POSTCARDS MAGAZINE - Lake Conroe - Nov. 2022

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and leading it.

every necessary

Picture

do,

this

we had twice as many entries as last year! We will share the winners in next month’s issue. Right now, I am on the edge of my seat, because the judges are perusing and choosing, and we are awaiting their decisions and ranking. It is an exciting time!

As we looked over all the entries preparing them for the judges, I was struck by the way people see different things. When peering through a lens, each photographer selects a different point of focus. There were photos submitted unlike anything I would have probably ever photographed, yet each was beautiful and unique in its own way. Some were very close up, some were distant. Some gave us pause as we tried to see what the photographer saw to qualify them for the category submitted. Some were quirky and fun, some serious and ethereal; but all were appreciated.

It made me think about how we all look at life through different lenses. Some lenses are experience, some are heritage, some are family, some are friends; but all are very real to each of us. Much like our contest, when they all come together, it is quite something to behold! I think how boring our event would be if every entry were of bees. I am sure they would all “bee” lovely, but the lack of variety might become a little tiresome!

I think it is the same way with community. Our little piece of Texas is made up of a wide variety of folks who each see life through their own lens, yet together we create a community that is a beautiful thing to behold. And for that, I am incredibly thankful.

Until next time,

Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. I love the fall colors, smells, flavors, and holidays of November! We have the reverence and thankfulness of Veterans Day and the blessings of Thanksgiving with family, friends, and great food. Then we trample each other for sales, exactly one day after being thankful for what we already have. Does this sound familiar on Thanksgiving? “I can’t eat another bite! Oh, look, PIE!” Count blessings, not carbs! Set your scales back ten pounds this month, and drop me a line to Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com.

DEAR GABBY

I used to be very optimistic, but lately with the rising price of gas and groceries, and little free time, it’s hard to “think positive.” It may be a function of age or a sign of the times, but I find myself being less and less cheerful, and I don’t like myself this way. Any suggestions?

LOOKING FOR THE SILVER LINING

DEAR LOOKING

I got a tankful of gas for $30 this morning! It was for my lawn mower, but I’m trying to stay positive. Optimism is a relative term, after all. I don’t usually worry about whether the glass is half full or half empty. I’m more concerned if it is half clean! Make a list of your blessings and read over it when you’re feeling particularly down in the mouth. There’s always a lot to be thankful for, if you really look for it. For example, I was just sitting here thinking how nice it is that wrinkles don’t hurt.

GABBY

CONFIDENTIAL TO “HOW OLD ARE YOU, ANYWAY?”:

I wish I could reveal my age, but I just can’t. It keeps changing all the time. I’ll put it this way: “I’m old enough to make my own decisions, but not young enough to remember what I decided.”

From

Norma Edgington

Susan Prokosch

Laurie Schmidt

Ty Ledbetter

Texas Treasures

Story and Photos

by Marshall Altom

Do you have aviation fanatics in your family?

We have a perfect place for you to visit!

The Lone Star Flight Museum is located in Houston. (They used to be located at the Scholes Airport in Galveston, but have now moved to Ellington Airport).

The new facility has over 130,000 square feet of fun waiting for you! When you walk in the door, you are greeted by the information desk/ ticket booth. Once you enter the museum, you walk by their Aviation Learning Center. This area provides an interactive learning environment for students in grades 5 – 12. The Aviation Learning Center focuses on aircraft identification, aerodynamics, traffic control, and more. The Center is up to Texas academic

standards in order to assist educators with their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) project-based curriculum.

Opposite the Learning Center is a room dedicated to the WASPs (Women Airforce Service Pilots,) which provides information about the history of the group. There is a lot of history regarding this organization, even though it was only active a little over a year. The theater even has videos of interviews with some former WASPs, and they talk about their experiences.

Once you finish the entry, you have the option of going to either hangar. (YES, THERE ARE TWO!!!) Each hangar has a plethora of planes on display. The hangar on the left of

the museum has several military style aircraft, including their B-25J Mitchell Medium Bomber. The museum’s bomber remained in the states during World War II and was used as a training plane. After the war, it was reportedly acquired by the CIA and used in covert operations, including several missions during the Bay of Pigs. The B-25J Mitchell was repainted in 2007 as homage to the B-25s that participated in the Doolittle Raiders and is now known as “the official B-25 of the Doolittle Raider Association.” Several of the planes in the museum are able to be taken out on a “Flight Experience,” including the B-25J. For this experience, you are required to book in advance, and prices on the different types of planes vary.

The hangar on the opposite side of the building houses very interesting aircraft. Some of the aircraft include LockheedT-33A Shooting Star, a Douglas SBD Dauntless Attack Bomber (one of only a handful that still run today),

and several others that I won’t spoil for you! This hangar does include a section dedicated to helicopters and their history as well. Once you’ve taken look at all the aircraft, you’ll probably notice

a blue set of stairs with black and yellow taped edges up to a cockpit that has the NASA logo. Upon approaching, you will have the opportunity to go into a replica of a space shuttle. Let me tell you, there are a LOT more dials and switches than I expected.

Once finished in the hangars you might think you would be done, but there is still quite a bit of museum left! There is a large history section in the museum, with pictures and significant events

Transforming Lives Strengthening Community

On November 8th, our thrift shop will be transformed into a winter wonderland. It is a must see for all! Because of our customers, we can fund many programs throughout Montgomery County. June 2021- June 2022 we have served 82,764 Montgomery County residents. Thank you!

9

Stations).

in the country during World War II were located in Texas because of their flight training facilities. In fact, one of those airfields

Ellington Army Airfield, where the Lone Star Flight Museum is housed today. Further

drag, thrust, lift and velocity, physics, and more. This section also has several different prop planes that you are welcome to take photos in. This area was a lot to take in (and honestly, where we spent most of our time). There is even a hang glider game, where you sit on a mock hang glider and try to land in the middle of a bullseye.

the history

will come across the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame. This section covers Trail Blazers & Explorers, Wartime Aviators, Leaders, and Entrepreneurs and Innovators. All the men and women in this section have made a special impact on the world of aviation.

