infinitieplus magazine

Living life beyond plus one

infinitieplus August 2020

VOL. 10 NO.8 Longview BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Hooray for Heroes DR. WAYNE GUIDRY STRONG PILLAR OF LASTING LEARNING SPRING HILL ISD

East Texas Baptist University strengthens partnership with Tyler Junior College

Essentials Needed FOR LONGVIEW isd STUDENTS

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Inspirational

YOUR FLOORING, LIGHTING, APPLIANCE AND MORE STORE

www.stone-works.net (903) 663-3344 SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS

HELP NEEDED B y D r . M i c h a e l G u i do

O

ne of the great American authors, Alex Haley, had a picture on a wall in his office that attracted much attention. It always aroused the interest of his visitors because no one could understand the significance of the photograph to the writer.

On one occasion, a visitor with a perplexed look on his face asked, “Alex, why do you have a picture of a turtle sitting on the top of a fence post?”

Haley replied, “I try to remember how this turtle - me - got on the top of that post.”

Sometimes, perhaps most of the time for some of us, it is difficult to admit that if it were not for the help of others, we would not be where we are.

From our earliest moments until this present hour, we are encouraged by nearly everyone to believe that “You can do it by yourself!”

Not so! We all need the help of others. Consider two words of advice from God. Speaking through the prophet Isaiah He said, “Encourage one another with the words, ‘Be strong!’”

Each day God brings individuals into our lives who need help, encouragement, inspiration, an act of kindness, words of sympathy, or a look of empathy. He does this, so we can help Him do His work in His world. It is easy to encourage others by simply smiling and saying, “Be strong.”

Living life as one of Christ’s disciples, and doing

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Anytime you see a turtle up on top of a fence post, you know he had some help.

- Alex Haley the will of God, is to become a voice through which He speaks words of encouragement and a hand that He uses to help others.

Blessed is the Christian who enables others to “be strong!”

Prayer: Father, may we take seriously the fact that You expect us to look to You for guidance and then reach out to others in love and mercy to show Your grace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture for Today: Everyone encourage one another with the words, “Be strong.” Isaiah 41:6

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Table of Contents

Community Connections

infinitieplus

Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi

Longview BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Photography

Cover Story Hello Longview and the Global Village. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to bring you this August issue of infinitieplus magazine. The pandemic does not seem to be going away. As of this writing, infections are soaring in Texas, Florida, California, and many other states. The arguments about citizens’ right to wear mask is ongoing. On the other hand, there is good news- Big Pharma tells Congress they will be able to get out vaccine in record time.

With reference to this August issue, we are bringing you news of what is going on in our community. Julie Woods of Julie Woods and Associates honored our local law enforcement with a Hooray for Heroes parade. The parade was well attended. Check out the story and photos from page 4. But that is not all.

Eastman Credit Union donated a $75,000 check to the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center (LANC) to fund a new spray fountain in the arboretum's pond. Check out the story and pond from page 5. There is more.

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Joycelyne Fadojutimi

Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs

Fountain testament to Credit Union support

Contributing Writers Dr. Michael Guido Mechele Agbayani Mills

On education, Dr. Wayne Guidry remembers how hard times shaped him.

"There were times I remember my mother having to work two jobs and often having to walk to work in order to support my brother and me. Through my parents' example I learned how to love my neighbor and also how to work harder than my neighbor." Read this story from page 12.

On a different note, young philanthropist, Arya Germanwala is on a very important mission to provide hygiene essentials for indigent students at Longview ISD. Read about her new nonprofit organization and how you can help from page 18.

Please check out the rest of the magazine. Thanks for reading. We look forward to serving you again in September

by God’s grace.

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Submission Deadline The first of every month prior to month of issue. infinitieplus magazine is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes since the publishing of this issue.

At the time of publication, to the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate though not guaranteed.

VOLUME 10 | ISSUE 8

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Ann Hugman, Dan Darr, Kimberly Fish, Donna Willard, Virginia Ross, Steven Chamblee, Jan Barth, Amy Fields, Carla Dixon, Jill Alley and Lauren Koos standing in front of the Spray Fountain.

W

B y J o y c e l y n e F adoj u t i m i / i p l u smag . c om

Mayor Andy Mack and wife, Kelly don their masks for parade

Jannice Urban with LANC Julie Woods, President/ CEO of Julie Woods and Associates and Friends at Hooray for Heroes Parade

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hen Eastman Credit Union (ECU), broke ground for a new location on West Loop 281, the President and Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Price presented a $75,000 check to the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center (LANC) Board members. This check was earmarked to fund a new spray fountain in the arboretum's pond. Price made it clear why the Credit

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Union gave the donation.

