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infinitieplus June 2021

VOL. 11 NO.6 LONGVIEW BUSINESS MAGAZINE

COVID -19 PANDEMIC

UNSUNG HEROES Education Longview Eye Associates Profile Expectant Heart Business and Finance Debi Johnston

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Editor's Note

Education

ongratulations to every graduate from preschool to doctorate degree. You did it! BRAVO. This month is very special. Our readers get the opportunity to meet Debi Johnston, an extraordinary young woman who opened up and wrote from her inner being; how the COVID-19 pandemic affected her and her family. Get your tissue ready because you may drop a tear or two. This story is from page 8. Speaking of dropping a tear or two, the Honorable Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt was moved to tears when he spoke about the pandemic and the COVID-19 Vaccination Hub in Gregg County at the Longview Rotary Citizen of the Year Award. His Honorable admitted what most men do not - he is an emotional person. He gets emotional about things and people he cares about. Without mincing words, he said, “I care very much about the citizens of Gregg County. They are very dear to my heart.” Okay let me not give away this story. But know that the Longview Rotary honored five COVID-19 unsung heroes: His honorable County Judge Bill Stoudt, Mayor Andy Mack, State Rep. District 7, Jay Dean; CEO Todd Hancock of CHRISTUS Good Shepherd and Fire Chief JP Steelman. The story is from page 10. On a different note, if you want to hire top talent, check out the story from page 16. Thanks for reading, Please, check out our new website at www.iplusmag. com. Like us on Facebook. We look forward to serving you again in July by God’s grace.

Joycelyne

The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One… 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

osh Ogunseinde is a proud graduate of St. Mary’s Catholic School. Though he was studious, he made time for extracurricular activities. For example, Josh was an active member of the golf team and loved every minute of it. One of the things he will miss, is the nurturing, education (with love), discipline and faith reinforced throughout his time at St Mary’s.

Josh will be attending Bobby B. Lyle School of Engineering school at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in Dallas, Texas. The acclaimed engineering program has been in existence since 1925. He plans to major in Computer Engineering with a minor in Business and Medical Device Instrumentation. Josh is the son of Dr. Babajide Ogunseinde, an Orthopedic Spine Sur-

The Ogunseinde Family: Jordan, Josh, Lola and Babajide

geon and wife Lola, who holds an advanced degree in Computer Science.

Josh Ogunseinde

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.

Buying, Building, or Expanding? The journey home starts here.

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P. O. Box 12473 Longview, Texas 75602-2473 www.iplusmag.com Phone: 903.918.7706

Fadojutimi,

VOLUME 11 | ISSUE 6

Publisher

POLICE CHIEF MIKE BISHOP AND ASSISTANT POLICE CHIEF ANTHONY BOON ATTEND, LONGVIEW ROTARY “CITIZENS OF THE YEAR” AWARDS EVENT

Congratulations Josh Ogunseinde: Heading to SMU Dallas, Texas

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MEMBER FDIC

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EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

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Inspiration

Table of Contents

Dean Waskowiak

Shirley Qualls

The Source of Praise Laura Hill

Keith Bonds

Sarah Fox

By DR. MICHAEL GUIDO

Kelly Drayer

John Cromer

3 Education 5 Inspiration 7

Chamber Business

Feature: Debi Johnston

Cover Story

Business and Finance

Education

Non Profit of the Month

Feature: Theresa Guck

Andrew Coggins

Wayne and Carolyn Wilson

Longview Rotary took a sabbatical from its traditional Citizen of the Year program in 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this year's banquet more than made up for the hiatus. The annual ceremony recognizes those whose public service has had the greatest positive impact on the greater Longview area, and lately the Longview metropolitan area has needed a great deal of positive impact. This year's honorees are as distinguished as are their accomplishments. Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt, CHRISTUS Good Shepherd CEO Todd Hancock, State Representative District 7 Jay Dean, Mayor Andy Mack, and Fire Chief J.P. Steelman

