 2014, and I was really enjoying producing content that matters to me - producing content that connects to women of our age and demographic, and sort of carving out that lane. When I started, there weren’t many content creators for women 40 and 50 plus, so I felt like I sort of fell accidentally into this little niche. And it was really speaking to my heart. I was kind of waning in the whole TV news industry and losing that hunger and appetite, that desire. At the same time, I was really loving what I was doing on the side, so I thought okay, it’s time for a shift. It’s time to move into something that really speaks to my heart, where I can pour all of my effort and energy into in terms of content creation.

Where did you get the initial idea for your social media content? As a female broadcast journalist, the questions you get are usually “Where’d you get that blouse? Who does your hair?” or “What did you wear?” Or “How do you create that makeup look?” You know, it’s all the physical, right? And so I would, at the time, answer everybody’s questions via email. It was very time consuming. So one day just out of the blue, I took my cell phone and I did a reverse video. I thought, “Okay, I’m just gonna show everybody how I do my makeup.” So I’m sitting in my bathroom with my phone, and I’m blending and whisking like okay, so this is the color and this is how to do it. And I created a little video and I posted it to my KPRC Facebook page. And I thought, “Should I have done that? I don’t know if I should have done that!” But I did it. And it was so funny, because the questions that followed, were, “Wow, this is so cool” … now what about this, and what about that?” I mean, there were thousands of them. I get more questions and comments about that

» February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

“I was a natural communicator; loved to write and express myself”

stinkin’ makeup tutorial than anything I have ever said or done! A gal I knew who worked at my husband’s firm at the time had her own YouTube channel. She’s young, millennial, and a beauty fashion blogger. When she saw my video, she told me I needed a YouTube channel. So after doing a

little bit of research and digging and whatnot, I decided it might be a really cool place for me to be, and I could start putting a lot of this information and this content out there. There was so much more that I had to offer besides the smoky eye, but that’s how it all began.

What is your philosophy on beauty and aging, especially as it relates to women in their 40s and 50s? I would say it’s more of a full picture. It may have started with hair, makeup and wardrobe, but it’s really become about the whole

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forgotten. We are an incredibly important part of this segment of society. We are the spenders in this society. We are the largestgrowing population in this society, and it’s time for companies and retailers to realize we don’t want to see a 20-year-old selling skincare. We want accurate representation, accurate faces, accurate lives, accurate bodies … and there’s been a magnificent shift in that area, where finally somebody’s paying attention to who we are, realizing we want information, and we want quality products. I don’t know why people use the word antiaging. To me, it’s about pro-aging--to age gracefully, to age well, to be proactive in the choices we make and the products that are available. The thing is, every woman gets to decide what’s right and what’s best for her. Whether it’s absolutely nothing at all, or maybe it’s taking little baby steps, and that’s sufficient. Or maybe it’s a combination of skin cream and getting out of the sun and being diligent about your SPF, or maybe it’s a little bit more.

woman. It’s about feeling good in your own skin. Yes, it’s about skin care and beauty, but also lifestyle, wellness, living your best life,

I love the fact there are so many options, and I think the neatest thing and the greatest gift we can all give ourselves is a judgmentfree gift. Don’t judge yourself, and most certainly don’t judge another woman for what it is she chooses to do. We all have to walk our own walk, and I think it’s important we respect that within ourselves and each other.

relationships--all of that. My platform is about serving and caring for the whole woman and letting her know we are not

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Are there any specific beauty trends you’re seeing right now? I always joke that once upon a time, you went from face cream to facelift, right? There was nothing in between. But the cosmetology industry has expanded to the point where there are so many things you can do. If you don’t want the full-on extreme, like our mothers did – you know, yank it and pull it tight and call it a day – there are so many other choices besides surgery, like lasers, fillers, and collagen boosters. I’m seeing a huge shift in what’s available in terms of injectables and new products on the market, like Sculptra, which actually causes your body to create more collagen.

. r

So, what made you decide to write a book? How does it fit with the social media?

I kind of think of my social media as a way of bridging the gap between the Thursday YouTube videos and the book. It’s a continuum of the content and messaging. It came about because I had a lot of women who were

starting to reach out to me and they would say, “It seems like you have so much to offer in a wide array of subjects. Have you ever thought about writing?” I would laugh and was like, oh, you’re funny. You know, between the news gig and the YouTube gig and parenting and stuff, like I really have time to write a book. But I’ll never forget there was one time in church – it was in the fall of 2018 – and a gal sitting behind me in the service tapped me on the shoulder and said, “You should write a book.” I’m a very strong believer in God, and I thought maybe he was speaking through her, so I figured okay, I’ll give it a shot.

Tell us more about your book. The title of the book is called LIFE MAKEOVER: Embrace the bold, beautiful and blessed YOU. It’s about a woman grabbing hold of her life, where she is in the moment, and digging in her heels and saying I am worthy of time invested; I am worthy of feeling beautiful; I am worthy of feeling good in my own skin; I am a creative person. I am gifted with talents and ideas, and it’s important not to settle in a comfortable space, but to say, “You know what? I need

to stretch; I need to grow; I need to expand myself. I need to be purpose driven.” The book is my life’s methodology of how I got there. The model is sort of “beauty from the outside in” and that’s something I’ve coined in the book because I believe in the power of the visual, the power of the transformation. When you start seeing yourself differently, you want to start doing life differently. You’re thinking, “Okay, I’ve got this new look, I’ve got this new hairstyle, but maybe my wardrobe isn’t matching what I’ve got going on.” So you start dressing yourself differently. And then you start looking at your personal space, and you realize you should tackle some structure and organization. Or maybe you decide you should tackle how you approach food and exercise to have a more healthful, wellnessdriven life.

