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infinitieplus July 2021

VOL. 11 NO.7 LONGVIEW BUSINESS MAGAZINE

STEVE GORDON LRMC New CEO

LOVE LONGVIEW And

Do Not Lose Your Cool Plus

Inspiration And

Number One Women Killer FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Editor's Note

Community

The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One…

ello Longview and our Global Audience, I hope you are doing well with your loved ones and friends. We are very excited to bring you several stories that will gladden your hearts The first and foremost story is Longview Regional Medical Center’s new Chief Executive Officer Steve Gordon who brings 15 years of impeccable expertise and experience to Longview. Please see story from page 8. Are you ready for a 2021 July the 4th celebration? So is Country singer Mark Chestnut who is slated to headline the event. Check out the details from page 3. Do you love our beautiful city Longview, Texas? Hopefully, you said a resounding YES! If that is the case, go to page 4 of this magazine. Your help is needed to Keep Longview Beautiful. Thank you very much. It takes all of us to Keep Longview Beautiful. When things get tough and rough, and they will for sure. There will hard times and heart breaks, despair not. Rather, turn to the God Who Can. Be inspired on page 7. But wait. We have more. Check out a rare gem, the new FEMALE jeweler at Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry. Her name is Candace Calvo. Her story is from page 14. But that is not all. There is more. Please read about the number one killer of women in our country. Spread the word, take precaution, and take of yourself and join the fight against this murderer. You are very important to your family, community, county, state, and country because you are unique. Please do not forget to flip the magazine. Thanks for reading and God bless. We look forward to serving you in again in August by God’s grace. Happy Independence Day Everyone.

Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi Photography Joycelyne Fadojutimi Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs Contributing Writers Dr. Michael Guido Stacey Brown Mechele Agbayani Mills Debi Johnston

For advertising: contact Joycelyne Fadojutimi at joy@iplusmag.com OUR MISSION

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

OUR VISION

To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities. 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 2021. 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 www.iplusmag.com Phone: 903.918.7706

Joycelyne Fadojutimi, www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

July 4 Celebration

he City of Longview is making plans for the annual Fourth of July Fireworks and Freedom Celebration. Country music star Mark Chesnutt will headline a free outdoor concert, which will also feature country musician Jon Stork. Immediately after the concert, the biggest fireworks show in East Texas will light up the sky. The event will be held on Sunday, July 4, at the Longview Convention Complex, 100 Grand Blvd. Gates for the event open at 4

p.m. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m. Food and beverage vendors will be available. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs. Admission and parking are free. The Fourth of July Fireworks and Freedom Celebration is made possible thanks to funding by the City of Longview and generous sponsorships from throughout

the community. For vendor and sponsorship information, please contact the Longview Convention Complex at 903-237-1230 or visit LongviewTexas.gov/Fireworks.

GRAPHIC STANDARDS Introduction This Graphic Standards section of these Operating Rules has been developed to facilitate the use of the Allpoint® Brand Mark on all System Cards, System Terminals, signs, marketing materials and other communications. ATM National, LLC. must approve in writing any deviation from these standards.

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ATM National, LLC. is the sole owner of the Allpoint® Brand Mark and all trade uses, designations or registrations owned or hereafter incorporated in the Allpoint® Brand Mark. ATM National, LLC. shall retain all ownership rights to the Allpoint® Brand Mark and shall have all authority to require proper usage and maintenance on all signage applications at the Participant’s expense.

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VOLUME 11 | ISSUE 7

Publisher

Mark Chesnutt to Headline

Cover photo by Sam Smead Photocreative 705 E. Methvin St. Longview, TX 75601 903.758.3900-Studio

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Find the nearest ALLPOINT ATM location @ www.texasbankandtrust.com

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July 2021

Table of Contents

Delcine Johnson

Krista Black

Prithvi Muddana and Judge Tim Bryan

Tina Bryan

Jewelers: Jim Bartlett and Candace Calvo

3 Community 7 Inspiration 8

Cover Story

Grubs Up

Body, Mind and Soul

Community Connection

Brain Teaser

Business and Finance

Education

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Stephanie Ellis

Longview Regional Medical Center (LRMC) has hired experienced, healthcare administrator Steve Gordon as its new chief executive officer (CEO.) Gordon brings fifteen years of experience to his new position, experience gleaned from his postings at multiple hospitals in Texas and Florida.

