2021 INNOVATORS BEHIND SHELBY COUNTY COMMERCE Spring Edition
Family Focus Remains Strong at Bounds Insurance Agency INSIDE THIS EDITION
SOUTHWESTERN ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY TAMMY STEPTOE REALTY THE FAMILY CRISIS CENTER OF EAST TEXAS MATHEWS REALTY
KING’S NURSERY H&S DISCOUNT FOODS
Scott Foster Broker 936-591-2339
Jane Blount Agent 214-250-4119
See all listings at www.MathewsRealty.com
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Contents THE BUSINESS OF DOING BUSINESS INNOVATORS BEHIND SHELBY COUNTY COMMERCE
2021 Spring Edition
PUBLISHER Leon Aldridge EDITORIAL Terri Lacher Mike Elswick ADVERTISING SALES Ginia Hooper Stephanie Elswick AD DESIGN Joni Guess Ginia Hooper Claudia Perez PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Elswick Terri Lacher *Otherwise noted
4 Bounds Insurance 12 Tammy Steptoe Realty 20 Mathews Realty 26 King’s Nursery 33 Shop Local
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THE BUSINESS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
8 Southwestern Electric Power Company 16 Family Crisis Center of East Texas THE BUSINESS OF DOING BUSINESS DURING THE PANDEMIC
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H&S Discount Foods
Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner without permission is prohibited.
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Business Matters is a publication of the
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lightandchampion.com 137 San Augustine Street Center, Texas 75935 Phone: (936) 598-3377
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THE BUSINESS OF DOING BUSINESS
Bounds Insurance works with more than 70 public entity clients in the state
Family focus remains strong at Bounds Insurance 4
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
Walter “Buster “ Bounds and his daughter, Alison Bounds Scull
Family Roots Span Three Centuries in Shelby County STORY AND PHOTOS BY MIKE ELSWICK
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trong family ties have been the focal point of Bounds Insurance since its founding in 1965 by Morris Bounds. Morris was the father of current owner, Walter “Buster” Bounds, and grandfather of the third generation now involved in the business, Alison Bounds Scull. But the family’s roots in Shelby County cover three centuries, from the mid-1850s, with the establishment of a family homestead between Shelbyville and Neuville and a grandfather who was born there in 1874. Today the agency is operated by Buster, with Alison joining the business about six years ago. Morris Bounds entered the insurance
business while working as service manager for the former Lundsford Buick dealership when General Motors offered dealerships incentives to expand their business beyond the sales and service of automobiles. Morris got sick and passed away a couple of years later when his wife, Johyne, took over the insurance business, Buster said. “She was a nurse and just did it out of courtesy, kindness and love for my father,” he said. “She doubled or tripled the agency in the process.” While the insurance business may have been new for Johyne, Alison said her grandmother gave it her all. “She was a real go-getter,” Alison said. The agency flourished under Johyne’s leadership, but she eventually reached a point she was ready to slow down. In the intervening years, the couple’s son, Buster, had earned his bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry from Stephen F. Austin State University. In the summer of 1967, he ended up on a summer job on a pipeline in Iowa when an ad in the Des Moines Register seeking a chemistry teacher for a school district in Illinois caught his eye. “I was teaching chemistry at Ottawa Township High School (Ill.),” he said. That was where he both met his future wife, Carolyn, and where he received a phone call from his mother back in Center in 1971. “She said I’ve gone as far as I can go, I’m not doing this anymore,” Buster recalled his mother’s statement. She offered to sell the insurance business to Buster and his two older sisters, if they were interested. They were, and the family’s link to serving others in the insurance business for decades to come was set in motion. “Carolyn agreed and we came home and started in partnership with my sisters,” he said. He eventually bought out his sisters’ interest in the business as it continued to thrive. Over the years, as other local insurance agencies became available for acquisition, Buster saw opportunity and took them on. As the business continued to grow, Buster moved the agency from Wheeler Street to its current location on the downtown Center square at the intersection of Nacogdoches and Austin streets in 1980.
AT A GLANCE WHAT: Bounds Insurance Agency, offering a variety of insurance and risk management services to clients locally and across Texas WHO: Owned by Walter “Buster” Bounds; assisted by Alison Bounds Scull, Zettie Dean and Carolyn Lamb WHERE: One West Austin Street, Center, Texas 75935 WHEN: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., and 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. PHONE: (936) 598-2421 FYI: The Bounds family has Shelby County roots dating back to the mid-1800s
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Walter “Buster” Bounds and his daughter Alison Bounds Scull are now operating Bounds Insurance.
Carolyn Bounds, Alison Bounds, Laura Bounds, Buster Bounds
Buster took on work in the risk management end of the business, other areas of specialization and in the workers’ compensation arena. He shifted his role in the business world to become a risk manager for the city, the local school district, and other entities on a fee-for-service basis. That allowed him to see addressing risk from the client’s point of view. Following in her mother’s footsteps seeking a career as an educator, Alison headed to Baylor University upon graduating from Center High School. She had no intention of working in the family business. Armed with her degree in elementary education, Alison took a job with schools in the Highland Park area of Dallas before eventually returning to teach in Center ISD. She took a few years off from teaching to take on the role of fulltime mother for the children she and husband, Terry Scull, had. The couple who were high school sweethearts, met again after graduating college and starting careers. They married in the summer of 1997. Alison had taught in Center the previous year and Terry was working for the Tom Hicks organization as an IT manager.