Once you’ve finished the history section, you have one spot remaining to visit--The Flight Academy. This entire area is devoted to teaching kids (or adults who like to have fun) about flight. The displays seem so simple, but once you start reading, you realize they are teaching you about different types of airfoils, propellers, aerodynamics, airflow, turbulence,

As you move from section to section, you’ll notice beautiful art hanging on the walls. This museum is so well put together and literally has something for everyone. It is a great place to go to to learn, have fun, and see some amazing planes. Please remember that Lone Star Flight Museum is a museum. They have planes on loan, and their current viewing selection is subject to change. So, if you wait a bit between your visits, you are likely to see something new each time.

Lone Star Flight Museum is located at 11551 Aerospace Ave., Houston, TX 77034. Their hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM to 5:00

PM, closed on Mondays. You can view prices, purchase tickets or memberships, check the museum’s event schedule, sign up as a volunteer, and learn more about the museum at lonestarflight.org--or give them a call at (346) 708-2517.

By Dalliah M. Black, MD, FACS

Breast Surgery, Breast Surgical Oncology; Houston Methodist Department of Surgery - Breast Surgery

Breast Cancer: Is Prevention Possible?

Many research studies show that breast cancer is more preventable than experts originally thought.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:

1. Be (really) physically active

Exercise, especially vigorous exercise, could be the single most important weapon in your arsenal. “Exercise is huge,” said Dr. Dalliah Black, breast surgical oncologist at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital. “The more a woman exercises, the more her breast cancer risk drops, likely due to decreasing estrogen and stress hormones while improving metabolic hormones and our immune system. Getting 30 minutes of vigorous exercise a day gives us a benefit.”

2. Maintain a healthy weight

Women who have more fat cells produce more estrogen and tend to have higher insulin levels, both of which are linked to an increased breast cancer risk.

3. Limit hormone replacement therapy.

Taking estrogen, progesterone, and even testosterone can increase our risk of breast cancer as these hormones drive our breast tissue to abnormally proliferate. “If we are taking hormones, trying to limit them to the lowest dose possible and for fewer than 10 years is a powerful way to decrease our breast cancer risk,” Dr. Black said.

4. Limit alcohol

Limiting alcohol to three or less alcoholic drinks per week can lower a woman’s risk for developing breast cancer.

5. Choose to breastfeed

Dr. Black encourages new mothers to breastfeed their babies if they’re able. “We know that the longer a woman breastfeeds, the greater the protective effect in breast cancer prevention,” she said. “One possible explanation is that women who breastfeed have fewer menstrual cycles throughout their lives, and thus less exposure to estrogen.”

6. Eat a healthy diet.

Studies have suggested that consuming more monounsaturated fats (such as olive oil), along with fresh fruits and vegetables, may help protect against breast cancer. Limiting processed meats and carbohydrates, along with refined sugars, lowers our chance of getting breast cancer.

7. Take preventive medications

If you’re at higher risk for breast cancer, your doctor may talk to you about the risks and benefits of medications such as tamoxifen and raloxifene. “These medicines are impactful and can lower our chance of getting breast cancer upwards of 50% for certain women,” Dr. Black said.

8. Consider genetic testing

If you have a strong family history of breast cancer, talk with your doctor about whether genetic testing is right for you. Some women are eligible for more frequent screenings or prophylactic mastectomy. Removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes is also an option in some cases.

9. Schedule your mammogram

Mammography is the most effective tool available in diagnosing breast cancer at an early stage, before tumors are large enough to be felt or to cause any symptoms.

Olivia Smart Grandchild of Tammy Smart

Wesley & Haley Cleere Grandchildren of Ron & Kathy Cleere and Bill & Fran Turnipseed

Ashlyn Kelley Grandchild of John & Mary Kellar

The

By Kim Bius

Fall Planting Season has arrived!

Fall has arrived, and what a blessing cooler temperatures are! The Farmer’s Almanac for winter 2022-2023 indicates a drier and a bit colder temps than usual.

With this information in mind, the fall planting season becomes even more important. The lower temperatures decrease the need for watering, making September through early December the perfect time for planting azaleas, gardenias, camellias, and trees. It is important to remember that new plantings will require deep root watering three times a week. When the surrounding soil is very dry, a fourth watering may be required to actually get enough water to the root ball.

Tree planting season begins now, with late winter being the best condition. Trees can be transplanted after the second killing frost (the sap will have moved back into the root system). Transplanting smaller trees under 5’ is easy and can be done the same as a shrub; do not forget to apply root stimulator at the time of transplant and again in 6 weeks. Root stimulator is a great product that feeds the root system. Without a strong root system, there is no healthy top growth (rule of thumb).

Chrysanthemums are perennial sun lovers that have 2-3 bloom sets. “Mums” are fall favorites, but often mis-cared for and receive a poor reputation. Mums are water guzzlers, but need excellent drainage. When planting in containers, ensure they are watered three times a week, and these beauties will multiply and return in the spring to bloom again for eight weeks or more.

If deer-proof is required, consider the following fall/winter color.......

Kale/cabbage Shade to sun annual, great in containers or mass plantings in beds.

Dianthus - Half sun to full sun perennial that will bloom through ice and snow. Hardy, tough, and dies down in the summer months, but blooms prolifically through the fall and winter months

Violas/Johnny Jump Ups – Light shade to sun annual that has been fairly deer resistant in recent years according to our test gardens. Snapdragons – Half sun to full sun biennial. These beauties come in dwarf to 8” tall to 3’ tall, and a color for everyone. Our test gardens have had success with snaps over 70% of the time in heavy deer areas.

Poinsettias will be hitting the market soon! Shop early for the first crop out, it is always the largest and prettiest. The second crop generally comes in the week after Thanksgiving--not quite as large, but always cost the same. Poinsettias are tropical plants and require high sun during the day, with water 3x a week. Do not let the water accumulate in the bottom of the foil or black leaves will occur. Pale green leaves are a sign of “not enough light” and heavily wilted poinsettias rarely bounce back. Poinsettias will require maintenance to stay beautiful, then can be nursed through the winter months to be planted in a morning sun location after the freezes have past. They may not last till the first hard freeze, but poinsettias bushes are stunning when grown to their native size. Happy Fall, Ya’ll. The season of blessings is here, and I wish readers a season of peace, joy, and prosperity in all you do. Happy Gardening!