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July 2021

Inspiration

By DR. MICHAEL GUIDO

Bundles Bundles Bundlesof of ofjoy. joy. joy. It’s It’s It’swhat what whatwe we wedeliver. deliver. deliver. From From From the thethe day day day you you you find find find out outout to tothe to thethe day day day you you you deliver, deliver, deliver, there’s there’s there’s nothing nothing nothing more more more important important important to toLongview to Longview Longview Regional Regional Regional Medical Medical Medical Center Center Center than than than your your your and and and your your your baby’s baby’s baby’s health health health and and and well-being. well-being. well-being. This This This isiswhy why is why we wewe provide provide provide extra extra extra amenities amenities amenities such such such as asprivate as private private rooms, rooms, rooms, spacious spacious spacious birthing birthing birthing suites, suites, suites, childbirth childbirth childbirth classes classes classes and and and breastfeeding breastfeeding breastfeeding support. support. support. And And And ififyou you if you and and and your your your newest newest newest addition addition addition need need need aalittle little a little extra extra extra help, help, help, we wewe offer offer offer perinatal perinatal perinatal services services services that that that include include include maternal-fetal maternal-fetal maternal-fetal medicine medicine medicine specialists specialists specialists and and and aaLevel Level a Level IIIIIINICU. NICU. III NICU. For ForFor more more more information information information about about about our our our labor labor labor and and and delivery delivery delivery services, services, services, visit visit visit LongviewRegional.com/baby. LongviewRegional.com/baby. LongviewRegional.com/baby.

od often brings a difficult situation into our lives so He can turn it into a delightful memory so that we can remind ourselves of His love and mercy. Often when we face an impossible dilemma, He turns it into a blessing that will provide a story of His incredible power that we can share with our children. There are times when He turns overwhelming obstacles into great opportunities to demonstrate His power and terrible times

and trials into triumphs and testimonies of His strength that we can share with others. David wanted to remind the children of God about the greatness of God and wrote, “He turned the sea into dry land (and) they passed through the waters on foot – come let us rejoice in Him!” The children of Israel were on their way to the Promised Land. When they came to the coast, they made their camp. Suddenly they turned around and saw their enemy coming to destroy them. Before

them was the sea. Behind them was their enemy. When they looked at their options, they came to the conclusion that they would either drown or be destroyed. At that moment, they could not see God. But God was there as He always is. And as He was with them, so is He is with us! God is always between His children and the catastrophes of life. He never abandons us when we face the difficult decisions or demands of life. If God could turn the sea into dry land and if the children of Israel were

able to pass through the waters on foot, He can do the same for us today. With problems before us and troubles and trials behind us He can – and will - deliver us. Prayer: Give us a faith, Father that will overcome every fear we face. May our trust in You grow as we see You at work in our world. In Jesus’ Name, Amen! Scripture for Today: He made a dry path through the Red Sea, and his people went across on foot. There we rejoiced in him. Psalm 66:6

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

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Cover Story

LRMC snags new CEO By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI / WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

Longview Regional Medical Center

ongview Regional Medical Center (LRMC) has hired experienced healthcare administrator Steve Gordon as its new chief executive officer (CEO.) Gordon brings fifteen years of experience to his new position, experience gleaned from his postings at multiple hospitals in Texas and Florida. He expertly served as Chief Operations Officer for Osceola

Regional Medical Center in Kissimmee, Florida, where he polished his skills in executive leadership in various and critical clinical services with an emphasis on surgery and cardiovascular treatment. In this capacity he has become noted for untouched efficiency, strong, productive relationships with medical staffs, and with recruitment of the finest physicians. He flawlessly oversaw Osceola Regional Medical Center's $50 million

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expansion from just 320 beds to its current, 404-bed size. It is important to note Osceola Regional Medical Center is a Joint Commission accredited hospital. It has a proud tradition of excellence in healthcare, is patients and family friendly, merges wideranging state-of-the-art medical technology with utmost comfort and accessibility for patients and visitors alike. Osceola healthcare services include: Emergency Care,

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July 2021

“This day will not be possible without the doctors, nurses, healthcare providers, staff and the commitment to their craft and community.”

