FAVORITES
20 Questions - 36
Awesome Apps - 22
Community Calendar - 80
Dear Gabby - 61
From Our Readers - 6
From the Mouth of Babes - 39
Garden Post, The - 40
Giggles & Grins - 37
Glorious Grandkids - 24
Kidding Around - 64
Let’s Celebrate - 12
Medical Matters - 42
Milestones - 60
Mustard Seed Moments - 82
Pet Pals - 62
Publisher’s Post - 9
Puzzle Solutions - 26
Star Students - 28
Sudoku Marketplace - 56
Teachers Touching Tomorrow - 21
Things My Granddaddy Said - 25
What Are You Reading - 10
What’s Cookin’? - 44
Wildlife Wonders - 78
Your Best AgriLife - 76
From Our Readers
Physical Therapy
Sharing the Love
I love scanning stories for people I know in Postcards!
Kara Tipton
I love reading about what’s going on in our area in Postcards Magazine
Sue Slater I love the local stories! Keep them coming!
Pam Johnson
I enjoy reading the recipes and reading about the people in our community!
Rachel Neathery
I LOVE seeing the photos that everyone submits of their kids/grandkids, and the things kids say section always gives me a laugh!
Suzannah Ruiz
My two favorite sections are the calendar of things to do in our area, and seeing what others are reading.
Gorgana Hyde
Love these people and magazine!
Shanna Hollis
Publisher’s Post
Karen Altom publisher@postcardslive.com
Change
As I’ve shared many times, I am prone to wait until the last minute to turn in my monthly column. As I write this, I am a little overdue. It is now late afternoon, and I had planned to submit it to our editor around noon. In fact, I had it half-written, but put it aside because it could wait.
Life happens. And plans change.
Last night, I had the honor of speaking to a group of ladies at the Celebration Ministry of Christ the King Methodist Church. One of the ladies there gave me the sweetest compliment by telling me although we just met, she felt like she knew me because of this column. I told her I just try to be real, because all of us are “doing life” together.
And today has been hard.
One of the things I shared in my talk last night was about the impact we make on others without realizing it. My first cousin Mike Farris made an impact wherever he went. When Mike walked in a room, the atmosphere changed. You immediately broke into a grin…might as well, because without a doubt, a belly-laugh was soon to follow. It never failed. Never.
This morning, a tragic accident claimed Mike’s life, and our family is forever changed.
Mike was a master storyteller. He could make a serious story funny, and a funny story side-splitting! He could imitate a myriad of real-life characters, as well as some who were so unique you would swear he made them up. Mike loved his family ferociously and protected them with everything he had. If he loved you, he would do anything he could to help you.
If you spent more than five minutes with Mike, you were bound to hear about his girls. Reygan and Riley were the pride of his life. Working with them, showing horses with them, traveling with them, and especially embarrassing them, made his world go ‘round. None of us can imagine life without him.
The holidays will be hard without his laughter. Our annual Farris family breakfast will be missing a big personality. We will hug each other a little tighter and linger together a little longer.
If you have that chance with your family, I hope you do, too. Until next time,
~Karen
Marni Mann
Koontz
Jenny Colgan
A.C Mooney
Story by Tony Farkas
Photos by Marshall Altom
Local group reaches
milestone along the road to helping persons and families affected by violence.
For 40 years, SAAFE House and its team of advocates and volunteers have helped numerous people overcome sexual assault and domestic violence and rebuild their lives away from the trauma of abusive relationships.
SAAFE House is more than a shelter or a crisis intervention agency. It is an advocate for the family. It’s more than an urgent safe haven during a time of need. The agency’s goal is to come alongside women, men, and children in the community with resources to help them get back on their feet and live abuse-free lives.
Violence can affect anyone. SAAFE House provides crisis intervention, advocacy, and support services empowering survivors to seek new beginnings and rebuild lives free from the effects of violence. The agency provides services to all victims of family and sexual violence and assists clients in healing with former and current victimizations alike. Domestic violence or sexual assault is not a victim’s fault. The victim doesn’t have to be alone to find a way past the trauma.
Executive Director Tracy Stoudt said the organization is planning for the future, which includes improved client services, trauma-informed care and putting clients first while working to educate the community.
“I wish I could just close down, but that won’t happen,” she said. “The numbers keep going up; last year we helped 440 people, and so far, this year we’re at 540. The sad part is that 200 of those are children.”
Board President Sue Badrak said there is a great amount of abuse and violence, and it seems to be getting worse in the country as times get tenser.
“We’re serving more people than we ever have, and we’re working hard to serve everyone we can,” Badrak said. “When we work with people in the community, we find everyone knows someone that has suffered some sort of violence. We’re helping people transition to
Tracy Stoudt, Executive Director
“We enable them to succeed. We don’t turn people away”
safer environments and become successful and independent.”
Stoudt said people think SAAFE House services are just for women, but those women oftentimes bring children with them; she also said when the organization provides community outreach, people are amazed at the services we provide.
“They come to us with a Walmart bag and leave with a life on the mend,” she said. “We enable them to succeed. We don’t turn people away; we give them some kind of service, even if it’s a referral to another agency.”
“We’re not just helping victims, we’re helping the
SAAFE House also is looking for area residents who are passionate about its mission to help the organization continue to grow and would like to see people from its service area — Polk, Trinity, San Jacinto and Walker counties — come forward as volunteers from the communities that are served.
Stoudt said the agency is thankful for the continued support in the counties they serve that allows SAAFE House to help others.
“It’s the most rewarding job I’ve ever had, because the decisions I make will make a difference in people’s lives every day,” she said.
Badrak said the help that the community provides is essential to their mission.
“We need volunteers, donations, and things for the shop to help us continue,” Badrak said. “We’re not just helping victims, we’re helping the community as well, with education and by developing productive members of society.”
An Appreciation and Celebration gathering will be held in October to celebrate the SAAFE House anniversary.
History of SAAFE House
In 1984, SAAFE House was initially organized as the Walker County Family Violence Council to provide services for residential victims, via an emergency shelter, or outreach for victims of family violence. The program began providing these basic services in October 1984 through the Good Shepherd Mission. The WCFVC was awarded a state grant in September 1985, and the first executive director was hired in October 1985.
The council began using local hotels and the local mission for emergency shelter services. Later, other services such as legal advocacy, police assistance, childcare, emergency assistance, medical care, counseling, referrals to appropriate social service agencies, and provisions to assist victims in obtaining secure and independent lifestyles.
In April 1986, office space and a shelter facility were donated by business members of the Huntsville community, allowing 27 shelter clients, 33 non-shelter clients, and 141 crisis line calls to receive assistance from the agency. In 1988, a sexual assault program was added to the list of available services.
To more accurately reflect the expanded services available to the community, the agency’s name was changed the following year to SAAFE House, which stands for “Sexual Assault and Abuse Free Environment.”
The successful growth of SAAFE House is due to hundreds of volunteer hours. The agency had only 10 regular volunteers initially; there are now more than 150 volunteers who participate throughout the year. As client needs continue to grow and the demand for services becomes increasingly evident, the need for volunteers also becomes more pressing.
In 1992, the agency expanded services to reach victims in Polk County. Community members began organizing a Polk County office which started in the courthouse building, providing services one afternoon a week. Over time, the community again rallied support for SAAFE House, and office space was donated, allowing for further expansion of services in Polk County.
