Women in the Community 2010

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2Women in the Community

Michele Barber Name: Michele Barber Family: husband, Doug; daughter, Allison Barber Gibbs and her husband, Joel Gibbs; their daughter (our only granddaughter) Gentry Gibbs, age 2 Hometown: Born, Galveston, Texas Current residence: Shady Shores Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS Business Address: 5100 S. Stemmons Frwy, Corinth, Texas 76210 Business Phone: 940-383-6211 E-mail address: mbarber@nstarbank.com My Title: SVP - Marketing Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? Life is what happens while you are making other plans. I started out being a high school teacher; found myself without a contract in mid-year; moved to Hawaii and went to work for a Japanese Accounting firm. The rest evolved as opportunities were presented, but have always had a love for Marketing.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women? We have come a long way since I first entered the workforce, so I would say we should just continue to set our own personal goals and work hard to achieve them. The rest will work itself out as it should be.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)? Right now it is balancing act with today’s sluggish economy.

A company has invested a great deal of time and money into the experienced and professional staff they have; now how can we weather the current economic storm and still retain those people.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? We are evaluating our “needs” rather than our “wants” and might not take a vacation this year.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?

Ohhhh! Funny you should ask…. I am in the process of re-evaluating my commitments for 2010 and going forward. The key is the word “balance”……God, family, work, and others. You can do it all, you just have to work at it.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have a BBA from Sam Houston State University and 38 years of work experiences to draw from. Now I’m trying to keep up with the social media changes and keep current with the new ways people connect in business.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?

Challenging times are good for all of us. We get stronger and work smarter when the times are tough; so I’m always thankful when the challenges appear on my doorstep.

Of course, sometimes they overstay their welcome!

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My first and foremost mentor was my Polish grandmother who had only a 3rd grade education, but had such a strong worth ethic while bringing joy and great food into our lives. In a work sense, there weren’t many women who had opened doors before me, but several fellow male co-workers have made a huge impact on where I am today. In general, their belief in me and the many, many open discussions and problem solving sessions were cornerstones in my work life. Two stand out and they are Tony Clark and Mike Beavers.

In my spiritual life, Tommy Nelson helps keep me focused on my true purpose while here on earth.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I am a Boggle Bash fiend on the computer, along with a Sudoku puzzle worker. Of

course, music is a mainstay in my life, so without it I would probably really be a mess!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting?

I work a lot and volunteer a lot.

Outside of that, I try to make my family a priority….…..especially Gentry. She just makes me smile!

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I have been very blessed with many accomplishments and significant events, but I would have to say being a wife, mother and grandmother are at the top of the list.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible) “Seek God’s kingdom, and all the other things you need they will be given to you.” ~ Luke12:31 Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? (Only the sky is the limit here) I grew up with two brothers who came with their own tools of “education” and memories.

An older brother, Jimmy, who passed away in 2008 and a younger brother, Dale, who lives on the Gulf Coast. Playing Marines, Cowboys & Indians, and then having them sit through my “school”, playing house or letting me play ball with them, made for great times…. I owe them a great deal!

Thursday, March 25, 2010 workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My former boss and Friend, LaWana. Taught me to mentor others, reinforced my faith, encouraged me in numerous leadership roles, trusted me, relied on me to get the job done.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I rarely unwind. I am always moving—Dancing, watching/attending sports events, reading, playing with my grandbaby Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting?

I work a lot, in great demand locally because I am believed to be able to sell anything. I love the Lord. I love people. I “subject” people to my sense of humor/bad jokes; I volunteer; I am “omnipresent” in Prosper—people consider me the mayor pro tem as far as being around, being in the know, being available, being likely to get them involved.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Seeing my girls turn into such awesome successes… in spite of some of their parents’ dumb decisions—, full of compassion and inheriting my propensity for giving of yourself.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): Just handle it!

(Jan Brown, my sister—the most direct, straight shooting, genuine person!)

Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? (Only the sky is the limit here) Bring on the warm weather and the beach!

Having a great team keeps you motivated. I am always very focused on ensuring that my staff and I are kept up to date on all the ever changing needs of our customers and the changes in requirements of the regulatory agencies.

No matter how challenging times are when I work for a company I give it my all.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I have had the pleasure of working with a lot of great people in my 25 years in banking. One of my past mentors is Lamar Ball. His dedication and work ethic made employees always want to do the best job they could do to make the company strong and profitable.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work?: Spending time with my family and friends.

Son plays baseball so that keeps us busy after work and on weekends.

When no baseball my daughter and I love to go shopping.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I have the pleasure of serving as an Advisory Board Member for the Salvation Army and City of Denton Human Services.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I have a wonderful family and successful career. My husband and I will be celebrating 25 years of marriage this June.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): Always do the best job you can no matter what job you are doing. This was something that my parents taught me.

Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? For my 50th birthday I would like to skydive!

Jean Beaty Name: Jean Beaty Family: Three daughters: Jessica, Becca , Emily and granddaughter Kenzie Hometown: Houston Current residence: Prosper Business Name: Point Bank Business Address: 922 S. Hwy 377, Aubrey, TX 76227 Business Phone: 940-686-7085 E-mail address: jbeaty2pointbank.com My Title: Branch Manager Why did you choose your career?

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? My fondness for Spanish (foremost after only my family, dancing, and football JJ ) after obtaining my Masters in Spanish/French and moving back to Houston led me to Texas Commerce Bank International Department. At the time a teaching job at Hosuton Community College was not available so a very astute “headhunter” introduced me to Texas Commerce. And off we went!

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: Actually, I do not see a line of demarcation between genders in the banking business these days. Focus seems to be more on sales and profits than hierarchy in community banks. Consider even how the formality of dress has been downplayed to business casual to even the playing field with clients.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Integrity; honesty; hard work; commitment; competitive salaries; fear of job loss; How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share?

Living day to day, keeping my faith.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: God has given me a lot of energy so I do not sit still much. I work at jobs I love, I am involved in my daughters’ lives and granddaughter’s life, volunteer often, have moved my mother close to my sister and me, and love people.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? Masters UT AustinSpanish and French; have been a teacher, a Youth Pastor, retired from Chase; worked for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: My faith, my personality, my family, my friends, Coors light…. JJ Who was your mentor in the

Mary Behrens Name: Mary Behrens Family: husband, Kirt; daughter, Kimberlee; son, Kraig and family pet, Behr.

Hometown: Streator, Illinois Current residence: Denton Business Name: Northstar Bank of Texas Business Address: 400 N Carroll Blvd, Denton, TX 76201 Business Phone: 940-383-6209 E-mail address: mbehrens@nstarbank.com My Title: SVP, Credit Administration Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? Decided to make a career change when I moved from Illinois to Texas in 1985.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: Utilize talent and promote within the organization.

Offer an internal scholarship program to employees that are attending college to help further their education in banking/finance.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Keeping employees happy and motivated. Make sure know employees know you appreciate and respect them and the work they do for the company.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share?

Monitoring personal investments more closely by working with Northstar Bank’s financial advisor.

In addition, have been making more economical purchases.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance w ork and home life? What’s your secret?: I have a great husband that helps out a lot at home. Also I am lucky to work for a company that understands the importance of family.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in banking for 25 years. All 25 years has been on the Loan Operations side of the bank. I have had the pleasure of being a Manager for over 17 years.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I have a great “team” working for me.

Reida Bennett Name: Reida Bennett Family: two sons: Brad and Brian Hometown: Gainesville, Texas Current residence: Corinth Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS Business Address: 400 N. Carroll Blvd Business Phone: 940-591-1200 address: E-mail rbennett@nstarbank.com My Title: Senior Vice President/Cashier Why did you choose your career?

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? Initially, my main objective was to find a job in the community that I lived so I could be close to my two young sons. The local bank was a great solution for me and ended up being a wonderful career for the past 28 years.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share?

Living debt free as possible helps me have some peace of mind.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? Knowing God is control of all things.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My parents taught me many things: that hard work pays off in great dividends, the value of good character, to be honest and trustworthy and how we react to difficult situations will make or break us.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? ?): I’m addicted to HGTV and love to work on home improvement projects.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? “This too shall pass”. I think originally this was an inscription in a ring given to King Solomon. There is a beautiful poem written by Helen Steiner Rice titled with this adage.

BUY IT. SELL IT. FIND IT.

Dr. Patricia Berube Name: Dr. Patricia Berube (business name) or Patty Berube Smith (married name) Family: I am married to Dr. Joe Smith from Pilot Point and we have two sweet boys. Cade is 22 months old and Reid is about 3.5 months old.

Hometown: I am from Danbury, CT, which is about an hour and a half outside of Manhattan.

Current residence: We live in Denton.

Business Name: Patricia Berube, D.M.D., M.S., P.A. Business Address: 502 W. Oak St. Suite 102 Denton, TX 76201 Business Phone: 940-384PERIO (7374) E-mail address: office@dentonperio.com My Title: Owner/Periodontist Why did you choose your career?

I always knew I wanted to be in some field of health care, since I loved math and science. The problem was that by my senior year of college, I still didn’t know which field! I started to investigate, talk to different people in different careers and I came across dentistry. It made sense and was a great career choice for a woman. After college, I applied to dental school and worked in a pediatric dental office.

I was hooked! Dentistry seemed like a good fit. Once in dental school, I naturally gravitated toward the surgical aspects of dentistry. I finally chose periodontics over oral surgery because it seemed like a better fit for me. I enjoyed the long list of procedures that are within the realm of periodontics.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace?: A huge issue for me every day is to keep the health of my company so that I can continue to employ the wonderful staff that I have. As any business owner can attest to, owning and running a business is incredibly stressful and carries with it a lot of responsibility and liability. It would be great to

have tax cuts or incentives to hire more staff and be able to give them more benefits. Since small businesses are such a big part of our country, I believe these are the steps that will help guide us out of the huge unemployment hole that we are in.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? I have a few rules that I like to abide by.

The first is that I don’t live beyond my means. At home, I don’t buy something unless I can pay for it in full. I also pay myself first by saving for retirement, our kid’s education and contributing to an emergency fund. Once these items plus all of the bills have been paid, if there is any extra, I don’t feel bad about treating myself.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?: Balancing work and home is always difficult, but having a career has always been important to me. Now that I have children, I have really tried to leave work at the office and not take it home with me. I give 110% when I’m at work and the same at home.

It helps that I have a great husband and we work well as a team.

I could never do it without him.

My mother has also been a huge help and it has strengthened our relationship as mother/daughter even more than it was before. I think the thing that makes me the most sane is occasionally taking some time to myself, whether it be going to the gym or getting a pedicure. It really helps recharge me.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I graduated from Arizona State University cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and then went on to work in a pediatric dental office as an office manager and assistant while I was applying to dental school. I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a DMD and went on to the University of Texas at San Antonio for my periodontics residency and masters degree in periodontics.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I feel that I have entered an exciting field where I learn something new every day. Learning is a lifelong process and I enjoy being given the opportunity to help people. Helping someone get healthy or be able to eat well is my strongest motivation.

Dr. Lori Gore-Green (Obstetrician • Gynecologist • Surgeon)

Dr. Gore-Green’s personal service and concern extends to all of her patients in every phase of life, from adolescence through childbearing years, to menopause and beyond.

Dr. Lori Gore-Green is the current Chair of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital — Denton.

Dr. Lori Gore-Green is a member of the following professional societies: • American College of Obstetrics & Gynecologists • American College of Osteopathic Obstetrics & Gynecologists • American Medical Association • American Osteopathic Association • Denton County Medical Society • Texas Medical Association

Dr. Gore-Green’s patients affectionately call her Dr. “GG”

209 N. Bonnie Brae Street • Suite 204 Denton, Texas 76201 940-387-DRGG(3744) www.drgoregreen.net

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Securities offered through LPL Financial Member FINRA/SIPC

Laura Gentry

Investment Representative 512 West Hickory Street Suite 114 Denton, TX 76201 Office: (940) 891-1400 Fax: (940) 891-1455 Toll Free: (877) 895-2872 E-Mail: laura.gentry@lpl.com www.lpl.com/laura.gentry

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Women in Community 3

Thursday, March 25, 2010 who led you down this particular career path? I worked as a teller my first year of college and an opportunity presented itself to be a loan officer.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: I would implement employment and staffing practices that encouraged family life. Jobsharing and compensation in time off for salaried positions, which recognized the importance of family and career balance.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?:Recruiting and retaining the most talented individuals, and finding the perfect fit for the position. Employee referral program and use networking resources.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: When at work be productive, organized, efficient and good time management. Your family should take top priority, and work in the rest of what needs to get done around them.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in banking for 15 years.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: My coworkers are very competent in their jobs and they keep me laughing.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mom.

She showed me how to be independent women in the workplace.

She has always listened to me and been there to give me a lending ear or advice as needed.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): Coming home and spending time with my family, listening about their day, and spending the weekends at the lake.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I love to cook and try new recipes, enjoy spending time with friends and family at the area lakes, and spending time with my daughter.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I feel that I have accomplished a lot in my life. The one accomplishment I am most proud of is raising my daughter to be independent and well rounded young woman.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Set goals for yourself. You will have setbacks but don’t loose focus of your goals and stay true to yourself.

Holly Brown Name: Holly Brown Family: I have been married to David Brown for 18 years. I have a 17 year old daughter named Kaitlin and a 10 year old son, Dylan.

Hometown: Aubrey, TX Business Name: Meridian Bank Texas Business Address: 100 N. I-35E, Bldg 101, Denton, TX 76205 Business Phone: 940-320-5207 E-mail address: holly.brown@meridianbanktexas.com My Title: Sr. Lending Asst/Banking Officer If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: In today’s society, women have a much more diverse role in the family. The struggles and juggles of a career and family can be rewarding, but also stressful. I would create a work environment that somewhat alleviates those struggles by offering free in-house child daycare and physical fitness. I would also have fun stress-relieving activities women could do during the day. Hosiery and heels would be forbidden !

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Oh, so many to choose from! The economy would be one of my top subjects. It has not improved enough in the past year.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? Don’t dig a hole you can’t climb out of on your own.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: Sometimes you have to let some things slide-the not-so-important things, such as laundry!! I’ve gotten a little better the past couple of years.