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They returned to Shelby County to pave the way for Terry joining his family’s business, Scull Timber in 2000. “We both felt this is a good place to raise a family,” Alison said. These days, a big part of Alison’s time with the firm is spent on the workers’ comp end of the business which was started more than 30 years ago by her father. “We work with agents all across Texas for government entities like schools, cities, water districts, counties, appraisal districts and colleges,” she said. While Bounds Insurance is based in Center and East Texas, the firm works with about 25 Texas agents spread across the state to address the workers’ comp needs of clients. Bounds Insurance works with more than 70 public entity clients in the state. As she continues to learn the business, Alison said she and the staff remain grounded locally with the firm’s roots and a family focus. “The most rewarding aspect for me is being able to work with my dad,” she said. Alison said lessons she has learned from her parents about giving back are instilled with her and the business institution. “It’s hard to escape the relationship with the community,” Buster said. “If you
are going to live in Center, you’re going to be part of a church and be part of the chamber. It’s just unbelievable how deeply you can get involved.” On a broader scale, he has been involved in numerous professional organizations at the state level and served on the Texas Dental Board for several years. Alison said the role models set by her parents continue to serve the business and her in positive ways. “I don’t know any other way, my parents were always involved,” she said. About six years ago Buster started thinking about selling the insurance business to focus attention on his passion for photography and videography, Alison said. “Dad was thinking about selling and I shifted gears and climbed on board,” she said. While being an educator is a lot different from entering the world of business in the insurance agency, Alison said there are some strong similarities which she and her father have in common. “We both share the love of helping people,” she said. Alison said she feels fortunate to be the third generation to continue the Bounds legacy in the business.
“The most rewarding aspect for me is being able to work with my dad.” -Alison Scull
August 15 this year will represent Buster’s 50th anniversary with Bounds Insurance, while the business itself celebrated 50 years of service in 2016. One of the key elements to the firm’s success and growth over the decades has been longtime and dedicated staffers, Zettie Dean and Carolyn Lamb. “We could not do it without them,” Buster said. Zettie has been with the firm 45 years, starting when she was 16 and was the reigning Texas State High School Typewriting Champion. Carolyn started with the agency in 1996 after Bounds acquired her agency, Ramsey Insurance Agency. She has more than 50 years insurance experience. Each person has their own area of expertise and they work well together as a team, Alison said. While many areas of the insurance business have grown and become more impersonal with the internet, computers, and telecommunications, she feels the personal touch still has a strong role to play. Hopefully, that will be the case well into the future, Alison said. As the firm’s transition continues from one generation to another, she anticipates no big changes as the same high level of personalized customer service remains at the forefront at Bounds Insurance. “It’s that touch of familiar service with someone who cares that I feel strongly must remain,” she said. Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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THE BUSINESS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
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Providing power to the ARK-LA-TEX with pride and reliability STORY COMPILED BY TERRI LACHER | PHOTOS BY SWEPCO Special thanks to Karen Wissing and Peter Main at SWEPCO
Southwestern Electric Power Company
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e know them as SWEPCO, and many in the East Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana area have come to rely on them for power. Serving more than a half million customers, they take their responsibilities to bring “reliable, increasingly clean energy” seriously, passing on renewable energy, energy efficiency education, and new technology to their customers. “Folks may not realize that at one time, our business included ice, streetcars, water and gas. That’s part of our rich history spanning more than a century of service,” SWEPCO officials pointed out. Originally owned by three brothers in 1912, Rufus, Henry, and Charles Dawes, SWEPCO came about with the merger of three companies, Shreveport Gas, Electric Light and Power Company, Caddo Gas and Oil Company, and Texarkana Gas and Electric Company, forming Southwestern Gas and Electric Company. Fortysix years later, they began to focus on electricity and became known as Southwestern Electric Power Company owned by the Central and Southwest Corporation (CSW). According to SWEPCO, in 2000 CSW merged with American Electric Power (AEP). Today, SWEPCO is one of AEP’s seven regional electric utilities. A review of statistics regarding SWEPCO’s customer’s service provides a perspective on services the company provides today. • Service Territory: Northwest and Central Louisiana, East Texas and the Texas Panhandle, and Western Arkansas • Customers – 543,400 including 233,000 LA, 187,600 TX, 122,800 Arkansas • Employees – 1,700 • Headquarters – Shreveport, LA • Transmission lines – 4,138 miles • Distribution lines – 25,255 miles • Generation capacity – 5,162 megawatts (coal, gas, wind) Some of SWEPCO’s responsibilities are building and maintaining electric grid systems including poles, wires, substations and power plants. Their linemen best represent
the company as they are the faces seen in neighborhoods, especially in the wake of powerful storms common across the region. During the recent snow and ice storms, as well as in past severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, it is the linemen who are the first arriving in areas hardest hit by destruction and working around the clock seven days a week to restore power as quickly and safely as possible. A work force of 1,500 workers, including more than 300 SWEPCO employees, operated out of three base camps to assist in restoration efforts during February’s powerful snow, sleet, freezing rain and ice storms. Center served as a base camp for SWEPCO’s power restoration efforts in East Texas and neighboring Central Louisiana. The temporary facility set up at the Center Municipal Airport provided housing and meals for 450 contract crew members assisting SWEPCO in the power restoration, along with parking and fuel for their vehicles. The bitter cold weather left 4,500 East Texas customers without power on Feb. 17, with the most damage and outages in Shelby County although nearby parishes in Louisiana experienced heavy ice storm damage as well. As the base camp in Center was demobilized after the storm, SWEPCO donated food and water not used by restoration crews to three Shelby County organizations. The three centers had a semi-trailer load of dry goods, refrigerated and frozen foods, ranging from fresh vegetables to meats and candy, along with both breakfast and dinner foods. Along with food, bottled water was sent specifically to the Joaquin area due to the water supply system in eastern Shelby County being inoperable. The three organizations receiving the pallets of goods were Food for Thought Food Bank in Timpson operated through First Baptist Church in Timpson, Joaquin CCS Food Bank operated through First Baptist Church in Haslam, Jody Hooper, pastor, and Shelby County Outreach Ministries in Center. February’s bitter storm also forced a series of emergency-controlled outages implemented by
AT A GLANCE WHAT: Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) WHO: An AEP Company (American Electric Power) WHERE: Service RegionNorthwest and Central Louisiana, East Texas and the Texas Panhandle, and Western Arkansas PHONE: (888) 216-3523 WEBSITE: swepco.com
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SWEPCO expressed their thanks to customers for their patience throughout the severe winter storm.