The book also includes a spiritual component, right? There is. I talk about my faith journey, and I talk about the importance of faith in two ways: faith in yourself and faith in your God. And

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It was during that time, out of the blue, I sort of felt compelled to pray. And it was a very foreign experience for me. I didn’t know what to do, how to do it, how to talk to God. I had no experience, so I just prayed and put it out there. I prayed for a child and for hope, and all of that. I found out a few days later I was pregnant. So I continued my prayer journey. It was a slow burn, as I say in the book. It was not a zero to 60, but it was something that grew in my life.

I started to attend the church later, and I learned how important that conversation with God is and how important it is to offer gratitude in all times, the good times and the bad times. There’s always something to be thankful for. That spiritual journey was so important for me and completely changed my life, so I felt it was worthy of a chapter in the book.

your belief system is your belief system. I’m not a proponent of a religion. I am a proponent of a faith system. My journey was a later-in-life epiphany for me. I was not a believer for most of my youth. But when I was in my 30s and trying to get pregnant, I had to go through in vitro fertilization, and I talk about that in the book.

For more on Dominique and her new book, visit www.dominiquesachse.tv.

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EASY

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

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

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96 41 32

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MEDIUM Sudoku Sudoku

#7 #8 2 4 9 7 4 55 83 1 6 3 9 6 3 8 9 5 8

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

The Grands

Kim SANDERS 1

What is your grandparent name and does it have a special meaning? KK - shortened from what my girls call me “Kimmie Kub”

Number of grandchildren and age range? Anna - 4 years old, Caleb - 1 month

Favorite activity with them? Mainly playing with them! Anna and I love to cook and shop together. Not sure how Caleb will feel about this, but I’m sure we’ll do whatever he likes too!

Advice to other/new grandparents? Just spend as much time with them as possible. Love and enjoy them and spoil them just a little!

What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents? Spending time with them, whatever we were doing, it was special. I did love to cook with my grandmothers and I loved shopping and going out to eat with one of them too, which was a treat. Another one spent a lot of time just talking to me about life, and taught me to sew and embroider.

What do you hope your grandchildren will remember about you? That I loved them unconditionally; spent time with them whether having fun or being there in the rough times. But most of all that they saw Jesus in me.

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Texas Talent Story by Amy Barnett Submitted Photos

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

She is the Texas Country Music Association’s reigning Female Artist of the Year. Born in Bryan, raised in Columbus, and now calling College Station home, 25-year-old Morgan Ashley is a Texan through and through. She has taken the Texas Country Music Scene by storm and is proving you can be down to earth and still shoot for the stars. Postcards Magazine visited with Morgan about the FFA talent show that first sparked her interest in music, and the journey that led her to the big stage at Billy Bob’s Texas, where she accepted her award among veterans in the business – women she has looked up to for many years.

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

That’s kind of how I got introduced to music, in a way. One day I decided to do the FFA talent show. I was nervous to get up and talk in front of people, but for some reason, I thought I could get up there and sing.

So how did it go? What did you sing, and what was the crowd’s reaction? I sang “Famous in a Small Town” by Miranda Lambert and “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. It was like an overwhelming supportive crowd of my peers. I was so nervous, but it ended up being a very positive experience. There were other people in the talent show who played guitar, and I thought that was just the coolest thing ever, so I wanted to play, too. I had one in my room for several years, but I never played it. So, I finally picked up a guitar and then started doing open mic nights and stuff within the next two months. Then I started playing shows and have been grinding at it ever since.

So, you were still in high school when you started doing open mics? Yes, I was. I decided when I was a freshman to graduate high school in three years, so I picked up the guitar in the last year of school and had my first official show while I was still in high school at our little bar in town called Cantu’s – now it’s Blake Street.

That’s impressive. At what point did you realize you had the talent to take this further?

It was a small country town, and for as long as I can remember, I wanted a horse really bad. I grew up in 4-H and FFA. I did barrel racing, and we had a 4-H horse program. I pretty much did all the different programs – leather making, cake making, anything 4-H offered, and FFA as well.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

(936) 245-0057

❤

Photo by Michelle Blair

What was it like growing up in Columbus, Texas?

I took guitar lessons at Guitar Center in Katy, and my guitar teacher was young, in her twenties, and I was 17 or 18 at the time. She was an artist and pursuing music. She just really made me believe music was something I could pursue as my career. I actually went to college right out of high school and did one semester. Then, I decided to ask my parents if it would be okay for me to just work and play music. I was nervous. I thought it was going to be a whole drawn-out conversation, but it wasn’t. They were on board. They were like “Yes, absolutely, work and play music.”

So, what came next? I went to Nashville and played shows for about a year and a half and was just trying to hone in on who I was as an artist and trying to write songs. Writing songs didn’t come very easily to me at that point, and that was really important to me as an artist. I wrote songs when I was younger and knew it was in me. I recorded my first EP, which I didn’t promote to radio, but then my full album that I did, called “Karma,” is where my first radio single came from. That was February of 2018, and the song was “Your Girl.”

“Your Girl” did really well for a first single. Yes. It was a Top 40 song on the Texas country music charts.

You’ve now had six Top 40 songs on the Texas Charts, and you are starting this year with a powerful girl anthem. What is the story behind “Girl FYI?”

“Girl FYI” basically came about because I dated a guy for about a year, but I thought he was possibly secretly seeing other girls. Finally, I realized what was going on and ended our relationship. But he continued a relationship with another girl, and I guess she didn’t know about me. So, I wrote a song letting her know, like, “Girl, FYI, he was with me last night and said that he loved me, so something’s not right here.” It’s a true story, and I wrote the song by myself.

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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What do you hope people feel when they hear this song? I hope it can just empower people. The situation empowered me to write the song. It was a step toward healing and getting over what happened. Hopefully, people relate to it. I mean, at the same time, I hope they don’t; but I just want it to be like an anthem people can listen to and sing at the top of their lungs and feel empowered.

