POSTCARDS MAGAZINE - Piney Woods - December 2023

Piney Woods

December 2023

POSTCARDS Magazine

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Victoria White • Sandee June • Postcards Annual Cover Photo Contest • Texas Generator

Merry Christmas FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

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(936) 291-7500 December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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FEATURES

December 2023 | Volume 13, Issue 12

14 Do You Know?

Victoria White

30 Texas Talent

Sandee June Cover Photo by Ashley Holman

60 Postcards Annual Cover Photo Contest

Postcards 2022 Photo Contest Submission

And the Winner is...

82 Business Focus

Texas Generator

FAVORITES 20 Questions -13 Community Calendar -94 Conundrum -88 Creative Corner -53 Dear Gabby -20 From Our Readers -6 From the Mouth of Babes -52 Garden Post, The -22 Giggles & Grins -41 Glorious Grandkids -43

Kidding Around -56 Let’s Celebrate -12 Medical Matters -92 Milestones -38 Mustard Seed Moments - 98 Pet Pals -36 Publisher’s Post -9 Puzzle Solutions -49 “Seens” from our World -96 Snapshots -28

4 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Star Students -24 Sudoku Marketplace -89 Teachers Touching Tomorrow -26 The Grands -42 Things My Granddaddy Said -80 What Are You Reading -10 What’s Cookin’? -44 Wildlife Wonders -54 Your Best AgriLife -58

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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From Our Readers Thank you

A great success

Thank you for the consistent quality in your wonderful, entertaining, educational and enjoyable magazine!!!

The Texas Bluebird Society would like to thank you for the wonderful publicity. Your coverage of our booth at the Fair on the Square in Huntsville, Texas was a great success. We had 25 new members join because of your help. We greatly appreciate your support and look forward to a continued partnership to achieve our mission statement to spread “Bluebirds across Texas...one nestbox at a time.”

Janet Logan

Joy to the community Amazing job…Postcards is wonderful! You bring joy to our community and beyond!

Renee Spencer

What to share something with us?

PostcardsLive.com/Share

6 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Phyllis Campbell - President Leigh Ann Dye - Secretary

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8 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Publisher’s Post Karen Altom

Your Local Community Magazine! @PostcardsMag

PostcardsLive.com

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

MAILED to select postal routes in Huntsville, New Waverly, Midway, Madisonville, Riverside and Trinity.

FREE rack copies at advertisers and businesses in towns listed above.

Published Monthly by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc. Publisher Karen Altom Editor Wes Altom Operations Manager Marshall Altom Advertising Team Nancy Jolly Kent Holder Leah Lamp Marshall Altom Design Team Mary Partida April Key

publisher@postcardslive.com

Family Matters Our family is rolling full-force into the Christmas season, having just enjoyed a time of Thanksgiving. The holidays bring us into close proximity with our immediate and extended family. I know some readers do not have the same type of family relationships as others. Over the years, I have heard so many (good and bad) stories, and I am always reminded of the doormat I once had that said, “Everyone who passes through this door brings joy. Some by entering, and some by leaving!”

This magazine is a family venture. I had the God-given idea, and my sweet husband backed me up and signed on as our editor, working nights and weekends around his other full-time job. Our children, Abby and Marshall, were in high school, and they also were part of our team as we started. They began by helping with rack deliveries, photography, and writing. Son Marshall worked with us through college, until he married and went to work in the financial industry for four years. Even then, he still worked with us part-time, like his Dad once had.

As we enter this season of family togetherness, Wes and I are excited to announce we have hired Marshall back full-time as our Operations Manager. With three magazines, our advertising agency, and a new digital advertising arm of our company, we saw the need for the help! You may see him around “tending to business,” so feel free to congratulate him. Who knows? One of these days, his boys may be making rack deliveries, too!

In addition to those of us who are blood-related, there are a lot of people who work hard together every month to bring you this magazine. They are truly our Postcards family, and we love each and every one.

To you, our loyal readers, advertisers, friends, and colleagues, our family wishes you a Merry Christmas and all the joys of the season!

Printed in Texas by Shweiki Media

Until next time,

~

Karen

Online: www.PostcardsLive.com Address: PO Box 690 • Huntsville, TX 77342 Call our Office: 936.293.1188 We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted.

The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any unsolicited material. No material from Postcards Magazine™ can be copied, faxed, electronically, or otherwise used without express written permission. Publication of articles, advertisements or product information does not constitute endorsement or approval by Postcards Magazine™ and/ or its publisher. Business Focus stories printed in Postcards Magazine™ are drawn at random from contract advertisers. © 2023 by Altom Consulting & Marketing, Inc., All rights reserved.

Walker, Marshall, Kathryn, Sutton, Abby, Deacon, Ryan, Karen, and Wes

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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What Are You Reading?

Lynne StewartBenavides reading

The Poisoned Crown

By Maurice Druon

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Cathy Schweitzer reading

Thanks For Telling Her “No”

By Ruth Davenport

Tammy Bellamy Bybee reading

The Perfect Marriage

By Jeneva Rose

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Wishing you and your family an abundance of happiness, good health, and blessings.

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Tell us what you’re reading!

PostcardsLive.com

Ask The Doc: I Have a Bulging Disc and Want to Avoid Surgery?

Dr. Brian McGee, DC Welcome to “Ask the Doc,” your go-to source for valuable healthcare insights and advice from our expert team at Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute.

What is a Bulging Disc?

When your spinal disc pushes beyond its normal limits and into the nerve, this is known as a bulging disc. Another term you may hear is “herniated disc” which means the disc bulge has gotten worse and is pushing even further into the area of the nerve. Both bulging and herniated disc can be treated non-surgically if diagnosed and treated in a timely manner.

Common Symptoms Pain is the most common symptom of a bulging disc, but not the only one. Numbness, weakness, and stiffness are other common symptoms. The symptoms you experience depend on which part of the nerve is affected by the bulging disc. You may have weakness without pain, or pain without weakness, or both. If you notice any one of these to seek professional treatment as soon as the symptoms symptoms, it could be from a bulging disc. begin. If your bulging disc is not properly treated in a timely manner, it can progress and rupture into the spinal cord Non-Surgical Treatments area (think popped balloon with pieces floating around Having personally treated hundreds of bulging discs, below your spinal cord.) When this happens, surgery is your only are the best non-surgical options from my experience: option.

1. Spinal Decompression: Gently pulls the spine apart For over 40 Years, Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute and takes pressure off the nerve. has been successfully treating bulging discs using non2. Chiropractic Adjustments: Properly aligning the spine survival methods. Call us at 936-291-2111 for help with can reduce the disc bulge and take pressure off the your Bulging Disc. Mention this article to receive a nerve.

FREE Bulging Disc Consultation.

3. Physical Rehabilitation: Restoring proper strength and flexibility to the muscles that support the spine also helps take pressure off the disc and nerve.

4. Nutritional Therapy: A low inflammatory diet combined with the right nutritional supplements is key to creating the right environment for your disc to heal.

Act Quickly to Avoid Surgery The most important thing you can do to avoid surgery is

936-291-2111 901 Normal Park Dr, #201 • Huntsville TX 77320 *This article is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for personalized advice or treatment

BACK PAIN * JOINT PAIN * NEUROPATHY • CHIROPRACTIC * PHYSICAL REHAB * MEDICAL December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Let’s Celebrate!

This Month’s Business Anniversaries:

1962 - Celebrating 61 years

2000 - Celebrating 23 years

McCAFFETY

McCaffety Electric

Physical Therapy Associates

ELECTRIC

See ad on page 10

See ad on page 80

1981 - Celebrating 42 years Chester Crawford See ad on page 89

2022 - Celebrating 1 year Christ the King Methodist Church

See ad on page 88

As the year draws to a close, we want to thank you for allowing us to serve you and our community.

Enjoy doing the things you love with those you love.

We wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

The Park Law Firm Family Tel.: (936) 291-6660 raneriley@parklawfirmtx.com

227 SH 75 N., Ste. 230 Huntsville, Texas 77320 Mike Park and Rane Riley

12 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Twenty Questions

December

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SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED? Huntsville HS – Sting ‘em! & Texas Christian University – Go Frogs!

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FAVORITE MOVIE? The Natural

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HOW DID YOU MAKE YOUR FIRST DOLLAR? Mowing yards when I was seven years old

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BOOK THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION ON YOU? The Bible

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LAST THING YOU BINGE-WATCHED? Suits

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YOUR GO-TO BARISTA ORDER? Raspberry Mocha

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FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY Basketball camps in different parts of the country

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SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU? I’m ambidextrous

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WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF? Enjoying time with family and friends

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HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN? Coffee on the beach with my wife

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HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY? Pray

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ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT? Golf

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BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE? Restored my ’67 Mustang I bought when I was sixteen

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TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? Travel to retrace my family heritage from Texas to Tennessee to England

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IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE? I would still live in Texas

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WHO DO YOU ADMIRE? The “underdog”- because they never give up, even when the odds are against them and the victories are sweeter.

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BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN? Never Give Up!

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ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Work hard, Give back – It will all be worth it!

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Do You Know?

Story by Linda W. Perkins Photos by Tom Miller

14 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Victoria White Meet a trailblazer who guides young people to carve out their own paths.

We’ve all met those people who exude such joy through their big smiles and warm personalities that they make us smile right back. Victoria White is one of them; so, it’s no wonder she is filling an important role at Sam Houston State University, helping to encourage today’s campus leaders into becoming the community leaders of tomorrow. It is also no surprise that her influence reaches far beyond the university.