What is your education level (i.e. technical, college, specialized training, etc.): high school graduate We know that you love your job, but if you could be anything (poet, president, activist or author, etc.), what would that be?: Marine biologist or country singer How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I have to remind myself that it is not under my control. It’s in God’s hands.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I like to sit on the couch and eat popcorn!

What is your favorite time of day and why? 11:00 p.m. I have finally finished my day and can relax a little before I go to bed.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am proud of my family and my career.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”

home which is a great benefit. Job sharing is also a great way to allow employees to balance the home life and work.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any su ggestion s for ad d ressin g th e issue(s)?: I feel the biggest issues in the workplace today are downsizing and layoffs. Employees establish a way of life based upon their income. When an employee is laid off, their whole world crumbles.

They not only cannot pay their bills but they are also affected phycologically which affects their family life.

I feel the government needs to put in new programs to create jobs.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? I feel very blessed that my husband and I both have stable jobs. However, we are trying to budget more and teach our boys not to rely on credit cards but to save more.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: I chose to work for PointBank because I love banking and it was close to my home. Working close to home allowed me the opportunity to attend school functions and be involved with my children while also having a career. I also use my lunch hour to get the house in order or to start preparing for dinner which allows more time for family when I get off.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have 25 years experience in banking. I have completed the Texas Tech School of Community Bank Management as well as have taken numerous other classes and seminars in banking.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I like to go home and be with my family or go to the lake for the weekend!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I’m a summer girl and like to go to the lake on the weekends.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Have helped parent two GREAT boys!

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom?: Treat every customer as if they sign your paycheck

Cathy Frazier Susan Curry-Langston

Kathy Chambers Name: Kathy Chambers Family: husband, Doug Chambers; son, Monty Chambers who is a Junior at Austin College, and son, Justin Chambers, a Senior at Pilot Point High School Hometown: Pilot Point Current residence: Pilot PointBank Business Name: PointBank Business Address: 200 S. Hwy. 377, Pilot Point Business Phone: 940-686-7054 E-mail address: KChambers@pointbank.com My Title: Sr. Vice President Why did you choose your career?

I actually started working for PointBank through a VOE program while I was a Senior in High School. PointBank gave me many opportunities and I fell in love with banking and customer service which is the primary focus of PointBank.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: I feel the biggest issue facing women with families is the balance of home life and work.

Many companies offer day cares or allow their employees to work from

Kim Bunton Name: Kim Bunton Family: Husband, Chad Bunton and daughter Megan Bunton, 15 Hometown: Lee’s Summit, Missouri Current residence: Denton Business Name: PointBank Business Address: 525 S I 35 E South Denton, TX 76205 Business Phone: 940-686-7000 E-mail address: kbunton@pointbank.com My Title: Assistant Vice President – Branch Manager Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person

there tips you’d like to share? We are being more diligent about saving.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, h o w d o yo u b a l a n c e w o r k a n d home life? What’s your secret?: Being newly married, home life has taken on new meanings. I am trying to learn to say “no” when asked to volunteer. (not very good at it yet!)

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? Been doing this since I graduated college in 1991 even though my degree is in English.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I try to remember how blessed I am to be able to do the things I do. I have a loving family that I know supports me. I also work with a great group of people that keeps me on my toes and helps me overcome any challenges.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My parents.

They have always given me support and unconditional love that gave me the confidence to set high goals and try to achieve more. They are great listeners when I need to vent, offer great advice when I feel confused, and have always shown me the value of laughter. My dad especially taught me not to take life too seriously. There is humor in most every situation, you just have to look—sometimes the humor lies in the search.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? Harley and Lexi-my 2 dogs are the best medicine for a long day. They are always excited to see me. When I get home, their excited antics make me forget the stress that the day might have brought. They truly make me laugh.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I volunteer-as mentioned before I have a hard time saying no.

Besides this, I love to go “treasure” hunting in antique/thrift stores.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Learning how to be content in my present while planning for my future What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? A problem is only a problem when it becomes a problem. (told to me at a training session years ago-don’t remember the trainer)

Name: Susan Curry-Langston Family: Curtis Langston-husband, Harley and Lexi-my 4 legged children Hometown: San Antonio, Texas Current residence: Denton Business Name: Northstar Bank of Texas Business Address: 100 S Old Town Blvd, Argyle TX Business Phone: 940-565-7042 E-mail address: scurry@nstarbank.com My Title: Senior Vice President Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? My parents were bankers but I was determined not to be a banker. After I graduated college, I didn’t know what I wanted to do and I needed a job…I became a banker. I wouldn’t change a thing, I love my career.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: Develop a stronger support system and mentoring program in order to help women succeed and create a “good ole boy” group for women In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?:Dissemination of information-we have so much coming at us from all directions it can be distracting as well as confusing.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are

Name: Cathy Rich Frazier Daytime phone number and business address: 940-349-5615, 1517 Centre Place Drive, Denton, TX 76205 Occupation, location: Vice President, Business Development, First United Bank Web site: www.firstunitedbank.com Birth date and place: March 1st, Gorman, TX Family: Don Frazier-Husband, Clint & Cole Frazier- Sons The one thing I enjoy most about my work is: Visiting and Retaining Good Customers My business philosophy is: You get out of it what you put into it!

If I could, I’d be a: singer.

I’m so sick of: people who are not giving and have their hand out to quickly take from others.

The four guests at my fantasy dinner party would be: Jesus Christ, My Dad, My Grandmother and Grandfather.

My hobbies are: Boating, Cycling, Weight Lifting, and Shopping.

The last book I read was: The Richest Man In Town by V.J. Smith I wish I knew how to: Write music that goes with lyrics I have written.

My worst habit is: Not being patient.

The person I most admire is: Donna Minke (my former neighbor) My guilty pleasure is: Reeses Pantut Butter Cups-the deep cup ones!

I drive a: 2008 FJ CruiserLimited Edition I’d like to be driving a: Not sure yet and I am looking!

My favorite restaurant is: Kobe Stake-Carrolton I’m happiest when: I am with my family at the lake.

I regret: Not knowing things 15 years ago that I know today.

If I could change one thing about Denton, it would be: The congested traffic off I-35 South on the Exit Ramp of Loop 288 It is a nightmare.

When I retire, I plan to: Move to the lake and get back into managing BizSource Marketing and working when I want to while taking care of my future grandchildren.

Community activities: Executive Board Member of The Heroes of Denton County. Friends of the Family Volunteer, Nelson’s Children’s Center Volunteer, United Way of Denton, Member of Denton, Flower Mound and Aubrey Chamber of Commerce.

Kristi Galan Name: Kristi Galan Hometown: Denton Current residence: Denton Business Name: PointBank Business Address: 302 N Hwy 377, Argyle Texas Business Phone: 940-686-7072 E-mail address: kgalan@pointbank.com My Title: Commercial Lender Why did you choose your career?

I think it choose me! I love being around people and that is what is this job is all about!

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today?: I think we as a society like to place blame on others as to why things are the way they are, when in reality, life is exactly what we make it. If you choose to not get involved, then what gives you the right to complain. We have to teach the next generation, you must stand up for what you believe in. Voice your opinions, they do count!

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? My family has truly been blessed through these difficult times. We have done what every other family has done. We have cut back on all the “extras” and believe or not, they have not been missed. I am thankful that my children really love being at home and hanging out with friends and family.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?

What’s your secret?: God is good!

As my closest friends know, I don’t fret over the small details of life.

Things just tend to take care of themselves. There are no secrets.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Some days, motivation is harder to find then others, but when you are blessed enough to be in a career that you love and be surrounded by wonderful people, that never hurts.

Also, knowing I have to pay the light bill at the end of month tends to keep me moving.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My Grandfather was and will always be my mentor. He had the most gentle soul of anyone I ever had the privilege to have in my life. I miss him dearly!

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love the movies and when you add in a bucket of popcorn, box of raisinettes and a Diet coke, Life is good!

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Being happy and secure with who I am.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom?: Don’t sweat the small stuff, because in reality, its all small stuff!!

Hickory St, Ste 114 Denton, Texas 76201.

Business Phone: 940-891-1400. address: E -m a i l laura.gentry@lpl.com.

My Title: Investment Advisor and Branch Office Manager.

Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? I have always had a fascination with the financial markets, and this career was a perfect blend of the financial markets and my love of working with people.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)? In my opinion the loss of freedoms and liberties we are experiencing and the growing intrusion of the US government in our businesses and our lives. My suggestion is for people to realize their responsibilities in our society and that this era of entitlement must come to an end.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? We have become a very spoiled society and have confused the differences between wants and needs. I am constantly making my family aware of the difference so that they are fully aware of the choices they make.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: I don’t think there is secret and I don’t think you can actually balance either work or home life. You just have to survive and give all you have to both aspects of your life.

Eventually, children grow up and life at home is much easier to manage.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have a BBA in Finance from UNT. I began my career as a broker in 1996 with Fidelity Investments. I left Fidelity in 1997 joined Edward Jones Investments until 2005. I became an independent broker with LPL Financial in 2005 and I am currently employed with LPL today.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Motivation is a challenge especially in light of the market conditions since 2001. I care deeply for my clients and I feel I would let them down if I wasn’t here for them. I have to stay motivated and help my clients understand what’s going on in these tough economic times and how to lessen the negative impact to their lives.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My Dad was my mentor and he showed me a lot about my responsibility of being a citizen in this great country of ours. Also, to stay involved and informed of decisions the government makes and the effects the decisions can have.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I love my Saturday mornings with a cup of coffee and soothing music. The weekends are where I dream and regroup for the future.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? My children have to be most proud accomplishments and watching their dreams and goals beginning to form and bud.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Don’t stress too much about the words and actions of mankind. People and governments can think they are in control and determine peoples’ lives, but it is God who gets the last laugh. God is in control and no one can alter Gods plans or destroy God’s creations unless it is his will. In the end it is God’s people who win.

Denton RecordChronicle Classifieds www.

DentonRC.com

Laura Gentry

The fastest way to find cars, jobs, homes!

Name: Laura W Gentry Family: husband, Bobby Gentry Sr, 51; and children, Bobby Gentry Jr., 23, Westin Gentry, 21, and Taite Gentry, 17 Hometown: Dallas, Texas Business Address: 512 West

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Thursday, March 25, 2010

4Women in the Community

Chrissy Mallouf

Donna Hall

Kay Schroeder

(pictured below) Personal Service Representative

(pictured below) Vice President, Real Estate

(pictured below) Vice President, Human Resources

• Leadership Denton Graduate • Leadership Denton AlumniSecretary • Denton Chamber Ambassador • United WayMarketing Committee • Multiple Sclerosis Society Volunteer • American Cancer Society Volunteer • Greater Denton/Wise Association of Realtors • Denton Young Professionals

• TCUL Real Estate Network – Vice President • Greater Denton/Wise Association of Realtors • The Nelson Center–Advisory Board Member - Surrogate Parent

• NTSHRM - Past President • Texas State Council for SHRM • UNT Career Opportunity Center Board • Leadership Denton Graduate • CASA Board

Mary Jenkins

Becky Sylvera

(pictured above) Personal Service Supervisor

(pictured above) Senior Vice President, Marketing & Human Resources

• United Way - Leader on Loan • United Way - Community Investment Committee

• TCUL–H/R Council - Chair • CUNA H/R Council • SHRM • NTSHRM • SCMS Graduate • SCMS Alumni Association • Leadership Denton Graduate • The Arts Guild – Past President • GDAC • United Way – Campaign Coordinator

Melanie Vest

Pat Sherman

(pictured below) Vice President, Chief Finance Officer

(pictured below) Vice President, Buisness Development

• Denton Community Theatre President-Elect • United Way – Leader on Loan Co-Chair • DISD Adopt-a-School – Chair • Denton Benefit League - Grant Allocations Committee • Denton Chamber Ambassador • Denton Community Prayer Breakfast - Co-Chair 2009 • Campus Theatre Steering Committee • American Cancer Society You’re Beautiful Luncheon – Reservations Chair • Leadership Denton Graduate

• Hope, Inc. Board • RSVP Board • Leadership Denton Graduate • SCMS Graduate • SCMS Alumni Association

Staci Wallace

Jeanne Stewart

Dee Dee Peterson

(pictured above) Personal Service Representative

(pictured above) Executive Assistant

(pictured above) Branch Manager

• Family Resource Center Board

• Salvation Army Advisory Board • Marketing Chairman for Denton Animal Shelter Foundation • American Cancer Society You’re Beautiful Luncheon Steering Committee • Denton Benefit League Member • Denton Benefit League Past Membership Vice President

• Decatur Chamber of Commerce Board • Decatur Lion’s Club

DATCU salutes all the women whose expertise helps make us a leading Credit Union and an advocate for our community.

DATCU now has eight locations to serve you, including: Denton Main: 225 W. Mulberry Denton, TX 76201

North Denton: 906 W. University Denton, TX 76201

South Denton: 3210 Teasley Denton, TX 76210

Call toll-free 866-387-8585 or visit us online at www.DATCU.org today.

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Women in Community 5

Thursday, March 25, 2010 husband. Our mutual support and love for each other is not the secret to our success but is the key to our success. Prior to us getting married, we discussed the life style of an obstetrician of which made Michael prepared and very aware of what to expect. I may be the obstetrician in the family, but we are in this together. Michael may accompany me to the hospital or he may drop me off and pick me up.

When I have been at the hospital for an extended period of time, he calls to check on me or he may come by to visit me, if I am available. When I have had a long day at the office or at the hospital, I can depend on him to prepare dinner for me and to make my evening relaxing. I am able to balance work and home life by working and communicating with Michael. We always make time for each other despite my schedule. In additional, we continue to treat each other as we did prior to getting married. We continue to give each other gifts and flowers “just because”, and we have “date” night each week!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? Chicago State University-B.S. degrees in biology and chemistry, Chicago, IL Internship-Michigan Health & Medical Center, Detroit MI Residency-St. Joseph Mercy Hospital & Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital & Medical Center, Pontiac, MI. Medical Degree (D.O)-Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA Experience: McAlester Regional Hospital, McAlester OK Denton Community Hospital, Denton, TX Denton Regional Medical Center, Denton, TX Presbyterian Hospital of Denton, Denton, TX Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital-Denton, Denton, TX How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I stay motivated in these challenging times by thinking of ways to help individuals and to improve my community. God has given me many talents of which I use to help others to succeed. There is always a need for me to motivate, educate, and to lift-up others to become productive human beings. I live by the words, “For unto whomsoever much is given, of Him shall be much required.” Therefore, I keep myself motivated not only with the responsibilities of my family and career, but by being involved in the community and various projects.

