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CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Lufkin Earns Prestigious Stroke Award
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ocated deep in the heart of the Stroke Belt, CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Lufkin recognizes the desperate need for quality stroke care and improving the lives of our community. For the fourth year in a row, the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association awarded CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Lufkin with the Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke GOLD PLUS Quality Achievement Award for outstanding stroke care. CHI St. Luke’s Health is one of an elite number of hospitals to achieve 85 percent or higher compliance with all Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Achievement Measures and 75 percent or higher compliance with five or more Get With The Guidelines®Stroke Quality Measures for two or more consecutive years. Additionally, the hospital was recognized for achieving Time to Intravenous Thrombolytic Therapy in less than 60 minutes in more than 50 percent of applicable acute ischemic stroke patients. “Our greatest reward is serving our patients to achieve the best possible outcomes. That’s why we’re committed to turning treatment guidelines into lifelines,” said CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Luf kin President and System Chief Operating Officer Shawn Barnett. “Being honored for providing excellent patient care is the best recognition a hospital can receive.” Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke is an in-hospital program for improving stroke care by promoting consistent adherence to the latest scientific treatment guidelines. Angelina County is situated in a volatile area plagued with an overabundance of stroke incidents, called the Stroke Belt. High rates of uninsured and underserved populations coupled with significantly higher risk factors, such as obesity, diabetes, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and overall lack of wellbeing relates to more patients experiencing strokes each year in this area than in any other region of the country. Even though May is known nationally as Stroke Month, CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial places a high level of importance on the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, rehabilitation, and recovery
of stroke patients every day. With board certified neurologists and neurosurgeons on staff, CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial is the area’s first and only Joint Commission Certified Primary Care Stroke Center. During the month of May, the American Stroke Association strives to get the word out about the No. 5 deadliest disease in the United States. Every 40 seconds someone in the nation has a stroke, and it is the No. 1 leading cause of disability in the U.S. It’s essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke, by learning to act FAST. • Face Drooping • Arm Weakness • Speech Difficulty • Time to Call 9-1-1 Recognizing these symptoms and calling 9-1-1 could make the difference between life and death or between full recovery and permanent disability. When a stroke patient arrives at CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial, a dedicated stroke team meets him or her at the door to provide timely treatment. That’s why earning the Get With The Guidelines®Stroke GOLD PLUS Quality Achievement Award truly is truly a team effort. Physicians, nurses, the entire Emergency Department team and quality improvement professionals turn these guidelines into a daily practice to improve the lives of stroke patients. The Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke GOLD PLUS award is the highest recognition given by the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association.
About CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial: CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial paves the way for quality, innovative health care in East Texas and provides more than a quarter of a million patient services each year. CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial offers a wide array of services, including the area’s first dedicated heart and stroke care facility and radiation oncolog y at the Temple Cancer Center. It is also known for the area’s only comprehensive diabetes, heart and stroke education center. Other specialty areas include imaging, orthopedic care, women’s services, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, homecare, wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, kidney & diabetes treatment, sleep disorders treatment and express lab.
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Oceans (Where My Feet May Fail)
A president: Stephanie Oliver general manager: Kim Iribarren kim@tjmag.com managing editor: Beth Johnson editor@tjmag.com event photography: Lisa Crow layout and design: Macy Haffey ad design: Samantha Miller contributors: Melissa & Tiffani Jessica Tinsley Bridges Leah Dolan Dalton Goodier Phyllis Grandgeorge Adam Huggins Dr. Rima Kittley Majal Minguez Jay Mosco Angie Nichols Deana Olszewski Cary Sims Ginger Stephens
ll good things must come to an end. When I think of the month of May, I think of a marathon race, Ironman Competition, or Survival of the Fittest. It is cruel and unusual punishment, the schedule placed on mommas. I think everyone from church, school, sports, friends, and volunteer organizations all get together and say let’s see how many events we can cram in a momma's life!!! AHHHHHHH!!! Is it just me that feels that way? I know I put a lot of the punishment on myself by having four very active kids. I try to tell myself that one day it will all be gone, so keep your chin up and keep moving forward. It is all about making family memories, right??? There are so many fun times and belly laugh moments I would not trade for anything. Needless to say, not all days in the month of May are pretty. There are many days I fall down. I want to pull my hair out. I sit in the fetal position and cry. Those are the days where I have to go to my knees and pray. I also turn on a song that allows me to take a deep breath and remember where my soul finds rest. If you have ever been there, I encourage you to download the song and have it part of your playlist!
by Hillsong United
You call me out upon the waters The great unknown where feet may fail And there I find You in the mystery In oceans deep My faith will stand And I will call upon Your name And keep my eyes above the waves When oceans rise My soul will rest in Your embrace For I am Yours and You are mine Your grace abounds in deepest waters Your sovereign hand Will be my guide Where feet may fail and fear surrounds me You’ve never failed and You won’t start now So I will call upon Your name And keep my eyes above the waves When oceans rise My soul will rest in Your embrace For I am Yours and You are mine Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders Let me walk upon the waters Wherever You would call me Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander And my faith will be made stronger In the presence of my Savior Oh, Jesus, you’re my God!
STEPHANIE OLIVER
PRESIDENT
I will call upon Your name Keep my eyes above the waves My soul will rest in Your embrace I am Yours and You are mine
THE GR A DU A T IO N IS S U E ON THE COVER:
2015 5A State Soccer Champions // Lufkin High School photo taken by Sean Dupré
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HOME 16 Home Tour 18 Burlap & Besties 20 {DIY} Do-It-Yourself 22 Homegrown
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COMMUNITY 25 Events 28 In the News 30 Leadership 32 A Mother's Love 34 Giving Back
35 LIFE
36 Fashion 38 Something Abundant 40 Health 42 Life Lessons 45 Organic
47 CHILD
48 Super Kid 50 Pretty Babies 52 Look at Me
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BUSINESS 56 In the Know 60 Community Impact 62 Chamber News
photo taken by Lisa Crow Photography
CONTACT US: Mailing:
PO Box 150537 | Lufkin, Texas 75915 Physical:
115 E. Shepherd | Lufkin, Texas 75901
65 EAST
66 A Cowboy Tribute 70 Wild Turkey 74 The Heart of Champions 76 Recognition 78 Fitness 79 Trophy Room
936-634-7188 | advertise@tjmag.com facebook.com/tjmag twitter.com/tjmeast tjmag.com • 13
f R ! s n o ss o i t a a l l u C t 5 Congra A 201 We are so very proud of you. You N have accomplished so much. Keep moving “FORWARD,” you can get C anywhere from here. E T Congratulations on a job well done. We are R enormously May God continue to proud of all bless you and direct your path. You are truly an amazing you have achieved. U thatFollow young man. your dreams toward accomplishing S the Love always, goals that you have Dad, Mom, Ca Carrington, Taylor, S set for your future. Mimmie, Poppa, and Family. 14 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
HOME 16 HOME TOUR | 18 BURLAP & BESTIES | 20 {DIY} | 22 HOMEGROWN
THE HOME OF
Rosslyn Harris
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HOME TOUR
Protect Your Greatest Investment
BURLAP & BESTIES
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, "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.
by Melissa & Tiffani
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e dearly love our Pastor, John Greene, so when we were asked to help decorate for his 65th birthday celebration we didn’t hesitate to say yes! Pastor John’s sweet wife, Kathryn, wanted it to be a ‘Lord of The Rings’ party. As fellow fans of these epic movies, we knew that this party had to be the party to rule them all! (See what we did there!) As we began our planning, we quickly realized that we could not simply do a LOTR themed party; we needed to throw a party that made the guests feel like they walked through a hobbit door and straight into Middle Earth! There were a lot of people that made this party what it was, and we want to give a big shout out to the talented Wes Miller for really taking this party to the next level with all his staging and media skills!! Thanks also to Chrissy Smith for capturing most of these pictures for us!
{DIY} DO-IT-YOURSELF
shampoo D
o you know there are so many ways you can poison yourself before breakfast? Sleeping between sheets washed in toxic laundry detergent, breathing in air freshener with synthetic fragrance, taking a bath with soap, shampoo and conditioner laden with alcohols, alkali, synthetic dyes and synthetic preservatives, applying lotion and moisturizers with heavy metals and petrochemicals, using deodorant laden with pesticides and fungicides, grooming with toxic hairspray, and applying cosmetics (for the ladies) filled with heavy metals, icky emulsifiers, alcohols, bad preservatives and questionable ingredients like horse urine… yuck! Day after day and week after week people are unaware that they expose themselves to a lot of toxic chemicals that are found in household and personal care products. For this month, I would like to bring your attention to SHAMPOO. What are the top 5 toxic ingredients in your shampoo? Here’s what Dr. Mercola has to say in an article “Do you know what’s in your shampoo?” Sodium Laurel Sulfate – research on SLS has shown links to irritation of skin and eyes, organ toxicity, reproductive toxicity, neurotoxicity, cancer and possible mutations Dioxane – described on the CDC website as “probably carcinogenic to humans”, toxic to the brain, kidneys and liver
Majal Minguez and her family live in Luf kin. Her youngest son, Axel, is in 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 Recovery. You can reach Majal Minguez at whollymerry@yahoo.com.
Diethanolamine or DEA – reacts with nitrite preservatives and contaminants to create NDEA a known and potential carcinogen Propylene Glycol – MSDS or Material Safety Data Sheet warns users to avoid skin contact of this chemical as it is a strong skin irritant; can also cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage Parabens – Studies have shown troubling links to cancer and has estrogen-like properties which can lead to decreased muscle mass, extra fat storage and male gynecomastia (breast growth); researchers found traces or parabens in EVERY sample taken from 20 different breast tumors Make a decision today to switch to a safer, non-toxic shampoo. It takes less than 5 minutes to make your DIY shampoo, and I know your body will thank you for it!!!
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by Majal Minguez
DIY SHAMPOO ½ cup Premium Coconut Milk ½ cup Dr. Bronner liquid castile soap 2 tbsp Avocado oil 10 drops Young Living’s Rosemary essential oil 5 drops Young Living’s Cedarwood essential oil 3 drops Young Living’s Peppermint essential oil Mix all ingredients well and pour in an 8oz shampoo container. Shake well before each use.
TIPS
ESSENTIAL OIL WORKSHOPS
• Use Premium coconut milk. I know the lite or light coconut milk is cheaper, but that’s just diluted coconut milk. You need the pure coconut milk to nourish your hair.
MAKE, TAKE AND LEARN June 2, June 16, & June 30, 2015 @ 5:30 pm (Tuesday)
• Almond, Jojoba or olive oil can be substituted for the avocado oil. • The above recipe will last a month. I usually double or triple the recipe and keep in the refrigerator so it will be good for a while. Just make sure you label it so your child won’t mistake it for a drink! • For color treated hair, use this hair rinse recipe to maintain your hair’s proper ph and to promote shiny hair: ¼ cup Apple Cider Vinegar to 2 cups of distilled water. • For our family, we really don’t feel the need to use a conditioner with this shampoo recipe. If you have to condition, you can use a few drops of avocado or coconut oil after rinsing your hair. • Use Dr. Bronner brand for the castile soap. I tried cheaper brands, but it didn’t work out as well. • This shampoo is very nourishing and bubbles a lot! It will also work very well as a body wash!
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.
HOST A WORKSHOP FOR YOUR GROUP Choose from these fun workshops: Make, Take and Roll – make six 10ml roll on bottles of first aid essentials Make, Pamper, Take – treat yourself to a fun DIY facial treatment and take home 3 DIY facial products. Detoxify your House – learn how to make laundry detergent, dishwasher detergent, shampoo and deodorant Call Majal at 936.634.4282 for more information. For a complete MAKE AND TAKE workshop schedule for the summer, follow Majal on FB at “WhollyMerry Majal Minguez”
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HOMEGROWN
by Cary Sims | Angelina County Extension Agent – Agriculture/Natural Resources
THE FARM POND
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t seems that every rural or “nearly-rural” landowner wants their own farm pond for the kids to f ish in, livestock to drink from, and its natural beauty. Ponds certainly add beauty, function, and value to one’s property.
as more sunlight reaches the bottom, encouraging the seeds aquatic vegetation to sprout. Weeds are not your enemy. Some aquatic vegetation is benef icial and enhances the pond’s ecosystem. Too much vegetation can be unsightly and cause stress on the fish population.
Keeping ponds healthy and useful is possible through following a good management program. Good management includes controlling weeds, harvesting f ish in appropriate numbers and sizes, and keeping ponds stocked at recommended rates.
Lastly, test your pH every few years. East Texas farm ponds can develop acidic water. The minimum pH for maximum fish production should be around 6.5. While correctable with the addition of ag lime, it is imperative that only ag lime be added so that the water can change slowly over time.
