infinitieplus MAR. 2019
VOL. 9 NO. 3 Longview BUSINESS MAGAZINE
Refuge International National Women History Month Plus
Arts & Culture Delcine Johnson Doris Ramaly Bourbon & Bowties And
Shelly Smith Kristi Brian
Morgan Strong
Purposely Passionate about People, Period.
Congratulations Congratulations toto the the 2018 2018 Stars Stars Over Over Longview Longview Shalonda Adams Adams Shalonda
Lori Holyfield Ball Lori Holyfield Ball Crista Black
Crista Black
Sharon Bradley
Sharon Bradley Mary Collier
Mary Collier Carmela Davis
Gerrie Forbis Carmela Davis Carol Manley Gerrie Forbis
Dawn Martin Carol Manley
Pamela Mercer-McWilliams
Dawn Martin
Mary Morris
Pamela Mercer-McWilliams Julie Woods Mary Morris
Celebrating 18 Years Julie Woods
We are known for Stone, but we do much more!
Thursday, January 11, 2018
Celebrating 18 Years Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey Bundles Bundles Bundles of joy. joy. joy. Doors Openof atof 11:30 a.m. Thursday, 11,at2018 Ceremony andJanuary Luncheon begin noon It’s It’s It’s what what what we we we deliver. deliver. deliver. Maude Cobb Activity Center
Speaker: Joyner-Kersey 100 Jackie Grand Blvd. • Longview Complimentary valet parking will be available.
Doors Open atout a.m. From From From the the the day day day you you you find find find out out to11:30 tothe tothe 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 toLongview Longview Regional Regional Regional Medical Medical Medical Center Center Center
Ceremony and Luncheon begin at noon 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 iswhy why we we we provide provide provide extra extra extra amenities amenities amenities such such such asasprivate asprivate private rooms, rooms, rooms, spacious spacious spacious Ticket Information birthing birthing birthing suites, suites, suites, childbirth childbirth childbirth classes classes classes and and and breastfeeding breastfeeding breastfeeding support. And And And if ifyou ifyou you and and and your your your newest newest newest addition addition addition need need need a alittle little a little extra extra extra help, help, help, Maude Cobb Activity Center Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table ofsupport. 8support. we we we offer offer offer perinatal perinatal perinatal services services services that that include include include maternal-fetal maternal-fetal maternal-fetal medicine medicine specialists specialists specialists and and and a aLevel aLevel Level IIIIIINICU. IIINICU. NICU. Tickets will be available for purchase beginningmedicine 100 Grand Blvd. •that Longview
November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional For For For more more more information information information about about about our our our labor labor labor and and delivery delivery delivery services, services, services, visit visit visit LongviewRegional.com/baby. LongviewRegional.com/baby. LongviewRegional.com/baby. Complimentary valet parking will beand available. Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.
Ticket Information
Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey
Olympian & Greatest Female Athlete Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8 of the 20th Century 2901 2901 N.N.Fourth N. Fourth Fourth Street Street Street • •Longview, Longview, • Longview, TXTX75605 TX 75605 75605 • •903-242-3490 903-242-3490 • 903-242-3490 • •LongviewRegional.com LongviewRegional.com • LongviewRegional.com Tickets will be available for purchase2901 beginning November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional For additional information on this event visit LongviewRegional.com. Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.
Congratulations to the 2018 Stars Over Longview
4523 Judson Rd. Longview, Texas 75605 903-663-3344 | www.stone-works.net
editor’s note
table of contents
infinitieplus
Publisher / Editor
Longview BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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Joycelyne Fadojutimi
Cover COVERStory STORY
Marketing / PR
Joycelyne Fadojutimi
Photography
Her love of marketing is just one of her calling's aspects she savors. Like the women she serves, she wears many hats. Her customers quickly become her friends whose personal likes she considers and makes certain her store stocks what they want. As a buyer, she personally handselects merchandise with specific clients in mind. "I love making women feel good about themselves and giving them confidence through their clothing. Seeing ladies' faces light up, pleased with the way they look, makes me happy,
Joycelyne Fadojutimi
Graphic Designer
W
Sho Labaco
Contributing Writers Kimberly Fish Chelsey Grasso
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.
- Morgan Strong, Owner Morgan Abbigail Boutique.
For Advertising Contact
Joycelyne Fadojutimi joy@iplusmag.com
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DELCINE JOHNSON
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KIMBERLY FISH
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REFUGE INTERNATIONAL
517 Mobberly Avenue Longview, Texas 75602 www.iplusmag.com www.facebook.com/ InfinitePlus magazine
ow, this edition has so many stories. We could not pass up anything. Trust me, we worked very, very hard to get them all, in this edition. First is our cover story: Morgan Strong. This story gives the reader a window into the soul of Morgan. It answers the burning question who is the real Morgan Strong, this precious daughter of the Tomberlains, lovely wife Ronnie Strong, devoted mother of two beautiful children, owner of Morgan Abbigail Boutique and an ardent disciple of Jesus Christ who is fervently intentional about people and her community. Kimberly Fish, award winning author, speaker and magazine contributor talks art and culture on page 13. Please check out the varied benefits of arts and culture. Then, we have a fascinating story about Deborah Bell who started Refuge International, a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization “dedicated to improving the lives of the less fortunate through the provision of health care, nutrition, clean water and education.”
Joycelyne Fadojutimi
VOLUME 9 | ISSUE 3
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DORIS RAMALY
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CAROLYN & MIKE NORTHCUTT
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The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine are copyrighted 2019. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus or its advertisers.
SHELLY SMITH |
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Give them a call to donate or volunteer to go on a medical mission to Guatemala or go down the road at our own Hiway 80 mission wit them. By the way, Ms. Bell is a hospitalist at Longview Regional Medical Center. The story is from page 14. March is National Women History Month so, we have Doris Ramaly, Kristi Brian, and Shelly Smith on various pages. Read the stories and get to know them better. The one and only Bourbon and Bowties fundraiser event was again, a show stopper. Check out the story and photos from page 21. Heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in United States. We continue to highlight the efforts of local event chair Delcine Johnson and her hard work to educate women in the community. See “Affair of the Heart,” story from page 26. Finally, please feel free to contact us on FB, Messenger or by email @ joy@iplus.com. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to serve through this medium. We look forward to serving you again next month.
