POSTCARDS MAGAZINE - Piney Woods - Dec. 2022

Abby

From Our Readers

I appreciate Postcards and what you mean to the Huntsville community. I enjoy reading your magazine when I go to the chiropractor’s office!

Mary Smith

Really enjoy your community maga zine. Reminds me of Ideals Magazines from the past.

Jeannie Boyle

Mr. Altom - Each month as I read the Postcards Magazine, cover to cover, I always look forward to your page (Mustard Seed Moments). The August 2022 edition was no exception.

You brought out something I had never considered before: we are not to hide our treasures. The treasures of our hearts are to be shared with others, especially those who need to hear of the good things that our Father has placed in our hearts. Thank you for that message.

Please allow me to bring up memories from the past. Coming from a law enforcement family, I must say that I feel the years you spent as a Huntsville police officer were good for the city.

May you and your family continue to provide a good magazine for our community. I look forward to it each month.

Sara Hardy Bartee

I was looking for MR. BRASIL and looked through your online magazine and found his ad. So glad I finally realized if I clicked on the magazine cover it opened it up! So glad you have your magazine. It is wonderful and I love reading it each month. So thank you for your service.

Ann Barosh

Among the wonderful things about living in community are the relationships you form over the years. Whether you connect through children at school or sports events, or you work or worship together, casual relationships often become special friendships.

In our area, we are blessed with a choice of many great doctors. As you read that, I would almost guarantee your thoughts shifted to those who are your favorites. Whether your primary care doctor, your dentist, optometrist or orthopedist, we all have that healthcare provider we really enjoy seeing (even if we don’t enjoy what they tell us).

When a woman is expecting a baby, oftentimes that special relationship is formed with her obstetrician. I remember when I was expecting our first baby, I was unprepared for the emotions that would unexpectedly overwhelm me to the point I would break down in tears over nothing… like having pork chops for dinner. (Yes, that really happened.) I remember as I neared the end of my pregnancy, I exclaimed one day in tears, “Dr. Deahl is the only person who really understands me!” Bless. His. Heart.

I stopped by Dr. Tim Deahl’s office recently – to say goodbye. He has retired, and he was in the midst of closing up shop--cleaning out his desk and going through many notes and cards from women like me, who appreciated him so much. I teasingly asked him if he was sitting back in his office crying, to which he replied, “No, but there have been a bunch of tears in this office…I feel like I’ve been breaking up with my girlfriend every 15 minutes for the last two weeks!” We dissolved into laughter, and then I did my best to explain to him the way I had felt as a young woman, experiencing something I thought I was prepared for and wasn’t. I shared how his steadiness and “everything will be okay” attitude brought a calm assurance, much like that of a parent when a child is nervous. I told him that, while I knew he was “just doing his job”, he was doing so much more. He was building very special relationships--the kind of relationships that bring tears when they end. Thank you, Dr. Deahl, for caring for so many of us. Thank you for delivering our daughter and son, and our son’s two sons.

During this holiday season, take a moment to think about those special relationships in your life, and drop those people a card. They will smile… and so will you.

Merry Christmas, ~ Karen

First National Bank of Huntsville Announces New Appointments

The Board of Directors of First National Bank of Huntsville is pleased to announce the promotion of John A. Sanders, Jr. to the position of Chief Executive Officer and Walter H. Bennett, Jr., to President & Chief Operating Officer. The announcement was made by the Chairman of the Board, Sam H. Burris, Jr., who recently retired as Chief Executive Officer in September of 2022 after 30 years with FNBH. Burris said, “John and Walter are both longtime employees with many years of banking experience in various positions throughout our bank. They are experienced and capable bankers, and will keep the bank at the forefront as Huntsville’s only locally owned community bank.”

John A. Sanders, Jr. Chief Executive Officer

After graduating from Franklin High School, John earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University; he has a MBA from Sam Houston State University. John and his wife Kim grew up together in Franklin and have been married for 40 years. They have two daughters and three grandchildren. He has worked for First National Bank of Huntsville for 38 years.

Walter H. Bennett, Jr. President & Chief Operating Officer

Walter is a lifelong resident of Huntsville and began his career with FNBH 32 years ago as a freshman at Sam Houston State University. Walter has an undergraduate degree from SHSU as well as an MBA. Walter and his wife Cynthia have been married for 28 years and have a son and twin daughters.

Since 1890, First National Bank of Huntsville has proudly helped our community grow into the city it is today. We are equally proud to be Huntsville’s only locally owned community bank. FNBH is a subsidiary of First National Bancshares of Huntsville, Inc. with its main office and branch in Huntsville as well as branches in Crockett, Madisonville, Franklin and Bryan/College Station.

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

Todd Stevens

Huntsville High School Art Nominated by Arashelly Perla

When I took art class, he taught me different techniques on how to draw; as a result, I was able to receive a gold medal award my freshman year at the Houston Rodeo Art Show, followed by first in our district my junior year.

Inspirations

by Claudia Kirkwood

Story

Photos by Gina Turner

Abby Gray

CLAYTON SPARKS Leaves His Mark

“As we were celebrating our new hope, someone else was mourning their loss.” Abby Gray

A “bittersweet” time, as Abby Gray explains, for she and her husband Reid when they were first told that a liver donor was found who could provide the organ transplant desperately needed by Reid. The donor, Clayton Sparks,

Expect Miracles

twenty-four-year-old son of Beth and Larry Sparks of Willis, Texas, had just experienced a devastating ski accident in Colorado and was a possible liver match for Reid who had been waiting for just under two anxious, yet

hopeful, years for this news. Sometimes… many times…good things come at a price.

Born and raised in Huntsville, Abby married Reid in 2014, and as they were enjoying their first wedded months together, now residents

Abby & Dee Everett

Beth & Larry Sparks

Abby reads at The Wynne Home in Huntsville

“Our support system of family and friends gave us strength and hope”

of Cypress, Texas, he became increasingly ill with symptoms that defied explanation. After a series of tests, it became clear Reid was suffering from Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis, a disease affecting the liver. Since there was no cure for the disease other than having a liver transplant, the wait was on.

In the meantime, the couple, ready to start a family, suffered three miscarriages and had begun the process of in vitro fertilization. During these four years of miscarriages and in vitro cycles, Abby and Reid traveled all over the United States to register him at different transplant centers. As she relates, “Our support system of family and friends gave us strength and hope,” a statement fully endorsed by Reid. Their motto became, “Expect Miracles,” and the sale of shirts sporting these hope-filled words were sold to pay for expenses. Abby became an avid blogger as she related the ups and downs of the journey to her Facebook

audience. “I kept saying that I don’t know how this will turn out, but it will be amazing,” and she adds, “I always expected him to be here so we could raise a family together, but it would take some miracles for this to happen. I

was thirty-one and did not want to lose him or to be a childless widow.” She and family members routinely perused the internet for possible donor situations.