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June 2021

omeone recently reminded me that my heart beats 72 times a minute, 100,000 times a day, 3,600,000 times a year. And, if I live what would be considered a “normal life span,” it will beat 2.5 billion times. It only weighs about 11 ounces yet will pump about 2,000 gallons of blood through 60,000 miles of blood vessels each day. Rather amazing, to say the least. Yet I rarely stop to consider those facts. It is God at work in my

body taking care of me, watching over me, providing life for me and within me. Often in life we seek God’s presence and power to protect us and provide for our needs. But are we aware of the magnitude of His grace, gifts, and goodness? Are we sincerely thankful for His constant care, concern, and compassion? Do we ever pause to think of the work our heart does without our head having to do anything to make it “work?” Do we realize

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that God is alive and involved in our lives without our even mentioning His name? God gives us life without asking for it and help when we call upon Him when we are having difficult times. David often needed God’s help. He knew that in God’s “name” there was help, healing, and hope. He experienced it in the past and knew it was available in the present. And when God helped him, the first thing he did was to “praise His name.” Praise is what we are to

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“do” when we recognize God at work in our lives. How often we neglect to do this one simple thing: Praise Him! Prayer: Help us, Lord, to be aware of all that You do in our lives and to praise You for each gift – big or little. May we become alert to every gift You give us every day. THANK YOU! In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Scripture for Today: I will praise your name, Lord, for it is good. Psalm 54:6

June 2021

Chamber Business

Longview Eye Associates host Wake up Longview

Drs. Justin and Sarah Ward

By IP STAFF REPORTS WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

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.

he Longview Chamber of Commerce Wake Up Longview morning business mixer at Longview Eye Associates was a hit. Great breakfast thanks to Longview Eye Associates owners Drs. Justin and Sarah Ward. The Wards relocated from Houston to Longview and like it in Longview hence, they set up their business Longview Eye Associates at 1821 Jud-

son Road. There was an extraordinary number of door prizes with an amazing ambience to say the least. Moreover, Gregg County Sheriff Maxey Cerliano, Justice of Peace Judge Tim Bryan, Police Officer LaDarian Brown, Dean Waskowiak, President of Encore Multimedia; AEP SWPCO North East External Affairs Director Mark Robinson, representatives from the Longview Chamber of Commerce and many Chamber members attended.

Mel Reynolds

Trista Hubbard

Teresa Firmim

Lori Ivey

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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Teresa Cogswell

Feature: Debi Johnston

COVID-19 PANDEMIC:

A Personal Experience The one thing that I have learned through all of this, is that time is precious, life is fleeting, and you must spend time with the ones you love when you can.

By DEBI JOHNSTON

o understand how COVID-19 pandemic has affected my family we have to go back to the beginning. I am the general manager of the Reserve Event Center here in Longview. Being in business for over 13 years, we have hosted many events including weddings, birthday parties, and corporate events. That all came to a screeching halt in March 2020 as much of everything else in the world did. We faced challenges we could not have even imagined in our wildest dreams. Literally our business shut down overnight because we could not gather any

longer due to the virus. It was very difficult to watch years of hard work slip through our fingers. Every day seemed like an eternity when you have brides calling and canceling, new guidelines coming out from the CDC, local and state officials. It was extremely stressful and frustrating trying to figure out how to shift the business model to where we could survive, continue on, pay the bills, and still make some kind of income to support our families. By the Grace of our Lord and Savior we survived, overcome, and back better than ever. I will never forget though how this virus has affected many families and destroyed many lives. Sadly, the virus took its toll on my family in more ways than one. As

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many of us, I had elderly parents who I did not get to see very often even though we lived in the same town and not far from each other. I would constantly go visit them through the screen of their house because I was so terrified of possibly giving them the virus. Little did I know that this time would be the last year with my parents. In December, my mother-inlaw came down with the virus. She fought hard for over three weeks being hospitalized, and luckily, she survived. To this day she still struggles with the effects of the virus. Then tragedy struck. My mother who had been battling breast cancer for the last few years and was winning, fell in her house and broke her hip. She had to have

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June 2021

surgery to repair this and subsequently was sent to rehab facility. Unfortunately, she contracted the virus while in the facility. She fought hard and actually beat the virus only for us to find out that’s effects of the virus caused her breast cancer to metastasize literally overnight. My mother came home from the hospital and died three days later on January 20th, 2021 at her home, with her husband, my father of whom she was married to almost 57 years. Shortly thereafter my father was diagnosed

with lung cancer sadly he passed away on April 29, 2021. The virus almost destroyed my life’s work and left a devastating hole in my family. I cherish what I do daily, the people that I meet, and the experiences I have and what I do. I pray that we never see anything like this again. I always try to learn something from every experience in life. The one thing that I have learned through all of this, is that time is precious, life is fleeting, and you must spend time with the ones you love when you can.