Trauma Care, Pediatric ER, Heart & Vascular Institute, Comprehensive Stroke Center, The Baby Suites Maternity Care, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Level II, Women’s Services, Behavioral Health, Orthopedics & Spine and a Graduate Medical Education Program. Cutting-Edge Electrophysiology Lab at Longview Regional Medical Center Now that Gordon is at Longview Regional Medical Center, his objectives could not be better for Longview and east Texas residents' physical and mental well-being. LRMC recently commemorated a $4.4 million construction kickoff for a state-ofthe-art electrophysiology lab. Gordon, esteemed cardiologists, nurses, staff, and the media gathered for the kickoff. CEO Gordon put it succinctly citing a team effort,

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Longview Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Steve Gordon speaking at the $4.4 million construction kickoff for a state-of-the-art electrophysiology lab.

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July 2021

Cover Story

“We are excited to welcome Steve Gordon as Longview Regional’s new CEO. We are fortunate to have someone of Steve’s expertise leading Longview Regional Medical Center. We are confident that under Steve’s leadership, the health system’s leadership team, medical staff and staff will continue to accomplish many great things together.”

Michael Morris, M.D., Board of Trustees Chair of Longview Regional Medical Center. “This day will not be possible without the doctors, nurses, healthcare providers, staff and the commitment to their craft and community.” The Electrophysiology Lab will enable patients to receive cutting-edge quality healthcare right here in their backyards rather than having to travel to Houston or Dallas. LRMC's Board of Trustees Chair Dr. Michael Morris, MD spoke out on Gordon's abilities and how his future with the hospital is sure to be blessings for all of East Texas.

“We are excited to welcome Steve Gordon as Longview Regional’s new CEO. We are fortunate to have someone of Steve’s expertise leading Longview Regional Medical Center,” said Michael Morris, M.D., Board of Trustees Chair of Longview Regional Medical Center. “We are confident that under Steve’s leadership, the health system’s leadership team, medical staff and staff will continue to accomplish many great things together.” In addition to his experience leading effective

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and efficient operations, Gordon’s background in human resources has given him a deep understanding and commitment to creating an environment that supports strong employee satisfaction and engagement. He holds a bachelor's degree in business administration and an MBA from St. Leo's University in St. Leo, Florida. He also believes in active community involvement, and plans to be an industrious, productive participant in East Texas philanthropic and civic endeavors.

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Longview Regional Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Steve Gordon addresses Media on the importance of a cutting-edge $4.4m Electrophysiology Lab.

July 2021

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July 2021

Grubs Up

Tips for grilling

the perfect burger

amburgers are a staple at backyard barbecues. Though burgers are a relatively simple food, mastering the technique to grill burgers is no small feat, as there is more to great grilled burgers than simply firing up the grill and dropping down a patty.

 Choose fresh ground beef that has a decent

percentage of fat. The fat-to-lean meat ratio should be around 20 percent fat to 80 percent meat. Spend a little more to get freshly ground meat that has not been previously frozen.  Don’t overwork the burgers with a lot of handling. This will warm up the fat in the burger, which causes it to emulsify and could make the meat rubbery.  Reconsider adding a lot of herbs, spices or addins to the burgers, as such items can detract

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from the flavor of the meat. Extra herbs and spices also may require extra mixing, which can lead overhandling.  Push a dimple into the top of the burger, which will help prevent the burger from expanding upward and out while cooking and rounding out in the process. The dimple will keep the top of the burger flat, which facilitates easy topping. Make sure the grill is hot. Burgers do well with high heat and will cook relatively quickly.  Resist the urge to push down on the patty with your spatula. This will cause the juices to spill out and may result in a dry, tough burger.  Let burgers rest before serving. This lets the juices redistribute throughout and makes for a moist and tasty first bite.

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July 2021

Body Mind and Soul

Heart Disease Remains NUMBER 1 KILLER of Women in United States By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI / WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

According to AHA, 47% of Americans have one of these risk factors. The American Heart Association is relentless in educating women and their families about heart disease. For this reason, they recently gathered for a Circle of Red Social at the Work Smart rooftop. Judge Tim Bryan was the guest speaker. “He shared his story of suffering a severe heart attack on his 49th birthday,” said Krista Sharp, American

Heart Association Corporate Development Director for Tyler, and Longview. “It was an aweinspiring evening full of hope, community, and excitement for the Go Red for Women movement in Longview.” The 2022 Go Red for Women Luncheon is scheduled for Friday, February 4th at The Summit Club. To learn more about Go Red volunteer opportunities, contact Krista.Sharp@heart.org or 214-793-9402.