In January 2019, the much-anticipated call

Wise Men Still Seek Him

Photo Credit: Houston Chronicle

came. Reid had been on the transplant list for just under two years, and Abby was in her twenty-first week of pregnancy. They were told to pack their bags. If everything worked out and all the tests were positive for a successful transplant, it would take place the following day. Their transplant team flew to Colorado that evening to retrieve the organ, and a successful operation was performed in Houston the following day. As Reid expresses, “I’m incredibly grateful to everyone--to Clayton, his family, our support system--and to Abby. I didn’t realize I was as sick as I was. The situation became urgent before I realized the severity of it. I appreciate all the things people did for us before, during, and after.”

To commemorate the life and gift of Clayton Sparks, Abby has just published a book entitled, “CLAYTON SPARKS Leaves His Mark.” It was released on April 19, “World Liver Day.” Clayton was an exceptionally warm-hearted individual, and stories in the book relate several real-life examples of his kindness. It is written in an easy-to-understand style and filled with charming illustrations by Abby’s mother, Dee Everett. The original proof of the book was presented this past Christmas to Clayton’s parents, Beth and Larry. Abby gave birth to twins, Oliver and Kaylee, in April 2019, three months after the transplant. To honor the memory of Clayton, Reid and Abby--with the blessings of Beth and Larry--gave Oliver the middle name of Clayton. A strong and endearing bond has been formed between the families. The Sparks are treated as grandparents to the twins, and the children spend countless hours

playing at their house. It’s a warm relationship, and Clayton would approve.

Clayton loved people. As a young boy, his family would visit a loved one at Bridgewood Farms, a daycare program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. At age seven, Clayton went into his parent’s room one night at bedtime and shared his concern that some of the individuals at Bridgewood Farms would not receive Christmas gifts. He wanted to buy gifts for everyone. His mother encouraged him to go to bed and they would come up with a solution later. His parents were surprised in the morning to find that Clayton had stayed up all night long writing notes to his friends asking them to bring gifts to school for this charitable cause. When Christmas arrived, Clayton dressed up as Santa Claus and lovingly distributed the gifts. Clayton continued to express this same kind of love and care for others throughout his brief life. He used to encourage his friends to share by saying, “You can’t take it with you when you’re gone.” Through the kindness of his parents, Clayton’s life has continued to bless others. “CLAYTON SPARKS Leaves His Mark” shares more about Clayton’s life and includes activities for children, teens, and families to develop empathy and discover ways to reach out and give to others. Again, Clayton would approve.

Abby now volunteers with LifeGift, a non-profit organization that supports organ donors and recipients. She also serves on the Board of Children’s Transplant Initiative. She has plans for a future book to document the entire journey that she and Reid traveled from diagnosis to transplant, and feels this will give encouragement to others as well as supply information on all aspects of the process. It will also acknowledge to friends and family their significant role in providing support to those in stress-filled situations.

For more information on Abby’s book, visit “CLAYTON SPARKS Leaves His Mark” on Facebook.

To purchase the book, go to https://www.claytonsparksbook.com. To learn about organ and tissue donation, visit https://www.lifegift.org.

To donate to the Clayton Sparks Memorial Foundation, visit https:// www.facebook.com/Clayton SparksMemorialFoundation

Merry Christmas

Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Another Christmas is right around the corner. I’ve noticed that the older I get, the younger Santa Claus looks! I was listening at the door of the bedroom where two of my greatgrandsons were supposed to be saying their prayers. The elder of the two was shouting his prayers and asking for this toy and that toy. His younger brother quietly asked his brother why he was yelling his prayers, because God isn’t deaf. The older brother whispered, “No, but Grandma is!” Drop me a line to Dear Gabby at PostcardsLive.com and have the merriest Christmas ever! Joyfully remember the reason for the season.

DEAR GABBY

My girlfriend says she doesn’t want a Christmas present this year. My gut tells me that if I don’t buy her one, it will be the most expensive Christmas ever. What do you think?

INSTAGRAM MAN

DEAR INSTA

I think you’re absolutely right. By the way, Santa saw your Instagram photos. You’re getting clothes and a dictionary for Christmas.

DEAR GABBY

I’m a guy who can’t believe how little time it took from believing in Santa Claus to looking like Santa Claus. I only date older women--they’re used to life’s disappointments, so they’re ready for me. Last month, we turned our clocks back an hour. Why can’t we turn them back about thirty years?

CURMUDGEON

DEAR CURM

Don’t let old age get you down. It’s too hard to get back up! Unfortunately, I can really relate. I’m so old I can remember when emojis were called hieroglyphics. I’ve reached the age where looking in the mirror is like checking the news. I know there’ll be some new development I won’t like. But cheer up! Christmas is the only time we can sit in front of a dead tree and eat candy out of socks without our kids booking our assisted living arrangements!

CONFIDENTIAL TO OFFICE PARTY POOPER:

I agree! I’ve never been paid enough to watch my boss wearing elf tights.

GABBY

GABBY

By Kim Bius

The Season of Merry is Here!

Has anyone noticed how stunning the fall color is? The intense stress from the summer heat and drought have forced area foliage into brilliant hues of red, purple, orange, copper, and yellow. It is the most brilliant color I have seen in our area in years. As usual for Texas weather, the calendar and Mother Nature are out of sync with one another, and you never know from one day to another whether to leave your plants on the patio or place in winter protection.

The season of “merry” is a state of mind--and a belief or statement of faith-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. Tis the season of love and hope, and gardeners are always filled with cheer and willing to share.

Many of us will have poinsettias in our home for the holidays; the following tips will help 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, and water accumulating in the bottom of the foil are 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.

The week of Thanksgiving (or earlier) is the time to start force blooming your narcissi or amaryllis for Christmas. These beautiful, fragrant bulbs are stunning… 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 of an inch below the bulb bottom (refill as needed to keep the water level there), but not touching the bulb.

The bulb will begin growing within days and be blooming for gift giving or your enjoyment in three weeks.

Christmas cacti will need a bit more water during their blooming cycle and, like poinsettias, should not be exposed to

temperatures below 55 or blooms will drop.

Do you have a gardener on your 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 – use mine all the time!

• *A handmade “gardening coupon” good for 4-8 hours of gardening labor….this is a great gift for elderly neighbors, parents, and the perfect gift-in-kind from 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. These beautiful hand-tuned chimes are made in America, with incredible quality and tone, and play a six-note chord. The deep organ tones of the tines on the extralarge chimes is amazing.

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

• *Put together seeds, bulbs, trowel, gloves, fertilizer, top it off with a gift certificate, and place in a beautiful pot--great gift idea!

Merry Christmas to everyone, and may the season give you the peace, comfort, and joy that comes from Christ’s Love.

Happy Gardening

Anna Justice Alpha Omega Academy

Favorite Movie: Don’t Worry Darling

Favorite Music/Artist: Harry Styles

Favorite Food: Burrito

Arashelly Perla Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Clueless

Favorite Music/Artist: Zac Brown Band

Favorite Food: Frozen Yogurt

Favorite Quote: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” -Philippians 4:13

Anna is a senior at Alpha Omega Academy and enjoys horseback riding. Following graduation, she plans to attend college, then become a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse. Anna believes in doing her best in everything she does.

Favorite Quote: “It’s better to let sorrow flow than to let it grow.”