"Community partnership is important to us," he said. "Strong and vibrant communities are a great place to raise families and support positive economic growth.

We are so happy to be part of the Longview Arboretum in the heart of this community."

Arboretum Board Vice-President Anne Hugman did the research on what kind of features would enhance the arboretum's pond so that visitors can

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Community Connections

Jill Alley, Lauren Koos, Amy Fields and Carla Dixon

Bundles Bundles Bundlesof of ofjoy. joy. joy.

It’s It’s It’swhat what whatwe we wedeliver. deliver. deliver.

From From From the thethe day day day you you you find find find out outout to tothe to thethe day day day you you you deliver, deliver, deliver, there’s there’s there’s nothing nothing nothing more more more important important important to toLongview to Longview Longview Regional Regional Regional Medical Medical Medical Center Center Center than than than your your your and and and your your your baby’s baby’s baby’s health health health and and and well-being. well-being. well-being.

This This This isiswhy why is why we wewe provide provide provide extra extra extra amenities amenities amenities such such such as asprivate as private private rooms, rooms, rooms, spacious spacious spacious birthing birthing birthing suites, suites, suites, childbirth childbirth childbirth classes classes classes and and and breastfeeding breastfeeding breastfeeding support. support. support.

And And And ififyou you if you and and and your your your newest newest newest addition addition addition need need need aalittle little a little extra extra extra help, help, help, we wewe offer offer offer perinatal perinatal perinatal services services services that that that include include include maternal-fetal maternal-fetal maternal-fetal medicine medicine medicine specialists specialists specialists and and and aaLevel Level a Level IIIIIINICU. NICU. III NICU. For ForFor more more more information information information about about about our our our labor labor labor and and and delivery delivery delivery services, services, services, visit visit visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.

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savor alluring sound and light effects as they follow the garden trail. Along with the turtles that sun themselves at the water's edge, there are already well-manicured trees, shrubs, and lawns. Hugman and her fellow board members enthusiastically thank the credit union for its patronage, and invite locals and tourists to experience this latest, lovely attraction.

Patrons who attended the inaugural Roots Concert Series were first to take in the fountain's debut as they checked it out against a backdrop of the Jazz Connection performing on the Stage at Water's Edge. The fountain's artful addition was a perfect complement to the sounds, visuals, and textures LANC already provides. Like all of Longview, Eastman Credit Union is committed to making this city even more alluring.

Located at 706 West Cotton Street, Longview Arboretum and Nature Center is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10:00am to 5:00pm and on Sundays from 12:00pm to 5:00pm. For additional details please visit longviewarboretum.org.

Steven Chamblee, LANC executive director talks about the spray fountain

2901 2901 2901 N. N.Fourth N. Fourth Fourth Street Street Street • • Longview, Longview, • Longview, TX TX75605 TX 75605 75605 • • 903-242-3490 903-242-3490 • 903-242-3490 • • LongviewRegional.com LongviewRegional.com • LongviewRegional.com www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

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Cover Story

Cover Story

HOORAY

HEROES

Amanda Veasy and her sweet kiddos

Local business honors law enforcement

By Joyce ly n e Fadoj u t i m i

T

he buildup to this year's local Independence Day celebration was significantly patriotic. It included a parade in sincere appreciation for Longview's police officers and firefighters.

This event dubbed Hooray for Heroes was the brainchild, of Julie Woods President and CEO of Julie Woods and Associates Real Estate Firm.

The parade procession included grateful local residents who jumped at this opportunity to express their gratitude to the city's most vital public servants.

Moreover, participants who did not have time to decorate their cars were in good hands because Longview Public Library Youth Service Supervisor Jenna Yeakley and her volunteers

donned such vehicles for the parade at Longview Public Library parking lot.

It is important to remember that local law enforcement is of the essential services. As a matter of fact, the work very long hours doing more than a fair share of essential service in these unprecedented times. In this case, the COVID-19 epidemic has forced police to take on more than their usual workload, and they have done this gladly and efficiently without any decrease in their ongoing toils to ensure public safety.