2021 was a great year for you! You took home two big awards and were up against some stiff competition. First, how did you feel winning Best New Female Vocalist at the Texas Regional Radio Awards? I was nominated in the spring. I was so nervous and excited. I wanted it so bad! That event is so cool, too. I got to sit at a table with Jon Wolf and his team and Clay Hollis, and just a table away was Randy Rogers. It’s just such a cool place and award show to hang out. Then to hear them call my name – it was definitely surprising! I was ecstatic.

And then, in November, you won big at the Texas Country Music Awards – Female Artist of the Year! What was that night like? I was literally over the moon! I didn’t think there was any possible way because of the other amazing females in the category. I was

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

really excited, and it was crazy to get up there and accept the award. I thought I was going to see everybody’s face, but I couldn’t see a single thing. That definitely made me nervous, but I was happier than I possibly could have imagined.

I was there that night, and to see the other female finalists excited for you really speaks to the camaraderie you all have. How would you describe your relationship with other female artists in Texas? Everybody has been nothing but nice to me, and they’ve supported me. It just makes me the happiest person in the world to be able to text Bri Bagwell and say like, “Hey, you were such a big inspiration to me. I am so excited that I won this award, but oh my goodness do I look up to you!” It’s the same with Sarah Hobbs, Kylie Frey, and Ariel Hutchins. We really have great relationships and are truly excited to see each other succeed.

As the reigning Female Artist of the Year, you must know you made the right decision to chase your music dreams. I definitely go through these periods of time where I’m always doubting and second guessing myself. So, to win an award like that was definitely an affirming thing, and it has helped me push forward in a positive way.

If you had to describe yourself, what kind of artist are you? What kind of artist am I? I’m a wild card. That’s been like my most “iconic” song so far, and it’s about me. I have revenge songs, sassy, quirky, upbeat songs. I’m just a person who wants to tell the truth and have a good time and express the crazy things that happen and embrace the weird quirkiness.

I love it! So, let’s wrap up with a quick game called “5 Bests with Morgan Ashley.” Best country song ever? That’s such a hard question, but “Famous in a Small Town” by Miranda Lambert seems to me

like the perfect Texas country music song! And I feel like I can 100% resonate with it like so many others being from a small town.

Best thing you’ve ever eaten? Recently, I would say sushi. Love a good, spicy California roll. It’s a new thing I have been liking to eat a lot.

Best thing on Netflix? New Girl! My absolute favorite show! I’ve watched it so many times.

Best advice you’ve ever been given? To always strive to be the hardest working person in the room!

Best place to shop? I am all about getting the basics from places like Old Navy and Target, but I love boutique shopping. That’s where I always find the cutest stuff!

Don’t miss your opportunity to hear Morgan Ashley live. Visit morganashleyofficial.com to find out when Morgan will be playing a show near you! Whether it’s a full-band show or acoustic, you are in for a real treat!

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

What’s Cookin’ Breakfast in Bangkok Ingredients 2 carrots 1 Gala apple, peeled and quartered ¼ cup coconut milk ¼ tsp grated fresh ginger root

Directions Step 1: Run the carrots and apple through a juice extractor and pour the resulting juice into a glass.

Classic Slow Cooker Corn Chowder Ingredients

Step 2: Stir in the coconut milk and garnish with freshly grated ginger root.

3 cups milk 2 (14.75 oz) cans cream-style corn 2 (10.75 oz) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup 2 (4 oz) cans chopped green chiles 2 cups frozen corn 2 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes 2 cups cubed cooked ham 1 large onion, chopped 2 Tbs butter 2 Tbs hot sauce 2 tsp dried parsley 1 tsp chili powder salt and ground black pepper to taste

Buffalo Chicken Wing Sauce Ingredients 2/3

Directions Step 1: Stir milk, cream-style corn, cream of mushroom soup, chopped green chiles, frozen corn, hash brown potatoes, ham, onion, butter, hot sauce, parsley, and chili powder in a slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper. Step 2: Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or on Low and for 6 hours. Cook’s Note: I love to make this with bacon. I take 1 pound of bacon and brown, then crumble into the chowder towards the end.

cup hot pepper sauce

½ cup cold unsalted butter 1 ½ Tbs white vinegar ¼ tsp Worcestershire sauce ¼ tsp cayenne pepper 1/8

tsp garlic powder

salt to taste

Directions Step 1: Combine the hot sauce, butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt in a pot and place over medium heat. Step 2: Bring to a simmer while stirring with a whisk. As soon as the liquid begins to bubble on the sides of the pot, remove from heat, stir with the whisk, and set aside for use.

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

CRAWFISH SEASON IS HERE

Best Brownies Ingredients ½ cup butter 1 cup white sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/3 cup

unsweetened cocoa powder

½ cup all-purpose flour ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp baking powder Frosting: 3 Tbs butter, softened 3 Tbs unsweetened cocoa powder 1 Tbs honey 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 cup confectioners’ sugar

Directions Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and flour an 8-inch square pan. Step 2: In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup butter. Remove from heat, and stir in sugar, eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat in 1/3 cup cocoa, 1/2 cup flour, salt, and baking powder. Spread batter into prepared pan. Step 3: Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Do not overcook. Step 4: To Make Frosting: Combine 3 tablespoons softened butter, 3 tablespoons cocoa, honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 cup confectioners’ sugar. Stir until smooth. Frost brownies while they are still warm.

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Bakers Tip: A quick way to soften butter is to put the butter in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or meat pounder to flatten the butter. This softens the butter while still keeping it cool. A few minutes on the counter and the butter will be up to room temperature. Don’t go crazy over whacking — instead 3 to 4 quick slaps to get the stick into a flat even layer is all you need.

