Thank you for the WONDERFUL magazine. I love everything about it...pictures, stories of local people, local businesses, Sudoku, Dear Gabby, and Giggles, etc. Enjoyed reading “The Beast of Trinity Texas” but I do miss the “challenging” sudoku. Judy Goodman
Awesome!
Postcards Magazine is awesome! It has helped my business grow in so many ways. Keep up the great work and God bless the Postcards family.
Nate Grigsby
G2 Construction
Direct results
I was so excited to be selected for the Business Focus story in Postcards Magazine! In just one day, 5 of my 6 appointments were a direct result from the feature story in Postcards and more leads are still coming in! I was thrilled when three of them turned into signed contracts and I have active quotes on the others! Thank you so much Postcards Magazine for allowing me to tell our story!”
Cassie Quinlan Stampede Coatings
Every month
I really enjoy your magazine and read it every month. Wanda Bedenbaugh
Precision Repairs. Peace of Mind.
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A Key Moment in the Life of a Frog
Happy end of summer / start of fall (also known as the time of year when we think summer will never end). I have high hopes of “speaking/writing” cooler weather into existence!
It’s a new world. I remember a story I heard once (okay, maybe 12 times), about a frog in a pot. The story goes that you can cook a frog in a pot, and he will not jump out if you turn the heat up so slowly that he just gets used to it.
This past week, I had a frog moment. I walked up to my car and grabbed the door handle to open it, but it did not unlock. Odd, I thought. And then I remembered. My keys were no longer in my purse, because I had handed them to my husband. I turned around to go back in the house and unlocked the door. How, without keys? Smart locks, of course. I grabbed my keys and merrily went on my way.
The frog moment came later. I was sitting at my desk, where I opened a drawer and spotted a key ring with 2 keys on it. For the life of me, I have zero idea what those keys are for. In fact, we have an entire basket of keys I cannot make myself get rid of “just in case.” I know in my heart as soon as we toss those keys, we will find the lock that goes with at least one of them!
And that is when I realized it. I had become a frog.
At some point over the last few years, I had quit using real, honest-togoodness, old-fashioned keys! The “key” to my car is just a fob. The “keys” to the house are a code of numbers. Same goes for the keys to the homes of parents and children. All gone. With the exception of a post office key and safe deposit box key, I think technology has removed the rest.
As has been mentioned in this space before, possibly more than once, I often have a love/hate relationship with technology. More love than hate usually, but for some unknown reason, this “key” moment set me back on my heels a bit.
What other things had changed without me really thinking about it? A lot. Almost everything, in fact. The way we watch TV. The way we spend money. The way we give money. The way we shop. The way we do almost every single thing in our lives.
One thing has not changed--the way it feels when someone is kind and thoughtful. Hang on to that. In fact, go ahead and call one of our fine advertisers and tell them how much you appreciate them bringing you this magazine. It will make them feel good…and you, too.
Until next time, ribbit.
~Karen
or
and/ or
Patrick Lencioni
Kiera Cass
Ask The Doc: Home Remedies For Back Pain?
Dr. Brian McGee, DC
Welcome
Back pain is a common issue, especially as we get older. It can make everyday activities difficult and uncomfortable. If you’re looking for simple ways to manage back pain at home, here are three easy tips that can help you feel better and keep your back healthy.
Keep Moving with Gentle Exercises
It might be tempting to rest when your back hurts, but staying active is one of the best things you can do. Gentle exercises like walking, stretching, or swimming can strengthen the muscles that support your back. These activities also help reduce stiffness and improve your overall flexibility. Just be sure to avoid high-impact exercises that could make the pain worse. Instead, focus on movements that are easy on your joints and help keep your spine healthy. Make an effort to do some type of gentle movement daily.
Practice Good Posture
Good posture is key to preventing and reducing back pain. Whether you’re sitting, standing, or sleeping, how you position your body matters. When sitting, keep your feet flat on the floor, your back straight, and your shoulders relaxed. If you’re standing, try to keep your weight balanced on both feet and avoid slouching. When it’s time to sleep, use a supportive mattress and pillows that help keep your spine in its natural curve. By paying attention to your posture, you can help prevent back pain from getting worse and even reduce it over time.
Use Heat and Cold Therapy
Applying heat and cold can be a simple yet effective way to manage back pain. Cold packs help reduce inflammation and numb the pain, especially right after an injury. Heat, on the other hand, can relax tight muscles and improve blood flow, which can speed up healing. Knowing when to use heat or cold can make a big difference in how you feel. Start with cold therapy during the first couple of days after the pain begins, then switch to heat as the pain lessens.
These tips can provide relief, but if the pain keeps coming back or if it’s not getting better then it’s time to schedule an appointment with a professional to get to the root cause of the pain. At Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute, we’re here to help you get rid of your pain and find long lasting relief using the best non-surgical methods available. Contact us at 936241-7673 to take the first step in rediscovering the joy of painfree living.
For over 40 years, Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute has been helping people get rid of their back pain.
Normangee State Bank
Celebrating 112 years
Founded 1912
See their ad on page 83
McGilberry Mechanical
Celebrating 33 years
Founded 1991
See their ad on page 18
Alpha Omega Academy
Celebrating 27 years
Founded 1997
See their ad on page 82
Tomorrows Promise
Celebrating 27 years
Founded 1997
See their ad on page 67
Sam Houston Funeral Home
Celebrating 21 years
Founded 2003
See their ad on page 76
Ken Holland - Edward Jones
Celebrating 4 years
Founded 2020
See their ad on page 58
Stage Right
Celebrating 16 years
Founded 2008
See their ad on page 63
Story By Claudia Kirkwood
Karen
Smith & friend Michael Kelly
Karen Smith
It’s SAFE to see this lady with a heart for kids is OUT there getting it done!
If I made a list of highly motivated people who love to learn, are creative, and are fun-loving, the list would have to include Karen Smith of Huntsville. I would also add that she is a “great achiever” and has taught in public schools and summer camps for many years and has umpired girls’ softball for over 28 years. Karen is a person you would want on your “good friend” list. Let’s get acquainted with this multi-talented lady!
Photos by Tom Miller
I was born in Baltimore, Maryland, but moved at age one to Fort Bragg in North Carolina. I spent my entire upbringing at Fort Bragg (now renamed Fort Liberty). My dad was in the military for 31 years. I have two sisters and one brother. My sisters and I attended parochial school until my sixth-grade year, at which time we moved to Germany for two years. We moved back to Fort Bragg where I rode a bus into Fayetteville to attend junior high school. My dad was eventually assigned to Korea, and we moved to Maryland where we lived with our grandparents. My grandfather encouraged me to get involved in sports and I played basketball, ran track, and was on the archery team, as well as a member of Future Homemakers of America (FHA) and Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA).
We returned to Fayetteville a year later, where I graduated from high school and attended a business college, Worth Business School. Immediately upon graduation, I landed a job with Civil Service on the military post in the self-service supply center. This was like the “Walmart” of the Army. In addition, I met my future husband, Bruce Smith, and we have been married for 56 years.
Need Implants?
Newlyweds Karen & Bruce Smith
Karen & Bruce Smith
Hopefully, the following years were a little more settled.
No, not really! Fortunately, I knew “the life” well. Bruce served in the military police and was a helicopter pilot. By this time, we lived in Huntsville, and he was assigned to Viet Nam from 1969-1970. He suggested that during his absence, I attend Sam Houston State University, and I jumped at the idea. His parents lived next door and were able to take care of our baby while I attended school. Along with studying, I wrote a letter to Bruce every night. Upon his return, we were assigned to Fort Rucker, Alabama, where he was a helicopter instructor for pilots going to Viet Nam. After that, he was assigned to Ft. Lewis, Washington, for three years. While there, I was involved in running, racquetball, and bowling, and served as secretary for the Officer’s Wives’ Club.
Bruce received his next assignment which was to Panama. I was sharing this with an acquaintance who had orders for Alaska. He was also a pilot. I jokingly mentioned aloud that it would be great to make a trade on assignments. This was on a Sunday. By Friday, my husband was reassigned to Alaska. We were thrilled, and off we went! While there, I worked in a school for physically and mentally challenged children. This was a new experience, but I reaped an abundance of rewards in doing so. Learning some basic sign language helped immensely to communicate with these children. I taught them how to sign “I love you” and “I really love you.” One of the kids asked me how
to sign someone the words, “I hate you,” and I just responded that I didn’t know. Staying positive is always best! Knowing some basic sign language has helped in other situations down the road.