In 1994, renovations began with the donation of a house; along with other community efforts, a second shelter soon became a reality. The Polk County office is located in Livingston and has room for donations for client needs and space for individual and group services.
In 2006, SAAFE House saw a need and established an office in Trinity County. In 2017, the Trinity office was moved to Mickey’s House, a building dedicated to allowing the non-profit groups of Trinity to have free office space and places to meet. One full-time staff member occupies the Trinity office, but all resources of the agency are completely available to clients in that area.
Facilities in the Service Area
The Walker County office, located in Huntsville, moved to the current location, a former church, which doubled the space available for client services. A resale shop, Elite Repeat, made its debut in May 2004 on the Huntsville Courthouse Square, but eventually moved in next door to the SAAFE House office, on the corner of Sam Houston Avenue and 15th Street, for expansion purposes.
Together We Can End Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
Other offices include:
Trinity County 107 W. Main St. Trinity, TX 75862 (936) 594-6415
San Jacinto County 31 N. Butler St. Coldspring, TX 77331 (936) 284-5560
Polk County 1112 N. Dogwood Ave. Livingston, TX 77351 (936) 284-5550
Services
More than just a shelter, SAAFE House offers a variety of programs and services to help victims and families transition into safe homes and safe lives, such as two shelters, four outreach offices, community education, legal advocacy, and transportation.
Sexual Assault Services
• Personal accompaniment for legal, medical, law enforcement, prosecutors’ offices and courts, etc.
• Support services for significant others
• Safety planning
• Individual/ group advocacy (adult and child)
• Information and referrals
• Emergency lodging and transportation
• Crisis Intervention
Family Violence Services
• Emergency safe shelter (if needed) and support services
• Face to face crisis intervention services: intake, assessment, planning, and coordination
• Basic living essentials (food, clothing, hygiene items, etc.)
• Hospital, law enforcement, prosecutor office, court accompaniment
• Legal advocacy
• Information and referrals
• Support services for secondary victims
• Skills, resources, and knowledge necessary to empower you to live an abuse-free life
• Counseling (adults and teens)
• Individual/group, by appointment or walk-ins welcome
Elite Repeat
Elite Repeat is essential to SAAFE House as funds raised through the resale shop are used to offset the cost of operations that grant funds do not cover. Clients visit the shop for free clothing and other necessities, and canned and boxed food items are available. For more information, visit saafehouse.org.
Senior Benefits
Teachers Touching Tomorrow
Elizabeth Smith
English Trinity Middle School
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:
Honoring teachers who work with our kids day in and day out. They go above and beyond, and really do “Touch Tomorrow.”
Nominated 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!
Because of your generosity and through our partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, we are able to send a FREE book to over 1,000 children in our community every month! As Dolly says, “You can never get enough books into enough hands of children!” Thank you for investing in the leaders of tomorrow!
Elevate Training
Elevate is a brain training program designed to improve your mind’s focus, memory, speaking abilities, processing speed, math skills, and more. Each person is provided with a personalized training program that adjusts over time to maximize results.
The more you train with Elevate, the more you’ll improve critical cognitive skills that are proven to boost productivity, earning power, and self-confidence. 90%+ report improved vocabulary, math skills, and overall mental sharpness when they frequently use Elevate.
Elevate offers a 7-day free trial as well as a basic free version. Additional features are available by annual subscription.
Things My Granddaddy Said
A pessimist is one who feels bad when he feels good, for fear he will feel worse when he feels better.
The difficult is done immediately; the impossible takes a little longer.
Kind words may never die, but without kind deeds, they sound mighty sick.
When the road is straight, don’t look for a shortcut.
The man who honestly tries can never be counted a failure.
One reason dollar bills wear out so quickly is because so many folks pass the buck.
Small deeds done are better than big deeds only planned.
The view is always better from the high road.
Publisher Karen Altom and her Granddaddy J.C. Farris
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!
Here are a few reasons:
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A generator failure during a power outage can lead to significant inconveniences & even safety hazards.
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Like any mechanical system, generators have a finite lifespan. Regular maintenance can help extend the life saving you the cost of early replacement.
• Optimizes Efficiency:
A well-maintained generator operates more efficiently, which can lead to fuel savings and reduced environmental impact.
• Warranty Requirements:
Many generator manufacturers require regular maintenance to keep the warranty valid. Neglecting maintenance could result in a voided warranty,costing you more in case of breakdown
We offer annual and semi-annual maintenance on your generators. Call us today!
Star Students
Favorite Movie: The Forge
Favorite Music/Artist: Bryann Trejo
Favorite Food: Chicken Fried Chicken
Favorite Quote: n/a
AAbran Lozoya
Huntsville High School
Favorite Movie: Princess Diaries
Diana Gallegos
Huntsville High School
Favorite Music/Artist: Vincente Fernandez
Favorite Food: Any Soup
Favorite Quote: “If not us, who? If not now, when?” –John Lewis
bran is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the son of Erica Lozoya and Arturo Lozoya. His activities include soccer, TAFE, Soap Squad, FCCLA, senior powder puff coach, Hosa, GG manager, Hornet Influence Program, and student leader at “Alive Church.” Following graduation, Abran plans to attend Sam Houston University, obtain a degree in communications, and become a public relations manager. He believes, “First find my identity in Christ, and lean on His understanding, not my own.”
Diana is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Juan Gallegos and Maria Diana Gallegos. Her activities include Criminal Justice Club, HHS Hornet Drama, Thespian Honor Society, English Honor Society, Math Honor Society, German National Honor Society, German Club, and student council. Following graduation, Diana plans to study biology, then become a forensic odontologist and orthodontist.
Favorite Movie: The Proposal
Kristel Cababasay
Huntsville High School
Favorite Music/Artist: RnB / Daniel Caesar
Favorite Food: Sinigang (Filipino soup)
Favorite Quote: “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” –Maria Robinson
Kristel is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Rafael Cababasay and Kristina Cababasay. Her activities include volleyball, UIL Spelling and Vocabulary, National Honor Society, National Society of High School Scholars, National English Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, St. Thomas Catholic Church choir, and playing instruments (piano, clarinet, violin, guitar). Following graduation, Kristel plans to enter the medical field as a doctor or nurse. She believes, “Striving for perfection can lead to dissatisfaction, but aiming to improve incrementally leads to progress and self-contentment.”
Favorite Movie: Megamind
Favorite Music/Artist: Beyonce
Favorite Food: Popcorn
Sariya Toliver
Huntsville High School
Favorite Quote: “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” –Sheryl Sanberg
Sariya is a senior at Huntsville High School and is the daughter of Candis Evans. Her activities include Huntsville High School Grenadier Guard Drill Team and Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church youth choir and praise dance member. Following graduation, Sariya plans to attend either Texas Southern University or Texas State University to study nursing and join their dance team. She believes, “Do good to others, and good will always come back to you.”
Do You Know?
Story by Ruth Fields
by Tom Miller
Station 94
Not all responders use roads to reach the scene of an emergency.
Several years ago, a man was fishing on Lake Conroe in the middle of the night when he noticed a car in the water near a boat ramp. When he called 9-1-1, Montgomery County ESD 1 Fire Station 94 was alerted. Lt. Joseph Murphy remembers being awoken from a deep sleep, dashing with his crew to the station’s fireboat while putting on diving gear, and plunging into 40-degree water. The rescue crew soon discovered there was a woman in the car, and there was only a small pocket of air left. The woman was understandably distraught, and Murphy remembers that she grabbed onto his hands with a vise-like grip. “Her rings left blood blisters on my hands,” he says.