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DEBI JOHNSTON

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Cover Story

Rotarians honor Pandemic Heroes By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

ongview Rotary took a sabbatical from its traditional Citizen of the Year program in 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this year's banquet more than made up for the hiatus. The annual ceremony recognizes those whose public service has had the greatest positive impact on the greater Longview area, and lately the Longview metropolitan area has needed a great deal of positive impact. This year's honorees are as distinguished as are their accomplishments. Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt, CHRISTUS Good Shepherd CEO Todd Hancock, State Representative District 7 Jay Dean, Mayor Andy Mack, and Fire Chief J.P. Steelman. These dedicated, selfless, and industrious leaders caught

the Rotarians' attention through their untouched supervision and direction in establishing the unfamiliar but vital service of setting up and operating the Gregg County Vaccine Hub so effectively that it has become an example being copied throughout Texas. Hancock elaborated on the degree of the resolution that motivated him and his collaborators. There was an emergency to be addressed. "I can humbly say that CHRISTUS played a role to make this dreadful disease not so frightening and also get a handle on it," he said. 'The citizens of Gregg County are the winners. They made good choices of their elected leaders. A lot of political capital was needed, and their leaders had it." Hancock also cited CHRISTUS healthcare workers for

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L-R: CHIEF JP STEELMAN, CEO TODD HANCOCK, JUDGE BILL STOUDT, LONGVIEW ROTARY PRESIDENT GRIFF HUBBARD, STATE REP. JAY DEAN AND MAYOR ANDY MACK.

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their determined, ongoing efforts. Judge Stoudt, meanwhile, gave a tearful oration on the threat posed by the pandemic and how the Vaccine Hub is turning back the virus. "I am very emotional about the things I care about," he said. "I care very much for the citizens of Gregg County." He oversaw the investment of a half million dollars from county reserves to ensure the Hub's creation and its operation as long as it is needed. He also emphasized the value of the teamwork of county employees as they participated in this life-saving venture. "It was a total team effort from the word go," he said. "The city, CHRISTUS, the Fire and Police Departments

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and the community-it has taken the whole village to get through to where we are today, not wearing a mask at an event like this one." Longview Eastman has been another heavy contributor to the anticoronavirus campaign. Its financial support has been vital. "The pandemic is obviously a major influence on our community's health," said Longview Eastman President Andrew Coggins. "Eastman is happy to support the effort by providing funds needed to get the Vaccine Hub." Mack made it clear he considered his work versus COVID-19 as something that had to be done, and that he was just one of many who have been doing their duty.

June 2021

Cover Story

This included City Manager Keith Bonds, Laura Hill, Police Chief Bishop and all the volunteers who unselfishly worked behind the scenes directing people on how to register and where to get vaccinations. "It is nice to be honored, but I am just doing what is best for Longview," he said. "In all this I have not heard one person complain about helping our citizens." Dean expressed how he feels humbled just to be part of the team that founded and operates the Vaccine Hub and

“What a wonderful honor to be on this stage and represent CHRISTUS. But also, to be with elected leaders who a lot of horsepower that was needed for accomplish our getting the Vaccine Hub in place.” CEO Todd Hancock, CHRISTUS Good Shepherd

INGRID SELF AND PATRICIA NEWMAN

done such a great job that other cities are modeling their vaccine centers on Longview's. He, too, pointed to his teammates' great work in combating the pandemic. "One of the things you should be proud of, is seeing your elected officials working together," he said. "Todd did a great job, Judge Stoudt helped us financially, Mayor Mack made sure Longview buildings were open and used, the fire chief mustered his people and his good friend and partner, Police Chief Bishop."