Arashelly is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Nitzia Perez. Her activities include Grenadier Guard Drill Team, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and HOSA. Following graduation, Arashelly plans to attend Texas A&M University and become a registered nurse. She believes, “Treat people with kindness.”

Catalina Lopez Huntsville High School

Willow Mundorff

Huntsville High School

Favorite Movie: Pitch Perfect

Favorite Music/Artist: Taylor Swift

Favorite Food: Pizza

Favorite Quote: “Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift—that’s why we call it ‘The Present.’” –Eleanor Roosevelt

Catalina is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Maria Lopez and Rito Lopez. Her activities include football filming, TAFE Organization, Spanish Honor Society, Technical Honor Society, and Chick-Fil-A. Following graduation, Catalina plans to attend Sam Houston State University to major in education, with plans to become a bilingual teacher. She believes, “Every day is a new day to be happy, to smile, and to value every moment that happens in life.”

Favorite Movie: Lady Bird

Favorite Music/Artist: Lana Del Rey

Favorite Food: Louisiana Link Potato

Favorite Quote: “Said she knows she’ll live through it to get to this moment.” – Phoebe Bridgers

Willow is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Vinessa Mundorff and Kevin Mundorff. Her activities include soccer, National Technical Honor Society, Skills USA, and working at Arnaud’s Cajun Kitchen. Following graduation, Willow plans to attend college and become a social worker. She believes, “Let go, or be dragged.”

Mingle

Kody Waters

Park Superintendent/Huntsville State Park Police

SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED? Louisiana Tech University 2 FAVORITE MOVIE? Any Star Wars Movie DOLLAR? IMPRESSION ON YOU? DOWN THE ROAD LISTENING TO?

WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU? memory FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF? family PERFECT DAY BEGIN? YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY? EPICALLY BAD AT?

BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE? I haven’t started on my bucket list

IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE? Australia

WHO DO YOU ADMIRE AND WHY? My parents, because they are grounded, Godly people

Bet he’s not with that team long…I hear he’s a floater!

Seen by: PC Staff

Finally! Truth in marketing.

Seen by: PC Staff

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

Only

Local Treasures

Gibbs-Powell Museum

Story by Lindsey Kinane

Photos by Gina Turner

Located on the corner of 11th Street and Avenue M in Huntsville is the historic Gibbs-Powell Museum. This house was commissioned by Thomas Gibbs, the original owner of the house, and constructed in 1862. The house was constructed by W.M. Barrett, who also built the Austin College building located on what is now the Sam Houston State University campus. After the Gibbs family lived in the house, female students who attended the Sam Houston Normal Institute along with the Mott and Jarrard families rented the house between the 1880s and 1890s. Judge Ben Powell II and his wife Eleanor bought it in 1897 because she had relations to the Gibbs family; Anna Powell was the last to live in the house in 1983. Now, the building is owned by the Walker County Historical Commission, which inherited it from the Powell family, who helped restore the house to its current model. The Gibbs-Powell Museum is open Tuesdays-Fridays from Noon to 5:00 PM and Noon to 4:00PM on Saturdays. Guests can walk-in or reserve tours for schools or groups. Lee Anne Wiseman, a docent for the museum, offers a delightful tour of the many rooms upstairs and downstairs. These rooms are filled with furniture

and mementos from the Gibbs and Powell families, along with other families from the Walker country area, to encapsulate life for the many people who lived within the walls.

During the late-1860s/early-1870s, the Gibbs family extended the first floor due to their

growing family; Thomas Gibbs had a total of eight children, two with his first wife and six with his second wife Mary. The house originally had two downstairs bedrooms, one in the back, and an exceptionally large upstairs bedroom for the kids. When female

students later rented, they lived upstairs and split the room into two bedrooms; the Mott and Jarrard families had the downstairs. This extension was not attached to the house until 1913 when the Powell family owned it. Photographs of the families can be found in

the front section hallway and front bedroom. Sisters Louise and Inez Powell taught piano and voice at Sam Houston Normal Institute and other Huntsville schools. In the parlor room, there is a square piano from 1875, a Victorian 1885 pump board, and Regina music box that were made between 18921921. All still work, but were not owned by the sisters. Items from Louise and Inez’s teachings remain in the parlor room--busts of composers like Franz Joseph that were gifted to commemorate their students’ year of study. Additionally, people claim to hear the sound of piano playing in the house as though Louise and Inez are still giving lessons. When looking at the bottom of the window in the parlor room, there is an opening portion called a jib door that helped air circulate throughout the house. This was also done with the placement of the front and back door being a straight walkway for air flow. When it was too cold to open the jib door, the fireplaces-which extended to the second floor--were combined for heating.

There are two dining room set-ups, one with a table made for two people, and the other with a table for six. The smaller one is the original dining room that was converted into a bedroom before the 1860/70 extension gave the Gibbs family more room. In the original room, there is a small pantry with a lock; it would be locked due to the Gibbs children’s sweet tooth! It also had another door that led out to the 15’x34’ brick kitchen, which was

not attached to the house, but is currently a bathroom, added in 1917.

The front bedroom, considered the master bedroom, accommodated Thomas and Mary Gibbs, Benjamin II and Eleanor Powell, and Inez Powell. Inez’s hope chest, which was made by inmates at the Walls Unit and was designed for a bride as a gift from her groom, is one of the biggest items in the room. Even though Inez was never married, she moved into the room to take care of other children with the help of Louise Powell and their brother Benjamin III. A dress can be seen hanging from the wardrobe. This changes seasonally between a lace dress, a donated pioneer casual dress, and the Powell sisters’ party dress.

The second bedroom has a large bathroom that was a storage area during the 1860/’70 extension, until indoor plumbing converted it into a bathroom in 1917. There are empty vintage medicine boxes that show how far medicine has come. But there is also a medicine cabinet that is said to open by itself, even though it has a latch; however, as a calming explanation, this could be explained by the house shifting.

When people venture upstairs, they might notice a few things--the first being a lack of air-conditioning. Then there are also penciled names visible on the walls of the bigger room. The lack of air-conditioning makes people who visit understand what it could have been like for the children and women who

slept upstairs; it also gives appreciation for the beauty of air-conditioning! When coming to terms with the absence of air-conditioning, people then read the thirty or so names of the female student tenants from 1890-1897 in beautiful cursive. The low ceilings, compared

to the high ceiling on the first floor, are another reason for the heat upstairs due to heat rising.

Outside the house is a horse-drawn wagon from 1910-11 that belonged to Wilbourn Sandford Gibbs, the brother of Thomas Gibbs, who helped run a local mercantile store called

Happily Ever After Begins Here

Gibbs Bros. & Co. This wagon was used for the business when they needed supplies from places like Galveston.

