infinitieplus magazine

State interference in county business

TV

Kiersten Brewer: Real Estate Agent starting fast

Dr. Carlos Quezada

Giving WOMEN the power to choose

Giving WOMEN the power to choose

From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU.

From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU.

From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU.

For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.

For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.

For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.

Bundles of joy. It’s what we deliver.

Editor's Note

HE IS RISEN! Happy Easter Everyone.

We at infinitieplus magazine appreciate your readership in hardcopy and on social media platforms.

Our cover story is for women at different stages of life. This is a must read. Longview, Texas is a hidden gem with top-notch, most sought-after, trail blazing OBGYN Dr. Carlos E. Quezada. His story is from page 6. Please check out how scammers are now using smart TVs to scam innocent citizens. This is a must read from page14. There is more.

Kiersten Brewer with Julie Woods Associates Inc is featured in this edition. The story of this up-and-coming

Publisher J

The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One…

realtor is from page 16.

Wow, it is already April and Easter is around the corner. What a perfect Sunday it will be with a Lamb roast. We brought you this succulent Easter lamb recipe on page 20.

FLIP THE MAGAZINE to see our new WOMEN TODAY. It is all things Women.

Hence, we brought you the amazing story of Breneda Mathis, executive vice president and branch manager at Texas Bank and Trust. Please check out the rest of the stories.

Thank you for reading. We look forward to serving you again in June by God’s grace.

Thanks for all you do and blessings always.

Have a glorious Easter. oycelyne Fadojutimi PhD

Publisher / Editor

Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PhD

Photography

Joycelyne Fadojutimi

Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs

Contributing Writers

Glenn Miller

Mechele Agbayani Mills

Shea Vogel Dr. Michael Guido

For advertising Email: joy@infinitieplusmag.com www.infinitieplusmag.com

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HENRY & PETERS ACCOUNTING FIRM ATTEND STATE OF THE COUNTY

A woman’s health needs changes according to her stages of life.

Dr. Carlos E. Quezada is a board-certified gynecologist/obstetrician expert in diverse women health issues.

He works with the Regional Clinics at Longview Regional Medical Center. In addition, Quezada is a specialist who engages in technologically advanced obstetrics.

He can be best described as a state-of-the-art cutting edge technology physician found in big cities but lives in small town Longview, Texas. Cover photo by Sam Smead Photography

Rodger Haldren Gavin Stahl and James Banga

April McCamey and Connie Abernathy

L-r: Tanya Sammons, Jettie Currie, Adrienne Deason, Jovonna Luttrell, Heather Sanders, Amy Taylor, Aaron Klein, Jeff Moore.

Kristin Ishihara

Fibroids, urinary

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI www.infinitieplusmag.com

woman’s health needs changes according to her stages of life. Dr. Carlos E. Quezada is a board-certified gynecologist/obstetrician expert in

diverse women health issues. He works with the Regional Clinics at Longview Regional Medical Center. In addition, Quezada is a specialist who engages in technologically advanced obstetrics. He can be best described as a state-of-the-art

cutting edge technology physician found in big cities but lives in small town Longview, Texas. And he loves Longview. “I like the community,” he says. “The drive [to work] is quick, and at my age, I don’t need night clubs. “ Moreover,

Buying, Building, or Expanding?

he is exceptionally proficient in women’s health including the following:

Uterine Fibroids

POWER TO CHOOSE A

According to the National Institute of Health, fibroids are growths made of smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and other material that grow in or on the wall of the uterus. Fibroids may grow as a single tumor or in clusters. In many cases, a single uterus may contain many fibroids with different sizes as shown in the diagram below.

Subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of the uterus.

Peduncule fibroids grow on stalks that grow out from the surface of the uterus or into the uterine cavity.

Fibroids affects a woman’s overall health including her finances. The nation is not far behind. A National Institute of Health 2012 study estimated annual direct costs (surgery, hospital admissions, outpatient visits, medications) to $4.1 to $9.4 billion. In addition, the estimated lost work costs ranged from $1.55 to $17.2 billion annually. But wait there is more. Obstetric outcomes attributed to fibroids resulted in a cost of $238 million to $7.76 billion annually. Uterine fibroids were estimated to cost the nation $5.9 to $34.4 billion annually. Therefore, the researchers concluded that complications from fibroids contributed significantly to women’s economic burden - from lost wages to temporary disability.

and menstrual bleeding so copious it causes anemia. Consequently, uterine fibroids are the leading cause of hysterectomies.

Quezada says women do not have to opt for hysterectomies because there are several viable non-invasive fibroid treatments. “There are now FDA approved procedures; shrinking down the fibroids so the women can be more functional, hence able to recalibrate, regroup and live a better life.”