903.291.0020 1408 Lago Trail Longview heartis.com

Assisted Living and Memory Care Community

LEISHA KIDD-BROOKS AND DIETRICH JOHNSON

POLICE CHIEF MIKE BISHOP AND FIRE CHIEF JP STEELMAN

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MICHAEL SHIRLEY

June 2021

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June 2021

Cover Story

“Since I got the vaccine, I am not as fearful as I used to be. If someone decides not to take the vaccine, it becomes a question of personal responsibility. If you decide not to get the vaccine, you have to continue to wear your mask and keep social distancing because you could be a carrier and asymptomatic. Or even worse, you can contract the virus and infect others.”

“I am just doing what is best for Longview so I can go to sleep and wake up in the morning and know am doing the right thing.” Mayor Andy Mack

The Honorable Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt.

MAYOR ANDY MACK AND NEAL MCCOY

L-R: COMMISSIONER FLOYD WINGO, JUDGE BILL STOUDT AND FIRE MARSHALL MARK MOORE

“It is a little humbling to be part of something like this. I could not have done much without a lot of help form my team and my brother in the Blue, Chief Bishop.” MARSHALL; MARK MOORE, BRIAN RUSSELL, ASSISTANT GREGG COUNTY FIRE MARSHALL; KEVIN MAY, FIRE OPERATIONS; AMY HOOTEN, EMS TEAGUE, WES CHIEF; GREGG COUNTY FIRE MARSHALL; J.P. STEELMAN, FIRE PARKER, SECTION CHIEF ANDY NS; OPERATIO OF CHIEF FIRE T ASSISTAN JONES, BRIAN SECTION CHIEF EMS; TRATION ADMINIS TRAINING; STEVEN GREEN, ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF OF

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Fire Chief JP Steelman

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Chief Steelman attended the event with his fellow fire fighters and was careful to share the acclaim with all who earned it. He noted that a pandemic was not something he had anticipated when he became fire chief. He also cited the great working relationship between the

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city and county. "I would not be standing here without my team and my brother in blue," he said, pointing to Bishop. "To be a small part of it where we can finally leave our houses after one year is humbling." Both humbling and a great relief.

June 2021

Business and Finance

Tips for

Hiring Top Talent

By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS

s pandemic restrictions continue to lift, many companies are in the process of rebuilding their teams. Ensuring that new hires have the necessary skills as well as fit into the overall company culture are no easy tasks but are essential for company productivity and morale. BBB provides the following suggestions to source great talent and provides tips on how to make the hiring process work for your business.

It is an extremely competitive who would not be a good fit and will market. To find the right top talent, save you time and energy. you may have to consider some nonConsider hosting a virtual job fair. traditional recruitment methods.” Virtual job fairs have become Use a trustworthy employment more common since the onset of the agency. pandemic. A recent study revealed Go to bbb.org to find an that 59% of employers are adopting employment agency you can trust. or increasing digital engagement, Build a relationship with the agency including virtual events. When hosting so they understand your company’s a virtual job fair, it is important to: culture and values along with skill • Define a clear strategy of what requirements for open positions. This success looks like. Set targets for the will help them weed out any talent number of attendees, number of

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June 2021

qualified applicants, etc. • Decide on a budget for marketing and promotion. • Make sure you understand how the technical aspects work so that the event runs smoothly, and the first impression potential applicants have of your organization will be positive.

If you choose to make a recruitment video, invest in a professional videographer to shoot it, and if you are unsure about your script writing abilities, hire a professional writer. Keep in mind, this might be the first impression that your business will make on new hires, so set positive expectations.

Make the most of social media.

Create an Employee Referral Program.

When used properly, your social media accounts can tell the story of your business and express your company values. The people who like and follow your business on social media may naturally be a good fit for your company culture. According to LinkedIn, 49% of professionals are following companies on social media with the intent to stay aware of open positions, so posting job opportunities on your social media accounts is a great way to source talent.

Your current employees may be your best resource for finding future employees. Research from ERIN shows that 45% of employees sourced from employee referrals stay for longer than 4 years. Therefore, consider implementing an

employee referral program, where your staff can recommend job candidates and receive a small bonus if they are hired. There are a few ways to do this, but the model that many businesses follow is paying part of the bonus upon the new hire's acceptance, and the remaining balance once the new hire completes their first 90 days. In this day and age, simply filling an empty position will not necessarily deliver the results you desire. Remember that your job recruiting process is part of your branding, so make sure your hiring materials reflect your company values and set a good impression.

