Community Calendar - 40
Creative Corner - 9
Dear Gabby - 15
From the Mouths of Babes - 33
Glorious Grandkids - 19
Garden Post, The - 27
Giggles & Grins - 25 Snapshots! - 16 Mustard
Publisher’s Post - 6
Puzzle
Early Detection Starts With Your ANNUAL MAMMOGRAM
The recommended age to start your annual mammogram is 40. Schedule yours today.
At Houston Methodist Breast Care Centers, our board-certified experts use the latest imaging technology to provide you with cutting-edge breast screenings — such as 3D mammograms — to detect even the smallest lumps and abnormalities with accuracy. We offer:
• 10+ convenient locations across Houston
• Online scheduling with readily available appointments
• Expanded hours available at most locations
• Access to medical records and test results through MyChart
Scan the QR code, visit houstonmethodist.org/mammogram or call 346.356.PINK (7465) to schedule your mammogram today.
We do not require a doctor’s order for your annual screening mammogram.
Change
Publisher’s Post
Karen Altom publisher@postcardslive.com
As I’ve shared many times, I am prone to wait until the last minute to turn in my monthly column. As I write this, I am a little overdue. It is now late afternoon, and I had planned to submit it to our editor around noon. In fact, I had it half-written, but put it aside because it could wait.
Life happens. And plans change.
Last night, I had the honor of speaking to a group of ladies at the Celebration Ministry of Christ the King Methodist Church. One of the ladies there gave me the sweetest compliment by telling me although we just met, she felt like she knew me because of this column. I told her I just try to be real, because all of us are “doing life” together. And today has been hard.
One of the things I shared in my talk last night was about the impact we make on others without realizing it. My first cousin Mike Farris made an impact wherever he went. When Mike walked in a room, the atmosphere changed. You immediately broke into a grin…might as well, because without a doubt, a belly-laugh was soon to follow. It never failed. Never.
This morning, a tragic accident claimed Mike’s life, and our family is forever changed.
Mike was a master storyteller. He could make a serious story funny, and a funny story side-splitting! He could imitate a myriad of real-life characters, as well as some who were so unique you would swear he made them up. Mike loved his family ferociously and protected them with everything he had. If he loved you, he would do anything he could to help you.
If you spent more than five minutes with Mike, you were bound to hear about his girls. Reygan and Riley were the pride of his life. Working with them, showing horses with them, traveling with them, and especially embarrassing them, made his world go ‘round. None of us can imagine life without him.
The holidays will be hard without his laughter. Our annual Farris family breakfast will be missing a big personality. We will hug each other a little tighter and linger together a little longer.
If you have that chance with your family, I hope you do, too.
Until next time,
~Karen
Creative Corner
A Different Family
by Rick Smith
I have family that doesn’t share my last name. They know my struggles, they know my pain, and still they love me all the same. We don’t share the same house or even the same town, but they are always there for me through my ups and my downs.
I don’t have this family because I’m rich or super nice.
I have this family because of Christ. He knows life is a battle and all warriors need a hand, so He blessed us with this family to love and understand. Thank you God for my family that doesn’t share my last name, because without them my life would never be the same.
Texas Remodel Team replaced all 30 of the windows in our home. They finished the project ahead of schedule and the price quoted was what we paid. Additionally, with the exception of beautiful new windows, we couldn't tell they had been there - there was no trace of a mess! Thank you Tim and team. You are beyond professional! Please feel free to use us as a reference.
Community Builders
Story by Katherine E. Stephens
Photos by Tom Miller
Fall Book Sale at Central Library
Library Friends of Conroe Host Annual Book Sale
Attention all book lovers: Montgomery County Central Library in Conroe is holding its annual book sale October 3rd – 5th. The Friends of Conroe Library, an independent organization, has been working hard, putting time and care into
this event, as they strive to not only sell books for library funds, but also contribute to the community as a whole. Jo Ann Strauss, President of Library Friends of Conroe, and Cherie Murphy, Vice President, have filled us in on all the details!
With excitement and gratitude, they’re hoping you won’t miss out on the big sale! All proceeds go to the Montgomery Country Central Library to help continue to grow their book collection and continue to provide fun events for the community.
