The Whole Kid-and-Kaboodle - Summer 2026

The Team

Jerri Bankston

CEO/Owner/Publisher/Editor 281-703-7742 jerri42@embarqmail.com

Sherrie Stone Graphic Designer 936-449-0138 sskkjj1@gmail.com

Rebecca Goff

Marketing Prayer and Praise Coordinator 713.376.5454 rebecca.goff.07@gmail.com

Joe Martin

Sales and Marketing for TimMark Angels/ Kid andKaboodle magazine for Crockett and surrounding areas 281-702-1572 joemartinshow@joemartinshow.com

Find Us Online!

TiMMark Angels.org. facebook.com/WholeKidAndKaboodle/

Table of Contents

Eat

When “Thank You” is all that’s Left........9 Reflection: The Decisions That Open

Jerri’s Corner

On The Cover

Luke 18:16

But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.

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

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

This year’s July 4th will celebrate 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Most children are familiar with the day that we pop fireworks but do they really think about what it represents. As a child growing up in the 40’s and 50’s I don’t remember having a clue about the real meaning. That period of time was such a simpler time. Everything seemed good. Not like today when the world and our country seem to be falling apart and half of the United States of America is not so united. It is so depressing, but when I see prayer in the White House and know that a Faith dept. has been established, it makes me realize that half of us are connected to our founding fathers. The Declaration of Independence contains references to God, the laws of nature and Creator, Supreme Judge of the world. Our founders believed that human rights came from God rather than from kings or governments Before and during the American Revolutionary war the continental congress called for prayer, fasting, repentance and thanksgiving to God. Many colonial churches held special prayer meetings asking for protection and guidance and preached from scriptures about justice, liberty, resistance to tyranny, and dependence on God. How did we gradually get so far from the principles of our founding fathers. But, Praise God, we have hope now. Our current administration is following after those principles that were so important to our country two hundred and fifty years ago. Those of us who really believe in “One Nation, under God” need to fall on our face and pray. Pray for God’s guidance and pray against the evil spirits that are trying to destroy us. Be careful with the fireworks, don’t get sick on too many hot dogs and snow cones, spend time with family and PRAY.

Julio’s Mexican Grill

33418 Egypt Ln,ste A,Magnolia, TX 77354 kids eat free with purchase of adult meal

Freebirds World Burrito free meals to kids under 12 with the purchase of an adult entree. Maximum two free kids meals per order.

Lubys

Free Kids Combos,

All day Wednesday and Saturday from 11am to close.

IHop Humble

Sunday-Saturday 4 – 10 PM

Jason’s Deli’s Tuesdays

Denny’s

Tuesdays and Saturdays – 4 PM – 10 PM

Kingwood - 22671 Eastex Fwy, Kingwood, TX 77339 1314 & 59 Porter, Texas 242 & 59 - 23412 TX-242, New Caney, TX 77357

Dickey’s Pit Barbeque Kingwood Sundays

Golden Corral

Kids 3 and under always eat free at Golden Corral with one adult buffet purchase.

IT’Z FAMILY FOOD & FUN,

18355 Tomball Pkwy, KIDS EAT FREE THURSDAY , one free personal pizza with the purchase of a regular adult meal purchase. does not include drinks

When “Thank You” Is All That’s Left

Deborah Elum, Producer

The text arrived with a soft chime: “Thank you.” Two simple words on my iPhone screen — polite, distant, and painfully final.

It was the response to a birthday message I had sent to a relative I once spoke to almost weekly. A relative who once leaned on me through some of the darkest valleys of their life. A relative who often said they always wanted to be a part of my life forever.

I stared at the message longer than I should have, waiting for the followup call that used to come without fail. The call where they’d share their birthday plans, laugh about getting older, or ask for advice — again. But this time, nothing came. Just silence. And that silence had a story. There was a season when their world was collapsing. A bitter divorce. Financial confusion. False accusations that threatened their job. Moments when their stability was stripped away and their reputation hung by a thread. And through it all, my family had stood in the gap. I

never expected repayment. But I did expect relationship — the kind that survives storms because it was forged in one. But life has a way of shifting quietly.

