infinitieplus magazine September 2020 edition

Living life beyond plus one

infinitieplus September 2020

VOL. 10 NO.9 Longview BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Lexi Thomas, Barry and Charlotte Davis

Committed to the Lobos Tips

for effective remote learning

Longview Walk To End Alzheimer’s 2020

ETBU

receives $1.5 million grant

Making

installment Payment Tips

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Inspirational

What kind of love is this?

B y D r . M i c h a e l G u i do

“Y

ou know how much I love you, Josie – more than anyone or anything in the world!” began his text message. “Can’t wait until I see you this evening.

Will be there if I don’t go to the ball game with Rob. Love, Steve.”

It didn’t take Josie long to erase the message and text her friend Ruth asking if they could get together for dinner. She had trouble understanding that kind of love.

And so does God. We say one

thing to Him and then live a life that is entirely inconsistent with His understanding of love and what He expects us to do if we love Him. “You who love the Lord,” said the Psalmist, “hate evil!” That is a very straight forward, simple statement. It is one of Scriptures If/Then challenges that God puts in our pathway.

Put another way we might ask, “If we don’t hate evil can we truly love God? And, if we hate evil, how will our lives show those around us that we do?

Loving God means that we will do whatever is necessary to

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align ourselves with His plan and purpose for His world. We will work with Him to reach out to those around us with a heart full of His love to show them His grace and mercy. We will be uncomfortable if we know of someone, somewhere who needs something that we have that we can share with them that will bring hope and healing to their lives.

People who lie abandoned in convalescent homes and children who are abused through no fault of their own and individuals who crave a smile know that “we love the Lord.”

They will if we reach out.

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Editor's Note

Business and Finance The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One…

H

Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi

ello Longview Texas and our Global village.

We hope everyone is staying safe while navigating these unprecedented times.

Whoever though COVID-19 will be around in September? Maybe you did.

However, I believe most people thought this will go away soon. But here we are learning how to move on with life while COVID-19 is still ravaging some parts of country and our Lone Star State.

For example, as of this writing, this virus has extinguished the lives of 11,500 Texans and 175,500 Americans. Hopefully one day, it will be a thing of the past and by God’s grace we will see the arrival of that glorious day. Meanwhile, we continue to take all protective measures and march on with our magazine work the best way we can. We know you are doing the same For that reason, we brought you a heart-warming story of Charlotte and her husband Barry Davis who gallantly give their time, talents, and treasures to Longview and especially to Longview High School. They are proud citizens of the Lobo Nation. Please read their story from page 8.

Other stories include, Longview Walk to End Alzheimer’s; Tips for effective remote learning since most families opted for on-line education. In addition, we have tip for working remotely. But wait, there is more.

East Texas Baptist University recently received S1.5M grant from Mabee Foundation. Now, flip the magazine and read how love located a banker.

We are very grateful to all the advertisers who support this work and readers who encourage our endeavors. We look forward to serving you again in October. Thanks for all you do and the Lord’s blessings unto you always.

Photography Joycelyne Fadojutimi Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs Contributing Writers Dr. Michael Guido Mechele Agbayani Mills

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

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

OUR VISION

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

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

The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine is copyrighted 2020. 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.

911 NW Loop 281 211 Suite 24 Longview, Texas 75604 www.iplusmag.com Phone: 903.236.0406

Joycelyne Fadojutimi 4

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Making installment payments tips

Read the fine print. Before you sign up to pay in installments, be sure you understand exactly how the service works

M

B y M e c h e l e Ag b a y a n i M i lls

any online shops are offering pay in installment services buyers. These buynow-pay-later services are new and quickly gaining in popularity. They allow shoppers to purchase just about anything – from electronics to a pair of shoes – by agreeing to pay a series of smaller installments. Of course, as with any financing option, consumers should do a little research before signing up, so they can make informed purchasing decisions and avoid getting in over their heads.

Paying in installments could help you stay within budget. However, before choosing to do so, make sure you do your research to determine if it actually helps your family’s finances long-term.

How Paying in Installments Works As you start the checkout process with an online store, you notice that in addition to the option to pay with a debit or credit card, you can choose to pay for your purchase in a specified number of installments. The opportunity to split up payments is appealing to many shoppers, but especially younger shoppers who do not tend to have and use traditional credit cards.

Most of the time, this option comes from a thirdparty financing company that makes money by charging retailers a small percentage of each sale made through their financing options and by collecting late fees and interest from consumers. Interest rates on pay in installment purchases can range between 0% to 30%, depending on your credit history and the retailer.

