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WELCOME : A
Note from the President
president: Stephanie Oliver general manager: Kim Iribarren kim@tjmag.com managing editor: Beth Johnson editor@tjmag.com staff writer: Cami Rhome event photography: Lisa Crow layout and design: Macy Haffey ad design: Samantha Miller contributors: Melissa & Tiffani Garret Ashabranner Jessica Tinsley Bridges Claire Brody Emily Courtney Majal Minguez Melissa Radke Cary Sims
I
t's no secret where my family has been all summer. We have lived at the baseball park. You have the choice to play or not play All Stars, but my boys wouldn't have it any other way. Here we are as parents, supporting them in their endeavors. Because of their choice to play, we have gained new friends. It's more of a family that you look forward to seeing every weekend. For that, we have loved the experience of summer baseball! I've noticed there are a lot of families who spend the summers playing baseball and softball. If I had to guess, it's
because of the good people you are surrounded by and those you get to play with. However you choose to spend your summers, it's those wonderful memories that count. I have enjoyed seeing the photos on social media where summer trips have taken friends near and far. God's creation is absolutely beautiful! Happy last few days of summer!
STEPHANIE OLIVER
PRESIDENT
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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? PHILANTHROPY POWER COUPLE GIVING BACK
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GROWING UP
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BUSINESS
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SPORTS & OUTDOORS
CONTACT US:
Mailing: PO Box 150537 | Lufkin, Texas 75915 Physical: 115 E. Shepherd | Lufkin, Texas 75901
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COMMUNITY
LIFE
Three beautiful sisters Claire, Lila, and Anna Carter are the daughters of Nicole and Dr. Jason Carter. | photo taken by Lisa Crow
facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast
8 BURLAP & BESTIES 10 LIFE & DESIGN 14 {DIY} 16 READER TIPS 18 HOMEGROWN
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ON THE COVER:
936-634-7188 | advertise@tjmag.com
HOME
30 ASK THE READER 32 FASHION 34 STRETCH MARKS 36 TRAVEL
40 SUPER KID 42 LOOK AT ME 44 PRETTY BABIES
46 IN THE KNOW 48 LEADERSHIP 50 CHAMBER NEWS
56 ON THE GREENS 58 ON THE FIELD 60 NATURE'S EYE 62 FITNESS 63 TROPHY ROOM
SUMMER SPLASH 2015
CONTENTS
8 BURLAP & BESTIES | 10 LIFE & DESIGN | 14 {DIY} | 16 READER TIPS | 18 HOMEGROWN
HOME
breezy
BIRTHDAY DECOR
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in East Texas
written by Melissa & Tiffani
HOME : Burlap & Besties Breezy Birthday Decor /// Continued
A
fter f lying a kite at the beach {and LOVING it!} I decided to do Cullen a kite party! We were celebrating his birthday out of town so I needed decorations that would travel easy, and what travels easier then paper?! Seriously, this party was so simple! Melissa made kite templates for my food/ drink labels and I printed them out on patterned paper. Then I used a stiff baker’s twine I found in the scrapbooking section for their tails. For the kite tails on the cloud cupcakes and the cake, I used white f loral wire. We also printed and cut out kites with the initial of all the kids for them to color during the party. I loved the cookies made by Amber Brandenburg; they were just as yummy as they were cute!! She made a hole on the end of each one so I could give them all tails too!! Cullen’s kite shirt was made by me and his NaNa using fabric, wonder under and a sewing machine to give it a little extra detailing! Cullen enjoyed his simple, yet very cute birthday!
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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.â€
Tiffani Brantner is a part-time nurse and student, a constant crafter, party-thrower, "ideacomer-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.
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written by Claire Brody
HOME : Life
& Design
welcome {to my} home
T
here’s nothing better than traveling long and far to see loved ones and feeling like the hostess was extra thoughtful in making you feel welcome. It goes beyond cozy sheets and extra pillows (although that’s very important). It’s the little details that guests really love.
5 WAYS TO MAKE GUESTS FEEL WELCOME: 1. fresh flowers – Fresh f lowers are the easiest, yet most
impactful way to greet guests. Add a small vase of f lowers to a nightstand and you will be the hostess with the mostess.
2. “guest” tray – Add a guest tray to a high traffic area
in the room. The foot of the bed, the bathroom, or a luggage rack are all spots that are sure to be seen. On the tray, add items that would make guests feel pampered. Think personal. You could leave a handwritten note, a sweet treat, a bottle of water and any “home” details like the wifi password, alarm code, etc.
3. mini bathroom extras – Think about items
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.
that guests might forget - shampoo, mouth wash, cotton balls, etc. Leave a small basket in the bathroom with extras for guests, just in case. They will be extremely appreciative especially if they have to put it to use!
4. extra layers – My favorite way to dress a bed is with
a light quilt and a folded duvet at the foot of the bed. This gives guests options for layering while they sleep. It’s also a good idea to add extra blankets and pillows to the linen closet. A good night’s rest makes all the difference while traveling.
5. easy snack access – Stock your fridge and
pantry with easy snacking items and remind your guests that your home is their home. If a snack can be easily accessed, the guest will feel comfortable and less intrusive.
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Bank & Trust Pro-Am Party
photography by Lisa Crow
PLACES & FACES : First
Interested in purchasing a photo you see? Visit lisacrowphotography.smugmug.com!
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written by Majal Minguez
HOME : {DIY}
Do-It-Yourself
heavenly
FACIAL SERUM
I
love essential oils, and I am very passionate about sharing the amazing benefits of these God-made molecules. Of the many classes and MAKE AND TAKE workshops that I teach on essential oils, my most favorite topic is the “12 HEALING OILS OF THE BIBLE.”
According to David Stewart, PhD, “Essential oils are referenced many times in the Old and New Testaments. They were a part of daily living among Israelites, Jews, early Christians and their Gentile neighbors throughout Biblical times. It would be accurate to say that essential healing oils, their plant sources, and/or their uses are mentioned in the Bible more than a thousand times (1,031 to be exact!) representing at least 33 species.” For this month, I am very excited to share with you my precious facial serum recipe, which includes 3 essential oils from the ‘Oils of the Bible’ collection. FRANKINCENSE – Frankincense was considered “liquid gold” in the ancient times. People were able to tell how rich a king was by the amount of Frankincense oil they have in their possession. It was also used to anoint the newborn sons of kings and priests, which may be the reason why it was given as a gift to the Baby Jesus. MYRRH – In the book of Esther 2:12, it says “Before a girl’s turn came to go in to King Xerxes, she had to complete 12 months of beauty treatments prescribed for the women, six months with oil of myrrh and six months with perfumes and cosmetics.” So ladies, Myrrh is definitely our beauty oil. SANDALWOOD – This expensive oil called “Aloes” in the Biblical times was used for meditation and as an aphrodisiac. This exquisite oil for skin care has a very high concentration of sesquiterpenes, a substance that deprograms misinformation and carries oxygen at a cellular level. Combining these three Biblical oils in a facial serum will give you one of the most nourishing, hydrating and soothing facial treatments.
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heavenly facial serum 10 ml avocado oil 4 drops Young Living’s Frankincense essential oil 4 drops Young Living’s Sandalwood essential oil 4 drops Young Living’s Myrrh essential oil 15 ml glass bottle Mix all ingredients in the 15 ml glass bottle. Shake gently before each use. Apply facial serum to face and neck after cleansing your face in the morning and at bedtime.
ESSENTIAL OIL WORKSHOPS:
Tips: • The essential oils in this recipe are pretty expensive, but they are worth it. However, other affordable oils you can substitute are Lavender, Tea Tree, Palmarosa and Cedarwood essential oils. • I use this serum as a sunscreen by adding 10 drops of Carrot Seed Oil as this oil has an SPF of 38-40. • You can use almond or olive oil instead of avocado oil. • Save your empty 15ml essential oil bottles and repurpose them for DIY projects such as this. You can make decorative labels and give this as gifts to a friend or family member.
MAKE, TAKE AND LEARN
August 18 & 25, 2015 5:30 pm (Tuesday) Join our dynamic and fast-growing group of oil users. This fun and educational workshop will discuss the basics of essential oils and the many uses of the 10 most commonly used oils. Each participant will Make and Take an 8 oz household cleaner, 8 oz foaming hand soap and a 4 oz air freshener spray. Call Majal at 936.634.4282 to reserve your spot.
