TJM Rodeo Issue 2016

MEET ERIN LAROE

BUCKLE OF A LIFETIME

GIVING BACK

rodeo queen

MEMORABLE PROPOSAL

MEMORIAL RODEO

2016 Angelina benefit

TOMMIE DORSETT + RAN PERRY

TOD BISHOP SPECIAL NEEDS

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WELCOME : A

Note from the President

president:

Stephanie Oliver managing editor:

Beth Johnson editor@tjmag.com staff writer:

Cami Rhome editorial photographer:

Jenni Blackledge event photographer:

Lisa Crow layout and design:

Macy Haffey ad design:

Samantha Miller contributors:

Melissa & Tiffani Claire Brody

Emily Courtney Tommy & Brian Martin Majal Minguez Angie Nichols Melissa Radke Luke Tarbutton Britany Vinson

photograph by Rikki Trotti Photography

T

he words that immediately come to mind are, "The greatest show on dirt!" And it really is such a fun four days at the Angelina Benefit Rodeo. My kids beg to go every night! I mean, what other time can you get away with eating snow cones, cotton candy, popcorn, sausage on a stick, funnel cake, and wash it down with a coke on a school night? Then of course, the actual rodeo events come in a close second.

Because we are in Texas, the sport of rodeo is important to many people. It's great to put this issue together and dig and find out

stories and background for those involved with rodeo. Our local rodeo is an amazing rodeo that draw the cowboys into town.

There have been many great names come to Lufkin that you later see in Las Vegas at the National Finals Rodeo.

Be sure to run by Cavenders for a new pair of boots then come on out to the GREATEST SHOW ON DIRT! You won't want to miss it!

STEPHANIE OLIVER

PRESIDENT

13

HOME 14 HOME TOUR 16 LIFE & DESIGN 18 BURLAP & BESTIES 20 IN THE KITCHEN

25

COMMUNITY 26 HAPPENINGS 30 RODEO QUEEN 34 GIVING BACK 36 BUCKLE OF A LIFETIME 38 TEAM ROPING 40 IN THE ARENA 42 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

43 LIFE

44 AWARENESS 46 STRETCH MARKS 50 FASHION 52 SOMETHING ABUNDANT 54 {DIY}

57

GROWING UP 58 BLAME IT ALL ON MY ROOTS 60 GET INVOLVED 64 PRETTY BABIES 66 LOOK AT ME

67

BUSINESS 30 Rodeo Queen | photo by Jenni Blackledge

ON THE COVER: Angelina Benefit Rodeo Queen Erin LaRoe | photo by Jenni Blackledge

CONTACT US:

Mailing: PO Box 150537 | Lufkin, Texas 75915 Physical: 115 E. Shepherd | Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-634-7188 | advertise@tjmag.com facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast

68 #GIRLBOSS 70 #BOSSMAN 71 CHAMBER NEWS 72 SALUTES 74 IN THE KNOW

77

SPORTS & OUTDOORS 78 NATURE'S EYE 80 BEHIND THE LENS 82 FISHING 84 FITNESS 86 TACTICAL 87 TROPHY ROOM

RODEO 2016

CONTENTS

in East Texas 14 HOME TOUR | 16 LIFE & DESIGN | 18 BURLAP & BESTIES | 20 IN THE KITCHEN

HOME

BARNDOMINIUM

A

fter dreaming, praying and making plans for over seven years, Nathan and Kammee Wilson took a leap of faith and moved to Lufkin from Phoenix in 2013. They came with the goal of giving their children 'country living' and getting out of the rat race and back to the basics. The Wilsons thought the fastest and most economical way to get out on their land would be to build a barndominium. “Our children are constantly playing and exploring outside, building forts, going 4-wheeling, and fishing. We have so much more work around the house and property, however, it has been fun and brought us together even more as a family.” | photograph by Lisa Crow

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photography by Lisa Crow

HOME : Home

Tour

Barndominium /// Continued

BARNDOMINIUM BLUEPRINTS • 4 Bedrooms • 3 Full Baths • 1 Office • Approximately 2100 ft.² of lived in space.

• Another 600 ft.² of unfinished space upstairs -- with plans to turn into a 5th bedroom and gameroom.

• Approximately 3000 ft.² garage/shopwith 4 garage bays.

• Front porch is 15 x 120 - which is an 1800 ft.² porch

DESIGN DETAILS • Builder, Nemish Patel did a great job making the vision come to life.

• Vintage chandelier from the “Lamp Shop” in downtown Lufkin • The beautiful wallpaper in the master bedroom from Temple Rodriguez at Greer’s in Nacogdoches • The kitchen backsplash and tile special ordered from Kevin Brown with "Floors And More" • The beautiful cabinet detail crafted

by Gary Freeman • Stained concrete throughout most of the house.

• Kristen Hay helped design many details throughout the house.

Nathan’s favorite part of the house is his private home office and shop. He and their boys spend plenty of time in this area. Since selling their business, AR Services, to McWilliams and Sons in January 2016, Nathan has worked from home and continued, "Crosscut Equipment", his restaurant equipment repair business.

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written by Claire Brody

HOME : Life

Hello. I’m Claire, an interior stylist living in Austin, TX with my husband, Parker. I’m the blogger and business owner behind Claire Brody Designs. I specialize in providing unique and one of a kind spaces on an affordable budget.

& Design

Mother’s Day Gift Idea:

DIY FLORAL ARRANGEMENT It’s no secret that moms love homemade gifts from the heart.

Flowers are a sweet gesture, so why not create your own arrangement for mom to show her how much you appreciate her?

STEP 1: Gather your flowers. Pick up a few bunches of flowers at your local florist or grocery store. /// STEP 2: Add chicken wire to the top of the vase. /// STEP 3: Use greenery to build your base. Allow the shape of the branches to determine the shape of the arrangement. /// STEP 4: Add your flowers. Focus on a few knock out flowers and avoid overstuffing your arrangement. /// STEP 5: Fill the holes. View your arrangement from all sides and fill any gaps.

written by Melissa & Tiffani

HOME : Burlap & Besties

Can’t find the color curtains you want? Make your own! For Cullen’s curtains, I used a canvas drop cloth, taped off my stripes with painters tape and painted them with latex paint!

Melissa is a housewife who loves her husband and son, Ben and Ty, more than anything else on earth. In a previous life, she was a CPA. Her passion for serving Jesus took her and Ben to Africa for two years where, among other things, she learned she can never pack too many crafting supplies.

If you want to see a happy girl, give Melissa an old piece of furniture and a paintbrush then stand back and watch the magic happen.

Tiffani Brantner is a part-time nurse and student, a constant crafter, partythrower, "idea-comer-upper", and a richly rewarded wife and mother to Jeff and Cullen. Call her to come and get your old junk, she LOVES it! She'll turn it into something beautiful, create a theme, throw a party around it, and invite you as the guest of honor.

You can reach Tiffani day or night at tifandmel@gmail.com.

Cullen had fun collecting sticks to make his “Happy Camper” sign. Simply cut your sticks the size you want and attach them with hot glue!

My husband cut a pallet and attached it to the wall to use as a book holder next to the bed!

K

ids’ rooms can be a lot of fun to decorate! In order for the room to be able to grow easily with Cullen I went with a color scheme and not a theme. You can also let your child help you decorate their room to make it more special to them. I gave Cullen several options to choose from for the art on his walls, and I like to ask him what objects he would like to see in his room before I style his shelves.

Kids’ rooms also need to be interactive and fun! Cullen loves the big map on his wall, and we use a dry erase marker to trace out different trips we are taking and where people live. Another favorite of his are his jars with different items he has found. We have sea shells, shell casings, a wasp nest, a snake skin and rocks. He loves to get them down and look at things or show them to his friends!

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Cullen’s Grandpa brought us a few tree slices from his home in Michigan, so I had my husband cut them on one side and we attached them to the wall using shelf brackets!

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the Kitchen

written by Britany Vinson

HOME : In

STEAK POTATOES Chef Tips:

Recipe:

Steak and potatoes is a popular combination! Here is a recipe for a healthier potato to accompany your great steak!

You can cook a GREAT steak at home!! The most important part is always starting out with a great cut of meat! In the pictures, I have a ribeye and a strip steak from Massingill’s Meat Market.

Cooking time and temperature varies according to the cut of meat and method of preparation. You can check for doneness with one of three ways: thermometer, time, and touch. Here are different ways to cook your steak.

Rare: cool red center | 125°

Savory Sweet Potatoes

Med Rare: warm red center | 135°

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut in wedges

Medium: warm pink center | 145°

1 TBSP garlic powder

Med Well: thin line of pink | 150°

1 tsp parsley, dried

Well: grey, no pink | 160°

3 TBSP olive oil

salt, to taste

pepper, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and coat well. Spread out the potatoes on a sheet pan covered in foil. Roast potatoes in 350° oven for 20-15 minutes or until soft.

My Top 4 Favorite Steak Seasonings:

• McCormick Montreal Steak Seasoning (Sams)

Tomé Hints:

I believe a leader is only as strong as the team they surround themselves with! I would like to introduce you to my team: Ashley Berry (Marketing/ FOH), Lisa Willmon (Administrative Assistant), Temi, Lanie, Ms. Vanessa, Mrs. Davis, Keli (BOH Team), Allyssa, Christy, and Madison!

Food for Thought:

Shop smart! Your food is only as good as the product you start with, so check expiration dates and food quality before you make a purchase.

• Classic Blackening Seasoning (Special Order) • Tones Six Pepper Seasoning Blends (Sams) • Kosher Salt (I combine with seasoning above)

Chef Britany’s Tricks and Tips:

Always, always, always season your meat well before it is cooked. It is hard to get meat seasoned well after it is cooked.

Chef Britany Vinson, a 2011 graduate from the Art Institute of Houston, is passionate about feeding people physically and spiritually. She has been catering for over 7 years and can’t see herself doing anything else! For more information about Chef Britany and Tome Catering, check out tomecatering.com.

