Piney Woods Edition
November 2013
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Do You Know? James Patton
Hidden Treasures Josey Boy Scout Lodge
Just for Fun
Following Yonder Star
Gotta Get Away? Journey to Jefferson
Business Focus McKenzie’s Barbeque and Burgers
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November 2013 | Volume 3, Issue 7
FAVORITES
10 FEATURES 10
Texas Treasures
Josey Boy Scout Lodge
20 Gotta Get Away? Journey to Jefferson
34 42 54
Do You Know?
James Patton
Just for Holiday Fun!
Following Yonder Star
Business Focus
McKenzie’s Barbeque & Burgers
6 9 16 18 19 20 25 27 28
Letters from Our Readers
31 32 39 40 47 50 53 58 60 62 64 66
Things My Granddaddy Said
Publisher Letter Star Students
Out of the Mouths of Babes What Are You Reading? Dear Gabby Touching Tomorrow Pet Pals
Health Matters “Seens” from Our World
Tickle My Funny Bone Glorious Grandkids Along the Road Milestones Postcards from Our Readers
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Thanksgiving Thoughts November. I am quite certain that only a column or two ago, I was welcoming 2013! Where did the year go? I can remember my grandparents telling me the older you get, the faster time seems to go. They were right. It doesn’t seem it could be more than forty years ago that my mom stayed up late making me a pilgrim dress and the bonnet head covering for the Thanksgiving pageant at Madisonville Elementary School. I can still remember the cafeteria stage, where we all lined up and did our assigned parts to make our parents proud! I remember family feasts. I remember those who were a huge part of those celebrations, but have now gone on before us, and I am thankful for their memories and their role in my life. This year, I am thankful for some other things we sometimes take for granted. In spite of all the political wrangling (and what I often deem ridiculous decisions on both sides of the aisle), I am thankful for America. I was raised to stop and think about our history--to think about what our predecessors did so we can live in freedom.
I am thankful for those who braved a westward trail and settled our great state--for the hardships and suffering they endured to create a better life for their children. Karen Altom, Publisher I am thankful for Sarah Hale, an author who persevered in her requests and petitions to have this day declared a national holiday. And I am thankful for President Lincoln, who listened to her and declared this day of remembrance and thanksgiving every year.
This year, I especially thank God for the men and women who protect our freedoms and our country every day of every year--those who are spending this holiday away from their families and feasts. Those who are sleeping in tents and discomfort in a foreign land. Those who have chosen to work for you and for me, and are even willing to lay down their life for us, if necessary. Remember them this Thanksgiving...and be thankful.
I am thankful for those brave souls who boarded a ship called The Mayflower--a ship not very large compared to the ocean it dared cross. A people who were determined to live their life free to worship God the way they wished without control from a state church.
Until next time ~ Karen Contact me anytime at PostcardsLive.com/share
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November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
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S TETXreasures
Chris Blair
Josey Boy Scout Lodge
I
By Claude Wooley
Photos by K2 Images
If you’ve ever driven through Huntsville, Texas, just easing down Sam Houston Avenue, you may have noticed a rather large log cabin all cozied up with a cluster of massive pine trees. That magnificent structure is the Josey Boy Scout Lodge, which has been a Huntsville landmark for over 75 years. The lodge came into being in 1934, thanks to the generous donation of self-made millionaire and humanitarian Robert A. Josey. Mr. Josey had an incredible vision back then—that our young needed a place to meet and learn skills to prepare them as leaders in our great nation. To this day,
10 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
his vision continues to pay dividends through the embodiment of Troop 114 of the Boy Scouts of America. Josey’s dream would grow to become as big as the lodge itself, for what better way to give back to our community than a structure like Josey Lodge. It allows a troop of young boys and men to learn core values, Christian morals, camping basics, merit badge achievements, first-aid, and service to those in need. Indeed, the list could go on and on. The lodge, by clear definition, would be the home base that would breed and instill all of these positive character traits for sons and fathers.
SPECIAL THANKS TO KARLA CHRISTIAN FOR HER CONTRIBUTION TO THIS ARTICLE
Let’s find out how the lodge came to life. Thomas Ball, former mayor and District Chairman for the Huntsville Boy Scouts, asked for Mr. Josey’s help in constructing a lodge that would benefit the Huntsville Boy Scouts. (Incidentally, Ball would later become such a prominent business man and philanthropist in his own right, he would have a town named after him—we know it today as Tomball, Texas.) Josey purchased the land and paid for the construction of the lodge. As word of his generosity began to spread, it started the civic wheels turning. J. P. Gibbs of Gibbs Brothers and Company jumped on board to donate much of the materials, including the treated logs and petrified stones that support the three fireplaces and the steps to the buildings. All of these materials came from local forests and quarries in and around Huntsville. Under the Civil Works Administration (CWA), which was one of the first programs President Franklin Roosevelt initiated under the “New Deal,” the Josey Lodge would be erected in 75 days with a crew of 50 local men. The CWA was also instrumental in providing $8,415 for labor costs and an additional $2,100 for other material costs. The high vaulted ceiling in the lodge holds up two authentic wagon wheel light fixtures, specially made for the lodge by TDCJ inmates. It seems everyone gathered together for the Lodge that would eventually make a nice home for a troop of local scouts. An interesting note is that architect Mike Mebane designed the log cabin style of the lodge patterned after a scale model created by the scouts themselves!
»
National Oath of the Boy Scouts: “On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty, to God and my country, and to obey the scout law, to help other people at all times, to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.”
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Chris Blair
A caretaker’s cabin was built next door for those who would help with the upkeep of the property. Mr. Josey would also donate an additional $30,000 trust fund to help maintain the lodge and allow for future repairs and renovations (one of which happened this year at a cost of over $24,000). In the beginning, part of the trust fund ($100) would also be given to the outstanding Boy Scout of the Year, though that figure has risen moderately through the years. Inside the lodge, Robert Josey is honored by several bronze plaques that garnish the walls of the lodge. The lodge is a strong structure with an expansive meeting hall built in the early part of the 20th century, but it has survived into the 21st century with a few updates here and there. It was built at time when its founder and the workers knew that this piece of history would be longstanding. To this day, it still begs the tourist camera to click away. The Lodge is not only aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but it is retro to the pioneer time when the basic skills of human survival were called upon simply to build a house with nothing but a few tools and trees from the forest. The Josey Lodge offers the chance to learn basic skills, the knowledge to survive in the woods, the hills, or by the ocean.
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The Josey Baseball Field, the annex, and the basketball court are all part of this complex, and for years have been enjoyed by those in the city of Huntsville and other surrounding towns.
pain
Don’t let keep you from enjoying the outdoors! Scouts learn survival skills in realistic role playing exercises The Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is renowned for outings, whether the troop goes out of state or in our own backyard at Huntsville State Park. No matter where this group goes, the scouts give back not only to their community, but to any with whom they come in contact. They are a group that offers a bully-free environment and a chance to learn firsthand the knack for survival—skills that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
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The original idea of the Lodge was conceived by Mr. Josey as an investment towards the future—and nothing would have made him prouder than Troup 114 of Huntsville. The national oath of the Boy Scouts is: “On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty, to God and my country, and to obey the scout law, to help other people at all times, to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.” This is the promise by which the Boy Scouts live, and they lead by example. In 2010 the BSA had its 100th birthday, so the heritage of this organization has long blessed our country from its scout leaders, scouts, the parents, and many volunteers who continue to make our youth one of the great investments of our country. The rank of Eagle Scout is one of the highest of accomplishments by individuals in the BSA who have gone on to become great leaders in our country.
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Troop 114 is graced not only by the boy scouts themselves, but by the troop leaders and the volunteer fathers and mothers who sacrifice on a weekly basis their time in service and commitment to the BSA. The following people are to be commended for their unselfish service to our community:
LARRY FUSARO:
Scout Master
KARLA CHRISTIAN:
Treasurer, Advancement Chair, and Finance Manager
Committee Chair
KEVIN SMITH:
GEORGE “CHIP” BOUNDS III:
Assistant Scout Master
BRIAN GEGELIAN:
Assistant Scout Master
RICHARD RUSH:
Assistant Scout Master
TODD CHRISTIAN:
Eagle Scout and Assistant Scout Master
Todd Christian—to add one note to this list—is one of the very few scouts in the nation to have earned all 137 Merit Badges! There are many more of the supporting cast of BSA that cannot fit into the space of this article, but I highly recommended you make any Monday night meeting at Josey Boy Scout Lodge at 7:00 p.m. and find out for yourself. It is truly a sight to behold what these great leaders are doing with our young. In a time that finds so many of our young tempted by the strains of an unstable society, this group offers a pleasant alternative. If you have a young man you wish to be part of something positive and rewarding, or, if you wish to register as a volunteer parent and bring together core family values—Josey Lodge is the place and the Boy Scouts of America is the way.