MAKE AND TAKE WORKSHOPS: JULY 31, 2015 - Ladies Night Out
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.
Unleash your inner beauty by learning a very simple process of “Releasing negative emotional blocks” using essential oils. Each participant will take home 3 roll on bottles and 3 dram bottles of emotional oil blends. AUGUST 20 & 21, 2015 - Back to School Make and Take some important DIY products to protect your child from germs and to improve focus and mental clarity in school. Optional: DIY diffuser necklaces. Call Majal at 936.634.4282 for more information.
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HOME : Reader
Tips
backyard oasis Hosting friends at backyard oasis: Keep it simple so you aren't working while everyone else is playing! I usually have friends bring a snack to share. If you are uncomfortable doing that, prepare finger sandwiches beforehand, and serve with chips and cookies. I always have a picnic caddy stocked and ready with festive plates, napkins, and utensils. Cherish the time with family and friends! - Emily Parks
A summer backyard oasis must is a place to get away from the Texas heat with either a big umbrella in a bright fun color or a covered patio with comfy outdoor furniture to relax with family and friends. Using drought tolerant plants with pops of color gives the feel of a tropical paradise. Adding a pool with an area for small kids to splash around, a jump rock for kids to show off their best dives, and a shaded area for the adults finishes off the perfect backyard making it feel like your own private resort. - Erin Parker
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I love having the cool deck around the pool; hot summer days can be sizzling on your feet!! Fun entertaining glasses for your favorite beverages make for happy guests!! Little kids and big kids love having a nice size water gun for cooling the pool guests down!! - Kim Smith
written by Garret Ashabranner & Cary Sims
HOME : Homegrown
C
Backyard Poultry
hickens have been in the news, again. Disease problems in the northwestern U.S. have resulted in concerns about egg shortages and raised interest, again, in backyard poultry production. For those new to this venture, there are a few items to consider such as housing, feeding and breeds of chickens that are available. Housing for chickens is as varied as our houses. When planning your chicken coop, there are three main considerations. It must be predator and weather proof and easy to keep clean. The predators we have in East Texas are crafty. They can go over, dig under, and even come through the wall. The coop must have steady mesh chicken wire that extends over the top and down into the ground to keep predators out. Even with our moderate climate, you must be sure to keep the harsh elements away. During the winter, the coop must have something to block the northern wind. In the summer, chickens need air moving through and shade. Chickens also need a run or a place to scratch around and eat grass. Some chickens even enjoy a pan of water to splash in.
If you are looking for layers, Ameraucanas, Australorp, or Sex-Links are good starter breeds. All of these breeds lay medium to large eggs. Ameraucanas lay green eggs, and Australorp and Sex-Links lay brown eggs.
Keeping the pen and run clean is a must. It should be raked out and the nest boxes must be washed with a mixture of water and a cap full of bleach every so often to encourage good health.
Chickens raised for the dinner table are Brahma, Cornish, and Jersey Giants. All of these breeds grow very fast, so the time to table is short. These are all large birds with some hens weighing 10 lbs and roosters weighing 13 lbs. Depending upon the breed and their nutrition, it takes about 6 to 8 weeks to produce a broiler-fryer type chicken (3.5 – 6.5 lb.).
Nutrition for your small f lock will be important. Laying chickens need a 17% protein diet of laying mash or pelleted feed with chicken scratch as a treat, not as a main course. Poultry raised for meat can be fed anything from table scraps to an expensive high protein, high fat commercial feed. Maize can be used to help put more “meat” on their frame.
Besides the production breeds, you may want to choose an ornamental breed of chicken. The Cochin breed is very tame, winter hearty, and great brooders, meaning that they are very good parents to chicks. Polish chickens have a crown of feathers that make them look very regal. This is a very calm and laid back breed. Silkies are unique in appearance, looking like a f luffy stuffed
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animal. Silkies make very good pets and are excellent brooding hens. In addition to chickens, some folks raise turkey, ducks, geese, or exotics. Each of these has their own nuances, challenges, and rewards. Check local ordinances as there may be restrictions for those within city limits. For Luf kin residents, the regulations state that a coop must be at least 100 feet from any dwelling and there must be five square feet per bird.
This is co-authored by Garret Ashabranner and Cary Sims. Garrett is a graduate of Hudson ISD and will be attending college this fall, pursuing a career in the poultry industry. He and his family raise chickens,
On Monday, August 17 the Angelina County Extension office will hold its monthly Homegrown to Homemade: the art of DIY Series with the topic of backyard poultry. The program is $10 per person and starts at 6:30 pm. For more information, contact Cary Sims at the Angelina Extension Office at 936.634.6414 or cw-sims@tamu.edu.
rabbits and goats on a small farm in the Beulah community. Cary Sims is the County Extension Agent for agriculture and natural resources for Angelina County. His email address is cw-sims@tamu.edu.
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Brookshire Brothers Helps Moms Help Their Families. Our FREE Prescription Delivery Leaves You Time To Take Care of Who Really Matters!
in East Texas 22 WHERE ARE THEY NOW? | 24 PHILANTHROPY | 26 POWER COUPLE | 28 GIVING BACK
COMMUNITY
J
jenna armstrong
enna Armstrong grew up in the Central area and graduated from Central High School in 1998. During high school, she was involved with FFA, Student Council, and softball. In 1998, she played on the 3-A UIL State Championship softball team where she pitched the state championship game. After receiving many honors and accolades through softball, Armstrong went on to play in college. She played softball for Alvin Community College for two years before transferring to Stephen F. Austin State University to study communications. At SFA, she majored in journalism and graduated Magna Cum Laude in 2002.
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COMMUNITY : Where
Are They Now? Jenna Armstrong /// Continued
Armstrong’s educational background helped propel her into her future career. After graduating, she worked for the Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce as membership director and eventually was promoted to Vice President of Membership. She sold memberships to the Chamber and helped with events such as the Texas State Forest Festival, Southern Hushpuppy Championships, Business Expos, and more. Now, Jenna Armstrong is the President of the Lake Houston Area Chamber of Commerce where she manages 1,100 members and leads a staff of seven people. The pride Armstrong has for the success of the Lake Houston Area Chamber is very clear. She states of the Chamber,
“
The Lake Houston Area Chamber is the 4th l argest Chamber of Commerce by membership size in the greater Houston area with 1,100 members. (And there are a TON of Chambers in the Houston area.). Currently, we are one of three finalists for Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) “2015 Chamber of the Year”. In August I will fly to Montreal, Quebec to be interviewed for the final stage of the competition. The winner will be announced on August 12 in Montreal.”
In addition to the success of the Chamber under her leadership, Armstrong has had many personal successes during her time in Lake Houston. She graduated from the US Chamber’s Institute for Organization Management,
Texas Community Development Institute and Leadership North Houston, and received the TCCE “Distinguished Service Award” in 2014. She also shares her Atascosita home with two beautiful children, her daughter, Drew and her son, Beau. Armstrong attributes much of her success over the years to the support of her hometown and the strong values instilled in her there.
“
I count my blessings that I was reared in the Luf kin area surrounded by good, quality people who all contributed to my upbringing. Growing up in a small town is the greatest experience any child could ask for. My hometown is full of hard-working people, no doubt. Although at the time I did not realize it, I was very fortunate to have worked with some of the best non-profit executives around: Jerry Huffman, Amanda Miller, Heather Kartye and Tom Manskey. All were very supportive of professional development and helped put me in touch with contacts that I still use today. By the way – Lufkin is a beautiful area, especially where I grew up in the Pollok area where the hills start rolling and there are beautiful tall trees all over. Just gorgeous! Every time I come back home to visit, I always think about how much I took its beauty for granted when I lived there. It always causes me to stop and take pause whenever I come back with my kids.”
