Feature Story Archives | Postcards Magazine

Officers on Horseback

Ruth Fields — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 17:18:14 +0000

Postcards
March 30, 2024
Postcards

When Brian Koska was growing up, he often worked cattle on horseback with his father on his family’s ranch near Madisonville. So, when the Conroe Police Department formed a mounted patrol in June 2022, Koska, who was then a 17-year veteran of the force, applied and was accepted. Even though he is now eligible for retirement, he enjoys his job too much to retire. One of the things he likes about being a mounted patrol officer is that many people are willing to talk to him when his horse provides the introduction. He laughs about the time a man walked by and said, “How are you doing?” Koska responded, “I am fine. How about yourself?” The man then said, ““I was talking to the horse, but how are you doing as well?”

An idea takes shape

In early 2022, Conroe Chief of Police Jeff Christy asked longtime police veteran Sergeant Clyde Vogel to evaluate the feasibility of forming a mounted police patrol. The City of Conroe had previously purchased the Conroe West Side Recreation Center (formerly the YMCA), which included a stable and enough grazing land to support horses. Vogel performed many tasks to make the site ready, including thankless construction and cleanup jobs. He procured sponsorships for horses, as well as donations of equipment; he also considered logistical matters, such as the purchase of trucks and trailers. “How are you going to haul these horses around?” says Sergeant Robert Engel, who is now the supervising officer of the Conroe Police Mounted Patrol. “You have to be able to get around town.”

Koska joined Vogel in May 2022. That July, the first horses were purchased, and officers throughout the department had the opportunity to apply for reassignment with the mounted patrol. It sounded like a good idea to Officer Shanna House of Huntsville, a horse enthusiast who has ridden off and on throughout her life. “I am an animal person all the way around,” she says. Officer Micheal Chapman, who is originally from Alabama and grew up around horses, was also accepted into the program. Later, Justin Devore, a 17-year veteran of the force, replaced one of the original members. “As a kid, my grandparents had a western store and a barn,” he says. “Being around that environment again made me feel at home,” he says. When Vogel moved to another position in the police department, Engel, a tenured sergeant, joined the unit. The five officers had varying degrees of riding experience when they joined the mounted patrol, but all had tough training ahead.

The Brotherhood

Each member of the Conroe Police Mounted Patrol attended the Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol Class, a rigorous, nine week, 360-hour training program. “The Houston Police Department has one of the premier mounted police units in the country,” Engel says. “They’ve been doing it since the early 1980s.”

To Chapman’s surprise, officers were first taught to ride bareback. “It teaches you how to keep your seat, and where your thighs and hips and heels need to be,” he says. Initially, officers rode bareback while the horses walked. Then, they progressed to trotting, then cantering. Chapman learned that he could even accomplish the “Look, Mom, no hands!” maneuver, as long as his thighs and hips were placed correctly. Officers also learned about horse anatomy, nutrition, psychology, medical issues, and equitation (riding techniques).

Even Koska, who had been riding since he was three years old, had much to learn, such as crowd control techniques and horseback arrest procedures. Interestingly, mounted officers practice some of the same maneuvers Koska used working cattle with his father. “They just put a name to it,” he says.

“It was the most physically and mentally demanding school I have done,” Engel says, “and I have been through thousands of hours of school.” At the end of the course, students performed a “confidence ride,” he says. “There are miles of very narrow trails through woods. You canter for most of five miles. There are twists and 90 degree turns. You jump creeks and fallen logs. It is western.”

Today, officers train with the Houston Police Department Mounted Patrol at least once a month. “They are a huge resource and partner with us,” Engel says. One of the advantages of this arrangement is the Conroe officers can enjoy camaraderie with other mounted police officers. “Every time we go to train with them, it’s almost like we work for Houston, too,” Devore says. “I’ve been a part of units that were close, but you can go work around other agencies with the mounted patrol and feel like you are family. It’s a brotherhood.”

Conroe Police Mounted Patrol can assist other police organizations at events, and can ask for assistance as well. Conroe’s mounted patrol augmented the Galveston Police Department’s mounted patrol with crowd control during the Mardi Gras celebration on The Strand in early 2024. In 2026, some of the soccer matches of the World Cup will be held in Houston; the Houston Police Department has already asked Conroe Police Mounted Patrol to assist, Engel says.

Smarty, Gravely, Pepperoni, Willie B., Sgt. Ed and Dakota

One of Vogel’s ideas was to obtain sponsorships from businesses and individuals to pay for the horses’ veterinary care, feed, and equipment. In return for an annual $5,000 donation, sponsors have their names displayed on signs at the stable, as well as on horse trailers. They can visit the horses whenever they like, and they even get to name the horses.

Finway Electric: Smarty (Engel’s quarter horse)
Outdoor Equipment Outlet: Gravely (Devore’s enormous, 17-hand draft horse)
Conroe’s Incredible Pizza Company: Pepperoni (Chapman’s quarter horse)
Friends of Conroe: Willie B (Koska’s quarter horse)
Joe’s Italian Restaurant: Sgt. Ed (House’s draft horse)
Mike and Phyllis Saly: Dakota, a quarter horse.

“If a horse is injured, Dakota is our go-to horse,” House says.

The Conroe Police Mounted Patrol is also grateful to several local businesses that provided crucial equipment. Lansdowne-Moody Company donated a tractor, as well as other items, such as a brush hog and hay bale spears; Buckalew Chevrolet and Woodforest National Bank each donated a one-ton flatbed truck.

Taking care of six horses is a lot of work. Tuesdays are “barn days,” and officers not only take care of the horses, but also procure feed and hay and do other jobs, like dragging pastures to break up manure. Some tasks, like feeding the horses, mucking stalls, cleaning out trailers, and cleaning and maintaining the facility, must be done every day.

Mounted patrol officers are trained in search and rescue techniques, as well as crowd control, and work at events like The Conroe Cajun Catfish Festival and the Montgomery County Fair and Rodeo. Because they are up so high on their mounts, they can quickly spot and respond to incidents that need police intervention. In crowd control situations, one officer on horseback is generally as effective as 10 on the ground, Engel says. “The mounted officers are able to clear crowds without causing panic, as people generally yield to horses because of their size. Mounted officers rarely have to make any physical contact with citizens, but provide very visible direction,” he says. Mounted officers are fully equipped with belts, guns, handcuffs and radios— “just the same as we would be in a patrol car,” Koska says. They also wear the same uniform, except for the addition of boots and helmets.

On a typical day, however, the officers warm up the horses in the arena, then ride around a busy park, neighborhood, or shopping center. “We are a visible presence wherever we go, and that’s going to deter crime in the end. We try to go to the most populous areas of the city that we can,” Engel says. House loves children, so she particularly enjoys talking to the ones she meets while she is patrolling. “One of my favorite things is to see how kids react to us. They love us,” she says. “This helps children to see they can approach police officers.”

Everywhere they go, the horses are the officers’ introduction to the citizenry, providing a valuable public relations service. “People who ordinarily would not come and talk to a policeman will come and talk to us because we are on a horse,” Engel says. “It puts a different face on the department,” Koska agrees. “It shows a different side.”

“The Chief of Police’s vision for this was a wonderful thing for the city,” Engel says. “It’s reaping rewards on a daily basis. We talk to people almost every day. We want to share the horses. Everybody here absolutely loves their job.”

The post Officers on Horseback appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

The San Jacinto Professional Building

Postcards — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 17:16:24 +0000

Postcards
March 30, 2024
Postcards

The restoration of the San Jacinto Professional Building is more than an architectural achievement; it’s a celebration of community, history, and the enduring spirit of a town that cherishes its past while boldly stepping into the future.