Larry Fusaro, Scout Master
More Information: To find out more about registration and minimal fees well worth the investment, please use the following information: PHONE: (936) 291-2988 (Ask for Kevin Smith) EMAIL: troop0114@gmail.com WEBSITE: www.troop114.tk
At this time of Thanksgiving celebration, my thoughts turn gratefully to you with appreciation for your confidence, loyalty and business.
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Best wishes to you and your family for a happy and healthy Thanksgiving
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r a t S
Kathryn Koym
Madisonville High School
Sarah Heaton
Alpha Omega Academy
Favorite Movie: Secretariat Favorite Music/Artist:
Favorite Movie: The Breakfast Club
Magnetic- Jessie J
Favorite Music/Artist: Country
Favorite Food: Mexican
K
Favorite Food: Shrimp Fettucini Alfredo
Favorite Quote: “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” ~ Winston Churchill
athryn is the daughter of William and Angela Koym and is a senior at Madisonville High School. She is a member of Girl Scouts, American Legion Junior Auxiliary, FFA, FCCLA, Beta Club, and the yearbook staff. Kathryn plans to attend Midway College in Kentucky and pursue equine studies. One day she hopes to have a family and be able to share her passion for horses with her children. Kathryn believes you should live your life like you’re taking your last breath, because the next one is never guaranteed.
16 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
Favorite Quote: “Do what you feel in your heart to be right, for you will be criticized anyway.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
S
arah is a senior at Alpha Omega Academy and is the daughter of Marty and Peggy Heaton. Her activities include varsity volleyball, varsity tennis, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Interact, and 4-H Poultry, Food, and Photography. After graduation, Sarah plans to attend Texas State University and is currently undecided on her major. Sarah believes you can be successful in anything you do, as long as you work hard and give it your all.
s t n e Stud Amy Roberts
New Waverly High School
Favorite Movie: Finding Nemo
Courtney Smith Huntsville High School
Favorite Movie: Love
Favorite Music/Artist: Country/
and Basketball
Luke Bryan
Favorite Music/Artist: w &
Favorite Food: Sushi
Rap
Favorite Quote: “I believe in colors. I believe that laughing is the best calorie burner. I believe in feeling strong when everything seems to go wrong. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and I believe in miracles.”
Favorite Food: Nachos Favorite Quote:
A
my is a senior at New Waverly High School and is the daughter of Greg and Debbie Roberts. She participates in varsity softball and golf, Beta Club, and FCCLA. After graduation, Amy wants to get a degree in special education. Her philosophy is to live her life to the fullest with no regrets, to put her life in God’s hands, and to trust in Him no matter what.
“Live, love, laugh.”
C
ourtney Smith is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Darcy Smith. She participates in FCCLA, Booster Club, and is on the yearbook staff. She has also lettered for the swim team and is active in University Heights Baptist Church Student Ministries. Following graduation, Courtney plans to attend Sam Houston State University and major in forensics. She believes you should live to the fullest and not let anyone hold you from your dreams.
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et V
Article submitted by: Steve VanWagner, D.V.M.
Connect
T can be a confusing and different he pre-purchase veterinary exam
experience for the horse owner. The emphasis of certain points of the examination are subject to change based upon intended use of the horse, current level of training of horse and rider, age of horse and rider, and intent for resale. A pre-purchase exam provides the buyer with valuable information about the horse’s current condition and suitability for the buyer’s intended use. In addition, pre-purchase exams can help the buyer avoid buying a horse that requires expensive maintenance or that doesn’t match the seller’s representations. If the buyer chooses to buy the horse, the pre-purchase veterinary examination can also serve as a snapshot of the horse’s condition on that day, a useful diagnostic tool if the horse later develops problems. Without a pre-purchase exam, a buyer could inadvertently purchase a horse that requires expensive treatment to remain healthy and sound or purchase a horse that may not be able to be used for its intended purpose.
Successful pre-purchase exams are conducted by experienced veterinarians who are good communicators and can confidently educate their clients about abnormalities uncovered in the process of the exam. Having prior personal experience with a veterinarian is probably the best way to have confidence in his or her abilities as an advisor. If this cannot be accomplished, selecting one whom your own veterinarian personally knows is the next best choice. During the pre-purchase exam, your veterinarian will ask about the horse’s previous medical history. Once the history is discussed, the veterinarian will then proceed with the examination which consists of: 1) evaluation of the heart, lungs, gut sounds, and temperature; 2) examination of eyes, ears, and teeth; 3) palpation of neck, withers, and back; and 4) lameness exam with flexion tests. Additional diagnostics such as blood tests, radiographs, ultrasound, and endoscopy can be performed if requested by the buyer or deemed necessary by the veterinarian.
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Understanding The Pre-Purchase Veterinary Exam Contrary to popular opinion, vets do not pass or fail a horse in a pre-purchase exam. Rather, they provide information to the buyer about the horse’s condition, and it is up to the buyer to decide whether to purchase the horse. The buyer should be aware that a pre-purchase examination is rarely completely “clean,” as a diligent vet can nearly always find something of note. This is particularly true for performance horses, who typically show evidence of hard work, such as arthritic changes in their joints. If the exam reveals conditions that are not dealbreakers, but reduce the value of the horse, the buyer can use that information to negotiate with the seller on price. In the end, a complete understanding of the abnormalities noted and their significance to your decision to purchase is ultimately guided by good communication and prioritizing these defects into the overall decision-making process. The pre-purchase exam is not a guarantee that the horse will be perfect for you, but it can definitely reduce your risk and help you try to find that “perfect” horse.
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Out of the
Mouths of Babes...
T
his feature is dedicated to sharing all those hysterical things that come out of the mouths of little ones. They’re probably the stories that you’ve told over and over for years... we look forward to hearing yours!
We want to hear your story! PostcardsLive.com/share When my three-year-old great grandson Luke came in from church daycare one day, he piped up and told his mom, “Mommy, I got to go to school early tomorrow.” Of course, she asked why. He proudly stated, “Cause I’m going to chap apple (chapel) tomorrow!” Reba Sylvester
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We often forget how big things seem when we are little. Recently, I was reminded of this when driving on I-45 past the statue of Sam Houston. My granddaughter Kynlynn pointed to the statue and said, “That’s how big God is.” Janet Jones
A new way to share the hysterical things your kids say
PostcardsLive.com/share
November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
19
Gotta Get Away?
Journey to Jefferson Big Cypress Bayou
Get More Get Away Online! PostcardsLive.com/GetAway
L
Story and Photos by Gina Adams Special to Postcards
Located on the Big Cypress Bayou in Northeast Texas, Jefferson could (and should) be considered a portal for time travel. Once you cross over the Bayou, this town takes visitors back to the Golden Era with horse-drawn carriages, steamboats, and red brick streets. If you are looking for history, then Jefferson (population 2,068) is the place you want to be. It is said that people come to
Brief History
The town of Jefferson, named after Thomas Jefferson, was settled around 1841 on land ceded by the Caddo Indians. At the time, the Red River had a log jam that spanned for over 100 miles, which acted as a dam on the river and rose the levels of Caddo Lake. Because of the rise of the lake, this permitted riverboat captains to reach the town from other ports as far away as St. Louis and New Orleans, making Jefferson one of the most popular ports in Texas, and increasing the population to over 30,000 between 1845 and 1872. At the time, Jefferson was considered to be the 6th largest town in the Lone Star State. Stepping into the town limits, one can see that not much has changed, but instead, has preserved.
What aeraeding? you R
Tell us what you’re reading! Go to PostcardsLive.com/share 20 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
Jefferson for ambience, relaxation, and activities. During my visit, it was jam-packed with tourists, so if I’m being honest, it didn’t seem that relaxing. However, I can attribute that to the bike rally that was going on at nearby Lake O’ the Pines. I have a feeling, though, that Jefferson has a constant ebb and flow of traffic, because it seems there are activities and festivals going on year-round. Does the town have ambience? Absolutely. How about activities? You bet! There is definitely never a shortage of things to do here, and don’t think you’ll be able to see everything in one day. That’s okay, because there are plenty of places to stay, with over 60 quaint bed and breakfasts in the area, and the horse-drawn carriages seen around town only add to the charming appeal.