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M
Visionary Women : Champions of the Community
organ Strong: Passionate about People, Period
M
National Women's History Month 6
COVER STORY
B y J o y cel y ne F adoju t imi
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organ Strong knew from an early age what she wanted to do with her life--a career in fashion. Today that dream is a profitable reality. She and husband Ronnie adore their little girls Charlotte, five, and three-monthold Charleston. For them family life is a passion. Although Morgan and Ronnie are both natives of Longview, they got a late start as a couple. "We did not meet until I was in my last semester at Stephen F. Austin," she says. "He was moving to Nacogdoches to go back to school, and I was moving home to Longview to pursue my dream of opening a boutique." After graduating with honors, Ronnie returned to Longview for the dual purposes of being with the woman he loves, and of going to work for the Good Shepherd Health System. Three years later they made their union official with a beautiful ceremony at Longview's First Baptist Church. This honeymoon has never ended. "He is my perfect match, and I love coming home to him and the girls," she says. "This is where I feel my life purpose is truly fulfilled." She credits the godly influence of her parents for her successful, well-adjusted life. Chuck and Babette Tomberlain's love and guidance pointed their daughter down the fruitful straight and narrow. "They love unconditionally and have always been my biggest cheerleaders," she says. "It's much easier to put yourself out there and take chances when you know you have a strong support system and a soft place to land. They taught me to place the Lord first, my family second, and to let
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everything else fall into place." Babette is a pillar of strength and a great influence as she expertly advises her brilliant daughter on business, personal, family and spiritual matters. Chuck, meanwhile, taught by example how to be a loving, devoted parent. His work as a soccer coach and Junior Achievement volunteer teacher were instrumental in lighting Morgan's path to success. Her parents also pointed her down the route to academic accomplishment. "I chose to go to Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches where both my parents graduated from," she says. "I absolutely fell in love with the small, beautiful town of Nacogdoches where I earned a bachelor of science in fashion merchandising." After matriculating at SFA, Morgan studied interior design in London before moving to New York City as a fashion design intern. "I worked at the Dallas Market Center," she says. "I wrote my business plan that I actually brought home and took to Texas Bank & Trust to obtain my small business loan." By this point she was sufficiently knowledgeable of the fashion design industry to be a success in the field. She is owner and buyer for Morgan Abbigail and does her job with expertise. "I listen to my customers and keep my inventory constantly changing to be what the women of Longview want and need," she says. "There is a generation of women who don't want to dress like their daughters, but also are not ready to dress like their mothers." Her love of marketing is just one of her calling's aspects she savors. Like the women she serves, she wears many hats. Her customers quickly become her friends whose personal likes she considers and makes certain her store stocks what they want. As a buyer, she personally hand-selects merchandise with specific clients in mind.
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY Cotillion Students at Work
Morgan Strong tells the “why” of her proactivelife style.
Practice Makes Perfect.
Practice Makes Perfect: See photos below
"I am all about building others up. I want everyone to hold their head high, love themselves and have zero room for self-doubt. Life is too short to not love your life.” - Morgan Strong, Owner, Morgan Abbigail Boutique "I love making women feel good about themselves and giving them confidence through their clothing," she says. "Seeing ladies' faces light up, pleased with the way they look, makes me happy." She points to advancing technology as the greatest obstacle in her profession. So many are now shopping online from home that boutiques are suffering sales declines as their one-time customers now stay home with their smart phones and shopping in their pajamas. Still, she considers even this an opportunity. "I strive to provide customer service and a shopping experience that makes them actually want to get out and come to the store," she says. "I want to help them pick out their new blouse." She has even personally delivered clothes to customers' homes and helped them decide what color lipstick goes with ensembles. This is an aspect of customer service not offered online. Indeed, faith without works is dead. "My faith in Jesus Christ is what keeps me going," she says. "He fills my cup. He quiets my storms. I hope I live my life in a way that people don't doubt my faith and makes them want a closer walk with the Lord.”
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She is raising her little girls in a spiritual household. At First Baptist Church, she works with the family-oriented mission program, First Roots. Several young families (hers included) started this initiative in the church two years ago aiming to teach children how to pray and to serve God in partnership with their parents. "To see how this Wednesday night program has grown makes my heart so happy," she says. "We have monthly mission projects such as serving dinners at the Highway 80 Rescue Mission, filling the sharing box on Highway 80 with toiletries, making valentines for the House of Disciples, and caroling at nursing homes during the holidays. Seeing our children serve others, spread love and even have the opportunity to tell others about Christ is hands down the most spiritually rewarding thing I am involved in." In addition, Morgan's unselfish, caring work with the American Heart Association's Vino for Heart Committee, and with Habitat for Humanity's Raise the Roof committee further underscore her committment to share her success with the community around her. There is more.
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY And social awareness, etiquette, poise, posture and current dance steps taught in a fun, effective fashion. Such cultural tutoring is a boon to the positive personality development of youthful minds. The Golden Rule is also stressed. This is another benefit in an age of heartless hazing in schools and cyber bullying. "I really hope I am doing my own part to cause children to stop, think and treat their peers with kindness and respect," she says. The Cotillion is now expanding its acceptance of students, taking both those who are younger and older than the fifth graders previously educated. The first new class for this curriculum, Manners Fit for a Princess, will commence in April, teaching girls aged six to nine. The Pretty Please course will instruct young ladies aged four to six. Southern Gentlemen is for six to nine-year-old. All this delightfully dovetails with Morgan Strong’s passion for delighting the people of Longview and East Texans of all ages
Practice Makes Perfect .
Learning the art of politeness and formal introduction.
Morgan working with student.
Students practice as Morgan watches
Few are in greater need than those condemned to live on the streets. The Almighty God loves every person unconditionally, including those who have the least in this world "God loves them, no strings attached," Morgan says. "It certainly pulled me out of my comfort zone and humbled me to love ALL of God's people the same way He does." Her collaboration with the Junior League is along the same lines as she joins in its quest to pull downtrodden women and children out of poverty, abusive situations and mold better lives for them. She especially treasures working with the League's School Supply Train. "It brings tears to my eyes every year when I see those families lined up around the building so relieved to receive school supplies, uniforms, shoes, haircuts and dental hygiene products at no cost," she says. Even more, she and Ronnie served faithfully on the Bourbon and Bowties Committee where she spent two years working as chair for the silent auction.
This event raised funds to complete and open the Longview World of Wonders Children’s Museum. But that is not all. She served three years as a PPO president of her children’s School. She also found time to be a room mother. "Any time I get to combine volunteer work with spending time with my children I am one happy mom," she says. Furthermore, she has followed the lead of her grandmother Barbara Tomberlain, who founded the Longview Cotillion in 1962. She so loved her work with this organization that, as a college coed, she would drive all the way from Nacogdoches on Monday nights just to assist with the meetings. When Barbara went Home to the Lord, Morgan took over as coordinator. Her association with the Dallas-based Dick Chaplin Cotillion as it teaches courtesy and good manners to Longview’s children is a blessing to the future. These youngsters pick up self-confidence.