While the Gibbs-Powell house is the only thing that remains, there was a bathhouse with a water system in the west side, a well house on the east side, and an outhouse on the north side. There was a stable on the land

Remember, Jesus is the Reason for the Season.

for the horses that possibly was located where the First United Methodist Church now stands. The back of the house has the gift shop and is a Walker County historic area. Here George Weedon’s original tombstone remains. Weedon, who fought in the battle of San Jacinto, had his tombstone found in the

battlefield; his body was relocated to Austin Cemetery with a new tombstone. Another figure is Minnie Fisher Cunningham, who help found Texas Women’s Suffers Institution and the League of Women’s Voters, and her green basket that she used during her fight for getting women to vote. Samuel Walker, the

real Walker Texas Ranger, has a display for his times as a unionist and the development of the Samuel Colt Revolver. There is a changing display so people can expect to learn something new each time.

The Gibbs-Powell Museum is an amazing opportunity for Huntsville to learn about its community before air-conditioning, plumbing, and motorized vehicles. The museum partners with Historic Tours of Texas, where people can come for events, like high tea. Even though COVID-19 cut into events, there is an annual reception in February at the museum during the town’s celebration of Sam Houston’s birthday—about a hundred people visit during this time.

There is something to interest everyone at the Gibbs-Powell Museum.

Partners

I Hope the Stock Market Turns Around

“Failing to plan is planning to fail. Hope is not a plan.” Harrison Jones

I’m not sure if you’ve opened your statements recently, but it has been a tough year, thus far, in the investment world. A lot of people are feeling the pain of the financial perfect storm, rising interest rates, volatile stock market, high inflation, etc.

One of the most important things, especially during turbulent times like this, is to have a plan behind your investing. And like the quote says, hope is not a plan.

You must have a plan and strategy that removes emotion from your investing. I’m sure everyone had heard stories of people selling out at the bottom of a down market, only to miss the positive recovery after. That can be extremely costly to your finances long term by potentially leaving a ton of money on the table!

We follow a very strict, data driven process, with our investing strategy. Although we may have a differing opinion of what the plan is telling us at that moment in time, we stick with it. That is because, if you don’t stick to your plan, do you really have a plan?

One of our goals for clients is to help avoid the massive drawdowns and eliminate as much of the recovery period as possible. It is impossible to time the market, but having a data driven process and plan eliminates investing with emotion, which can be very dangerous.

Pairing this with financial planning for clients, and assuming very conservative variables, we can help build out, and plan for anything. That includes loss of income earlier than expected, or even turbulent markets at unexpected times.

We always welcome questions! We think our slogan, “Enjoy More, Worry Less”, is exactly how life should be!

Submitted by: Brian B Smith, CFP®, Bryan M Masten, CFP® & Riley W. Smith

Kori & George Eichhorn celebrating their 22nd Anniversary together!

Delilah Rae Drake turned 1 July 5th with family and friends around. Her parents are Jaryd & Rachel Drake.

Miguel & Cruz first day of 8th Grade. Sons of Jorge & Leslie Hoot Pulido.

Giggles & Grins

Our two children, 9 and 7, each had a friend sleep over this weekend. At dinnertime, our kids complained about dinner while the two friends complimented it as the “best dinner they ever had.” So we are giving our two kids to our friends and we’re keeping their two kids.

Q: What reindeer game do reindeer play at sleepovers?

A: Truth or deer.

Q: What did Santa say when he stepped into a big puddle?

A: It must have reindeer.

Q: What does Rudolph want for Christmas?

A: A Pony sleigh station.

Q: What is Santa’s dogs name?

A: Santa Paws!

Q: Where do Santa’s reindeer stop for coffee?

A: Star-bucks!

Q: What’s every elf’s favorite type of music?

A: Wrap!

Q: What’s the absolute best Christmas present?

A: A broken drum — you can’t beat it!

Q: What’s the difference between the Christmas alphabet and the ordinary alphabet?

A: The Christmas alphabet has noel.

By Steve VanWagner, D.V.M.

Is Your Horse Choking?

Esophageal obstruction, or “choke,” is a common equine emergency that many experi enced horse owners have never encountered. In human medicine, choke refers to a tracheal (or windpipe) obstruction--whereas in horses, it refers to an obstruction of the esophagus. the muscular tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. The most common sign of choke in horses is feed coming from the nostrils; however, others signs are hypersalivating, retch ing, not eating, acting colicky, or coughing. Horses are still able to breathe, unlike humans. Chokes can have serious consequences, so it is important to have your veterinarian evaluate your horse as soon as you see any of these signs.

Choke tends to occur when horses eat concentrated feed too quickly without chewing appropriately. The feed does not get softened with saliva and creates a bolus that gets lodged in the esophagus. Choke can also occure with straw, hay, hard treats, carrots, apples, or non-food objects. Also, horses and can have poor dentition or abnormal esophageal anatomy predisposing them to choking.

While waiting for the veterinarian, it is important to keep your horse from eating. Hand-walking or muzzling can prevent further food intake. Do not administer any oral medica tions. DO NOT shove a garden hose into your

horse’s mouth, this will only increase the risk of serious complications, especially aspiration pneumonia.

Upon arrival, your veterinarian will conduct a physical exam, administer some sedation, pain medication, and pass a nasogastric tube to the site of the blockage. Sometimes a smooth muscle contractor may be administered. The blockage is treated with water locally through the nasogastric tube until the blockage is resolved. This could possibly take up to an hour.

If your veterinarian is unable to resolve the obstruction or if the horse is showing signs of pneumonia, then the horse needs to be transported to a referral hospital for further diagnostics and treatment. Endoscopy can be performed to identify the type of object causing the obstruction, which is especially important if dealing with a solid object. This will also allow for the veterinarian to diagnose any anatom ical abnormalities of the esophagus.

Once the choke is resolved, the horse will still need continued care. Food should be withheld for a short period of time, then avoid feeding dry feeds and hay and instead offer a soupy mash of a complete feed. Aspiration of feed material or water

going down the trachea into the lungs can cause the horse to develop bacterial pneu monia. Many veterinarians will place horses on antibiotics help prevent this. The horse’s temperature should be monitored for several days. Also make note of any coughing, nasal discharge, or increased respiratory rate, as these can also be signs of pneumonia.

Horses that are repeat chokers on certain feeds may need to stay on soupy mashes indefinitely and placed on soaked alfalfa cubes instead of hay. Horses that are ravenous eaters should have large smooth rocks placed in their feed tubes. Poor dentition also can contribute to choking, so have your veterinarian perform a complete dental exam following a choking episode.

Christmas Cranberry Salad

Ingredients

Directions

Step

Step 2: The next day, combine the cranberry mixture with the pineapple, marshmallows, pecans, and whipped cream. Mix well.

Step 3: Pour into a 3-quart dish, cover and refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

Sausage Balls

Ingredients

1 lb ground pork sausage, at room temperature

2 cups biscuit baking mix

1 lb sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 1: Combine room temperature sausage and biscuit mix in a large bowl; mix with your hands until well combined. Add shredded Cheddar cheese and mix until fully incorporated. Roll mixture into about 30 walnutsized balls; transfer to a baking sheet.

Step 1: Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and sausage is cooked through, 20 to 25 minutes.

To Make Ahead: Follow recipe above through Step 3. Cool sausage balls to room temperature, then freeze in an airtight container. When ready to use, reheat at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Press pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and prick bottom and sides with a fork.

Step 2: Bake crust in the preheated oven until lightly browned, 10 to 12 minutes.