After Alaska, we moved to Kansas for a year, then on to Florida. I graduated from a community college and then attended The University of Central Florida in Orlando for my final two years, graduating in 1983 with a major in Physical Education and a minor in Biology. I was awarded the most outstanding physical education student and graduated Cum Laude. We moved to Weatherford, Oklahoma, where I worked for a brief time at a McDonald’s as manager and hosted the kids’ birthday parties. They figured me as a party person! I do love kids and delight in making their lives fun and memorable.
Word got around that this “new girl” had a secondary teaching degree, so that led first to a substitute teaching role, then fulltime, teaching 7th and 8th-grade science for the next three years. I was also given the responsibility of starting a pep club which eventually numbered 125 students and was also sponsor for the cheerleaders. In
1987, Bruce retired, and we moved back to Huntsville.
Finally, here in Huntsville to stay! Tell us more.
Upon retiring, Bruce remarked that he was going to take care of me like I did for him, so I embarked on a teaching career for 27 years, retiring in 2011. I taught at Huntsville Junior High, Huntsville Intermediate School, and Mance Park Junior High. In 1995-96, I was HISD Teacher of the Year and Region 6 Teacher of the Year. I love kids and enjoy seeing them learn and be successful. During a seventh-grade science class, I taught the students how to extract DNA from a strawberry. I took them through the tedious experiment step-by-step, stressing the importance of doing every step well, and all twenty-eight kids were successful. This is what teaching is all about! It’s how I have taught my HEAP and Camp Invention courses each summer.
HEAP is the Huntsville Enrichment Activity Program each summer during June for kids aged 6-13. I’ve taught science activities to ages 6-9, entitled MAD SCIENCE, for the past 30 years. My goal has been to make sure the
PROVIDING BIG-CITY RESOURCES WITH SMALL-TOWN ATTENTION
kids can be successful. We’ve learned about inertia using balloons, using stethoscopes to learn about our hearts, making rockets out of film canisters, and performing other experiments to bring science concepts to life. I also enjoy teaching the kids one fact about the American flag each day, such as,
“Is there ever a time that it is appropriate to fly the American flag upside down?”
Another summer program that has been a success and is rewarding to me is CAMP INVENTION. This is a weeklong program for grades 1-6. During a week’s session, we work on four projects, with one of these always being a robot. The kids love it, and
it sure makes those little minds churn. I’ve had the pleasure to work with this program for 15 years.
You are one busy lady! There is one more endeavor that we want to discuss, and that is your involvement with Huntsville Girls’ Softball.
I’ve been involved in this for over 30 years! I serve as Vice President of the Sam Houston Umpires Association. I learned about umpiring in college. In 1987, when moving here, there was a women’s church league, and umpiring was right up my alley. I was a beginner at this, but quickly became comfortable in the role. I’ve enjoyed working with both younger and older girls’ softball leagues and, as in everything else, my goal is to be fair and encouraging to the kids. Known for my loud voice, I used it to clear raucous spectators out of the stands. This was not a Huntsville group, I might add. Another thing I do when time allows is to explain a rule to a questioning parent. The rules do change every year, and the better the parents understand the rules, the more positive the experience is for both girls and
spectators. I love umpiring and am grateful to have had many years in doing so. Aside from teaching and sports, do you have time for other responsibilities or hobbies? Also, what advice would you pass along to young and old alike?
Bruce and I attend St. Thomas Catholic Church, where I serve in several capacities including Eucharistic minister, a lector, and a sacristan, and we visit nursing homes to deliver the body of Christ. We also help with food drives at Thanksgiving and Christmas by organizing and delivering food and gifts to families, and I paint faces at the church bazaar. And there is always time for family. We have two married children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
My hobbies include reading, calligraphy, and sewing. I’m always happy to take on sewing projects for friends to mend things that look to be beyond repair. And, of course, I can’t leave out my love of cooking. My favorite recipes include chicken and rice, buttermilk pound cake, and a chicken enchilada recipe I created. For a quick meal after a full day of work, pulled pork roast is a favorite. In
the morning, I put a pork roast in the crockpot, pour a can of Coke over it, and cook it on low all day. Shred, add your favorite barbecue sauce, and enjoy on a bun or baked potato. It is a delicious way to top off a productive day!
My advice to a person of any age is to view every day as a practice. Every day, you are practicing for something. You don’t know what it is until you are called to try something new. And that’s what I do, and what I have done all my life. My jobs have never been work. I have loved every single day!
Dew kiss on a Rose submitted by Charlie Moore
Summer fun submitted by Scott Williams
Honoring teachers who work with our kids day in and day out. They go above and beyond, and really do “Touch Tomorrow.”
by Carolyn Madera
Mrs. Smith is always a ray of sunshine. She has a heart of gold and truly cares for her students. She goes above and beyond to make sure her students succeed in her English class. She’s the best teacher, and our school is really lucky to have her!
Nominate a special teacher today by going online: www.PostcardsLive.com
Those chosen for publication are awarded a gift card to 1836 Steakhouse. Sponsored by:
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By Kim Bius
Fall is on the way! The Garden Post
Fall and spring are a gardener’s favorite seasons. Cooler temperatures and more abundant rain will make any gardener smile. Here are a few tips that will help make your transition from summer to fall and fall to winter easier, less costly, and less time consuming.
Fertilizer – Excessive summer watering leaches our soils of needed nutrients. Plants need a slight boost coming out of summer to look their best in the fall. There are many good products on the market. For busier gardeners with limited time, go with a slow-release granular such as Osmocote, or Fertilome’s Gardeners Special for 6090 days of coverage. For gardeners who always plan on a weekly gardening day, try liquid humate or Medina Hasta Grow. Bayer makes an excellent insecticide/fungicide/ fertilizer for roses that can also be used on azaleas and camellias with great success. Plants will benefit from a fall dose of iron, especially gardenias and azaleas. “Limey” green foliage is the first sign of iron deficiency.
Winterizer – Apply to lawns in late October to promote overall hardiness from freezing temperatures and a dose of nitrogen to feed the root system while the top growth is dormant. Fertilome is my favorite, with
a 10-0-14 analysis. Phosphorous is not needed because the plant is not producing fruit or blooms.
Weed Control – A healthy lawn will “choke out” weeds to some extent, but a droughtstricken lawn will be taken over by weeds in just a month. St. Augustine, centipede, zoysia, and Bermuda cannot compete with the low water requirements and dramatic root growth of weeds and are quickly choked out themselves. Using a pre-emergent is low cost. Dimension can be used in lawns or in flowerbeds with no residual affect except on desired seeds that will also be killed upon germination. Amaze, Portrait, and Preen are other excellent pre-emergents, but you cannot beat Hi-yield products--priced well, best on the market, and made in Texas.
back into old wood, causing damage if early freezes arrive within 60 days. In our area, the first big dip into freezing temperatures is typically the first week in November and sporadically in early December.
Seeds/Bulbs – Fall is time to plant wildflower seeds (such as bluebonnets) for germination in the spring. Also time to divide perennials that have not been divided in the past 4 years. Consider using extra bulbs as gifts for gardening friends, donations to local gardening clubs, or set up your own beautification project in your neighborhood.
Mulch - All gardens, landscape shrubs, beds, etc., will benefit from a 3” layer of mulch. Variety is a preference. Refrain from using hardwood mulch around acidloving plants such as azaleas, camellias and gardenias. All wood mulches are organic, thus biodegradable. Plastic mulch will never break down, but will mold and have to be removed at some point.
Pruning – Keep it light, if at all. New growth, stimulated by heavy pruning, will be frozen
Fungicide - Treat with a systemic granular fungicide, such as F-stop. Fungal strains can develop resistance over time, so be prepared to switch to a liquid variety if necessary. Fungi is easily spread from one yard to another by mowers, pets, air currents. The easiest way to treat fungal growth is to stay aggressive and apply as a preventative at least twice a year (April and October).
Color – Pansy season is almost here! On the perennial side, chrysanthemums are the most popular flower synonymous with fall. Keep thinking fall; it’s just around the corner. Happy Gardening.
Things My Granddaddy Said
Cow chips need to dry out for a spell before you toss them.
