infinitie plus
Cultural Arts, Business and Healing
Region revels in accomplishments
ESMERALDA CORONA A CHAMP FOR YOUTH
BRANDI RUSSELL EXCEEDS EXPECTATIONS
McCLENNAN ARTISTIC STANDOUT
BARBARA
Esmeralda Corona: A Champion for Youth
By PAULA JIMENEZ www.infinitieplusmag.com
Esmeralda Corona has been the Chief Human Resources Officer for Smith County since 2019.
Ms. Corona is a native Tylerite and an Apache. She pulled down an associate degree from Tyler Junior college and snagged her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from University of Texas at Tyler where she studied human resources development. She is very passionate about assisting others; hence she chose to pursue degrees and career in human resources development.
Ms. Corona debuted her career as Smith county probation officer in 2008. However, when a position became available in human resources, she took that opportunity in 2015 as human resource coordination.
the Tyler Junior College.
GREETINGS
TOP TALK
Hello infinitieplus readers and supporters.
It is with great honor and appreciation for infinitieplus magazine to introduce on this medium, Sisters Malgorzata Majszczyk, affectionately known as Sister Margo, along with Sister Rita Fanning joyfully announcing the 150th Jubilee of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth celebration plus the 88th Anniversary of CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System. Both Sisters became members of the Congregation in September 1979. Please read their life of service story from page 6. Another story we brought you this month is Real Estate Agent Brandi Russell with Trina Griffith Real Estate, LLC. Brandi is an exciting mom of two lovely kids, 6-year-old Houston and 3-year-old Evelyn. Brandi is happily married to Matt Russell. A true East Texas native, Brandi has spent the last 5 years making waves in real estate, where she thrives
on connecting with people from all walks of life and turning their home dreams into reality. When she is not closing deals, she is soaking up family time on Lake Cherokee, breaking a sweat in the gym, or traveling to new destinations. “Life is an adventure,” says Brandi.” And I am living it to the fullest.” Brandi is the cover story of Women Today. Flip this magazine to read her story. But wait, that is not all. Other stories include: Arts Longview Honors annual gala, Chamber of Commerce annual banquet winners, Protect your heart this Valentine’s day, Inspiration, Recipe for sumptuous and delectable Valentine’s Cerviche and more. Thanks for your support and we look forward to serving you again by God’s grace in March.
oycelyne Fadojutimi, Ph.D. J Publisher
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VISION
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Loan officer Johanna Hodges, Branch manager Terri Lynn Hodge, and Mortgage manager Sarah Bell of Texana Bank attend the Chamber 2025 annual Meeting and Banquet that was certainly a hit. This special evening recognized prominent individuals and organizations in the greater Longview area.
Sister Malgorzata Majszczyk, affectionately known as Sister Margo, along with Sister Rita Fanning, joyfully announces the 150th Jubilee of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth celebration plus the 88th Anniversary of CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System. Both Sisters became members of the Congregation in September 1979.
Fire Chief Jp Steelman and Dr. Rodney Ellis Tina and Tim Ingram
Brandi Russell
CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances, Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth to celebrate milestones
“Our CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System associates and leadership teams are so full of kindness and helpfulness. Above all, they do save lives. It is a beautiful and humbling experience, bringing comfort to others. God allowed me to serve."
Sister Malgorzata Majszczyk
www.texasbankandtrust.com
By PAULA JIMENEZ |
www.infinitieplusmag.com
Sister
Malgorzata Majszczyk, affectionately known as Sister Margo, along with Sister Rita Fanning, joyfully announces the 150th Jubilee of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth celebration plus the 88th Anniversary of CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System. Both Sisters became members of the Congregation in September 1979.
Sister Margo has dedicated over 30 years of her life as a Chaplain to what is now known as CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances. Sister Rita has also served in various positions and is currently a Program Director for Mission Integration in the Health System. Both Sisters share a deep bond. Hence, they refer to themselves as twins, united by their rich history and shared mission.