For example, Quezada performs Myomectomy surgeries. This is a uterine fibroid removal surgery that leaves the uterus and all other reproductive organs intact. Hence, the woman can still have children after the procedure. There is more.

Acessa procedure:

Health care providers categorize fibroids based on where they grow:

Submucosa fibroids grow just underneath the uterine lining and endometrial cavity.

Intramural fibroids grow in between the muscles of the uterus.

In addition, a 2016, National Institute of Health research indicates that fibroids affect 65% of all women by the time they reach age fifty. As many as half of all affected women experience severe menstrual periods that lead to pain, reproductive problems, depression, emotional problems,

Dr. Quezada is one of the few surgeons nationwide who performs Acessa for the removal of fibroids. The Acessa procedure uses ultrasound to detect fibroids for treatment. Consequently, his patients avoid hysterectomy. But that is not all.

vNote (vaginal natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery)

Quezada is a vNote surgeon. According to him, this is another choice women can consider for gynecologic procedures. vNote is an advanced minimally invasive

incontinence, vaginal rejuvenation, and more; OBGYN Carlos E. Quezada, MD, MIGS-FPD, NCMP aims to educate women of their numerous medical options.

surgery. This procedure eliminates him making incisions in the patient’s abdomen to perform the surgery. vNote benefits include:

• Shorter hospital stay

• No scars

• Less post operative pain

• Faster recovery time.

• Return to daily routine in no time

Robotic surgery

It is important to note, Quezada is a trail blazer in robotic surgery. He became the first OB/ GYN robotic surgeon in the state of Texas in 2005 when FDA

approved the da Vinci robotic system for gynecology. The da Vinci Surgical System has been used to perform a wide variety of gynecological surgeries. In addition, he frequently performs gynecological surgical procedures that most physicians in the east Texas region do not perform.

Furthermore, Dr. Quezada offers women in Longview and East Texas region, an extensive array of gynecological services, including:

• Bone density scans

• Breast Examination

• Contraception and family

planning

• Evaluation for Incontinence

• Infertility evaluation

• Menopause symptom management

• Cervical cancer screening

• Pelvic examinations

• Reproductive organ cancer screenings

• Sexually transmitted disease (STD) screenings, including Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) and the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

• Evaluation for urinary incontinence and bladder problems

OBGYN Carlos E. Quezada, MD, MIGS-FPD, NCMP

• Weight management: fullrange approach, including diet and medication

• Well-woman annual exams

• Bioidentical hormone therapy

• Colposcopy (device that allows a magnified view of the cervix, vagina, and vulva)

• Endometriosis treatment

• Hysterectomy

• Hysteroscopy (camera inserted into the vagina to examine the uterus)

• Robotic-assisted surgeries

• Tubal ligation reversals

• Uterine fibroid treatment

• Vaginal prolapse repair

• Vaginal rejuvenation or

• pelvic reconstruction

Additionally, he offers comprehensive obstetrics services including:

• Normal and high-risk pregnancies with focus on education

• 1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimester.

• Postpartum

• Family-oriented births

• High Risk Obstetrics

• Advanced maternal age

• Gestational and pre-existing diabetes

• Preterm

• Recurrent Pregnancy loss

• Twins

• Hypertensive disorders (Chronic Hypertension, Preeclampsia)

• Thrombophilic Disorders

• Antepartum testing

• Detailed anatomy scans

• Fetal heart monitoring

• Biophysical profile

• Vaginal and Cesarean birth

(C-section) including motherfriendly cesarean deliveries

Moreover, Dr. Quezada has the expertise and experience in helping couples get pregnant thus, he does infertility evaluations. Even more, he treats patients with urinary incontinence and vaginal rejuvenation.

Quezada is a native of Laredo, Texas; lived in San Antoni, Texas and is a San Antonio Spurs fan. He is a devoted husband, father, brother and friend. He and his wife have grown children giving him much more time to dote on his adoring wife, Christie. “I am madly in love with my wife,” he says. “I cannot be who I am without her. The couple are members of a local nondenominational church.

He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and joined the PreMed Honor Society. Following this further, he attended the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio with a full scholarship from the Navy, earning his Doctor of Medicine degree. While still in medical school, he established the Military Medical Honor Society before joining the Navy and completing a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the San Diego-based Naval Medical Center in 2003.

Quezada served a total of sixteen years in the Navy, being stationed at various points of call in Europe, Asia, and all across America, and rising to the rank of lieutenant commander. He now heals as a civilian.

His litany of qualifications and accolades are numerous. He is a fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology

(ACOG,) a past member of the Texas Medical Association, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bexar County Medical Society, and the Mexican American Hispanic Physicians Association. While with ACOG, he served as treasurer for Section V, District XI, representing San Antonio in women’s health.