Friends Volunteers: Cherie, Karen, Rhea (director), JoAnn, Diane, Audrey
Montgomery County Central Library 104 Interstate 45N, in Conroe
Thursday, October 3, 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Friday, October 4, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Saturday, October 5, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
** For an additional $5, you can get early access to the book sale on Thursday Oct. 3, starting at 3 pm! **
Get your cash ready! Cash and checks (with proper ID) only!
Fall is Here! A Book in Hand, Sure Sounds Grand!
C.S. Lewis once said, “You can never get a cup of tea large enough, or a book long enough to suit me.” With fall in full swing, you will need not only to stock up on your hot teas, soup ingredients, and harvest candle scents…you will also be needing to add to your book collection! A book in hand, a hot
A Book for Everyone
If you can find a quarter, you can help a child extend their vocabulary and broaden their imagination by purchasing a book for them! For only 25 cents, you can buy any children’s book available at the book sale. And while you’re there, you can find something for yourself, too! Adult books price caps at $1! Novels, cookbooks, biographies...you
cup of tea, and a blanket is the scene many long for as the weather starts changing from hot (way too hot, am I right?) to cooler temperatures. Montgomery County Central Library’s book sale is here to help you get those much-desired books, and at prices as low as 25 cents. With prices this good, you could leave with enough books to fill a whole bookshelf at home!
name it. This book sale will have a book for everyone. With endless options awaiting, Jo Ann Strauss shares, “We have all books. We have a whole room dedicated to children’s books and young adults. In the large meeting room, we have everything from history to crafts, educational material, art material, sports, animals, cookbooks, religion...that’s the non-fiction room. One whole hallway
is dedicated to fiction. We have them alphabetized. If someone likes Patricia Cornwell, or [James] Patterson…it’s easy for them to go and look through our tubs.”
Needing a book for school? The classics have been popular in years past, as high school students often are in need of classic novels for literature assignments. Why buy a new book when you can help out your local library and get the book for such a great price?
True Labor of Love
Jo Ann, Cherie, and the whole group of volunteers are thrilled to be having the book sale once again, and are equally happy with the help from the community that pours in. “From ROTC, to Boy Scouts,
to National Honor Society…it’s phenomenal – those kids help with unloading and organization. We have two volunteers who are 82. The majority of us are in our sixties and seventies. We have to work around our creaking bones and bad shoulders and weak knees,” Cherie laughingly says, “so having the kids has really been a Godsend.”
Jo Ann adds, “I think it’s good for kids to know they are a part of a community. They know they are welcome, and they are appreciated. We tell them this is a good thing they are doing.”
Last year, Library Friends of Conroe counted nearly 750 boxes of books for the book sale! This year’s count is adding up to be comparable. With books stacked tall, taking up a whole room in the library, Cherie
and Jo Ann feel very thankful to Montgomery County Library Director, Reah Young. Jo Ann shares, “She has been extremely supportive with our closet where we have hundreds and hundreds of boxes. She said she’d do anything to help us out. She sees the value in what we do and what we do for the library. We work very well together. They have a treasure in her – and so do we.”
The Library Friends of Conroe
Since 1994, Library Friends of Conroe has been hosting book sales at the Montgomery County Memorial Library System to help the community enjoy the libraries to the fullest. This year marks thirty years of friendship – and thirty years of fun community engagement within the library system. From magicians to children’s programs and the summer reading program, to Santa making an appearance in the winter, there is a constant intentional effort to bring people into the library.
President Jo Ann Strauss and VP Cherie Murphy, along with their whole Library Friends of Conroe group, are thrilled to
be seeing the book sale come around again this year. They prepare all year by receiving book donations. The Book Nook in the Conroe Library is where you can find them most days, as they are receiving book donations from kind readers who are parting ways with adored books. Puzzles are also a fan favorite, so don’t hesitate to donate a puzzle you are willing to part with! Receiving donations, selling books, doing silent auctions, and making friends with those who come and go—Library Friends of Conroe aim to build up the library and bring the community together by friendship and love of books. All proceeds go back into the library so it can continue to thrive!
Join in on this community labor of love by showing support to your local library.
Now, hurry-hurry, fast-fast. Go find your new favorite book at the book sale!
As J.K. Rowling says, “If you don’t like to read, you haven’t found the right book.”