Fingers crossed it’s queso!

Seen by: Penny Foley

Guess I need to put a visit on my “bucket” list.

Seen by: Robert Allen

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

Community

Builders

Story by Ruth Fields

Photos by Gina Turner

James Pitts III has childhood memories of clearing around his grandfather’s and other family members’ graves at a cemetery in Conroe in the 1970s, pouring salt around them to discourage plant growth. He doesn’t

remember his grandfather, James Pitts Sr., who died when James was a toddler, but his parents told him many stories about his remarkable life. Born just 11 years after slavery ended in Texas, he was the valedictorian of his class at Prairie View State Normal & Industrial College (now Prairie View A&M University). In 1901, he moved from Conroe to teach at the African-American high school in Jefferson, Texas. Overwhelmed by the educational deficiencies caused by slavery, he became the school’s principal and ultimately served there for 60 years. He began each school day with Bible reading, a prayer and a song, and added vocational classes

to the school’s curriculum. He was also a landowner and a respected entrepreneur. After graduating from Texas A&M University in 1988, James Pitts III lived in Austin, and often came to Houston to visit his sister and to work at the cemetery. “I’d get there on Friday night, get up really early, and take a bunch of tools to Conroe,” he says. He was appalled that trash and automobile parts had been dumped at the cemetery. He later moved to Georgia, but brought his wife and children to Conroe in 2005 to show them where his ancestors were buried. Passersby were surprised when he told them there was a cemetery hidden beneath the underbrush. James wondered, “Why are my ancestors overgrown, with trash on top of them?”

John Merideth and Jon Edens

Mystery beyond the fence

In the summer of 2011, Jon Edens, a forensic genealogist, walked slowly through Oakwood Cemetery. As he zigzagged through the graves, he transcribed information from headstones for his contributing work for Find a Grave, an organization that compiles burial information at cemeteries worldwide. Nearing the cemetery’s northern border, Jon glanced through the chain-link fence into the impenetrable tangle of trees, thorns and underbrush beyond.

Jon was stunned when he saw what looked like a headstone. Why, he wondered, would it be on the other side of the fence? He climbed over and discovered the ornate grave monument of Dora Armstrong, who died in 1918. Then, he saw another headstone, and another. When he returned home, he told his wife Terri, “You’ll never believe what I found!” He later remarked that, if a smaller headstone had been near the fence, he would not have seen it.

Jon then began a research project that would last for five years. Meticulous and tenacious, he enjoys reading laws--so he knew that graves located outside a cemetery boundary are legally a part of that cemetery. But something didn’t seem right. So, he researched the name on the large headstone he had discovered. The first piece of the puzzle fell into place when he learned that Dora Armstrong was of AfricanAmerican heritage. Then, while conducting research at the Montgomery County Central Library, he found an April 7, 1978 survey of “Un-Known Name Cemetery” conducted by Oveta and Horace Wright. The survey listed

seven unknown and 36 known graves. Some of the names were on headstones Jon had identified across the fence from Oakwood Cemetery.

“That’s when it snapped that this was a whole different cemetery,” Jon says. At some point, he deduced the rest of the story: the “UnKnown Name Cemetery” was used exclusively by Conroe’s African-American community. “It took a little while to figure it out,” he says. “It’s not mentioned in the county record.”

While poring over microfilm of decades-old issues of the Conroe Courier, Jon found a 1982 article that mentioned a cleanup day at the cemetery. It reported that the property was owned by the descendants of Sergeant Luther Dorsey, who is buried at the cemetery. Dorsey, who served in the U.S. Army’s 10th Cavalry Regiment, is the only known Buffalo Soldier buried in Montgomery County.

It bothered Jon that the cemetery had been so neglected, and he wanted to mount a restoration effort; however, he soon learned there was a controversy surrounding the ownership of the cemetery land. Through Jon’s persistence, it finally became certain that 19th century land baron Henry Runge sold adjacent land to Laura Henderson—who is interred in the cemetery—but specifically excluded eight acres for a railroad and the cemetery. Because Runge died without a will, wife or descendants, the property legally belongs to the descendants of his siblings.

To get permission to restore the cemetery, Jon began locating these heirs, and more than 30 of them subsequently gave their

approval. Meanwhile, Jon began calling the unnamed cemetery the “Conroe Community Cemetery,” noting that the people buried there were an important part of their community; furthermore, the modern-day community has come to the cemetery’s rescue. He formed a 501(c)(3) organization, calling it Conroe Community Cemetery Restoration Project (CCCRP).

Clean-up, restoration and discovery

In the years after Jon stumbled upon the cemetery, he talked often with Larry Foerster, a local attorney, historian, author, and the chairman of the Montgomery County Historical Commission. “Larry provided constant support,” Jon says. In 2016, as Jon was forming a non-profit organization and workforce, Larry emailed John Meredith, a retired petroleum geologist and native Houstonian. Larry surmised correctly that John would be interested in being a part of a meaningful project close to home. John, a member of both The Sons of the Republic of Texas and Sons of the American Revolution, agreed to become one of the members of

CCCRP’s Board of Directors.

John soon began helping Jon Edens complete the non-profit’s articles of incorporation and bylaws, and started formulating a master plan for the cemetery’s cleanup. One of the first things he did was to ask his friend Lanny Dreesen, who holds a degree in forestry, to visit the overgrown cemetery and catalogue the plants. “At some point, I started reading about black burial practices,” he says, learning that plants were often transplanted near graves. Nine volunteers attended the CCCRP’s first work day on September 3, 2019. Work was agonizingly slow--for fear of disturbing graves and archaeological evidence, only hand tools were used. As workdays continued and more volunteers participated, additional headstones were discovered, some covered beneath soil or broken by tree roots. One had a tree growing through the headstone. Volunteers also found numerous rusted steel markers which once contained information about the deceased written on paper and covered with glass. Regrettably, time and nature have obliterated the names on all but three. Many burial objects—like seashells, broken pieces of pottery and ornate glassware—were found.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

Art

63RD ANNUAL FACULTY EXHIBITION

October 16 – November 23

Artists’ Talks | October 20 | 5 p.m. Reception | October 20 | 6 p.m. University Gallery, HFAB Free Admission

Music

FALL ALL CHOIRS CONCERT

November 1 | 7:30 p.m.

Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

Theatre & Musical Theatre AMERICAN SON

By Christopher Demos-Brown

November 1 & 3 | 7:30 p.m.

November 5 | Matinee | 2 p.m. Showcase Theatre, UTC

Theatre & Musical Theatre

BETRAYAL

By Harold Pinter

November 2, 4, & 5 | 7:30 p.m. Showcase Theatre, UTC

Music

SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CONCERT

November 3 | 7:30 p.m. Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

Dance SENIOR STUDIO

November 3 – 5 | 8 p.m. Dance Theater, GPAC

College of Arts & Media CAM ARTIST SERIES: HARMONIA STELLARUM HOUSTON, TALES OF ICARUS AND APOLLO

Music by Bononcini, Štěpán, and Handel

November 5 | 7:30 p.m. Recital Hall, GPAC

Music

WIND ENSEMBLE AND SYMPHONIC BAND CONCERT

November 15 | 7:30 p.m. Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

Mass Communication 7TH ANNUAL MASS COMMUNICATION COMMON READER FILM FESTIVAL

November 16 | 6 p.m. Olson Auditorium, AB IV Free Admission Theatre & Musical Theatre ANTIGONE

Freely adapted by Emily Mann from the play by Sophocles

November 17 – 19 | 7:30 p.m.

November 19 | Matinee | 2 p.m. Erica Starr Theatre, UTC Music

JAZZ ENSEMBLE AND JAZZ LAB BANDS CONCERT

November 22| 7:30 p.m. Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

FOR TICKETS & INFORMATION

shsutickets.com | 936.294.2339

To view our full list of events, visit shsu.edu/CAM

Soon, workers learned that almost every time they found a gardenia plant, there was a grave nearby. “There started to be this relationship that came out with that particular plant,” John says.

With the motto of “Do no harm,” the dense undergrowth was carefully removed over the next three years. Several techniques were used to locate graves, including cadaver dogs, ground penetrating radar, and metal detectors. In addition, John studied the soil survey of the area so he could identify lower ground layers sitting on the surface—evidence that a grave had been dug. He also used a two-foot probe to feel for burial objects. “Once you do it enough, you get a feel whether it’s glass, a root or a headstone,” John says. He also learned that shallow depressions often indicated the presence of a grave.

Although several graves mentioned on the Wright survey have not yet been located, seven graves not mentioned on the survey have been found. By 2019, volunteers had found only 24 marked and 17 unmarked graves, but the CCCRP now suspects there are about 200 graves dating back to the 1800s. “There are 47 where we know at least the initials of the person--another 150 where we may never know who that person is,” John says.

With financial help from the Montgomery County Historical Commission, “unknown grave” markers have been erected. Headstones are being restored. Some are broken; others are mostly illegible. Legible headstones, however, have prompted research about the individuals interred in the cemetery. In some cases, descendants of those people have been contacted, including James Pitts III, who is thrilled by the CCCRP’s efforts. “I really appreciate what they’ve done,” he says.

John notes that many influential people were buried in the cemetery, including community activists and three esteemed educators: Mittie Turner Campbell was the founder and principal of the first AfricanAmerican public school in Conroe; Jacob Cozier was a pastor and teacher; the State of Texas recognized James Pitts Sr. as the leading African-American educator in Texas in 1942.

Learning from the past

In 2011, most locals had no idea there was an overgrown cemetery on North 10th Street, but the cemetery now has a fence and a sign for the first time in 128 years, and all three and a half acres have been cleared. “I get goosebumps thinking about it,” Jon Edens says.

“Both our County Historical Commission and the Texas Historical Commission are thrilled by the good work done by Jon Edens, John Meredith, and the committed volunteers serving on the CCCRP,” Larry says. (The Montgomery County Historical Commission recognized Jon Edens and John Meredith for distinguished service in 2020.) In 2021, Conroe Community Cemetery was designated a Texas Historic Cemetery by the Texas Historic Commission, and Larry promises the cemetery will one day receive a Texas Historic Marker. “It is inspiring to see people of all ages, races, and cultural backgrounds come together to restore the old cemetery,” he says.

Volunteers seem to find fulfillment in the task. After spending countless hours working alongside diverse people, John Meredith values the friendships he has made. “When you get out there and talk to people face to face, you find how much we have in common,” he says. “There is more that unites us than divides us.”

For more information, visit cccrp.org.

NEWT loved by Kalli Russell

GIA loved by John & Molly Cole

MISS HEIDI loved by Mike, Crystal & Claire Jackson

By Kim VanWagner, D.V.M.

Things to Know Before Diabetes

Did you know there are ways to prevent your pet from getting diabetes? Is your pet susceptible to diabetes? Why do some animals get diabetes and others do not? What exactly is diabetes?

No better time to learn about diabetes and increase awareness than during National Diabetes Month in November. Diabetes, or diabetes mellitus, is a condition where the body cannot use its glucose properly. Glucose is necessary as the main source of energy for the body’s cells. Normally, sugars are absorbed into the blood during digestion and then transported to the cells using insulin. When glucose is too high in the blood, some will spill over into the urine, drawing a lot of water with it. This causes a state of “dehydration,” which leads to an increase in drinking and urination. When the cells miss out on their glucose or energy, they become starved and start breaking down fat and muscle tissue so the liver can make the sugar needed for the cells, hence causing weight loss.

Diabetic dogs range anywhere from 4-14 years old, with an average age of 7-10 years old. Cats are typically >6 years old. Female dogs are twice as likely to become diabetic as males. Genetics, unfortunately, can also play a role in which pets get diabetes. Certain breeds at higher risk include Miniature Poodles, Bichons Frises,

Pugs, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Puli, Samoyeds, Keeshonds, Australian Terriers, Fox Terriers, Cairn Terriers, and Beagles. Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing diabetes. As pets age, they can develop other diseases that can predispose them to getting diabetes or even cause treatment to be challenging. Such diseases include an overactive thyroid or adrenal glands; inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis); heart disease; and skin, urinary tract, and other infections. Steroids (and even medications containing steroids) are also a huge risk factor.

