“Helping you see the forest through the trees.” “Helping you see the forest through the trees.” Inside Christmas Train Village Hometown Christmas Christmas on the Square Christmas on Lake Livingston Pathfinder Pathfinder Monthly Guide Serving Lake Livingston and the Surrounding Area Monthly Guide Serving Lake Livingston and the Surrounding Area Piney Woods Piney Woods Of Lake Livingston Of Lake Livingston December, 2012 Volume 2 Issue 10 Complimentary Copy December, 2012 Volume 2 Issue 10 Complimentary Copy
Transcript
“Helping you see the forest through the trees.”“Helping you see the forest through the trees.”
InsideChristmas Train VillageHometown Christmas
Christmas on the Square
Christmason Lake Livingston
PathfinderPathfinderMonthly Guide Serving Lake Livingston and the Surrounding AreaMonthly Guide Serving Lake Livingston and the Surrounding Area
Piney Woods Piney Woods
Of Lake LivingstonOf Lake Livingston
December, 2012Volume 2 Issue 10
Complimentary Copy
December, 2012Volume 2 Issue 10
Complimentary Copy
The Piney Woods Pathfinder is published monthly by M&R Publishing and is owned by Ryan and Michael Downhour. Our goal is to furnish readers information regarding businesses and upcoming recreational events in Lake Livingston and the surrounding area. Any comments or suggestions are welcomed. Direct any correspondence to Piney Woods Pathfinder, PO Box 115, Coldspring, Texas, 77331. Phone 936-523-0033, e-mail [email protected]. Visit www.PineyWoodsPathfinder.com
All rights of publication are reserved by the publisher.Articles and editorials are welcome but cannot be returned
unless accompanied by a self-address, stamped envelope. Nothing appearing in Piney Woods Pathfinder can be reprinted in part or in whole without prior written consent. Information concerning any event of interest to our readers should be sent to us by the publication deadlines posted in the paper each month.
Opinions and editorials printed in Piney Woods Pathfinder are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher.
Maybe the kids could make signs showing Santa which town they live in and hold it up as he passes in the parade.
year because extra efforts have been Come to Coldspring, December 8th put into bringing the entire county and join us in celebrating the season!together for the Parade. (Santa loves it
We don’t know what drew his answer each and every one, he ‘s been attention to our small county, could doing just that and making a list. have been a clear crisp Christmas Eve
I was told, just this week, that he when the Texas stars were glistening
will be bring that list with him to the on the waters of Lake Livingston,
Gazebo this year! maybe the beautiful site of our county courthouse lit up with Christmas lights Santa’s added a new event to his and wreaths or the smiling faces of our Christmas On The Square visit.Santa’s wonderful children. Whatever the day will start early joining the children reason Santa loves San Jacinto county for breakfast at the community center. not only at Christmas but legend has it The breakfast begins at 9:00 am and he comes back in the summer. ends at 11:00am, Santa will stop in
sometime during the morning, then he For the past few years he’s been
moves to the Gazebo for visits and vacationing in Coldspring. This year
pictures, from 1;00 pm – 3:00. After a he rode through town as part of a trail
little rest he will travel to the ride during the Christmas in July
fairgrounds, check on his ride and festivities.
make ready for his famous entrance Santa told the merchants that if during the Lighted Parade beginning
they would set up a Santa’s mailbox, at 6:00pm. Busy man!!
offer stationary and get the children to write their letters early he would Santa told us he is very excited this
Yes, There really is a Santa ClauseAnd he loves San Jacinto County! Christmas on the SquareSaturday, December 8th, Coldspring, Texas
Piney Woods Pathfinder, December, 2012, Page 5
Headed up 59 North from Livingston, Terry, or one of the ladies behind the it’s easy to miss Marston Road. Take a counter are always there to help you with moment, make the turn, and visit one of your purchases and make suggestions to the most charming gift shops you will put together the perfect gift. It will be ever find. This remarkable little hard not to buy two of everything, one mercantile is just bursting at the seams for yourself and one to give away.
This shop is a must visit. Take a with wonderful and unique gift items, moment, make the turn, and you’ll be jewelry, candles, soaps, lotions, glad you shopped at this charming local accessories, and specialty food items - treasure.literally too many things to list! Step
Heading north on 59 to Marston Road inside the double screen doors and feel (on the left just 9/10 mile past the VFW) right at home. Everyone is welcoming, then to 35 north and turn right. Located and everything from the scents of the on the right. For more information call candles to the music in the background (936)967-5333 or (281) 467-5930.makes your shopping experience extra
special! Terry Thomas-Smith, is the 4th
generation to operate this storefront. Originally founded in 1913 by her great-grandparents, J.H. and Sylvia Thomas and then passed on to her grandparents, Ed and Blanche Thomas, it operated as a true mercantile until 1967. Growing up, Terry remembers spending summers working alongside her grandfather in the quaint little store. Now, she feels right at home working in this amazing place and carrying on the merchant tradition started so long ago.
Most days you will find her father, Jack Thomas, (a WWII POW) now 87, sitting on the porch reading the paper and greeting all who come by. Her aunt, Kiku Thomas,(84 years) is usually there too, bringing over her wonderful handmade aprons and pillow cases that are available for sale.
Trades of the Trail
A Unique Gift Shop like nothing you’ve ever seenTHOMAS MERCANTILE
Kathleen, Jack & James Richard Thomas in 1938
Pictured on the left is Thomas Mercantile today, and pictured to theright is Thomas Mercantile in 1913 with J.H. Thomas on the porch.