The Community
»
Sara Bartee reading
The Duck Commander Family By Willie & Korie Robertson
Daina Baker reading
MoonBorn by Richard King
Activities in Jefferson Historic Home, now a Bed and Breakfast
Historic Homes Tour Greek Revival homes, which are open during the Historical Pilgrimage the first weekend in May or a Candlelight Tour the first two weekends in December. Most of these homes are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
AllAcrossTexas.com
Historic Jefferson Railway Climb aboard an authentic steam train along the Big Cypress Bayou and relive the Golden Era of the railroad while traveling through an 8-mile route.
Jay Gould Private Railroad Car (Railroad Magnate)
The Atlanta Rail Car
Gould’s personal rail car, The Atlanta, has a luxurious interior with four staterooms, lounge, dining room, kitchen, butler’s pantry and a bathroom.
Carnegie Library Built in 1907, it’s one of the few libraries still serving its original purpose, with the second floor designed as an opera house.
The Old Post Office The original Federal Building now houses the Jefferson Historical Society & Museum, which contains four floors of artifacts from the town during its heyday.
Jefferson General Store What started out as a hardware store in the 1870s is now a fully functional general store, with the original soda fountain located on the north wall. It’s probably the only place in the world where you can still buy a five-cent cup of coffee.
T
General Store
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op Shelf uesdays & hursdays
The Grove, the Most Haunted House in Texas
Premium Tex-Mex
Food and drink specials
Karen Altom reading
I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist by Norman L. Geisler and Frank Turek
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November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
21
Haunted Jefferson With so much rich history, there’s no shortage of legends, lore, and ghost stories. I visited a couple on my journey to Jefferson, and relate some information here on a couple of the more well-known haunts.
The Excelsior House (Hotel)
Opened in the 1850s, it once counted Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, and Oscar Wilde as guests. It is now considered to be haunted by ghosts of former guests and employees. Guests have reported seeing a headless man on the second floor, as well as a woman wearing a black dress and carrying a baby. The woman
has appeared and frightened many guests. Film director Steven Spielberg stayed at the hotel 40 years ago while he was scouting the location for a movie. He reportedly left in the middle of the night, after seeing a boy standing next to his bed who asked him if he was ready for breakfast.
The Jefferson Hotel
Jefferson Hotel
It was a cotton warehouse in 1861 and was converted into a hotel in 1900. Guests have reported hearing petticoats rustling up and down the halls, faint sounding steamboat whistles, loud footsteps, whispering, laughing, cold spots, and the feeling of being watched
or actually touched Get by ghosts. Guests can ask Away Caption to see the “Death Book” located at the front desk; however, the staff will warn you that the Death Book is the least of your worries, because during your walk through some of the hallways, you might hear orchestra music coming from the Dining Hall when no one is present, a strong smell of cigar smoke despite not seeing anyone smoking, or hazes appearing before your very eyes.
Oakwood Cemetery
Excelsior House / Hotel
Earlier documentation indicates bodies were removed from the local graveyard near the Big Cypress Bayou to this location. The oldest headstone is that of Rev. Benjamin Foscue, who died of cholera on January 1, 1850. However, Oakwood Cemetery’s most famous resident is Bessie Moore (aka Diamond Bessie).
»
Oakwood Cemetery
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Bessie Moore (aka Diamond Bessie) In January of 1877, a couple arrived in town and checked into a local boarding house under the names of, “A. Monroe and Wife.” They were seen all around town the next couple of days, flashing their expensive clothing and jewelry, acting like a happily married couple. The woman was introduced as Bessie, but locals referred to her as Diamond Bessie because of her flashy jewelry. On a Sunday, A. Monroe purchased two picnic lunches from a local restaurant, and the couple was seen walking across the bridge over the Big Cypress Bayou. It was the last time Bessie was seen alive. A. Monroe was seen walking back to town alone using a different path and was still alone when seen in town for the next few days. When asked about his “wife,” he replied that she was visiting with friends in the countryside. On Tuesday, A. Monroe fled the town of Jefferson, leaving by himself.
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After a recent snow storm melted, a local woman who was gathering firewood found the deceased body of a well-dressed woman with the remains of a picnic lunch nearby. The coroner reported that the woman died from a single gunshot wound to the head. All of her jewelry had been removed. Bessie had no known family, no real identity, and no money, so the citizens of the town took up a collection to bury the woman. It was later discovered that A. Monroe was actually Abraham Rothschild, the son of a wealthy Cincinnati Jeweler. Abraham was a traveling salesman who pitched his father’s wares around the country. He apparently met Bessie in a brothel in Hot Springs and she began to accompany Abraham. Abraham was tried by a jury of his peers and sentenced to hang; however, after a successful appeal, he was released. He was arrested again to stand trial for the murder after new evidence was found, but it was ultimately declared a mistrial. November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
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My Experience at Oakwood Cemetery After photographing the gravesite of Diamond Bessie Moore, my mom and I drove over to some headstones of Civil War soldiers located on the north side. I jumped out to grab some quick photos before we left, and she stayed in the car. As I completed the photographs and was reading some of the headstones, I heard whispering over my shoulder. I looked around, but saw
nothing. For a second, I thought my mom was trying to tell me something, but when I looked over at the car, she was looking toward the other side of the cemetery (away from where I was standing) and the car windows were rolled up. I looked around again, but saw nothing. I thought nothing of it and turned back around to photograph the other headstones.
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When I was done, I heard a loud laughter from that of a woman. I turned around, and again, nobody was there. I walked over to the car and knocked on the window, startling my mother. She rolled down the window and I asked, “Are you trying to be funny?” She said, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I explained what I had heard, but she said she hadn’t heard anything. I then looked up on the hill to verify we were alone and, in fact, we were. I decided to take a picture of the location where I heard the laughter. Obviously, there is nothing in the photograph except for more headstones and monuments. I guess I was hoping to catch some orbs or something, but I was disappointed. Needless to say, the experience not only left me bewildered, but also with goose bumps and the feeling of being watched. As far as I was concerned, I couldn’t get out of there fast enough, so we departed and headed toward The Grove, which is considered the most haunted house in Texas and the 8th most haunted house in the United States… Editor’s Note: Gina Adams is an author/blogger who diaries her adventures visiting towns in Texas and beyond. For the story of her visit to The Grove and other destinations, check out her website AmericanSmallTowns.com
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Dear Gabby
elcome to the Dear Gabby advice column. There are only two ways to be content: one is liking what you do, and the other is doing what you like. I like answering your questions, so keep them coming!! Submit your Dear Gabby questions online at PostcardsLive.com/share. I’ll be waiting to hear from you!
DEAR GABBY I hate golf! I am not good at it; consequently, it isn’t fun. I am expected to play with customers and business associates, which doesn’t do anything for my attitude and raises my blood pressure. I understand that salesmen need to accommodate what their clients want to do, but extreme frustration does nothing for my sales pitch. How can I possibly avoid this situation? FORE NO MORE DEAR FORE NO MORE Long ago when men cursed and beat the ground with sticks, it was called witchcraft. Today, it’s called golf. There is something you will learn as you grow older that you may as well learn
A new way to send in your Dear Gabby question
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Health Matters
by Shannon Brown
CEO Huntsville Memorial Hospital
Heart Health for Women
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You still may be thinking, “This isn’t about me. I don’t have heart disease.” But you may have conditions or habits that can lead to heart disease, such as being overweight, smoking cigarettes, or not engaging in enough physical activity. You may already know about these and other “risk factors” for heart disease. You may know which ones you personally have. What you may not know, though, is that if you have even one risk factor, you are much more likely to develop heart disease, Some surprising facts: with its many serious consequences. A damaged heart can • One in 4 women in the United States dies of heart disease, while 1 in damage your life by interfering with enjoyable activities and 30 dies of breast cancer even your ability to do simple things, such as taking a walk or climbing • Twenty-three percent of women will die within 1 year after having a steps. But now, here’s the good news: you have tremendous power to heart attack. prevent heart disease—and you can start today. By learning about your • Within 6 years of having a heart attack, about 46 percent of women own personal risk factors and by making healthful changes in your diet, become disabled with heart failure. physical activity, and other daily habits, you can greatly reduce your risk of • Two-thirds of women who have a heart attack fail to make a full recovery. developing heart-related problems. Even if you already have heart disease, you can take steps to lessen its severity. The fact is, if you’ve got a heart, heart disease could be your problem. Fortunately, it’s a problem you can do something about. For women in Coronary heart disease—often simply called heart disease—occurs when midlife, taking action is particularly important. Once a woman reaches the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle become hardened and menopause, her risks of heart disease and heart attack jump dramatically. narrowed due to a buildup of plaque on the arteries’ inner walls. Plaque One in eight women between the ages of 45 and 64 has some form of heart is the accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and other substances. As plaque disease, and this increases to one in four women over 65. continues to buildup in the arteries, blood flow to the heart is reduced.
hen you hear the term “heart disease,” what is your first reaction? Like many women, you may think, “That’s a man’s disease” or “Not my problem.” But here is The Heart Truth: heart disease is the #1 killer of women in the United States. Most women don’t know this. But it is vital that you know it—and know what it means for you.
