The importance of small businesses to the economy cannot be overstated. Though national chains often garner publicity, local businesses are equally, if not exceedingly, worthy of attention. Here’s a deep look at why small businesses are so vital, and why consumers should direct more of their purchasing power to local companies.
1. Autonomy and diversity
The layout and offerings and look at national chains will be identical
whether you live in the mountains or at the beach. On the other hand, an independent business offers the products and services that are reflective of the customers and the community they serve.
2. Local hiring strategy
Certain big box retailers will hire local residents but hiring policies may push for promoting from within the organization. Small businesses may be more inclined to hire residents they know and keep hiring centralized to the local area something that keeps more resources and money in the community.
3. Adaptability and change
Local businesses can move more quickly to respond to economic factors that require change. Since they are focused more on the needs of their customers rather than stockholders, changes can be implemented rapidly without having to go through red tape, meetings, and updates to corporate policies.
4. Investing in the town
Shopping at locally owned businesses rather than big box retailers keeps more money in the community. This
helps raise overall value for homeowners and can even reduce their taxes. The funding helps keep police, fire and school departments functioning properly. The benefits of a thriving small business sector are numerous. Consumers can do their part by patronizing these firms more frequently. .
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.
903.663.0061
Hello Everyone, It is already Back-to -School. We welcome students, teachers, parents, guardians, friends and well wishers to a new school year.
The talk about artificial intelligence is ramping up and students plan on making use of AI going forward. AI, as most will agree, is still in uncharted waters. But that is not how some teens view AI.
For this reason, we brought you a story on Junior Achievement and their back-to-school survey of teens using AI to do schoolwork. The story is from page 6.
Furthermore, check out the feature story on Lynne Henderson . Ms. Lynne Henderson is the president of Junior Achievement of East Texas. Henderson is extremely passionate about Junior Achievement, (JA). She has over two decades of experience as president of Junior Achievement of East Texas, (JAET). President Henderson has lived in east Texas for 28 years. She is married to Kirk Henderson and the couple have 2 daughters. Besides presiding over JA, she is a sustainer in the Junior League of Longview. Her story is from page 7.
In addition, we have a heartwarming story of 2 new Longview ISD female principals- Shemeika Allen, interim
LHS principal and Mary Taylor, Foster MS principal. The story is from page 12. Okay, so we want nutritious meals. If that is the case for you, flip over to page 20 and read 4 ways to make your nourishment more nutritious. Pretty easy to do and not expensive at all. I call it a win-win.
NO HORMONES ADDED:
Have you seen this label in the supermarket when shopping for groceries? This is usually found on chicken. Well, the grocery stores and their chicken suppliers have been playing with words and we have been paying for the words. All those different labels have no meaning at all. We are paying more money for labels that mean nothing. No hormones added right? This label is meaningless because federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in chicken. Period. Any cut or brand of chicken can be labeled "raised without hormones.” Check out the story from page 8 when you flip this magazine.
There are more stories. We hope that you will flip this magazine and read about Dr. ShaLonda Wilcott-Adams.
Infinitieplus mag welcomes everyone back to school. Thanks for reading and we look forward to serving you again in September by God’s grace.
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VOLUME 13 | ISSUE 8
“Every child deserves a champion – an unwavering adult who understands the power of connection and insists on helping them become the best version of themselves." Ms. Shemeika Allen
Grubs Up
Community Connections
"I am filled with immense excitement and genuinely grateful for the opportunity to provide our students with the best possible learning experiences, serving the students, staff, and community of Foster MS.” Ms. Mary Taylor
Ms. Lynne Henderson is the president of Junior Achievement of East Texas.
Henderson is extremely passionate about Junior Achievement, (JA). She has over two decades of experience as president of Junior Achievement of East Texas, (JAET). Ms. Henderson has lived in east Texas for 28 years. She is married to Kirk Henderson and the couple have 2 daughters
Big Village, a research firm conducted a new survey for Junior Achievement (JA). This survey shows that nearly half of teens (44%) are “likely” to use AI to do their schoolwork this coming school year instead of doing it themselves. It is important to note, 60 percent of teens consider this “cheating,” in the same survey.
AI remains in uncharted waters even though it can be a tool to bolster productivity. There is no doubt technology is worthwhile. However, teens’ abuse of technology may have dire consequences. When students rely on AI to do the critical thinking for them instead of studying the coursework, doing homework, and passing exams; they may not be prepared for adulthood in a global economy.
“Generative AI can be a great tool to boost productivity, but unfortunately many people, especially teens, are seeing it as a shortcut,” said Jack E. Kosakowski, President & CEO of Junior Achievement USA. “The misuse of AI to do all schoolwork not only
raises ethical concerns, but this behavior could also short-change many students’ education since they may not be learning the subjects, they are using AI for. Given the growing demand for marketable skills, this could become very problematic.”
But wait. That is not all. There is more.
Additional findings of this survey show that:
• Forty eight percent of teens said they know friends or classmates who have used AI to do their schoolwork as opposed to doing it themselves.
• Obviously, teens have reasons for using AI for schoolwork.
• Sixty two percent said AI is merely another tool for schoolwork.
• Twenty-four percent said they do not like school or schoolwork.
• Twenty-two percent said everyone is doing it. Besides, there is no need to know this information since AI is available.