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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leader mentor church pastor volunteer singer m Walking into the Greek Life offices to meet Victoria White, the Assistant Dean of Fraternity and Sorority Life at SHSU, signs of activity are everywhere. An entry table is stacked full of clear goody bags of orange and white giveaways, leftovers from Greek Week.

The receptionist cheerfully ushers me into the back corner office, where White greets me with a warm welcome. Little sayings about life and leadership are posted around the room, and a colorful block set of Greek letters shows off White’s pride in being a member of her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta.

What’s not immediately obvious is just how multifaceted White is.

There is far more to her than just her pretty sorority smile. She is a leader, a mentor, and a church pastor. She is a volunteer, a singer, and a former musical theater performer. Also, if it weren’t for the keen eye of the Postcards photographer I was paired with for this story, I would have missed that she and a group of

G

May all that is beautiful, meaningful and brings you joy be yours this holiday season and throughout the coming year!

Give yourself or that special someone the gift of a smile that is a lifetime of happiness!

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r musical theater performer

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fellow Gospel singers (which she put together for a Hurricane Harvey relief shelter a few years back) performed on the Jimmy Fallon Show!

There’s a small, framed photo of them on the bookcase behind her desk.

A 2012 graduate of Sam Houston State, White came to the university to study musical theater. She joined the Soul Lifters gospel choir while she was a student, and it was friends from that organization that she pulled together to sing for people who had been displaced from their homes by Hurricane Harvey in 2017. The group’s performance was filmed and put on YouTube, and the next day White was fielding calls from Good Morning America and the Jimmy Fallon Show, who wanted to feature them in order to help raise funds for Hurricane Harvey relief.

Not long afterward, they were flying to New York City to perform on both shows for a national television audience.

While White was attending university, she began working at SAAFE House part-time as a receptionist, and as a result, she began to find a different calling than musical theater. She ended up with a degree in mass communications and public relations, and went to work at SAAFE House as a victim rights advocate and community education coordinator before coming to Sam Houston State.

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While she was at SAAFE House, she met Kim Weiser, who subsequently left to become the executive director at CASA of Walker County. Since joining Sam Houston’s staff, White has continued to volunteer and coordinate student volunteer efforts with both non-profits.

“I like to volunteer and support people in our community. Sometimes I have time to the do volunteering myself, but a lot of times I will connect with other people and use my resources to get the work done,” she explained, saying she had done everything from speaking at CASA leadership events to wrapping gifts for children at Christmas.

The year 2016 – the year she came to SHSU - was not just a pivotal year in White’s career, but was also the year she became an ordained pastor at Spirit of Integrity church in Livingston, the church her parents founded in 2004.

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“This is something I never, ever thought I’d be doing with my life. I became an ordained minister while my parents were still alive, but I thought my role was just to support them in what they were called to do,” White said. Then after my dad passed in 2016, I had planned on moving away, but some elders asked me to consider being the pastor.

I agreed to do it on just an interim basis until they found someone else, but then I discovered I really liked it, and I was good at it! With some wise counsel and lots of prayer, I thought, yeah, for now, I think this is something I’m supposed to be adding to my life!”

Seven years later, the church is thriving, with about 75 members who come from as far as Lufkin and Missouri City, southwest of Houston, to attend.

“It’s not a huge church – I don’t think I could pastor a larger church,” she said. “Pastoring is a big job – connecting with people, being a support for people, being responsible for people and their growth, and making sure they feel like they are cared for. That’s a lot, so I’ve told God 150 people is my max!”

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Asked if she pulls from her ministry in her work with students, and vice versa, White explained that she sees her job as an extension of her faith.

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“As a Christian, it’s about loving God and loving people. As a pastor, I know people need to feel connected and cared for. These students are dealing with a lot, and they are just people before they are members of sororities and fraternities.”

She continued by saying she reads a lot of authors like John Maxwell, who may have a Christian background but aren’t saying Jesus, Jesus, Jesus everywhere. “The overtone of connecting and prioritizing relationships with people, I think is the underlying theme in most of Maxwell’s teachings.”

“It’s the concept of prioritizing people as people and not as positions.

And so, when a student comes into my office and they’re under all this pressure and worried about their role as the chapter president or treasurer who doesn’t have enough money and is scared this fundraiser’s not going to be as successful as they need it to be, I’m going to try and connect with them as a person, not just a position.”

“These are young adults just trying to figure things out, and a lot of times they don’t know what they don’t know, they don’t know where to go when they don’t know, and for some reason, our paths have crossed. I want to just offer whatever support I can and connect with

them on a personal level before we start talking about what could have been or what should have been and what’s still able to be.”

White has many opportunities to cross paths with students of all kinds at Sam Houston. When she first joined the university, she was in admissions for several years, until she got tired of traveling full-time.

“It was so much fun to connect with prospective students, but then when they got here, I’d never see them, so I knew I couldn’t do that long term. I need something where I can see the progress and growth of students on their journey here,” she explained.

It was then that she transferred into the academic affairs department, where she served as the assistant director of the Academic Success Center, helping first-year students adjust to college life. She was in that role for three years before she joined Fraternity & Sorority Life department a year ago as assistant dean.

“My last role was really academic, classroom-related work. What I’m doing now is more mentorship, developing soft skills, leadership and character traits,” she stated. “It’s kind of building on skills they already possess and encouraging them to keep going on paths they are already going down, asking how I can be a resource and support them in that.”

Just as she strives to see people as just people, she encourages students to do the same as they interact with each other during everyday student life, including when they are looking to choose the right sorority or fraternity to join.

“I always encourage people to do your research and get to know the people. You can Google an organization and look at their website, but that doesn’t really tell you what the people are like on this campus,” she explained. “These are the people you’re going to be doing life with the next four years. These are the people you’re going to be building friendships and hopefully lifelong connections with. So you really want to go by not an article you’ve read, but by a personal connection you’ve been able to build. That’s how you’ll find a sense of belonging.”

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Dear Gabby Welcome back to the December Dear Gabby advice column. I’m convinced that any climate change we may be experiencing is caused by all the coal Santa left the bad kids all these years. My family stopped doing a gift-exchange since I gave all the grandkids socks in smartphone boxes. No sense of humor, that bunch! I’m praying Christmas blessings for you and your family and hoping all your problems are silly little ones. Count your blessings and remember the real reason for the season. Send your questions to me by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive. com/share.

DEAR GABBY New Year’s Eve is creeping up, and I despise the obligatory parties people my age are expected to attend. I don’t drink, so usually wind up driving my friends home. Fortunately, they don’t remember how they got home, so they don’t call me on New Year’s Day to take them to their cars. Why do people who don’t normally drink decide to start a new year pedestrian and sick?

night (and, nowadays, you have pictures). My favorite story is the year (100 years ago or so) that the party emcee, two minutes before midnight, announced that every husband was to find the person who made their life worth living and kiss them at midnight. The bartender was nearly crushed to death.

GABBY

TEETOTALER DEAR TEE You’ve got me on this one! The good news is: when you get too old to drive, the invitations stop coming. Another upside is: you’ve got great stories about what your friends did that

CONFIDENTIAL TO “STOP ME IF YOU’VE HEARD THIS ONE” I have. What did the wise men say after they offered up their gifts of gold and frankincense? “Wait, there’s myrrh.”

Merry Christmas to all!

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Wishing you and those you love a Merry Christmas!

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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The Garden Post

By Kim Bius

The Season of Merry is Here! definite recipes for failure. Leaf drop occurs when plants are exposed to poor light and suffer from under/overwatering. Poinsettias are tropical plants and water guzzlers, but drier will always “win” over soggy soil.

(refill as needed to keep the water level there), but not touching the bulb. The bulb will begin growing within days and will be blooming for gift giving or your enjoyment in three weeks.

The week of Thanksgiving (or earlier) is the time to start force blooming your narcissi or

Christmas cacti will need a bit more water during their blooming cycle and, like poinsettias, should not be exposed to temperatures below 55 degrees or blooms will drop.

The season of “merry” is a state of mind, and it arises in everything you do! The smile and heartfelt “Merry Christmas” you give someone today……may just be that bit of faith needed to help someone struggling through the season.

Many of us will have poinsettias in our home for the holidays, and the following tips will help you keep your plants looking great well past New Year’s. Poinsettias require high light, consistent watering, good drainage, and warm temperatures.

Dark spaces, temperatures below 60 degrees, and water accumulating in the bottom of the foil are

amaryllis for Christmas. These beautiful, fragrant bulbs are stunning when placed in glass containers with a sunny exposure. Fill the container with small rock or marbles and recess the bulb 1/3 into the rock. Bring the water level to 1/16” below the bulb bottom

Merry Christmas to all…and may the season bring you peace, love, beauty, and joy!

Happy Gardening.

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If you have a gardener on your gift list, check out the following list of gardeners’ favorite things: • Good gardening gloves in bright colors (that actually fit hands as a second skin).

• Gift certificates from their favorite nursery or garden center.

• Watering cans – I use mine all the time!

• A hand-made “gardening coupon” good for 4-8 manhours of gardening labor. This is a great gift for older neighbors, parents and the perfect “gift in kind” for teenagers and college students with limited funds, but giving hearts.

• Specialty rain gauges –a great gift for newlyweds and new homeowners.