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Heart disease can lead to a heart attack. A heart attack happens when an • Be open. When your doctor asks you questions, answer as honestly artery becomes totally blocked with plaque, preventing vital oxygen and and fully as you can. While certain topics may seem quite personal, nutrients from getting to the heart. A heart attack can cause permanent discussing them openly can help your doctor find out your chances of damage to the heart muscle. Heart disease is one of several cardiovascular developing heart disease. It can also help your doctor work with you to diseases, which are diseases of the heart and blood vessel system. Other reduce your risk. cardiovascular diseases include stroke, high blood pressure, and rheumatic Women are taking a more active role in their own health care. They are heart disease. asking more questions, and are readier than ever to make changes that The first step toward heart health is becoming aware of your own personal will help them lead healthier lives. They are concerned not only about risk for heart disease. Some risks, such as smoking cigarettes, are obvious: treatment, but also about the prevention of many disorders that commonly Every woman knows whether or not she smokes. But other risk factors, strike women. Taking steps to prevent and control heart disease is part of such as high blood pressure or high blood cholesterol, generally don’t have this growing movement to take charge of their own health. The reward of obvious signs or symptoms. So you’ll need to gather some information to a healthy heart—a better chance for a longer, more vigorous life—is well create your personal “heart profile.” worth the effort. A crucial step in determining your risk is to see your doctor for a thorough checkup. Your physician can be an important partner in helping you set and reach goals for heart health. Here are some tips for establishing good, clear communication between you and your doctor: • Speak up. Tell your doctor you want to keep your heart healthy and would like help in achieving that goal. Ask questions about your chances of developing heart disease and how you can lower your risk. • Keep tabs on treatment. If you already are being treated for heart disease or heart disease risk factors, ask your doctor to review your treatment plan with you. Ask, “Is what I’m doing in line with the latest recommendations? Are my treatments working? Are my risk factors under control?”
Huntsville Memorial Hospital wants to help you achieve heart health goals. We are proud to announce our new, state-of-the-art, Heart and Vascular Center, is set to open in late October 2013. The Heart and Vascular Center’s protocol-driven and systematic approach to patient management will allow physicians to reduce time to treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack, when treatments are most effective, and to better monitor patients when it is not clear whether they are having a coronary event. When seconds count…you can count on us! For more information about our new Heart and Vascular Center, give us a call at 936-435-CATH (2284) or visit our website at huntsvillememorial.com.
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November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
33
Do You Know?
James Patton
By Mike Yawn Photos by K2 Images
J
James Patton has lived in Walker County his entire life and knows more about its history than any other living person. He is a product of history-loving parents and grandparents from Walker County, the longest-serving County Clerk in county history, and a devoted volunteer whose activities in the community have helped ensure that the artifacts of the past have a vibrant future.
34 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
You served as County Clerk for more than three decades and retired a few years ago. How have you handled retirement? It’s been very difficult. Initially, I worried about my office, the staff, and the people of Walker County. People told me it would be difficult to retire after that many years in one place, but I am getting adjusted and enjoying retirement. The stress level has declined, and I am doing things I’ve wanted to. I haven’t traveled as much as I would like, but I was able to go to Ireland, Wales, and England a couple of years ago, then Scotland and England this past summer.
community, and what I heard was good stuff. It colors the way I look at history and the people in the community. Your family has a history of being involved in politics.
I’m no longer chair of the Walker County Historical Commission, but I am their archivist and the Director of the Gibbs-Powell House Museum. I am also focusing on family genealogy, and I’ve bought some land formerly owned by my family. I’ve been working on it almost every day. It is bringing back family memories. My grandparents only lived there ten years, but it was a special place for the family. There’s a tree out there my mother planted as a little girl. A lot you mentioned speaks to a love of history. From where did that come? From my parents, who were avid readers. My mother taught Spanish and English, and my father was an attorney. I learned a lot from them about Texas and U.S. history. My parents lived in Washington, D.C. for six years during the late 1930s and 1940s. My father went to law school there, and my mother worked in the Library of Congress. I remember her speaking about the Declaration of Independence, which she walked by every day. My grandmother did a survey of old homes in Walker County in the 1950s and 1960s. I heard about the structures and the families in the
My grandfather, a graduate of Sam Houston Normal Institute (now Sam Houston State University), was elected to the Texas Legislature in 1913. He was a desk mate of Dan Moody, who was later governor. He taught school in many places in Texas. He also served as county judge for Houston County, then ran for state senate and won. They created a new congressional district, and he ran for that and won, serving from 1935-1944. He served in the U.S. Congress with Sam Rayburn and Lyndon Johnson while Franklin Roosevelt was President. And what about your father? My father was County Judge of Walker County from 1947-1954.
Mike Yawn
Gibbs-Powell House Museum
And you? I started out as a county employee, then was appointed county clerk in 1978, to fill a vacancy. My family love people; we are people persons, not politicians. It’s almost insulting to call us politicians.
»
James Patton on porch of Gibbs-Powell House Museum
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35
James Patton being sworn in for the last time on New Year’s Day in 2007
Mike Yawn
It is our responsibility to help people through the system. One thing I’ve learned is to never say you can’t do something. When you say “I can’t do that,” people think you are saying, “I can do that, but I don’t want to because I don’t like you.” But you do have a responsibility to explain to people when the law doesn’t allow you to do something. Most people I worked with were hard-working, honest, and good people who You are the longest serving county clerk in Walker County history. Of wanted to do the right thing by the people. which accomplishment are you most proud? What were the qualities you tried to embody as a public official? We upgraded the record-keeping system, computerizing records. This I followed the law. I got as much training as I could—election schools, allowed us to be more user-friendly, giving the public instant access to Department of Health meetings, area meetings, and the summer confermany records. ence. I also used local resources, calling the district attorney or another But we did a great job of preserving records even before computers. county clerk to get the right information. Some of the long-term clerks The records were kept in steel and concrete vaults from the 1870s and are your best resources. You could depend on them to know the law. 1880s, and they wouldn’t burn. We had courthouses in Texas burn, and You were one of those long-term clerks in your last few terms. And no records were lost. People think local records were lost to various fires, you’re also a long-term resident of Walker County. What are some of the but I’d tell them, “No, we’ve got all those records.” In fact, sometimes things you’ve seen in Walker County over the years that are of interest? I’d think, “We need a good fire!” We implemented a retention policy The professionalism and training of city and county officials. They so we didn’t keep records needlessly. are better trained than ever before. According to my predecessor, the There is a lot of distrust of public officials in this age. How do you training for clerks in the old days was just a bunch of old men drinkrespond to that? ing. That changed when the women came in. Women make up most Most people don’t understand how government works. Government of the county clerks now, and they brought in a lot of programs led by officials have to do a better job of educating the public about their lawyers, professors, and accountants to provide real education. And if functions and limitations. A lot of people learn about government you weren’t there, you heard about it. “Why weren’t you there? You from television, and it’s a fantasy world. need to learn what’s going on and keep up,” they’d say.
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What else has changed? Huntsville and Walker Roberts-Ferris Log Cabin County have grown. People built in the mid-1840s come to this community to get away from runaway growth and crime. They can access good medical care here, they have a safe place, there’s not a real traffic problem. Or maybe they have adult children nearby, perhaps in Bryan, Houston, or Dallas, and they can live in a less bustling place and still be near their children. Have the people of Walker County begun to embrace their local history?
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Yes! For years, the public was obsessed with modernity and destroying anything perceived as old. That’s changing. We’re starting to see people appreciate the historic aspects of our society. With the success of the Gibbs-Powell Home, the Wynne Home, or the downtown revitalization from about twenty years ago, people are much more open to preservation and staying connected to our past. It helps us appreciate our history, and it promotes tourism. The Walker County Historical Commission (WCHC), which you serve as archivist, is a big part of that. Tell us about the work of the WCHC.