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through their wardrobes and accessories. "I am all about building others up," she says. "I want everyone to hold their head high, love themselves and have zero room for self-doubt. Life is too short to not love your life." One recent customer, a mature lady using a walker, was so delighted with (and empowered by) the beautiful clothes she bought from Morgan that when she left the store, she forgot her walker. She actually no longer needed it-she was too happy with her clothing and the service she received from Morgan to think of her walker.
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INSPIRATIONAL BODY SOUL AND SPIRIT
Arts and Culture
From the Desk of American Heart Association: Longview Go Red Event Chairwoman
I
first want to thank each and every one of you who have contributed to this year’s American Heart Association (AHA) Longview Go Red event. Together, we are making a positive impact
on Longview by educating our community about heart health and raising much needed funds to support the AHA’s mission of education, research and support. The AHA and women’s heart health is a cause that is near and dear to my heart. The fact that heart disease is the number one killer of women astounded Delcine Johnson me and has pushed me to make a change for myself and those around me. To change this statistic, education and research are key! Educating our mothers, sisters, daughters and friends about heart disease is a critical mission of the AHA. I am so thankful that the AHA starts this education with our children, by teaching the importance of exercise and healthy eating in our school system. In Longview alone, there are over 13,000 children learning about good heart health through the Kids Heart Challenge.
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In addition to education, critical heart-related research is key to changing lives. The AHA and the American Stroke Association combined, have funded over $12 million in research grants, including numerous grants right here in Texas. The new breakthroughs that come from this research will have a positive impact on our generation and generations to come. Thank you again for your support of this wonderful endeavor of the American Heart Association. On behalf of myself and the entire Longview Go Red planning committee, we hope you enjoyed yourself at Go Red for Women Luncheon. We hope and pray that you left the luncheon more educated about heart health and inspired to share what you have learned with others. Again, thank you.
D elcine Johnson
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Arts and Culture
Do
Really Matter?
B y K im b erl y F ish
R
ecent buzz in Longview has surrounded the development of a Cultural Arts District. The question a lot of folks ask is, how would this designation make any difference in doing life here? Art means different things to different people, and this district would not mandate what defines art in Longview. What it would do is provide a bigger stage to showcase what is created here, what our story is, and what we’re interested in learning more about. The argument can be made that the majority of Longview folks never darken the door of an art show, theatre production, or concert if their kids aren’t involved. So, why would having a district devoted to promoting the art exhibits, music venues, museums, and cultural events make any dent in the current habits of Longview citizens? This news might not even faze most folks. But, events that happen in an arts district build community, and we need reasons to get tougher, and do life together, now more than ever before. Local museums have had to beg and cajole to meet their budgets and keep their lights on—even with interesting exhibits and new paint on their doors. To bring all that energy www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
together with the efforts of the symphony, band, and ballet— plus, performing arts venues and public gardens, would be a powerhouse in applying for national and regional grants, as well as funneling in new tourism dollars. Experts say we can attract more flies with honey and the
Author and Speaker Kimberly Fish
sweet smell of art is beginning to swirl through Longview. Instead of every art-based, non-profit trying to nickel through their budgets, all the sudden, the doors are swung wide open and our art district leaps onto a bigger financial radar. In reverse, because we can bundle together a museum, a performing arts venue, and a children’s museum in one application, now Longview |
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doesn’t look like a small-town stop, but a bustling city that can support bigger touring shows. So, no more need to travel to Dallas or Shreveport to see something interesting—interesting could be within walking distance. The Belcher Chapel and Performing Arts Center at LeTourneau University is the Papa Bear in local cultural development—they have a line-up of touring artists that is amazing—and including LETU in the district invites more people to discover this venue. Plus, restaurants and retail like to fall in with a vibrant arts scene, and this district could become an economic generator for Mobberly Avenue and Downtown Longview. Who wouldn’t want to see that happen? The cultural arts district designation may not create a tangible difference in how we live, like how the new Longview Arboretum will be touchable and ever-changing, but it will give our local leaders strength when applying for better grants. It gives grit to those non-profit directors that feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities. And who knows, with everyone working together to do something good for the greater good, maybe we’ll see Longview come together, and shine, like we know it can. Arts can be very good for Longview.
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LUMINARY
LUMINARY
Hospitalist Creates Refuge at Home and Abroad
F
By
J o y cel y ne
F adoju t imi
or Deborah Bell, She typically works from 9:00 a.m. Longview Regional until 9:00 p.m. seven straight days Medical Center and off for seven days. She has not (LRMC) is both a limited her ministrations to the local job and a personal area, either. call to help others. She works as In 2000, while working on her a hospitalist and knows who has nurse practitioner postgraduate made this success possible. "I have work at Texas Tech University, she been fortunate in my work to had the opportunity to travel to be mentored by some wonderful Guatemala as a medical missionary. health care providers," she says. The desperate situations of those Upon passing the Family she ministered to there was a lifeNursing Practitioner program changing experience. The absence of Dr. Ben and daughter Samantha Mack on medical she spent 15 years working for even the most basic medical facilities mission in Guatemala Dr. James Sawyer at an internal combined with poverty created a medicine clinic. "Dr. Sawyer is an incredible teacher heart-rending situation that profoundly affected the and mentor," she says. "I have worked with the visiting medical team. hospitalist group at Longview Regional, and had the "We had an, indigenous mother and grandmother opportunity to learn from some great physicians, who walked many miles from the mountain with a tenincluding my husband Dr. Joseph Bell." month-old child who was dying," she says. "He had a Her work with these compassionate, caring, diarrhea illness that left him so dehydrated that when competent healers led to her collaborating with (and he cried there were no tears. As they left, I wondered learning from) such other great mentors as doctors what we had done. We had treated him for a waterAnita Scribner, Tim Tobin, Jeff Kemp, Rick Taylor and borne illness, but they would go home, and the child "other specialists at the hospital who have willingly would drink water from the same source." shared their expertise." Bell returned home and, with another nurse, Her job is both crucially important and demanding. formed a nonprofit organization called Refugee
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Girls In Cayuco
Sarstun Kids