Nestled in the heart of Cleveland, Texas, on the southwest corner of Crockett Street and San Jacinto Avenue, stands the San Jacinto Professional Building, a beacon of the town’s rich history. The restoration of this iconic structure was the dream of Sherry and Danny Cook, of Cook Construction Company. The newly renovated building marks a significant milestone in the preservation of Cleveland’s heritage.

The Cooks embarked on a mission not just to restore the building, but to keep its historical essence, marrying it gracefully with the advancements of modern architecture and technology. “The aim was to recreate what was already here and to bring it up to date,” Sherry Cook said, emphasizing the effort to maintain the building’s unique narrative through every nook and corner.

Originally the headquarters of the First National Bank of Cleveland, established in 1912, the building was a testament to the town’s growth and prosperity. It’s a lesser-known fact that Alfred C. Finn, the architect behind the San Jacinto Monument, had a hand in the building’s remodeling and expansion back in 1931, doubling its size and functionality.

Throughout the restoration process, significant elements from the building’s days as a bank were preserved, including the original stone casting of the bank sign, which can now be viewed in the conference room atop the original vault wall. The exterior depository boxes are still at the front of the building, and several of the arched windows were restored, as well as the original terrazzo and wood floors in the building. Sections of the original building’s granite can be found in the building’s interior columns, along with areas of exposed original brick and tin ceiling tiles. All these restored elements showcase the building’s rich legacy. The Cooks also worked to preserve the surrounding buildings, which used to be McAdams Dry Goods. The sign for the building is now fully visible to the public.

Over the years, the building has hosted a myriad of businesses–including the First National Bank, Trinity Valley Savings and Loan, Diamond Mine Jewelry Store, First Fundamental Baptist Church, Rags to Riches Resale, Diane’s Flea Market, and Second Chance Resale Store. At one point, the Cleveland School District used the building for school offices. The Cooks have ensured that traces of these businesses remain, honoring the building’s role as a commercial hub in Cleveland.

The transformation spearheaded by the Cooks is not just about architectural restoration, but about reviving the community spirit. The building’s connection to Alfred C. Finn and its architectural significance were rediscovered by the Cooks during their meticulous research, further deepening their commitment to the project. The discovery of Finn’s blueprints in Houston was a pivotal moment, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of the building’s historical importance.

Now known as the San Jacinto Professional Building, this landmark offers office spaces, a central indoor staircase, and an elevator–features that blend historical charm with modern necessity. Sherry Cook’s decision to preserve the building’s original features adds a unique character to each office space, making them far from “cookie-cutter.”

The building’s name, inspired by its location on San Jacinto Street, inadvertently ties it to the broader narrative of Texas history, a detail that the Cooks find serendipitous and fitting.

As the oldest national bank in Liberty County, First National Bank’s original building has witnessed Cleveland’s transformation over more than a century. Today, the San Jacinto Professional Building stands as a testament to the community’s resilience, its dedication to preserving its historical landmarks, and its forward-looking vision.

The Cooks’ approach to restoration, emphasizing historical integrity while providing modern amenities, has made the building a sought-after location for businesses. Tenants of the building now include a diverse array of businesses and professionals, including Donny Haltom, Attorney; Majestic Homes; Contreras Building Group; Tarver Abstract; Air Tech Solutions; Dana Jackson Insurance Agency; Justin Morgan, Attorney; Allen Dumpster Rentals; Slyder Energy Solutions; CRC; Country World Realty; and NelCo.

Sherry and Lori Cook, the mother-daughter team running the San Jacinto Professional Building, have created more than just office spaces; they’ve fostered a community of tenants who contribute to the vibrant life of Cleveland. Their commitment to maintaining the building’s historical essence while ensuring it meets contemporary needs is a fine example of how the past and present can coexist harmoniously. “All the tenants here are amazing people. Anytime you walk in this building you will be welcomed by smiling faces,” said Sherry of her tenants.

The Cooks continue to welcome stories and artifacts from the building’s past, adding layers to its ongoing story wall located in the Conference Room. “We are always so happy to hear stories from those who used to frequent the bank or work here,” said Cook. “There is still so much we don’t know about it and want to uncover.”

Image of Staircase with Tenants and Owerns:
From bottom up:

Row 1:
Sherry Cook, Lori Cook
Row 2:
Megan Gaston, Elizabeth Valdez, Dawn Anderson
Row 3:
Stephanie Meadows, Wanda Nelson Tarver, Wendi Thompson
Row 4:
Bryan Neal, Justin K Morgan

The post The San Jacinto Professional Building appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Operation Pets Alive

Ruth Fields — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 17:13:59 +0000

Postcards
March 30, 2024
Postcards

Local organization works to help counter Montgomery County’s pet overpopulation problem.

A man sees a box on the side of the road and notices that it moves. He stops and looks inside, finding eight puppies. A couple realizes their neighbors have moved, but left their cat behind. A shopper finds a box of two-week-old puppies in the Target parking lot. A stray dog barks all night in the woods behind a rural home. All these animals—and many more—usually end up at overcrowded animal shelters. If they are not adopted, they are euthanized. “Houston, we have a problem,” says Sue Woody, who volunteers for a local organization that has more than a goal. It has a plan.

Operation Pets Alive

In a perfect world, the number of dogs and cats would equal the number of people who want to adopt them. However, both the Montgomery County Animal Shelter (near The Woodlands) and the Conroe Animal Shelter have more dogs and cats than they can handle. In 2011, two women–Marcia Piotter and Cathi Bruhn–decided to take steps to solve the county’s pet overpopulation problem and founded Operation Pets Alive (OPA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Marcia and Cathi worked tirelessly putting innovative programs in place and raising funds to support these efforts. Marcia and Cathi ultimately retired, but are still active volunteers. (Current board members joke that it took five board members to replace them.) OPA is staffed entirely by volunteers and is funded through grants, donations, adoption fees, and fundraising drives. While some of OPA’s programs reduce the number of animals that go into shelters, other programs strive to increase the number of animals that leave shelters alive, says Deidre Northcott, OPA’s treasurer. Since 2011, OPA has saved the lives of more than 25,000 dogs and cats. Its mission is to help Montgomery County become a “no-kill county,” with shelters facilitating live outcomes for 90 percent of incoming animals, says Deanna Ooley, a board member and volunteer. To reach this goal, OPA needs the help of local citizens.

Spaying and neutering

One of OPA’s biggest challenges is that some people are hesitant to spay or neuter their pets, thinking they may later want to breed them. Actually, Deanna says, there is little money in breeding; furthermore, shelters have many adoptable dogs and cats of desirable breeds. Some end up in shelters because owners were unable to sell their puppies or kittens, says Sue, who is OPA’s vice president and event coordinator. Volunteers understand that spaying and neutering is expensive, so OPA subsidizes the cost of these surgeries for lower-income families. Montgomery County families that earn less than $40,000 per year can have animals spayed or neutered for $50 through OPA. (Higher-income families pay $85 for cats and $140 for dogs.) OPA volunteers believe spaying and neutering is the most powerful tool in their toolkit. “If they are not born, we don’t have to save them,” Deanna says.