• Windchimes – Corinthian Bells are a must for the windchime connoisseur on your list.

• Fountains or water features--everyone loves the sound of falling water.

• A custom selection of seeds, bulbs, trowel, gloves, fertilizer (and top it off with a gift certificate), and place in a beautiful pot, with yummy chocolate and coffee!

n

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Star Students Sarah Jeske Huntsville High School

Allie Warren Alpha Omega Academy

Favorite Movie: The 10 Things I Hate About You Favorite Movie: The Proposal Favorite Music/Artist: Luke Combs Favorite Food: Italian Favorite Quote: “Life is tough, my darling…but so are you.”

A

llie is a senior at Alpha Omega Academy and is the daughter of Rachel and Thomas Warren. Her activities include volleyball, softball, Interact, student council, yearbook, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Following graduation, Allie plans to attend the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, then become an ER nurse. She believes the words of Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind one to another, forgiving one another just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Favorite Music/Artist: Men I Trust, Al Green Favorite Food: Lasagna Favorite Quote: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be

afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9

S

arah is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Michele Jeske and Wayne Jeske. Her activities include cheerleading and weightlifting. Following graduation, Sarah plans to become a licensed master esthetician and beauty therapist, as well as a cheerleading choreographer/coach. She believes, “Don’t let fear of failure hold you back.”

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“

r e h t, ,

Adriana Diaz

Yasmin Moore

Huntsville High School

Trinity High School

Favorite Movie: Transformers: Rise of the Fallen

Favorite Movie: Any Madea Movie

Favorite Music/Artist: Bruno Mars/SZA

Favorite Music/Artist: Drake/SZA

Favorite Food: Froyo, Hibachi

Favorite Food: Italian

Favorite Quote: “At the end of the day, it’s just you and

Favorite Quote: “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.”

your silly little life. So go on, enjoy it; be the person you want to be.”

A

driana is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Crystal Diaz and Joe Amburn. Her activities include Grenadier Guard, BPA, and AV Production Club.

Following graduation, Adriana plans to attend Texas State University and pursue a career as a wildlife or marine biologist. She believes, “I forgive myself because I now understand I did my very best for what I knew at the time. I will spread all the kindness, love, generosity, and advice given to me, because the world needs more of that.”

-Psalms 56:3

Y

asmin is a senior at Trinity High School and is the daughter of Gladys Acosta and Clayton Moore. Her activities include HOSA, FBLA, student council, class officer, softball, Culture Club, and varsity cheer. Following graduation, Yasmin plans to attend college and become an RN. She believes, “Always strive to do your best. Although it can be hard, it will always be worth it in the end.”

Sedation Dentistry Sedation dentistry is a valuable tool for enhancing patient comfort and reducing anxiety during dental procedures. For many individuals, dental visits can be stressful and anxiety-inducing, often leading to avoidance of essential dental care. Sedation in dentistry addresses this issue, allowing patients to receive necessary treatments without fear or discomfort.

One of the primary advantages of sedation in dentistry is its ability to alleviate dental anxiety.

Dental anxiety is a common problem, ranging from mild nervousness to severe phobia. Patients experiencing dental anxiety may avoid dental visits, which can lead to deteriorating oral health. Sedation techniques, including oral pills, nitrous oxide, or IV sedation. These techniques range from mild sedation, fully forgetting the procedure and fully being asleep.

Beyond anxiety reduction, sedation enhances patient comfort during invasive or lengthy dental procedures.

Procedures like oral surgery, root canals, or wisdom tooth extractions can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally distressing. Sedation keeps patients relaxed and pain-free, making the experience more tolerable.

We are incorporating sedation more and more into our practice. We currently offer oral sedation and nitrous oxide but are in the process of trying to bring IV sedation into the office for the ultimate sedation!

If you have a question or a topic you want to be discussed, send an email to drlogan@drscottlogan.com Aaron Fritsch, DDS

Office (936) 291-6589

3205 Robinson Creek Parkway Huntsville

www.huntsvilletxdentist.com December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

25

THE EXPERTS IN PEST CONTROL SINCE 1981!

Serving Huntsville & surrounding areas for over 40 years!

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

D.L. and Shannon Shiver

Rodent Control • Household Pests • Mosquito Control Roaches • Ants • Spiders • Termite Control & Inspection Lawn and Ornamental Treatments • Weed Control

D.L. Shiver II (936) 291-2902 License: TPCL 0774786

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Follow us on Facebook!

Kayla Neal

Beautiful arrangements for your holiday table.

Huntsville High School Culinary Arts

Nominated by Sarah Jeske Mrs. Neal is not only an amazing Culinary Arts teacher, but she is also great with giving equal respect to each one of her students. She is always willing to be a helping hand and is a great person to talk to about anything. She has taught me many good skills about being in the kitchen, and she has even given advice for adulthood that I will definitely carry with me into the next chapter of my life.

Nominate a special teacher today by going online: www.PostcardsLive.com.

Those chosen for publication are awarded a gift card to 1836 Steakhouse.

1525 Sam Houston Ave. Huntsville

huntsvilleheartfieldflorist.com

26 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

(936) 295-5448

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Snapshots!

Share your Snapshot!

PostcardsLive.com/Share

Beautiful weather brought many visitors to the Car Show at Texas Mushroom Festival in Madisonville.

Gretel and Tiff napping

May the gift of hope born to us so many years ago, bless you and your family this Christmas.

We thank each and every one of our customers for your trust and support this year.

“WOOFING” you a

Merry Christmas! Madisonville

1248 Hwy 75 N. • Huntsvlle, Texas

mvhtexas.com

Chris and Kathy Cunningham, Owners

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

409 E Collard St. • Madisonville,TX

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Monday through Friday 8am until 5:00 pm

28 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

936.438.4060

The HHS Marching Band leads the Hornet Homecoming parade past the recently restored Cafe Texan.

Congratulations to The Café Texan in Huntsville who was named a winner of the 2023 President’s Award by Texas Downtown Assoc. in the Best Rehabilitation/Restoration category. The remodel and improvements made to the building included the addition of a library and museum.

Pictured are interior designer Julie Goudie, Cafe Texan Museum Curator Savanah Davis, City of Huntsville Economic Development Director Tammy Gann, Huntsville City Manager Aaron Kulhavy, and Jorge Quirino, TDA President

We are grateful for the trust you have placed in our firm.

We wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy new year.

Haney, Paschal & Romoser ATTORNEYS AT LAW 1300 11th St. • Ste 405 • Huntsville

936-295-3712 www.huntsville-texas-attorneys.com December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

29

Texas Talent Story by Amy Barnett Submitted Photos

30 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Tell us how you got started playing music. We understand music was not your first career.

Sandee June

A nurse turned singer finds music is good medicine for the soul.

Sandee June is a lifelong Texan who calls Santa Fe home. She is proud to call herself a Texas country singer, but more importantly, she loves the titles of Christian, mom, and grandmother. This talented Texan hopes she is leading by example as she pursues a career on stage and in the recording studio – and she challenges others to chase their dreams!

That’s correct! I have been a registered nurse for 26 years. My background is in cardiothoracic nursing, recovery room, and preoperative nursing. I knew from the age of six I wanted to be a nurse. I loved my school nurse, Mrs. Montgomery, and would watch her so closely. I wasn’t one to go to the nurse’s office much, but when I did go, she was heaven! I knew I wanted to make other people feel the way she made me feel when caring for them. I love taking care of others. I know I chose the right career and have no regrets.

But, when I turned 50, I decided it was time to do something for myself. My children were grown and gone and working on giving me lots of grandchildren. Growing up, my mom always told me, “Don’t die with your music still inside,” which meant anything in life...anything I wanted to do or change. My Dad always told me, “Never stop learning something new.” So, I decided to buy myself a guitar because I always wanted to learn to play. I taught myself to play on YouTube, and shortly after, I decided I wanted to sing – so I started going to open mic nights. I released my first single in 2020 during COVID, and it went to Number 31 on the Texas Country Music Chart. I was hooked from then on!

As you were learning to play guitar – is that when you discovered you could sing, or did you have prior experience singing?

I did not have any prior experience singing other than in the car or shower. I was never in choir or anything. I also got back on YouTube and found some vocal training videos and started practicing. Your vocal cords are muscles, and they can be trained.

It helped to have a natural ear for sound, I guess, but it was all self-taught.

Was jumping into music a hard step to take?

The hardest step for me to take was peeling myself away from my family. I look at the story of Loretta Lynn and others who made

»

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

31

Murphy, Cat Stevens, Etta James, Elton John, and Kris Kristofferson... just to name a few. Then my grandparents were always listening to Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, and Dolly Parton. Listening to such a diverse group of amazing musicians really impacted my ability to cross over and sing classic country and classic rock. This music was embedded in every fiber of my DNA. It really did help create “my” sound.

What artists inspire you today?

painful sacrifices taking so much time away from their families, and this has been hard for me. I don’t want to miss a thing when it comes to my grown children and grandchildren. I love that I am able to not work full-time as a registered nurse anymore and be home with my family. At least with music, I can choose the time away from my family.

How did you get your cool, classic country sound?

I think my sound is unique because I grew up listening to music all day! There was never a time that my parents or grandparents didn’t have music playing in their homes. My parents loved James Taylor, Michael Martin

32 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Lainey Wilson. She reminds me so much of my younger self – a hippie soul with country roots! That is how I would describe myself.