A country dog never forgets where he buried his bone.
Being neighborly don’t mean stickin’ your nose in somebody else’s business.
Nothing is impossible, except peeing in a naked man’s pocket.
The mosquito never gets a slap on the back until he goes to work.
Better for a pot to boil over than never boil.
He who has no fire in himself cannot warm others.
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!
Publisher Karen Altom and her Granddaddy J.C. Farris
Twenty Questions
Vicki McKenzie
Real Estate Agent
1 SCHOOL YOU ATTENDED?
McCullough High School, The Woodlands and Lonestar College
2 FAVORITE MOVIE?
Miss Congeniality or any romantic comedy/chick flick
3 HOW DID YOU MAKE YOUR FIRST DOLLAR? Babysitting
4 BOOK THAT LEFT A LASTING IMPRESSION ON YOU? The Bible
5 LAST THING YOU BINGE-WATCHED? Bridgerton
6 WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU RIDING DOWN THE ROAD LISTENING TO?
Pandora-Anne Wilson radio
7 YOUR FAVORITE DISH?
Tacos 24/7
8 YOUR GO-TO BARISTA ORDER? Iced vanilla latte
9 FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY
I have many, but I have to say family reunions.
10 SOMETHING THAT WOULD SURPRISE US ABOUT YOU? Every personality test scores an introvert.
11 WHAT WOULD WE FIND YOU DOING ON YOUR DAY OFF?
Playing with Hudson and Evelyn, my grandbabies.
12 HOW WOULD YOUR PERFECT DAY BEGIN?
70°, sunny, birds chirping, reading my daily devotion.
13 HOW DO YOU CLEAR YOUR MIND AFTER A BAD DAY?
In my rocking chair on the patio, rocking the day away or relaxing in the Jacuzzi.
14 ONE THING YOU’RE EPICALLY BAD AT? Singing, but I do it anyway lol!
15 BUCKET LIST ITEM YOU’RE MOST GLAD YOU’VE DONE?
A trip to the Grand Canyon. The wind was too high for the helicopter ride, so I’ll have to go back for that part.
16 TOP THING LEFT TO DO ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?
A fall rafting trip on the Arkansas river in Colorado.
17 IF YOU COULD LIVE ABROAD, WHERE WOULD THAT BE? Scotland, because of its rich culture, beautiful scenery, and very friendly people.
18 WHO DO YOU ADMIRE?
Eleanor Roosevelt, she believed in making a difference and used her position to help people.
Favorite Quote: “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson
Mylie is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Krissandra Theisen. Her activities include volleyball, student council, and National English Honor Society. Following graduation, Mylie plans to attend junior college and play volleyball, then transfer to Sam Houston State University to study criminal justice, mainly forensics. She believes, “You can’t prevent every possible thing from going wrong.”
Favorite Movie: Avatar
Favorite Music/Artist: Seventeen
Favorite Food: Cane’s
Addison Wood
Huntsville High School
Favorite Quote: “Once this tiresome journey is over, we’ll be something the world has never seen.” –Dino (of Seventeen)
Addison is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of William Wood and Christan Wood. Her activities include soccer, volleyball, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, and Mu Alpha Theta. Addison is currently undecided on her plans following graduation. She believes, “Every day, do your best to be a better person than you were yesterday.”
Isabel Saumell
Huntsville High School
Favorite Movie: Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith
Favorite Music/Artist: SZA
Favorite Food: Bacon
Favorite Quote: “It ain’t how hard you can hit. It’s how hard you can hit and keep moving forward.” –Rocky
Isabel is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Jill and Rafael Saumell. Her activities include National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, National English Honor Society, student council, wrestling, and volleyball. Following graduation, Isabel plans to play sports in college and major in business and sports management.
Jayna Brinkley
Huntsville High School
Favorite Movie: The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Favorite Music/Artist: Adrianne Lenker
Favorite Food: Homemade Tomato Soup
Favorite Quote: “Don’t gain the world and lose your soul, wisdom is better than silver and gold.” –Bob Marley and the Wailers
Jayna is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Gina Brinkley and Jay Brinkley. Her activities include volleyball and National English Honor Society. Following graduation, Jayna plans to pursue a doctorate in psychology at the University of Arizona and begin a career helping people through mental health counseling. She believes, “Live life through love. Live with no regrets and doing what you love.”
Story by Amy Barnett
Submitted Photos
Wheelchairs for Warriors
Area organization keeps veterans and first responders “Rolling Strong.”
It may sound cliché, but Crystal Laramore will tell you –she’s proud to be an American. The Livingston, Texas, resident has always held a deep admiration for her country, the military, and our first responders. She comes from a long line of family members who have served our country, so her love for the military is something engrained into who she is. From 20042005, Laramore also served the U.S. by working for
the Department of State (DOS) in Baghdad, Iraq, and as a liaison officer to the Ambassador to Iraq. That experience laid a foundation for what would be her next chapter.
“When I came back from Baghdad at the end of 2005, I wanted to continue serving our veterans in some capacity. For years, I dipped my toe into the nonprofit arena, trying to find one I wanted to work with
Crystal Lee Laramore, Founder and Executive Director, Wheelchairs for Warriors
or for, but nothing seemed to fit,” said Laramore. “Then the real ‘aha’ moment came when God took the sledgehammer and hit me over the head with it. For a long time, my co-conspirator, Heidi Hansing, and I were struggling to decide exactly what we wanted this non-profit to look like – and who we were going to serve. During this journey, my friend Paul M. had been working on and designing wheelchairs for almost a decade in the workman’s comp arena. His father was an Army veteran who lived his last years in a subpar wheelchair, so wheelchairs were in his wheelhouse, pun intended. After about the 100th time he tapped me on the shoulder and complained about a veteran’s wheelchair and the subpar design, it hit me… Wheelchairs for Warriors!” Laramore knew exactly what they needed to do. “We saw our warriors were not getting the proper mobility solutions they so rightfully deserve, so Heidi and I started Wheelchairs for Warriors,” she said.
Wheelchairs for Warriors helps veterans and other first responders (including police officers, EMS, firefighters, and secret service agents) who cannot get assistance from other sources.
“We serve warriors injured in the line of duty by providing customized, high-tech wheelchairs that meet their physical and lifestyle needs. We
Serving Walker County and surrounding areas for over 23 years
Aerobic wastewater systems
Ossf installer ll 0S0034180
Maintenance Provider MP0002236
Nate Grigsby, Principal/CEO
Locally owned & operated for 4 generations
U.S. Army Combat Veteran Colonel Rob H.; USMC
Combat Veteran Eric M.; U.S. Army Combat Veteran
Colonel Gregory G.; USMC Veteran, Kentucky State Trooper, Jaime M. – all injured in the line of duty.
Happy September!
want to ensure our warriors rejoin their lives at the highest level of independence and freedom possible,” said Laramore.
“Many times, we find our warriors living in wheelchairs that are falling apart and being held together by duct tape! Often, they are on a years-long waiting list for a new one. This not only causes them tremendous stress, but it also creates a burden for their caregivers who struggle with the transportation of heavy, bulky chairs. Stress and isolation can lead to deep depression, and depression can lead to suicide. Not on our watch!”
Since its start in 2016, Wheelchairs for Warriors has served around 150 warriors by providing daily living wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, outdoor wheelchairs, and adaptive sports wheelchairs – each custom fit and designed specifically for the individual warrior’s physical and lifestyle needs.
“Our warriors have sacrificed so much for us, they deserve to have freedom, independence, and enhanced quality of life!” added Laramore.
Veteran Nicole M. is one of the 150 warriors to receive a custom wheelchair so far. She recently shared her gratitude with Laramore
Give us the opportunity. We’ll earn your trust!
Founder/Executive Director
Wheelchairs for Warriors Crystal Lee Laramore; U.S. Army Combat Veteran Colonel Gregory G., injured in the line of duty; U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Blackhawk Pilot and Country Singer-Songwriter, Honorary Board Member of Wheelchairs for Warriors, Ryan Weaver
“Words like ‘thank you’ and ‘blessed’ just don’t seem enough for how appreciative I am to y’all. I got to see more of my property in a single day than I have ever gotten to see. I now know how beautiful my own property is, and I can’t wait to start hunting again. I just want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who made this possible for me,” said Nicole.