Judge Tim Bryan speaking abo ut his sudden heart severe heart attack

Roxanne Browning, Krista Sharp and Delcine Johns

espite increased awareness and education about heart disease, the Center for Disease Controls says, “only about half (56%) of women recognize that heart disease is their number 1 killer.” Hence, heart disease, not cancer remains the leading cause of death for women in United States. American Heart Association (AHA) Go Red for Women concurs with CDC that cardiovascular disease is

the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year or about one woman every minute. Heart disease does not discriminate and knows no racial boundaries. It is the leading cause of death for African American and Caucasian women in United States. However, it seems to have a penchant and racial bias for Hispanic women who are more likely to develop heart disease 10 years earlier than non-Hispanics.

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Risk factors for heart disease include: • High blood pressure • High LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, • Smoking • *Diabetes • Stress • Having overweight or obesity • Eating an unhealthy diet • Physical inactivity • Drinking too much alcohol

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July 2021

903.291.0020 1408 Lago Trail Longview heartis.com

Assisted Living and Memory Care Community

Delcine Johnson and Krista Black with the Go Red For Women signature image

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Community Connections

Candace Calvo: C

Female Jeweler joins Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry andace Calvo knows what hard work is. She grew up loading trucks and not looking so nice. That is the nature of warehouse jobs. One fateful day, she decided to go shopping in a jewelry store. “I have never had a diamond before,” said Ms. Calvo. “The jeweler asked me if I have ever thought of working in a jewelry store. I was 17 years old the time.” When Ms. Calvo turned 18, she returned to the jewelry store. She looked so good and was immediately offered a job. She started in sales and moved up to management. Furthermore, she attended Houston School of Jewelry where she learned jewelry fabrication and stone setting. From there, she started repairing jewelry. “It is what I love to do,” Calvo said. “And that is where my passion is and that is why I love what I do.” Calvo gets excited about her work because she learns news things every day. “It is like putting puzzles together, it keeps you sharp,” she stated. “When it comes to combining family and heirloom pieces to into something

July Birthstone

Candace Calvo

the family loves - I consider it an honor to do it for our customers.” According to Calvo, she came to Jim Bartlett because he is the

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best. “I enjoy sales, speaking with customers,” she said. “I love the metal work; it is very precise. I just love it all.”

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Ruby:

July 2021

ymbolic of passion, protection, and prosperity, ruby gemstones have been revered since ancient times. Rubies have been particularly prized in Asian countries. Records suggest that rubies were traded along China’s North Silk Road as early as 200 BC. Chinese noblemen adorned their armor with rubies because they believed the gem would grant protection. Burma has been a significant ruby source since at least 600 AD. Burmese rubies are still some of the most prized of all ruby gems. After classical Burmese mines were depleted, the Mong Hsu region

of Myanmar started producing rubies in the 1990s. Though these lacked the rich red hue of traditional Burmese rubies, they were treated with heat to improve saturation and transparency. Heat-treated rubies is a common practice nowadays. Though ruby has a long history, it wasn’t recognized as a variety of corundum until 1800. Prior to that, red spinel, tourmaline, and garnet were also believed to be ruby. Even the Black Ruby, one of the famed crown jewels of England, was considered one of the largest cut rubies until determined to be spinel.

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Imitation ruby dates back as far as Roman times, though it wasn’t synthesized until the early 1900s. The red fluorescence power of ruby helped

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build the first working laser in 1960. Rubies— both natural and synthetic—are still used to make lasers, as well as watches and medical instruments.

July 2021

Brain Teaser

GRUBS UP

BRAIN BRAINTEASERS TEASERS

What’s more American than a burger? This slider version will be anwith instant and ready inAppliances just 13 Get personal GEhit, Café Kitchen minutes! Theby banana Distinct Design split kebabs are a healthy, kid-friendly spin on a classic.

Directions

• Remove some of the fluffy center from the buns so that they will sit well on top of burgers; set aside. • Combine sirloin with Worcestershire and pepper, form into 12 (2-inch) flat patties. • Preheat a lightly oiled grill pan over moderate heat until hot but not smoking. Cook burgers over moderate heat, turning, and evenly top with cheese, about 2 minutes per side for medium or until cheese is melted. (Use a meat thermometer to check that burgers have reached 160°.) Transfer the burgers to a plate, and grill the buns, cut sides down, 1-2 minutes or until toasted. • Sandwich burgers between buns with about 2 pickles per slider.