Installments can last for as little as a few weeks or as long as 39 months. You will likely need to be approved by the financing company before you can take advantage of an installment payment plan. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

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Pay in Installment Smart Shopping Tips Do not forget you are borrowing money. Even though many installment payment services come with only a few small payments and zero-percent interest, it is critical you keep in mind you are still borrowing money to enjoy a product before you have paid for it in full. Ask yourself if paying the total price means spending more than you can actually afford and make your decision accordingly.

Stick to your budget. Think about how bi-weekly or monthly payments could affect your budget – even if the payments seem small. Will they cut into the funds you have set aside for necessary expenses, such as your rent or groceries?

Read the fine print. Before you sign up to pay in installments, be sure you understand exactly how the service works. Find out what company is financing your purchase, how long you have to pay off the purchase and in how many installments, how they handle late payments, and how much interest you will be charged, if any.

Get to know the financing company. If you do decide to take advantage of an installment payment plan, look up the financing company on BBB.org to make sure they are a reputable company with honest business practices.

Know how your credit could be affected. Keep in mind that unpaid debts can be sent to collections agencies and after a delinquent period of 90 days can be reported to credit bureaus. This could have a negative impact on your credit score.

For more tips on how to be a savvy consumer, go to bbb.org. To report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices, please call BBB at 903-581-5704 or use BBB ScamTracker.

Mechele Agbayani Mills is president and CEO of BBB serving Central East Texas.

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Community Connections

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Cover Story

Cover Story

Charlotte and Barry Davis:

Reliable and Committed to the Lobos “Barry and Charlotte give their time to the Longview Lobo Band, football, and baseball groups. They are the biggest sports fan I know. Charlotte is a loyal friend and has a heart of gold. Longview is lucky to have Charlotte and her husband Barry, Voice of the Lobo Halftime.” - Angela Hanley B y J o y c e l y n e F a doj u t i m i / i p l u sm a g . c om

C

onsidering they are not Longview natives, Barry and Charlotte Davis have certainly come a long stretch in making their adopted home a better place. Their main (out of many) means of furthering the city's image and attraction is their support of the Big Green Marching Machine, also known as the Longview High School (Lobo) Band.

For the past 80 years, this 200-member musical ensemble has practiced military-style marching formations that consistently distinguishes and sets it apart from other bands as they perform flawlessly at athletic events and parades. They also participate in band competitions held in Washington, D.C., Orlando, Florida, Knoxville, Tennessee and Denver, Colorado. Furthermore, individual performers are sent to compete at UIL Solo and Ensemble contests and to audition for the Texas Music Educators Region, Area and State bands.

Barry and Charlotte work with the band's directors and other volunteers to support and mold the group into mature, successful adulthood by

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showing them how commitment, diligence and discipline lead to positive accomplishment not only in musical endeavors, but in any tasks they set for themselves. Of course, this includes those desiring to make music their career. By mastering their chosen instruments, they will be able to work professionally after high school.

Award winning Lobo Band with 70 Consecutive UIL Wins.

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Barry and Charlotte are extremely proud volunteers of the Lobo band. The selfless, industrious, and competent band director, and his volunteers like Barry and Charlotte success is evident. It is no surprise that the Lobo band has won the first division marching UIL contest for the 70th straight year. But wait, that is not all they volunteer for at Longview High School. They love football and baseball too. That means they volunteer practically most of the time.

Recently the Lobo footballers' grid exploits equaled the band's feats as they pulled off a dramatic 35-34 victory in the 2018 6A Division II State Championship. In that dramatic seesaw gridiron masterpiece Lobo quarterback Haynes King picked apart the opposing defense, stretching just sixteen completions into an incredible 423 yards. Barry and Charlotte were there watching and cheering the Lobos to the end zone.

The band’s most ardent supporters, Barry, and Charlotte are a success story themselves. In their thirty-three years together, they have had six children between them, ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

El Paso native Barry's love of music shows forth in his passion for drumming. In earlier years he travelled all over the country, pounding out a steady beat with multiple bands before settling into a newscasting career. For thirty-five years, he announced current events for East Texas stations KFRO and KTBB. East Texas Baptist College alumnus Charlotte also worked for KFRO, in radio sales. Getting there was a long and winding road, though.

equaled the band's feats as they Lobo footballers' grid exploits ry in the 2018 6A Division II State victo 4 35-3 atic dram a off d pulle ship. pion Cham

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Barry Davis: Voice of the Lobo Halftime

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Cover Story

Cover Story

East Texas/Longview Board," she says.

