There is a saying within the music industry that defines how well a singer can sing a song: “Once he (or she) sings a song, it’s pretty much been sung.” That sums up how Gene Watson sings a song, because when he sings it—it has been sung. After a career that has spanned some 50 years, from honky tonks to sold out arenas to an open door at the Grand Old Opry, he is still undeniably one of the best pure vocalists in the music business today. You wonder how a man who has literally stepped on thousands of stages can deliver songs night after night with such a perfect blend of clarity and raw emotion. He truly defies physical logic.

Postcards was able to visit with Gene aboard his tour bus before he played recently to a full house of dedicated fans at Dosey Doe in The Woodlands. He was more than happy to share his recipe for longevity of success that takes him out on the road year after year.

What’s your secret, how do you keep your voice so crystal clear and durable through all these years?

The good Lord’s blessed me with my voice, so I take care of myself—I don’t smoke, drink, or do drugs—and I try to get plenty of rest. And now is a good time for us, because this new CD is out, and we’re touring and promoting it.

What’s the new CD entitled?

Real.Country.Music.

Are you getting some good feedback?

It’s #1 right now in album sales on Amazon in country music, #57 on Billboard, #7 on the hot disc charts in the UK; so, it’s doing real well.

That’s good news for fans of traditional country music. There’s not a lot of that coming from country radio these days.

Don’t get me wrong. I want everybody to succeed in what they do, but there aren’t enough traditional country artists left. They’re dying away, and Lord knows, you know, and everybody knows that the primary FM country music stations today do not play traditional country music.

Not the country music we grew up on.

And we’re living proof that there is still a big demand for what we do out there. Everywhere we play, there’s a full house, so that makes us feel good.

I’m sure our readers would like to know more about where your roots in country music began.

I’m from Paris, Texas which I call my hometown. That’s where I got inclined to do country music. At that time, it was country and rhythm & blues—sort of a mixture of music back then. My younger brother and I used to play local functions. As time rolled by, I moved to Houston and was working on cars, doing paint and body work, yet playing in the clubs at night and on the weekends. I had a great band at the time and developed a great following. Then, RM Stone, who owned R&M Record shops, and Russ Reeder, who owned Record Service Company, a one-stop distributor for all the jukeboxes around Harris County, gave me a call. They’d heard of me as word was getting around, and they asked me if I’d like to make some records. I said I’d love to go to Nashville, so they agreed and took me to Nashville. That’s where it all started.

And that’s where you cut your first hit Love in the Hot Afternoon? (reached #4 in Billboard country singles in 1975)

Yeah, but the first song I ever had top 100 in the national charts came out on an independent label and was called Bad Water. That got Capitol Records attention. We went ahead and released Love in the Hot Afternoon independently, and it shot up the charts regionally here (Houston). Then Capitol, even though we’d released it independently, signed me to a long-term recording contract. After that, Russ released it on Capitol, and we’ve been rolling ever since.

It’s amazing how one song can get it all rolling, but you’ve been able to back it up with a string of hits through the years. That’s a talent in itself to pick the right song. What do you look for in a song when you want to record a new CD?

One thing I always retained, no matter who I was recording for, was I had control and input of all the songs that I record. And my back was against the wall a lot of times, because I picked my own material. I tried to be realistic about it; I tried to find songs that were true to the day—something that might have happened to somebody, something that people could relate to and identify with. And that’s what I’ve always kept in mind. No matter how much I like it—how will they like it? Can I reach in there and pull their heart out? Can I make them laugh? I’m a song person; I never get rid of a good song I really like, and a good song can come from anywhere. I spend a lot of time trying to find material for a CD.

And you can hear that in your voice; you sing a song like you wrote it.

I treat a song like an actor would a role. I have to be able to step in that writer’s shoes and live that part. I have to before it becomes my song.

Your fan base continues to grow through the years. That has to be a testament to not only your song selection, but the way you perform them on stage.

We’ve got our loyal fans that started with me from the beginning. They’ve stuck with me through thick and thin and will travel miles and miles to the shows, and they’re great—that’s what keeps you going. But, I’ve noticed with this new CD that we’re pulling in a lot of the younger age group—new faces in the crowd. And, since we’re number one in CD sales on Amazon, that tells me that we’re touching an audience of younger people who download songs— and believe me, we’re thankful to be part of that new social media like Facebook, Amazon, and iTunes. But, we still sell a lot of CD’s at the shows, and I still sign autographs, shake hands, talk to people—so it’s all working together.

On your CD, the studio musicians are all seasoned players and handpicked. So you know what kind of sound you want before you ever get the tape rolling?