Over the past year, the calls slowed. Then the texts. Then everything. At first, I made excuses for them — new routines, new responsibilities, new peace after years of turmoil. But eventually, the truth settled in: they had moved on and I was no longer part of the life I once helped hold together. It wasn’t betrayal. It was simply distance. The kind that grows silently until one day you realize the person you carried through fire now walks roads you’re not invited to travel. The Scripture teaches us something uncomfortable yet freeing: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.” — Colossians 3:23

We don’t love because people will love us back. We don’t serve because gratitude is guaranteed. We don’t stand in the gap because someone will one day stand in the gap for us. We do it because God asked us to.

That “Thank you” text — short, polite, final — was the closing line of a chapter I didn’t know we were finishing. Sometimes the greatest act of love is releasing people to the life they choose — even when that life no longer includes you.

If you’ve ever been the one who stayed, supported, prayed, and carried someone through their storm — only to be met with silence later — hear this: Even when “Thank you” is all that’s left, that’s okay. Because what you did mattered. And even if the relationship didn’t last, the impact did.

About Ava Lyn Grace

Ava Lyn Grace is a digitalfirst artist who collaborates as the creative extension of songwriter and producer Deborah Elum. Through this artistic identity, Deborah channels her original lyrics, melodies, and storytelling into a modern expression that allows her work to reach wider audiences across today’s digital platforms.

Together, they form a single, compelling voice that blends creativity with purpose, bringing heartfelt, spiritled music to listeners everywhere. Her music is available now on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and other major digital retailers.

For more information contact Deborah Elum at P.O. Box 1594, Humble, Texas 773-471-594 or call (281) 570-4947

During June, July and August, a portion of the proceeds from the new album, “Are You Ready” by Ava Grace will be donated to support the mission of TiMMark Angels. You can also visit TiMMarkAngels.org to learn more.

Grace Church-Humble

Friday Sept. 11 @ 7pm

Reflection: The Decisions That Open Conquest

There are seasons in life when we are not only waiting for a blessing, but for a decision. Many times we pray for open doors, miracles, new opportunities, and answers from heaven, but we forget that there are victories that only come after an act of obedience.

God spoke to His people many times before giving them the promised land, but the promise did not manifest until they decided to walk, move forward, and believe. The conquest did not begin when they saw the land; it began when they overcame fear, left comfort behind, and dared to take the step God was asking of them.

Many times we want God to change the scenery without first changing our posture. We expect harvest without sowing, victory without fighting, and new chapters without closing the previous ones. Yet heaven often responds when someone makes the right decision in the middle of uncertainty.

There are people who have waited for change for years, but true change does not depend only on time; it depends on the right decision. A decision to forgive the one who hurt you. A decision to let go of the past that weighs you down. A decision to obey even when you do not understand everything. A decision to move forward even when fear still exists. A decision to trust even when there are no

visible signs.

Every great conquest in the Bible was preceded by a courageous decision. Abraham decided to leave without knowing where he was going. Joshua decided to cross the Jordan trusting the promise. David decided to face Goliath when others stepped back. Esther decided to appear before the king risking her life. Peter decided to step out of the boat and walk on the water.

What they all had in common was not the absence of fear, but the determination to believe God above their emotions. They understood that obedience opens doors that logic could never open.

Perhaps what seems like an obstacle today is not the end, but the platform where God is waiting for your response. Maybe the delay has not been rejection, but a divine invitation to mature, trust, and decide. There are blessings that do not come by chance; they come when someone moves in faith.

Do not underestimate the power of a decision guided by God. What you decide today in obedience can become tomorrow the conquest you have long awaited. Sometimes one single decision changes entire generations.

Final phrase:

Sometimes the door does not open by force... it opens through obedience.

Melvin and Karen”s story began on the island of Puerto Rico, where they met and married. While there, they started a university Christian group called Adonai Christian Ministry,

Pastor Melvin joined the U.S. Army. During the next 13 years of active service, they never stopped working in the calling God had placed in their hearts.