Again, Quezada is boardcertified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, worked as Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the naval hospital in Bremerton, Washington; where he was also adjunct faculty for the Family Medicine Program. Similarly, he served as adjunct faculty at Christus Santa Rosa Family Medical Center in San

Antonio, and for the Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at University Hospital in San Antonio. Besides, he earned many awards and recognitions along with his professional memberships. He is a member of the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists, and the Ameri can Institute of Ultrasound Medicine. He maintains his certification with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Quezada’s ability to speak English, Spanish and Italian is another blessing for his patients. For more information and/or to schedule an appointment please call (903) 753-7658. Please feel free to visit https://www. drcarlosequezada.com/to read more about hi Dr. Quezada.

County Business County Business

State of the County discourse renounces State interference in county business

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI www.infinitieplusmag.com

Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt did not mince words when he told a packed audience of business leaders at Pine Crest Country Club that 2023 is different. “This is not a typical State of the County,” he said. ”This is a one-on-one dialogue. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.” No one did. He assured his audience that the county is still on the right track and in strong financial position. “We have a lower tax rate, low or

no debt, and we are working hard to keep it that way.”

Without further ado, he delved into the key reason for the gathering. “The Texas Legislature passes laws that that erodes local control,” he told his captive audience. “This concerns me, and it should concern you.” Stoudt explained that what is good for big cities such as Houston in Harris county is economically detrimental to small and rural counties like Gregg. He gave the example of Senate Bill 2 (SB2).

According to Texas Association of Counties, Senate Bill 2 (SB

2) by Sen. Paul Bettencourt (RHouston), the Texas Property Tax Reform and Transparency Act of 2019, made significant changes to the property tax system. The bill reduced the ability of local governments such as Gregg county to generate revenue and provide services by lowering the tax rate a county can adopt without a voterapproval election, formerly known as a rollback election. An election is now mandatory if the voter-approval rate is set above 3.5%. Furthermore, SB 2 made changes to the process a county uses to adopt

a tax rate, the manner in which a county calculates the tax rate, and the tax appraisal process.

Stoudt decried the erosion of local control by the state. He narrated the county’s accomplishments such as: working together- collaboration between cities in the Gregg county: Longview, Kilgore, White Oak, and Gladewater city managers; facilitating transportation projects, and aggressively recruiting new companies including GAP and Dollar General. However, the county can no longer give tax rebates that makes it attractive for companies to come to Longview.

Furthermore, the four city managers dovetailed on Stoudt’s discourse. They gave examples of their previous successful collaborations. However, SB2 and HB 3 is hamstringing city business. Their overarching message was, “Austin is limiting us. We want to serve you, we don’t have the funds and we can’t help our citizens as much as we used to,” they warned.

House Bill 3 (HB 3) is a sweeping and historic school finance bill passed by the 86th Texas Legislature in 2019 and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott. The bill *Focuses on learn-

ing and student outcomes *Reduces and reforms property taxes *Support teachers and reward teacher excellence and *Increases funding and equity.

Longview City manager, Rollin McPhee said, “This is not a gripe session.” He simply wants to alert the citizens to what is going on. “The pendulum will swing back; we will not be able to fix these nice roads we have now. The parks that is our crown jewel will not be maintained.” He described Austin taking over local control as ‘death by a thousand cuts.’

April McCamey, Connie Abernathy and Karl Kuenemann

Ingrid Self and Michael Shirley Charles Taylor

Les Mendicello, President, Spring Hill State Bank Steve Pirtle and Rolin McPhee

Flecia Woods-Droege and Tiffany Jehorek

Laura Hill Paula Loden

The Hallelujah Chorus SCAMMERS TARGET SMART TV

Watching a favorite television show with family in the privacy of your own home used to be safe Unfortunately, that’s no longer the case. Scammers are waiting to take advantage of every situation.

By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS

Watching your favorite television show with your family in the privacy of your own home used to be safe Unfortunately, that’s no longer the case. Scammers are waiting to take advantage of every situation.

Scammers can target victims through any device connected to the internet, and your TV is no exception.

BBB Scam Tracker has seen an influx of reports about scammers catching people off guard with pop-ups on their smart TVs. Their objective is to steal your personal information and money.

How the scam works

You open a familiar streaming service on your smart TV, but you can’t log in. Instead, a pop-up appears, informing you there is a problem with your device or your streaming subscription and that you must call a phone number or visit a website to fix it. The fake customer service representatives then instruct you to pay an activation fee and to provide them with remote access to your TV. It’s at this point they install malware,

giving them access to sensitive data on your computer.