While Wheelchairs for Warriors is in its eighth year of serving veterans and first responders, they cannot do it without the support of the community – because each custom wheelchair can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $65,000.
In hopes of gaining more exposure for the organization, the wheels in Laramore’s creative mind started turning. She had
Do your family a favor. Plan ahead now.
Identify the things that are most important to you Learn from your loved ones
Consider ways to pass on your legacy and Wheelchairs for Warriors.
Bring peace of mind to all involved Save your family money
Serving families of Madison and surrounding counties "The Walters Way" for over forty years.
On set of the video shoot for “Rolling Strong”
the idea to write a song that would salute veterans and first responders and make more people aware of Wheelchairs for Warriors and the work the organization is doing. The more people know – the more likely they are to join the mission.
She reached out to Texas country singer/ songwriter Sandee June to see if she’d be interested in writing and recording a song to introduce more people to the organization.
“We were introduced by a mutual friend, and the moment we met, we clicked. She loved the idea and wanted to do it because it was for America’s heroes,” said Laramore.
June and Laramore co-wrote “Rolling Strong,” (the title taken from a popular Wheelchairs for Warriors hashtag) which is now June’s current country single on radio and all streaming platforms.
June has written many songs, but this was the first for the Wheelchairs for Warriors founder.
“If you have ever worked with Sandee, you know she is calm – the opposite of me. She is also very talented and naturally gifted. She started her journey a little later than most
people, like I did, but writing has always been my passion. I have written poetry and stories for newspapers for most of my life. I even owned a newspaper for 14 years! So, this experience was cathartic and a bit of an exhale. There is so much gratitude in my heart for her making this dream come to life. It’s amazing what one ‘yes’ can accomplish,” she added.
“Rolling Strong” was June’s fastest climbing song and was the most streamed Texas country song the week of June 17. “It was such an honor to write and record this song. I am also a proud American who loves to support our veterans and first responders. One of the lines in the song is, ‘Freedom isn’t free. They wrote blank checks for you and me.’ And they did just that,” said June. “Anything I can do to pay my respects to these men and women and to encourage others to give back, I am all in!”
“I pray that when people hear this song, they understand that our flag represents freedom, and the sacrifices for that freedom. This song is about the fabric of America. It gives people a 3-minute glimmer of hope that we can still Roll Strong as a United States of America,”
added Laramore.
June shot a music video for the song in Kemah, Texas, and featured some of Kemah’s police officers, firefighters and EMS. “That was a wonderful moment. I loved being able to highlight some of the men and women who serve our communities every day,” added June.
Laramore and the organization received the Four Chaplains Bronze Medal Humanitarian Award in 2023. The award is given to a person whose leadership has brought an organization’s actions to the national or international spotlight. That’s something Laramore will continue to strive for year after year.
“Freedom isn’t free. Like the song says – they literally wrote a blank check when they signed the bottom line and served our country,” Laramore said. “Now it’s our duty and our honor to serve them.”
Laramore and team will also be serving in another capacity soon. They were invited to be the official Pit-Crew for Team USA at the Invictus Games in Canada and for the DoD Warrior
Games for the next four years.
“Wheelchairs for Warriors might design wheelchairs, but we deliver freedom!” she said.
Visit www.wheelchairsforwarriors.com to learn more about the organization and the men and women who have benefited from it. And remember to stream “Rolling Strong” wherever you get your music and share it with friends and family.
Giggles & Grins
Y’all pronounce it data or data?
I’m mad I read these words in two different ways…but you’re trippin if you think it’s data and not data.
Simple facts I’m terrified of my toddler discovering:
• Public parks don’t randomly close.
• TVs don’t run out of batteries.
• There is no actual world record for “fastest at putting away toys.”
• Chicken the animal and chicken the food are one and the same.
Step 1: Buy a 3D printer.
Step 2: Print a 3D printer.
Step 3: Return the 3D printer.
Wife: Did you cut yourself?
Me, looking at my arms: WHERE?
Wife, pointing to my side: Maybe it’s paint.
I find the spot she’s talking about and touch it. Looking at the red on my fingers: It’s raspberry.
Wife: Raspberry pie?
Me: Noooo, just berries.
Wife: You’re weird.
Kevin Brayson
First National Bank of Huntsville Announces New Board Appointments
The Board of Directors of First National Bank of Huntsville is proud to announce the election of two new directors: Dr. Trey Young and Liz Henson.
Dr. Trey Young
Trey Young M.D. grew up in Huntsville, TX, and is a local physician caring for both adults and children in the primary care setting. Dr. Young graduated with honors from Texas A&M in Biomedical Engineering. He received his Medical Degree in 2017 from The University of Texas in Houston. Following Medical School, he stayed at UT Houston to complete a combined residency in Pediatrics and Internal Medicine. He is now a dual board-certified physician, and has been practicing in Huntsville since 2021. Dr. Young proudly serves on the Board of Directors for Huntsville Memorial Hospital.
Liz Henson
Elizabeth “Liz” Calfee Henson was born and raised in Conroe, TX, and now resides in Madisonville. Liz graduated from Sam Houston State University with a degree in Finance. Following college, she was a real estate appraiser before going to work in publishing, and then changing careers to the automotive industry where she met her husband, Fred Henson. Liz and Fred moved to Madisonville in 1993 to open the Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep store and over the next 15 years acquired the Ford and General Motors franchises there as well. Throughout a 30+ year span, she and Fred had businesses in LaGrange, Sealy, Brenham, and Conroe. Their entrepreneurial spirit was not only limited to the automotive industry, and as a couple, Fred and Liz have owned many other businesses including a wedding venue and ACE Hardware store in Madisonville.
FNBH CEO and Chairman of the Board, John Sanders, Jr. said “We are very pleased to have Dr. Young and Mrs. Henson join us on our FNBH Board. Their background, education, business acumen, and experience make them well suited to serve as excellent board members.”
From the Mouths of Babes
Mom, why do they call them jet skis? Shouldn’t they be called boatercycles?
Kid: Mom, it’s a hecka storm out there!!!
Mom: Oh, really? What are we gonna do?
Kid: We’re gonna leave it out there!
Today, my daughter called me “Birth Person.” I replied, “Yes, Financial Drain.”
I can’t stand smart kids. I just asked this girl, “Hey, why aren’t koalas considered bears?” and she hits me with, “They’re marsupials.” Cool it, nerd. The answer to the joke is, “They don’t have the koalafications.”
A 3-year-old went into the room where his mother was nursing a baby. He watched a minute, then said, “Is that other one orange juice?”
Story by Linda W. Perkins
Submitted Photos
Kent and Priscilla Pate Kent and Priscilla Pate
For 28 years, Midway residents Kent and Priscilla Pate have served as missionaries, pastors, keynote speakers, and life and business coaches. From American inner-city neighborhoods to communities across the globe, they have shared the Gospel while also bringing leadership skills they gained in the corporate world prior to their ministry calling.
Five years ago, Kent and Priscilla discovered a new mission field--incarcerated U.S. military veterans. Today, through their KPM
Leadership Academy, they have supported and graduated over 1,500 students behind the wire through transformational leadership programs. Their vision for 2024 is to continue expanding the academy’s reach into eight Texas prisons, furthering their dedication to transformative rehabilitation and societal reintegration.
As a result of their legacy of selfless service, the Pates were recipients of the 2024 Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award, presented by First Lady Cecilia Abbott
at the 40th Annual Governor’s Volunteer Awards. Presented in conjunction with One Star Foundation, this award recognizes exemplary service of individuals, groups and organizations that have made a significant contribution to Texas communities through service and volunteering.
You’ve been doing ministry work for a long time – 28 years! Tell me how you got started.
Kent: Back in 1995, Priscilla and I were mentored by our pastors, some really powerful spiritual Christian people. Our lives were really transformed, to the point where we left our corporate careers in Houston and went into full-time ministry training in Fort Worth. From there, it opened up a whole new world for us. Because of our corporate experience, we were immediately thrust into leadership, and we began teaching leadership in the mission field.
How did you end up in
prison ministry?
Priscilla: Kent and I have always felt called to underserved communities. When we traveled to other nations, we were teaching leadership--going in and finding those people that were influential in their communities and building them up to be able to then lead, you know, in schools and churches and communities and things like that. They became influential people.