Sister Margo is passionate about her role as a Chaplain, particularly in the NICU Unit, where she lovingly refers to the
newborns as "brave hearts." She provides holistic support— body, mind, and spirit—to patients, their families, and the healthcare teams. Her comforting presence supports families in welcoming new
lives, those facing critical situations, and mourning the loss of their loved ones. "Every death is very difficult, but I am blessed to have such a beautiful team." she said.
Sister Rita Fanning and Sister Malgorzata Majszczyk (aka Sister Margo)
Recognizing the immense challenges in the hospital environment, Sister Margo emphasized, "Working in the hospital is extremely difficult." She witnesses doctors and supporting staff getting burnt out. Therefore, she makes it her mission to stress the importance of selfcare, supporting each other before caring for patients and their loved ones. "We must support one another before we can care for our patients and their families," she said.
In addition, the Chaplains prioritize educating new employees about grief and emotional well-being.
Moreover, after a loss, staff members are invited to debriefing sessions, where they reflect on their experiences while emphasizing self-care. Sister Margo and Sister Rita are deeply committed to extending the human ministry of Jesus Christ, aware of their profound impact on the lives they touch each day. Accordingly, Sister Rita takes great pride in honoring the legacy of their Founder, Bishop Claude; Foundress, Marie Dubuis; and strives to connect their mission to the community.
She beautifully expresses, "We don’t just minister as sisters; we also help meet the family and patient's needs. We become family to the patients who have no one; even long after they are discharged, we remain their family." Together, they passionately proclaim, "The hospital is a Holy Ground; we are here to extend the mission of Jesus Christ, and what we do is Sacred."
With heartfelt appreciation, Sister Margo lauds the medical staff, describing them as mesmerizing, beautiful, and incredible. She says
one of the best things she loves about working at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System is, "When I look at our associates and leadership teams, they are so full of kindness and helpfulness, and above all, they do save lives,” Sister Margo said. “It is a beautiful and humbling experience, bringing comfort to others. God allowed me to serve. When you love something or somebody, it is effortless."
It is important to note Sister Margo loves hugs and shares that passion with the medical staff. For instance, nurses visit her without saying a word. All they need during their challenging moments is a comforting hug. "Hugs are the language of love," she emphasizes, reminding the reader of human connection's beauty.
There are four Sisters who are on rotation at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances
Health System. As a result, a Chaplain is always available every day of the year and at all times. Moreover, hospital's commitment to the mission includes providing a dedicated space for the Chaplains to rest. The remarkable history of CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System reflects significant growth and transformation since its inception in 1930 as Tyler's first and only hospital.
Sister Malgorzata Majszczyk (aka Sister Margo) and Sister Rita Fanning
Sister Margo relishes the teamwork displayed during emergencies, with a quick response team ready to act at a moment’s notice.
In addition, the hospital’s helipad ensures critical patients receive immediate attention, with Chaplains always prepared to provide support. Sister Rita, echoes Sister Margo’s sentiments. "Both of us share a heartfelt passion for CHRISTUS." From Sister Rita's first encounter with the CHRISTUS team, she felt a sense of belonging. "The love
and the care isn't just spoken by the people. It is lived by the people who serve side by side with us. CHRISTUS is there to be a part of the community, and we feel God's healing touch here in Tyler."
As they prepare to celebrate their 150th anniversary, Sister Margo encourages the community to reflect on this upcoming historic event of the tragic New London School explosion, which united the community in remembrance and healing 75 years later. They anticipate organizing a special
celebration to honor this milestone, which will resonate across 5 continents and 14 countries, commemorating the vital legacy of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.
In the spirit of unity and appreciation, Sister Margo and Sister Rita are excited to honor the dedication of former leadership, CEO Lindsay Bradley and CFO Ray Thompson, as well as the founders of their cherished mission, and others including Sister Sylvia, Sister Cordia, Sister Josephine, and Sister Incarna.
Together, these inspiring Sisters continue to make a difference, reaffirming their commitment to a life of service molded by faith, love, and community engagement. They encourage the community to explore ways to support the mission of CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System highlighting the significance of paying it forward and making a positive difference together, just as CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System does for the community.