PLACES & FACES :

Junior League of Lufkin 2016 Touch a Truck

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Kirk Mathis

Scott West

2015 Lufkin Host Lions Club President

in East Texas

Mike Mathis

Rodeo Coordinator & Announcer

Ben Moore

2016 Lufkin Host Lions Club President

2016 2nd Vice President

Not pictured: Brian Cyr, 2016 Vice President

Angelina Benefit Rodeo Representatives | photo by Jenni Blackledge

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26 HAPPENINGS | 30 RODEO QUEEN | 34 GIVING BACK | 36 BUCKLE OF A LIFETIME | 38 TEAM ROPING | 40 IN THE ARENA | 42 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY : Happenings

For more information, visit:

angelinabenefitrodeo.com

ATTENTION PARENTS! Your child (12 & under) can get in free with an adult by bringing this coloring sheet to the gate Wednesday and Thursday night. Your child should receive one from school or they can be picked up from TJMAG office (115 E. Shepherd) Every sheet will also be entered into a coloring contest! Lufkin ER will choose a winner from each age division (5 & under, 6-8, and 9-12) to win 4 tickets to Splash Kingdom Waterpark.

YEEHAW! Lufkin was 1 of 5 rodeo committees that made the final ballot for the PRCA Medium Rodeo of the Year award, along with Deadwood, SD; Estes Park, CO; Sidney, IA and Stephenville, TX.

Join us and KICKS 105 on Tuesday, April 19 at Cavenders from 3-5pm. There will be great kid activities.

You can register for Muttin Bustin and buy your rodeo tickets!

SPECIALTY ACT BY

TOMAS GARCILAZO Simply one of the finest Charros in the world, this native of Mexico City was introduced at an early age to his family heritage and tradition of “La Charreria” (a skill performed through the generations only by the Mexican Charro). As a third generation Charro, Tomas has devoted his life to sharing Mexico’s National Sport, La Charreria, with the world.

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ANGELINA BENEFIT RODEO

WIN A 2016 DODGE RAM donated by Southern Chrysler Dodge Jeep. Enter for a chance to win by purchasing a $1 raffle ticket.

Lynn Hopper with 2016 Rodeo Hero Julie Murdock

MIKE MATHIS

was named the 2015 Justin Committeeman of the Year by the PRCA. Here, he is pictured at the December PRCA Awards Banquet in Las Vegas.

THANK YOU SPONSORS! 27 | TJ M a g & C o • t j m a g . c o m

Bella Salon & Boutique's 3rd Annual Fashion Show photography by Jenni Blackledge

PLACES & FACES :

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COMMUNITY : Rodeo

Queen

photograph by Jenni Blackledge

T

he official spokeswoman for the 2016 Angelina Benefit Rodeo is the beautiful Erin LaRoe. Erin has been homeschooled for her education.

“I have grown up in a single parent home, and my mom owned and operated her own business while homeschooling me and my sister. The appreciation and respect I have for her is unreal. I am blessed to have known the value of hard work. It has taught me that any mountain peak is obtainable with a good work ethic and integrity.”

Erin plans on continuing her education at Stephen F. Austin State University or Tarleton State majoring in Animal Science with an Equine emphasis. Her goal is to work in the Equine Industry.

“I am truly blessed that God has allowed me to grow up in such a wonderful area as East Texas. Growing up in Angelina County has given me a great respect for our community and a desire to give back to our area. I hope to one day invest in the lives of people just as so many have done for me.”

Erin

LaRoe

PLACES & FACES :

Junior League of Lufkin 2016 Fun Run

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COMMUNITY : Giving

Back

TOD BISHOP SPECIAL NEEDS MEMORIAL RODEO Last month, kids in our community rallied together to do something pretty amazing!

Tod Bishop was born September 11, 1973. He was the oldest of 4 children, all of those being sisters. His sister, Mendi McCall, says, “I guess God knew he needed 3 extra mommas. Tod was born with some type of mental handicap, but this did not slow him down. He was very active in his church youth group, 4-H, FFA, and many school activities.” His parents made sure he was included in everything. Tod knew he his Mama’s favorite. He loved the outdoors; hunting, fishing, and riding his buggy all over the ranch. He was a cowboy at heart. He would help round up the cattle and work them with his Daddy and the cowboys.

Tod never met a stranger. He loved people and he never forgot a face or name.

You were his best bud after he shook your hand or gave you a hug. Tod loved being an Uncle. He would always brag on his nephews and nieces, Kasen and Kalli McCall, Josey, Brazos, and Haley McGregor, and Aiden and Aniston Haney. He was their biggest fan at whatever they were competing in.

This past year, Tod passed away.

After attending several junior high rodeos over the years, Tod made many friends. At the January 2016 Region V Jr High Rodeo, Nacona Perkins, who is an event director, came to Mendi and asked if their family would mind if the rodeo association did a special needs memorial rodeo in memory of Tod. McCall says, “We were so honored as a family that everyone thought so much of Tod to do a rodeo in his memory.”

The date was set to be at the Region V Jr. High Rodeo finals in March. With the help of many people donating and volunteering, the special needs rodeo happened. Nacona Perkins, Christy Otwell, Mary Wallace, Angie Key, Jared Bishop, Justin and Tiffani Klein, Lee Kahla, and Panola College Rodeo Team all helped make it happen.

Region V Jr. High Rodeo plans to continue doing the Tod Bishop Special Needs Memorial Rodeo next year at their finals which will again be held in March of 2017. The Special Needs Rodeo is open for any one of any age with any type of disability. All events are on the ground. No events are horseback. There are several events that the contestants can compete in with awards and prizes given to each contestant.

Jeanine Creekmore said, “It was an honor for Brandy Jo to get to participate in the Tod Bishop Special Needs Rodeo. She had a wonderful time participating in events of her capability. The most rewarding was the interaction of the Region 5 Jr. High contestants and their families. We are looking forward to next year’s rodeo. We will be there to burn and turn and rope and tie.”

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of a Lifetime

photograph by Krista Hale

COMMUNITY : Buckle

Tommie DORSETT+Ran PERRY

W

hen Ran Perry had the ring in his pocket, he did the next thing any true gentleman would do. He asked Tommie Dorsett’s parents for her hand in marriage.

He told them, “I am not sure when this will happen, but with Christmas right around the corner, more than likely not then.” With her birthday falling in the same month as Valentine’s Day, he gave them the signal that was too expected, as well.

The annual Nacogdoches Ram Rodeo preparations began. The wheels in Ran’s head started to turn. Mike Perry has had a long history with the Nacogdoches Ram Rodeo. Both Ran and his girlfriend, Tommie, love the rodeo; their families both attend every year. It started to seem like the perfect time and location to pop the big question.

For the last 30 years, Mike Perry has been involved with the Nacogdoches Rodeo.

Every year, Mike Perry Dodge gives away a custom buckle. This year, it seemed more than perfect to incorporate this tradition into the proposal. Especially when the phrase, “Tommie, will you marry me?” fit to the letter in the space allotted.

Tommie shares, “I was completely speechless when I realized what was going on. I had no clue! The rodeo is one thing we look forward to every year, along with my whole family, so it was very special to me. I knew when he would ask, it was going to be special and unique. He’s not one to do something the way everyone else does it, but I didn’t expect him to do it at the rodeo. He topped anything I could have ever imagined or dreamed of for sure!”

COMMUNITY : Team

Roping

B

ret Gould is a well-known name in the team roping world. Bret was born in 1970 in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. He was an identical twin. His brother was named Brooke. Brooke was killed at the age of 15. They were roping partners from a very early age. Bret was the header and Brooke was the heeler.

After Brooke was killed, Bret did not continue heading. He began to heel (and heal). His family lived in Kentucky and in Tennessee during his teens and early twenties. Bret received a college scholarship to University of Tennessee to participate on their rodeo team. In 1993, Bret was the Intercollegiate National Heeling champion.

Bret met his wife Courtney in 1995 while he was participating at the PRCA rodeo in Nacogdoches. They married in 1997.

Bret made it to the NFR in 1996, 1997 and 2000.

Jayden was born in January 2001 right after Bret’s last finals.

Jayden and her daddy have been inseparable ever since!

BRET & Jayden is named after Bret’s brother, Jayden Brooke Gould.

There wasn’t a plan for Jayden to rodeo. “We tried to push every other sport in existence. But after watching Jayden ‘galloping’ the bases in t-ball, we realized that horses were her passion. Her happy place is in the barn with the horses.”

Jayden loved horses and riding from a young age, but after a few wrecks she became limited by fear. She was terrified to ride, but she was conflicted with her absolute love for riding and horses vs. that fear of getting hurt. Around age 11, Jayden became determined to conquer her fear because she wanted to be able to junior high rodeo. God (& Mimi) blessed Jayden with a special horse that she could trust and that made her feel safe, her head horse, Spider!! After two years of just riding Spider alongside her Mimi and cousin Landree through the pastures, she was able to conquer that fear and was ready to start learning to rope. She never let that fear and anxiety stop her from her dream of roping and

(left) Jayden and Bret at the George Strait roping 5-6 yrs ago. (right) Jayden won first in a recent rodeo.

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JAYDEN GOULD rodeo. Jayden began roping at age 13. Bret has spent so much time coaching with her. They have bumped heads along the way, but he is her biggest cheerleader and he is her hero.

Courtney Gould says, “I can never tell who is more excited when Jayden wins, her or her daddy.”

Jayden began rodeoing her 8th grade year in Region V Jr. High Rodeo. This was her first year to ever rodeo, and it was a very successful one. She was Rookie of the Year and also made it to state in Team Roping and in Breakaway. Jayden is on the cusp of great things. She, of course, has many short-term goals, but she would love to follow in the footsteps that have been laid for her. Jayden would love to get a rodeo team college scholarship and to possibly be an intercollegiate national champ like her Dad. She always says that she will be the first woman to rope at the National Finals Rodeo!