Adoption and fostering

When shelters are full, there are few options for animals: adoption, fostering, transportation to rescue groups in other parts of the country, or euthanasia. OPA currently has about 250 volunteer fosters, who take animals from overcrowded shelters and give them temporary homes while they are waiting to be adopted. OPA supports fosters by providing veterinary care for the animals, Deidre says. OPA always needs more animal-loving fosters like Crystal Salas, who has been fostering since June. “I was just looking for an adoption event, looking for a dog to adopt,” Crystal says. “I showed up at the wrong time, when it was ending.” Before she knew it, she had volunteered to become a foster. Since that time, she has personally saved more than 20 animals, and currently keeps 10 foster dogs and cats at her home. Foster dogs and cats appear on OPA’s website; some are lucky enough to be taken to adoption events at Petco, PetSmart and other businesses and events in the county. Rather than assigning animals randomly to adopting families, OPA volunteers try to find good matches between people and their animal companions. How many people are a part of the adopting family? Are there small children in the home? Do they live in an apartment, have a fenced in yard, or have room for animals to roam? Are they looking for a high-energy animal or one that Sue calls a “couch potato”? OPA volunteers insist there are animals for every person and people for every animal. They have even seen “tripods” find loving families. Sue often tells people about the time she discovered one of her foster dogs was deaf. She was afraid the dog would never find a home, but a woman in Dallas, who had experience with deaf dogs, wanted to adopt her. “This dog undoubtedly has the best life ever,” Sue says. Her adoptive people even take her to a doggy daycare where she plays with other deaf dogs. Another dog, a black Labrador retriever, was hit by a car, but ended up in the care of OPA, which paid for his extensive veterinary care. An OPA foster spent time with him before his adoption. Today, the dog lives near Lake Sam Rayburn and goes boating with his adoptive family. “He went from getting hit by a car to living the life of Riley,” Sue says. All OPA animals are vaccinated, de-wormed, spayed or neutered, treated for fleas, tested (and treated, if needed) for heartworms, and microchipped before they are eligible for adoption. Adoption fees, which differ for dogs and cats and vary according to an animal’s age, help OPA pay for its ongoing programs.

Animal Transportation

While Texas has an overabundance of dogs and cats, some parts of the country, such as the northeast, don’t have nearly as many. Although the situation is changing, OPA still helps the local pet overpopulation problem by sending dogs and cats to other parts of the country, where they can be adopted quickly. Pet travel can take a variety of forms, from private transport to trucks; sometimes, smaller animals even travel by air, courtesy of off-duty flight attendants who have airline flight benefits.

Trap, Neuter and Return

Mostly in the rural parts of the county—but sometimes in apartment complexes and mobile home parks—feral cats are a big problem. Good-hearted people feed them, but as the cats multiply, this can become prohibitively expensive. One solution to this problem is OPA’s trap, neuter and return (TNR) program. A typical scenario, says Deanna, who coordinates this effort, begins when frustrated landowners call OPA, explaining they can no longer afford to feed the cats if they continue multiplying. Can OPA help? Unfortunately, OPA currently has about 500 cats on its TNR waiting list, but OPA volunteers, working with other volunteer organizations, are working on the problem as fast as they can. “It’s like sweeping the ocean back with a broom,” Deanna says. Once or twice a month, OPA contracts with veterinarians and their crews who are willing to work on their days off. Cat owners are instructed not to feed the cats that day, and then volunteers, using humane traps, entice the cats with a tasty mixture of cat food, tuna and mackerel, adding a dose of Capstar, an over-the-counter flea treatment. Cats find the combination irresistible. Once the cats have been trapped, vet techs sedate the cats, vaccinate them, prep them for surgery and “ear tip” them. (By removing the tip of one ear, the surgically-altered cats can be identified in the future.) All that’s left is for the veterinarian to perform the surgery. “We have done 102 in the past two weeks,” Deanna says. After surgery, cats are returned to the same places where they lived before. OPA volunteers say that the goal of making Montgomery County a no-kill county is realistic; however, more work needs to be done. “Join us,” Deidre says, “and be part of the solution.” For more information, visit operationpetsalive.org.

The post Operation Pets Alive appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Chad Zunker

Karen Altom — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 17:06:48 +0000

Postcards
March 30, 2024
Postcards

From college football to creating baby products, this best-selling Texas novelist has traveled a unique path.

An email from Amazon Prime started my relationship with Chad Zunker. Apparently, one of the lesser-known benefits of Prime membership is First Reads, a program that offers customers early access to new books across popular genres for free. Each month, I peruse the list of offerings and read the descriptions and reviews before making my selection. One of the books listed was called “The Tracker.” Not only was it written by a fellow Texan, there seemed to be a little John Grisham feel to the description as well, so I decided to give it a try. I was hooked. Three books later, I reached out to Chad requesting an interview, and he graciously accepted.

Twenty years. 10 unpublished novels. Over 1,000 rejection letters. You say your story is one of incredible perseverance or complete insanity. As we have this conversation, you are a best-selling author on Amazon, and your latest book (The Wife You Know) has just been released. Thanks to you, I was able to read an advance copy and loved it. How’s that going?

It’s an exciting week! The funny thing about writing is you work for a whole year, followed by a two-to-three-week exciting window where the book is released, things are happening, people are posting, things like our conversation are going on…and then you get to crawl back into your cave and do it all over again. I’m definitely trying to enjoy this little sweet spot.

You are the first author I’ve read since Grisham that will hold my interest all the way through a novel. On your website, you mention it was a Grisham book that helped you realize a novel could actually be fun. Was that what started you down this path?

A couple of things happened at the same time. I really went to college (University of Texas) majoring in journalism, but hoping to play professional football. Once I got there and saw how good those guys really were (and that I was a skinny eighteen-year-old freshman walk-on wide receiver, barely 165 pounds soaking wet), I started thinking, “What else do I like to do?” This all happened about the same time I was reading and enjoying Grisham, so I thought, “I could do this…I could be a famous writer!” Little did I know.

Did you ever follow the journalism path?

I never really wanted to be a journalist, but I had to pick something, and I’m good at writing. As I got closer to the end (of school), I realized I really didn’t like journalistic writing. I preferred creative writing. The question then became, “How can I stay in Austin, try to become a novelist, and just work? Surely within a couple of years it will all come together.” I guess I always had this creative bent, but my early childhood was just sports, sports, sports. I’ve also always had this built-in self confidence that I could do whatever I set my mind to; it just took a whole lot longer than I thought!

On the author page in your books, it is noted you have clerked for some of the most powerful law firms in the country. Did you entertain becoming a lawyer, or was that also due to Grisham influence?

I just happened to get a job there! I was looking for a 9-5, good job (that hopefully didn’t tax me too much) so I could write during my off hours. It ended up being a fascinating place to be, and because I was so in love with Grisham’s early work, I found a lot of great material and parallels and thought it was good experience. It was a dynamic experience for about 6-7 years, and I learned a lot. But really, from the moment I stepped out of school, it was “Novelist or nothing.” There have certainly been times over the years I questioned whether I should give this up, but nothing ever rose up to take its place where I wanted to do anything else.

So, what were you doing while you were trying to make your novelist career happen?

I had three different things happen, and I was writing the entire time. First, was the little mini-legal career I mentioned, then I got into doing full time ministry with a church here in Austin. It started by leading college ministry, then singles ministry, and then overseeing operations for the church. Eventually, I became a campus pastor for a satellite campus we had started in downtown Austin. That was my second career, which I enjoyed a lot.

My third career came after my wife and I got married. We have three girls, but our first daughter (now almost 16) was a really fussy baby we couldn’t soothe. We started using this technique we had learned from a doctor – a really rhythmic shushing that worked like magic – but my wife couldn’t do it. She didn’t have the volume or lung capacity to do this really long technique, so I got a digital recorder to see if I could replace myself. It worked, and to make a long story short, that led us to inventing a product and starting a company (again on the side) called the Baby Shusher. It went global, is now in every Target, and we sold the company a few years ago…kind of living out the American dream.