In some reported incidences, scammers ask you to “fix” the issue by paying them in gift cards. One consumer reported that after calling a number that appeared in a pop-up on their smart TV, a scammer instructed them to purchase three $100 Xbox gift cards to add “anti-hacking protection” to their account. After buying the gift cards and contacting the number again, it became clear they were dealing with scammers.

How to avoid smart TV scams

Double-check any fees you are required to pay. If scammers ask you to pay an activation fee, antivirus protection fee, or any other kind of fee, do some research beforehand. For example, scammers claim you need to pay an activation fee to start using your Roku. However, a quick online search reveals that Roku never charges activation or registration fees. Don’t fall for fake websites. Scammers love to create imitation websites using URLs that are just a letter or two off. Fake websites are a threat, even on smart TVs, so double-

check the URL. Another way to protect yourself is to avoid clicking on links in pop-ups and, instead, type web URLs directly into your browser. Check before you call. If a “customer service” phone number appears in a pop-up, double-check it before you call. Contact a streaming service or TV manufacturer’s website to find their customer support number.

Never let anyone control your device remotely. Scammers usually ask for remote computer access, but they could also ask for access to your smart TV. Don’t ever give control of your device to a stranger.

Get more advice about tech support scams. Also, check out BBB Scam Alert: Need tech support? Be careful which number you call for additional tips. Learn other ways to protect yourself in the article "10 Steps to Avoid Scams," and sign up for scam alerts. If you spot a smart TV scam, report it to BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help boost consumer awareness.

Mechele Agbayani Mills is president and CEO of BBB Central East Texas

GOD’S WORD: “And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever… And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth… And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords.”

– Revelation 11:15; 19:6,16

By GLENN MILLER

ith every Christian church all over the globe soon celebrating Easter Sunday with choirs singing the “Hallelujah Chorus”, it might be fitting to visit some history and legends that surround this glorious work. At the lowest ebb of George Frederic Handel’s life and after several setbacks and in debt, he set out to compose a musical with words taken from the Book of Isaiah and The Gospels. He intended to depict Christ's life, death, resurrection, eternal glory, and the concept of redemption. For 24 days

Wand nights he worked solidly; hardly eating or sleeping, which resulted in his masterpiece, "The Messiah."

"I saw the great God himself, on his throne" Handel later recounted, "and all his company of Angels." "The Messiah" was first performed at Fishamble Street, Dublin as part of a charity series of concerts that he was invited to give by the Lord Lieutenant with Handel leading the performance from the harpsichord. "The Messiah" was repeatedly revised by Handel, reaching its most familiar version in the performance to benefit

the Foundling Hospital in 1754. It is one of the most popular works in the Western choral canon.

The most famous movement is the "Hallelujah" chorus, which conclude s the second of the three parts. The text is drawn from three passages in the New Testament book of Revelation: Chapter 11:15, 19:6 and 19:16. (Above).

I’m always taken aback by the exquisite writing of Handel and the proclamatory, powerful voicings of the music. But what I find even more powerful is not the music itself nor the performing ensemble nor how well it is being per-

formed, but the majesty of our Lord Jesus Christ to whom it was written to glorify.

King of Kings and Lord of Lords: He is omnipotent over all things in this world, even those things I try to control myself. Yet His lordship is one born of love, not control. He shall reign forever and ever: I like what the Apostle John wrote, that “In the beginning was the Word [Jesus], and the Word was with God and the Word was God.” Jesus is before us, behind us, above us, below us and within us to show us the way.

Hallelujah! Amen!

Kiersten Brewer: Real Estate Agent starting fast

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI www.infinitieplusmag.com

Local real estate agent

Kiersten Brewer is a real daddy's (and Mommy's) girl. Her parents are her heroes, setting her off down the straight and narrow destined for greatness.

"God blessed me with really amazing parents," she says. "They gave me the freedom and support to pursue every career I've ever thought of. I don't know where I would be without them."

By the time she headed for the University of Houston, she had set her life right with Christ, seeking His guidance in all her life endeavors. Still, her choice of a university was more than just an answered prayer.

"I thought Houston would be a cool place to live," she says. College was just a launching pad. Following her graduation she kept at it, earning her insurance and real estate licenses, and becoming a paralegal. It all came together smoothly.

"Before becoming a real estate agent, I worked in the education and legal fields," she says. "I bring that experience and knowledge from my background to every transaction."

Still, Kiersten felt inclined to switch career directions when she felt the pull towards real estate.

"I chose real estate because it is a good fit for my personality," she says. "It is a career that would

allow me to make more money and have a flexible schedule."