If f ishing is your main concern, stock only with f ish from reliable f ish hatcheries. This can greatly reduce some of the common problems that can occur naturally. Contact your favorite, local feed store and ask about the schedule and pricing for the f ish hatchery that delivers at their store. Fishing experiences can be enhanced by creating fish attractors, such as shelter, in strategic locations in ponds. The easiest option is to sink a fallen tree. Shelters provide spawning areas and harbor invertebrates and insects that small fish feed on. They also serve as areas where prey fish can hide from predators. Estimating the number of fish in your pond is a difficult proposition. Unlike counting livestock in the pasture, you can’t see the f ish. But a great way to estimate population density is to study the condition of fish caught. Thin, diseased fish or lots of small fish that never reach a desired size are good indicators of overpopulation.
Never use pickling lime, pelletized lime or other quick liming agents. This will kill f ish as they rapidly change water conditions. One way to make sure is to buy it in bulk and stay away from the bagged lime for use in your pond.
Check our website, http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/, often for more information on Homegrown to Homemade seminars.
What you can do to remedy an overpopulated pond is simply to go fishing more and once caught, don’t throw them all back! If you have a seriously over populated pond, your best option may be to harvest so many fish that a fish-fry for your family and neighbors is possible. Water clarity is very important with many pond owners- more so to landowners than the f ish are concerned. Having a clear pond may be more visually appearing to the landowner, but fish, especially catfish, can get around just fine in muddy conditions. To clear up muddy pond water, the simple solution is to add gypsum. The easiest was to do this is to buy 100 to 200 pounds at a time and add to the pond every week. Continue to do so until the water reaches a clear state. Keep in mind that when you increase water clarity in your pond, you will have more vegetation in the pond 22 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
Cary Sims is the County Extension Agent for agriculture and natural resources for Angelina County. His email address is cw-sims@tamu.edu. Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, or national origin.
COMMUNITY 25 EVENTS | 28 IN THE NEWS | 30 LEADERSHIP | 32 A MOTHER'S LOVE | 34 GIVING BACK
The 26th Annual Texas Blueberry Festival is coming up! Saturday, June 13 | 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. sponsored by photo from the 25th Annual Texas Blueberry Festival
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Pick some goodness at
Berry Patch the
Located in our Produce Department
Strawberries • Blueberries Raspberries • Blackberries
Take Your Pick!
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by Jay Mosco | Chamber Intern, Spring 2015
Getting to Know the
E
EVENTS
Texas Blueberry Festival xcitement builds as businesses continue to announce their blueberry themes, sales and treats in anticipation of the 26th Annual Texas Blueberry Festival presented by Brookshire Brothers. The festival is set for Saturday, June 13 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Nacogdoches.
5K and The Blueberry Cupcake Battle,” said Grace Handler, festival chair and Handler Insurance owner.
The event is the only state-sanctioned blueberry festival in Texas and attracts more than 19,000 people.
“Presenting your best cupcakes at the cupcake battle and costuming for the pet parade could make a difference,” Handler said. “You have a better chance to win some fun prizes.”
The festival’s presenting sponsor, Brookshire Brothers, has partnered with the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce for years to ensure a successful event. “Brookshire Brothers and blueberries - they go hand in hand,” said Sally Alvis, director of Public Relations and Business Development at Brookshire Brothers. “Supporting this ‘home grown’ festival aligns with our core value of celebrating family and community.” According to Alvis, attendees will find that the Brookshire Brothers spots at the festival are great places to taste some berries from Texas. “From hosting the Blueberry Pie Baking Contest at 200 East Main St. to selling fresh picked berries on the corner of Main and Mound, we love this festival,” Alvis said. “It’s a great way for our Brookshire Brothers family to get to know locals and visitors alike.”
Handler encourages all contest entrants, “Practice, practice, practice because perfection can pay off for some events.”
The website, www.TexasBlueberryFestival.com, has contest registration information as well as times and locations for all events. According to Handler, taking time to explore every website page will pay off, because the Texas Blueberry Festival has something for everyone. “You should see everything that your eyes can see, smell all your nose can smell, and enjoy all your mouth can taste, your fingers can touch and your ears can hear,” she said. “Just let your body absorb it all!” Handler also advises festival guests to consider taking advantage of the rest spots that are dotted throughout the brick streets and Festival Park.
Many of the festival’s activities are free, as well as admission and parking. Some events have a nominal charge and tons of vendors will line the streets and Festival Park for gift shopping opportunities and yummy festival food choices. People can pre-register for some of the events at the Blueberry Festival. “Pre-registration is required for the Blue Washer Board Tournament and the Paul Kendrick Memorial 42 Tournament and suggested for the Running of the Blueberries
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Getting to Know the Texas Blueberry Festival /// Continued “Commercial Bank of Texas and Regions Bank both have events in their air-conditioned lobbies and community rooms,” Handler said. “A Cool Zone with water and fans is set up all day in the park.” She recommends shopping in the downtown merchants’ stores for a cool break and says, “Most all will offer some blueberry-sweet deals, too.” Megan Kubecka, East Texas Regional Outreach Coordinator, Alzheimer’s Association, coordinates the festival’s couple of hundred volunteers. “If you want to get a more personal, hands-on experience, you can get in on the ‘behind the scenes action’ and volunteer at one of the events,” Kubecka said. “One of the most rewarding experiences is helping put the Texas Blueberry Festival together,” she said. “Lots of people will come out and volunteer for two hours or more and then spend the rest of the day taking in the sights with their family. The great thing is, there is still plenty of opportunity for you to volunteer. Why not bring the whole family for a rewarding and memorable volunteer experience!” Kicking off the blueberry weekend is a Friday night Blueberry Bluegrass Concert in the Park. “The free admission concert is from 5 to 10 p.m., June 12 at Banita Creek Park near the Farmers Market, and Rex Perry Autoplex is sponsoring the family-friendly event,” Handler said. “Food concessions will be open, and we suggest bringing lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy the entertainment!” The Friday night concert will feature five musical acts: The Steve Hartz Family Band, The Coursey Family Band, The Blake Brothers Bluegrass Band, The Bottom Dollar String Band and Catahoula Drive. For more information about the Texas Blueberry Festival, contact the Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce at 936-560-5533 or the Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau at 1-888-OLDESTTOWN. For the complete schedule of events and activities for the Blueberry Festival, go to www.TexasBlueberryFestival.com. At the festival, find maps and event listings at the Nacogdoches County Chamber Information Booth at 200 E. Main St. in front of the Visitors Center.
proudly sponsored by
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IN THE NEWS
5 Year Service Award recipients include (Back, L-R) Brandon Oliver, Michael Dilorenzo, Jessica Duggan, Giby Hernandez, Ruf ino Infante, & Lesia Jones; presented by Shawn Barnett, CHI St. Luke’s Health Market President. (Front, L-R) Debby Davis, Becky Slemmons, Yanette Lopez, Sonya Marzette & Christine Teague. (Not pictured: Jenny Brandon, Stacey Burkes, Tammy Burnes, Amylee Casis, Terry Cutler, Sharonda Davis, Helen Dekerlegand, Janice Denby, Denise Dixon, Nancy Dubose, Heather Ferguson, Cytera Fritz, Talisha Goolsby, Pamela Graham, Cheryl Green, Charles Grumbles, Corey Haley, Barbara Hall, Linley Ham, Susie Healy, Carl Horne, Paula Hughes, Nathan Jackson, Patricia Johnston, Scharlon Lane, Samantha Lara, Sandy Lara, Connie Lee, Tiffany Lewis, Candice Matchett, Stephen McClendon, Jairo Monroy, Kristie Moody, Lea Morris, Roxanne Musick, Yanina Noland, Bhavna Patel, Monica Perez, Joseph Perez, Tammy Pinkney, David Reyna, Crystal Reynolds, Melinda Rivers, Natosha Sandul, Donna Swetnam, Sherry Thomas, Shannon Torres, Phuong Tran, Ana Trevathan, Angelica Valdes, Stephanie Valentine, Maria Vasquez, Charlotte Wammel, David Wilkerson, Heather Wilkerson, Matt Williams, Rhonda Winebrenner & Margaret Woods).
Presenting the 10 year employee service awards are Don Morris, Vice President of Human Resources (back, far left) and Shawn Barnett, Market President (back, far right). Recipients include (Back, L-R) John Ramsey, Kaci Arrington, Denise Cunigan, Tiffany Truscott, Catherine Hylands, & Susie Ikner. (Front, L-R) Henry Shoffitt, Sherry Ramsey, Mary Bannon, Judith Few, Jo HuntCrenshaw, Sarah Williams & Carrie Naron. (Not pictured: Marco Alvarado, Kelly Carnely, Jenny Chatman, Richard Craig, April Fuller, Hope Harrison, Vonnie Kee, Charles McMullen, Sallie Mooney, Rebecca Owens, Mark Papson, Aimee Salas, Catherine Solis & Laurie Wood).
15 Year Service Award recipients (Back, L-R) Darryl Day, Johnnie Fredregill, Lille Garner, Brenda Taylor, Sandra Kraemer, Donna Renfro & award presenter, Shawn Barnett, CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Market President. (Front, L-R) Kristy Bailey, Linda Reeves, Ida Carter, Phyllis Keith & Shohreh Wise. (Not Pictured: Mary Alexander, Robert Elliott, Beretta Hubert, Aubrie Johnson, Tameisha Jones, Tanya Lindsey, Amy Mullins, Stacey Musick, Janice Napier, Sharon Shaw, Robert Walsh & Stephanie Wilbanks).
20 Year Service Awards presented by Don Morris, Vice President of Human Resources (far left) & Shawn Barnett (far right), CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Market President to Charlotte Huffstetler, Dorothea Robinson, & Elisa Harris. (Not pictured: Lawrence Bailey, Terry Barnett, Robin Flournoy, John Jones, Mary Jones & Lynn Montes)
Don Morris (far left) Vice President of Human Resources, & Shawn Barnett (far right) CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Market President present 25 year service awards to Margie Brown, Rose Lamb, & George McMullen, Jr. (Not pictured: Patricia Jones).
Don Morris (far left) Vice President of Human Resources, & Shawn Barnett (far right) CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Market President present 30 year service awards to Bill Malnar, Christie Morris, & John Phillips. (Not pictured: Belinda McCall).
Mary Thomas (left) received her 35 Year Service Award from Shawn Barnett, CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Market President. (Not pictured: Janice Ghant & Rita Mayshaw).
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Christy Westbook (left) received her 40 Year Service Award from Shawn Barnett, CHI St. Luke’s Health Memorial Market President.
LEADERSHIP
by Phyllis Grandgeorge
F
a lasting impressiON
or everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven, (Ecc. 3:1) I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives. And also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy of all his labor-it is the gift of God.(Ecc. 3:12-13).
We at the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council are in a season of change and transition. After 35 years of, “Doing good in her life,” Donnie F. Nixon, the Director of Business of the Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council, has decided to retire from her labor. Donnie truly is the epitome of the Virtuous Woman described in Proverbs 31:10-31. Donnie joined the small staff of the f ledgling Alcohol & Drug Abuse Council (ADAC) in June of 1981 as the part-time bookkeeper. At the time the agency was located on First Street in the old bank building above the Luf kin Parks and Recreation building. ADAC had 5 small offices and was in desperate need of a bookkeeper to create a bookkeeping system because the books were in a shoebox and in no order. The group meeting room for those seeking help had no ceiling and the fire escape plan was to crawl out the window at the top of the stairs onto the connected roof top which is now Maricela’s Spa. In 1981, little was known about drug addiction and the focus of ADAC was primarily on “alcohol”. The agency could barely make payroll and struggled in its beginning years. As Donnie began her task to develop the Bookkeeping Department, she worked tirelessly to establish order and professionalism in her accounting. Donnie has been gifted with many virtues that she has utilized to help develop the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council into the agency it has become today. Her virtues of wisdom, strength, honor and kindness have been with her throughout her 35 years of service.