The best way to prevent diabetes is to feed your pet a well-balanced, healthy diet and provide enough exercise so they don’t become

overweight. Feeding higher calorie foods or insufficient exercise and activity can cause them to become obese. Feeding higher fat foods (including human foods as “snacks” or meals) can overwork the pancreas and lead to pancreatitis. Take pets to see their vet regu larly for yearly physical exams and bloodwork. Bloodwork can help detect changes before symptoms show up, allowing for treatment and lifestyle changes to improve overall longevity and quality of life. Bloodwork that includes evaluation of the pancreas can promote diet change recommendations to help prevent further problems. Limited or cautious use of steroids is a must to help prevent steroid-in duced diabetes. Newer, safer medications exist that can frequently be used to treat allergies and a multitude of skin problems to help minimize side effects and future issues.

If you start seeing your pet drinking more water or needing to get outside more to urinate, a call to your local veterinarian is needed. Better yet, if you notice your pet starting to gain weight, seek advice from your local veterinary team for the best ways to help your pet stay at an ideal body condition score. We can all do our part to help pets stay at their best and improve longevity and quality.

Health

2022 &Health Wellness

At Cameron Optical, we make sure our patients receive the highest quality care and eyecare customer service experience. Dr. Bonnie Cameron and her staff love to invest in new technology to improve treatment outcomes and to direct treatments faster. We ensure our patients see, look, and feel their best!

Do you have “complicated” eyes? At Cameron Optical, we offer more than just routine eye exams. Dr. Cameron specializes in a wide range of quality eyecare, from everyday glasses and contact lens prescriptions to challenging nuero-ophthalmological retinal exams. When seeking a new optometrist, be sure all your eye care needs can be covered in one facility. This can save time, money, and your vision!

In the ever-evolving eyecare industry, we are committed to advance our practice and keep pace with new technology. This helps us and our patients. We have added a new dry therapy--eye intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments. This light technology in our office allows us to provide patients with a non-invasive treatment to help cure the discomfort brought on by dry eye.

The new OptiLight IPL by Lumenis uses light technology to treat inflammation in and under your skin. Inflammation is what causes Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD, commonly known as dry eye). Most of our patients have seen an improvement in their eyes after their first treatment! OptiLight also has some beautifying side effects that are very welcome!

IPL restarts new, younger skin production--allowing for the older, blemished skin to rise to the surface and peel off. Our OptiLight treatment also allows for new collagen production that gives your face a lift, fills in the fine lines, and will allow your eyes to create the oils it needs to function properly. OptiLight also cures age spots and rosacea, rejuvenates skin, repairs scars, and much more! Give us a call or check out our website for more information.

Another exciting technology is AdaptDx. This test can detect macular degeneration five years before we could traditionally discover it! Finding macular degeneration this early can ensure we prevent vision loss. This is an industry first! Cameron Optical is dedicated to stop macular degeneration in its tracks through early detection, protecting against vision loss.

If you need prescription eyeglasses, Cameron Optical has an onsite laboratory. We can make almost any lens and cut it to any frame design you choose. This is an artisan laboratory that creates intricately made eyewear. We use products known to last--some of the most durable products available to the industry. If you have a beautiful frame and want to reuse it, Cameron Optical is the place. And we love to see your timeless frames!

Family Hearing & Sensory Neural Center is a family owned and operated full services Audiology practice, with friendly staff happy to provide quality care and customer service. We specialize in hearing loss prevention, diagnosis and treatment of hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disorders.

We provide customized hearing aid fitting and programming based on diagnostic evaluation of hearing and auditory processing in both quiet and noise. We work with all major brand hearing aids to select the most appropriate hearing aid for our patient’s individual lifestyle and needs.

Family Hearing & Sensory Neural Center was established in 1979 by Dr. Phillip Allred. For over 40 years, Dr. Phillip Allred served Huntsville and surrounding communities’ hearing needs. In 2012, Dr. Christie Cahill returned to Huntsville to practice with her father following the completion of her Doctoral degree in Audiology (AuD) and clinical work with LSU Medical Center Lafayette and The Hearing Center of Lake Charles. Dr. Cahill specializes in hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness/ balance disorders. In 2014, Dr. Cahill took over ownership of the practice and in 2019, Dr. Allred fully retired from the practice.

Dr. Cahill grew up in Huntsville and graduated from Huntsville High School. Following graduation, she spent several years working as the practice’s office manager before pursuing her degree in Audiology.

Dr. Cahill loves the Huntsville area and the people of Huntsville, she believes in the importance of giving back to the community that gave so much to her and is currently giving to her four children.

She enjoys having the opportunity to help improve the lives of the people in this community through better hearing.

“As an Audiologist, I get the privilege of helping people reconnect to the world around them, improve relationships, and allow them to be part of the conversation by helping them hear what they’ve been missing. This is my “why.” I get to change lives daily.”

We are all about Service, Service, Service!!!!!

As a practice, service is our priority. You will always be greeted by a friendly face, sincerely happy to help you and willing to go the extra mile to help.

“I have an amazing staff. They are trained to take care of the patients, so even if I’m not available, they are here to help. They get so many positive reviews from our patients. I don’t think you can find a staff in the medical field that treats patients better.

We understand how important it is to Hear and be part of the conversation. We do our best to work with patients, if our schedule is full and we have a patient who needs quick attention, I will use my lunch hour, or we will stay late to see them.”

Lone Star Family Health Center (LSFHC) is putting “family” in family medicine. LSFHC’s mission is to provide compassionate, affordable healthcare and to prepare tomorrow’s family medicine professionals. The health center is a is a full-service, state-of-the-art family health center, nonprofit 501(c)3. From newborn to the elderly, the health center provides services for all ages, from traditional annual checkups to counseling services for youth and adults. In partnership with HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe and Conroe Medical Education Foundation, LSFHC operates the Conroe Family Medicine Residency.

