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OUTSMARTING CANCER TAKES LEADING MEDICINE.

At Houston Methodist Cancer Center, our teams of nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer, while delivering the most advanced treatments and comprehensive care available. From screenings to diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments, our leading cancer care is available at all seven locations across Greater Houston, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/outsmartcancer or call 281.737.2500to find a doctor in your area.

Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Willowbrook18220 State Hwy. 249Houston, TX 77070

Baytown

Willowbrook

Texas Medical Center

West Houston-Katy

Sugar Land

The Woodlands

Bay Area

table of CONTENTSTomball

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n o v e m b e r 2 0 1 7

From the Managing Editor

Dock Line Magazine - Tomball Edition November 2017 5

To view Dock Line Magazine online, scan this QR code and use it as a shortcut to link to our website using your smart phone’s camera.

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On the CoverKim and James Wiggins opened Wiggins Furniture and Mattress in 2000 with the purpose of bringing family values and quality furniture back to the community they consider family.

7 In & Around 8 Furnishing Family Values - A Business Built on Family Values12 Back to Health14 Speed Networking Event15 How to Hire a Contractor BeSpecificandMakeSureYouGetit in Writing16 TP&W: New Plans for Lake Raven Or There’sMoreThanOneWay To Skin a Cat20 Friends of Texas Wildlife: Opossums; Why We Love Them!22 Fishing Hole Nature: The Slithery Dee – The Non-Venomous Diamondback Water Snake26 LEGALISSUES:GUARDIANSHIP28 Around Town29 Tomball Chamber of Commerce

Bentley

OUTSMARTING CANCER TAKES LEADING MEDICINE.

At Houston Methodist Cancer Center, our teams of nationally recognized specialists are finding new ways to outsmart cancer, while delivering the most advanced treatments and comprehensive care available. From screenings to diagnosis and cutting-edge treatments, our leading cancer care is available at all seven locations across Greater Houston, so you can focus on healing, surviving and thriving.

Visit houstonmethodist.org/outsmartcancer or call 281.737.2500to find a doctor in your area.

Houston Methodist Cancer Center at Willowbrook18220 State Hwy. 249Houston, TX 77070

Baytown

Willowbrook

Texas Medical Center

West Houston-Katy

Sugar Land

The Woodlands

Bay Area

In light of all the recent struggles and devastation that has transpired from far to many recent natural disasters it seems more important than ever to be thankful this November. Thankful for the lives that were saved, the people and communi-ties who united together to help and the overall compassion we have seen. It is in times like this that my faith in human-ity is sometimes restored. This month as we begin to celebrate another holiday season, I encourage everyone to find something to be thankful for like being able to give your dog a giant Turkey leg to eat on Thanksgiving (HINT HINT). A huge Thank you to all of our readers and advertisers for their continued support. I hope every one has a wonderful blessed Thanksgiving!

Until next month,

16

20

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6 Dock Line Magazine - Tomball Edition November 2017

Angela GlezmanPUBLISHER/EdIToR

BentleyMANAgINg EdIToR

Kelly L. O’QuinnART dIREcToR

Lindsey KasprzakgRAPHIc dESIgNER

Karyn GreenSocIAL MEdIA STRATEgIST

Tyler Forner SALES ASSocIATE

Kathy Haas PHoTogRAPHER

Brad Meyer Cheyenne Simpson

WRITERS

coNTRIBUToRS:Dr. Lindsey Thomas, DC

James M. BrightBronwyn Clear • Lisa Wolling

Carl VignaliDOCK LINE MAGAZINE - TOMbALL is published by:Magic Marketing, Inc.P.O. box 204Montgomery, TX 77356Telephone: 936-828-4296Fax: 936-307-1300E-mail: [email protected]

Subscriptions to DOCK LINE MAGAZINE - TOMbALL cost $25.00 per year. To subscribe, mail a check with your nameand address to:P.O. box 204Montgomery, TX 77356

Dock Line Magazine welcomes reader correspon-dence. We reserve the right to edit or reject any material submitted. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of any unsolicited ma-terial.

DOCK LINE MAGAZINE© 2017, all rights reserved. All editorial and advertising copy belongs solely to DOCK LINE MAGAZINE. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is strictly prohibited.Articles are the opinions and experiences of other people and we do not necessarily approve, agree with, and/or condone those opinions.

Tomball


Tomball Farmer’s MarketWhen: November 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2017Time: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.Where: Corner of Main St. and Walnut St. in downtown Tomball, TX Home to growers, craftsmen & artisans the Tom-ball Farmers Market is a registered nonprofit and works as a cooperative effort of local families dedicated to providing the highest quality food and handmade products to our community. This market was created by farmers and is operated by farmers. We can only exist and attract more

farmers through your continued support. For more information call Sarah Starnes at 281-826-2196 or email [email protected].

2nd Saturday at the DepotWhen: Saturday, November 11, 2017Time: 4:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.Where: Historic Downtown Depot, 201 South Elm St., Tomball, TX 77375Admission & Parking - FREE2nd Saturday at the Depot is a family oriented event held on the second Saturday of every month. From themed arts and crafts, to games, music and a movie under the stars on the giant inflatable screen, 2nd Saturday is fun for the entire family. This month’s movie is “Open Season: Scared Silly”. For more information call 281-351-5484.

The Downtown Holiday Lamp Post StrollWhen: November 17, 2017Time: Noon - ???Where: Throughout downtown Tomball, TX

Admission & Parking - FREEMore than 50 ornamental lampposts in down-town Tomball are decorated for the holidays by local merchants and organizations. From the whimsical to the traditional, Tomball is Texan for Fun at Christmastime. For more informa-tion call 281-222-4775.

52nd Annual Tomball Holiday Parade Presented by GTACCWhen: November 18, 2017Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Where: Main St. of Downtown Tomball with Free parking available on both the north and south side streets off Main St./FM 2920. The pa-rade will start at Main Street and Elm and move west on Main Street to just past Buvinghausen. Patrons can line Main Street between Elm and Buvinghausen. Join us for the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce 52nd Annual Tomball Holiday Parade. The theme this year is Texas Strong: Honoring Harvey’s Heroes. We look forward to celebrating this annual tradi-tion as well as all the people, whether it be first responders, organizations, volunteers, families, or friends, that were heroes during and after the hurricane to help and support our community and make us stronger. u


“Let Us Help Make Your House a Home”

When it comes to furniture, the owners of Wiggins Furniture and Mattress in Conroe have one simple rule, “If it’s not quality appropriate for our families home, we aren’t going to sell it to our customers to put in their home.” It’s a rule that this locally owned and operated business has stood by since the beginning and one that has allowed them to build their business to what it is today.

Kim and James Wiggins opened Wiggins Furniture and Mattress in 2000 with the purpose of bringing family values and quality furniture back to the community they consider family.

“After Shepard’s Furniture [a former furniture store in Conroe] closed in 1996, a big box corpora-tion bought it out and quickly got rid of the quality solid wood furniture,” explained Kim, who worked at Shepard’s until their closing. “I felt the need to offer the same solid wood quality furnishings with a family friendly atmosphere that our community was accustomed to.”

Since opening Wiggins Furniture 17 years ago, they have grown from a 3,500 square foot store to a 30,000 square foot community staple. Their impressive showroom is located off of Highway 105 West, just 3.2 miles from I-45 and only minutes away from Lake Conroe. Their inventory is as diverse as the com-munity they serve and one that supports their motto “Let Us Help Make Your House a Home”.

“Anyone can buy a house,” Kim said. “We help customers turn it into a home by having a variety of

Furnishing Family ValuesA Business Built on Family Values

By: Cheyenne Simpson


Continued on page 10 1

choices and styles for them to choose from. We want them to be able to find things that represent their personality and style.”

From quality solid wood and upholstered living, dining, bedroom and office furniture to mattresses and accessories, there is something for the entire community.

“We buy with our community in mind keeping our showroom fresh with new ideas, styles and choices,” Kim said.

However, customers aren’t limited to what they see in the store, they have the ability to choose between a variety of fabrics and pillows for their sofas, chairs, recliners and other upholstered pieces.

Wiggins Furniture not only has an inventory that represents the commu-nity’s diverse style, but one that will support generations of families.


“We pay close attention to the construction,” Kim expressed. “I want our customers to enjoy what they choose for years to come.”

However, when customers walk into Wiggins Furniture it’s not just qual-ity furniture they can expect to find, but a family friendly atmosphere that will make them feel right at home. Something Kim said makes them stand out from other furniture stores, “Unlike other furniture stores we have a no hassle sales approach and don’t hover over our customers. We want them to have the privacy to shop around without worrying about a sales person pushing them to buy, buy, buy.”

While customers can expect a peaceful and hassle free shopping experi-ence, Matt Johnson, who has been with Wiggins Furniture for 11 years and is top sales representative and customer favorite, said they are there for anything a customer needs, “We aren’t here to just make a sale. We are ready to answer

questions as they arise without being pushy. We are here to help them find exactly what they want or need to make their house a home.”

Since opening Wiggins Furniture, Kim and James Wiggins have helped countless generations of families turn their house into a home, all while build-ing quality relationships that have turned customers into family.

“My husband and I were raised here and plan to retire here,” Kim said excitedly. “We look forward to seeing our customers outside of the store know-ing they will be happy with Wiggins Furniture and come back when they are in need of another piece of furniture.”

So, the next time you’re in need of living, dining, bedroom or office fur-niture stop by the Wiggins Furniture and Mattress showroom to see how they can help make your house a home. Their inventory is always changing so you never know what you might find! Don’t forget to visit their “Mattress Gallery” to try their large selection of Tempurpedic, Sealy and Serta I-comfort mattress-es along with their large selection of adjustable bases fit for a variety of needs.

Their showroom is located at 5459 W. Davis St., Conroe, TX 77304 and is open Monday- Friday 10am-6:30pm and Saturdays 10am-5:00pm. They are closed on Sundays.

If you have questions or want to know more call them at (936)441-1959, follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google+, Pinterest, Houzz or visit them at www.wigginsfurniture.net. u


Sniffling, Sneezing and Wheezing: Avoiding Those Fall Allergies

Fall is here and many of us are probably no-ticing that we are starting to sniffle and sneeze a little more often. We have pollen to thank for that. Ragweed pollination is in full swing during the fall months. When pollen gets into the noses of certain people, it triggers the runny nose, itchy eyes, and other allergy symptoms.

Air pollution can make allergy symptoms worse. One of the most common pollutants is ozone, which is created in the atmosphere by a combination of sunlight, nitrogen oxide, and hy-drocarbons from burning fuel. Clouds of ozone are created around some cities as the sunlight be-comes stronger.

Inside, molds love damp areas, including the basement and bathrooms. Their spores get into the air and can cause problems for allergy sufferers.

Dust mites, tiny insects, thrive in warm, hu-mid temperatures and nest in beds, fabric, and car-pets. Their residue can get into the air, triggering sneezes, wheezes, itchy skin and runny noses.

In a healthy person, when the immune sys-tem is stressed by being exposed to these envi-ronmental triggers, chemicals are released that produce inflammation. These chemicals are made by immune cells that migrate to the site where the body is compromised. By the end of the inflamma-tory process another group of immune cells begins to produce chemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-inflammatory chemicals help in calming the area of inflammation. As a re-sult, the symptoms of inflammation begin to re-

solve. The body, in the ideal situation, is genetically programmed to heal itself.

These symptoms become a chronic occur-rence when your immune system is not func-tioning at 100%. Here are some tips to keep you healthy throughout the springtime months.DIET

Clean up the diet by removing simple sugars. These sugars include glucose, sucrose, fructose and lactose and processed white flours. These sug-ars are in cereals, juices, cookies, cake, candy, soda, soft drinks, shakes, snack bars, milk, cheese, ice cream, bread, pasta, crackers and fast foods.

Sugar, like salt, is dehydrating to the body. Dehydration increas-es histamine levels. Histamine is another pro-inf lammator y chemical that can worsen symptoms. Water helps reduce histamine levels. Ap-proximately, seventy percent of our body is made up of water. Make sure you drink water as your main beverage and stay well hydrated.

Remove un-healthy fats. These include partially hydrogenated oils, margarine, vegetable

shortening and cooking oils such as corn, veg-etable, safflower and sunflower oils. Use olive oil, organic butter, grape seed oil, coconut oil and cold pressed oils for cooking. You can also supplement your diet with good quality fish oil.

Eliminate the dyes, preservatives, food color-ings, artificial sweeteners and additives found in most foods. Even pay attention to the color of your toothpaste and deodorant.

Of course, we all have those urges to eat ice cream, chips, candy, etc. That’s why I recommend the 80/20 rule. 80% of the time stick with a diet that is filled with whole foods (i.e. vegetables, le-gumes, meat, chicken, fish, fruit) and the other 20% of the time satisfy your craving!Chiropractic Care

Since chiropractic deals directly with allow-ing the nervous system to function at its highest

ability, chiropractic care for an individual with al-lergies can be extremely beneficial. It is a safe, ef-fective, and natural form of care.

It’s most important to understand that chiro-practic is not a treatment for allergies. Its purpose is to reduce stress on the body. Stress interferes with the proper functioning of the nervous system, can weaken the immune system, lower resistance and reduce the body’s ability to heal effectively.

The chiropractic adjustment frees the ner-vous system from spinal stress allowing the im-mune system to function properly. This allows you to respond to internal and external environmental stresses more efficiently.

The adjustment is very gently and customized to each patients’ needs. At Sandstone Chiropractic, we offer of variety of adjustment techniques to best fit the patient.Household Chemicals

We are all being overexposed to chemicals from the products we use in our household and daily lives. As the exposure becomes greater, aller-gic responses are also increasing.

Trading out your all-purpose cleaner for vin-egar, lemon juice, baking soda and water is one way to eliminate the exposure.

Avoid petroleum-based products. This is very common in the lotion, shampoo, conditioner and body wash that we use.

Rather than using insect repellent that you buy in the store, use eucalyptus oil as a deterrent for those pesky bugs.

Switch your laundry detergent to chemical free. Several manufacturers create detergents that are free of phosphates and chlorine and are super concentrated, so a little goes a long way

If your or anyone in your family starts snif-fling, sneezing, itching or comes home with a bite, here are a few natural remedies to eliminate the symptoms.

Vitamin E oil applied to a bee sting can re-lieve pain and swelling.

A slice of onion rubbed on the site will relieve the itch and swelling of an insect bite. A paste of baking soda and water or mud and water will also calm the area.

Peppermint oil acts as a decongestant, and substances in peppermint contain anti-inflamma-tory and mild antibacterial constituents.

Flushing the nose with saline solution (salt water) can help soothe upper respiratory allergies by removing irritants that become lodged in the nose and cause inflammation.

Dust mites love a humid environment, which allows them to reproduce like crazy. Invest in a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier can also help pre-vent mold, another allergen, from growing. When cooking or showering, take advantage of the ex-haust fan, another way to help keep humidity to a minimum.

If you find that you keep having the same allergic response or the response intensifies even after eliminating all inflammatory factors, further allergy testing may be necessary to identify the source.

Sandstone Chiropractic provides compre-hensive allergy testing for all ages. Please contact our office for more information regarding these tests. u

Luncheon DetailsThursday, November 17, 2017

Networking 11 a.m.; Luncheon begins at

11:30 a.m.Sterling Country Club, 16500 Houston

National Blvd., Houston, TX 77095

Costs $25 with advanced reservations; $30 at the door


Speed Networking Event

At the November 17 Cy-Fair Express Network Luncheon, members, and guests participate in a fun, quick-paced Speed Networking Event. This is a great way to meet and get to know those in attendance and at the same time allowing others to get to know you and your business. Join us and be a part of the fun!

This month’s extended CYFEN meeting begins with networking at 11:00 a.m. followed with a prompt 11:30 a.m. start of the program. Lun-cheons are held at the Sterling Country Club, 16500 Houston National Blvd.About Cy-Fair Express Network (CYFEN)

Now over 60 members strong, Cy-Fair Express Network’s vision is to be a community and national leader for the support of professional women by providing a nurturing environment for business development, networking, education and mentor-ing. Our members have opportunities to pursue excellence and achieve both local and national recognition. CYFEN is part of the national organization of American Business Women’s As-sociation (ABWA), for more information go to www.CYFEN.org.About American Business Women’s Association (ABWA)

Founded in 1949, ABWA provides business training and networking opportunities for women of diverse occupations and backgrounds. ABWA has dedicated 60 years to women’s education, workplace skills and career development training. For more information, visit, www.abwa.org. u


Thousands of homeowners whose residences were damaged by the flooding brought on by Hurricane Harvey are going to need professional help in repairing, re-storing and renovating their homes.

Flood damage can be particularly devastating, so it’s important to bring in experts who know what they are doing − and to do your homework to make sure you hire professionals who will get the job done, not take the money and run. Here are ten things to help you select the right team for the job.

1. Assess the situation: Before calling in potential contractors, take a detailed in-ventory of your situation and what needs to be done. You may not be an expert in home repair, but common sense will go a long way in helping you determine the scope of the job. It will also serve as a helpful starting point in discussing the work to be done with home repair special-ists.

2. Talk to your insurance company: Make sure you understand what coverage you have and what insurance will pay for and what it won’t. Most insurance covers damage from falling water but not rising water, such as flooding. Depending on your situation, you may want to proceed with minimal repairs or take this as an op-portunity to remodel your home the way you always wanted it.

3. Seek impartial recommendations: Instead of blindly picking a contractor on-line, ask friends, neighbors, relatives and business associates for recommenda-tions of professionals they have used in the past and whose work was acceptable. Beware of contractors going door to door in flood ravaged areas looking for work or offering to do work while they are in the area working on other jobs. And be sure to check references, including the Better Business Bureau, to see what others have to say about their work.

4. Fair comparison: With a written description of the project, you can make sure you are on the same page with all of your prospective contractors. This will help you compare the bids and proposals you receive − in writing − from contractors bidding on the job. Make sure they include labor, materials and a projected timeline for the completion of work to be done.

5. Select a contractor you are comfort-

how to hire a contractorBe Specific and Make Sure You Get it in WritingBy: Brad Meyer

able with: Repairing flood damage can be a lengthy process, so make sure you are comfortable communicating with them be-cause the work required could take weeks, or longer, to complete.

6. Verify capabilities: The State of Texas does not require contractors to be licensed, so anyone with a pickup and a tool belt can call themselves a contractor. But many municipalities require building permits for structural repairs and licensed repairs − and inspections by the city − of electrical, plumbing, HVAc and other key areas of construction. It’s important that

your contractor is aware of and follows local regulations by securing permits in advance of construction and that the work is inspected and approved by city officials upon completion.

7. Hidden damage: Be aware that flood damage can result in serious con-sequences that may not be seen or make themselves known for several weeks or months. Moisture in the walls can lead to mold, a serious health risk that can be hazardous to your respiratory system and quite expensive to fix. Make sure your contractor has the experience and exper-tise to fix potential mold problems before closing up walls and installing sheetrock, countertops and other building compo-nents.

8. Put it in writing: A contract for work to be done should be very specific about the scope of the project, anticipated costs and how payment is to be handled. do not assume something will be covered as a matter of general practice. Anything not specifically addressed in the agreement is subject to later negotiation − and a likely increase in the budget − if not spelled out in the contract.

9. don’t pay up front: The Better Busi-ness Bureau recommends staggering payment so the final installment is made at the time the job is completed. It’s also

important to keep records of the transac-tions, so don’t pay with cash. If you have to write a check, make sure it’s written out to a company and not an individual. And make sure you keep copies of all pay-ments made, and request a “payment in full” final receipt.

10. Review the project: once the work is completed, take note of the quality of work and any concerns you have. If there is an issue, it’s best to contact your con-tractor sooner rather than later to work out potential problems or uncertainties. Feel free to post your experiences online or with the Better Business Bureau to help potential customers. u


By: Carl Vignali, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

new Plans for lake Ravenor

there’s more than one way to skin a cat

Lake Raven is a 203.5 acre impound-ment located within Huntsville State Park which is primarily known for its Large-mouth Bass fishing. The lake is located about an hour north of Houston off Inter-state 45. Lake surveys have shown abun-dant populations of Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, and Redear Sunfish. But Catfish, both Blue and channel, while being found in the lake are a result of stockings and have not maintained themselves through natural reproduction and recruitment. The management team responsible for the lake started to question why a waterbody of this size would not support the natural recruitment of Channel Catfish. The as-

sumption has always been that the bass population was so great, that any natural recruitment of catfish were consumed before they could reach a catchable size. While this is a possibility, it’s not the only feasible explanation. Insufficient habi-tat for catfish spawning could also be the reason for no catfish recruitment in the lake. Catfish naturally spawn in holes; hollow logs, cavities between rocks, root wads, undercut banks, etc. They are what is called cavity nesters. A sexually mature male will select and clean a nest site and lure a female in to spawn with. After the female deposits an egg mass and it is fer-tilized by the male, he drives the female

out of the nest and begins his guard duty. The male protects the eggs form preda-tors, and fans them with his fins to keep the eggs aerated and free from sediment. depending on the water temperature, it will take from 6 to 10 days for the eggs to hatch.

our hypothesis is that there is insuf-ficient spawning structure in Lake Raven for natural spawning to occur. The lake has very little downed timber or rocks for nesting sites and the bottom is mostly a silt layer. To test this we have developed a plan which is as follows. The fall of this year, 2017, we have requested to have 20,000 nine inch channel catfish stocked in Lake Raven with the expectation that a good portion of these fish will survive to become sexually mature. As of this article, 14,495 of the 20,000 have been stocked with more coming. In the late winter/early spring, we will place around 70 spawning structures in the lake at a 3 to 8 foot range and record the coordinates of each place-ment for relocation in the future. When water temperatures become conducive for spawning activity, around 80 degrees, the spawning structures will be monitored for activity using a water-proof camera. Jars with activity will be noted and rechecked for egg masses and fry. In the summer of 2018, fish sampling will be conducted to determine catfish abundance as well as the year class of the fish.


If there is no spawning activity found and the following fish sampling survey shows sexually mature catfish in the lake, the structures will be moved to new locations. If the sampling does not produce any sexually mature fish, the jars will be left and rechecked the following spring. In the event that there is spawning activity noted, then the fol-lowing sampling survey will give us the answers. If no year one fish are found, then predation is the problem, and we will continue to stock catfish as a “put and take” management strategy for Ra-ven. If we do find the year one fish, then the lack of sufficient spawning structure was the problem and we can start using a more habitat improvement strategy of management. The hope of this experi-ment is to make a Lake Raven fishing experience more enjoyable for a variety of fishermen and to answer the question “can a Raven handle cats?’” u


www.ftwl.orgBy: Lisa Wolling, Executive Director

Opossums; Why We Love Them!

Of all the animals people call us for assistance on, or bring to our center for help, the one that seems most misunderstood or feared is the opos-sum. It seems that often fear or dislike is based on misinformation, so in this article we hope to con-vert a few more of our readers to better understand opossums. They are actually beneficial animals to have around, and not to be feared as they are es-sentially harmless.

The opossums we have in North American (often called “possums”) are Virginia Opossums. They are quite unique because they are the only marsupial animal native to North America. Mar-supial animals (or non-placental animals) raise their babies in a pouch, just as kangaroos do. Hmmm, maybe if opossums could hop they’d be more popular! When baby opossums are born, they are furless, blind, and about the size of a jelly-bean. They have to crawl up the mother opossum’s fur and into her pouch, where they latch onto one of her thirteen nipples. Once they have latched on, the nipple swells and the baby becomes attached. They don’t suckle to drink, but rather the mother’s milk slowly leaches out (that is why very young opossums if found abandoned or orphaned have to be tube fed; they have no natural sucking reflex as other baby mammals do). As with other pouch-raised babies, the baby opossums remain in the pouch as they continue to grow and mature. They first venture outside of the pouch when they are between two to two and a half months old (their eyes open and they have fur at about two months of age, at which point they are about the size of a mouse). Opossums are very good mothers and they are very protective of their young. Once the babies emerge from her pouch, they often ride along on her back while she forages for food, and they begin to eat solid food at this point (about three months old). Once the babies are weaned, about six inches long (without their tail), and their ears are almost solid black, they are old enough to fend for themselves. At this point, it is “tough love” opossum style; mama opossum will simply brush against something to knock the babies off her back and away she goes. She’s dedicated for as long as she needs to be, but when she’s done, she’s done.

Opossums are nocturnal scavengers. They move from place to place in search of good food sources and a comfy place to sleep, so they are not really territorial. They are attracted to carrion and can often be spotted near roadkill, which is helpful for keeping diseases out of the environment. As omnivores, opossums also eat grass, nuts, fruit, and they will also consume mice, insects (including roaches), worms, slugs, and snakes, including ven-omous ones. Thus, they are beneficial for helping to control the overpopulation of snakes, rodents, and insects. Opossums are actually largely im-mune to snake venom. In lab experiments, it has

been discovered that a particular molecule, called a peptide, in the opossum’s blood can neutralize snake venom. The peptide works against several venomous snake species, including rattlesnakes, copperheads, and cottonmouths. Experiments are being done to see if scientists could mass produce this peptide and use it as an inexpensive and uni-versal anti-venom for human snake-bite victims.

Opossums are fastidiously clean, similar to cats in their grooming routine. If they find a tick in their fur, they lick it off and swallow it. It is esti-mated that in one season, an opossum can kill and

consume about 5,000 ticks. More than 90 percent of ticks on an opossum end up being groomed away and eaten. This could have implications in preventing certain tick-borne diseases (including Lyme disease) in domestic pets and humans. In areas where there is a healthy opossum popula-tion, this can help to control the overpopulation of ticks, thereby keeping the ticks off of us and our pets. The opossums do not seem to be affected by these tick-borne illnesses. Opossums have a naturally low body temperature (94-97°F). This feature makes them much less susceptible to other


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Left: newborn opossums in their mother’s pouch. Center: baby opossums about two months old. Right: juve-nile opossum, old enough to be independent.

diseases that can affect wildlife animals (such as distemper). Although technically any mammal can get rabies, the chance of rabies in an opossum is EXTREMELY RARE. So although they have a reputation of being dirty and disease-ridden ani-mals, that is really not the case.

There are a lot of myths about opossums, and also some features which make them quite unique in the animal world. Adult opossums cannot hang from their tails, but they do have prehen-sile tails (similar to chameleons) which they use to help grip and balance when climbing trees or while walking along fences. Opossums have been observed carrying bundles of grasses and other materials by looping their tail around them; this conscious control leads many to consider their tail as a fifth appendage, like a hand. The opossum has opposable “thumbs”, although they are lo-cated on its rear feet (so, technically they’re toes), which adds to its formidable climbing skills. Pri-mates and opossums are the only mammals with opposable first toes. When opossums “play pos-sum”, they are not “playing dead”; but rather the opossum has an involuntary comatose-like state induced by extreme fear (so basically, they faint). This state can last from several minutes to several hours. While “dead,” the opossum’s body is limp, its front feet form into balls and drool runs out of its mouth. It may even appear that rigor mor-tis has begun. Once the danger has passed, and the opossum “comes to” again and goes on his way. Opossums have a relatively short life span for an animal of its size. In the wild, they gen-erally only live an average of three years. Many

are killed by cars, dogs, owls, and larger wildlife. Opossums have more teeth than any other mam-mal; they have 50. Although they may snarl and bare their teeth if cornered, they really just want to be left alone and will quickly scurry away once the opportunity presents itself. Opossums have a rep-utation for not being very intelligent, but they ac-tually have a remarkable ability to find food and to remember where it is. In studies to test their ability to remember where food is, opossums scored bet-ter than rats, rabbits, cats, and even dogs.

With understanding a little bit more about how unique and interesting opossums are, as well as how beneficial they can be to have around, we hope that more people can learn to live in harmony with these often misunderstood animals.

To learn more about what we do and view pictures of many of the animals we assist, please

visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/SavingTexasWildlife. Our educational visitor’s center is open the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at 29816 Dobbin Hufsmith Road, Magnolia, Texas, so the next open house date will be Saturday, November 11. Come on out and visit us, learn a little more about lo-cal wildlife, and meet some of our non-releasable educational animals. There are many ways you can help support our efforts too: while you shop (for instance Kroger share program, Amazon Smile, etc.). Details can be found at www.ftlw.org, and then click on “How to Help”. You can also support us financially by donating through our website or by mailing to 29615 Highland Boulevard, Magno-lia, TX 77354. Any amount helps and is great ap-preciated! u


Story and Photos by Bronwyn ClearCertified Texas Master Naturalist

The Slithery Dee – the non-Venomous

diamondback water snake

Defining characteristics of the non-venomous diamondback water snake are the strong vertical stripes along the jaw, and the round eyes.

What? No birds this time? Nope! We are switching to a creature that strikes outright fear into most people. Some won’t even read this article when they see the pictures, and they’ll flip past the pages lickety-split! Snakes cause a primal fear in humans, and our native diamond-back water snake is no exception. Big, long, scary, but not venomous!

Native to the US, the diamondback wa-ter snake is our largest endemic water snake and can grow to just under 6 feet long! Com-mon throughout the southeastern states and the lower Midwest, these fellows are valuable members of our ecosystem. They live near calm water and are found in lakes, creeks, riv-ers and even stock ponds and ditches. We see

them on tree branches or in tall shrubs around Lake Livingston where they can bask in the sun, but then slip into the water to nab some lunch. They usually hunt as they swim along, or may drop just their heads under water as they lounge on low branches. Frogs, fish, toads, and lizards make up much of their diet.

Because they are snakes, they are often killed out of fear of being venomous. These particular fellows are actually not very shy, and may rise up vertically while swimming along-side your boat just to peek in! One may even try to climb right in with you! Their curiosity is seen by people as aggression, and problems can escalate from there. Like most wild creatures they can strike and bite when threatened. They

Story and Photos by Bronwyn ClearCertified Texas Master Naturalist

In addition to the vertical jaw stripes and the round eyes,

note yellow green chin & belly, the vertical side stripes and

diamond-like patterns all along the top of the back.