Reverend Stephen Murray, Director of Pastoral Care at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Health System with Sister Margo
Sister Malgorzata Majszczyk (aka Sister Margo) at Chaplaincy Graduation
Arts!Longview honors artistic standout
By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI | www.infinitieplusmag.com
During the annual January event Arts!Longview awarded its 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award to local fine arts standout Barbara McClennan for her ongoing, outstanding devotion to enriching the city's theater, music, and culinary arts communities.
The event is Arts! Longview’s annual Broadway premier-style celebration to honor those making significant contributions to Longview's cultural district and its eight arts and culture organizations. In the recent past Longview Ballet Theater founder Pat Mitchell and Longview Symphony Orchestra and East Texas Symphonic Band founder James Snowdon received the award. Arts!Longview Executive Director Christina Cavazos was clear on McClellan's positive impact on her community.
"Barbara McClellan has played an instrumental role in multiple facets of our arts community for five decades,"
Cavasos said. "As a music educator she taught countless students. As a food columnist she encourages a love of the culinary arts in our community.
As an actress, musical director and avid theater supporter she has played an integral role in our theater community since 1975, and she was a key figure in the establishment of Theater Longview in 2012."
After saying she was "humbled" and "overwhelmed" at the honor McClellan went on to meticulously describe her own feelings:
"Being off-stage and waiting to go on...there's no experience like it," she said. "I wanted theater performers in our community to have that experience. I just wanted to pass that on to other people. It just started out with a phone call I made. 'There's no business-like show business,' as Irving Berlin wrote. I wanted lots of people in Longview to have that experience for years to come."
McClellan is eighty-five years old, and grew up in Tyler, where she inherited her
Arts and Culture
mother's love of cooking. After her 1961 graduation from Baylor, where she pulled down her music educator's degree, she went on to spend years giving vocal lessons and cultivating her students' love of singing. In 1970 she went to work for the Longview newspaper, writing a weekly food column. Fifty-five years later she is still doing this in the Longview News-Journal and the Tyler Morning Telegraph.
This tireless, expert lady has
written three cookbooks and is former operator of a restaurant in Longview. Despite all this delectable culinary activity she never has lost her love of the fine arts.
In 1975 she commenced working in the former Longview Community Theater. From then until 1996 she participated in innumerable productions both onstage and as a component in musicals. She dearly loves Fiddler on the Roof, starring in
countless performances of this legendary play. She has worked as musical director at Longview High School, collaborating brilliantly with the school's longtime theater teacher Pam Mercer-McWilliams.
After temporarily moving away in 1996 she returned to Longview in 2011, and was crushed to learn the Longview Community Theater had closed down, and there were no longer any venues for local adult performers. Theater Longview Executive Director Denise Knut-
son gives credit where it is due.
"Barbara McClellan, who many of us at Theater Longview lovingly refer to as 'Bubbe,' was the catalyst for the founding of Theater Longview. Barbara got the first small group of potential board members together for a meeting, which later grew into what is now Theater Longview," she said. "Barbara has continued to be an avid supporter and has offered invaluable guidance over the years. We are forever grateful for her impact on the theater community in Longview and are thrilled she is receiving this well-deserved honor."
Many of the performers who attended the Arts!Longview Honors Gala included ensembles from Theater Longview, ArtsView Children’s Theater, Longview Symphony Orchestra, East Texas Symphonic Band, Duck Duck Moose Improv, Meaghan and Mathew Simpson of the Texas Shakespeare Festival, soloist Grant Bridgman and pianist David Berryhill. Emcees were Arts!Longview board members Dan Sorey and LaDarian Brown.
Arts!Longview 2025 honoree Barbara McClennan
Photo by Michael Cavazos
Emcees and Arts!Longview board members Dan Sorey and LaDarian Brown. Center: Arts!Longview executive director Christina Cavazos and 2025 honoree Barbara McClennan
Photo by Michael Cavazos
The Chamber packs house, doles out awards
IP STAFF REPORT/ PHOTOS BY TYE AND GRACE JACKSON
The Chamber 2025 annual Meeting and Banquet was certainly a hit. This special evening recognized prominent individuals and organizations in the greater Longview area.