• Seventeen percent said their schoolwork will be below par without AI.
• Another eight percent stated that
knowledge of the subjects are unimportant because of AI. Although JA concentrates on financial literacy, work, career readiness; and entrepreneurship learning experiences, ethics is incorporated in many JA’s
lessons including the JA Excellence Through Ethics program. Thus, JA views ethics as a vital component for success.
On a different note, Junior Achievement of East Texas is celebrating its 40th Anniversary. JA serves a 23-county area. Ms. Lynne Henderson is the president of Junior Achievement of East Henderson is extremely passionate about Junior
Achievement, (JA). She has over two decades of experience as president of Junior Achievement of East Texas, (JAET).
Ms. Henderson has lived in east Texas for 28 years. She is married to Kirk Henderson and the couple have 2 daughters. Besides presiding over JA, she is a sustainer in the Junior League of Longview.
Since Henderson wears several hats, she is in charge of JAET Advisory Board. Consequently, she organizes the Stock Market
Challenge student competition plus A Night on Wall Street corporate competition in tandem. Moreover, Henderson recruits local volunteers who teach several JA lessons including Take Stock in Your Future curriculum leading to a competitive event. In this competition, each fourmember team starts with a milliondollar portfolio. The teams buy and sell stocks. At the end of the trading period, the team with the largest portfolio wins.
Dove tailing the student competition is A Night on Wall Street- a corporate event structured same as the students’ contest. In addition, JAET has been hosting a corporate Bowlathon for more than 30 years. This is where a team of 6 bowls over two nights to raise money for JA programs in East Texas. Ms. Henderson is distinctively engaged. Currently, she is the program coordinator. For this reason, she recruits and trains volunteers for each class besides working with local educators and school administrators. Her hard work brought enormous success. Hence, during the 2022-2023 school year, Junior Achievement of East Texas placed 118 community volunteers in 111 classrooms reaching over 3,000 students with almost 10,000 contact
Contd. on Page 8
We are excited about the possibility of bringing a mobile f inance park to l ongvie W later this fall. e ach of these programs touches on J a’s three pillars...financial literacy, W ork readiness and entrepreneurship.”
“We are excited about the possibility of bringing a mobile Finance Park to Longview later this Fall,” said President Henderson. “Each of these programs touches on JA’s three pillars…financial literacy, work readiness and entrepreneurship.”
According to Henderson, JA of East Texas serves 10 counties and is currently running programs in Texarkana, Kilgore, Gladewater, Pine Tree, Spring Hill Longview, Overton, Hallsville,
Marshall, and Henderson. The dedicated work of Junior Achievement will not be possible without volunteers and financial donors. As a result, JA welcomes new volunteers each year. Additionally, the program appreciates numerous repeat volunteers. These perennial volunteers have taught JA programs for more than 20 years. In the same vein, JA has sundry and stalwart corporate partners. They include:
• Verabank
• LEDCO
• Austin Bank
• Flint Hills Resources
• Texas Bank & Trust
• Origin Bank
• Cadence Bank
• Regions Bank
• Eastman
• KOMATSU
• Chick fil A
• Gans & Smith Insurance
• Ward Insurance
• Smith & Hill, PLLC
• Capital Wealth Group
• Eastman Credit Union
• Morgan Stanley
• Spring Hill State Bank
• Smallwood Home
• Capital One
• Whataburger AEP/ SWEPCO
• Sloan Firm
• Barksdale Federal Credit Union
• Westlake
• Longview Regional Medical Center and many others. For more information on JA programs, sponsorship opportunities or to volunteer, please visit their website at easttexas.ja.org or simply call 903-297-2202.
President Lynne Henderson, Junior Achievement of East Texas
Ever feel like you've reached the end of your rope and you just cannot hang on another minute? You're not alone. Everyone goes through seasons of self-defeat, pain and anguish.
It's no wonder that we feel that way. What with the economy, the current state of unemployment and rising prices -- to say nothing of global uncertainty and rumors of economic collapse in every headline -- it really is enough to make you want to pull the covers up over your head and sleep until everything gets better. Just so you know, that is not an option. Instead, here are five proactive steps you can take that will give you the courage to keep going.
I would caution against making this a public dissertation. Write it out journal style. Tell God how you feel. Say that you are angry and bitter or that you're afraid to face the day. However, you choose, find a way to pour out your heart. It is cleansing to release swirling negative thoughts. While your situation may not change, the way you feel will.
Thoughts of giving up are suggestions you give yourself because you're in a bad mood. Or you haven't slept well for how many nights? Those thoughts swirling in your head are terrible suggestions and need to be rejected. Eat a decent meal, drink two big glasses of water and get some sleep. Things may look much different in the morning.
You really do not have to go through this by yourself. Once you determine where you are stuck, seek out help. If you are struggling with credit card debt, for example, go to NFCC.org to find a certified credit counseling organization in your area. Or pick up the phone and call NFCC (800-388-2227). Make the call. Ask for help. If it's a medical situation where you cannot afford the cost of meds, reach out for help. Simply asking for help is going to open a new world of resources you may not know exists.