“
People are much
Specializing in:
more open in seeing
• Gates • Entrances
[the historic aspects
We’ve worked on books that of our society] highlight the area’s past. Dr. Jeff Littlejohn has done some preserved and good things. He’s coming out with a book on the German staying connected POW Camp that was in the county. We’ve also given to our past. preservation awards, trying to reward people for helping us preserve our heritage. Our website (walkercountyhistory.org) has been updated, with most of our markers online. We’ve led the celebration on Texas Independence Day for the past 32 years, and it’s getting bigger. And we’re working more closely with the Statue and Visitor’s Center, the Wynne Home, the HEARTS Museum, The Texas Prison Museum, and especially the staff at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum. We’re working together with a common purpose.
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The Commission also has a role in preserving the Gibbs-Powell House. What is one thing the public doesn’t know about the house that they would find interesting? We are a county museum. We have a collection of books written by Huntsville and Walker County citizens; we have a gallery of photos celebrating pioneers of the area; we have a large archive of local artifacts. And we have restored all but two rooms in the house.
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Treasures of the Gibbs-Powell House I bet a lot of people don’t know about the capture the period in such a pristine manner. The Commissioners have been very supportive second story, with the bedrooms. You’re right! It is furnished with period Texas of the home recently, and we appreciate that. furniture, and very few places in the area The public can also support us by becoming Friends of the Gibbs-Powell Museum.
The “Pioneer Photo Gallery” in the Gibbs-Powell home
You’ve seen a lot of Walker County History, and You also mentioned the Wynne Home, another you’ve helped make and preserve some of that wonderfully preserved piece of our history. history. Much of that started when you were What should the public know about it? elected. Do you remember that moment?
Second story bedrooms in the Gibbs-Powell home preserve period Texas furniture
The Wynne Home has a great sales gallery, with I do. I had four opponents in the primary, and art from local artists for sale. It’s a beautiful then I had a runoff. The night I was elected, I venue, with beautiful art. went home. When I went to bed, the whole Tell us something about Sam Houston people bed shook from my heartbeat. It scared me to death. The greatest thrill in the world is to be don’t know. elected to public office. The worst hurt is to get Sam Houston whittled on the corner of the beat out of office, but the people I saw defeated square. He was a man of the people. His daugh- from office did it to themselves. And once you ter would talk about how Houston enjoyed retire, people don’t want you back. When you seeing and interacting with people of all sorts. are retired, people are through with you, and He’d say hi to everyone he passed or to everyone you’ve got to move on. who passed him. Well, you certainly seem to be moving on, with What’s something about the Oakwood your many activities. But did your belief that Cemetery people don’t know? there’s no turning back from retirement make People would be surprised about how many it more difficult for you to take that step? Texas Senators and Texas Representatives are No, I was ready, and the time was right. buried in the cemetery.
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Just for Holiday Fun
Following Yonder Star By Ruth Fields Submitted Photos
To Huntsville
To Conroe
John Rudolph
From Madisonville
The Pathway of Light (Madisonville)
W
Tuesday–Sunday, December 10–15 (starting at 6 p.m.)
42 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
When Glenn Jones became the minister of music at First Baptist Church of Madisonville in 2005, he noted the unusually large acreage behind the church. It was perfect for a walk-through Christmas production that would re-enact the life of Jesus. Jones realized, however, that First Baptist was not large enough to sustain such an ambitious undertaking—so he recruited other churches in Madisonville and surrounding areas. They worked on the project throughout the following year. This year, for the eighth consecutive year, sixteen churches representing seven denominations will re-create the life of Jesus at The Pathway of Light. While the event always attracts new visitors from throughout the state, Jones says many people have attended the production every year. About 500 to 600 people visit each night. The Pathway of Light will be held Tuesday through Sunday, December 10-15, starting at 6 p.m. Beginning November 1, individuals and groups can make reservations online at thepathwayoflight.com or by calling (936) 348-2686. The Pathway of Light is offered at no cost to attendees, although donations are accepted. “So far, the Lord has provided the money necessary to make this ministry happen,” Jones says. “It’s a work of faith.” Tour guides take groups of visitors to scenes in sequence, beginning with the angel Gabriel’s visit to Mary. There are 12 scenes, including a manger scene and re-enactments of miraculous healings, the wedding at Canaan, the last supper, and the crucifixion of Jesus and two thieves. New this year is a scene where people gather animals as if for sacrifice.
“
Sixteen churches representing seven denominations will re-create the life of Jesus at The Pathway of Light
”
is large enough to supply all the people for such a large theatrical production, by joining together the churchgoers of Madisonville have succeeded. The production has been unifying for the community, Jones says. “They are able to be a part of evangelism in a way they couldn’t otherwise. We are able to do something bigger than ourselves. It’s not Re-enactment of the wise men visiting King Herod about one person or one church or one denomination. It’s about the Lord. That’s the only way it works. There’s no spirit of competition between Later, visitors are reminded that Jesus’ death on the cross took the place churches. When we are all in costume, you can’t tell who’s who. We are of animal sacrifices to compensate for wrongs committed. all on the same team.” During each evening’s performance, costumed actors re-enact scenes about 16 times. They often deviate from a prepared script in order to Re-enactment of the crucifixion interact with visitors. “We try to bring the people into the scene,” Jones of Jesus and the two theives says. “They forget their life for a moment and put themselves back in Jesus’ period and become a part of it.” Attendees walk about one-half mile during tours of The Pathway of Light. Pathways are made of gravel, Jones says, so tours are not recommended for strollers, wheelchairs, or walkers. The Pathway of Light’s outdoor venue makes the use of live animals and fires possible; however, it also makes the event vulnerable to poor weather. One year, a surprise snowfall made many participants wonder if the event would be cancelled. “I asked them, ‘Did it snow in Israel? . . . God is helping us with special effects,’” Jones says. Approximately 275 people play roles in each night’s production. About 50 more are in support crews. While no one church in Madisonville
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Journey through Bethlehem (Huntsville)
A
Journey through Bethlehem includes a market area, a synagogue, and a variety of craftsmen, such as potters, basket-makers and blacksmiths. Visitors are offered traditional breads and candies made from dates; children are invited to play historically-accurate games, says Andrew Filson, treasurer of the event. There is even a wedding party that sings and dances as it wanders among visitors. “It’s as close to Bethlehem as you can get in East Texas,” says Williams with a chuckle. “We try to stay in character and play the role of the craftsman or shopkeeper. When people come by, we talk to them like we are selling our wares. We’ll ask them, ‘Did you hear that the Messiah was born tonight?’ as if it was a rumor spreading through town.” Celebrating the birth of Christ is the reason for the event, but the live manger scene—like it probably was 2,000-plus years ago—does not take center stage at Journey through Bethlehem. “In the far corner, kind of away from all the hustle and bustle is the nativity scene with a live Mary, Joseph and baby Jesus,” Williams says.
Live manger scene with Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus
John Rudolph
Wedding party wanders among visitors singing and dancing
John Rudolph
Children are invited to play historically-accurate games
Re-enactment of the wise men visiting King Herod
John Rudolph
About 30 miles south, another unique Christmas production is held each year in Huntsville. As the story goes, the idea for Journey through Bethlehem was first hatched in 2003, when a group of people heard about an event in another town and decided to bring a similar production to Huntsville. The group contacted local churches early in the year, and 14 responded with commitments. A grant from the United Methodist Conference covered about half the cost of the production; participating churches helped raise the rest of the needed funds. This year, in Journey through Bethlehem’s 11th year, volunteers will again transform Walker County Fairgrounds into Bethlehem as history suggests it looked at the time of Jesus’s birth. The multi-denominational effort will take place December 6-7 from 6-9 p.m. “It’s a non-denominational way to bear witness to people the reality of the Savior’s birth,” says Dr. Robert Williams, co-chair of Journey through Bethlehem. “We may go to different churches that go by different names, but we all worship the Lord Jesus Christ.” There is no charge for admission, although visitors are encouraged to pay a 50 cent “tax” when they visit the tax office at the entrance to Journey through Bethlehem. They see re-enactments of the angels telling the good news to shepherds, as well as the wise men visiting King Herod. Visitors then wander the pathways of the fairgrounds, where “townspeople” wear period costumes and play the parts of the residents of ancient Bethlehem.
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“
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Basket-makers, potters, and blacksmiths give visitors a feel for the time period
We may go to different churches that go by different names, but we all
”
worship the Lord Jesus Christ.
John Rudolph
Each year, approximately 1,500 people attend the event, Filson says. Before attendees leave, they are asked to leave comments and suggestions in a book. For volunteers, reading the comments is one of the best parts of each evening. Many were written by children who say they had a great time and learned a lot. Some say the event helped them grow closer to Christ. “Those are the things we like to hear,” Filson says. “The Christmas season has really gotten away from the original intent to celebrate Christ, so it’s kind of refreshing.”