Owner of Thomas Mercantile,Terry Thomas-Smith
sound system for the parade along Washington Avenue. The electrical harnesses for the vendor area are hooked up and hung on utility poles along Jackson Street.
begin at 1pm on December 8th. Schedule for Saturday, December
Preparations for this event begin 8th, 2012:much earlier in the year. Parks and
4:00 am- City crews from the Parks Recreation crews begin building new On the second Saturday of each its Hometown Christmas Festival. and Recreation, Electric, Street, and displays and repairing existing ones in
December, the City of Livingston hosts This year's Hometown Christmas will Water Departments erect canopies, January and February --this continues place picnic tables and trash cans, throughout the summer months as their assemble the stage and roll out workload permits. In September, electrical cables throughout the vendor applications for the Jingle Bell Fun area on Jackson Street. Run are mailed out (approximately
200). T shirts are designed and 9:00 am- Over 100 vendors begin ordered as well as ribbons and trophies setting up for the Fun Run participants.
10:00 am- City workers and Applications are mailed out for the
volunteers begin laying out and Lighted Parade participants (75 entries
marking the course for the Jingle Bell last year). Applications are mailed out
Fun Run.to the Hometown Christmas vendors
1:00 pm- Hometown Christmas (approx. 120). In November, Parks and officially beginsRecreation crews put up light displays
throughout the City and at Pedigo 4:30 pm- Parade entries begin Park. The Electric Department crews assembling at First Baptist Churchrepair and install approximately 100
6:00 pm- Lighted Parade beginslight displays on poles throughout the City. They hang the giant "chandelier" 9:00 pm- Hometown Christmas at the Jackson and Polk Street ends--vendors begin packing up. City intersection. City Electric Department crews break down and haul canopies, personnel and Main Street volunteers tables and trash back to Pedigo Park check and repair the lights atop
2:00 am- Street sweeper cleans Downtown buildings. All of the lights Jackson Street and the parade routehave to be working and in place for the
November 22 Lighting Ceremony. It is a long day for the City crews, The week leading up to Hometown but it is worth the effort when you Christmas is a busy one. The Parks consider that over 10,000 people and Recreation crews haul canopies, attended last year's Livingston picnic tables, trash cans and the stage Hometown Christmas Festival.to the Jackson Street water tower. The
Photos By: Stephen PhillipsElectric crews hang speakers on utility poles throughout the festival area and a
Livingston's Hometown ChristmasBehind the ScenesSaturday, December 8th
pricing, events, promotions and theme nights, call The Ice Rink Hotline at 281-419-5630 or visit www.TheWoodlandsIceRink.com. Also, “like” The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau on
THE WOODLANDS, TX (October Woodlands Town Center will open St. Luke’s The Woodlands Hospital, Facebook at
19, 2012) – Can’t wait to grab the daily November 17, 2012 – January 21, Spectrum, Sunny 99.1, www.Facebook.com/VisitTheWoodland
mittens, hats and scarves from the attic? 2013. Hours are Monday through WoodlandsOnline, Houston s, “follow” them on Twitter
Thursday, 3 pm – 9 pm; Friday, 3 pm – Community Newspapers, The Villager, Get in the holiday spirit a bit www.twitter.com/TheWoodlandsCVB 11 pm; Saturday, 10 am – 11 pm; and The Courier, reviewit Magazine, early this year and catch a special and “view” them on YouTube Sunday, noon – 7 pm. WoodlandsMommy.com, Champions Weekend Preview of The Ice Rink at www.YouTube.com/TheWoodlandsCV
Printing – Publisher of The Woodlands the Woodlands Town Center, presented The Ice Rink is also open on B.Community Magazine and Woodlands by Houston Area Chevy Dealers, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Lifestyles & Homes. November 10 – 11, 2012, celebrated in Christmas Day, New Years Eve and
conjunction with the 17th Annual New Years Day. For information on special Children’s Festival at The Cynthia This year’s Ice Rink is presented Woods Mitchell Pavilion. The Ice Rink by your Houston Area Chevy Dealers at The Woodlands Town Center is and sponsored by Donoho’s Jewellers, located at the northeast corner of Lake Talisman Energy, Coca-Cola, Waste Robbins and Six Pines Drive. Management, CenterPoint Energy, Bud
Admission is $10.50 for adults Light, The Woodlands Development and $6 for children 5 and under for a Company, Wright’s Printing, BBVA two-hour skate session and skate rental. Compass, Service King, Fidelity Hours are Saturday, November 10 from Investments, Hubbell & Hudson, 10 am – 11 pm and Sunday, November University of Phoenix, The Strong 11 from noon – 7 pm. Firm, Kyle Sherburne – State Farm
Insurance, Kroger, CB&I, The Following the Weekend Woodlands Young Learners Academy, Preview, The Ice Rink at the
Piney Woods Pathfinder, December, 2012, Page 7
The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town CenterOpen through January 21, 2013
* Take three 10 minutes walks each day. It will get you moving without interrupting a busy holiday schedule.
* Don’t park near the door. Instead, park in a spot a little farther than your normal comfort zone, and use the extra walk to gain physical activity
The busy – and often stressful – “holiday bulge.” education for the College of Nursing at * Enjoy holiday parties. Dancing is holiday season can put a damper on the Texas A&M Health Science Center great physical activity.