After some Chamber housekeeping, the event shifted gears to a high speed. Mark was recognized for his unwavering commitment to prioritizing the needs of people in the Longview community. Community Impact Award: HighRidge Church was awarded because of their relentless support of local initiatives.
Large Employer of the Year: R. Lacy Services was celebrated for their local impact and collaboration with employees to drive innovation.
Manufacturer of the Year: STEMCO was honored for their dedication to quality and employee welfare. Many gathered to recognize remarkable achievements and look forward to an inspiring event. Furthermore, attendees heard Jeff Henderson keynoted the event and his words of wisdom resonated with the audience. Henderson did not disappoint. Kudos to Chuck King and Chick-fil-A for making his appearance possible. Henderson’s humorous speech challenged the audience with two powerful questions: What do you want to be known FOR and, What’s your next big ask?
As we reflect on these questions, let’s consider how we can continue making an impact in our businesses and community. The response
to Henderson’s contagious presentation inspired the audience and encouraged attendees to thoughtfully consider their ways while they are still in the land of the living.
When it was all said and done, it was a fun, somewhat sober and soul-searching evening.
Services
R. Lacy
Dr. Andy Mack and his family STEMCO
HighRidge Church
The Courage to Trust
By GLENN MILLER
Helping the youth has been one of Ms. Corona’s grandest achievements. She firmly believes that helping them invest for a brighter future allows for a better Tyler tomorrow! According to Ms. Corona, “"As a Tyler native, my current role allows me to participate in many essential community engagement opportunities. I am proud to serve on many boards, including Leadership Tyler and United Way of East Texas. This helps me assist with the development of the Hispanic community and their needs in East Texas." Contd. from Page 3
But wait, that is not all.
In July 2019, Corona became the chief human resource officer. She finds joy working with the youth because she passionately believes that helping them invest for a brighter future makes for a better Tyler tomorrow.
She started out as a probation officer for Smith County in 2008. Soon enough, a position in the Human Resources department later became available and Ms. Corona became the HR Coordinator in 2015, then the Chief HR Officer in July of 2019.
GOD’S WORD: “When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?” – Jeremiah 29:11
In God we trust. Those are words which have been as much a part of my patriotism as my faith; perhaps a convergence of the two. But more than just words meaning that God is sovereign in my life, I believe these four little words should have a much deeper meaning. I think we often get the words ‘faith’ and ‘trust’ mixed up.
Faith, according to the author of Hebrews is “being sure of what we hope for [salvation] and certain of what we do not see.” Faith doesn’t come easy to those of us who live, work and play in a world
that requires immediate proof, back-up, and authenticity. Yet as hard as faith is sometimes to grasp, I believe the concept of trust stretches us to the next dimension.
To trust God is to say that no matter what may happen, it’s going to be OK.
To trust God is to be prepared to answer yes to anything that God may call you to.
To trust God is to seek His will first in every decision you make and then make His decision your own. Trust isn’t alien to you and me. We know what it means to trust. Moreover, if you’re
like me, we put our trust in a multitude of misappropriate places. We put our trust in others. We put our trust in systems. We put our trust in logic, knowledge, and scientific data. And worst of all, we put our trust in ourselves.
To trust God is to trust Him above all other things.
After all, if we can’t trust the One who created the heavens and the earth; if we can’t trust the One who causes the sun and moon to rise; if we can’t trust the One who redeemed us from an eternity in darkness; if we can’t trust the One who died on a cross for our sins, then who can we trust?
Career 4 Connections encourages local high school students to enhance their interviewing skills through training and participate in mock interviews with HR professionals from the community.
Business and Finance
…And the winner is Joshua Warbington
By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI | www.infinitieplusmag.com
Joshua
Warbington was recently named Longview Chamber of Commerce Reach Team
Member of
the Year. This means he put in more hours coordinating, serving, and volunteering for diverse events at the Chamber than any other Reach Team member.
