infinitieplus magazine

infinitieplus January 2022

VOL. 12 NO.1 LONGVIEW BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Celebrating A Great Year

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Nonprofit Community Connections

Boys and Girls Club holds open house

Nonprofit Community Connections

The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One… Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PhD Photography Keisha Standley Joycelyne Fadojutimi

Hannah Brown, Shelly Meisenheimer and Chad Patterson

Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs Contributing Writers Dr. Michael Guido Sydney McBride Mechele Agbayani Mills Debi Johnston

Carmon Williams and Debby Williams

The Boys and Girls Club of the Big Pines focuses on 4 key areas:

OUR MISSION

To enrich the local-global community with the “just in time knowledge,” to assure future successes

Chad and Liz Patterson

William McWhorter

1. Academic growth and reading enrichment 2. Social and emotional wellness.

3. Workforce and career readiness.

4. Healthy habits and food security.

OUR VISION

To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities.

Delcine Johnson with Vivienne and Talon Nustad

T

he Boys & Girls Club of the Big Pines held it open house in the rebranded Rumours Spalon. According to Executive Director Chad Patterson, “Club kids have been participating in several service projects leading up to the holidays.”

For example, Club kids put together a birthday party in a box complete with everything the person needs to celebrate. Moreover, the Club partnered with Patti Brady of Community Healthcore, to further the interests of the Club.

In addition, Patterson would like to express his deepest gratitude to

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Assorted goodies.

Eastman Credit Union for their support in 2021.

Patterson said, it is important to invest in Boys and Girls Club of the Big Pines because the investor will be assisting Club kids reach their fullest potential. The goal is for that every child will develop and become a caring, responsible, productive citizen.

Submission Deadline: The first of every month prior to month of issue. infinitieplus magazine is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes since the publishing of this issue. At the time of publication, to the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate though not guaranteed.

The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine is copyrighted 2022. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus magazine reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus magazine or its advertisers.

P. O. Box 12473 Longview, Texas 75602-2473 https://twitter.com/infinitieplus Phone: 903.918.7706

Recognizing the significant contributions of

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. “May his legacy continue to be a light shining brightly in a land of liberty and justice for ALL.”

VOLUME 12 | ISSUE 1

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s t n e t n o C Debbie Williams and Macy Withrow

John Green and CEO Chad Jones

Features

Delcine Johnson and Chad Patterson

In Every Issue 2

Non Profit Connections:

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Inspiration:

Delcine Johnson, Karen Applegate and Linda Voyles

Spotlight

11 Community Health and Wellness: 18 Business and Finance:

Bundles Bundles Bundlesof of ofjoy. joy. joy.

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

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

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

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

LongviewRegional.com/baby.

LongviewRegional.com/baby.

Alyce Sparks and Rocio Mendez

9 Cover Story: Open House: Rumours Spalon

22 Puzzle 23 Grubs Up:

Ribbon cutting at Rumours Spalon

About the Cover

Modern life is a whirlwind of deadlines, virtual home offices, homeschooling and deluges of data from endless social media sites. Then, there are the more traditional responsibilities of housecleaning, cooking, personal hygiene and somehow managing a social life while maintaining the personal distancing mandated by COVID-19.

These stress-inducers place people in a pressure cooker impacting both physical and mental health. Rumours Spalon is here to assist clients reset and look flawlessly fabulous.

2901 2901 2901 N.N.Fourth N. Fourth Fourth Street Street Street • •Longview, Longview, • Longview, TX TX75605 TX 75605 75605 • •903-242-3490 903-242-3490 • 903-242-3490 • •LongviewRegional.com LongviewRegional.com • LongviewRegional.com www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine | https://twitter.com/infinitieplus | infinitieplus | January 2022

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Out Out with with the the old, old, in in with with the new, and andvery very best best wishes wishes to to each each one of you!

Inspiration

Looking For With our our thanks thanks for for your your With kind consideration consideration and and support, support, kind

GOD IN 2022

By DR. MICHAEL GUIDO

“Y

ou chart the path ahead of me and tell me when to stop and rest.