COMMUNITY : Philanthropy
THE CHRISTIAN
T
he Christian Men’s Job Corps is an organization that seeks to prepare men for their future in light of Christ’s message and example. The Job Corps focuses on career and life skills as well and personal development – all aspects which have the potential to permanently alter each man’s life for the better. In June of this year, Dr. John Fulbright traveled to Tennessee to take the national training through Christian Men’s Job Corp and WMU. After completing this training, he received his designation as a Site Coordinator, allowing him to bring the Christian Men’s Job Corp program to Luf kin, Texas. Dr. Fulbright’s role will be to establish and develop the Christian Men’s Center/Christian Men’s Job Corps (CMC/CMJC) program along with the board members and the community.
The Christian Men’s Job Corps ministers to men from various walks of life, many of whom have experienced extreme tragedy or severe road blocks along the way. Whether their situation is the result of bad decisions or of unfortunate circumstances, the Job Corps provides each man with the skills to affect a permanent change in their circumstances. According to Dr. Fulbright: “This ministry is not about “fixing” what is wrong with our participants. CMC/CMJC is about change. Our participants want their lives to be different, and we want to empower them to make the changes necessary for them to reach their goals. When participants receive support, they are more likely to act on their strengths. We believe in each person’s capacity for change and growth, and that in turn instills hope. That requires us to give attention to their resources: talents, goals, and experiences. When we do, we increase the probability of positive growth for them. This will also be Christian men helping men to be better men through mentor support and ongoing encouragement. It will help to lower the jobless and unemployment rate by training men in areas of work that will give
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them skill sets to gain better paying jobs in new fields. By doing this, we start to stop the cycle for poverty in families that have plagued them in some cases for years.” Therefore, establishing this ministry in Luf kin will also benefit our entire community! As these men break the cycle of poverty in their own lives and families, they are able to contribute to our community’s economic growth. These men will be mentored and encouraged by leaders in our community so that they can move on to become leaders themselves. However, this program cannot be successful without the help and support of the community here in Luf kin. Dr. Fulbright is commissioning us all to participate in any way that we can. “We need men and women who are willing to be teachers, prayer partners, volunteers, sponsors, and donors. Men can become participants, teachers, mentors, prayer partners, and volunteers. CMC/ CMJC hopes to provide lunch and snacks, transportation, professional clothing, office equipment and supplies, and computers. Everything we will do at CMC/CMJC
MEN’S JOB CORPS will all be by prayer and seeking the true will of GOD for the men in this community.” If you would like to get involved, or learn more about the Christian Men’s Job Corps, there will be Community Meetings at Luf kin Middle School on July 28th and August 18th at 6 pm. These events will be centered on learning the heart and soul of the
ministry and understanding its role in the community. There will be many community speakers there to share their involvement and knowledge about the Job Corps including, Judge Paul White, Judge Bob Inselmann, Police Chief Gerald Williamson, State Representative for CMJC Ms, Becky Ellison, and Jerry Spann from Love, Inc.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to spread Christ’s love throughout Lufkin by getting involved with the Christian Men’s Job Corps!
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COMMUNITY : Power
Couple
Q&A WITH
JEREMY & JANET YANCEY
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eremy and Janet Yancey moved to Lufkin ten years ago to join the staff at Lufkin First Assembly. Janet grew up in Lufkin and lived here most of her life, and Jeremy was born into a pastor’s home in Kansas. As a couple, they strive to reflect the love of Jesus Christ to their community and to have a fun, humor-filled and committed marriage. They also have two beautiful children, Sage and Graham. Last August, Jeremy and Janet were elected as the lead pastors of their church, where they have witnessed amazing growth in the body of Christ and seen lives changed. Recently we asked Pastor Jeremy a few questions about his life, ministry and hopes for the future.
Q: How did you and Janet meet? met in college at Southwestern A: “We Assemblies of God University.
Specif ically, we were both in a psychology class and happened to be paired together with two other people to do a class project and presentation on the rampant epidemic of STD’s. So needless to say, our first conversations were discussing interesting topics. It wasn’t long after we began to date that we were quickly convinced that we wanted to spend the rest of our lives dating only each other. We dated for 2 years and married in June of 2000 at the very church we now pastor. We just recently celebrated 15 years. As a surprise, I proposed to Janet in front of an audience of 6000 people by video at a national church convention in Orlando, Florida. She had no choice but to say yes…otherwise I would’ve been the chief loser of our denomination. So she may have felt forced into the whole thing.”
Q: How did you know she was “the one”?
brought monumental change in your marriage, whether good or bad? 7th year of marriage was a A: “Our very diff icult time. Both of us
were traveling extensively for our jobs. During that calendar year, we were apart from each other more than 150 days. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and also exponentially complicates a relationship that deeply needs face time and family time. Although this was a hard time in our marriage, the tension forced us to step back and recalibrate our relationship. We set guardrails on our weekends. We put a date night into place. To this day, we are unashamed to say we spend tons of money on babysitters because we will not take our marriage for granted. We love our kids and enjoy spending time with them, too. However, our job is to help them someday leave the house having become passionate Christ followers who make great decisions based on the Word of God as their moral compass. After they leave, if we haven’t invested our lives into one another then we’ll be more than empty nesters--we’ll be empty strangers living in the same house.”
“Neither of us believe there’s just
A: “one” option or a “soul mate”
idea when it comes to marriage. We believe a great marriage takes one man and one woman completely committed to living lives guided by the moral compass of God’s word. But being crazy in love with one another helps that out a whole lot.”
Q: Do you remember a time, experience or life moment that 26 | S u m m e r S p l a s h 2 0 1 5
Q: What do you think is the secret to a happy marriage? What have you both done to make it work? “We don’t think it’s that big of a
A: secret. We work hard to model
a biblical marriage of mutual submission and try to out serve each other. But before we go and write ourselves into the marriage hall of
fame, we want to be crystal clear. We are still trying to figure this whole thing out. We are f lawed. We need the grace of God every single day as we continue to learn how to love as Christ loved the church and submit to each other as though we are submitting to Christ himself. We’re still trying to figure out how to have a disagreement without blowing up. Sometimes we hit a homerun and many times we strike out, swinging at tangents and relational curve balls. But one way we’ve been able to strengthen our marriage is through learning and speaking one another’s love language(s). We work hard to speak each other’s language. Because we both value quality time (a love language) we try to get time alone with just the two of us. Here’s a helpful hint to couples: When you go out of town with your kids, we call that a family adventure. When you can escape with your spouse…and JUST them…that’s truly a vacation. So we try to do both every year.”
Q: What do you look forward to most about the future? “Our greatest desire for the future
A: is that our lives and the lives of our
children reflect a 'Christ-centeredness.' If Jesus is at the center, everything else will be ok. After that, we look forward to our kids making millions of dollars as athletes, business owners, hedge fund managers or very skilled card players to help subsidize our retirement.”
Q: How do you find balance in life – as parents, in your ministry and in your marriage?
spiritually by asking questions about that Sunday’s lesson at our Kid Works ministry. HUGE HELP TO EVEN A PASTORS HOME!”
BALANCE IN LIFE Tell us about a funny, A: “STRIKING IS LIKE GOING ON A SNIPE Q: memorable moment HUNT. YOU CAN LOOK FOR IT, BUT I DOUBT YOU FIND IT. from your marriage. When you stand on one leg and 'balance' yourself…you’re not really balanced. Your body is in this chaotic moment of ‘counter balancing’ because your body is shifting from one side to the other to keep from falling over. That’s a better picture, in our opinion, of marriage. It’s about counter balancing. Basically, the goal is to make the most out of every opportunity you can, when you can. It’s a clumsy chaotic process where many of us get it wrong, but perfect balance is an illusion. So when it comes to our jobs, we’re going to make the best impact we can. When it comes to family time, we’re gonna' give it our best. Sports, school work, ministry, funerals, weddings, late night calls, sick tummies, recitals, anniversaries….we’re going to counter balance the best we can and pray for grace in the race. One habit that we’ve recently created is a marriage meeting. I know, sounds sexy right? Basically, Janet and I have committed to meeting once a week and discussing key areas of our marriage and family to measure our progress towards our goals we’ve set. Those areas we discuss are budget, family time, personal health, next week’s calendar and a spiritual plan for our kids. We go over the parent take home page we get from our AWESOME KIDS MINISTRY AT LUFKIN FIRST ASSEMBLY (shameless plug), and make sure we’re going deeper with our kids
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A: “Two days after bringing home our
f irst born we got into this great fight. The deal was this: when the baby would cry in the middle of the night, I would get her up, change her diaper, and give her to Janet. Janet would nurse her and put her back down. It was a great plan. The second night we tried this, Janet kept falling asleep in the bed as she would sit there, nursing. So she asked me to prop her back up by putting my hand behind her to ‘hold her up while she feeds the baby.’ I was tired too, though. So, I would start to fall back asleep and my hand would slip. Janet said, ‘Jeremy, you’re falling asleep…I need you to keep me propped up.’ To which I snapped back…‘Hurry up my arm is getting tired.’ Then she said ‘Your arm is getting tired? YOUR. ARM. IS. GETTING. TIRED??? Did you grow a human in your stomach? Did you go through 15 hours of labor? Did someone cut open your stomach and pull out a PERSON? AND YOUR ARM IS TIRED????’ All I could say was, ‘Good point!’ It’s just a great illustration of how self-focused we can be…and how important it is to invest into a ‘boppie’.”