International, (RI) a compassionate 501(c) (3) volunteer organization. This is the 16th year of its humanitarian work in. Guatemala She works tirelessly with Hiway 80 Rescue Mission and organizes 12 annual medical/surgical team visits to Guatemala. For rural areas in Guatemala, what some consider basic necessities to be taken for granted are actually luxuries. Clean drinking water, the most rudimentary health care facilities, and education are lacking. The young in these communities endure difficult childhoods followed by bleak futures. RI offers help to these people, and the opportunity for those of us who are more fortunate to participate. Likewise, birth defects are a major concern of RI. Children born with such disabilities generally live secluded lives as outcasts dependent on loved ones and shunned by the world in general. RI has set up what it calls its Saul Project to cater to the needs of youngsters with deformities. The initiative is named after a young unfortunate named Saul. Born in Cerro Blanco, Guatemala he was afflicted by bilateral club feet, a condition beyond the capabilities of facilities in his native country to treat. Working with Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital in Dallas, Refugee International organized a network to provide passport/visa services, transportation and housing to cover the ten-month period Saul's treatment required. He had his corrective surgery in June 2005. Six months later, he was back in Guatemala, running and playing with friends and family, and wearing his first-ever pair of new shoes. For the first time, he was able to attend school. Selfless donors made it possible. The cost for Saul Project children averages $5000 apiece, covering treatment, travel documentation, airfare, housing, meals, and transportation. Scottish Rite magnanimously donates its medical procedures www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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Deborah Bell
performed on Saul Project children. A bright, normal future results from all this, and for donors the rewards are fulfilling and eternal. For more information on how to participate in the Saul Project please visit https:// refugeinternational.com/our-programs/the-saul-project. It is just one aspect of Refuge International's priceless work. There is more. Malnutrition-caused stunted growth afflicts a horrific 50% of Guatemalan children, the worst rate in all of Latin America. Parasitic worms are another curse to these children and for pregnant women. In the aftermath of Hurricane Stan in 2005, RI in collaboration with USAID, swung into action, distributing more than one million hearty, clean meals to the affected area. Feeding however, is not enough. Low incidences of zinc, folate, iron and vitamins A, B6, B12, C and E and riboflavin both in pregnant women and babies lead to a heartbreaking 3.6 million newborns not surviving the neonatal period every year internationally. In 2006, RI distributed more than one million vitamins to women, children and adults of both sexes and all ages. But that is not all. Soil-transmitted parasitic worms (also known as helminths) cause internal bleeding and overall sickness in those infested. Refuge International's Adios Lombrices (Good-bye Worms) program aims to eliminate this menace. Children with worms in their stomachs and intestines suffer from malnutrition, stunted growth, low energy and weakened immune systems. Since its launching in March 2007, Adios Lombrice has dosed more than four million worm-tormented children aged 2-15 with Albendazole, flushing roundworms, hookworms and whipworms from their systems. Working with Yale University, Refuge International established proper dosages and dosing frequency for afflicted children. Nobel laureates and economists
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LUMINARY
LUMINARY
Volunteers San Ray.
at the Copenhagen Consensus Center have reported this deworming program as both effective and cost-efficient. Donors for this program include Kiwanis International, Rotary International, the Worm Project, Planting Peace, Franconian Missions of the Mennonite Church, and the Guatemala National Ministry of Health. Furthermore, school-based deworming projects are recognized as the most effective. Besides educating pupils on hygiene, teachers pass out deworming medication. Mothers with preschoolers and nonstudent children are encouraged to bring their kiddoes to school for treatment. Albendazole is not expensive. Thirty cents will buy medication for ten children for one year. Those wishing to donate for this medication should visit https://refugeinternational.com/ our-programs/adios-lombrices-goodbye-worms. Still, Refuge International does not limit its services to faraway countries. Equally important, since 2009 RI has collaborated with Leading Edge Medical Associates (LEMA) and the University of Texas at Tyler to assist the Hiway 80 Rescue Mission in its work helping the homeless here in Longview opening a clinic at the mission. Longview-based emergency medicine physician Dr. Brian King started the mission's medical facility. Since then RI volunteers and Good Shepherd Medical Center have provided vitally needed treatment options and laboratory services. Under the direction of RI Board of Directors member Brenda Green, this
partnership has seen great success in addressing the health problems of less-fortunate East Texans. The advantages go beyond mere treatment. As a matter of fact, those who have benefitted from the Hiway 80 Rescue Mission's clinic have demonstrated their gratitude by volunteering to assist with the daily duties the facility requires. By crating and packing food and medical supplies bound for Guatemala, these men provide immeasurable help in insuring the clinic's services remain at the highest possible level. These volunteers also pitch in by helping at RI fundraising events, easing the burden on nurse practitioners and physicians' assistants and enabling them to spend more time with patients. Literate volunteers are needed to help patients with medical forms, prescription applications and day-to-day office and clerical duties. The clinic is open the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month. For more information please visit https:// refugeinternational.com/our-programs/hiway-80-rescuemission. Still, Guatemala has yet more serious problems. Additionally, literacy is a major issue. Only 30% of all Guatemalan children make it through the sixth grade. Girls are especially vulnerable to undereducation because the incidences of very young marriage and childbearing take them away from the classroom. Nonetheless, both boys and girls are frequently forced to leave school in order to help their families earn money, or because their parents cannot afford essential school supplies, transportation and uniforms. In smaller towns postelementary school education is generally unavailable.
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To complete grade school, youngsters must relocate to larger communities. For their families, this is usually financially impossible, but there are positive signs. When RI started funding two teachers in the town of Sarstun, school attendance tripled. There is now a second school built on property donated by RI, which is now cooperating with the Guatemalan Department of Education to bring secondary school via DVD to remote villages. Called the Telesecundaria (televised secondary school) program this will permit children in remote areas to be educated without relocating. In isolated, electricity-lacking Cerro Blanco, RI purchased a generator to enable this resource to function. There are multiple ways one can assist: • Underwrite a teacher's $2500 annual salary. • Provide school supplies and Spanish-language textbooks. • Donate funds to purchase and/or improve school facilities. • Spend $50 for a school desk.
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Mobberly Baptist Church has been a leader in this drive, donating 40 desks. Guatemalan children joyfully carried their desks up into the mountains to their school. Youthful philanthropists are a blessing to this initiative. In 2013, Longview's Connelly Cowen asked for nothing on her 8th birthday. Instead, she delivered more than 1000 pencils and dozens of paper, crayons, pens, spiral notebooks, and plastic school supply boxes. She has since donated toothbrushes, toothpaste, desks and raised money to dig a well. She has not toiled alone. For years, First United Methodist children have collected and delivered backpacks and assorted school supplies for the children in Sarstun. Theirs is a heartwarming example that is easy to follow. Refuge International a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization is dedicated to improving the lives of the less fortunate through the provision of health care, nutrition, clean water and education. RI also offers to train students wishing to assist in humanitarian efforts. For more information visit https:// refugeinternational.com or call 903-234-8660.