In the same fashion, the Longview Fire Department found time to test 685 inmates in the Gregg County jail, and 2389 local nursing home residents for COVID-19. In like manner, Longview police officers, were on hand to protect peaceful protesters, and not only from potential violence - they provided the demonstrators with cool bottled water in the sweltering East Texas heat. All this considered, the appreciation parade was not only a great success,

Ella and Sarai Castenon

Jenna Yeakley decorates a car for parade

Joseph and Haley Louvier

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Volunteers decorating a car for Hooray for Heroes parade

August 2020

Police Officer waving at Hooray for Heroes parade

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Julie Woods talking to Jenayah Watson

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Cover Story

Cover Story

At a time when our communities and country are in upheaval, we need to remember to thank the good law enforcement officers for doing their good work.

They have been essential employees through this entire covid-19 crisis and deserve an 'atta boy and atta girl.'"

Citizens attend Hooray for Heroes Parade

Citizens attend Hooray for Heroes Parade

but a foregone conclusion in light of the police and fire departments' sterling recent performances.

For one thing, Hooray for Heroes Parade was very appropriate in light of how the city's police and firemen use their own,department vehicles as escorts and for safety during sundry parades and for funeral processions."At a time when our communities and country are in upheaval, we need to remember to thank the GOOD law enforcement officers for doing their GOOD work," said Julie Woods. "They have been essential employees through this entire COVID-19 crisis and deserve an 'Atta boy and Atta girl.'"

- Julie Woods, President and CEO of Julie Woods and Associates Real Estate Firm.

Law enforcement officers waving at Hooray for Heroes parade

Law enforcement officers waving at Hooray for Heroes parade

Volunteer decorates car for parade

Hooray for Heroes Parade

ce officers and Firefighters Thank you, Poli iates plus local businesses for honoring our law lie Woods and Assoc enforcemen u J u o y k n a t Th

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Cover Story

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Dr. Wayne Guidry:

A Pillar of Education

B y J o y c e l y n e F adoj u t i m i / i p l u smag . c om

D

r. Wayne Guidry's life is deeply entrenched in Texas. His oldest son Dylan is a 2020 graduate of Texas A&M, from where he pulled down an engineering degree. Twenty-year-old son Zach also resides in College Station. Thirteenyear-old daughter Sidney and son Roman, 11, attend Spring Hill Middle School. Wayne and wife Julie came together through education.

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"Julie and I taught together in Vidor, Texas," he says. "After knowing each other for two years I asked her to marry me on the last day of school at our seventh-grade awards ceremony in front of 350 students."

These teaching spouses have a passion for enriching young minds and lives. Julie currently serves as a counselor at Longview High School. Her kindness and competence are perfect for her calling as she has constant positive impact on her charges.

Guidry grew up during the 80s recession and had very few luxuries. Nonetheless, he still started down the path of public service, especially to young people because his parents set a blessed example of unselfish, caring devotion.

"There were times I remember my mother having to work two jobs and often having to walk to work in order to support my brother and I," he says. "Through my parents' example I learned how to love my neighbor and also how to work harder than my neighbor."

His parents taught by example how to live with purpose, and for that purpose to be avoiding greed and selfishness in order to be a blessing to those around him. This combination of selfless dedication to others and an uncompromising work ethic prepared him well for a successful college education.

"I attended the University of Texas at Austin on a track and field scholarship. I attended Lamar University for my masters and doctoral degrees," he says. "The University of Texas has a saying, 'What happens here changes the world.' I believe many

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Wayne Guidry as a 4-year Christian missionary in Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan during which he became fluent in their languages: Kyrgyz and Pharsi.

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Cover Story

Cover Story

The Guidry Family: Wayne, Julie, Roman, Dylan, Sydney and Zach

UT Students take that motto to heart in their studies and in life."

Diving into his eighteen-year (so far) education career, he is a certified school business administrator with five years as a classroom teacher and four years as a campus administrator. There is more. He followed this up with six years as a director of secondary curriculum before becoming an executive director of operations. It well prepared him for a two-year stint as superintendent of the Hubbard Independent School District outside Waco. All this came after four years as a

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Christian missionary in Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan, during which he became fluent in Kyrgyz and Pharsi.

"During this time, I worked with humanitarian aid groups in facilitating agriculture, construction and solar projects," he says. "I spent the majority of my time overseas with non-English-speaking people which facilitated my language acquisition."

His time serving the Lord in a foreign mission field was excellent preparation for his career in education. He describes education as "a mission field where the students come to you every day."

His college years as a student athlete gave indication of his approaching post-college

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accomplishments since he exercised uncompromising self-discipline in the regimented work schedule, he imposed on himself. Guidry set aside very little time for fun.

"I am very goal-oriented and have always put the hours in to reach my goals," he says. "However, without several incredible mentors and family members very few of my accomplishments would have been possible."