“Every moment you know where I am.” Psalm 139:3

4523Judson Judson Road, Road, Longview, Longview, Texas Texas 75605 75605 4523 (903) 663-3344 663-3344 (903) www.stone-works.net www.stone-works.net

Flooring・Lighting・Appliances・Granite・Quartz・Marble・ Flooring・Lighting・Appliances・Granite・Quartz・Marble・ Mattresses・OutdoorKitchen・BBQ Kitchen・BBQGrills・Pools・Spas・Firepits・Iron Grills・Pools・Spas・Firepits・Iron Doors Doors Mattresses・Outdoor ・PlumbingFixtures・Hardware・Bathtubs・Cabinets・and Fixtures・Hardware・Bathtubs・Cabinets・and more! more! ・Plumbing

“The Lord says, “‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.’”

Psalm 32:8

“Because of Christ, we have received an inheritance from God, for He chose us from the beginning and all things happen just as He decided years ago.”

Ephesians 1:11 “The Lord will work out His plans for my life – for Your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever. Don’t abandon me, for You made me!”

Psalm 138:8

“Seek His will in all you do and He will direct your paths.”

Proverbs 3:6 Prayer: Grant us wisdom, give us faith, increase our trust, and watch over us each day, Father, as we seek Your plan for our lives.

May we follow You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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Cover Story

Cover Story

Open House: Rumours Spalon makes a giant splash, cuts ribbon S t o r y a n d p h o t o s b y J O Y C E LY N E F A D O J U T I M I

M

odern life is a whirlwind of deadlines, virtual home offices, homeschooling and deluges of data from endless social media sites.

Then, there are the more traditional responsibilities of housecleaning, cooking, personal hygiene and somehow managing a social life while maintaining the personal distancing mandated by COVID-19.

These stress-inducers place people in a pressure cooker impacting both physical and mental health.

Hence, achieving so many varied objectives can send people into nature's fight or flight response, making it difficult to concentrate, sleep and avoid anxiety and depression.

Such mental health issues demand attention, otherwise, they will fester and cause such physical results as muscle pain and inflam-

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mation, heart disease and other such chronic lifeshorteners. It is important to note, Spas provide an escape for these daily quandaries.

Besides, spas are no longer the sole privilege of the rich and famous. The rank and file are increasingly coming to realize the vital assets of resetting both body and mind via modern spa treatments. This therapy provides a pleasurable means of using relaxation and rejuvenation to recreate a healthy lifestyle.

Historically, the ancient Romans relished in spas that used hydrotherapy for the upper classes to augment physical, spiritual, and mental healing.

Nowadays, such services still use hydrotherapy techniques, but also holistic apothecary like Rumours Spalon. Others use Thai, deep tissue and stone massages, assorted body

“I want clients to see a new vitality in the shop. T hat they are at Rumours to be pampered and cared for. T hey are priority.”

Delcine Johnson, Owner, Rumours Spalon.

Karen Applegate, Alyssa DeLaRosa, Delcine Johnson and Cindy Patterson

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and spiritual treatments including pedicures, body wraps, aromatherapy, acupuncture, meditation, yoga, and Pilates.

The motive is the same-to supply a source for the relaxation of body, mind, and spirit hence, achieving healthy lifestyles and longevity through improving the autoimmune system, self-esteem, and mental clarity.

Furthermore, the mental health aspects of patronizing a spa are as significant as the physical well-being it engenders.

By renewing spirit and

clearing the mind, spa treatments achieve improved clarity and overall personal exquisiteness and gratification. There are five main ways spa therapy benefits mental health: • Combating depression through massage therapy, aromatherapy, and meditation.

Massage therapy may result in as much as a 50% decrease in the stress hormone cortisol. Massage stimulates the body's production of serotonin and dopamine.

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Cover Story

Cover Story

Keddrick Johnson of Serve’em Up.

These are mood-improving neurotransmitters that provide a natural high. In addition, massages can decrease depression by eliminating physical problems like joint and muscle pain.