Photos
Although it was a dramatic scene, it was not out of the ordinary. Fire Station 94 is located on the shore of Lake Conroe, with a fireboat docked just a few steps away; therefore, crews are not surprised when their duties include water rescues. “A lot of stuff that people don’t think happens, happens,” Murphy says.
A unique fire station
Fire Station 94 is one of eight stations within Montgomery County ESD 1, which serves the 200 square miles in the northeastern portion of Montgomery County, including Lake Conroe. Station 94, located about four miles west of I-45 on FM 1097, is the only fire station with direct lake access. It is equipped with a fire engine, a booster truck (for putting out brush fires), and a fireboat.
Before Station 94 was operational, emergency personnel had to drive to a nearby dock to launch a fireboat, slowing their overall response time. In 2011, Fire Station 94 opened, operating out of a temporary metal building; in 2013, the station’s permanent structure was completed. Today, thanks to Station 94, emergency personnel can respond to emergencies on the lake faster.
When Station 94 is alerted, a remote-control device lowers the station’s fireboat into the water. Meanwhile, it takes well-practiced crews just five minutes to put on all or most of their dive gear (including wet [or dry] suits and buoyancy compensator devices [BCDs]) and jump on the boat. It then dashes to the scene of the emergency, slicing through the water at speeds of up to 52 miles per hour. In water no colder than 70 degrees, Murphy explains, there is a chance of rescue if emergency personnel can complete their efforts within a 60-minute window. Being able to be in the boat within five minutes helps meet this goal.
“Station 94 can get there faster. Most other agencies have to drive to the boat; our crews walk to the boat about 100 feet,” says Chief Jason Oliphant. “We have gotten pretty efficient,” Murphy agrees. “If we have good information, we can get the job done within 60 minutes.”
Phone technology also assists in quick response times. A cellphone, when used to make a 911 call, has the ability to provide responders with a GPS location of the emergency. Watercraft sometimes drift, but
if the caller gives an accurate description of the boat, crews can usually find the site of an emergency quickly.
The station’s new 37-foot Munson is equipped with dive gear, fast boards (floating backboards) and a pump that allows lake water to be sprayed at 550 gallons per minute, reaching a distance of about 50 yards from the boat. It replaced a 32-foot Boston Whaler, which is now undergoing repairs. When completed, the Boston Whaler will become a backup to the Munson. “Our goal is to have both boats in the water during busy weekends on the lake,” Oliphant says.
Emergencies on land and water
Station 94 might be alerted for a variety of emergencies on the water, such as boat wrecks and boats that are disabled or taking on water. Sometimes, crises are created when people go out on the lake in stormy weather. In addition, some people choose not to wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) while they enjoy time on the lake. Wearing a PFD greatly lessens the chance of drowning, Murphy says, noting that Station 94 has not encountered a drowning victim who was wearing a PFD.
YOUR PATH TO PEACEFUL RESOLUTION
Mediations, including Business Conflicts, Property Disagreements, Contract Disputes, Family Disputes, and more may allow:
Achievement of a fair resolution without the need for prolonged litigation.
Savings on legal fees and court costs.
Resolving disputes faster than traditional court proceedings.
Clients having a say in the final agreement, unlike a court judgment. Keeping things private and confidential.
Mike Park
While fires on boats are rare, medical
are
Murphy estimates that 80 percent of Station 94’s calls are generated because of medical emergencies, whether on land or water. Every crew member assigned to Station 94 is dive qualified and trained to rescue people in up to 60 feet of water; however, crews are just as capable on land. Crew members are trained to fight fires and respond to medical emergencies, wherever they occur.
Station 94 has three Public Safety Divers on duty at all times. In a worst-case scenario, when a body needs to be recovered, the divers at Station 94— augmented by some of the other 45 dive-qualified
The COOLest Pumpkins in the Patch
B. Miranda & D. Bearden showing some young visitors their equipment on the fire truck.
fire fighters in the district—initiate a recovery mission. Lake Conroe is considered to be “black water,” Murphy says, because of zero visibility 15 feet beneath the surface. Responders use SONAR (sound navigation and ranging) to help them recover bodies and evidence, as well as a pivot board, which was custom-made for Station 94 at a nearby machine shop. The device allows divers to thoroughly search the water in a 50-foot circle, expanding the distance incrementally.
Heroes to the rescue
A few years ago, a near-drowning incident inspired Murphy, then a firefighter, to continue his education to include water rescues and recoveries. A three-year-old boy—the same age as Murphy’s son—barely survived, but years later, he still visits Station 94 to show his appreciation. Today, Murphy’s list of credentials is long. He is a Public Safety Diver Instructor certified through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) and is working toward his Master Public Safety Diver certification. Because Murphy and other divers assigned to Station 94 are so highly trained, much of the dive training of personnel assigned to
Montgomery County ESD 1 takes place at Station 94. “We have become very self-sufficient,” he says.
Since its inception, crews at the station have responded to countless calls. Fortunately, many of those alerts have resulted in happy endings. Drake Bearden, a driver/operator, has vivid memories of the time a person stopped by Station 94 to report a driverless boat floating near the FM 1097 bridge. Boats sometimes slip their moorings, so the crew was not surprised. They responded quickly.
“The lake was real choppy, with six foot swells,” Bearden says. The crew looked thoroughly along the shoreline for the boat, but did not find it; however, being extra cautious paid off. While searching for the boat, they discovered a man stranded on the
bulkhead, unable to get out of the water and nearing exhaustion. “We took our time going across the shoreline and that’s when we saw him,” Bearden says.
As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes.
Lieutenant Murphy
SEASON 8
Where Dreams Come Alive
Ages 18 Months to Adults
Nichole Becker
WHO DO YOU
My Dad. He was a very hard worker and always made sure our family had everything we needed.
BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER GOTTEN? Get a job you love and you will never work a day in your life…my Dad.
ADVICE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF? Don’t worry about what others think, you do you.
Giggles & Grins
Electricians have to strip to make ends meet.
Poison ivy crossed with a 4-leaf clover will get you a rash of good luck.
Dad joke: Went swimming today. Peed in the deep end. Lifeguard saw it. Blew the whistle so loud I almost fell in.
“I” before “E”… …except when your foreign neighbor Keith receives eight counterfeit beige sleighs from feisty caffeinated weightlifters. Weird.
If I die and come back as a hillbilly…is that “reintarnation”?
Research shows that 6 out of 7 dwarves aren’t happy.
Got something that makes you giggle? PostcardsLive.com
Frederic Morris was born into a military family from Kentucky and Tennessee and relocated to Walker County when he was ten years old. He began his formal education in cosmetology at the age of fifteen. He started doing hair professionally the following year and opened his first salon in Trinity when he was 24. In the year 2000, he moved to Huntsville and opened Studio 2000, now Hot Tops Salon. Last year, Frederic celebrated 41 years in business and the honor of being named Best Stylist and Best Hair Salon in both 2023 and 2024, thanks to our customers, our friends.