After Barry's daughter Ashley started 7th grade at Judson Middle School, he agreed to voice the Honor America program in 1998. At the same time, he commenced working as "The Voice of the Lobo Half Time" as well as the Honor America Program with the "Big Green Marching Machine."

"We have volunteered and traveled on the buses for out-of-town, playoff and championship games for twenty-one years," Charlotte says. "Students, parents and those who attend the games know Barry's voice well."

The couple takes great pride in the alwaysimpeccable performances of the Big Green Marching Machine and how other bands and crowds are

"With the passing of our daughter Michelle, we are now raising our fifteen-year-old granddaughter, Lexi Love Thomas who is a sophomore at Longview High School. We are very proud to have another Lobo."

impressed into silence by the band's flawless musical executions.

For the past ten years, Charlotte has even found time to serve as the Lobo baseball team's scorekeeper.

Their love for the high school and its students is not only unmistakable, but personal. Two of their children and one grandchild are Lobo alumni. In fact, their granddaughter performed impeccably as a Viewette despite being totally deaf. Theirs, is a family built around altruistic, unconditional love.

"With the passing of our daughter Michelle, we are now raising our fifteen-year-old granddaughter, Lexi Love Thomas who is a sophomore at Longview High School," Charlotte says. "We are very proud to have another Lobo."

– Charlotte Love Davis

"I moved with my parents to San Francisco when I was in high school and worked in missions with Youth for Christ," she says. "I had many ways of witnessing and talking with youth in the city."

The couple-to-be arrived in Longview via separate routes. Barry hit town in 1981 and started his job with KFRO. In 1993, he hired on with KTBB in Tyler, retiring from radio eight years later.

In 1990, Charlotte went to work in marketing at KFRO. Four years later she moved on to NBC 56 as an account executive and took a position with CBS 19 in 2007.

"I am now working at Charlotte Ingram State Farm as her marketing coordinator," she says. "I love working with people and helping improve their businesses through advertising."

This couple's Christian faith has long been their guiding light. Now that Barry is retired and

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Charlotte working only part-time, they are following the Holy Spirit's direction and dedicating more time to the Longview Independent School District.

"Our faith and love for Christ in our family has blessed us," she says.

For more than thirty years, they have been working with Mary Helen Blair and the Longview Thanksgiving Food Drive. Charlotte now chairs this initiative. But that is not all. For thirty-plus years, she has been an ambassador with the Longview Chamber welcoming new businesses at ribbon cuttings and volunteering for various Chamber events. Even more, she has donated her time and efforts to Kids Fest/Alley Fest since 1992, and on the One Hundred Acres of Heritage Board.

"Other organizations I have loved working with are the Centurion Club Board, Partners in Prevention Media Board, and the Miracle League of

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Charlotte Love Davis

Lexi Love Thomas

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Cover Story

Cover Story Those who know Charlotte and Barry are excited and had a few words for infinitieplus magazine.

"We have volunteered and traveled on the buses for out-oftown, playoff and championship games for twenty-one years.

Students, parents and those who attend the games know Barry's voice well."

Linda Voyles: Suzanne Cook and Company

Charlotte and I met 30 years ago. We were both Ambassadors (Blue Blazers) with Longview Chamber of Commerce and she knew my Son Dale through media. We became instant friends and have remained so through thick and thin – to this day. She has raised several of her grandchildren. One was deaf and Charlotte never allowed the pity party. And, because of that her granddaughter excelled in school and in the Longview High School Lobo Band. Charlotte has always been an over-achiever both at work and in her community and private life. Barry has been the sound (announcer) for the Lobo band for over 29 years-taking them to every game. He has also been the announcer at many semi pro baseball games. Charlotte was always there to support and help him.

This is just a small part of what I have always been amazed about Charlotte. Furthermore, let us not forget, she has been volunteering with the Thanksgiving food drive for more years than anyone that I know of and has chaired local yearly event to honor and recognize our police department. Charlotte is the best!

– Charlotte Love Davis

Angela Hanley: Fox 51

Charlotte has given back so much to our community by volunteering her time to help feed our community with the Thanksgiving Food Drive. She also volunteers for the Longview Chamber of Commerce in welcoming new businesses for many, many years. She gives her time to the Longview Lobo Band, football, and baseball groups. She is the biggest sports fan I know. She is a loyal friend and has a heart of gold. Longview is lucky to have Charlotte and her husband Barry.