COMMUNITY : Giving
Back
First Baptist’s
C
BAREFOOT FUN RUN!
hurches all over our city are constantly finding new and creative ways to help our community and spread the love of Jesus. First Baptist of Luf kin is no different. On June 21st, First Baptist participated in the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls campaign by holding their own Barefoot Fun Run and Shoe Drive. Their goal was not only to collect shoes for school aged children in need, but also to create awareness in our community and get people involved. Hall Henderson, one of the event’s coordinators, was extremely impressed by all the people, churches, and organizations who came out to donate shoes and participate in the Barefoot Fun Run. “There were moms pushing strollers, and even my son who is two years old ran the finish line. We had ages ranging from 6 months old to adults who were close to 90. Sometimes there are needs right here at home that get overlooked… so that turnout was awesome to see.” Katie Baker, who helped coordinate volunteers for the Barefoot Fun Run and
Shoe Drive, really enjoyed seeing children and families get involved in the Run. “The best part was watching the younger families at our church come together to reach other young families in the community. We had lots of family groups that came out!”
and the Buckner Organization, the shoes that were donated will be given to children in our own community through the Junior League’s “Back to School Bonanza”.
The Fun Run was almost a mile long and coursed through downtown Luf kin, around the Civic Center and First Baptist Church building. As each participant crossed the finish line, volunteers were waiting to wash their feet in the same way that Jesus washed the disciple’s feet in John 13. Once someone’s feet had been washed, they would turn around and wash the next finisher’s feet. In this manner, the participants were able to serve both children in need and each other! The Barefoot Fun Run and Shoe Drive was a huge success with a turnout of close to 100 participants and a final count of 151 pairs of shoes donated! Thanks to the help of the Junior League of Lufkin
Mental illness is [Even when you can’t see it.] Mental illness is real, and it’s all around us. Depression. Anxiety. Bi-polar disorder. Eating disorders. One in four of us will face a mental illness in any given year. Yet, too many people are afraid to get the help they need or even talk about it with their friends or family. We need your help. Visit myburke.org/REAL to get the facts, learn how to help those in need, and read stories of people right here in East Texas that are taking control of their mental health.
To make an appointment with a mental health IF YOU’RE HAVING A MENTAL HEALTH EMERGENCY, care professional, call 936-634-5010. 28 | S u m m e r S p l a s h 2 0CALL 1 5 BURKE’S 24-HOUR CRISIS HOTLINE AT 1-800-392-8343.
in East Texas 30 ASK THE READER | 32 FASHION | 34 STRETCH MARKS | 36 TRAVEL
LIFE
smell of the beach
after a rain
SWEET
- Suzanne Ratcliff
smell of summer We asked a few of our readers their favorite smell of summer.
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LIFE : Ask
the Reader Sweet Smell of Summer /// Continued
tanning oil & sunscreen - Julie McManus
a hay field with fresh cut hay - Julie Parker
Endless Weekend
by Bath and Body works
- Stacey Squyres
cocoa butter
- Kristi Golden
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TJMAG&CO | an original since 2005
written by Jessica Tinsley Bridges
LIFE : Fashion
SUNGLASSES
When it comes to any outdoor trip, sunglasses are an understandable requirement. Nothing ruins a perfect beach day like squinting in the sun. Plus, UV rays can do just as much damage to your eyes as your skin. Stock up on a pair of cute sunglasses—the bigger, the better protection! WOMEN’S ROUND SUNGLASSES, TARGET, $14.99
WRISTLET
Don’t get stuck fumbling around for your personals in your oversized tote. Stash your smaller items like your cell phone, cash and car keys in this fun wristlet. SNAKE TEXTURE CELL PHONE WRISTLET, TARGET, $9.99
CUTE FLIP FLOPS
PRINTED FLIP FLOPS, OLD NAVY, $5.00
It’s just not a day at the beach without a pair of awesome f lip f lops! These cost only $5 and are so cute with the striped print and fun color.
S L A I T N E S S E G A 10 BEACH B officially in full to get your tote
prepped for a fun filled beach day or weekend get-away. Before your flip-flops touch the sand, make sure your beach tote is well-stocked with beach must-haves. From SPF to a
PRINTED BEACH TOWEL
No beach trip is complete without a colorful beach towel. With this bold geometric print you will easily be able to spot your beach towel in a crowd.
chic hat, don’t leave home without these ten fun-in-the-sun essentials! Happy Summer!
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LIP BALM
Your lips need sunscreen too! This all-in-one lip balm will keep your lips hydrated and protected. This lip balm features SPF 15 to help shield lips from the harmful sunrays while leaving just a hint of color on your lips.
E.L.F. LIP BALM SPF 15, TARGET, $3
swing, it’s time
LUXE BEACH TOWELS, TARGET, $17.99
W
ith summer
HAIR TIES
When it’s hot out, the last thing you want is your hair sticking to you. Tie it up with theses hair ties that wont leave a crease in your hair. GOODY OUCHLESS RIBBON ELASTICS, TARGET, $4.19
MAXI SWIMSUIT COVER-UP
A simple and easy cover-up is going to be essential for the beach. This simple and stylish printed maxi empire waist cover-up will keep you looking chic. WOMEN’S CHIFFON MAXI COVER-UP, OLD NAVY, $22.97
SUNSCREEN WITH BRONZER
We’ve all been taught the importance of sunscreen from a young age, which is why protection from harsh rays is a must. If you’re going to be out in the sun all day, you need to apply (and reapply!) SPF. Australian Gold is a lightweight, fast absorbing formula that also has bronzers, which makes everyone look better! AUSTRALIAN GOLD SPF WITH INSTANT BRONZER, TARGET, $8.99
HAT
Keeping a hat in your bag is an essential for hitting the beach. It can protect your scalp and cut down on the rays that are hitting your face and neck. A floppy hat is a cute way to avoid ending up with a bright red nose. Toss it on while you’re wading in the waves, or catching up on the latest beach read. FLOPPY STRAW SUN HAT, OLD NAVY, $16
TOTE BAG
Every beach trip needs a generously sized tote, which is why finding an extra cute one is essential. This super cute beach bag is lightweight and a fun summer pineapple print making it the perfect beach companion, oh and it's only $10!! PINEAPPLE KAI TOTE, PAYLESS, $10
Jessica was born and raised in Lufkin. She is in love with fashion, shopping & beauty products. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin with a Fashion Merchandising degree. She now lives in Cypress (a suburb of Houston) with her loving husband, their son, Landry and two fur babies. Jessica has worked for many retailers in the past but is now a full time mom to Landry and owns an online boutique, Jess Lea Boutique. www.JessLeaBoutique.com | photo by The Silhouette Studio
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written by Melissa Radke
LIFE : Stretch
Marks
My bathing suit called and said, “Go to the gym,” but then my sweat pants called and said, “Nah, girl. You’re good.”
O
h summer. You snarky little season.
You know what you are? You’re the long-blond-haired-AliciaSilverstone-in-Clueless with your cutesy matching clothes yelling, “AS IF” to me when you see me in shorts. You and I have never really gotten along, have we? I like it cold. You prefer it 108 degrees. I like the air condition, but you constantly beckon my kids outdoors with your f luffy blue clouds and sunset firef lies, you hag.