He is a firm believer that you have to find your person when it comes to matching clients and stylists. Each independent stylist in his shop has their own unique set of skills and all of them are adept at coloring hair to match a person’s skin tone, lifestyle and personal preferences. There are no hard feelings when a client wants to try a different stylist because they are all committed to the satisfaction of every customer that walks through the door. It’s not a competition, it’s a team effort.
Corrina Flores joined Frederic six months after opening this shop and is still with him 25 years later. Casey Simmons has been at Hot Tops for six years. Bryanne Vazquez leased her
space five years ago, and Dacia Guerrero is celebrating her second year as part of the tight knit and talented family of stylists.
Education is their number one driver. They all take classes throughout the year to learn new techniques and try new products that protect and maintain your hair for life, not just for the moment. This is why clients bring multiple generations of friends and family here for haircare. Many clients are out of state relatives of Huntsville residents who book appointments during family visits. Others drive 100 miles or more for the high value experience. Not only are the services affordable, they sell more than 20 retail lines of hair care products at just $5 over cost, making it the best place in town to get your favorites from Amika, WOW, Olaplex, Matrix, Biology and Chi.
Frederic’s superpower is speed and quality, which he offers at a very competitive price. A shampoo and haircut goes for $40, which takes him half an hour max. A full cut and color is only $90 and can usually be done in less than 1.5 hours. The only challenge is getting an appointment, because most clients rebook every six weeks. Visit Hot Tops Salon on Instagram to view all epic styles they can do for you.
the Texas Mushroom Festival Event Schedule
7:30am - 8:30am Shiitake 5k & Lil’ Shiitake Registration Open
8:30am Shiitake 5k Run/Walk Starts
9:30am Lil’ Shiitake Kids Mile Starts
10:00am - 5:00pm Festival Open to Public
10:00am - 1:00pm Chase Kimey Playing in Taste of Texas Tent
10:00am - 2:00pm Monterey Mushrooms Serving Mushroom Fajitas w/ Mushroom Picking Contest every other hour
10:00am - 4:00pm Silent Auction Open
11:00 am Photo Contest Winners Announced
12:00pm Auto Showcase Vote Tally BeginsAwards to follow
1:00pm - 5:00pm Risky Liver Playing in Taste of Texas Tent
4:00pm Beer & Wine People’s Choice Awards
By Kim Bius
October is a Magical Month for Gardening The Garden Post
October is a magical month for southeast Texas gardeners. The heat has broken, and temperatures are mild. The mornings are crisp, and it is a great time to be in the garden.
For the newcomer to our area, we are blessed with two full planting seasons: spring and fall, where the weather is inviting. Yes, you can plant outside these seasons, but not when the ground is frozen or temps are above 100-
-you actually can, but it is a ton of work.
Late September and into October is the perfect time to plant azaleas, camellias, gardenias, trees and non-drought tolerant plants that will benefit from 8 months of root establishment before the heat of summer returns in late May.
Azaleas, camellias, and gardenias are acid lovers, and Walker and the counties to our south and east offer the perfect growing conditions. Counties to the north and west are in post oak territory with a more alkaline soil (which can be amended and treated with acid).
Azaleas can tolerate direct afternoon heat as
Azaleas
Gardenias
long as they are receiving consistent watering three times a week during the spring and fall, four times a week the first summer in the ground, and twice a week in winter. Azaleas will also do well in half-day morning sun and shady in the afternoon. Camellias, on the other hand, require morning sun and shady conditions after 1:00. There is not a camellia that will tolerate west sun…no matter how many times you try. Gardenias require 2/3day direct sun to full sun. Gardenias will tolerate a half day of direct sun, but your bloom ratio will decrease to a few sporadic blooms.
Azaleas, camellias, and gardenias come in several sizes: dwarfs 2’ and under (Gumpo azaleas); semi dwarfs – 2.5’-3’ max (dwarf gardenias, large selection of azaleas and Shi Shi camellias); 3’ – 5’ range offers a large selection of azaleas, and camellias will stay in this range for a few years; 6’+ Sasanqua and Japonica camellias, August Beauty gardenia and Southern Indica azaleas (Formosa varieties).
These plant species also require a nutrientrich raised bed with good drainage (the bed should be raised 3” above grade--improves
the drainage in our clay soils). While we are discussing, ensure you plant the root ball of woody stemmed shrubs 1” above grade also. This will decrease the probability of planting at the soil level and the plant “falling” below grade and killing the shrub.
It is also time to plant wildflower seed. Choose a high sun area that will not be disturbed by
mowing, allowing the wildflowers to drop their seed to return next season (the timeframe generally translates to mowing in late May).
Apply winterizer 3 weeks before the first frost, which generally translates to between Halloween and mid-November. The higher potassium promotes more cold tolerance and hardiness. Happy fall gardening!
By Rebecca L. Martin, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA, Audiology
you start this oddly satisfying little habit, it’s hard to stop. But were your ears even dirty in the first place?
Dr. Rebecca Martin, an audiologist at Houston Methodist ENT Specialists at The Woodlands, notes that your ears are designed to be self-cleaning, without the use of cotton swabs.
“Earwax will naturally move in the ear canal until it falls out. And any moisture evaporates on its own,” Martin said. “Earwax is normal and helps to maintain your overall ear health. It is helpful in many ways, and it is best to just let the wax do its job.”
Many people use a cotton swab in their ear without issue, but patients should be reminded this practice isn’t without risks and is not recommended.
“Nothing smaller than your elbow should go inside the ear,” Martin said.
What is earwax and why is it important?
Earwax is a mixture of oils and skin debris that collect in your ear canal over time. While it’s yellow appearance and waxy texture may make you feel like it’s something gross that needs removing, your ear would say otherwise.
“Earwax is a normal thing for a person to have and helps to maintain your overall ear health,” says Dr. Martin. “Earwax is helpful in many ways, and it is best to just let the wax do its job.”
important roles of earwax include:
Preventing infections by maintaining slightly acidic environment (which is antibacterial!)
Preventing dirt and dust from getting into the ear canal or onto your eardrum
Providing lubrication and protecting scratches or trauma are several reasons a person’s earwax may not be successfully moving the ear naturally. Reasons earwax up include:
dry earwax, which is more common in older adults
Wearing hearing aids, since these can earwax movement
excess ear hair, which can trap
Can a cotton swab damage your ear?
“If you insert it too far into your ear canal, there is a potential for you to inadvertently perforate your eardrum or damage the very delicate bones of hearing,” warns Dr. Martin. “When you use a cotton swab, you may push earwax deeper, causing an impaction in the ear canal which will make it harder to hear and will make it so the ear cannot naturally clean itself.”
There are safer earwax removal alternatives that are far more effective.
“Using an over-the-counter drop called Debrox can help loosen the wax in the ear so it can naturally work itself out of the ear canal. If you are experiencing discomfort or reduced hearing, see an audiologist, ENT doctor, or a primary care physician to help with removal,” Dr. Martin.
Understanding Neck Pain
Ask The Doc: Can My Phone Cause Neck Pain?
Dr. Brian McGee, DC
Welcome to “Ask the Doc,” your go-to source for valuable healthcare insights and advice from our expert team at Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute.
Neck pain is a growing problem that is often caused by constantly looking down at our phones, tablets, or other devices. This forward-leaning posture puts extra pressure on the neck and spine. Over time, this can lead to pain, stiffness, and even headaches. Our heads weigh around 10-12 pounds, and bending forward adds even more stress on the neck muscles, causing discomfort and potential long-term issues if not treated. The new term used to descrive this condition is “Text Neck.”