The individuals he most credits for his success are his parents, his wife, and his high school pole vaulting coach, Joe Hester.

"Coach Hester spent six years teaching me not

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Cover Story

Cover Story just what it means to become an All-American pole vaulter, but what it takes to become an All-American citizen," he says.

As a matter of fact, Guidry sees a clear sense of one's mission as vital in bringing positive change to any school district. His every decision is geared to ensuring teacher/student classroom interaction brings about a positive learning process. In light of this, his decisions are based solely on his being well-informed on how to accomplish this goal.

In like manner, his daily routine centers around solving all kinds of problems and creating processes that will reduce conflict and boost employees' personal growth. Guidry constantly tours campuses to stay abreast of the school district's operations. He realizes it would be impossible for him to make his daily, crucial decisions without being totally in touch with everything happening on campuses. It is a job that is absolutely dear to his heart.

“It is important that before school starts that we come together as a family to do the best we can, working together as one big unit. For us, to be successful we are going to support each other and find ways to educate our kids.”

– Dr Wayne Guidry, Spring Hill ISD Superintendent

Dr. Wayne Guidry

What matters most!

"The thing I love about being an educator, is knowing that our profession has a profound impact on the lives of our students," he says. "I believe all of us has a new appreciation for the role that education plays in the lives of our students after having to close our schools in March."

Guidry is very aware of how the educators at Spring Hill ISD are so splendidly preparing his two children there for a great future. He is proud (but not surprised) at how students he has spoken to since the school closing talk about how much they miss their teachers and classes. As a devout Baptist, he considers his work as God-given mission.

Today, he points out that many of his brother/

Thank you, Essential Services Providers.

From collecting our trash and cleaning our businesses to delivering our packages and keeping our lights on, the services you provide are vital to the health and well-being of our community.

Our current situation did not make you essential. It just revealed how essential you already were.

You are our community. We are your community bank.

Always Texas Strong.

sister college alumni work with the homeless, start missions, serve as missionaries, and work in many other areas of Christian service. While still in higher education at the University of Texas in Austin, these Christian scholars in a public institution influenced each other well.

"I was surrounded by the most incredible Christian students I have ever met in my life," he says. "Rather than spending our evenings in the bars on 6th street, we would spend our time studying the Bible."

Moreover, Guidry bases his work as father, husband, and educator on Christian admonitions. He cites Philippians 2:3-4 as the ideal direction for anyone in his position. "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.

Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests, but each of you to the interests of others."

In addition, he realizes there is more to learning than the classroom. Apart from administration of public education, over the past eighteen years he has found time to work with little league baseball, basketball, and football associations.

"Sports is a great tool to teach our children many life lessons," he says. "I have also worked with the churches that I have been a member of."

Despite his hectic schedule, Guidry finds time for community service with the Longview Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, and Unite Longview. Guidry eagerly looks forward to Roman and Sidney graduating from Spring Hill High School.

After two career-prompted moves in three years, he is ready to settle down and make a home for his children.

At the same time, he makes certain his physical condition matches his excellent academic situation.

He participates in grueling athletic events.

"I was training for an ironman competition this past spring," he says. "Unfortunately, the event was cancelled, but I look forward to competing in the event this upcoming year."

What a magnificent example for our young people.

MEMBER FDIC TBT IPM Essential Workers.indd 1

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Cover Story

Cover Story

Essentials needed

for Longview ISD students B y J o y c e l y n e F adoj u t i m i / i p l u smag . c om

T

he American Psychological Association dedicate their efforts to insuring American children (APA) reports that one of the world's receive adequate nutrition. wealthiest countries, the United The symptoms of food deficiency are States of America, is, ironically many and significant. They include stomach and unfortunately, home to aches, headaches, colds and, depending on a tragic underclass whose children lack the severity of the malnutrition, various sufficient nutrition to pursue the active chronic illnesses, poor brain development, healthy lifestyle needed as a precursor to learning disorders, trouble processing successful, secure adulthood. Relevant information, poor academic achievement, research reveals that childhood hunger anxiety, depression and assorted depressive leads up to health problems that disorders, and even suicidal tendencies negatively impact the educational in adolescents. Many children feel outcomes of affected children. Still, humiliated and become withdrawn there is hope. because of the stigma associated with National programs such as the their lack of food.