SWEPCO and other utilities on Feb. 15 and 16. The outages followed an emergency appeal for conservation of electricity on Feb. 14 as the extraordinary winter storm gripped a large part of the United States. The action came at the direction of the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), the 14-state regional grid in which SWEPCO operates. Across SPP, available power generation was unable to meet customer demand for electricity for about one hour on Feb. 15 and two and a half hours on Feb. 16. SWEPCO’s emergency plan limits outages to no more than two hours whenever possible, although weather or system conditions can affect power restoration times. Customer conservation efforts and the controlled outages by utilities helped restore the stability of the grid and prevent more serious outage situations across the region. The regional electric load reduction on Feb. 15 and 16 was the first in SPP’s 80year history. SWEPCO expressed their thanks to customers for their patience throughout the severe winter storm. Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas experienced record low temperatures, and 23,200 customers were without power at the peak of the winter storm. “We greatly appreciate everyone for bearing with us during that time,” said Malcolm Smoak, SWEPCO president and chief operating officer. “We understand 10
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the issues that outages can create for our customers, and that’s why our crews worked tirelessly in hazardous conditions to restore power for everyone.” SWEPCO also understands the concerns of their customers due to the impact of COVIC-19. As a result, they have set up a SWEPCO assistance web site at SWEPCO.com/Assist to help those who are struggling to pay their electric bills with options that include extended payment agreements. They also understand the critical need for reliable electric service, and they are committed to the health and safety of their customers, communities and employees, and taken “significant steps” to keep their employees safe and healthy.” Line workers and other employees critical to maintaining service are working in smaller teams, adjusting work schedules, practicing physical distancing, wearing facial coverings when physical distancing is not possible, monitoring themselves for symptoms and taking other prevention measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). All employees who can are working from home to help minimize contact for all employees and prevent the spread of the virus. SWEPCO customers in East Texas and the Panhandle may sometimes hear confusing news and advisories from other parts of Texas that are in the Electric
Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). SWEPCO is in the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which is a separate reliability grid from ERCOT. We know it can be confusing when neighboring communities are not in the same grid, like Tyler in ERCOT and Longview in SPP. We just ask that customer look to SWEPCO for communications about the status of the grid serving them. In June 2020, the American Electric Power Foundation, which is funded by SWEPCO and other AEP operating companies, announced $5,000 grants to the Shelby County Child Advocacy Center and the Rusk County Salvation Army to support local COVID-19-related services. Shelby County Child Advocacy Center – to address increased domestic violence and sexual abuse cases as well as general counseling needs. Rusk County Salvation Army – to help with an increase in food pantry requests from new families applying for assistance.” Mutual assistance is at the heart of major storm restoration, allowing us to assemble the work force necessary to restore power. Just as 1,500-line, tree and support personnel helped SWEPCO in power restoration during the February winter storm and the two hurricanes last summer, SWEPCO crews assist other utilities across the country. SWEPCO was recognized in February 2021 with an Emergency Response Award by the
SWEPCO crews assist other utilities across the country.
Edison Electric Institute (EEI). Emergency Response Awards recognize recovery and assistance efforts by EEI member companies following service disruptions caused by extreme weather or other natural events. SWEPCO sent line and contract personnel to partner electric utilities – including sister operating companies at AEP – following multiple hurricanes and another severe ice storm.” Over the course of these assignments in 2020, crews encountered all types of adverse weather, including flooding and high winds, extreme heat, varying terrains and dangerous wildlife. Not only were these conditions not ideal, but crews also had to navigate the health and safety challenges posed by COVID-19 as the global pandemic continued. “In the utility industry, providing mutual aid is not a matter of ‘if,’ but a matter of ‘when,’” said Smoak. “After Hurricane Laura, 3,500 workers from our sister operating companies and other utilities, representing 15 states and Canada, helped SWEPCO employees get the lights back on for our customers. In turn, we helped other utilities across multiple states. Our crews will work long hours in difficult conditions to get the power restored. When strong teams come together, it’s incredible what we can accomplish.”
“For the first time, SWEPCO ranks No. 1 among midsize utilities in the South in the J.D. Power 2020 Electric Utility Business Customer Satisfaction Study,” Smoak added. “From delivering safe, reliable and affordable electricity to helping businesses save energy and money, the SWEPCO Team is proud to be part of the strong and vibrant communities it serves. This award demonstrates our progress in pursuit of excellent customer service,” said Smoak. “SWEPCO employees are committed to meeting customers’ expectations, especially with the challenges everyone is facing during the pandemic.” SWEPCO scored highest in the midsize South segment of business customers for power quality and reliability; billing and payment; and customer contact. The J.D. Power study examines overall business customer satisfaction across six factors: power quality and reliability; corporate citizenship; price; billing and payment; communications; and customer contact. With the coming spring, SWEPCO sends out a reminder to “Look Up! Stay Clear!” Safety practices are important to follow before tackling any project, with first checking the location of overhead wires, and remembering to keep all tools, ladders, etc., at least ten feet away from power lines.
As the spring storm season approaches, SWEPCO reminds to remember that any downed or fallen wire should be treated as live and dangerous and should not be disturbed. Fallen power lines are dangerous because they carry an electric current that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. If a fallen wire is encountered, keep away, keep others away, and call SWEPCO or 911 immediately. When using a portable or RV generator, SWEPCO has this reminder: Do not plug the generator into your home’s circuit box. Portable generators “backfeed” electricity up the line and risk the lives of repair workers and the public. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions carefully. Plug essential appliances directly into the generator. And never use a generator in enclosed spaces like your home or garage. Learn more at SWEPCO dot some slash safety.” SWEPCO is there to assist in the maintenance and restoration of power to their customers. If you have any questions or need to report a power outage, you may reach them at SWEPCO.com or call 1-888218-3919.