(936) 295-2003 2707 S. SAM HOUSTON AVE. HUNTSVILLE, TX 77340

facebook.com/bigecrawfish February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup ½ cup chicken broth ¼ cup sour cream 1 (10 oz) pkg fresh spinach (or frozen spinach, thawed) 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions Step 1: Season chicken with salt and pepper. Step 2: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add chicken; saute until no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate.

Easy Chicken Florentine Ingredients

Step 3: Add shallot and garlic to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and cook 2 more minutes. Add condensed soup, chicken broth, and sour cream; stir to combine. Add spinach and cook for 5 minutes.

1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes salt and ground black pepper to taste 2 Tbs olive oil 1 med shallot, chopped

Step 4: Serve on plates and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

1 clove garlic, minced 2 med tomatoes, chopped

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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Plant-Based Black Bean Taco Soup Ingredients 2 Tbs grapeseed oil 1 med onion, chopped 1 med green bell pepper, cut into bitesized pieces 1 med red bell pepper, cut into bitesized pieces 2 stalks celery, chopped 2 med carrots, chopped 2 med jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced (Optional)

Directions Step 1: Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, bell peppers, celery, carrots, jalapeno peppers, and garlic; cook until veggies soften, 3 to 5 minutes. Step 2: Add diced tomatoes; stir well and cook for 3 minutes. Add vegetable broth, black and pinto beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and salt; stir until well combined. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.

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1 (32 fl oz) container vegetable broth 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained ¼ cup frozen corn ½ tsp ground cumin, or to taste ¼ tsp chili powder, or to taste ¼ tsp smoked paprika, or to taste salt to taste

Bakers Tip: Easy way to remove seeds from jalapenos. Cut the jalapeño in half lengthwise, exposing the membranes that hold the seeds in place. Then take a spoon and scrape out the membrane, working from the bottom to the top of the pepper.

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

, March 12-13 y p p i h C y t Rus Walker County , e g a t n i Hippy V Fairgrounds d Huntsville, TX Antique an ow h S e s o p r Re-pu Sat. 10-5 • Sun. 10-4

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Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Bars Ingredients 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

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1/3

cup packed brown sugar

1 Tbs white sugar 1 ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp salt

Check us out on

½ tsp ground cinnamon 1 cup milk 2 eggs 2 Tbs canola oil 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8-inch square pan. (50th)

Wayne

Step 2: Combine oats, brown sugar, white sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon together in a bowl. Whisk milk, eggs, canola oil, and vanilla extract together in a separate bowl. Stir egg mixture into oats mixture until well combined; set aside until flavors blend, about 20 minutes. Spread oats mixture into prepared square pan. Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven until edges are golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

SOME THINGS YOU CAN’T SHIP.

FOR EVERYTHING ELSE... TRUST US!

Sesame-Orange Beef & Veggie Stir-Fry Ingredients 3 oranges ¾ cup water ½ cup long-grain brown rice ¼ cup low-sodium beef broth 2 Tbs low-sodium soy sauce

Directions Step 1: Remove 1 tablespoon zest and 1/4 cup juice from 1 orange. Peel and section remaining 2 oranges. Step 2: Bring water and brown rice to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed, 45 to 50 minutes.

2 Tbs chili-garlic sauce 2 Tbs low-sugar marmalade 1 tsp toasted sesame oil ¼ tsp salt 1 Tbs cornstarch cooking spray ¾ pound beef shoulder tender, cut into bite-size strips (or other lean cut of beef) 2 tsp vegetable oil 1 carrot, julienned into 2-inch pieces 6 green onions, bias-sliced into 2-inch pieces 1 large red bell pepper, cut into bitesize strips 6 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbs grated fresh ginger 1 Tbs toasted sesame seeds

Step 3: Stir together zest, orange juice, broth, soy sauce, chili-garlic sauce, marmalade, sesame oil, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk in cornstarch. Step 4: Coat a wok or large nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Heat over medium-high heat. Stir-fry beef until browned, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl. Add vegetable oil and carrot to the wok; stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes. Add green onions and bell pepper; stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes more. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds more.

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Step 5: Return beef to the wok. Stir cornstarch mixture, then add to the wok. Cook, stirring, until thickened and bubbling. Add orange sections; cook, stirring, for 1 minute more. Step 6: Divide rice among 4 plates; top with beef mixture and sprinkle with sesame seeds. February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

INE = L T N O E L You’ll Love

First Christian Church

Old Fashioned Potato Cakes

At First Christian Church, we serve our community through various programs including:

Ingredients 2 cups mashed potatoes 1 cup all-purpose flour

• Boys & Girls Club of Walker County

1 onion, diced

• CASA of Walker County

½ tsp ground black pepper

• Good Shepherd Mission

1 egg ½ tsp salt ½ cup vegetable oil, or as needed

• Care Center of Southeast Texas Directions

• Relay For Life • Blood drives and much more!

First Christian Church is a wonderful place to worship, and we invite you to come see for yourself!

First Christian Church

(Disciples of Christ) Sunday worship service @ 10:45 AM Sunday School @ 9:30 AM Bible Study @ 10:00 AM on Wednesdays via Zoom See our website for more fun activities

Worship services are live streamed on our FB page First Christian Church - Huntsville, TX 1800 Ave. R. • Huntsville, Texas 77340 www.fcchuntsvilletx.org Rev. Larry Garcia, Interim Pastor (936)295-3677 Becky Larkin, Music Minister Email - fcchuntsville@suddenlinkmail.com

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Step 1: Mix mashed potatoes, flour, onion, egg, black pepper, and salt together in a bowl until batter consistency. Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Drop 4-inch circles of batter into hot oil. Cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Repeat with remaining batter.