Her virtues have known no boundaries; she has been the Administrator of Offender Education classes, become a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Rehabilitation when she was 59 years of age. She has served as the Interim Executive Director of ADAC 14 times in a 14 year period prior to 1990, “Because no one would stay in the position,” she states, keeping ADAC’s doors open when others walked away. Donnie’s dedication, Godly wisdom and hard work are the foundation that this great agency has been built upon. Donnie has written an estimated $34,000,000.00 worth of budgets during her tenure at ADAC. Imagine the number of individuals served as a result of the prevention, intervention and counseling budgets Donnie prepared. Thousands of families’ lives have been positively impacted as a result of the work of Donnie’s tireless commitment. Donnie is renown on the state level for her excellence. It has truly been a gift to have her virtue and service in our community. Donnie’s leadership, dedication, daily dose of encouragement, guidance and fortitude are cornerstones to which ADAC has built its success to prevent abuse, provide hope and restore families. Donnie’s most lasting contribution of service to ADAC has been her tireless and endless prayers for the many individuals that walk into the door seeking direction, as well as prayers for the staff and the services. ADAC is forever indebted to Donnie for her labor, her God breathed virtues, and dedication. She has truly finished her service with ADAC well.
a few notes for Ms. Donnie.. 30 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
"I am so thankful that God placed Donnie in my life! I’ve worked alongside her for a little over 17 years and she has been such a Blessing to me. Her work ethic is exceptional; her character is remarkable. The Lord has taught me so much through her about who He is and His Word. Donnie is wise, full of joy, loving, gentle, intelligent and sweet; and she is the epitome of a true Southern Belle. She exudes the Spirit of The Lord in all she does because she seeks Him constantly and fellowships with Him continually. Donnie, in my selfishness I don’t want you to go because I will miss you terribly, but I’m excited to see what God has planned for you as you step out into this new phase of your life! Enjoy the abundant life that He has for you! Thank you for being my friend, mentor and the voice of God for me. I love you Donnie!" - Mary Lynn
"Ms. Donnie is not only my co-worker, she is a close friend. Ms. Donnie has been an inspiration to me, in that she has encouraged me, prayed for me and showed so much love towards me. I could always depend on Ms. Donnie to come down the hallway to my office when I was having a bad day, sick, or not in a very good place. She just knew, without me saying a word. She has been a faithful and much loved employee here at ADAC. She is a woman of great wealth in both wisdom and knowledge. She has been a beacon of light for ADAC always covering our agency with her care, concern, and many prayers. She will be truly missed. I Love you Donnie" - Linda Franklin
"Best wishes my friend, a job well done. You have been a pleasure to work with and a delight to know. Your loyalty to your employer and the recovery profession is commendable. Please take time to enjoy your family and friends. I’ll always cherish our friendship." - Paul Jackson, Community Relations, Burke
"Best of luck with your retirement. Thanks for all you have done for ADAC." - Tom Paxson, PE, FNSPE
"I have worked with Donnie since 2003. It has been such a joy to have worked with her during her tenure here at the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council. She has strong Christian beliefs and it can be seen on a daily basis. I am thankful that our paths crossed and I will miss working with her. May God bless you in this next chapter of your life. I love you Ms. Donnie!" - Linda Smith
"It has been a pleasure to work with Donnie over the past 6 years as a member of the ADAC Board of Directors. Donnie dedicated herself to serving our community by the work performed at ADAC. She did an outstanding job as our Director of Business and was very organized, detailed oriented and a true professional. She always had a smile on her face and greeted you with it. Thank you Donnie for making a difference in our community through your career at ADAC and wish you a happy and healthy retirement. You are a very special lady." - Don L. Muhlbach, ADAC Board Member "You have touched my heart in so many ways. You brought me closer to God and I thank you for that. I will truly miss you when you retire. You take care and GOD BLESS YOU!" - Tina Hartfield, Bookkeeper
"You have been an absolute joy to work with and I’m going to miss our talks so very much. We talked about everything from dating, marriage, our ailments, traveling, our love of music and especially how great our God is. You have extreme wisdom to offer and I thank you for sharing that with me. You are an amazing lady and a wonderful example of how God wants us to love our neighbors. I will always cherish our time together and will always remember the uplifting sprit you brought into our office each day. Enjoy your retirement but don’t let your days be dull. I love you Ms. Donnie" - Margaret Walters tjmag.com • 31
A MOTHER'S LOVE
JAKE
RYA N B E N T O N
M
y husband and I starting dating in 2009 and got married in June of 2013. Having been together for 7 years, we knew we wanted to start a family soon after we got married. Neither of us have children of our own, so we have been looking forward to raising a child together. In July of 2014 we found out we were expecting our first child. We were overjoyed and couldn’t wait to meet our little boy come February. It only took us 8 months to decide on a name, but finally we settled on Jake Ryan Benton.
of 10.000 births. We were told that this particular heart defect is common in children with Down syndrome. Since Jake was diagnosed with AV Canal we were told that there might be a chance he has Down syndrome and we would have to further continue with testing.
Up until 30 weeks into my pregnancy everything was going completely normal. I was healthy, the baby was healthy and our due date was quickly approaching. I was super excited about getting the nursery finished and was looking forward to all of our “f irsts” we would experience as new parents. Little did we know, everything was all about to change.
One morning, as I was home alone, I got the phone call confirming that our sweet baby had Down syndrome. We learned the results through a genetic test which is virtually 99% accurate. However, it would still be confirmed after birth through a karyotype test. Of course this news left us anxious, upset, and shocked. We were still adjusting to the fact that our son would have to have open heart surgery in the first 6 months of life and then to learn of this. A few days went by that I felt discouraged and sad. I didn’t have the motivation or desire to finish my son’s nursery.
We went in for a normal check-up and ultrasound and left there just learning that our son has holes in his heart and would need to see a neonatal specialist immediately. I instantly broke down in tears. So many questions and fears raced through my mind as I had no idea what that meant for my unborn child.
We experienced a whirlwind of emotions. It felt as if we were constantly getting bad news. What was once a fairytale seemed like a disaster. The next few weeks were jammed packed with doctor’s appointments, check up’s and blood tests.
The following week we went to Houston to see our perinatal specialist, where she could closely examine Jake’s heart through an ultrasound. She expressed to us her concerns and fears and told us our whole birth plan would now change due to his heart complications. From there we were sent to Texas Children’s Hospital to meet with a fetal cardiologist and have an echocardiogram done to properly diagnose Jake Ryan’s heart defect. That was probably the longest hour and half of our life. Our cardiologist diagnosed Jake with AV Canal (Atrioventricular Canal Defect).
However, after Jared and I leaned on each other and our families for support, we realized that this is God’s plan for us. God has chosen us to be the parents of this baby and take care of him. We haven’t looked back or questioned it since. We learned to move away from that time of turmoil to a place of excitement and amazement again. A friend sent me a verse from the Bible the day I found out about his Down syndrome diagnosis, and it struck a chord with me. Jeremiah 29:11 says, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “Plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” One thing we knew for sure was that we wouldn’t love our baby boy any different. This was simply something he has, but it’s not who he is!
A complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect is a combination of several closely associated heart problems that result in one large defect in the center of the heart. This is an unusual, but treatable congenital heart defect. AV Canal occurs in two out
Weeks before Jake was born, I relocated to Houston and stayed with family as a medical precaution in case he came early. Jake Ryan Benton arrived on my birthday, February 16th at 11:55 p.m, weighing 6 pounds 3 ounces. Jake’s big debut into
32 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
this world was anything but ordinary, as well. Again, we were faced with adversity. I ended up having an emergency C-section and it was truly the most traumatic experience I’ve faced. However, I am grateful and thankful for the wonderful staff at Texas Children’s Hospital whose primary concern was the health of our son. Minutes after Jake was born he was whisked away over to Texas Children’s NICU. His dad was with him every step of the way as I was still unconscious from anaesthesia and recovering. The next day around noon I was able to go see my son for the first time. There he laid in a NICU warmer, covered in wires. He looked so fragile; I was afraid to touch him. The nurse assured me he was doing well, and I was actually able to hold him.
to help him gain weight, something he has been struggling with. He needs to be as strong as he can for surgery. So here we are with our beautiful baby, Jake Ryan. We are along for the journey he takes us on in life. We know that it will be a rewarding one as he has already impacted our life in ways we never thought possible. Jake Ryan will have his open heart surgery at Texas Children’s Hospital on May 15, 2015. He will be one day shy of 3 months old. As we are anxious for what might possibly be the hardest thing we have to go through as a family, we are ready. Jake Ryan has the support of so many loved ones, friends and the community. We want to thank everyone who has reached out to us, and please know that your generosity and support have meant the world. We feel so blessed to live in this community and thank God every day for the gifts he has blessed us with. Jake Ryan rocks an extra chromosome and he is ready to rock his heart surgery!
My life has not been the same since. Jake spent two weeks in the NICU, getting to come home on Monday, March 2nd. He faced a few complications during his stay such as thrombocytopenia, conjugated hyperbilirubinemia and a few other mild concerns, but he fought through them all, eliminating them one by one. It was hard for me to imagine how he could come home with his heart defect, but he is able to. I know no mother wants to see their child struggle or be in pain. Jake has been pricked and poked on more times than I can keep up with. He has amazed us all with his strength. He continues to fight daily. Jake has been closely monitored by his pediatric cardiologist over the last few months. He has had to be put on medications to draw f luid off his lungs so that he is able to breathe easier, and we are now taking steps
tjmag.com • 33
GIVING BACK
BUCKNER SHOE DRIVE
B
uckner International, KSWP 90.9 and KAVX 91.9 invite the community to collect new shoes from May 1 - June 26 to benefit vulnerable children in Deep East Texas.
The shoes collected will benef it local children during back-to-school supply distribution events during the month of August. Make a difference in the life of a child by donating a new pair of athletic or canvas shoes in sizes Youth 1 - Adult 9. The final drop off day for the shoe drive will take place on Friday, June 26 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the local Buckner Children and Family Service office, located at 3402 Daniel McCall Dr. Businesses, churches, organizations, and schools are invited to join the cause by registering to host a shoe drive or become a drop off location. For more information, contact Buckner Children and Family Services in Luf kin at 936-637-3300 or Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls at 866-774-SHOE.
About Buckner: For more than 136 years, Buckner International has been transforming lives through hands-on ministry, serving the most vulnerable from the beginning to the ending of life. Buckner is one of the oldest and most unique faith-based social service organizations of its kind, serving people each year in the United States and worldwide.
About Shoes for Orphan Souls®: Shoes for Orphan Souls®, the largest humanitarian aid project of Buckner International, provides new shoes and socks to orphans and vulnerable children in the United States and throughout the world. From conducting shoe drives to humanitarian aid trips, Shoes for Orphan Souls® offers hands-on opportunities to individuals, groups and organizations wanting to transform lives. Since 1999, Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls has collected more than 3 million pairs of new shoes that have benefited children in 80 countries.
34 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
LIFE 36 FASHION | 38 SOMETHING ABUNDANT | 40 HEALTH | 42 LIFE LESSONS | 45 ORGANIC
tjmag.com • 35
by Jessica Tinsley Bridges, Creator of jesslea.com
FASHION
pretty printed dresses
N
ow that spring is here and summer is around the corner, you’ve got every reason to show off your legs in a pretty, printed dress.
This spring we are seeing printed dresses everywhere! From florals to polka dots to abstract prints they are so pretty and oh, so springy! These fun prints can really spruce up your wardrobe and can be very versatile. You can pair them with a flat sandal for a more casual look or with wedges to dress them up. Whether you’re heading to a backyard party, a casual wedding or date night, these 9 dresses are on trend for spring and they are all affordable with a price tag under $60.
2 1 3
{1} New Directions Neon Strap Printed Handkerchief Dress Belk’s, $39.99 {2} Danny & Nicole Cap Sleeve Dot Print Pocket Shift Dress JCP, $39.99 {3}
Boat Neck Ruffle Sleeve Dress Target, $39.99
5
{4}
Patterned Jersey Shift Dress Old Navy, $32.94
{5}
nicole by Nicole Miller Sleeveless Floral Print Maxi Dress JCP, $49.99
6
4
{6}
Halter Shift Dress ISANI for Target Target, $34.99
{7}
Bisou Bisou Sleeveless Hardware Overlay Dress JCP, $49.99
{8}
8 7
9
Poplin Dress in Navy Floral Old Navy, $29.94
{9}
A-Line Scuba Dress-Multicolored Target, $27.99
Jessica (Jess) is a 28-year old brunette born and raised in Lufkin. She is in love with fashion and wearing high heels, even though she’s 5’10’’. She graduated from Stephen F. Austin with a Fashion Merchandising degree. She and her husband live in Houston with their 2 dogs, Bella and Bentley. She is an assistant buyer for a department store in Houston, Texas. She has her own fashion blog, Jess Lea where she shares her love for fashion on a budget. | photo by The Silhouette Studio
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tjmag.com • 37
SOMETHING ABUNDANT
Wives Submit.
No, really.