For more information on the Library Friends of Conroe, email LFOC.booknook@gmail.com.
Dear Gabby
Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Our national holiday this month is Columbus Day on Monday, October 14. What season is it? It’s sweater in the morning to sweating in the afternoon season. No matter the temperature, get used to pumpkin-spiced everything starting in October! I think it’s a law. Over the years, you may have deduced my housekeeping style is best described as, “There appears to have been a struggle.” That’s why I love Halloween decorating. The cobwebs are already there! Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive. com/share.
DEAR GABBY
Halloween is just around the corner, and I am in the throes of making my home look
appropriately festive without floating a loan. I’m also trying to think of a costume that can make this “over the hill” body of mine look party-worthy. What would you do?
CLUELESS
DEAR UP
I’ve already shared my cobweb decoration plan. Throw in a pumpkin or two from the dollar store, and you’ve got this. I have faced up to the fact my body is no longer a temple; it is more of a haunted house. It needs a lot of work, makes creaking sounds, and there are random odd screams on occasion. Here’s what I’d do for a costume. Very flattering! Make a round cardboard circle a couple of feet in diameter and pick up a round tablecloth while you’re at the dollar store. Cut a hole big enough for your
head in the center of the cardboard and place it on your shoulders. Now, cut a hole in the tablecloth and cover your “table” with it. Add a small thrift store lamp and clock radio and go as a “one night stand”. Have fun!
GABBY
CONFIDENTIAL TO “SURVIVAL ADVICE”: Never insult the crocodile until after you have crossed the river.
Fun on Lake Conroe! Submitted by Bonnie Brice
Ball time! Submitted by Bonnie Brice
Dew kiss on a Rose submitted by Charlie Moore
Summer fun submitted by Scott Williams
Let’s Celebrate!
This Month’s Business Anniversaries:
McKenzies BBQ
Celebrating 29 years
Founded 1995
See their ad on page 42
Kelly Lawson
Celebrating 14 years
Founded 2010
See their ads on pages 22
All American Turf Solutions
Celebrating 4 years
Founded 2020
See their ads on pages 11
Glorious Grandkids
Lavina Grandchild of Iris & Jesus Campa
Branch Grandchild of Lolli & Pop
Ezra Jude Blair Grandchild of Joel & Carrie Blair
Do You Know?
Story by Ruth Fields
Station 94
Not all responders use roads to reach the scene of an emergency.
Several years ago, a man was fishing on Lake Conroe in the middle of the night when he noticed a car in the water near a boat ramp. When he called 9-1-1, Montgomery County ESD 1 Fire Station 94 was alerted. Lt. Joseph Murphy remembers being awoken from a deep sleep, dashing with his crew to the station’s fireboat while putting on diving gear, and plunging into 40-degree water. The rescue crew soon discovered there was a woman in the car, and there was only a small pocket of air left. The woman was understandably distraught, and Murphy remembers that she grabbed onto his hands with a vise-like grip. “Her rings left blood blisters on my hands,” he says.
Photos by Tom Miller
Although it was a dramatic scene, it was not out of the ordinary. Fire Station 94 is located on the shore of Lake Conroe, with a fireboat docked just a few steps away; therefore, crews are not surprised when their duties include water rescues. “A lot of stuff that people don’t think happens, happens,” Murphy says.
A unique fire station
Fire Station 94 is one of eight stations within Montgomery County ESD 1, which serves the 200 square miles in the northeastern portion of Montgomery County, including Lake Conroe. Station 94, located about four miles west of I-45 on FM 1097, is the only fire station with direct lake access. It is equipped with a fire engine, a booster truck (for putting out brush fires), and a fireboat.
Before Station 94 was operational, emergency personnel had to drive to a nearby dock to launch a fireboat, slowing their overall response time. In 2011, Fire Station 94 opened, operating out of a temporary metal building; in 2013, the station’s permanent structure was completed. Today, thanks to Station 94, emergency personnel can respond to emergencies on the lake faster.
When Station 94 is alerted, a remote-control device lowers the station’s fireboat into the water. Meanwhile, it takes well-practiced crews just five minutes to put on all or most of their dive gear (including wet [or dry] suits and buoyancy compensator devices [BCDs]) and jump on the boat. It then dashes to the scene of the emergency, slicing through the water at speeds of up to 52 miles per hour. In water no colder than 70 degrees, Murphy explains, there is a chance of rescue if emergency personnel can complete their efforts within a 60-minute window. Being able to be in the boat within five minutes helps meet this goal.