In 2022, Lone Star Family Health Center (LSFHC) celebrated 20 years of providing compassionate, affordable healthcare and preparing tomorrow’s family medicine professionals. LSFHC is recognized as both a federally qualified health center and patient centered medical home, LSFHC is locally governed by a patient-majority volunteer board of directors. LSFHC board members collectively represent the diverse patient population.

Primary care services are delivered by over 60 licensed and certified professionals across five clinic locations in Montgomery and Walker Counties. The flagship facility in Conroe, along with HCA Houston Healthcare Conroe, also serve as training sites for 32 family medicine residents under the Conroe Family Medicine Residency (CFMR) program. Since 1983, the locally run, ACGME accredited residency program has produced over 270 board certified Family Medicine physicians.

LSFHC’s doors are open to everyone - families and children; healthy; and those with preexisting conditions, anyone uninsured, on Medicaid, or with private insurance. The focus is providing access to basic health care services in communities that need them most. LSFHC offers a sliding fee scale to low-income patients, based on household income and family size. Patient fees on the sliding fee scale for medical and dental visits start at $25. Annually, this program provides over $2 million in direct discounts to patients.

In 2021, we provided for over 36,000 individual patients across more than 92,500 visits. LSFHC quality scores related to diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, adult weight screening & follow-up, and cervical cancer screening beat national averages. Approximately 83% of patients have reported household income below 100% of the federal poverty level. LSFHC employs a staff of 220 across 5 locations and invests $29 million annually into the local economy.

In 2022, LSFHC returned to strategic planning, projects and events including an expansion at the Willis location. LSFHC’s signature event, Don’t Miss the Bus (a two-week event focusing on backto-school health services), was held for the fifth year. The event kicked off with a health fair, where nearly 400 guests visited 14 community partners at the Conroe location. The event resulted in 275 well child visits, with 42% of those visits from new patients.

Creekside, where the little things are everything.

They say it’s the little things in life that matter most. We couldn’t agree more! We believe life is defined by simple joys – good food, exciting hobbies, interesting conversations, and something to look forward to each day. In the life of an elder, days should be worry-free and purpose filled. That’s why we work hard to fight away things that may dampen these joys, like boredom and loneliness.

MRC (Methodist Retirement Communities) Creekside, you’ll find superb care that considers the whole person: body, mind and spirit. As Walker County’s only non-profit, faith-based senior living community, you won’t just see the difference when you walk through our doors, you’ll feel it. Creekside has been a part of Huntsville for more than 35 years, and we are proud to serve Walker County seniors for many years to come. Come experience the MRC Difference at Creekside for yourself.

We Can Overcome.” The mission of Physical Therapy

has always been to enable patients who walk through their

to leave with improved skills and abilities, able to perform tasks that may have been lost, and to enjoy as pain-free a lifestyle as possible.

Dallas Williams states, “We consider ourselves to be an outpatient

with therapists who have great diagnostic abilities

are specialized in a wide variety of skills. They constantly work as a team to solve problems and provide our patients with excellent care.”

people think physical therapy is only needed for postsurgical conditions; however, the top conditions treated at Physical Therapy Associates address back, neck, knee, and shoulder pain, as well as balance issues. Aquatic therapy with a certified therapist is available at both the Huntsville and Conroe locations where a therapist can work alongside the patient in the pool. As Dallas says, “We try to fix the problem before surgery is necessary.”

936-232-2493

North-Houston

1433 Veterans

TX 77340 936-439-4700

jnickell@mrcaff.org

22nd

TX 77340

Stormie Caldwell - Senior

At Oasis Senior Advisors North Houston, FREE services assist in locating and understanding senior living options, which can be overwhelming and confusing. Oasis Senior Advisors North Houston is here to help simplify the process.

I help seniors and families find the senior living solution that is right for them. I work with you every step of the way, making the process simple and easy. Oasis Senior Living is HIPPA compliant (all client information is kept private). Best of all, there is never a cost for these services.

Services include consultation identifying personal preferences; reviewing funding options for low monthly housing costs; providing a personalized list of housing options; and touring preferred communities with clients. Our goal is to help you select your community and move in with ease!

Directory

15260 Hwy 105 W. Suite 127 Montgomery, TX 77356 936-448-1200

TX 77304

1020 Riverwood Ct., Suite 120 Conroe, TX 77304 936-494-1292

936-232-2493 oasissenioradvisors.com/North-Houston scaldwell@youroasisadvisor.com

From the Mouths of Babes...

After reprimanding my husband for not doing the dishes, our daughter comes into the room and asks, “Mami, why are you yelling at my Poppa? You know he is a good boy and he loves US very much... Please apologize and next time use your inside voice.”

Jada, age 3

X: Look Mommy, those are some big storm clouds! We might be getting a tomato!

Me: ..a what..?

X: A tomato! It might destroy our house!

Me: You mean a tornado?

X: Yes that’s what I said, a tomato!

Xavier

“After watching me make several attempts to connect a TV to Wi-Fi, bypass some kind of game system, and try to find something for her to watch - my four year old granddaughter leaned in to her Mom and whispered “I just don’t think grannies are very smart.” I died laughing.

Isabelle Skiles, age 4

One of our college age daughters took our youngest daughter Gracie to Dairy Queen for an after school snack. When she got home, Gracie asked if she could have a snack. Her dad said, “Didn’t you just have ice cream for snack?” Gracie looked at him and said, “Sue me.”

Kelli Stevens

Step

Ingredients

2 cups fresh cranberries, ground

1 ½ cups sugar

1 cup celery, finely chopped

1 cup pecans, chopped

1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained and chopped

1 pkg orange Jell-O (6 oz)

3 cups warm water

Tips: For a reduced-sugar cranberry sauce, use half the amount of sugar called for, then taste and add more as needed.

Directions

Step 1: Grind cranberries in food processor. Add sugar, stir and let stand.

Step 2: Drain mandarin oranges well and chop in food processor for 1-2 seconds. Chop pecans and celery.

Step 3: Dissolve Jell-O in warm water and chill until partially set.

Step 4: Stir in cranberry/sugar mixture, oranges, celery and pecans. Chill until firm.

Conroe

Funded in part by a grant from the City of Conroe.