U
sually I apply this monthly platform to highlight a bride of Christ’s symbolic lessons of exquisite beauty like garlands of grace, perfumes of praise, and wedding jewels. Today, I think we need to discuss a different sort of treasure in a bride’s trunk of tools. This one is completely unglamorous, but it’s always glorious. Think of it as a bikini wax. Painful as sheol, but sexy as h-e-double hockey sticks. Submission. Go ahead, female friends. Say it. We are all thinking it. (Insert your favorite four letter word). “Why you gotta’ bring more fresh agony to my ordinary!?” And I get it. My husband, Chris, and I are two stupid kids who married young and dumb and by God’s grace alone haven’t murdered each other. I love that man, cherish his friendship and most of all, respect that he still loves me after all the crazy I’ve dealt him. But after almost 18 years of marriage, we are still figuring out how this covenant thing works, discovering fresh frustration every few months when it NEVER works for long if we don’t do it God’s way and why being faithful in our marriage commitment is so important to the Lord. Submission is one lesson we continue to learn, and most often we both learn it the hard way. Now, don’t stop reading just because you can’t stomach a “religious” view on being a sweet little, quiet wife. I can’t stomach that either. Any man or woman who believes wives ought to be silent doormats needs to check their theology. God created woman in His image to be a strong, smart, bold, beautiful bride. This submission lesson might not be what you’d expect. A man and woman’s intimate love for one another is the most powerful picture, on this broken earth, of Christ’s perfect love for His Bride, the Church. God gave specific commandments to guard this precious display of His love. Paul (that Biblical authority women often crave to hate) says, “Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior.” (Ephesians 5:22-23)
38 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
We wives are always quick to point out the following verses commanding a husband to love his wife in the same way Christ loves the church and gave Himself up for her (Ephesians 5:25). It may seem right to say something like, “Well, babe, when you start loving me like Christ loves the church, I will start submitting to you as my ‘head’ Mmmkay?” However, (don’t be mad at me) I believe God can more effectively bless a wife’s effort to obey her side of God’s commandment. Above all, God is concerned with my vertical relationship with Him. I can’t concern myself about another’s actions toward me and their obedience to God. I can only control my reaction to them and my personal obedience to God’s word. One of the hardest things for Christian women to understand is why God wants her to respect and submit to her Christian husband even when she “KNOWS” he is wrong or acting in disobedience. We crave to nag, manipulate, coerce, or curse the stupid dude to whom we are locked in cumbersome covenant until sweet death do us part. It feels good and justified. But God says it is, “Better [for a man] to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife.” (Proverbs 25:24) Whoa. Ladies, don’t hate. It is hard. Don’t I know it. But submitting displays the picture of the Bride’s love for Her Eternal Bridegroom. It is a symbolic display of the Church’s love for Christ. It is meant for glory. God’s glory. Don’t get me wrong. Submission is a “no pain, no gain” experience. It will taste as bitter as swallowing a mouthful of lukewarm vinegar to humbly and sincerely ask for your man’s forgiveness for showing disrespect to him. But as long as he is not endangering you or anyone else, try it. (If he is endangering you or others, you need more help than this magazine article offers. Seek God to lead you to it.) Submitting is a hard lesson to learn and practice, but understand: GOD’S COMMANDMENT FOR A WIFE’S SUBMISSION IS NOT MEANT TO DEGRADE HER. NOR DOES A WIFE’S SUBMISSION PROVE HER HUSBAND’S CAUSE.
by Angie Nichols
It is, however, divinely POWERFUL and PREREQUISIT to place that husband’s decisions, leadership, and authority as the head of his home in check by God Himself. He may be acting in such pride and ignorance that you can cluck a list your arm long of the consequences of his poor actions and how it leaves you vulnerable, victimized, and feeling all alone in the covenant he committed to as well. You are not. God will NEVER leave you or forsake you. Perhaps you (and by you, I mean me) argue that the only reason you are fighting so hard is because you love him and want what’s best for him. Stop. Place your trust in The Eternal Bridegroom–not upon the bridegroom of f lesh. Never doubt that Jesus will care for you in the absence of your man’s responsible leadership. If you really love him, submit to him as unto the Lord. The unfading beauty of your gentle and quiet spirit is of great worth in God’s sight (1 Peter 3:4). Think of submission this way: Your gentle and quiet obedience to the Lord sets your man up for the swing of God’s holy arm while you are safely ducked to the ground. “If you are up in your man’s face, that holy swing is gonna hurt you…and rightly so,” said the author of this article because I know of that which I speak. Submission is power… as innocent as a dove, but as shrewd as a snake. Your obedience to God to respect and submit to your husband, regardless of his deserving it, aligns you with the truth of God’s word. God watches over those who love and obey His word and will not suffer their shame (see Jeremiah 1:12, John 14:23, Psalm 145:14). Ladies, that is good news of your power! It is the means by which the daughters of Eve, under Christ’s blood, turn weakness to strength (1 Timothy 2:11-15). Without a word, your actions can be proved right (1 Peter 3:1 and
Matthew 11:19). Just resist the temptation to quip an “I told you so” when they do. Obey God, dear sister. Submit and watch God fight for you. No nagging necessary. Serve that guy even when he acts more like an enemy than a partner. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head, and the LORD will reward you (Proverbs 25:22). Cha-ching. Unless and until he asks for your input on an issue (which out of love, he should), pray for him and keep your comments to yourself. After a few holy hits, he may learn to consult the proven, wise, and discerning help-meet you’ve shown yourself to be (Proverbs 19:14). And while you are bent in a posture of submission, you should probably go ahead and prostrate yourself to pray mercy upon your man. Because Jesus, your Hero on a white horse, loves His obedient bride more than anything. He will defend her with a sharp sword and He rules with an iron scepter (see Revelation 19:11-16). A bride of Christ need not hold relationships captive by force, manipulation, or coercion. Rather she captivates her relationships through the magnetism of Jesus’ splendor endowed to her (Isaiah 55:5). Be the Bride. Be free. Be at peace in God’s hands. Be beautiful in love and mercy. Do the thing God called you to do. It might take some time and practice, but you will most likely inspire that husband to be more like the Bridegroom. Perhaps the beauty of submission and the glory it reveals of God will cause him to love you as Christ loved the Church. I have reason to believe submission brings miraculous power to impossible situations. After all, I –an unending smart mouth– am still married to an insufferable hardhead. While we believe and pray for thriving, godly marriages let’s ultimately remember the eternal union to come. Your Hero is returning soon (Revelation 22:20), and your reward is with Him. Keep your beautiful bride eyes on the forever prize.
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.
tjmag.com • 39
HEALTH
ACTIVE LIVING
I
n the fall of 2014, the Angelina County & Cities Health District received funding from the DSHS Texas Healthy Communities Program to assess 8 health indicators that impact chronic disease in Angelina County. This would serve as a baseline from which to improve the overall community’s health in the areas of “Chronic Disease.” Angelina County was recognized at the Bronze Level. In addition, the group was given the opportunity to implement changes in the local environmental and policy infrastructure and adopt priority public health practices to reduce risk factors for chronic disease and obesity. According to “The Episcopal Health Foundation” the leading causes of death are heart disease, cancer and stroke. The rates in Angelina County are much higher than Texas rates. Angelina County ranked 185 out of the 237 Texas counties for poor health outcomes. (www.countyhealthyrankings.org) To address the need for intervention, the “Angelina Active Living Council” was formed. The council is a network of individuals and organizations working together to advance a healthy community through increased active living opportunities for all residents. The council will develop a plan that will guide the transformation of Angelina County into an active living community.
Walking is one of the best ways to stay healthy. It’s also one of the best ways to connect with others. By walking with friends and family, you can catch up and refresh your mind. Invite someone on a walk and build strong relationships and health! The council has determined two factors that encourage a person to become and stay physically active. 1. Positive experiences (or positive effect) during physical activity. 2. Experiencing enjoyment from being active. The council wants you to know that regular physical activity can produce long-term benefits! • Regular physical activity reduces the risk of many adverse health outcomes. • For most health outcomes, the additional benef its occur as the amount of physical activity increases.
• Most health benefits occur with at least 150 minutes a week of moderateintensity activity, such as brisk walking. • Both aerobic (endurance) and musclestrengthening (resistance) physical activity are beneficial, 2 or more days a week. Their website, activeangelina.com, has park information and links to healthy living, with great information to help us all live healthier and keep our families active! When we have fun as a family and promote physical activity as part of family routine, it helps us to connect and role model a healthy lifestyle that our children will benefit from seeing! We have a beautiful county with some unique facilities, so get moving and enjoy the benefits of active living.
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tjmag.com • 41
LIFE LESSONS
A
designed for
s I look back today, I’m not sure when I crossed the line. I think it was there, but it was so faint, the changes so subtle. Or maybe there really wasn’t a line at all. Maybe the symptoms of my disease were there from my very first drink; I just didn’t know what to look for.
That’s the thing about dependence—you usually can’t see it until it’s too late. My “too late” came on April 8, 2011, when I found myself at Covenant Hills Treatment Center for my addiction to alcohol. I’d love to tell you it was my decision and my choice to go to treatment, but I’d be lying. I knew I had a problem, multiple problems, but in my mind, alcohol was the least of them. The thought of never having another drink of alcohol made me physically ill. It can still knock the wind out of me. Alcohol was my companion for so long that it’s difficult to imagine my life without it…forever.
Many friends have told me I didn’t look or act like an alcoholic. That’s because most of the early symptoms of dependence are hidden away inside your mind where only your thoughts betray you. The behaviors that might give you away become secretive. My friends and family only saw what I wanted them to see.
I wore a mask every day that told the world that I had it all together, while on the inside, I was a mess. Honestly, I was an alcoholic just waiting to happen from a young age. I wrestled with insecurity, the need for approval and fear of failure. For as long as I can remember, I was uncomfortable in my own skin. Although I was a Christian from a young age—I can’t even remember a time when I wasn’t—I always felt like I constantly struggled to live up to that title. I felt trapped in my rules, standards and expectations. I lived without the knowledge and understanding of grace. Throw in a genetic family background of addiction and you have a disastrous combination.
But, this story really isn’t about me.
42 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
My story isn’t extraordinary or tragic, it’s common. I’ve never been mistreated or abused. I can’t blame my childhood—I came from a strong Christian family that had me in church from the first Sunday of my life. I can’t blame my environment. There was never a drop of alcohol in my family home, and I had a solid group of friends who didn’t drink. I graduated from high school having had one sip of beer in my life. From the outside looking in, I’m sure my life looked normal.
This story really isn’t about alcohol either. The substance isn’t the problem. Oh, I can educate you on the long term, neurological effects of alcohol and drugs on your brain and the disease model of addiction, but honestly, you can fill the empty spaces of your life with just about anything. Drugs and alcohol are simply the most visible and most physically destructive. My drug of choice was alcohol. Yours might be food, money, power, exercise, pornography, control, or even something that looks really good for you, like your family.
Addiction, dependence, attachment— No matter what you call it, the bottom line is that it all begins innocently when we seek out something other than God to meet our physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
by Ginger Stephens
dependence In his book Breathing Under Water, author Richard Rohr writes, “Addiction is a spiritual disease, a disease of the soul, an illness resulting from longing, frustrated desire, and deep dissatisfaction, which is ironically the necessary beginning of any spiritual path....addicts are souls searching for love in the wrong places, but still searching for love.” The longing or sense that something just isn’t right in our life. The deep restlessness that moves us to grasp for more and more of things that never satisfy. This instinctual pull was placed in our hearts by God for intimacy and relationship with Him. It is the always present call to return to the One who created each of us in love and for love.
The journey into addiction is about unfulfilled needs and the yearning for something more, but it begins with simple choices to turn to or away from God.
I know exactly when I made my first choice to take a step down that path. I was 22 years old, married, working and going to college full time. Life wasn’t living up to my expectations, and I was slowly growing more discontent and dissatisfied. I was sitting at a social event trying to make small talk with people I hardly knew. I felt out of place, uncomfortable and just different. I looked around and everyone else seemed to be having fun. They were dancing, talking, and laughing. I remember my thoughts well... “I’m the only person in this room not having a good time.” I stood up, walked to the bar and got a beer. Never in my imagination could I have dreamed where that one choice would lead.
So you see, alcohol was the solution to my problem long before it became the problem. In alcohol, I found an answer to all those negative feelings. I found confidence, courage, relaxation, laughter and a freedom from the opinion of others and self-criticism that I had never experienced before. In those early years of my marriage without kids and responsibilities, turning to alcohol for relief seemed innocent enough. But over the years, the symptoms of my physical and spiritual disease began to grow—the never ending attempts to “ just have one;” the broken promises I made myself to slow down or stop; the need
for more and more alcohol to keep the nagging thoughts of discontentment at bay. What I couldn’t numb with alcohol I filled with activities and busyness. In the last few years, I experienced “black outs” where I would not remember periods of time while I was drinking. People would tell me things we did or what I said, but the memories simply weren’t there. I never knew this wasn’t normal and, of course, I never admitted to anyone that these black outs were occurring.
What began as a choice to free myself from my fear and insecurity eventually stole my freedom and enslaved me. Over time, this struggle changed me. Addiction hijacks our deepest desires and motivations for seeking God first for all our needs and sends us searching for lesser gods to complete us. My desperate search for security, acceptance and, ultimately, love led me to places I never thought I could go. There’s no way I can put into words all the chaos, pain and hurt I caused my husband, my family, my friends and myself.
tjmag.com • 43
Designed for Dependence /// Continued
In the end, I simply wanted to disappear from this life. The week before I went to Covenant Hills was so very destructive to myself that I had no other choices to make. Those choices were made for me.