Health Matters www.drjimshealthtips.com By James W. Jones, MD, PhD, MHA

Get Confident that Betterment of Contentment is Triumphant Goals in life are important and should be sensibly thought out, because attaining one’s goals contributes to life gaining purpose. And just what should our personal goals be? Frequently, they involve several themes including family, occupation, and affluence. But I would suggest achieving contentment with your life should be right at the uppermost. Contentment means to be satisfied or even pleased and proud with what you have done, your status in the world, and your personal surroundings (including things, but most importantly PEOPLE).

realizing dreams are imaginings. It does not mean being troubled that your present is not adequate. There are personalities which constantly need to have more. OH NO.

Contentment is important to relaxing one’s lifestyle and brings about pleasurable states. It is important to rethink your surroundings and overall lifestyle periodically, especially in these troubling Covid times, and to realize that most in the USA have an abundance of necessities to live a good life and be comfortable. MORE THAN ENOUGH.

recognize the sufficiency in your present-day. Accepting your life is sufficient will allow you to receive contentment.

Decide if you have enough. Realize most of us actually have more than enough! We all should be asking what the ideal life is for us. If you have enough to eat, comfortable surroundings with people you care about who care about you, and have health sufficient to live a meaningful life, then your present is sufficient and you should

this behavioral arrangement limits the internal self from sustaining a pattern of contentment with our lives that makes our “self” a happier mostly satisfied person. In other words, don’t limit your satisfaction and internal rewards to future events which may not come about soon. If you need to limit some considerations, limit negative thoughts. Contentment tells your inner emotional determining self, “You may and should be HAPPY because your present-day situation

t h

If one has contentment, it does not mean giving up ambitions. Instead, it means focusing on the present, which is how you are presently living, and still having dreams for the future--but

Don’t predetermine when your contentment will happen (such as basing your happiness on achieving certain goals and delaying it until the particular events happen). A good bit of our contentment becomes misplaced due to our childhood learning experiences. When positive happenings would occur, our parents or teachers would tell us to become pleased. Those teaching us focused on external dealings. But

is superb.” Also, avoid any and all “what if” considerations. Some of the saddest people I have ever met believed life should be fair on their terms. “I have been good, and I don’t know why this could have happened” is a commonplace renouncement. Morality confers rewards and punishments, but only in an offhand manner. Being a wonderful, giving person is good, but doesn’t protect bad drivers or good people from bad drivers. Trust in God and or good fortune, but lock your car.

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Business Focus Story by Courtney Burleson Photos by Gina Turner

“We genuinely care” The charming, pristine, and rustic ambience of the The Wells Team of Top Guns Realty office in Madisonville is indicative of the care and attention given to their clients. While owners Kayla and Kolby Wells may be based in a small Texas town, their heart and dedication to clients is as big as Texas. Nestled along the Highway 21 stretch which winds through town, The Wells Team of Top Guns Realty specializes in residential, rural, and commercial properties, as well as farm and ranch. Along with Madison County, they also have listings in Walker, Houston, Leon, Grimes, and Brazos Counties, servicing the heart of the central Texas region.

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

Currently consisting of eight employees and broker Keith Robertson of Montgomery, the Wells Team/Top Gun Realty prides itself on extensive customer service and a true desire to get the best results for their clients. “We genuinely care,” stated Kolby. “This is it for us. This is all we have, so we give it 100 percent of our time and energy. Part-time, on the side, or as a hobby is not an option for usnor is failing. The time and effort put into getting a property ready for listing is one of the ways Kolby and Kayla feel they go above and beyond for their clients. “We take a lot of pride in our process, and we have a very specific way we go about

it,” said Kolby. “Before a property is ever listed, crews will come in to clean up and manicure the land. Also, Kayla will go in and stage the inside of the house for clients.” “I love interior design work, and if someone has a cluttered house, I will come in and take care of it,” said Kayla. “I have literally gone through people’s houses because they are so overwhelmed and started grabbing stuff to put in boxes. A lot of clients don’t have extra funds to spend. We try to help them as best we can and get the most we can for our clients.” You don’t just walk up and say, ‘Hey, I want to list my place,’ and we just throw it up,” explains Kolby. “We’ve learned through trial

and error, and we’re going to do all the little things, so when it gets to that point, it’s ready to go.” They gave an example of a widow who was listing a property with them. The two-story home had been unused for several years and was overgrown with vegetation, among other issues. The thought of this process was overwhelming to the seller. Our team spent months coordinating clean up, hauling off 16 loads of metal to the scrapyard, and purchasing three storage units to house her personal belongings. Committing the time, effort, and funds almost doubled the sellers return and produced multiple rapid offers upon listing. “It may take us 2-3 months to get a place on

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

the market, because I’m not going to rush. We’re going to have everything ready so that when it goes online, it can sell instantly,” explained Kolby. Kayla believes another key component to their program is their marketing. “Of course, we want to be ‘over the top’ compared to other realtors.” From pristine, lighted signage to the use of video and social media outlets, marketing and networking in the community are large components of their program. “You get one shot,” says Kayla. “So, it is important we do our due diligence for our clients.” Fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming a realtor, Kayla Wells graduated from Champion Real Estate School in Houston

and began her journey as a licensed realtor eight years ago. “Like many who get into the business, I thought real estate would be fun, and I loved looking at beautiful houses and properties,” said Kayla. “Once I got into it, my views changed. I realized it’s not really about the glitz and glam and viewing of the houses – it is really just about the people.” Kayla says she has always wanted to be in an industry where she could help people and sees real estate as a prime opportunity to do so. “This is the biggest purchase of somebody’s entire life, and if I can be a part of that and take the stress off them and help them, then that’s my goal.” It is a series of blessings and good decisions that landed this husband-and-wife team

in Madisonville. While Kolby is a native of Madisonville, Kayla is from Huntsville, where they were living when the journey of faith began. Kolby began his career with Able Ammo in Huntsville, where he served as the sales manager and learned being a member of a successful team sometimes means wearing many hats. There, he learned valuable lessons about work ethic, customer service, and the ins and outs of running a successful business, which he now brings to the table for The Wells Team of Top Guns Realty. Kolby decided to join his wife in real estate after helping Kayla with a farm and ranch sale. He called it a true leap of faith, because he was leaving a guaranteed income and job stability.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