Ingredients

• 12 miniature buns or dinner rolls • 3/4 pound lean ground sirloin • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • Olive oil cooking spray • 2 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, thinly sliced • 24 small dill pickle slices Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 8 minutes Yield: Makes 6 servings (serving size: 2 sliders)

We are known for Stone, Banana Split Kebabs but we do much more! Ingredients

• 12 large strawberries, Directions • 2 bananas, cut into rinsed, dried and halved • 2 c. chocolate chips • Make kebabs: Thread two • 1/2 c. peanuts, chopped 1” pieces • 24 1” pieces pineapple pieces each banana, pineapple, and strawberry onto skewer. Repeat process to assemble 23 more skewers. Place all on parchment-lined baking sheet. • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. • Drizzle chocolate over fruit kebabs and top with chopped peanuts. Freeze until ready to serve. Yield: 24 servings

4523 Judson Rd. Longview, Texas 75605 903-663-3344 | www.stone-works.net 30 july 2017

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Take this Super Quiz to a Ph.D. Score 1 point for each correct answer on the Freshman Level, 2 points on the Graduate Level and 3 points on the Ph.D. Level. Subject: PRIZES, MEDALS AND AWARDS In which field is the award given? (e.g., Franz Kafka Prize. Answer: Literature.) PH.D. LEVEL FRESHMAN LEVEL GRADUATE LEVEL 11. The Ashes 1. Academy Awards 6. Mark Twain Prize

Answer________

2. Grammy Awards

7. Clio Awards

12. Ryder Cup

3. Tony Awards

8. Davis Cup

4. Emmy Awards

9. America’s Cup

Answer________

13. Man Booker International Prize

5. Stanley Cup

Answer________

10. Vince Lombardi Trophy

14. LEAF Award

Answer________

15. Robert Frost Medal

Answer________ Answer________ Answer________ Answer________

Answer________

Answer________ Answer________ Answer________ Answer________

SCORING 24 to 30 points - Congratulations, doctor. 18 to 23 pts - Honors graduate. 13 to 17 pts - You’re plenty smart, but no grind. 5 to 12 pts - You really should hit the books harder. 1 pt to 4 pts - Enroll in remedial courses immediately. 0 pts - Who reads the questions to you?

ANSWERS 1. Film industry 2. Music industry (recording) 3. Stage and theater 4. Television 5. Hockey 6. Humor 7. Advertising 8. Tennis 9. Yachting. 10. Football American) 11. Cricket 12. Golf 13. Literature 14. Architecture 15. Poetry

Grilled Sirloin Sliders

SOLUTION

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1931

Business and Finance

Do Not Lose Your Cool By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS

he Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) (http:// www.ercot.com/) is requesting all Texans to conserve electric use this week due to a significant number of forced generation outages and potential record electric use in June. In addition to monitoring A/C usage, Texas residents are asked to turn off lights and pool pumps, unplug any unused electronics, and to avoid using large electronics (ovens, washing machines, dryers, etc.) for the time being. The current request is only for a short period of time. Energy conservation is beneficial for all of us, so making sure your HVAC is working efficiently and your home is properly insulated will not only conserve energy, it will help keep your utility costs down. BBB (https://www.bbb.org/ local-bbb/bbb-serving-centraleast-texas )and the Department of Energy (DOE) (https://www. energy.gov/) offer the following tips to keep you and your home cool, comfortable, and running efficiently in the summer months:

Properly fuel your body. Stay hydrated, eat light, avoid drinking alcohol, and avoid caffeine.

Maintain your A/C equipment: Change your air filter regularly. Check your filter every month. If it looks dirty, change it. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you cool. This wastes energy and leads to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure. Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly. An annual tune up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort. Go to bbb.org (https://www.bbb.org/near-me/ heating-and-air-conditioning) to find an HVAC company you can trust. Check thermostat settings. It is important to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away. ERCOT is requesting Texans to set thermostats to 78 degrees or higher while at home.

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Don’t keep opening and closing the freezer/refrigerator doors. Try to keep them closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. Group food together in the freezer. This helps the food stay cold longer than if all of the items were spread out.

Maintain your home: Seal doors and windows. Make sure cool air does not have a way to escape. According to the DOE, sealing these gaps (by using caulk, weatherstripping, etc.) can reduce energy costs up to 20%. Cover your windows. Using shutters, solar screens, window treatments, film or awnings can reduce heat gain by as much as 77%.

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July 2021

Insulate your attic. Your home may have less insulation than you need. The DOE provides the following guide (https:// www.energy.gov/energysaver/ insulation ) for the amount of insulation you should have in different parts of your home. You can further insulate your home by adding a radiant barrier to your home. Go to bbb.org (https://www.bbb.org/ us/tx/tyler/category/radiantbarrier-insulation) to find an installer you can trust.