Thank God this story doesn’t end there. God wastes nothing. When I began this journey, I did not see the beauty that would come from the struggle. I could not. My journey into addiction brought me to a place of surrender to God that I do not believe I could have found any other way. There were pieces of my life that I could have never turned loose of had they not been stripped from my grip. From my struggle, I learned the truth of what it means to be truly dependent upon God alone. I learned the depths of God’s mercy and grace.
Addiction taught me about acceptance, humility and gratitude. I learned the value of brutal honesty with yourself, confession to others and making amends to those you have hurt.
44 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
God designed us for dependence. His plan for dependence is echoed in the two most important commands that He gave to us. “And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind and all your strength. And love your neighbor as yourself,” (Mark 12:30 NLT). From all I have learned about the neurological nature of the disease of addiction, I am completely convinced that our bodies are biologically, psychologically and spiritually created with the sole purpose of fulfilling these two commandments and drawing us toward the Author of life and Divine Creator. Unfortunately, our human instincts, motivation and desires were forever corrupted by the choices of Adam and Eve. Our natural instincts for nourishment, sexual intimacy, and safety, along with our desires for accomplishment, relationship and love, were shifted away from fulfillment through God and onto ourselves. We now strive for self-sufficiency and independence.
So God uses our experiences, our weaknesses and our most private addictions to expose our need and draw us to Him.
When our choice to live independently fails, only God’s grace and mercy can fill the gap where we fall short and bring healing. Through our struggles and suffering, we slowly learn to trust in Him alone. The Apostle Paul wrote , “My grace is all you need; my power finds its full strength in weakness. So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me,” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Although I deeply regret the pain I put my family through and the friendships I destroyed, today I am not ashamed to say I am an alcoholic.
I would not erase the journey even if I was given the chance. For it was my greatest weakness and failures that taught me to seek after God alone for my strength, my peace and my contentment.
“You will seek me and find me, when you search for me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13)
by Dr. Rima Kittley
ORGANIC
G
luten Free is not a Fad. It’s really no fun when your body starts The joints are another part of the body It is a real matter of attacking itself. Because any part of the that can be attacked such as early osteobody can be involved, it can look like arthritis. Scoliosis has an association HEALTH! anything in terms of your health. with celiac, possibly due to not enough A multi-billion dollar industry bone-building materials to make a sturdy would not have sprung up if people them- If it attacks the gut, you have gas, bloating, spine. selves had not seen first-hand how much diarrhea, constipation, foul-smelling stools, mouth sores, weight loss, even Anyone with fibromyalgia ought to give better they feel staying off gluten. weight gain from swelling. gluten-free a good trial. But the test is Most of the medical world recognizes no good unless you are 100% off gluten celiac disease IF it is proven by small When the gut doesn’t absorb properly, for at least a month, maybe two. Maybe bowel biopsy. The controversy comes in then you get malnutrition and maybe feeling sick and tired of feeling sick and when the standard anti-gliadin test is persistent and unexplained anemia or tired is worth taking hold of your health negative and the patient is still miserable. easy bruising. The malnutrition, the with eating better. “starving in a sea of plenty,” can add The general consensus is that about 3% of even more difficult-to-diagnose symptoms. We are so used to “eating at Disneyland.” the population has full blown celiac. That Anything we want. Any time of day or is, of course, if someone else diagnoses it. But what if it attacks the brain? Seizures, night, usually made by someone else. It Very few physicians believe that it is even “bumping into walls,” tics, brain fog, takes getting full control of your food that common. In a town of 30,000 like fatigue, night blindness, and all kinds of supply to start on the road to health. Lufkin, that means that nearly 1000 will funny neurologic things may be your have actual celiac. And most don’t know it. symptoms. Some say that 10% of schizo- As for the multi-billion dollar industry, you can eat a whole lot of “gluten-free” phrenics have celiac. But what about thousands upon thousands foods that are total junk. I don’t think of people who can’t prove anything other The hormone balance in our bodies is that junk is even food. Getting back to than they just plain feel better staying off much more sensitive than blood test health means getting back to eating foods gluten like me? What better proof is there? results will show. Crazy periods, cramping, that a farmer would eat if he could grow or infertility may be an outward sign in it. Foods like meats, vegetables, fruit, “I’m not sick when I stay off gluten.” a female hormones system gone awry. eggs, nuts, very limited grains or starches The skin is a window to your health. It Thyroid problems are very common in of any kind. Get rid of food in a box or can feel rough, heal poorly, or look like people with celiac or wheat intolerance. a can for the most part. If it has to have an orange peel, or maybe have crazy a “gluten-free” label on it, do you really itchy bumps (called dermatitis herpeti- When the immune system is busy attacking want to eat it? formis) or maybe even psoriasis with itself, infections sneak in. Chronic sinus infections or bronchitis or recurrent bladder intolerance to gluten. infections may become a problem. Celiac is just the “tip of the iceberg” with respect to intolerance to wheat. Independent researchers are finding out that people can Dr. Rima Kittley is a family physician in Luf kin. She knows first hand and do react to multiple other components about celiac and wheat intolerance in herself and her family. She and in wheat, not just gliadin in the most her husband have an organic farm. common blood test. tjmag.com • 45
46 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
CHILD 48 SUPER KID | 50 PRETTY BABIES | 52 LOOK AT ME
LUKE COLLINS
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uke Collins, son of Kelli and Derek Collins, is a Senior at Pineywoods Community Academy. This very talented young man has already accomplished so much in his seventeen years.
tjmag.com • 47
SUPER KID
Luke Collins /// Continued
Before he walked across the stage for his high school graduation, Collins walked across the stage to accept his associates degree at Angelina College. He began attending PCA in the seventh grade. The first year the school added the ninth grade. When he was in the 9th grade, he began taking classes at Angelina College. The courses started out slow. Collins began with Physical Education and Sociology. His mom Kelli says, “It was a hard adjustment to college level courses for Luke. There weren’t any reminders to turn in your work. He wanted to quit.” Fortunately for Collins, his mom did not allow him to give up that easy. He enrolled again his sophomore year. The course load was a little more difficult. He took two spanish classes. This year it was a year of difficulty for a different reason. He had to learn to adapt to remote teaching. Collins pushed through and completed the two courses and the year. Along with dual credit courses, Luke Collins was a basketball player. A leader for his team, he made 1st team All-District his freshman and sophomore year. His junior year of high school, he once again registered for dual credits, 18 hours for the year. There were many life lessons learned this year. Kelli Collins stated that her son is dyslexic. However, they have not focused on that. They focused on how to adapt and work around it. Luke took English 1301 and struggled. As many who understand dyslexia, English is a very challenging subject. “This course was very difficult for him. When it was time to take Eng 1302, I made him register for the same professor. Luke was not excited about it at all. I told him he was going to walk in there on the first day of class, shake his instructors hand and introduce himself. That was the best thing he could have done. He made a B in the class. I am most proud of him for his grade and accomplishing this course in his associates degree.” Because basketball was in his wheel house, he began thinking dual credit courses may not be his priority anymore. Thankfully, he did not let that thought stay there long. Over the summer of his senior year, he took two courses to ease the workload of his senior year. His senior year, he took 14 hours both semesters. Not only did Collins take Physics and Chemistry, he had the highest grade in both classes. This May, Luke Collins received his Associates of Arts Degree from Angelina College. He plans to pursue an Engineering degree from Stephen F. Austin. Texas A&M is also in his sights at some point during his college career.
congratulations CLASS OF 2015
Now accepting applications for 2015-2016 school year Pre-K3 to 5th grade. CALL (936) 632-1720 FOR A PRIVATE TOUR TODAY 1115 S. John Redditt Dr. • Lufkin, TX
saintcyprians.org
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 tjmag.com • 49
PRETTY BABIES
1. Emerson Joy Bowen. 4/15/14. Proud Parents: Kymberli & Chuck Bowen. Proud Grandparents: Karen & Tee Thomas / Duffy Bowen.
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2. Cason Lane Clark. 12/8/2014. Proud Parents: Steve & Nicole Clark. Proud Grandparents: Billy & Pam Junge / Marjorie Clark & the late Otis Eugene Clark. 3. Cathlynn Marie Smith. 1/26/15. Proud Parents: James & Gina Smith. Proud Grandparents: Robert & the late Cathy O’Neal (Zavalla) / Daniel Culbreth (Broaddus) / James & the late Cathy Smith (Colorado). 4. Mac Warren Lee. 2/25/15. Proud Parents: Justin & Anna Lee. Proud Grandparents: Ken & Cecilia Boles / Sarah Lee & the late Harold Lee.
E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to prettybabies@tjmag.com. Please include name, date of birth, parents & grandparents. Submissions are free of charge.
Committed. Great OB physicians. One wonderful place to have your baby. We believe babies and moms should be surrounded by comfort and care. With an average of 20 years of OB experience, our nursing staff knows how to make you feel at home. Amenities include spacious labor/delivery/recovery rooms with Wi-Fi, and a sleep sofa for guests. We even offer an on-staff lactation consultant. These are just a few reasons why we were voted “Best Place to Have a Baby” and “Best Nurse” by Lufkin Daily News readers in 2012. To find a physician or learn more, call 936-699-CARE or visit WoodlandHeights.net.
WoodlandHeights.net WHMC is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.
TJMAG&CO | an original since 2005 tjmag.com • 51
LOOK AT ME
LOOK AT ME! brought to you by
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Hudson National Honor Society | Juniors: (front) Madison Schultz, Madalyn Skinner, Mary Catherine Beard, Nora Reeder, Tara Bentley, Ana Perez, Briana Dillard, Emma Godfrey & Haley Hernandez. (middle) Ariel Inman, Ramsay Campbell, Chrissa Miller, Marcy Thomason, Lindsey Burcham, Kelsey Cox, Hannah Grandgeorge, Katy Turner & Rachel Hill. (back) Reyna Sanchez, Tito Zamarron, Javy Lopez, Holly Ratcliff, Justin Cook, Jacob Largent, Darren Castilaw, Matthew Mitchell & Cade Milligan.
Lufkin High School National Honor Society | Juniors: Elisabeth Alvis, Davis Bates, Samantha Brazeil, Katelyn Calhoun, Jacinda Castillo, Deandra Cavazos, Demonta Coleman, Paige Coleman, Marissa Davis, Leonardo De Le Garza, Diana Dunman, Allison East, Ryan Eubanks, Morgan Evans, Elizabeth Foreman, Daniel Gonzalez, Haylen Green, David Griffin, Chelsea Henderson, Gustaveo Montejano Hernandez, Hector Hernandez, Madison Hodges, Maichi Hyde, Maria Jaime, Marilyn James, Reagan Jordan, Matthew Jungmann, Skyler Kesinger, Reagan Laviolette, Miriam Lira, Dora Maldonado, Abby Mastin, Jessica Medina, Sekela Minor, Benjamin Osgood, Kenneth Poskey, Victoria Pruitt, Catherine Rich, Alyson Riley, Evelyn Rodriguez, Luke Rowley, Corinne Rudis, Erika Sloan, Mariela Solis, Jessica Todd, Alan Roar Torres Morales, Monica Vegiraju, Jackson Vier, Noah Vier, Kaci Waggonner. Kyle Wiggers. Seniors: Cassandra Guel, Matthew Lishewski, Krystal Fudge, & Emily Stafford.
52 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
Hudson National Honor Society | Seniors: (front) Tara Bocock, Rebekah Primrose, Kaitlyn Kanke, Darcie Dubler, Ana Herrera, Cinthia Rios-Zubia, Hannah Wells, Erica Orlov, Alyssa Wallace, Madison Jeffrey & Debbie Verhoef. (middle) Meaghan Morgan, Holly Nunn, Bailey Freeman, Jamie Zieschang , Geneva Solis, Brooke Johns, Camryn Havard, Cheyenne Heath, Naomi Moats, Jungin Parks, Linsey McFarland & Julia Collmorgan. (back) Hayden Woods, Gia Than, Erik Boonstra, Connor Lankford, Logan Smith, Collin Perkins, Mason Mullins, Trayce Magee, Gage Cullen, Collin Craft, Reed Glass, Dakota West, Caleb Hanks, Trace Suiter, Bailey Lunsford, Will Phan & Tyler Day.