In addition, he was recognized at the Chamber 2025 annual Meeting and Banquet that packed house and doled out awards. This special evening recognized prominent individuals and organizations in the greater Longview area.
Warbington works diligently as a relations manager with Eastman Credit Union for 5 years. Moreover, he is a Christian and attends Mulberry Springs Baptist Church where he is the Men’s Ministry Leader.
He graduated from Hallsville High School and attended East Texas Baptist University where he was a 2-sport athlete in Football and
Baseball and pulled down a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
Warbington continued his education at East Texas Baptist University and successfully earned a master’s degree in business administration. But wait there is more.
He is steeped in business and community engagements. For instance, Warbington continues to serve in various capacities:
• Vice Chair for the Longview Chamber’s REACH Team
• Co-Chair for the Longview Chamber Golf Committee
• Ambassador at the Marshall Chamber of Commerce
• Ambassador at the Hallsville Chamber of Commerce
• Board member at the Hallsville Chamber of Commerce
• Currently in Leadership Longview class of 20242025.
FRESHMAN LEVEL
1. Which battleship was not raised after being sunk at Pearl Harbor?
Answer________
2. Adolf Hitler was born a citizen of _____.
Answer________
3. He was proclaimed “El Libertador.”
Answer________
GRADUATE LEVEL
4. Who was the most famous prisoner held at Devil’s Island?
Answer________
5. When first elected prime minister, whom did Winston Churchill replace?
Answer________
6. What was the date “... which will live in infamy”?
Answer________
PH.D. LEVEL
7. Name the first company to issue stock.
Answer________
8. This captain sailed 4,000 miles in a small boat to reach safety on the island of Timor.
Answer________
9. His predecessor was Sun Yat-sen.
Answer________
SCORING:
18 points congratulations, doctor; 15 to 17 points - honors graduate; 10 to 14 points - you’re plenty smart, but no grind; 4 to 9 points you really should hit the books harder; 1 point to 3 points - enroll in
Furthermore, he is a Christian and attends Mulberry Springs Baptist Church where he is the Men’s Ministry Leader. Joshua is married to his sweetheart, Amber Warbington. The couple have one son, Julian.
Team Member of the Year Award from Leslie Paull
Ceviche makes Valentine’s Day dinner
Valentine’s Day dinners out on the town can be special. However, there is no denying that reservations can be difficult to come by and some establishments must limit their menus for this busy night to make it easier to serve a packed house. Because restaurants can be so busy on February 14, some couples may opt to stay in and enjoy a special home-cooked, romantic meal.
Ceviche may not be served at home on a regular basis, which makes it an option for a memorable Valentine’s Day dinner. Ceviche is popular along Mexico’s western seaboard and consists of very fresh raw seafood that is cooked by the action of
Serves 6
• 7 ounces raw peeled shrimp
• 3 limes
• 3 tomatoes
• 1 small onion
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano, or 2 teaspoons dried
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Ground black pepper
• Fresh oregano sprigs, to garnish
• Crusty bread and lime wedges to serve (optional)
Spread out the shrimp in a non-metallic bowl.
Squeeze 2 limes and pour the juice on the mixed seafood to cover it completely. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and set aside in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.
Drain the seafood in a colander to remove the excess lime juice, then pat it dry with paper towels.
Cut the tomatoes in half, squeeze out the seeds,
then dice the flesh. Cut the onion in half, then slice it thinly. Cut the avocado half lengthwise, remove the pit and peel, then cut the flesh into 1/2-inch dice.
4. Add the tomatoes, onion, and avocado to the shrimp with the oregano and seasoning. Squeeze the remaining lime and pour on the juice. Garnish with oregano and serve with crusty bread and lime wedges, if desired.
Business and Finance Business and Finance
Valentine’s Day: Protect your Heart and Your Wallet
By MECHELLE MILLS
This Valentine’s Day is shaping up to be big, according to projections by the National Retail Federation, which suggests that total consumer spending may reach $27.5 billion.