Step 3: Set a fine-mesh sieve over a bowl.

Step 4: Whisk brown sugar, white sugar, cornstarch, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and allspice together in a saucepan; gradually whisk in half-and-half and molasses until smooth. Whisk egg yolks into molasses mixture.

Step 5: Cook molasses mixture, whisking constantly, over medium heat until large bubbles appear on

surface, about 7 minutes. Reduce heat to low and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute more. Remove saucepan from heat and pour filling through sieve. Whisk butter into filling until smooth.

Step 6: Pour filling into pie crust, place a sheet of plastic wrap directly on surface of filling, and refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.

Step 7: Lightly beat cream in a bowl using an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Top each pie slice with a heaping tablespoon of whipped cream.

Step 1: In a small bowl, combine gelatin and cold water; set aside to soften. Combine milk and 1/2 cup sugar in a small glass bowl.

Step 2: Microwave for 3 minutes or until milk begins to boil.

Step 3: In a steady stream, pour hot milk into beaten eggs, whisking constantly. Cook custard in the microwave, whisking after each minute, until it thickens slightly, about 2 minutes. Stir in softened gelatin and mix until melted. Stir in rum.

Step 4: Let filling cool to room temperature. (If you refrigerate it, stir occasionally to prevent gelatin from setting too soon.

Step 5: In a medium bowl, whip cream until soft peaks form; beat

in 1/4 cup sugar.

Step 6: Set aside 1/2 cup of whipped cream for garnish; keep refrigerated. Fold remaining whipped cream into eggnog mixture. Pour filling into pie crust and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.

Step 7: Garnish with reserved whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg.

Note: If the custard sets in the refrigerator before you’ve added the whipped cream, you’ll need to gently reheat the custard until the gelatin melts. Let cool to room temperature, then fold in whipped cream.

A graham cracker crust may be substituted for pre-baked pie crust. Creating this pie is a bit to do, but well worth the time spent!

Bacon-Wrapped Cranberry Walnut Pork

Ingredients

1 (1 lb) pork tenderloin, trimmed

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 tsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp minced fresh rosemary1 tsp finely sliced fresh sage leaves1 Tbs breadcrumbs, or as needed

¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts¼ cup chopped dried cranberries1 pinch cayenne pepper

4 thinly sliced bacon

Pan Sauce:

2/3 cup white wine

2 Tbp balsamic vinegar

2 tsp Dijon mustard

2 Tbs cold butter

kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Place tenderloin on a flat work surface. Slice lengthwise down the middle, being careful not to cut all the way through. Spread open the 2 sides like a book.

Step 2: Sandwich butterflied tenderloin between 2 pieces of plastic wrap. Flatten using a meat pounder to 1/4-inch thickness. Season generously with salt and pepper. Spread 2 teaspoons Dijon thinly over tenderloin. Sprinkle rosemary and sage on top; distribute evenly using a spoon. Dust the surface with breadcrumbs. Sprinkle with walnuts and cranberries.

Step 3: Fold the ends in about 1 inch. Roll tenderloin up from the long side as tightly and neatly as possible, forming a tube. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate about 1 hour.

Step 4: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Unwrap tenderloin and transfer to the prepared baking sheet. Lightly season with kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Wrap tenderloin in a single layer of bacon, tucking the ends underneath.

Step 6: Roast in the center of the preheated oven until the bacon is browned and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the tenderloin reads

at least 145 degrees, 25 to 30 minutes.

Step 7: While tenderloin roasts, combine white wine, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon in a pan over medium heat. Cook, whisking occasionally, until sauce reduces by about half, 5 to 7 minutes. Turn off heat and swirl in butter, salt, and pepper, about 30 seconds.

Step 8: Remove tenderloin from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice at a slight angle and serve with sauce.

Chef’s Notes: Use the thinnest bacon you can find for this.

If your tenderloin is larger, be sure to add a little more roasting time, and double check things with a thermometer.

Mike Park, Chrissy

Machayla Longfoot Rane Riley and Rhonda Brown (not pictured)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with a silicone pad. Place an 8x11-inch baking dish on the pad.

Step 2: Place corn in a blender or food processor. Add maple syrup, eggs, milk, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, flour, and baking powder. Mix briefly with a spatula to push down the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Pulse mixture until it begins to come together. Then increase setting to high and blend until completely smooth, 2 or 3 minutes. Transfer mixture to a mixing bowl. Add heavy cream and 2/3 of the

melted butter. Whisk to thoroughly blend.

Step 4: Grease the baking dish with the rest of the butter. Pour batter into the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven on the baking sheet until the pudding is browned and set, between 60 and 75 minutes depending on the size and shape of your baking dish.

Note: You can leave some of the corn kernels out of the blender and stir them into the batter to give the pudding some texture if you like.

The pan under the baking dish is optional, and if you’re in a hurry you can skip it which will cut about 15 to 30 minutes off your cooking

Ingredients

2 large Braeburn apples (or similar), peeled, cored and diced 1 red onion, finely chopped 125g sultana 80ml red wine vinegar 40g dark brown soft sugar ½ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp cumin pinch of cayenne

Directions

Step 1: tMix all the ingredients together in a bowl. Give them a good stir and season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Pour into a sterilized jar and refrigerate. Leave for 2 – 3 days, shaking once a day, before eating. Keep for up to a week more.

YEAR

Better Living

www.drjimshealthtips.com

By James W. Jones, MD, PhD, MHA

Nurturing one’s purpose in life is highly commendable because as pithily revealed in medical literature, it results in a more contented, fulfilled, healthier, and a longer life. DESIRABLE INDEED! An objective in bettering personal purpose is to enhance your Mindset. Mindset is the self’s fixed beliefs about life and living which guides decision making which results in choices regarding behaviors. Mindset is who you really are innermost.

Thus, our mindsets are the foundations of our very being and lifestyles. Just as strong foundations of our houses assure stability and endurance, personal enhanced wellbeing has the same benefits. The Bible metaphorically declares that one’s personal foundational mindset when weak as when built on sand will not withstand the rigors of life but will heartily endure when built on solid rock.

In the broadest categorization mindset may be dubbed positive or negative. A Positive approach is a strong JUST DO IT versus I am faced with difficulties I can not deal with.

Alan Rufus, a gifted life coach, put the notion succinctly as ““Life is like a sandwich! Birth as one slice, and death as the other. What you put in-between the slices is up to you. Is your sandwich tasty or sour?” Developing a positive mindset is similar to securing a sous-chef to make your sandwich full of flavor. INDEED!

A good start is to reinforce and fully support your mindset’s gratitude forte. Gratitude is the subject matter and contributes significantly to life satisfaction and general health in the medical literature with over two thousand medical science papers on the subject. Gratitude ushers in satisfaction and is supremely positive.

From gratitude gradually can come a more positive mindset with perchance nots becoming, “yes, I can” which is the belief in self and promotes a healthy mindset. Being grateful for your abilities, accomplishments and surroundings encourages deep inner contentment. Belief in yourself and your abilities as your mindset strengthens you can expand boundaries set in the past and place brand new aspirations.