Every year at this time, I am busy as the director of the Annual Health & Wellness Fair at Morse Street Baptist Church. Our health fair has been held on the 2nd Saturday of April for the past 3 years. This is an exciting event because the community is provided with free health screenings that include diabetes, cholesterol, hearing, etc. Over the past three years, we have been very successful to have several hundred people from the city of Denton and the surrounding communities to take advantage of our screenings as well as health lectures that our provided by physicians from the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital of Denton. As a member of the “Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.”, I have committed myself to a life time of “service” to my community. We are involved in several community service activities through out the year from raising money to provide scholarships to students who are entering college to our signature event, The Women’s Health Symposium that is held in the fall.

Also, I support outstanding service organizations such as “Friends of the Family” and “Christian Community Action”.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother were my mentors. All are examples of strong matriarchs in my family. Each of them contributed to my nurturing, development and education, and they are responsible for the woman who I am today. My mother sparked my interest in the medical field as a registered nurse who worked on the post-surgical women’s unit. I loved to visit my mother at work and did so quite often. I used this opportunity for my mother and her colleagues to teach me about patient care among other valuable lessons such as good work ethic and patient compassion. My grandmother did not live in my household but was instrumental in my development of discipline, inner strength and confidence. My greatgrand mother lived in my household and helped to raise me. She was an immeasurable source moral and spiritual wisdom. She was a devout Christian and was responsible for the development of my spiritual growth.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? After a long

Dr. Lori Gore-Green Name: Dr. Lori Gore-Green Family: spouse: Michael A. Green (Minister, CEO of Our Father’s Mobile Bible Ministry, Practice Administer of Lori GoreGreen, D.O., P.A.) and step daughters: Tiffany and Malerie.

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois.

Current residence: Denton Business Name: Lori GoreGreen, D.O., P.A. Business Address: 209 N. Bonnie Brae St., Ste., 204, Denton, Texas 76201 Business Phone: 940-387DRGG (3744) My Title: 1) Physician (Obstetrician/Gynecologist/Surge on) 2) Women’s Health Care Lecturer Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? I chose a career in obstetrics & gynecology because it was the field in medicine that appealed to me the most during my internship. I can always expect excitement in the field of obstetrics. It may be calm one moment, and I find myself delivering twins or triplets, the next minute. Also, gynecology brings a variety of women to my office from those needing routine annual examinations and birth control to those who require sling procedures for such conditions as urinary bladder incontinence and hysterectomies due to a fibroid uterus. Also, as a woman’s health care advocate and lecturer, I am frequently asked to give presentations on interesting health topics from HPV to menopause. This is very important to me because it allows me to empower women through education.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women? : If I were the president of the United States, I would implement the following changes to the general business arena to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women: 1) Affordable health care insurance 2) The dismissal of “preexisting condition” restrictions that prohibit some women from obtaining health care coverage 3) “Equal pay for equal work” to end gender payment discrepancies 4) Affordable facility owned employee day-care 5) Mandatory self defense classes 6) Equal opportunities for the physically challenged 7) Mandatory self improvement classes In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: In my opinion, the most important issue in the work-place in the U.S. is to “keep American jobs in America”. In order to keep America competitive, U.S. companies must create innovative ways to lower costs while continuing to produce quality products. The most important issue in the workplace in the world is unfair labor practices where people work for long hours and are paid unfair wages. I suggest that American companies avoid business relationships with countries that engage in these unfair labor practices.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? I am personally handling the current economic situation at home and at work by saving money, doing more at home and by being very wise and careful of how my finances are spent.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, I have found it difficult to balance work and home life, especially as an obstetrician. The demands of my obstetrical specialty may require me to be called away from the comforts of my home and family to the hospital at various times during the night. This life style would put a strain on many marriages.

However, I have a very supportive

day or week at work, there are a variety of things that I may do to unwind which include getting a massage, going out on a date with my husband, going to the movies, walking in the park, enjoying the company of my friends, listening to a jazz band, or just relaxing at home.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I have always loved to participate in physical activities such as sports.

Maybe this is because I have 4 brothers. However, my favorite sport activities are basketball, volleyball, softball, and bowling. If there is an opportunity for me to play, I will be there. I also love to decorate my home according to the upcoming holidays. Christmas is my favorite holiday because of the celebration of the birth of Christ, and the spirit of love that touches so many people. I love to entertain in my home. My husband and I find joy from inviting people into our home to make them feel special. We have gatherings for various events from birthdays to church meetings to superbowl parties. We also invite groups of friends over to let them know that we love and appreciate them just because they have been a blessing to us. When I have quiet time, I like to catch up on my reading, and I like to work in my garden. My husband and I recently dug-up several huge sweet potatoes. We will give many away. However, from the ones that we keep, I am looking forward to baking sweet potatoe pies!

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? At this point in my life, I am most proud of having accomplished goals that have made a positive impact in the lives of my family, friends, church and community.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? I was elected by my peers as the Chair of the Obstetrics Department at the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital-Denton. It is an honor and a privilege to be given the responsibility to lead this distinguished department. I am looking forward to accomplishing many goals that will help to strengthen the department and to continue the outstanding reputation that is associated with Texas Health Resources. I have also been given the honor as the medical columnist for the UrbanGirlz website (www.urbanGirlz.org).

UrbanGirlz is an award-winning website that is designed to celebrate, encourage, and positively engage girls and teenagers of color.

Being apart of UrbanGirlz is a blessing because it allows me to educate young ladies on a large scale about health issues.

Tami Green Name: Tami Green, RN Family: Stacy Green/Husband and Jacob Green/Son (9 years old) Hometown: Sanger B u s in e s s Name: Good Samaritan Society, Denton Village Business Address: 2500 Hinkle Dr. Business Phone: 940-383-2651 E-mail address: tgreen1@goodsam.com My Title: Staff Development Coordinator, Assisted Living Consultant and Part-time Human Resources What advice would I give to someone interested in my specific career? Set your mind and heart towards making a difference.

Remember geriatrics is a specialty that requires unique education and training. Be proud to be a nursing professional who cares for this special population of individuals.

In my opinion what are the most important issues in the workplace today? One of the most important issues in the medical industry is the projected increase in the geriatric population and concerns of how our society will care for them. With a progressing nursing shortage, we need more nurse educators to train those seeking nursing careers. The popularity of nursing has grown, however now there are not enough educators to keep up with the demand.

Nursing educators should receive higher wages and be more publicly promoted to draw nursing professionals into these educating roles.

If I were president, what changes would I implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women? I am fortunate that Denton Good Samaritan is capable of providing many opportunities for personal and professional advancements, however many long-term care facilities do not. As president, I would mandate more advanced geriatric nursing opportunities for those who work in the long-term nursing facilities, and reward them with scholarships, wage increases, and public acknowledgement of their importance to the well-being of our nation’s elderly.

What is my educational level? I have a Bachelors of Science degree.

Debby Grigsby Name: Debby Grigsby Family: husband, Johnny; daughter, Nikky; daugher and sonin law Briana and John Abernathy; daughter and son-in-law Brittany and Matt Patterson and one grandchild, Addison Lynn Abernathy.

Hometown: Denton, Texas Business Name: Meridian Bank Texas Business Address: 100 N I-35E. Bldg 101 – Denton, Texas 76205 Business Phone: 940.320.5202 E-mail address: debby.grigsby@meridianbanktexas My Title: Retail Deposit/Marketing Mgr. What advice would you give to someone interested in your specific career?: Don’t be afraid to start at an entry level position. This will allow you to learn everything you can about the business from different perspectives, and be a well rounded banker.

What is the most interesting lesson you have learned in your career? To listen and not assume and with good customer service sales will come.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today?

Retirement.

Education on why it is important to contribute to a retirement fund and education about the options. . Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? I just remodeled my kitchen so that gave the Denton economy a boost. So now where is that stimulus check??

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? My family always comes first. I do my best to schedule work around important things in my family lives.

What’s your secret?: Keeping priorities in tack.

What is your education level (i.e. technical, college, specialized training, etc.): College graduate How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: The customers I interact with and people I work with on a daily basis motivates me and makes getting up and coming to work fun. We are definitely a close group and have a lot of fun together.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My parents, they both worked hard for what we had and taught us kids to appreciate the value of a dollar. That every member of a team whether it’s family, work, sports, etc. was important and had a role to play to make that team successful. They are truly my lifelong heroes.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): With a middle school daughter who is involved in everything, there is barely time to get in bed and do it all over again tomorrow. I do love reality TV, so any off nights I have, you can fine me watching “American Idol”, “Dancing with the Stars”, “Biggest Loser” and etc What is your favorite time of day and why? Mornings because it allows me to wake up, be thankful and start a new day.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud of having a successful career and an awesome family.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom?:Success comes in cans, not cannots!

Donna Hall Name: Donna Hall Family: husband, Garry; sons, Langdon and Tyler, granddaughters Cheyenne, 5 and Hally, 9 months.

Hometown: Raised in Wise County Current residence: Krum Business Name: DATCU Business Address: 225 W. Mulberry St., Denton, Texas 76201 Business Phone: 940-387-8585 E-mail address: dhall@datcu.org My Title: Vice President of Real Estate Lending Why did you choose your career?

We bought our first house in 1978 and I decided to get my real estate license. I didn’t have the patience for selling real estate, my background was in accounting so I decided to try mortgage lending.

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? I was selling Real Estate in Oklahoma when the oilfield crashed in the 1980s, I had to come back home and get a “real job”. It’s the best “bad thing” that ever happened to me.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes woud you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: In house day care would be a wonderful enhancement to the business place for young women, though impossible for most business to implement due to cost and liability issues. Job sharing has proven successful in many fields and could probably be utilized more. I believe the next generation of women, as previous generations, will have to make changes to prepare for the business arena as appropriate for their chosen field.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Healthcare and the economy.

Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: I wish I did!

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Garry and I have worked hard to save money and owe as little as possible.

Are there tips you’d like to share? Do business with DATCU! As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? Our sons are grown now so it is much easier than when they were younger. There’s only one way – just do it. One of the reasons that DATCU is the 2nd best place to work in the State of Texas is that we are encouraged, even expected, to maintain that balance.

What’s your secret?: Set your priorities and stick by them!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? 2 years of college, 25 years of mortgage lending in Denton.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: All it takes it the face of a first-time homebuyer!

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My parents are the most important. My Dad was in Law Enforcement and my Mom is a retired Nurse, they dedicated their entire lives to helping others. They taught me that caring for people was the most important thing – if you handle your professional life as such, success will come.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? Garry and I love to fish – we spend most weekends at the lake. We don’t catch a lot of fish – but we enjoy being on the water.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I do make great pies – pecan, pumpkin and coconut meringue are my specialties.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud of that fact that our department of 12 has put DATCU in the top 4 percentile of mortgage originating credit unions in the United States. Five

years ago, we weren’t ranked at all.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Live, love, laugh and learn.

Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? Easter is my favorite holiday – on Easter Sunday, Garry and I will host a gathering of my family – about 45 people if everyone is able to attend!

It’s a really wonderful, crazy day and we love it. My siblings, cousins and I have grandchildren now so the yard is covered nearly solid with Easter eggs!

Sandra Haun We are pleased to announce Sandra Haun as the new Independent Activities Director for Good Samaritan Lake Forest Village. Sandra is a transplant from Los Angeles, CA with strong ties to Texas including five grandchildren. Currently Sandra has family in Amarillo and roots in Texas that run deep. Four years ago Sandra came to Good Samaritan Lake Forest Village as a hydration aide. She continued in the Health and Rehabilitation Center as an assistant in the activities department and found her “life’s calling”. Sandra earned her Activities Director certification in 2008 and in February of 2010 was promoted to her new position as Independent Activities Director.

Sandra invites you to come by and pick up a copy of our event filled calendar. Come and be involved with our diverse group, “you never know what will happen when sharing God’s Love in word and deed.”

Judy Higgs Name: Judy Higgs Family: Husband, Jim Higgs – Son, Cody Martin and daughter, Kelsey Martin Hometown: Pilot Point Current residence: Whitesboro Business Name: PointBank Business Address: 922 S. Hwy. 377, Aubrey, TX 76227 Business Phone: 940-686-7082 E-mail address: jhiggs@pointbank.com My Title: Sr. Vice President/Commercial Lender Why did you choose your career? I worked for PointBank while I was in high school through the VOE program. After moving from the area and working in a couple of different fields, I came back to PointBank. Technology had definitely changed things but the customers were and are what makes this job great.

If you were president, what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: From my experience in banking, it is balanced for women. There are changes in the banking field but work and dedication make an even playing field for both genders.

How do you balance work and home life? I have a wonderful husband that really helps out at home.

What is your background in this field? I am working on my 24th year in banking, all with PointBank.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Faith, family, and all the people I come in contact with at work (they are like family).

Who was your mentor ? My mother has always been a role model for me. Her loving heart and work ethics have always been a level to strive for.

How do you unwind?: Read, cook, go to antique stores, gardening.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Love my family and friends, enjoy working in a small community and participating in all the local activities. I am blessed to be where I am at this point in my life.

What are you most proud of having accomplished in your life?

My children, it is awesome to look back from the day they were born to where they are today.