“Station 94 can get there faster. Most other agencies have to drive to the boat; our crews walk to the boat about 100 feet,” says Chief Jason Oliphant. “We have gotten pretty efficient,” Murphy agrees. “If we have good information, we can get the job done within 60 minutes.”
Phone technology also assists in quick response times. A cellphone, when used to make a 911 call, has the ability to provide responders with a GPS location of the emergency. Watercraft sometimes drift, but if the caller gives an accurate description of the boat, crews can usually find the site of an emergency quickly.
The station’s new 37-foot Munson is equipped with dive gear, fast boards (floating backboards) and a pump that allows lake water to be sprayed at 550 gallons per minute, reaching a distance of about 50 yards from the boat. It replaced a 32-foot Boston Whaler, which is now undergoing repairs. When completed, the Boston Whaler will become a backup to the Munson. “Our goal is to have both boats in the water during busy weekends on the lake,” Oliphant says. Emergencies on land and water
Station 94 might be alerted for a variety of emergencies on the water, such as boat wrecks and boats that are disabled or taking on water. Sometimes, crises are created when people go out on the lake in stormy weather. In addition, some people choose not to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) while they enjoy time on the lake. Wearing a PFD greatly lessens the chance of drowning, Murphy says, noting that Station 94 has not encountered a drowning victim who was wearing a PFD.
While fires on boats are rare, medical crises are not. Murphy estimates that 80 percent of Station 94’s calls are generated because of medical emergencies, whether on land or water. Every crew member assigned to Station 94 is dive qualified and trained to rescue people in up to 60 feet of water; however, crews are just as capable on land. Crew members are trained to fight fires and respond to medical emergencies, wherever they occur.
To make sure every lake emergency has the best chance for a good outcome, rescue groups—including Station 94, the Marine Division of Precinct 1 Constable’s Office, Conroe Fire Department, Montgomery Fire Department and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department—work together. Segments of the county are served by different emergency response teams, Oliphant explains, but the “imaginary line” that separates these areas on Lake Conroe is blurred. It is necessary, therefore, for first responders to work
together. “We cooperate well with other agencies,” Murphy says.
All these entities are trained for water rescues; however, Station 94 has three Public Safety Divers on duty at all times. In a worst-case scenario, when a body needs to be recovered, the divers at Station 94— augmented by some of the other 45 divequalified fire fighters in the district—initiate a recovery mission. Lake Conroe is considered to be “black water,” Murphy says, because of zero visibility 15 feet beneath the surface. Responders use SONAR (sound navigation and ranging) to help them recover bodies and evidence, as well as a pivot board, which was custom-made for Station 94 at a nearby machine shop. The device allows divers to thoroughly search the water in a 50-foot circle, expanding the distance incrementally.
Heroes to the rescue
A few years ago, a near-drowning incident inspired Murphy, then a firefighter, to continue his education to include water rescues and recoveries. A three-year-old boy—the same age as Murphy’s son—barely survived, but years later, he still visits Station 94 to show his appreciation. Today, Murphy’s list of credentials is long. He is a Public Safety Diver Instructor certified through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and is working toward his Master Public Safety Diver certification. Because Murphy and other divers assigned to Station 94 are so highly trained, much of the dive training of personnel assigned to Montgomery County ESD 1 takes place at Station 94. “We have
become very self-sufficient,” he says.
Since its inception, crews at the station have responded to countless calls. Fortunately, many of those alerts have resulted in happy endings. Drake Bearden, a driver/operator, has vivid memories of the time a person stopped by Station 94 to report a driverless boat floating near the FM 1097 bridge. Boats sometimes slip their moorings, so the crew was not surprised. They responded quickly.
“The lake was real choppy, with six foot swells,” Bearden says. The crew looked thoroughly along the shoreline for the boat, but did not find it; however, being extra cautious paid off. While searching for the boat, they discovered a man stranded on the bulkhead, unable to get out of the water and nearing exhaustion. “We took our time going across the shoreline and that’s when we saw him,” Bearden says.
As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes.