As a matter of fact, five years ago when I was online creating my publishing company, I had to select three names in case one or all were already taken. Well, guess which one survived and made the cut? “Hipneck Publishing.” I laughed because I listed that name as a joke describing my roots, but God knew what he was doing. He knew that was for me.

c s

t d

How do you decide what songs to record?

A song has to resonate with me. It has to touch me deep down to my soul. I have to feel it. My new song, “Whiskey Us Away,” was written by Kris Rogge Fischer of Cypress, Texas. She had sent me several songs over the past year, then she sent me this song.

The minute I heard it, the first 10 seconds of the song, I loved it! The lyrics are relatable for so many people. The feel and flow of the song was just right. I ran to the studio with it!

What is your favorite part about the music industry?

My favorite part about the music industry is probably listening to the finished product of all the hard work that went into practicing and recording a song. It takes so much time, money, and endless editing to finalize a product, and it sure is rewarding when it is done. I also love the feedback from fans and family who have encouraged me along the way. I never thought I would be doing this at my age, but you just never know what God has in store for you.

Where are some of your favorite places to play or types of shows to do?

Honestly, my favorite places to play are at private charity events. I love giving back to the community for people in need. There are bars and clubs on every corner, but I would rather see people spend money to help save a life. I do a lot more private events than touring. I sing at a place called Marais in Dickinson, Texas, and that is another place like home for me. I am certainly open to lots of places, but I really enjoy private events.

You recently performed at the Hatching for Health Charity Ball in Houston. What a cool event!

And, what a costume!

I was asked to sing for the Hatching for Health Charity Ball benefiting “Heartgift,” an organization that raises money so children all over the world can receive heart surgeries.

It was such a beautiful and magical night!

My costume was handmade by a very good friend and amazingly talented photographer, Lacy Dagerath. She has got to be one of the

»

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most talented people I have ever met!

She drew my wings, cut them out of metal, and used 450 fiber optic lights!

They were truly magical, and they definitely turned heads!

Tell us about your family.

This year you were a finalist for the TRRR Future Faces Showcase. What did that mean to you, and what was it like performing at Texas Live in Arlington for this event?

I was shocked when I got the call as one of the selections for the Future Faces of Texas Country Music! I felt honored, nervous, and excited! There are so many talented artists, it was just so surreal to be standing up there like I belonged. I worked very hard the past five years and have come a long way in a very short time – so I know God called me to be in this position. One of the most important things to me that I am doing is setting an example for my grown children and grandchildren, showing them you are huntsvillememorial.com

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never too old, nor it is ever too late to do something in life that you have always wanted to do. I hope they find inspiration in seeing what I have done!

I have four children--Kara is 38, James is 34, John is 32 and Jase is 30. They have given me 12 grandchildren!

My daughter has given me the most (6)! She makes it look so easy, but I can tell you it is no easy job! Ed, my fiancé, has three children and six grandchildren. Together, we have 18 grandchildren! There is never a dull moment, and my door is revolving with family! When our kids were young, we had a family name for us all. My last name is Evans and his is Bradley, so we called ourselves the “Bravens,” like the Brady Bunch We wouldn’t have it any other way, though! They are our life!

What other things or values are important to you?

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34 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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God, Honesty, & Integrity

body God gave you. There are so many bad nutritional habits and ingredients – we really need to be our own advocates of our health.

I am always looking for ways to improve my health.

The holidays are upon us! What is your favorite thing about Christmas?

God is number 1 for me! I do not like to miss church! It is what recharges my spirit and makes me happy. It gives me hope for a lot of the sadness we see today. Next to God, honesty and integrity are very important to me. And lastly, I would say taking care of the

My favorite thing about Christmas is remembering what Christmas is all about – Jesus Christ. It is a time of giving, baking and being with the ones we love. I love seeing people in the community coming together this time of year to help others. My favorite Christmas tradition is being in the kitchen baking with my grandchildren. I love making these memories with them. I love spending quality time with one at a time and lighting the fireplace and just talking about life!

Is there anything about you that

people are always surprised to learn?

People are always surprised to learn that I also sew, quilt, and crochet! I love creating and making things! I love giving handmade gifts, although music has taken time away from that some. I also can write backwards in cursive; it’s a silly thing, but people are surprised when I tell them and show them!

What are your personal and music goals for 2024?

My personal goal for 2024 is to get my legs in shape (laughs)... it is harder to grow muscle the older we get, but I will be working on this! I want some Carrie Underwood legs (laughs). My music goal for 2024 is to write a No. 1 song or at least a top 10! I also will be working on another album!

To learn more about Sandee June, visit www. sandeejunemusic.com.

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36 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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May your Christmas be filled with joy!

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

37

Share your Milestone!

Milestones

PostcardsLive.com/Share

Congratulations to Cody Cockroft and Hannah Gauthier who are engaged to be married in January.

Congratulations to Mac & Leanne Woodward on their 50th wedding anniversary! Pictured in their wedding photo above are their beloved parents Nick & Mary Winifred Grivich, Leanne, Mac, and Dr. Mac & Mary Smither Woodward.

Congratulations to Stan & Nancy Sproba of Willis on their 60th wedding anniversary!

Winter Wonderland Revival

Tuesday, January 2, 2024 through Sunday, January 7, 2024 featuring the Mark Trammell Quartet and Bro. Bob Pittman

Tuesday January 2, 2024

Cook Springs Baptist Church

Wednesday January 03, 2024 Thursday January 04, 2024 Friday January 05, 2024

Saturday January 06, 2024 Sunday January 07, 2024

Sunday January 07, 2024

Prayer and Praise Service

6:30 p.m.

Dr. Bob Pitman with Mark Trammell Quartet

6:30 p.m.

Dr. Bob Pitman with Mark Trammell Quartet Dr. Bob Pitman with Mark Trammell Quartet

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38 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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OUR TEAM

No-Cost & Confidential Business Advising!

Contact the Sam Houston State University SBDC to connect with an advisor: (936) 294-3737

Rhonda Ellisor

Kim McLerran

John Fletcher

Sue Slater

Edwin Cantu

Cindy Truax

Director/Advisor

The SBDC advising staff can assist you in various stages of the business life cycle: preventure or early stage, startup, expansion, growth and exit.

Business Advisor

Business Advisor

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Business Advisor

Specialist Coordinator

Huntsville Office 1 Financial Plaza Suite 300 Huntsville, TX 77340

“The SHSU SBDC is a business advising and training center of the University of Houston Texas Gulf Coast SBDC Network serving 32 counties in Southeast Texas. The SBDC program is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.”

The Woodlands Office 3380 College Park Drive Suite 141 The Woodlands, TX 77384

OUR TEAM OF SPECIALISTS!

Margarey Valdez

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Margarey specializes as a Brand Strategist, Website Designer & Developer, Social Media Manager and Business Consultant.

Margarey's services are available in Español.

Erica brings valuable insights and strategies to create harmonious and thriving workplaces. She works with a diverse range of clients, from startups to established businesses navigating the complexities of HR.

Brad is an IT and Cyber Security specialist. He can help create a methodical and proactive plan to support business continuity in the face of a natural disaster or a cyber security incident.

Jada is a QuickBooks expert and contract management consultant.

Her expertise includes QuickBooks Online management, contract management, small business accounting, bookkeeping and more.

Marketing

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40 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

IT Specialist

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Giggles & Grins Me: <looking at a barn full of feed> Who’s all that for?

Farmer: The cattle eat it.

Me: Wow, that’s one hungry cat.

Partners Submitted by: Brian B Smith, CFP®, Bryan M Masten, CFP® & Riley W. Smith, CFP® Boss: What are you doing?

Me: Watching a video on how to effectively deal with co-workers.

Boss: That’s kickboxing.

Me: Exactly.

The Story Behind the Song: O Little Town of Bethlehem There are many beautiful Christmas carols. Silent Night, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and O Holy Night are classics. To me, one of the most charming is O Little Town of Bethlehem.

O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie - Above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by - Yet in thy dark streets shineth, the everlasting light - The hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight.

There is an interesting story behind this one…

In 1865, a man named Phillips Brooks needed a break.

In college, we named our intramural softball team “NO GAME SCHEDULED.” We ended up winning several games by forfeit.

Everyone hated us, and nothing as cool as that has happened to me since.

A rector for a church in Philadelphia, Brooks was one of the country’s foremost abolitionists. For years, he had preached tirelessly against slavery. During the four long years of the Civil War, he had traveled around the country, advocating for the rights of freed slaves, ministering to soldiers, and paying tribute to those who had fallen serving their country – including his own brother, George, who died of typhoid while fighting for the Union.

Exhausted from years of war and work, Brooks decided it was time to get away for a while. So, he decided to visit one of the places he most wanted to see--Bethlehem.

Is it weird that we cook bacon and bake cookies?

After a long voyage across the sea, Brooks traveled on horseback from Jerusalem to Bethlehem. As chance would have it, he arrived at the little town on Christmas Eve. This is how he described it: “Before dark, we rode out of town to the field where they say the shepherds saw the star. It is a fenced piece of ground with a cave in it, in which, strangely enough, they put the sheep.

Somewhere [long ago] in those fields we rode through, the shepherds must have been. As we passed, the shepherds were still ‘keeping watch over their flocks’ or leading them home to fold.”

Accidentally sprayed body spray in my mouth. I now talk with an Axe scent.

The opposite of formaldehyde is casualdejekyll.