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6Women in the Community

Debbie Irby

Mary Jenkins

Name: Debbie Irby Family: 2 boys, Cody-22 years old and Christopher 20 years old (just returned from Afgahnastan) Hometown: Krum Current residence: Krum Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS Business Address: 3301 Tealsey Lane, Denton, TX 76210 Business Phone: 940-383-6206 E-mail address: Dirby@nstarbank.com My Title: SVP Professional and Executive Lending Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? It started out as a great job for a working mother with small children because of the hours and the great holidays off and then led into a passion for working with people and helping them with their day to day finances and to obtain their dreams of either purchasing a car, home or building a new building. I love the feeling of being able to lead someone through these processes and seeing the end result and the joy it brings to people.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women? I really feel like the women, not just our organization but other,s have come to the point where there are accepted just as the men of the companies are. All I would say to the next generation of women would be you have to work very hard to stay in the same game as the men.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Since my job is close to the medical community I would probably have to say the healthcare reform because of the potential impact it can have not only on our physicians but our nation as well.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? Take one day at a time.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance w ork an d home life? What’s your secret?: No real secret. Both of my boys are grown and moved out of the house so my career is able to be first in my life with no regrets of neglecting the time I spend with my children.

Although I do still spend a lot of time with my boys or as much time as the Army allows with my younger son. I enjoy every minute I get to share with them because they truly grew up way too fast!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in banking since my youngest son was 8 weeks old, which was 20 years ago.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? Continue to work to find the good in what is going on in our community. Keep looking for good business.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? Well as I say every year that I wouldn’t have come this far it if had not been for Tony Clark. I have learned so much from him and have grown so much as a person and in my career by watching him. Tony is the one who convinced me it was time to spread my wings and not remain his Administrative Assistant any longer. I was his assistant for 13 years or so and moved into a lending role 7 years ago specializing in lending to the medical profession. I have an amazing job and I owe that all to Tony Clark.

How do you unwind? Actually I love to sit by the pool in the evenings and sit in the peace and quiet and unwind. Only in the warmer weather.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Well I have always wanted to sky dive but haven’t found anyone to do it with me. I do although love to bake, not necessarily cook but bake.

What are you most proud of having accomplished? I would say just being at this point in my career as well as raising 2 amazing boys that I am so proud of.

Name: Mary Jenkins Family: Husband, Jerry and 2 year old son, Kaden.

Hometown: Argyle Current residence: Argyle Business Name: DATCU Credit Union Business Address: 225 W Mulberry St. Denton, TX Business Phone: 940-387-8585 E-mail address: mjenkins@datcu.org My Title: Director of Personal Services Why did you choose your career?

My sister actually introduced me to the idea of working at a Credit Union. She had been working at her Credit Union for a number of years and really enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and the mission of “people helping people”. I knew that I wanted to work at an organization where I could build a career and create long lasting relationships with my co-workers and clients. My career at DATCU has provided both of these opportunities and I hope to continue on this path for many more years to come!

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace? Insurance and Benefits are always going to be a hot topic in the workplace. With the current economic condition, it is inevitable that costs are going to rise across the board. We are all experiencing the effects of increased premiums. I feel that it is important for companies to continue to review their benefits package and strive to provide quality benefits while limiting increases to the employee. I feel fortunate to work for a company that provides an outstanding benefits package; however, I have friends and family members who are more severely impacted by premium increases.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Given the uncertain economic times, we are definitely keeping a closer eye on our personal finances, and are trying to build up our reserves. I would say the most important thing you can do right now is to review your financial situation often. Look for ways that you can save money. Shop around to find the lowest interest rates and consolidate debts when applicable. The market is changing constantly and the more informed you are about your finances, the better you will fare in these economic challenges.

How do you balance work and home life? This is definitely a difficult area to maintain balance. With a 2 year old son at home, I find myself wishing there were more hours in the day! I just try to commit myself wholeheartedly and make the most of whatever it is that I am doing – whether I’m at home with my family, at work, or at a volunteer function.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? When I started in this profession, I was a young and inexperienced high school student. I worked part time as a Teller while attending College. I have had the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in several areas of the Credit Union over the past twelve years, which has proved to be very beneficial in my current role at DATCU. How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I am motivated by my family and coworkers on a daily basis. I am fortunate to be surrounded by supportive and positive people who strive to be their personal best. This encourages and motivates me to do the same. Positivity is contagious!

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I have been blessed with many mentors along the way, but my parents have been the most impactful. Having been married for Forty Years, they have always led by example and taught us to put family first. Being business owners themselves, their honesty, integrity, and hard work enabled them to be successful in their industry. Following these practices in my own career has allowed me to be successful as well.

I am so thankful to have had their guidance throughout my life. Now that I am a parent myself, I seek their advice constantly!

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? When I get

home from work, I kick off my heels just in time to get tackled by my little boy! After I’ve had my share of hugs and kisses, we usually play games or read Dr. Seuss books. It’s surprising how fast the worries of the day just melt away after a few minutes of playing with him!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I love to spend the occasional weekend scrapbooking with my nieces and girlfriends. In the summer, my husband and I enjoy camping and boating with the family.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? There are so many things that I am grateful for and extremely proud of in my life. I am very proud to have just celebrated ten years of marriage with my husband, Jerry. We are now proud parents and consider it a blessing that we were finally able to have a child.

In addition, I am proud to have built a career in a wonderful organization that supports its employees.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom?: I have adopted the motto of one of my best friends: “Everything happens for a reason”.

These words have helped me through some tough experiences. I try to see the positive in every situation and know that there is a silver lining in every dark cloud.

I think having some sort of childcare at your company would take a lot of stress off of working mothers.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? We have cut back on our spending and are eating more at home.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?:It does not matter how challenging the times are, it is hard to balance both your job and family life. My secret is that I have an employer that understands the importance of family.

What is your education level: High school & College We know that you love your job, but if you could be anything, what would that be?: CareFlight nurse How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: My family and co-workers Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mentors in life are my parents and a special lady that I work with named Nancy Millichamp. They have taught me the importance of honesty and hard work and that you can do anything you set your mind to do.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love to be outside walking or playing with the kids What is your favorite time of day and why? I love to be outside in the evening because it seems so peaceful.

Amy Kuhn Name: Amy Kuhn Family: Chris, Ty & Chance Hometown: Callisburg Business Name: PointBank Business Address: 1700 N Carroll Blvd Denton Business Phone: (940)686-3271 E-mail address: akuhn@pointbank.com My Title: Personal Banker II What advice would you give to someone interested in your specific career?: Start at the bottom and work your way up learning everything you can If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?:

Tracy Long Name: Tracy L. Long Family: Husband, John of 22 years. One daughter Lauren. She is an avid soccer player and plays both Varsity Soccer and Club Soccer.

Hometown: Born in Magnolia, AR Current residence: Lewisville Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS

Business Address: 543 W. Main St. Suite 100, Lewisville, TX 75057 Business Phone: 972-350-8300 E-mail address: tlong@nstarbank.com My Title: Vice President Branch Operations Manager Why did you choose your career?

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? After finding myself divorced at the age of 20 and living back with my parents in Lufkin, TX someone said, Tracy would be great in banking. She loves people! So, that is exactly what I did. I went to the local bank where my folks did business and they hired me as a teller.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?

I would continue my focus on work life balance. I am fortunate to be a part of a company that supports woman as we are career woman and moms.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? We are watching our pennies just like many Americans are doing. With expenses on the rise we have chosen to manage our needs vs. wants. I must say, we do not feel cheated.

This has created more quality family and friend time.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?

What’s your secret? Time management and communication is key! I make a list of what needs to be done and I do my best to manage these tasks while still taking care of the 911s.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I did not go to college, so I had to receive my education on the job. I was blessed to have people invest in me over the years. I knew as soon as I started working in banking it was the career for me. I do want to make it clear; I do not recommend not going to college. It does help with your career path move along much faster.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? Knowing everyday that I have an opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives! Something else that is so great is that they make a difference in my life.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I have had several people that have been a huge support in my life. I would like to mention Louis Dennis for his wisdom when I was a young manager. He taught me to believe in your convictions and to “never assume anything.” The “You can do Anything as a Woman” from my belated Aunt Joan Harris, and my mom Sarah Martin for setting the example of how you can be a mom and still hold your own in the work place.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I like to read a good book, cook, worship at my church “The Branch”, and spend time with my supportive family.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I love to watch the Food Network. My family loves for me to cook and I enjoy cooking for them.

I enjoy going to the local Barnes & Nobles to look at books and grab a cup of Starbucks.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud that I have been blessed with a wonderful family, friends, and that I have been in a career that I have loved for 26 years.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): For I know the plans that I have for you: Plans to prosper you plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

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Women in Community 7

Thursday, March 25, 2010 having accomplished at this point in your life? As a child I had Epilepsy and had paralysis of the left hand. I have overcome a lot of obstacles. Never let anybody tell you that you can’t achieve something.

Chrissy Mallouf Name: Chrissy Lynn Mallouf Family: John Mallouf – husband. Two beautiful kids Madison Lynn(4 yrs.) and Holden Jack (2 yrs. old) Hometown: San Antonio Current residence: Denton Business Name: DATCU Business Address: 3210 Teasley Ln Denton, TX 76210 Business Phone: 940-387-8585 E-mail address: cmallouf@datcu.org My Title: Personal Service Rep. Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? I started working at a local bank during college. I quickly fell in love with the relationships that I made with customers. I love listening to others and helping them with their financial needs.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes woud you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: I would implement programs to help educate women on wellness, time management and balancing family & work. I also feel that community service is a must. I think every employee should give a few hours a week to help others.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: I feel that so many companies have strayed away from good old fashioned customer service. I love that DATCU still cares about its members as well as employees. I think that more companies need to be family oriented.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? We currently cut coupons and shop what meat is on sale at the local grocery store. During nice weather I will ride my bike to work.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: I have a wonderful husband that helps out a lot with the kids. No matter how hard I work I still find time in the evenings to play with my kids, have a family dinner and enjoy some of our weekend time together. As I have gotten older I have learned that I have to say ‘No” once in awhile. In order to be successful in your career I feel you need to have a happy family life as well. They both balance each other out.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I am a PROUD Denton High graduate -1997 Kaplan Professional School –Real Estate (07) How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I have a wonderful family and great friends! I wake up every day with a positive attitude. We need to cherish each day and live it to the fullest.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I have two special mentors- My grandpa H.S. Osborne was the strongest man I know. He was a strong Christian man and always put others first.

He was very involved in the community and was the Otis Fowler recipient one year. My Mom- she battled Multiple Sclerosis for years, then had lung and brain cancer.

She NEVER complained about how rough she had it. She taught me to stay positive and always gave back to others. My mom always went without so my sister Kim & I would have a good life.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? Oh my goodness, I never unwind. I have two children under the age of 4. On occasion I spoil myself to a spa day.

I also like to go to spin and hip hop class at the gym.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I feel that I am a strong, successful woman. I have been through so much that I have overcome. I have learned to live life to the fullest, never give up and always have a big heart!

What are you most proud of

Jana Marshall Name: Jana Marshall Family: Husband of 15 years Kevin, sons: Ryan-14, Riley-13 and Mason Gale-6 Hometown: Graduated High school from Blum, TX Current residence: Krum, TX Business Name: Northstar Bank of Texas Business Address: 5100 S Stemmons Frwy Corinth TX 76210 Business Phone: 940 321-1076 E-mail address: jmarshall@nstarbank.com My Title: SVP/Corinth Branch Manager Why did you choose your career?

My mother had a helping hand in guiding me into the banking world.

I started as a part-time teller which helped me through college and I worked my way up from there.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share?

Budgets help not that I always stick to one but they are helpful, cutting coupons, shopping the sale items and eating more at home also help save on the pocket book.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?

What’s your secret?: Calendars!

Everything my husband and I are involved in after works hours and on the weekends are written on a wipe erase calendar that is posted on our refrigerator.

Communication is key to making everything run smoothly.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? 20 years of banking (I started at a young age!) and a Bachelor’s degree in Business finance from the University of North Texas How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? My customers & co-workers motivate me.

We have some of the best customers around and I enjoy assisting them with their banking needs and helping co-workers achieve their goals both personally and professionally.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mentor in life would have to be my mom for many reasons. She is the oldest of four siblings, the only girl and the only one to attend college. She pursued an engineering degree from UTA. She is such a strong women and I look up to her for all of her accomplishments. Not many people can say they have a rocket scientist for a mom.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work?: Unwind?

What is that? When I do have some free time I love reality TV. Watching my kids in their sports is something I really enjoy. I am also on a women’s soccer team the Goal Diggers.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting?

Who has time for any of that, I work and have three kids. I use to cross-stitch but don’t seem to have the time for that.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I’m a mother of three awesome, healthy boys, wife of a very caring and loving husband and recently promoted Senior Vice President at Northstar Bank. I’m a lucky lady.

Virginia McDaniel Name: Virginia McDaniel Family: Married to Jerry McDaniel.

Hometown: Denton, Texas Hobbies: Bible study, home décor, working on computer scrap-

books, spending time with grandchildren Business Name: Good Samaritan Society- Denton Village Business Address: 2500 Hinkle Drive Business Phone: 940-383-6347 E-m ail: vlangsto@goodsam.com My title: Director of Resident Services Number of years with business: started at this location in 1982! I have worked for Good Samaritan Society for 27 wonderful years.

Share the story: I enjoy the very interesting and wonderful older adults we serve. I like helping people know what their options are in senior housing and services. I have worked for Good Samaritan in several states. In the past few years, I have had the best team of people to work with that I have ever had.

That is very satisfying to me and truly working is fun because of my great co-workers.

Advice to someone interested in this career: Explore the options at UNT’s Applied Gerontology Program. This program was one of the first in the nation to train professionals in the aging field. Many job opportunities exist in the area of health care services to the elderly, both in direct care and administration.

Handle economic situation: I am blessed to have a job in a good field. I personally do not want to carry any credit card debt. I also believe, as long as I am fortunate to be working, I should save as much as possible; however, I still plan to budget for vacations. I always drive a car for as long as it will last.

Balance: I have always struggled with balance, but as I get older, I find it easier to reduce the number of activities and commitments I have in order to maintain my health and family relationships.

Education: I graduated from Texas Woman’s University with a bachelor’s in social work and from UNT with a Master’s in Studies in Aging.

What would I be if I could have any job: I always dreamed of writing, singing, and public speaking.