B. Miranda & D. Bearden
Lieutenant Murphy
Texas Mushroom Festival
Event
Schedule
7:30am - 8:30am Shiitake 5k & Lil’ Shiitake Registration Open
8:30am Shiitake 5k Run/Walk Starts
9:30am Lil’ Shiitake Kids Mile Starts
10:00am - 5:00pm Festival Open to Public
10:00am - 1:00pm Chase Kimey Playing in Taste of Texas Tent
10:00am - 2:00pm Monterey Mushrooms Serving Mushroom Fajitas w/ Mushroom Picking Contest every other hour
10:00am - 4:00pm Silent Auction Open
11:00 am Photo Contest Winners Announced
12:00pm Auto Showcase Vote Tally BeginsAwards to follow
1:00pm - 5:00pm Risky Liver Playing in Taste of Texas Tent
4:00pm Beer & Wine People’s Choice Awards
By Kim Bius
October is a Magical Month for Gardening
October is a magical month for southeast Texas gardeners. The heat has broken, and temperatures are mild. The mornings are crisp, and it is a great time to be in the garden.
For the newcomer to our area, we are blessed with two full planting seasons: spring and fall, where the weather is inviting. Yes, you can plant outside these seasons, but not when the ground is frozen or temps are above 100-you actually can, but it is a ton of work.
Late September and into October is the
perfect time to plant azaleas, camellias, gardenias, trees and non-drought tolerant plants that will benefit from 8 months of root establishment before the heat of summer returns in late May.
Azaleas, camellias, and gardenias are acid lovers, and Walker and the counties to our south and east offer the perfect growing conditions. Counties to the north and west are in post oak territory with a more alkaline soil (which can be amended and treated with acid).
Azaleas can tolerate direct afternoon heat as long as they are receiving consistent watering three times a week during the spring and fall, four times a week the first summer in the ground, and twice a week in winter. Azaleas will also do well in half-day morning sun and shady in the afternoon. Camellias, on the other hand, require morning sun and shady conditions after 1:00. There is not a camellia that will tolerate west sun…no matter how many times you try. Gardenias require 2/3-
day direct sun to full sun. Gardenias will tolerate a half day of direct sun, but your bloom ratio will decrease to a few sporadic blooms.
Azaleas, camellias, and gardenias come in several sizes: dwarfs 2’ and under (Gumpo azaleas); semi dwarfs – 2.5’-3’ max (dwarf gardenias, large selection of azaleas and Shi Shi camellias); 3’ – 5’ range offers a large selection of azaleas, and camellias will stay in this range for a few years; 6’+ Sasanqua and Japonica camellias, August Beauty gardenia and Southern Indica azaleas (Formosa varieties).
These plant species also require a nutrientrich raised bed with good drainage (the bed should be raised 3” above grade--improves the drainage in our clay soils). While we are discussing, ensure you plant the root ball of woody stemmed shrubs 1” above grade also. This will decrease the probability of planting at the soil level and the plant “falling” below grade and killing the shrub.
It is also time to plant wildflower seed. Choose a high sun area that will not be disturbed by mowing, allowing the wildflowers to drop their seed to return next season (the timeframe generally translates to mowing in late May). Apply winterizer 3 weeks before the first frost, which generally translates to between Halloween and mid-November. The higher potassium promotes more cold tolerance and hardiness. Happy fall gardening!
Azaleas
Gardenias
PATCHES
CHARLIE
What’s Cookin’
Plum Almond Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
Browned Butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Topping
5 Tbs unsalted butter
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
3-4 Italian plums, pitted and thinly sliced
Cake Batter
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup white sugar
|3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups superfine blanched almond flour
3 large eggs
1 Tbs freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp almond extract, or to taste
1 tsp vanilla extract
6 Tbs all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking powder
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously butter a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Place 1/2 cup butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until butter is browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Pour browned butter into a large mixing bowl; allow to cool for at least 10 minutes.
Step 3: For topping, place 5 tablespoons butter in the same saucepan you browned the butter in; allow residual heat to melt it (or melt over very low heat). Pour melted butter into the prepared cake pan; sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently mix ingredients together in the pan, then spread into an even layer. Arrange sliced plums over the butter-sugar mixture in a circular pattern, gently but firmly pressing the plums into the mixture, until the bottom of the pan is evenly covered. Set aside.