“Over half the United States adult your physical fitness routine. But by Round Rock Campus. “This makes
population is inactive, and children * Use your favorite holiday music keeping up with healthy exercise physical activity all the more
decrease their level of physical activity as background to your exercise routine.habits, you can reduce stress, and when important, especially during a season
as they age,” says Cynthia E. Hudson, coupled with a healthy diet, reduce the infamous for increased stress and * Remember when possible to take
D.N.Sc., M.S.N., RN, associate risk of carrying around that unwanted unhealthy eating habits.” the stairs instead of elevators.
professor and director of nursing Hudson suggests following the U.S. * Schedule a brisk family walk to
Centers for Disease Control and view neighborhood holiday Prevention (CDC) recommendations to decorations.incorporate physical activity into the
* Consider performing yard work busy holiday schedule. These include:
as a gift to an elderly neighbor. They * Anticipate barriers to being get their yard spruced up, and you get
physically active, including holiday your heart pumping.travel and long car rides.
As a reminder, if you are not * Consider walking or biking to do currently physically active, have a
holiday shopping. chronic health problem or are over age 40, check with your provider before
* Take your tennis shoes to work starting a new physical activity
and walk during lunch or walk program.
immediately after work, before you get home. Texas A&M Health Science Center
Staying Physically ActiveDuring the Holiday Season
before watering again. spot where it receives bright, indirect indoor light during the daylight hours
* Fertilize with a water-soluble 20- and total darkness at night. 20-20 fertilizer with trace elements while in an active growth stage. To learn more about where to find
Texas-grown holiday cactus and an * Reduce water and fertilizer in incredible array of other Texas-grown
August in preparation for the beginning plants, or to order TDA's horticulture of bud development, which is regulated are looking for something different," publications, visit the GO TEXAN Web by the shortening of fall days, along said Patrick Berry of Vickery Wholesale site at www.gotexan.org or call (877) with cooler night temperatures. By late Greenhouse. "They're also very easy to 99GO-TEX. Also, sign up for the Grow
The clocks have been changed. October and early November buds care for." Texan e-zine for tips and tools for Cooler breezes have prevailed, and the should be evident. landscape success and the freshest For years, the holiday cactus has buzz of holiday shopping is right around
produce news. Simply send an e-mail to * Remember: The keys to getting been a favorite houseplant for many. It's the corner. [email protected] holiday cactus to flower during the easy to grow and it's not unusual for a with "Sign Me Up" in the subject line Here at the Texas Department of holiday season are proper light single plant to be passed down from and your name and address in the body Agriculture we're gearing up for the exposure, correct temperatures and generation to generation. copy. cheerful holiday season with an added limited watering. So, during the fall
The holiday cactus has the ability to twist in the plant-giving category - the months, place your holiday cactus in a Gotexas.orgrebloom if provided 12 hours of light holiday cactus.and 12 hours of complete darkness
While the poinsettia remains the every day between Labor Day and most popular of the holiday gift plants, October 15. a healthy, full-blooming holiday cactus,
We've added some tips for the long sometimes called a Christmas cactus, life of your healthy holiday cactus:makes a beautiful gift for friends or
family. * When the flowering period is finished, an active growth period will Blooming from mid November to commence. Keep the plant in a sheltered mid December, the holiday cactus has place until danger of freezing is over. glossy, flat, chain-like segments and
forms a flower that can be a variety of * Water carefully, keeping in mind colors. Texas produces approximately that overwatering is the major cause of 500,000 holiday cacti per year. failure with holiday cactus. Soak the
potting medium when watering, then "Not only are they beautiful plants allow the plant to become almost dry but they're also great for customers who
George AyresTexas Department of Agriculture
Saturday, December 1, marks the and is located directly across the street opening of the Polk County Heritage from their bank on the corner of Society’s Christmas Train Village in Jackson Avenue and West Polk Streets. downtown Livingston, Texas. The This corner is spotlighted by the village with its five miniature trains and magnificent ‘Chandelier’ that the City a trolley, a full-fledged carnival, an of Livingston creates for the holidays. extensive zoo, ski runs, and even a
The Train Village is free to the flying Santa is fun for kids of all ages.public but donations are accepted.
The train display is in its 10th year Proceeds benefit the Polk County and has become a true Livingston Heritage Society a 501 c 3 non-profit Christmas Tradition. Each year visitors organization that owns and maintains find new and unusual items. ‘Chief Heritage Park in downtown Livingston. Engineer’, Heritage Society Vice The Christmas Village will be open President, Dick Grant and Society every Thursday Friday and Saturday in member Carl Magnuson with help from December from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. their friends spend endless hours of work, from October on, preparing the display for its Christmas run. Checklists are available to visitors to lead them in a search for the many special features hidden in the massive display
The 2012 display will be located in the newly renovated building at 412 Jackson Avenue in the historic Main Street District. The building is owned by the First State Bank of Livingston
Q: What causes frost to form? Q: Does frost form quicker in some areas than others?A: Frost forms when the
temperature at the ground reaches A: Yes, McRoberts says. "Cold air is freezing, says Brent McRoberts of dense and it tends to sink," he explains. Texas A&M University. "Very often "On a calm night, cold air will tend to on calm, clear nights, the temperature sink into low spots. That's why valleys near the ground can be several degrees can be much cooler than the cooler than temperatures above the surrounding area because the cold air ground," he explains. "The from the hills sinks into the lower areas. thermometer might read 34 degrees on So when the cold air starts sinking, frost top of a roof, but at the ground, it will form quicker in the low spots than might read 32 degrees. This is because the high ones. It's not uncommon for the ground loses heat quickly. So some valleys to be cooler by 10 degrees water vapor in the air, because it is so or more, thus more frost tends to form cool, condenses as supercooled dew in these low areas. Also, some soil and then turns to frost and maybe ice. types, such as sand, retain less heat than Frost tends to form on glass, such as others, and frost tends to form quicker car windshields or windows, metal or on these."rock surfaces first because these tend Weather Whys is a service of the to lose more heat quicker. So usually, Department of Atmospheric Sciences at a car windshield will frost over before Texas A&M University.vegetation does."