In spite of this, the whole time, I was never in a place where I put writing to the side. The writing was always shifting around all of this. Even when we started the company and it started to become really successful, I found myself at a crossroads. If I was to give up the writing and really commit myself to this company, we could probably raise hundreds of thousands of dollars…and I could be the CEO of a traditional company, but I told my wife I didn’t want to do that. It wasn’t my passion. As much as I wanted to see it succeed, I didn’t want to commit my life to it and give up my writing. Thankfully, I didn’t.

What was the pull to stay in Austin?

We love it. It’s just a great city, and certainly the entertainment capital of Texas. While I was in college, my mom moved from Houston to Austin, and then my brother and his family came. There were a lot of reasons to want to be here. I never felt like I had to be anywhere else to be a novelist. I do have a brother who lives near Huntsville with his family, so it’s awesome to share this there.

Interesting about the characters you create (other than the things most of us would never encounter in day-to-day life…like assassins chasing you) is their real-life struggles, emotions, and even faith journeys they have. Why is it important to you to include those?

I’ve always felt things really deeply and been a pretty emotional guy. I lost my father in high school to leukemia, so I went through tremendous pain and loss and hurt. It felt like I overcame some of that and dealt with life trauma with the Lord. It was just my mom and I left at home dealing with it, so a lot of my characters suffer through things that are real, difficult life experiences.

You are involved in work with the homeless. Tell a little about that.

For ten years, my wife worked with a great non-profit called Mobile Loaves & Fishes, which serves the homeless here. The Community First tiny house village is part of this organization, and I have seen it grow into more than we ever imagined it could. Through that, we met a lot of people on the street and heard a lot of stories. I have a lot of empathy there. In my David Adams series, a lot centers around that world. It means a great deal to our entire family.

One thing that stands out about your writing is that I never know what’s going to happen until the end. Invariably, I close the book thinking, “I didn’t see that coming!” Share your process for accomplishing that.

Well, (laughing) I don’t know! I am unsure how I do it, other than maybe I am intuitively gifted, having a bunch of creative thoughts running through my mind and can process them. I have probably trained my brain that way. Obviously, I want this experience for every reader. No one wants to read an anti-climactic book. I try to give my brain creative space to work in and for me; a lot of that involves running. I do long runs, and I pray a lot when I run. It is almost guaranteed there is always one run where the ideas start churning, and I will make 50-60 voice notes about the story. I will call my wife afterwards and say, “This was the run.”

I have turned in next year’s book to my editor, and I already have a general thought for the book following that, but I still need the hook…what is the one thing the reader won’t see coming? I have a lot of running ahead of me to figure it out!

If you enjoy domestic thrillers and would like to know more about Chad, you can find him on Amazon and at ChadZunker.com.

The post Chad Zunker appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Southern Raised

Karen Altom — Sat, 30 Mar 2024 17:04:48 +0000

Postcards
March 30, 2024
Postcards

A family quartet of musicians and vocalists make their mark—in many different and multi-talented ways.

How does one describe an unusually unique band such as Southern Raised in three words or less? They probably don’t! That would be very difficult to do even in a full, single sentence. You would have to encapsulate family relationships, vocal harmony, bluegrass, gospel, classical, Celtic, traditional, contemporary, eclectic, every band member playing multiple instruments, and LOTS of awards and nominations. Perhaps this well-constructed single sentence from the band themselves is a good start:

We are Southern Raised, a bluegrass band from the Ozark Mountains that has created a trademark sound where classical meets bluegrass and city streets meet country roads.

Postcards visited recently with sibling band members Emily (Reith) Clayton and Matt Reith so we can share with readers more about the group ahead of their upcoming performance on May 10, 2024 at Old Town Theatre in Huntsville, Texas.

As a group, you have such a different style and sound combination. How did that happen?

Growing up, we didn’t have a lot of outside musical influences other than classical music. I know that’s probably unusual for a group from the Ozarks. Shortly before 2007, when the band started, we became interested in bluegrass. We saw bluegrass family groups at Silver Dollar City, near where we live, and just fell in love with that style of music; but our instrument learning and playing had already been steeped in classical, with orchestral-type experiences and lessons. We started the band with bluegrass, and it was really several years before we did anything with classical music in the group.

How old were all of you when the band started?

We started as four siblings. Lindsay was 20, Sarah was 18, Emily was 12, and Matt was 9. Of course, we all started out learning to play instruments prior to that, and doing very local shows. It wasn’t even really an “intentional” band start. It kind of happened by accident. We loved that bluegrass sound we heard, and we thought let’s just get some bluegrass instruments and play around. Then our grandmother had us play for a senior function at her church. It was just the three girls…Matt hadn’t begun guitar yet, so he wasn’t with us. And we didn’t sing, because that’s NOT something we grew up doing . We did an hour of bluegrass instrumental tunes. Then we started getting requests to appear, and it just grew. Looking back, for sure it was a God thing, because it wasn’t something we really “tried to do.”

Matt, who originally played only the cello, learned guitar in order to join the group. He recalls his first appearance with the group was a few months later at an outdoor amphitheater. He joined for one song, “Orange Blossom Special,” because that’s all he had learned at that point.

The group name is Southern Raised. Where exactly were you raised?

We were all born in northwest Arkansas. We have been here near Branson, Missouri for almost 20 years. Sarah got married and left the group to settle down in late 2019. She now lives in Kansas and has two daughters. At that point, we added musician Alex Clayton into the group. That developed into another family relationship when Alex and Emily got married! So, now the group is three siblings and a spouse.

That’s interesting! Tell more about this Alex connection.

We actually met through a promoter who connected us. We didn’t know him at all before that. He was working at a music shop in Springfield. The three siblings did an interview with him in a small practice room at the shop. Alex later shared that it felt more like an “interrogation.” It’s quite a big deal when you try to replace a sibling in a sibling group. I’m sure we were kind of overwhelming. We did one show with him before Covid hit, so it was a really weird transition, as well.

Emily and Alex started dating in April 2020. Like the beginning of the band, neither really saw that coming, and that also seemed like God gifted a real blessing into an otherwise hard transition and difficult situation. The couple got engaged in September, married in March 2021, and now have a toddler son.

Describe yourselves.

Matt plays guitar, cello, and penny whistle. He handles logistics and finances for the band, as well as giving input on creatives and arrangements. He is also the newlywed of the group, having married in August 2023. He enjoys mountain biking.

Emily plays violin, mandolin, and ukulele. She works on creatives and arrangements. She loves traveling, writing, and interior design.

Lindsay plays bass and is the emcee for the group. She loves hiking and gardening.

Alex plays banjo, dobro, guitar, and bass. He is laid back and quiet, and he enjoys cooking, traveling, target shooting, and exercising.

Where did the Celtic come in?

We have some Irish ancestry on our mother’s side, but that’s not really the source behind it. We also really enjoy that style of music. It’s a favorite for each of us, and we have found that it lends itself well to the bluegrass instruments. That makes it fun!

You have some unusual choices for song selections. When it comes to the creative side, how do you select?

We like choosing older songs that haven’t been revisited a lot. They seem to go really well with our style of music, and we get a lot of comments from people whose memories are touched by them. It’s a cool way to have a musical “connection” with folks. We do try to read all the comments on YouTube as well, to see what people who are following us want to hear. We have gone on a little run of doing some older classics recently, and we have found that people really love that and are kind of craving it. It also translates well to stage, because a lot of the people who come to see us found us on YouTube.

What is something you want people to know about your group or your family?

Our ultimate goal, always, is to share the message of Jesus Christ—and the hope, and the love, and the acceptance we have in Him.

Check out the group at www.southernraisedband.com or give a listen on YouTube. Don’t miss Southern Raised at the Old Town Theatre in Huntsville on May 10^th. Visit www.oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org to purchase tickets.