Farther south is West Conroe Baptist Church, which has been the home of Bethlehem City for seven years. Dr. Jay Gross, pastor, got the idea of a multi-scene re-enactment of the birth and life of Jesus from his friend Mark Estep, pastor of Spring Baptist Church. As Estep described previous productions, Gross listened with mounting excitement. Then he called church member Bobby Cantrell, a homebuilder, to ask if he thought the idea was feasible. “I told him what I was thinking about and immediately his eyes lit up,” Gross says, “He said, ‘Jay, we can do it!’” Next, Gross assembled 15 people, asking them to head teams, such as construction, cast, make-up, costumes and security. They liked the idea so much, they are still directors of those teams today. Bethlehem City, a drivethrough event, will be held this year on December 5-8 and December 12-15. Admission is free. Each night, the front gate opens at 6:00 p.m.; cars begin driving through at 6:30 p.m. Wait times are from 30 to 45 minutes, so volunteers recommend securing a place in line no later than 7:15 p.m. Front entrance to drive through to guarantee entrance. the Bethlehem City experience
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Over 200 church members play cast and supporting roles each night
Once inside the church parking lot, drivers and passengers are offered hot chocolate and candy canes. On a typical year, the church’s hot chocolate team distributes well over 400 gallons of hot chocolate. Attendees are also given CDs that narrate their journey through Bethlehem City. There are 22 scenes, beginning with the messianic prophecy of Isaiah. Scenes portray the birth and life of Jesus, culminating with his crucifixion and resurrection. This year’s production features a new narration that Gross predicts will be meaningful to attendees. “They are going to be hearing the story from the vantage point of the characters they are seeing in the scenes,” Gross says. Among the narrators are Joseph, Mary, a shepherd, John the Baptist, the woman at the well and Jesus himself. “We wanted the story to be lifelike, but we also wanted to follow Scripture as closely as we could so people can get the actual story of the birth, life and ministry of Jesus,” he says.
“
Attendees are given CDs that narrate .... the story from the vantage point of the characters they are seeing in the scenes
Well over 200 church members are in the cast and in supporting roles each night. Jeanie Jackson, a retired public school drama teacher and textbook co-author, recruits and coaches cast members, including those who portray Jesus in 10 different scenes. “One of the most challenging things,” she says, “is that people are not able to leave the scene. They are there for two and a half hours.” It’s particularly difficult for the children in the production. Cold weather is also challenging, especially for the man who portrays Jesus on the cross. There are many animals in Bethlehem City, including horses, donkeys, sheep, goats, cattle, a camel and even a zebra. (Animal handlers tell participants that the sometimes-stubborn camel exhibits better behavior when the zebra is nearby.) Not surprisingly, there have been several animal escapes over the years. One year, a renegade goat caused the injury of a crew member. The next year, animal handlers discouraged the rescue of a runaway sheep, predicting it would eventually rejoin the herd on its own. The next morning, a church staff member observed with awe that the escaped sheep had returned—to the foot of the cross in the crucifixion scene.
Re-enactment of Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples
”
Bethlehem City is one of the largest annual events in Conroe with about 10,000 people driving through each year. Attendees have traveled from Port Arthur, Baytown, Galveston, Corsicana, and even Louisiana, Gross says. He recommends attending one of the first nights, as nightly attendance usually grows throughout the season.
Re-enactment of the crucifixion of Jesus
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A woman brought a very limp duck into a shook his head. veterinary surgeon. As she laid her pet on the table, the vet pulled out his stethoscope The vet patted the dog on the head and took it out of the room. and listened to the bird’s chest. After a moment or two, the veterinary A few moments later, he returned with a surgeon shook his head sadly and said, “I’m cat. The cat jumped up on the table and so sorry, your duck Cuddles has passed away.” also delicately sniffed the bird from head to foot. The cat sat back on it’s haunches, The distressed owner wailed, “Are you sure?” shook its head, meowed softly, and strolled out of the room. “Yes, I am sure. The duck is dead,” replied the vet. The vet looked at the woman and said, “I’m sorry, but as I said, this is most definitely, “How can you be so sure,” she protested. “I 100% certifiably, a dead duck.” Then mean, you haven’t done any testing on him veterinary surgeon turned to his computer or anything. He might just be in a coma or terminal, hit a few keys and produced a bill, something.” which he handed to the woman.
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The vet rolled his eyes, turned around, and The duck’s owner, still in shock, took the left the room, returning a few moments later bill. “$150!” she cried, “$150 just to tell me with a black Labrador Retriever. my duck is dead!?” To their credit, the disciples were probably trying to figure out where Judas was. Chris Blair
As the duck’s owner looked on in amazement, the dog stood on his hind legs, put his front paws on the examination table, and sniffed the duck from top to bottom. He then looked at the veterinary surgeon with sad eyes and
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Looking Through My Kitchen Window By Sherrill McDowell We recently had our kitchen remodeled (Thanks Chuck!). I had the same window in my kitchen before the renovation that I now have. We have lived in this home for 8 years. In those 8 years, I can’t tell you how many times I have looked through that window. Saturday, as I was looking through my kitchen window, it dawned on me that I had been “looking,” but not “seeing” what was before me. Mr. Brown was out in his yard taking care of his flowers. He has a yard that, when you look at it, reminds you of a crisp, cool relaxing space. His flowers are beautiful and full
“Saturday, as I was looking through my kitchen window, it dawned on me that I had been ‘looking,’ but now ‘seeing’ what was before me!” of color. As I am admiring Mr. Brown’s work, I see “Queen Robin” come by in her small white car. She looks as she turns the corner to make sure there are no kids, dogs, or ducks in her way. Just seeing her makes me smile. Directly across the street, I see my young friends, A.J. and Zac, with their summer Mohawk haircuts, out in the yard playing with their mom and dad. What a great reminder of what family should be. Across the other street, I see a beautiful dark pink crepe myrtle with a sleeping dog under it. I also see squirrels jumping through the branches of the pine tree as a red cardinal lands on my window sill. As I looked through my kitchen window, I realize that I am “seeing” what God has made. Have you “looked” to “see” what is outside your kitchen window?
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52 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
The Parker Saga, Part 3: The Rescue and After Cynthia Ann Parker, granddaughter of Elder John Parker, was the most famous of the five captives taken by the Comanche at the massacre at Fort Parker. Age nine when kidnapped, she was adopted by the Comanche and lived with them for 24 years. She married a Comanche chieftain, Peta Nocona, and had three children. Cynthia Ann Parker At age 34, she was finally rescued by the Texas Rangers, but spent the remaining 10 years of her life refusing to adjust to life in white society. Heartbroken over the loss of her Comanche family, she stopped eating and died of influenza in 1870. Her oldest child was the last free Comanche chief, Quanah Parker. Quanah was named chief over all the Comanche when they were gathered on the reservation in Oklahoma, and proved to be a forceful, resourceful, and able leader. Through wise investments, he became perhaps the wealthiest American Indian of his day in the United States. He went on hunting trips with President Theodore Roosevelt, who often visited him. Coming Soon To
Along the Road The Parker Saga Elder John Parker (1758–1836) was an American settler and Predestinarian Baptist minister who immigrated to Texas before the Texas Revolution. Born in Maryland, he moved to Virginia and fought in the American Revolution at the age of 19. He and his wife, Sarah, had 11 children. He later moved to Georgia, Tennessee, and then Illinois before coming to Texas and building a church in 1833.