Bret has heeled for so many of the greats such as Speed Williams and Joe Beaver but his favorite header of all is his sidekick,

Jayden. Jayden’s mom, Courtney, says, “It is so neat to watch them rope together. Rodeo is such a family sport. I love how the parents get to remain really involved with their children throughout their school years and beyond. It takes a village to help a kiddo be successful at rodeo. Lots of Teamwork!!”

Bret loves to help others, especially the rodeo kids. Bret has a passion for coaching and loves to help other ropers in any way that he can. Bret would love to compete again, but he has elected to not do it at the expense of Jayden missing out on her own opportunities. He knows that to compete at the level required to make it to the NFR would require a lot of time out of town away from Jayden and Presley.

Bret still holds the team roping arena record in the Angelina Benefit Rodeo - 3.8, and Jayden is on her way to making her own records.

COMMUNITY : In

the Arena

CLAYTONCOLLMORGAN

T

o say Clayton Collmorgan has rodeo in his blood is an understatement. His grandfathers on both sides were calf ropers. At one point, his entire family rodeoed.

Clayton grew up enjoying the sport.

He participated in the local youth rodeos. Later he moved on to junior high rodeos and progressed to high school rodeo. He then continued on to college rodeo to where he is today competing professionally.

In 2015, he competed in his first professional rodeo. He had his eyes set on Calf Roper Rookie of the Year. Clayton worked hard traveling to over 95 rodeos in 20 states. “I dipped my toes in the ocean in California. I was 18 miles from Mexico. I went East to Missouri and as far North as Montana.”

While traveling to all of these rodeos, Clayton is also a full time student at SFA. He is a senior and will graduate in May with a bachelor’s degree in finance. When asked how he juggles it all, he says, “I am busybody. I always need something to do. No doubt, if it

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weren’t for the support from my parents, there is no possible way I could do all that I do.”

Clayton came up short of his Rookie of the Year landing in at number five.

With everything he has on his plate, number five is pretty phenomenal.

With graduation on the horizon, Clayton already has a plan. He gives lessons to up and coming calf ropers.

He will work and train horses. Then, he will make another go on the same route of rodeos he followed last year.

“I am going do it as long as it’s fun.

My main goal is to reach the NFR.” His hometown of Lufkin will be excited to know they can come out and cheer him on at the Angelina Benefit Rodeo.

“Lufkin is always a special rodeo. Your hometown rodeo is always the hardest.

I would love to win it!”

Clayton Collmorgan acknowledges the Lord and Savior in his success and failures. “In rodeo you only win 30% of the time. The Lord is the only reason you can keep it all together.

Without him, you couldn’t do this.”

COMMUNITY : Calendar

of Events

APRIL 20-23 Angelina Benefit Rodeo 2016 Sponsored by the Lufkin Host Lions Club George H Henderson Jr Expo Center

MAY 3 Models on a Mission

APRIL 17

Blackledge & Co. Studio

6th Annual Family Kite Fest

2016 Creative Arts Gala Charity for Women’s Shelter

Presented by The Helping House

6-9:30pm at Shelton’s Place, 3603 FM 2108

A.L. Mangham Jr. Regional Airport 11am-4pm

APRIL 23 Lufkin Ambucs Charity Fundraiser 11 am-8 pm at all Lufkin & Diboll Sonic Drive-In Locations

APRIL 19

MAY 6-7

Lufkin ER Grand Opening

May 6 at 6 pm | May 7 at 8:30 am

Chamber Ribbon Cutting at 10 am Business after Five at 5:30 pm 2807 S First St | Lufkin

APRIL 28 12th Annual Women in Red Luncheon with guest speaker, Shannon Miller Hosted by Woodland Heights Medical Center Pitser Garrison Convention Center 11:30 am-1 pm For ticket information, call (936) 637-8688

Get in the Know Hosted by New Life Lufkin Registration Fee & Lunch: $25 lufkinnewlife.com/events2

in East Texas 44 AWARENESS | 46 STRETCH MARKS | 50 FASHION | 52 SOMETHING ABUNDANT | 54 {DIY}

LIFE

BRENT

SLATON

Most would agree that Brent Slaton is one of a kind. He is always in rare form, always the life of the party. If you have had the opportunity to meet Brent Slaton, more than likely he was in character.

He is full of life wherever he is. That is why most around did not realize Brent’s life changed and he was not feeling a hundred percent.

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LIFE : Awareness

Brent Slaton /// Continued

BRENT’S STORY · April 2014: Brent has always been extremely healthy and never one to even catch a cold. Right after rodeo, he noticed his hands were inflamed and he had some discomfort. He began seeing doctors trying to figure out what was going on with him · February 2015: Brent was accurately diagnosed with Diffused Systemic Sclerosis or what is called Scleroderma. We began seeing a doctor in Houston at the UT University of Texas Rheumatology Clinic. He also began to notice that his breathing seemed a little labored and a CT scan confirmed he had fibrosis in his lungs. · May 2015–October 2015: Brent underwent six rounds of monthly chemotherapy with each infusion lasting about 8 hours. Unfortunately, this did not stop the progression of the disease. · June 2015: Brent’s lungs were functioning at about 50% and by November 2015, Brent’s lung capacity was down to 35%. Brent’s skin, esophagus and lungs are being effected by the disease. He is now at 30% lung capacity and is using supplemental home oxygen.

At this point, the treatment options are limited, but Brent and his wife, Shelly plan to exhaust every possible avenue. Shelly shares, “We have investigated two optionsa lung transplant or a Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT). Both options are high risk procedures. The stem cell transplant is promising, but still experimental.

We traveled to Chicago to meet with a team there and are planning to pursue the stem cell transplant in late May/early June. Because scleroderma is an autoimmune disease, the stem cell transplant essentially ‘reboots’ his immune system. It’s a lengthy and risky process that involves an extensive hospital stay (minimum of a month if all were to go according to plan) and a long term recovery time of about six months, but this procedure has the potential to actually stop the disease!

Due to the treatment options available, there is a huge financial need. The Slaton’s friends have rallied together and sold Super Bowl squares. Now they are selling Friends of Slaton t-shirts. As of right now, more than 450 shirts have been sold. You can help by purchasing a t-shirt. There will be other ways to help and get involved. The best way to do your part is pray! Brent’s close friend and t-shirt organizer shares, “I would ask people to pray for healing and comfort to Brent, Shelly and Mack, along with his parents Steve and Nancy Slaton, his in-laws Whell and Debbie Crawford, his brother and sisterin-law Hunter and Heather Slaton, sister and brother in law, Jeff and Caren Cook.”

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From the Scleroderma Foundation: Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is a chronic connective tissue disease generally classified as one of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The changes occurring in systemic scleroderma may affect the connective tissue in many parts of the body. Systemic scleroderma can involve the skin, esophagus, gastrointestinal tract (stomach and bowels), lungs, kidneys, heart and other internal organs. It can also affect blood vessels, muscles and joints. The tissues of involved organs become hard and fibrous, causing them to function less efficiently. The term systemic sclerosis indicates that “sclerosis” (hardening) may occur in the internal systems of the body.

written by Melissa Radke | photo by Meagan Moore

LIFE : Stretch

Marks

Dear Ms. Dawn,

H

i! How are you? It’s been a while since we’ve heard from you, which is okay. We know you’re busy with nursing school. I hope you’re enjoying it and finding it’s something you truly love. We were just talking about you the other day, so I thought I’d write to you since Mother’s Day is upon us; I always think of you on Mother’s Day. You’re never far from my mind. I hope you know that.

Last weekend Remi pitched at her first softball game. It was scary! For her and I both! The lead pitcher was getting tired and they brought in Remi to relieve her. Now I’d love to tell you how awesome she is, but I’d be lying. Truth is, she’s nine. And she weighs about 62 pounds. She’s no bigger than a minute, so you can imagine she doesn’t have a ton of speed. But I assure you she makes up for it in fierceness.

And that’s why I’m writing you today.

I told Remi that her hair was beautiful last Sunday as we were getting ready for church. She told me mine was too and asked me if she got that from me. I told her no, that “Ms. Dawn’s hair was some of the prettiest I’d ever seen.

And you got that from her. Along with your almond eyes and bunny nose.” She loves hearing that kind of stuff.

Staves off any fear of the unknown. Makes her feel like she knows you, in some small way.

It was the last inning when Remi’s daddy made his way to the mound. She had struck out one girl and we needed another one just like that. (I told him to tell her if this was too much pressure we could leave and go try out for the Disney channel! Anything but this! Too. Much. Pressure.)

He went and had a few words with her. She smiled, he smiled and that was that. Later that evening a friend of mine sent me this picture of that moment.

She ended up throwing two more strikes and 417 balls.

We’re not holding our breath for the Olympics.

I asked him later what he said to her. I’m going to tell you what he said in hopes that this Mother’s Day when your arms feel empty and your heart, heavy, you will read and re-read these words a thousand times. Read them to make this day feel less long. Or less lonely. Read them knowing that what you did for her daddy and I remains untouched by any other gift we’ve ever received (with the exception of her brother). She is, without question, an original. We’ve raised her to be.

“Hi, baby, how you doing?”

“Terrible.”

“Actually I think you’re doing amazing.”

“You do? Have you been watching the game?”

“I have. Watched every second. And I think you’re doing great. This is only your second time, you know.”

“But I’ve had lessons!”

“That’s right. How many have you had again?”

“Six.”

46 | R o d e o 2 0 1 6

“Oh man, only six? Some people have to have lots of lessons before they can even get it past the plate. But not you. You’re doing amazing, Remi.”

“Thank you, daddy.”

“Also, I’m really proud of you. Because I know you’re a little bit nervous...”

“Yes sir.”

“But you’re fierce. Remi, you are one of the strongest, bravest girls I’ve ever known. I love that about you. If you walk every single person, I am still going home with the most confident kiddo on this field and I could not be prouder.

So don’t stop now, baby.”