How do you unwind? The best thing I have done to unwind is to take a cruise to the Caribbean. I had never cruised until Nov. 08 when my daughter decided to take me on a special birthday cruise.

The minute I came home, I was ready to book another cruise for me and my husband. When, I am home, I like quiet late mornings.

Most friends know not to call me on Saturday morning… that is when I really enjoy sleeping late, listening to music, and reading travel magazines!!

What are you most proud of? I am most proud of raising a wonderful daughter. She is a good Christian wife and mom. Her family brings much joy into our lives.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? My word of wisdom, is to trust in God in all circumstance.

Katrina McPherson Name: Katrina McPherson Family: Madison (5) and Nicole (4) and the family dog (a min pin) Sammy Hometown: Idaho Falls, ID Current residence: Denton Business Name: Good Samaritan Society – Denton Village Business Address: 2500 Hinkle Drive, Denton, TX 76201 Business Phone: 940-383-6327 E-mail address: kmcphers@good-sam.com My Title: Director of Resource Development Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? I choose my career working in the health care industry back in college when I switched my major (in my junior year!) from accounting to health care administration. I then worked in accounting related career for the 1st sixteen years after I graduated from college (8 of those years were accounting in health care). Right before moving to Texas from Idaho in 2003, I received my nursing home administrator license from the state of Idaho and continue to keep it current. I love my career now working with seniors in a public relations profession that does require finan-

cial skills. I have worked in the senior industry for Good Samaritan Society both in my hometown and in Denton for over 13 years. God has led me down my career path and continues to do so.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: Family life and time is so important and often companies are not flexible and supportive of that and loose out on very valuable strengths. I am a firm believer (when it can be done) of job sharing and flex time, flex time, flex time. Also, special designated areas for new mothers that are nursing. The flex time is also important for many men.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Affordable insurance even for part-time employees and saving for retirement. Also, respectful treatment of co-workers is an important issue. To address these issues, letters to our legislatures and more education would help.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? I follow guidance from Dave Ramsey and set a reasonable budget that I can live with.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: Prioritizing, delegating, partnerships, and trying to take some time for myself to rejuvenate.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience-in this field? Part of my background was addressed in my response to the first question. I graduated from Idaho State University in 1988 with a B.S. in Health Care Administration. I received my license as a nursing home administrator in Idaho in 2003 and continue to keep it current. I completed the United Way of Denton County Project Blueprint Board Leadership Training in 2009 (which was the inaugural class in Denton County).

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I am very fortunate to work for a Christian organization with a Christian mission. God is my motivator and the residents, volunteers, and co-workers that I serve and work with. I always have one or two creative projects ongoing as well.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My biggest life mentor is of course my mom, we have a very close relationship and laugh often. My mentor both in the workplace and life is my supervisor, Virginia McDaniel.

She has many life experiences to draw from and a very strong faith.

Our administrator, Lisa Melby, is also one of my faith mentors.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I enjoy time with my children, friends, and my neighbors.

Tell us a little about yourself: I am currently making plans to record a Christmas CD as a fund raiser for Denton Village where the time and talent will be donated. I will be playing some Christmas flute music along with a professional piano accompanist. I use to run half marathons and hope to start again soon with one in Pocatello, ID in Sept.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Having two beautiful daughters.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Trust in God

My Title: Administrator Why did you choose your career? I had an interest in the business and medical fields.

Because I faint easily, a career as a nurse seemed out of the question. I have always loved older people, so long-term care administration was a perfect fit!

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? I’m a Dave Ramsey fan—live within your means!

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: I try to give my all to where I am at the time—at work, I am the administrator. At home, I am “mom”.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? My great grandmother, who died when I was eight years old, was a resident of a long-term care facility. Later, both of my grandmothers needed long-term care as well. By the time that I graduated from high school, I was very familiar with this industry. I have a Bachelor’s degree in health and hospital services administration, and a Master’s degree in Studies in Aging. I have worked as an administrator for the Good Samaritan Society since 1988, serving in locations in Colorado, Oregon and Texas.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I am motivated when I see our vision in action each day—by seeing residents and staff who feel loved, valued and at peace.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My dad always told me to honor my commitments—to finish what I start, and never give up. I think that has sustained me through hard times.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love fitness and exercise and I make that a part of every day. It helps me stay mentally and physically well.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud of my opportunity to be a parent and to assist my children in becoming Christ-centered individuals.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? If you wish to be a leader you will be frustrated, for very few people wish to be led. If you aim to be a servant, you will never be frustrated. (Frank F. Warren)

Krys Murray Name: Krys Murray Occupation, location: Owner of Lucy’s Moms On Main.

Daytime phone number: 972400-8851 Business address: 204 South Main Aubrey, TX 76227 Web site: www.MomsOnMain.com Birth date and place: Feb 7; Lancaster WI Family: husband Steve, 54, Daughters, Brittney, 32, Macy, 30 Haven 25, Kinley 23 The one thing I enjoy most about my work is: the satisfaction I get knowing I feed people good food.

My business philosophy is: take care of the customer and the customer will take care of you.

If I could, I’d be a: cookbook author I’m so sick of: paying taxes, I believe in paying my share, but the small business owner is being pushed out of business by being taxed to death.

The four guests at my fantasy dinner party would be: God, my Mom and Dad, and Julia Child!

My hobbies are: Antiquing, gardening, reading The last book I read was: The Girls from Ames Jeffrey Zaslow I wish I knew how to: quiet my racing mind My worst habit is: daydreaming Nobody knows I: have the goal of my restaurant being featured in an article in Southern Living Magazine.

The person I most admire is: I admire any person who lives their life to the fullest using the gifts that God gave them.

My guilty pleasure is: A glass of Chardonnay and a hunk of chocolate.

I drive a: Chevy Avalanche I’d like to be driving a: 56 Cherry Red Chevy Pickup.

My favorite restaurant is: my own.

I’m happiest when: I’m slammed at work.

A

living commitment to Christian care and services.

SENIOR HOUSING - APARTMENTS AND TWINHOMES MORRISON RESIDENCE ASSISTED LIVING REHABILITATION - SKILLED CARE

THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN

Lisa Melby Name: Lisa Melby Family: Husband, Kyle; son, Jayce, 13, and daughter Jaxi, 8.

Hometown: Tripp, South Dakota Current residence: Denton Business Name: Good Samaritan Society-Denton Village Business Address: 2500 Hinkle Dr., Denton, TX 76201 Business Phone: 940-383-2651 E-mail address: lmelby@goodsam.com

In Christ’s Love, Everyone is Someone.

Denton Village 2500 Hinkle Dr. • Denton,TX 76201

(940) 383-6347 www.good-sam.com CY

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Thursday, March 25, 2010

8Women in the Community

DeeDee Peterson Name: DeeDee Peterson Family: Husband – Scott Peterson; Daughter – Kayli Peterson; Son – Kale Peterson Hometown: Sanger Current residence: Sanger (lifetime resident!)

Business Name: DATCU Credit Union Business Address: 225 W Mulberry St, Denton Tx 76201 Business Phone: 940-387-8585 E-mail address: dpeterson@datcu.org My Title: Branch Manager, Downtown Branch Why did you choose your career? At a very young age, I was given an opportunity to begin my career in a financial institution. I owe this opportunity to my “other mother” and Aunt, Joye Williams.

She believed in me and the company that hired me took a chance on me. I have loved every minute of my career in banking and wouldn’t change any single moment along the way.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace today? Communication and training are keys to the success of any company. I would encourage every manager to have the next generation of potential managers trained and groomed for their moment of opportunity for advancement.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? In any economy, especially today’s economy, you should always plan for tomorrow. Tomorrow can bring many things. I personally am handling today’s economy as a learning tool. I desire to be debt free and that desire helps me to make wise decisions before I make unnecessary purchases.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? Home and family are my first priority. I take advantage of the time that I have to spend with my family. At the same time, my career is also important to the well-being of my family; therefore, I commit myself completely to my career when I report to work each day. It is important to be punctual, work hard, and give 100% while I represent my company and myself.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in banking for 15 years, attended college at TWU, and am currently enrolled in Southwest CUNA Management School.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I always start the day with a smile on my face and that alone is a self-motivator. I love what I do every day and I love the people that I work with; therefore, motivation comes natural with those key ingredients.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My aunt, Joye Williams, has been my mentor in the workplace and in life.

She is always very uplifting and motivated and keeps a smile on her face no matter what. She is a great leader and she taught me at a very young age to have confidence in myself and to always work hard to reach my goals.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? Unwinding is not a part of my routine. I think my mind is still on full throttle when I hit the pillow each night.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Always be honest and do what you say you will do.

Earning respect from others will build you both personally and professionally.

Darla Place Name: Darla K. Place Family: Gary Place is my husband. I have three children, Gary Place II, Daniel Jeffery, and Michelle Jarret. I have six grandchildren: Danny, Morgan, Sophia, Karley, Tanner and Tyler. I also

have a houseful of dogs, cats, and a cockatoo bird, named Tommy.

Hometown: Irving, Texas Current residence: Fort Worth Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS Business Address: 1101 E. McCart St., Krum, TX 76249 Business Phone: (940) 5657046 E-mail address: dplace@nstarbank.com My Title: Vice President of Branch Operations Why did you choose your career? I started in banking in 1975. At the time it was a great job for a young mother. I loved it so much I have stuck with it all these years.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women? Job sharing. The most progressive companies offer this and it keeps good people.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Health benefits How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Scaling back on my purchases.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance w ork and home life? What’s your secret?: I have lots of energy. I also don’t sweat the small stuff.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in banking for 35 years.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I love my job! I love working with customers and I love my coworkers.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I didn’t have a mentor but I always looked to a senior woman officer to learn how to dress.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I train and compete in dog agility.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I collect antiques and have an antique booth at Antique Experience in Denton and Montgomery Street Antique Mall in Fort Worth.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am very happy where I am in my career and I have terrific kids and grandkids!

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? “Don’t sweat the small stuff.” It makes my job and home life so much easier.

Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? I am a long time member of Denton Kiwanis Club and Krum Lions Club. I am very active in dog & cat rescue.

Kim Pollard Name: Kim Pollard Family: Husband, Scott, Employed at Norton Metals Kim and Scott together share five children: Ashlie, 17; Ashley, 16; Shayla, 15; Tyler, 11 and Dillon, 5.

Ashley, Shayla and Tyler all attend Ponder Schools Hometown: Abilene Current Residence: Ponder Business Name: Bookkeeper Girl, Inc. Business Address:100 West Oak Street, Box 208 Business Phone: 940-566-9787 E-mail Address: kim@bookkeepergirl.com Title: Owner and President Reason chose career: I did contract work on the side for bookkeeping while working at a CPA firm, and one of my clients was a corporate client. They could never remember my name but jokingly called me “bookkeeper girl” and it has stuck with me all these years. I knew there was a need for sound, basic bookkeeping. CPA’s can only work off the numbers they are given and the need for someone to efficiently track those numbers was there. I have always loved new technology as well, and I worked with this program for six years before I decided that “ yes, this will work for small businesses”.

Everything about my Bookkeeper Girl business is unique and, of

course, confidential.

My Title: I am the President of the company and work continually to implement ways to become more organized, satisfying and efficient for each and every client.

My motto is “keep it simple” . Because every small business is different, services are tailor-made for each client, and with Bookkeeper Girl specializing in QuickBooks Online, customers can go online to see their books at any given time.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation? I am diligently impressing upon my children that we must all pick and choose what events to attend, how many times we eat out away from home and what purchases are necessary. We do this not only to save money, but to conserve on gasoline. We all work at home to conserve in the utilities and go green in every possible way.

How do you balance work and home life? I try to keep a balance, but sometimes I do not have enough time at either the workplace or the home.

What is your background? I worked for a bookkeeping firm for six years and then worked out of my home for several years before going into a public office on Denton Square. I have always been technology savvy and even as a child, had an entrepreneurial spirit.

I enjoy helping others, so opening my own business was a win-win situation for myself and also for my clients.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?

Bookkeeper Girl specializes in online bookkeeping and payroll services and we pride ourselves in being solely electronic and client confidentiality is of the utmost importance. The growth of our business has been tremendous in these economic and challenging times which tells us that we are doing an excellent service for our clients and this is rewarding. We offer flat rate package pricing that allows clients to budget a set monthly fee in these trying times rather than fluctuate invoices based on hourly or transaction rates.

Therefore, it is easy for me to stay motivated as I can see and experience the confidence and trust our clients place in Bookkeeper Girl and that is satisfying for them and for me.

Who was your mentor? I do not have a certain mentor as there are several people that have been meaningful in my life and I am grateful to them and also for the grace of God. There have been so many people whose efforts have made Bookkeeper Girl a success.

My husband, Scott, and I work together regarding financial decisions, and we are each other’s accountability partners. It is a true partnership that, along with God’s guidance, has helped us be successful.

How do you unwind? I unwind by enjoying my family, love to get messages to relax, and enjoy scrapbooking.

Anything else you’d like to share? About me personally – I am happiest when I spend quality time with my family and my husband, Scott, and only wish I could have met him earlier in life. My children are all so special to me and each one of them is important to me in their own right and manner. Also, it is heartwarming to me when I know I have helped a worthy cause or when someone is exceptionally needy and I am able to make a difference in someone’s life. I enjoy being involved in the community. I am currently a member of the Denton Chamber of Commerce, the Better Business Bureau, Women Business Owners of Denton County, American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, am HUB Certified, and am a member of NMC Networking group. I am proud to have just learned that I have been named as a 2010/2011 “Professional Woman of the Year” by the National Association of Professional Women.

In my eyes, success is measured in the legacy you leave behind and the lives you touch along the way – not what you have gained, but what you have given.

My dream when I retire is to own a lodge in Colorado.