USDA's Supplemental Nutrition These problems, however, were Arya Germanwala Founder, Simple Bare Necessities Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly banished locally in August 2019 known as Food Stamps,) Women, Infants when LISD students began receiving free and Children (WIC,) the National School Lunch breakfasts and lunches in their cafeterias through Program, and the Summer Food Service Program a program sponsored by the federal Community Eligibility. In keeping with the Health, HungerFree Kids Act of 2010, Community Eligibility 903.291.0020 provides free meals for schools in high poverty 1408 Lago Trail areas. LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox Longview heartis.com points out the implications of this program for some of the district's vulnerable families.

Assisted Living and Memory Care Community "A child should never have to worry about whether or not they're going to be able to eat a good breakfast of lunch," he said. "Too many of our students face challenges outside the classroom that impede their ability to succeed inside the classroom. We can't expect our students to focus on learning if they're hungry and don't know where their next meal is coming from."

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Recent studies reveal a whopping 87% of all LISD students qualify for free or reduced lunch prices. With only 13% not eligible, it is a safe conclusion that the other 87% face additional poverty related problems.

Most importantly, personal hygiene essentials cry out to be addressed as too many students lack basic nonfood essentials such as shampoo, deodorant, lotion, toothpaste, dental floss, fold-up toothbrushes, breath strips, mouth wash, sanitary napkins, first-aid kits and more Longview High School sophomore Arya Germanwala noted these needs. Hence, she founded a non-profit organization called Simple Bare Necessities, aiming to provide these basic care commodities to LISD students with no other such sources.

"Simple Bare Necessities is boldly taking the initiative to eliminate unneeded inequities in our community, empowering all students to prosper in a safe and healthy environment," she said.

This powerful statement clarifies how, although Simple Bare Necessities is indeed dedicated to community assistance, it differs from other programs seeking to ease the burden of poverty.

"SNAP does help economically disadvantaged students," she says. "However, it does not allow for the purchase of personal hygiene products because it is not meant to do so."

She directs Simple Bare Necessities to work to hurdle all gaps preventing students from feeling sufficiently selfconfident to succeed academically. It provides "a sense of security, dignity and self-worth so essential to the future success of our children and country."

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Arya points out how her grandmother Manju Germanwala is her inspiration for her philanthropic work. In 2018, Manju's tireless toils on behalf of others won her the coveted annual Hero in Service Award in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Manju earned this recognition in spite of severe health problems. "As a brave survivor of lymphoma, she is an inspiration to all, and especially to me," says Arya.

This selfless, dedicated, and compassionate young woman is appealing to Longview for assistance in supplying the items Simple Bare Necessities needs for distribution to the city's needy residents. "I hope you will join me in giving back and making an impactful difference in the lives of Longview's most deserving-our underprivileged youth," she says.

Public policy organizations are researching the impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on the local poor populace. The data are not positive. The Science Daily is a publication that chronicles the latest science research. It reports, "The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified social, educational and healthcare disparities." Pediatricians at John Hopkins report the hardest hit are "children from low-income households who are experiencing major disruptions in already inconsistent routines and less-than adequate resources critical to learning, nutrition and social development." Hence, the crucial importance of Arya’s organization, Simple Bare Necessities.

Those wishing to respond to Arya's plea for community support should visit www.

Simplebarenecessities.org or email her directly at simplebarenecessitiestx.com.

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Community Connections

Education

SIMPLE BARE N E C E S S I T I E S

East Texas Baptist University

strengthens partnership with Tyler Junior College

E

ast Texas Baptist University strengthens the unique public/private partnership with Tyler Junior College by offering a specialized Master of Education program to TJC faculty and staff, as well as high school teachers who wish to teach dual credit/dual-enrollment courses.

The 30-hour graduate degree, offered online through ETBU, will give those enrolled a new venue for career advancement with increased opportunities for teaching at the collegiate level. The program also benefits those individuals who have a master’s degree, yet need the 18-hour graduate discipline courses for qualification to teach college courses.

“As a graduate from Tyler Junior College, I am honored to work with TJC President Dr. Juan E. Mejia in creating a collaborative academic partnership for the benefit of the East Texas region,” ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn said. “I am confident that offering ETBU’s Master of Education program to TJC faculty and staff will aid us in developing servant-hearted educational leaders and scholars and will equip qualified higher education professionals to reach their full teaching potential.”