Weather Whys:
Frost
Pecan Orange Cakewith Blueberries
Directions: Preheat oven to 325° F. Butter and flour a 9-inch baking pan. In a mixer, combine butter and sugar. Mix for 3 minutes, adding 1 egg at a time and then add orange vanilla, flour, baking powder and baking soda. Transfer to baking pan and bake for 25 minutes or until done.
To prepare the whipping cream: In a bowl, whip cream until stiff and fold in sugar.Divide cake evenly onto 6 plates and garnish with whipped cream, pecans and blueberries. (www.gotexan.org)
Ingredients for the Pecan Orange · 1/2 cup Texas pecans, whole, Cake: roasted for garnish
· 6 T. Butter, room temperature · 1 pint Texas blueberries, for · 1 cup Cake flour garnish · 3/4 cup Sugar · Zest of 2 oranges· 2 Eggs Ingredients for the Whipping · 1-1/2 tsp. Orange Vanilla Cream:· 3/4 tsp. Baking powder · 1 cup Heavy whipping cream · 1/2 tsp. Baking soda · 1/4 cup Sugar
Downtown Treasures is a very this store. unique gift store located in the heart
New inventory arrives almost daily, of the downtown Livingston Main
so you can always see something you Street District. We are a family
probably didn’t see the last time you owned business and have been in
were in the store. We just recently had downtown Livingston for more than
a customer come in who was so twelve years now. We have created
intrigued with our latest line of the most amazing customer base over
lighters, that we thought we would the past twelve years. We have made
mention it in this feature article. We so many friends through this business
have them in the shape of Shotguns, and hope to make many more.
Rifles, Fishing rods and Screwdrivers. Downtown Treasures is the kind These lighters can be used to light your
of place you just don’t see in every BBQ pits, fireplaces, heaters, and much town. When you walk in, you are more. They are unique and make a greeted in a very friendly East Texas great gift. This is only one of many manner and told to enjoy your visit. items located in our outdoor gift The store is full of unusual section of the store.collectibles, gift items and unique
We also have wonderful lines such décor for almost any occasion or
as Willow Tree figurines and room imaginable. If you are looking
ornaments, Jim Shore figurines and for that special gift for the hunter,
ornaments, Joan Baker Glass Designs, fisherman, cowboy or cowgirl, golfer,
Betty Boop Collectibles, Looney Tunes family member, friend, coworker or
Collectibles, Disney Collectibles, whomever, you can certainly find it at
Home Grown Collectibles, Woodwick
Candles, Trail of the Painted Ponies selection of gift items for that special figurines and ornaments, Cow Parade, someone in your life. We are located at Hot Diggity Dogs, Fredericksburg 400 N. Washington on the historical Jellies/Dips/Rubs/Mustards/Salsas, downtown Livingston courthouse Heart of Christmas, Pillars, Jewelry, square. We are open seven days a Chimes, Knives, Leaning Tree week from 9:30AM until 5:00PM Mon Greeting Cards, Crazy Signs for all thru Sat and 10:00AM until 4:00PM on occasions and so much more. Sundays. We can be reached at 936-
327-7740.We encourage all of you to shop
local and are inviting each of you to We do offer a layaway program and come in and check out our wonderful we accept all major credit cards.
Downtown Treasures
Piney Woods Pathfinder, December, 2012, Page 13
available in several lots surrounding Waterway Square with prices varying according to location.
“Caroling on the Square” is sponsored by The Woodlands Development Company, Kyle Sherburne THE WOODLANDS, TX featuring performances by the – State Farm Insurance and Munday (November 5, 2012) – December Richmond Carolers and the Merry Chevrolet. ushers in the return of “Caroling on Minstrels. Plus, Santa Claus will make
The Square,” a four-week concert a special appearance on December 1 and For more information on these series at Waterway Square in The December 22, 2012. and other holiday events, visit Woodlands showcasing popular www.TheWoodlandsCVB.com or call Gather friends and family to take holiday songs as performed by local 281-363-2447. Also, “like” The in the dazzling scenery and enjoy the carolers. Woodlands Convention & Visitors cheerful sounds of your favorite holiday
Bureau on Facebook at Produced by The Woodlands songs. Like all holiday events in The www.Facebook.com/VisitTheWoodlandConvention & Visitors Bureau, Woodlands, “Caroling on the Square” is s, “follow” them on Twitter “Caroling on the Square” will take free and open to the public. Lawn chairs www.twitter.com/TheWoodlandsCVB place Saturdays from December 1 and blankets are welcome.and “view” them on YouTube through 22, 2012 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Garage and surface parking is www.YouTube.com/TheWoodlandsCVB.
About The Woodlands
Located just 30 minutes north of and-bike trails, 124 parks, the 1,700-Houston, Texas and minutes from acre George Mitchell Nature Preserve, George Bush Intercontinental Airport, the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, The Woodlands is the destination for kayaking on Lake Woodlands, and leisure guests, individual business taking a cruise on The Woodlands travelers and groups of all sizes. Visitors Waterway. The Woodlands features to The Woodlands enjoy more than eight world-class sporting events including million square feet of world-class the Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas, shopping, dining and entertainment Insperity Golf Championship and the options, more than 194 miles of hike- Nike South Invitational.