Lufkin High School NHS | Seniors: Lindsey Akridge, Adriana Alegria, Flora Avant, Alli Bartlett, Megan Bass, Brittany Bell, Randi Berger, Caleb Bristow, Cesar Camacho, Lauren Camp, Samuel Conlin, Joshua Davis, Kaitlin Dickerson, Katie Emmons, Tyra Flenoy, Jeffrey Ford, Alexis Foster, Hector Fraire, Haley Futch, Richard Galan, Cole Goodson, Kelly Haney, Marisa Harris, Yuliana Hernandez Gonzalez, Brian Humphreys Jr., Rachel Inselmann, Will Kirby, Shelby Kraemer, Sydney Latham, Katie Leach, Osvaldo Lopez, Jeffrey Martin, Erik Mccoy, Lisa Mcmullen, Kevin Moore, Maci Moore, Dakota Morgan, Mahnoor Nazeer, Pressley Nicholson, Megan Odell, Leslie Ortega, Juan Ortiz, Lauren Owens, Ayzsia Pinson, John Portwood, Nathan Powell, Thomas Powell, Jack Schaeffer, Jaylon Simpson, Bradley Slusher, Paul Spore, Ryan Stewart, Joshua Streety, Zachary Thompson, Thomas Tomasko, Molly Tyler, Katherine Van Ness, Dominique Vann, Victoria Viet, Jose Villanueva, Madison Warnasch, Jacob Williams, Shante’ Williams, & Sarah Youssef.
Huntington National Honor Society. Alexis Brock, Brennan Burnett, Mallory Burton, Rhett Butler, Taylor Campbell, April Cooper, Devon Davidson, Cearra Davis, Justin Davis, Tanner Dickerson, Tristan Dickerson, Morgan Downing, Kylee Flanary, Clarice Flesher, Whitney Flournoy, Danielle Gillespie, Adrian Granados, Jacy Hubbard, Madysen Hutchison, Carson Ivy, Shelby Jacob, MacKenzie Kenner, Matthew Lindsey, Brooke Loggins, Kinder Malone, Hannah Matteson, Rebecca Modisette, Logan Neal, Bryndan Nerren, Pryde Nerren, Kaylee Rawls, Jeremiah Robertson, Courtney Stewart, Colton Strickland, & McKenzie Summers.
Leadership Tomorrow Graduation 2014-2015.
Pineywoods Community Academy High School National Honor Society Induction Ceremony. (Top, L-R): Johna Dixon, Sheridan Lamb, Luke Collins, Jasmine Fowler, Jacob Gage, Kyle Gage, & Monina Gatus. (Middle, L-R): Katelyn Johnson, Joel Ojeda, Cecilia Sarmiento, & Kellen Spangler. (Bottom, L-R): Jessica Hadnot, Jordan Johnson, Braydyn Spradlin, Natalie Van Every, & Katrina Naron. Not pictured: Rachael Meyer. Pineywoods Community Academy National Junior Honor Society Induction. (Bottom, L-R): Bethany Nerren, Jalen Nerren, Valarie Nieves, Brent Pigg, Emilee Purcell, Jenna Quarles, Kareryn Ridgeway, Natalie Steed, Cesar Torres, Justin Warren, & Ethan Williams. (Middle, L-R): Andrew Bolton, Daylan Brooks, Nathaniel Carver, Mark Collins, Seth Davis, Kamron Green, Jordan Ha, Jace Harvey, Kellen Kruk, & Logan Navarro. (Top, L-R): Falynne Armstrong, Mehriel Gatus, Laura Greusel, Aallyah Hodge, Cami Keen, Jocelyn Lamb, Angelina Ly, Samantha Maddux, Abigail Massey, Pauleen Nagpacan & Kenlie May. Not pictured: Malcolm Potts, Alexis Mijares, Vanessa Dao, & Ashleigh McDowell. Central National Honor Society.
Reed Glass, the Outstanding Senior from Hudson High School, and Brent Loggins, the Outstanding Senior from Huntington High School.
Connor Lankford was announced as a scholarship recipient at the Leadership Tomorrow Graduation 2014-2015.
Kameron Risby was announced as a scholarship recipient at the Leadership Tomorrow Graduation 2014-2015.
tjmag.com • 53
PLACES & FACES
LISD Teachers of the Year
ACE Wendelyn Green
Anderson Susan Waggonner
Brandon Marca Ramsey
Brookhollow Amanda Venegas
Burley Kimberly Holloway
Coston Vercie McMullen
Dunbar Jamie Mahan
Garrett Gay Nell Campbell
Hackney Maria DeJesus
Herty Debbie Jacks
Kurth Alesa Baker
Lufkin High School Ron Merrel
Lufkin Middle School Teresa Ragland
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Slack Sarah Scott
Trout Sarah Steidley
BUSINESS 56 IN THE KNOW | 60 COMMUNITY IMPACT | 62 CHAMBER NEWS
tjmag.com • 55
IN THE KNOW
LOCAL NEWS & LEGISLATIVE UPDATES TRENT ASHBY TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE With the school year winding down and summer quickly approaching, things are busy for all! Shrinking Government & Increasing Transparency I was very pleased to see the House overwhelmingly pass House Bill 2667-- a proposal I authored that seeks to curtail imprudent spending and shrink the size of government. The bill protects hard-earned taxpayer dollars by eliminating two wasteful and inefficient programs: the Texas Small Business Industrial Development Corporation and the Linked Deposit Program. If implemented, this legislation will save the state nearly $1 million over the next two years, according to the Legislative Budget Board.
does not make “actual progress” towards its stated land use. However, the current definition of “actual progress” is far too broad and easily demonstrated. This bill calls for more substantial requirements, which will encourage more timely public use of property acquired through eminent domain and prevent and protect Texans from government abuse and misuse of eminent domain authority. Teacher Appreciation Week
Another measure recently passed by the House was HB1294, which will require state elected off icials to disclose to the Texas Ethics Commission any government contracts in which they or a close family member have a substantial financial interest. This is a common sense proposal that will make the working of the Legislature more transparent.
Since we recently observed Teacher Appreciation Week, I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of the educators who continue to work tirelessly for our children. As the grandson, son and brother of former and current teachers, as a former school board member, and as a father of two school-aged children, I know f irsthand how much this noble profession means to all of us. I also get to see the outcome of their passionate public service and the impact that it has on our communities. Teachers, your dedication and devotion to the education of young people is something that instills in me incredible hope for the future of our great state.
Protecting Private Property
Reminders
I agreed to serve as the House Sponsor for Senate Bill 479, which I laid before a House Committee the first of May. I was eager to sponsor this legislation because it strengthens private property rights by increasing the requirement for how a governmental entity demonstrates “actual progress” in regards to eminent domain cases. Private property owners can repurchase land acquired through eminent domain if, within ten years, the governmental entity exercising eminent domain authority
For the convenience of constituents not wanting to travel far from home, the mobile office will continue its regular Wednesday travel schedule throughout the District.
56 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
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
A
s Spring blooms across East Texas and the school year is wrapping up with prom and graduations just around the corner, my colleagues and I are entering into the final stretch of the 84th Legislative Session which ends on June 1. It’s been a productive session so far with the House and Senate having passed a budget which must now be reconciled before it moves on to the Governor’s desk. Soon the debate about how best to cut taxes will be resolved. Both the Legislature and the Governor have committed to cutting the business franchise tax and the House and Senate are hammering out the best option between a decrease in the sales tax rate or in property taxes. The House also passed legislation to address the actuarial soundness of the Employees Retirement System(ERS). With the passage of this bill, the state will contribute more to ensure our state employees receive the pension benef its they have earned. These are a few of the important results of the Legislature’s work over the last few months. Ten of my bills have passed out of the House to the Senate for further debate and approval. Among these bills is a measure to help rural hospitals secure supplemental funding, allowing them to provide a full continuum of care to patients by expanding resources at nursing home and assisted living facilities. I still have other legislation moving through the
committee process including a bill to help our county and district clerks operate cost effectively as they serve our communities and also two bills which will aid law enforcement in combatting the dangerous synthetic drug trade. Additionally, I am pleased to have authored a bill to allow Tyler Junior College to offer a baccalaureate degree for dental hygiene. This proposal promises to resolve an access to care issue here in East Texas and expands regional opportunities for our students. It was exciting to dash home to the district last month to welcome Governor Greg Abbott back to East Texas for the first time since his inauguration. Local leaders and citizens from all over East Texas gathered for dinner in Kilgore to hear the Governor’s plans for keeping Texas moving in the right direction. It’s an honor to work alongside him as your representative in that endeavor. As the 84th session continues, I encourage all residents of House District 11 to contact my Capitol (512-463-0592) or District office (936-560-3982) if you have any questions, want to voice your opinion on legislation or need assistance with a state-related matter. You may also send an email to District11. Clardy@house.state.tx.us. If you happen to be in Austin, I invite you to drop by the office at your Capitol (Rm. E2.314).
It was great to have Governor Greg Abbott visit East Texas. (L-R: Travis Clardy, Gov. Greg Abbott, Judy Clardy, Gus Clardy) tjmag.com • 57
PLACES & FACES
Consolidated Communications Athlete of the Month Scholarship Recipients
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tjmag.com • 59
COMMUNITY IMPACT
I
LUFKIN DOG PARK
n recent years, Leadership Lufkin has added a very meaningful addition to their requirements. Leadership Lufkin is made up of a group of 20-30 professionals in the community. They were always required to host the Science and Tech fair for Angelina County. That alone is a huge project to undertake with most of these professionals holding down full time jobs, families, and other extra-curricular activities. Along with everything already on their plate, this year’s Leadership Lufkin Class took on a project to give back to the city of Lufkin. The class project was a dog park for the community. The land was donated by the City of Lufkin, but everything else had to be accomplished by the class. The class needed to raise a little under fifty thousand dollars to make the dog park a reality. A couple weeks ago, the 2015 Leadership Lufkin Class was able to open the park to the public. The dog park is a gated, off-leash dog park with two sides, one for large dogs and one for small dogs. There are drinking fountains for both dogs and their owners, four park benches, a see saw and jumping steps in the large dog area and a “corgie climb” and a bow wow barrel on the small dog side. Pets have to be current on vaccinations and the owners are expected to be present with their animal. There were many sponsors the project to make this a reality for the class. Bryan Tyler, a member of Leadership Lufkin says, “We couldn’t have completed this project without the help from our generous community. This project was a huge undertaking, and honestly I think some of us were quite apprehensive about it from the beginning. It was really awesome to see everyone in the class come together, use their different skill sets and made this project become a reality. This class really had a great group of individuals, and it was an honor to be a part of this team." Lufkin Dog Park is located at Grace Dunne Richardson Park and is open sunrise to sunset. Grace Dunne Richardson Park 200 Mott Drive, Lufkin
60 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
tjmag.com • 61
CHAMBER NEWS
Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for East Texas Timber Rattlers, 4098 Hwy 69 S., (936) 824-2391, www.etrattlers.com.
Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Eastview United Pentecostal Church, 1407 N Medford Dr, (936) 632-3525, www.eastviewupc.com.
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for the 60-year anniversary for Harry’s Building Materials and the creation of a new showroom, 7008 North St., (936) 569-8218, www.hbmitx.com. Harry R. “Bobby” Tosh, Harry R. “Robby” Tosh II, Harry R. “Trey” Tosh III and Nacogdoches Manager Mark Havard welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for new downtown business Portal Technology, 411 E. Main St., (936) 305-5000, www.portaltechnology.us. Owners Katie and Brandon McClain and Logan Warren welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
R&K Distributors, Inc. with Townsquare Media hosted an Alive After Five event at the Nacogdoches County Expo Center on March 25, 2015.
Luf kin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Council of Deep East Texas.