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THE BUSINESS OF DOING BUSINESS
Take the right STEP to making realty a reality STORY BY TERRI LACHER
Kimberly Goodman, Cynthia Sanchez, Tammy Steptoe
Tammy Steptoe Realty in Center since 2009 12
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Jxxxxxx Dxxxx, Exxxxxxx Dxxxxxx
Tammy Steptoe Realty is located at 1102 Tenaha St in Center
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helby County native Tammy Steptoe already had an extensive background in real estate by the time she opened Tammy Steptoe Realty in June 2009. After graduating from Shelbyville High School in 1979, she began working for Duke Taylor at Taylor Land Title Company learning about deeds, deeds of trust and other documents relating to property titles. She later worked for Ramsey, Mitchell and Mitchell, Attorneys and in the San Augustine County Clerk’s office where she gained valuable real estate experience. By 1984, she had obtained a real estate license and was working for Mollie Barton who owned a real estate agency in Center for many years. She worked for other realtors in the area until earning a broker’s license in 2008, the last step to opening her own agency. Tammy credits her love for the real estate business to her mother, Virginia McDonald, who had earned her license a year before, and told Tammy it would be a great field for her to work in. “My mom was my biggest cheerleader,” said Tammy. “She told me that I could do anything I set my mind to. When I got my broker’s license, she told me ‘the sky is the limit.’ I owe my career to my mom.” With her mother’s support and encouragement, Tammy pursued her career with enthusiasm and the same solid work ethics demonstrated by her parents. Her principles are also reflected in her choice of staff members. Kimberly Goodman has been with Tammy Steptoe Realty since 2009. Growing up, she and Tammy attended the same church, but Kimberly moved away following graduation. They both ended up pursuing a career in real estate even though Kimberly lived out of state for many years. When she returned to
Shelby County, she and Tammy became best friends. Kimberly’s background was not only in real estate, but also working with the sale of custom homes and manufactured homes. With her extensive work history, she brought vast knowledge to the company. Between the two of them, Tammy and Kimberly have a combined total of 71 years’ experience in real estate. Cynthia Sanchez is the agency’s secretary managing phones, listings, setting up files, and any other job needed around the office. And, according to Tammy, “She does it all with a smile.” While showing residential real estate, business property, and acreage are primary functions visible to the public, Tammy Steptoe Realty also helps with obtaining financing for potential buyers and assisting in finding the right match with budgets and other needs in real estate transactions. In addition, Tammy Steptoe Realty’s listings are not limited to Shelby County, and their ability to assist in real estate transactions extends over a wide region. Dealing with the virus outbreak during the past year, Tammy Steptoe Realty was closed to the public for about six weeks although they continued to work answering phones and helping potential buyers and sellers “from a distance.” Tammy said there were still “plenty of things to do,” and after the initial scare slowed down, their sales picked up with the reduction in interest rates. According to Tammy, “the real estate business all over has continued to pick up, keeping agents busy, and our office staff on their toes.” “The most rewarding aspects of this job,” said Tammy, “is finding and selling folks what they want, and to witness their appreciation when we close the deal. The looks on their faces are priceless when we put a deal together on the place that they have been wanting.” Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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MISSION STATEMENT “Take the RIGHT STEP to making realty a reality.”
AT A GLANCE WHAT: Tammy Steptoe Realty WHO: Tammy Steptoe WHERE: 1102 Tenaha Street Center, Texas Tammy credits her love for the real estate business to her mother, Virginia McDonald Another great attribute to the business, according to Tammy, is that it has allowed time to attend many school activities: plays, games, band contests, and “whatever the kids were doing at the time,” she said. But the flip side is that when many people are off work, agents are busy showing properties or meeting with customers after hours and weekends. Sometimes, this means missing out on family functions. The Mission Statement of Tammy Steptoe Realty is: “Take the right STEP to making realty a reality.” Their philosophy is to treat people the way they would like to be treated. By going the extra mile, people will be remembered and return to their agency when they have a real estate need. As a result, Tammy reports they are now selling property to some of the children of people she has done business with in the past. “This confidence,” she said, “is truly rewarding, as I know I earned their parents trust back then, and they trust me to treat their kids right, too!” Both Tammy and Kimberly are members of the Texas Association of Realtors and the 14
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
National Association of Realtors. They are also members of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, and Tammy is a past Chamber of Commerce Ambassador. Their agency was voted as the best real estate company in 2015 and has continued to be honored since then. Tammy reasserted that she gives her thanks and appreciation to the devotion and encouragement of her mother, crediting the success of her agency to her mother’s “believing in me, that I could become a realtor.” She also stated that she feels the Lord has blessed her and her business, “without Him, none of it would be possible, but with Him, everything is possible.” Tammy Steptoe Realty is located at 1102 Tenaha St, in Center. The phone number is 936-598-2525. Office hours are Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You can also check out their web page at www.steptoerealty.com and their Facebook page.
WHEN: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m. PHONE: (936) 598-2525 WEBSITE: steptoerealty.com
THE SHELBY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IS A ONE STOP SHOP FOR BUSINESS SUPPORT.
P: 936-598-9190 | F: 936-598-9195 E: centerglass@att.net 1414 Southview Circle | Center, TX 75935
BOLES FEED CO. Boles Feed Co. proudly supplying Agricultural, Feed and Farming needs in East Texas for over 30 years. The Boles Family is committed to reflecting the positive attitudes and qualities of life that are embodied in agriculture and East Texas living.
101 Por ter St ., Center
· 598-3061 ·
Ken and Cecila Boles, Owners
913 South St., Nacogdoches
· 564-2671 ·
Justin and A nna Lee Owners
OUR MISSION The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce is organized to promote and advance economic enrichment and development, tourism and civic interests of Shelby County and adjoining areas.
There are the long term benefits to being a Chamber member. Here are few ways New Members get their name out FAST! •Directory Listing – you will be listed in the online Chamber directory immediately •You will be listed on our homepage as a “New Member” •Have something to share? we will help you share and the get word out •There will be networking opportunities that will help you build strong relationships to foster partnerships and growth for your business •There will be referrals to your business and increased visibility •We will brag about you on our e-newsletter and social media outlets. •The Chamber also offers to members: • Job Postings • Events Postings • Business Resources • Mailing Labels • Special Promotions for Members Only
~ Join Us Today ~ 100 Courthouse Square A-101 Center, TX 75935 info@shelbycountychamber.com www.shelbycountychamber.com (936)-598-3682
AUTOMOTIVE
COLLISION SPECIALIST
Serving Shelby County and surrounding areas for over 33 years. ✔ Experienced Bodywork Experts ✔ Free Written Estimates ✔ Detailed Color Matching ✔ All Makes & Models
Customer Satisfaction is our #1 Priority!