Get up and keep moving, even when life puts you in difficult situations. Even when it's not your fault and you feel you've been treated unfairly. Even when it is your fault -- you've made terrible choices, and now you are paying a terrible price. Remember these words from Martin Luther King Jr: "If you can't fly, then run. If you can't run, then walk. If you can't walk, then crawl, but by all means, keep moving."
Even when you are at the end of your rope, you still possess something very valuable: your attitude. You can choose your thoughts. You can default to pain, fear, and anguish, or you can proactively choose joy. You can focus on all that you do not have and all the stuff that's coming at you, or you can choose to rise above that and focus on what you do have -- even if that is just the air that you breathe. Embrace it. Choose to think only about things that are lovely, true, and pure. I do not personally know anyone who has a perfect life. On the contrary, we're all on this journey, and the road can get rocky from time to time. I've come to realize that what I've been through can either beat me down and make me bitter, or I can choose for my experiences to make the difference in another's life.
Longview ISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox has appointed two new principals to lead Longview High School and Foster Middle School for the upcoming 2023-24 school year.
Ms. Shameika Allen will assume the role of interim principal at Longview High School, following the passing of Mr. James Brewer earlier this month. With nearly two decades of experience in the district, Ms. Allen has a strong background in education and has previously served as Academic Dean at the high school campus.
Ms. Allen said she hopes to "advocate for strong community connections within the education system, recognizing that the dreams and aspirations of families rely not only on leadership decisions but also on empathy, compassion, and empowering every child."
"I've always sought opportunities to innovate and bring positive change to our educational landscape. Embracing modern pedagogical techniques and fostering a culture of continuous improvement has been crucial in enhancing the academic
achievements of both students and educators."
Dr. Wilcox praised Ms. Allen, saying, "While you never can replace a principal like [Mr. James Brewer] with the tremendous legacy he leaves in our profession, we believe Ms. Allen will provide a seamless transition for students and staff.
She is the ideal candidate to build upon the many things Longview High School has achieved, and also work to take our students and staff to new heights."
Allen said much of her educational philosophy is strongly influenced by the idea that "every child deserves a champion – an unwav-
ering adult who understands the power of connection and insists on helping them become the best version of themselves."
"This philosophy drives my challenge to our leadership team, faculty, and staff, reflecting the passion and purpose inspired by Mr. James Brewer's leadership," she added.
With a journey in education that began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Stephen F. Austin State University in 2006, Ms. Allen furthered her studies at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, earning a master’s degree and obtaining Superintendent certification, showcasing her commitment to professional growth and leadership development.
Over the span of 17 years, Ms. Allen has dedicated herself to the mission of Longview Independent School District, where she has nurtured students, mentored educators, and contributed significantly to the overall growth and success of the school community. Her unwavering dedication to innovation and positive change has played a vital role in elevating academic achievements for both students and educators, leaving a lasting impact on their educational journey.
Contd. on Page 14
"While you never can replace a principal like [Mr. James Brewer] with the tremendous legacy he leaves in our profession, we believe Mrs. Allen will provide a seamless transition for students and staff. She is the ideal candidate to build upon the many things Longview High School has achieved, and also work to take our students and staff to new heights."
LISD Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox.
"Every child deserves a champion – an unwavering adult who understands the power of connection and insists on helping them become the best version of themselves."
Ms. Shameika Allen’s Philosophy of EducationMs. Shameika Allen Dr. James Wilcox
Ms. Mary Taylor will be taking over as principal of Foster Middle School, stepping into the position vacated by Mr. Chuck Issac, who has accepted an administrative role at Longview High. Taylor has been with the district for 14 years and has previously served as Assistant Principal at Judson Middle.
Guided by a vision for a culture of academic excellence, critical thinkers, and productive global citizens, Ms.
and community members collaborate to ensure every child's success."
Dr. Wilcox praised Ms. Taylor, saying that "her passion for education and dedication to building strong community connections make her the ideal leader for Foster Middle School. Her background and expertise will undoubtedly provide our students with exceptional learning experiences. I have every confidence that under her guidance, the school will thrive and continue to be a place of academic excellence and growth for all students."
Taylor explained that her commitment to building strong communities
"stems from my background in education and passion for teaching."
"I am filled with immense excitement and genuinely grateful for the opportunity to provide our students with the best possible learning experiences, serving the students, staff, and community of Foster Middle School," she said.
Marked by continuous growth and dedication, her educational journey includes a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Wiley College. Subsequently, she obtained a master’s in education focusing on Curriculum & Instruc -
tion and a master’s in educational administration from LeTourneau University.
But her teaching career began at Longview High School, where she taught sophomore and junior English for five years. Her passion for encouraging critical thinking and embracing the power of students' voices through literature led her to take on leadership roles, including English II Lead Teacher and LISD Secondary ELA Instructional Specialist.
"Having witnessed firsthand the impact of strong community ties, I wholeheartedly believe in their significance. Understanding our com -
munity's distinct qualities, we will cultivate an inclusive environment, emphasizing collaboration between students, parents, teachers, and community members as pivotal to the success of each child."
Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox expressed confidence in both campus leaders.
"Ms. Allen and Ms. Taylor exemplify the dedication and passion we seek in our district's leaders. We are confident that their expertise and commitment to student success will elevate the educational experience for our students and strengthen our school communities," he said.
Taylor firmly believes that education is the great equalizer, empowering all students with the tools they need to pursue their dreams and create a better future for themselves and society.