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
I like to jump into cool creek waters that chill my bones. You prefer to entice people into beautiful blue swimming pools that feel like no one let the drain out of last night’s bath. Brian Wilson of Beach Boys fame once said about this time of year, “Summer means happy times and good sunshine. It means going to the beach, going to Disneyland and having fun.” (Didn’t he take a lot of drugs?) I would now like to entertain you with a TRUE story that I shared on Facebook a few weeks back (#lookmeup #friendrequest #holla) of the trip we recently took to a Six Flags water park......uugghhhh! I assure you, Brian Wilson did NOT have the landscape of that joint in mind when he penned those words.
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.
A few weeks ago I ordered a swimsuit because the lady on QVC look so cute. Granted, she was Asian and they tend to be a tiny people, but I digress. My swimsuit came in and on Saturday night when I was packing for our vacation Rocco pulled it out of the suitcase and asked the question, “Momma, why are you taking this blanket?”
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I tell you this because I want you to have a little background into who I am. Look, I love women. Power to the moms! Love your curves. If you can’t tone it – tan it. And all that. But even I know what you should consider wearing or more importantly, reconsider wearing - to a water park. Maybe you do not want to cover up as much as me, (clearly I looked like I’d just f lown in from Maine in the winter) but at least find another woman that you know and trust and ask her, “If someone were to take a picture of me in this bathing suit would I pray to God they covered up my face with one of those black bars?” If she hesitates for one minute, NAY, FOR ONE SECOND, that’s her way of breaking it to you gently. Put it back on the hanger and walk away. I don’t suggest everyone buy your suit from QVC because, clearly, their suits are not enVogue and I know this. But ladies, listen to me....we have come so far. We sewed together a f lag! We hold the torch of Liberty on Ellis island! We might one day be President! Or a Kardashian! Can’t we do better than this? Can’t we pick a swimsuit that both makes us feel comfortable AND won’t cause our children to need shock treatments when they’re older? Yes! Yes we can! Let’s do it for ourselves. Let’s do it for Brian Wilson. And let’s do it for that family of Eskimos who walked past me at Hurricane Harbor and said, “Hey, we have that same winter coat!” AS IF!
LIFE : Travel
8 Outdoor Texas Hot-Spots
1 2
Krause Springs
Located in Spicewood, Texas, Krause Springs is a beautiful place to camp and swim this summer. Whether you just want to visit for a day or camp there for week, the Springs have a lot to offer. Krause Springs was founded in 1955 and is privately owned, ensuring a high quality and relaxed visit. Visitors can swim in the cool, fresh springs, enjoy a stroll through the Butterf ly Garden, and even camp with the convenience of water and electricity access! For more information on planning your stay, visit http://krausesprings.net/.
3
Enchanted Rock
4
Wimberley Zipline Adventures
Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool Preserve is a beautiful, natural pool located in Dripping Springs, Texas. There are hiking trails surrounding the pool and a river leading up to the natural chasm surrounding the pool. Families can enjoy a swim in the cool waters and encounter all the beautiful wildlife and foliage in the Nature Preserve. Just be sure to check the water levels before you visit! To learn more and for daily updates on the Preserve’s status, call (512) 264-2740 or visit https://parks. traviscountytx.gov/find-a-park/hamiltonpool.
Enchanted Rock is a large pink granite formation inside of a state park located in Fredericksburg, Texas. The Rock has several trails for experienced and less experienced climbers and hikers. Visitors can explore for a day or stay for a while and camp by the Rock. Plus, the park is only a short drive away from historic downtown Fredericksburg where you can taste authentic German food, go to museums, or shop in some adorable boutiques! Learn more by visiting the Texas Parks and Wildlife website, http://tpwd. texas.gov/.
See the Wimberley Valley from a whole new perspective by visiting Zipline Adventures! Located slightly south of Wimberley, TX on Four Winns’ Ranch, Wimberley Zipline Adventures has ten zip line crossing and trained guides to make this getaway safe and fun for all. Tours last 1 ½ to 2 hours, so you have plenty of time to get your fill of zip line fun! To make reservations or learn more, visit http://wimberleyzipline.com/index.html or call, 512-847-9990.
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(L to R) Krause Springs / Hamilton Pool Reserve / Wimberley Zipline Adventures
5
Tonkawa Springs
6
South Toledo Bend State Park
Tonkawa Springs is located in Garrison, Texas, surrounded by the beautiful East Texas Pineywoods. The Spring is host to many RV and tent campers every year, and day-visitors are also sure to have a great time. Take a swim in the cool, spring-fed pond or just lay in the shade of the beautiful pine trees – either way, you’re sure to have a relaxing and enjoyable time. Visit their website http://www.camptonkawa.com/ to learn more, or call (936) 564-8888 to plan your stay!
Though we know Texas holds your heart, just a short drive over to Anacoco, Louisiana is the beautiful South Toledo State Park. The State Park offers beautiful cabins with full amenities, as well and traditional camp sites. Hiking and nature trails wind throughout the park, and visitors can linger at the park’s Visitor Center, learning about the local plant and animal life. Located right on the Toledo Bend Reservoir, guests will be sure to have a gorgeous view of the water while enjoying their time in nature. It’s definitely worth the short trip outside of our beloved Texas (but remember to come back!) You can learn more by visiting their blog, https://southtoledobendsp.wordpress.com/about/.
7
Lake Corpus Christi State Park
8
BSR Cable Park
For those who like to spend their summers closer to the shoreline, Lake Corpus Christi may be a great State Park option. Visitors can camp or bring their boats for a day on the water. There is a beautiful beach for swimming and places to hike and bird watch. This park is also a great place to fish, or if you’re more adventurous, water-ski! You can make reservations by phone (512) 389-8900 or check them out at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Website, http://tpwd.texas.gov/.
Located in Waco, TX, BSR Cable Park is a fun water adventure spot for the whole family. Boasting the World’s Longest Lazy River, along with three intense water slides called The Royal Flush, BSR Cable Park is sure to please thrill-seekers and relaxation-seekers alike. The Park also offers wakeboarding lessons and summer camps for the kids. You can visit for the day or stay awhile in their on-site cabins. Learn more at http://www. bsrcablepark.com/.
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in East Texas 40 SUPER KID | 42 LOOK AT ME | 44 PRETTY BABIES
GROWING UP
Charlie Deaton, Cooper Knight, Chase Kovar & Kolby Kovar holding the flag for the National Anthem during the Javorski Lane Football Camp.
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GROWING UP : Super
Kid
GARNER RODRIGUEZ
A
s any true Texan knows, summer is the best time to enjoy fresh, farmgrown fruits and veggies. Instead of heading over to the grocery store or Farmers’ Market this season, head out to downtown Nacogdoches to visit Garner Rodriguez’s fresh produce stand!
“I’m wheelin’ & dealin’ on the brick streets of Nacogdoches!” -Garner Rodriguez, age 7 Garner is seven years old and is going into the second grade. His older brother Grayson worked the produce stand when he was little, but then Garner took over the stand. During the summer, Garner and his family travel to watch big brother Grayson in baseball tournaments. Garner took over the produce stand as a way to earn some extra spending money for these fun trips.
For three years now, Garner has set up his stand in Greer’s, his family’s business in downtown Nacogdoches. He sells a wide variety of fresh produce including peaches, jalapeños, onions, tomatoes, squash, and much more! All of the produce is from Garner and his family’s own garden behind their house. Garner’s mom, Temple, really enjoys seeing Garner work hard and develop good habits through the stand. “He’s learning that hard work pays off ! He works in the evenings picking and washing all the fruits and vegetables himself. In the stand, he learns customer service, and even has gained some repeat customers that visit his stand every summer.” Garner is also learning to be generous with the money he makes at the stand. While Garner was attending Vacation Bible School this summer, Garner gave some of his earnings as a donation to Samaritan’s Purse.
If you would like to buy from Garner’s produce stand, he is usually at his family’s store from 10 am to 2 pm. There is always a sign outside of Greer’s, telling what produce is available throughout the day. You can also call the store and see if Garner will be there or what produce he has that day. So go try Garner’s fresh produce!