Why Does Text Neck Happen?
Text neck mainly happens because of how we use our electronic devices. We often hold our phones or tablets below eye level, which means we’re constantly looking down. This posture increases the strain on the neck muscles and spine. Poor ergonomics at work or home, like sitting for long periods without proper back support or using a non-ergonomic chair, can make the problem worse. It’s not just about using devices; it’s also about how we sit, stand, and move throughout the day.
Tips for Home Relief
Fortunately, there are simple ways to manage text neck at home. Start by holding your device at eye level to keep your neck in a neutral position. This can help reduce the strain on your neck. Taking frequent breaks from screen time is also key. Every 20 minutes, take a moment to stretch and move your neck gently. Try exercises like tilting your head side to side, looking up and down, and turning your head left and right to keep your neck flexible and reduce stiffness.
Professional Help
Chiropractic care offers an effective way to treat neck pain and text neck. Chiropractors use specific adjustments to correct any misalignments in the spine caused by poor posture. These
adjustments can relieve pain, improve your range of motion, and promote healthier posture habits. Chiropractors may also recommend exercises and stretches to strengthen the neck muscles, preventing future issues. By targeting the root cause of text neck, chiropractic care provides a natural and longlasting approach to relief and overall spinal health.
If you’re dealing with ongoing neck pain from text neck, consulting a chiropractor could be the next step to feeling better. They can create a tailored treatment plan to help you ease the pain and keep your neck healthy.
At Huntsville Physical Medicine Institute we’ve been helping people get rid of their pain for over 40 years, and we’re here to help you too. Contact us at 936-241-7673 to take the first step in rediscovering the joy of pain-free living.
936-241-7673 901 Normal Park Dr, #201 • Huntsville TX 77320
*This article is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for personalized advice or treatment
What’s Cookin’
Plum Almond Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
Browned Butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Topping
5 Tbs unsalted butter
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
3-4 Italian plums, pitted and thinly sliced
Cake Batter
1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup white sugar
|3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 1/2 cups superfine blanched almond flour
3 large eggs
1 Tbs freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tsp almond extract, or to taste
1 tsp vanilla extract
6 Tbs all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp baking powder
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously butter a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
Step 2: Place 1/2 cup butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until butter is browned, 5 to 7 minutes. Pour browned butter into a large mixing bowl; allow to cool for at least 10 minutes.
Step 3: For topping, place 5 tablespoons butter in the same saucepan you browned the butter in; allow residual heat to melt it (or melt over very low heat). Pour melted butter into the prepared cake pan; sprinkle with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gently mix ingredients together in the pan, then spread into an even layer. Arrange sliced plums over the butter-sugar mixture in a circular pattern, gently but firmly pressing the plums into the mixture, until the bottom of the pan is evenly covered. Set aside.
Step 4: For cake: to the bowl with browned butter, add brown sugar, white sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until combined. Stir in almond flour until incorporated (mixture will be grainy). Add in eggs 1 at a time, beating well after each addition with an electric mixer. After last egg has been added, beat mixture for 3 minutes on medium-high speed until light and fluffy. Beat in lemon juice, vanilla, and almond extracts. Reduce speed and stir in flour and baking powder until just combined. Pour batter over the plums; spread gently in an even layer.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven until cake is evenly browned and the center of the cake springs back when lightly touched, 45-55 minutes.
Step 6: Cool cake in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a serving platter. Gently peel off parchment paper and allow cake to cool completely before serving.
Slaw of Many Colors
Ingredients
1 med head red cabbage, chopped (10 cups)
1 med green bell pepper, seeded and chopped (1 cup)
1 med onion, chopped (1 cup)
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
1 large tomato, chopped (1 3/4 cups)
Directions
Step 1: Combine cabbage, green pepper, and onion in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, vinegar, powdered sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Pour dressing over vegetables, tossing well to combine. Cover and chill at least 2 hours to allow everything to marinate.
Step 2: When ready to serve, gently stir in tomato and season to taste with additional salt and pepper. (Chill, covered, up to 5 days.)
State Fair Lemonade
Ingredients
6 lemons
1 ¼ cups white sugar
5 cups cold water
Directions
Step 1: Wash lemons and peel off all the zest using a vegetable peeler; set peeled lemons aside. Add lemon zest to a bowl and cover with sugar; toss to combine. Cover and let sit for a minimum of 2 hours, or up to overnight.
Step 2: Bring water to a boil in a pot over high heat; turn off heat and pour in lemon-sugar mixture. Stir and let sit until sugar is completely dissolved, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Pour through a mesh strainer back into the same bowl and discard the zest. Let cool to room temperature, 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Cut lemons in half and squeeze juice into the bowl. Pour lemonade into a serving pitcher; cover and chill thoroughly before serving over ice, at least 2 hours.
Lemon Poppy Seed Pancakes
Ingredients
1 rounded Tbs white sugar
1 Tbs lemon zest, or more to taste
5 tsp poppy seeds
1 large egg
3 Tbs butter, plus more for the pan
3 Tbs lemon juice
1 cup whole milk
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
lemon wedges (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Combine sugar and lemon zest; stir to combine. Let stand about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Whisk flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda together in a separate bowl. Set aside.
Step 3: Add poppy seeds, egg, and melted butter to the bowl of sugar and whisk thoroughly. Add lemon juice, milk, and flour mixture. Whisk gently just until flour disappears. Let batter rest for 10-15 minutes before using.
Step 4: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, and generously grease with melted butter or vegetable oil.
Step 5: Transfer about 1/3 cup of batter into the pan for each pancake and cook until a few bubbles start to pop through the surface, 3-4 minutes. Flip and cook the second side 3-4 minutes. Serve immediately.
Chef’s Notes:
Pancakes can be topped with whipped cream or a slice of butter. For a stronger lemon flavor, 1/4 teaspoon of lemon extract can be added to the batter. Fresh lemon wedges can also be served alongside.
Whether Hereditary or Medical Hair
Caramelized Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
3 Tbs white sugar
¼ tsp cumin
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground ginger
1 pinch cayenne pepper
2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds, washed and dried cooking spray
2 tsp salt, or to taste
1 Tbs olive oil
2 Tbs white sugar
Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together 3 tablespoons of sugar, the cumin, cinnamon, ginger, and cayenne pepper, and set aside.
Step 3: Place the pumpkin seeds on the prepared baking sheet, spray them with cooking spray, and sprinkle with salt to taste. Bake seeds until lightly golden, 20-25 minutes.
Step 4: Heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, and stir in the toasted pumpkin seeds along with 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook and stir the seeds until the sugar forms a coating on the seeds, 2-3 minutes. Stir the caramelized seeds into the bowl of sugar-spice mixture, toss to coat, and let cool.
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
1 cup halved fresh cranberries
½ cup chopped walnuts
1 Tbs orange zest
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Grease two cookie sheets.
Step 2: Cream sugar and butter in a
large bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in pumpkin purée, egg, and vanilla.
Step 3: Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together into a medium bowl. Stir flour mixture into pumpkin mixture until well blended. Stir in cranberries, walnuts, and orange zest. Drop teaspoonfuls of dough 2 inches apart onto the prepared baking sheets.
Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are golden, 10-12 minutes.
Step 5: Remove from the oven and transfer to wire racks to cool.