East Texas Baptist’s partnership with TJC dates back to 2017 when the two institutions entered an articulation agreement, providing a more accessible and more affordable pathway for TJC students to pursue a quality, Christ-centered education through ETBU. This new component of the two schools’ ongoing collaboration targets those seeking to further their professionallevel education and training. The 18-month graduate education program offers discipline specific content in English, History, Mathematics, or Communication for obtaining post-secondary teaching credentials in these high-demand areas of study. This unique private/public partnership is catered to professionals who desire to re-

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ceive qualification and preparation to teach at Tyler Junior College and other East Texas regional colleges. Additionally, the ability for more educators to attain their master’s degree or 18-hour graduate discipline specific qualification will help address the 60 X 30 Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s primary goal of having at least 60 percent of Texans between the ages of 25-34 with a post-secondary credential by 2030.

“TJC’s strategic plan includes a strong focus on innovation through authentic partnerships, and we value the partnership with ETBU,” TJC President Dr. Mejia shared. “Dr. Blackburn and his Cabinet have continued to work closely with the leadership team from TJC, and all have embraced the direction from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to encourage public and private partnerships. We are honored to partner with ETBU as we share a significant number of stakeholders who are friends to both of our institutions and very proeducation, and we have the opportunity to establish the state model of a partnership that leads the way for Texas.”

For more information on East Texas Baptist University’s Master of Education program in English, History, Mathematics, or Communication, email gradadmissions@etbu.edu.

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We provide hygie n e n ecessities to yout h in ou r commu nity to e nsu re dignity th rough self-care.

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74% of children at LISD are economically disadvantaged in our community.

SBN will create a care package of items to be delivered to the LISD Elementary schools for distribution.

The school district counselors coordinate distribution of the care packages.

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Congratulations Congratulations toto the the 2018 2018 Stars Stars Over Over Longview Longview

SIMPLE BARE N E C E S S I T I E S

Shalonda Adams Adams Shalonda

Lori Holyfield Ball

Lori Holyfield Ball Crista Black

Crista Black

Sharon W e Bradley provide hygie n e n ecessities to Sharon y oBradley ut h in ou r commu nity to e nsu re Mary Collier dignity th rough self-care.

Mary Collier Carmela Davis

WHAT WE DO

Gerrie Forbis Carmela DavisOUR WHY

Carol Manley We Gerrie provide Forbis 74% of children essential at LISD are Dawn Martin hygiene items Carol Manleyeconomically to elementary disadvantaged in Pamela Mercer-McWilliams school our community.

Dawn Martin children.

Mary Morris

Pamela Mercer-McWilliams Julie Woods

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SBN will create a care package of items to be delivered to the LISD Elementary schools for distribution.

The school district counselors coordinate distribution of the care packages.

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Celebrating 18 Years YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Julie Woods

Thursday, H O WJanuary YO U C11, A N2018 HELP

Celebrating 18 Years Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey + M A K E A M O N E TA R Y D O N AT I O N +Doors M A KOpen E A at PR ODU C T D O N AT I O N 11:30 a.m. + B E C O M E A S P O N R Ceremony and Luncheon begin SatOnoon Maude Cobb Activity Center D OGrand N AT IO N WISH LIST 100 Blvd.

• Longview

Thursday, January 11, 2018

Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey + D E Ovalet D Oparking R A N Twill be available.

Complimentary

Doors Open at 11:30 a.m. + SOAP Ceremony +Ticket S and H A Luncheon M Information P O O begin at noon Maude + TTickets OCobb O T $30.00 HActivity P A S• T ECenter Individual $240 for Table of 8 Tickets will be available for purchase + T O O T H B R U S H 100 Grand Blvd. • Longviewbeginning

November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional Complimentary valet parking will be at available.

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Speaker: M O NInformation E TA RY D O N AT I O N Ticket P L E A S E M A I L C H E C K S P AYA B L E T O // S I M P L E B AJackie R E N E CJoyner-Kersey ESSITIES

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Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.

Congratulations to the 2018 Stars Over Longview

4523 Judson Rd. Longview, Texas 75605 903-663-3344 | www.stone-works.net

I Do

I Do

Get schooled on

wedding terminology

C

ouples about to embark on their wedding journeys will likely learn a thing or two about party planning once their engagements are over and they are newly married. Wedding planning can seem overwhelming and a tad confusing at times, but a crash course in wedding terminology can help couples make more informed choices along the way.

Blusher: A short, single-layer veil that covers the bride’s face before the ceremony.

Boutonniere: A single flower bud worn by the men in the bridal party.

Canaps: Bite-sized appetizers served during the cocktail hour of a reception.

Civil ceremony: A marriage ceremony conducted by a council official or justice of the peace at a municipal location rather than in a house of worship.