I’m old school, and they tell me I’m old school when I record, but I want all those seasoned musicians in there because I’m inspired by what they play, and what I sing seems to inspire them. It’s a combination that has always worked for me. But, this is the day and time of new electronics, and sometimes the new producers will go across town to get an acoustic track, or go to Dallas to get an electric guitar laid down… You can get things too perfect and too sterile—listen, digital is great—but you can tear up a good song being so metallic. You can lose the feeling. That’s what I looked for on this new CD, though. I used 21st Century technology, but went back for that 1970-80s sound when we recorded analog and cut to vinyl. The warmth and feel you had back then, that’s what I was going for.

I know there are plenty of ups and downs in music, but you’ve been a mainstay despite it all. This new CD seems to be gaining even more ground in that direction.

I still love what I’m doing, and as long as my fans are coming to my shows—I ain’t going home till they tell me to.

Before leaving, Gene and his cousin Donnie “Drop” Watson showed us a new line of electric guitars called “GW” Gene is endorsing. Also in the works is a new TV show with Gene and Moe Bandy called The Gene and Mo Show, which will be aired on RFD TV.

A few hours later, Gene Watson and his Farewell Party Band took the stage at Dosey Doe and gave the audience what they came for. Flawless in his stage performance, Gene was complemented by a band of seasoned musicians who all interacted with the audience by adding a sprinkle of humor here and there—it was easy to see why his dedicated fans keep coming back. I gave an honest listen to the new CD Real.Country.Music. There are 13 songs that show exactly why Gene Watson is still one of the most respected singers in country music. They are all exceptional. My personal favorites: Enough for You, the gospel song Help Me, and Couldn’t Love Have Picked a Better Place to Die are delivered by a master vocalist to songs written by songwriter greats Kris Kristofferson, Larry Gatlin, Bill Jones, and Bucky Jones & Curly Putnam, to name a few. To order his new CD, merchandise, or for show info go to: GeneWatsonMusic.com.

The post Texas Talent: Gene Watson appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

When Postcards sent me and photographer Kelly Lawson to Dosey Doe in Conroe, Texas to hear Madi, we found this to be a first class setting to hear and see a songwriter perform her songs. Dosey Doe is just big enough to invite some excitement and just small enough to provide intimate ambience for dinner and your choice of beverage. A professional sound technician makes sure the plates and glasses don’t shake-rattle-and-roll off the tables, either.   

Madi Dean is a senior at Montgomery High School, but already possesses a rare self-confidence for her age. She has the uncanny ability to sound much like an older, polished performer and is right at home on the stage. Her delivery was intact; she was pleasant to the audience, and both kind and respectful to the other songwriter she shared the stage with that evening.

It’s not often that one sees a high school student so clearly focused about their future. Madi is one of those young people who offers hope through a new and different generation, and she was very accommodating as she sat down with Postcards right before her show.

What is the earliest you remember wanting to be in the entertainment business?

I had been singing since I was about two years-old, so I loved it way back when. But, about three years ago, I was interested in becoming an actress. So, I went to some auditions and got into it (passed the auditions.) But one of the events, down in Florida, involved commercials, dialogue, and that sort of thing—unfortunately, I lost my voice before the big audition. But, this event also involved some singing. I did get some feedback from a talent scout, and they put me in touch with Jason Davis at 117 Media. He has set up all this writing and recording, and helped me with my first EP. He also set me up with writers like Dean Sams from Lone Star and Megan Conner, who has written a few singles for Chris Young and Rascal Flatts. So I’ve been in the learning process of writing for about two years now.

Your collaborators have a lot of clout, and obviously a lot of faith in you.

Yes, Megan Conner is a great resource we’ve acquired. She was the one who was so instrumental in setting me up with other writers, such as Shane Hines, as well.

So this is your first LP, and it was cut in Nashville?

I finished the first one entitled “My Kind of Love,” and I have a new one coming out in a few months. I just recently wrote the songs, and will perform a few of them here (tonight.) The title of the new CD is not yet decided.

Sounds like you’re a busy young lady. What is your schedule like at Montgomery High School?

I’m taking a few college classes, and I’m in choir, so it’s a little bit overwhelming at times with my music. I have three different things to balance, but I’m managing right now.

Describe your songwriting process. Do you write the words and the music?

Thankfully, the people I write with are amazing on guitar and piano, which helps me with the melody. Usually I work off a set of chords that work well together, and I work up the melody from that.

What do you strive for in your songs?

The main thing is, I want people to get something out of my music and be inspired by my songs. I know I’m too young to be that knowledgeable about relationships, but I try to include what I know about life—and I’ve learned that it can all work together in songs.

As a young songwriter and entertainer, who do you like as artists these days?

Taylor Swift and Hunter Hayes. I love her voice, and Hayes is a great singer and all-around great musician. Carrie Underwood is someone I admire, but even though she’s like an idol in the music world, I want to be my own person and have my own style.