That night, Brooks participated in a Christmas Eve service in an ancient basilica built during Constantine’s time (way back in the 300s). The service lasted from 10 PM to 3 AM. For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above - While mortals sleep the angels keep their watch of wondering love - Oh morning stars together, proclaim thy holy birth - And praises sing to God the king, and peace to men on earth.

Moved by everything he saw, Brooks wrote about it--trying to describe the peace and comfort he felt in that holy place, on that holy night--so those who would never have a chance to go there could still see and feel it in their hearts on Christmas.

I hope you enjoyed the story behind this song. And I hope you have a wonderful, peaceful Christmas!

I’m fat because I’m full of experiences… and most of those experiences took place at Mexican restaurants.

www.financialpartner.net (936) 294-0201 • 1211 Financial Plaza • Huntsville Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a registered investment advisor. Cambridge and Global Financial Partners are not affiliated. Cambridge does not provide tax advice.

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

41

The Grands

Deneane THOMPSON

U-RENT-EM U-RENT-EM, WE-GOT-EM

1

What is your grandparent name and does it have a special meaning?

Nannie. After my great-great-great-grandmother.

2

Number of grandchildren and age range?

Four grandchildren, ranging in age from 2 to 9 years old.

3

Favorite activity with them?

Riding around the ranch and fishing.

4

Advice to other/new grandparents?

Never get too busy making a living that you forget to make a life.

5

What’s your fondest memory of your grandparents?

Riding horses.

6

What do you hope your grandkids remember about you?

I hope that they remember me as being kind and loving.

2 Frogs

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Kenneth Natho POPNATHO@GMAIL.COM

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936-668-1321 42 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Glorious Grandkids

Oh, Come Let Us Adore Him

Everly Nora Nokes Grandchild of Mike & Tammie Nokes

Christmas MERRY

Chesney Lea Holly Happy birthday to my JoJo!

May the Prince of Peace be in your hearts always!

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Parker, Lily, Skylar, & Aurora Grandchildren of Matthew & Terri Blanton

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Share Your Grandkid Photos with Us!

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43

What’s Cookin’ Caramel Apple Pork Chops Ingredients 4 (3/4”) thick pork chops 1 tsp vegetable oil 2 Tbs brown sugar ⅛ tsp ground cinnamon

Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brush chops lightly with oil and place into the hot pan. Cook until no longer pink in the center, 5-6 minutes per side. An instantread thermometer inserted into the center should read 145 degrees. Transfer to the baking dish in the preheated oven to keep warm.

Step 3: Stir brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl.

⅛ tsp ground nutmeg salt and pepper to taste 2 Tbs unsalted butter 2 med tart apples - peeled, cored and sliced 3 Tbs pecans (optional) Directions Step 1: Place a medium baking dish into the oven and preheat to 175 degrees.

Step 4: Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir in apples and brown sugar mixture. Cover and cook until apples are just tender, about 5 minutes. Leaving the sauce in the skillet, remove apples with a slotted spoon and arrange over pork chops; keep warm in the oven.

Step 5: Continue to cook sauce, uncovered, until thickened slightly, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove pork chops from the oven. Spoon sauce over top and sprinkle with pecans.

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44 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

(936) 295-2555 440 Fm 2821 • #E Huntsville

Eggnog Cinnamon Rolls

ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAYS AND LET US PREPARE OUR FAMOUS CAJUN FRIED TURKEY FOR YOU AND YOUR GUESTS!

Ingredients Dough: ⅓ cup granulated sugar 1 (.25 oz) pkg quick-rising yeast 2 tsp kosher salt 4 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided, or more as needed ½ cup eggnog ½ cup sour cream 6 Tbs unsalted butter, softened 1 large egg, lightly beaten cooking spray Filling: ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 4 tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg, or to taste Glaze: 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature 4 Tbs unsalted butter 1 ½ cups powdered sugar 4 Tbs eggnog ½ tsp vanilla extract Directions Step 1: Combine sugar, yeast, salt, and 4 cups of the flour in the work bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on low speed until just combined, about 15 seconds.

With mixer running on low speed, add eggnog, sour cream, butter, and egg. Continue beating until dough forms, 1-2 minutes. Switch to a dough hook attachment. Beat on medium-low speed until dough is smooth and elastic, 6-9 minutes; gradually add remaining 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon at a time, if necessary.

Step 2: Place dough in a large bowl greased with cooking spray and turn to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let rise in a warm draftfree place until dough has doubled in size, 2-3 hours.

Step 3: Spray a 13- x 9-inch pan with cooking spray. Lightly punch down dough. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into an 18- x 10-inch rectangle.

Step 4: For the filling, spread 1/2 cup of butter over the dough. In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle evenly over butter.

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Step 5: Starting with one long side, roll dough into a log; pinch seam to seal. Slice into 12 rolls. Place rolls in the prepared pan. Cover, and let rise in a warm draft-free place until doubled in size, 60-75 minutes.

Step 6: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake, uncovered, until golden brown, 25-30 minutes.

Let cool in pan on a wire rack 15 minutes.

Step 7: Add cream cheese and 4 tablespoons butter to the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat on medium speed until smooth, 1-2 minutes.

Add powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla. Beat on medium speed until smooth, about 1 minute.

Step 8: Drizzle glaze over warm rolls.

Serve with freshly grated nutmeg sprinkled on top and any extra glaze, if desired.

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

45

Sausage Balls

Best Spinach Dip Ever

Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ground pork sausage, at room temperature 2 cups biscuit baking mix

1 (16 oz) container sour cream

1 lb sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup mayonnaise ½ (10 oz) pkg frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

Directions Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

1 (4 oz) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped

Step 2: Combine room temperature sausage and biscuit mix in a large bowl; mix with your hands until well combined.

Add shredded cheese and mix until fully incorporated. Roll mixture into about 30 walnutsized balls; transfer to a baking sheet.

1 (1.8 oz) pkg dry leek soup mix

Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and sausage is cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes.

1 (1 lb) loaf round sourdough bread Directions Step 1: Mix sour cream, mayonnaise, spinach, water chestnuts, and dry soup mix together in a medium bowl.

Chill in refrigerator 6 hours, or overnight.

Step 2: Slice off the top of the sourdough round and pull out the soft interior, leaving a sturdy bread bowl. Fill with spinach mixture. Tear removed bread chunks into pieces for dipping.

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advantagespecialties.com 46 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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George Oliver Cranberry Feta Pinwheels with Jalapeño

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Ingredients 8 oz cream cheese, softened 5 oz feta cheese, crumbled 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped 1/2 cup minced jalapeños, seeds and ribs removed, or to taste 1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts 2 tsp dried thyme 2 (10”) spinach flour wraps or tortillas Directions Step 1: Beat cream cheese and feta together in a bowl with an electric mixer until smooth. Stir in cranberries, jalapeños, walnuts, and thyme.

Step 2: Spread half the filling over a tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edge. Roll up tightly and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Repeat with remaining tortilla and filling.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 3: To serve, trim the ends of the tortilla rolls, slice each roll into 1/2-inch pinwheels, and serve.

January 13th Hymn Sing followed by a Cobbler and Ice Cream Social January 14th Celebrating our 170th Anniversary with Regional Minister Rev. Dr. Andy Mangum preaching

Embracing Tradition Weekly open communion • Sermons that make you think Great music

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)

Sunday Worship Service @ 10:45 AM Adult Bible Study and Children’s Sunday School @ 9:30 AM Sunday Youth Group from 3:00-5:00 PM Nursery Available Wednesday Bible Study @ 10:00 AM The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ): A Movement for Wholeness in a Fragmented World.

Worship services are live streamed on our FB page First Christian Church - Huntsville, TX 1800 Ave. R. • Huntsville, Texas 77340 (936)295-3677 Email - firstcchuntsville@gmail.com Website: Fcchtx.org Pastor Daniel Paul

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

47

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays We wish you a holiday season filled with love, joy, and the warmth of cherished moments with family and friends.

walkercountyfcu.com Personal and Business Accounts Land Loans • Construction Loans 1802 Normal Park Dr • Huntsville 936-291-2171 48 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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

from page 89

SUDOKU

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Sudoku #6 Sudoku #5 4 7 6 1 2 4 1 6 8 3 5 62 18 89 9 5 8 3 6 7 3 4 7 9 2 9 51 45 24 7 7 93 76 8 2 5 1 2 5 96 1 3 4 8 3 8 1 4 9 6 8 9 2 1 6 3 85 64 17 4 3 6 7 5 8 7 5 4 2 8 1 79 52 93 2 6 4 9 3 3 2 7 9 4 5 7 46 21 38 1 1 9 2 4 4 1 8 8 7 7 2 13 86 65 5 9 3 8 7 1 6 3 5 5 1 4 28 79 42 3 7 2 5 8 9 5 2 3 6 9 6 94 37 51 6

Sudoku #6 5 3 2 14 27 73 6 3 61 96 8 8 4 9 5 4 5 6 7 5 42 91 2 7 95 53 3 9 6 2 8 6 43 81 14 389 9 78 2 7 6 6 1 5 4 2 1 7 39 9 3 8 4 7 18 9 6 8 55 261 8 24 42 7 1 5 7 3

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

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

Sudoku #8 1 1 9 6 5 9 6 78 4 2 2 8 79 43 57 8 7 5 3 8 1 3 2 14 6 5 4 1 9 7 64 36 1 6 7 7 5 3 8 1 92 2 4 32 28 19 45 5 8 9 5 12 7 7 6 9 3 9 6 4 4 6 28 8 3 9 3 86 3 4 5 5 2 1 7

Sudoku #7 3 68 55 92 1 6 21 33 6 9 7 9 87 44 7 2 1 7 4 2 18 75 2 6 33 64 81 5 8 57 99 26 3 4 85 72 18 9 5 21 33 57 4 1 94 46 69 8

Sudoku #8 3 6 8 8 2 94 7 7 1 5 24 79 58 6 1 4 9 42 1 6 3 5 23 5 8 56 2 5 4 3 39 7 4 89 3 1 7 7 1 2 9 7 9 1 6 4 1 6 58 8 6 1 5 53 82 44 3 1 7 7 4 8 29 96 6 2 33 9 7 6 1 85 2

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Zip Line: $7 | Aerial Course: $12 | Crate Stackin’ $5 Chuckwagon Roundup: $20 December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

51

From the Mouths of Babes Here are a few {humorous} declarations that Children’s Ministers have heard young children make about the Bible {and I think God laughed at every one of them}:

52 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

•

Noah’s wife’s name was Joan of Ark.