85
years in business
A Lifetime of Experiences
And we’re just getting started. Lufkin - Downtown 415 S. 1st Street 936-639-2141 Lufkin - West 805 S. John Redditt Dr. 936-632-6621
CNBTexas.com
Member
FDIC
brought to you by Smoothie King of Lufkin
GROWING UP : Look
at Me
Huntington 12U All Star State Champions. (Front) Lane Kessinger, Abram Boles, Chase Calhoun, Austin Harris, Kaden Reep & David Boles. (Back) Coach Jason Harris, Gray Graham, Dylan Murphy, Cody Cox, Andrew Faulk, Nick Paxon, Carson Hooks, Coach Chris Hooks & Coach Michael Reep.
Brenom Brown of Lufkin, Texas is a vital member of Diamond Sports Hot Shots from Woodlands, Texas. They have 2 of the top 4 10 & under pitchers in the nation. They recently won the Triple Crown World Series in Park City, Utah.
East Texas Rampage. USFA World Series in Panama City, Florida. (Back) Madeline Glover, Kinley Evans, Ryleigh Mills, Madison Ulrich & Alyssa Mireles. (Front) Maryssa Zenzen, Madelyn Carrillo, Peyton Cloyd, Payton Evans & Kenzie Warner.
Nacogdoches 11U Mustangs Baseball. USSSA World Series in Gulf Shores, Alabama. (L to R): Cole Brady, Braeden Wade (Henderson), Jase Bird (Center), Gentry Thornton, Jaxson Perry, Call Murdock, Braden Ballenger, Reid Bowyer, Britt King, Blake Goerner & Jaden Hall. Coaches: Scott Bowyer, Ricky Ballenger & Rick Thornton. Finished 3rd out of 30 teams.
The Texas Dream Team along with 103 teams from the US and Canada competed in Cooperstown, NY the week of July 4, 2015. The Texas Dream team won the championship game against the Motor City Hitdogs 13-1. (Back) Coach Jason Kram, Coach Colby, Coach Russ Mahan, Coach Clint Warren & Coach Joey Jara. (Middle) Hank Warren, Roque Salinas, Will Pendergrass, Trent Cook, Jamie Hitt & Sammy Williamson. (Front) Matthew Perez, Zach Almendarez, Greg Campos, Kaden Kram, Steve Villarreal & Kyler Kerlin.
Hudson TX 11U Dixie Baseball Allstar State Champions. (Front) Braden Rowell & Kanaan Holder. (Middle) Juan Ramos, Mason Smith, Heath McAdams, Taber Childs, Trenton Wells, Carson Courtney, Garrett Hogg & Collin Pitts. (Back) Coaches: Tony Holder, John Courtney & Jimmy Day.
Smoothie King • 4505 S Medford Dr. • (936) 632-5464 • Like us on
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OUTSTANDING ACADEMICS • PCA is a comprehensive free public charter school serving students in grades PreK-12th grade. • PARAMUS Early College High School students grades 9-12 take Dual Credit courses at Angelina College and can earn up to 60 college hours or an Associate’s Degree. • PARAMUS is the only ECHS designated by the Texas Education Agency in the greater Angelina County area.
PINEYWOODS COMMUNITY ACADEMY
College Preparatory Charter School Accredited Through Texas Education Agency
OUTSTANDING ACTIVITIES • UIL District 23 1A sports at the Junior High, Junior Varsity and Varsity levels including boys and girls basketball, track, cross country, golf, and tennis. • UIL Academics, Destination Imagination, and Robotics activities elementary through high school. • Award winning choral music and theater program.
OUTSTANDING ADVANTAGES • Class sizes of 20 students or less provide individualized instruction and a student-centered approach. • Students can arrive as early as 6:30 a.m. and stay as late as 6:00 p.m. to accommodate working parents.
602 S. Raguet • Lufkin • 936-634-5515 • www.pineywoodsacademy.org
GROWING UP : Pretty
Babies
1
2
1. Sadie Jade Carnley. 1/13/15. Proud Parents: Justin & Kacie Carnley. Proud Grandparents: Mike & Tricia Fullen / Bennis & Carol Carnley. 2. Tatum Fitzgerald. 7/16/14. Proud Parents: Wade & Morgan Fitzgerald. 3. Rivers Grace Hamilton. 11/13/14. Proud Parents: Blake & Tasha Hamilton. 4. Silas Ryan Jackson. 5/1/15. Proud Parents: Cody & Jessica Jackson. Proud Grandparents: Howell & Marcelle Jackson / Mike & Tana Hudson. 5. Kate McCarty. 1/7/15. Proud Parents: Anne & Tyler McCarty. Proud Grandparents: Julie & Cooper Castleberry / Lynda & Kevin McCarty.
3
4
6. Preston Cooper Thomason. 1/25/15. Proud Parents: Michael & Melody Thomason (Lufkin, TX). Proud Grandparents: Keith & Dee Dee Thomason (Lufkin, TX) / Brent & Shirley Parker (Huntington, TX).
E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include name, date of birth, parents & grandparents.
5
6
Joy.
Submissions are free of charge.
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.
in East Texas 46 IN THE KNOW | 48 LEADERSHIP | 50 CHAMBER NEWS
BUSINESS
Texas State Representative Travis Clardy has a meeting with members of the Nacogdoches Republican Party to discuss the 84th Legislative session. The members had great questions and feedback.
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BUSINESS : In
the Know
LOCAL NEWS & LEGISLATIVE UPDATES focus on two in particular, both of which were good pieces of legislation that would have considerably tightened our ethics laws. House Bill 408, which I was proud to co-author, passed and effectively eliminates the practice of “double dipping” by state elected officials. Double dipping is the practice of a state official receiving a salary in their off icial capacity while at the same time collecting his or her retirement benefits. Closing this loophole was long overdue, and I am proud to have been an advocate for this bill. Senate Bill 19, on the other hand, was one of my biggest disappointments of this past Legislative Session. SB 19 was a comprehensive bill which would have provided for sweeping ethics reforms. Among other things, it would have TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE great ly increased government transWe are beginning to experience the parency and accounttrue heat of a Texas summer, but ability, as well as placed a spotlight things have cooled off at your State on some of the darkest places in Capitol since the Legislative Session campaign politics. Unfortunately, concluded last month. I hope everyone the House and the Senate had different has had the chance to enjoy some views on some of the details contained time off and find ways to stay cool. in the bill, and the two chambers were ultimately unable to reconcile the differences before the clock ran out A TALE OF TWO BILLS: on the session. My belief is government ETHICS REFORM Ethics was at the front and center of should be as open and transparent attention during this past Legislative as possible, and we have much more Session, partly because it was high- work to do in this area. I look forward lighted by Governor Abbott as one to working with my colleagues during of his five emergency items during the remainder of the interim to find his State of the State Address. There common ground on this issue so were many well-meaning bills filed improvements can be made in future on this topic, and I would like to Legislative Sessions.
TRENT ASHBY
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PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS Even with the massive amounts of rain we’ve received across Texas over the past few months, water is and most likely will continue to be one of the most pressing and contentious issues in the Legislature. As ViceChairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources, I am honored to have a seat at the table and to serve as a critical voice for East Texas and rural areas of the state in the area of water. This past session, HB 4112, authored by one of my fellow rural colleagues in the House, clarif ied some important areas of the rights of individual property owners. This bill protects a landowner’s groundwater rights under common law, and explicitly guarantees the right to produce or save a fair share of the groundwater below the surface of the landowner’s land. This was a major victory for private property rights, and I was proud to support this legislation as it moved through the legislative process. REMINDERS For the convenience of constituents not wanting to travel far from home, the mobile off ice will continue its regular Wednesday travel schedule throughout the District even now that session has concluded. Please do not hesitate to contact us at (936) 634-2762 or (512) 463-0508 if we can ever be of assistance, and remember that our door is always open.