The post Southern Raised appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Victoria Good

Postcards — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:47:53 +0000

Postcards
February 29, 2024
Postcards

Learn why, if Victoria is involved, you can expect “Good” things for the community.

In the heart of Cleveland, Texas, the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce (GCC) stands as a vital link between businesses and the community—in fact, they are all about connecting businesses to the community. At the forefront is Victoria Good, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, whose journey and dedication have significantly influenced Cleveland’s growth and prosperity. We sat down with Victoria to delve into her role, the Chamber’s impact, and the vibrant team that makes it all possible.

Could you introduce us to the team at the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce and explain your role?

As the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the GCC, my role encompasses overseeing daily operations, ensuring event success, fostering member satisfaction, and maintaining financial health. I am a Cleveland High School graduate, born and raised in Cleveland, Texas. In 2017, while working at CBS Furniture, a family-owned store, and volunteering in the community, I was invited by then COO Jim Carson to join the Chamber Board. After serving on the board and a brief stint as the interim COO in 2021, I was offered the permanent position. My husband always says this job was made for me, combining my passions for event planning, social media, photography, and engaging with people. Our Chamber’s unique structure sets us apart and allows me to directly influence our community’s growth and development. I’m supported by Courtney Contreras, our Executive Assistant, who is instrumental in managing our events, finances, and memberships. Together with a dedicated Board of Directors comprised of volunteers deeply involved in various community organizations, we strive to make decisions that benefit our businesses and community at-large.

What inspired you to pursue a career in community development and chamber work, particularly in Cleveland, Texas?

My roots in Cleveland run deep, having been born and raised here, with family members who own local businesses. My passion for community development stems from a personal desire to see my hometown thrive and prosper.

What sets the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce apart from others, and how do you support local businesses?

I constantly receive feedback praising our Chamber for its exceptional activity and presence, especially for a town our size, confirming we’re on the right path. I participate in a nationwide group of Chamber executives, and it’s clear we stand out in many positive ways, offering unparalleled service and opportunities relative to our scale. Our commitment to prioritizing members and maximizing networking opportunities sets us apart. Both Courtney and I are deeply committed to ensuring our events are enjoyable and foster positive experiences for our members. Despite our growth, Cleveland maintains its small-town charm, mirrored in the Chamber’s familial atmosphere as we network and collaborate closely. The support and warmth our members extend at our events underscore the close-knit nature of our community, which is central to our Chamber’s uniqueness.

Our proactive involvement and dedication to our members distinguish us significantly. We prioritize our members, offering numerous networking opportunities that mark us as unique among Chamber executives across the country. We aim to connect, educate, inform, and elevate our business members, encouraging them to see beyond daily operations to the bigger picture of success. With over 30 networking events per year and strategic collaborations with the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland EDC, we’ve enhanced our support, aligning with wider community and economic development objectives.

Can you share how the chamber has impacted the community and any success stories?

Initiatives like Lunch & Learns, focusing on business skills like social media and Canva, have been significant. These sessions are aimed at empowering small businesses with practical skills, reflecting our commitment to community enhancement. Strengthening ties with the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland EDC has been a highlight. Fostering these relationships has been instrumental in positioning the Chamber as a key player in Cleveland’s economic development, especially amid rapid growth.

What upcoming events can the community look forward to?

We’re excited about our upcoming Women’s Brunch & Bubbly in March, celebrating local women’s achievement. We will be honoring two local women who have trusted their journey and made an impact in the Greater Cleveland area. Also, the Rock-N-Ride Bike Ride which is a 28 or 52-mile route through the Sam Houston National Forest. You can enjoy tacos & beer at the finish line with live music from Tomfoolery, an Americana string band playing your favorite tunes! These events, alongside numerous networking opportunities, keep our Chamber vibrant and engaging.

What advice do you have for small businesses aspiring to impact their community?

Getting involved and volunteering is key. Understanding the community’s needs and finding what drives you will pave the way for meaningful impact. For me, it’s about enriching the town I love, believing I’m positioned here “for such a time as this.”

Could you share a bit about your personal interests and your family?

Beyond my professional life, I’m involved with my church, enjoy photography, and cherish family trips to the Smoky Mountains, Disney, and cruises. A good shopping run and a long nap are my go-to ways to recharge! My family and I are deeply rooted in Cleveland. My work at the Chamber, my involvement in church, and our leisure activities reflect a life dedicated to community, family, and personal well-being.

For more information about the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce, visit their website clevelandtxchamber.com or email Victoria at vgood@clevelandtxchamber.com. She invites you to join their mission to foster a thriving, interconnected community and business landscape in and around Cleveland, Texas.

In the photos with two ladies: (Left) Victoria Good, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer and (Right) Courtney Contreras, Executive Assistant

In the photos with three ladies: (Left) Victoria Good, (Center) Kari Duggar, 2024 President and Chair of Chamber

The post Victoria Good appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Charleston, South Carolina

Postcards — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:45:23 +0000

Postcards
February 29, 2024
Postcards

A Timeless Tapestry of History, Cuisine, and Charm

Charleston, South Carolina, nestled along the Atlantic coastline, beckons travelers with its timeless charm, rich history, and culinary delights. A city steeped in Southern elegance, Charleston offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses. On a recent visit to see friends in the Columbia area, we set aside a couple of days to swing down to Charleston to explore the top sights, culinary treasures, and must-do activities that make Charleston a destination like no other.

Historic Marvels: A Stroll Through Time

Charleston’s historic district, a living museum of cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture, is a testament to the city’s rich past. The iconic Battery promenade along the seawall is adorned with majestic mansions and provides a picturesque journey through time. Visitors can lose themselves in the stories whispered by Rainbow Row, a row of pastel-colored Georgian homes that seem to blush under the Southern sun. Each house told a story of resilience and revival, standing as vibrant witnesses while they reflected the city’s diverse history.

We embarked on a narrated horse-drawn carriage ride down the narrow streets through the historic district, and as we rumbled past homes where renowned historic figures were known to visit, the past seemed to whisper through the moss-draped oaks. It took us back to a much different world–with an infinitely slower pace.

To delve even deeper into the city’s history, you can also explore the historic plantations along the Ashley River. Magnolia Plantation, with its romantic gardens, and Boone Hall Plantation, featuring the iconic Avenue of Oaks, offer an immersive experience into the region’s antebellum heritage. They are known to transport visitors to an era of Southern gentility. Since our time was limited, we chose to see those during our next visit.

While historic homes may immediately come to mind when thinking of Charleston, historic vessels may not. However, a trip to Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum allows visitors to explore the USS Yorktown. An American Heroine from WWII to Vietnam, the ship was the tenth aircraft carrier to serve in the United States Navy. Commissioned on April 15, 1943, World War II’s famous “Fighting Lady” would participate significantly in the Pacific offensive that began in late 1943 and ended with the defeat of Japan in 1945. She received the Presidential Unit Citation and earned 11 battle stars for service in World War II and would later earn 5 battle stars for service off Vietnam. The ship also recovered the Apollo 8 astronauts and capsule in December 1968. Decommissioned in 1970 and placed in reserve, Yorktown was towed from Bayonne, NJ to Charleston in 1975 to become the centerpiece of Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. Berthed beside the carrier is the destroyer USS Laffey, whose size may pale next to the mammoth Yorktown, but whose story does not. She earned the nickname “The Ship That Would Not Die” for her exploits during the D-Day invasion and the Battle of Okinawa, when she withstood a determined assault by conventional bombers and the most unrelenting kamikaze air attack in history. Laffey survived despite being badly damaged by four bombs, six kamikaze crashes, and strafing fire that killed 32 and wounded 71.