• Boosting confidence and selfesteem can result from spa treat-

10 10

Edie Beckner, Cindy and Rick Foster; and Whitney Schubarth

ment. Healthy degrees of percise and eating habits resulting sonal contentment and a sense from spa treatments. Pamperof personal security are advaning one's body and improving tages gleaned from spas and personal appearance results in motivate patrons to stand up a more positive personal view. to adversity and to believe they are capable of personal success. • Relaxation. Spa treatments like These inclinations are typically soaks in warm water reduce boosted by the improved exercortisol levels, easing anxiety

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and improving relaxation. Massages of the neck and shoulders also further the ability to relax healthfully both physically and mentally. Facials cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate the face while providing a gentle massage. This reduces tension and headaches.

Lance and Lindsey Tippitt

Promotes better sleep. A good converts into melatonin, the night's sleep is essential to be main sleep hormone. Hot stone at one's best physically and therapy in conjunction with mentally. Spas offer what is massage can reduce physical called a deep tissue massage pain, thereby improving sleep. to relax muscles and increase the flow of serotonin into the • Aids in overall stress reduction. bloodstream. The serotonin Stress is a killer, both physically

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Cover Story

“What will make Rumours Spalon unique is the staff and the care that is given to each individual who walks through that door.”

Delcine Johnson, Owner,Rumours Spalon.

Cover Story and mentally, contributing to heart trouble, depression, obesity, and poor sleep. Taking time to relax and drain away stress and anxiety is crucial, and a spa is the perfect place for it. The skin is the largest organ of the human body, and it, too, is subject to the ravages of stress, which, along with skewed hormone

levels, can result in damaged skin. A day at a spa will help one to slow down, unwind and achieve a healthful all-around balance. Jump at the opportunity.

products and treatments for women and men of all ages. Rumours’ skin treatments produce plump, soft, and healthy skin due to its holistic apothecary. Rumours integrated approach heals and repairs damaged skin, reduces scarring, and offers cellular strength.

Rumours Spalon recent grand opening was an enormous success as visitors gaped impressed at the latest and most-advanced technology for improved health from head to toe. Delcine Johnson, president of Johnson & Pace Engineering, Architecture, Surveying is the new owner of Rumours.

She made her new operation's mission statement clear.

"I want clients to see a new vitality in the shop. That they are at Rumours to be pampered and cared for. They are priority,” she said. I want to continue to grow and offer services that are innovative, but I want to first do what we do best and not get wrapped up with a multitude of services."

She went yet further in her declaration of intent and service.

"Rumours has technically been around a long time and many local people have used it in the past, so it has that going for it," she said. "What will make it unique is the staff and the care that is given to each individual who walks through that door. I cannot emphasize it enough that the clients are a priority to me and everybody here."

Rumours Spalon at 3394 Hwy 259 in Longview is under new management. But wait, that is not all. Rumours is offering state-of-the-art

Shelli Kipp, Jennifer Jackson, and Debby Williams

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Education Health and Wellness Community

Community Health and Wellness

Health View: Chief Executive

Officers discuss healthcare IP STAFF REPORT

T

he Longview Chamber of Commerce held is annual Healthy View where businesses get an idea of the past, present

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issues, and progress in healthcare as it pertains to Longview, Texas.

LaDarian Brown, a police officer and Pastor of Parkview Baptist Church gave the invocation.

Chief Executive Officer Steve Gordon of Longview Regional Medical Center (LRMC) and Chief Executive Officer Todd Hancock, CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System answered questions for the community.

CEO Hancock informed the audience that CHRISTUS pledged to spend $750M in east Texas. Part of the spending is the purchase of former Good Shepherd Medical Center. But that is not all.

CHRISTUS continues to make investments in various service lines.

Importantly, is the new expansion of NorthPark Good Shepherd NorthPark Medical Plaza and most recently the CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Heart & Vascular Institute on Marshall Avenue.

“All of this will enhance keeping patients in the community,” said Hancock. Plus, CHRISTUS has pledged to spend $60M turning defunct Laird in Kilgore into a Health Park.