"Understanding our community's unique needs and strengths, I firmly believe in the transformative power of strong community relationships," she said. "Together, we will create an inclusive environment where students, parents, teachers,
“Understanding our community's unique needs and strengths, I firmly believe in the transformative power of strong community relationships. Together, we will create an inclusive environment where students, parents, teachers, and community members collaborate to ensure every child's success."
Ms. Mary Taylor’s Philosophy of Education
"Ms. Allen and Ms. Taylor exemplify the dedication and passion we seek in our district's leaders. We are confident that their expertise and commitment to student success will elevate the educational experience for our students and strengthen our school communities.”Longview ISD Super Dr. James Wilcox Ms. Mary Taylor
GOD’S
By GLENN MILLER
Do you remember the old song
“What the World Needs
Now is Love Sweet Love?”
Burt Bacharach wrote and recorded it and it goes on to crone, “it’s the only thing that there’s just too little of.” And I agree with that. But what kind of love are we talking about? I think that we, as a society, have gotten mixed up on what Christian (agape) love is with what our culture has portrayed as romance.
I’d like to share with you what John MacArthur says about this in his book, “Truth for Today”:
as the way to experience emotional extremes: you’ll never be as happy or as sad as when you’re in love. Today’s music feeds that quest for love. Throughout much of it is the same underlying message: either the fantasy of a love sought, or the despair of a love lost. People continue to chase that elusive dream. They base their concept of love on what it does for them.
unconditional, forgiving, and puts others above ourselves. In Gary Chapman’s “Love Languages of God” he writes that we love others in the same fashion that we want to be loved. I don’t know about you, but if I want to be loved unconditionally, I must love others unconditionally.
Information
Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8
Tickets will be available for purchase beginning November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.
“The people of the world want love very much. Loving, being loved, and making love are viewed as the ultimate high. Love is seen
Songs, plays, films, books, and TV programs continually perpetuate fantasy – the dream of a perfect love perfectly fulfilled. The world’s love is unforgiving, conditional, and self-centered. It focuses on desire, self-pleasure, and lust – the very opposite of God’s perfect love. People search for love, but it’s not true love; it is Satan’s perversion.”
God’s love for us and the love that we should give others is
By ROBERT GOLDMAN
Iknow.
You're afraid of AI.
If you're only mildly paranoid, you're afraid artificial intelligence will take your job. If you're majorly paranoid, like the rest of us, you're afraid it will take your life. And you're right! Any technology that is so much smarter, faster, and cheaper is a threat, even if it doesn't turn snarky and decide to unplug you before you unplug it.
But there's a bigger threat to your life and livelihood. In fact, it's probably sitting right next to you. It's your printer.
Hate to tell you, but your printer is out to get you.
You know I'm right. Ever since you purchased your printer, you've hated it. You just didn't know It hated you, too. So, you blithely put the threat out of your mind, mind-
lessly fulfilling its endless demands for pricey paper and ink cartridges so ridiculously expensive you really should order them from Tiffany's.
One person who may not recognize existential printer peril is Danielle Abril, a reporter for The Washington Post and the author of a recent article, "They're Chained to Their Printers. Why the Paperless Office Hasn't Fully Caught On."
She actually defends the little monsters.
Of course, the concept of the paperless office is real. Ever since the abacus gave way to the PC junior, techsperts have preached the gospel of a digital workplace, where nothing is printed, and everything is instantly available, editable, send able and rejectable in a digital form. With so many companies climbing on the digital bandwagon, is it so surprising
Wait long enough and your printer may eventually cough up a few pages. You've missed the critical meeting you needed the pages for, but that's not what's important. What's important is that you've had a lesson in humility. Your printer has exposed your toxic superiority and helped you see the basic unfairness of your "jump when I say jump" colonial attitude.
Once you've learned your lesson, you'll be a better person. Will your printer work better, happily churning out documents on demand? I wouldn't count on it.
Few things in life are as annoying as a paper jam. Your rage boils as you go through the helpful step-bystep instructions, revealing twisted
tangles of paper, the removal of which accomplishes exactly nothing.
It's obvious what the printer is doing here. It is sending you a message about the environment, and the need for you to respect nature. Paper comes from trees and trees are good, except when they fall on you, of course. Instead of cursing your printer, listen to your printer and plant a tree. While waiting for it to grow, start buying a better grade of paper, you cheapskate.
Running out of ink builds selfesteem. Yes, you could buy cheaper, off-brand cartridges, but you're happy to pay three, five or 10 times the reasonable price for a chunk of plastic holding a smidge of ink. You'd pay $9,000 for a Dolce & Gabbana
Sicily bag without making a fuss. Why question the price of an ink cartridge? You're demonstrating how your identity is defined, not by who you are, but by what you own, be it Gucci, Fendi or Hewlett-Packard.
(Are you the sort of person who doesn't believe your printer when it announces it's out of ink? This level of paranoia is just sad. You should join CA -- Cartridges Anonymous -where you can meet with others and, together, find the reasons for your suspicious nature.)
Hopefully, these insights will help you see your printer in a new light. It's important that the two of you find peace. That way, the printer can do its job and you can focus on the other technological threat to your life and livelihood. Your toaster.
that our printers, feeling threatened, and rightly so, have turned against us?