As you prepare to celebrate, be on the lookout for fake businesses and fake individuals posing as legitimate ones in an effort to take advantage of those looking for love and looking for gifts for loved ones this Valentine’s Day.
Impostor websites
Consumers should always be alert for impostor websites, from fake jewelry sellers to online dating sites. Scammers can easily lift official photos, sale promotions, and logos directly from the website of a popular jewelry brand. With professional graphics and unbeatable prices, scammers build an attractive website that looks eerily similar to the real thing. Similar methods may be used to build fake online dating platforms, often used to steal personal data and credit card information. Read our guide to smart shopping online for more tips to spot fake websites.
Red flags:
• Products are available at extreme discounts.
• The seller requests customers pay with cash transfer apps or cryptocurrency.
• Customer service is unreachable.
Romance scams
Romance scammers often target vulnerable people who have experienced a recent breakup or other hardship. They take advantage of that heartbreak to establish a connection and gain sympathy. Once they’ve gotten their victim on the hook with a sad story, they begin pursuing their true goal–money. Falling victim to a romance scam can be particularly devastating. Victims can lose thousands of dollars, and they’re often left feeling heartbroken and betrayed because they believed they’d found a good partner. Read more about romance scams for safe online dating advice.
Red flags:
Wrong number scam
• The relationship moves very fast.
• You never meet in person.
• They ask for money.
Responding to a text message from someone who messaged the wrong number might seem harmless. It might even seem like the polite thing to do if they say they’re looking to reconnect with a potential match.
The text message, however, is bait to lure you into a conversation. If you keep chatting, they eventually try to
get your personal information by directing you to sign up for an adult site. Learn more about wrong number texts and scam bots.
Red flags:
• The messages don’t stop.
• The sender directs you to sign up for a website.
• They try to get your personal information.
Fake florist scam
Ordering flowers for Valentine’s Day? Shop early to avoid falling for a scam. BBB has received many reports of shoppers who thought they were ordering flowers from an online florist... but either got nothing at all, or a disappointing arrangement. Don't let phony florists ruin Valentine's Day. Go to bbb.org to find a florist you can trust.
Red flags:
• The business has no reviews or bad reviews (always check BBB.org!)
• You can't find a return policy or satisfaction guarantee.
• The deal is "too good to be true."
What to do if you become a victim
If you encounter a suspected romance scam, cut off all contact with the perpetrator by blocking their accounts and phone number. Then, report your experience to BBB.org/ScamTracker. Dating site users should also report suspicious activity to the platform so they can take action against the scammer's account.
Women: IMPACT OF
HEART DISEASE
Heart disease, namely coronary artery disease, is the leading cause of death for women and those assigned female at birth says Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Heart health is vital. Despite widespread recognition of the importance of a healthy heart, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death around the world. CVD includes coronary artery disease and other issues affecting the heart or blood vessels.
Even though heart disease affects both men and women, it's often mistakenly seen as a condition that mostly affects men. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that heart disease, namely coronary artery disease, is the leading cause of death for women and those assigned female at birth. It occurs when plaque develops in the walls of the arteries and slows down the flow of blood supply to the heart and other parts of the body. Women are particularly at risk because, after menopause, hormone changes like a reduction in the production of estrogen can cause higher risk of coronary heart disease, especially in smaller blood vessels.
In addition to hormonal changes after menopause, the risk factors for heart disease in women include:
• Diabetes: Women with diabetes are more likely to develop heart disease than men with diabetes. There's also an increased risk of silent heart attack since diabetes can change the way women perceive pain.
• Mental health: Emotional stress and depression can affect women's hearts more than men's, as depression may compromise a woman's ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
• Smoking: Smoking is another risk factor for heart disease.
• Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle increases heart disease risk.
• Inflammatory diseases: Individuals with arthritis, lupus and other inflammatory conditions may be at an elevated risk for heart disease.