We were doing some leadership training in churches and in businesses, and five years ago someone approached us about taking our leadership training – we call it
Color Guard at KPM Leadership Academy Graduation
Kent: We just began to take one step at a time. When we went into our first prison, we were nervous. We were uneasy about it. We didn’t know what to expect when we walked into our first maximum security prison five years ago. We met six men who were veterans, and when we walked out, we were changed. We realized it was like a calling; we really needed to pursue this seriously.
There are a lot of people doing prison ministry. What made you decide to minister to incarcerated veterans specifically?
Kent: When we began doing prison ministry, we discovered there were all these incarcerated veterans – over 8,000 – that we do nothing about. Both our dads are Marines, and we have a lot of family members who are veterans, so we asked ourselves, “How could this be and how could this happen, and what could we do about it?’.
Priscilla: When Kent and I first found out, we were shocked because we had never even thought about veterans being in a prison, but over 50 percent of those veterans come back (from serving) with diagnosed PTSD. Without the proper support and the proper training and proper reintegration from their military life back into civilian life, a lot of them have drug abuse problems, addictions, anger--you know, all the things that go with PTSD. Then on top of that, we found out that over 20 a day commit suicide. So we just felt like now that we knew this, we had to do something about it. That’s when the KPM Leadership Academy in the prisons was formed. Our vision has been to unlock potential and unleash purpose in these veterans, and we believe there’s no better noble cause than this, because they fought for our freedom and now it’s our opportunity to give back to them. So we chose to serve those who have served us. How does the KPM Academy work, and what are your goals for the program?
Kent: We do color guard. We do a missing man ceremony. We do a cap and gown graduation. When you reactivate veterans, that leadership and training they had in military causes them to be rebirthed and transformed on the inside. When that happens, it gives a purpose in prison. I like to hear what Priscilla says to them, which is to have your purpose while in prison. Don’t wait till you get out of prison, because it will be too late. If they keep their prison mindset
when they’re released, they’ll go right back in. The recidivism rate is very high, so our goal is to raise them up in leadership (so they will succeed when they get out).
Priscilla: In each program, we have some standard classes they go to.
We have personal development, an entrepreneurship class, and a core class called Beyond Success. That book is divided up into core values and intentional living, so we start with that. Then we have some electives, which we would call my Toastmasters. We also have some PTSD courses that are peer-to-peer.
The facilitators are actually the inmates. Those are usually our veteran leaders. When we first start in a unit, we just have veterans in our courses. We take them through our training; through that, we have leaders that surface who really are exceptional. Then we branch out to the general population.
Once we get to that point, the veterans can invite people, and they’ll fill their table up with people they’ve invited. And it’s great, because we start each class with our veterans; they do the pledge of allegiance, and they do a call to arms. We start out with a prayer, and we have a video we watch. It really gives a sense of
patriotism. A lot of those young men who are non-veterans have never really had that exposure for the love of country, so those veterans really set a precedent I believe it is much needed for young people in our society today. It’s really a beautiful thing to watch. Our veterans do a great job.
Kent: We go once a week to four maximum prisons, and we’re growing. We have a couple of invitations right now and a couple of prisons we’re looking at going into. In the past five years, we have graduated over 1500 men from the KPM Leadership Academy, and it’s still evolving and growing. Our goal for 2024 is to be in eight Texas prisons.
How are things going for your KPM graduates?
Kent: From the original six veterans we started with, one has been released, but the other five are still incarcerated. They’re still doing an outstanding job in leadership, and we’re still learning and growing by watching and observing them and getting to know them.
From the 1,500 people we’ve graduated from the KPM Leadership Academy, we’ve got multiple people who’ve been released. Last year, we had our first gala at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott. We had a whole group of men who have graduated the KPM Leadership Academy at a table together. Our goal is to build an alumni program, to have them speak to our guests, and let them hear and see how well rounded they are due to the programs we teach. At our gala last year, we had two of our graduates speak, and they did an outstanding job. Our guests said they were surprised at how well they communicated.
How did it feel to be given the Governor’s Achievement Award?
Priscilla: It was wonderful. We went to a beautiful ceremony at the governor’s mansion, where they told a little bit about our organization; then we received a framed certificate from the governor and a beautiful crystal award. Our children were there, too. We always say we may be the face of the organization, but our kids have been a big part of all we’ve done. We couldn’t have done it alone.
For more information on the KPM Leadership Academy, visit kentonpateministries.com/ leadership.
Medical Matters
By Luis D. Neve, MD, MS - Otolaryngologist
Allergy Symptoms Keeping You Up at Night?
Try These Tips
After sniffling and sneezing the whole day, all you wanted was a good night’s rest. Unfortunately, your allergies wanted no break of their own. Many people suffering from allergies complain about nighttime symptoms.
Why do my allergies get worse at night?
Believe it or not, even something as simple as a positional change while sleeping can have a big impact on certain allergy symptoms, particularly when mucus is involved.
“When you lay down, nasal secretions drip down the back of the throat, which is called postnasal drip,” says Dr. Luis Neve, an ENT doctor at Houston Methodist The Woodlands. “This can be very irritating to the throat, leading to a cough that wakes you up.”
Mucus can also pool in your nasal passageways, causing congestion that makes it harder to breathe through your nose. Sleeping with your mouth open all night can lead to dryness that makes coughing even more likely.
We may not get coated with yellow dust like our vehicles do, but any pollen particles that settle on your hair and skin can be transferred to your bedsheets, blankets and pillowcases and remain there until their next wash. In a humid, moist environment like the Houston area, dust mites are prevalent and can collect in bedding as well — adding to the pollen we carry in from outside.
How to stop allergies at night
Perhaps your allergy relief routine already includes medications to help keep your symptoms at bay. But if you’re still sneezing, coughing and blowing your nose at night, Dr. Neve recommends the following steps: Take a shower.
Whether after coming in from outside or just before bed, showering can help wash off any pollen lingering on your skin and hair
reducing the amount transferred to your bedding. A steamy shower may also help relieve congestion. If you can’t wash your hair every day, wearing a night bonnet can help keep the pollen contained as you sleep. Wash bedding regularly
Keeping blankets, sheets, and pillowcases clean can reduce the amount of time you’re exposed to dust mites and pollen that may have settled in your bed. Take care to handle bedding gently, so you don’t disperse allergens into the air when readying it for the wash.
Talk to Your Doctor
“When allergies are interfering with your quality of life, we start to consider prescription medications,” says Dr. Neve. “Allergy testing is a reasonable next step to identify the offending allergens if your allergies are not well controlled with medication. Your doctor can also help rule out other potential causes of your symptoms, such as a sinus infection or another health issue.”
Talk to your doctor about the next steps, including whether it is time to schedule a visit with an Allergist or an ENT.
National Treasure
Submitted Photos
National September 11 Memorial & Museum
“No Day Shall Erase You from the Memory of Time.”
“No Day Shall Erase You from the Memory of Time.”
Story by Nancy Jolly
I was watching the morning news as I got ready for work. My first appointment was a little later than normal, so I was still at home. There was breaking news when the first plane hit the North Tower of the World Trade Center--and confusion began to unfold. I grabbed the phone to call a dear friend I knew who worked near the Empire State Building to check on him. He was unaware of what was happening, and I remember shouting…as I narrated to him the crashing of the second plane into the other tower. I was frozen in thought and emotion as I watched the buildings eventually fall into ruin.
Like many parents, I chose to go and get our children, who were attending an elementary school in Spring at the time. One of my fears was something happening to the refineries or the Houston area that would start an evacuation which would prevent me from getting to them. I-45 separated our thenhome in Magnolia and their school. As with most, I had a dire need to just get them in my arms and safely home. I remember crawling up in bed, one on each side of me, and holding on tightly. I must’ve checked on them a hundred times throughout the night, watching them peacefully sleeping, innocent of all the horrific acts earlier in the day. For days, the news was nonstop with additional details and photos of the sheer
devastation left behind. Our children were confused and unable to comprehend what had actually transpired. Of course, they couldn’t understand. How could they? I sure couldn’t. The number of lives lost continued to climb. The buildings and vehicles were left looking like a movie one might see…yet this wasn’t staged or make believe. The Pentagon was attacked by another plane turned weapon, leaving behind more loss. The phrase “Let’s Roll” became familiar last words a husband spoke to his wife from his plane, just before he and other passengers gathered together and overtook the hijackers. That plane failed
and was taken down in an empty field. The trail of great loss and sacrifice grew. Our world was forever changed.