Before you take a hatchet to your printer -- justified printercide, to be sure -- let me share three reasons for keeping one of these beasts in your life, despite their threatening misbehavior.
A noisy printer can be disconcerting -- the screeches, the moans. It would make an excellent soundtrack for a horror movie. What is even scarier is when you press print and what you get is... silence. You press print again. No print happens. You go to settings and muck around for 20 minutes, trying -- and failing -- to figure out what went wrong. Finally, you unplug your printer, and you wait. And you wait. And you wait.
Healthy eating should be a goal all year long. Choosing nutrientrich foods at the grocery store is a great way to accomplish that goal. The American Heart Association says research suggests the standard American diet is energy-rich (calorically heavy) but nutrient poor. Nutrient-rich foods are those that are high in minerals, vitamins and other nutrients that are vital for health without too much added sugars, sodium and saturated fat. Such foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein sources that can serve as the building blocks of a nutritious diet. These tips can make incorporating nutritious ingredients even easier.
1. Read nutrition labels
The Nutrition Facts label included on items is a significant source of information. Consumers may
only read the first few lines, but it is best to read the entire label before deciding whether or not to purchase a given product.
2. Choose more whole grains
Whole grains are low in fat and high in fiber. They’re also a smarter source of carbohydrates because they contain complex carbs that keep a person feeling fuller longer. Try to avoid products labeled as enriched, as they’ve had the germ and bran removed from the grain to produce a smoother texture, which means they need to be refortified with nutrients.
3. Eat dark, leafy greens
Green vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and plantbased omega-3 fatty acids. Kale, spinach, and collard greens can be added to soups, stews, scrambled eggs, and salads for a
powerful punch of nutrition.
4. Pick pulses
Pulses are essential to plant-based diets, but they also can be enjoyed by meat eaters. The Global Pulse Federation says pulses, which include foods like lentils and chickpeas, are rich in protein and fiber and low in fat. They also contain complex carbohydrates that take longer to break down. Research shows pulses can lower blood cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and help with weight management.
5. Go with skim or low-fat dairy
Dairy products are rich in calcium and vitamin D, but those nutrients may come at the cost of saturated fat. Choose reduced fat dairy options in recipes and when snacking. These are just some of the ways individuals can make their diets more nutritious.
By MARY HUNT
I've heard of blaming one's weight on a lot of things, but credit and debit cards? That was a new one for me and a theory reported at TheStreet.com that, when considered carefully, does seem to carry a lot of weight.
According to the study, there are
two main reasons that credit, and debit cards are making people fat. First, using debit or credit cards feels more comfortable than using cash. Plastic is so easy, it's mindless. It's a stand-in for the real thing. On the other hand, physically handing over cash is tangible and real. And it can be downright painful to part with hard-earned cash!
The authors also conclude that
the link between debt and obesity is impulse. Using plastic payment methods increases the likelihood of impulsive purchases, specifically junk food. People are more likely to grab unhealthy foods on impulse and are then more likely to carry through with the purchase if they're using plastic. But if paying with cash, they are more likely to rethink the unhealthy choice and walk away.
I believe there is yet another message here: Cash is tedious, old-fashioned, and not very cool. But swiping plastic is modern, fast, and considered impeccably safe. And when that plastic payment is made via an app, it can be done in complete privacy. In the blink of an eye, it feels as if payment is complete, and no one has to know.
Clearly, consumers have bought into this theory in a big way. RBC Capital Markets reports that you will spend 20%-30% more if you pay with plastic. It's not the real thing, so we don't treat it with the seriousness we treat currency. A $9.50 payment with plastic is nothing compared to handing over a $10 bill, which makes us at least pause and think. In fact, most people don't even pay attention to the total amount when swiping plastic. And that's where the consumer credit industry has duped an entire generation.
It's a pain to dig in the pocket for $10 to pay for a quick lunch. But swipe a card? Easy. In fact, you don't even have to pay that close attention to the tab. Who cares if it's $5 or $17 when you can just swipe and go?
What's more, according to the article, when paying with plastic, we're more apt to go ahead and supersize that combo. Oh, and how about throwing in an apple turnover, too? After all, you don't have to worry about the total as it magically disappears into the whole process of paying with plastic.
You know, I think this theory does have merit. And I'll bet that it translates to grocery shopping and eating in fancy restaurants, too. Credit and debit cards are making America fat.
Some years ago, I was the guest of one of my readers who, at the time, just happened to own one of the highest-rated restaurants in
America -- Tavern on the Green in New York City. Yes, lucky me. I'm certain that I ate more than I should have because I had this sense that I could order with abandon. I was a guest. I accepted such a generous gift with great enthusiasm!
Now, had I been the one paying the tab, I might have been a bit more, shall we say, discriminating with what I ordered. It was fabulous! So carefree, I could enjoy with abandon. The menu was my playground. It was a rare opportunity to luxuriate in fine food without paying attention to the real cost.
I highly recommend that my readers who are struggling to live below their means go on an allcash diet. And now I can promise you a bonus. Not only will you lose debt, but chances are also great you'll lose weight, too!
label? All processed chickens in the U.S. must be "antibiotic-free" in the sense that no antibiotic residues are allowed to be present in the meat.