Learning about the warning signs of heart attack and stroke can help women stay on top of their health. Here's what to look for, courtesy of GoRedForWomen.org.
3 simple ways to get back in creditors good graces
Heart attack
• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness, or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back.
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach.
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Cold sweats, nausea or lightheadedness.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
Stroke
• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.
• Sudden confusion or trouble communicating.
• Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause.
Women mindful of the risk factors of heart disease as well as the symptoms of heart attack and stroke may be better positioned to protect their longterm heart health.
A robust credit rating is a key component of a strong financial foundation. There’s a reason consumers credit histories are important to landlords, car dealerships and mortgage lenders. store their reputation in the eyes of prospective creditors. Thankfully, consumers can take three simple steps to rebuild their credit.
Young adults may not recognize the significance of a strong credit rating until their financial reputation has already taken a hit. Indeed, the Urban Institute reported in late 2024 that 16 percent of young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 with a credit record had debt in collections. Such individuals and older adults who have struggled to make ends meet without taking on debt may one day aspire to own a home or secure a favorable auto loan, and each goal
1. Start paying on time.
One of the fastest ways to build debt is to skip or miss payments on consumer debts like credit cards. When that happens, consumers must pay percentagebased interest charges, which can be especially high on credit cards. In addition, the financial experts at NerdWallet point out that late payments can stay on a credit report for more than seven
2. Utilize as little credit as possible.
Credit utilization ratio is one of the variables reporting agencies like Experian use to determine consumers’ credit ratings. Overutilization of credit adversely affects a credit score, so consumers with poor credit histories are urged to avoid using credit cards when they have funds available in their savings or checking accounts. Consumers now have readily available access to information that determines their credit scores, and that includes their credit utilization ratio.
3. Apply for a secured credit card.
nificance of paying bills on
NerdWallet notes that secured credit cards can be the right vehicle for individuals who need to start over in relation to their credit histories. The credit reporting agency Equifax notes secured credit cards require cash deposits that are used to ensure purchases made on credit. Secured credit cards are ideal for borrowers who have been deemed high-risk due to past mistakes. Payment histories on secured credit cards can be recorded and shared with reporting agencies, which makes them a valuable asset for individuals who need to demonstrate an ability to pay bills on time
Foods that promote healthy hair and skin
Millions of people across the globe deal with conditions that affect the skin and hair. Acne is a skin and hair ailment that, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, is the most common skin condition in the United States. But what if the foods people eat could affect the health of their hair and skin? There is evidence that they can. Foods that contain certain nutrients, phytochemicals and enzymes may help people develop healthier hair and skin.
Blueberries:
The U.S. Department of Agriculture gave blueberries its top ranking for antioxidant activity. The antioxidants in blueberries neutralize free radicals and protect people from premature aging, which can help the skin look younger and more vibrant.
Eggs:
Eggs are great sources of protein and biotin, which are two nutrients that may help promote hair growth. The health and wellness information site Healthline says biotin is essential for the production of a hair protein called keratin.
Fatty fish:
Fatty fish, such as salmon, are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Ciara Foy, a Toronto-based holistic nutritionist, says about 3 percent of the hair shaft is made up of omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also found in cell membranes and in the natural oils that keep the scalp and other areas of the skin hydrated.
Red bell peppers:
These peppers contain more vitamin C than oranges. According to dermatologist Dr. Julia Carroll with Compass Dermatology, vitamin C is an
antioxidant precursor to collagen production, so consuming more vitamin C through foods can neutralize free radicals that could damage skin.
Spinach:
Trade lettuce for spinach, which is rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and much more. These nutrients can be the building blocks of healthy skin and hair.
Oysters:
Nutritionist and author Lisa Drayer says oysters are good
Equipped with her college degree and teamwork experience, Brandi determined to make a positive difference in her adopted hometown. Hence, she started out working for the American Heart Association, serving eight years as corporate marketing director for East Texas. Her innate and developed skills in this field resulted in millions of dollars raised both for heart health and the community in general as citizens received ever-better healthcare. Thanks to her. Countless residents were blessed with better treatment made possible by Brandi's raising of crucial funding for research and education on how to recognize signs and symptoms of developing cardiovascular conditions.