Learn from the past and then let the past go. A forgive yourself mindset is a pathway to conviction that you are on the corridor life offers to reach high ranking goals and achieving grander aspirations as you live. A substantive mindset will keep your actions on a higher much more productive pathway. Discard frustration it only serves to rob your ability to think through problems and suitably adapt.

Success in life needs belief in oneself. I was faced with many desperate situations in a long heart surgery practice and not once that I can remember did my team did not start with a belief that the situation would not be solved. SOLVE THE DARN PROBLEM!

Likewise, appreciate when you have succeeded for more mindset inspiration. After most desperate salvages, when completed I would stand straight and loudly proclaim,” Once again Science, Talent, and Knowledge overcomes poverty, ignorance, and stupidity.” YEA!

Never Forget Your Biggest Asset is a Well-Structured Mindset.

A Dog’s Life

By Barbara Howard Holder

Did you ever wonder why “dog” is “God” spelled backwards? This morning, this full-of-life puppy gave me a glimpse of why. You see…

I believe God wants us to be as excited about Him as this precious baby is about me.

He wants me to look to Him for life.

He wants me to love Him the way she loves me.

He wants me to climb up in His lap just to be near him.

He wants me to lovingly look at Him the way she lovingly looks at me.

He wants me to know and hear His voice.

He wants me to follow where He leads.

He wants that kind of love and excitement from me.

You see, she is dependent on me for every little thing, and He wants me to be dependent on Him. Thank you, Lord for letting me see through this precious baby a glimpse of what You’d like for me to do. And like this baby, I too, need training—so be gentle with me as I learn Your way. Thanks Aggie, for helping Momma see the Light better.

Avery & Lucas Braun Grandchildren of David & Laura Nesselrode

Kash Thomas Kristoff Grandchild of

Brady & Mason Grandchildren of Kevin & Lisa McKenzie

From the Mouth of Babes

My 6 year old used face paint to look like a zombie and came downstairs groaning, “Coffee! Coffee!” When I asked what she was doing, she said she was Mommy. At minimum, I need a new night cream.

My 5 year old is getting “married” at school tomorrow and their gift list is: Dolphin Spaceship Donuts

As my husband was leaving for work this morning, our 5 year old told him she really liked how he looked, and that he looked “really handsome, like Biggie.”

Biggie is our labradoodle.

We took our three kids to a space museum today. Although it cost a lot, it was worth it to see their faces be amazed at the infinite wonders of the child play area at the back.

6 year old: I love you. Me: I love you, too!

6 year old: I wasn’t talking to you. I was talking to my donut.

We make holidays beautiful

Give the gift of Relaxation & Pampering This Year at Rejuv’ MB Spa & Aesthetics

Ruthie Johnson Head Teller

FOREST THERAPY

By Cheryl Conley

Do you ever feel overwhelmed and swear you can’t take one more phone call, wash one more load of clothes, or cook one more meal? Do you ever want to tell your co-workers to take a hike? Well, maybe you should follow your own advice and take a hike. Can taking a walk

in the park or a nearby forest really be beneficial to our mental and physical health?

Numerous studies have been conducted concluding that a mere walk in in the woods does wonders for our overall health. One such study was done by the Max Planck Institute for Human Development in Berlin. Researchers devised the study using functional magnetic resonance

imaging (fMRi) involving a small almondshaped structure in the center of the brain called the amygdala. The amygdala is involved with stress processing, emotional learning, and the fight-or-flight response. Adult volunteers were asked to fill out questionnaires and perform memory tasks. Some of the activities were designed to create stress. While performing these tasks, they underwent MRIs. Some of the participants were then asked to take a 1-hour walk in either a busy urban area or a forest. After their walk, each volunteer was given another stress-inducing task and completed another questionnaire while undergoing another MRI. The volunteers who took a walk in the forest showed reduced activity in the amygdala, indicating less stress.

“The results support the previously assumed positive relationship between nature and brain health, but this is the first study to prove the causal link,” says environmental neuroscientist Simone Kuhn, head of the Lise Meitner Group for Environmental Neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development. This study gives some of the clearest evidence yet that stress can be reduced by simply getting out and enjoying nature.

Research has found that adults and adolescents in the U.S. spend over 90% of their time indoors and more than seven hours per day looking at screens (EPA, 1989; Moody, 2022; Rideout, Foehr, & Roberts, 2010). Do yourself a favor and spend some time with Mother Nature. Bask in the sunshine, breathe in the fresh air, and put that phone away!

By: John K. Rosemond www.rosemond.com

Q: I am a principal at a private, church-affiliated school. Contrary to my graduate school training and most of my peers’ practice, I believe disciplinary actions should fit the crime. As such, I do not generally issue the namby-pamby sort of consequences other principals deliver. Fear of being sent to my office goes a long way toward explaining why my school has a reputation for impeccable classroom behavior. One of our students recently spoke ill of a fellow student on social media. What, in your estimation, would be a consequence that would fit the crime?

A: Have I got the perfect consequence for you!

But first, let me affirm your approach to discipline. “Fitting” a consequence to a “crime” is the best means of deterring repetitions of the crime in question. It is indeed unfortunate that most schools respond to disciplinary infractions with consequences that are essentially nothing more than inconveniences to the perpetrators in question.

Unfortunately, a milquetoast approach to discipline has become virtually standardized in American schools, because unlike the parents of my parents’ generation, today’s are prone to (a) denying their children are capable of dark and devious deeds; and (b) rising up in protest if their supposedly immaculate progeny are threatened with punishment. That explains why a good number of principals over the years have told me their job descriptions include the implied clause, “Keep the lawyers at bay.”

A sidebar to parents who are reading this column: The idea that YOUR child is incapable of lying, stealing, bullying or other crimes considered felonies when committed by adults is absurd. There is nothing about YOU that guarantees that YOUR precious will not submit to a certain temptation when and if it presents itself. Sterling parents raise children who do not-so-sterling and even downright despicable things, which is all the verification needed for the reality of free will.

Another way of saying the same thing: Parenting is not deterministic. It is an influence competing with other influences that grow in number and potency as a child ages.

To the matter of social media, if someone can provide me with a persuasive justification for giving children access to a medium that allows and even encourages libelous gossip, please feel free to help me out here. As for not wanting your child to be the only child in his group not allowed on social media, learning to do without what all one’s peers have, and early on, is nothing but beneficial to proper character development.

As for your question, since the offending remarks were public, having the offending child apologize to the offended child in front of the entire school body is the consequence that best “fits” the crime. And yes, that will lower the offender’s esteem for himself, which is obviously in need of major lowering.

Medical Matters

By Marianne Peck, MD Obstetrics and Gynecology

Top 5 Women’s Health Myths

Misinformation about women’s health is everywhere, making it difficult to know what’s true. Here, we debunk five common myths.

NOTHING CAN BE DONE ABOUT URINARY INCONTINENCE.

FACT: While the condition is common, you don’t have to live with it.

Urinary incontinence has a number of treatment options, including behavior techniques and both nonsurgical and surgical procedures. Simply talk to your doctor about what to do.