Step 4: For cake: to the bowl with browned butter, add brown sugar, white sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until combined. Stir in almond flour until incorporated (mixture will be grainy). Add in eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition with an electric mixer. After last egg has been added, beat mixture for 3 minutes on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Beat in lemon juice, vanilla, and almond extracts. Reduce speed and stir in flour and baking powder until just combined. Pour batter over the plums; spread gently in an even layer.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven until cake is evenly browned and the center of the cake springs back when lightly touched, 45-55 minutes.
Step 6: Cool cake in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a serving platter. Gently peel off parchment paper and allow cake to cool completely before serving.
Slaw of Many Colors
Ingredients
1 med head red cabbage, chopped (10 cups)
1 med green bell pepper, seeded and chopped (1 cup)
1 med onion, chopped (1 cup)
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
1 large tomato, chopped (1 3/4 cups)
Directions
Step 1: Combine cabbage, green pepper, and onion in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, powdered sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour dressing over vegetables, tossing well to combine. Cover and chill at least 2 hours to allow everything to marinate.
Step 2: When ready to serve, gently stir in tomato and season to taste with additional salt and pepper. (Chill, covered, up to 5 days.)
State Fair Lemonade
Ingredients
6 lemons
1 ¼ cups white sugar
5 cups cold water
Directions
Step 1: Wash lemons and peel off all the zest using a vegetable peeler; set peeled lemons aside. Add lemon zest to a bowl and cover with sugar; toss to combine. Cover and let sit for a minimum of 2 hours, or up to overnight.
Step 2: Bring water to a boil in a pot over high heat; turn off heat and pour in lemon-sugar mixture. Stir and let sit until sugar is completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Pour through a mesh strainer back into the same bowl and discard the zest. Let cool to room temperature, 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Cut lemons in half and squeeze juice into the bowl. Pour lemonade into a serving pitcher; cover and chill thoroughly before serving over ice, at least 2 hours.
Ingredients
3 Tbs white sugar
¼ tsp cumin
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground ginger
1 pinch cayenne pepper
2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds, washed and dried cooking spray
2 tsp salt, or to taste
1 Tbs olive oil
2 Tbs white sugar
Directions
Step 3: Place the pumpkin seeds on the prepared baking sheet, spray them with cooking spray, and sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake seeds until lightly golden, 20-25 minutes.
Step 1: Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together 3 tablespoons of sugar, the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper, and set aside.
Step 4: Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, and stir in the toasted pumpkin seeds along with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook and stir the seeds until the sugar forms a coating on the seeds, 2-3 minutes. Stir the caramelized seeds into the bowl of sugar-spice mixture, toss to coat, and let cool.
YOUR PATH TO PEACEFUL RESOLUTION
Mediations, including Business Conflicts, Property Disagreements, Contract Disputes, Family Disputes, and more may allow:
Achievement of a fair resolution without the need for prolonged litigation. Savings on legal fees and court costs. Resolving disputes faster than traditional court proceedings.
Clients having a say in the final agreement, unlike a court judgment. Keeping things private and confidential.
Mike Park
From the Mouths of Babes
Mom, why do they call them jet skis? Shouldn’t they be called boatercycles?
Today, my daughter called me “Birth Person.” I replied, “Yes, Financial Drain.”
Kid: Mom, it’s a hecka storm out there!!!
Mom: Oh, really? What are we gonna do?
Kid: We’re gonna leave it out there!
I can’t stand smart kids. I just asked this girl, “Hey, why aren’t koalas considered bears?” and she hits me with, “They’re marsupials.” Cool it, nerd. The answer to the joke is, “They don’t have the koalafications.”
A 3-year-old went into the room where his mother was nursing a baby. He watched a minute, then said, “Is that other one orange juice?”
Stage Right
This “cast and crew” breathes life into the Crighton Theatre, adding quality of life to generations of community members.
Story by Ruth Fields
Photo Editor Tom Miller
Amy Sowers, President & Melody Montez, Executive Director
Christmas Belles production in 2008.