God called them into full-time ministry in 2007 and they began the process of establishing a Hispanic church in Tacoma, Washington and served there for more than 15 years

.In October 2021, they received a new call from the Lord to move to Houston, Texas, and establish a new work.

While having breakfast in New Caney, they met Pastor Dale, who later handed them the keys to a church in Porter, Texas, sharing that God had spoken to him years earlier about their arrival.

Pastor Karen is also the author of the book ‘The Diary of a Pastor’

Las decisiones que abren conquista

Hay temporadas en la vida donde no estamos esperando solamente una bendición, sino una decisión. Muchas veces oramos por puertas abiertas, milagros, nuevas oportunidades y respuestas del cielo, pero olvidamos que existen conquistas que solo llegan después de un acto de obediencia. Dios le habló a Su pueblo muchas veces antes de entregarles la tierra prometida, pero la promesa no se manifestó hasta que decidieron caminar, avanzar y creer. La conquista no comenzó cuando vieron la tierra; comenzó cuando vencieron el temor, dejaron la comodidad y se atrevieron a dar el paso que Dios les estaba pidiendo.

En muchas ocasiones queremos que Dios cambie el panorama sin cambiar primero nuestra postura. Esperamos cosecha sin sembrar, victoria sin pelear y nuevos capítulos sin cerrar los anteriores. Sin embargo, el cielo muchas veces responde cuando alguien toma una decisión correcta en medio de la incertidumbre.

Hay personas que llevan años esperando cambios, pero el verdadero cambio no depende solamente del tiempo; depende de la decisión correcta. Una decisión de perdonar a quien hirió. Una decisión de soltar el pasado que pesa. Una decisión de obedecer aunque no se entienda todo.

Una decisión de avanzar aunque todavía exista miedo. Una decisión de confiar aun cuando no haya señales visibles.

Cada conquista grande en la Biblia fue precedida por una decisión valiente. Abraham decidió salir sin saber a dónde iba. Josué decidió cruzar el Jordán confiando en la promesa. David decidió enfrentar a Goliat cuando otros retrocedían. Ester decidió presentarse ante el rey arriesgando su vida. Pedro decidió bajar de la barca y caminar sobre las aguas.

Lo que todos ellos tenían en común no era ausencia de miedo, sino la determinación de creerle a Dios por encima de sus emociones. Entendieron que la obediencia abre puertas que la lógica jamás podría abrir.

Quizás lo que hoy parece un obstáculo no es el final, sino la plataforma donde Dios está esperando tu respuesta. Tal vez la demora no ha sido rechazo, sino una invitación divina a madurar, confiar y decidir. Hay bendiciones que no llegan por casualidad; llegan cuando alguien se mueve en fe.

No subestimes el poder de una decisión guiada por Dios. Lo que hoy decides en obediencia puede convertirse mañana en la conquista que tanto has esperado. A veces una sola decisión cambia generaciones enteras.

A veces la puerta no se abre con fuerza… se abre con obediencia.

La historia de Melvin y Karen comenzó en la isla de Puerto Rico, donde se conocieron y casaron. Mientras estuvieron allí, fundaron un grupo cristiano universitario llamado Adonai Christian Ministry, El pastor Melvin se alistó en el ejército de los Estados Unidos. Durante los siguientes 13 años de servicio activo, nunca dejaron de trabajar en el llamado que Dios había puesto en sus corazones.

Dios los llamó al ministerio a tiempo completo en 2007 y comenzaron el proceso de establecer una iglesia hispana en Tacoma, Washington, donde sirvieron durante más de 15 años

. En octubre de 2021, recibieron una nueva llamada del Señor para mudarse a Houston, Texas, y establecer una nueva obra.

Mientras desayunaban en New Caney, conocieron al pastor Dale, quien más tarde les entregó las llaves de una iglesia en Porter, Texas, contándoles que Dios le había hablado años antes sobre su llegada.