Culinary Odyssey: Savoring the Flavors of the Lowcountry

Charleston is a culinary haven, where every bite tells a story of tradition and innovation. The city’s vibrant food scene ranges from classic Southern comfort food to inventive, modern cuisine. Indulge in the quintessential flavors of the Lowcountry with dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and fried green tomatoes.

Charleston’s historic market, a bustling hub of activity, is a sensory delight inviting you to meander through its stalls. Sample local delicacies, pick up handmade crafts, and marvel at the craftsmanship of sweetgrass baskets, a traditional art form passed down through generations. From these baskets to handmade crafts, the market is a treasure trove of Southern craftsmanship and goodies.

If you know us, you know we love to explore truly local restaurants, and Charleston did not disappoint. Each restaurant has its own unique flair, and with only a couple of days, we opted for a “tried and true,” a “new,” and a “sounds different!” They were all delicious. Our first stop was the iconic Hymans. A “tried and true” for me, but a first time visit for Wes. Serving hungry diners since 1890, Hymans has been named #15 on TasteAtlas’ List of the 150 Most Legendary Restaurants in the World for their dish of Shrimp and Grits.

Since we love seafood, and Charleston sits right on the Atlantic, we took in the “new” while visiting the historic district. After some exploration, we grabbed a booth at the Amen Street Fish and Raw Bar and were treated to the best shrimp platters we have experienced in a long time. The ambiance and options of both indoor and outdoor dining were enjoyable, as was the incredible selection of market fresh fish. Amen Street proudly supports Charleston’s local fishing industry with fresh fish, and a daily changing menu which includes a variety of seafood dishes as well as a Raw Bar featuring a comprehensive oyster selection of more than 20 varieties from local suppliers and respected sources along East Coast.

Before leaving the historic district, we made the obligatory stop to pick up pralines. Whether your first choice is Savannah’s Candy Kitchen or Savannah Sweets, don’t let the name fool you. Those pralines are a favorite in the Lowcountry whether you are in Georgia or South Carolina.

Grits is a staple of Lowcountry cuisine and when we got ready to experience the “sounds different,” I told Wes he could choose. That is how we ended up experiencing The Grit Counter. Self-described as “nothing more Southern than a bowl of grits – and nothing more fun than a Grit Bowl,” we were amazed by the options on the menu along with a “Build Your Own Bowl” experience where you select your meat, your grit flavor, two fixin’s, and sauce. Wes selected The Harvest Bowl which consisted of grilled chicken, carrot cake grits, smoked gouda mornay sauce, roasted corn, fried hominy, and dried cranberries. I kid you not. He liked it. I was glad he did (and glad I did not order it). I opted for the Hot Chicken Sandwich and sweet potato fries. If you visit, be sure to top off your meal with the “Banana Pudding” Sweet Corn Soft Serve Ice Cream. Sounds weird, but was weirdly delicious!

From the refined to the lively buzz of a diner counter, the city’s dining establishments offer a diverse array of culinary delights.

Artistic Treasures: The Cultural Heartbeat

Charleston’s artistic soul is showcased in its museums and galleries. The Gibbes Museum of Art, an architectural gem in itself, features a collection that spans centuries and genres. From classical Southern portraiture to contemporary Lowcountry masterpieces, the museum is a testament to Charleston’s rich artistic heritage featuring more than 10,000 American works.

The city’s commitment to the arts extends beyond museums. The Gaillard Center is a state-of-the-art performing arts center in downtown Charleston that produces, commissions, and presents year-round music, dance, comedy, theater, and family performances and programs. You may opt to take a stroll through the French Quarter Art Walk, where galleries open their doors to showcase the talents of local and international artists. The vibrant arts scene adds a dynamic layer to Charleston’s cultural landscape.

Southern Hospitality: A Warm Welcome

What truly sets Charleston apart is the genuine warmth of its people. Locals welcome visitors with open arms, sharing stories and recommendations that add a personal touch to the experience. From the knowledgeable guides leading historic tours to the friendly faces in the market stalls, Charleston’s hospitality is as much a part of the journey as its historic landmarks and culinary delights.

In Charleston, time seems to slow down as visitors are transported to an era where Southern grace and charm makes one feel like a welcomed guest in a grand Southern home. With its historic marvels, culinary treasures, artistic gems, outdoor adventures, and welcoming atmosphere, Charleston invites travelers to become part of its story—a story that unfolds with every step through its charming streets and every savory bite of its delectable cuisine.

The enchanting city of Charleston, South Carolina beckons with its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and antebellum elegance. We will remain drawn to this Southern gem, a destination where past and present embrace each other and dance together in harmony.

For more information, visit charleston.com or charlestoncvb.com.

The post Charleston, South Carolina appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Lone Star First Saturday

Postcards — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:43:21 +0000

Postcards
February 29, 2024
Postcards

Check out this local market in Montgomery where “everything is homemade, hand-made and homegrown.”

On a beautiful Saturday morning in early October, a couple from Houston suburbia travels north on F.M. 149 toward Sam Houston National Forest. When they approach the old Montgomery Community Building in Montgomery’s historic district, they see dozens of canopies in the shade of enormous oak trees. Overcome by curiosity, they stop to check it out.

Homemade, hand-made and homegrown

Many people stumble upon Lone Star First Saturday in just this way, says Shannan Reid, executive director of the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce. Other attendees are regulars, who have come to appreciate the many unique items for sale on the first Saturday of each month. “Everything is homemade, hand-made and homegrown,” Shannan says. A typical market includes 30 to 35 booths, she says, while a “full house,” usually during cooler months and around the holiday season, might have as many as 40. “These folks are out there every month, rain or shine, hot or cold. They are lovely people and they have precious stories.”

Consider William (“Coach”) and Kathy Barrett. They are not newcomers to Texas. Kathy’s family “came with Stephen F. Austin,” she says; her grandparents were the Kuykendahls—a name familiar to many Houston-area residents because of the often-mispronounced Kuykendahl Road.

Kathy started canning fruits and vegetables during the years that Coach taught in Montgomery schools and she operated a home-based daycare center. Using family recipes, as well as a cookbook for home economics students, she created a variety of pickles, jellies and jams, which she gave as gifts. After Coach and Kathy retired, their daughter suggested that they turn Kathy’s hobby into a business. They have been regulars at Lone Star First Saturday for nearly six years.

“I keep coming back every month,” one customer says. The first time she came, she bought a jar of Kathy’s cantaloupe jam and was hooked. If this sounds a bit unusual, ponder Kathy’s other offerings, such as watermelon rind preserves and jalapeño peach jelly. Kathy also makes an astounding variety of pickles, such as bread and butter, jalapeño dill and crazy Cajun habanero, as well as pickled okra, green beans and asparagus.

Meanwhile, Coach is the site manager of Lone Star First Saturday. He helps designate where canopies will be placed, shows new vendors around, and makes sure the grounds are suitable for foot traffic, even if it means spreading sawdust on muddy areas or whacking unruly weeds.

At a nearby booth, Justin Hood mans the Texas Pioneer Creations booth. His mother, Dorothy Hood, has been in the soapmaking business for 13 years, he says, and makes all-natural soaps at her home, using “old school” methods and “the same recipes Great-grandma used to use when they were crossing the Great Plains.” One of the booth’s biggest sellers is beer soap, which produces exceptional lather. Texas Pioneer Creations soaps are made with lye (which Justin promises is gentler than detergent) and essential oils, but no synthetic coloring.

Texas Pioneer Creations offers a wide variety of scents, including charcoal bay rum, ginger peach, black raspberry vanilla, and a blend of oatmeal, goat milk and honey. “It’s a classic that has stood the test of time through all 13 years,” Justin says. Regulars also like whiskey soap and seasonal items, including bluebonnet fields, which is a customer favorite in the spring.