CEO Gordon stated that outcomes are particularly important for hospitals and patients alike. He cited how Longview Regional Medical Center is getting good outcomes because of unequal commitment from their staff. LRMC touts 20-year average for their staff. Many who work at Longview Regional Medical Center were born in Longview, went to University somewhere else but moved back to Longview and are working for LRMC. For this reason, Longview Regional

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staff feel, “I am caring for my neighbor,” Gordon said.

Furthermore, some of their medical staff graduated from Longview High School. “These employees bring something special to patients that cannot be quantified,” said Gordon.

Additionally, both CEOs discussed COVID-19, its effects on their service lines and staff. At this juncture, Hancock thanked Fire Chief Steelman and Gregg County Judge Stoudt for their partnership and success of the vaccine hub.

Both CEOs agreed that community access to healthcare will continue to drive their strategy.

In closing, Hancock said, “I am proud to be part of this community. We have learned so much so fast.

Gordon informed the audience that Longview Regional Medical Center is the 8th largest taxpayer in Longview contributes millions of dollars to Longview’s economy.

L-r: Longview Regional Medical Center CEO Steve Gordon and CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Health System CEO Todd Hancock discuss healthcare

903.291.0020 1408 Lago Trail Longview heartis.com

Assisted Living and Memory Care Community

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Community Health and Wellness

Benefit of making

New Year’s resolutions

A

t the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, it is customary to sip a glass of champagne and toast to the new year.

Many people use the dawn of a new year as a time to create a list of resolutions that reflect positive changes, they hope to make in the year ahead.

Between 40 and 45 percent of American adults make resolutions each year, according to the health and wellness group Proactive Mindfulness. Resolutions may seem silly to some, but there are several positive reasons to make them.

Resolutions provide practice setting goals.

Goal setting is an important component of life. Goals are key because they provide general direction in life. A goal is a map that can give you an idea of where you are heading and what path you need to take to get there, according to the selfimprovement guide Success Consciousness. Resolutions can be fun, low-pressure goals. Think of them as dress rehearsals for bigger life changes.

Resolutions offer time for reflection.

Too often people are rushing through daily life without stopping or slowing down to truly assess the impact of their actions. Resolutions help you reflect

on the past, present and future, figuring out what has been working and what may need to be changed to provide a boost, according to the wellness resource Alternative Daily.

Resolutions can serve as a catalyst for positive change.

When something isn’t working with your routine, personal health or relationships, resolutions can serve as the catalyst that ultimately rights the ship.

Resolutions can promote self-esteem and empowerment.

Making resolutions and keeping them can provide a sense of accomplishment that comes with goal setting and following through.

Resolving to lose five pounds and then seeing the proof on a scale can be a powerful motivator that compels you to make other self-improvements.

Accomplishing small goals also can boost self-esteem.

Resolutions are often made at the dawn of a new year. These efforts can provide the motivation and direction people need to make positive changes in their lives. out what has been working and what may need to be changed to provide a boost, according to the wellness resource Alternative Daily.

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Business and Finance

Business and Finance

Tips for Caregivers

A

of non-caregivers. Remember to recharge by taking time for yourself, eating healthy and exercising. Consider respite care for a bit of necessary extended breaks. The Take Time Texas site provides several resources to help caregivers get the rest they need.

By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS

new year is a good time to raise awareness about caregiving and to educate, support and encourage family caregivers. According to the Texas Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), there are an estimated 3.4 million family caregivers in Texas who provide care for older adults and individuals with disabilities. BBB celebrates those family members who provide ongoing support for their loved ones and who safeguard their physical and financial well-being.

Not only do caregivers provide for the physical needs of their loved ones, they must often oversee their financial needs as well. Scams against older adults generate billions of dollars each year for criminals.

BBB provides the following tips for caregivers to help them care for the ones they love: Warning signs that financial fraud may occur • Frequent junk mail and spam calls. Incoming junk mail (illegitimate sweepstakes offers, etc.) or receiving frequent calls from people offering valuable rewards or asking for charitable donations are signs that fraud

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could easily occur or may have already occurred.