If you lose power, consider the following: Keep your house as cool as possible. Close the doors to warm rooms, and because heat rises, it’s best to stay on the lowest level of your home.

Freeze some refrigerated items. Moving items such as leftovers, milk, fresh meat and poultry, will give them a better chance of surviving the power outage. Keep in mind, a refrigerator will keep your food cold for about 4 hours if it is unopened, and your freezer will keep food cold for up to 48 hours if left unopened.

Take a cold shower. If your power is out, this will be an easy way to lower your body temperature.

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)

Cooling gadgets. Consider purchasing battery powered fans or solar powered air coolers.

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

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July 2021

Education

Kathryn Pedroza crowned as Miss By

Sophomore English education maj or Leah Akridge (pictured right) selected as first runner-up, and was Mott (pictured left) was selectedsenior music education major Anissa as second runner-up.

nication major Kathryn Junior organizational commuas, is crowned as Miss Tex , eld nsfi Ma Pedroza, from 0, Haley Harmening. ETBU 2021 by Miss ETBU 202

athryn Pedroza, a junior organizational communication major from Mansfield, Texas, was recently crowned the 65th Miss ETBU. Pedroza, who embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Christian servant leader on campus and in the community, was selected from nine contestants during the annual pageant sponsored by ETBU’s Student Government Association. Sophomore English education major Leah Akridge was first runner-up, and senior music education major Anissa Mott was second runner-up. “We had a wonderful group of applicants this year,” Associate Vice President for Student Engagement

SYDNEY MCBRIDE

Blair Prevost said. “The judges, along with the students, faculty, and staff who voted, had any number of outstanding candidates to choose from. After being away from campus last year, we were excited for the Miss ETBU selection process to take place in person again…support ETBU Throughout her time at ETBU, Pedroza has been involved on campus through her membership of the traditions committee of Student Foundation, where she is involved in the planning and volunteering of events on campus, works as a student worker in the ETBU Marketing and Communication Department, and was recently inducted into Lambda

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ETBU 2021

Pi Eta, the communication honor society. Additionally, Pedroza will serve as a Resident Assistant for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year. Off-campus, she is actively involved at Mobberly Baptist Church in Longview where she leads worship every Sunday morning, serves as a small group leader, and creates content and takes pictures for social media. “Being involved is important to me so that I can see how the University works, understand students' attitudes and beliefs, and know how to use that knowledge to help everyone have a great experience on the Hill,” Pedroza said. “I can do that through being president of Student Foundation,

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July 2021

as a resident director, or through just being a friend. I seek to be intentional about knowing the people around me so that I can have really fun and also really tough conversations that share the love of Christ.” As Miss ETBU 2021, Pedroza receives a generous academic scholarship as well as the opportunity to represent the University throughout the community and region. “I hope to build intentional relationships, bring different

groups together on campus, and represent ETBU in a way that is honest and glorifies Christ,” Pedroza said. “As Miss ETBU, I want to intentionally build relationships with the people around me so that I can learn how to best serve those of the ETBU community...experience.” “It is so encouraging to be first runner-up for Miss ETBU,” Akridge said. “ETBU is all about community, and that has been a tremendous part of my experience. Being able to

represent a school that pours into us in such a Christ-like manner and being able to be a Christ-like role model to our community is a tremendous opportunity to have even as a runner-up.” Haley Harmening, Miss ETBU 2020, shared her encouragement with the 2021 recipient. “I want Kathryn to know that her leadership means a lot on campus and this is definitely a God-ordained thing so she should take it with honor and with humility,” Harmening said. “I also encourage her to just love the people around her and be willing to be flexible and take initiative…Miss ETBU2021 Sydney McBride is Communication Coordinator, East Texas Baptist University McBride can be reached at 903.923.2130 | smcbride@ etbu.edu www.etbu.edu

ETBU’s Student Government Association sponsored the 65th Miss ETBU on Monday, April 26. Pictured from left to right are the nine contestants, Anissa Mott, Abby Jones, Elizabeth Wisinger, Brittany Johnson, Kathryn Pedroza, Bailey Bradley, Sarah Ashcraft, Haleigh Akin, and Leah Akridge.