Some vendors sell jewelry and home decorations (for both inside and out), while others offer homemade baked goods. On some Saturdays, booths feature homegrown produce, vegetable starter plants and local honey. One booth, Annalisa’s Garden, sells wellness teas that Annalisa Mazzarella makes from her own homegrown herbs. Annalisa, a certified holistic nutritionist, is currently participating in a doctoral program with the American College of Healthcare Sciences, specializing in nutrition and herbal medicine. In addition to teas, she uses her knowledge to make tinctures and syrups that are available at her booth. “They all have a wellness objective,” she says, such as digestion, sleeping, detoxification and reduction of inflammation.

At one booth, Lee Smith, who worked for many years in county law enforcement, sells the seasoning blends he created while participating in cooking competitions. He attends every Lone Star First Saturday so that he can serve his loyal customers, who return again and again to purchase his seasonings for meats, fish and vegetables. Lee offers mild, spicy, extra spicy and southwest blends. “You get a sweet hit on the front, and in about eight or 10 seconds you get the heat on the back end,” he says.

Lee has also created a Cajun blend based on family recipes he learned from his wife, who is originally from Louisiana. “I changed one ingredient so Mawmaw won’t haunt me,” Lee says with a laugh. “I ain’t messing with Mawmaw.” He is currently developing another blend specifically for beef.

Nearby, Terry and Jeannine Muilenberg greet customers at Fred’s Custom Leather. About six years ago, Terry admired a friend’s handmade leather holsters and figured he could do leatherworking, too. So, he purchased some leather and made a Bible cover for his mother. Before long, Terry had a new hobby. It’s now a full-time business, offering a variety of handcrafted leather goods. Terry also accepts custom orders.

A colorful sign displaying the iconic image of “Rosie the Riveter” entices customers to visit a booth called We Can Sew it. Sarah Richmond is the seamstress for the business, and has help at the booth from her mother, Victoria Croston. Victoria’ mother, Rose Will Monroe, was a professional seamstress, a talent that skipped a generation before settling on Sarah, Victoria says.

History buffs take note: Sarah’s grandmother was more than a seamstress. While working at an aircraft factory in Ypsilanti, Michigan during World War II, actor Walter Pidgeon came to her workplace to make a film advertising war bonds. He realized that Rose, with her suitable given name, was a real-life “Rosie the Riveter,” and she appeared in the film. “The song, ‘Rosie the Riveter’ was popular,” Victoria says, “and she became the human face for the song.”

We Can Sew It offers quilts, “boas” made from kitchen towels, bowl cozies and other unique items. Sarah also accepts orders for custom quilts.

Making a day of it

Shannan suggests making time to visit every vendor at Lone Star First Saturday. “Don’t skip right to the honey and leave, because you will miss so many. There is something for everyone and something for every price point,” she says. Furthermore, she says, “Historic Montgomery is full of merchants and cafes and bistros and coffee shops and antique stores and boutiques. Don’t come for the market and skip the merchants. I would make a day of it. Shop all up and down the streets of Montgomery and find something for everyone on your list.”

While some people might wonder where to park, Shannan tells them not to worry. “Parking is available all around. You just have to look for it,” she says, noting that parking lots are available, and there is “nose in” parking along every street. “There are only five blocks [in historic Montgomery], so everything is closer than parking at Walmart and walking in the front door.”

Lone Star First Saturday is held on the first Saturday of every month between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. For more information, visit montgomeryareachamber.com/lone-star-1st-Saturday.

The post Lone Star First Saturday appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Walker County Fair Queen

Postcards — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:41:58 +0000

Postcards
February 29, 2024
Postcards

It’s Saturday, April 1, 2023 and the arena at the Walker County Fairgrounds is bustling with activity. The stage is decorated with an assortment of red, white, silver and black balloons. Some resemble black and white cow spots, and there is one special balloon in the middle, which is a silver crown. A number of girls dressed in sparkly long dresses and cowboy hats, all with long hair and perfectly applied makeup, are mingling with the crowd that has gathered. They are there to attend the crowning of the Walker County Fair Queen.

The first onstage presentation is of the youngest competitors, in the Fair Prince and Princess competitions. There is a little girls division and an older girls division, but only one division for the boys. The competition chairperson explains that some of the runners-up aren’t able to make the presentation because they are participating in the rodeo’s Mutton Bustin’ competition.

After the crowning of the Fair Prince and Princesses, it is time for the high school girls – those competing for the title of Walker County Fair Queen – to be introduced. They are each walked onstage by their parents and then one-by-one, they are individually presented. Contestant number five is Lillie Burris, daughter of Damon and Amanda Burris. By the end of the day, she will be crowned as the 2023 Walker County Fair Queen.

As sweet and elegant as she looks in her beautiful gown, Lillie is also smart as a whip (ranked in the top one percent of Huntsville High School Class of 2025 and a 2023 National Youth Leadership Forum Invited Scholar) and tough (she needs to be as a member of the Huntsville High School wrestling team, the Huntsville Military Marching Band, and the Walker County 4-H Swine Club). She has been raising swine for years with her brother and raised the WCFA Grand Champion Market Barrow in 2022–so when she says her post-graduate plans are to go to Texas A&M, it is natural to ask if she will be pursuing agriculture. In fact, she plans to become a doctor, a lifelong dream born from her experience as a micro preemie.

Almost a year later, Postcards caught up with Lillie to talk to her about what it was like to win the Fair Queen competition and what it has been like to serve in this prestigious role.

What made you decide to run for Fair Queen?

When I was six or seven, my best friend Harper and I were in the Princess competition, and that was the year Kara Kuykendahl was crowned Fair Queen. On my fridge, I have a picture from that year of her with me. She was my inspiration.

How did it feel to be declared the Walker County Fair Queen?

Honestly, it felt unreal. We were standing on the stage, and they were opening the envelopes. I had already stood on stage the year prior, when I was on the court. And I was sitting there and didn’t hear my name being called. I was like, that’s okay, you always have next year. But then I heard Miss Kuykendahl call my name, and I stepped forward, but it felt like a dream. It didn’t really feel real until I got home later that night and took off my sash and crown. I looked down at it and was like…wow, I really won the Fair Queen competition! It was pretty amazing.

What was the response in your school and the community?

It’s been really surprising. Obviously, I was out of school for a week, but when I came back, everyone was so supportive. My friends were excited, and the teachers were amazing. Everybody was telling me how proud they were of me. It was really cool to have that support system. And in the community still, it seems like more people know who I am; not just because they know my parents, but because of what I’ve accomplished.

The Walker County Fair Queen competition is much more than a beauty contest. Tell me a little more about it.

Personally, I don’t consider it a pageant, and I don’t think the sponsors or board members would consider it a pageant, either. We’re not being judged on our clothing, or how our dress and makeup look. We are being judged by our personality, how well we present ourselves as a person, our conversational skills, our knowledge of the world around us, and our knowledge of the projects we are raising.

Okay, so tell me a little bit about the projects. Are all you girls doing the same project, or do you each have separate projects?

The girls don’t all have the same project. The only thing you can do for your project is what you’re showing at the Walker County Fair that year. The majority of what you’re scored on is your project presentation. There is a time limit, and it is normally memorized, with strict parameters on what you can and cannot do. I did my project on the feeding of swine, of our show pigs. Last year, my project was about how the ingredients in swine feed can affect your pig’s muscle and weight gain, and how to adjust your feed to achieve your desired result.

You really have to become a real expert in your field. It’s not something to be taken lightly. You have to have a very thorough understanding of whatever your project is over. It requires hours and hours of research, revisions, and editing.

So, once you were crowned Fair Queen, what came next?