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PROUD CITIZENS OF THE LOBOS NATION: Lexi Love Thomas with grandparents Barry and Charlotte Davis.

Melissa Gonzalez: Pine Tree ISD Foundation

I was fortunate to volunteer with Charlotte when she was an Ambassador for the Longview Chamber of Commerce and a volunteer for Alley Fest. Charlotte has a passion for Longview. She enjoyed welcoming new members to the Chamber and offer her support. She was also an advocate for the downtown Longview festivals.

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Amy Canton: Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry

Charlotte is one of the hardest working ladies I have had the pleasure of working with. She treats everything she does as the most important thing and each person as the most important person. Every time she says she will do something, she does it with enthusiasm and precision. I am proud to count her as a friend.

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Body Mind and Soul

Body Mind and Soul

IT IS STILL ON Longview Walk To End Alzheimer’s 2020 The Longview Walk to End Alzheimer’s event for October 31 will take place as scheduled this year but will look different due to concerns about the COVID-19 virus.

P

ast walks have always been a gathering of a large group of participants who then traverse a set course. Due to COVID concerns, that’s not possible in 2020.

Wendy Vizek, vice president, constituent events at the Alzheimer’s Association, says this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be everywhere. “The pandemic is changing how we walk, but it doesn’t change the need to walk. This year, more than ever, we need to come together to support all those affected

by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. With the dollars raised, the Alzheimer’s Association can continue to provide care and support to families during these difficult times while also advancing critical research toward methods of treatment and prevention.”

This year’s Walk participants can walk almost anywhere - in their neighborhoods, on walking trails, wherever they can keep safe social distancing and always wear a mask.

Participants ranging from families to teams

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September 2020

to individuals will all be able to connect through a new Walk phone app. This mobile app will let users not only access information and resources from the Association, but also participate in the Walk opening ceremony as well as follow a virtual walk path, track steps and distance, and manage Facebook fundraisers.

The new app can be downloaded now, with new features to be updated to it by early August. You can get links to Apple or Google downloads here: act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=walk_app Because the 2020 Walk is tied together online,

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participants will see the opening ceremony with local speakers and emcees, as well as the Promise Flowers presentation.

Also in the mix is the Promise Garden, where participants in the past have written a loved one or friend’s name on a flower and set it into a mass of flowers left by other walkers. This year, the Garden will be set up by Alzheimer’s Association staff and volunteers and will be available in a view-only component.

To sign up, visit act.alz.org/walk or call the 24/7 helpline, 800-272-3900.

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Covid-19 Education

Covid-19 Education

Tips for effective remote learning

A

n increased reliance on virtual home instruction has many students rethinking their organizational strategies and daily school schedules. Learning at home is different from being in a traditional classroom environment, but with some effective strategies, students can persevere without missing a beat.

development. Children feel secure with schedules, which may help them recognize what’s expected of them. When learning at home, students should strive to maintain as consistent a schedule as possible, including bedtimes, wake times, hours devoted to learning, and time to get outside or engage in downtime activities.

Stick to a schedule

Connect live if possible

Many students are successful because they follow a schedule. The Center for Social and Emotional Foundations of Early Learning says that routines and schedules are important because they influence a child’s emotional and cognitive

There are many free tools and resources available that enable teachers to provide live video lessons or to record them so students can watch them later. Similarly, social networking apps and virtual meeting programs enable students

to connect digitally. This can be helpful for collaborative learning assignments or just to see a familiar face.

Stick to tools that work

What matters most!

Once students find apps or systems that work, they should stick with them, offers Khan Academy, an educational tutoring resource. There are many factors outside of one’s control during virtual instruction, but maintaining consistency with tools and schedules is one way to feel more confident and secure.

Thank you, First Responders, for providing for the safety, health, well-being, and care of the people in our lives.

You are our community. We are your community bank.

Always Texas Strong.

Check student accounts frequently

Just like students, teachers may be learning as they go in regard to remote learning strategies. Students should be sure to check school email accounts or other places where teachers post assignments a few times per day so that they stay on top of all assignments and are aware of due dates.

Reach out to instructors

Allegheny College suggests students contact their teachers if they are unsure of how to participate in remote learning environments. Ask questions about assignments, get clarification on key topics and be sure to tune into any remote chats or virtual office hours.

Stay in touch with guidance, if needed

Remote learning is a new experience for many students, and there may be certain struggles or road blocks. It can be easy to grow frustrated with equipment failures or lack of in-person interaction.