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July 2021

Wedding Business

Tips on Saying Yes to Reputable Wedding Vendors

By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS

or some, Valentine’s Day is more than flowers and chocolate. For approximately 10 million people it means a ring and a life changing question. Wedding season is right around the corner and in 2019, more than 150,000 couples turned to Better Business Bureau for inquiries regarding their wedding day. Better Business Bureau serving Central East Texas (BBB) reminds consumers that doing thorough research before choosing a wedding vendor can save stress, worry, and money. Last year,1,173 consumers filed complaints with BBB regarding wedding vendors. Complainants tell BBB they ordered products like wedding dresses and wedding favors with the expectation that the products would arrive in time for the wedding, but found there were delays in delivery, without an acceptable refund or other recourse. Choosing the right wedding vendors can play a pivotal role in the success of your big day. Likewise, choosing a poorly run or dishonest business can ruin your big day. BBB proposes that newlyweds consider the following when planning for their special day: • WEDDING SERVICES: Research the vendors. Before you fall in love with any vendor, check its availability for your wedding date. Go to bbb.org to read verified Customer Reviews and complaint history. Ask the business ahead of time what their plan is for delivering their product on time and get three bids before saying “yes.” Double check prices and unexpected fees. • CATERING: Some caterers, hotels or reception venues charge extra for “plate splitting,” “cake-cutting” or “corkage” fees, especially if you bring in a cake or alcohol purchased from another source. Ask if any fees apply beyond the cost per person, gratuities or room rental, if applicable.

• WEDDING DRESS Dresses that don’t measure up. Brides have complained to BBB about bridal shops ordering the wrong sizes and colors of gowns as well as dresses that arrive too late for timely alterations. Make sure your order specifies new merchandise, sized to fit you and your bridesmaids. Call the shop to remind the staff of your schedule if you don’t hear by the promised time. • WEDDING TRANSPORTATION Wedding transportation problems. Common complaints about limousine service include poor customer service and rigid cancellation policies. Get everything in writing and never pay the entire amount in advance. • MUSICIAN Musician switch. Never rely solely on a website, demo tape or phone conversation when hiring a band or other music service. Find out where you can hear the musicians play before you hire them. Ask who will actually perform at the reception and get a written commitment from the band or musician, including the amount of time they will play and costs for additional time.

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• PHOTOGRAPPHER Photographer issues. Common complaints about the photographer include not showing up for the wedding and failing to deliver pictures until months after the wedding. Find out when and how pictures will be delivered, if there’s an option to receive images on a flash drive, length of time available to choose the desired photos and who will own the rights to share, distribute and print the images. • FLORAL CHANGES Floral changes. Fresh flowers are a perishable commodity and the final bouquet or arrangements may need to change depending on what’s available on the wedding day. Make sure you spell out a minimum size or number of stems in each bouquet. Ask how the florist will handle any last-minute substitutions and charges especially if the value of the flowers actually used is different from the agreed-upon amount.

• WEDDING INSURANCE Consider purchasing wedding insurance. Wedding insurance can cover a range of prospective problems including vendor no-shows, cancellations, inclement weather, military deployment, medical emergencies, travel delays and more. Many policies start at $200 and can potentially save you thousands of dollars.

• BRIDAL GOWN PRESERVATION Bridal gown preservation. Some bridal shops and other businesses sell bridal gown preservation packages including cleaning and a storage box. Many of these packages are no more than regular dry-cleaning and a cardboard box that may not be acid-free.

For more tips on how to be a savvy consumer, go to bbb.org. To report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices, call BBB at 903-581-5704 or report it via BBB Scam Tracker. Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB serving Central East Texas

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I Do

Get schooled on

wedding terminology

ouples about to embark on their wedding journeys will likely learn a thing or two about party planning once their engagements are over and they are newly married. Wedding planning can seem overwhelming and a tad confusing at times, but a crash course in wedding terminology can help couples make more informed choices along the way. Blusher: A short, single-layer veil that covers the bride’s face before the ceremony. Boutonniere: A single flower bud worn by the men in the bridal party. Canaps: Bite-sized appetizers served during the cocktail hour of a reception. Civil ceremony: A marriage ceremony conducted by a council official or justice of the peace at a municipal location rather than in a house of worship. Cocktail hour: Typically, an hour-long interlude between the wedding ceremony and the main dinner of the reception. Guests have time to arrive and mingle before being seated. Corkage fee: A fee some establishments charge to

allow guests to bring their own wine.

various components of the wedding reception.