If you or someone you know is considering adoption, please feel free to contact me at melissa@lufkin.org. If you are wanting to adopt, I can reassure that it’s a choice you’ll never regret. If you’re pregnant and considering adopting, I can reassure you it’s a choice you’ll never regret. Let me tell you how full your life and someone else’s life can be because you chose to make someone a mom. I’m proud of you for even reading this. Be brave. Be fierce.

Be like Ms. Dawn.

Melissa

“Okay...”

And she didn’t stop.

She never does.

Whether she wins or loses, succeeds or fails, she never stops trying. (Unless a song comes on she really wants to dance to! And then she stops for that.) She looks hard in the face and does it anyway. So clearly, she has more in common with you than just good hair and a cute nose.

Thank you, Ms. Dawn, for looking hard in the face and doing it anyway. Thank you so very much. If no one ever ran out to the mound and told you how fierce you were, allow me to do it now. You are brave and strong and even if you walk a million more people I’m still holding in my arms the most incredible thing you’ve ever knocked outta the park.

Thank you.

I will always love you in my deepest heart.

And Happy Mother’s Day.

Love, Melissa, David, Remi & Rocco 47 | TJ M a g & C o • t j m a g . c o m

Melissa Radke is married to the best looking man in town, whom she affectionately refers to as The Attorney General.

They have two children, Remi and Rocco; you have probably seen their picture in the Most Wanted list at your local schools. She loves movie popcorn, telling her friends what to do with their hair and being the center of attention. You can find her anytime at melissa@lufkin.org or Chik-fil-A. You are encouraged to ask for her autograph. In fact, she insists.

Oscar Night at the Pines

photography by Lisa Crow

PLACES & FACES :

Interested in purchasing a photo you see? Visit lisacrowphotography.smugmug.com!

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LIFE : Fashion

Model: Briana Harkness Hair Styled by: Leah Garcia Makeup by: Ashley Conlon Photo by: Jenni Blackledge Gold Sleeveless Dress Clothing available at Bella Salon and Boutique in Downtown Lufkin.

written by Angie Nichols

LIFE : Something

Abundant

T

here’s going to be a wedding, a bride and bridegroom by a glassy sea. She will be dressed in fine linen, bright and clean. He will be crowned King. If you know, believe, confess, and follow Jesus, you are the bride. We will see Jesus face to face one day, unveiled in unblemished splendor (see Rev. 4:6, 19:7-14). As a daughter of God the Father, the bride of Christ His Son, and a servant helped by His Holy Spirit, I am certain of my eternally ever after.

But until that day comes, you and I face the brutal war of a fallen world governed by the enemy who hates us because we are beautiful...to Him. While we might expect a daily bridal banquet, a bride in the current generation often finds herself roped into the circumstances of this bucking bronco life--holding on for dear life.

Slammed into the dust, mud, and bull $#!+ of ordinary day after day after day, she’s tempted to believe this fight is all there is, all there will ever be.

In my own experience and in speaking with other women, I’ve found relationships with other people can send us to the dirt faster than almost any issue.

Why did God save us for Himself but leave us here to work, serve, and love alongside other people?

“God is great, beer is good, and people are crazy.” (Billy Currington) Amen?

Nevertheless, we are commanded to love one another. In fact, we are commanded to bear with one another in love, making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Eph. 4:2). If I can be honest, sometimes Scripture makes me want to gag. This one especially, and especially after some fool in my circle makes me mad. For the zillionth time. It’s easier to love the strangers on the street than the people in your tribe sometimes, right? This is probably a great place for a caveat: The most powerfully effective brides are former b!+(#@$ and easily slip into that sin bend. We must be willing to examine and confess the log in our own eye (see Matt. 7:5). Try not to gag.

Lately, I’ve been bulldogging this very issue with the Lord. How does a bride behave beautifully when a relationship is giving her the blues?

Wrestling with her own faults while reconciling the betrayal, abandonment, offenses , etc. of others isn’t a particularly pretty event for a bride eternal, but one necessary to hold the position of princess warrior until that day. It would be easier if there existed a black and white, step-by-step, cookie cutter life hack

for this dilemma of navigating godly relationship with the fools people in our lives. There isn’t.

Some relationships (like husbands, children, close family members) must be specially handled, tended with extra effort, forgiveness, and longsuffering. But all relationships face conflict in one form or another.

The drama and fallout are hand grenades exploding in a soul. God is faithful to help us when we seek Him in these difficult, even sometimes impossible impasses.

Many times we need to: * forget an offense. Let love cover it. (see 1 Peter 4:8) * speak the truth in love to achieve reconciliation. (see Eph. 4:14-15) * ask for forgiveness for our part in the conflict. (see James 5:16) * seek the counsel of others to help make peace. (see Matthew 18:15-17)

Angie Nichols is the founder of Something Abundant Ministries, serving women through worship, ministry, and Biblical teaching and the author of Something Abundant: growing from a child of God to the bride of Christ. Her passion is for women to know the beauty of an abundant life knowing Christ as Bridegroom. She is married to Chris and they have one daughter, Mycah.

For more information, to read Angie’s blog, or book speaking events visit: somethingabundantministries.org.

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lessons on leaving While there are many ways to preserve the important relationships in your life, and much instruction found in Scripture, many conflicts will clear and heal through prayer and mutual effort. However, when a relationship turns hurtful, toxic, or distracts you from walking with Christ, it may be time to leave it. Here are a few lessons for leaving:

1. Listen--

If you think it may be time to leave a relationship, it is so important to listen. It is tempting to get spun up in frustration and run off at the mouth.

However, a discerning woman is wise to close her mouth and listen (see James 1:19-20). Ask for a conversation, allow her/him to speak from the heart, listen to their point of view.

Listen for the Lord (see Prov.1:5, Ecc. 5:3b). Give it some time. If you are speaking, you aren’t listening. Perhaps the other party has gone silent, icing you out completely. Listen to the silence.

It speaks volumes. Listen.

2. Love--

God is love. He commands us to love.

We love because He first loved us.

Loving means forgiving, even if the other person doesn’t ask for it or admit a need for it. Consider Colossians 3:12-14, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people , holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” There may be good reason to walk away from a relationship, but there isn’t an excuse to

do it in a fit of emotion, ugliness, and unforgiveness.

3. Let Go--

If you’ve truly allowed a time to listen to the other person and to the Lord in prayer, loved them by forgiving them, and still cannot find a resolution, it may be time to let go. Perhaps it will be for a season and God will restore the relationship (your obedience to doing conflict His way will go a long way toward this end). Perhaps it is best to separate so others do not stumble as a result. Sometimes the other person simply will not engage in an effort for resolution. God provides a way of escape when we need one (see 1 Corinthians 10:13). He will rescue you from temptation, bitterness, discord, and anything not of Him if you let go and rest in His leadership.

Above all, know that holding on to anything that hinders your bridal chamber relationship with the Lord isn’t worth it. It may be the hardest thing you can imagine doing, but let it go.

If a difficult relationship has you hog tied, remember Truth: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom (2 Corinthians 3:17).” Broken relationships are not God’s best plan, but God is a Redeemer of broken best plans. Trust that when it’s time to leave, He will never leave you. When you let go, He will hold on to you. A bride’s heart soars when held in the arms of her beloved. Dear bride, be held, be free.

53 | TJ M a g & C o • t j m a g . c o m

Do-It-Yourself

written by Majal Minguez

LIFE : {DIY}

I

D I Y PA I N R E LI E F B L E N D

grew up in the Philippines in a farm house surrounded with acres and acres of rice fields. When I was hired to work in Texas as a Physical Therapist, the only reference I had to what Texas would be like was my recollection of the cowboy movies that my dad and my brothers liked to watch. So when I arrived in Houston in January of 1998, I was expecting to hop into a scene from Dances with Wolves or Young Guns.

I can never forget asking our agent, “Where are the cowboys?” when he picked up me and several other therapists at the airport. He laughed so hard! He then said, “Wait until March … you will see lots of Cowboys! It is Rodeo time in Houston!”

I don’t claim to be an expert in horses, but I know one thing, most of these precious essential oils are also very beneficial to animals such as horses, cats and dogs in the same way they benefit humans! This Pain Relief Blend is created to help heal minor injuries involving ligaments, bones or muscles. This will help reduce swelling, increase circulation, speed up healing and relieve pain. This is safe to use for horses and the humans that take care of them. Hope this helps, and have fun at the rodeo!

54 | R o d e o 2 0 1 6

PA I N R E LI E F B L E N D : (safe for horses & humans)

30 drops Young Living Idaho Balsam Fir essential oil 10 drops Young Living Helichrysum essential oil 5 drops Young Living Peppermint essential oil 5 drops Young Living Oregano essential oil 5 drops Young Living Clove essential oil 3 oz. Almond Oil 4 oz. glass bottle

Mix almond oil and all essential oils in a 4 oz. glass bottle.

Shake gently to blend all ingredients. Apply 6 to 10 drops of this blend topically to the affected area as needed.

TIPS: • There is no right or wrong way to apply essential oils to horses, but each horse is different. Use common sense and observe how your horse responds to the Pain Relief Blend.

• Avoid applying oils in the eyes.

• Lemongrass and Lavender essential oils are great oils to use for torn ligaments and tendons.

• Not all essential oils are created equal. Use high-quality therapeutic-grade essential oils.

• Google “Raindrop Technique” for horses!

ESSENTIAL OIL WORKSHOPS: Introduction to Essential Oils – Every 1st, 2nd & 3rd Tuesday of the month @ 6pm Introduccion Basica a Los Aceites Esenciales – Every 3rd Tuesday of the month @ 6pm Make & Take: Oils for Minor Pain & Discomfort – April 8 & May 27 @ 6pm Make & Take: Oils for Your Special Needs Child – April 1 & April 15 @ 6pm Make & Take: Sleep Support – April 22 @ 6pm Free Workshop: Beauty Oils – April 29 @ 6pm Make & Take: Mothers’ Special – May 6 @ 6pm Make & Take: First Aid Kit Travel Pack – May 13 @ 6pm Make & Take: Summer Must Haves – May 20 @ 6pm

Contact Majal at WhollyMerry@yahoo.com or 936.634.4282 to register for the workshops.