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Solid Foundation Diversity Center, 2612 Williams St., (936) 615-3677, www.solidfoundationassociation.com. President John Cannings and members of the board of directors welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony for Nacogdoches Pottery & Iron, 4502 North St., (936) 305-3119. Owners Sergio and Jessica Rodriguez and Office Manager Charity Martin welcomed sponsors, Chamber members and guests.
tjmag.com • 63
PLACES & FACES
Hudson Highlights Spring Show
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east 66 A COWBOY TRIBUTE | 70 WILD TURKEY | 74 THE HEART OF CHAMPIONS | 76 RECOGNITION | 78 FITNESS | 79 TROPHY ROOM
coledepriest "I photo by Dustin Bridges // DWB Photography
could not believe what was happening. There are no words. This is truly the work of an angel,” said Colette DePriest. tjmag.com • 65
A COWBOY TRIBUTE
Cole DePriest /// Continued
DePriest was relating to a series of events following the tragic death of her son, 8 year-old Cole DePriest. Cole lived in Tenaha with his parents, David and Colette, and his sister, Abi. Cole DePriest lost his life in a horseriding accident Friday, April 3 in Clarksville. The young cowboy turned 8 the day before, April 2, and was celebrating with his grandfather, roping. Cole’s life came to an end doing what he loved, according to his mother. “Cole and my father-in-law had been out roping all morning,” said Colette. “Cole backed into the box to track a steer and was making basically a perfect run down the pin, and the horse he was riding stumbled with him, and rolled over on him.” Colette, a teacher at Carthage ISD, said her father-inlaw called saying that Cole had been hurt very bad and they needed to come. “I was in Marshall with our daughter, Abi, and my parents,” said Colette. “David was at a baseball game in Joaquin with no cell phone service. I (was) texting with one of my students from Carthage getting updates from the Joaquin game. I called her to get David on the phone. At that point, I wasn’t thinking that Cole was gone. By the time we arrived at the roping arena, Cole had been picked
66 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
up (by the funeral home). He passed instantly.” While the family continues to heal, a stranger’s gift has left them believing God is with them. Colette said that Saturday, one day after the accident, the family was at home in Tenaha when a family friend stopped by to pay condolences. “(He) told us he had been praying all night and the Lord had spoke to him,” said Colette. “He said that he didn’t know if he should have come to us or not, but that the Lord told him Cole was too perfect a child to be left in this cruel world for too long.” Colette said that at that time, she and David, a coach at Tenaha High School, were unsure what the man meant. “God was using him to tell us something,” said Colette, “but we were not seeing it. Sunday (April 5), we had to visit the funeral home to take care of final arrangements. We were getting out of the car when David grabbed my hand and said he needed to tell me something. He said ‘as I was praying this morning, trying to come to grips with this and f ind some answers myself, the Lord spoke to me and said ‘David, I didn’t trip that horse. The devil tripped it because he wanted Cole to live in a world of pain, agony and suffer for the rest of his life. And I took him home so he could live in my world.’” Colette said they then knew the Lord was speaking to them.
Colette also said more confirmation came when she received a message April 8 from a friend, Summer Surratt, whose son Jett was best friends with Cole.
“This is where it gets even more apparent,” said Colette. She said Summer messaged her saying, “Jett came home with a bracelet today that a boy from Mrs. Ivy’s class gave him today. It was a bracelet that Cole gave to the little boy and said for him to give it to Jett if anything ever happened to him (Cole). The bracelet says, ‘walking with Jesus.’ How awesome is that? I can’t even describe the precious look of peace Jett had in that smile as he told me.” Colette said Cole was at his grandparent’s house during spring break when he got the bracelet at church. “I guess knowing the little packrat he was, he put it in his bag and gave it to the student and told him to give the bracelet to Jett,” said Colette. “What are the odds? And the little boy still had the bracelet and gave it to Jett. It’s all God. At this point two of our friends and my husband had all received messages from God.”
by Leah Dolan
Colette said Saturday, April 25 was a very difficult time for her and she began to pray asking God to show her a sign and give her comfort. “It was just one of those moments when the devil was kicking me in my stomach again,” Colette said, “I began praying for God to just give me a sign. I continued to pray the same thing through Sunday. Monday I had a lot to do.” Colette received notification that a gift they had custom ordered for Cole’s birthday was shipping that day. “School pictures of Cole from various programs he was involved with,” Colette said. “A photo from the only baseball game he played in all year. Just a lot went on. It was a really rough day. I just kept praying for God to show me a sign. “Tuesday (April 28) I picked up Abi from school. Around 5:30 p.m. we got home and my car was parked in the driveway,” said Colette. “Some friends brought dinner and about 6:45 p.m. we took a walk. We were maybe gone about an hour. We came back, went through the nightly routine. Around 10:30 p.m. I locked my car. “Wednesday morning I got up (to go) to my mom’s and when I opened my car door, a box was sitting in the seat with a note on top,” said Colette. “My first thought was how did someone get in my car? When I opened the box I saw a white blanket. I put it in the seat beside me, drove to mom’s and took it inside.” According to Colette, a letter was inside a white envelope with, “To my friend in Christ” written on the front. The letter read,
“Dear Friend, Although I do not know you and you do not know me, I call you my friend, and this is because of the ‘miracle’ God has allowed us to share. I will try to explain the best I know how. I want you to know everything about this is no more explainable to me than it will be to you. Please just know, without a doubt, this is directly from God and it is God sent especially for you. I am only the instrument He has used to give you His message. “I don’t know why I was chosen. I just know what I am about to tell you is not ‘of this world,’ but from a much higher Heavenly sphere. It is totally from our Heavenly Father, because no one but God Himself could have so completely set this miracle in place. “The day after your little Cole went to be with Jesus, I was with my daughter in Center. We decided to stop by the Goodwill store just to look around. This is where the miracle begins. Living where we do the news of your loss was known to many. I was aware a little boy from Tenaha had been lost in a tragic accident. The only thing I really knew was his name, Cole DePriest. My heart was broken for you, and I like so many others, was praying for you and your family. “The minute we walked into the store I was drawn to the section where there was a wall full of blankets hanging. The very first blanket I touched was the little white blanket I have brought to you. It was folded with a tiny delicate blue handembroidery on the inside. When I took it from the hanger I did not see the embroidery; all I saw was a sweet little white baby blanket. I opened it and that is when I saw the name DePriest. My heart felt like it was on fire. I cannot describe the burning feeling that came over me. I just knew at that very moment that God was in every minute of this experience. He was there from the time I entered the store, to the time He led me to the place where the blanket was, to the moment He revealed the miracle I held in my hands. All I knew for sure was that God was telling me this was your little Cole’s blanket and I knew He wanted you to have it. Needless to say, I had no idea how this was going to happen. I found myself asking God to please show me what He wanted me to do; what He wanted me to say to you; and when He wanted me to give this to you. I have prayed for His guidance and His answer. I believe with my whole heart He has answered my prayer. He has blessed me by letting me be the one to give you your Cole’s blanket back and to give you His message.
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Cole DePriest /// Continued
“Colette, God has sent this little blanket back to you because He knows you needed something to hold on to. He knows your heart is broken. He wants you to know how much He loves you and that He is with you. His peace is everlasting and His comfort is mighty. God had a plan for Cole’s journey here, it was a short one, but it was a full and beautiful life. Cole is with God now and he is happy. “God wants you to know too He has a plan for your life. He will heal and restore you as you continue forward in your journey. He wants to bless you, especially when those silent and dark moments seem to flood over your soul. And, when Satan seeks to destroy God’s further plans and purpose for your life, He wants you to remember through Jesus Christ you are not a victim, you are the victor, you are not a loser, you are the winner, and you are more than a conqueror through your Lord Jesus Christ. “Cole was your sunshine, and that sunshine will live on in your memories and be carried in your heart always. I truly believe God had a very special purpose and a reason why He wanted you to have Cole’s little blanket back. You have been given a very special blessing. I am humbled beyond anything I have ever known in this life to have been allowed to be a part of your Miracle. God has blessed both our lives by showing us what a Mighty God we serve. “I pray God continues to bless you; and that you will use what Satan meant for harm to glorify our living holy God.
“Your Friend In Christ “P.S. Cole was born on the day my mother died; another part of the miracle, or at least I think so.”
“The letter is not signed,” said Colette, “and this is Cole’s blanket. A friend from Shreveport made it. I have never donated anything to Goodwill, and I would have never gotten rid of this blanket.” Colette explained that when Cole was born, the family lived in Tatum. They moved to Tenaha about four and one-half years ago to build a house. Colette said the family home in Tatum sold before the family had a chance to begin building in Tenaha, so a lot of belongings were stored in a vacant home her family owned in Tenaha. “This blanket was in some of the stuff that was stored,’ said Colette. “The home was broken into at some point over the last four years and some things were stolen. I have no idea how this blanket got to Goodwill. Somehow the day after the accident, someone found this blanket and got it back to me. We never saw anyone come into our yard. We never saw anyone. They found out where we lived and put this in my car. I had prayed and prayed for a sign — just something — and I get this.” Colette said, “This is truly the work of an angel.” She added the support shown to the family has been amazing. Cole’s visitation lasted four and a half hours. Roughly 3,000 people attended, some who the family did not know but said they met Cole at one point. “Cole had a gift of making himself known to people; he was a gentleman in a child’s body. Through our tragedy we have been so incredibly blessed,” Colette said. “We have to get up and keep going. We have a daughter who needs us just as much as we need her. We are going to continue to keep doing the things that we love because that is what Cole would want us to do. She is a strong, amazing little girl. Because of her and because of our faith, strength and our friends Cole will live on. We have seen the work of God in our lives every day since the accident. And I know we will continue to.”
A scholarship has been established in memory of Cole. Memorial donations to the Cole DePriest Scholarship Foundation can be mailed to The Cole DePriest Scholarship Foundation, c/o Roland and Dianne Cross, P.O. Box 162, Tenaha, Texas 75974.
68 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
tjmag.com • 69
WILD TURKEY
C
lint and Braxton Oliver of Luf kin connected Sunday morning at 10:45 am on their first Eastern Gobbler. Sunday’s hunt at Cottingham Hunting club in Nacogdoches County was their last chance to get a bird to cooperate and get in range. Braxton’s determination and don’t quit attitude led us to one of the coolest turkey hunting experiences of my life. It sounds crazy, but to me the only thing better than everything working out perfectly for a quick easy hunt is when you put in several long, tough, frustrating hours and then have it work out perfectly. Something about that adds a little extra sense of accomplishment to it. It’s a feeling where you know you’ve done something truly special. That is exactly how this one played out, and I feel so lucky to have been a part of it. First hunt was set for Monday April, 20 with guide Brett Todd. Brett has guided this hunt for the last several years and knows the land and birds well. He and I spent a couple of afternoons the week before scouting. He had a spot to start already in mind and as soon as he showed me the area, we agreed it was a no brainer. Everything was just right and this was shaping up to be another textbook 30 minute hunt like he’s had in the past. Mother
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Nature had other plans, though. The hunt started great with good weather and gobblers answering the call. A hen came in and checked them out, but not long after the wind picked up steadily and eventually forced them to move. No chances on day one, but at least there was some turkey action. Second Hunt was set for Saturday April, 25. Brett was leaving town that weekend and asked me to take them. He told me about Braxton and said there’s no doubt he’ll handle his end of the deal, we just had to get one close. He also said, “Braxton wants it bad, and I want it to happen for him.” I was pumped! I couldn’t stop thinking about all the signs we had seen the week before. We made a couple more afternoon scouting trips and built a brush blind on the edge of a thinned pine plantation overlooking a 3-way road intersection. It’s centered on top of a ridge with a small creek about 300yds north and 200yds south of us. The road between them had tracks and strut marks going both ways. It’s perfect! This was the spot; all we needed was for Saturday to get here. Saturday got here, but so did a line of thunderstorms that rained out the morning hunt. Clint and I decided to watch the weather and plan to meet up after lunch for an afternoon hunt. We got to our blind around 2pm. It
was HOT and the mosquitoes were in full force. It was very unpleasant for the first couple of hours and got worse as the day went on. There was no breeze, and at times, no shade. I built the blind planning for a morning sit and didn’t want to face the sun. Unfortunately, that left some open spots to the west. The sun hit each one as we sat there in full gear cooking, marinated in OFF and sweat, and trying not to move. I’d call every 15 minutes or so with no response, but I was still confident in our set up. As the minutes and then hours ticked by, I kept expecting to see Braxton start getting restless. I was getting there myself, but it never happened. He sat there motionless with his shotgun ready like we had just sat down.... for SIX HOURS!!!..... to see and hear nothing. He never once complained, fell asleep or looked at a cell phone. He was there to hunt, and that’s what he did. It was easy now to understand how Brett knew this kid was the real deal after just one hunt. We had a long, miserably hot and boring hunt. Clint and Braxton are both experienced hunters and know that’s just how it goes sometimes. They knew this wouldn’t be easy, but strike two was a tough one. The turkeys were winning and we were mad at ‘em! Problem now was that confident feeling I had earlier about our spot started to
by Adam Huggins