“Caroling on the Square”Series Returns to Waterway Square in December
The Museum Guild of the Museum Since its inception in 1976, the Museum of East Texas is pleased and proud to of East Texas has grown to become a present our annual spectacular Festival dynamic cultural center. Housed in a of Trees from November 23, 2012, historic 1905 church, the Museum through January 2, 2013. The Museum contains an extensive collection of hallways are transformed into a winter paintings and sculptures produced by wonderland with a large variety of East Texas artists as well as American, trees decorated in every way Latin American and European masters.imaginable. It is a magnificent sight to
The Museum offers a variety of behold and thrills and delights public programs throughout the year and countless numbers of visitors annually.its commitment to visual arts education
The Festival of Trees is the and cultural enrichment is the driving Museum Guild’s annual fundraiser force behind all of its programs. and those who choose to become Exhibitions, lectures, workshops, sponsors help provide scholarships for children’s events and fundraisers cover a Art Camp, watercolors for Celebrate wide range of interests and topics and Paint, technology for the Museum, and are sure to appeal to everyone.special gifts to the Museum of East
Gallery Hours: Tuesday through Texas throughout the year. Last year’s Friday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday-grand display featured over eighty Sunday: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Extended trees ranging in size from three feet to Hours December 19-23, 2012: Open twelve feet tall.until 8 p.m.
Museum HistoryThe Museum is also closed on the
Seven women had a dream in following holidays: New Year’s Day, 1972—a dream to transform the Christmas Eve, Christmas Day.burned out shell of the former St.
(936) 639-4434 503 North Second St Cyprian’s Episcopal Church into an Lufkin, TX 75901.arts and historical center for the
children and families of East Texas.
Festival of TreesMuseum of East TexasNovember 23, 2012-January 2, 2013
affected areas, choose-and-cut farms may be temporarily closed.
Visit online or call your Christmas tree farm of choice for a list of provided tools and equipment.
Note: Wrap it Up
By: David Glessner, Texas hold their needles than non-native trees, provides more than unforgettable holiday Be prepared for cooler weather and Department of Agriculture Texas trees can last as long as six weeks memories, it also helps realize an rough terrain when choosing and cutting
when properly watered and maintained. economic impact of roughly $15 million your Christmas tree.Trimming the tree means more than Whether opting for a fresh choose-and- to the Texas economy. Before harvest, stringing shimmering lights each holiday * Wear warm, layered clothing to beat cut or pre-cut tree, thousands of Texas- the trees also provide natural shelter for season when Texas Christmas tree the chill. grown evergreens will go home for the Texas wildlife such as birds and rabbits. farmers invite spirited shoppers to select holidays. And even when the ribbons unravel and * Keep toes warm and protected with their very own pine-scented centerpiece the calendar marks a new year, recycled comfortable work boots or sturdy shoes. starting the day after Thanksgiving. "Despite a tough year with the Texas Christmas trees offer the added * Protective gloves will help ward off
drought, production is good and benefit of being biodegradable. scrapes, splinters and cuts. According to the Texas Department producers expect a good year," said * Bundle up the kids with layers, hats of Agriculture, approximately 200 Richard De Los Santos, state marketing "One of the byproducts of recycled
and scarves. Christmas tree farms cover 2,500 acres of coordinator for horticulture, produce and trees is mulch," added De Los Santos. the Lone Star State. Since commercial * Bring a backpack for carrying forestry for TDA. "The industry hopes to "Mulch made from Christmas trees is an Texas growers first gained prominence in snacks, drinks, a camera and additional sell about 125,000 Texas trees." excellent source of organic matter and 1977, the evergreen acreage has turned supplies. nutrients. In areas close to the coast, the tree-shopping tradition into an Characterized by short needles, dense Checking it Twicerecycled trees are used to create sand adventure that often includes such varied foliage and its distinctive pine fragrance, dunes, which protect Texas beaches from For a holiday season that is attractions as educational tours, petting the Virginia pine has been the most erosion." memorable and merry, place safety at the zoos, hay rides, nature trails and other widely planted southern Christmas tree
top of your Christmas tree list.festive activities. for the past three decades. Its counterpart, For a complete listing of Texas the Afghan pine, features widely spaced Christmas tree farms, visit the Texas * Keep tree regularly watered to "We're selling the experience more branches and offers a more open Department of Agriculture's Pick Texas prevent dryness. than the tree," said Robert Childress, appearance. Most plentiful throughout Web site at www.picktexas.com/. You * Check all wires and cords for state president-elect of the Texas East and Central Texas, Afghan pine can also visit the Texas Christmas Tree proper insulation. Christmas Tree Growers Association. farms can be found as far west as Growers Association Web site at * Never use candles in place of "There are a lot of pictures being taken Abilene, Odessa and a few other West www.texaschristmastrees.com/ for a decorative lights. and people having a lot of fun." Texas towns. listing. Be sure to call ahead before you * Keep trees away from fireplaces
head out. Open dates and hours are Fresh, fragrant and more likely to and other heat sources. Choosing and cutting a Texas tree subject to change. In some drought-
See The Forest For The TreesChoosing the Right Christmas Tree