Cocktail hour: Typically, an hour-long interlude between the wedding ceremony and the main dinner of the reception. Guests have time to arrive and mingle before being seated.

Corkage fee: A fee some establishments charge to

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allow guests to bring their own wine.

various components of the wedding reception.

Dais: A podium or platform raised from the floor where the bride and groom are seated.

Nosegay: A small bouquet or flower arrangement typically given to the mothers of the bride and groom before the ceremony.

Deposit: A percentage of the total cost of service given to a vendor to secure a date for their services.

Processional/Recessional: Musical pieces that mark the entrance and exit from the wedding ceremony.

Receiving line: A line of the key people in the wedding who welcome and greet guests.

Stationery: All of the paper products used at the wedding, including invitations, programs and enclosures.

Tablescape: A word that describes the multiple components of centerpiece designs.

Learning some basic wedding terminology can simplify wedding planning.

Drages: Round, small edible balls of sugar that appear on wedding cakes.

Escort (seating) cards: Printed cards that direct reception guests to their seats.

Fondant: A sweet, plyable product used to decoratively cover layered cakes. It can be used in lieu of straight buttercream.

Handle wrap: Ribbon or fabric that wraps around the stems of a bouquet the bride and wedding party carries.

Maid/matron of honor: The title given to the woman who assists the bride and stands closest to her at the altar. Maids are those who are unmarried, while matrons are women who are.

Master of ceremonies: An individual who will work with the DJ or band to announce the

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www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding August 2020

9

Second Chance

Second Chance

Second

marriage guide

T

aking a chance on love and marriage for the second (or third) time is certainly worthy of celebration.

The Pew Research Center reports that at least four in 10 new marriages now include at least one partner who has been married before, a trend that is on the rise.

Planning a second wedding can be challenging, as individuals may be worried about proper etiquette, superstitions or meeting the expectations of others. But there are no hard rules governing second weddings. Now that couples are older and a bit more experienced, wedding planning may be met with greater enthusiasm and patience.

Don’t feel beholden to intimate affairs. Second weddings tend to be more intimate, as guest lists tend to be smaller and couples tying the knot again may prefer more intimacy and less hustle and bustle.

But couples should not avoid inviting people simply because second weddings are typically small affairs.

Invite as many friends and family as you want and as your budget allows.

Set up a registry. Established couples may have the household basics already in place, but registries can include fun or entertaining gifts that speak to couples’ interests. These may include home theater systems, fancy cookware, athletic equipment, or even funds for travel.

These tips can help the process along.

Involve the children. Couples who have children can make them a special part of their second wedding Dress it up. Brides need not eschew white celebrations. Kids can play any role in the ceremony, if they prefer to wear it for their second weddings. depending on their age. If the second marriage comes White, cream, ivory, or other shades are perfectly after an amicable divorce, couples can invite their acceptable. Also, brides can make their gowns as former spouses to provide support to their children lavish or as simplistic as they desire. The length so they can feel comfortable in the wedding. and style of the dress should reflect the formality and scope of the event.

Be prepared. The marriage application process is similar the second time around, but additional Make it unique. Couples who have been documents, such as a divorce decree or death cermarried before may want to set this new occasion tificate, may be necessary. These legal documents apart from their previous weddings. Brides’ maga- also will be needed for men and women who intend zine experts suggest discussing previous celebrations to change their last names after getting married. A and what can be done differently this time around. second marriage deserves as much celebration as the Couples can use this opportunity to get to know first and gives couples an opportunity to express their each other more intimately by personalizing their love for each other and their appreciation to their festivities. friends and families.

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7

Darlene Davis

retires after sparkling career "Working for Jim has been like riding a roller coaster, and at the end getting a cotton candy," – Darlene Davis B y J o y c e l y n e F adoj u t i m i

D

arlene Davis went to work at Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry back in 2007, and now she is retiring. Her employer, Jim Bartlett, celebrated the event with a two-day party that saw much of Longview attend. It took all of both days.

"I wanted two days to give people the opportunity on their schedules to come by and say their goodbyes to Darlene," he said.

"Working for Jim has been like riding a roller coaster, and at the end getting a cotton candy," said Darlene.

A Longview native, she moved away and came back and went to work for Bartlett on November 2002 following her divorce.

Jaden Liedtke, Darlene Davis, Amy Cope-Canton and Jim Bartlett.

As a silversmith's daughter, she is accustomed to this line of work, and had the option of working for Samuel's in the mall. She took Bartlett’s offer because he gave her Sundays off.