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

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

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

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

Receiving line: A line of the key people in the wedding who welcome and greet guests. Stationery: All of the paper products used at the wedding, including invitations, programs and enclosures. Tablescape: A word that describes the multiple components of centerpiece designs. Learning some basic wedding terminology can simplify wedding planning.

Drages: Round, small edible balls of sugar that appear on wedding cakes. Escort (seating) cards: Printed cards that direct reception guests to their seats. Fondant: A sweet, plyable product used to decoratively cover layered cakes. It can be used in lieu of straight buttercream. Handle wrap: Ribbon or fabric that wraps around the stems of a bouquet the bride and wedding party carries. Maid/matron of honor: The title given to the woman who assists the bride and stands closest to her at the altar. Maids are those who are unmarried, while matrons are women who are. Master of ceremonies: An individual who will work with the DJ or band to announce the

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Inspirational

YOUR FLOORING, LIGHTING, APPLIANCE AND MORE STORE

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

Opportunity Dressed as Disaster

By ZIG ZIGLAR

or years, the optimist has maintained that in every difficulty there is an equal or greater opportunity, for every trial there is a reward and for every downbeat there is an upbeat. I happen to belong to that school of thought. Our movies and TV screens have familiarized us with the fact that sheep-herders and cattletenders are not exactly “bosom buddies.” For years, range wars were fought, and since the cattle barons arrived first, they frequently made life very difficult for sheep-herders. However, according to The Washington Post’s Tom Kenworthy, an interesting phenomenon has taken place in

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our West. A highly destructive, noxious European weed, which is compared to the South’s kudzu, is now running amok on more than 3 million acres. Cattle and horses can’t eat the foliage, and with no natural predator to contain the leafy spurge, the weed is taking over and the ranchers are suffering. Mowing simply doesn’t work. Chemical defoliants cost too much or come under attack from environmentalists. Neither fire not flood will eradicate the milky-sap plant. Fortunately, the little lamb and the friendly kid have come to big cattle’s rescue. Sheep and goats find the tough leaves of this leafy spurge edible, even nourishing. A flock of sheep started eating the weed on 14,000

acres of a wildlife preserve in Colorado. These gentle creatures found a way to triumph over a yard-high enemy that had roots sunk 15 feet underground. One land-management official told Kenworthy that 240 goats had been let loose on 2,000 spurge-ridden acres with stunning results. “It was like inviting the high-school football team to a pizza parlor. They just demolished it!” It’s my conviction that some of those cattle-owners are going to end up being sheep-owners. There’s something about taking advantage of opportunity that the American businessman cannot resist. See you at the top!

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Jewelry Care and

Getting there

on your

Cleaning Guidelines aturally, engagement rings and bridal bands are the shining stars of the celebration. Bridal jewelry is an investment worth maintaining. Considering several thousands of dollars may adorn the necks, fingers, ears, and wrists of bridal party members, individuals should learn how to keep their jewelry investments looking pristine.

Protect jewelry by cleaning it regularly and exercising caution when engaging in certain activities.

Remove jewelry during hard work AND Use caution with beauty products.

Beware the sun, too. The Gemological Institute of America, Inc. states that sunlight can affect the durability and color of colored gemstones. Over time and in excess, the sun and heat can fade or damage some stones, such as amethyst, topaz and pearls. Other stones can darken with exposure to the sun.

Be careful around swimming pools, spas and the ocean Couples should remove jewelry before partaking in water-based activities on their honeymoons.

Inspect and know your jewelry Routinely inspect jewelry to test for any structural issues that can result in breakage or lost stones. Exercise caution when wearing pieces and clean and care for them properly.

wedding day

ou have planned the date, met with the officiant, decided on what to wear, and booked the venue. But how are you going to arrive in style? While rented transportation is not necessary, it is a luxury many couples prefer, as it allows them to leave the driving to someone else. Generally speaking, hired cars will pick up the bride and groom separately before the ceremony. The transportation will then take the married couple and typically members of the bridal party and immediate family to the reception venue. Couples can start the process by asking their reception venue for transportation recommendations. Or if there are hotel accommodations after the party, the hotel may have connections or offer shuttle services.

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

2019

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July 2021

e r a C y r l e w Jeand g n i n a Cle s e n i l e Guid

es Y g n i Say

led o o h c s Get g n i d d e on w gy o l o n i term

ble a t u p Re ing d d e W rs o d n e V

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE THE JOURNEY OF LOVE MARRIAGE FAMILY

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