If you've ever stood in the supermarket wondering if paying more for chicken that is freerange, antibiotic-free, no hormones added, farm-raised, natural, and organic is going to make you healthier, wealthier, wise — or just a better person — you're not alone.
Recently, as I was doubting myself on my chicken choices, I decided to get to the bottom of what all of this really means. It's not what I thought. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is a cabinet-level agency that oversees the regulation of food-grade chicken and is responsible for the claims on packaging and labels.
And despite all of the hype and fluff, there is only one label — organic — that guarantees specific standards and for which you might consider paying more.
Briefly, here is what all of it means — or doesn't mean — according to the USDA.
There is no specific definition for free-range. For sure, it does not mean, "running free to forage for grubs and grain on acres of rolling green pastureland." The USDA generally allows this term if chickens have access to the outdoors for at least part of the day, which could mean a matter of a few minutes, whether that chicken chooses to go outdoors or not. A single open door at one end of a huge chicken warehouse meets this definition of freerange. Even so, "Less than 1% of chickens nationwide are raised free-range," according to the National Chicken Council.
This means not housed in cages. It does not mean roaming happily in large open areas. Cage-free can mean crammed together in an indoor henhouse and given very little room to breathe and be their naturally born chicken selves.
Under USDA regulations, a "natural" product has no artificial ingredients or added color. Most ready-to-cook chicken can be labeled "natural" if processors choose to do so.
This label is meaningless because federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in chicken. Period. Any cut or brand of chicken can be labeled "raised without hormones."
However, if the processor chooses to say that on the label, it must also clearly state that no hormones are used in the production of any poultry allowed for consumption in the U.S.
This means that the flock was raised without the use of products classified as antibiotics for animal health maintenance, disease prevention or treatment of disease.
But why mention this on the
Nearly all chickens and chicken products sold in the U.S. come from chickens hatched, raised, and processed in the U.S. An exception is a small number imported from Canada, which has food safety and quality standards equal to the U.S.
The USDA has a very specific rule to define "organic" production and prohibits the
use of the term "organic" on the packaging of any food product not produced in accordance with its rule. Organic chicken means that 100% of the chicken feed was grown without chemical fertilizers, herbicides, and other genetically modified organisms for at least three years.
According to USDA, the organic label does not indicate that the product has safety, quality or nutritional attributes that are any higher than conventionally raised chicken.
NO HORMONES ADDED: This label is meaningless because federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in chicken. Period. Any cut or brand of chicken can be labeled "raised without hormones."
And despite all of the hype and fluff, there is only one label — organic — that guarantees specific standards and for which you might consider paying more.
When people ask me where they should be investing, I tell them my two favorite sectors are canned food and ammunition. Of course, I'm looking to get a laugh, but truth be told, I am serious -- at least about the food. I've been quietly growing an investment of nonperishable food for some time.
I will admit to having stayed up late at night watching the National Geographic Channel, learning the many ways the world as we know it may soon end -- from a global economic collapse to unfathomable horrors from outer space.
Dear Readers, this is nothing new. There have always been gloom-and-doomers. When I was a kid, the doom du jour was communism. That led families to construct underground bomb shelters stocked with food and water. Then there was the Cuban missile crisis (oh, great, now I'm really dating myself), which I was certain we would not survive.
There have been untold numbers of "doomful" predictions having to do with bird flu, swine flu, HIV/AIDS, tsunamis, meteors, recessions, climate change, economic plunder and all manner of fearful things that surely would
Ever wonder what's holding you back at work?
It could be something you do when you're not at work.
Thinking.
problems will help you find new solutions. It's much more likely that you will find fatigue and burnout. And that's crazy.
wipe out life as we know it. Add Nostradamus and the ancient Mayans. I've heard it all.
Years ago, National Geographic rolled out a TV show, "Doomsday Preppers," featuring ordinary, everyday people who are reacting and responding to potential disasters.
One guy in California is prepping for an earthquake that might flatten Los Angeles. He's learned to live off shrubs and weeds and carries a flint to build fires.
A woman in Texas is expecting an unusually nasty oil crisis. The Houston party girl built an impressive survival cache in her tiny apartment, and she practices nighttime backpacking routes to get out of a city she expects will be completely blacked out.
Another Texan profiled foresees a polar shift, where the entire Earth will be doing a backflip on its axis. He's constructed a home near San Antonio, using eight steel shipping containers, and loaded it up with enough food and ammo to last for 20 years.
So, do I line up with these extremists? Not at all. I find it entertaining but certainly not realistic or reasonable. The other extreme is to not be prepared at all, however, which also is unacceptable. To me, building a reasonable emergency supply
of food for my family is responsible. It's insurance.
In my adult lifetime, my husband and I have paid more than $100,000 for insurance (automobile, homeowner, health, etc.). We've filed precious few claims; nowhere close to the premiums paid. Do I regret it? No! I am grateful we have not faced devastating tragedy.
To me, food and survival supplies in reasonable amounts are just as much insurance as our policies that cover household disasters. These things give me peace of mind and assurance that I will be able to protect my property, my family and my life in the event of emergencies or disasters.
One challenge with building a stockpile of food the way I'm doing it is that it takes a long time. Another option is to invest in a ready-made stockpile from a reputable company like My Patriot Supply. Their freeze-dried meals are really tasty, convenient to store, easy to prepare and they have a long shelf life.