"I had small children and needed to spend time with them," she says. "Samuel's was open on Sundays, and I preferred to go to church and be home with my young children."

Darlene went to work running the office, and soon entirely took over the store, she jokes. When asked why she stayed with this job so long, she explains how Bartlett treats his employees like family. It is more than a typical employer/employee collaboration.

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"For me, it was more of a colleague and co-worker relationship," Bartlett says. "We became friends, and our families became friends."

Darlene's feelings are mixed about her retirement.

It is a time most people eagerly anticipates, but it also means a major chapter of life is left behind.

"I have seen people get engaged with our rings," Darlene teary eyed. "I have been part of many celebrations of our clients. I will miss that."

Her boss feels much the same way about her departure.

"I will have a replacement even though Darlene is not replaceable," he says.

Her many years working at Bartlett's came easily for Darlene. She is the ideal worker for such a position and for such an employer.

"Jim is genuinely interested in people who come to work for him," she says.

He agrees, and makes it clear he benefits from his employees as much as they benefit from working there.

"Staff are the most important part of any company," he says. "You must treat them as such." Darlene seconds this.

"It is an investment in both parties," she says. "Just

like diamonds, they are an investment".

He makes it clear that Darlene is as much of a jewel as the merchandise he sells.

"I went through an awful lot of people before I found Darlene," he says.

Equally important, Bartlett realizes replacing her will be a monumental task. Hence, he has decided to hire a professional company to find him a replacement.

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5

The Rings

The 4 Cs of Diamond

D

iamonds are the stone of choice for engagement rings and wedding jewelry. Diamonds are durable and remain a timeless way to complement every style. Anyone who is about to purchase a diamond is encouraged to do their research about selecting quality diamonds. At the heart of the diamond grading process are the 4 Cs of diamond quality. The Cs refer to carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, and cut grade. The Gemological Institute of America {GIA}helped to create the Diamond 4 Cs and the International Diamond Grading System. These benchmarks are used to classify all diamonds. The following is the GIAs explanation of each component of the system.

Carat: Diamond carat weight is the measurement of how much the diamond weighs and is equivalent to 200 milligrams per carat. Each carat is subdivided into 100 points. Therefore, a one-carat diamond is 1.00 or 100 points, while a twenty-five point diamond is .25 carats.

Naturally, larger diamonds can be rare and desirable.

Color: A white diamond is more valuable the less color it contains.

GIA uses a D-to-Z grading system to determine a diamond’s color value. D would be a colorless diamond and Z the most saturated with color.

Clarity: Diamonds are formed by carbon exposed to heat and pressure. Natural internal characteristics known as inclusions and external components called blemishes are the norm. The closer the gem comes to being perfectly pure without inclusions or blemishes, the greater the value.

Cut: To transmit light and sparkle, diamonds must be cut precisely and with great artistry. A diamond will be further graded based on symmetry and proportions, as well as how the stone returns light. Brightness, which is the internal and external white light reflected; fire, or the scattering of white light into rainbow colors; and scintillation, or the sparkle the diamond produces, are factored into how the cut is valued.

Tips for a successful

Engagement

A

marriage proposal is such a memorable moment in a couples lives together, those doing the proposing often go to great lengths to ensure things go smoothly.

While there is no proposal playbook, these guidelines can assist those ready to take the leap.

sider waiting to propose at a more relaxed time.

Enlist help from others. Ask friends and close family members to be your accomplices so that information can be gathered without generating suspicion. This can be especially helpful when finding the perfect ring.

Keep it simple. The more complex a proposal, the more opportunities for things to go wrong. Simplicity, even if it means keeping the proposal to yourself until the question has been popped.

Add a personal touch. Taking a sweetheart back to a special place that recalls a significant moment can set the backdrop for a memorable proposal.

Embrace the old fashioned. Show respect to future in-laws by speaking to them about intentions to propose and ask for their blessings. Get down on bended knee when asking for a sweetheart’s hand.

Consider timing. A person may be so excited to propose that he or she fails to consider how the other person in the relationship is feeling. Con-

Marriage proposals happen every day. With humor, confidence and a heart full of love, popping the question can be a success.

JEWELRY

BartlettFineJewelry.com The Village Shopping Center 2002 Judson Road, Suite 101 Longview, Texas 75605 (903) 758 . 4367

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2019

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August 2020

INSIDE:

Second Marriage Guide

Darlene Davis retires after sparkling career Tips for a successful engagement

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE The journey of love marriage family