Quanah Parker, oldest child of Cynthia Ann Parker and last free Comanche chief
Lovelady Old Gym
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December 7 Dennis Ivy’s Texas Opry th
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936-294-1832 Sam Houston State University – A Member of The Texas State University System
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www.huntsvillememorial.com November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
53
Business Focus
Written by Karen Altom
I
Photos by Kelly Sue Photography
54 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
If my family ever moved away from this piece of East Texas, some things would be sorely missed, and the barbeque at McKenzie’s Barbeque and Burgers would be at the top of the list! Whether your favorite menu item is a chopped beef sandwich, a baked potato with meat on the side, or the succulent ribs, you can count on your order being both fresh and delicious. Kevin and Lisa McKenzie came to Huntsville after they married so Kevin could attend Sam Houston State University. Kevin said, “We got married, went on our honeymoon, and came straight to Huntsville when we got back.” Newly married and broke (like many college students), the McKenzies began looking for a way to earn extra money. Prior to moving, Kevin had worked for Bodacious Bar-B-Q in Longview and discovered he loved to cook. “An uncle built me a barbeque pit out of an old propane tank, and we cooked at home. We’d have a garage sale and end up having more barbeque to sell than junk!” Lisa laughs, “We had some really good garage sales!” Shirley Hardy, Kevin’s aunt, helped out and would call people she knew at banks, the sheriff’s office, credit unions, and lawyers’ offices to ask if anyone would like to have some good chopped beef sandwiches. Lisa would fix them at home and deliver them to the offices for lunch. During this time, Kevin worked as a meat cutter for Budget Chopper Foods (ironically in the very same building that now houses their restaurant). After graduating from Sam in 1991, Kevin and Lisa stayed to make a home and raise a family. They had been selling barbeque through their garage sales and lunch service for a couple of years. “My dad had retired, and he said ‘I’ll help you get started if you want to open a restaurant’,” said Kevin, “and he did – he came down and helped
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me with all the remodeling and stuff. We In 2000, eight years after opening, always joke that he went home the day we McKenzie’s doubled the restaurant size by opened—said he didn’t want anything to taking in the space next door and adding do with running a barbeque restaurant, but a large dining room. A year later, they he sure did help us get started.” McKenzie’s expanded again and added McKenzie’s Barbeque opened October 19, 1992. Because Burgers and Fries next door, which connected of the past relationship with Bodacious to the barbeque restaurant. In 2010, they Bar-B-Q, Kevin and Lisa thought they would combined the restaurants and moved to their be a Bodacious franchise, but the timing current location behind Walgreens at 1548 just wasn’t right for both parties. Instead, 11th Street in Huntsville. When asked how they arranged to use Bodacious seasonings the burger restaurant came about, Lisa said, and sauces, a relationship that continues “We just always liked a good hamburger. We today. In those early days, Kevin and Lisa could eat a good hamburger for breakfast!” were the only meat cutters, so when one Kevin adds, “We were thinking with our took off or took a break, the other took over. stomach.” When asked what makes their There was only one other employee, and food different, Lisa is quick to say, “Kevin that has certainly changed over the years. cooks around the clock. We don’t reheat a The McKenzies have employed numerous lot of meat. We don’t even eat leftovers at students and citizens during more than two home! Everything’s fresh—our ribs, brisdecades of serving our community. kets, everything.” Kevin adds, “We do
»
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Closed Sundays things the hard way. Today, everyone’s looking for time-savings and corners to cut. Some barbeque places even cook with gas and only a little wood. We do all-wood fires. We burn a lot of wood, and we cook every day. Our fires never go out. It’s nothing we hurry. Our brisket cooks 18-22 hours.” According to the McKenzies, brisket is king in Texas. “There are too many variables in cooking barbeque,” says Kevin. “There’s no set time— it depends on the fire and the size of the brisket. I’ve had people ask me how long I cook, and I answer ‘til it’s done.’ That’s just the truth.” Lisa notes, “We still boil and peel potatoes for potato salad and peel, then hand-cut our fries. They are fresh – no chemicals. It’s the real deal—not ‘plastic-coated fries’ as Kevin refers to them.” The couple Wood-burning estimates they have cooked about barbeque pits 350,000 briskets since opening! helped make All that cooking takes lots of wood, McKenzie’s and both Kevin and Lisa choked winner of the up when talking about the recent Best Barbeque in loss of their friend, Clarence Huntsville for18 of “Sonny-Boy” Gambrell. Kevin said, the last 21 years “Sonny-Boy was my wood man for
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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
21 years. He hauled 3 cords a week for me. He was a good man and is certainly missed.” While barbeque is their bestseller, Lisa reminds us their fresh, hand-battered chicken strips are favorites of some folks as well. “Because we were already serving chicken strips, gravy, and fries, we had this bright idea we could easily add chicken fried steak to the menu.” Kevin interjects, “Thinking with our stomach again.” It proved a bright idea indeed, since McKenzies was awarded Best Chicken Fried Steak by The Houstonian’s Best Of Huntsville Awards last year. They have been named Best Barbeque by The Huntsville Item’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 18 of the past 21 years. About working together, Kevin quips, “It’s better for me than it is for her.” Both say they their family is closer because of the restaurant. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” states Kevin. “If it hadn’t been ours, I’d have been away from my family. The kids have been raised in this restaurant. Our sons, Keith and Matthew, are
“
...with the holidays coming up—we will do traditional Thanksgiving dinners with ham, turkey, cornbread dressing, pies, and our customer favorites—banana pudding and Oreo pudding
”
old enough to take a lot more responsibility himself to me. Not like any kind of vision— and are invaluable to us.” Lisa said, “I don’t just who He was and who I was. When we know what we’d do without them, especially began, we were open seven days a week. One when it comes to catering.” The McKenzies’ of the first things God worked on me about daughters, Maci and Madison, also have grown was being closed on Sundays, so that I could up in the restaurant and contribute. Kevin be with my family, go to church, and allow my said, “My mom jokes that she doesn’t know employees to be with their families and go to where she went wrong. She’s a CPA, but three church if they choose. Sundays was one of of her four kids run barbeque restaurants!” our busier days, with the after-church crowd. One thing that might surprise readers is June 1, 1997 was when I closed Sundays. In that, in addition to catering barbeque and two months, we were doing as much business burgers, McKenzie’s often does much more. in six days as we had been in seven. In two “We can do almost anything. Steaks, fajitas, years, we were doing four times the business and—with the holidays coming up—we will in six days that we were in seven. There have do traditional Thanksgiving dinners with been so many other blessings we received by ham, turkey, cornbread dressing, pies, and being closed on Sunday. We put God first, then Matthew, Kevin, and Lisa McKenzie our customer favorites—banana pudding and our family, and the rest has been a blessing Oreo pudding,” said Lisa. from God. Reagan Cooksey (a local pastor) According to Kevin, “When we opened this restaurant, my goal was to jokes that when I got saved, Huntsville lost a Sunday dinner spot!” offer something different and be able to support my family. Huntsville After over two decades serving area citizens, McKenzie’s Barbeque has supported my family well. This community has been really, really and Burgers is still going strong, and their attitude is one of wanting good to us.” Lisa sums it up saying, “This community has blessed our to continue to get better. “I hope people can see that we care enough lives.” “More than anything else,” adds Kevin, “we’ve been blessed by to try to do it right. We’re not perfect, but we care. We want it to be God. After five years of struggling and trying to make it—God revealed good, and we try to learn from our mistakes.”
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November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
57
MILESTONES •
MILESTONES
•
Join us as we celebrate life’s “mile markers” with our friends and neighbors. Share your milestones with us by submitting a photo and information to PostcardsLive.com/share. We want to celebrate with you!
It’s A Girl
It’s A Girl
Look who’s 2
Faithlynn Dorenia Salinas Born July 9, 2013 8 lbs. 9 oz. and 20.5” Parents: Felix & Dorenia Salinas of Trinity Grandparents: Nancy Herrera, Dalia Martinez, Felix Salinas Jr. and Charles Gray
Evie Elizabeth Johns Born April 25, 2013 6 lbs. 4 oz. and 19” Parents: Tyler & Heather Johns Sister: Willa Catherine Johns
Blaine Sarno September 27, 2011 Parents: Clint & Leslie Sarno Grandparent: Denise Sarno Great Grandparent: Jo Hillegeist
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MILESTONES MILESTONES
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It’s A Girl Elaina Marie Clary Born June 21, 2013 6 lbs. and 19.5” Parents: Logan & Amber Clary Grandparents: Carl & Michelle Clary of Madisonville; Tommy & Monica Snook of Livingston and Marcia Davidson Great Grandparents: Donnie & Ann Colwell of Madisonville; Rick & Sandy Clary of Hilltop Lakes and Joseph & Yolanda Garza of Dallas
80th Wedding Anniversary
Ralph Mary Lou
Riggs
Ralph & Mary Lou Riggs Married November 4, 1933
Celebrating 101 Years Ralph Riggs November 12, 1912
Congratulations Grandpa and Grandma
At this time of
,
there is no more fitting time to say thank you to all those who trust us with your care.
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Ocular Diagnostics and Therapeutics November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
59
ders a e R r u o m o fr Alfredo Muskus, Jo Isaacks, and Cole Stewart took time to snap a photo in front of Hometown, Bahamas lighthouse during a recent vacation. Submitted by Kim Bius
Felix and Dorenia Salinas take their first official family photo with their daughter Faithlynn Dorenia.
Bambi Kiser meets a new friend in a swamp near New Orleans. Submitted by Bambi Kiser
Submitted by Dorenia Salinas
Submit your photo and description to PostcardsLive.com/share.
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Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
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For three months out of the year (during hunting season) my husband Jesse Echtler ventures back to his home state of Colorado to guide elk, deer, and antelope hunts for Snake River Outfitters.