After less than two years Kiersten, is already finding her path in the local real estate community. She handles and oversees all areas of transactions such as pricing, marketing, negotiating, and closing.

“Kiersten is one of the most beautiful people I know- inside and out. She serves her clients with such heart and genuinely wants what’s best for them,” said Julie Woods, Founder and Owner of Julie Woods and Associates Inc. “I have watched her work night and day to help make her dreams come true.”

“Kiersten is one of the most beautiful people I know- inside and out. She serves her clients with such heart and genuinely wants what’s best for them. I have watched her work night and day to help make her dreams come true.”

- Julie Woods, Founder and Owner of Julie Woods and Associates Inc.

Kiersten Brewer

By its very nature, real estate has a powerful impact on people. It gives them their homes, it contributes to local economic growth, and especially by creating jobs it fills a critical role in shaping and strengthening the community.

"As agents, we have the opportunity to be a part of one of the prime if not the biggest transactions someone can make in their lifetime," she says. "This profession impacts people along with the quality of life for them and their families."

Her days are a whirlwind of prospecting, following up leads, meeting with clients and accompanying them on property visits before settling into her desk

for lead-generation and replying to texts, calls, and emails. She loves it all, especially how it enables her to make meaningful connections with her clients, who generally become lifelong friends. She would love every aspect of her profession were it not for the irregular income. Still, she readily admits nobody ever said it would be easy.

"Do your research and find a great broker/mentor to glean from," she says. "Build your relationships and be prepared to work hard."

Her life's work is also a labor of spiritual love as she seeks and follows the Lord's will. She places her faith in Christ first. Secondly, Kiersten relies on the Holy Spirit

to keep her on the straight and narrow in her dealings with others as she works for Julie Woods and Associates Inc. (JWA.)

The firm has a big sign on the wall reading: WHAT GOOD SHALL I DO THIS DAY? Indeed, JWA does much more than sell real estate. Along with her co-workers, Kiersten works with the Women and Families Development Center, preparing and serving lunches to those in need. They also volunteer at the Longview Animal Shelter, serving coffee and treats to their clients as their way of telling them, THANKS A LATTE!

In Kiersten Brewer, Longview residents have a splendid example to follow.

for

Easter Sunday dinner

Easter Sunday dinners are a tradition in many families. Though the COVID-19 pandemic forced families to alter that tradition in 2020, and could very well do so again in 2021, it is worth noting that Easter takes place in April this year. In many areas, April weather is warm enough to enable al fresco dining, potentially opening the door for families to celebrate together in small groups. Perhaps no food is more closely associated with Easter than lamb.

Slow-roasted Shoulder of Lamb with Cumin Seeds

Serves 8-10

• 2 tablespoons cumin seeds

• 1 whole shoulder of lamb on the bone (7-8 lbs.)

• Salt and freshly ground pepper

• Extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling

For the cumin gravy:

• 1-pint homemade lamb stock

• 1to 2 teaspoons cumin seeds, toasted and ground Roux (optional)

Warm the cumin seeds lightly in a pan, then crush them using a pestle and mortar. Score the skin of the meat in a diamond pattern with a sharp knife. Transfer to a roasting tin. Sprinkle the meat with salt, pepper and the ground cumin seeds and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 6-7 hours at 275 F, this gives a delicious, juicy, succulent texture. Transfer to a serving dish and leave in a warm place while you make the gravy.

To make the cumin gravy,

spoon the fat off the roasting tin. Add the stock to the remaining cooking juice. Boil for a few minutes on top of the stove, stirring and scraping the tin well to dissolve the caramelized meat juices (a small whisk is typically ideal for this). Add the ground toasted cumin. Thicken with a little roux if you like. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Pass through a sieve and transfer to a gravy boat.

Carve the meat into thick slices so that everybody gets some crushed

cumin seeds. Serve with the cumin gravy and crusty roast potatoes.

Note: For Lamb Roast with Coriander: Substitute coriander seeds for the cumin seeds, both for roasting the limb and flavoring the gravy. Alternatively, use a mix of cumin and coriander seeds. Note: A shoulder of lamb is much trickier to carve than a leg, but it is so sweet and juicy that is certainly worth the struggle.

Eight tips for Door-to-Door Sales Season

specifications, materials and labor needed to complete the project gives you a better idea of what reasonable price is. Homeowners should discuss bids in detail with each contractor and ask questions about variations in pricing. Keep in mind, the lowestpriced contractor may not be the best deal. Go to https://www.bbb.org/get-aquote to get a bid from a business you can trust.