Produce a recruitment video. CareerBuilder found that job postings with videos have a 34% greater application rate. Interviewing should be a twoway street, where applicants both share their skillset with their potential employers and also examine the company culture to make sure it is an environment in which they can succeed. Creating a recruitment video is a great way to provide applicants with more information about the job, including where they will be working and some of the responsibilities they will have in the position. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

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June 2021

Education

Congratulations Jack Blalock,

headed to Letourneau University via Kilgore College

Get personal with GE Café Kitchen Appliances

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ack Blalock graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic School. He is the son of Municipal Judge Donna Blalock-Habinc and Kevin Blalock. Jack was in the top three percent of his senior class. He was a member of National Honor Society. His extracurricular activities included: Soccer, Archery and Golf. Jack was named 2021 Sportsman of the Year for Soccer, 2021 Top Archer of

JACK, DONNA AND JOHN HABINC

the Year qualifying for nationals. But that is not all. He also named 2021 Overall Athlete of the Year for St. Mary’s Catholic School. THE CAKE Jack will continue working part-time at Gamester’s Paradise while pursuing his major studies at Kilgore college. He plans to transfer to LeTourneau University where he will study mechanical engineering. Kevin and his daughter Kaidyn of Divine catering cartered Jack’s graduation party BOB HALLMARK OF KLTV AND DONNA BLALOCK-HABINC

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JACK WITH HIS GRANDMOTHER ADELA SUAREZ AND MOTHER DONNA BLALOCK-HABINC

KEVIN AND HIS DAUGHTER KAIDYN HAWKINS OF DIVINE CATERING CARTERED JACK GRADUATION PARTY

LOLA OGUNSEINDE AND DONNA BLALOCK-HABINC

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JACK AND HIS DAD, KEVIN BLALOCK

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June 2021

Leadership Non Profit of Longview the Month:

Expectant Heart cuts Ribbon By IP STAFF REPORTS

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

T CEO SHANNEL NEWTON CHEERS, ED HANNAH STEVENS CUTS RIBBON

then Longview Christian Fellow library. Amber Payne of HighRidge Church serves as a liaison between the Church and Expectant Heart. Her husband Will accompanied her for support to the ribbon cutting. Ms. Carolyn Wilson is an avid for the organization seeking out and securing urgent needs for them.

L-R: NICK BOWEN, ROBERTO MONSIVAIS AND DR. BLAKE WILLIAMS

Theresa Guck:

Lady combines family and service with success

WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

xpectant Heart Pregnancy Resource Center, a faith-based non -profit organization located at 2440 South High Street in Longview Texas; recently held their ribbon cutting. The Longview Chamber of Commerce and its Ambassadors officiated the event. Moreover, Expectant Heart chief executive officer Shannel Newton, explained their services to the audience. According to Newton, they assist women facing unplanned pregnancies as soon as they walk through the door. Their services range from pregnancy tests, educational classes, career training, spiritual encouragement, counseling and much more. HighRidge Church Longview has been a major and foremost supporter since the inception of Expectant Heart. As a matter of fact, their first location was at the

Feature: Theresa Guck

Furthermore, Murray Rabenhorst an engineer and HighRidge Longview Outreach Pastor attended the event. “We support the right of the unborn, hence we support Expectant Heart,” said Rabenhorst. “We have been supporting Expectant Heart since day one.”

L-R: WILL AND AMBER PAYNE; MURRAY RABENHORST, SHANNEL NEWTON AND HANNAH STEVENS

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June 2021

heresa Guck refers to her beloved husband Steve as her "soulmate, best friend, supporter, and loving and kind man." He is always there for her in unconditional love and support, keeping her grounded in reality and patience. They make a great team, and this is nothing new for her. Theresa learned the value of personal strength, kindness, and compassion from her dear mother Rosela, who taught her how helping others by giving without taking anything in return is a blessing both ways. Her words were powerful and heartfelt. "Inday [precious one,] our small sari-sari store isn't only for us, but for those around us, and we're lucky to have this as our source of income," Rosela would say. "You don't have to be rich to help others and share with them simple pleasures that they cannot afford."