There were other perks for returning home.
After establishing herself as a major mover in her area, she reconnected with high school paramour Matt Russell, marrying him in 2013. Their bond of love was just too strong for their college-caused separation to break. Nowadays they, seven-year-old son Houston and four-year-old daughter Evelyn are a family bound by love and laughter. Houston and Evelyn are showing strong signs of following in their parents' glowing footsteps. As pupils of Trinity School of Texas, they stand out for their brightness and compassion.
“Trina puts God and family first. She is encouraging, kindhearted, loving, and passionate about helping others and her agents who work for her. She walks her talk, period!”
Real Estate Agent Brandi Russell with Trina Griffith Real Estate, LLC.
Favorite family activities include boating and exploring the hauntingly beautiful East Texas outdoors. They need only follow mother's sparkling example. That is not all.
Brandi has moved into the field of real estate with Trina Griffith Real Estate, LLC selling millions of dollars' worth of her beloved East Texas to invariably delighted clients. These clients/customers have come to trust her impeccable ability in locating and purchasing their dream homes. She unerringly guides firsttime homebuyers, ranch owners and out-of-state clients as they relocate. In addition, Brandi treats everyone with care, professionalism, dedication, and unconditional honesty. She guides each of her clients with the insight and expertise they need to make informed decisions.
It is important to note, Brandi has established herself as a paragon of virtue and professionalism through her total knowledge of the local market and her unwavering commitment to excellence. She loves to guide her clients to putting down successful roots and establishing themselves as successful
love of helping others as a real estate agent, community volunteer and cheerleader at her children’s activities. Brandi who likes Mexican food with its chips and salsa, uses real estate both as a personal career and to give back to her beloved community. Her unselfish passion, perseverance and purpose make
Brandi Russell
Brandi’s joyful moments at work with: Brandy Williamson, Maddie Griffith, Trina Griffith and Tucker Dudley
Brandi Russell and Trina Griffith
Brandi Russell: Leader in real estate solutions
Talks about being a gateway to real estate success with unmatched professionalism, unparalleled results, and exceeding expectations, every time.
By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI
Brandi Russell was just four years old when her family moved to East Texas from her birthplace of Monroe, Louisiana. It did not take long for this gifted child to fall in love with the caring people, lovely landscapes, and vibrant nature of East Texas. The region of whispering pines appealed to her in every way, and she has made it her career.
Her older brother, their father Leon Banda and beloved late grandmother Evelyn Banda instilled in her a devotion to family and the support drawn from loved ones. This positive influence has carried over into her status as a real estate agent. She hates to take no for an answer and appreciates the values and profits that come from hard work. Perseverance and the rewards it brings are her guiding principles.
Furthermore, Kilgore High School is immensely proud to
count Brandi as an alumnus. Prior to her 2002 graduation, she shined in academics and athletics. Her exploits on the soccer pitch and in the classroom marked her as an exemplary specimen of young womanhood. From there, Brandi moved on to Richland Community College and spent two years studying and playing soccer. She not only loves the sport, but it has sharpened her attributes of self-discipline and working as part of a team. But wait. There is more.
After transferring to Sam Houston State University as a junior, she became a sister of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, where she began learning yet more about leadership and connecting. By the time she graduated in 2007 with a degree in public relations and a minor in mass communications she was totally savvy and prepared for the marketing vocation for which both her education and delightful, outgoing personality made her natural. She headed back to the Pineywoods.
“I
love, love working with Trina Griffith Real Estate, LLC. We are a family looking out for each other and our clients. I cannot say enough about Trina Griffith herself. She is confident, competent, experienced, caring and allows you to grow in your own natural giftings and talents.”
Real Estate Agent Brandi Russell with Trina Griffith Real Estate, LLC.
Matt and Brandi Russell with their children, Houston and Evelyn
Brandi, Evelyn and Houston Russell Brandi and Matt Russell