By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS

If visited by a door-to-door sales representative, BBB advises the following:

The sun is out, and warmer temperatures are here. That means door-to-door sales season is upon us, and solicitors have started hitting the pavement. Marketing everything from solar panels, landscaping services, alarm systems, handyman work, and even charitable organizations, we will typically see door-to-door salespeople in our neighborhoods through the end of September.

Better Business Bureau Central East Texas (BBB) urges consumers to make smart and safe decisions when answering the door to a salesperson.

Research the company with BBB. Visit bbb.org to review the company’s BBB Business Profile to find out more about their marketplace performance.

Consider customer reviews, complaint history, and overall company history. If it is difficult to find information on the company, consider working with another company. Remember, always look for the BBB seal. It’s the Sign of a Better BusinessSM. Deal with local companies. Not only is this beneficial for our local economy, it also helps ensure that the company is accessible should you need them to return to fulfill a warranty or for other reasons.

Read and understand contracts before signing. Get transaction details, including verbal promises in writing. Include start and completion dates in the contract. Never sign any contract that has blank spaces. Pay with a credit card. Take advantage of the consumer protections provided by using

a credit card. Never pay in full (unless the job is completed), and never pay in cash.

Remember the “Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule.” The Federal Trade Commission’s Three-Day Cooling-Off Rule gives consumers three days to cancel purchases of more than $25 that are made in their home or at a location that is not the seller’s permanent place of business. Always get a receipt. Remember, there are purchases which cannot be cancelled under the three-day rule, such as the sale of insurance or farm equipment, and sales made entirely by mail or telephone with no other contact between buyer and seller. By law, the company must give consumers a refund within 10 days of receiving the cancellation notice. Seek at least three bids. Getting several proposals from prospective contractors based on the same

Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics. A reputable seller will give you time to think through the deal and make an appointment to return at a later date. If they don’t want you to do any research on them or their product or service, you may want to spend your money elsewhere.

Be Safe. Never invite anyone you don’t know into your home. If the salesperson refuses to leave and/or if

you feel threatened, call the police immediately.

It’s also important to note that some cities do require a permit and may have other solicitation regulations regarding door-to-door sales people.

Go to BBB.org to look up online marketplace business profiles, file a complaint, or write a customer review. Visit BBB Scam Tracker to research and report scams.

Mechele Agbayani Mills, is president and CEO of BBB serving Central East Texas.

Many legitimate companies use door to door sales to generate revenue Be on the lookout for companies who use high pressure sales tactics, arrive in unmarked vehicles, do not have company letterhead or business cards, and require cash payment, as they could be unscrupulous individuals who may want nothing more than to line their pockets

Chavalia Dunlap-Mwamba: Keeps Man, Woman, Child Fragrant

By JOYCELYNE

www.infinitieplusmag.com

When Chavalia DunlapMwamba speaks of her parents there is no mistaking the love and gratitude she feels. Their blessed influence led her to become one of East Texas' main female entrepreneurs in a non-mainstream business.

"My mom instilled drive, diligence and tenacity regarding entrepreneurship, and my bonus father shows me undying support," she says. "They both have sacrificed to make sure I'm able to continue my work by caring for the twins, and we are immensely grateful to have them in our lives and close."

Her parents taught her the vital lessons of honesty, integrity, and fairness when it comes to dealing with her customers regardless

of whether or not they buy anything. Seeds of kindness typically sprout into a profitable future as she eagerly shows her Godly love. She is one of many such shining examples from her brood of three children. Her family of origin has multiple sets of twins and one of triplets. They earn their livings in many ways ranging from entrepreneurship to professional ranchers. She loves the road she travels and got a promising start via a firstclass education.

She manifested her love of music at Kilgore College and the University of Texas at Arlington, pulling down her bachelor’s degree in music and earning certification as an EC-12 music instructor. Her tuneful inclinations led her first into teaching, but soon took her down another, even more fragrant path.

problems. She blended these non-allergic potions, used them on herself and others, encountered no difficulties and used these positive mixtures to launch her business, Pink MahogHany. Chavalia’s customers quickly learned they did not have to shy away from fragrances. She was still teaching when she went into business in 2005 and introduced her first original fragrance in 2011.

ladder. Her workdays are intense. She is the heart and soul of her enterprise.

"Though no two days are identical, as a solo entrepreneur the usual flow is arriving at my workspace to prep, process and prepare to ship orders," she says. "I am in charge of everything from order acceptance to fulfillment."

"I find that through my sharing how God works in my life it acts as a beacon for others seeking clarity in their spiritual walk," she says "For that, I'm grateful."

"I started teaching in 2006, two years after graduating from UTA, and found that my interest in fragrance never left from childhood," she says. "I found myself researching everything related to scent on every break."