“I saw an opportunity, with my learned work ethic, to make good money. One thing I can do is work.” said Kolby. “However, it took a lot of pure faith for me, because at 26 I was making a lot of money, and it was guaranteed, and I had a young, growing family. It was hard to walk away from that. In real estate, there is no guarantee. It was a hard pill to swallow at first. In my mind,

I thought I was going to sell real estate to the same customers I had sold guns to, but no one I had done business with called me. It didn’t change my work ethic, and eventually they came around.” The journey began when Kayla was working as a realtor in Huntsville and Kolby had left his prior job. Soon after, his back went out, requiring immediate surgery or he was at

risk of losing the use of his left leg. They had just sold their house in Huntsville and, due to no insurance, had to use money from the house sale to pay cash for the surgery. With their house being sold in Huntsville and Kolby needing to recover from surgery, they needed a place to live. Madisonville was their desired location, but they had not been having any luck.

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

“About the same time all this was happening, I got a call from a buyer in California I had been talking to for about a month. He was looking for a place here in Madisonville, so I showed this 1920s remodeled, beautiful home in town and despite a few hiccups, he ends up purchasing the house.”

moving to Texas for another year and needed someone to live in the house during that time. And just like that – their prayers were answered, and they were able to move to Madisonville.

It gets even better for the Wells family. The gentleman from California was not

They began working for a realty company

“It was such a blessing,” said Kayla. “We had been stressing on what to do; there was nothing on the market.”

in Madisonville where they stayed for about two years. In the meantime, the year agreement in the 1920s home was coming to an end. Once again, it was not an easy find, but Kayla had her eye on a particular home in town. They contacted the owner in Dallas, only to find the owner knew Kolby’s family, but wasn’t looking to sell. Then a month later, out of the blue, the owner called, and The Wells family ended up buying the house only two houses down from the home they were currently living in. Kolby and Kayla Wells do not take their blessings through the years for granted; instead, they delight in being able to share and pass those blessings on to others. “We both really enjoy helping people,” says Kayla. “We love when our clients become like family and close friends at the end of the transaction.” The generous hearts of Kolby and Kayla Wells may also be seen through their contributions to the local community. The Madison County Fair is one place the Wells show their community support with the purchase of multiple youth livestock projects each year. They have also been sponsors for the annual Madisonville Rodeo, Little Diggers youth volleyball program, golf tournament fundraisers, and various other local events throughout the year.

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The Wells Team of Top Guns Realty have plans to open a second location in Houston County this year. It will be located at 1712 E. Loop 304 in Crockett. When asked why, Kolby said the company wants to expand its unique blueprint and feels Houston County is an untapped area with huge potential.

To find out more about The Wells Team of Top Guns Realty, visit them online at www.thewellsteamrealestate.com.

February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Vet Connect: By Kim VanWagner, D.V.M.

Love and Affection Don’t limit the opportunity to celebrate love and affection to just Valentine’s Day. Let’s celebrate through the whole month of February. A lot of images we see and create in our minds about love and affection include our furry family members. Did you know Valentine’s Day originated as a Christian feast day honoring an early Christian martyr named Saint Valentine that further developed through folk traditions? Saint Valentine of Rome was imprisoned under the Roman Empire in the third century for ministering to persecuted Christians. While in prison, he restored the sight to a blind daughter of his jailer. The Feast of Saint Valentine was set by Pope Gelasuis I in AD 496 to be celebrated on February 14 in honor of his death (which occurred on February 14th in AD 269). Our affection for animals begins because we perceive them as being helpless and vulnerable. This natural affection we feel can be compared to the affection we feel for our children. Regardless of your feelings towards animals, humans have lived and worked closely with them for centuries. Some have cared for animals because they were needed for survival, especially in the earlier times. The bond we form with animals is reciprocated back. Neuroscience has proven many animals possess the physiological attributes needed to enable them to experience love. Pets form strong attachments to people who care for them confirmed by Daniel Mills, a British specialist in clinical animal behavior. Since attachment is a form of love, animals are therefore capable of loving their caregivers. Pets are non-judgmental and provide unconditional love, meaning, and joy to our lives. Relationships formed with pets can be emotional, psychological, and physical. Studies have proven that dopamine and serotonin levels (chemicals needed for happiness and relaxation) increase just by the simple act of petting your pet. The hecticness of life sometimes gets in the way of us showing our pets the

affection we want to (and even the affection they deserve). Honestly not a lot of extra time is needed to add to your already packed day to show your pets you love them. Making a few simple adjustments to your normal day can bring about big rewards for your relationship with your pet. Ways to show love and affection to your pet are endless. It can start first thing in the morning. Wake up 10 minutes early to take your dog for a quick walk versus just letting them outside. A brisk morning walk would benefit the both of you. Provide plenty of mental stimulation. Instead of a basic regular food bowl, use a puzzle bowl. This will mentally stimulate your pet while they eat. Leave toys around the house or in the kennel if you’re able while you are away (especially interactive toys that can be stuffed with treats). For cats, hide treats or snacks around the house for them to hunt. Try gentle belly rubs or rubs behind the ears versus hugs or head pats. A brushing with a soft brush also feels great! Pay attention to praise. Offer a healthy treat or 30 seconds of love when they are doing something praiseworthy. Even if it’s for just resting calmly near you. Rules and boundaries help pets feel more safe and secure. Making some time for training can bring great rewards. Studies have shown the importance and health benefits of expressing love and affection. For example, one study shows the amount of affection we express may affect our ability to cope with and recover from stressful events. The act of expressing affection has been found to improve mental well-being, cardiovascular, metabolic, and sleep health, and stress reactivity. So as February is surrounded by talks of cupid, hearts, and love, remember a furry friend would be glad to receive your love and affection.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

From the Mouths of Babes... A group of professional people posed this question to a group of 4 to 8 year-olds, ‘What does love mean?’ The answers they got were broader, deeper, and more profound than anyone could have ever imagined!