TRAVIS CLARDY TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE
W
ith the 84th Legislative session ending on June 1st, it is great to be home and back in the distr ict amongst family, friends and neighbors. As I have returned to the normal routine of family and community life, as well as my work as a practicing attorney, I enjoy the opportunities to visit with taxpayers, business owners, community leaders and constituents. It’s a pleasure to be able to report to constituents the conservative victories won this session in the Texas Legislature. We delivered on tax relief, protecting the border, the 2nd Amendment and many other key issues that constituents identified as important to them. Texas remains on strong fiscal ground with the Legislature’s passage of a state budget that keeps spending growth below
2 percent each year and at a level less than population and inf lation. We kept the budget well below the constitutional spending cap and left $11 billion in the state’s Rainy Day Fund while still providing additional funds for education, border security, transportation, and child protection. Tax relief totaling $4 billion dollars will be experienced by business owners in the form of a 25 percent reduction on the margins tax and homeowners who will see a $10,000 increase in their homestead exemption. Our roads and highway system will get much needed attention in the form of a steady revenue source to address mounting congestion and maintenance needs across the state. Pending voter approval in November, Senator Nichols’ plan which was passed by the Legislature will dedicate at least $2.5
billion of state sales tax revenue to transportation every two years without raising taxes, fees or tolls. I have summarized a few of the highlights of the 84th Texas Legislative Session here. In late August and early September, I will be hosting town hall meetings in each of the three counties of House District 11: Cherokee, Nacogdoches and Rusk. I hope to have the honor of meeting many of you to hear your thoughts and answer questions you might have about the recent work of the Texas Legislature. Feedback from constituents is vital as I serve and represent the people of East Texas. Please feel free to contact my District (936-560-3982) or Capitol (512-5603982) office any time that I or my staff can be of assistance.
What could be better than celebrating Independence Day with Boy Scouts from Troop 405 at the Rusk Rotary Parade on July 4th?
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BUSINESS : Leadership
K
KELLY NOE
elly Noe has been an A ssistant Professor at Stephen F. Austin State University in the Gerald W. Sch l ief School of Accountancy since 2005. She grew up in Luf kin, TX and graduated from Hudson High School. As a college student, she majored in business and accounting, receiving her Bachelors from the University of South Carolina, Aiken Campus, her MBA from Stephen F. Austin State University, and her PhD in Business from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Throughout her career, Noe has received various awards and accolades, including the Teaching Excellence Award in the College of Business at SFASU in 2015, the TSCPA Outstanding Educator Award in 2014, and Outstanding Service to Chapter recognition from the East Texas Chapter of Texas Society of CPAs. Recently, Noe was one of 18 CPA members to receive the 2015 TSCPA Rising Star Award. This award honors young CPA Members who are leaders in TSCPA and their communities and who demonstrate excellence in their professions. In addition to demonstrating excellence in so many areas of business and accounting, Kelly Noe also strives to teach her students to practice that same level of excellence in their own careers.
“I truly enjoy working with the students, watching them learn and become business leaders themselves and helping them find their place in the business world. The biggest challenge is meeting the student at his or her level and helping that student reach maximum potential.” One of the ways that Noe addresses this challenge is by exemplifying qualities of a business leader in her own life and career. According to Noe, business leaders are those who “treat people fairly and with respect” and who carry out business interactions with integrity. Along with maintaining her successful career, Kelly Noe enjoys spending time with her husband, Randy and their daughter, Alex. Her hobbies include watching Alex participate in competitive cheer and being outside in the Texas sunshine.
The Blue Hole, East Texas | Photo by Jennifer Lynn Photography
BUSINESS : Chamber
News
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Senior Care of Stallings Court Nursing & Rehabilitation, 4616 N.E. Stallings Dr., (936) 569-5600, www.seniorcarecentersltc.com. Administrator Garrel Faulkner and Director of Nursing Travis Nerren welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Johnson Furniture, 205 E Frank Ave., (936) 899-7060, www.shopjohnson.com.
Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Tsubaki Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi, 2301 South First St., (936) 639-8889.
Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Marco’s Pizza, 2950 S John Reddit Dr., (936) 634-1111, http://marcos.com/.
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Unity Staffing, LLC, 305 E. Main St., (936) 221-3092, www.unitystaffing.com. Branch Manager Tanya Windham welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for The Frozen Goat Yogurt Bar, 1220-A North St., (936) 2055940, www.thefrozengoat.com. Owners Kelley and Eric Faulk welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
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- AN EAST TEXAS TRADITION SINCE 1959 -
Now Serving Beer Rayʼs Drive-In Café • 634-3262 420 N. Timberland • Curb Service (Car Hops)
NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee
MAY Lose Value
in East Texas 56 ON THE GREENS | 58 ON THE FIELD | 60 NATURE'S EYE | 62 FITNESS | 63 TROPHY ROOM
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
First Bank & Trust East Texas Open | photography by Lisa Crow
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Bank & Trust East Texas Open
photography courtesy of Ben Burns
PLACES & FACES : First
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information courtesy of Ben Burns | photography by Lisa Crow
SPORTS & OUTDOORS : On
the Greens
First Bank & Trust East Texas Open
T
his July, the Crown Colony Country Club hosted the First Bank & Trust East Texas Open. The tournament was very well received by the community, and several people played a part in making the event a success. The goals of the FB&T East Texas Open were to bring economy and tourism to the Luf kin area, as well as raise money for the LISD Education Foundation. Thanks to several sponsors, including Title Sponsor, First Bank & Trust East Texas, as well as Chi St. Luke and Security Guaranty Abstract Co., all of these goals were achieved! In addition, several community volunteers, Crown Colony professionals, and local businesses contributed their services to help the tournament run smoothly. Many local citizens and Crown Colony members were in attendance at the tournament, either to watch the games or participate. The Pro Am had 100 players, 25 of which were pro and 75 were amateurs. In the tournament for
the professional players only, 85 professionals participated. In the end, Blake Trimble won the tournament and over $11,000. Ben Burns, Head Golf Pro at Crown Colony and an instrumental organizer for the FB&T East Texas Open, shared some of his favorite memories from the event: “One of my favorite things was the Sip and Chip on Friday Night. All of the pros that made the cut after 2 rounds hung out with members to show them tips on the short game. There was beer and wine served, and Titleist provided wedges for everyone to use. It was fun to watch the interaction between everyone in a social and relaxed atmosphere. I also enjoyed seeing Sam Fidone playing well. Sam’s family are members [at the Country Club]. To see people in this town come out to support him was awesome. Lastly, Rob Hudson, shooting a first round 80 and then 67, 67, 70 to f inish 3rd in the tournament was amazing. I am constantly trying to
teach in my lessons to my students to never give up. A round of golf is not just one shot. Golf is not a game of perfect.” After the success of this tournament, First Bank and Trust has already committed to holding The Open next year! Anyone who would like to be involved in next year’s event can contact Ben Burns at benburns@crown-colony.com or Len Lentz at llentz@crown-colony.com.
The Lufkin Convention and Visitors Bureau is proud to have been a sponsor of the FBT Adam’s Golf Pro Tour. Events like this tournament are a perfect example of the appropriate way to utilize Hotel Motel tax funds. This tournament helped bring in not only the players, but many of the golfers also had family members who lived in the Houston area come and stay and cheer them on. We tout ourselves on being an outdoor community and are proud to have Crown Colony County Club right here in our little piece of heaven in the Pineywoods. It is just one of the many reasons that people locally and those who visit learn to say, “You’ll love Lufkin!” We look forward to sponsoring this event annually.
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SPORTS & OUTDOORS : On
the Field
JAVORSKI LANE
CAMP
J
avorski Lane recently came home to do something he has wanted to do for quite some time. "I have been in Texas for the entire off season working out. I arrived in Luf kin yesterday."
He shares, "I have had this on my heart for years to do something for my community. I wanted to give back to the community that gave so much to me. I spoke to Mrs. Quick to get the ball rolling. Then Coach Quick was involved. It was on short notice, but this is amazing to see it all come together in three weeks." On Friday, July 24th, Lane held his first annual Javorski Lane Football Camp. The Lane of Hope Foundation wants to teach children basic fundamental skills along with the importance of reading, writing, speaking, listening, and life long learning. The camp was open to ages 6-18 year olds. Over 200 students arrived at camp ready to learn what Lane was ready to share. Lane said the most important thing he wants to teach the students about the game of football is that it's a team sport. You have to completely trust your team mates and the person next to you. Lane explains, "This is exciting for me to see this camp turn into a reality. I look forward to coming back next year!" Javorski Lane is a former Luf kin Panther. He played tailback and fullback for Texas A&M. Today, he plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL.