•

God asked Abraham to sacrifice Isaac on Mount Montezuma.

•

Lot’s wife was a pillar of salt by day, but a ball of fire by night.

•

Samson slayed the Philistines with the ax of the apostles.

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Moses led the Hebrews to the Red Sea, where they made unleavened bread, which is bread made without any ingredients.

•

Moses went up to Mount Cyanide to get the Ten Commandments.

•

The Fifth Commandment is humor thy father and mother, and the Seventh Commandment is thou shalt not admit adultery.

•

Moses died before he ever reached Canada.

•

The greatest miracle in the Bible was when Joshua told his son to stand still and he obeyed him.

•

Solomon, one of David’s sons, had 300 wives and 700 porcupines.

•

Jesus was born because Mary had an immaculate contraption.

•

The people who followed the Lord were called the 12 decibels.

•

The epistles were the wives of the apostles.

Creative Corner He Is There

By Linda Unger There is a window by my bed. I like windows. They let in sunshine and open up my world. I can see a pretty view from the window by my bed. That’s nice. If the weather is pleasant, I can open the window to enjoy a cool breeze and hear the birds sing. That’s nice.

At night when I lay my head on my pillow, I can look outt my window, but I can’t see a lot. It’s dark, of course, and my neighbor has lots of tall bushy trees that block out almost all the sky.

Almost! Right at the top of the window, where my curtains meet in the center, there is an irregular teardrop shape of sky showing through the leafy tops of the trees. Almost at the top of that opening, on a clear night, I can see a star. Every night -- the same star -- no matter the time of night. Yes, it’s the North Star.

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Every night when I lay down, I look for my star. If I wake up during the night, I look for my star.

It has become a habit. Sometimes, it is hidden by clouds, but I know it’s there.

Sometimes, the wind blows the tree limbs, and the leaves hide the star. But I know it’s there.

One night, I realized there is a lot about that star I can relate to God. If I am where I am supposed to be (my head on my pillow), I will know just where and how to find Him. While I rest and refresh my body, He is still there. Sometimes, there are clouds in life, so I can’t always see or understand what God is doing, but I know He is there.

Sometimes, the wind blows, and circumstances come between me and

my “Star,” but if I watch, I can see that He is always there, overseeing it all. When I awaken in the night with worries or fears, He gives me a visible reminder. “Yes, My daughter, I’m still here.”

No, that star is not my God. I know it is only one of His creations, and it is imperfect. But I think it is okay to use it as a tangible reminder of a loving God’s care and omnipresence in our lives. The sight of the star draws my thoughts and thanks and praises toward Him. In our darkest night -- He is there. In our cloudy lives -He is there. In the winds and storms of this life -- He is there.

At the end of every day, when I lay down to rest and look out my window, He reminds me -- He is there. That’s better than “nice.”

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

53

Wildlife Wonders BE MORE LIKE RUDOLPH

By Cheryl Conley Lake Creek Preserve Board of Directors

When Santa needs help guiding his sleigh, who does he turn to? Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer, of course. How else would he get gifts to boys and girls all over the world?

Without a doubt, Rudolph is the most famous reindeer of all--but other than his nose, what do we really know about him?

Rudolph was “born” in 1939. Robert May, a copywriter for Montgomery Ward, was

asked to write a Christmas story in the form of a booklet to be given away to customers.

Often taunted as a child himself, he decided to write about a reindeer ostracized by the other reindeer for a physical deformity, a glowing red nose. May struggled for a name for the reindeer (and considered Rollo and Reginald before deciding on Rudolph). As he developed the story, he tested it out on his 4-year-old daughter. His boss, however, wasn’t nearly as excited about the story as his daughter. After all, aren’t red noses associated with people who drink a lot? That was unacceptable. May stuck to his guns and, to prove that a reindeer with a red nose would make a great story, he took his friend from the Montgomery Ward’s art department, Denver Gillen, to the Lincoln Park Zoo to sketch some reindeer with red noses. May’s

boss finally approved the idea. That year, 2.4 million copies of the Rudolph booklet were distributed. By the end of 1946, that number increased to 6 million (and would have been much higher had there not been a paper shortage due to the war).

May’s wife died from a terminal illness about the time he created Rudolph, and he was deeply in debt with medical expenses. Even though May created Rudolph, he was an employee of Montgomery Ward, who held the copyright to Rudolph. May didn’t make a penny on his creation. In January of 1947, May convinced Sewell Avery, the corporate president, to turn the copyright over to him, and his financial security was no longer an issue.

The Rudolph booklet was reprinted in 1947,

L o ve

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Ma y y ou r Ch ris t mas b e filled with joy a n d p e ace , an d may God' s loving light s h i n e u pon y ou t h rou gh out the new year.

Co v e n a nt Fellowsh ip

C ome as you are !

Blue Christmas Service, Dec. 23rd @ 6 pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Service @ 6 pm Dec. 24th Bi bl e S t ud y : S u n d a y M o r n i n g s, 9 : 3 0 am W or s hi p Ti m e : S u n d a y M o r n i n g s, 10:30 am Ce le br at e R e c o v e ry : T u e sd a y s, 7 p m Le ad Pas t o r : D a v i d Va l e n t i n e 54 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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and in 1948, it was shown in theaters as a 9-minute cartoon. It really took off when May’s brother-in-law, songwriter Johnny Marks, turned the Rudolph story into a song.

Many in the music industry weren’t interested in the song. In 1949, it was recorded by Gene Autry and went on to become one of the best-selling songs of all time. In 1964, Rudolph became a television special and is a holiday favorite to this day. Both the song and the television show differ greatly from the booklet May wrote, but he is credited for Rudolph’s creation.

Now that we know how Rudolph was created, how much do we actually know about real reindeer? Reindeer are a species of deer and in North America are called caribou.

They live in the Arctic tundra and forests of Greenland, Scandinavia, Russia, Alaska and Canada. Both males and females have antlers. Males’ antlers can grow 7 feet in length and can have as many as 44 points or “tines.” In captivity, they can live up to 20 years, but only 15 years in the wild. Males can grow up to 4 feet tall at the shoulder and can weigh up to 550 pounds. Females are slightly smaller. Their predators include wolverines, bears, and even eagles.

Wishing you and yours a

very happy holiday season!

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Can reindeer live in hot climates like Texas?

Yes, they can. As a matter of fact, there’s a reindeer ranch called the Double R Reindeer Ranch just outside of Dallas. To stay cool, reindeer need shade and bodies of water to wade in. One Texas reindeer owner says he puts wet sand on the barn floor and uses fans to cool the animals in hot weather.

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to think about Rudolph and the message in his story. Rudolph always knew he was a little different, but he let his light shine regardless of what others said.

Don’t hide who you are; your difference can be your strength.

Let’s all be more like Rudolph!

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www.huntsville-isd.org December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Kidding Around FRIENDS GIFTS GINGERBREAD JACK FROST JOLLY ANGEL

MANGER

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MERRY

CHRISTMAS

NATIVITY

CRACKERS

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56 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

What are elves’ favorite types of photos?

Elfies.

What type of music do elves like best?

Wrap.

What’s the first thing elves learn in school?

The elf-abet.

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

57

Your Best AgriLife By: Meredith Cryer, Walker County Extension Agent – Family and Community Health meredith.cryer@ag.tamu.edu

Here’s to a Healthy Holiday!

‘Tis the season of joy, celebrated for its snug weather, cherished family gatherings, and delectable holiday feasts and sweets.

Often, these culinary delights are rich in calories, saturated fats, sodium, and extra sugars. Consequently, it’s crucial to exercise prudence when selecting foods and portion size. Holiday dishes hold a special place in uniting individuals and preserving cultural and traditional connections. Nonetheless, it is important to remember that moderation is key. Strive to incorporate healthy recipes and fresh fruits and vegetables to provide balance to your holiday meals.

Cooler outdoor temperatures might also encourage us to be more sedentary. Physical activity is just as important as making conscious food choices. According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should incorporate at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of muscle strengthening into their weekly routine. Physical activity is anything that gets your body moving. It can be an indoor or outdoor activity and can include gardening, dancing, or following along with an exercise video. There are so many options, so choose whatever activity you enjoy and get your body moving.

Incorporating a few small changes can really make a difference during the holiday season.