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
Keith & Jill Jefferson • Logan Jefferson • Morgan Jefferson
548 Hwy. 7 East, Center • 936-598-3210 Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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THE BUSINESS OF COMMUNITY SERVICE
Family Crisis Center of East Texas offers strong helping hand to victims of abuse STORY AND PHOTOS BY MIKE ELSWICK
Kelly Carver and Lizette Mendoza help victims regain a belief in themselves and provide empowerment over their situation.
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the family crisis center of east texas
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amily and domestic violence knows no social, economic, race or age constraints. “We see low social-economic status people and we’ve seen people with educated backgrounds who may be considered pillars of the community,” said Kelly Carver, victim services coordinator for the Family Crisis Center of East Texas serving a multi-county region, including Shelby County. Lizzet Mendoza is based in the Shelby County office for the Family Crisis Center of East Texas as a legal advocate for local clients served by the organization. Kelly, her immediate supervisor, said the role Lizzet provides is vital. “As a legal advocate you really are guiding our clientele through the criminal justice system,” Kelly said. “As a lay person, you really don’t understand the criminal justice system. That’s the thing about the legal advocate, they have that knowledge and are able to guide these clients through those resources.” Those clients may be coming from homes or backgrounds where physical abuse, sexual abuse and human trafficking were taking place. Kelly said drugs may often be at the root to the situation.
“One of the most rewarding things about my job is just making sure our community is educated about the services we offer. Knowledge really is power,” Kelly said.
Lizette Mendoza Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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Assistance provided by the agency’s staff can be vital in breaking the chain of domestic and sexual abuse.
Lizette Mendoza, Kelly Carver and Melissa Wheeler 18
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Lizzet said the majority of her clients are Spanish speaking and some have immigration status issues. “Sometimes we see their abuser is keeping documents away from the victim, or threaten them by saying they’ll call immigration,” she said. “A lot of times the victims are dependent upon their abuser, sometimes financially.” In addition to helping clients maneuver through the legal system, the Family Crisis Center also helps clients take steps so they can become independent of their abuser, Lizzet said. “We want to empower them,” she said. Lizzet said she loves to hear stories from clients who have visited with her and used services provided by the agency who begin discovering their abusive situation may have started long before they realized it. “They start looking back at their lives and start picking out little things in their background,” Lizzet said. “They said ‘I didn’t realize that was abuse back then, but it was.’” Melissa Wheeler, development director based in Lufkin for the Family Crisis Center of East Texas, said threatening abuse and actual abuse are among the most common forms of domestic violence. “Physical and sexual abuse, or threats to commit them, are the most apparent forms of domestic violence and are usually the actions that allow others to become aware of the problem,” Melissa said. Coercion and threats, intimidation, isolation, emotional and economic abuse, and male privilege are all among power moves which can be put into place for abusers. “We focus in on what is domestic violence and what is sexual assault,” Melissa said. “All of our services are completely free and confidential and that is really important. It’s not just the advocate side, but the counseling and the attorney needs too, because those are two big hindrances.” “One of the most rewarding things about my job is just making sure our community is educated about the services we offer,” Kelly said. “Knowledge really is power.” Lizzet said the training sessions the Family Crisis Center provides law enforcement personnel, educators clergy and others plays an important role in helping people recognize when abuse and crisis situations may be going on undetected. “Another thing is that just because a victim and family leave the abuser, the problem does not stop – it’s a vicious circle,” she said. Kelly said the situation usually escalates when the victim actually leaves the abusive situation. For victims having basic needs after leaving an abusive situation, there is a shelter
operated by the Family Crisis Center in the East Texas region where food and a safe environment can be provided. “That’s the most dangerous time for a victim, when they leave,” Kelly said. “It’s because the distribution of power and control is now being gained by the victim, or the survivor. Often times, the perpetrator of violence feels out of control, so they do whatever is necessary to attempt to regain that power over their victim,” she said. Melissa said the Family Crisis Center helps victims regain a belief in themselves and provides them empowerment over their situation. “The agency’s vision is to end the culture of domestic violence and sexual assault,” she said. “We provide confidential, nonjudgmental services that are holistic/comprehensive, victim centered, trauma informed, and family focused, with compassion and respect for every person served,” Melissa said.
“We focus in on what is domestic violence and what is sexual assault,” Melissa said. “All of our services are completely free and confidential and that is really important. It’s not just the advocate side, but the counseling and the attorney needs too, because those are two big hinderances.”