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Doris Ramaly:
Visionary Women : Champions of the Community
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Many hats for a busy lady
By
J o y cel y ne
F adoju t imi
National Women's History Month
boost in her career in non-profit work. There was also college training as she spent a year at Kilgore College before moving on to the University of Houston and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Literature. Next came LeTourneau University, where she took her Master’s in Business Administration. It was invaluable preparation. "One very significant part of the master’s program at the time was giving presentations every week in front of my peers," she says. "That has helped me immensely in speaking in front of groups." Ramaly now works as executive director at Family Promise of Longview, where her objective is to help local families reach the goal of housing and stability. She essentially collided with this calling. "I moved to Longview and heard about this wonderful organization," she says. "I had never worked with children and families experiencing homelessness, but my background was in serving through other Doris Ramaly non-profits." She has spent the past 13 years expertly pursuing ora Ramaly is single, but this profession. The children she started out working Melinda Randall she looks upon her many with are now adults, and very grateful to her. For her nieces and nephews almost the fulfillment is both rewarding and total. Still, she as her children. Now she is gives credit to her Creator. great-aunt for another six "God has led my steps, and I have followed. He kiddoes. In addition, she is the caregiver to has opened doors for me in many ways," she says. "I her elderly parents. In their younger days worked with the state of Texas helping women get off her wonderful mother and father served as government services and become self-sufficient." missionaries in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. While still in Houston, she began working with Their hard-working, caring example shows Hispanic children to lower their dropout rate. She also through in her. worked with pregnant women to teach them to prepare "My parents served in many ways: for birth and motherhood. For her, a typical day is teaching, leading a Bible School, hospitality, helping others overcome endless problems. She works running a bookstore, and church planting," her way through a steady stream of family meetings, she says. "I have learned many wonderful staff support, various business tasks, interacting with character traits from them as a result of volunteers and with churches, and endless meetings. their work." "No two days are the same, and that is the way I Their guidance gave her a powerful work best," she says.
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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS The rewards of her toils go further than uplifting the less fortunate. Every time a person becomes homeless, it costs society from $40,000 to $50,000 in local medical expenses and community services. "We spend $3000 to $4000 helping a family become self-sufficient, which means they are not burdening society with the cost of extended homelessness." - Doris Ramaly
She loves seeing the improvements her work makes in the lives of others. For her, seeing them achieve stable self-sufficiency is its own reward.
The only thing about her job that frustrates her is that there are not enough hours in the day to get as much done as she would like. The rewards of her toils go further than uplifting the less fortunate. Every time a person becomes homeless it costs society from $40,000 to $50,000 in local medical expenses and community services. "We spend $3000 to $4000 helping a family become self-sufficient, which means they are not burdening society with the cost of extended homelessness," she says. Starting with her membership at Fellowship Bible Church, Ramaly finds time for a long list of community improvement causes and organizations. She is a member of the Longview Zonta Club, treasurer of the Northeast Texas Homeless Consortium, vicepresident of the Longview Non-Profit Coalition, attends a Spanish Community Bible Study, Cancer Support group and many more.
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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Bourbon and Bowties
Fundraiser garners great success
L By
J o y cel y ne
F adoju t imi
ike it is every year the annual Bourbon and Bowties fundraiser was unforgettable. The 2019 rendition was on February 15 with Britisher Jim Murray, a noted whiskey taster, coming to Longview to help raise funding for the World of Wonders Children’s Museum. His aim was to sample the spirits and decide the best of Texas distillers. As author of The Whiskey Bible, he was in his native element. He loved both the assignment and the city in which it took place. "I like Longview. The people are friendly," he said. "Actually, I have also been enjoying the weather. I went bird watching." At the Friday competition (dubbed the Bourbon Shootout) he tasted eleven Texas-brewed whiskeys. His favorite came from Garrison Distillers. Second place went to Waco's Winston Edwards Distillers.
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Ally Honeycutt from Tatum
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The brewers took many paths leading to their careers. Russel D. Louis from Herman Marshal Distillers in Garland grew up in and around the business as a family tradition. "We love to drink it, and we were making it in the garage for parties, and people were getting boozed up," he said. "So, we took our mix to a competition and won. If you do what you love the money will eventually come." In his case, the competition opened the door by getting his brew noticed by area distributors. Herman Marshal is Dallas County's first producer of hand-crafted small batch whiskey. It is slowly aged in white oak barrels here in Texas. They said it best, “Enjoy the whiskey renaissance with good friends and a dram of Herman Marshall” Another contestant was Kiepersol from Tyler/ Bullard. They brought several liquors, including bourbon.
Preston and Ericka Rader
Gina and Carlos DeHoyos
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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Bourbon and Bowties
Holly Mariano and Russel D. Louis
Danny and Tyler Hudson
Gai Bennett
Dennis-Ranger Creek
Babette and Chuck Tomberlain
Carter Lyon
Houston Farris
Cole And Kendall Tomberlain with Jim Murray
Cole Tomberlain with 1st place winner Don Garrison.
Kirk and Hollie Bruce
Elaine Kauffman and Russ Fischer
Robert-Iron Root
Delcine Johnson
Kelly Moses and Derecko Burton
Dr. Quentin and wife, Julie Woods
Drs. David and Bethany Vaca
Winston Edwards
Drs. Andy and Luke Mack; Kelly Mack, Drs. Andrew Hansen and Spencer Mack.
Laney and Patricia Newman
Laura and Joe Mackay
Matt Took and Alaina Cardenas
Dustin and Kristin Bates
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Rod and Rhonda Bullard
Joel and Caryn Pepper; Laurie Brown and Wayne Nissen
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From Muleshoe, Texas came Blk Eye Vodka, which is fermented from black-eyed peas. Other participants featured such classic Texas names as Yellow Rose and Ironroot Hubris, Devil's River, and Lone Elm, Oak & Eden. Yellow Rose is wellestablished. It is the oldest distillery in Houston. The evening was pure Texana with music, food and good times. "I love it. I love the music," said Ally Honeycutt. "I heard about it and came. I just love everything about it."
Caleb and Stephanie Head; Katy and John Nustad.