Top: Melody Montez & Amy Sowers
Middle: Amy Sowers & Wendy Albright
Bottom: Maria Sirgo, Jennifer Marshall, Hallie Teague & Amy Sowers
There were only nine cast members in the 2008 performance of Christmas Belles at the historic Crighton Theatre. Still, it was a big leap for the fledgling theater company, Stage Right of Texas, which had just been created to provide quality theatrical productions and to supply a needed source of income for the historic theater. The Crighton, which opened in 1935, is one of only about 10 extant theaters in Texas of its vintage and is a member of the League of Historical American Theaters.
Amy Sowers and Melody Montez were both members of Stage Right’s original Christmas Belles cast, and both are still passionate about the theater company--sixteen years and dozens of productions later. Amy is now president of Stage Right, and Melody is now the executive director of the Crighton Theatre’s Board of Directors; both women regularly participate in Stage Right productions, too. They are proud that Stage Right, the resident theater company of the Crighton Theatre, presents six lavish, well-attended productions each year, providing the money needed for the theater’s upkeep. “In return, we have a home, and we are so blessed to have a theater like that,” Amy says. Even well-known theaters in Houston, she says, can’t match the character of the Crighton Theatre.
Saving history
Construction on the Crighton Theatre began in 1934, during the Great Depression. Oil had made Conroe a boomtown, however, and Mayor Harry Crighton had been successful in the oil business. His theater featured ornate, Italian-Romanesque architecture and an interior that resembled a Venetian garden. The theater seated over 500—roughly half the population of Conroe at the time. “It’s very unusual for an old theater to have this many seats,” Melody says. According to legend, the mayor wanted the entire town to be able to enjoy the air conditioning in the theater. The Conroe Courier called it “the very latest in electrical refrigeration which will enable the theatre goers to enjoy the comforts of mountain weather on the very hottest days of summer.” Surprisingly, this modern structure was located on an unpaved street.
The Crighton was built for vaudeville productions and later became a movie theater, but over time, the theater once known as “the crown jewel of Montgomery County” lost its shine. After it was closed in 1967, leaks in the roof caused water damage, and the interior became the home of pigeons, snakes, rodents, and spiders. After ten years of neglect, the Crighton was rescued by a zealous community effort. Renovations included modern upgrades, yet the historicity of the building was preserved.
Stage Right to the rescue
The 90-year-old theater needs continual maintenance, and over the years, Stage Right has provided about $100,000 per year for that purpose. Meanwhile, it has thrilled the community with many memorable productions, including West Side Story, Clue, Grease, Tarzan, and Buddy Holly Story. About 10 years later, people still talk about Singing’ in the Rain, which featured rain onstage. And the tradition continues. This season’s lineup includes The Play that Goes Wrong, Dracula, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Big the Musical, Shakespeare in Love, and The Wedding Singer. Stage Right boasts nearly 1,000 season ticketholders.
Top: Ethan Achee & Ashling DeGraff
Middle: Adam Isbell, Ryan Anthony, & Jonah Mendoza
Bottom: Ryan Anthony & Ivanna Martinez
Below: Ian Montez, Melody Montez, & Robben Montez
Stage Right also sponsors Bravo Company, which offers reasonably-priced acting classes for children ages five through 18. Students learn such skills as characterization, improvisation, and the healthy use of voice; at the same time, they learn life lessons, such as teamwork and the ability to read other people’s body language. Amy likes to say that Bravo Company is “raising the next generation to take care of the theater.”
From Dracula to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Stage Right has produced many family-friendly plays and musicals in the past, Melody says, but has lately performed some “less vanilla” productions, such as Spamalot, In the Heights, and West Side Story Dracula is Stage Right’s first true horror production, says Austin Atherton, who plays Dracula. Austin was a drama student at Conroe High School; when he recently moved back to Conroe, he discovered Stage Right. Like many actors, he was wowed by the beauty, the history, and the acoustics of the Crighton Theatre.
“I love the theater, and it’s a dream role,” Austin says.
Melody is excited about the cast she has assembled for Dracula, which will be performed
Rehearsal for horror production, Dracula
Top: Matt Wehring & Austin Atherton
Middle: Elysze Ramis & Ian Montez
Bottom: Elysze Ramis & Hallie Teague
• Ensures Reliable Operation: Generators may sit idle for long periods & can lead to deterioration & potential malfunction.