Ruth Fields Writer

Aunt Doris’

Tomato Gravy

Ingredients

1 can (28 oz)

1

1

sugar

1

salt

taste

or diced

Directions

Step 1: Put all ingredients in a heavy saucepan and bring to a boil.

Step 2: Lower heat and let simmer, stirring constantly until the tomatoes are cooked down to a gravy consistency.

Gregg’s Fried Turkey

Ingredients

10-12 lb turkey

1/2 c Worcestershire sauce

2 sticks butter

1/4 c rib rub or brisket rub (we use Reo’s)

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp hickory smoked salt

1/2 c honey

Directions

Step 1: Melt and mix ingredients together. Place into injector and inject turkey all over.

Step 2: Heat peanut oil in an outside fryer to 300 degrees. Carefully place turkey in fryer. Cooking time is 3 minutes per pound.

Cook’s Note: Serve with turkey and dressing. Or just put it

everything

your plate!

Step 3: Carefully remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Jennifer Abbrat Account Representative

Nancy Jolly Account Representative

Things my Grandaddy said...

Every generation revolts against its fathers and makes friends with its grandfathers. -Lewis Mumford

There are fathers who do not love their children; there is no grandfather who does not adore his grandson. -Victor Hugo

Coffee is best when it’s saucered and blowed.

Grandpa got us up early, otherwise we might miss something. Sunsets, he loved’em. Made us love’em. -Lucille Ball

If at first you don’t succeed, try raising rabbits.

Grandparenting is our consummate opportunity to serve rather than to be served, to love without taking offense, and to cheerlead and handhold those who come behind. -Marty Norman

The world could use a good worry-wart remover.

Estate

Story by Darlene Dufour Photos by Tom Miller

Jody Czajkoski Mitchell Oxman

MHW Real Estate (MHW) is one of Texas’ newest and most dynamic leaders of real estate investment, construction and development, and commercial brokerage. Their team creates custom innovative plans specific to each client to meet their prerequisites, monetary conditions, expectations, and goals. This growing portfolio includes over $1 billion in industrial parks, medical office buildings, retail centers, and residential housing communities. The company’s diverse team of industry experts includes a combined 75 years of industry experience, which allows MHW to provide exceptional service, start to finish, in all aspects of real estate.

From brokerage to property management, MHW Real Estate is a principal’s stress-free solution. MHW simultaneously focuses on the present and looks to the future to offer superior service at a reasonable cost, which creates long-lasting, fruitful relationships. MHW’s drive for innovation, coupled with their tireless commitment, helps ensure delivery every time.

Leading the charge are MHW’s three Principals: Jody Czajkoski, Mitchell Oxman, and Stephanne Davenport. Each are commercial real estate experts, contributing robust experience (as well as communityminded leadership) to the team. Czajkoski is Conroe’s current mayor, and Davenport is a former treasurer for Montgomery County.

Davenport describes the company as a “one-stop boutique firm, servicing all your commercial needs.” She is also MHW’s Chief Operating Officer, responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day operations from the primary goal of investors and investor relations to sales and brokerage, development and construction, contract negotiations, contractors and vendors, and financial reporting and banking relationships.

Oxman offers clients and investors four decades of commercial real estate development experience, as well as an entrepreneurial spirit, with a track record of transforming investments into profits.

He serves as an active force in identifying, financing, and refining viable projects--from concept through fruition--for the company’s clients. “We find a need and fill it,” he shares. Czajkoski launched MHW in 2011. The name comes from his vision of doing business in Montgomery, Harris, and Walker Counties. Bringing a fresh perspective to his years of brokerage, construction, development, and investment of commercial real estate, he gives more than lip-service when it comes to improving the community he loves.

The investment branch of MHW believes in beginning with the end in mind and provides a variety of investment opportunities uniquely tailored for each investor. Collectively, the team possesses years of experience and accomplishments, bringing their clients security and success in joint ventures, partnership syndications, and investment properties.

MHW’s Property Management provides clients

“Upon

as well

may

Stephanne Davenport

Montgomery County, and Conroe is the place for growing businesses to be.” Relocated to downtown Conroe on 336 North Main Street, their historic 11,000 square foot building has been completely rehabilitated, but some aspects of the building’s antique charm remain. “We did that without city funds or federal or state tax incentives--simply good, oldfashioned hard work,” Czajkoski said.

MHW’s latest projects include Summerwood Trails, Glenwood Villas, and Lake Shore Cove II, located on the waterfront of Lake Conroe. Summerwood Trails is situated in Willis, Texas on over 60 acres of residential land. MHW has effectively developed and sold over 200 residential lots and will begin the development of the third phase in 2023. The property lies less than one mile from Lake Conroe and is only four miles west of Interstate 45. There is a tremendous demand for developed lots in the price range established in Conroe and Willis.

MHW’s Glenwood Villas development on Lewis Street includes about 22,500 square feet of land near Downtown Conroe. This urban redevelopment project took only 18 months and included 6 attached single-family homes which feature three bedrooms, two baths, and a garage.

Lake Shore Cove II includes 1.46 acres of premier waterfront property now for sale. Located in Lake Conroe’s luxury neighborhood of Lake Shore Cove, this was one of the last waterfront properties for sale in the area. Located across the bay from the best of Lake Conroe’s retail and dining options, the property offers a perfect location for resortstyle living. This second phase of Lake Shore Cove comes on the heels of the success of the first phase, which was purchased in 2019. “The luxury homes in phase one sold instantly because of this incomparable location and MHW’s caliber of luxury homes,” says Oxman. The site is approved for both permanent residences and vacation-rental use.

Below: Summerwood Trails

By James W. Jones, MD, PhD, MHA

a Carefree Reality

In our surrounding material world, which backdrops our reality of existence, everything that happens has a cause. Otherwise, it is magic-and magic is just an entertaining illusion--and illusions are only make-believe. Importantly, our realities are composed of portions that are participatory and portions over which we have no control. Elevate the participatory and lessen the uninvolved.

Our immersive relationship with reality is the collective of all activities we participate in and from which our awareness of patterns and similarities come about. We alter this marvelous reality better if we embrace a successful lifestyle.