Schools employ qualified therapists and guidance counselors who are just a click, call or email away if issues need to be talked through. Students should utilize all resources made available to them. Virtual home instruction can be made even easier with some extra assistance and guidance.

MEMBER FDIC TBT IPM First Responders.indd 1

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September 2020

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Business and Finance

Business and Finance

Working remotely:

more conducive to getting work done, and the following are some home office must-haves that can help people be more productive while working from home.

Home office must-haves 903.291.0020 1408 Lago Trail Longview heartis.com

Assisted Living and Memory Care Community

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R

emote work has been around for many years, though it certainly picked up steam in 2020. In an effort to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19, in March 2020 government officials implemented stay-athome measures that mandated many working professionals to begin working from home. That transition occurred seemingly overnight, forcing men and women to find somewhere in their homes to work.

As the dust settled and working professionals grew accustomed to working from home, many recognized the need to have an office in their homes. Various factors can make home offices

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Lighting is important in a home office.

It’s easy to overlook natural light, especially for workers who previously worked in offices that did not have windows. But natural light can help save on energy costs and boost mood. In fact, natural light is a valued commodity for people used to working in office settings. A 2018 survey of more than 1,600 workers conducted by the human resources advisory firm Future Workplace found that access to natural light and views of the outdoors were the most sought- after attribute of a workplace environment. In addition, 47 percent of workers surveyed admitted they felt tired or very tired from the absence of natural light or a window at their office.

When designing their home offices, homeowners should keep this in mind and choose areas of their homes that get ample natural light during a typical workday.

Additional lighting also will be necessary. Recessed lighting can give an office a sleek look, and lights that can dim can allow workers to adjust their lighting based on how much they need at any given point in the workday.

Professionals forced to work at home when social distancing measures were implemented may not have had much quiet, especially for those with young children whose schools were closed. But when designing a home office, homeowners have the chance to make their offices more conducive to concentration.

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Soundproofing walls may not be necessary, but look for areas of the home that don’t get much foot traffic.

Kitchens are very popular rooms in many homes, so try to locate your home office away from the kitchen.

A spare bedroom upstairs may make for the most ideal home office setting if the home does not have a traditional den. Spare bedrooms come with doors, which can instantly create a sense of quiet when closed.

A converted garage also can make for a useful home office, but make sure the room already has cooling and heating and, ideally, windows.

Recently built homes tend to be equipped with enough outlets to accommodate our increasingly connected lifestyles. But older homes may need some electrical updates before they can capably accommodate home offices. When updating your electrical, replace existing outlets and fixtures with energy-efficient LED fixtures, which save money and benefit the environment. Before updating the electrical, decide on how you want the office to be laid out so you can have outlets installed where your computer, devices and other items, like a printer and television, will be. This makes it easy to hide cords and give the office a clean, professional look.

Home office capabilities became a big priority in 2020. Designing such spaces can be fun and easy. by the human resources advisory firm Future Workplace found that access to natural light and views of the outdoors were the most sought after attribute of a workplace environment. In addition, 47 percent of workers surveyed admitted they felt tired or very tired from the absence of natural light or a window at their office. When designing their home offices, homeowners should keep this in mind and choose areas of their homes that get ample natural light during a typical workday. Additional lighting also will be necessary.

Recessed lighting can give an office a sleek look, and lights that can dim can allow workers to adjust their lighting based on how much they need at any given point in the workday.

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Education

Education

ETBU receives $1.5 million grant from Mabee Foundation

a

s East Texas Baptist University seeks to expand academic capabilities, enhance program offerings, and further spread the Gospel across East Texas and throughout the world, the J.E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation recently awarded ETBU a challenge grant in the amount of $1,500,000 towards the construction of the Great Commission Center (GCC), the future home for ETBU's Fred Hale School of Business. In order to receive the challenge grant funds from the Mabee Foundation, the University will need to raise a total of $6,000,000 for the project by July 2021.

"We rejoice in the provision of God's grace and gifting, and we give thanks to the Lord for the great things He has done for our University," ETBU President J. Blair Blackburn said. "God has laid a vision on our hearts to transform more ETBU students and graduates into devoted Christian servant leaders and outstanding ethical business leaders. I am excited to witness how the Great Commission Center will provide a place for our faculty and staff to teach and equip ETBU business students with the tools to live out the Great Commission in their future vocations."

Inspired by Baker Library at Harvard University, which also houses the Harvard Business School, this new building will become the focal symbol for quality Christian education, servant leadership development, and excellence in business leadership and ethics throughout the East Texas region and the Southern United States.