It did not take her long to realize she had more than a passing interest in this topic, she was serious about it from a career perspective. Many of those she shared her passion with shied away from perfumes and colognes because of prior allergic reactions. This led her to studying why this happened, and then she purchased fragrances without the ingredients that seemed to cause the adverse symptoms. Testing these scents on herself and others, who had experienced negative results, taught her which additives were prone to cause

"Perfumery actually chose me at a young age, and I reciprocated years later fulltime," she says. "I create and formulate fragrances in the form of several mediums."

• Perfumes for both women and men. Eau de Parfum means 'perfume strength,' so it lasts longer on the flesh due to the concentration.

• Home/vehicle fragrance sprays and diffuser blends.

• Essential oil diffuser blends/ roll ons for adults and children desiring to have more laser-focus in school.

• Custom scent formulation for individuals and businesses plus a private label for those desiring a unique scent for their brand.

Maintaining an advertising profile for her business along with the standard and traditional tactics of innovative advertising and exemplary customer service keeps her atop the East Texas corporate

She typically spends Mondays staying busy outside her office, Tuesdays and Wednesdays are spent getting orders to her carriers, and Thursdays and Fridays are set aside for her to tend to her private clients, formulating trial fragrance blends for testing/evaluation.

"The fact that I don't yet have a small team can be taxing," she says. "All the responsibility and delegation fall on me for now."

The aspect of her calling that she most enjoys is to "bring a fragrant vision to life from idea to scent." The sense of accomplishment she feels upon completing a product for retail is the most enjoyable part of her job.

Still, her relationship with the Holy Spirit keeps her going strong. She enters every new project only after prayer and meditation. If she feels herself led away from a task, she does not accept it. She is also careful to share her faith.

Pink MahogHany is located at 211 West Tyler Street in the TK&F Contractors building. If her white SUV "Blanche" is there, she is present and eager for drop-ins. Just ring the doorbell. Visitors generally leave with at least one complimentary sample.

Chavalia will be speaking at the Queens United 5th Annual Conference on 22 April. For further information about her and her delightful way of making a living please call (430) 201-4899, pinkmahoghany. com or visit parfumista@ pinkmahoghany. com. She serves the community in more ways than just making it more fragrant.

"I enjoy serving when asked," she says. "Children and education are my passion."

Chavalia’s passions leave us all smelling like a rose.

"Perfumery actually chose me at a young age, and I reciprocated years later full-time. I create and formulate fragrances in the form of several mediums."- Chavalia Dunlap-Mwamba

FADOJUTIMI

Chavalia Dunlap-Mwamba

Women in Longview Day hits high notes

The recent annual Women in Longview Day (WILD) was a hit. Women entrepreneurs had their tables set up. Attendees were moving from table to table

inspecting, asking questions, exchanging pertinent information, or buying displayed items.

Jennifer Malone with the City of Longview said she came with friends. According to Ms. Malone,

WILD is a good event. She learned new information about human trafficking.

Sarah Medin had her Mary Kay Cosmetics booth. She said, Linda Brooks invited her. According to Medi, she likes the WILD because it affirms women.

Furthermore, Gina Tullo and her volunteers from Longview Regional Medical Center displayed their table. They were hoping to recruit more volunteers for the hospital.

In addition, Donna Sharp, one of WILD members and organizer was thrilled at the turn out. “Our event is back and big. We are expecting 250 guests,” she said. “Vendor marketplace is busy and that is a good thing for the ladies.”

Furthermore, Women in Longview Day had several speakers including Breneda

Mathis, Texas Bank and Trust executive vice president and branch manager. She told her attentive audience how she climbed the ladder of success.

Ms. Mathis got her first job at the age of 12 in Seattle Washington while visiting relatives. The Lord blessed her with mentors at important junctures of her life. Moreover, she worked extremely hard to put herself through college. Her presentation showed that nothing was given to her on a platter. To date, Mathis has worked for 42 years in the banking industry with 16 of those years at Texas Bank and Trust.

Women in Longview was formed in 1984. It is a non-profit organization that puts on Women in Longview Day. The organization gives scholarships to graduating

seniors and adult women returning to college. For more information or to become a member, please visit https://womeninlongview.org.

903.663.0061

Sarah Medin

Sandra Skoog and Nita Wylie Donna Sharp Marina Garcia

Chavalia Dunlap-Mwamba and Glenda Johnson

"I called Mom to tell her I could buy my [own] school clothes," Brenda says. "I just knew that would help her out."

When Breneda turned 16, she went back to Seattle. And voila! she landed a job working for a lawyer in downtown Seattle. An uncle taught her how to read the map, bus routes and schedules in order to use the public transportation to get to her job. These two Seattle job experiences played a vital role in her life enabling Breneda to set high goals for herself.