Precision Repairs. Peace of Mind.
1
2
8
steamed rice for serving
Directions
Step 1: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook chicken pieces until golden brown, 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 2: Add garlic, onion, bay leaves, soy sauce, vinegar, water, and peppercorns. Stir and bring to a nice simmer.
Step 3: Cover with lid and simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes. Remove the lid and simmer for another 15 minutes.
Step 4: Serve with rice.
Chef’s Notes:
Don’t uncover the saucepan or stir the rice during cooking. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving
Museum of the American Railroad
From full-size rolling railroad stock to a million dollar model train layout spanning 2500 square feet, this organization preserves history and inspires future generations.
In the heart of Frisco, Texas, a hidden gem awaits those with a passion for history and a love for trains. The Museum of the American Railroad, a not-for-profit Texas corporation, has been dedicated to celebrating railroads’ rich heritage and exploring
their promising future since its founding in 1962. Through historic preservation, research, and educational programming, the museum offers a unique window into the significance of railroads in American life and culture.
Story & Photos by Marshall Altom
A Journey Through Time
As you embark on a guided walking tour of the museum’s impressive rolling stock collection, you’ll be transported back in time. The tour covers approximately one mile and takes place outdoors, so wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers, passionate about sharing the history and technology of railroading, will lead you through a fascinating journey that spans over 100 years of America’s rail history.
Imagine the early days of Dallas in 1873, when the first east-west rail line intersected at a point known as Browder Springs, a location that would later become the bustling city we know today. This strategic junction drew people and businesses from across the nation, cementing Dallas as a Southwest commerce center. It was a time when trains were the city’s lifeblood, bringing much-needed materials and machinery and connecting Dallas to industries in the Northeast and Midwest.
Walking Tours and Educational Programs
The museum’s walking tours are a highlight for visitors. Offered Wednesday through Saturday at various times, these tours provide an in-depth look at select pieces of the museum’s collection. As you stroll among
the historic locomotives and cars, you’ll hear personal anecdotes and historical tidbits that bring the past to life, as well as see rare locomotives and railcars. The tours cover uneven terrain and are best suited for ages eight and up, making them a great familyfriendly activity that combines education and adventure.
Welcome to TrainTopia: A Railroad Odyssey in Miniature
One of the crown jewels of the Museum of the American Railroad is TrainTopia, an extraordinary model train exhibit that takes visitors on a miniature tour of the American Southwest. Inside the Frisco Discovery Center, TrainTopia is a gift from the Sanders Family, presented by Amanda and Brint Ryan and made possible by the City of Frisco’s Community Development Corporation.
Over $1 million and 20,000 man-hours went into creating this extraordinary exhibit, which features seven operating rail lines and spans 2,500 square feet. Initially constructed in the North Dallas home of Steve Sanders, TrainTopia combines his memories and interests into a tangible miniature world. After Steve’s passing in 2013, his family
graciously donated the layout to the Museum of the American Railroad in 2017. Thanks to the generosity of Amanda and Brint Ryan, the layout was moved and faithfully reconstructed in Frisco.
Modeled in “G” Gauge, or 1:24 Scale, TrainTopia features scenic highlights and populated areas in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. The exhibit includes soaring Rocky Mountains, logging camps, oil fields, the spectacular Palo Duro Canyon, and a 1960s downtown Dallas complete with an animated Main Street and a bustling Union Station. Dramatic lighting transitions day to night, enhancing the colors and details of the handcrafted scenery and mural backdrop.
Visitors can experience a visual journey that includes the famous Palo Duro Drive-In with its operating movie screen and 1950s cars and animated signs in cities and towns. TrainTopia is a permanent exhibit at the Frisco Discovery Center, offering a unique and immersive experience for all ages.
Preserving History for Future Generations
The museum’s mission extends beyond public tours and exhibits. It offers TEKS-based distance e-learning programs and onsite guided educational tours for elementary and middle school students. These programs aim to teach the next generation about the railroad industry’s key role in building communities across North Texas and the nation. Students can learn aboard STREAMLINER classrooms in the museum’s Metra Highliner Commuter Cars, making history come alive in a unique and engaging way.
Looking Ahead
The Museum of the American Railroad is currently undertaking its most ambitious project to date: relocating its collections and operations from Dallas’ Fair Park to Frisco, Texas. While the Frisco site is under construction, access to the locomotive and rolling stock collection is limited to scheduled tours. Despite the challenges, the museum continues to provide exceptional programs and exhibits, »
You are invited to
Ladies Night
SHOP ALL DAY!
November Thursday 7
REFRESHMENTS SERVED FROM 4-6PM
Take 30% off only in the Classy Country Corner
Take 40% off Christmas Items *Excludes previously marked down items*
The sale continues through the weekend! Come shop Friday November 8th 7:30am5:30pm & Saturday November 9th 8am-4pm
ensuring that the history of America’s railroads is preserved for future generations. In addition to the relocation project, the museum is actively seeking donors to help fund the construction of a protective covering for the railyard. This crucial project aims to safeguard valuable locomotives and carriages from the elements, ensuring their preservation for years to come. The
new structure will provide muchneeded shelter and contribute to the museum’s overall conservation efforts.
Special Events and Community Engagement
Throughout the year, the museum hosts a variety of special events, including the popular “Day Out with Thomas” featuring Thomas the Tank Engine. This familyfriendly event includes a 25-minute interactive train ride, live entertainment, and a range of activities centered around the beloved character. The Bubble Tour, coming this October, promises even more fun with bubble-themed activities and photo opportunities.
the museum aims to raise funds to complete this exciting project.
Visit the Museum
As the museum looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of education and preservation. Plans are underway to build a new event pavilion, providing a versatile space for community gatherings and special events. With the community’s support,
Whether you’re a history buff, a railroad enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique family outing, the Museum of the American Railroad in Frisco, Texas, offers something for everyone. Explore the fascinating world of railroads, learn about their impact on American life, and take part in preserving this vital piece of our heritage. All aboard!
For more information, visit historictrains.org.
Museum of the American Railroad 8004 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco, TX 75034 (214) 428-0101
RESOURCES SECURITY, INC.
“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
Miguel & Cruz Hoot Pulido first day of 10th grade. (Yes, Mom made them do it!)
Submitted by parents Jorge & Leslie Pulido
Leanna & Josh Buske Celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary!
Dear Gabby
Welcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Our national holiday this month is Columbus Day on Monday, October 14. What season is it? It’s sweater in the morning to sweating in the afternoon season. No matter the temperature, get used to pumpkin-spiced everything starting in October! I think it’s a law. Over the years, you may have deduced my housekeeping style is best described as, “There appears to have been a struggle.” That’s why I love Halloween decorating. The cobwebs are already there! Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share.
DEAR GABBY
Halloween is just around the corner, and I am in the throes of making my home look appropriately festive without floating a loan. I’m also trying to think of a costume that can make this “over the hill” body of mine look party-worthy. What would you do?
CLUELESS
DEAR UP
I’ve already shared my cobweb decoration plan. Throw in a pumpkin or two from the dollar store, and you’ve got this. I have faced up to the fact my body is no longer a temple; it is more of a haunted house. It needs a lot of work, makes creaking sounds, and there are random odd screams on occasion. Here’s what I’d do for a costume. Very flattering! Make a round cardboard circle a couple of feet in diameter and pick up a round tablecloth while you’re at the dollar store. Cut a hole big enough for your head in the center of the cardboard and place it on your shoulders. Now, cut a hole in the tablecloth and cover your “table” with it. Add a small thrift store lamp and clock radio and go as a “one night stand”. Have fun!