ETBC Alumnus, Dr. Jim Teague ('68) gave the initial lead gift to set this vision in action. Dr. Teague was the recipient of an Honorary Doctoral Degree in Humanities for his service to God and humanity at ETBU's Spring 2018 Commencement ceremony.

“We are thrilled to receive the $1,500,000 challenge grant from the J.E. and L. E. Mabee Foundation to support the $7,500,000 Great Commission Center

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Building Campaign," ETBU Vice President for Advancement Scott Bryant said. “The Mabee Foundation leaders are thrilled with the project and impressed that we already raised $3,000,000 for the campaign. The Mabee Foundation challenge grant gives us 12 months to raise an additional $3,000,000. If we raise the additional $3,000,000, then the Mabee Foundation will grant us $1,500,000 to complete the project. I am asking for ETBU alumni and donors to prayerfully consider partnering with us on this important project. Together, www.iplusmag.com

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we can make a great impact as we provide a new facility that prepares students to be Christian servant leaders."

Called the Great Commission Center, the building will be the physical manifestation of ETBU's core mission of developing Christian servant leaders. The facility will house the University's Great Commission Center—an institution-wide program initiative which connects students, faculty, and staff with our local communities in East Texas, cities across the United States, and cultures across the globe in fulfillment of the Great Commission www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

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call in Scripture (Matthew 28:19-20).

"The Great Commission Center at ETBU will be a brick-and-mortar representation of our understanding of the Great Commission's depth and breadth: to make disciples," Director of Global Education and the Great Commission Center Lisa Seeley said. "The ministry there will reach into the world for Christ through those ETBU teaches and influences. One of the things I am most looking forward to with the new Great Commission Center is to have a central location for students, faculty, staff, and campus guests to come to find information, training, and encouragement as they seek to fulfill the Great Commission in their daily lives. To be able to focus our work on instilling these teachings, literally making disciples on our campus and in our community, is a life-changing ministry."

The 23,500 square foot facility will also be home to one of ETBU's largest academic programs, the Fred Hale School of Business. Located in the central quadrant of academic life, the Great Commission Center will grant the Hale School of Business the prominence as a premier program of study. A modern 21st-century learning center with historic architectural and educational identity will advance the Hale Business School's awareness, relevance, and reputation as a leading Christ-centered business school for undergraduate and graduate studies.

"The marriage of the Business School with the Great Commission Center is not just a convenient way to house two departments," Dr. Seeley added. "It is a recognition of the call of every Christian to make disciples as they go into the world with their God-given vocation, whether that be as an executive, entrepreneur, financial planner, teacher, nurse, physical therapist, coach or minister."

Since its formation in 1948, the Mabee Foundation has made grants totaling over $1.2 billion for nonprofit, 501©(3) organizations in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas.

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September 2020

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Congratulations Congratulations toto the the 2018 2018 Stars Stars Over Over Longview Longview

SIMPLE BARE N E C E S S I T I E S

Shalonda Adams Adams Shalonda

Lori Holyfield Ball Lori Holyfield Ball Crista Black

Crista Black

Sharon W e p rBradley ovide hygie n e n ecessities to Sharon Bradley yMary o u t hCollier in ou r commu nity to e nsu re dignity th rough self-care.

Mary Collier Carmela Davis

WHAT WE DO OUR WHY Gerrie Forbis Carmela Davis

Carol Manley Gerrie Forbis We provide 74% of children essential at LISD are Dawn Martin hygiene items Carol Manley economically toPamela elementary Mercer-McWilliams disadvantaged in school Dawn Martin our community. children.Mary Morris

Pamela Mercer-McWilliams Julie Woods

HOW WE DO IT

WHO DOES IT

SBN will create a care package of items to be delivered to the LISD Elementary schools for distribution.

The school district counselors coordinate distribution of the care packages.

IMPLEBARENECESSITIES.ORG Mary SMorris

Celebrating 18 Years Julie Woods

YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Thursday, January 11, 2018

H O WJackie YO U Joyner-Kersey N HELP Celebrating 18C AYears Speaker:

+ M ADoors K E AOpen M OatN11:30 E TA R Y D O N AT I O N a.m. + M A K Eand A Luncheon P R O D U begin C T DatOnoon N AT I O N Ceremony + BECOME A SPONSOR Maude Cobb Activity Center 100 Grand Blvd. • Longview

Thursday, January 11, 2018

Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey

D O N AT I O N W I S H L I S T

Get personal with GE Café Kitchen Appliances Distinct by Design

We are known for Stone, but we do much more!