Here are some quick tips to make your holidays a little bit healthier: • Add to Your Plate! Instead of worrying about what to take off your plate this holiday season, add to it! Add colorful veggies and fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and lowfat dairy options to ensure you have a wellbalanced meal. Don’t hesitate to enjoy and savor holiday favorites, but eat those in moderation.

• Avoid Distracted Eating- The holiday season is a prime time for endless snacking--and many times, we can eat mindlessly with distractions such as the television or an intriguing conversation.

During this time, try setting a place at the table to eat and serving yourself a plate.

Be mindful of the delicious foods you are consuming and try to avoid distractions, if possible.

• Include a Holiday Exercise ActivityStart a fun family tradition of incorporating physical activity this holiday season.

Whether it be a family walk or a holiday 5k run, you’ll get your body moving by making memories and traditions with your family.

• Visit Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s Dinner Tonight Program- Dinner Tonight offers delicious and budget-friendly recipes to include in your holiday meals (visit https://dinnertonight.tamu.edu).

• Give a Gift That Keeps on Giving- If you don’t know what to gift someone, try Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s Dinner TonightEssentials Cookbook or an educational course such as Cooking Well Exploring Cultures (check these out at https:// agrilifelearn.tamu.edu/).

While the holidays can be a stressful time to stay healthy, trying these tips is a great starting point. More importantly, enjoy the family fun, make memories, eat those holiday treats, stay active, and have a happy holiday season!

Educational programs of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, national origin, genetic information or veteran status. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.

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Ingredients 1 cup water 1 cup artificial sucralose (Splenda®) 16-ounce bag cranberries fresh or frozen 1 cup apple chopped 1 cup pecans chopped 1/2 cup golden raisins 1/2 orange juiced

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1 teaspoon nutmeg ground Directions Step 1: Combine water and artificial sucralose in a large sauce pan and bring contents to a boil.

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Step 5: Remove the sauce pan from the heat and let it cool. Serve with turkey or your favorite holiday meal!

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59

And the winners are...

2023 Postcards Cover Photo Contest 1ST PLACE IN EACH CATEGORY WINS:

GRAND PRIZE WINNER RECEIVES: • Photo featured on a Postcards Magazine Cover • 2 Nights at Margaritaville Lake Conroe Resort • 6 Tickets to Lone Star Lights at Carolina Creek • Specially Customized Postcards Award Gift • Recognition in Postcards Magazine

• Photo on a Postcards Magazine Cover • 1 Night at Margaritaville Lake Conroe Resort • 4 Tickets to Lone Star Lights at Carolina Creek • Specially Customized Postcards Award Gift • Recognition in Postcards Magazine

2ND & 3RD PLACE IN EACH CATEGORY WINS: • 2 Tickets to Lone Star Lights at Carolina Creek • Recognition in Postcards Magazine

WOW! You blew us away again in the third year of our contest with over 600 entries, and we are excited to share the results!

The contest categories were Animals, Nature, People, Local Living, and Seasons.

We thought you might appreciate knowing how the winners were selected.

• First, we removed any names or identifying marks from submissions.

• Our Postcards team then narrowed the field to multiple finalists in each category before the photos were submitted to our panel of judges. Photo contest judges consisted of several individuals (some local, some not) with photography experience and expertise.

• Each judge independently selected and ranked their top five photos in each category.

• From this information, we calculated numerical scores for the photos, which determined our winners.

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60 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Grand Prize Winner Raymond W. Carroll

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

61

Animals 1st Place Winner Roberta Cowan

62 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

2nd Place Winner Justin Humphrey

3rd Place Winner Cade Crippin

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Nature 1st Place Winner Janice West

64 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

2nd Place Winner Michele Miller

3rd Place Winner Angela Valis

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

65

People

66 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

1st Place Winner Judy Stovall

GOT PROBLEMS?

We’re your problem solvers!

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n s o h o J Wrecker Servicen

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Toll Free 1-800-743-1029 631 Ryans Ferry Rd. • Huntsville December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Local Living 1st Place Winner Stacy Adams-Roberts

68 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

3rd Place Winner Teresa Smith

2nd Place Winner Cade Crippin

Happy Holidays

FROM YOUR

Hometown Hospital

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huntsvillememorial.com December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Seasons

70 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

1st Place Winner Cade Crippin

From our family to yours, Merry Christmas!

WC Auto Center

Complete Auto Repair Serving Huntsville Since 1997

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

71

Honorable Mentions

Animals Left & Below: Pam Johnson

72 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Nature Left: Jennifer Goins Below: Larry Fusaro

Your hometown experts in celebrating life! shmfh.com Our Area’s Premier Funeral Home Family-Owned and Managed since 2002 Huntsville • Montgomery • Willis December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

73

Honorable Mentions

People Left: Emily Day Below: Seth Reissig

74 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Local Living Veronica Jozwiak

Karen Cox

“Building the American Dream” A True Custom Home Builder

Sullivan Classic Homes, Inc.

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

75

Honorable Mentions

Seasons Left: Michele Miller Below: Emily Day

76 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Best Of The Rest

Cade Crippin

4023 SAM HOUSTON AVE HUNTSVILLE, TX December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Best Of The Rest

Stacy Adams-Roberts

Emily Day

Cade Crippin

78 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Teresa Smith

Roberta Cowany

Stacy Adams-Roberts

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

79

This holy season is so

Things My Granddaddy Said

much more than Christmas parties and gift giving. May the miracle

I hope my ship comes in before my dock rots.

of Christmas fill your heart with wonder and joy!

He’s cleaner than a hound’s tooth.

“Oh come, let us adore Him!”

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

There are only two things in this world that are true: the Bible…and a scale.

It’s hard to read the label from inside the bottle.

I used to be a people person…but people ruined it for me.

Huntsville • 936.294.0283 • 127 Medical Park Lane

• 227 Hwy 75 N • Suite 245

Conroe • 936.494.1292 • 1020 Riverwood Ct. Suite 120

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As I grow older, more and more often I find myself saying, “Like my Granddaddy used to say…” In an effort to keep some of these old sayings alive, we are sharing them here.

Please feel free to share yours with us!

80 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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Business Focus Story by Ruth Fields Photos by Tom Miller

After the crippling winter storm of 2021, the father-son team of Jerry and Dustin Sorensen opened a business to supply Generac generators to area residents.

Texans still talk about the catastrophic winter storm of February 2021— especially in one Lake Conroe area neighborhood. Roads were impassable, so residents were virtually trapped, and families tried to keep warm by wrapping up in blankets and camping out by their fireplaces. Fortunately, Jerry and Dustin Sorensen had recently installed a Generac generator in one of the homes in the neighborhood. When the power failed, the generator, fueled by the home’s natural gas supply, came to life. The gracious homeowner invited his neighbors to his house, where they drank coffee and were able to get warm. Jerry dubbed the home “FEMA Camp Two.” Over the next few months, many other people in the neighborhood saw the wisdom in 82 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

purchasing generators to provide stand-by electricity.

In past years, residents of southeastern Texas worried about the occasional hurricane or tornado that might leave them without power for a few days. Today, there is more to fear. “Now that the grid has been exposed in the Houston area, people are concerned about keeping the heaters on in their homes,” Jerry says. During the 2021 winter storm, all 254 Texas counties were placed under winter storm and hard freeze warnings; day after day, temperatures stubbornly refused to rise above freezing. It was the coldest weather Texans had experienced in decades, and when the power grid failed, the storm became more than an inconvenience.

Tragically, some Texans lost their lives to the storm, both directly and indirectly.

Furthermore, more people work from home than ever before, and most rely on electricity to telecommute. In addition, some people use lifesaving medical equipment that requires electricity. For many such people, owning a

“We are the solution to backup power” generator has become a priority.

Finding a niche Jerry and his son Dustin always dreamed of owning their own business. At first, they weren’t sure what kind of business they wanted to operate, but during the past ten years, the father-son team worked for companies in the Houston area that supplied several brands of stand-by generators to local customers. During that time, they were most impressed with Generac, a company that makes generators in many sizes, even ones for large homes. Customers, likewise, seemed to prefer Generac: Jerry and Dustin observed that about 90 percent of their clientele chose Generac over other brands.

About six months after the crippling winter storm of 2021, the time seemed right, so Jerry and Dustin decided to pool their resources and carve a niche for themselves

by supplying Generac generators to area residents. In March 2022, Texas Generator Solutions, an authorized Generac dealer, opened for business, providing turnkey installation, service and sales in multiple area counties. “We are the solution to backup power,” Dustin says.

Texas Generator Solutions is truly a familyowned and family-operated business.

While Dustin takes care of operations, Jerry handles sales. Dustin’s sister Krystal Baker is the company’s office manager. From the start, the family’s goal was to provide friendly, hometown service. “We know every one of our customers,” Krystal says. “They don’t become a ticket in this office. If you mention a name, most people in this office will know who you are talking about. I think customers enjoy the fact that they can call our office, and we know what they’re talking about.”

»

o s k y r e n December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

83

Because the company keeps many units in stock, it can provide quick service.

When Jerry arrives at a home to supply a free, no-obligation quote, he never uses high-pressure sales techniques.

Instead, he simply sizes up the house, finds the best location for a generator, conducts a load calculation, and talks to homeowners to see what size generator will fit their needs. While larger homes require more powerful units, some customers elect to use generators for only a fraction of their homes’ electrical appliances, such as air conditioners and heaters, refrigerators, freezers, and television sets. “We can customize the system,” Dustin says. “You can use everything you want, but not everything at the same time.” Even people who live in allelectric homes can take advantage of gas-powered, stand-by power.