How are your parents handling all of the demands of your music?

They are very supportive. You have to have that with all of the time, pressure, and stress that goes with it. They have been there for me emotionally, as well as financially. But, they are not just supportive of me—they are going with me in my career; they are by my side, and I truly need that. And I want to say here, it’s not just doing good for myself and my parents—I want to do this for the glory of God.

(From the balcony, I notice a couple of members of Madi’s group getting a sound check for tonight’s performance.)

Who are the other members of your group?

Tonight, I’m using a couple of musicians from the worship band at my church, Riverstone Community Church in Montgomery. That’s Kade Kaaz on acoustic guitar, and Ryan Claxton, my percussionist who plays the Cajon. It’s actually Kade’s first night with me, but he’s great. He’ll do fine.

So where do you go from here, Madi–what are your musical dreams?

I’m going to keep working real hard at something I really love to do, and make sure that I keep in contact with the people I meet and the connections I make. The people I made my videos with, Atonement Entertainment out of Fort Worth, Texas, are just amazing, and I think they are going to start managing me a little bit, as well as still doing videos. I am considering strongly going to Belmont College (School of Music) in Nashville, Tennessee, and learning more about the business of music.

Madi has two major produced music videos and several live video performance recordings to her credit. I was equally impressed by some of the tracks on the first CD “My Kind of Love.” Here is a brief review:

“Storm Chaser,” has a well-driven, groove behind the saucy voice of Madi—singing about someone that may be looking for rocky times. It happens. A good element of truth here.

“What A Life,” a song about the tender side of growing up through a little girl’s eyes. Simply done with nice acoustic work and Madi’s pure water voice. These two together are all you need.

“Complicated,” has a contemporary feel of what’s coming from the airwaves these days. Fits right in.

“Real,” is what it is. I like the line “everybody has a voice.”  Really—just be “Real.”

“Bittersweet Goodbye,” well-produced with easy-going instrumentation, laid down nice, which compliments the believability in Madi’s voice.  She sells this one for sure.

“That’s Just Me,” has a spirited, pop/country feel to it—makes you want to get up and dance around a bit.

If you want to hear Madi Dean’s “My Kind of Love” CD—plus, get the brand new one coming out around the first of the year—you can reach her at: MadiDeanMusic.com—or, through Atonement Entertainment in Fort Worth, Texas. You can also download Madi’s songs on iTunes.

Go ahead, get on board the Madi Dean train; she’s a brand new artist, and she’s on the rise. It will be worth your while.

The post Do You Know? Madi Dean appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

A lot of folks who listen to music, attend shows, or buy CDs have no idea what happens behind the scenes when the stage lights fade and the dust settles to the dance floor.  Other than family and close friends, no one can really know the hard work, late hours on the road, family sacrifice, and dedication performers put into the craft to do what they love.  Texas singer/songwriter John Travis Slaughter is an example of what devotion and love of his trade exemplify. He’s an avid family man and a hard-working young person who not only takes his music seriously, but somewhere in the process was able to get a degree in agricultural science from Sam Houston State University. This is no easy road for anyone, but John Slaughter seems to have enough positive energy to reach his goals.

Postcards Magazine met up with John one afternoon at the Texan Café on the square in downtown Huntsville, Texas. Over coffee and iced tea, we chatted for a while, and John filled us in on what makes the musical wheels in him turn. We asked about his earlier beginnings and what hooked him into this wonderful world of music—and how he eventually “traded Mozart for Bob Wills.”

What are your origins?

Huntsville is my home, but I was born in Houston, raised in Grangerland, then moved to Conroe and attended Caney Creek High School. I was part of the first graduating class in 1999. I became involved in the rural activities of a small town. I was active in FFA, showed livestock, and became state vice president of FFA. But music was always something I loved.

When did you first start writing songs?

I started writing songs in high school, and it carried on into college.

I understand that, while at Sam Houston State University, you played music with Texas icon Roger Creager?

Yes, I played fiddle, mandolin, and sang harmony vocals with Roger for about six years. I had a great time traveling all over the U.S. I learned some valuable experience about playing and traveling with Roger. And, I was able to graduate from college debt free since I paid for classes as I went.

Is there a lot of sacrifice at home that comes with being a singer/songwriter?

This last month I’ve been gone a lot. I’ve played a lot of shows, been in the studio late nights recording, and getting home at 2 and 3 in the morning. I’m so proud of my wife Brandi for hanging in there with me—and now we have a 6 month-old son named Wyatt. I’m so blessed to have such a wonderful family. Brandi and I met while we were both going to Sam Houston State. She and Wyatt have really revitalized everything for me, so now it’s about providing a good life for my family.