Complimentary valet parking will be available.

Doors Open at 11:30 a.m.

+ DEODORANT Ceremony begin at noon Information + S OTicket A Pand Luncheon Center Individual • $240 for Table of 8 + SMaude H ATickets MCobb P O$30.00 OActivity Tickets beHavailable purchase beginning + T100 Owill OGrand T P Blvd.

A S T for E• Longview November 1, 2017.

To purchase, + T O O T H B R U S Hcall Longview Regional Complimentary valet parking will be at available.

Medical Center’s Marketing Department 903-553-7400.

Ticket Information MO N E TA RY D O N AT I O N

DROPOFF LOCATION L O C AT I O N : H U D S O N P E P

CONTACT US

SIMPLEBARENECESSITIESTX@GMAIL.COM

Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey

Olympian & Greatest Female Athlete Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8 Century P L E A S E M A I L C H E C K S P AYA B L E T O // S I M P L E B A R E N E CofE the S S20th ITIE S Tickets will be available for purchase beginning A D D R E S S // 5 T H O R N T R E E , L O N G V I E W, T X 7 5 6 0 1 November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional Forladditional information on this event visit LongviewRegional.com. s i m pMarketing e b a r e n Department e c e s s i t i e s at i s 903-553-7400. a r e g September i s t e r e d 5 0 1 ( c ) 3 n o n p r o f i t o r g a n i z at i o n .

2020 Medical Center’s 10 www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding

Congratulations to the 2018 Stars Over Longview

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

Wedding flowers becoming larger

M

than life

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

Floral chandeliers Derecko Burton and Kelley Moses (CASA.) Ms. Moses is using her leadership skills serving Longview.

"I just graduated from the Leadership Longview Class of 2020. I'm also a stewardess at my church," she says. "Giving back to my community is something I love doing."

Correspondingly, her civic service is just one of her loves. The new man in her life is her present, loving fixation. Her limitless capacity for love shows through in her passion for her fiancé.

"Derecko came into my life when I wasn't at my best emotionally, and he gave me hope again," she says. "Not only did he bring happiness into my life, but my son's as well."

Just by being there for her, this new romantic interest constantly reminds her how right she was to never give up hope on love. She is engaged to her best friend, and their love for each other is total and unconditional. They are

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also very much alike.

"Derecko is a very caring and giving man," she says. "He takes great care of anyone he loves."

Their shared devotion to the Holy Spirit cannot be missed as they pray together and are ideal Christian leaders to their soonto-be-blended family with four kiddoes.

Their wedding is scheduled for January, but because of the persistent COVID-19 pandemic it may have to be a small affair.

Although the epidemic just will not seem to go away, there is no way to foresee what developments may take place between now and January. Kelley's and Derecko's love, though, is here to stay, and they do not think it is a one-time thing.

"One thing I can say is for those who think they will never find love again, it is possible," she says. "Everything is in God's timing. Blessings come with patience."

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

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

Welcome wreaths

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

Fairy-tale flowers

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

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

Dance floor blooms

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

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

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"Derecko came into my life and gave me hope again. He is everything I had prayed for. We dated for almost two years before he proposed on Christmas of 2019." – Kelley Moses

Derecko Burton and Kelley Moses

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www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

This philosophy served Kelley well as she pulled down a Bachelor of Science in network and communication management from DeVry University. She is currently in her fourteenth year working for Southside State Bank.

Her current title is assistant vicepresident, branch manager. She began her banking career in 2004 at Regions Bank.

"Although this is not what I had a degree in, it became my passion, and I've enjoyed it ever since," she says. "I have great customers."

Her initial job was as a float teller. She was soon floating into new accounts and the safety deposit box area. Kelley quickly realized banking is the perfect career for her and she has never looked back. She plans to retire as a banker. She acutely learned everything about her new calling as quickly as possible. After getting hired at First Bank and Trust East Texas in 2007, she worked herself up to supervisor. In 2017, Southside Bank acquired First Bank, and she has been branch manager since.

For her, a typical day is providing her customers with a broad spectrum of banking services. She handles transactions

in their checking and savings accounts, Certificates of Deposits, IRAs, safety deposit boxes, and consumer loans. The inevitable trials and challenges she faces just bounce off this faithful child of God as she falls back on her faith.

"The Serenity Prayer is my favorite," she says. "Sometimes I just take moments throughout the day and say, 'Lord, I thank you!'"