AT A GLANCE WHAT: The Family Crisis Center of East Texas FOR WHOM: Individuals who feel they are in immediate danger, should call 9-1-1. People needing assistance from the Family Crisis Center or who would simply like additional information can call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 1-800-828-7233. All of the agency’s services are confidential and offered free. WHERE: The Center Outreach Office is located at 616 Tenaha Street, Suite A, Center, Texas. PHONE: Center office number 936-427-5140 Hotline Number: 1-800-828-SAFE (7233) Confidential text to: 936-552-9256 WEBSITE: familycrisiscenterof easttexas.com
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THE BUSINESS OF
Where family, tradition and legacy live on
DOING BUSINESS
STORY BY TERRI LACHER
Scott Foster and Jane Blount
Mathews Realty in Center 20
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
C
ollin Mathews stays busy carrying on the family tradition at Mathews Realty in Center. Like his father, Murray, Collin grew up in Shelby County, attended school at Texas A&M and graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Science and Poultry Sciences. Also like his father, Collin has an extensive background in the cattle and poultry industries owning and operating poultry farms. Outside of business, Collin is also a very visible face in the community. He’s, active in Rotary International, Shelby County Cookers, and other community clubs and organizations, which he feels gives him “greater insight on the advantages and disadvantages on buying and selling in the area.” “Carrying on the family business is something that brings me great pride,” said Collin, “and only feeds the drive to be successful in the county that my family has always called home. Family is one of the strongest bonds we know today, and that is why I am proud to carry on the name for Mathews Realty where we treat you like family.”Murray Mathews was a pillar in the Shelby County area. He graduated from Center High School in 1979 and attended Tyler Junior College where he studied land surveying and real estate. He went on to Lamar University and graduated in 1986
with a bachelor’s degree in Business Finance and a minor in Surveying, Real Estate, Mathematics, and Engineering. Over a period of 25-plus years, Murray proved not only to be a successful businessman, but a positive asset to the East Texas area. Filled with a determination to be successful and not knowing the meaning of failure, Murray tackled everything he did with enthusiasm and fortitude. His various entrepreneurial businesses included partnerships in Bronco Boring, LLC, a disaster and emergency service company, which took him across the country following natural disasters to assist with the cleanup and restoration caused by hurricanes,
tornadoes, and flooding. He was also involved with M&H Farm and Leasing, and M&W Farm and Leasing which purchased and leased existing homes and land, and R&M Farms and Leasing, LLC, which bought and sold timberland, including the harvesting of timber. In addition, he was also the sole owner of several businesses including CATCO and MURCO poultry farms, Murco Farming and Leasing, LLC, and the founder of Mathews Real Estate. Always busy with some kind of business venture, Murray was never too busy to do his part in the community. He served as the president of Piney Woods Board of Realtors and president of the Center Rotary Club. As a Texas native and documented descendant of men and women who were registered as born and raised in the Republic of Texas, he was also a member of the Sons of the Republic. He could be seen around the community grilling up a storm as a member of the Shelby County Cookers. He also took an active part in his church, the First United Methodist Church of Center, always in the kitchen on the Methodist’s Men’s Breakfast Sunday, doing his part for the Methodist Children’s Home, and was very active with other charitable organizations in the East Texas area. He was light-hearted and wellloved by all who knew him. When it came to time of his own, Murray loved flying and owned several airplanes. If he wasn’t flying, he was spending
Murray Mathews
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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time at the beach with his family, hunting or fishing. Murray passed away in 2016 and Collin has continued to carry on many of the family traditions set before him. “Mathews Realty has been representing buyers and sellers all throughout the Shelby County area, specializing particularly in commercial, residential, and poultry farms,” said Collin. The agents strive to carry on the established standards and have continued to “raise the bar” for what it means to provide first-rate services to their clients. They are trained to tackle all areas of real estate by staying apprised of what is available in the market to best assist their buyers and sellers in all aspects of real estate. They are professional in their approach, but personalize their services for each individual transaction, keeping buyers and sellers up to date on changes
in the market, offering qualified advice, to assist in making the transition of buying or selling a home the least stressful for their clients. Scott Foster is part of the Mathews Realty team of agents. As a Shelby County native, Scott is well aware of the area, and knowledgeable in the businesses and agricultural industries to best serve his clients. As a poultry farm owner and cattle rancher, he understands the farming needs of East Texas. With his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Business from Stephen F. Austin State University and his experience, Scott is a top agent and a licensed Real Estate Broker. He has served as a farm, residential and commercial real estate specialist since receiving his license in 2010. Jane Blount grew up in East Texas is very familiar with the real estate market in Shelby County and surrounding areas. She
attended Texas A&M and the University of Texas and has been recognized as a top producer at a respected real estate agency in the Dallas area. Shelby County native, Pam Hall, has been the business manager for the Mathews Realty office and all of their related entities for the past six years. She handles the financial aspects of the business and keeps things running smoothly. Vickie Horton is the office receptionist and the friendly, professional personality greeting office visitors and callers, answering questions and directing customers to an agent. Contact Mathews Realty at (936) 598-7800 or stop by their office located at 616 Tenaha Street, Center, Texas 75935. Visit their website at mathewsrealty.com or take a peek at their Facebook page at Mathews Realty.
AT A GLANCE WHAT: Mathew’s Realty
The agents strive to carry on the established standards and have continued to “raise the bar” for what it means to provide first-rate services to their clients.
WHO: Collin Mathews WHERE: 616 Tenaha Street, Center, Texas WHEN: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday PHONE: (936) 598-7800 WEBSITE: mathewsrealty.com
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Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
Se r
the Na g n ti vi
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from Shelby County
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Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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One of the best health care providers in Deep East Texas. Recognized for our outstanding patient care, innovative technologies, programs, as well as our highly motivated, distinguished staff. -Acute and Chronic Family Health Care -Prenatal/ Postnatal Health Care -Womens Health Care -OB/GYN Services -Behavioral Health Services Dental Behavioral Health -Counseling Services 164 Wall St. 325 Tenaha St. Tenaha , TX 75974 Center, TX 75935 -Tele-Psychiatry 936-248-4224 936-591-8380 -Dental Care Center Medical 620 Tenaha St. Center, Tx 75935 936-598-2716
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We’ve been serving the banking needs of Shelby County with respect and integrity since 1904. Our relationships with our friends and neighbors here at home are the true measure of our success, and we will continue to put our customers first for generations to come. 115 Shelbyville Street Center, Texas 75935 (936) 598-3311 www.FSBCTX.bank Center (Main) | Center (Roughrider) | Shelbyville | Joaquin | Carthage | Nacogdoches | Franklin Member FDIC Equal Housing Lender
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Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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THE BUSINESS OF DOING BUSINESS
Horticulturist Dr. Andrew King returns to family’s roots STORY AND PHOTOS BY MIKE ELSWICK
Cheryl King, Alisa King, Aubrey King, Andrew King, Margaret King 26
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
king’s nursery
R
oots run very deep for Shelby County’s Dr. Andrew King in more ways than one. King, with a PhD in horticulture, gave up his academic professorship teaching horticulture at Texas A&M University, to return to the family’s 105-year-old plant nursery in Tenaha to get his hands dirty tending to the roots and plants in the East Texas soil where his family has toiled the past century. King’s Nursery was established in 1915 by Andrew’s great grandfather and has been in continuous operation over the past century by his grandfather and father with help from other family members. “I was born in 1983 and was raised in a little house about 150 yards from here, so this place is home,” Andrew said. He grew up surrounded by the family business and said he knew at an early age he wanted to be involved and surrounded by plants. But his return to King’s Nursery was not a direct path. Andrew took some detours in life before returning.