MOST BREAST CANCER IS HEREDITARY.

FACT: Only 5 to 10 percent of breast cancers are hereditary. Even so, it’s certainly useful to recognize if breast cancer runs in your family. After all, “If a woman does have an affected gene for breast cancer, she has a 40 to 80 percent chance of having breast cancer in her lifetime,” said Dr. Marianne Peck, an obstetrics and gynecology physician at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital.

You have control over factors such as exercising, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, breastfeeding, and limiting use of combined hormone replacement therapy after menopause. The biggest risk factors for breast cancer are two things you can’t do anything about: being a woman and getting older. Talk to your doctor about the best age to begin screening mammograms.

WOMEN DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT HEART DISEASE.

FACT: Heart disease is the leading killer of women. Women should know the signs of a heart attack, because they are more likely to have more subtle symptoms--such as jaw pain, increased shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, or extreme fatigue.

Plus, you need to understand your personal risk for heart disease and have your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels checked regularly.

ANNUAL WELL WOMAN EXAMS ARE UNNECESSARY AFTER HAVING CHILDREN.

FACT: These annual exams are potentially even more important as you get older.

“Yearly exams are designed to help catch things early,” Peck said. “As a woman ages, her risk for female cancers--like breast, uterine, ovarian, cervical and vaginal--also increases.”

And don’t confuse the well-woman exam with a Pap test. While a Pap test might not be necessary every year, the well-woman exam remains important.

CALCIUM ALONE WILL KEEP YOUR STRONG.

FACT: Calcium is important, yes, but and lifestyle choices are also essential.

“Women reach their peak bone mass by 30s, and bone mass drops significantly the year leading up to menopause,” Peck

Regular weight-bearing exercise--such as walking, jogging, hiking, and weight training--and not smoking are key having strong bones, along with enough calcium and vitamin D.

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

We thought you might appreciate the winners were selected.

• First, we removed any names marks from submissions.

• Our Postcards team then narrowed the field to multiple finalists in each category before the photos were submitted judges. Photo contest judges several individuals (some local, with photography experience

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

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

Tanya Parrish

Animals

1st Place Winner

Animals are such agreeable friends—they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms.

-George Eliot

Kerry Daly

Josh Meadows

1st Place Winner

Dustin LeNorman

Nature is so powerful, so strong. Capturing its essence is not easy - your work becomes a dance with light and the weather. It takes you to a place within yourself.

-Annie Leibovitz

2nd Place Winner

Bobby Strader

3rd Place Winner

Frank Matthews

1st Place Winner

Emily Day

2nd Place Winner Christa Ikard

Photography can be a way into worlds and memories that words sometimes fail to convey.

-Stacy Martin

3rd Place Winner

Lori Slott

1st Place Winner Cade Crippin

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.

-Coretta Scott King

3rd

2nd Place Winner Dustin

LeNorman

Place Winner Courtney Ehlert

1st Place Winner Dustin LeNorman

“The two most engaging powers of a photograph are to make new things familiar and familiar things new.”

– William Thackeray

2nd Place Winner Michele Miller

3rd Place Winner Brooke Willis

Honorable Mention

Left: Carolyn Payne

Right: Mark Bitara

Above: Ashley Holman

Below: Marilyn Day

Above: Gentry Schany

Below: Michele Miller

Splice

We want to share one of our favorite awesome apps with you. If you have an amazing app you’d like to share with our community, let us know online at postcardslive.com

The all-in-one mobile video editor. Join more than 80 million delighted Splicers. Download Splice video editor now, and share stunning videos on social media within minutes!

Simple, yet powerful, Splice makes it easy to create fully customized, professional-looking videos on your phone or tablet—the performance of a desktop editor, optimized for your mobile device. Just tap to trim clips, add slow motion effects, and overlay multiple clips to create beautiful videos you’ll love to share. It’s never been easier to edit like a pro on the go.

Story by Rosa Coss Photos by Tom Miller

McCaffety Electric is a name people know and trust, and that’s no surprise. This year, they’re celebrating 60 years of doing business in the Walker County area. In 1962, when Eugene McCaffety and his wife Shirley came to Huntsville, they started the business in back of their home on Powell Street. With his 1959 Chevrolet truck, some hand tools and a shovel, Eugene, a family man and electrician (who had been working as a highlineman), was determined to succeed and started his own business. He passed this drive and determination on to future generations in the family. McCaffety Electric has since grown into a thriving family-owned business that now employs over 90 staff members, including master electricians, engineers, and licensed

Pam Barnes, Rob McCaffety, & Frankie McCaffety

journeymen. The company has expanded throughout the Huntsville, Conroe, and Bryan-College Station areas, servicing a 60mile radius surrounding each location. The corporate office, located at 1711 Sycamore Ave. in Huntsville, has been there for more than 30 years. Their second location is 1610A North Frazier in Conroe, and the newest location is at 1523 Crosswinds in College Station.

In the early 80s, Eugene decided it was time

to step down and let the younger generations take over the reins at McCaffety Electric. When his son Rob McCaffety stepped in, he says the economy was in pretty bad shape, the country was in the middle of a recession, and, “We had to lay off a number of employees; that was pretty tough. But then, we were fortunate to get our first commercial job at Sam Houston State University, I believe it was in the Art Center.” Since then, things have improved. According to Rob, they still do a lot of work

for SHSU, in fact, they are currently putting in the electrical wiring in the new agriculture building at Gibbs Ranch.

Today, Rob serves as President, his sister Pam Barnes serves as CEO, Frankie (Rob’s wife) is the Corporate Secretary, and Jason McCaffety (Rob and Frankie’s son) is the Vice President.

Cody McCaffety (Rob and Frankie’s son) and Jeremy Barnes (Pam’s son) run the Conroe location. Jarrod Welch is the Operations Manager at the storefront in College Station.

Rob McCaffety

Frankie McCaffety

During the early days, McCaffety primarily offered residential and commercial electrical contracting services. The lighting showroom (originally started by Shirley) came later, which showcased the various lighting accents and accessories. Shirley was very instrumental at McCaffety Electric until she passed away about 10 years ago. So was Don Barnes, Pam’s husband, who also dedicated 36 years of his life to the company. “They were an important part of our lives and contributed greatly to the

efficient daily operation of the business,” said Frankie. “The McCaffetys have a long history in Huntsville, going back about 6 generations,” said Pam, “and McCaffety Electric has been a big part of that history as well.”

Over the years, the business has gone through various changes in terms of the products and services offered. “In the lighting showroom alone, we have added a selection of home accents which include mirrors, picture frames, wall art, candles, small furniture

pieces, and so much more! If you can’t find what you need, you have the option to order from the many catalogs available,” said Frankie. Besides residential and commercial, they’ve also extended their services to larger corporations and municipalities. To stay up to date with state-of-the-art technology, they also incorporate data wiring, which is different and requires knowledge, training and certification in this area. Data wires are basically cables that provide service for cable TV, Wi-Fi, and phone

Pam Barnes

Betty Anthony

service, and makes connecting to a network possible through computers and other devices. Today’s data wiring relies mostly on two primary types of cables: ethernet, which are twisted copper conductors; and fiber optic cables made of glass or plastic centers. Each offers a different type of feature.