• Unfamiliar payments are being made. Checks written or payments made to unfamiliar or out-of-state companies should be a red flag.

For more tips on how to be a savvy consumer, go to bbb.org.

To report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices, please call BBB at 903-581-5704 or use BBB ScamTracker. (https:// www.bbb.org/scamtracker/us)

• Acting secretively about phone calls or messages. When an individual hides or acts secretively about phone calls and messages, it could be a sign that they have engaged a scammer.

• Sudden problems paying bills or buying food and other necessities. A sudden lack of funds could mean that an individual's money is being drained in some form of scam activity. The cause should be investigated to rule out fraud.

Tips for helping your loved one • Become familiar with common scams targeting older adults.

Knowing the most common tactics used to target older adults can help you more easily identify when scams occur.

• Emphasize the criminal nature of telemarketing and email fraud.

Help your loved one learn how to identify it and help them understand that these tactics are illegal. In participating, it is possible they could be pulled into criminal activity unknowingly.

• Have a calm discussion about securing accounts and monitoring finances. Helping older adults monitor their finances can be a great way to prevent scam activity and identify it if it has occurred.

• Encourage the person to ignore phone calls and messages that appear suspicious. Don't reply to, or click links within, emails or text messages that they are not familiar with.

• Help the person change his or her phone number. If constant calls continue, it may be worth changing the person's phone number. Registering the number with the Do Not Call

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list is a great first step, although scammers won’t necessarily follow the Do-Not-Call list laws. If unsafe calls continue, it may be best to change the phone number.

• Take care of yourself. Caring for another is no easy task.

Studies show that as many as 70 percent of family caregivers experience depression or anxiety.

Many develop chronic health problems at nearly twice the rate

About BBB: BBB is a nonprofit, business-supported organization that sets and upholds high standards for fair and honest business behavior.

Most BBB services to consumers are free of charge. BBB provides objective advice, free BBB Business Profiles on more than 5.3 million companies, 11,000 charity reviews, dispute resolution services, alerts and educational information on topics affecting marketplace trust. Visit bbb.org for more information. BBB Serving Central East Texas was founded in 1985 and serves 19 counties in East Texas.

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Community Connections

Community Connections

Police Chief Mike Bishop

to retire

“Over the past six years, I’ve known that I could rely on him to do the right thing and set the example of how to protect and serve. He will be missed, and I wish him well in his future endeavors.”

Longview Mayor Dr. Andy Mack said.

P

olice Chief Mike Bishop recently announced his plans to retire from the Longview Police Department at the end of January 2022. He has served Longview, Texas for thirty-two years of unsurpassed service, together with six years as Chief.

Bishop served in the U.S. Air Force before joining the Longview Police department in 1989 as a patrol officer. But that is not all.

Bishop has served in different departments including: Police area representative, detective, patrol sergeant, crisis intervention negotiator, as well as roles within special operations, support services, and administration. In August 2015, Bishop reached the pinnacle of his career when he was promoted to Police Chief.

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Chief Bishop is a 1999 graduate of the University of Texas at Tyler with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He graduated from the Institute for Law Enforcement Administration in 2001 and the Management Command College in 2006.

Bishop also earned a Master’s in Business Administration from LeTourneau University in 2008.

“Chief Bishop was promoted to Police Chief just a few months after I had been elected to my first term as Mayor. Public Safety was a top priority for me then, just as it is today, and I can’t thank Chief Bishop enough for the work that he and his officers have done to keep our community safe,” Longview Mayor Dr. Andy Mack said. “Over the past six years, I’ve known that I could rely on him to do the right thing and set the example of how to protect and serve. He will be missed and I wish

him well in his future endeavors.”

City manager Keith Bonds had this to say about Chief Bishop.

“I greatly appreciate Chief Bishop’s service to the Longview Police Department and the City of Longview as a whole,” said City Manager Keith Bonds. “As a former Police Area Representative himself, Mike has always been a strong proponent of community policing, encouraging relationships between officers and community while also setting high standards of excellence and professionalism. I know Longview is a better place because of his efforts.”