Her job has given her an avenue to community involvement, and she takes it very seriously. She and her fellow managers teach financial literacy classes at local schools. She realizes this is a promising way to ensure today's youth will have financially secure, philanthropic, and joyful lives. But that is not all. Her selfless service does not stop here, either. She is very involved in the community.

As a matter of fact, along with other Southside employees, Kelley volunteers for the Longview Rodeo and the Great Texas Balloon Race. There is more. She serves on the review board for the Gregg County Appraisal District, Advisory Board for the Salvation Army, and is an advocate for Court-Appointed Special Advocates

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

7

Kelley Moses: Love finds local banker

B y J o y c e l y n e F a doj u t i m i

K

elley Moses knows the pain of loss. After her husband of ten years died, she embarked on widowhood bravely, but never lost hope of finding love again. It found her when she met Magnolia, Arkansas native Derecko Burton.

"Derecko came into my life and gave me hope again," she says. "He is everything I had prayed for. We dated for almost two years before he proposed - Christmas of 2019."

Kelley’s parents have been married for forty-six years and remain a major fixture in her life. Kelley has one sister, Sharla Stansell.

They come from a very tight knit family. For this reason, they call each other including their parents almost every day. Their loving and doting parents gave them righteous nuggets of wisdom for their journey on this side of the planet. For example, they taught the sisters not to bend with contrary winds and subtle societal pressures rather to stand steadfast and stable with Godly convictions.

By the same token, they must continuously strive to be virtuous leaders and constructive

4

influencers on those around them especially with the winds of change.

Additionally, family love is imperative for Kelley’s family. To this end, they have a tradition of getting together every quarter.

According to Kelley, this gives them “a chance to catch up and not let months or years go by before we see on another.”

It is important to note, faith in Jesus Christ is foundational and paramount in Kelley’s family of origin. Hence, their Christian faith is key.

"We are a praying family. We were taught that the Lord God love us. We can do all things through Christ who supports us,” says Kelley. “We therefore learned not to say, or act, ‘Woe is me.’ Rather, we believe in our Lord God and have great confidence in what He, the Lord of all the heavens and earth can do through us. It is in knowing this, that we rejoice in even in the face of life’s disappoints and hardships.

So, through it all, we strive to remain cheerful. And, sometimes, it is okay to be your own cheerleader!”

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

Kelley Moses and De attend Longview Se recko Burton squicentennial Ball ip file photo

Derecko Burton and Kelley Moses

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

5

Factors that can affect the length of your engagement

E

ach year, millions of couples around the world tie the knot. But before couples walk down the aisle, the proposal to get married must take place.

There is no perfect answer, and engagement length typically depends on personal preference and the needs of the couple.

A number of factors affect the length of a couple’s engagement, and couples should not feel as if they need to hurry down the aisle. For example, couples who will be financing their own weddings may need a longer engagement than those whose parents will be chipping in. Others may prefer a shorter engagement if they are financially stable and prepared to tie the knot.

Couples in their late 30s may feel the tug of a biological clock and want to ensure there is ample time to get married and have children. A shorter engagement can facilitate that.

Five great reasons to take engagement photos 1.

Engagement photo shoots give couples a chance to connect with their photographers. Spending time with the photographer gives the couple an opportunity to develop a rapport with their photographer. If couples and their photographer don’t click, it gives couples a chance to find someone else to take their photos.

Some couples may have little choice in the matter, as the length of their engagements may be dictated by the availability of their favorite venues.

Military deployment, work commitments, medical issues, or travel responsibilities also may affect the length of an engagement.

Couples generally are advised to stick with what feels right to them regarding the length of their engagements

2.

3.

An engagement photo shoot gives couples time to spend together. An engagement photo shoot is an ideal time to spend an afternoon in a special location focusing on each other without wedding planning An engagement shoot also can be a great time for couples to speak with their photographers about angles or styles they prefer or dislike.

4.

5.

The bride and groom have save-the-date or social media photos. Engagement photographs can be used for save-the-date cards or social media postings (check with the photographer for licensing agreements).

Engagement photography gives couples plenty of opportunities to experiment with different locales, which may not be possible come the wedding day.

JEWELRY

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

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2019

www.facebook.com/ForeverAfterWedding September 2020

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September 2020

Kelley Moses, my Love, would you marry me Derecko Burton?

Factors that can Affect long Engagements Wedding flowers f lowers Becoming larger larger Than life

Reasons for Engagement Photo album

you're engaged!

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