Fast forward to 2024. Bags were packed, and our trip to NYC began. I was excited to show my husband all New York had to offer. We were off on our grand adventure with our dear friends, Wes and Karen. The three of us had all been to the Big Apple and were excited to take my country boy to the city! We hit all the tourist spots, from a ferry boat ride to see the Statue of Liberty, to a carriage ride through Central Park--with so many spectacular sights, Broadway shows, meals, »
and people packed in between.
There was one thing high on my to-do list…and that was to visit the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum. I wasn’t sure about what to expect, yet I was certain this was something I wanted to do. Something I needed to do. Something I had to do.
When we walked up to the site, the first thing we saw was One World Trade Center. It’s a magnificent building. The Tower of Freedom hovers over you, standing 104 stories tall. It occupies a square that is almost identical to the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The Tower of Freedom is actually the same height as the Twin Towers – 1,368 ft (when its mast is added, it makes it 1,776 ft--said to be a nod to the year of the signing of the Declaration of Independence). At night, there is a beam of light projected vertically from the spine that shines over 1,000 ft. above for all to see.
As we entered the museum itself, I found myself in that familiar frozen state I experienced the day the terror took place. My thoughts bounced from that dark day in 2001 to my current place in time. It was sobering.
Happily Ever After Begins Here
Photo by Jaimie Burrows
Actual stories were told throughout with narratives, memorabilia, and pictures-before, during, and after. Some of the hardest to view for me were the pictures of people fleeing in their state of confusion and horror. It was all over their faces. On some small level, and only for a moment, I felt the smallest bit of what I could only imagine they must have felt. I allowed myself to go there… in their shoes…only for a moment, as it was all I could take.
People meandered slowly, whispering to one another and pointing out various things. I wondered what they were thinking and feeling. Where were they when 9-11 happened? As we continued, I saw individuals gathered around various spots. The crumbled steel beams recovered from the former towers stood alone. There were stairs, known as Survivor Stairs, at the end of a ramp. This staircase was an unobstructed escape route for people trying to evacuate. In Memorial Hall, there was an enormous wall made from watercolor paintings depicting various shades of sky blue from that morning. Understanding that the remains of many victims are forever buried just behind the wall, the wall I felt like I could reach out and touch, was almost unbearable. The words of the wall read, “No Day Shall Erase You from the Memory of Time.” Around the Virgil quote are 2,983 individual paper panels, the number of lives lost on 9/11 and in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Every part of this memorial was purposeful. Meaningful. Thoughtful. Respectful. Some would say, spiritual.
There’s a photo gallery of each life lost that forms a looping hallway. I found these mesmerizing in a very eerie way. In the center is a room where you can sit as you listen to recordings of relatives sharing a snippet about their loved one. We left feeling an even deeper connection.
In Foundation Hall, you will find the Last
Column, the final piece of World Trade Center steel. The 36-foot steel column is covered with signatures, notes, and mementos from top to bottom. It may be a symbol of loss to many, yet I saw a symbol of strength and resilience that rose from the ashes.
Ladder Company 3 is said to have suffered some of the greatest number of casualties in the FDNY response that day. Their 11 responders were killed inside the North Tower upon its collapse. They were last seen on the 40th floor. The mighty firetruck is one more symbol of the devastation from that day. It looked like a wadded-up, discarded piece of paper.
Just outside the museum we paused at the 9/11 Reflecting Pools. They are a permanent place of remembrance, with the names of each of the victims inscribed on bronze parapets surrounding the waterfalls. Each pool is 1 acre in size and was placed in the footprints of the two towers. Their sounds drown out the noise around you, allowing you to reflect the absence, and embrace a peaceful time of remembrance.
Truly one of the most surreal things I’ve ever experienced, I believe everyone should have the opportunity to visit our National September 11th Memorial and Museum.
Afterward, I was on the phone with our daughter, sharing with her what I’d just experienced--but the words weren’t doing it justice. They weren’t “enough”. The words escaped me…and that is a rare occurrence. She could hear the pain and sadness in my voice and asked me why I would do that to myself--why I would go to that museum, knowing it would upset me so. Without hesitation, I recall my immediate response. “Respect. I went to show my respect. It’s the least I could do.” Lives were lost. Families were forever altered. Our country was changed infinitely. I walked on hallowed ground. There were tears. There are still tears…as I continue to reflect…with respect.
Here
s the Hornet Buzz... YOU CAN BUILD CHAMPIONS!
Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. September 2nd is recognized as Labor Day in 2024. I hope your plans don’t involve too much labor. I may have to stay home the rest of the week. I am now on a first name basis with my local patrol officer. He stopped me again this morning and asked if I knew why he pulled me over. I told him that, if he forgot, I wasn’t going to remind him. He stifled a smile and reminded me this was the third time this week he’d stopped me. Then he asked me if I knew what that meant. “It’s Wednesday?” He must be stopping me for driving too slow, because he just turned his back and waved me on down the road. Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share.
DEAR GABBY
We all know the day will come when we have to stop driving. Being of sound mind, I envisioned someday voluntarily putting my car keys in the basket on the hall table and walking away. Apparently, birthdays and physicians are in cahoots on the subject, and the timing of the end of my driving days was not as I imagined. Please write a few words to make me smile, and maybe I will feel someone is in cahoots with me
UNWILLING PEDESTRIAN
DEAR UP
Thankfully, there aren’t many things we need nowadays that can’t be delivered to our doorstep. You don’t have to be in the driver’s seat to enjoy the journey of life. You can backseat drive (I highly recommend it) and sightsee all you want. Per your request, here are some words, of anonymous origin, that always make me smile. I hope they have the same effect on you.
I’ve been to a lot of places, but I’ve never been in Cahoots. Apparently, you can’t go alone, you have to be in Cahoots with someone. I’ve never been in Cognito, either. I hear no one recognizes you there. I have, however, been in Sane. They don’t have an airport. You have to be driven there. I have made several trips.
GABBY
May we never forget!
I may never know the answers to the questions that plagued me after 9/11. But I know if we lean on God and each other we will be guided to a better, brighter future.”
Michael Hingson, 9/11 survivor
A classic Sudoku has nine boxes, each subdivided into nine cells, for a total of 81. The goal is to fill in each of the cells with a number from one through nine. The digits must be placed so that each appears only once per row, column and box.
Email: ken.holland@edwardjones.com
I
Seen by: Kevin Brayson
This hotel wants to fight!
Seen by: PC Staff
Madilyn Abramski
What’s Cookin’
Air-Fried Italian Stuffed Tomatoes
Ingredients
4 med tomatoes olive oil, as needed
1 cup cooked brown rice
⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup crumbled goat cheese
¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts
2 Tbs chopped fresh basil, divided, or more to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup Italian-seasoned bread crumbs, divided
1 Tbs olive oil
Directions
Step 1: Cut tops off tomatoes and scoop out flesh with a melon baller, leaving 1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick sides and bottoms. Discard tomato tops and flesh.
Step 2: Brush the bottom of an air fryer basket with olive oil.
Step 3: Combine cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, goat cheese, walnuts, 1 tablespoon basil, and garlic in a medium bowl. Combine breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small bowl. Fill tomatoes with rice mixture, then sprinkle with breadcrumb mixture. Place stuffed tomatoes into the prepared air fryer basket.
Step 4: Cook in the air fryer at 370 degrees until tomatoes are tender, filling is heated through, and topping is golden brown, about 15 minutes. Garnish with remaining basil.
Cook’s Note:
You can substitute shredded mozzarella for goat cheese, if preferred.
Bloody Mary Pork Tacos
Ingredients
1 (12-16 oz) pork tenderloin
1 Tbs olive oil
5 tsp prepared horseradish, divided
1 Tbs Worcestershire sauce, divided
4 Roma tomatoes, halved lengthwise
1 lemon, halved
1/2 red onion, cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1 Fresno or serrano chile pepper
1 tsp kosher salt, divided
1 tsp black pepper, divided 1/2 cup Mexican crema
24 corn tortillas
chopped celery and/or green olives and crumbled cotija cheese, for serving
Directions
Step 1: Put pork in a resealable plastic bag set in a shallow dish. Add oil, 1 teaspoon horseradish, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. Seal bag; turn to coat. Chill for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
Step 1: Prepare an outdoor grill for direct and indirect grilling, lighting burners on just one side or pushing lit coals to one side. Preheat to medium heat (350-375 degrees. Oil grill grates.