Piney Woods Pathfinder, December, 2012, Page 15
accommodate them. The main stage will Stone Gate, Christian Rock Band, be at the blinking light, The Plaza is on will be making their 3rd appearance to the east side of the courthouse. Again share their unique style of music!this year, Carolyn Jefferson, aka Granny
For the very first time, we have Evergreen conducts “Coldspring’s Got arranged for two of the finest Country Talent”!Gospel Singers/Songwriters and
Our very popular Carnival will not Recording Artists to grace our main be located in the same place this year … stage. You won’t be disappointed! Both the location will be announced. Watch men have been honored with prestigious The Coldspring / San Jacinto will open early, as well as the largest the Chamber website for information – awards from the International County Chamber of Commerce believes number of vendors we’ve ever had on www.coldspringtexas.org Country/Gospel Music Association. this years event in Coldspring promises the square! We believe our early
Terry Davis is the owner of a chain of to be the best ever, beginning with the planning decision to lower our vendor In every phase of planning, our goal Burger King Restaurants, from Tyler. main stage line up, which is packed with fees in an effort to boost our economy is having something for everyone … Terry Davis’s 16 yr old granddaughter, a variety of music genes and activities! contributed to this. We only have a few always keeping the entire family in Lizzie Harris, is also a gospel singer and spaces open at this point. mind! Here’s a glimpse at the main stage For your Christmas shopping she will be featured in his segment.entertainment:convenience, merchants on the square The Senior Citizens Center and
Rev. Jimmy Price pastors Noble Thrift Store will open at 8 a.m. with a Beginning at 11 a.m.: Moseley Baptist Church in Louisiana. We feel so fundraiser breakfast and mid afternoon Gymnastics from Livingston. fortunate to have entertainers who have Chili lunch. Head over to the such busy lives and yet are so dedicated Gold Rush Quartet opens the main Community Center where you’ll find the to proclaiming the Gospel in song and stage as our host for their 24th year! Wreath Contest display, coffee & hot word.Bass singer Dale Weiman is our Master chocolate and the Sweet Shop! You
of Ceremonies.don’t want to miss this! The Sweet Shop Take time to listen to their music is a fundraiser for new flooring in the and the lyrics … it will enrich your life! Entertainers will include recording Community Center. You’ll receive a box Each artist writes the majority of their artist, Teresa Hosea from Huntsville, so you can make your choices of compositions and each includes that Cloggers on the Move, Jim & Teresa “sweets” to take home! ‘country flavor’ in their music.Smith, taking time from their Nashville
appearances to be with us! Troy Mauney Coldspring United Methodist As always First Baptist Church in from Shepherd will be intermixing Church’s renown “Gumbo Kitchen” Coldspring will feature the Community Christmas with Country. And what a begins at 11 a.m. until they run out! Choir at 4:45 … a little earlier this year.treat … locally known and loved,
We’ve had so many people who Barbara Shelly, takes the stage to bless Submitted by Gerald L. Deeter, have requested to participate vocally on us with her gifts and talents, resulting Chamber Publicity Chairman for the main stage, we are considering from a vow she made to God! She’ll Christmas On The Squarearranging yet another stage to share it with us!
30th AnnualChristmas On The SquareSaturday, December 8th
items, condiments, desserts, cereal, “The holiday food drive has personal care items, household items, become a tradition for our shoppers, and diapers to benefit Interfaith of employees and friends in The The Woodlands. Last year’s Woodlands,” says Richard Van Der Dys collection resulted in a donation of of Donoho’s Jewellers. “The response more than 2,600 pounds of canned from those in the community has been goods and other non-perishable items. fantastic and we’re certainly looking
forward to another successful effort.” Donate 10 items or more and receive one free admission to The Ice Located along the northeast Rink at The Woodlands Town Center corner of Lake Robbins and Six Pines (limit one per family). Those Drive, visitors can wander through the
THE WOODLANDS, TX The Woodlands Town Center, presented donating fewer than 10 items will fantasyland of magical, lighted toy (November 2, 2012) – Donoho’s by your Houston Area Chevy Dealers. receive a $2 off coupon to The Ice soldiers, elves, doves, musical angels Jewellers and The Woodlands Rink. and snowmen from dusk until 11 p.m. Now through January 21, Convention & Visitors Bureau once beginning November 17, 2012 through 2013, Donoho’s Jewellers at 9590 Six “This has been a wonderful again will partner to host the Annual January 21, 2013. Pines Drive, The Woodlands, will partnership,” said Dr. Ann Snyder, Winter Wonderland Food Drive to accept non-perishable food items President & CEO of Interfaith of The For complete information on all benefit Interfaith of The Woodlands including canned items, soup, pasta, Woodlands. “Every year, the need for holiday events, please visit with donors receiving free or snack foods, cooking helpers, protein our services grows, and we’re certainly www.HolidayInTheWoodlands.com. discounted tickets to The Ice Rink at
grateful to Donoho’s and The Also, “like” The Woodlands Woodlands CVB for helping us meet Convention & Visitors Bureau on this increasing demand.” Facebook at
www.Facebook.com/VisitTheWoodlan Donoho’s Jewellers also has ds, “follow” them on Twitter been a continuous sponsor of The www.twitter.com/TheWoodlandsCVB Woodlands Winter Wonderland, and “view” them on YouTube scheduled to open Saturday, November www.YouTube.com/TheWoodlandsCV17, 2012 featuring illuminated holiday B. scenes and storybook displays
surrounding The Ice Rink at The Woodlands Town Center.