Rosela would share food and money with those who were hungry and sick and could not afford medicine. She would drive so many neighborhood children to church on Sunday mornings that her fellow parishioners thought she was running an orphanage. "No one did this for me when I was younger," said Rosela. "Now that I can afford it, I wanted to share my blessings as it gives me so much joy." Nowadays Theresa, Steve and their children Yoshiko, Christopher, Stephanie, and Matthew are still following this Christlike example. Yoshiko was a student at the University of Texas at Austin when she founded Curatio Mundi. This small, non-profit operation's objective is to provide the less fortunate with healthcare and education. Christopher, meanwhile, started an initiative he calls the HEARTS Club while he was still in high school.

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STEVE AND THERESA GU

HEARTS stands for Helping the Elderly Through Arts. It is totally non-exclusive, being open to all high school students. Once monthly its members tour one local nursing facility and perform activities that promote the residents'

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cognitive skills. Youngest son Matthew established the CUPID PROJECT with the aim of spreading love through the distribution of greeting cards, which it delivers to nursing homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals.

June 2021

Feature: Theresa Guck

This program has proved so successful that social media brought in participants from such distant points as the Philippines, Ireland, Canada, Singapore, Dubai, and Serbia. Domestic participation has extended to Chicago, Florida, New York, and Missouri. The Guck family also oversees Abyan Ko Ikaw (You Are My Friend,) which aids via food packages and gifts for underprivileged children in the Philippines, and the also-Filipino-oriented project Gugma sa Kabataan (Love for Kids,) which concentrates on educating less-fortunate children and providing books and sundry school supplies. "We are passionate about doing something for the community," says Theresa. "I used to create murals for the schools, churches and animal shelters for free."

She even found time to instruct area girls in how to become empowered and exert their strength in helping others. Among her students in this initiative are Miss Philippines Texas 2019 and Miss Iloilo Tourism Philippines 2018. In keeping with its service-oriented philosophy, the Guck family has taken in foreign exchange students from Kazakhstan and Serbia, encouraging these Eastern Europeans to join such organizations as the Venture Club (a Boys Scouts-sponsored outfit that teaches outdoor skills, communication and leadership,) the non-profit AMBUCS, (which instructs in achieving mobility and independence,) and Anchor Club, International to provide

Since relocating to Texas, she has continued her volunteering activities while also, as of late, being a stay-at-home mom. Her love for children shone through earlier in East Texas as she served as a substitute teacher in the Longview Independent School District, School for Little Children, and St. Mary's Catholic School. "I also worked as the vendor appliance coordinator for Neiman Marcus but decided to quit working in order to help my daughter, Stephanie, pursue her dreams in singing, modeling and acting," she says. Recently, she organized the Celebration of Cultural Heritage. The event brought people of all races and different cultures to learn and enjoy each other.

youth with opportunities to become involved in various community projects through volunteer work. Apart from her sparkling family examples, Theresa's education pointed her in the direction of selfless service. "I graduated from the University of San Augustin in Iloilo City, Philippines," she says. "My Alma Mater, San Jose Catholic School, is a sister school of this university, and I am passionate in continuing my education while strengthening my faith." She also took classes in substitute teaching, jewelry designing and personal growth education to further refine her community service skills. While still in the Philippines she worked in the credit and collection office of an appliance company and interned in the Bureau of Internal Revenue in Iloilo City.