Step 2: Grill tomatoes and lemon (cut sides down), onion, and chile over direct heat, covered, turning onion and pepper halfway through, until lightly charred, 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat. Keep grill lit.
Step 3: Remove pork from marinade; discard marinade. Sprinkle pork with 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper. Grill over indirect heat, covered, turning halfway through, 30-35 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into center registers 145 degrees. Transfer to a cutting board and tent with foil; let rest 10 minutes.
Step 4: Meanwhile, for salsa, finely chop grilled tomatoes and onion, reserving half of onion for serving. Halve, seed (if desired), and finely chop chile. Stir together tomatoes, onion, chile, 2 teaspoons horseradish, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, the juice from 1 lemon half, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon each salt and black pepper in a bowl.
Step 5: For horseradish crema, whisk together Mexican crema, remaining 2 teaspoons horseradish, and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.
Step 6: Thinly slice pork and divide among tortillas (2 tortillas per taco). Top with salsa, horseradish crema, and reserved onion. Serve with celery, olives, and cotija. Serve with remaining lemon, cut into wedges.
Chicken Broccoli Salad
Ingredients
8 cups broccoli florets
3 cooked skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cubed
1 cup chopped walnuts
6 green onions, chopped
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup white sugar
¼ cup crumbled cooked
bacon
Directions
Step 1: Combine broccoli, chicken, walnuts, and green onions in a large bowl.
Step 2: Whisk mayonnaise, vinegar, and sugar together in a bowl until well blended.
Step 3: Pour mayonnaise dressing over broccoli mixture; toss to coat.
Step 4: Cover and refrigerate until chilled, if desired. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon to serve.
Cook’s Note
For more tender broccoli, microwave it for about 2 minutes in a small bit of water to steam, then chill.
Use light mayo or salad dressing and Splenda. Omit the chicken, for a delicious broccoli salad.
Ingredients
1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
½ cup pecans
⅓ cup red wine vinegar
½ cup white sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
½ onion, minced
1 tsp ground mustard
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp ground white pepper
2 heads Bibb lettuce - rinsed, dried and torn
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries (or other seasonal fruit)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate.
Step 2: Grill chicken until juices run clear, about 8 minutes per side. Remove from heat, cool, and slice. Set aside.
Step 3: Meanwhile, place pecans in a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pecans, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: To make the dressing: Combine red wine vinegar, sugar, vegetable oil, onion, mustard, salt, and pepper in a blender. Process until smooth.
Step 5: Arrange lettuce on serving plates. Top with grilled chicken slices, strawberries, and pecans. Drizzle with dressing to serve.
Q: Why are frogs so happy?
A: They eat whatever bugs them!
Q: Why did the frog say meow?
A: He was learning a foreign language.
Q: How deep can a frog go?
A: Knee-deep Knee-deep
Q: What do stylish frogs wear?
A: Jumpsuits!
Q: What does a bankrupt frog say?
A: “Baroke, baroke, baroke.”
Altom
G2 Construction G2 Construction
This business is all about “getting it ALL done.”
How do you get things done? One surefire way is to deal with a person like Nate Grigsby, who doesn’t believe in saying the word “can’t.”
“I never say can’t. Growing up, my mom would always say, ‘Can’t never could until he tried.’ We’re also believers. God said, ‘You can do anything with me.’ All of that goes hand in hand. I often remind people, ‘Never say can’t.’
Story and Photos by Marshall
Perhaps a testament to this is how wellrounded Nate is in his work. He owns and operates G2 Construction, which specializes in new custom home construction, remodels, decks, roads, land clearing, and anything and everything dealing with concrete work. If that wasn’t enough, he purchased a septic business in 2017 and added that into the mix, handing new installs, maintenance, repairs, and pumping.
Nate shared about his path to owning G2, “I am four generations in the concrete business. My great-grandfather started here in Huntsville. Then my grandfather picked it up. Then my dad and my uncles picked it up. When you come from a family of workers— as I grew up, my “babysitter” was work! I’ve been in concrete work all my life.”
As a teen, a single event stood out as “cementing” his practical view toward earning a living. “I tore my ACL on my birthday on homecoming night as a senior in high school,” said Nate. “From that time forward, I told myself I need to be doing something
that’s going to be here until the end of time. So, I knew I was going to do construction.”
Nate continued to work with his family until a pivotal moment and conversation. “My uncle called me in and talked to me and gave me the green light to go out on my own,” recalled Nate. “That’s been 25 years ago, and I’m still doing it and still going strong.”
Once Nate got on his own in the concrete business, he was doing some work for a gentleman, and he asked if Nate could build him a house. “I said, ‘Yeah, I can build you a house.’ I hadn’t ever built a house other than in school,” stated Nate. “It was 3,360 square feet, and I got him in it in three months. I did the construction, I did the dirt work, I did the concrete work. I realized I could make good money doing this.”
Soon, the construction side grew at a rate that Nate had to stop doing the concrete work for a while, because it was just too much. He scaled back and achieved a balance. He still builds houses every year now. Most are
“Can’t never could until he tried.”
custom homes. Nate shared that a lot of folks will just come to him with ideas. He will sketch them out. Then his brother, who is an architect, will develop into house plans. Nate enjoys the work because he gets to go a lot, and do a lot, and see a lot, He states, “It’s not really a job to me; it’s more like a hobby. “I’m not in the same place. The only time I’m in the same place is if I’m building a house.”
Part of his formula for success is surrounding himself with the right people. Nate commented, “My subcontractors have been with me since I started, and I keep at least two of everybody--two bricklayers, two
plumbers, two electricians, two roofers… This helps keep everything moving forward. Whoever works with me, I want them to love what they do. When you love what you do, it speaks volumes, and it shows.”
This also applies to his direct reports. Nate shared, “One of the first things I ask potential workers when I’m looking to hire is, ‘Can you listen? Because, if you can listen, then you can learn.’ I guess I consider myself a teacher. You can make money at any job. But it’s the learning that grows you and moves you forward.”
Nate has also learned to maximize their skills and time. “All my concrete guys are cross-
trained in the septic, so we can be flexible on the jobs that come in. I tell my guys, ‘We can stick our hand in the cookie jar multiple times, where other people can’t.’”
Most of G2’s work is in Walker and surrounding counties, but they do travel much farther sometimes for concrete work—it’s definitely a case-by-case basis.
Nate thanks the Lord for his wife Ann, their two daughters, and three granddaughters, the oldest of which is 7. Asked about hobbies outside of work, Nate said, “Work is my hobby. I love it. I like it. The satisfaction in seeing people’s faces after we did what they wanted done is important. We love providing a service and helping people, and I love building relationships first.” He laughingly added, “My wife says all I ever do
is work. I ask her, ‘Well, you like to eat, don’t you?’”
When asked what surprises people most about all the things he does, Nate shared, “I also was always fascinated with the funeral industry. I went to mortuary school and became a licensed mortician.
A mortician is a funeral director and embalmer. Some people just do one or the other. I did both.
The schooling was a year. After graduating, I returned to Huntsville and did an apprenticeship working with several local funeral homes.
People are most surprised to find out I’m a mortician. That’s going to be my ‘retirement job.’ I tell people, ‘You’re going to have some type of dealing with me. You can deal with me on this side, or you can deal with me on the other side. I’ll let you pick.’”
The Law of the Harvest
In the realm of our future, the timeless principle of the Law of the Harvest holds profound wisdom. Just as in agriculture, where sowing seeds and nurturing crops leads to a bountiful harvest, deliberate actions and strategic decisions in finances can yield fruitful returns over time.
Understanding the Law of the Harvest
The Law of the Harvest, often expressed as “you reap what you sow, but always in a different season than planted” emphasizes the concept of cause and effect. In agricultural terms, it highlights the necessity of diligent effort, patience, and careful planning to cultivate a successful harvest.
We could apply this to many different subjects, our families, our relationships, our foreign or domestic policies, or even our finances.
In the context of financial planning and investments, the Law of the Harvest underscores the importance of disciplined saving, investing, and long-term vision. Every financial decision and action we take today has the potential to shape our future prosperity.