“After I graduated from college I went off and did some traveling and sang with a Gospel quartet based in North Carolina for almost three years,” he said. “We traveled all over the United States and Canada. That was a great experience for a young man.” Before kicking off his musical career, Andrew earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Stephen F. Austin State University in horticulture. After meeting his wife and getting married, they returned to Texas where he earned a Master of Science degree and then a Doctorate degree, both in horticulture, from Texas A&M University. His plans to return to the family business were delayed for another five years when he was unexpectedly offered the opportunity to teach horticulture at Texas A&M. “It was a little too good of an opportunity to pass up,” Andrew said. “I was at A&M for 15 years off and on, but on the full time faculty for five years. It was a great experience.”
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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In October 2019, some experiences took place which prompted him to take the plunge to return to the family’s nursery. At this point in his life, Andrew said the Tenaha area and family nursery is where he should be. The King legacy started by his great grandfather was advanced in 1949 when J.B. King Jr., took over operations with a passion for horticulture. He expanded offerings to include woody ornamentals and roses. Andrew’s own father, Aubrey King, also grew up at the nursery but initially did not share his father’s and grandfather’s passion for the business. But once he made the decision to come back to the nursery after a career in the finance business, Aubrey’s love of people and helping them boded well for the nursery. Aubrey developed a love for rare plants, which is shared today by Andrew. He expanded the offerings with antique roses, rare perennial plants and a mixture of native plants. Andrew said each generation of his family brought some important developments and related growth to the business. Under his watch, he expects that to continue. “We’re in the process of really figuring out what we’re going to do,” Andrew said. Customers can expect many traditional plants, from azaleas and pansies to ground cover and trees. But those will not be the main focal of operations going forward. “Our bread and butter will be plants that the general public may not have even heard of, but plants that ‘plant nuts’ are looking for,” Andrew said. In the expanding nursery customer demand has resulted in plants becoming commodities. One of the great thrills for Andrew and his late father, Aubrey King, has been when customers or potential customers realize King’s Nursery may have that unusual plant they were not able to find anywhere else. “That’s one of the most thrilling things for me,” he said. The other aspect that brings a smile of satisfaction for Andrew is when a customer comes back and says, “that plant did exactly what you said it was going to do after we made the adjustments you recommended.” That is when he realizes his passion for plants and years of both studying in the field and teaching are already playing an important role for Kings’ Nursery. “I’m more interested in old fashioned plants, rare trees and shrubs, which are difficult to
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Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
AT A GLANCE WHAT: King’s Nursery WHO: Operated by the King family since 1915; founded by J.B. King; operated by J.B. King Jr. and Aubrey King and now owned and operated by Dr. Andrew King and family.
King’s Nursery was established in 1915 by Andrew’s great grandfather and has been in continuous operation over the past century by his grandfather and father with help from other family members.
find,” he said. “What we’ve done here in the past and what my goal is in the future, is to grow the majority of what we sell.” There are certain plants which he knows customers will seek out which the large nurseries and greenhouse operations can supply at a lower cost than he could produce it. “There are very few people grafting anymore, for instance,” Andrew said. “There’s something magical to people about the fact that you stuck this plant on this plant and it was done right here.” That is where his years of study and actual hands-on experience of propagating plants at A&M will come into play. “We plan to propagate a large portion of the plants we sell. That gives us incredible control over what we sell,” he said. “That will allow us to extend more value to our customers who often become our friends.”
WHERE: 956 N. George Bowers Dr., (Texas Hwy. 84 East), Tenaha 75974
With more than 30 acres at the nursey, there is plenty of opportunity for the growth he plans. Andrew said there is no such thing as a “typical” day at King’s Nursery. “There’s always plenty to do,” he said. “There is high interest in horticulture these days and we want to latch onto that interest while taking the time to educate customers.” While he does not have a crystal ball to see what the future holds for King’s Nursery, Andrew feels his continued focus on not attempting to be all things for all gardeners will serve the business well. “We’re taking this for a spin to determine what we can do and what we can do well,” he said. “We’ll continue to work on figuring things out.”
WHEN: Open 8:30 a.m.5 p.m. PHONE: (936) 248-3811 WEBSITE: kingsnurserytx.com FACEBOOK: Kings Nursery LLC
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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The Business of Doing
Business During a Pandemic AT A GLANCE WHAT: H&S Discount Foods WHO: Shawn Shahnawaz WHERE: 705 Shelbyville St., Center, Texas WHEN: Monday-Saturday 7:00 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. PHONE: (936) 598-3583
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Doing business during the pandemic requires adapting; a strong focus on customer service STORY AND PHOTOS BY MIKE ELSWICK
H&S Discount Foods staff stepped up to meet challenges
B
illy Dickinson has seen a lot in his 32 years at Center’s H&S Discount
Foods. “There have been lots of changes over the years,” said the supermarket’s general manager. But for Dickinson, nothing has quite rivaled the challenges faced in the past year as the COVID-19 pandemic has taken center stage in the lives of business operators, residents and people around the globe. Like many businesses, H&S and its staff followed state and local mandates, including requirements of staff and customers to wear face masks. For the most part the store’s customers abided by those requirements and were cooperative. “But the biggest problem was in getting products for people to buy,” Billy said. Supply chain interruptions resulted in shortages of a variety of grocery store staples from toilet tissue to disinfectants. “Cleaning supplies were hard to get, disinfect, especially Lysol, and hand sanitizers were all hard to get,” he said. “For a while we couldn’t get canned meats like Vienna sausages and other canned meats.” Food production plants were in the process of adapting to COVID-era requirements of social distancing too, according to Billy. Some producers had to either adapt and abide by the six-foot social distancing rules if they had the space to do so or take more drastic steps.