Sounds like your schedule is full.

I still carry a day job, too. I’m an ag-science teacher at Montgomery High School. It’s a great place to work and a great group of employees—and it allows me to have a job and make things easier on my family.

I suppose that’s to your advantage, staying tuned into the younger generation?

I used to tell my students it’s my brother who does all that. Now it’s getting where I can’t hide it anymore. (laughs)

On your website I listened to one of your new cuts “Horseshoes and Hand Grenades.” Great title—how did you come up with that?

I’ll be honest—I write 99% of my songs, but that is one song that I did seek out. A gentleman by the name of Trent Summar wrote that song, and when I heard it, I said I have to cut that one—and Trent gave me permission to record it. The fans love it, and it adds something to our show.

So you enjoy collaboration with other songwriters?

Yes, I’ve accumulated some great friends in the business—Thom Shepherd, Drew Womack, Jody Booth, Jason Allen, Bart Woytek, and Cody Johnson, who co-wrote “Pray for Rain.”  Cody and I have written some 20 songs together. All in all, we drew from everywhere for this record, and I couldn’t be happier.

Do most people like songs they can relate to in some way?

We’ve tapped into a lot of forms of the human condition—there’s some rowdy, party songs—lovin’ and losin’—leavin’ and cheatin’, and heartbreak, so I like to think we’ve covered all the bases. It’s eclectic.

I suppose it helps spawn new material when drawing from the well of human emotion?

Absolutely, and I think the best couple of songs I’ve ever written in my life are on these last songs I did—and I just wrote them 3 weeks ago! The record will also include “Ghost Town,” which is the first #1 song we had on the radio. We see people out in the audience singing the words to our songs, then they bring another 8 people with them next time, and it begins to snowball.

What instruments do you play on stage?

I play acoustic, and I actually play a couple of songs on fiddle with my band.

Where did your fiddle influence come from?

My uncle Larry Kelley made and played fiddles, so I learned a lot from him. Back then I was in the 6th grade orchestra, and I hated it. So I traded Mozart for Bob Wills.

Explain how your songwriting process works.

I’m an old pen and scratch pad writer from way back, but I’m starting to warm up to technology—so I put down ideas on my iPhone. There’s a song I wrote on my new record with Thom Shepherd called “A Fool Like Me,” and I wrote that on Facetime with him. He was in Austin and I was in Huntsville. So technology helped us because of our busy schedules.

Your new CD sounds like a positive step in your musical journey.

It’s called “Meet in the Middle,” which is the title track I wrote with Bart Alan Woytek, a great songwriter. I’ve been in the studio the last month or so finishing up the CD, and it’s about ready to go. I’ve worked hard my whole life, practiced and practiced, and played for 20 years of my life. “Meet in the Middle” is absolutely the best work I’ve ever done, and I poured my heart and soul into it. I didn’t leave anything on the table. If you do that in life, you will be successful—win or lose.

Well said, John Slaughter. John’s band consists of Jake Lowe, steel guitar and harmony vocals; Steve Cargill, bass guitar; Josh Barnard, lead guitar; Jason Broussard, drums and percussion; and Travis Bishop, piano, organ, accordion, and harmony vocals.

John politely excused himself after the interview to go pick up his young son. I was impressed by this well-mannered young man who spoke so highly of his family and pursues his dream with an unbridled drive. At 33 years-old, he seems wise beyond his years. That’s good. He’ll need that. For those trying to make a living at it, the music business can be relentless, with pitfalls and disappointment. But it’s also good for the heart and soul to those who heed its call. John Travis Slaughter has heard that call loud and clear.

The new CD “Meet in the Middle” will be available by the time this article publishes. Check John’s website and Facebook for upcoming shows, CDs and merchandise: johnslaughtermusic.com or on Facebook: John Travis Slaughter.

The post Texas Talent: John Slaughter appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Recently, Postcards Magazine made a trip to Sky Zone to find out what was happening. Just a hop, skip, and a jump, and you’re right there in the Spring/Woodlands area and ready to get airborne—which means you can enjoy one of the finest feelings of trampoline jumping you will ever experience. This is not your average trampoline, since Sky Zone “owns the patent” on the material made in each trampoline. Each trampoline is independent of the others, backed up with padded areas in between, and walled off with sturdy vinyl on all sides of each section. Another distinguishing feature is the safety netting underneath all areas, which also guards against possible injury. It is state of the art in its design for safety and, as a result, has helped to give the sport obvious rise to popularity.

In one area alone, there are over 40 trampolines that are suited for small children and sectioned off with padding in between each trampoline for those of older ages. (Size separation is enforced.) There has to be a hundred, if not more, trampolines available in the complex. We found out there are even several gymnasts who work out at this facility.