For more information, follow her on FB at “WhollyMerry - Majal Minguez”.

All workshops are held at Oil Drops DIY shop at 911 Ellis Avenue in Lufkin.

Majal Minguez and her family live in Lufkin. Her youngest son in on the Autism Spectrum. In their journey to recover him from Autism, the family has learned that detoxifying his body and their house are major pieces of the puzzle to Autism Recover.

For more information, please follow me on Facebook at “WhollyMerry Majal Minguez” or email me at whollymerry@yahoo.com.

PLACES & FACES :

W

3rd Annual Luke's Love Event

oodland Heights Medical Center (WHMC) hosted the 3rd Annual Luke’s Love Event for the WHMC Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The event gathered Woodland Heights’ Senior Circle members along with friends and family of Luke Ball to create tiny smell blankets for babies admitted to the Woodland Heights NICU. This was a record breaking year with nearly 200 blankets made!

A special thanks to the Ball family for taking the time to help other families by sharing their story and organizing such a wonderful event to support other NICU families in their time of need.

56 | R o d e o 2 0 1 6

in East Texas 58 BLAME IT ALL ON MY ROOTS | 60 GET INVOLVED | 64 PRETTY BABIES | 66 LOOK AT ME

GROWING UP

Pineywoods Youth Rodeo Association photo by Action Shots N More

57 | TJ M a g & C o • t j m a g . c o m

GROWING UP : Blame

It All on My Roots

pineywoods youth rodeo association

H

ave you wanted to introduce your son or daughter to the sport of rodeo? There is a very kid friendly way to do it thanks to the Pineywoods Youth Rodeo Association (PYRA). PYRA 6&Under and PYRA for 7-18 have many ways for kids to learn and find out where they shine.

6 & UNDER EVENTS:: straight away barrels clover leaf barrels poles dummy roping goat flipping

7-12 EVENTS:: clover leaf barrels straight away barrels poles break away roping tie down calf roping team roping ribbon roping chute dogging double mugging

Every participant that attends a minimum of five rodeos receives a loot bag of gifts worth $1100:: custom belt, belt buckle, goat roping dummy, jacket, and much more. When they enter the rodeos, they have the opportunity to win a check.

One mother of a PYRA 6&U participant, Holly Griffin says, "Rodeo is a sport we can all enjoy as a family. We like the atmosphere and the families we have become friends with. We feel like our kids can do this the rest of their lives no matter their age. It also teaches them responsibility when having to take care of their animals and practice."

To find out more on the PYRA go to their Facebook page, PYRA 6&U.

NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee

MAY Lose Value

GROWING UP : Get

Involved

HOW HAS LUFKIN AMBUCS IMPACTED OUR COMMUNITY?

“At the end of last year, our daughter, Kate received a tryke from Lufkin AMBUCS. Kate has a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. This tryke is giving Kate a great opportunity to strengthen her trunk and head control.

It also allows her the opportunity to strengthen her legs and to work on range of motion. While the tryke is really good for Kate physically, it is just as beneficial socially. Kate is very social and loves to be in the middle of everything with her sisters. Kate’s tryke allows her to ride alongside her twin sister, Hannah.

We love seeing our girls riding together, and we are so thankful for the Lufkin AMBUCS and what they are doing for families of children with special needs in East Texas.”

– Kara Cooper, mother of Kate Cooper, age 3, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy

LUFKIN

AMBUCS

WHAT IS LUFKIN AMBUCS? Lufkin AMBUCS is a nonprofit charitable organization serving children with special needs in the East Texas area. Currently, the national organization consists of 5,000 AMBUCS members, each dedicated to one of 140 local chapters in 30 states. Each chapter seeks to create mobility and independence for people with disabilities through modified bicycles known as Amtrykes.

Our local chapter was established in June of 2013 with 5 members committed to making a difference in our community. Our chapter has also been blessed with many non-member volunteers who have participated in fundraising and bike assembly. During the process of establishing our local chapter, we decided that if the life of one disabled child was changed through the provision of an Amtryke, we would consider our organization a success.

However, with the support of many volunteers and local businesses, we have been able to fulfill a much larger need for Amtrykes within our community. To date, we have made dreams come true for 67 children in Lufkin and our surrounding area.

HOW DO WE FULFILL OUR MISSION?

“We are so fortunate that the AMBUCS crew decided to bless Brayden with a bike. One of my miracles that I asked God for was to see my son play outside with his brother like a normal 5 year old would and now with his bike he does. Thank y’all for allowing God to use you to bring the Moreland family miracle to pass.”

– Shamita Moreland, mother of Brayden Moreland, age 6, diagnosed with Spina Bifida

As with any specially designed equipment, costs are quite substantial. The average cost of an Amtryke is $800-$1200 based on the size and required adaptive components. Lufkin AMBUCS holds several fundraisers throughout the year to eliminate the financial burden for families that will be receiving an Amtryke. Fundraising efforts have included bake sales, baked potato dinners, scratch off donation cards, tamale sales, garage sales, memorials and donations from individuals and local businesses.

Our largest and most successful fundraising effort each year is “Sonic Day.” Local Sonic owners, Roy Stripling and David Reid, and supervisor, Krispen Jones, reached out to Lufkin AMBUCS 3 years ago with the opportunity to perform a one-day fundraiser at all Lufkin and Diboll Sonic locations. Ms. Jones felt compelled to use her connection with Sonic to help raise funds for an Amtryke for her daughter, Baylee, who has a rare form of epilepsy known as Dravet Syndrome. Due to the medications to control the hundreds of seizures per day, Baylee has cognitive and physical delays. Her physical therapist suggested an Amtryke and encouraged Ms. Jones to help fundraise so that her daughter would receive her bike faster.

“I went to my employees and asked them if they would help me out with this for Bay, if they would talk to their customers and inform them of what I was doing, and donate their tips for the cause. They were more than happy to help out,” said Ms Jones.

She saw the opportunity for this to become even bigger after speaking to the Sonic owners, one of which is Baylee’s grandfather.

“They wanted more information about the organization and together we decided that the best thing to do was make a day of it with all the stores.”

Sonic made the decision to give AMBUCS 30% of all sales proceeds in addition to all tips and donations received on the day of the fundraiser.

“We make it a competition for them. The hop at each drive in that donates the most tips gets $100 cash prize from us!”

In the last two years, Sonic has exceeded expectations, donating $8950 in 2014 and $9400 in 2015, totaling $18,350.00.

HOW DO AMTRYKES BENEFIT CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES? As parents and therapists, our mindset is that a child’s “job” is to play. Every child dreams of the day they can ride a bike, and children with special needs are no different. Regardless of the diagnosis, the ability to be successful riding a bike benefits the child emotionally and socially. Our favorite part of giving each Amtryke away is the smiles, laughter and happy tears shed by the parents and the child during their first ever bike ride.

In addition, the physical benefits are countless. Amtrykes provide children with the ability to improve their strength, range of motion, coordination, trunk control, balance, muscle tone and endurance while not realizing they are participating in therapy. The repetitious movement of the arms and legs during movement of the tryke allows motor patterns to be

“AMBUCS is very dear to my heart. They provided Ellie with the first tricycle she was ever able to ride at the age of 2.5 years old. She was not able to walk at the time due to her low muscle tone, and I am convinced that her therapy tryke played a huge part in strengthening her core and her overall physical abilities. Ellie took her first independent steps just before her 3rd birthday. After being told she may never walk, I now watch my 8 year old walk into my arms and melt me with her little hugs on a daily basis. I owe much of this to her many therapists, lots of hard work on her part, supportive family and friends...and definitely her therapy bikes from AMBUCS. I cried tears of joy on AMBUCS bike day as Ellie did her first few pedals on a bike that fit her and that she felt safe riding. I cried again on the way home that day. My heart was so full of happiness to see my little girl grinning from ear to ear getting to ride a bike. I still get emotional thinking about her sweet reaction to making that bike go.

AMBUCS was able to give Ellie’s first tricycle to us at no cost purely from donations they received. Ellie eventually outgrew her first therapy tricycle, and we donated it back to AMBUCS. It’s since been used by at least 2 other special needs children. AMBUCS’ fundraising efforts then again provided Ellie with another new and bigger bike that was a better fit since she had outgrown her tricycle. The joy on Ellie’s face as she is able to ride a bike alongside her older brother is indescribable. This joy wouldn’t have been possible without Lufkin AMBUCS and the community support through donations. We will forever be thankful for Lufkin AMBUCS and all of the wonderful people involved with this wonderful organization.”

– Christine Peterson, mother of Ellie Steinhauser, age 8, diagnosed with a very rare genetic syndrome called Koolen-de Vries Syndrome. Follow Ellie’s journey at Facebook.com/EllieKoolKid.

Luf kin Ambucs /// Continued

“For years my daughter, Elizabeth, has had to watch other children from a distance doing things children do...like ride a bike. Elizabeth is 7 years old and has cerebral palsy that prevents her from being able to walk on her own. In addition she also has balance issues along with cognitive and developmental delays.

But through the generous efforts of AMBUCS and all of the amazing volunteers, my beautiful little girl has the opportunity to be a kid. She loves riding on her bike at every venue possible. Without the love and support of the AMBUCS organization, Elizabeth and many other children would not have the ability to have a bike that fits each of their unique needs.”

– Wendy Brandenburg, mother of Elizabeth Brandenburg, age 7, diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (Special thanks to Vanessa Durham and Amy Robertson for their contributions to this article.)

established, whether by self-propulsion or parent assisted pushing.

These motor patterns become essential as the brain continues to adapt and the child develops. Many children that were unable to walk when they received the tryke have graduated to assistedwalking because of the Amtryke’s therapeutic benefits.

HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT LUFKIN AMBUCS? If you would like to make a contribution to our organization or a memorial please contact Donna Anderson at 936-414-2362.

Also, you can like us on Facebook at Lufkin AMBUCS to get more information about upcoming events.

Swing by Sonic on April 23, 2016 between 11am-8pm to support Lufkin AMBUCS. We look forward to meeting you and thanking you for your support!

GROWING UP : Pretty

1

Babies

2

3

4

1. Camden Elrod. 1/23/16. Proud Parents: Chris & April Elrod. Proud Grandparents: Ricky & Colleen Barley / Theresa Whittington & Tim Elrod. 2. Kiyah Brielle Horn. 10/12/15. Proud Parents: Radley & Breana Horn. Proud Grandparents: Randy & Hartha Horn / Charles & Annie Robertson Jr. 3. Wyatt McDaniel. 1/16/16. Proud Parents: Howard & Lindsey McDaniel. Proud Grandparents: David & Louvinia Lambert / Richard & Sheila Babb. 4. Hallie Kate McGuire. 12/14/15. Proud Parents: Cody & Jenae McGuire. Proud Grandparents: Penny & Perry Fenley / Jim & Kathy Munson / Sabrina & Jimmy Bonner.

5

6

7

8

5. Londoyne Makenzie Reggie. 12/1/15. Proud Parents: Alexandria Ntekim & Barry Reggie. Proud Grandparents: Sandra Alexander & Linda Reggie. 6. Beau Sawyer Shelton. 9/13/15. Proud Parents: Daron & Kelly Shelton. Proud Grandparents: Joel & Larita Nabors / David & Lois Shelton. Photographer: Oh Sugar Photography. 7. Ethan Carter Strickland. 1/18/16. Proud Parents: Casey & Celia Strickland. Proud Grandparents: Jimmy & Cindy Counts / Marty Strickland / William Massingill & Jenie Simoneaux. 8. Luke Patrick Terry. 6/19/15. Proud Parents: Adam & Wendy Terry. Proud Grandparents: Nathan & Lesa Terrell / Pat & Terry Terry / Jeff & Scott Stoddard.

E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include name, date of birth, parents & grandparents.

Submissions are free of charge.

Joy.

Prepared for your little bundle with advanced care.

The region’s only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is here to help your newborn get a healthy start. Should you need high-risk pregnancy care, we’re also home to a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Clinic.

Schedule a tour of our birthing center today. Call 936-634-8311.

Trained, caring staff Spacious private labor and delivery suites Skilled OB/GYN physicians Free childbirth and infant feeding classes 24/7 neonatology coverage

505 South John Redditt Drive, Lufkin • WoodlandHeights.net Woodland Heights Medical Center is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.

at Me

brought to you by Smoothie King of Lufkin

GROWING UP : Look

Do you have a photo you would like to share with us?

Send us a short description & image to photos@tjmag.com Submissions are free of charge

Dr. Seuss week with Mrs. Segura’s first grade class.

Hayes Zeleskey (Mariners T-ball) & Tripp Zeleskey (Nationals Coach Pitch 7-8)

Each nine weeks grading period, three Bonner Elementary students are awarded a brand new bicycle for good behavior, good grades, and good attendance. The bike giveaway is sponsored

by Kurt Morgan and Gloria McDonald of Texas Farm Bureau Insurance. Third grade bike winner is Hope Gossett, center, pictured with Morgan, left and McDonald. Fourth grade bike winner is Maolenin Martinez, center, pictured with Morgan, left and McDonald. Fifth grade bike winner is Dillon Thornton, center, pictured with Morgan, left and McDonald.

Gabriel Love at PSIA

Central Heights Little Dribblers. 7/8 year old division. They had an undefeated season ending with 1st place trophies in the League Tournament – remaining undefeated. (front) Cameron Bradey. (middle, L-R) Welsey Ashley, Matthew Revell, Kai Lockett, & Caleb Eddins, (back, L-R) Micah Lockett, Garner Rodriguez, Jasper Ross, Drake Coleman, and Coach Gilbert Rodriguez

Grace Love & Ben Huerta at PSIA

Smoothie King • 4505 S Medford Dr. • (936) 632-5464 • Like us on

66 | R o d e o 2 0 1 6

in East Texas 68 #GIRLBOSS | 70 #BOSSMAN | 71 CHAMBER NEWS | 72 SALUTES | 74 IN THE KNOW

BUSINESS

photo by Jenni Blackledge

#girlboss

Beverly Spencer 67 | TJ M a g & C o • t j m a g . c o m

photo by Jenni Blackledge

BUSINESS : #girlboss Beverly Spencer /// Continued

Q: Did you always know what you wanted to do growing up? Did you see yourself where you are now?

A:

“No, not always. Going into freshman year in college I had two paths, CPA or pediatric nurse. Then one day when I was driving home I came up on a fatality wreck and I knew right then the medical field was not going to be for me. I signed up for my first accounting class my first semester of college and never changed paths from that day forward.”

Q: Did you always know you would be a working mom?

A: “Yes, I knew that I was too driven to not want to do

both. However, when my kids were small and not in school, there was a great desire to be with them more.

It’s a balancing act of making sure you are there for their milestones and still be a successful working woman.”

Q: What are the pros and cons of juggling a career and motherhood?

A: “I feel like my kids always come first, and it should be that

way. But at the same time, I’ll do whatever it takes to make sure my job is done, too. If that means working after they’ve gone to sleep or not taking a lunch so that I can leave on time for their activities, my kids know that I will always be there, and they don’t wonder if Mom is going to show up. It’s a hard thing to balance, but it’s my duty to make them a priority and also to do my job at my full capability.”

Q: What advice would you give other girl-bosses?

A: “Make sure you have positive people around you, people

Q: I know behind every successful woman and

Q: What do you hope your boys learn from your

mother is a strong team. Who makes up your team?

A: “I have a wonderful team. My parents are incredible.

They have always been there for me, good or bad. My mom is the most loving, giving and accommodating woman I know. She is the example for the mom I try to be. Also, I have the best business partner and employees who, quite honestly, are my friends as well. However, they never blur the lines once it comes to work. I believe it’s about mutual respect. There are many people who helped shape and mold me into the woman I am from my family and friends, people I worked for, and people that may now be in my past. They all had a hand in who I am today.”

who share the same desires and goals. Also, your support system as a working mom is crucial. Never lose sight of what is most important and prioritize your life based on that. Most importantly, faith in God is vital.”

example?

A: “I want them to strive for the best and not settle, to be

successful but also family oriented. I also want them to see the things in life that are most important. I want them to learn respect for what Moms do for their kids and also appreciation for how hard it is to be both a Mom and a business owner.”

Q: What has been the best advice or encouragement you have received?

A: “Do only as much as you can without having to sacrifice in other areas of your life.”

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photo by Jenni Blackledge

BUSINESS : #bossman

Lehman’s Pipe & Steel

O

ne defining feature of our community is family owned and operated businesses. We have the pleasure of seeing these businesses grow, while supporting our friends and neighbors. Lehman’s Pipe and Steel is just one of those businesses.

Lehman’s initially began as a fabrication shop that built trailers, farm gates, and other metal structures.

Now, they supply steel products to anyone who needs them.

Lehman’s Pipe and Steel had a humble beginning from the ideas of R.L. Lehman Junior. Mr. Lehman was an agriculture teacher at Central ISD, and he would often need steel for his students’ welding projects. According to current owner, Harold Lehman, “He would go out and find deals on bulk quantities of pipe and steel, but his small shop at the school wouldn’t hold the amount of steel that he was buying. He would buy the excess with his own money and store it at his home in Pollok. As time went on, other agriculture teachers from other schools heard that Lehman had extra pipe and steel for sale, and it just took off from there.

In 1970, he had to make the decision to stay a teacher or go into the pipe and steel business full time. He made the decision to quit teaching and never looked back.”

Lehman’s has seen many family members operating the business including daughters, sons, daughtersin-law, sons-in-law, nieces, and cousins. Now, Lehman’s employs 30 full-time employees, many of which have served the community at Lehman’s for 30 years or more!

“Our business philosophy is tried and true ways of approaching our customers, like treating our customers with respect, doing what we say we are going to do, and treating our service like it is one of our products. We have always let our customers and their needs dictate the direction that we take.

We are just people getting up every day and going to work, but we are blessed to do it alongside a large part of our family and wonderful employees.” * Special thanks to Harold Lehman for his contribution to this article.

BUSINESS : Chamber

News

Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce gives a red carpet salute to Airborne.

Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for East Texas Fun Bunch.

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Edward Jones - Amanda Daugherty, Financial Advisor, 424 E. Main St., (936) 560-4904. Financial Advisor Amanda Daugherty and Branch Office Administrator Kathy Parker welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.

Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Texans Barber School.

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for East Texas Foot Associates, 1400 Raguet St., (936) 559-1700, etfaonline.com. Mark Sowell, D.P.M., and Matt Daugherty, D.P.M., welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.

The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for new downtown business Wild Rose Old Time Photos,123 E. Main St., (936) 615-7647.

Owner Linda Watson welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.

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BUSINESS : Salutes

John and Cathy Kirk Family was named Farm Family of the Year by the Nacogdoches County Agriculture Committee. (L-R) Standing: Charlsey, John, Macklyn, Stonie, Vivian, Drew, EmJay. Kneeling: C.J., Johnny.

Sitting: Audrey, Cathy. | photo by Jacy Watson Photography

Boles Feed was named Agribusiness of the Year of Nacogdoches County. (L-R) The Lee Family: Mac, Justin, Anna & Jacie at Boles Feed Nacogdoches, LLC. | photo by Bill Teague

Jimmy Scott was named Pete Smith Agriculture Pioneer of the Year by the Nacogdoches County Agriculture Committee. (pictured) Jimmy Scott at his tree farm in Douglass. | photo by Kelly Daniel

Not pictured: Warner Wilson was named Nacogdoches County Agriculture Educator of 2016.