The next summer prior to her senior year, she got a job working for Longview Independent School District thanks to MANPOWER employment agency. She worked with Margaret Parker and J.L. Everhart. Parker and Everhart. The duo showed tremendous interest in Breneda. “They literally took me under their wings and mentored me,” she said.

By her senior year, she was working half days for LISD principal Charles Lee, Jr. Lee who was in charge of various school checking accounts. He taught Breneda how to reconcile bank statements. Furthermore, he helped her to correct her name on her birth certificate from Brenda to Breneda; register for Kilgore College, and to apply for grants to pay tuition and purchase textbooks.

"He called me Birdie and told me to always use a pencil with a good eraser," she says.

While in college, she worked parttime at the Cherokee Club before moving on to East Texas State University. She and three friends were able, through grants, to rent a two-bedroom apartment off campus, but needed another $2000 for out-of-district fees. Her cousin Earnest in Seattle came through, providing the money.

"I have been repaying that debt for forty-two years," she said. "When he comes home to visit, I pick him up at DFW airport, stop to eat either breakfast, lunch or dinner, drive him to Longview, entertain him during the visit, and take him back to the airport."

After polishing her banking skills with her ten years at Kilgore First National she moved on to a position with the administration account department of the Kilgore Independent School District. Two years later, a chance encounter with the bank president led her back to Kilgore First National as secretary to the bank's vicepresident. Eventually Regions Bank bought out Kilgore First National and Longview National Bank. Breneda worked her way up to the position of branch sales manager. The bank's first African-American officer, she also became "Rookie of the Year" at the end of her first year. Her problemsolving skills were invaluable.

"During my time with

Regions I received the Bravo Award for working with a task force in Birmingham, Alabama once a month to work out operational issues during the Texas merger," she says. She has since been named to the Chairman’s Club as a sales manager, achieving all of Regions' sales goals before moving on to Texas Bank and Trust and spending the past sixteen years as senior vicepresident and branch manager. She now scrupulously cares for her mother, who keeps a scrapbook of all her daughter's many accomplishments.

Breneda admits that she has been a recipient of God’s goodness and kindness in the journey of life – putting significant people in her path at different junctions.

"What a career banking has made for me, great co-workers, mentors, customers and forever friends," she says. "I couldn't have made this journey without the grace of God and the love and support of my family. God has been with me every step of the way and blessed me indeed.”

Two basic truisms she has learned and unconditionally abides by as a financial professional are:

(1) You will make mistakes, just don't make the same one twice.

(2) Master where you are. Don't leave a department until you have mastered it.

It is a message as simple as it is vital.

BRENEDA MATHIS:

Mathis, Executive Vice President/Branch Manager, Texas Bank and Trust

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI www.infinitieplusmag.com

Like so many others who have achieved boundless career success, local banking executive Breneda Mathis gives credit to God, her family, and mentors for steering her down the straight and narrow route.

"My father passed away in 2016, but both he and my mother were very instrumental in my life and career," she says. "I learned honesty, work ethics, integrity and to respect others as well as myself."

She has spent the past 42 year in the banking industry and sixteen of her forty-two years in banking as an employee of Texas Bank and Trust. Following college, she applied for work with financial institutions. Kilgore First National Bank was first to contact her. She has

spent the following decades learning the nuances of banking and the financial needs of others. She listens carefully to customers as they share with her their personal and economic concerns. Helping others is her passion. When asked what she loves most about her career, she replies simply, "My customers and co-workers."

Despite her passion for what she does for a living, her Christian faith is first in her long list of priorities.

"I am a Christian who prays that my light is always shining for others to see Christ in me."

Her mother is an example of everything that determination can accomplish. She would have been the first in her family to attend college. However, a house fire that destroyed their family home also burned her

dream of becoming a nurse through Texas College's nursing program.

Hence, as a single parent she worked two jobs to support her children, telling them: "I will supply your needs, but you will have to work for your wants."

Breneda’s strong work ethic started incredibly early at age 12. Her family spent the summer months in Seattle, Washington with their grandmother, aunts, and cousins.

Even though she was 12, she landed a job for 15 years old. “I worked with a group of teens and a Sponsor delivering Stop Crime booklets in the Seattle neighborhoods,” she said. “All I knew is that I was going to get paid.” Excitedly, she mad a call to Texas.

“What a career banking has made for me, great co-workers, mentors, customers and forever friends. I couldn't have made this journey without the grace of God, the love and support of my family."

- Breneda

Bank Exec attributes success to the Almighty, family, mentors, and profound diligence

Breneda Mathis, Texas Bank & Trust Senior Vice President and Branch Manager