La pastora Karen también es autora del libro ‘El diario de un pastor’

Three Generations of Service: The Jones Family and Crockett Insurance

When you walk into Crockett Insurance Service at 206 South 5th Street in Crockett, Texas, you’re greeted by more than just a team of insurance professionals — you’re stepping into a legacy built over decades, shaped by three generations of the Jones family. What began as a small local agency has grown into a trusted source of

protection for families and businesses across Houston County and beyond, and it continues to evolve as the newest generation steps up to carry the tradition forward.

A Legacy Begins: Don Jones and a New Chapter for Crockett Insurance

Although Crockett Insurance traces its roots to the years following World War II, it was when Don C. Jones joined the firm in the early 1970s that the modern chapter of the company began. Don brought with him a passion for personal service and a commitment to community values that would define the agency for years to come. Over time, Don worked his way up from partner to owner, becoming president of the company and establishing Crockett Insurance as a local institution.

Under Don’s leadership, the agency grew its offerings and strengthened its relationships with both individual and business clients. His dedication to providing personalized coverage solutions — from auto and home insurance to life and health policies — became the cornerstone of the agency’s reputation.

A Son Takes the Helm: Carlton Jones

Following in his father’s footsteps, Carlton Jones became a key figure in the business. Carlton’s leadership reflects a seamless continuation of the values his father instilled: integrity, care, and a deep understanding of what local residents need from their insurance provider. Today, Carlton serves as President of Crockett Insurance Service, bringing over two decades of experience to the role.

Carlton embraces the challenge of building coverage options for customers of all walks. Clients and colleagues alike note that Carlton’s approach is both professional and personal, combining skilled risk analysis with the kind of hometown trust that only comes from being part of the community you serve. Whether he’s tailoring a commercial insurance package for a large firm, finding the right farm package for a local rancher or helping a young family understand their coverage options, Carlton’s focus remains on building long-lasting relationships.

The Next Generation: Sam Jones Steps Into His Place

The Jones family legacy took another big step forward in late 2023 with the addition of Sam Jones, Carlton’s son and Don’s grandson, as the most recent generation to join the agency. Sam’s decision to enter the family business wasn’t immediate — after high school he explored college at the University of North Texas and worked in other fields, including construction, and operating heavy equipment at a local sawmill. But the call to return home and build something lasting eventually led him back to Crockett Insurance.

Sam completed his insurance licensing and began training under the guidance of Carlton and

Don, embracing both the opportunities and challenges that come with working alongside family. “It’s a lot to take on,” Sam said, acknowledging the legacy he’s inheriting. “This business has been good to my family and in turn they have provided a lot of excellent service to our clients and community. So, there’s a lot of pressure that I’m putting on myself, but I think it’ll drive me to do as well as they did, and, hopefully, more so.”

This last year Sam and his wife Madison welcomed their first-born son, Priestly, named after Don’s father, with hopes of potentially passing the family business down to a fourth generation one day.

Continuing the Tradition of Community Trust

With more than 150 years of combined staff experience and a strong suite of insurance partners, Crockett Insurance Service offers a broad range of coverage options tailored to meet the needs of its clients — from personal auto and home policies to business and life insurance. The agency’s long tenure in the community has fostered deep trust among clients, reflected in glowing customer testimonials praising the team’s responsiveness, professionalism, and local understanding.

The Jones family isn’t just running a business — they’re protecting neighbors, safeguarding investments, and helping families navigate life’s uncertainties with confidence. As Sam continues to learn the ropes and take on new responsibilities, the future looks bright for this homegrown agency. The legacy that Don began, the foundation Carlton strengthened, and the path Sam is now walking stands as a testament to the value of commitment, family, and service — in Crockett and far beyond.

LOCAL PARKS AND ACTIVITIES

Carter

Park, Collins Park, Dennis Johnston Park, Jesse h. Jones & nature Center, kiCkerillo-MisCher Preserve, anD PunDt Park

Offers canoe/kayak launches at for those interested in canoeing/kayaking Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and associated waterways. Reservations are required to use a launch to access Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, or associated waterways. Reservations are not required to use the launch at Kickerillo-Mischer Preserve to access Marshall Lake.

Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts can experience many unique fishing opportunities year-round, with access to fishing in Spring Creek, Cypress Creek, and stocked fishing lakes.

PiCniCs

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

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

Jones Park

Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center is a premier 312-acre nature preserve open daily to visitors free of charge. The park features a variety of plant and wildlife species, white sand beaches along Spring Creek, swamps and sloughs with century-old cypress trees, and a pristine floodplain located in a hardwood and pine forest. All features are accessible by over eight miles of paved, handicap-friendly pedestrian trails and several unpaved primitive trails. The Spring Creek Greenway, with over 16 miles of paved trail system along Spring Creek, is also accessible from the park’s Judy Overby Bell Trail and Jones Bender Trail.

the Davy CroCkett national Forest

The Davy Crockett National Forest, named for the legendary pioneer, contains more than 160,000 acres of East Texas woodlands, streams, recreation areas, and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity Counties,

the forest is centrally located within the Neches and Trinity River basins. The Davy Crockett National

Forest was proclaimed a National Forest by President Franklin Roosevelt on October 15, 1936.Free Tent & RV Camping.

Mission teJas state Park

Enjoy the peace of the Pineywoods and glimpses of the past at Mission Tejas State Park. Midway between Dallas and Houston, the park is at the north end of the Davy Crockett National Forest.

Whether you want to rest or play, you’ll be glad you came!

Hike, Fish, Camp, Nature watch, Explore history, Reserve a group site for your next gathering Davy CroCkett sPring & Brewer Park

Davy Crockett Spring & Brewer Park in Crockett, TX, is a peaceful green space nestled in the heart of the town and is a great place to spend the day with your family.

This park has a playground, picnic tables, and plenty of green space for games and activities. Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the beautiful flowers and trees. And if you’re feeling competitive, challenge your friends to a game of basketball or volleyball.

United City Church

VBS Sports Camp

June 8-11, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm

Completed Kinder – 5th Grade

Wildwood United Methodist Church 8911 FM 1488, Magnolia, TX 77354

Atascocita Methodist Church June 22 – 26, 9 am – 12 pm, age 4 through 5th grade

Woodlands Church

Woodlands Campus: July 13 – 16, 9 am-12 pm

Atascocita Campus: July 20-23, 9 am-12 pm East River Campus: July 20-23, 9 am-12 pm

June 15, 9:00am - June 18, 2026 12:00pm Mims Baptist Church 1609 Porter Rd Conroe, TX 77301

Kingwood United Methodist Church June 8 – 12, 9 am–12:00 pm Entering Kinder–3rd grade

Time & Location

Jun 15, 2026, 6:30 PM – Jun 17, 2026, 9:00 PM Humble & Español, 7224 N Sam Houston Pkwy E, Humble, TX 77396, USA

July 13 -16, 2026

9:00 AM-12:00 PM 24570 FM1314, Porter, TX

Faith United Methodist Church Spring June 15 – 19, 9 am- 12:00 pm

June 15th - 19th from 6:00pm to 8:30pm Northside Baptist Church 701 N. FM 3083 West | Conroe, TX 77303 (936) 756 - 4630

Magnolia Cowboy Church 23245 Glenmont Estates Boulevard Magnolia, Texas 77355

Grace Church Liberty Campus 1935 TX-146 Liberty, TX 77575 (281) 441-1111

June 23 - 26

Grace Church Tomball Campus 31731 TX-249 Pinehurst, TX 77362 (281) 441-1111

Spring Baptist Church

Spring Campus: June 15 – 18, 9:00 am–12:15 pm Pre-K – 6th Grade

Every day

Monday, June 1, 9am–12pm Magnolia’s First Baptist Church 18525 FM 1488 Magnolia, TX

Friday, July 10 - 5:30pm until 8:30pm Saturday, July 11 - 9:00am - 3:00pm Sunday, July 12 - 9:00am - 12:00pm