The Chief will not spend his time retired. He is going to be busy at work.

After his retirement, Chief Bishop will commence working at Tyler Junior College as a Professor and Coordinator of the Public Admin-

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istration Program in the Department of Legal and Public Service Careers in the School of Professional and Technical Programs. Bishop has taught classes as an adjunct professor for the past eleven years.

There are several Police Department accomplishments worth noting during Chief Bishop’s tenure: • Implementation of body-worn cameras.

• Created Police Outreach Service Team (POST) to proactively respond to Homeless individuals in the community.

• Consistent reduction in crime over the last several years.

• Establishment of Civilian Teen Police Academy and Business Police Academy.

• Established accredited Police Academy to train new recruits to department standards. The academy currently training LPD cadets and cadets from neighboring agency.

• Charter member of the East Texas Anti-Gang Unit, with the Smith and Gregg county law enforcement agencies including Smith County Sheriff’s Office, Tyler PD, Gregg County Sheriff’s Office, Longview Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF).

• Recognition for 2016 and 2020 Best Practices through the Texas

Police Chief Mike

• •

•

•

Bishop

Police Chief's Association.

Implementation of modified police services during pandemic conditions.

Design and space needs assessment of new police department, leading to the construction of new Police Department building slated for completion in late 2022.

Establishment of Computer Aided Dispatch/Records Management System assessment to develop options for updating the current system.

Hiring and Training of 96 new officers since August 2015.

• Implementation of Texas Department of Transportation Sponsored Data-Driven Approaches to Crime and Traffic Safety policing model.

• Utilization of professional commercials and social media platforms for recruiting purposes.

In the City of Longview appointments of director-level positions, including the Police Chief, are recommended by the City Manager but require approval by the City Council. A timeline has not yet been established for filling the Police Chief position.

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Brain Teasers

Chase the chill away

with

H

Grubs Up

hot soup

amburgers Few things beat a hot meal on a cold day. Stews and casseroles can fit the bill in such situations, but soup is a go-to solution when looking to warm up. This recipe for can be served as an appetizer or light meal.

The crispy tortilla strips included in the recipe add extra texture to a delicious dish.

Tortilla Soup SERVES 4

• 4 corn tortillas, freshly made or a few days old • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, plus extra for frying • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 14-ounce can plum tomatoes, drained • 4 cups chicken stock • Small bunch cilantro • Salt and ground black pepper Using a sharp knife, cut each tortilla into 4 or 5 strips, each measuring about 3Ú4 inches wide. Pour vegetable oil to a depth of 3Ú4 inch into a heavy frying pan. Heat until a small piece of tortilla, added to the oil, floats on the top and bubbles at the edges. Add a few tortilla strips to the hot oil and fry for a few minutes, until crisp and golden brown all over, turning them occasionally. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a double layer of paper towels. Cook the remaining tortilla strips in the same way.

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Heat the 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large, heavy pan. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula, until the onion is soft and translucent. Do not let the garlic turn brown or it will give the soup a bitter taste. Chop the tomatoes using a large, sharp knife and add them to the onion mixture in the pan. Pour in the chicken stock and stir well. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes, until the liquid has reduced slightly.

Chop the cilantro. Add to the soup, reserving a little to use as a garnish. Season to taste. Place a few of the crisp tortilla pieces in the bottom of four warmed soup bowls. Ladle the soup on top.

Sprinkle each portion with the reserved chopped cilantro and serve.

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Wedding flowers becoming larger

YOUR FLOORING, LIGHTING, APPLIANCE AND MORE STORE

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

M

than life

ove over bouquets and centerpieces. Flowers are taking over weddings in a big way. While wedding trends come and go, flowers will always have a place at the wedding table. Many modern couples are opting for statement pieces with their flowers to rival the big and bold ideas they’re incorporating elsewhere into their occasions, such as in cakes and clothing.