Primarily, we are in control of our lives. Even when others are in authority, your choice to obey or not is still paramount. Therefore, we each bear the responsibility for actions determining most of our reality’s happenings. Reality Theory emphasizes that optimizing behaviors from choices that satisfy our needs is paramount to a pleasing lifestyle. SATISFY SELF!

As far back as kindergarten, my mother repeatedly issued the challenge when I achieved something (even if excellent--such as getting an A on tests), “Don’t you truly believe you could have done better? Now, tell me what you will do next time to improve.” YES, REEVALUATE!

Dr. William Glasser, a gifted psychiatrist, created a remarkably brilliant method to examine and adjust one’s personal reality for a more gratifying lifestyle. His method is termed Reality Therapy, because it coaches readjusting decisions and actions for a more splendid daily life. Our emotional tiffs occur because our performance drops beneath our expectations and our life’s needs are not met. BETTER CHOICES!

Morality is an important determinant to guide one’s reality construct. Commit to being a good mate, family person, friend (all relationships), and secure fabulous tomorrows. The quintessential notion producing

good relationships is lowering self’s ego and boosting assessments of others.

Normally, when considering our personal needs, we consider the essential needs of food, shelter, transportation, education, health, and a few others for survival.

The most authoritative needs list I have come across (and generally considered to be the finest) is from a psychologist named Maslow. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs distinguishes their significance. (1) First, physiological needs are the basics-- including food, water, sleep, and sex. OK. (2) Next, we need safety factors, including surroundings and health. (3) The important third need includes love and belonging with family, friends, and romance. (4) Esteem means confidence, respect of others and by others. (5) At the peak, self-actualization is desire to accomplish everything that one can, to become the most that one can be. ARRIVE! Behaviors are examined as organized behaviors to meet your needs in the past, identifying ineffective actions and converting them into reorganized actions that accomplish securing your needs.

Reality Therapy emphasizes the NOW and does not dwell on the past. There is no place for recriminations such as, “If I had only done differently.” NOW is KEY in OUR LIFETIMES!

1-5

Conroe

“RENT” crightontheatre.org

Houston

“The Secret to My Success” tuts.com

Huntsville

“Betrayal” shsutickets.com

Huntsville

“American Son” shsutickets.com

Katy Wild West Brewfest wildwestbrewfest.com

Lone Star Motorcycle Rally lonestarrally.com

wurstfest.com

Bonnie Raitt

smartfinancialcentre.net

Sugar Land

Chris Rock

smartfinancialcentre.net

Huntsville

Elvis Tribute Artist, Travis Powell with Shake Rattle & Roll oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org

Conroe

Rodgers + Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” cythouston.org

Galveston

The Polar Express

galvestonrrmuseum.org

Conroe

Presentation: Living the Layer of Earth mcmga.com

Henderson

Heritage Syrup Festival visithenderson.com

Huntsville

Shake Russell & Michael Hearne oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org

Sugar Land

An Evening of Soul with Patti LaBelle smartfinancialcentre.net

Huntsville

Holiday Market huntsvilleantiqueshow.com

11th Annual Winter Market wcbc.us

4th Annual Fall Festival thewoodlandhills.com

Dia de Los Meurtos visitnacogdoches.org

The Trains at NorthPark thetrainsatnorthpark.com

Huntsville

“Antigone” shsutickets.com

HARMONIA STELLARUM HOUSTON, TALES OF ICARUS AND APOLLO Music by Bononcini,  Štěpán, and Handel

5 | 7:30 p.m. Recital Hall, GPAC

CONCERT December 1 & 2 | 7:30 p.m. Payne Concert Hall, GPAC

To view our full CAM

Series

season, visit SHSUTICKETS.COM

Mustard Seed Moments

by Linda W. Perkins

A Treasury of Memories

As of the writing of this article, it’s been just over a week since my mother left this earth to join Jesus in heaven. In this time of mourning, people have offered their condolences. “I’m so sorry for your loss,” they say. Their words and the sentiments behind them are so kind, because it is true. When loved ones pass away, we do experience a loss of their physical presence in our lives, which can be painful.

One of the comforts I have is knowing my mother is in a better place. After all, there is no greater place than heaven, in the presence of God! The other comfort, however, is knowing what I have not lost, all the memories still in my mind and my heart.

Jesus made a point to say we should store up “heavenly treasure” rather than focusing on earthly possessions we can attain. For one thing, we can’t take them with us. But even more, fancy cars or beautiful clothes we enjoy during our lives will eventually wear out and be destroyed by rust and moths. They won’t last for eternity like the gifts of the Spirit –love, joy, peace.

What we can treasure here on earth are good memories of times spent with our loved ones. For as long as we live, we have an opportunity to store up a “treasury of memories.”

While we are instructed not to live in the past and to make the most of our present circumstances, there is nothing wrong with remembering special moments we have shared with others. Even Jesus said, as he held the last supper with his disciples, to “Do this (again) in remembrance of me.”

What comes to mind when you think of things you could put in your special “treasury of memories”? Perhaps create a special book to write them in, or a box to put individual pieces of paper into, so you can revisit them from time to time. While you’re at it, remember to thank God for the special memories we have that even death can’t take away.

“I thank God every time I remember you.” – Philippians 1:3 (NIV)

“God, whom I serve in my spirit in preaching the gospel of his Son, is my witness how I constantly remember you.” – Romans 1:9 (NIV)

“The memory of the righteous [person] is a [source of] blessing…” –Proverbs 10:7a (AMP)

H H H H H

What our patients are saying about us!

H H H H Love Dr.

Conroe!

H H H H I am so glad I took my son to Cameron

M.

people

find out why my son was having so many

They were extremely thorough with

Bonnie was so nice and made him feel so comfortable during the whole visit. Realizing the situation my son was facing, they went above and beyond to help me be able to get him the lenses he needed to not only stop his headaches, but fix the problem causing it.

stepped in and helped my son get exactly what he needed when I was struggling to figure out how to afford them. I have never met such an amazing group of people with such big hearts! They don’t just treat you as a patient, they treat you with the love and care of a family member. Without them,

son wouldn’t have what he needed. I am eternally grateful for what they did for my family. I will never trust anyone else with

family’s

Speight