The Loans You Need For The Life You Want

Chase Luce

Melissa Chumley

Commercial Lending Mortgage Lending (936) 632-6621 ext. 3507 (936) 632-6621 ext. 3505 mchumley@cnbtexas.com cluce@cnbtexas.com NMLS #407756

Lufkin - Downtown 415 S. 1st Street • (936) 639-2141 Lufkin - West 805 S. John Redditt Dr. • (936) 632-6621

CNBTexas.com

Member

FDIC

BUSINESS : In

the Know

Local News

& LEGISLATIVE UPDATES TRAVIS CLARDY

TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE

I

n March, It was my pleasure to co-host with Senator Robert Nichols the 2016 Lone Star Legislative Summit “Bringing Austin to Nacogdoches” during Nacogdoches’ Tricentennial anniversary as the oldest town in Texas. The Nacogdoches Chamber of Commerce, together with many sponsors including the Texas Health Care Association, produced the event bringing together business and community leaders throughout the East Texas region with more than 25 state representatives, state senators, agency heads, and statewide media representatives. Panelists and speakers addressed wide ranging topics such as the Texas economy, economic development, healthcare, education, elections, diversity, and Texas music. I was proud to introduce my colleagues to the beauty, history and virtues of our fair city and to offer a platform for civil and thoughtful discourse about the issues that matter to Texans.

(left, top) Senator Robert Nichols and Representative Travis Clardy honor Mr. John Ruckel as one of the founders of the Lone Star Legislative Summit. | photo by Hardy Meredith (left, bottom) By video, Gov. Greg Abbott congratulates Nacogdoches on her Tricentennial anniversary and predicts that “ …the last 300 years have been great, but the next 300 will be even better.” | photo by Hardy Meredith

TRENT ASHBY

TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE

I

t has been a busy couple of weeks at your state capitol as interim committee meetings are in full swing. From TRS Care to border security to community college funding, I’ve been busy working with my colleagues to prepare in earnest for the upcoming 85th Legislative Session.

Recent Trip to the Border Recently, I was able to take a trip down to McAllen and Mission and see the results of our state investment in border security first hand. As you may recall, last session the Legislature approved over $800 million in new funding for border security operations. This funding has proved to be critical for slowing the flow of illegal immigration and has been incredibly effective at locating and eliminating the routes used by drug traffickers.

It was encouraging to see how law enforcement has been able to utilize the resources to make our state safer. I would like to thank all the Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers, game wardens, as well as all the local municipal and county law enforcement officials who have worked so hard to secure our safety.

During my visit, I was briefed by Commander Jose Rodriguez, the DPS Region 3 Commander. He is directly responsible for our state troopers who are working the border region. He led my tour, and I was able to witness the border operations from one of the DPS Patrol boats, which the agency uses to intercept drug cartels when they encounter them on the Rio Grande River. DPS

Trent Ashby visits the border.

operates 6 of these boats, and each one is powered by three 300 hp outboard motors with five .30 caliber machine guns onboard. I remain committed to fully supporting our border security efforts, and I look forward to building on this foundation during the next legislative session.

House Committee on Culture, Recreation, & Tourism House Committee on Culture, Recreation, and Tourism is one of my favorite committees because it has jurisdiction over all hunting and fishing laws in Texas, and it oversees our State Park system.

First, the Committee is charged with monitoring the repair of state parks from damage caused by natural disasters, including flooding and wildfire events.

They will then study programs in Texas and other states to identify best practices

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for preparing for these natural disasters and for mitigating their effects.

The committee will then explore ways to promote and improve tourism, youth education and economic development through heritage, cultural, recreational, historical, and nature programs and preservation practices. Through this, the committee will consider the long term economic impact of state parks and local historical sites such as the Texas Heritage Trails Program and the Alamo Mission Complex.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office if we can help you in any way. We look forward to the opportunity to hear your concerns and help you navigate state government. My district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762 or you can call my Capitol office at (512) 463-0508.

Best Buddies & Barbeque

photography by Lisa Crow

PLACES & FACES : Boots,

Interested in purchasing a photo you see? Visit lisacrowphotography.smugmug.com!

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in East Texas 78 NATURE'S EYE | 80 BEHIND THE LENS | 82 FISHING | 84 FITNESS | 86 TACTICAL | 87 TROPHY ROOM

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

The Perfect Pond Most of my childhood fishing experiences took place in a 10 foot aluminum boat with my grandpa at the stern, myself at the bow, both with a fishing rig of some kind in hand, the details of which I can’t recall or maybe never knew.

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written by Emily Courtney

SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Nature's

M

ost of these voyages took place on the mighty Pearl River, a fairly significant waterway that winds through the southern half of Mississippi and into the gulf. I was too young to pay any attention to the fishing itself and probably couldn’t even tell you what we were fishing for, much less the strategy behind it. These trips consisted of more idle sitting and playing in the sand than actual fish catching, at least on my part. Most successes I did have were achieved by means of the old man catching a fish himself, removing his hook from its mouth, and replacing it with the one on the end of my line. He’d then yell over to me on the sandbar, “You got one!” and I’d come running to reel in it, none the wiser. Grandpa’s rule was, if you land it, you caught it. I’ll never know when I actually caught my first fish, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I had a few experiences fishing ponds and lakes here and there, but always preferred the flow of a river to the stillness of a pond. Now as a biologist and habitat manager, my interest in ponds and lakes has deepened. It seems that more properties have non-flowing bodies of water than rivers or streams, and from a biologist’s perspective, these are the types we can most effectively manage.

There are many different ways to manage a pond, depending on your goals. Even if you know you want to manage for fishing, methods can vary based on the type of fish and how you want to fish them. However, there are some basics than can apply to a wide variety of ponds and management strategies.

Electrofishing Surveys – This is the best method available to sample fish populations. We can assess population dynamics and species richness, as well

Eye The Perfect Pond /// Continued

as overall health of the fish. These surveys are typically done with a specialized boat where the electrofishing equipment is mounted. An electric charge is emitted through the water to stun the fish, and they are then caught by net and brought aboard to be identified and measured. The stunned effect causes no permanent harm to the fish and wears off within a few minutes. The data we gather from these surveys help us make decisions about all phases of pond management.

which in most areas of the southeast is typically spring, early summer, and fall. Feeding programs should be planned to coincide with water temperatures that encourage feeding behavior.

Managers must be careful not to over feed and to only feed during appropriate seasons. Feeding during non-active times can result in large concentrations of uneaten feed, the digestion of which by bacteria can lead to reduced oxygen levels. Using an aeration system can help avoid this potential problem.

Stocking – Based on the species richness, composition, and abundance determined from a survey, stocking might be beneficial. Stocking forage fish, such as fathead minnows, provides a food source for game fish and helps maintain balance within the food chain. You can also stock game fish in succession, depending on your goals.

Supplemental feeding and fertilizing are two different methods used to achieve the common goal of increasing fish production. Only one or the other should be implemented on a pond, never both.

Fertilizing – Fertilizing to help boost the vegetative growth in a pond will increase production of food for herbivorous fish. Applying lime increases the water’s phosphorous levels, which is a key ingredient in the production of phytoplankton, the base of the food chain. Fertilized ponds must be monitored to ensure that the algae bloom does not become too abundant. Aeration is often required to maintain proper oxygen levels in a fertilized pond.

Fertilization can dramatically increase fish production, so it should only be done in ponds that will be fished heavily.

You should also never fertilize a pond that contains invasive plants or aquatic weeds.

Establishing a sustainable aquatic ecosystem through proper pond management benefits the surrounding ecosystem as a whole. It also ensures that your pond will provide recreational opportunities for years to come. Whether it’s a fishing spot, a favorite swimming hole, or the site of a summer picnic, a well-managed pond can be the source of life-long memories for you and your family. The recollections I have of my fishing excursions with my grandpa have very little to do with the fishing or the fish.

I remember the peace and quiet, the sound of a bucket of crickets or the feel of my mischievous hand in a pail of worms. I remember the stories and the jokes, the feel of my feet in the sand or hanging over the boat into the water.

Whatever goals you’re managing for or fish you hope to catch, the memories are the real measure of success.

Supplemental Feeding – Providing a pelletized fish feed is another way to boost fish production. Fish benefit the most from supplemental food sources during periods of greatest growth,

If you want to build a new pond or enhance an existing one, we’d love to hear from you and help you create a legacy of memories for your family and friends.

Contact us! (888) 381-4638 | info@natureseyeconsulting.com

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Behind

the Lens

JOE LOWERY

J

oe Lowery has been capturing photos since the mid 1980’s. He is a self-taught photographic artist. His love for the art of photography and his dedication to its beauty has inspired so many. He has many accolades credited to his name, one of which is being named by Texas Highways as one of their top photographers of the last 25 years. His work has been displayed, collected and cherished by so many in East Texas and around the country.

To begin with Joe is a close family friend.

When my brother Cragg and I were going over the plans for my new office, Texas Urological Clinic, we had an epiphany…we would decorate it with Joe’s photography! Joe took it from there and took it to the next level. Joe carefully planned which pictures he was going to use and wanted the theme to be ‘seasons.’

He said, “I want a patient to be able to be in your office and find solace and comfort in my photography.” And that is what he accomplished. His photography is the focal point of my clinic. Every single day my patients comment on the pictures. He truly is in a class of his own.

What an honor to showcase his work.

– Dr. Shawn Todd | Urologist & close friend of Joe’s

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There are not enough kind words to say about Joe. I’m sure anybody that met him would say the same thing. He is a gentle spirit that loves his God, family, friends and work. He is the most talented photographer I’ve ever known. He can make his camera do magic! His photography is everywhere. When I moved to the Hill Country 7 years ago, I went into a convenience store and there were 4 versions of postcards that were Joe’s. I bought every one of them and called to let him know. He photographed many beautiful pictures of the Hill Country.