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Shelly Smith :
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Visionary Women : Champions of the Community
cherishes most. When asked what she most enjoys about her work her answer is instant and clear--”Helping people through the process of acquiring their home loan.” She loves having long-ago customers stop her in public and thank her for her help. She knows how special a home is and loves helping others have a place to call their own. Still, the passage of years has not always made her work easier. Ongoing federal regulations on residential mortgage has B y Jlending, o y cel y necomplicated F adoju t imi the procedure and increased the workload. “Fifteen years ago, the process was much simpler,” she said. Despite its ever-increasing demands, she recommends her line of work to up-andcoming young businesspeople. Anyone who finds fulfillment in a job that is fast-paced, never has a dull moment, requires constant learning and helps people through some of the most monumental decisions of their lives,
CASA director champions children
National Women's History Month
She prepared for her career at the University of North Texas, where she pulled down her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and a minor in business. She later took her master’s degree in human resource development from the University of Texas at Tyler. Both campuses were comfortably familiar to her. “I chose UNT because I had attended drill team camp there growing up, and it made the transition to college a little easier,” she says. “UT Tyler was just proximity, however I did this as a combo in class and Sharon Copeland online while working full time and with two small boys at home. Challenging to say the least.” then banking the direction take. She hasisspent the past fivetoyears at She non-profit advises ambitious young people look up the management, team building, andto CASA-oriented American Institute of Banking, Bankers training. It is all crucial for suchTexas a critical position and Association, and14 IBAT, whichprobation offer cause. SheICBA also spent years all as aofjuvenile officer Greggand County. on to CASA was courses in with banking real Moving estate lending. a natural nextthe stepnext for someone like her who has spent She also warns generation of bankers, herexpect entire adult life working fortheir and with children. For to not to have it easy in chosen Shelly Smith her, this present position is a God-inspired calling. profession. CASAthat recruits and trainshard, volunteers to make “I found if I worked learned all positive change in foster children’s’ lives mainly I could about my job, did it well, produced by East Texas Alzheimer’s Alliance (ETAA) serves as a non-profit organization serving as their the court system. These Smith up in a quality work, gavevoice myin employer a full day’s committed to assisting East Texans andhelly their families whogrew are afflicted by Alzheimer’s Disease and other strains of dementia. Those impacted bycollar this volunteers are meticulously trained, supervised and no-nonsense, blue work for a full day’s wages, that opportunities condition are encouraged to reach out to ETAA for education, assistance and respite care. The organization’s ultimate objective is to establishAs a facility mentored in order to insure they provide the best household. her offering parents would come my way,” she said. East Texas Alzheimer’s patients respite care that provides stimulating activities, possible advice in court as to approach their golden wedding socialization, comfort and mutual support while allowing their caregivers She is also careful to creditindividual her Lordchildren’s cases. a much-needed break. ETAA is dedicated to assisting 8000 families in this area. For theseJesus unfortunate their advocates are a anniversary, remain a and Savior The first annual Wine Festival to benefit the ETAA is scheduledthey for the 28 April Christ,children, citing Colossians from 12 noon to 7:00pm at strong the new park, The Green located Hwy 31daughter, and Spur 63. and first step in hopeful turnarounds their all young lives, influence on attheir 3:23--Whatever you do, work at itinwith your Tickets for the wine tasting are $15.00. to betterfor futures. Like all those her calling, herareinfluence on those around her is heartleading There six levels of sponsorship: as working the Lord, not for of men. Exclusive Presentingvital. Sponsor--$20,000 | Cabernet Sponsor--$10,000 Shelly worked hard to qualify. She is the executive director of the Merlot--$5000 | Pinot Noir--$2500 | Chardonnay--$1000 | Blush--$500 Her blessings to others go beyond her PurchaseEast your tickets at www.etalzalliance.org “It was hard work to making a Texas Chapter of Court-Appointedcareer. For 45 years she and anddedication Bill Copeland or Heritage Wine and Spirits, 2000 N. Eastman Rd. difference in lives,” she says. “My faith, leadership Special Advocates (CASA,) and the The ETAA board of directors are Nelda Strong, Lacy Barron, Cammie Camp, have been married sweethearts. Their the three Julia Fritz, Stacey Holderstrong, MD; Kristen independent Ishihara, Julie Rucker,person James Sawyer MD; examples I have had, and surrounding myself with Shelly’s Lori Tooker, Wes Wells and Cameron Williams. daughters are Kim, Kari and Tiffany. As a The event will feature upbringing Texas wineries as they showcase their amazing people.” molded hersavory intowines is just what family they bless each other as well as those along with food and entertainment. Still, it is an unpredictable profession. There is no this child-welfare organization requires. around them. “My parents were tough on me, and I typical day, and outright controlled chaos is frequent. “One day I could be the IT professional in the think those challenging times taught me march 2018 | infinitieplus | www.infinitieplus.com | www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine 12 office, the copier repair person, the grant writer, resilience,” she says.
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bill payer, HR manager, fundraising coordinator, public speaker, case manager, board representative, committee coordinator, and the list goes on,” she says. Still, she loves it. Reuniting families to healthy environments, abused children finding wholesome adoptive homes, and the compassionate professionals she leads who make it all possible fill her with joy and fulfillment. “These are the BEST days,” she says. The very nature of her profession also insures there are many heartbreaking moments as she tends to children who
Shelly’s job varies making it somehow interesting. “One day I could be the IT professional in the office, the copier repair person, the grant writer, bill payer, As an officer of the Spring State Bank, Copeland served HRHill manager, fundraising on the Greater Longview United Way board of directors, coordinator, public speaker, executive committee and was volunteer campaign chair 2017. case manager, board She has worked with Juniorrepresentative, Achievement as a committee class facilitator, on the board of directors ofcoordinator Longview Wellness and Pointe, the list2010, goes and along with her bank’s and its officers’ varied community on.”
involvement. This includes collaborating with the-Shelly Longview Smith, Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Longview, Junior League, executive director, CASA Shelly Smith Zonta, Court-Appointed Special Advocates, Rotary Club and Camp Fire. have suffered abuse Spring and neglect. aspect itself defines what Founded in 1977, HillThis State Bank is now one of makes the her job so crucial as child trauma is now the number one risk factor few remaining independent banks. It has retained this status for almost all currentofleading causes of death nationwide. She and through the expertise its local ownership and experienced, the volunteers she oversees toil tirelessly and faithfully to insure the competent management. One of its strong suits is its traditional children they with find loving, safe homes. For Shelly Smith, committment to work customer service. her jobHill is just one bank chapterprovides of her lifelong dedication to improving the Sprint State nearly every kind of quality of life of those around her. customer borrowing, commercial and real estate loans. This volunteers with ZONTA Longview, first through includesShe 30-year mortgage loans. of Since 1978, teaches it has offered fourth graders every Wednesday night at WOCC, works nursery full service banking on Saturdays. It also provides Tele bank,on Sunday rotation, serves internet banking and Billlocal Pay.youth at special events, and will be going to Haiti as a missionary this Through Texas CASA, For the past four decades,summer. Longview and East Spring Hill State she cooperates with the Greater Longview United Way and with Bank have supported each other, resulting in a great deal of other non-profits. gratitude expressed by both the city and the bank. Spring “It’s very important that our organizations work together so we Hill has traditionally encouraged its staff to be active in the can serve the same families in a lot of situations,” she says. community, and it grants many of its loans locally as a means of East Texas CASA works not only with abused and neglected helping Longview expand and prosper. Anyone needing a bank children from this area, but with all those involved with these for any reason would do well to go to Spring Hill. children’s cases. A recent appraisal indicates another 77 volunteers and 2 paid staff members are needed to adequately meet the demands of www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine | www.infinitieplus.com | infinitieplus every child in the three counties served. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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BODY Mind AND Soul
Affairs of the Heart Johnson & Pace bankrolls AHA Go Red for Women Signature Event By
J o y cel y ne F adoju t imi
“Wade and I both like to look at the big picture. There are many others who feel the same as we do. This is apparent if you take a minute and look around our community. We are also blessed to have so many who do give back and are making numerous exciting things happen in our town."