Floral chandeliers

There’s no need to worry about seeing over table centerpieces or flowers getting in the way of photo moments. Florists can hang flowers from beams over tabletops to increase visual impact, whether as individual baskets, single stems, or floral swags. Think about a large installation that forces guests to look up into a sea of greenery and flowers. The smell and the sight can be breathtaking.

Welcome wreaths

Why should wreaths only be reserved for front doors and holiday decor? A welcome floral wreath can be placed by the entryway to a chapel or reception hall with a heartfelt sentiment that shows guests how much they’re appreciated.

Fairy-tale flowers

A floral curtain of hanging flowers can line a chuppah or drape the altar in beautiful blooms.

Couples who would like a fairy-tale entrance also can make their debut as a couple by coming through a flower curtain at the reception.

Dance floor blooms

Who says flowers have to be overhead or on a table? With a plexiglass dance floor, or one made from some other transparent material, flowers can be underfoot, creating a magical floral carpet. Floral necklaces Brides needn’t carry their bouquets, they can wear ethereal and whimsical floral pieces around their necks or on their waists instead. Couples are urged to speak with their florists about the innovative ways they can make flowers an even more awe-inspiring component of their weddings.

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding January 2022

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QUESTIONS to ask before booking a

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

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arious components combine to make weddings beautiful and memorable. Couples rely on photographers to capture the smiles and moments that helped make their events unique and to ensure the big day is remembered for years to come. The trusted wedding resource The Knot notes that an internal study found that, among 27,000 couples who got married in 2019, an average of $2,400 was spent on a wedding photographer to document their big day. Couples who want to find the best photographer for their wedding day can ask several questions before making their final decision.

Will photos be color balanced and retouched?

Skilled photographers are capable of capturing winning photos. But photos can be enhanced further in the studio with retouching software to bring out specific effects. Some photographers will polish all proofs, while others only will work on the images ultimately ordered. Confirm retouching details before signing the contract.

What’s included in the photo packages?

A detailed price list helps you compare one photographer to another and decide which elements are covered. Additional prints, having a photographer’s assistant, ordering albums for the parents, or ordering a large framed print can alter costs significantly. Explore all prices to ensure you’re getting the best value. In addition, consider how many hours of event coverage are included in the price.

What style do you specialize in?

Photographers may be able to shoot various styles of photos but may specialize in a specific type. For example, some photographers specialize in photojournalism, while others may excel at portraiture. Going with a photographer who has the most expertise shooting the style you prefer will help produce the desired results.

Who will be shooting my wedding?

Certain photography studios have several photographers working under one roof. Just because you meet with one does not necessarily mean that photographer will be on site unless it is specified in the contract.

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What is the payment timeline?

Have you ever worked at my venue before?

Photographers may be familiar with several local wedding venues and houses of worship. A photographer who has experience working in the locations where couples will tie the knot and subsequently celebrate might produce the best results, but lack of experience with particular venues need not exclude other professionals.

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Can we see a full gallery of a recent wedding?

According to Brides magazine, unlike an album or a highlight gallery, a full gallery provides a better sense of a photographer’s style and attention to detail.

Photographers may accept deposits for their services but expect a different timeline of payment. Some may require payment in full before the wedding, while others may offer a payment plan that includes a final payment when picking up proofs or albums. Wedding photography is one of the essential elements of a wedding and helps tell the story of couples’ special day. Asking key questions can help couples find a photographer who will produce the desired results.

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Savings strategies for weddings

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he question was popped; the engagement ring presented.

What’s the next step on the road to the wedding? Saving should definitely be on couples’ minds. A wedding is likely the most-costly party couples will ever throw. According to The Knot’s 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in 2019 was $33,900. There are many different costs associated with weddings. Some are predictable, while others are unexpected. Investopedia says the vast majority of couples’ budget too little for their weddings and also end up spending more than they had planned. Various strategies can make it easier to save for a wedding and avoid a post-wedding financial hangover.

Get informed

It’s impossible to budget for a wedding

and ultimately save without knowledge of what services and items cost in the region where you live. A wedding in New York City will be expensive, while a wedding in Mississippi will cost a lot less, indicates SuperMoney’s guide to wedding costs.