‘When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore... So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That’s love.’ Rebecca - age 8

‘When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that your name is safe in their mouth.’ Billy - age 4

‘Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on shaving cologne and they go out and smell each other.’ Karl - age 5

‘Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.’ Chrissy - age 6

‘Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.’ Terri - age 4

‘Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.’ Danny - age 8

‘Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and just listen.’ Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)

‘If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate.’ Nikka - age 6 (we need a few million more Nikka’s on this planet)

‘Love is when you tell a guy you like his shirt, then he wears it every day.’ Noelle - age 7

WHY DO MY TEETH HURT WHEN I SLEEP! Nighttime bruxism, or grinding, occurs in up to 31% of adults. It is not solely a nighttime issue, as some people unconsciously clench or grind their teeth throughout the day. What causes someone to grind? Grinding is typically triggered by stress, anxiety, or even deep concentration about something. There is also the possibility of malalignment (which is teeth not in the right place) and issues with the chemicals that help fire your muscles. Potentially, it can also be a sign of having sleep apnea. What are the signs that someone is grinding their teeth? Soreness in your teeth, sensitivities, muscle pain that is often confused as tooth pain, teeth that seem to be breaking at inopportune times with no decay present. Your dentist might mention about your teeth having wear facets or getting shorter over time. Nighttime bruxism can be helped by making bite guards (or your dentist might use the word bite splint). These are made to help position your joint in a comfortable position and make your back teeth not touch when you grind. What’s the point of that? When your back teeth don’t touch, your jaw closing muscles deactivate by 70%. This is the main reason why it helps with teeth/muscles having discomfort. There are store-bought boil and bite night guards that are soft that many people try to use. The problem with these is that the softness allows you to “pump” your muscles all night long on them--and can actually cause more muscle discomfort. Bruxism is an issue that can be managed, as long as the correct diagnoses can be made. If you have a question or a topic you want to be discussed, send an email to drlogan@drscottlogan.com Aaron Fritsch, DDS

‘Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well.’ Tommy - age 6

Office (936) 291-6589 3205 Robinson Creek Parkway • Huntsville

To be continued...

www.drscottlogan.com February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

Wildlife Wonders

Are you busy today?

THE AMAZING CARACARA By Cheryl Conley

Let us pamper your pets for the day.

This is a bird I’ve never had the good fortune to see, even though their range is limited to Texas, Arizona and Florida. I’m talking about the crested caracara. They are beautiful birds, quite large and belong to the falcon family, but they are not typical in many respects to “true” falcons. They are about 22” in length and can have a wingspan of up to 4’. They have four areas of white: white in the tail, white on each wing, and on their neck. They have a large blue-grey bill with red a cere (a waxy fleshy covering at the base of the upper beak) and colorful facial skin. Amazingly, they have a patch of skin around their eyes, and they can actually change the color of the skin from pink to red-orange, and then to yellow if excited. Their orange legs are long and thin with flat talons. They feed on insects, reptiles, large rodents, mammals, birds, and carrion. They’ve even been spotted chasing vultures away from roadkill, but they have to wait until the vulture has opened up the carrion, since they are unable to do it. They prefer to reside in open prairies and rangeland, which is perfect for searching for prey and nesting. They spend more time on the ground than they do flying. There’s a little courtship routine they go through. The male and potential female mate toss their heads back and let out a guttural call. Once a mate is found, they stay together for life. Pairs and family groups will preen each other. They nest between 8 and 50 feet above ground at the top of a shrub, tree, or even cacti in Arizona, and usually return to it year after year. Their nest is made up of sticks, weeds, vines, and debris, and sometimes they’ll build it on top of an old nest of another species of bird. If this is the case, they have to do a little housekeeping and add some materials to the nest. If they start from scratch, it can take 2 to 4 weeks to build the nest, and both males and females work on it.

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If you live in the Houston area, the best places to find this beauty are in the Katy area north of I-10 and east to Highway 290, Galveston Island, the Bolivar Peninsula, the Brazos Bend area, and south of Houston anywhere you see grasslands and open fields. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission have listed the crested caracara as threatened due to population declines. This is mainly due to the loss of dry prairie habitat. Remember, it’s illegal to harass, harm, capture, or kill this bird.

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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Along the Road SPLENDORA If you’ve driven through Splendora, you may have noticed “The Switch” emblazoned on the water tower or the sign at city hall and wondered about the story behind that. Splendora is at the junction of U.S. Highway 59 and Farm Road 2090, on the Southern Pacific Railroad six miles north of New Caney and twenty-two miles from Conroe in eastern Montgomery County. In the late 1800s, it was known as Cox’s Switch, in honor of Charles Cox, who was instrumental in getting the Houston, East and West Texas Railway to extend a narrow-gauge spur there. The area slowly grew more populated after W.W. Burrow built a general store in the area in 1883. The name was changed to Splendora in 1896, when Cox asked the first postmaster, Milton Z. King, to rename the town. He chose Splendora because of the “Splendor of its floral environment.” The town was incorporated in December 1966.

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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The Latest

Community Builders

Jazzy Junque/New Danville Visit Postcardslive.com to read the original story in the December 2019 Lake Conroe edition.

Visit Postcardslive.com to read the original story in the January 2020 Piney Woods edition.