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FROM THE CAMPERS: What did you like most about camp? "I loved the part called the Oklahoma Drill. Javorski called it Blood Alley drill. It was an honor to meet Javorski." -Charlie Deaton "I liked playing football with all my friends. It was fun to be around all the players from the NFL." -Cooper Knight "My favorite part was when I got to meet Javorski Lane and take a picture with him." -Lane Lair
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Member SIPC
written by Emily Courtney
SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Nature's
Eye
DEFINING YOUR VISION
O
ne fall afternoon many years ago, my dad and I were walking to our stand for an afternoon hunt on my grandpa’s farm in south Mississippi. He stopped and pointed at a deer track on the ground, looked up and smiled, and said, “You know, I remember the very first time I saw one of these.” He launched into a story I had actually heard a time or two before, but I let him tell it anyway. When my grandpa bought the 140 acres in the early 60’s, there wasn’t a deer track to be found. The Mississippi deer population was in the process of recovering, and apparently none of the introduced whitetails had quite made it to that part of the state. The tract was mostly cattle pasture, interspersed with a few stands of hardwoods, a small pond, and a creek running along the north property line. My grandpa raised cattle on it, farmed it, and worked it in just about any other way he could to help provide for his family. As deer populations boomed throughout the state due to restocking efforts and hunting seasons were reinstated, he began to shift his focus from livestock and crops to wildlife. Then one afternoon as he was walking the creek bank, he spotted a track. He made a beeline for his truck and headed to the schoolhouse. He checked my dad and uncle out of class early and took them to the farm to show them the first deer sign they had ever seen. A few more years passed before the population reached a huntable level on the place, but as soon as it did, they took full advantage. Our family has spent countless hours hunting there and taken a quantity that my grandpa describes as “a pile” of deer and other game.
When my grandpa first told me that story, and then in subsequent telling by my dad, I was too young to fully understand what was so special about the event. In later years, as I grew older and wiser, I made an effort to really listen to those stories and ask everything I could about the old days. It was then that my grandpa told me that he always intended for the farm to be a wildlife haven. He bought it with the hope of providing a place for his children, and one day their children, to hunt. At that time, hunting was a way of providing. However, he didn’t want it to just be a place that would supply an extra source of income or food for the table. He wanted a place where he could create memories for his kids, pass down a legacy, and share all of the other intangibles that make up a meaningful life. Like my grandpa, most new landowners have a vision for what they want their property to be. Turning that vision into reality, however, can be a bit overwhelming. Nature’s Eye can guide you through the process. Naturally, the first step is deciding what you want. Consider why you purchased the land in the first place and how you picture you and your family using it into the future. Did you buy the property to produce income by farming, ranching, or growing timber? Do you want to
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grow trophy whitetails or draw in mallards or do you simply want a peaceful weekend getaway for your family? You may have a singular vision in line with one of these; you may want a combination of the above, or something else altogether. Many landowners have ideas about what kind of property they want, but are unsure about what that will actually look like or how to make it happen. Nature’s Eye can help translate the vision in your mind to results on the ground. When defining your vision, you should be as specific as possible. It is important to define specific goals and objectives to ensure that your management activities remain in line with the overall concept you want to achieve. Once you have a clearly defined vision, the next step is constructing a detailed plan to achieve it. Your vision, coupled with our knowledge, expertise, and resources, will unlock your property’s full potential. My grandpa had a vision for making his farm a special place for his family to enjoy and carry on the hunting tradition that he so valued. He made that a reality for me and his other eleven grandchildren, and created a legacy we will pass on to ours. With a little planning and effort, you can do the same for your family.
brought to you by HAAS Athletics
SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Fitness
Kardio Kickboxing
K HAAS ATHLETICS
2109 W Frank Ave, Lufkin (936) 238-4023
ardio Kickboxing at HAAS Athletics is gaining attention and for good reason! This class not only gives you a great cardio workout, but it is also a lot of FUN! Kardio Kickboxing combines a cardio based class with kickboxing and self-defense techniques to create a fun class that gets results.
Listen to what our clients have to say about cardio kickboxing... • “Just want to take a second to so thank you for helping me loose 20lbs thanks to the kickboxing class on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:15-6:45. If you haven’t been you are missing out!” • “Just wanted to say tonight’s kick boxing class was amazing. I love that it’s challenging and fun all in one.” • “I absolutely love this class. I have lost 10lbs since joining and have so much more muscle definition. I sure will not be ashamed of wearing my bikini this summer!!!”
When asked what they like most about Kardio Kickboxing at HAAS Athletics, our amazing clients said... • “It’s a high intensity, full body workout and great cardio!” • “Kardio Kickboxing tones your muscles like no other class!” • “It’s always a positive and motivating environment! We love that we get a great workout and also learn some self-defense techniques that make us feel safer.” • “The class is always changing and adding new techniques to keep us interested and excited.” • “Kardio Kickboxing is an excellent stress reliever!!” • “Kardio Kickboxing at HAAS shreds pounds!” • “At HAAS Athletics they motivate you to push through exhaustion and encourage you to hang in there when you think you can’t do anymore!” The most common thing people had to say about Kardio Kickboxing is that it is FUN!! If you are looking for a fun, intense and quick class, Kardio Kickboxing is for you! The class is only 30 minutes and is getting amazing results already! Do you want to add your success story to the list? Come in and try out your first class for FREE. Find out what all the talk is about! Kardio Kickboxing is on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:15pm - 6:45pm at HAAS Athletics, which is located off Luf kin Loop 287 on Hwy 94. Childcare is available! For more information or directions, call us at 936.238.4023 or you can check out our facebook page for more classes, dates, times and video clips from our Kardio Kickboxing class.
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SPORTS & OUTDOORS : Trophy
Room
Lufkin 12 Yr Old Little League All Stars. (Back) Coaches: Marty Hensley, Eli Luna, Joel Scott. (Middle) Cameron Hubbard, Hunter Jones, Mathew Moody & Julio Flores. (Front) Spencer Alexander, Alex Luna, Cameron Scott, Kail Wagoner, Dominic Morales, Reid Hensley & Colby Dejesus.
Hudson 9U All Stars. Martin (Chico) Montalvo, Nolan Larsen, Easton Smith, Joshua Myles, Kaden Hernandez, Brayden Abele, Nicholas Gardner, Jake Davis, James Mitchell, Bryson Whitehead, Kolt Larsen & Zach Rowell. Coaches: Aaron Davis, Brady Smith & Greg Rowell.
9-10 Yr Old Lufkin All Stars- Little League Baseball Texas East District 10 Champions. (Front) Cooper Knight, Charlie Deaton, Jadon Grigson & Zach Phipps. (Middle) Blake Buchanan, Jacob Weibe, Wil Stafford, Lance Modisette, Mark Requena, Chip Buchanan & Kolby Adams. (Back) Coaches: Jeff Buchanan, Head Coach Ryan Deaton & Jason Adams. Not pictured: Kolby Kovar.
Wild Wings 8U USSSA World Series Runner Up. (Front) Dylan Parker, Carson Bush, Kolt Larsen, Tanor Doggett & Dylan Crawford. (Middle) Connor Hogan, Logan Horton, Jackson Campbell, Tate Bass, Tanner Brooks & TJ Belin. (Back) Coaches: Travis Belin, Isaac Anderson, Josh Horton & Mick Doggett.
Hudson 10U South Regional Champions. (Back) Coaches: Jeff Slaga, Mark Dickerson & Danny Wigley. (Middle) Bosten Oliver, Tyler Dickerson, Cade Clifton, Collin Ross, Griffin Salas, Blake Slaga & KJ Cross. (front) Clayton Wigley, Trennon Beardan, Matthew Gardner, Jacob Lawrence & Brecken Smith.
8U Hudson All Stars. (Back) Coaches: Clay Oliver, Eric Warren, Robert Ramsey & Shane Howatt. (Middle) Roland Ramirez, Jake Slaten, Landon Greer, Brody Fisher, David Enfinger & Carter Warren. (Front) Cash Ramsey, Channing Howatt, Zeth Dugatt, Brodie Oliver, Kason Kieser & Brycen Skinner.
Send a photo of your trophy hunt & information to photos@tjmag.com. Submissions are free of charge.
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