Becky Proctor Name: Becky Novak Proctor Family: Daughter, Rachel

Roberts (24) and Son-in-Law, Justin Roberts (24); Daughter, Sarah (18); and Son, Joseph (14) Hometown: Denton Current residence: Denton Business Name: Good Samaritan Society – Denton Village Business Address: 2500 Hinkle Drive, Denton, TX 76201 Business Phone: (940) 3836345 E-mail address: rproctor@good-sam.com My Title: Wellness Coordinator of the Independent Living Residents Why did you choose your career? I have been working in the healthcare arena for over 26 years and began with administrative support roles in hospitals as well as management of physician practices. I then worked my way up to owner and administrator of a family-owned and operated rehabilitation clinic specializing in Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy. During that time, over 50% of our patients were senior adults and I grew to love and respect our aging population, as well as observe the exponentially growing needs they have in their struggles with healthcare. In my current position, I am able to be our Good Samaritan residents’ medical liaison and advocate for them as they navigate the maze of hospitals, healthcare providers, and rehabilitation needed to continue to achieve optimal quality of life. Within my position, this role of serving others is one of the healthcare field’s greatest rewards and is why I continue in this occupation.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: Unfortunately, the “unequal pay/recognition for similar work” barriers are still generally the same that they have been for generations.

Changes for increased equality in the business world for women may have to come from regulation and policy changes within the federal government for businesses to comply.

Within my own company, I would set guidelines in place to eliminate glass ceiling barriers and solidly establish pay for performance, regardless of the hours worked or the location. This would allow increased flexibility for women to set schedules around family priorities, but be able to continue to produce quality work for the company.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S.) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: America is not doing a very good job of educating our employees about important issues like individual retirement planning. With the baby boomers now retiring, our government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid will be strained to provide enough affordable healthcare and sufficient senior adult housing for this large cohort.

Current employees should not rely solely on the government to sustain them throughout their retirement years.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? It is amazing to find out what you can do without. Set priorities on what to fund first and adhere to your guidelines. Don’t be swayed by marketing ploys or credit card traps.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: Again, figure out what is most important to you at this particular season in your life and put your energies there. Times change and children grow, so you can handle anything for a season. With God’s help, you will be amazed what you can endure.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Management and Human Resource from Baylor University in Waco, Texas, and a Masters of Science from UNT in Healthcare Administration, concentrating on Senior Housing and Long-Term Care. I am also currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Gerontology from UNT, concentrating on researching the healthcare needs of the future aging U.S. population. As previously mentioned above, administration and leadership within the healthcare arena is my area of expertise, as well as my passion.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Count your blessings and thank the good

Lord above for each and every one of them. This daily practice puts our worries and troubles into better perspective.

and creative menus to share with friends and family.

What is your favorite time of day and why? Mornings are when I am most energetic and attack my “To Do List”.

Helene Ramey Name: Helene Ramey Family: Husband - Kent, Son Seth (20), Dog - Hank Hometown: Ansonia, Connecticut Business Name: Meridian Bank Texas Business Address: 100 N I-35, Bldg. 101, Denton, TX 76205 Business Phone: (940) 3205208 E-mail address: helene.ramey@meridianbanktexas.com My Title: Lobby Services What advice would you give to someone interested in your specific career? Banking is a great career if you are detail oriented and enjoy working with people. It provides great potential for growth as there are so many different opportunities in the banking industry.

What is the most interesting lesson you have learned in your career? The skills I gained in leadership positions and as an active community fundraiser and volunteer allowed me to readily transition back into the work force after a 19 year hiatus. I encourage women to not sell short the valuable experience that is gained through community service.

If you were president, what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?

If I held a position of power I would work diligently to insure true equality in the workforce.

That would equate to equal pay for equal work and performance as well as equal opportunity for training and promotions.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace today? One of the current critical issues in the workplace is retirement security. With pensions becoming a thing of the past and Social Security on shaky ground the importance of personal responsibility in retirement planning is crucial. I think employers should offer financial training to educate new employees and stress the importance of 401Ks, IRAs and other savings plans that would help them achieve their future retirement goals.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? I feel blessed to have found a position that I truly enjoy and which allows me to contribute financially to my family, especially as I have a son in college. This gives me a great sense of security during these trying economic times. I am the proverbial coupon clipper and enjoy saving money on items that I truly need.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? I am very fortunate to be able to work part time which allows me to enjoy both areas of my life.

What is your education level (i.e. technical, college, specialized training, etc.) I received my degree in business from Post in Waterbury, Connecticut.

We know that you love your job, but if you could be anything (poet, president, activist or author, etc.), what would that be? I would love to be travel guide who specializes in culinary and wine country tours throughout the world.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I am the eternal optimist. I believe our economy is cyclical and although it is currently in a down turn, it will eventually have an upswing. I feel the strength and creativity of our American citizens will help us meet and beat the current challenges we face and bring us to a brighter future.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? The best mentor in my life has been my husband, Kent. He has always had faith and confidence in me even when I did not have it in myself.

His constant support and encouragement have been my greatest gift.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? On weekends, I love to get in the kitchen with my husband and develop new

Carol Ryan Name: Carol Ryan Family: Husband and business partner: John Ryan; 4 legged children include:Natasha Ryan-age 13, Martha Stewart Ryan- age 13, Emeril Lagasse Ryan- age 10, Oreo Ryan- age 9 Hometown: Denton, since 1969 Business Name: Vigne Wine Shop & Delicatessen & Limerick Property Management LLC Business Address: 222 West Hickory St. Suite #103, Denton & 1607 West Oak St. Denton Business Phone: (940) 5661010 & (940) 566-6617 E-mail address: carol @vignewine.com & cryan@limerickpm.com My Title: Limerick Property Management LLC – Secretary/ Treasurer, Vigne Bookkeeper, Bottle washer, Managing Member Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? No, Neither owning apartment homes or a wine shop & delicatessen were something I ever dreamed of doing, it was just something that happened. The two most influential people in getting me into each one were; Nedra Mitchell, who took me under her wing in 1987 and taught me everything good about the apartment business. She taught me how to do it the RIGHT way, for which I will always be thankful. In terms of the wine business, the most influential people for me were Tommy Caruthers Jr. and his lovely wife Keri. They took me under their wing and opened my eyes to the wonderful world of wine, and it has been a passionate love affair ever since.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? In spite of the natural “knee jerk” reaction to hide away everything, you must get out there and make a difference. When the economy is in the downtown that it is in you can go with the flow of what everyone else is doing. You have to do your part to put cash activity in the economy. Nothing is going to change as long as everyone is in a financial standoff. You have to be bold and willing to take a calculated risk.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: A nice bottle of wine, what else.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I received a bachelor’s degree in social work in 1985, but my natural ability to read and deal with people have been the best skill set in getting me where I am today.

I am very comfortable around people and there are very few situations where I am at a loss.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? It isn’t easy, but remembering that so few people ever get to live out their dreams and I am one of the few and proud of it keeps me motivated. A lot of sacrifices on my part, as well as many others have given me the advantages that I have enjoyed, and I don’t want look back and think they were made in vain.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I am an avid believer in “crash and burn”. The only day off that my husband and I get to enjoy off together is Sunday.

That is our day to veg in front of the TV and watch what has been tivo’ed and then at the end of the day enjoy a nice meal with a lovely bottle of wine. AAAHHHHH What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Being able to live out my dreams.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (Please include author if possible): Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, wine in the other, totally worn out and screaming “WOOO HOOOO what a ride.”

Author unknown.

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9Women in Community

Thursday, March 25, 2010

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Thursday, March 25, 2010

10Women in the Community and that I enjoy my career.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Well for some reason, I end of saying my children’s names over and over again, and count to three a lot!

Kay Schroeder Name: Kay Schroeder Family: Married to Alex and have three children: Austin, 15, Kennedy, 6, and Andie, 4.

Hometown: Muenster Texas Current residence: Muenster Business Name: DATCU Business Address: 225 West Mulberry St. Business Phone: (940) 3878585 E-mail address: kschroeder@datcu.org My Title: Vice President of Human Resources Why did you choose your career? I worked in the drive-thru at DATCU while attending college.

When I was ready to graduate, I decided I didn’t want to work in that particular field (great timing!).

The credit union just happened to have an opening for a part-time HR Assistant and one of my coworkers encouraged me to apply. I had no HR experience, but was so fortunate to be given the chance.

That was 12 years ago, and I’m so glad I applied for it.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Without getting too political, I think there have been many regulations passed that sound like a good idea on paper, but become a hindrance to those who do that job every day. Those making the decisions are not asking for valuable input from the employees who deal with these issues every day.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school?

Before buying anything, I always ask if I really need it, or do I just want it. I’m at the point where I don’t just want “stuff” around my house. Even when the economy was good, I always clipped coupons, so I’ve continued with that and watch my sales!

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance w ork an d home life? I have a lot of help. My husband is a very involved Dad… he does his fair share (and sometimes more) of picking up the kids or getting them where they need to be, doing the homework and cooking dinner. Our family is also great.

My kids have great aunts and grandparents who are always willing to help out, which means the world to us!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I graduated with my bachelor’s degree from UNT. I also earned my Professional in Human Resources certification several years ago.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I’m very thankful to be where I am, not just at work but life in general. I have a wonderful job and have the opportunity to work with people that I consider my second family. My family and I are healthy and very happy. All of our needs are met, and I realize there are so many people who don’t have that, so I’m very grateful. That alone is motivating.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I really admire my parents. They were mentors before the word was even cool! They have been married for 56 years and raised 7 children!

They taught us how to make it through the hard times and be thankful for the good times. They were excellent examples of what parents should be, and taught us to be honest and hard-working. We are very blessed to have them as parents.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? There is nothing I enjoy more than taking my shower and curling up in bed with a good book or magazine.

After the kids are in bed, that’s my relaxing time.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I do enjoy spending time with my family. I’m pretty much a homebody though…I enjoy cooking or watching movies. I enjoy walking / running for exercise. We’re close to our families too..so we’re usually at someone’s house at any given time!

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I’m really proud of my family, that we have a good life and our kids are happy. I’m proud of where I am professionally as well

Pat Sherman Name: Pat Sherman Family: Husband: Jud Sherman (my high school sweetheart and celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary this year) and three children:Tracy (and her husband Claudio) Carvalho; Nathan (and his wife Marcie) Sherman and Libby. Two grandchildren: Owen Michael Sherman, 15 months and his baby brother Caleb Van Sherman, due in May. Hometown: Denton, Texas (born at Flow Memorial Hospital) Current residence: Argyle Business Name: DATCU Business Address: 225 W. Mulberry Business Phone: 442-5487 E-mail address: Psherman@datcu.org My Title: Vice President of Business Development Why did you choose your career?

With a degree from Texas Tech University, after working for the Better Business Bureau in Oklahoma City, I was grateful to have the opportunity to choose to be a full-time mom until all my children were in high school. After working several years with my good friends at The Crouch Group, Dale Kimble convinced me to make the switch and move to DATCU. I shall always be grateful for the opportunities and experience offered here.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mom, Julia Davis has recently celebrated her 91st birthday. Especially in recent years, she has been a great role model and example of choosing to have a positive attitude.

Having lately experienced lots of loss and challenges, she focuses on sharing with and encouraging others instead of dwelling on her situations. What a valuable lesson to share!

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I guess I unwind when my head hits the pillow.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I LOVE musical theatre—listening, volunteering, performing—and look forward to having more time to participate on stage again sometime in the future. However, I’m grateful to currently serve and volunteer as President-elect of the Board of Directors of Denton Community Theatre (celebrating its 40th anniversary season!)

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud of raising my three children into the adults they have become today.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): Delight yourself in the LORD and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him and He will do this. (author King David, Psalms 37:5)

I believe that professional development and training is still the number one thing that can help a woman achieve equality, respect and balance in the workplace.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: In these tough economic times, it is important to focus on creating operational efficiencies so that companies can continue to run smoothly, and even grow, without overloading employees.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? We have chosen to view the economic pressures as a positive motivator for much needed family changes such as: We needed to stop eating out so much for health reasons; We needed to stop spending our time shopping at malls, and spend it at the park; We needed to spend more quality family time playing board games, instead of going to arcades.

We are very happy with these changes.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: Focus. If you are distracted with family when you are at work, and distracted with work when you are at home, both will suffer. When at work you must completely focus so you can be effective and efficient.

Then, you will have time for your family. Most importantly, when with your family you must not be distracted with work or you will have no quality time!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in marketing for over 20 years in a variety of industries including wireless, event marketing, and banking.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I have my faith and my family and I am blessed to be able to do what I love professionally, so I am motivated daily to keep going no matter what life throws at us!

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I spend every moment that I am not working with my family. They energize me.

We love playing board games, playing outside, and watching movies.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I love to run when it’s nice out and I am a huge movie buff. My husband and I have an ongoing “movie quote” challenge. Our children have even begun to participate and they do quite well!

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am proud to have achieved professional success without compromising integrity and without diminishing my role as a wife and mother. This has only been achieved by working for companies, such as POINTBank, who truly value my commitments to family and community as well as to them.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Rule #76 No Excuses..Play Like a Champion! ( movie quote from Wedding Crashers) Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? Because I feel passionate about mentoring other woman, as well as continuing my professional development, I am working on launching a new chapter of Executive Women International for the Denton County area. I am so fortunate that the leadership at POINTBank feels as strongly as I do about this initiative and they are supporting my efforts fully.

Dawn Sprayman Name: Dawn Sprayman, CeM Family: Husband Tyler, children Asher (8) and AnnElise (6) Hometown: Lubbock, TX Business Name: POINTBank Business Phone: 940-686-7060 E-mail address: dsprayman@pointbank.com My Title: Executive Marketing Director Why did you choose your career?

I feel I was born a marketing person. I have always been creative, and I have always looked for creative ways of “selling” my point of view and solving problems, even as a child and into my teenage years.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?:

Jeanne Stewart Name: Jeanne Stewart Hometown: Davenport, Iowa Current residence: Denton Business Name: DATCU Credit Union Business Address: 225 W. Mulberry St., Denton Business Phone: 940-442-5402 E-mail address: jstewart@datcu.org My Title: Executive Assistant If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: Working for DATCU, I wouldn’t change anything. We are

THE BEST company to work for in Texas and DATCU offers us fantastic benefits…..why change???

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share?

Squeezing the toothpaste and shampoo bottle to the very end!!!

Seriously, I have started to watch my spendable dollars and think twice before I buy anything that is not ‘needed’.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?