THERESA GUCK

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June 2021

Wedding insurance can ease nerves C ouples spend thousands of dollars on their wedding ceremony and celebrations. The cost of a wedding varies depending on geographic location, but according to the business and financial resource Business Insider and The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Study, the average wedding in the United States costs $31,391. Insurance policies can help couples protect their wedding investment. Special event insurance provides coverage for various scenarios, including extreme weather, damaged gifts, lost jewelry, vendor cancellations or no-shows, venues closing before the wedding, and canceled weddings, according to Travelers Insurance. Insurance also may cover other unforeseen scenarios, such as unexpected expenses from injuries during the wedding or spoiled food. Policies will pay directly for any damage or injuries that occur or reimburse the couple if the

wedding is postponed or canceled. If weddings occur at home, some people’s home insurance or umbrella policies may cover certain wedding liabilities. Most wedding venues carry their own liability insurance, so couples may not have to overlap there. However, for those who desire extra protection for vendor mishaps, it is wise to speak with an insurance professional about special wedding coverage. Prices for wedding insurance policies can start at around $100 to $200 for minimum coverage and reach $1,000 for more expensive ceremonies, according to the financial advisement website NerdWallet. Speak with an insurance agent and read policies carefully before purchasing one. Non-covered issues typically include theft or loss of an engagement ring; rainy days that do not classify as extreme weather; switching vendors after a deposit is made; and risky entertainment, such as fireworks or live animals.

Protecting wedding expenditures with insurance policies can provide couples with added peace of mind on their big days.

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With this Ring

PETS IN WEDDINGS

ets play important roles in their owner’s lives and are increasingly included in more activities, such as vacations, dining out and even weddings. The National Association of Professional Pet Sitters says more couples are customizing their wedding celebrations and bridal parties to include pets. Dogs and cats are turning up in wedding photos as well as trips down the aisle. Some pets even serve as ring bearers. Before giving your pet a job for the wedding, consider his personality and temperament. How does the pet react around crowds? A dog or cat accustomed to a quiet home may behave differently when placed in a room full of excited people. In addition, confirm that pets are allowed inside your ceremony space. Certain venues may not allow animals that are not service dogs. Make sure to inform guests that an animal will be present, so those with allergies can take precautions. If it isn’t practical to have animals in the ceremony, give them a primary spot in wedding or engagement photos.

Factors to consider before including Fido in your wedding Pets are full-fledged members of many families and even, apparently, families-tobe. In its 2016 American Wedding Study, Brides magazine found that 8 percent of wedding ceremonies included pets. While the couples of yester-year might have left Fido at home, many of today’s couples want their four-legged friends to be there

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on their big day. Though no studies to date have examined which animals are most likely to make an appearance at couples’ nuptials, it’s fair to assume that dogs, which tend to get out of the house more than most other types of pets, are the most common furry bridesmaids, groomsmen or ring bearers. Before including dogs in their wedding plans, couples may want to consider a few factors to ensure asking Fido to be there come the big day is what’s best for couples, their guests and, of course, their beloved pooches.

Eligibility

Some venues do not allow pets that are not documented assistance animals on the premises. Confirm a venue’s pet policy before purchasing any wedding day attire for your dog. Couples who are intent on including their pets in their wedding ceremonies should only consider pet-friendly facilities, which may be hard to find. Couples who plan to take a limousine to and from their wedding also should confirm that the cars allow pets before booking.

Personality

No two dogs are the same. Some dogs might love people and attention, while others might prefer one-on-one time with their owners. Dogs that are sociable and unaggressive may make perfect additions to wedding ceremonies, while animals

that exhibit anxiety around strangers or seem uncomfortable in noisy settings should be kept out of the ceremony.

Health

Dog owners also must consider their pets’ health when deciding whether or not to include them in the wedding ceremony. Couples who bonded over a love of their dog may really hope to include their furry friend in the festivities but should not do so at the expense of the animal’s health. Outdoor wedding ceremonies under sunny skies may produce potentially unhealthy conditions for certain breeds or older dogs. Dogs that have difficulty getting around may need a red wagon (and attendant) to make the rounds at the wedding.

Assistance

Couples will be busy on their wedding days, so they may need to arrange for a caretaker to look after their dog during and after the ceremony. Asking a guest or guests to play this role may be asking too much, as guests will no doubt want to celebrate without having to take care of a dog. A professional pet sitter might work, but that can be costly, as couples must pay for the sitter and will likely need to pay for the sitter to have a seat and a meal during the reception. Dogs can make great additions to weddings, but couples must consider a host of factors before deciding to have Fido join them as they tie the knot.