GABBY
DEAR GABBY
My family is dysfunctional, the country is a mess, the world is on the brink of disaster, and I am one personal dilemma away from a meltdown. My midlife crisis is now a regular midweek event. Need I mention I am prone to exaggeration? This feeling of impending doom may require some time off from work (that I don’t have) or a medical IV involving Chardonnay. Do you have any less radical suggestions?
COMING APART AT THE SEAMS
DEAR CAATS
I do! Worry is a conversation with yourself about things you cannot change. Prayer is a conversation you have with God about things He can change. There’s a Swedish Proverb that states “Worry often gives a small thing a big shadow.” Let go and let God.
GABBY
CONFIDENTIAL TO “SURVIVAL ADVICE”: Never insult the crocodile until after you have crossed the river.
Why don’t skeletons skydive? They don’t have the guts.
Why did the ghost join the soccer team? It wanted to be a ghoulie.
How do bats know how to fly? They just wing it.
Why do witches like hotels? They get broom service.
Why did the ghost blow its nose? It had boo-gers.
This business is key to keeping customers in tune with the world around them.
What career path requires knowledge in the broad areas of music, mechanics, customer service, HVAC systems, and even mice? If you guessed piano tuning and repair, you’d be correct! Since she began Madilene’s Piano Tuning & Repair in 2004, Madilene Loosier has learned a lot about
Madilene’s Piano Tuning & Repair
Story by Lauren Swonke
Photos by Tom Miller
From Medicine to Music
Loosier grew up in Houston and then the Dallas area. Her education began at Texas Tech, but after starting as a physical therapy major, she decided to change majors to music therapy, which brought her to Sam Houston State University in Huntsville. She’s an accomplished musician--singing and playing the piano and viola, so her love for music and desire to help others meshed perfectly for use in the music therapy field. She graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy with a minor in Piano. Along the way, she met her husband, now Walker County Precinct 2 Constable Shane Loosier. They got married one semester before Madilene’s graduation. She wanted to find something close to home, but no music therapy jobs were available between Huntsville and Houston. She initially continued working part-time at TIRR in Houston, where she had completed a 6-month internship prior to graduation. The couple had their first son while Madilene was working as a Walker County 9-1-1 dispatcher, and Madilene became a stay-at-home mom when Tommy was a year old. They went on to have two more sons, Brandon and Dillon. Madilene began brainstorming about work she could do that would allow her to stay home to care for her family and also pay private school tuition for her boys. It was then an idea formed that she describes as straight from God.
“God gave me the idea,” she said. “I was thinking about how most instruments you care for yourself, but pianos require care from someone else. I began checking into what it would take for me to become a piano technician. I checked into the American School of Piano Tuning.”
Through a series of events, the school offered her the course at half price. She felt like that was an answer to prayer, and she went for it. Madilene worked her way through the program over the next year, and she began tuning for contacts at no cost. She started out with one
Madilene and Brandon
Before (above) and after (right) being cleaned by Madilene & Brandon.
were
her
so she decided it was time to start charging. She began building relationships within the piano technician world that have helped her develop as a technician over the years. This included joining the Houston chapter of the Piano Technicians Guild.
In 2021, the business had a new member come on board. After working as an auto collision repair technician, Brandon (the Loosier’s middle son),expressed interest in going to work
for his mom. He had gone on calls with his mother while he was in school, so he was familiar with her work. After attending Piano Technicians Academy online and becoming a certified technician, he began working with Madilene. His experience in auto repair fits well with the repair skills needed as a piano tech. He shadowed his mom for six months, learning the ropes.
“I like the simplicity of it,” Brandon said. “It can get complicated, but we’ve been doing it for a while, so it’s like second nature. There’s always something different.”
Madilene is delighted to have her son working with her. She receives positive feedback consistently
Crafting Homes With Care and Precision
Ossf installer ll
on
“I have people tell me all the time, ‘He’s such a great asset to your business,’” she said. “We work really well together--we feed off each other while we’re doing a job, and we don’t really have to say anything. It’s just natural, which is really nice.”
Madilene is looking forward to another new employee joining the team in the near future. Dillon, her youngest son, has one year remaining in the Air Force. He plans to join the business when he finishes his service.
A technical field
It’s obvious tuning a piano requires a great deal of knowledge, skill, and technique. As Madilene describes the detailed tunings and repairs she completes on her clients’ pianos, it can almost feel like a surgeon describing a complex procedure in the operating room. For the layman, her description of checking the bridge for cracks, the mathematics involved, pulling on the hammer, and regulating an action is awe-inspiring.
“It’s physically and mentally tiring,” she said. “With pianos, there’s a lot of problem-solving; you’re using your brain all the time. It’s all mechanical.” While they use their own ear to tune, they also use TuneLab, a state-ofthe-art software to aid in their process. It makes tuning faster and provides consistency across pianos.
Over the years, Madilene has worked for SHSU, Houston Symphony, Conroe Symphony Orchestra, Dosey Doe (Big Barn and Cafe), John Legend, Steven Curtis Chapman, Ray Price, and an abundance of other professional individuals and organizations. They service commercial and residential pianos nearly anywhere you might find one within Walker and surrounding counties.
In addition to the technical work required, piano tuning and service requires a great deal of customer service. Madilene and Brandon often educate their customers on things that may seem unrelated to their work. They’ve learned about HVAC systems to help customers with high humidity in their homes; mice, to help those that have had an infestation in their pianos; hearing, to help customers that have difficulty hearing the highest notes on the piano; and many other interesting topics.
“It brings tears to their eyes sometimes when we play a song after tuning. In the service industry, if you don’t do a good job, you won’t get a call back,” said Madilene.
A good portion of the Loosiers’ business is repeat and word of mouth, so that is telling of the quality of work they do. The satisfaction gained from their work is symbiotic--they do good work, receive self-satisfaction from making something sound beautiful, and their customers receive the satisfaction of having their piano repaired or tuned. Like the sound coming from those well-tuned instruments, it’s a beautiful thing.
Service, products, repairs with a smile
Madilene’s business provides services that include pitch raise, voicing, action regulation, evaluation for purchase, appraisals, sales of piano items, and (most recently) they’ve begun to offer climate-controlled piano storage.
Madilene is very involved in the community and has served on many boards of local organizations, including currently serving on the Huntsville-Walker County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
As she recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of her business, she’s reflective when thinking about the past and excited for the future. “It’s truly a family business,” she said. “I can leave a legacy for them; it’s been a wonderful blessing. I never knew I’d be doing this for 20 years, and I never knew I’d be doing it even two years before I began doing it.”
For more information about Madilene’s Piano Tuning & Repair, visit www.madilenespianoservice.com, on social media, or give her a call at (936) 581-0094.
Creative Corner
The Intruder
by Jo Keller
Most of us have experienced a noise in the car that is unfamiliar. My husband couldn’t hear, and his usual solution was to turn up the radio! Once out of desperation, because a rattle was rattling my nerves, I took it to the local mechanic. At last, the issue was resolved, and there was silence once again. Well, this is the latest trouble with my vehicle. I noticed shredded tissue on the floorboard. How did that get there, and where did it come from? My sweet neighbor came over and drove brooms under seats, making a lot of noise, but nothing appeared. Could a bird have flown in the car and flew out again? Could it be one of those little furry things?