Piney Woods Pathfinder, December, 2012, Page 17
Donoho’s Jewellers Winter Wonderland
Annual Food Drive To BenefitInterfaith of The WoodlandsDonors enjoy free or discounted admissionto The Woodlands Ice Rink
The 2012 SJC Women’s League Some of the buildings, such as the fire Christmas Tour will take place in station and the gas station, are Shepherd on Sunday, December 2, animated. from 1:00-5:00 p.m. The Shepherd The large, open-concept kitchen Community Center will serve as has a “really neat” pantry. The den Hospitality Room for the Tour. While has a fireplace that extends up to the at the Hospitality Room, tour second floor. To furnish the house the participants can purchase a tour ticket Plunketts have mixed antiques and and pick up driving instructions as some western décor. Many of the well as sip some Christmas punch and antiques are family heirlooms. The purchase a raffle ticket. collection includes handmade quilts
The Plunkett home, pictured in the and a large assortment of salt glazed photo above, is located on Hwy 150, crocks and Santas. Stained glass halfway between Shepherd and hangs in almost every window. All of Coldspring. It is an authentic log these treasures give the house a home and the second of three log somewhat rustic but formal homes along this stretch of road. It appearance.was built in 2004 and purchased by See this home and five other sites the Plunketts in 2010. “We drove past decorated for the Holidays on this house for years, admiring it, and December 2, 2012. For more never dreaming we would one day information call Arnette Daugherty at live in it,” said April Plunkett. 936-377-3906.
The home is built on 1.5 acres of beautiful woodlands. The porch wraps all the way around the house. There are four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a loft. One bedroom is used for Gilbert’s model train collection. He has an L shaped table with two separate tracks to run O-gauge trains (some Lionel, mostly MTH). The snow-covered layout includes landscaping, vehicles, skaters, and Department 56 buildings.
Wood. Pavilions. A Night in Bethlehem is free to the public.
The City of Livingston will also be sponsoring a hayride through the park, For more information about this so all can enjoy the display of Christmas event or other First Baptist Church lights. events, call (936) 327-4417 or visit
fbclivingston.org.Make plans to join us for A Night in
Bethlehem, Dec. 1-3 from 6 p.m. to 8 BY CYNDIE SCHMIDT, First opportunities for young people and the p.m. at the Pedigo Park Trade Days Baptist Church overall experience is priceless.
First Baptist Church of Livingston Each year more than 3,000 people is gearing up for their annual Christmas step back in time to experience life event, A Night in Bethlehem. during the days of Jesus’ birth.
Volunteers will soon begin This year there will be no waiting. working diligently to transform the Upon arriving, guests will be able to Trade Days Pavilions at Pedigo Park immediately enter the city. This is one into the little town of Bethlehem. of many exciting changes made to this Costumes are already being sewn and years production. props are being built, along with many
Over twenty multi-generational other important preparations that make
shops will line the streets, donkeys, this an exceptional experience.
sheep, and mini horses will roam the First Baptist Church first began town, and Roman guards will keep
their Bethlehem production more than watch as guests make their way to the 10 years ago. It has grown considerably stable where they will experience the over the years from where it started in wonders of a living nativity. the grassy lot behind the FBC
After walking through Bethlehem, Wadsworth building off of N. Houston
guests will enjoy freshly baked cookies, Street.
hot chocolate, and wassail, while “Going to Bethlehem” has become listening to special Christmas music
a yearly tradition for many families in presented by the First Baptist Church the area. There are numerous learning choir under the direction of Kevan
First Baptist Church of Livingston gears up for
A Night in Bethlehemat Pedigo Park Pavilions
The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas This is an presents the Natives Craft Fair on alcohol free Friday, November 30th from 5:00 pm and drug free to 8:00 pm and Saturday, December 1 event not from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at the Special responsible Events Center on the Alabama- for accidents Coushatta Reservation. or injury.There will be baskets, beadwork, Christmas decorations and other unique For more items handcrafted by Alabama- information Coushatta, Coushatta and other Native on this event or vendor information, American artisans. Concession will be please call the Public Relations Office sold and there will be lots of free @ 936/563-1120.parking available.
Natives Craft FairNovember 30 & December 1, 2012
The Livingston Art League - the month at 8 a.m. in at the meets on the 4th Monday of the Chamber's Office.months Sept., Oct, Jan., Feb., April,
Shepard Chamber of Commerce and May, also the 1st Monday of
– Meets the fourth Monday of every Dec. at St. Luke's Episcopal Church
month at 6:00 pm at the EDC at 836 Jones St., Livingston, TX
Building on the corner of Rt 150 and 77351. Our time is 9:00am to 12:00
McKellar St, in Shepherd. Call 936-for our paint-in (everyone welcome Better Breather's Club - These Families and Individuals 628-3890.to come and paint on whatever you meetings are free of charge and open thanking heroes – Meets the second chose) and 12:00 to 3:00pm for our SJC Women's League - The to anyone with lung disease, anyone Thursday of each month from 6 to meeting. We have refreshments and Women's League of San Jacinto with a friend or loved one with lung 7:30 p.m. at the Livingston Physical demonstrators who show all County meets on the second disease, or anyone that wants more Therapy office. For information, call mediums. For more info. call Celeste Thursday of each month, September information on lung health. Meetings Andrea at 936-327-4084.Williamson, 936 967-2161 or email: through May, at the Coldspring will be held the first Thursday of each
Friends of Myrphy Memorial [email protected] Community Center. The monthly month at 3:30 pm. Meeting location: Library- Friends are active workers meetings begin at noon and include Memorial Medical Center, Livingston Lion’s Club - Meets in library projects and raise funds for lunch and a program. For more Livingston, Tx, 936-327-8825, every Wednesday at 12 noon at Camp library projects. Meetings are held the information, call Arnette Daugherty Contact: Shelia Peabody Cho-Yeh, For more information on third Wednesday of each month at at 377-3906.