As far as electrical wiring for residential homes or remodel construction projects, McCaffety does the electrical wiring from the ground up. They can upgrade fixtures and wiring and install panels as well. For commercial jobs, it’s a whole different ballgame, because a pool of contractors submit sealed bids. Then, depending on which bid they select, the project manager or owner will

award the job to the contractor whose bid was chosen. The process is quite involved.

Overall, the future of McCaffety Electric seems to be very promising. “We are very excited to see what innovative ideas and fresh vision the new generations of the family bring to the table,” said Frankie. Jason, Cody, and Jeremy are all very hardworking and driven, and they have plans for growth, expansion and change for the corporation. Rob and Frankie’s younger son Tyler, also worked at McCaffety through his college years, but decided the electrical business wasn’t for him. “He went into banking and finance and has done very well for himself,” said Frankie, “and we are equally proud of him for his

“McCaffety Electricbig or small, we do it all!”

accomplishments.” Tyler is the business owner of K&G Capital Mortgage here in Huntsville. Jarrod also worked at the Huntsville location while attending Sam Houston State University and is also friends with the McCaffety boys. At least once or twice a year, all the staff from each store location come together to go over new ideas and talk about plans. McCaffety Electric is a true family-owned lighting store and electrical service. Everyone gets along and gets together often. They’ve been illuminating the Walker and Montgomery areas for over 60 years, and now

parts of Brazos County as well. Their motto is, “McCaffety Electric - big or small, we do it all!”

In the middle of 2022, McCaffety’s also acquired a plumbing company, so their expansion goes well beyond electrical. Although they do supply out, according to Frankie, they are fortunate to have a warehouse at each location, where they are able to store enough material in-house to be readily available when it is needed.

Rob and Frankie believe in putting God first in all they do. They are members of the First

Assembly of God, and they are the proud parents of three sons, and just as proud of their seven grandkids. McCaffety Electric is HUB certified by the State of Texas, bonded and insured. They are a member of The Greater East Montgomery County Chamber, Huntsville Walker County Chamber of Commerce, NFIB, NFPA, IEC, American Lighting Association, and were recognized with a Huntsville Item 2022 Readers’ Choice Award.

For more information about their products and services, visit: www.mccaffetyelectric.com or call (936) 295-2831.

Family owned and operated since 1999

The Christmas Season is upon us and with it, all of the wonderful experiences the season brings. A feeling of warmth embodies the soul. For animal lovers, part of holiday joy comes from our four-legged companions. Sadly, not all furry companions have a place to call home during the holiday season. Animal rescues try their hardest to provide warmth and comfort but often times this is difficult. We, at 11th Street Veterinary Hospital would like to send out a plea that everyone also remember pets in need. In support of this, we are collecting items for Little Woman Home for Animals.

After spending many years helping humans, Dr. Carlos Arreola decided that it was long overdue for him to start helping animals. He began to adopt animals needing aid, especially those with special needs that would make them difficult to rehome - Little Woman’s was born. The Sanctuary is named for a Chihuahua named “Little Woman” that Dr. Arreola rescued from an abusive situation. As a result, many of the animals rescued come from abusive situations. Through his work, Dr. Arreola has left a mark that will forever be imbedded in the hearts of the animals and the people he has touched.

We challenge you this Christmas season to help an animal charity. We are currently collecting donations at 11th Street Veterinary Hospital of items needed by Little Woman’s, these needs include:

• Dog and Cat toys

• Scoopable Cat Litter

• Dog Beds

• Friskies Pate

• Temptations Cat treats

• Medium Dog Milk Bones

• Purina One Complete for cats

• Pedigree dry dog food,

• Cash Donations will be accepted

December

Thru 18

Palestine

Grinch’s Lair facebook.com/thetexasjailhouse

Brenham

“Coney Island Christmas” unitybrenham.org

Thru 23

Galveston

The Polar Express galvestonrrmuseum.org

Thru 27

Houston

“The Nutcracker” houstonballet.org

Palestine

The Polar Express texasstaterailroad.net

Thru 30

Huntsville

“Lone Star in the East” samhoustonmemorialmuseum.com

Marshall

Wonderland of Lights marshalltexas.net

Thru Jan 1

Palestine Walk of Lights visitpalestine.com

Thru Jan 6 Dallas

The Trains at NorthPark thetrainsatnorthpark.com Thru Jan 7

Galveston

“Ice Land: A Caribbean Christmas” moodygardens.org 1-4, 8-11 Conroe

Bethlehem City Drive Through wcbc.us

2

Conroe

“You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown” owentheatre.com 2-18 Conroe

Monty Python’s “Spamalot” crightontheatre.org 2-3

Galveston

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” thegrand.com

Huntsville

Journey Through Bethlehem journeythroughbethlehem.com 2-4

Galveston

Dickens on the Strand galvestonhistory.org 3

Huntsville Christmas Fair huntsvilllemainstreet.com

Lion’s Club Christmas Parade e-clubhouse.org/sites/huntsvilletx

Magnolia

Magic of Christmas Parade of Lights greatermagnoliaparkwaycc.org 4

Huntsville

Texas Tenors: Deep in the Heart of Christmas oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org 5

Montgomery

Library Christmas Tree Auction & Open House countylibrary.org/stewart 6-24 Houston

“Mary Poppins” tuts.com

Huntsville

Michael Martin Murphy’s Cowboy Christmas oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org 9-10

Madisonville

Pathway of Light thepathwayoflight.com 10

Huntsville

88th Annual Awards Gala & Auction chamber.huntsville.tx.us

Montgomery

Christmas in Historic Montgomery mhs-tx.org

The Woodlands

Winter Wonderland thewoodlands.com 10-11

The Woodlands

Christmas Gift Market bigtop.show/thewoodlandstxdecember 16

Houston

Josh Turner: King Size Manger Tour arenahouston.com 17

Conroe

Brian Black Show w/Georgette Jones outhousetickets.com

Galveston

The Midtown Men Holiday Hits Concert thegrand.com

Mustard Seed Moments

by Wes Altom

Blessed Are the Misfits

When I was a child, I remember watching Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer at Christmastime—but I was never a fan of the part with the Island of Misfit Toys. Had it existed then, I would have used the fast forward button. I had trouble relating. Give me and my childbrain the Sears Wishbook--I would busy myself for hours trying to narrow my list down to a few bright, shiny, new, perfect toys.

Only in adulthood have I come to fully appreciate the gravity of feeling like a misfit— empathy for others so situated with it. What makes you feel place,” or unworthy? Whether it’s temptation, guilt, social isolation, our life situation—the key that incompleteness and that God can fill it and make us whole. There is behind a simple verse from the Mount (Matthew 5:3), so let’s imperfection, look at the verse translations, and take it in fully to our grown-up hearts.

Version: “Blessed are the theirs is the kingdom of Blessed [spiritually prosperous, admired] are the poor in spirit spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is kingdom heaven [both now and forever].

Good News Translation: “Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor; the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them! GOD’S WORD® Translation: