Magnolia Youth Sports Complex – Location

MAINTENANCE SUPERVISOR – Mason Ramsey

Fields, Horse Arena and Community Centers

Commissioner Charlie Riley’s

2025 Distinguished Community Neighbor of Precinct 2

Congratulations to Donna Saenz Mizell!

She is the 2025 Distinguished Community Neighbor of Precinct 2.

Donna has always been steadfast in caring for our community in so many different ways. Free haircuts to veterans and kids going back to school. Somedays she offers $1 haircuts. She supports the areas school activities and students, collecting diapers for the pregnancy center, working through COVID, supporting the First Responders through the Tri County Fires, Hurricane Harvey and multiple other natural disasters. She has been cutting hair NOT for years but for generations.

This is what was read to her and her staff during Commissioners Court:

The barber is a vital link to the soul of the community. Nurturing individuals from all walks of life with reliable and personalized attention. Through this unique relationship, barbers foster the exchange of knowledge and the formation of lasting connections, ultimately enhancing the well-being of the devoted community they serve.

In recognition for an unwavering lifetime of service through God’s grace, to the citizens of Montgomery County Precinct 2 in Magnolia, Texas with a generous spirit during good seasons and challenging days. Donna Mizell receives the title of Distinguished Community Neighbor of Precinct 2.

REFLECTIONS OF PRECINCT 2

For several years, the Montgomery County Medical Examiner’s Office operated out of a facility that had once been an RV repair shop.  Recognizing the need for an upgrade, Commissioner Riley took decisive action to address this issue. In our rapidly growing county, the Medical Examiner, a nationally recognized professional, and her team were conducting autopsies in a converted space that did not reflect the high level of professional service they provided, nor did it offer the dignity that grieving families deserve.

Commissioner Riley spearheaded the initiative to construct a new facility, overseeing its design and planning to create what is now a world-class institution.  During the planning phase, the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to Montgomery County. The original building lacked adequate space for the deceased, necessitating the use of a refrigerated truck. Despite these obstacles, Commissioner Riley remained committed to advancing the project, even as the pandemic caused delays.

Concerns about the project’s cost were raised, but during the COVID-19 period, construction prices fell. Commissioner Riley seized this opportunity to negotiate contracts that significantly reduced construction costs, ultimately providing substantial savings for the county.

Today, the Medical Examiner’s Office and its credentialed staff operate in a state-of-the-art facility that upholds the dignity and professionalism expected of such an institution. It provides a comforting environment for families who find themselves navigating the difficult circumstances of loss.

Lt. Col. Paul Mendes Memorial Parkway Dedication

The Paul Mendes Memorial Parkway Dedication was supported by his family, the Texas Legislature and many others who joined us that day.

The ceremony was a day that many of us will always remember.

Thank you to all who took the time to recognize a man who put the needs of others ahead of his own.

COOK’S BRANCH CONSERVANCY and FUTURE PRECINCT 2 PARK

The 5,650 acres of Cook’s Branch Conservancy, operating in Montgomery County, is an award-winning nature conservancy exemplifying extraordinary habitat management and wildlife conservation on private land.  In 2022 Commissioner Riley presented a proclamation in Commissioners Court to memorialize Montgomery County’s commitment to not construct roads in and through the Cook’s Branch Conservancy to preserve the natural habitat as intended by the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation. 

Additionally in 2022, Montgomery County received a donation of 391 acres from the Johnson Development Co.  The location of the park will be in Precinct 2 off of Fishcreek Thoroughfare near the Woodforest community.  Precinct 2 Commissioner Charlie Riley is working on plans to enhance the land into a sports park with a nature center and community center.  The park will maintain most of its natural features while the improvements will provide a dynamic outlet for the area. 

“We are going to make it a top notch destination for everyone in Precinct 2,” Commissioner Riley continues, “It’s been a challenge to get all this done but it will be well worth it and a real asset for Montgomery County.” 

The new park will host approximately 60 acres of playgrounds, paved trails, a large splash pad, an amphitheater, picnic areas, pavilions… all anchored by a large multi-use Nature- Community Center celebrating our local flora and fauna as well as providing an important community gathering space.

Commissioner Charlie Riley’s 7th Annual Auto Tech Tour

Commissioner Charlie Riley’s 7^th Annual Auto Tech Tour took place Wednesday, May 14, 2025, and it included 13 motivated graduating senior students from both Magnolia High School and Magnolia West High School to experience a daylong opportunity of operations in professional automotive shops within Montgomery County.  The goal of this program is to enhance the rising interest of future mechanics through the exposure of automotive technician fields and skills. 

“The next generation of skilled workers is currently emerging from our high schools. As seasoned tradespeople retire in unprecedented numbers, we have a unique opportunity to inspire and engage young individuals who are eager to enter these vital professions.  Now is the time to cultivate their interest and guide them toward rewarding careers in the skilled trades.’  Commissioner Riley continues, ‘We need to promote the possibilities for future skilled workers in all fields of trade and help the students realize the many great opportunities that are available.  I’m grateful to Magnolia ISD, and the auto mechanic instructor for the high schools–Brian Buchanan, Mod Mafia and Mo’ Muscle, for supporting this initiative to guide the students towards a better understanding of the mechanic/technician industry.” 

The Auto Tech Tour stands out as a premier outreach initiative, showcasing Commissioner Riley’s commitment to community engagement. This program offers students a unique opportunity for experimental learning, allowing them to immerse themselves in real-world scenarios. Under the close guidance of their instructors and industry professionals, students actively engage with metal test panels and operate specialized machinery exploring automotive skills that are utilized in the industry.  The tour also allows students to interact with experts in the field, who encourage them to ask questions and deepen their understanding of various processes and challenges within the automotive industry. This exposure not only fuels the students’ curiosity but also inspires decisions about their future career paths.

Commissioner Charlie Riley’s

2024 Distinguished Community Neighbor of Precinct 2

Gary Hefner / H-E-B was recognized as Commissioner Charlie Riley’s 2024 Distinguished Community Neighbor of Precinct 2 in Commissioners Court this week. Gary was chosen for this award for his true leadership and servants’ heart from the years of supporting and being wholeheartedly involved with giving back to the people in Precinct 2.

Gary has been with H-E-B for 30 years. During which he and his team stepped in with support relief when it counted the most. Cooking meals for the First Responders during the Tri County Fires, helping out after Hurricane Harvey, sponsoring area school teams and clubs, keeping products stocked and on the shelves during COVID, plus so many more events too numerous to mention.

He and his wife have dedicated their lives to become involved with the people of our area. The school districts, the students and many more groups have benefited from his heartfelt generosity. Gary is often asked to speak for different groups to help generate a better understanding of what an impact his teachers and coaches taught him when he was growing up. He learned how to believe in himself and is paying forward the benefits of having been on the receiving end of their transformative gifts of love and support.

The Montgomery County Distinguished Community Neighbor of Precinct 2 award was developed to recognize individuals who contribute positively at the highest level by way of service or deeds.  This is the second year for the award.  Last year’s recipient was awarded to a young man, Kristian Rau, who was recognized for his actions that saved two people. He saved one boy from potential injury and a second boy from possibly making a huge mistake that would have followed him for the rest of his life.

“There are numerous well deserving neighbors in Precinct 2, but there are some that rise above to inspire others.  It is with their selfless service and actions that forge a path for others to follow.” – Commissioner Charlie Riley.

2024 Big Boy travels through Magnolia, TX

Resolution for plaque donated from the Alamo Letter Society – Lt. William Travis’ – “Victory or Death” Letter

A resolution was passed in Commissioners Court to accept a bronze plaque that recognizes the “Victory or Death” letter written by Lt. William Travis 188 years ago. The Alamo Letter Society, who is the driving force behind the offering of the plaque, has a goal to have the letter added to all 254 Texas County courthouses.

Commissioner Charlie Riley presented the resolution to accept the addition of the plaque to the courthouse grounds in Conroe.

“The proud legacy of the men who fought for Texas Independence is immortalized in this impactful letter. Those with a deep understanding of just how serious and desperate things were for the men barricaded at the Alamo will undeniably find themselves impressed by this letter.” states Commissioner Riley.

A dedication ceremony will be scheduled soon. The plaque for Montgomery County is in production now.

Commissioner Charlie Riley’s 6th Annual Auto Tech Tour

Senior automotive students from Magnolia West High School, under the guidance of instructor Brian Buchanan, who have shown a genuine passion for the automotive industry, were granted the unique opportunity to visit Mo’ Muscle Cars, who provide restoration work on Classic and Muscle Cars and Mod Mafia Automotive who offers a particular focus on the Hummer and HMMWV platform.

Mo’ Muscle Cars and Mod Mafia Automotive are recognized as top builders in the nation, challenging their highly skilled employees to enhance and upgrade customer vehicles using a combination of mechanical expertise acquired through training, hands-on experiences, and education.

Commissioner Riley’s 6th Auto Tech Tour provided interested students with the chance to gain insight directly from industry professionals into the operations of two successful automotive shops. Participants had the opportunity to explore the skills in demand within the field and engage in hands-on instruction to encourage their automotive proficiencies.

The primary objective of this tour is to showcase the diverse career opportunities available to individuals interested in pursuing a career as a mechanic or technician. The demand for skilled laborers in the automotive industry remains constant, and those who rise to the challenge will find a rewarding and fulfilling career path awaiting them.

Kristian Rau receives the first

“Distinguished Community Neighbor in Precinct 2” award

9/26/2023 – In Commissioners Court, Kristian Rau was recognized for his actions that 2 saved two people. He saved one boy from potential injury and a second boy from possibly making a huge mistake that would have followed him for the rest of his life.

The Boy Scouts of America had previously presented him with the rarest of all honors – The Honor Medal with Crossed Palms. The medal has been awarded about 3 times per year across the whole country since 1911.

He is 17 and attends Magnolia High School and he certainly represents Montgomery County and the Magnolia Independent School District in an exemplary manner.

Commissioner Riley also presented him with the first ever “Distinguished Community Neighbor in Precinct 2” award. “We are proud to have a young man such as Kristian in our community and would like to see his strength of character be an inspiration to others around him.” – Commissioner Charlie Riley.

This is what happened:

Kristian was sitting in the school gym bleachers. He noticed 2 other boys arguing over a basketball. The situation escalated. One boy went to his backpack, took out a pair of scissors, separated them in half. He chased after the other kid and cornered him in a storage closet. Kristian sprinted from the bleachers past many student onlookers to catch the boy with the weapon. As Kristian approached the scene, the boy with the knife had it raised in a stabbing position over the other boy. Kristian controlled him by grabbing his wrist, allowing the intended victim a chance to escape, then he, with the assistance of other students, locked the aggressor in the closet.

This happened when he was 14.

Kristian was supported in court by his Mom, Dad, Grandmother, his Leader from Troop 623, another scout and a member from the BSA / Sam Houston Area (Greater Houston) Council.

Commissioner Charlie Riley’s 5th – Mech Tech Tour

Magnolia, TX: –  As the high school classes of 2023 prepare to step forward towards their futures, a defined group of interested students from both Magnolia High School and Magnolia West High School experienced a daylong opportunity that provided them with a revealing introduction into the world of becoming a mechanic/technician in the high-end automotive industry.  This possibility, currently in its 5^th year, is available by an outreach program that Commissioner Charlie Riley oversees called the Mech Tech Tour.

It became apparent, after discovering the declining enrollment percentages of high school auto mechanic classes, there was a need to encourage students back into this program.  Mechanics and auto technicians are critical elements in the skilled labor fields.  The transportation industry relies on the efforts of these workers to keep vehicles operating at a high level of safety standards.  The majority of today’s population depends on the use of a car/truck/heavy equipment.

During the 2023 Mech Tech Tour, the students visited two local businesses.  Mo’ Muscle Cars provides restoration work on Classic and Muscle Cars.  They are one of the top builders in the nation.

The other business was Mod Mafia Automotive. Their focus centers on the Hummer and the HMMWV platform.  They challenge their highly trained employees to create and upgrade the customer’s vehicles by using mechanical skills obtained from training, experiences and education.

The teacher for the students is Brian Buchanan.  He chose to include the seniors from his automotive class that have developed a genuine interest in the field.  Through his guidance, these students are receiving the benefit of the Mech Tech Tour, which this year, allowed them the opportunities to get hands on experience in welding and manipulating sheet metal to stretch, shrink and bend.  The students listened intently to absorb the information that the shop owners were describing to them about the current projects that were in progress at the time of the tour.  Overall, the purpose of this tour was to open their eyes to all of the possibilities available to anyone who wants to become a mechanic/technician.  There will always be a need for the skilled laborer in this field and the individual who can meet this challenge will discover a fulfilling career.

“We owe our military a tremendous debt of gratitude. Their service to our country has been meaningful and overwhelming. To the children, spouses and families who have carried the weight of worry and lost time when their soldier is away, we lift you up as well.

The memorial is an opportunity to offer everyone the chance to reflect on its meaning. The dedicated soldiers who are committed or have served to protect our way of life in the United States make us all proud.” Commissioner Charlie Riley

BUTLER’S CROSSING and 2 CEMETERIES

WITH THE SAME NAME

While driving on FM 1488 near FM 149, you may have noticed the sign Butler’s Crossing.  A quick story about this important recognition goes back to the mid 1800’s when William Butler, Sr. moved to Texas at the end of the Civil War.  He settled in this small black community where he met and married a local lady named, Isabel Brooks, whose mother was a slave.  The slave owner, Lem Clepper, died and his wife, Mrs. Clepper, gave 100 acres of land to Isabel’s mother.  William bought 25 acres of land from his mother in law for “2 bits” (*approximately .25 cents) an acre.  The land is where Butler’s Crossing came to be known.  The wagon trains from Montgomery to Houston passed right by the Butler’s place.   He had a well-known water well with cool water.  Wagon trains would stop there and get a drink for themselves, their horses and to fill their canteens. 

William’s son, “Sonny Boy” hustled to care for the travelers and help out hosing down the horses and mules.  Sonny Boy later established the gas station and country store to continue to serve the community and travelers.   He grew up in modest surroundings and was steadfast to care for his father’s land.  Sonny Boy was the seventh of eleven children and he was one of the oldest living residents of Butler’s Crossing until he passed away in 1989. 

The remaining Butler family is proud of the accomplishments that were made by their ancestors.  The family believes that their relatives who established the area would be honored to know that they are recognized by the community and, as the family had done for so many years, they have continued to give back to where they came from. 

Sonny Boy was laid to rest in Cartwright Cemetery, found in the Hunter’s Retreat subdivision off of FM 1774.  It is also known as the Mount Zion Cemetery.  Many members of the Butler family are buried in this location including his father William.

Another Cartwright Cemetery is located off of Rabon Chapel Rd.  The Cartwright name is one of many notable families that contributed to the growth and stability of this county.

During the Battle of San Jacinto, there were three survivors from Montgomery County that fought in that battle for Texas Independence.  Two of the survivors are buried in the Cartwright Cemetery located off of Rabon Chapel Rd.  The historical marker on site identifies this location as the Elizabeth Shaw Cartwright Cemetery.  This burial ground serves as the final resting place for some of the earliest settlers and founders of Texas, along with veterans of the Texas Revolution, the Civil War, WWI, WWII, The Korean War, The Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm.

The Bonnie and Clyde Bridge

Local legend has it, that the old iron truss bridge west of Conroe was the meeting place for members of the Barrow gang.  Clyde’s cousin, Ellis “Dude” Barrow remembers meeting Clyde under the bridge on two occasions.  Clyde had family in the area and never wanted to disrespect his relatives or their reputation by robbing any of the local businesses in town.  There is a story, that some members of the gang did rob a pharmacy in town to collect first aid supplies.  Other stories of the Barrow gang that center around Conroe include Clyde hitching a ride and when he got out of the vehicle he asked if the driver knew who he was.  The driver said, “No and I don’t want to know.” 

The bridge still stands today indicating the original position was to provide access over the West Fork of the San Jacinto River next to FM 2854 near McDade Park.  Several pieces of the structure have disappeared most likely due to time and weather related events.  Area flooding has seen the water level rise above the platform level of the bridge.  Discussions have taken place to consider having the bridge relocated although having the bridge in the actual location provides a sense of authenticity.   If the bridge were to be moved, it could become separated and then wherever it is placed its’ relevance will lose the realism from its’ true locale.

In the 1930’s, gangsters were romanticized as “Robin Hoods”, steal from the rich and give to the poor.  Unemployment, failed businesses, the Dust Bowl which devastated the agricultural farmland, all contributed to the hopeless anguish of society.  Because of the failed leadership from the government to foresee and prepare for the compounding effects of the era, there was a tremendous lack of trust and faith in the system. 

Bonnie and Clyde were a unique pair of gangsters because of their relationship with each other.  During this time period an unmarried couple participating in criminal activity was shocking and scandalous.  Their illicit behavior was at first excitable but later when the public realized that they would just as easily shoot civilians as they would anyone in law enforcement created a shift of opinion to the extent that the  pursuit of their capture was welcomed. 

At the age of 17, Clyde was arrested for the first time for failing to return a rental car on schedule.  His second arrest was for being in possession of stolen turkeys.  He did have some legitimate jobs but he continued to crack safes, rob stores and steal cars.  He was 20 years old when he met Bonnie.  She was 19.  They had just begun their relationship when Clyde was arrested and convicted for auto theft.  At the age of 21 Clyde was sent to the Eastham Prison Farm, north of Huntsville, and during his time there he was tormented to the point that his personality was changed.  Approximately, 18 months later he was paroled and the crime sprees escalated.

The end was coming for Bonnie and Clyde.  Their criminal activities had gained much attention and their deliberate attacks frequently focused on Clyde’s possible goal of achieving revenge on the Texas Department of Corrections for the abuses he suffered while serving his time.  After the multiple killings that included both innocent civilians and members of the law enforcement community, the general public became agitated and wanted the Barrow Gang to reach its’ conclusion.

During their last visit to Conroe, Bonnie and Clyde showed up at the Hazel and Alley Auto Parts and Repair Shop in a Ford V-8.   Dale Madeley, was the only mechanic in town who could do the repairs needed on the engine.  The cost of the repairs was only $1.  Clyde paid for the repairs and tipped him $20. 

Two weeks later, Bonnie and Clyde died in that same car.  The pair were hunted down by former Texas Rangers who shadowed the travels of the gang as they skimmed the edges of five mid-western states.  The members of the posse who assisted in stopping Bonnie and Clyde in the end, also included law enforcement personnel from Texas and Louisiana. 

Insurance policies were paid in full for both Barrow and Parker.  Since then, the policy of payouts has changed to exclude payouts in cases of deaths caused by any criminal activity.

Montgomery County’s Historic Magnolia Tree

This historic magnolia tree lives in Montgomery County. It’s located on the outside edge of Precinct 2. The tree is estimated to be close to 200 years old. Local folklore has it the Native American Indians hid silver and gold nearby on the land which was known as the McDade property – although none has ever been found.

James McDade was a successful Conroe businessman who homesteaded this land around the San Jacinto River and FM 2854 in the early 1900’s. After his death, his sisters became the landowners. One sister became a nun and the other, Mrs. Lillie McDade O’Grady, was a well-known philanthropist, who sold the land to a friend, Steve Kasmiersky, Sr. He intended to build a home close to the tree. Mrs. O’Grady agreed to sell the property on the condition she could build a home next door. This majestic magnolia tree was a focal point of the land.

The McDade Estates neighborhood grew out of this humble beginning. The current homeowners association is very protective of the tree. Scheduled care and maintenance occurs periodically to preserve this landmark. At one time the highway department wanted to enlarge FM 2854. The residents wouldn’t give permission because it would mean cutting the tree down.
This amazing tree has survived many hurricanes and close calls relating to traffic accidents. Some say it’s a sacred tree both blessed and charmed. A few years ago, the Texas Forest Service in Conroe rated this magnolia tree as the second largest in Montgomery County.

The beauty of this tree is further enhanced during the impressive display of annual blooms with the scent of magnolia flowers filling the air.

Swift Water Rescue recognition

We are fortunate to have on our staff several volunteer firefighters. One of whom was recognized for his part in a recent swift water rescue.

On May 1st at 11:30 pm near Brushy Creek, a 911 call went out for a family of 7 who were in trouble. While they were driving on an unfamiliar road, the recent downpour had created a risky situation on a curved section of the dark road. Water had risen from the creek, rushing over the traffic lanes. While attempting to navigate their vehicle in this area, the water carried the van off of the street into the wooded roadside. The father exited the vehicle and went for help as the water level inside the vehicle rose with the rest of the family inside. Their rescue was facilitated by members from two different fire stations, #181 off of Buddy Riley Rd and #183 off of Nichols Sawmill Rd. Everyone in the van was rescued successfully.

One of these rescuers was Dwayne Schleider. Who also works for Commissioner Riley’s Precinct 2 office. We are proud of him and his ability to defy the elements and risk his wellbeing to help others.

The motivation to achieve a positive outcome is the greatest internal force that an individual recognizes in themselves. Sometimes we succeed in meeting that goal. Being able to mark the moment is an opportunity to remember triumph over adversity.

Kids from the Calf Scramble event, this past weekend, at the Montgomery County Fair were encouraged to do their best and strive for excellence from Commissioner Charlie Riley. The parents, family and other members of the Fair and Montgomery County community were there to show their support. The FFA program is an outstanding organization that develops future leaders.

This is one of many commercial vehicles that have gotten the attention of Commissioner Riley’s Commercial Vehicle Enforcement division. Violations from commercial trucks have contributed to road damage and public safety concerns. The basic responsibility of the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement division is weighing and checking commercial vehicle traffic operating over the Precinct 2 county roads so that compliance with the statutory provisions of law regulating weight, motor carrier safety, registration, transportation of persons, hazardous material and other property can be obtained.

Recently, a Precinct 2 road crew member discovered someone’s personal property discarded in the woods near a job site.  “The book in the tree is what caught my eye.” stated the crew member.  Turns out the book was a bible.  Here is the rest of the story from the bible’s owner.

“I do not do face book or social media but I do want to send the Commissioner of Precinct 2 and all of the other employees a message recognizing my appreciation for your employee’s dedication, work ethic and commitment. Going the extra mile and paying attention to his surroundings. My truck was broken into Sunday night and my laptop, bill fold and bible were taken. While working next to the woods around my house on Wednesday your employee noticed some stuff in the trees.  He took time out to go research what it was and found my bible stuck up in a tree and my laptop bag and other paperwork scattered on the ground. He gathered it all up found my information and gave me a call, took time out of his evening to meet me after work and get me my stuff. This in my opinion is way above his job responsibilities and shows his commitment as a servant leader.

Please let the Commissioner know about this, I am OK with it being posted on a social media site. Thanks again to your employee for his dedication to the residents of Montgomery County.”

D. R.

“I truly appreciate both of these gentlemen.  One for taking the time to acknowledge the good that exists in this world and the other that did the right thing and made a decision to put the needs of others first.”  –  Commissioner Charlie Riley