Cultivating Financial Wealth
Just as a farmer prepares the soil, selects the right seeds, and tends to the crops with care, effective financial planning requires deliberate steps and attention to detail. This includes setting goals and establishing a diversified investment portfolio tailored to individual risk tolerance and time horizon.
Moreover, like nurturing crops through various stages of growth, building wealth requires consistency and patience. Regular contributions to savings and investment accounts, coupled with strategic asset allocation and periodic rebalancing, lay the foundation for long-term financial success.
Reaping the Rewards
Just as a farmer reaps a bountiful harvest after months of cultivation, disciplined investors can enjoy the fruits of their labor in the form of financial security, and the ability to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
Mitigating Risks and Challenges
While the Law of the Harvest emphasizes the importance of diligent effort, it also acknowledges the inevitability of challenges and uncertainties. In the world of finance, volatility, economic downturns, and unexpected life events can pose threats to financial well-being.
However, just as a farmer employs risk management strategies such as crop insurance and diversification of crops, investors can mitigate risks through diversification of assets, maintaining an emergency fund, and regular communication with their financial advisors.
Conclusion
The Law of the Harvest serves as a timeless reminder that a disciplined eye on your future is an ingredient for financial success. By applying this principle, individuals can cultivate a harvest of wealth that sustains them and future generations.
As we navigate life, and the complexities of financial and economic landscapes, let us heed the wisdom of the Law of the Harvest and sow the seeds of prosperity today, knowing that with diligence and perseverance, we can reap a bountiful harvest of financial abundance tomorrow. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’d be honored to help you “Enjoy More, Worry Less”.
Creative Corner
A Different Family
by Rick
Smith
I have family that doesn’t share my last name. They know my struggles, they know my pain, and still they love me all the same.
We don’t share the same house or even the same town, but they are always there for me through my ups and my downs.
I don’t have this family because I’m rich or super nice.
I have this family because of Christ. He knows life is a battle and all warriors need a hand,
so He blessed us with this family to love and understand.
Thank you God for my family that doesn’t share my last name, because without them my life would never be the same.
Submitted by: Brian B Smith, CFP®, Bryan M Masten, CFP® & Riley W. Smith, CFP®
Your Best AgriLife
By:Meredith Cryer, Walker County Extension Agent meredith.cryer@ag.tamu.edu,
936-435-2426
Your Skin and Healthy Aging
Our skin is the largest and fastest growing organ in our body. It is imperative we focus on taking care of our skin, just like we focus on our overall health. As we age, our skin becomes drier and we lose elasticity in our skin, which may cause sagging and fine lines to appear. The most helpful tips to keep in mind when preventing skin damage are:
• Limit direct sun exposure for longer periods of time and use at least a SPF30 sunscreen.
• Wash and moisturize your skin regularly.
• Sleep for 7-8 hours daily to boost a clear complexion.
• Stop tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption.
• Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
• Eat a healthy diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans. Healthy skin reflects a healthy diet. What we consume significantly impacts our skin’s aging process, making foods rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids crucial for maintaining skin health. Antioxidants protect against free radical damage, which can contribute to issues like sagging, wrinkles, and blemishes. Among the top
antioxidant-rich foods are berries, beets, spinach, kale, and dark chocolate with 70% cocoa.
Other antioxidant rich foods beneficial for healthy skin are loaded with fatty acids and vitamins A, C, and E. These essential nutrients all work together to help support, protect, and produce new skin cells for your body.
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids are healthy fats that naturally help moisturize your skin, keep skin flexible and protect from sun damage. Try foods such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
• Vitamin A can be sourced from food we eat through beta carotene. Vitamin A helps with new cell production, growth, and helps prevent wrinkled skin. Excellent sources to include in your diet are sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, and mango.
• Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects your skin from oxidative damage caused by the sun, which can lead to visual signs of aging. It also helps support collagen formation to keep skin strong and firm. Vitamin C is added to many topical serums and creams due to its superpower to help reduce the appearance of brown spots, red
marks, and skin irritations. Top foods high in vitamin C include chili peppers, yellow bell peppers, tomato, lemons, oranges, and strawberries.
• Vitamin E is an essential nutrient with anti-inflammatory properties that aids in supporting cell function and skin health. Vitamin E is beneficial at reducing UV damage to skin and with the help of nutritious foods, can be absorbed better when combined with vitamin C. Vitamin E is also available for topical use in antiaging creams, eye serum, sunscreens, and makeup. Sunflower seeds, avocado, salmon, trout, nuts, and olive oils are some of the foods with vitamin E.
Maintain healthy skin and overall wellness by incorporating a diverse range of foods into your diet for optimal nutrition. While aging is inevitable, preventing skin damage is essential for preserving a vibrant, youthful glow for longer.
Try new recipes that incorporate more antioxidants and fatty acids, visit dinnertonight.org to help you plan your meals.
THE RED MENACE
By Cheryl Conley Lake Creek Preserve Board of Directors
The red imported fire ant first appeared in Mobile, Alabama, in the 1930s when it was accidentally brought to the U.S. from South America. They made their way to Texas in 1956. The initial population was eradicated, but the ants came back in 1957, and have slowly spread west since. Fire ants normally build and live in mounds, but a mound is not necessary for their survival.
Colonies have winged males, reproductives, workers (wingless, sterile females), and one or more mated queens. The reproductives live in the mound until they make their mating flight. The males die after mating.
The queen’s sole purpose is to lay eggs. Fire ant queens can lay both fertilized and unfertilized eggs with the sperm stored in her body since mating. The unfertilized eggs develop into winged males and fertilized eggs will develop into either fertile winged females
or sterile female worker ants. Fire ant queens can live up to 7 years and produce up to 1,000 eggs per day. There are single queen colonies called monogyne colonies and multiple queen colonies called polygynes.
Colonies are made up of 100,000-500,000 worker ants, and several hundred winged reproductives. The worker ants are responsible for the construction and maintenance of the nest, caring for the brood and queen, foraging for food, protecting the colony, and disposing of the waste. They’re always working! Fire ant workers generally live 4-6 weeks.
Fire ants are hard to get rid of. Their tunnels go deep into the ground, can extend up to 8 feet in all directions, and have multiple entrances and exits. Here are some things you can try.
• Drench the mound with liquid insecticide.
• Try putting bait around the mound. Products like Amdro work well. The worker ants will carry the bait to the others in the mound and will even take it to the queen.
• You can treat a large area using a broadcast spreader.
• Call a professional, who has more potent insecticides.
Is there anything good to be said about red fire ants? They can reduce tick, chigger, flea larvae, and hatching cockroach populations. That’s about it.
My only advice—watch your step…because they’re here to stay.
• An old school method is to use boiling water. According to Texas A&M, it works about 60% of the time. The problem is the water will probably not reach the queen who is deep underground.
Bling Bag Bingo Fundraiser conroeserviceleague.org
Mustard Seed Moments
by Ruth Fields
How to Measure Goodness
When I was young, my mother was an elementary school teacher. She had to juggle many duties, but somehow found time to cook delicious and nutritious meals for our family every evening. She was a wonderful cook. Cooking seemed fun to me, and I liked to hang out in the kitchen under my mom’s patient tutelage.
One thing my mother taught me is ingredients aren’t always measured the same way. Flour, for example, is sifted before measuring, while brown sugar is packed down in a measuring cup. For this reason, I like to think of Luke 6:38 as the “brown sugar verse.” In this passage, Jesus explained how we should treat others: “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
I Timothy 6:18 tells us to “Do good, be rich in good deeds, and be generous and willing to share.”
Matthew 5:16 states, “Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”
I find it interesting that the “brown sugar verse,” gives us more than an
admonition; it also contains a promise. Jesus told us when we give, we get back “a good measure.”
What is a good measure? And why is flour sifted, anyway? Flour tends to settle and pack down, so for recipes to be standardized, it must be sifted. If I sift flour into a cup, I can watch it settle right before my eyes by shaking the cup gently from side to side. Jesus told us a good measure is shaken together so that more will fit in the container. He also said that a good measure is running over. I like to think of pouring cornmeal in a cup and watching it flow over the top and down the sides.
My favorite mental image, though, is brown sugar. A whole lot more brown sugar will fit in a measuring cup when you pack it down!
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”—II Corinthians 9:6