The biggest water snake in Texas can grow to just under 6 feet long. This one is closer to 4 feet.also hiss, and flatten their bodies and heads to appear more menacing. Make no mistake, these fellows have teeth and can draw blood. Although they have no venom, they may har-bor Salmonella like other wild lizards, toads and turtles.

If we learn to identify them, maybe we won’t fear them so much. Look for the strong dark vertical stripes on the sides of their jaws, round eyes, yellow-green coloring on their chins, throats and bellies, dark vertical stripes on their sides and dark diamond shapes along their backs. Finally, their heavy bodies and length can give them a lot of ‘WOW’ factor. If you identify one, give him some space, and show him a new found admiration for being the biggest native water snake in Texas! Re-member…they are not venomous!

Learn more about the incredible nature in our area by joining a chapter of the Texas Mas-ter Naturalist organization. To find a chapter close to you, or to read about the state pro-gram, go online to www.txmn.org. Volunteer and get involved! u



Our philosophy is to provide the best possible care recommendations, and then allow the patient to choose the type of care they wish to receive. We hope to create lasting relationships with patients who are committed to regaining their health, and who allow us to participate in their full recovery. The committed patients who listen and take action on our recommendations get the best results.

Sometimes patients don’t realize that their lifestyles contribute to many of their health problems. We work with our patients’ busy schedules and strive to eliminate the hassles of lengthy doctor’s visits while maintaining the level and quality of care our patients have come to expect.

We pride ourselves on having some of the most technologically advanced equipment in addition to the nicest facilities. We are able to treat and reduce symptoms of a multitude of cases while helping the body heal naturally. It is important for us to continue providing our community with the most advanced and carefully guided care to help them achieve a fulfilling life.

Am I fit for care?

At Sandstone Chiropractic it is our highest priority to properly test, treat, and care for each patient no matter the severity or length of the condition. We see patients from all ends of the spectrum, from newborn to the golden years; from acute pain to overall wellness care. It is your choice to follow the doctor’s care recommendations to help you achieve optimal health and performance in all areas of your life for years to come.

Headaches

Frozen Shoulder

Elbow Pain

Peripheral Neuropathy

Low Back Pain/Spinal

InstabilityHip Pain/ Sciatica

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Knee Pain

Plantar Fasciitis

The Right ChoiceC an Change E v ery thing ©

Call Us Today: (281) 203-0070 or v isit us at SandstoneCh iro .c om

3 Locations to Better Serve You :MONTGOMERY • MAGNOLIA • CONROE

Do you have any of these conditions?

We can help!


Our philosophy is to provide the best possible care recommendations, and then allow the patient to choose the type of care they wish to receive. We hope to create lasting relationships with patients who are committed to regaining their health, and who allow us to participate in their full recovery. The committed patients who listen and take action on our recommendations get the best results.

Sometimes patients don’t realize that their lifestyles contribute to many of their health problems. We work with our patients’ busy schedules and strive to eliminate the hassles of lengthy doctor’s visits while maintaining the level and quality of care our patients have come to expect.

We pride ourselves on having some of the most technologically advanced equipment in addition to the nicest facilities. We are able to treat and reduce symptoms of a multitude of cases while helping the body heal naturally. It is important for us to continue providing our community with the most advanced and carefully guided care to help them achieve a fulfilling life.

Am I fit for care?

At Sandstone Chiropractic it is our highest priority to properly test, treat, and care for each patient no matter the severity or length of the condition. We see patients from all ends of the spectrum, from newborn to the golden years; from acute pain to overall wellness care. It is your choice to follow the doctor’s care recommendations to help you achieve optimal health and performance in all areas of your life for years to come.

Headaches

Frozen Shoulder

Elbow Pain




Rheumatoid Arthritis

Knee Pain

Plantar Fasciitis

The Right ChoiceC an Cha nge E very thing ©

Call Us Today: (281) 203-0070 or v isit us at Sands toneChiro .com

3 Locations to Better Serve You :MONTGOMERY • MAGNOLIA • CONROE


We can help!

Headaches

Frozen Shoulder

Elbow Pain




Rheumatoid ArthritisKnee Pain

Plantar Fasciitis

4 Locations to Better Serve You:MONTGOMERY • MAGNOLIA • CONROE • THE WOODLANDS


We can help!

A NEW EXPERIENCE IN CHIROPRACTIC™

Call Us Today: (281) 203-0070 or visit us at SandstoneChiro.com


The following is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor should it be construed as legal advice.

Few things can be more frustrating or more emotionally draining than to be faced with the need to be appointed guardian for a loved one. This is particularly true if that loved one is able to cope with many of life’s challenges, but at the same time exhibits a pattern of placing themselves in danger through repeated lapses of cognitive skills in their daily lives.

Additional concern and frustration is expe-rienced if the person that one seeks to protect is a parent whose traditional role has been as a protec-tor, not one in need of protection. There is no easy way that this writer has been able to find to per-form this distasteful task for a parent, but some-times it becomes inevitable and must be done.

Guardianship is not always the best solution. If the person who is being protected continues to have sufficient abilities to recognize their own problem, and if they are willing to pass the reigns of control to a loved one, a durable power of attorney may serve as a substitute for guardianship at least in business matters.

There are two basic types of guardianship for an adult who has become incapacitated. This article, because of both space restraints and com-plexity, will address only permanent guardianship. Temporary guardianship is typically used as an emergency action to be taken to preserve a person’s estate or safety while a permanent guardian is be-ing appointed.

The basic steps required to obtain a guardian-ship order are as follows and will almost certainly require the services of an attorney:

Prepare and file application – Any person who does not have an “adverse interest” to the person who is incapacitated (hereinafter called “ward”) has the right to initiate a guardianship proceeding. An oversimplified definition of ad-verse interest includes (1) spouse filing for divorce; (2) person claiming assets of the ward; (3) protect-ed creditors; (4) business partner of the proposed ward; (5) guarantor of the proposed ward’s prom-issory note; and many possible others.

Court must appoint an attorney ad litem – An ad litem is an attorney appointed by the court to protect the rights of the proposed ward.

Notice and citation – Applicant must arrange for notice to be filed by the officer responsible for posting such notice for that particular court. The proposed ward must be personally served with citation and given notice of when and where the hearing to determine mental capacity will be con-ducted.

Medical examination and reports of physi-cian – In the case of an adult incapacitated person, the very minimum in evidence will include a let-ter from the proposed ward’s physician which will communicate in rather detailed terms the facts regarding the proposed ward’s incapacity. Some courts will further require that the physician also offer an affidavit in conjunction with the report or letter that states that the information is true and correct based upon his/her personal knowledge. In some marginal cases, such as during the very


early stages of Alzheimer’s, the court may require an independent examination by either a psychia-trist or neurologist of your choosing or one sug-gested by the court.

Hearing – The applicant, the applicant’s attor-ney, the attorney ad litem and possibly a guardian ad litem, if one was appointed, must be present. The proposed ward must also be present unless the attorney ad litem can satisfy the court that an ap-pearance is not necessary.

Findings required at hearing – The court must find by clear and convincing evidence that: (i) the proposed ward is incapacitated; (ii) it is in the ward’s best interest to appoint a guardian; (iii) the rights of the proposed ward and/or his prop-erty will be protected by appointment of the guard-ian. The clear and convincing burden is somewhat greater than the “preponderance of evidence” stan-dard normally associated with civil lawsuits, but less than would normally be required for a criminal matter. It is proof that should leave no reasonable doubt in the mind of the court that the guardian-ship is needed.

The court must also find by the lesser stan-dard of a “preponderance of the evidence” that the proposed guardian is eligible to act as the proposed ward’s guardian.

Bond – The court must set a bond for the guardian of an estate or a ward. This bond will likely be in an amount established to be the value of the ward’s cash and personal property plus an-

ticipated income for the next twelve (12) months. The bond must be posted quickly and must be ap-proved by the court. Failure to timely post a bond and take the oath of office as guardian will result in the court revoking its prior order appointing the guardian.

Can attorney’s fees and costs be reim-bursed? One of the questions that often arises in guardianship proceedings is, “Can the costs and attorney’s fees incurred be paid by the ward’s es-tate which is being protected rather than by the applicant who is attempting to protect the ward and his/her estate?” The answer is yes. Costs and attorney’s fees may be awarded to compensate ap-plicant’s attorney or to reimburse applicant for at-torney’s fees and costs expended on an action that was filed in good faith and for just cause. This is true even if another person (other than applicant) is ultimately appointed as guardian.

Long term effects – There are shades of im-pact on the life of the ward, depending upon the court’s exact findings, but a few things that might be considered are: possible limitation of driving rights, automatic revocation of an attorney-in-fact under a power of attorney, may affect the ward’s right to vote, ward may, depending upon oth-er factors, still be able to execute a will or other testamentary documents, the ward may still be deposed, but a rebuttable presumption exists for incapacity, does not automatically constitute a showing of inability to stand trial for criminal acts.

Guardianship can be a very hard path to follow for both the proposed guardian and the proposed ward, but it can also afford the greatest amount of protection for that loved one or their estate. The ease or difficulties encountered depend in great part upon the level of need which is ex-perienced by the proposed ward coupled with the expertise of the attorney who represents the ap-plicant.

James Bright has previously been admitted to practice before the Federal Courts for the Southern District of Texas and Eastern District of Texas and is currently admitted to practice in all of the Justice Courts, Probate Courts, County Courts at Law, Dis-trict Courts, Courts of Appeal and Supreme Court for the State of Texas. He maintains an office in Houston and by appointment another at 208 Mc-Cown Street in the heart of historic Montgomery. Contact may be made by telephone (936) 449-4455 or (281) 586-8277. For more information about wills or probate in Texas, please see www.houstontx-probate.com. u

IF YOU WISH TO SUGGEST A TOPIC FOR THIS COLUMN, SEND TO:

JAMES M. BRIGHT14340 TORREY CHASE BLVD, SUITE 150

HOUSTON, TEXAS 77014Email: [email protected]


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4th Annual Texas Wine Festival at the Tomball Depot

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