Submitted by Tracy Gernhart Schaub
Throughout those three months, our kids Riata (4 1/2 yrs.) and Kaston (1 1/2 yrs.) anxiously await for Dad to send us pictures of the hunts. The pictures come through as text messages on my phone, so the kids always perk up when they hear my phone “ding” with a new message! Most of the pictures he sends are of the trophy animals harvested on the hunts he has guided! We are sure proud to see what good work Dad is doing, but more than that, we eagerly await for the Colorado hunting season to be over and him to come home! Submitted by Samantha Echtler
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November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
61
Tis the Season......
for a shopping experience like no other.
Browse the largest and most unique collection of Gifts, Home, Garden and Holiday decor in town. Enjoy wassail, gourmet coffe, holiday cookies, free gift bagging and wrapping too!
Thursday November 14th
udoku is a logic-based placement puzzle. The aim of the puzzle is to enter a numerical digit from 1-9 in each cell of a grid, starting with various digits given in some cells (the "givens"). Each row, column, and region must contain only one instance of each numeral. The goal is to fill in the empty cells, one numeral in each, so that each column, row, and region contains the numerals 1–9 exactly once. Each numeral in the solution therefore occurs only once in each of three "directions."
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936-295-5282 KimsHome&GardenCenter.com 62 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
HARD
ANSWERS
1. I’m the part of the bird that’s not in the sky. I can swim in the ocean and yet remain dry. What am I? 2. I am weightless, but you can see me. Put me in a bucket, and I’ll make it lighter. What am I?
1. Its shadow
8, 5, 4, 9, 1, 7, 6, 10, 3, 2, 0
2. A hole
3. Eye
7. What is special about the following sequence of numbers?
4. An egg
6. Can you write number 45 using only the number 4?
5. An icicle
5. Glittering points that downward thrust, sparkling spears that never rust. What is it?
6. 44+44/44
4. In a marble hall white as milk, lined with skin as soft as silk; within a fountain crystal-clear, a golden apple doth appear. No doors there are to this stronghold, yet thieves break in to steal its gold. --Mother Goose
7. The numbers are in alphabetical order (eight, five, four, nine, one, seven, six, ten, three, two, zero).
3. Pronounced as one letter, and written with three, two letters there are, and two only in me. I’m double, I’m single; I’m black, blue, and gray; I’m read from both ends, and the same either way. What am I?
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Mark your Calendars ANDERSON
Twilight Firelight at Fanthorp Inn Nov 30 birthplaceoftexas.com
BRENHAM
COLDSPRING
GALVESTON
Trade Day Nov 23 Lighting of the Town Nov 30 sanjacintocountytourism.org
Diary of a Worm, a Spider and a Fly Nov 6
COLLEGE STATION
Fall Festival of Roses Nov 1 – 3 weareroses.com Holiday Home Tour and Trunk Show Nov 23 – 24 giddingsstonemansion.com
CALDWELL Royalty Pecan Harvest Festival Nov 2 Harvest Saturdays at Royalty Pecan Farms Nov 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 royaltypecans.com/calendar
CANTON First Monday Trade Days Oct 31 - Nov 3, 28 – 30 visitcantontx.com
Brazos Valley Worldfest Nov 15 – 16 brazosvalleyworldfest.org College Station Celebrates 75 Years Nov 15 – 16 facebook.com/cstx75
CONROE Houston Open Judo Tournament Nov 2 houstonopenjudo.com Caring for Creation Environmental Fair Nov 2 (936) 273-0098
CROCKETT
Submit your calendar items: PostcardsLive.com/share
Christmas in Crockett Nov 23 crockettareachamber.org
Out and About
Live Theatre and Musical Performances A.D. Players adplayers.org Alley Theatre alleytheatre.org
RAIN Nov 9 “Flipside: The Patti Page Story” Nov 16
Arena Theatre arenahouston.com
“Memphis” Nov 29 - 30
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts broadwayacrossamerica.com
The Priests in Concert Dec 1 thegrand.com Festival of Lights Nov 16 - Jan 4 moodygardens.com
HOUSTON Shanghai Ballet Nov 5
Theatre Under the Stars tuts.com
HEMPSTEAD Civil War Weekend Nov 23 – 24 liendoplantation.com
HENDERSON
Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain in Concert Nov 20 spahouston.org “The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical” Nov 13 - Dec 29 stagestheatre.com
Heritage Syrup Festival Nov 9 depotmuseum.com
HUNTSVILLE Kate’s Gilded Lilly Nov 2-3 – Trade Days Nov 16 – Garage Sale (936) 291-1155
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64
More Coupons available at www.rainbowintl.com/huntsville Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
Mark your Calendars “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Nov 15-17, 22-24 Auditions for “Shadowlands” Dec 2-3 HuntsvilleCommunityTheatre.org American Heart Walk Nov 16 walkercountyheartwalk.org Sarah McQuaid in Concert Thoreau Woods Coffeehouse Nov 16 twuuc.org “Urinetown the Musical” Nov 20-23 shsu.edu/academics/theatre/ tickets Angel Show Holiday Market Dec 7 facebook.com/ angelshowholidaymarket
JEFFERSON Rail of Lights Christmas Train Nov 28 - 30, Dec 5 - 8, 12 - 15, 19 – 22 railoflights.com
LIBERTY Liberty Opry Nov 2, 9, 16, 23 libertyopry.com
Out and About
MADISONVILLE
PLANTERSVILLE
THE WOODLANDS
Holiday Market – Oakridge Country Club Nov 21 (936) 348-9693 (936) 348-2711
Texas Renaissance Festival Weekends Oct 12 - Dec 1 texrenfest.com
Children’s Festival Nov 9 – 10 www.woodlandscenter.org
RICHARDS MOUNT PLEASANT
Richards VFD Barbecue Fundraiser Nov 2 (936) 714-5410
Junior League Holiday Market Nov 15 – 17 JLHolidayMarket.org
National Gospel Singing Convention Nov 15 – 16 gospelsingingconventions.com
SHEPHERD NACOGDOCHES Holiday in the Pines Nov 21 – 23 nacjrforum.org Nine Flags Festival Nov 23 - Dec 14 nineflagsfestival.com
NECHES Sugar Cane Squeeze Nov 2 (903) 721-9111
PALESTINE “The Polar Express” Train Ride Nov 15 - Dec 30 texasstaterr.com
Blue and White Christmas Dec 7 (936) 628-3890
Lighting of The Doves and International Winter on the Waterway Nov 23 Winter Wonderland and the Woodlands Ice Rink Nov 23 - Jan 20 holidayinthewoodlands.com
TYLER
SPRING Home for the Holidays in Old Town Spring Nov 9 - Dec 21 oldtownspring.com
TEXAS CITY Texas City Museum Model Train Festival Nov 9 – 10 (409) 229-1660
Texas Rose Horse Park Fall Horse Trials - USEA Cross Country Nov 9 – 10 texasrosehorsepark.com “Memphis” cowancenter.org
WILLIS Holiday Market Nov 16 firstbaptistwillis.org
We encourage you to stop during this season and take a moment to count your blessings! Wishing everyone a Blessed Holiday Season.
THE LEGACY GROUP Legacy Financial Services Legacy Tax Services • Legacy Consulting
1423 Brazos Dr. • Huntsville • (936) 291-3603 2203 Timberloch Place • Suite 100 • The Woodlands • (281) 210-5567 November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
65
S
mm
Mustard Seed Moments
...The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” He replied, “If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you say to this mulberry tree, ‘be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you. Luke 17:5-6
Soldiers of Christ, Arise! by Wes Altom
We appreciate all who wear the uniform and are willing to fight for our nation, but we especially honor those who have served in time of conflict. We salute our veterans. This makes me mindful that we are each a soldier for Christ in the spiritual warfare of this world. Confusingly, many Christians seem to think of this as peacetime service, and spend their time and efforts inside the four walls of a church building polishing their armor for some future battle (which never seems to happen).
“As a good soldier of Christ Jesus you must endure your share of suffering. Soldiers on duty don’t work at outside jobs. They try only to please their commanding officer.” 2 Timothy 2:3-4 The call is to go forth, enter the battle, conquer sin, and rescue those taken captive by it—definitely seems like a battle call to action! The question becomes: At the endgame of life, do you want to be a chess piece that never moved from its space; or, do you want to be an active participant, charging forth across the board, affecting the game, and becoming a knight to remember?
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66 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | November 2013
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November 2013 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition
67
In Cardiovascular Care, Closer is Better. And Better
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