Was it a one-time occurrence? I decided to ignore it, and I continued to drive to church, the store, lunch with a car full of the ladies, and out to dinner. You get the picture! And all the while, my children were saying, “Oh, Mother, you are imaging things!”
A week went by, and having an unwanted visitor was no longer a worry, or so I thought. Opening the back lift to put groceries in, I noticed tiny slivers of plastic, and I could see gnawing evidence of something having been at work. I knew then that I definitely had to resolve this issue. I decided to back my car out on the driveway and give it a thorough going-over. As I opened the driver’s side, there he was…the intruder. I told him to wait until I had the car on the driveway. After I opened all the windows, doors, and back lift,
he made an appearance. Thinking I could slam the car door on him and that would be his demise, I closed the door. No more mouse…or so I thought.
Have you ever smelled a dead varmint? It’s a smell you get nauseous from. The Intruder got his revenge by getting somewhere around the air conditioner unit before proceeding to die. The young man at the Valvoline business on Highway 105 fast became my hero. He put his hand in the opening behind the air conditioner filter and pulled out the decayed body. After a new filter was put in and I rode around with the windows open, the smell is finally gone. Hooray for the help I received, and here’s hoping that mouse doesn’t have a friend!
Your Best AgriLife
By: Cody Allen cody.allen@ag.tamu.edu
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension- Disaster Assessment & Recovery
Food Safety During Disasters
With any type of disaster event, there is always the possibility of losing power to the home. When power loss occurs and a long period of time has passed, food spoilage is likely. Disaster events can range from hurricanes to floods, fires, tornados, and winter storms. When these type events occur affecting the power supply for two hours or longer, food spoilage can be an issue a homeowner may face. Food spoilage can sometimes be hard to detect due to the food appearing normal, but being unsafe to consume.
What Do I Throw Out?
According to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Publication, Identifying and Handling Spoiled/Unsafe Food and Drinks After a Disaster, you should consider throwing certain items away after two hours,
which include:
• Food and drinks that have been in contact with floodwaters, including home-canned foods.
• Eggs, soft cheese, leftovers, meat, milk, poultry, seafood, refrigerator rolls and biscuits, and other potentially hazardous foods that have been above 40°F for 2 hours or longer.
• Food that has an unusual color, odor, or texture.
• Cans of food that are bulging, damaged, dented, or opened.
Minimizing Spoilage
Restocking items from a disaster event can be costly. Some items can spoil quicker than others. With a few tips, spoilage can
MR BRASIL
be minimized in the home’s refrigerator and freezer and possibly help minimize some of the cost. These include, but not limited to:
• Buying non-perishable food ahead of time and keeping it in storage. This can be canned items and may include meat, vegetables, and fruit. Non-canned items can be beef jerky, mozzarella cheese, and trail mix to name a few.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer closed as much as possible.
• Buy thermometers that show the current temperature in the refrigerator and freezer.
• Cooking perishable items that will ruin first is another option. Using a portable gas grill or charcoal smoker as a cooking method is a great resource.
• Waiting on the grocery trip to buy a huge amount of perishable items when an event is in the forecast will help minimize the amount of food spoiled. When an event is imminent (i.e.: a hurricane), keep the perishable items bought at the grocery store to a minimum. Having less items in the home means replacing fewer spoiled items.
• Use waterproof containers and store canned foods, non-perishable items, and potable water in an area where it is less likely to be affected by floodwaters.
Resources for Food Spoilage Replacement
There are numerous resources available in the instance food spoilage does occur in the home.
• Contacting your home insurance agent and filing a claim.
• If on SNAP or Food Stamps, call 211 or your local Health and Human Services Office.
• Visit your local food bank.
Wildlife Wonders THE PERFECT FLOWER
By Cheryl Conley, Lake Creek Preserve Board of Directors
When I see a dandelion in my yard or flowerbed, I do what most of us do--pull it out or give it a good spray of weed killer. But recently, I read an interesting article on dandelions, and now I have a whole new respect for them. Dandelions are actually good for your lawn. They help loosen hard-packed soil because of their wide-spreading roots. They aerate the soil and help reduce erosion. They have a long taproot that takes nutrients from deep in the soil that helps other plants.
The name Dandelion comes from the Latin Dens Leoni The French translation of that is dent de lion which means lion’s teeth, which is believed to describe the plant’s tooth-like leaves. The English changed it to dandelion.
The dandelion arrived in America at the time of the Mayflower Before the 1800s, the dandelion was planted and protected. Beginning in the 1800s, people cleared their yards and land of grass and left the dandelions and other
weeds they considered useful. They knew all the useful properties of the plant.
The dandelion’s yellow flower is quite interesting and pretty. What we call the flower is actually not just one single flower, but 50 or more individual blooms. It opens in the morning and closes later in the day.
The seeds and foliage are eaten by at least 33 species of wildlife. Bees and other pollinators love dandelions. Not only good for wildlife, every part of the dandelion is safe for us to eat--the roots, stems, leaves, and flower. They are part of the sunflower family and are related to lettuce, endive, and chicory. They are very nutritious and provide calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamins A, Ca, and K. They’re also found in traditional medicines, supplements, and herbal teas (where they’re used to support blood sugar levels and boost skin, liver and heart health). The Chinese and Indians have grown dandelions for centuries to treat liver and digestive disorders.
The leaves are often used in salads, but you can also saute, steam or boil them, or add chopped leaves to your dips. The buds can be eaten fresh, but are better when cooked or pickled. The roots are best after drying them out and are often used to make tea and coffee. Use the flowers in salads or pull them apart and use as a garnish. Steep them in boiling water for about ten minutes, and you’ll have dandelion tea.
I Googled dandelion recipes and was surprised to find several websites. I found recipes for dandelion wine, tea, cookies, cakes, syrups and many others. Rather than make something myself, I’m going to order some dandelion jelly which I found on the website Etsy. I’m no Martha Stewart, so it’s much easier for me to order something.
Not that I plan on eating dandelions on a regular basis (or maybe ever), but I just might stop with the weed killer and let them grow. They really are, in my opinion, the perfect flower.
Making Meaningful Funerals a Simple Process
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by Wes Altom
Shabbat (Sabbath)
Four hundred-thirty years. That’s how long the Israelites were slaves in Egypt. When you consider our country is not quite 250 years old, that adds some perspective to the event.
The Israelites endured over four centuries of being repeatedly told that their only value consisted in how many bricks they could make. When they reached Mt. Sinai after the deliverance, God presented a covenant with a special attribute—Shabbat, or a weekly day of rest.
As God sought closeness and growth in partnership with his people, he effectively told them, “Before we do anything else…you need to learn how to take a break.” This break celebrated not only God’s good creation, but it also served as a repeated reminder to the Israelites that their value comes not from production, but from who they are— God’s VERY GOOD creation.
What a beautiful gift to a weary and downtrodden people! The invitation to Shabbat still extends to us today… Shabbat may not look the same as under the old covenant, but we could all use a regular reminder of who—and whose—we are…because we tend to be pretty busy brickmakers in our own right.
Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done. Genesis 2:3
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. Exodus 20:8-10