Postcards met with one of the managers of Sky Zone, Curtis Dean, who gave us the grand tour of their facilities and more than once assured us they are not only focused on fun, but “safety is our number one priority.” For example, if someone buys a pass for two hours of jumping—they have to take a thirty minute break in between before they can resume their exercise. There are more than forty employees placed throughout the day and night who help maintain close observation of everyone on the trampolines.

Curtis pointed out the continued growth of Sky Zone and why business is on the upswing, “From the beginning, it’s been our customers who give us great ideas. They are the reason why Sky Zone keeps expanding locations. For example, we have birthday parties here because several of our guests wanted to have their birthday party here—so, we created the option for that. Plus, this location is one of the most advanced locations, because we’re the first one in Texas to have a basketball dunk format with three different lanes.”

Have you ever dreamed of dunking a basketball like an NBA player? You can dunk like a pro while you work on your dunk-swag at Sky Zone. We watched guys and girls taking their turns and getting their slam on, and some of these jumpers had between-the-legs and behind-the-back slamming going on. They also have a SkyJam Friday, which is 120 minutes of amazing fun for kids ages 13 and older only. It’s fun just to be a spectator and watch the energy boiling out of this place.  (There is also the Foam Zone, where you can experience the weightlessness of bouncing, flipping, and landing in a pit filled with 10,000 foam cubes.)

For parents who don’t want to go jumping with their kids and would rather just keep an eye on everything (or watch one of several TVs),  there is the mezzanine section, which lets parents or friends just watch the different levels of fun unfolding right there below them. Sky Zone offers several packages to the public besides just coming in to jump free style. You can bring a birthday party group, or a group event such as schools, churches, corporate teams, or boy/girl scouts. There is also one for those who like the awesome sport of Ultimate Dodgeball. Imagine an old-time game of dodgeball you used to play in the school gym, only running and jumping while you play it. You have to see this to know what’s going on—it looks exhilarating, and it’s well regulated for safety. By the way, “you can only find Ultimate Dodgeball at Sky Zone, and pick-up games are held daily (when courts are available.)”

Another great point about the exercise of this sport is it is low-impact on a body’s bones and joints.  The equipment (the spring) absorbs about 80% of the shock from the rebound, which in turn, reduces the stress on bones and joints, like the knee and spine, and minimizes the chance of injury. Another positive note about this activity is jumping against gravity strengthens all body systems and is considered one of the most beneficial aerobic exercises. Cardiovascular activity increases heart rate and pulse rate—in other words, jumping works the heart muscle and strengthens major muscle groups that contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system.

There are obviously a lot of positives about the health attributes of this sport, but one needs to exercise caution if under a physician’s care or if recovering from recent injury. One good rule of thumb—common sense will tell you if your body is ready to go jumping or not.

When you get down to it, it’s hard to beat fun, and they definitely have it bouncing off the walls at Sky Zone. There are over 18,000 square feet in Sky Zone, and the management team there has done a great job of utilizing a building geared for a good time.

One of the Sky Zone mottos is “everyone is welcome—if you can walk, you can jump.” All jumpers must sign a waiver before they go jumping at Sky Zone, available onsite or online.  Walk-in customers are welcome during all hours of operation, but bear in mind that reservations are highly recommended for a confirmed number of jumpers at a time. Sky socks are required, only $2, and reusable. Jump times start every 15 minutes.

Postcards would also like to thank General Manager Keith Snyder for donating free jump passes for our readers. Keep an eye on the Postcards Magazine Facebook page for future contests and give-aways.

The post Just for Fun: Make the Jump appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

While asking him a few questions for Postcards Magazine, one sees that Mature is a humble man, driven by the love of his family, the Bible, and his country (U.S. Army veteran). He points to the Bible on his desk and smiles: “That’s my favorite law book.”

What made you decide to become a judge?

I became judge in 2003, after the late Judge John Pasket died before his service was completed. I was a candidate for it and was appointed by the commissioners’ court. When it came time for election, I was elected in 2004 to fill the office.

On what platform did you run?

Oh, there’s an old saying about judges being the gatekeeper—let’s just say the gatekeeper fell in love with the gate. (laughs) Plus, I loved it so much I ran again. I loved the responsibility of law and the ones who are supposed to uphold it.

“Gatekeeper.” That’s a big responsibility. Does the title come with a lot of personal sacrifice?

Yes, it does.  First of all, you have to remember that you’re a public servant, and your duties are 24-7 on the clock, but it needs to be done for the sake of the community. I do share weekends and holidays with three other judges on the duty roster, so we all share in our responsibilities at those times. On all other days, I can expect to get calls related from anything to domestic violence to drug offenses. And being a magistrate too, I go to the jail on Fridays and read the person their rights. Then I set bond so they can make bail and prepare to go to court. Every weekend, one of the four judges has to take care of those duties. During the week—I have the whole precinct, but it’s been a very enlightening job—the only job I’ve had that I didn’t mind coming to work. I’m very people-oriented, and I love doing my part for this community.