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
Billy Dickenson and Shawn Shahnawaz “Some just had to close down. Production either slowed down or was idled,” Billy said. When H&S did receive shipments of items in short supply, like paper towels and toilet tissue, the staff was forced to limit quantities. We limited those items to one or two per customer for a while,” he said. “The product loads we were getting were a lot smaller.” As word of shortages for a variety of goods became widespread, some people resorted to a hoarding mentality. “We were just trying to give everybody a chance to get what they needed,” Billy said. “Most customers understood what we were going through because all the other stores in town were in the same situation.”
Staffing for the market never was a real issue as routine hours and days were maintained to serve customers as best as the staff could. “That never was a problem for us. Our staff went above and beyond what they were asked to do,” Billy said. “During the height of the pandemic there was some increase in prices at the wholesale level,” Billy said. “But it never got as bad as we thought it might.”. In addition to adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hagler’s H&S Discount Foods went through an ownership change from the Hagler family, which had been owners for more than 70 years, to that of a Houston-based partnership with Shawn Shahnawaz serving as the general manager in Center.
Billy said the transition to the new ownership team also went smoothly. Shawn said the fact the location not only survived, but thrived, during the pandemic by being able to provide customers with their basic needs and wants is a testament to the staff. He said a good example of the H&S staff going the extra mile arose towards the end of the pandemic, when COVID restrictions were merged with a snow and ice storm, which resulted in a power outage at the store. “When the power went off, we thought we were going to sit in the store until it came back on,” Shawn said. “There were three staff here and they said, ‘you know what, we’re going to go old school and bring customers in one by one, because they have a need and everyone else was closed too, including Walmart.’” Not knowing how long the power outage was going to last, the staff used the flashlights on their cell phones and walked customers through the store to get what they needed. “At the end they were using their cell phone calculators, and paper and pen to go
over the UPC codes to check clients out,” Shawn said. “It was all our staff, they just wanted to take care of our customers and the community.” In recent months, the staff has also worked to incorporate new products into the lineup at H&S. Beer, wine and Texas lottery ticket sales have been added, Shawn said. As the pandemic is hopefully coming to an end, he said other changes are coming. Those include adding an online shopping option and curb side pickup for customers. “We just want to continue to provide our customers with the best service
possible and the products they want,” Shawn said. He feels strongly that H&S Discount Foods will be able to meet those customer expectations. “If you are surrounded by good people, that makes all the difference,” Shawn said. “It’s a totally different culture in a small town like Center than in Houston,” where he came from. And, Shawn added, that is a pleasant change.
James Pitt and Inga Lout
Inga Lout, James Pitts, Shawn Shahnawaz.
Shelby Savings Bank takes pride in listening and responding to our customers’ and communities’ true needs while providing the highest level of service.
Proud Shelby County Business Owner since 1967
Helping dreams come true since 1982!
Same Bank. New Look.
Center Branch 111 Selma St 936-598-5688
Center North 1110 Hurst St 936-591-0134
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SSBTX is a trademark of Shelby Savings Bank, SSB. Member FDIC.
Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
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For over 50 years, Few Ready Mix has been the solid choice for top-quality concrete and concrete products. From residential walkways to driveways to foundations and commercial buildings, we’ll deliver the job on time. For your next project, call the concrete professionals.
Few Ready Mix Concrete Loop 500S, Center, Texas
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Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
CONCRETE
SOLID POSSIBILITIES FOR ANY JOB.
The Lily Farm Nursery ... Amazing Pottery, Unique Plant Selection, Incredible Service! Come see why folks from Longview, Shreveport and Tyler are making the drive to see Shelby County’s own “Heaven on Earth!”
THE
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10056 Hwy. 7 W • Center, Texas 75935 Open Tuesday thru Saturday 9 to 5pm., Closed Sunday/Monday
936-572-1962 Come see us!
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Shop Local! Debbie Hooks owner
1110 Tenaha St · Center, TX ·
Center Furniture Outlet
936-332-3090
WOMEN’S APPAREL CA JEWEL New Arrivals Daily
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1105 Nacogdoches St, · Center, TX 75935
936-332-2204 M-F: 9a-5p | Sat: 9a-2p
110 S Saint Mary Carthage, TX
110 Cora St · Center, TX
Judy Morales,
Manager
Center Health & Harmony An Ounce of Prevention is Worth A Pound of Cure
We offer exclusive boutique items •Athleisure wear •Sleepwear •Lingerie • Gifts Located on the downtown Center square.
Open M-F 10-5
111 Shelbyville Street
936-590-4077
Immune Supplements Homeopathic • Vitamins Body Building • Herbs • Skin Care Pet Supplements
Beth Brown, Owner Certified Natural Health Professional Center
811 Nacogdoches St. • Center, TX
936-598-4987 Hours: M-F, 9:30am - 5:30pm Sat, 9am-2pm www.CenterHealthAndHarmony.com
We are your one stop shop for all registries: •Baby •Bridal •Home
We Exclusively Offer: • Barefoot Dreams Clothing • LeCreuset Cookwear • Melissa & Doug Toys, Games and Crafts • Niven Morgan Bath, Body & More 105 San Augustine Street, Center • 936-598-3382
Create your own custom gift basket using our Stonewall Kitchen & Gourmet Foods. Top it off with a great selection of our Swan Creek candles. Don’t forget about our large selection of Duke Cannon for Men. Handcrafted Furniture built right here in Center, Texas. 401 Hurst Street • Center, Texas
936-598-7467
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Shop Local! 702 Louisiana Street • Center Phone (936)-598-8501 D. Dixon Golden, O.D. Carmen Mackey, O.D. Heather Ihlo, O.D. Therapeutic Optometrists
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Business MATTERS | 2021 Spring Edition
David Griffin
When making a decision on where to go for your skilled nursing and rehabilitation needs, knowing the facts are important. The Five-Star Quality Rating System is a tool to help consumers select and compare skilled nursing care centers. Created by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in 2008, the rating system uses information from Health Care Surveys, Quality Measures, and Staffing to measure overall performance. Each facility has a rating between 1 and 5 stars. Nursing homes with a 5-star quality rating are considered above average, and those with a 1-star rating are below average.
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