New Danville Volunteer Named Houston Texans Community Quarterback At a recent game between the Houston Texans and the Indianapolis Colts, several stars were celebrated. They hold a variety of roles and one was a quarterback, the recipient of the Houston Texans Community Quarterback Award. With the honor comes a contribution of $25,000 to New Danville in the recipient’s name. Odette D’Agostino received the award for her long-term dedication to New Danville. “I

am honored and humbled,” she said, “but I am so pleased that the award comes with the generous contribution to New Danville. Just like a football quarterback needs a team to win, I could not have been able to help New Danville without the incredible team of people associated with the organization…its clients, staff, volunteers, board and leadership, and my husband and family. Let’s talk about that team, not me, okay?” The team has managed for years the Jazzy Junque upscale resale store in Conroe that benefits New Danville, as well as established a major fundraising event called Tea on the Lawn (now named Spring Thing) and started a

golf tournament this year that netted $100,000 for New Danville. The team has come through 2020 and 2021 to be stronger, wiser and even more focused on how to serve the needs of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Houston Texans and BHP proudly reward the spirit of volunteering and giving back by presenting the award. Volunteers from any United Way of Greater Houston or THRIVE partner that goes above and beyond are eligible to win. New Danville is a nonprofit rural community in Willis, TX for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. NewDanville.org

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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

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“Seens” from our World

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We want to see what you’ve seen! When you see the unusual, funny or absurd, break out your camera, take a picture, and submit to us with a description at:

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February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

CALENDAR

February

10-27 San Antonio

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Stock Show and Rodeo

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12 Sugar Land

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South Padre Island SPI Kite Fest

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12-Mar 6 Bay City wacofamilyandfaithfilmfestival.com

Matagorda County Fair and Livestock Show

Family and Faith International Film Festival

Valentines with Patti La Belle & Friends

spikitefest.com

Waco

matagordacountyfair.com

College Station

13 Huntsville Love & Laughter Valentines Dinner &

“Beautiful – The Carole King Musical”

mscopas.org

Comedy Show at Magnolia Lake 936-294-0991

16-17

Sugar Land

College Station

Disney Princess – The Concert

smartfinancialcentre.net

“RENT” – 25th Anniversary Farewell Tour mscopas.org

Galveston

18-19 Brenham

The Doo Wop Project in Concert

thegrand.com

9-21

Hearth and Home Quilt Show friendshipquiltguild.weebly.com

Houston “South Pacific”

tuts.com

18-Mar 1 Galveston Mardi Gras! Galveston

galveston.com

Lufkin My Funny Valentine with Pat Hazell

angelinaarts.org

19 Conroe Go Texan Parade conroe.org

Due to concerns over the spread of coronavirus, some events may have schedule changes. Please make sure to check the event website, social media, or call ahead to confirm an event is still taking place if you are interested in attending.

19-20 Humble Lake Houston Home & Outdoor Living Show lakehoustonhome.com

Sam Houston State University

COLLEGE OF ARTS & MEDIA PRESENTS

22-Mar 20 Houston “Hamilton” houston.broadway.com

24-27 Beaumont Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas beaumontcvb.com

CAM ARTIST SERIES TEXAS GUITAR QUARTET March 25, 2022 | 7:30 p.m. Recital Hall, GPAC COSTANTINO MASTROPRIMIANO (Conservatory of Perugia, Italy) April 20, 2022 | 7:30 p.m. Recital Hall, GPAC

24-Mar 25 Corsicana Texas Artists Invitational Show and Sale pearcemuseum.com

SECURE YOUR SEAT TODAY!

27 Houston

shsutickets.com | tickets@shsu.edu | 936.294.2339

Gladys Knight beaumontcvb.com

28 Conroe Eagle’s Nest 15th Anniversary eaglesnestconroe.com

March 2 Huntsville Sam Houston’s Birthday and Texas Independence Day Celebration huntsvilletexas.com

Family owned and operated since 1977 Full Service Meat Case • Custom Deer Processing Gift Baskets • Home Cooked BBQ • And More

936-594-2591 Visit us at

3736 Hwy 19 Riverside, TX 77367

tallentsausage.com February 2022 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Mustard Seed Moments by Linda W. Perkins

A Lasting Impression It’s easy to wonder sometimes if a profession of faith made at a young age was the real deal. Maybe we have a prodigal child who has gone astray, or perhaps it’s our own life that has become a mess. “God, I can’t see you anymore!” we cry, as we look at the darkness that seems to have taken over and replaced the light that was once there. We wonder where we went wrong, and we question whether we should hold out hope anymore for a life change. The layers and layers of mistakes seem too many to recover from. The answer to my questions were answered in an art class, as I learned about a process called gel printing. In it, an initial layer of paint is laid down in a pattern on a gelatin printing plate. Once that layer is dry, additional layers of colors can be added on top of it. The original pattern cannot be seen. Yet when the final layer of paint is applied and a piece of paper is laid on top of it and then pulled up, the very first layer is revealed once again on top of all the colors that once obscured it. I realized God works in our lives like gel printing. When we are born again, we are sealed with God’s mark of salvation. Then as we continue on in our lives, we begin accumulating layers of life experience. Sometimes those layers are transparent, allowing God’s light to shine through. Others may be dark or opaque, hiding our true nature as children of God. We can have hope in knowing that, no matter how much has come after our salvation, we are still sealed by God’s grace in Christ Jesus. It is still there, underneath everything else. And when – in His time – God makes His mark visible again, it will seem even more beautiful sitting on top of the unique layers of our lives.

“In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.” – Ephesians 1:7

“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit.” – Ephesians 1:13 102

Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | February 2022

NSB

Rock Solid Banking

Normangee State Bank Locally Owned & Operated Open Tuesday - Saturday 9 AM to 2 PM 202 Main St. • Normangee, TX

936-396-3611

Online Banking Available:

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