What is the hardest part of being a judge?

Having to pronounce (deceased) fatalities and suicides. Having to pronounce a small child after a drowning is probably the hardest. Or some teenager killed in a vehicle accident. That never gets easy. But also, when there is suspicion related to a death, I will get the proper people involved to find the truth behind it. I rely on the expertise of the Montgomery County Coroner’s Office on murders and suicides—I don’t care what it costs—I don’t want a killer running free.

You seem to fit right in with the people. Some might let that power get out of hand.

I didn’t let it go to my head; some have been known to do that, like some of those TV judges. It’s known in our trade as ‘Black Robe Fever.’ (smiles slyly) Some of those judges wouldn’t last five minutes in the real world. My court handles about 85% of Class C (criminal), traffic, alcohol, minor drug-related crimes, drunk and disorderly, and a host of other crimes. That’s the real world.

Mature is the only JP in Walker County with jurisdiction over New Waverly ISD. He says proudly, “I think it’s one of the finest school systems in Texas.” He plays an active role with NWISD in helping those who have had recent drug problems and family-related issues, and he has helped in the reduction of truancy, disorderly conduct, and violence in the school system.  He has spent time on the weekends being part of their rehabilitation process, and even taken part in a school play for drug awareness. He is a mentor at New Waverly Elementary for kids with no dads or single parents. And, once a week he brings an advocate from the SAAFE House in Huntsville, who works closely with victims of violence and sexual abuse. One can see why he is spoken of so highly in and around the little town of New Waverly—he’s known as a fair man who doesn’t take lightly the rights of the court or the people. He’s originally from Willow Springs and graduated high school from Coldspring, Texas, so he knows well the inner-workings of small town life.

Your wife is also a dedicated civil service worker, correct?

Yes, Margaret has been with the New Waverly Post Office for almost 20 years. She started as an auxiliary, then moved to a permanent route. We lost our oldest son years ago to a drunk driver when we lived in Houston, so she stayed home and raised our sons Robert and Anthony. I’m against drunk drivers—they take so much from us all. Margaret started working for the post office after my retirement. Everything I’ve done has been with her help as a loving wife and mother. I couldn’t have done it without her. After we moved up to New Waverly, I ranched for a little while, raising cattle with the help of my sons, granddaughter Carolyn, and grandson Kenneth. Now my great-grandson Daniel helps out on the ranch. Margaret and I have been married almost 54 years now, and I’m so proud of my family. My sons Robert and Anthony, my daughter-in-law Rosie, grandkids Carolyn, Kenneth, and great-grandson Daniel, they are so much a part of me and Margaret’s lives. Oh, and we just found out Kenneth and his wife Heather are expecting their first child, a little girl. So the Mature family keeps growing.

You are so energetic in your later years. You obviously love what you do with a passion.

I am passionate about the law. I’ve never been a politician, I just wanted to be an administrator of justice. I want to be remembered as being fair to everyone—civil or criminal—and that my court was never a jackpot for civil suits. I am also passionate about my ranch, and I take pride as a rancher with my cows and pets. I even have a seven-foot alligator named “Grown Man’ living in my pond—he’s been living there 15 years now. (laughs heartily)

After taking a brief tour from his office into the courtroom of the John James Pasket Justice Center, Mature wanted to make sure that Postcards mentioned his “dedicated” staff: Chief Clerk Jannell Bachmeyer and clerks Irma Bowden and Amanda Bohack. “I couldn’t do my job without these ladies,” he remarks. He then eases behind the bench and smiles. “You know, one of the more gratifying duties I have as judge is to marry people.” He winks and adds, “And then I give them a life sentence.”

Mature is retiring this year from Precinct 4, and Walker County stands to lose a decent and honorable man. He has too many positive achievements from his life’s work and role as a volunteer to fit in this article. He and his wife Margaret are members of Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church in New Waverly and are known as honest, hardworking servants in their community. His legacy and life of service has earned him an apt title—“Gatekeeper”—so don’t be surprised to see him at a function benefitting youth, or working tirelessly for a cause in need of a helping heart.

Thank you, Judge James Mature, for a job well done.

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City of Huntsville’s Main Street Program Downtown Market

First, there is the City of Huntsville’s Main Street Program Downtown Market between 11th and 12th street on 1100 University Avenue, located just behind the Walker County Courthouse. Postcards spoke with Main Street Coordinator Lindsay Lauher, who informed us, “We have a lot of home-produced goods, as well as fruits and vegetables. The market is open May through July every Saturday from 8:00 in the morning till 12:00 noon.”