Conduct some research and find out what photographers, florists, transportation providers, reception halls, and wedding wardrobe vendors charge for common services. This will paint a vivid picture of what a wedding may cost in your area.

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F lesh out the budget

Once you have gathered estimates, you can then figure out a financial goal. This also is when you can determine where to rein in spending and where you might want to splurge. If having a video memory of the wedding is not a top priority, you can skip videography services. If you have a special flower that you like, you may want to budget more for that bloom even if it isn’t in season.

Set up a dedicated savings account

One of the easiest ways to save for big-ticket items like a wedding, home purchase or other financial goals is to use an automatic savings account that may be available through your bank or employer. An automatic savings plan will pull a set amount from a personal checking account into a savings account through auto-draft. The bride and groom can link individual checking accounts to one savings account to contribute jointly.

Avoid overspending

An analysis of your spending habits will likely reveal areas where you can scale back so you can devote more funds to wedding savings. Do you need a takeout coffee in the morning or can you brew a pot at home? Might you be able to scale back on streaming services? Do you feel comfortable buying less expensive store brand groceries over name brands? Small cost savings can quickly add up.

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Add up gifts

Factor in deduction of expenses that other people will commit to covering for wedding expenses, but only if you have concrete confirmation. A parent may host the rehearsal dinner. One’s relative may offer to pass down an antique wedding gown to wear. But rather than

simply removing these gifts from your savings calculations, keep them as a safety net to put toward unforeseen expenses. Saving for a wedding can be challenging. But various strategies can help couples plan their dream weddings without breaking the bank.

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WHY DIAMOND RINGS?

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iamond engagement rings are presented as tokens of love and affection during wedding proposals. The majority of first-time brides will receive a diamond ring, with surveys indicating only 13 percent opt for another gemstone.

Jim Bartlett of Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry said, “The qualities of diamonds is what makes it the number choice for engagements rings. Diamonds and love go together. They last forever. Come and check out the array of diamonds in our store. We will be happy to serve you in any way we can.”

Researchers from Emory University determined that the average price for a diamond ring is roughly $2,500. However, grooms can spend much more. Diamonds have symbolized eternal love for centuries, perhaps since they were first discovered in India more than 2,000 years ago. The ancient Greeks actually thought diamonds were tears of

Taking a hands-on invitation approach

I the gods, while ancient Romans believed diamonds were splinters from heavenly stars.

The hardness of diamond contributes to its suitability as a gemstone. Because it can only be scratched by other diamonds, it maintains its polish extremely well. Unlike many other gems, it is well-suited to daily wear because of its resistance to scratching—perhaps contributing to its popularity as the preferred gem in engagement or wedding rings, which are often worn every day.

nvitations are a key component of wedding planning. It sets the tone for a wedding, gives guests an idea of whether it is formal or casual, offers clues to the theme and conveys important information about the festivities. While it was once common to work with a specialized printing couples tying the knot now have more options. Due to computer and internet access, and user-friendly design applications, it’s easier than ever to design high-quality wedding invitations. According to the wedding industry survey site TheWeddingReport.com, the average price for 150 invitations and response cards is $245. To maximize efficiency and come away with wedding stationery they will love, couples can employ the following tips and techniques. Start with the paper The heavier the stock, the more luxurious the invitations will feel.

Quality stock also costs more. Engraving and letter-

Couples have many options to design and produce their wedding invites. press Engraving and letterpress techniques are an art form and create unique wedding invitations.

Printing companies Options abound in regard to in-store and online printing companies.

At-home printing One of the more accessible invitation production methods is at-home printing.

Couples have many different options when designing their wedding invitations, and some may even be able to design and produce their own.

From precious stones to brilliant new creations, our exquisite jewelry collections are truly stunning.

JEWELRY

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

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2019

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January 2022

INSIDE:

2022 Happy New Year

Savings strategies for weddings

Questions to ask before booking a Wedding Photographer

Why Diamond Rings?

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