• Prevents Unplanned Downtime: A generator failure during a power outage can lead to significant inconveniences & even safety hazards.
• Extends Lifespan: Like any mechanical system, generators have a finite lifespan. Regular maintenance can help extend the life saving you the cost of early replacement.
• Optimizes Efficiency: A well-maintained generator operates more efficiently, which can lead to fuel savings and reduced environmental impact.
• Warranty Requirements: Many generator manufacturers require regular maintenance to keep the warranty valid. Neglecting maintenance could result in a voided warranty,costing you more in case of breakdown
October 18 through November 3. “I think I might have outdone myself,” she says with a smile. She hand-picked Austin to play the role after seeing his recent performance as Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. She is certain his towering height and large build will make him a memorable Dracula. She cast her son Ian Montez in the role of Harker. Ian participated in his first Stage Right production when he was six years old; he earned a part in Cheaper by the Dozen when he showed up to audition in a 1930s costume.
Timothy Eggert, who plays the part of Abraham Van Helsing in Dracula, is a veteran of the local theater scene. He has participated in countless area productions, as well as four previous Stage Right plays, including Clue and The Producers Like many actors, he enjoys performing at the Crighton. “This by far is the most historic and ornate venue where I have performed,” he says.
Elysze Ramis, who debuted at the Crighton as Anita in West Side Story and plays Mina in Dracula, agrees. She moved from California about two years ago, but says even the theaters in San Diego can’t compare to the Crighton. She likes the beauty of the theater and the grandeur of the stage. “It’s not often you see that kind of old, historic look,” she says.
Meanwhile, Amy is excited the local premiere of a new musical version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be presented at the Crighton Theatre November 29 through December 15. “It will be a good family production,” Amy says, noting the musical extols the virtues of hard work and good behavior. “I know it’s going to be fabulous,” she says.
Stage Right is an all-volunteer organization, and its membership includes people with a variety of abilities and experience. While some members act, others serve as ushers, carpenters, costume makers, and lighting and sound technicians. New members are always welcome, and are especially needed when the theater company produces elaborate musicals. Matt Wehring, who plays Silent Attendant One in Dracula, discovered this when he participated in his first Stage Right production. He was “wowed” by the size of Stage Right’s productions and says, “I have found my home.”
For more information, visit stage-right.org.
Huntsville Fall Plant Sale facebook.com/walkercountymas tergardeners
Local Churches Blood Drive commitforlife.org/donor/schedules/ drive_schedule/372543
Tour de Madison Bicycle Ride Email: tourdemadison@gmail.com
Boyz II Men woodlandscenter.org
50th Anniversary Celebration thewoodlands.com
Wine Walk at Market Street visitthewoodlands.com
“Hocus Pocus Pops” visitthewoodlands.com
Woodlands
Free Anniversary Concert with Lyle Lovett woodlandscenter.org
Huntsville
Genealogy Smorgasbord wcgstx.org
Oktoberfest shcstx.com
“Tunes from the Toons” conroesymphony.org Huntsville
George Strait Tribute: Derek Spence w/Southern County Line oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
Madisonville
Texas Mushroom Festival txmushfest.org
Montgomery
Golfers Against Cancer Gala golfersagainstcancer.org
Mustard Seed Moments
by Wes Altom
Shabbat (Sabbath)
Four hundred-thirty years. That’s how long the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. When you consider our country is not quite 250 years old, that adds some perspective to the event.
The Israelites endured over four centuries of being repeatedly told that their only value consisted in how many bricks they could make. When they reached Mt. Sinai after the deliverance, God presented a covenant with a special attribute—Shabbat, or a weekly day of rest.
As God sought closeness and growth in partnership with his people, he effectively told them, “Before we do anything else…you need to learn how to take a break.” This break celebrated not only God’s good creation, but it also served as a repeated reminder to the Israelites that their value comes not from production, but from who they are— God’s VERY GOOD creation.
What a beautiful gift to a weary and downtrodden people! The invitation to Shabbat still extends to us today… Shabbat may not look the same as under the old covenant, but we could all use a regular reminder of who—and whose—we are…because we tend to be pretty busy brickmakers in our own right.
Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Genesis 2:3
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. Exodus 20:8-10
Accepting
Deadline to enter Oct. 30, 2024
Rules & entry form: samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com/events/