We browsed all the homemade crafts of leather, wood, jewelry, birdhouses, birdfeeders, honey, and other products available to the public. I personally checked around for some homegrown green beans, and several farmers informed me that they would be available in another week. (So, they should be there by now.) Lindsay adds a good point about this, “The variety of items grows each week, plus different crops begin to ripen week by week. It’s important that our visitors and customers come weekly so they can see the new crops that are becoming available.”

Butch Maywald is the coordinator for the vendors in the Downtown Market, whose produce comes primarily from local areas in and around Walker County. He and his wife Dianne also have a booth busy with customers in need of vegetables and other produce, so he can point you in the right direction.

This is the second year of the Downtown Farmers Market that sells fruits, vegetables, various plants, herbs, seeds, yard eggs and other agricultural products that are guaranteed to fiber-up your system with home-grown nutrition. For those of you with a sweet tooth you can drop by the Sugar Skull Sweets booth and get a cupcake, jams, cookies or scones. There is the Leadbelly Elevator on 1221 Sam Houston Ave (and Facebook) which sells custom woodworks, ceramics, candles, botanical baths, perfumes, beauty aids and rare plants.

Available also are plenty of natural herbs grown by Jean Marsh (Texas Thyme Unit), who not only has healthy herbs, but herbs for lotions and skin products. Mrs. Marsh informed us that they grow “eatable herbs, culinary, and medicinal herbs. We have classes for garden groups, as well as Master Gardeners in Huntsville, plus we do some herb classes for Leon County. We also have an herb garden at the Wynne Home in downtown Huntsville.” If you are interested in contacting Mrs. Marsh for an herbal class, call (936) 295-4157.

Mrs. Marsh shared some other info about the herb “cilantro” that you may not know—“You can eat the seed and flower raw, as long as it’s green. You can use it in salads, sauces, etc. But when it turns brown, it becomes ‘coriander.’ Of course, you have to grind it, but there are a lot of cookbooks with recipes for coriander.”

Certain herbs are year round—example “Basil is a summer herb, while dill and cilantro are  winter herbs.” (This is straight from Mrs. Marsh, so she’s in the know about herbs.)

Walker County Farmers Market
at West Hill Mall 

Additionally, there is the Walker County Farmers Market at West Hill Mall (north side parking lot), which is open in May through July on Saturday and Wednesday mornings from 8:00 in the morning until 12:00 noon. They have vegetables, fruits, 1015 onions, jams, jellies, and all sorts of homegrown healthy eatables that will bring your palate joy. They are local growers who probably have what you’re looking for.

Farmers like Jim “Sonny” and Gina Hanna, who’ve had a “family farm which began in 1850,” sell veggies such as purple hull peas, fresh pintos, Kentucky Wonder Beans, onions, squash, jelly, and other delights. Farmers Danny and Margaret Bailey, who drive in from Richards prefer the Walker County Farmers Market because there is “plenty of parking,” and Danny adds, “Folks can just drive right up. This helps those who may have problems walking or getting around.”

There you have it—only in Texas—a veggie drive-thru. Think about it—if you’ve got a craving and you’re in a rush to make some salsa with tomatoes, jalapeños, cilantro, and other ingredients, then you can satisfy your craving at Walker County Farmers Market.

Easy directions, too—if you’re traveling on I-45 from either direction—head west on Highway 30 for Walker County Farmers Market and head east on 11th street (also Highway 30) for Downtown Farmers Market.

Elected President Scooter Langley at Walker County Farmers Market suggests those interested in buying or selling go to their Facebook page.

The Downtown Market enlists vendors primarily from the Walker County area, so those who may wish to vendor their vegetables and products can call Butch Maywald at (936) 293-1713 or cell at (936) 499-4889.

You can also contact County Extension Agent Reggie Lepley at (936) 435-2426 about other agricultural availabilities or about Master Gardeners in Walker County.

For all concerned, the Downtown Farmers Market and the Walker County Farmers Market are growing by the year. If you haven’t made it out there, you should put it on your to do list. You will grace your table with healthy food, find some interesting items, and meet some homegrown folks in the process.  There you have it—good greetin’ and good eatin’.