First, during the week of the rodeo, my court – the first runner-up and the second-runner up – and I volunteered with Kindergarten Day and the Special Kids Rodeo. We also attended every event and awards presentation at the county fair, the livestock show, and the rodeo. That included doing our own shows (other competitions we were in).

That’s a lot! How do you balance doing your own showings with your Fair Queen duties? That has to be difficult.

Yes ma’am. There’s no way I could have done it without my mom and dad. My dad helped me look after my pigs and get them in the barn so I could run around and do all the (queen) stuff, and my mom was there with lipstick and blush. I could not have done it all without them.

So that was the County Fair and Rodeo week, but your reign as Fair Queen lasts all year. What other duties do you have?

My court and I make appearances at community events, like the Go Texan Crawfish Boil in May. We also attend the monthly fair board meetings and are involved with the comings and goings of the fair throughout the year. We volunteer at events and say a prayer and the pledge, and if there is an event going on we want to attend, we can go and represent the (Walker County Fair) organization there.

There’s a lot you do with your court. Are there any duties that are just yours as the Fair Queen?

There is a lot of teamwork throughout the year, but one duty that falls specifically on me as the queen is getting ready for the next Fair Queen competition. I am a support person for the girls who are competing for the title of Fair Queen. I help coordinate the judges’ lunches and dinners, as well as the girls’ projects. I emcee the contest on crowning day; I have a parting speech; and I crown the next Fair Queen.

Is there any moment that stands out as particularly memorable in your time as Fair Queen?

Yes, there was one really funny moment. During the fair, we do the barbeque cook-off awards. Last year, it rained so much there was mud everywhere. There were places where it was literally up to your knees. We (my court and I) wore dark jeans so we wouldn’t look too dirty, but we still had to wear our hats, crowns, and sashes. So there we were, walking around with these giant mud boots on, the bottom half of our bodies covered with mud, and the top halves of us in makeup and curls. It just makes me laugh because it was such a contrast.

What do you think you’ve gained by participating in the Fair Queen competition?

Competing for two years, I’ve been able to see myself grow from year one to year two. Obviously, I learned more about my project and the fair; but most importantly, I learned social skills and I learned how to speak in front of people. I think the most important skill I gained from this competition was public speaking.

Has this opened up new doors for you?

It really has. There’s a scholarship that comes with the crown, which is going to be a huge help for my education. It’s also an amazing role which has taught me so many leadership skills. I’ve learned how to hold myself to a higher standard and present myself well, and people respect that.

One of the things you said on stage the day you were crowned is that you wanted to be an inspiration for younger girls. How do you want to inspire them? What are you trying to get them to aspire to?

Obviously, I would love for them to participate in competitions like I have. I just want to inspire them to know they can have confidence in themselves; that they can put their minds to something and can achieve it. They’re not limited by the people around them.

How do you think it will feel when your reign comes to an end and you crown the next Walker County Fair Queen on March 30th?

I think it’s going to be bittersweet. I know all the girls who are going to compete this year, and I would be happy for any one of them to win. But I’m also going to be sad, because I have had so much fun and have loved it so much.

What advice would you give to the current group or future groups of Fair Queen contestants?

Keep your shoulders back and your head up, and be confident in yourself. You have to know who you are and be true to that, no matter what anybody says.

The post Walker County Fair Queen appeared first on Postcards Magazine.

Huntsville Lions Club Benches

Postcards — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:39:08 +0000

Postcards
February 29, 2024
Postcards

Local project diverts stretchable plastics from the landfill while filling recreation spaces with seating.

When it comes to being a member of the Huntsville Lions Club, Noah Speer is definitely a team player. He is different than most players, however, who seemingly always repeat the chorus of, “Put me in, Coach!” When it’s gametime, Noah proudly says, “Bench me!”

Noah and his wife Patricia (Pat) head up the Huntsville Lions Club Bench Recycling Project. To date, the program has resulted in the recycling and conversion of over 2 ½ tons of stretchable plastic into 10 beautiful benches which the Club has placed around the community. Noah and Pat shared how the program works and how it all began.

“We got started here in late 2018,” said Noah. “We had read an article in Lion magazine about a club in Washington state who was collecting stretchable plastic and sending it to TREX, a corporation that makes a building product from wood fiber and plastic. They take the plastic, wash it, shred it, heat it up, and spin it out into pellets. They then use another process to combine the fiber and plastic into a board—for decking materials, lawn furniture, and such. TREX has a program where they will accept the recycled plastic and donate a bench, which they ship to our Club, when the target collection amount is reached.

We shared information about the program with club members here, and they thought it would be a good local project. My wife Pat is chair of the project, but I do most of the legwork on it.”

The Club gathers plastic from donation sites, and members sort through it to remove anything that doesn’t meet donation criteria. They then bag the plastic and take it to our local Home Depot, who ships the plastic to TREX with their own recyclable plastic waste (think shrink wrap from all those pallets). The Lions Club marks and tracks their submissions, and TREX documents the amounts upon receipt. “Home Depot has been a great partner in the project, and we appreciate their help very much,” said Noah.

Once they got the project rolling, the Lions were collecting enough plastic for two benches per year. As word spread and more donations came in, the Lions are now partnering in the project with First Presbyterian Youth Group, as well as the Christian Community Construction Team, a local nonprofit. In 2023, the groups paced 500 pounds of plastic, enough for one bench, collected every 4 months. However, in November 2023, TREX increased the target from 500 pounds for a bench to 1000 pounds for a bench. Noah and Pat hope to increase collections so they don’t lose pace.

The 10 benches placed to date are located at: Kate Barr Ross Park, the skate park, Eastham-Thomason Park, Hospitality House, Stewart Elementary School, First Presbyterian Church, Huntsville State Park, 12^th & University (on the square), and two on Veterans Memorial.

Local collection points include: VeraBank, First Financial Bank, Prosperity Bank (New Waverly), Snap Fitness, First Christian Church, First Presbyterian Church, and Noah’s shop at 2013 Sycamore. Businesses who regularly donate include MRC-Creekside, Gina Tees, Huntsville Farm Supply, and the members of the Chamber of Commerce Thursday Morning Leads Group.

With the local Club’s success, other Lions Clubs in the area are taking notice. Pat did a presentation on the local project in Cy-Fair. Since that time, clubs in Cy-Fair, Magnolia, and Tomball have all begun their own bench projects.

Said Pat, “One of the advantages of the benches that isn’t apparent until you stop and think about it that we did NOT put all that plastic in the garbage to go into a landfill. The city recycling program does not accept that type of plastic. There’s currently no other way locally to dispose of it, so GIVE IT TO US…please.”

Noah hopes to see collections continue to grow. “There is a threshold you reach where TREX will actually begin paying you for the amount collected,” he said. “I would love to see us grow to that level of support from the community.”

From Pat Speer:

The Huntsville Lions Club meets on Thursdays at noon in the meeting room at Grand Buffet in Huntsville. You are welcome to come visit anytime. Our service projects include the Coats for Kids program (we provided coats for 840 children this year), the Annual Christmas Parade, the Downtown Flag Project, and the Bench/Plastic Recycling Project. We have also provided meals for our emergency responders, supplies for homeless students in our schools, and eyeglasses for needy students. We collect used eyeglasses to be refurbished and distributed as needed and provide scholarships for our local seniors. Statewide, we support the Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville, which provides a summer camp experience for children with physical disabilities, Down syndrome or type I diabetes from across Texas.

We’re looking for members who want to do service in the community. The Lions Club motto is, “WE SERVE!”

For more information, visit e-clubhouse.org/sites/huntsvilletx

The post Huntsville Lions Club Benches appeared first on Postcards Magazine.