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Second Chance

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Second Wedding

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ouples planning to get married do so with the intention of spending the rest of their lives together. Few couples exchange rings thinking divorce or the loss of a spouse is in their future, but some marriages do end. Happily, that reality does not prevent many people from seeking happily ever after once again. A recent study from the Pew Research Center found that many people who were married before are deciding to take the plunge a second time. Four in 10 new marriages in the United States now include one partner who was married before. Roughly 42 million American adults have gotten married a second time Ñ up from 22 million in 1980. The Pew study also discovered that more men than women are likely to get remarried. Around 65 percent of previously married men have a desire to remarry, compared to 43 percent of previously married women. Men and women about to get married for a second time can consider the following tips to help make the day one to remember forever. Recognize that a second wedding is in no way less important than the first. Couples should remember that this is still the first wedding for the two of them as a couple and it should be seen as just as special as any other wedding celebration. It’s easy for men and women marrying

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Weddings can be even more special the second time around.

for a second time to be hard on themselves, especially when thinking ahead to the gifts that were given and the money spent by guests for their first marriage. But a new relationship and love is worthy of a good party. Friends and family who are supportive of you shouldn’t have reservations about helping you celebrate. Don’t feel boxed in by old-school etiquette. Rules have relaxed with regard to weddings. Many couples put their personal imprints on their weddings and do not feel the need to conform to outdated expectations. You don’t have to skip all of the frills of a first wedding the second time around or head to the local courthouse and pass on another big wedding. Do what feels comfortable to you, whether that means throwing a big party or hosting a smaller affair. Let past experience serve as your guide. You’ve been married before and can use that to your advantage. It’s likely you know what worked for the wedding the first

time around and which things you probably could have changed or done without. Maybe you were stressed about having everything go perfectly or feeling like you had to put on a show for guests. As a more mature person this time around, you no doubt realize that sharing this special time with the ones you love is the most important wedding component of all. Be open-minded with your wardrobe. Let the formality of the event and the time of day when you’re getting married influence what you will be wearing instead of perceived etiquette or family notions. It’s acceptable to wear white again if you so desire. Plus, more mature couples have a sense of what makes them look good, rather than opting for trendy outfits. Above all, have fun. Couples know what to expect the second time around, so stress usually doesn’t stem from the unknown. You may feel more relaxed at a second wedding, so let that ensure you have a great night.

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Engagement ring buyer’s guide

Know all the specs. Buying an engagement ring means being armed with a lot of knowledge. In addition to shape, there are the four Cs to consider. Take time to learn about each of the four Cs so you can make an informed decision.

rides and grooms may pour over every detail of their weddings, but few components of the festivities may be as fun, especially for foodies, as deciding what the wedding cake will look like.

edding planning often begins moments after couples get engaged. Shopping for an engagement ring can be both nerve-wracking and exciting. But there are ways to make the process go as smoothly as possible. ¥ Listen carefully anytime jewelry is discussed. It is also perfectly fine to ask for your future spouse’s input, particularly if you’ve already spoken about marriage. Have a good idea on the shape of the stone. All gemstones need to be cut in particular ways so that they reflect light and sparkle. Stones are also cut in specific shapes that provide the overall form of the stone. These include round, princess, emerald, oval, marquise, and pear, among others.

Wedding cake: Make your statement

A rising trend in cakes is to cover a white or naked cake with translucent glaze tinted in the couple’s wedding colors. Statement tiers also are popular. Couples set the cake apart with elaborate designs

Find a jeweler with whom you feel comfortable and believe you will get the best value for your money. Jewelers often do whatever is necessary to make their customers happy, so don’t be afraid to ask for customization. Engagement ring buyers may also want to consider gemstones other than diamonds. When shoppers are prepared, the engagement ring-buying process much easier.

Hand-painted tiles on a cake are another way to add panache. Sometimes a statement comes by way of texture. An allwhite cake can be dressed up with ruffles, lace, embossing, and 3-D rosettes cake designs. ¥ Couples may opt for darker hues on their cakes and even a black tier. Statement cakes can really say something about the couple getting married.

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

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June 2021

Engagement Ring Buyer's Guide

Wedding Cake Make your statement Make A Second Wedding

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Pets in

Weddings and

Wedding insurance can ease nerves

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