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There is a lot of myth and folklore surrounding the wolf. Many believe they are a danger to us and a threat to our livestock. Of course, there is Hollywood’s melodramatic depiction of those who morph into wolfmen on full moons and can only be killed by silver bullets; but, this is no more than a misguided ploy used to sell theater tickets. Truth be known, the wolf is one of God’s magnificent creatures. They parallel us somewhat as humans in that they generally keep the same mate until one dies (and in the wild, the chances of keeping a mate are not in their favor). There is one glaring difference between us and the wolves though—the wolf doesn’t hunt humans the way hunters hunt wolves. Every rancher or farmer has the right to protect his livestock and investment from wolves, but a lot of negative incidents have been caused by the rapidly depleting environment of the wolf, and there is evidence suggesting the wolves prefer wild prey when given the choice between the two. Sanctuary manager Christy Stryk states, “There are no wolves in Texas; they have been eliminated by their greatest enemy—man.” There are some who would argue that wolves need to be eliminated altogether, but the wonderful mystery of the wolf (and the will of those who fight for its survival) will long outlive its human predators and their penchant for trophy hunting.

Reverend Jean LeFevre began her crusade to bring a true treasure to Montgomery, but she did not create this refuge on an overnight whim. Her list of credentials more than qualifies her for this mission to protect the wolf species. She is an ordained minister of The Church of Saint John and has a Ph.D. in pastoral counseling. She is a world traveler, having lived in Europe, India, and Tanzania before coming to Texas. In 1976, she was initiated into the Seneca Wolf Medicine Lodge and was made a Peace Elder at a meeting of the Elders at Wolf Song in 1990. So she has traveled the globe to help those in need, “both two-legged and four-legged.”

After moving to Texas, she happened to “meet three wolves who were being treated at a local vet clinic.” As the story unfolds, despite the vet’s best attempts at saving all three, one died. Jean decided to procure the licenses needed to establish a sanctuary for wolves. This is when her kindhearted efforts to give injured wolves a home began. Fortunately for the wolves, Jean took the humanitarian leap of faith and opened the sanctuary on October 4, 2002, which was a day of feast for Saint Francis of Assisi (and the sanctuary was named for that occasion.) At full capacity, there are fifteen wolves or wolfdogs at Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary (SFWS). Postcards photographer Kelly Lawson and I were there one cold and windy December day, and we got to meet one particular wolf, Tala, up close and personal. Tala is one of the wolfdogs. She was originally found “running near a bayou in Houston” and, through the grace of God and nature, eventually wound up in the loving arms of the kind folks at SFWS. Later, Reverend Jean invited us back to her home (which is on the sanctuary grounds) and graciously served us all a much needed cup of hot chocolate. Once inside Jean’s home, she introduced us to her other two wolfdogs named Shy-Shy and Mwitu. Their friendliness, yet protectiveness of Reverend Jean is no less than amazing.

Inside the booklet available at the sanctuary, entitled “Wolf Tales,” is a forward written by Jean Lefevre. Her sincerity shines in the following quote, “The wolves of Saint Francis are ‘different.’ An important aspect of our work is to help and educate the public. Our wolves work with children from abusive backgrounds, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. All of the visitors passing through and the very special people who volunteer make this work possible with donations of time, energy, and resources.” (One such volunteer was there that day, and it is suiting that we mention Jasimine Holan.) Also, it is fair to mention that Reverend Jean leases her land for $1 per year for the sake of the wolves and does not take a salary. (Quick note—they do not breed wolves at SFWS, either.)

The previously mentioned booklet has some wolf facts which may be of interest to our readers: “Wolves are mammals—are carnivorous—are the ancestors of our domestic dogs—they can run up to 38 miles per hour—have an average life span of 4-7 years in the wild—can weigh over 120 pounds—live in family groups called ‘packs,’ which consist of a breeding pair and their offspring—can bite with up to 1500 pounds of pressure per square inch—howl to let their pack know where they are, to keep pack bonds strong, and to let other packs know their pack boundaries.” There are also some amazing quotes about wolves from other authors: “Wolves lose their teeth, but not their memory.” (English Proverb); “The wolf always has its own songs.” (Estonian Priver). There are other quotes from this booklet, plus brief histories of each wolf, but I suggest you personally make the trip to Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary to learn more. Be assured, you won’t be disappointed.

SFWS is a safe refuge for all ages and, true to her spirit, Jean Lefevre charges no admission since she believes all of us should be able to witness one of God’s great creations. SFWS is a registered 501(c)(3) charity, graciously accepts donations for the sake of these creatures that share the planet with us. There is also a “Memorial Garden” of wolves gone past, and a gift shop of various items displaying the wolves. You can also donate to the wolf cause via PayPal online, or by mail at their PO Box address below.

Thank you Reverend Jean Lefevre, manager Christy Stryk, and all of the volunteer staff for what you have made available to us all.

For more information, to book an appointment,

or to sponsor an animal:

Website: WolvesOfSaintFrancis.org

Facebook: SaintFrancisWolfSanctuary

Phone: 936-597-WOLF (9653)

Email: info@wolvesofsaintfrancis.org

Mailing Address:
Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary
P.O Box 877
Montgomery, TX 77316

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