One in particular of Bluebonnets became the centerfold of Texas Highways Magazine in April 1998. It is the most miraculous centerfold that anyone could ever see. He received a personal handwritten note from Lady Bird Johnson

stating, “My heart skipped a beat when I saw your photograph!”

It was so wonderful that I told Joe, “I just have to have one!” He told me he would make one for me with the stipulation that he ‘got to do the framing’. He delivered and I am now the proud owner of a beautiful masterpiece, 24X36, by the one and only Joe Lowery! How lucky could one be? With the bluebonnets in full bloom now, I always think of my wonderful friend Joe. – Lois Gonzalez’, PhD | close friend of Joe’s

Where to begin when talking about Joe Lowery? I feel like I must address Joe Lowery THE MAN and Joe Lowery THE PHOTOGRAPHER. That is what sets him apart from any other comparable professional photographer. There is not a more perfect heart anywhere. He is kind to the core and authentic in every

way. If you ever wanted to describe the attribute of humility and how rare and godly that trait is, look no further than Joe. He performed his magic at my son’s clinic by decorating it with his breathtaking photography, but then he was hesitant to attend the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Open House last December. I admit, I begged him to come! He came and tried so hard to be ‘under the radar’, but that wasn’t happening. People swarmed around him and it was amazing to sit back and watch! When you spend time with Joe, it is time well spent. Always.

His bear hug will touch your soul and bring you right back to what is important in this world. I tell him that his photography is magnificent. He tells me….in his humble nature… that he is just taking pictures of the beauty that God provides.

Well, here is my feeling on that. I believe with all my heart that God sends Joe secret nudges on where to go when and provides him with breathtaking scenery

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because God wants Joe to be the one to capture it with the magic that he alone has and turn it into a masterpiece. We can all learn so much from such a man.

Just ask him to describe some of his photography sometime and sit back and listen to the details and the emotions behind it all. He is extraordinary both as a man and as a photographer, and I’m honored to call him my friend.

– Patricia Todd | close friend of Joe’s

Joe Lowery is my favorite Texas photographer. He has captured the beauty of Texas, especially our wildflowers in every corner of the state. His portraits of Buddy and me and our family over the years are treasures. Knowing him and enjoying his talent have been a gift for our family. We love, Joe. – Ellen Temple

written by Tommy & Brian Martin

SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Fishing

WATCH FOR THE

A

FULL MOON IN APRIL pril is the month you want to be on the water. “It will be the PRIMO MONTH!” According to local professional angler, Tommy Martin, the spawn will happen any day!

March wasn’t a great fishing month because of all of the rain. The lake levels have been up and the fish have been up in the brush. Martin keeps up with what is happening on the lake by staying on the water 3-4 times a week. He knows the spawn hasn’t happened.

The dam will start letting the water out so the lake level will be at its prime.

It’s the perfect time for the spawn. The lake level matched with the full moon means you will want to be on the water!

Tommy Martin and his son Brian are also fishing guides. In order to have a good day on the water, you need to know what is happening. According to Martin, these are a few of the lures and techniques they are using to catch numbers and quality bass.

TEXAS RIGGED ZOOM 8” LIZARDS in a black or blue fleck color in muddier water and a more natural color such as green pumpkin or watermelon in clearer water. Peg an 1/8 or ¼ oz weight to cast and flip to bushes and other shallow cover.

FLIPPING BUSHES AND HAY GRASS with ¾ - 1 oz pegged tungsten weights

paired with various creature baits has also produced some quality bass.

SENKOS, of course, are always a good option this time of the year as well.

On the beds: PLASTIC LIZARDS. 8" BLUE FLECK—due to all the rain, the water is muddy and murky. The

blue fleck is working in this water.

CINKO LURES- baby brush hog, green pumpkin, and watermelon candy.

MEET TOMMY AND BRIAN MARTIN Tommy is a famed bass angler with a Bass Masters Classic title to his credit and over 40 years of fishing experience. He was the first angler to ever win both a regular tournament and the Classic in a single season. He continues to compete in national and regional events and also offers fishing trips for bass on his East Texas home lakes of Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn.

He is married to Sheilah. Together they have two sons, Blake and Brian.

Brian has joined his dad in the fishing business guiding and also teaches Lowrance electronics classes. To inquire about their guiding services, they can be reached by visiting tommymartinguideservices.com or by email at brian@martinsguideservice.com

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brought to you by XILE Fitness

SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Fitness

In addition to fighting obesity, some benefits of a safe fitness program for kids such as Xile’s “SummerFit” Camp are:

• Builds self esteem • Helps develop and maintain healthy bones

Xile's "SummerFit" Camp

O

besity in American children has become a national public health concern for the past few decades. Some estimate that one out of every six children is obese and one out of every three children is overweight or obese. Considering the long list of horrendous effects of obesity in children, we should all be doing our part to help them develop healthier habits.

Childhood obesity can wreak havoc on nearly every system in the body, effect hormone levels that control blood sugar and puberty, and can take a social and emotional toll. Obese kids are at an increased risk of developing many chronic diseases including type two diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and many more. The United States Department of Health and Human Services states, “Conditions associated with physical inactivity and poor nutrition may soon overtake tobacco as the leading cause of preventable death in the United States.” That fact should scare us all into action!

• Increases muscle mass which is crucial to an efficient metabolism • Teaches healthy habits • Reduces Stressors and feelings of anxiety or depression • Protects the child’s muscles and joints for other sport related activates • Develops proper technique, strength, and conditioning to improve performance in any other sport from dance to football now and as they get older

Exercise and strength training are great ways to combat childhood obesity. The USHHS also states that inactive children are more likely to become overweight and then progress to battle obesity as adults, so it’s key to help children develop healthy habits while they’re young. The coaches at Xile Fitness in Lufkin are working to do their part in fighting childhood obesity by offering “SummerFit” Camp!

The week long, half day camps will be led by caring coaches with experience in training youth. Each day will consist of fun and active games, appropriate workouts, and healthy and creative snacks. All workouts will have a proper warm up, be very light weight (if any), stress proper form, and have an efficient cool down with stretching.

Contact Xile Fitness at (936) 465-0186 or on Facebook to get your child signed up or for more information.

XILE Fitness • 7001 E State Hwy 103 • (936) 465-0186 • Follow us on

written by Luke Tarbutton

SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Tactical

cowboy

style

W

hether it is a small town rodeo and fair or big city rodeo and concert, they all share the same rich history. Ranchers from Texas and Mexico would perform tasks that were needed on a daily bases to not only to work the ranch, but also to survive. There were three things you needed to know how to do to survive on the ranch; rope, ride and shoot. In the first rodeos you had the classic events like the wild horse race, the roping events, and of course shooting events.

When you go to a rodeo now, you’re not expecting to see cowboys shooting on horses or doing quick draw competitions.

However, there are some still out there.

The cowboy action shooting community has a wide variety of different events and locations all over the country. These events and the classic rodeo events we see at our local county fair grounds are all part of the “Ranch Rodeo” experience.

We all love cowboys and that whole era of our country’s history. The cowboy hats and the boots draw us to a simpler time. If you like the rodeo, then you will love cowboy action shooting. One of the cool things at most of these events is the dress code for competition.

To compete in most of these events, you must dress like a classic character from cowboy history. This is not only just for the competitors, but the judges and the spectators are welcome to do that, as well. That in and of itself is a ton of fun for the whole family.

There are all kinds of shooting events.

In the shooting world, three gun competitions are everywhere, so of course they are in cowboy action shooting.

This style of shooting will have either a side by side coach gun or lever actions shotgun. Then the competitor will also use a lever action rifle, usually a .357 or a .45 colt is traditionally used, and then of course you can’t forget your trusted six shooter.

There are also precision rifle shooting competitions to go along with this.

There are quick draw shoots, fast rifle shoots, and even turkey shoots in this field. However, one of my favorite styles of shooting would have to be the mounted shoots. From the days of Wild Bill and Annie Oakley, these marksmen are something out of a fairytale of western folklore. To see a shooter come riding out of a shoot on an 1,100 lb. animal moving faster than you can run shooting at targets less than six inches in diameter is more than just skill, it is God given talent.

The Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) is always looking for more shooters to join the community. Rodeo is tied together with a rich history.

Make sure you are not only getting one part of it and missing the others. There is a shooting sport out there for everyone.

This may just be yours.

Luke Tarbutton is the Owner, Operator and Instructor at Perfect Shoot in Lufkin. He has been shooting since he was 4 years old. When his father got him a 10-22, he was hooked.

Now, Luke shares his love for the outdoors and shooting with his 2 beautiful daughters.

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SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Trophy

8U Dynasty played at the Texas Rangers Youth Ballpark Tournament on Saturday, March 26, 2016 & won the 8 & Under Coach Pitch Tournament Championship!

Coaches: Charlie Cortinez, Jody Herrington, Shane Howatt & Ryan Dugat.

Players (middle, L-R): Grant Stafford, Choco Forney, Adam Sanchez, Will Plowman, & Peyton Herrington. (bottom, L-R): Jayden Tamez, Zayne Cortinez, Channing Howatt, Tyren Mathews, Zeth Dugat & Alex DeJesus.

Room

Landon Mundt, age 11.

Four Corners Hunting Club.

9 pts. 11/1/15.

Emmie Martin, 4yrs old. Avengers Pre-tee Ball, Hudson. Parents: Blake & Lacey Martin. Grandparents: Tommy & Sheilah Martin / Gordon & Sonia Jodarski.

Scott Stanford.

7 pt buck on 11/16/15.

Private hunting lease in Rocky Hill, Texas.

Bayla Martin,7 yrs old. Sass Pitch Hudson 8U Softball. Parents: Blake & Lacey Martin.

Grandparents: Tommy & Sheilah Martin / Gordon & Sonia Jodarski.

Send a photo of your trophy hunt & information to photos@tjmag.com.

Submissions are free of charge.

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