meetings or joining contact Casey Care Share Mission, Inc. of San 11:00 a.m. at the library, 601 W. Evans 936-328-4888 or Henry Ager Soup for Seniors – 936-327-3696 Jacinto County - is a food pantry Church Street.936-327-0936 Soup Donation Sites: Guardian open from 10am until 2pm, weekly
Friends of the Onalaska Healthcare 1601 Hwy 59 Loop N. Monday and Thursday. We serve Livingston Rotary Club – Every Library- Friends of the Onalaska Mikes Saw and Supply 2118 Hwy qualifying residents of San Jacinto Thursday from noon to 1 p.m. at Cho Library support a wide variety of 190 W, TexTia's 904 W Church County. We are located at 21 Butler Yeh, For information , call Ray library projects. For details, contact Street, Escapees Care Center 155 St., Coldspring, Texas. You may call Gearing at 936-327-2752.the Onalaska City Hall between 9 Care Center Drive, VFW Hall 3916 for more information during our a.m. and 6 p.m. weekdays and Piecemakers Quilt Guild – Hwy 59 North, The Coffee Spot 1503 working hours at 936-653-5543.Saturdays. You may also call librarian Meets the second Monday of each E Houston St Cleveland.
Christian Motorcycle Jenny Quintin, at 936-646- Book month at 9:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Stroke Support Group “The Association – King's Kids – Meets at (2665). Church, 106 Colt Rd (59 North....in nd thPreventers” – The 2 & 4 Thursday 6 p.m. the second Thursday of each the Hospital area). "Bees" are held at Future Farmers of America - of the month, 1 pm at Guardian month at Texas Pepper. Rides are various times throughout the month. FFA members learn leadership skills, Health Care in Northridge Plaza, next planned on fourth Saturdays. For Call Kay Hardy at 936-329-3660 for public speaking and occupational to the hospital on the Hwy 59 feeder information, call Doc Hinds at 936- more information. Come expand your skills. Call Candis Carraway at 936- raod, Suite 400. A hands – on 566-4340 or Jimmy Mattix at 936- quilting experience.328-2257 for information about FFA community forum for preventing 327-1223.
programs. Piney Wood Lakes Chapter of stroke and helping those affected by CASA – Court Appointed Texas Master Naturalist - Meets the stroke.Habitat for Humanity of Polk
Special Advocates – For information first Thursday of each month at the County Applicant Meeting - TOPS (Take Off Pounds to become a volunteer donating time Polk County Chamber of Commerce Meetings are held the last Wednesday Sensibly) Onalaska Chapter - meets for children of Polk County, call located on Hwy 59 North of of every month at First National Bank Thursday morning at Pine Forest Joanis Robertson at 936-523-0519. Livingston. Our meeting time is 2 Westside. Baptist Church on Hwy. 190 W. PM.Coldspring's Area Business and Applicants must be residents of Polk Weigh-in 9:00A.M. Meeting starts Merchants - Meets the second County. Meeting begins at 1:00 and Polk County Republican Club - 9:30A.M. For more information call Thursday of the month at 5:15 p.m. generally lasts about an hour, Meets every first Tuesday of the Betty Willis at 936-967-3913 or Cora's Corner. Call 936-653-2332 depending on number of applicants in month at La Casita Mexican Doris Daniels at 936-967-8850.
attendance. Please call our office at Restaurant on old Highway 59 Coldspring / San Jacinto County United Daughters of the 936-328-8529 or e-mail our (Washington Street) starting at Chamber of Commerce - Meets 3rd Confederacy – Meets the second Executive Director at 6:00PM for those wanting to eat and Tuesday of each month at noon for Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the [email protected] for more visit. The program begins at 6:30. member luncheon at the Coldspring Livingston Heritage House. The information. Everyone is cordially invited to Community Center. Board Meeting is genealogical society welcomes the attend. For more information contact the first Thursday of each month at 8 Hook 'Needle Charities Club – public.Penny Uselton at 713-553-0962a.m. at the Chamber office. Meets the second Wednesday of each Veteran’s of Foreign Wars - month from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at th Polk County Social Club – Coldspring's Trade Days – 4 Meets the 3rd Monday of the month Memorial Medical Center – Meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Saturday monthly , March – at the Post Home, located at 3916 US Livingston dinning room. The club the VFW hall. For more information, November Highway 59 North in Livingston (3 crochets, knits and sews items for call Mary at 936-327-9015.
miles north of Livingston). Covered needy individuals. For information, DMA – Don't Mention Age – For Polk County SPCA - Meets on dish menu at 6:30 pm and the call Joan Reeves at 936-327-1989.people 55 and older meets at 10 a.m.
the first Thursday of every month at meeting starts at 7:30 pm. For more the second Monday at First United Levis and Lace Square Dance 6:00pm at the Masonic Lodge, 1907 info 936-327-9119, Methodist Church – Livingston. Club – Meets on Tuesday nights at N. Washington Ave. www.livingston.net/vfw8568.Luncheons, speakers, book reviews, the elementary school in Onalaska at trips and entertainment. Call 936-566- San Jacinto County Chamber of 7:30 p.m. For more information call 4766. Commerce - Meets first Thursday of Nancy Hollis at 936-327-8432.
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