Done reasonably, emergency preparedness, in whatever form it takes, is not whacky. And I intend to do everything in my power to encourage you to follow my lead.
Stick around for more on this in future columns coming up soon.
Thinking about how you're falling behind in your projects. Thinking about how a wave of layoffs could be on the horizon. Thinking about whether your coworkers are acting more suspicious than usual. Thinking about why Jackie in HR is giving you the fish eye. Thinking about why your manager keeps their door closed. Thinking about how you can brush the cobwebs off your resume. Thinking about why no one invites you to lunch. Thinking about how you can possibly stop thinking about work.
I've been doing a lot of thinking about thinking, ever since I read "How to Stop Thinking About Work All the Time," a recent article by Jancee Dunn in The New York Times. And here's what I think: Dunn is definitely onto something.
So is psychologist and Ted talker Guy Winch, whose practice focuses on "how to limit work-related overthinking."
According to Winch, "when we succumb to negative work rumination -- persistent and repetitive thoughts around issues at our jobs -- it feels urgent and important, but it's actually unproductive."
When you bring work worries home, you're not helping yourself; you're stressing yourself. Nor are you doing your employer any favors. You may believe that spending all night obsessing on work
You really don't need more reasons to make yourself miserable. That's your manager's job.
Are there strategies to help you turn off your brain at the end of the workday? Dr. Winch has some helpful thoughts, guaranteed to make your work life much better. I have added some ideas of my own, guaranteed to make your work life much worse. No need to thank me. Just doing my job.
No. 1: Keep a journal.
Keeping track of how many hours you spend stewing over work issues will be illuminating. It could also be lucrative. Turn your weekly worry report in to the accounting department as a legitimate work expense. Considering how little time you spend thinking during the workday, your latenight cogitations could represent your biggest contribution to your company's inevitable collapse, and you certainly deserve to be compensated for it.
Dr. Winch recommends you "establish a clear line when your workday ends, and be strict about maintaining it." One way to do this is to "ritualize your transition from home to job by changing your clothes." If you wear casual clothes to work, or work from home in your PJs, establishing clear lines may require you to go to extremes, like ending the workday by putting on a sleek Prada tuxedo or
slipping into a slinky Balmain evening gown. A more affordable solution is to simply take off your clothes when the 5 o'clock whistle blows. Trust me, if you want problems to think about that have absolutely nothing to do with work, start commuting naked.
No. 3: Turn ruminative thoughts into productive ones. Endlessly worrying about work will not improve your job or your mental health. If you're going to be up all night stressing, focus on finding solutions to business problems that are realistic and actionable. Since these don't exist, spend your time coming up with nasty gossip that you can start spreading the next morning. This way, you'll have time for true career-enhancing activities, like toasting your competition and buttering up your boss.
No. 4: Learn the difference between unplugging and recharging.
A recharging activity "leaves you feeling energized mentally and pleased with yourself for doing it." The activities recommended include working out, crafting or meditation. Clearly, crafting produces the most bang for the buck. Think how grateful your CEO will be when you present them with one of the Popsicle-stick bird feeders that so impressed your mother when you were in third grade. By expressing your creativity, you will be refreshed and recharged while establishing yourself once and for all as a weirdo everyone should leave alone.
She has let nothing stand in the way of her mission... not even COVID. As schools joined with numerous public operations and closed, they shifted to online work. While administrator on duty for a girls' soccer game she learned at a staff meeting during spring break 2020 that her school was being temporarily closed due to the pandemic. It did not reopen until the beginning of the following school year. In 2020, even the prom and graduation were postponed until later in the summer. For her and her family this development was personal and significant.
"My youngest son was a senior in 2020 and this greatly impacted his experiences for the remainder of his school career," she says. "We finished the school year with virtual learning."
The PACE campus did a great
job using online services as an alternative to classrooms, thus making the transition much easier for students. Using computers also facilitated communication between teachers, students, and parents. By the time classrooms re-opened in August 2020, the online resource was firmly entrenched as the standard for teachers, providing instructional material to their home campus students.
Some of the subsequent precautions like disinfecting computers and using hand sanitizer have gone a long way in establishing a healthy environment for learning. Expanding the use of computer technology has made teacher/ student/parent interaction more efficient and goal effective. Even so, not all students had home access to the computers they needed to
learn from and communicate with their instructors. Despite the inevitable hurdles, Adams' Academia is bustling with successful activity, especially since she became Dr. Adams.
"The reason I went to doctoral program was to learn how to establish community work which collaborates with others in the effort to bring forth social change," she says.
Adams' Academia melds into one overriding role the motives she seeks to achieve through her talents and overall abilities she has sharpened and used throughout her outstanding career. Besides, she is able to serve the greater community that encircles (and depends on) the vital scholastic system.
"The most important way the community can support Adams' Academia is by simply asking for services," she says.
903.663.0061
Like most successful persons Dr. Shalonda Wilcott-Adams followed the glittering example of her family. Support is their family’s operative word.
"My family has always been my main supporters in all of my endeavors," she says. "My parents, Harry and Janie Wilcott reside in Mansfield, Louisiana. I am grateful for all of their support even at this phase of life."