H
eart disease remains the number 1 killer of women in United States. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is a killer that strikes more women than men and is more deadly than all forms of cancer combined. While one in 31 American women dies from breast cancer each year, heart disease is the cause of one out of every three deaths. That’s roughly one death each minute. Hence, Johnson & Pace Inc. stepping up as the Presenting Sponsor with other sponsors is important to note. Stars Over Longview lives up to their name by being like sweet creme--they rise to the top. This campaign of public improvement through dynamic leadership is best seen in Delcine Johnson. Despite caring expertly and lovingly for husband Wade Johnson and their six children, she does a great job as president of Johnson & Pace, Inc. Besides, she has earned recognition as the July 2019 Star Over Longview. Johnson sits on several boards, mentors less-fortunate children, works with the Great Texas Balloon Race, assists with the city's yearly Fourth of July fireworks display, toils as a school athletic booster, works with the PTA, etc. etc. Unsurprisingly, her flawless direction insured that the 2019 American Heart Association's (AHA) Go Red for Women Luncheon in Longview was a great success. Tickets sold out in a hurry. However, Johnson
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BODY Mind AND SOUL
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Suzette Farr
Delcine Johnson
gives the credit to her team, the Circle of Red Women and not herself. Last year, she volunteered for AHA Go Red for Women working with AHA Corporate Market Director Suzette Farr, who chaired the 2018 AHA Go Red for Women luncheon. They also recruited Circle of Red Chair, Roxanne Browning to assist in laying plans for a fruitful 2019. Things immediately started happening. "I don't believe it was an actual, 'I would like to be chair.' It was more of, 'Let's do this,'" said Johnson. Her dedication, qualification and enthusiasm for the event and its preparations were evident and clear. "I would never step into a position if there was anyone [else] that would like to do it, but we all knew the event needed a chair," she said. "We, that is, Suzette Farr, Roxanne Browning and I. So, we set out on this journey together." Momentum built as this competent, industrious trio worked and achieved. |
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-Delcine Johnson
They enlisted additional ladies who took the project equally seriously and enthusiastically. This team loved working together, and positive developments followed. The event was a throbbing multitude of attendees who loved what they saw and heard. Many had never been to a Go Red for Women luncheon, but made it clear they will keep coming in the future. "The information needs to be told every year to as many women as we can reach in our community," says Johnson. "We now have a really high bar to hit for 2020." Her company has always eagerly supported all AHA functions. She looked at this year's chair position as a platform from where she could "put my money where my mouth is." "I knew if I wanted everyone to see how important the event is to me, I had to be in 100%," she says. "Johnson & Pace, Incorporated gives back, not for any recognition, but for our community. Wade and I agreed on that years ago." Johnson & Pace has been in business for 25 years. Apart from its peerless leadership, the company thrives because of its hard-working, dedicated and expert employees. Once again, Johnson credits them for this success. It is important to note, Johnson & Pace employees are community-oriented, very involved volunteering in respective roles that touch their hearts. These include Relay for Life, Legacy Closet, United Way, Boys & Girls Club and Beds of Hope to mention a few. Their community activities gladden Johnson & Pace and, “it makes our hearts soar more than anything,” said Johnson. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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According to Johnson, she never hesitates when it comes to such service, but she makes certain everything she supports and sponsors meets two crucial criteria— "does it impact our community, and does it impact our children?” For her, helping others is almost a religion. "Wade and I make it a priority, and I would like to believe that it trickles down," she says. Sometimes she receives phone calls from those who need help, and she will agree even before knowing the case's particulars. "I know how hard each individual works when they make those phone calls regarding a passion they are connected to," she says. She realizes that, like her, those making these calls are mostly volunteers who find time in their busy schedules to unselfishly help those around them. She understands and appreciates them. "Wade and I both like to look at the big picture, too," she says. "There are many others who feel the same as we do, and that is apparent if you take a minute and look around our community. We are also blessed to have so many who do give back and are making numerous exciting things happen in our town." Anyone wishing to help others needs only to look at Delcine John for a perfect example to follow.
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Kristi Brian
National Women's History Month
Visionary Women : Champions of the Community
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Kristie Brian takes “love thy neighbor,” as yourself very seriously.
Lady cop strives for safe community
B y J o y cel y ne F adoju t imi
F
or Kristie Brian law enforcement was a natural and inevitable career path. It also suits her unselfish, caring nature. "I always thought law enforcement was interesting, and it was a way I could make a difference in the community I live in," she says. Her deep East Texas roots show not only in her desire to make it a better place to live, but in her educational direction. She studied law enforcement at Kilgore Junior College, the University of Texas at Tyler, and the East Texas Police Academy. She came away from her higher education with a degree in Criminal Justice. She is now a shining star in the Longview Police Department. "We strive to serve our community and make Longview the safest place for our citizens to live," she says. "I wanted to be a police officer for many years. I started college, and then got married and had a child. I continued my education, and after getting my bachelor's degree I went to work for Upshur County Probation." After several years in this position, she enrolled in and graduated from the police night academy and was hired by the Longview PD. Rather than concentrate on scaling the ladder of success, Brian concentrates on serving her city's residents so effectively that they notice the difference she and her department make in keeping the peace. "To me success is having the citizens tell you that you do a great job on a daily basis, and that they appreciate what you do for them," she says. Serving as the department's Social
Media Development Officer keeps her hopping. She closely monitors social media accounts and responds to citizens' comments, observations and questions. Maintaining the department's Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts is time-consuming, but also crucial and fulfilling. For her, a computer and telephone are her main instruments of public service, and she handles them expertly. When not preoccupied with social media, she coordinates the women’s safety program, PD tours, and with the other numerous programs the department offers Longview residents. She savors every minute of it. "I love the interaction with the community and the ability to be able to help people out when they need help," she says. "Sometimes just a kind word or small gesture can help someone in need." If there is any aspect of her profession that she does not find appealing it would be how some stereotype police officers as not being concerned with the public well-being.