LAKE HOUSTON AREA LIBRARIES

Atascocita Branch Library

19520 Pinehurst Trail Dr, Atascocita, TX 77346

Hours: Mon. 11a-6p / Tue. 10a-8p / Wed. 10a-6p

Thu. 10a-8p / Fri. 1p-6p / Sat. 10a-5p

Phone: (832) 927-5560

Octavia Fields Branch Library

1503 S Houston Ave, Humble, TX 77338

Hours: Mon. 11a-8p / Tues 10a - 6p / Wed 10a - 8p

Thurs 10a - 6p / Fri 1p - 6p / Sat 10a - 5p

Phone: (832) 927-5500

Kingwood Branch Library

4400 Bens View Ln, Kingwood, TX 77339

Hours: Mon. 10am-8pm / Tues.10am-8pm / Wed. 10am-8pm

Thurs. 10am-9pm / Fri, 1pm-6pm / Sat. 10am-5pm

Phone: (832) 927-7830

http://www.hcpl.net/location/kingwood-branch-library

Humble ISD

welcomes students from throughout the Houston region

Humble ISD, ranked in the top 7 percent of Best School Districts in the nation by Niche, is now accepting students who live throughout the Houston region. Parents who are able to provide transportation may apply to take advantage of all that Humble ISD has to offer. Students

are admitted to elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the 2026-27 school year. The application is available at www.humbleisd.net/open-enrollment.

Innovation drives education at Humble ISD. The district is engaged in a robust school construction and facilityenhancement program that includes new, imaginativelythemed, handicappedaccessible playgrounds at elementary schools; outdoor fitness centers at secondary schools; modernized buildings featuring natural light; inviting collaborative spaces; and career labs.

Humble ISD students benefit from safe learning environments, including a

Humble ISD high schools offer 40 programs of study and 179 CTE courses that provide training in barbering, culinary arts, criminal justice, health sciences, information technology, to name a few. In addition, there are more than 100 Advanced Placement courses, an International Baccalaureate Program, and dual credit classes in partnership with San Jacinto Community College, Lone Star College - Kingwood, and The University of Texas OnRamps program. Students also can participate in JROTC programs from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines. With more than 40 job-ready certifications to choose from,

police officer on every campus, an award-winning Humble ISD Police Department, student wellness counselors, and strong family involvement.

Starting in elementary school, Humble ISD students engage in art, music, library, STEM, and physical education in addition to core subjects. A unique offering for middle school students is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) wheel where 6th grade students explore future careers in agriculture, criminal justice, finance, health science, hospitality, information technology, and more.

students can graduate high school and have the skills and credentials to get started on their career right away. Humble ISD students’ SAT scores exceed state and national averages. Humble ISD has some of the most competitive athletics and fine arts programs in the state of Texas, including mariachi and eSports.

Families who are interested in joining a tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, and fine arts are encouraged to apply as out-of-district students today. Spots are limited.

Dinner 7 nights a week

Brunch Saturday and Sunday 11 - 3

More Than a Magazine… It’s a Mission

For over a decade, The Whole Kid and Kaboodle Magazine has been serving families across the Lake Houston area & beyond—helping parents discover meaningful activities, resources, and opportunities for their kids.

But what many don’t realize is… This magazine is helping fuel something even bigger.

Every page, every story, every connection made through this publication is helping support TiMMark Angels, a ministry dedicated to impacting local families and children in real, tangible ways.

This is where community and purpose come together.

As we step into this next season, we’re believing for:

More families reached

More businesses partnering

More lives impacted

But we can’t do it alone.

We are currently seeking:

Sponsors

Advertisers

Community partners who want to be part of something meaningful

When you partner with us, you’re not just promoting your business… you’re helping create real impact in the lives of families right here in our community.

Would you take a moment and pray about being part of this?

Whether you’re a business owner, a leader, or someone who simply believes in what we’re doing—there’s a place for you here.