Indeed, Dr. Adams’ resume is a litany of success in her quest to help students who need it most. . She has been working for Pine Tree ISD since 2006. Adams has done it all- educational aide, special education life skills teacher, autism in home trainer and currently a principal. However, that is not all. There is more. Since 2018, Adams has been an adult education literacy instructor. Most recently, she added Adams Academia to her list of accomplishments.
Adams passed on to her children, the strong protestant work ethic she learned from her parents. For example, she encourages and enables them
to participate in extracurricular activities in school and church programs as well as volunteering in the community. Her children, Larry Adams, Jr., LaSeanda Wilcott, Gabrell Adams, Izrell Adams; daughter-in-love Jazmin Merriman-Adams and seven grandsons gladden her heart as she watches them seriously applying what they learned from her proactive nononsense and compassionate parenting school.
"To see them thriving as adults, and giving back to the world in their own individual ways brings a sense of pride and satisfaction that the seeds sown long ago continue to grow and produce fruit," she says.
Adams married the love of her life, Larry, in 1995. Their flame is still too hot to handle hence, they are still sweethearts. This devoted husband is also a loyal and dependent hard worker. He worked 20 years for the City of Longview and has put in another 20 years at Pine Tree ISD. He currently works in the district’s transportation department.
Moreover, he is an ordained elder at Longview's True
Vision Ministries. In addition, he serves with the Worship Team. According to Adams, her husband Adams Sr. is her number one supporter. He encourages her to do difficult tasks.
Adams’ extensive education and accolades cannot be listed for lack of space. Nonetheless, it is important to note some distinguished highlights:
• Louisiana State University-academic scholarship, 19911994.
• Kilgore College--associates of arts, December 2002.
• University of Texas at Tyler-Bachelor of Science, criminal justice, May 2004.
• LeTourneau University-alternative teacher certification, May 2007.
• University of Texas at Tyler-master's in educational leadership, May 2011.
• University of Texas at Tyler-superintendent certification, June 2012.
• Walden University--Doctor of Education, August 2022. All of the above and much more prepared Adams for her PTISD career position as alternative campus principal since 2014.
"It has been an incredibly amazing journey," she says. "I have the privilege of serving the Pine Tree ISD community as the administrator of two very vital programs, the DAEP and ABU," she says. Her work with PACE STRONG centers on foundational character building. It started during the two years she served PACE as its first fulltime elementary teacher. After twelve years on-the-job learning and refinement, the program is effectively preparing students for setting and accomplishing vocational goals.
In addition, the ABU (Adaptive Behavior Unit) concentrates on providing a self-contained learning atmosphere focusing on social emotional instruction in a goaloriented fashion. This initiative is specifically for students with conduct issues that hamper their ability to learn in conventional settings.
"This program is my heart's work. It aligns with my experiences in residential group homes for the intellectually disabled.” Furthermore, her educator experience comes into sharper focus at Kilgore College Adult Education & Literacy program. Adams was once an adjunct instructor. She climbed the ladder of accomplishment, became orientation leader, distance learning coordinator and, finally, student success coordinator.
"Helping students learn how to believe in themselves to
reach their full potential is my greatest reward," she says. There is still more.
Adams is a student-focus educator; hence she founded Adams Academia, (AA). AA enables students in need of facilities to remotely complete their test.
"After making varied suggestions for the students with little success, an urgency to provide the space propelled me to take action," Adams says. She worked diligently with Longview Dream Center to finalize AA goals which is becoming a certified testing center for east Texas.
Adams’ successes is based on her strong faith in Jesus Christ, her Lord and Savior. Her favorite bible verse is Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me." During the day, she is a school principal. In the evenings, she teaches at KC while managing Adams’ Academia in tandem. Her time management is second to none.
"The school day as Principal Adams begins around 7:00 a.m. with a daily memo to my PACE team," she says. "The memo is full of vital information to keep everyone on track and always sent with a motivational message based on being strong."
Her students begin arriving at 7:30 am for another day of instruction and learning. She even finds time for meetings and conferences with students, parents, her staff, district officials and assorted community organizations. Her
proactive approach to these and her endless additional tasks ensures the campus runs smoothly, effectively, and peacefully.
She is masterful at breaking down barriers and building relationships that would otherwise hamper progress. Collaborating with a highly competent faculty and administrative staff enables her to realize goals and give a sense of accomplishment to both students and instructors. She sometimes does not get finished until after 10:00 p.m. For this reason, she cherishes her time off to rest.
"It is absolutely imperative that I engage in self-care and ensure that my body, mind and soul are rested and rejuvenated as often as possible," she says. "I enjoy solitude more than socializing, and love pampering myself with 'me' time."
According to Adams, in 1994 a minister looked at her and declared, "I see nothing but children all around your feet." Sure enough, even though at that time she had not yet set her sights on education. It was not until after she encountered what she called, "several youth serving entities" she perceived her passion for teaching young minds.
Her motto became, "Heal the hearts of the children so they don't become hurtful adults." She embraced the twofold philosophy of (1) Teach and empower children to be independent. (2) Teach adults how to care for children."
AN AWE-INSPIRING EDUCATOR
Chicken labeling at the Supermarket:
Prepare to be
Surprised
Want to Earn a Lot More?
Think a Lot Less.
How to Hedge
Against the Gloom-and-Doomers