Texas Generator Solutions has relationships with local companies that can supply homes with propane; some even lease propane tanks.

Rapid and Reliable Service Customers appreciate the prompt attention they receive from Texas Generator Solutions. Because the company keeps many units in stock, it can provide quick service. While some companies might take months to install a generator, Texas Generator Solutions can usually finish jobs

84 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

i t w t p b G

J m e m

UGLY CONCRETE??

Before Dustin takes care of operations, while Jerry handles sales.

in a few weeks. “You don’t have to wait forever for your generator—not two to four months, but three to four weeks,” Dustin says. In one local neighborhood, he says, two families contracted with companies to install generators. While one family worked with Texas Generator Solutions, the other family chose another company. Even though Texas Generator Solutions’ customer placed their order later, their generator was installed first. Their neighbors, who had already been waiting for two months, canceled their existing order and chose to do business with Texas Generator Solutions instead.

We’ve got you covered!

Jerry and Dustin want Texas Generator Solutions to be known for its premier service. “We try to make sure we do everything the right way,” Dustin says, “and one of our goals is to communicate every step of the way.” It must be working, because Jerry and Dustin report that they get many referrals from satisfied customers. Some say they appreciate the company’s attractive

After

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713.557.3566 Financing plans are available for generators.

Cassie@stampedecoatings.com December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

85

pricing (a result of low overhead), as well as its many financing options.

Zero percent interest is available for 18-month loans, and with other available loans, customers can finance for up to 11 years.

Some people might worry about investing in a generator if they think they might later move to another house; however, Dustin says, relocating families have options. If they move to another house in the area, they can simply take the generator with them, and Texas Generator Solutions can facilitate the process. Even if families are relocating to another city or state, they can have Texas Generator Solutions uninstall their unit. When they arrive at their new home, they can have the generator reinstalled there.

Another option is for homeowners to leave their generator in place to make their home more attractive to prospective homebuyers. Jerry and Dustin predict that homeowners can recoup about 75 percent of the cost of their generators in the form of higher sales prices.

Ultimately, Dustin says, a stand-by generator is simply a form of insurance, protecting homeowners from possible power outages in the future, whether caused by a natural disaster or a failed power grid. “You will be one step ahead of that power outage,” he says, and encourages customers not to procrastinate. “There’s no such thing as being too early. You don’t want to wait until it’s too late. There’s no price you can put on a generator during a catastrophe.”

For more information, visit texasgensolutions.com.

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

86 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

13786-B Hwy 105 Conroe, Texas 77304 936.588.9317

December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

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see answers on page 49

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www.huntsvilleCTKmethodist.org Sunday School at 9:15 AM ~ Worship Service at 10:30 AM Worship is a blend of Contemporary & Traditional Music 88 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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mcgilberrymechanical.com 90 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

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

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91

Medical Matters

By Luis D. Neve, MD, MS

Does Loud Headphone Music Hurt Your Hearing?

“But it’s my favorite song!” says your teen, as she cranks her music up another notch.

Pretty hard to complain when you’ve been known to blast tunes during your own workout. But should you be concerned about the volume of your music? Can listening to loud music actually cause hearing loss?

Yes, and yes.

According to Dr. Luis Neve, an otolaryngologist at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital, there are thousands of cells with millions of tiny hair-like structures in our inner ear facilitate our hearing.

“Loud sound can damage these cells and structures,” Neve said. “Your ears are very sensitive, and those thousands of cells and structures are incredibly complex. Enough damage over time can cause hearing loss, and you cannot get it back or repair it with a simple surgery or medical procedure. You can undergo cochlear implantation to treat profound sensorineural hearing loss, but the native hearing would not be preserved and the hearing that is restored is very different than what the human ear can register naturally.”

How Loud is too Loud? How Long is too Long?

Sounds are everywhere, and the volume of a sound is described in decibels (dB). Sounds less than around 70 dB are safe and won’t typically affect your hearing. As sounds get louder (and the longer you listen), damage to your hearing becomes more and more likely.

Hearing loss can lead to continuous ringing or buzzing in your ears, also called tinnitus.

To offset the risk of hearing loss, Neve recommends learning when your music is considered too loud and how to listen safely.

To get an idea of how loud is too loud, consider some everyday sounds. For instance, the softest sound you can hear measures 0 dB. The hum of a refrigerator is about 40 dB with no significant impact on your hearing. The noise of city traffic while you are inside your car would measure about 82 dB and would probably only annoy you.

But now consider the loud music of a radio or a rock concert. You could experience hearing loss in less than five minutes with decibel levels around 107. Standing near sirens for any length of time or prolonged exposure to firecrackers could cause pain and ear injury at between 120 and 145 dBs. Even your personal listening device can reach damaging decibel levels beyond those of a

rock concert.

Protect Your Hearing The National Center for Environmental Health recommends ways to protect your hearing and still enjoy your music: • Limit your music device or headphones to 60% of the max volume.

• Take listening breaks every hour.

• Listen in a quiet place or use noisecanceling headphones.

• Avoid being near loudspeakers.

• If attending a loud concert or event, bring hearing protection.

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(936) 295-6394 Attorneys at Law Sam A. Moak 92 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Serving East Texas Since 1972

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December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

93

december

2023

Thru 6

CALENDAR

Montgomery

Thru Jan 7

Zoo Lights

Silent Auction

houstonzoo.org

folstewart.org

The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center

galvestonrrmuseum.org

Conroe Bethlehem City

“Christmas Belles”

mscopas.org

5-24 Houston thehobbycenter.org

8-10

crightontheatre.org

Madisonville The Pathway of Light

“Holiday Inn”

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owentheatre.com

1-3

9 Cleveland

Galveston

Jacob Stelly

Dickens on the Strand

Palestine

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The Polar Express Train Ride

Huntsville

1-2

Annual Awards Gala & Auction

Huntsville

Thru 31 Huntsville

huntsvillewalkerchamber.com

Journey Through Bethlehem journeythroughbethlehem.com

Create a Bowl Workshops thewynnehome.com

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

“Cinderella”

Conroe

Thru 27 Houston

(for Empty Bowls Event)

College Station

1-17

lonestarlights.org

texasstaterailroad.net

5-6

wcbc.us/bethlehem-city/

Lone Star Lights

houstonballet.org

folstewart.org

1-3, 8-10

Huntsville

“The Nutcracker”

Christmas Open House with Santa

visitthewoodlands.com

Thru 22 Galveston The Polar Express

Montgomery

The Woodlands

Thru 17 Brenham unitybrenham.org

4

Thru Jan 15

owentheatre.com

“The Game’s Afoot”

eclubhouse.org/sites/huntsvilletx

Houston

Charles Stewart Library:

“Leading Ladies”

Lions Club Christmas Parade

Montgomery Christmas in Historic Montgomery

2

Thru Jan 6 Galveston Holiday in the Gardens moodygardens.com

Cleveland Creed Fisher pwrtexantheatre.com

Huntsville Christmas Fair & Winter in the Park huntsvilletx.gov

94 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

mhs-tx.org

9-10 The Woodlands Christmas Gift Market bigtop.show/thewoodlandstx

MR BRASIL Paint & Remodeling Specialist

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17 Houston For King and Country toyotacenter.com

Montgomery Community Band Christmas Concert facebook.com/events/306492782167853

Merry Christmas

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31 Spring “One Night in Memphis” cypresscreekface.org

Broker Associate December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

95

“Seens” from our World

An exorcize in restraint!

Seen by: Abby Altom Boyd

Umm…I have a very important question to ask.

Share the funny and unusual things you’ve seen!

PostcardsLive.com

96 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

Seen by: PC Staff

Merry

Christmas from our family to yours

Normangee State Bank 202 Main St. • Normangee, TX

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Online Banking Available

NormangeeStateBank.com December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

97

Mustard Seed Moments

by Linda W. Perkins

Blooms in the Desert This year, the intense summer heat scorched many delicate plants, especially the flowering ones. You can imagine my surprise when I noticed the Spanish dagger plant in my backyard had a big, beautiful bloom on it!

Out of curiosity, I began researching desert plants. What makes them able to survive – and even bloom – in an environment that would kill many others? I learned some plants have shallow roots that are spread out wide, so they catch even the smallest amount of moisture from dew or occasional rainfall. Others, like mesquite trees, have roots that go down deep, where they are not as vulnerable to changing surface temperatures and evaporation.

Our lives can sometimes feel like a desert. How do we become refreshed so that we can bloom again?

The answer is found in the secrets of the desert plants. When we reach out to others, we find a support system that will carry us through the hard times and give us more opportunities to experience joy. And when we are rooted in God’s word and our relationship with Jesus, God gives us the strength to keep going under any circumstance, because we find our soul’s nourishment in Him. We can stand strong, not only surviving, but thriving in even the harshest climate.

How healthy is your root system today? Is it up to the task of supporting you in what you may be facing in life?

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” – John 15:5 “The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom. Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy.” – Isaiah 35:1-2a

98 Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition | December 2023

1979 INTERSTATE 45 N, MADISONVILLE, TX, 77864 BRAYSMOTOR.COM . 936-463-6339 December 2023 | Postcards Magazine: Piney Woods Edition

99