I love the interaction with the community and the ability to be able to help people out when they need help. Sometimes just a kind word or small gesture can help someone in need."
Law enforcement officers gravitate to this line of work out of a desire to assist others and insure their safety. They are on the job in order to protect citizens and to uphold city, state and national laws. Policemen do not enjoy writing traffic tickets or arresting lawbreakers. Those who are on the receiving end of the enforcement process are there of their own free will. They decided to break the law, and this is their own choice. The police do not invite them to do it. In fact, it is not unusual for lawbreakers to discover the straight and narrow after their encounters with the law. "I see people all the time who tell me how their lives weren't going so well, and it took getting arrested, going to rehab, changing their friends, etc. etc. to make them realize they needed to change their actions." Brian definitely sees police work as a promising, rewarding vocational choice for today's young people. She especially recommends the department's Explorer Program because it clarifies what it takes to be a peace officer. This program makes it easier for young people to decide if this is the career path they want to follow. She is equally clear on how to get started. "Get an education," she says. "This is a top priority, especially if they plan to work at the federal law enforcement level. Get involved with Explorers. That definitely is a way to find out what the next step
will be. Stay in school and stay out of trouble." She makes no secret of the fact that achieving the goal of a successful law enforcement career is demanding. Because of its importance it has to be. Putting in the time and effort to reach this goal, though, is rewarding on many levels. "I have worked hard over the years to maintain a level of professionalism and respect for myself both on and off duty," she says. "Keeping up that level of respect for myself helps me to make smart, informed decisions about my future, both in my personal life and my professional life." Brian does not limit her service to her community to the time she spends wearing a badge. She serves as an instructor for the Longview Teen Court, has been a member of Zonta, campaigned against human trafficking, served on the Gregg County Adult Protective Services Board, the Greater Longview Area Apartment Association Board, was a Longview PD Explorer advisor, and is active in the Blue Santa program. Still, her greatest contribution comes through her full-time job. "The police department is involved in many aspects of our community, and we are always looking for new avenues to help out in our community," she says. Her natural inclinations dovetail perfectly with those of the Longview PD.
Kristi Brian
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INSPIRATIONAL
Fifteen Inspiring Quotes From Women
and the land are one
C o l l e c t e d b y C helse y G rasso
B y J o y cel y ne F adoju t imi
“A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do. A woman must do what he can’t." — Rhonda Hansome
Power is not given to you. You have to take it." — Beyonce Knowles
A woman is like a tea bag — you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water." — Eleanor Roosevelt
It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent." — Madeleine Albright
I can’t think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself." — Emma Stone
Nothing Is Impossible, The Word Itself Says ‘I’m Possible’!" — Audrey Hepburn
I’m not afraid of storms, for I’m learning to sail my ship." — Louisa May Alcott
If you want something said, ask a man; if you w ant something done, ask a woman." — Margaret Thatcher
It is a fact that when you change a girl’s life, you effect her vision of herself and her immediate world and the world that she will have an impact on." — Oprah Winfrey
The question isn’t who’s going to let me; it’s who is going to stop me." — Ayn Rand
One is not born, but rather becomes, a woman.”" — Simone de Beauvoir
Woman must not accept; she must challenge. She must not be awed by that which has been built up around her; she must reverence that woman in her which struggles for expression." — Margaret Sanger
Whatever women do they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult." — Charlotte Whitton
Power to me is the ability to make a change in a positive way." — Victoria Justice
I Never Dreamed About Success. I Worked For It." — Estée Lauder
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Roxanne Browning HEART TO HEART TALK
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R
eal estate and banking are her careers, and she has worked brilliantly in both. In 2012 Roxanne Browning became a Texas realtor after a sparkling 28-year tenure in the banking industry. Her decades in the money market paved her path to the Summers Real Estate Group, and she took off like a bottle rocket. In 2013, her peers in the Longview Area Association of Realtors voted her Rookie of the Year. She has not slowed.
She has served both as chair of the Association's board of directors, as its treasurer, and is currently its vice-chair. She has also sat on the Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC,) and presently chairs TREPAC's committee for 2019. She has accomplished much during her first six years in her latest job. Having lived in Longview since 1970, she considers the city and East Texas her home. Banking and real estate cater perfectly to her born desire to help others. "It's rewarding to have the opportunity to assist my clients with one of the most important decisions they will make as it comes to buying and selling property, to be a part of their story and see their dreams unfold" she says. "The best compliment my clients can give me is [their] repeat business." Browning's love of decorating means she can help in customers in more ways than just buying and selling. She helps them transform their new homes into truly eye-pleasing structures that are a treasured part of their lives. She sincerely loves people, and this fits perfectly with her desire to walk with her clients through the entire transaction process. She savors this hard work. It brings the best results for those she serves. She begins each of her purpose-driven days with prayer, calling upon the Lord to direct her in doing what she loves. "My days are rewarding whether they are smooth or offer challenges as I keep my eyes fixed on Him," she says. The job is important because she plays a central role regarding her clients' housing. Having a place to live is one of the most vital of humanity's basic needs. Because of her obvious skill and her caring, reassuring nature her customers quickly come to www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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trust and depend on her. A quick glimpse at her resume` shows that she does not limit her service to others to her full-time job. While also caring for husband of 36 years Ronnie Browning, and being a major player in the lives of grown children Heather Vineyard and Eric Browning she devotes time and effort to the Circle of Red Chair, Longview Go Red for Women, American Heart Association, and her church. "I enjoy the opportunity to make connections with others that I serve alongside with," she says. Her work with the American Heart Association is a personal labor of love. Her father was only 39 when he died from a heart attack. A heart attack took her brother when he was 55. "Heart disease runs in my family," she says. "I have heartstrings to serve American Heart Association's signature women’s' initiative, Go Red for Women," she says. This movement strives to educate women on heart health globally, although it started as a local initiative. "I trust it will allow others to have a loved one alongside them for a longer period of time," she says. "Raising awareness for heart and stroke disease matters. People matter, and their strokes matter. I'm thankful to be a part."
I enjoy the opportunity to make connections with others that I serve alongside with." – Roxanne Browning
www.iplusmag.com
Roxanne Browning
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infinitieplus
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march 2019
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