What’s your secret?: I try to take some time every week just for me.

My elderly mother lives with me so it is important that I take time to make sure I have some ‘pamper’ time. Being a caregiver is very taxing, not only of one’s time, but emotionally.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I have been in a ‘support’ role for most of my life, from being a mother and wife to secretaries and assistants and everything in between.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Wake up each day and thank God I have the chance to make a difference.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My parents were my mentors. They taught me a good work ethic and good morals.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? Massage on the Square!!! Nail Addiction!!!

Travel when I can……and wine (NOT WHINE)!!!!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting?

Don’t have a lot of time for much these days with caring for my elderly mother, but I like to cook, read and play computer games when I get the chance.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? My family….for the most part, they have all turned out pretty well. I’m very proud of all of them.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Live each day as if it’s your last….you never know what tomorrow will bring.

Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? Keep smiling….it not only will improve your attitude all day long and everyone else’s around you, but it will make people wonder what you’ve been up to!

Kim Stover-Schumacher Name: Kim Stover-Schumacher Family: Justin Foreman, 25, Certified CADD Draftsman Hometown: Dyersburg, Tenn.

Current residence: Little Elm Business Name: The Dave Barouch Group Business Address: 5205 Selago Drive, Keller, TX 76248 Business Phone: 214-762-0952 E-mail address: KMS7966@aol.com My Title: Realtor® Why did you choose your career? I’ve always enjoyed helping others! As a single mother and purchasing my own home many years ago, I was assisted by a great man that made sure my best interests were taken in to consideration.

When the IT field perished in the DFW market, I sought to get in to the Real Estate Industry and he assisted me with getting a position with an area Builder which allowed me to grow in knowledge about construction, real estate and the advantages of home ownership. I want to pay it forward and help other families, old and young, with obtaining the “American Dream”.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: I would certainly ensure equal pay for all women and men in their capacities as that will allow women to ensure their success should they want to pursue and grow in business and their personal endeavors.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Ensuring that our American Citizens benefit from what our country was founded on.

If others want to live in our United State of America, I believe they should follow specific guidelines and take the necessary instruction to obtain Citizenship so they too are responsible for paying in to our taxing institutions which in turn allows for our economic stability.

The US based Companies should be required to put to work our US Citizens in the positions that are available that will also allow our Citizens the opportunity to reinvest in our country and take care of their personal responsibilites.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? It has been very rough for many in our current economy however, through my personal religious belief’s, internal strength and God’s guidance, I know everything will work out. It’s a matter of putting needs before the “wants” in life for my family.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: I take everything, one day at a time, one minute at a time, one second at a time. Patience and Faith always persevere!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I came from Sales/Customer Service/ and IT Support industry and after 9/11/01, I was forced in to a layoff which allowed me to open my thoughts to things that I like to do and that is to help people. I had just purchased my home as a single mother of one and thankfully had worked with a very caring man that assisted me with going in to a New Home Sales Consultant position with an area builder. Since that time and obtaining my Real Estate License, I have assisted many wonderful families with their new homes and American Dreams! I have over 8 years of construction knowledge, real estate transactions, title, inspection, appraisal, etc and enjoy countless seminars to continue to keep me knowledgeable of the real estate, mortgage and other market details.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Faith and patience.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I’ve had many mentors that have helped to structure who I am today. My paternal grandmother was one of the 1st women in the U.S. to become a Retail Department Store Manager (back in the late-60’s).

She, as well as my mother and other female family members have shown me it takes guts’, honesty, integrity and perseverance to grow and as long as I keep God and my Faith first, nothing is impossible! I try to live by this guidance and pray God help guide me when things get too heavy or look impossible.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I stay busy most every day however, I love to sing, have dinner parties and enjoy being with my family and friends when I can.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? I love to sing and previously liked to entertain with others in a band back home in TN and here in Texas.

The Real Estate industry is a very different career which doesn’t allow as much time as would be required however, LOVE Karaoke!!! You can take that with you anywhere and anytime! LOL What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Having the courage to be by myself as a single mother which is quite the challenge but also being blessed with raising such a wonderful son and young man!

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): Faith is the grasping of the Almighty Power, the hand of man laid on the arm of God, the grand and blessed hour in which things impossible to me, become possible, Oh Lord, through Thee! A.E. Hamilton

VICKIE WATSON, C.P.A.

Tax Accountant Retirement Planning Advice on Safe Investing Money Management Join me on Sundays @ 5:00pm for the Retire Safely Radio Show with my co-host Coach Tony Brazeal on KSKY 660AM. 512 W. Hickory #114 Denton, TX 76201 940-387-5223 or toll free 1•866•469•5223

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222 W. Hickory, #103 Denton, TX 76202

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Women in Community 11

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Sharon Stubblefield Rainey

Becky Sylvera

Name: Sharon Stubblefield Rainey Family: Tom Rainey – Husband – Owner W.V.Rainey, Greenhouses, Inc. Paige Rainey Age 20 She is in her 2nd year at UNT / Fashion Merchandising / In ADPi and working at NORTHSTAR BANK part-time. Dugan Rainey – Age 26 Graduate of UNT-Degree in Public Administration. Employed by W V Rainey Greenhouses, Inc. Jennifer Rainey-Daughter-in-law since 1/16/10. Graduate of UNT-Degree in Risk Management and Insurance. Currently employed by Joe-Tex. Hometown: Munday, Texas Current residence: Denton Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS Business Address: 400 N. Carroll Blvd, Denton Business Phone: 940 591 1200 E-mail address: srainey@nstarbank.com My Title: Vice-President/ Deposit Operations Why did you choose your career? I started in Banking as a High School Student. I was involved in the VOE Program/Denton High School.

My first job was at First State Bank of Denton Customer Service and Bookkeeping area. I had a great Boss that taught me the ropes. She encouraged me in so many ways and tipped my interest in Banking.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Honesty.. So many times people try to just smooth over the edges/issues by not always being totally honest. My thoughts are that being honest, whether good or bad, you can grow, learn, teach and model great people.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school?

Watch the spending, less eating out, shop for bargains and only buying things that are truly necessary.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: Take one day at a time. Do not stress over the small stuff. Take time to laugh and have some fun at work and at home.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I know that things change all the time.

This challenge will not last forever.

Years from now we will look back and wonder how we did it and will probably be going thru yet another challenge just different.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My Mom and Dad told me from a very young age that I could do anything I set my mind to. They loved me unconditionally and encourage me all the way. I hope to be as good a parent as they were. Doretha Wilson was my very first Boss. She was not only my Boss but a good friend also. Although I didn’t always understand her and her ways she lead me and molded me to be the person/employee that I am today.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love being outside. I love yard work, cooking out and just chilling on the patio.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud of raising two great kids who have now grown up to be two great young adults.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? LIVE WELL ~ LAUGH OFTEN ~ LOVE MUCH Anything else you’d like to share about yourself? I am one of the most fortunate people in the world.

I have a great husband who I love dearly and could not image my life without him in it.

We have two great kids and just inherited a wonderful new Daughter-in-law.

My life has not always been a picnic, but I am thankful for it. I have learned to grow through every obstacle.

I am blessed with a great job that I love and love the people I work with.

I have been given so many opportunities which I appreciate very much.

Name: Becky Sylvera, PHR Family: my husband: Marc Sylvera, my children: Jennifer Sylvera, Sean Sylvera and Shelby Sylvera, and my Granddaughter – Katelyn Maye Hometown: Denton Current residence: Corinth Business Name: DATCU Credit Union Business Address: 225 W. Mulberry Street Business Phone: (940) 3878585 E-mail address: Bsylvera@datcu.org My Title: Senior Vice President of Marketing & Human Resources Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? While working for DATCU, I have had the opportunity to learn many things, become certified in my profession and enhance my skills in many areas.

DATCU Management encourages staff to cross-train and to learn something new every day.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes would you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: I see women getting opportunities now, more than ever.

I think it is up to women to make the workplace better and more balanced for themselves by being confident, working hard and being the best at what they do.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, h ow do you balance w ork and home life? What’s your secret?: When it starts to get dark outside, I finally tell myself, “This can wait until tomorrow” and go home to eat dinner with my family.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I love a challenge. It makes life interesting.

Something good always comes from something bad. So, you just have to stay positive about it.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mentor in the workplace has been Dale Kimble, CEO of DATCU. He has such integrity and true passion for his work. I leave every meeting with him as if my coach has just sent me off to play in a State Championship game. I never want to disappoint him.

My mentor in life has been my mother, Nelva Scott. She is the most sincere, kind person I know.

God truly blessed our family with her. She never has a bad word to say about anyone and no matter what happens to her, she has a smile on her face. She is our rock.

I love you, Mom! My husband has been such a great partner, father and friend. I couldn’t have the career I have today without him being by my side and helping me as much as he has all these years. Thank you, Babe!

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): I enjoy spending time with my family.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Watching my children grow into beautiful, young adults, enjoying life and accomplishing great things.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): “Every 60 seconds you are unhappy is a minute of happiness you’ll never get back” Author: my daughter, Shelby

Melanie Vest Name: Melanie Vest Family: Husband, Zack.

Children: Ethan, 4 and Kailyn, 1.

Hometown: Rohnert Park, California

Current residence: Sanger Business Name: DATCU Business Address: 225 W. Mulberry, Denton Business Phone: 940-442-5411 E-mail address: mvest@datcu.org My Title: Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? My mother worked for a financial institution when I was young. I loved going to her office and being a part of her work.

Her career lead me to mine.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any s u g g e s t i on s f o r a d d r e s s i n g t h e issue(s)?: I feel the most important issue today is balancing home and work. The current economic condition is stressful and can strain all aspects of life. The balance each of us finds within home and work is an essential part in successful businesses and employees.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, h ow do you balan ce w ork and home life? What’s your secret?: The secret to my balance is a wonderful husband and a supportive family, without them and all they contribute there is no balance.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? Bachelor Degree from UNT, Graduate of Southwest Cuna Management School.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I stay motivated by remembering that I have two young children that watch my every move and hang on every word. I strive to be an example to them of how to work hard no matter the obstacle or challenge.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My mentor has always been my mother. She has lead by example my entire life and I strive to be the wife and mother she is.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? When the garage door opens I have two amazing children at a dead sprint towards me with no cares in the world. Every care and worry that has occurred that day stops for a second and we just play. Playing with my kids and time with my husband is how I unwind.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am proud that I have been able to show that working hard and consistency does bread success. I started at DATCU eight years ago as a drive thru teller and today am the Chief Financial Officer of one of the best and financially sound financial institution in the country.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? (please include author if possible): Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. (Proverbs 16:3)

Staci Wallace Name: Staci Wallace Family: Husband - Torin Wallace, Minister of the Gospel.

Son – Jordan Wallace , he loves sports you may see him on the football field, track field or basketball court. Daughter – Kennedi Wallace, she loves to dance (Ballet and Tap @ Denton Conservatory) !!!

Hometown: Richmond, California ( Bay Area) Current residence: Denton Business Name: DATCU Business Address: 225 W. Mulberry Business Phone: 940-387-8585 E-mail address: swallace@datcu.org My Title: Personal Service Representative Why did you choose your career?

I was raised around family members who were in the financial business. I would sometimes go to my mother’s place of business after school, and see the interaction with Banker and customer, and I loved it. I would then go home and mimic what I just witnessed. At the age of 23 I got my first teller position and that is where I met my husband…lets just say this career has been a HUGE blessing for me.

How are you personally han-

dling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? Live within your budget!!! So many people I come into contact with do not have a budget. Even if you’re living paycheck to paycheck you have to start somewhere and that is having a budget that you can stick to. We need to get back to the basics…live within your means!!!

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, h ow do you balan ce w ork an d home life? What’s your secret?: Be present in the moment!!! When you’re at work be at work…when you’re at home …be at home.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: My faith in God has been my main motivator. Through my ups and downs he has never failed me!!! My husband is my constant motivator. He’s honest when he needs to be and supportive when he needs to be .

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love watching Romantic Comedies on the weekends, or reading a good novel.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a person who loves fashion. I have a few designs that I created a few years ago, that I may pull out and try to bring to life. I also secretly love the Food Network ..don’t quite know how to cook like them yet, but I do my best to come close.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? My children..seeing them grow each day..knowing that my husband and I ( along with God’s guidance) have been able to raise them into the respectful loving children they are today, is such a BLESSING!!!

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable will of God!! Romans 12:2( King James Version)

Vickie Moore Watson Name: Vickie Moore Watson Family: Sam 54, Kyle 22, Kevin 19 Hometown: North Richland Hills, Texas Current residence: Argyle Business Name: Vickie Moore Watson, CPA Business Address: 512 W. Hickory, Suite 114 Business phone: 940.387.5223 E-mail address: VICKIE@VICKIEWATSONCPA.COM My Title: owner Why did you choose your career? Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? Originally planned to be a tax lawyer, but life stepped in and changed my plans. Being a tax accountant has afforded me the opportunity to have a career and be a mom.

If you were president (of the company, organization, U.S.), what changes woud you implement to the business arena in general to make it better and more balanced for the next generation of women?: As President of the United States, I would implement a system of government to discourage the long-term reliance on teh federal welfare system. I would redirect welfare payments for women with children to educational/vocational institutions and daycare programs in order for women to be able to take care of themselves and their children.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, h ow do you b alan ce w ork an d home life? What’s your secret?: The tax accounting business is cyclical. My family adapts to teh rigors of tax season. I normally take a month-long vacation in November. Secret: Hawaii What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? 1986 UNT grad, some graduate work in tax. Obtained a CPA certificate in 1990. Began working for a CPA in college and transitioned to a savings and loan association. Opened private tx practice in 1990.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: My motivation is to honor God in everything regardless of the challenge.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and

how did they help you? Accounting mentor is Bob McCombs, CPA. He introduced me to the public practice of accounting, specifically taxation. He is the one person I know I cant turn to for a genius answer to a perplexing question.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love Jazzercise. 5:30 a.m. classes get me out of bedand ready for the work day. Come join me!

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

In my free time I co-host a radio show that airs Sundays on KSKY 660AM alongside Tony Brazeal.