Visit: https://www.timmarkangels.org/

Or message us directly to learn how to get involved

Thank you for believing in this mission. Thank you for standing with us.

#TiMMarkAngels #MakeAnImpact #SupportLocal #FaithInAction #CommunityStrong

The Crockett Area Chamber of Commerce held their annual Membership Awards Banquet 100th year anniversary 1926-2026 at the Crockett Event Center where a packed house enjoyed a prime rib steak dinner with all the trimmings.

The dress theme was 1920’s and attendees could participate ln a silent auction and an eleven item regular auction plus at least fifty raffle giveaways. There was a table with an assortment of delicious pastries and each table where attendees sat had a number and those at each table put money in

an envelope. The table with the largest amount

was first to go at a mad rush to pick up the pastries they wanted. What a fun event.

Our own Joe Martin, Sales & Marketing Director, TiMMark Angels/ The Whole Kid and Kaboodle Magazine attended with his wife Carol. All in all, the Chamber took in a record $35,000.00.

Karis Homecare:

Karis Homecare Services recognizes that every family is unique and care is tailored to honor the individual needs,

routines, and preferences of those they serve. From companionship and personal care assistance to respite care for family caregivers, their goal is

Katrina (left) with Dr. Fisher, the Mayor of Crockett to bring peace of mind and dependable support right into the home. “Karis” means grace, and it reflects that spirit in every interaction,—whether serving clients, supporting family members, or guiding caregivers.

Katrina Doss is the proud owner and founder of Karis Homecare Services.. What began as a passion for helping others, after more than 15 years, has grown into a family-owned and operated company that is deeply committed to providing care with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Katrina understands the profound trust families place in her team when they invite caregivers into their homes. She does not take that responsibility lightly. Under her strong leadership and oversight, Karis Homecare maintains a careful balance of professional training, compassionate service, and individualized attention to each client’s needs. Katrina’s dedication ensures that both clients and caregivers are supported with the highest level of integrity.

Client and Karis caregiver.

Serving the greater part of Texas Free Consultations

Contact: 726-206-2804

karishomecare@outlook.com www.karishomecareservices.com

After The Storm

Earlier this year a tornado touched down on my brotherin-law’s property, destroying his workshop, his barn and shattering the windows of our church building next door. Then it lifted without any significant damage to any other property. It was such an unusual occurrence that cameramen and reporters came, and it was broadcast on the local news stations.

In the aftermath and cleanup of the debris, it served as a powerful reminder that we all face storms or have trauma in our life. We lose someone close to us, get divorced, lose our job or someone hurts us badly.

More often than not, in some way or another, we come out stronger, wiser and a better person. It is not the survival that makes you stronger, it is the work that you put in as a result of it that makes you better.

When a storm comes into your life, you will wonder how you are going to make it through it. You may even wonder if it is over yet. But one thing is for sure. You will never be the same again. And that is what the storm is all about.

The hard times we go through are not intended to hurt us. They are to shape our character into the person God wants us to be and receive his blessings and calling on our life. All you can change is yourself, and sometimes that changes everything. Understand that life is like a book, some chapters must end but turn the page and continue forward. Every ending is a step toward something new.

The three greatest lessons I have learned in times of a storm are:

1. Not all storms come to disrupt your life. Some storms clear your path to the place you are supposed to be.

2. In each storm, there’s a lesson waiting to be discovered.

3. Trust God in the process.

4. Sometimes, it takes a storm to cause us to look inside ourselves and find a whole different person that we never knew existed.

Paula Enloe worked as a legal assistant for over 25 years and is a certified family law mediator. She is the author of the book “Lessons From My Mirror - Change Begins With Me.” Paula and her husband Noble, began having Bible Studies in their home when Covid-19 restricted public gatherings in church buildings. When their group began to grow, they founded the Family Worship Center of Plum Grove, Texas. In 2022, they moved into a building but continue to keep the home setting inside with couches, tables and chairs. Their motto is “Doing Church Differently”. They count it as their greatest privilege to share the love of Jesus to each person they come in contact with daily.