We discuss retirement planning and offer advice on safe investing and money management. Coach Brazeal and I plan to write a book together this year.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? I am most proud of the men my two sons have become.

They are incredibly bright young men who bring me much joy and hope for the future. I am blessed.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? Successful business people make good choices because they have made an effort to educate themselves about their finances. Take charge of your own fianances. Surround yourself with people who are the best at what they do, And, be wise!

Joye Williams Name: Joye Williams Family: Husband, Mack; son, Chris Wesley; daughter, Lara Williams; grandchildren, Dylan McCoy & Caitie Wesley; parents Clifton & Ruth Spindle Hometown: Valley View Current residence: Sanger Business Name: NORTHSTAR BANK OF TEXAS Business Address: 400 N. Carroll Blvd., Denton Business Phone: 940-383-6278 E-mail address: Jwilliams@nstarbank.com My Title: Sr. Vice President, Human Resources Director Why did you choose your career?

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? My career chose me. I was executive assistant to the president of a manufacturing company and was asked to be back-up for the H.R. Manager. The more I learned, the more I loved the work, and when he left I eventually replaced him. I’ve been in H.R. management for over 20 years now, and still love it!

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Looking at the current state of the economy today, one of the most important issues at work, in my eyes, is to work more efficiently, and to be more environmentally aware. At times we seem to be complacent and take life and our jobs for granted. We should recycle more, turn lights out behind us, try to reduce waste, car pool when we can, cut back on expenses where we can, and be more thankful for our jobs and our many blessings.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?

What’s your secret?: Still one of my toughest challenges!

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? H.R. management for over 20 years; Professional in Human Resources Certification thru the H.R. Certification Institute; graduated from the National School of H.R. Management at the University of Colorado; have been very involved in the North Texas Society for H.R. Management for over 20 years and currently serve on their Board.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? Life is full of highs and lows, you just have to know how to react and deal with it.

I try to always focus on the positives in every situation, keep a smile on my face, and pray a lot. When life gets tough, there’s usually ways for me to get into a better mood, pick myself up to get motivated again. It could be a good inspirational book, a good movie, talk to positive friends or family members who know how to perk me up again, but mostly prayer.

Who was your mentor in the

workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I’ve had several mentors in my lifetime.

One was a former boss who would always tell me, “you know your job and what you’re supposed to do, go out there and do it and get back with me once a week and let me know what you’ve done and keep me informed.” He helped me build confidence in myself and in my abilities, and I take pride in my work and want to excel in everything I do with that kind of support. He led by example and treated employees with respect and recognized them for their accomplishments. He “walked the talk”, and I admired that.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I hardly ever unwind, there’s always something going on in my life… but that’s by choice. I do enjoy unwinding now and then with a nice glass of wine (or two) with my husband and friends.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I have an incredible, HUGE family.

Counting my precious Mom & Dad, 4 older sisters and younger brother, spouses, kids/step-kids, their kids, and their kid’s kids… there are close to 70 people at my parent’s house on Christmas Eve! It’s a blast! In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling thru the hill country visiting wineries, and spending quite time at our lake house.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? My pride and joy are my amazing son and daughter.

Having accomplished staying close to my kids through all these years, there couldn’t be a prouder moment.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? “The Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.

Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; that I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him Forever in the next. Amen.” —Reinhold Niebuhr

What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up? Find your dream job in the Denton Record-Chronicle classifieds.

Denton Record-Chronicle www.DentonRC.com

940-387-7755 800-275-1722

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Thursday, March 25, 2010

12Women in the Community

Julie Willis Name: Julie L. Willis Family: My family consist of my husband Todd, daughter Emily and son Haden.

Hometown: Denton Business Name: Meridian Bank Texas Business Address: 100 N. I-35 E. Bld 101 Denton, TX 76205 Business Phone: 940-320-5203 E-mail address: julie.willis@meridianbanktexas.co m My Title: Assistant Vice President Business Development What advice would you give to someone interested in your specific career?: Gain as much education and experience as you can, be honest in everything that you do and always give more of yourself than anyone would expect.

What is the most interesting lesson you have learned in your career? Share the story! Stay focused on what is important and in my world it’s the customer and their needs. It appears that in this day and time the customer is the one that gets lost because so many are now focused on how much, of what, by when and not what is in the best interest of the customer.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? I diligently try to keep a positive attitude and outlook on everything.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: My family is always my first priority and by staying focused and maintaining organization at work and home everything always seems to work out.

What is your education level (i.e. technical, college, specialized training, etc.): BBA from Texas Woman’s University.

We know that you love your job, but if you could be anything (poet, president, activist or author, etc.), what would that be?: Interior designer, I love the challenge of renovating a room.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: I have been blessed with a fabulous customer base that keeps me on my toes and running at all time.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? One of the first ladies that I ever worked for after graduating from college was Barri Johnson. She showed me that any negative situation could be converted into a positive one if you truly tried.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): There is never just one thing I am doing after a work day or week. Home projects, cooking, reading, baseball games, and volleyball games are usually on the top of my list of to do’s.

What is your favorite time of day and why? Early morning, it’s always my time to strategize and organize for the day.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Balancing a successful career and being a positive role model for my children.

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything.

Colette T. Yetka Name: Colette T. Yetka Family: Daughter - Dr. Cindy J. Skidmore, Veterinarian, & her husband, Scott, reside in Copper Canyon and raise Arabian horses.

Children, Ashley, 13, tennis player for Briarhill Middle School, rides horses and plays violin Brooke, 12, soccer player for Dallas Soccer Academy. Son - Chad Joseph Yetka and his wife, Marla, live in Denver, Colorado where Chad is the President of American Home

Builders and Mortgage Company.

Child - Logan Reid, age 4 Hometown: Arnold, Penn.

Current residence: Denton Business Name: Bookkeeper Girl, Inc. Business Address: 100 West Oak, Suite 208 Business Phone: 940-566-9787 E-mail address: admin@bookkeepergirl.com My Title: Administrator Why did you choose your career?

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? When I went to high school, girls/boys had to specify from one of three courses — Academic for those who were going to attend college; shop for the fellows who would pursue a career in the trade industries, or Clerical for the girls who would enter the business field.

I came from a family of 8 whose father died when I was 9, so was unable to attend college. As a result, I had to pursue a career in business. I was always proficient in English, my Mom taught me to type when I was in grade school so could test out at 90 wpm, and I was efficient and organized. Was always fortunate to obtain exciting jobs and loved the work and the people.

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: I feel the greatest issue we are facing today is the lack of concern and responsibilitylity by people not only in the workplace, but in the country as a whole. In my years of experience, I have seen a downfall of integrity and pride in their particular company and the results of their work and an increase of “what is in it for me” which has led to a tremendous amount of greed.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? Just like most practical people, I weigh my expenses as to whether or not they are really a necessity. I do comparative shopping on groceries, gasoline, household items, repairs, etc.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life?

What’s your secret?: I am a person who gives 100 % to whatever I am doing at the moment. You have to decide when it is time to put one thing aside and take up the other and not let them intermingle.

What is your background – i.e. education/prior experience – in this field? I was fortunate that I began working in the field of business when I was a senior in high school as “on-the-job training”. I would work in the morning at ALCOA (The Aluminum Company of America) in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and go to school in the afternoon. I was always able to obtain prestigious positions and worked at Talon, Inc, in Meadville, Pennsylvania, for Welcome Wagon, International, and for Ryan Homes in Mentor, Ohio. I traveled across the United States for 12 years presenting seminars and building clubs for a non-profit organization and maintain friendships throughout several states through this opportunity. As I was unable to attend college after high school, I went to night school for years and years to achieve my degree in Management Organizational Development so did not earn my degree until later on in my life. I was always so proud that my children were both able to achieve their college degrees in the normal manner.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? I have so much to be thankful for as I have two very successful children and three talented, loving grandchildren, and I am so proud of them and their accomplishments. My family is very important to me and my major concern is to see them enjoy a life of freedom, prosperity and happiness.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? I credit my sense of integrity and character and my work ethics as being instilled in me by my mother. My father passed away and left her with 8 small children to raise and she did it in an admirable manner How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? (Weekend Gardener, budding artist, veteran napper, who said anything about unwinding?): When I am troubled, I love to work outside and generally forget the world. Also, time spent with my family is important to me.

I love to dance and that is good therapy.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Do you write a daily journal, jump

out of airplanes in your off time, make a mean apple pie, care for rescue animals, dabble in oil painting? Currently, I am the Captain of the Chamber of Commerce Air Force Ambassador Team, the Thunderbirds. It is a great team and we have achieved “Team of the Month” for the majority of this past year, and several of my team members have been named “Ambassador of the Month”. I enjoy serving my St. Mark Church as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister and serve on several Board in Denton. Several years ago, I organized a Singles Mixer which remained successful for approximately three years. I have also organized a Ladies night out which continues to meet on a weekly basis just for the fun and fellowship of those attending this event.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? Personal wise, my biggest accomplishment in life is the success of my children and the citizens and parents they have become. Business wise, I was elected the first woman president of a service organization in North Carolina. During my tenure, I took the North Carolina District East to be the largest district for this organization Internationally. I also served on the International Board of Directors. Locally, I am proud of the fact that I was the fourth woman President of the Denton Noon Kiwanis Club during the year 2008 - 2009.

Daphne Zollinger Name: Daphne Zollinger Family: Husband: Kenny Zollinger, Owner of KAZ SurveyingSon: Taylor Hodge StepDaughter: Kristen Zollinger StepSon: Eric Zollinger Hometown: North Texas (we moved 8 times before I graduated at Allen High School) Current residence: Krum Business Name: Point Bank Business Address:1700 Carroll Blvd., Denton, TX 76201 Business Phone: 940-686-3251 E-mail address:

dzollinger@pointbank.com My Title: Commercial Lender Why did you choose your career?

Was it something you’ve always wanted to do or was there a specific opportunity/event/person who led you down this particular career path? As a Commercial Real Estate Broker, I needed to understand the financial analysis of my Clients’ real estate investments, so I began the educational process of the CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) program. In the process of completing the CCIM Designation, I was exposed to a level of financial analysis that I was interested in putting to use in my business, so when the opportunity to join Point Bank as their Commercial Lender was presented, I thought it was a good opportunity. (It is interesting to know that of the approx. 150,000 Commercial Brokers in nation, approx. 10% are CCIM designees, and of these approx. 7% are female, so I am proud to be a part of prestigious this group.)

In your opinion, what are the most important issues in the workplace (or in the U.S., world [please specify]) today? Do you have any suggestions for addressing the issue(s)?: Preparing our incoming workforce with the skills and training to help them be successful. This includes passing down the American work ethic that has created strong business and enterprise; while embracing the generational differences, and encourage their ideas and innovation.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? Are there tips you’d like to share? I have always been frugal and I set a spending plan each year (it’s a budget, but I like to hear the word spending instead). I don’t always stick to it, but having a plan helps me stay on track.

As the workplace becomes busier in these challenging times, how do you balance work and home life? What’s your secret?: Each part of my life affects another, so I set goals in all facets of my life; faith/spiritual, family, business, health, and financial. If one area gets out of whack, it will affect the other areas of my life.

What is your background?

Associates of Business degree from Grayson County Community College. Worked 8 years in Banking Operations. Worked 12 years in the staffing industry starting out as a temporary and worked my way up to opening my own company. Real

Estate Broker for 7 years. Became a Commercial Lender in 2009 How do you stay motivated in these challenging times?: Experience has shown me that God will always take care of me, however, he gave me certain talents to use in life. I always remember that my purpose is to use those talents to the best of my ability and be a productive member of society no matter what I’m doing. The challenges are like “growth spurts”…they’re painful to go through, but when I get through them, I come out stronger.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My grandparents, and parents instilled a strong sense of faith in me. My mom and my husband have always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? In the summer, I LOVE to be outside by the pool, at the lake, or on the beach…anywhere near water!

Anytime of year, I enjoy just coming home and spending time with my family.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? My Son! What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? “It all comes out in the wash” (Whether you or someone else is doing good or bad, you may be able to cover it for a little while, but “It all comes out in the wash”)

Donna Stephens Name: Donna Stephens Family: Son, Shannon Stephens; son, Shelby Stephens his wife Hailey; grandson, Tanner; and granddaughter on the way!

Hometown: Denton Current residence: Pilot Point Business Name: Too Cute Business Address: 436 S. Hwy 377, Pilot Point, TX 76258 Business Phone: 940-686-5661 E-mail address: toocutegifts@aol.com My Title: owner Why did you choose your career?

I have always had a passion for decorating. I had been working in the family business, Stephens Supermarket, for years doing office work. I was bored to tears, didn’t have a way to use my creative side.

One day my sister, Myrna Brown, ask me to come to work for her. It became my passion. My job is very rewarding to me. I love going to work, how many people can say that? I feel very blessed.

How are you personally handling the current economic situation at home, work, school? I am trying to be conservative, which is very hard for me. My theory has always been you can’t sell it if you don’t have it. Over the last year I have only order what I have to have, not much backstock.

How do you balance work and home life? I just do the best I can.

There is never enough hours in the day.

How do you stay motivated in these challenging times? Staying motivated is not hard for me, I love my job! I just take it one day at a time, and most importantly keep smiling.

Who was your mentor in the workplace or life, in general, and how did they help you? My sister, Myrna Brown was my mentor. She offered me a job helping her in her design business, Myrna Brown Interiors. After about 2 years, space became available in her retail store, This Old House, I took it over and here I am!

How do you unwind after a long day or week at work? I love going to my grandson’s games to watch him play. Enjoy hanging out with friends.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I enjoy working in my yard, pulling weeds is great therapy for me. I also raise miniature donkeys, don’t laugh, they are lots of fun.

What are you most proud of having accomplished at this point in your life? First of all I raised two wonderful sons! Second of all, I started my business with almost nothing and have grown more each year to get to where I am today. It has taken lots of hard work and determination. It is all worth it when I see my clients face when I’m finished with their home!

What is your favorite adage or words of wisdom? I actually have several of these ... Life’s too short not to have a good time.” “Live each day like it’s your last.” “Some people come into our lives, make foot prints on our hearts and we are never the same.”

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