Clint & Braxton Oliver fade as the sun went down. On our hike back to the truck, a big group of coyotes cut loose right behind us. This will normally make those roosting birds gobble, but still we heard nothing. I started to assume since there were other hunters signed in that morning during the rain, that these birds must have seen some pressure. I couldn’t imagine with all the fresh sign in the area that we wouldn’t hear a single bird roost, at least. This hunt was a disappointment but I wasn’t surprised at all when I asked if they wanted to try again in the morning and they said, “YES, let’s do it!” Sunday morning and our final chance to get it done got off to a rocky start. I thought about it all night and decided since someone might have boogered up our spot, we’ll try a different one. We got signed in and headed to the oil pad I planned to hunt. We geared up and got ready just in time to see headlights. My heart sank knowing I had possibly signed in on the wrong location and was in someone else’s spot. We were! The other hunters were very understanding and showed me where I was on the map. They wished us luck and waited for us to get the heck out of their spot. We went back to sign in again. By this time more hunters were signed in, so to avoid anymore confusion we headed back to our blind. It was foggy and the woods were quiet. We got set up and started the process all over again. We had a hen in the distance talking to us. She
sounded excited. I thought for sure one of us would make a bird gobble, but no luck. It was sure nice to hear life though. A couple more hours passed and this day was starting to remind me a lot of the day before. I always carry 2 slates, 1 box call and a pocket full of diaphragms. This was the first time I've ever used them all in one hunt, but we were desperate so I tried everything. The fog slowly lifted and the sun started to show around 9:00. Shortly after on a random call sequence that we’d tried countless times in the last 10 hours, we hear a gobble! We all pop up and get a new burst of adrenaline that we didn’t think existed anymore. We try him again and another one answers behind us, then him again, then they started gobbling at each other! How did this happen so fast? Where did they come from? Where are they now? Are they headed this way? Do we go to them? Which one? Every one of these questions crossed my mind at once. So, we did nothing. They went crazy for the next 15 to 20 minutes. They gobbled at each other, at crows, birds, us and anything else that made a noise. They were both a few hundred yards away, but they were talking. During this time I saw a hen cross the road and go in the woods about 50yds behind us headed in the direction of one of the toms. Five minutes later, he was silent again. For the next hour or so we sat and called sparingly just enough to keep the other one interested. He
stayed put and would gobble, but not near as much as when he first started. We thought about getting aggressive and going to him. We were also thinking about the other bird behind us. He hadn’t gobbled in an hour and could be miles away or right on top of us. We checked Google earth to plan our approach in case we decided to go. It showed a long lane just on the other side of the creek to our south. It led to a food plot in some pretty big timber. I pictured a hen pecking around that pot chasing bugs and berries while that tom did his thing. Something was keeping him there. That thought hadn’t even
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Clint & Braxton Oliver /// Continued
cleared my head when he gobbled again and it was closer! He was on the lane headed to the road! I gave him a minute and called again to make sure he headed our direction. They cut me off, and I realized there were two of them. They were at 150yds and closing fast. They were coming up our right side and Clint and I were both between them and Braxton. We had to think quickly. We could wait till they passed us and get to the decoy for a perfect shot and video or we can turn around and shoot one at first sight. We chose option #2 not wanting to chance getting busted. I never called again, afraid it would give away our location. It was all Clint and Braxton from there. What happened next was pure awesome! In about 6 seconds they made their move and got into position, Braxton on point and ready and Clint behind him with video rolling. I instantly hear the unmistakable spitting and drumming sound that usually triggers my heart to beat loud enough to drown out all other sounds. They gobble! I watch Clint talking to Braxton to help keep his composure. He tells him not to move until he's ready to shoot. They gobble again and he tells him to take a deep breath. I couldn't believe how calm and cool they were. They were both like soldiers, steady and ready. I was the opposite and just sat there shaking uncontrollably trying not to breathe too loud. I see them 50yds out in full strut and closing distance. They see the decoy and are showing her everything they’ve got. I’m watching from about 10yds behind waiting to see one roll up at any second. Just about the time they disappeared from my view, I see Braxton shoulder his gun and fold the lead bird inside
72 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
15yds! I jumped up and bounced around like Richard Simmons for a few seconds then it was hugs and high fives out to take a look at Braxton’s first Eastern Gobbler. He was full grown and handsome sporting a 10” beard and 1 1/8” spurs. Over 10 of the last 24 hours were spent waiting for this moment to happen. Before we heard that first gobble it felt like we’d been hunting for a week. It’s funny how quickly you forget about all that once you close the deal. I feel like I took as much from this experience as anyone. Watching Braxton handle himself the way he did under that kind of pressure was impressive. But seeing how he handled himself the day before was even more impressive. It’s hard to believe he’s only 12 yrs old. Most grown men I know wouldn’t put in the effort he did. Actually, most grown men I know couldn’t put in the effort he did. Watching Clint throughout those last crazy intense minutes was equally impressive. He kept his cool, which certainly helped Braxton keep his. There was no hope for me, but I was just along for the ride at that point. Anyone who has ever sat on the ground trying to hold a shotgun still and steady while birds gobble and strut towards you knows how hard that actually is to do. I don’t like using words like “earn” or “deserve” when talking about hunting, but it seems fitting in this case. Both father and son earned this one and deserve the trophy they have to show for it. As I said before, feeling lucky to be a part of this experience is an understatement. I’m so happy it worked out in the end. They’ll have
a lifetime memory and an awesome story to tell forever. It was a learning experience for me, because it won’t be long before I’m the one trying to keep my son steady for a shot. I can only hope to be as poised and patient as Clint was when Bridger is old enough to go on a real hunt. I also hope he’ll have the drive and determination that Braxton showed the entire hunt. Either way, I got a great example of how it’s supposed to be done, by both father and son. That is priceless! Thank you for that Clint and Braxton, and congrats on your Eastern!
PLACES & FACES
photographed by Lisa Crow
Angelina Benefit Rodeo
Interested in purchasing a photo you see? Visit lisacrowphotography.smugmug.com!
THE HEART OF CHAMPIONS
LUFKIN HIGH SCHOOL SOCCER
J
anuary 10th seems like a long time ago.
On that day the Luf kin Panther soccer team wrapped up the opening weekend to the 2015 season at the Klein Showcase Tournament. They left Houston with a record disappointing record of 0-2-1.
They never lost again. Following that less-than-stellar start, the Panthers reeled off one of the greatest runs in East Texas sports history, winning 26 straight, bringing East Texas its first ever soccer state championship, and capturing Lufkin’s first state title since 2001. During that run the Pack outscored its opponents by a 64-13 margin and recorded 16 shutouts. Russell Shaw, the only head coach in program history, guided the Panthers to their second district championship and first trip to the state tournament in his 29th season at the helm. Coming into the season, Shaw says he believed he had something special with this particular group of players, one of the largest senior classes the team has ever fielded. With thirteen seniors on the roster, Shaw said the team “talked about a state championship from day one”. Those early losses didn’t derail the team. Although it would have been easy for the team to fold and fall apart 74 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
after a disappointing start, the team stayed the course and righted the ship at a tournament in Longview and then at another in Lufkin. By the time district play started, the Panthers were on a seven-game winning streak and never looked back. In district play the Panthers won all twelve matches to capture their second district championship in the history of the program. By the time Luf kin learned it would play former district rival Longview in the first round of the playoffs, the winning streak had run itself to 19 games. A lesser team might have been proud of achieving one of Luf kin’s best-ever regular seasons. A lesser team might have become complacent. But this particular squad was just getting started. The goal of a state championship hadn’t changed and by now the team truly believed it could compete with anyone. That belief would be tested time and time again throughout the playoffs, but Luf kin always found a way to prevail. After comfortable two-goal wins over Longview and Spruce, Luf kin found itself locked in tight contests from there on out. It took a sudden death shoot-out to separate Luf kin from Mount Pleasant after the two battled to a 1-1 tie through overtime. Luf kin held on again against Wakeland 1-0 before winning a wild 4-3 affair against Wylie East. In both of those games, Luf kin found itself under siege in the waning minutes before holding on to pull out the win. The victory against Wylie East made Luf kin the Region II Champions and punched their ticket to the program’s first ever State Tournament. By the time the State Tournament rolled around, the city of Luf kin had rallied around the soccer program. Restaurants and businesses proudly
declared their support for Lufkin Soccer on their marquees. Fans bought t-shirts and every day The Lufkin Daily News published a new article on the team. On a cool Thursday afternoon hundreds of fans made the four-hour trek from Luf kin to the state tournament in Georgetown to watch the Panthers take on Tomball Memorial. Six school busses containing students, faculty members, the band, girls team, cheerleaders, and junior varsity team were joined by dozens of cars that made up Panther Nation. Droves of purple-clad Luf kin fans, some watching their first ever soccer games, set an attendance record for the state tournament. They would break that attendance record two days later after defender Chris Marquez scored the only goal of his senior year, a beautiful volley with six seconds left in the first half of the state semifinal game. It was the type of audacious shot that usually skies a dozen yards over the goal or goes wide. But this team always found a hero when it needed one. Although Omar Zamarripa and Javier Patlan formed one of the most dangerous goal-scoring combinations in the state, it was Marquez’ goal that sent the team through to the championship. Waiting for them there was Georgetown East View, undefeated and nationally ranked. “On paper we knew we were underdogs,” Luf kin senior captain Jake Williams said. “But once we stepped on the field, we weren’t. We knew what we were capable of and we got a chance to go out there and prove it.” And prove it they did. Not only did Luf kin win, they did it in style, taking a 3-1 decision that left no doubt as to who deserved the trophy at the end of the road. Zamarripa opened the scoring by slotting in a loose ball in the box 13 minutes into the game. After East View tied the game later in the first
by Dalton Goodier | photos by Bradley Slusher
half, junior defender Kacy Bennett put the Pack up for good with 12 minutes left in the first half by laying out for a header. Although he took a cleat to the face in the process, Bennett’s effort was enough to win it for the Panthers. Zamarripa added an insurance goal in the second half and from that point on victory seemed inevitable. The Panther back line held and when the final whistle sounded the team sprinted out for a celebration at midfield to cap a dream season. In addition to winning the state championship, Luf kin took home plenty of accolades at the individual level. Omar Zamarripa was named the Distract 16-5A Player of the Year while Javier Patlan, Jake Williams, and Omar Roque were named Offensive MVP, Defensive MVP, and Top Goalkeeper, respectively. Coach Shaw was named Coach of the Year. Joining them were Javier Montes, Kacy Bennett, Jesus Cisneros, Xavier Reyes, and Rodrigo Vargas on the All-District First Team and Alexis Roque, Gustavo Garcia, and Sammy Villegas on the Second Team. Zamarripa and Shaw will represent Lufkin at the State Senior Showcase. Members of the squad include Terry Mark, Sammy Villegas, Rodrigo Vargas, Christian Julian, Cesar Camacho, Jesus Cisneros, Bradley Slusher, Alexis Roque, Omar Zamarripa, Javy Montes, Kacy Bennett, Javiar Patlan, Chris Marquez, Dorian Bravo, Xavier Reyes, Cristhian Pineda, Luis Lopez, Jake Williams, Joel Rodriguez, Gustavo Garcia, Ivan Hernandez, Omar Roque, and Miguel Gonzales.
tjmag.com • 75
RECOGNITION
SFA CHAMPIONS
2
014-15 has been a year unlike any other for Stephen F. Austin Athletics as the Lumberjacks once again established themselves as the premiere program in the Southland Conference. Those successes were recognized Wednesday night as SFA hosted its annual Champions Dinner in the Baker Pattillo Student Center Grand Ballroom. It was a year most programs in the nation would love to have. Seven regular season conference championships. Three NCAA tournament appearances, including a national runner-up showing. Seven Coaches of the Year. Six AllAmericans. Over two dozen all-conference honors and 18 Southland Conference major award winners. And to top it all off, closing in on yet another SLC Commissioner’s Cup. Being held in front of a packed Grand Ballroom, each of the Lumberjack and Ladyjack teams had the opportunity to award their respective sport award winners. Each of the SLC championship teams were recognized for their performances, comprised of soccer, volleyball, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, men’s and women’s indoor track and field and tennis. A special recognition was also given to the three programs that represented SFA in the NCAA tournament: football, men’s basketball and bowling, fresh off its national runner-up showing. Following the presentation of the team awards, which were voted on by the head coaches of the respective teams, the top academic student-athletes were recognized with the Murray Shaw awards, culminated with Paige
Holland being named the Kathy McGough Academic Athlete of the Year. The remaining 2015 SFA Champions Dinner major award winners were then announced, beginning with track and field’s Shawn Goff being named the Jene’ Carter SAAC award winner. Men’s basketball picked up a pair of major honors with Thomas Walkup being named the Dick Wright Sportsmanship award winner and Jacob Parker earning the Bob Shelton award. Soccer’s Megan Dunnigan took home the Steve McCarty Award, combining senior leadership, academics and on-field performance. The final two awards of the night were reserved for SFA’s top male and female student-athletes of the year as the two award winners capped an incredible evening. Women’s basketball’s Porsha Roberts was named the June Irwin Female Athlete of the Year, followed by football’s Gus Johnson earning the Ralph Todd Male Athlete of the Year as the duo came off record breaking performances in their respective sports. In last year’s banquet, Director of Athletics Robert Hill challenged the SFA programs to raise the bar in his closing remarks. It was a challenge each team took to heart as SFA looks to put the f inishing touches on a remarkable 2014-15 season. But as the night concluded, a handful of Lumberjack studentathletes made the comment that may very well be the motto for 2015-16. “Let’s do it again next year. Only bigger.”
(Below, L-R) Dick Wright Sportsmanship Award: Thomas Walkup, men's basketball /// Steve McCarty Award: Megan Dunnigan, soccer /// Bob Shelton Award: Jacob Parker, men's basketball /// June Irwin Female Athlete of the Year: Porsha Roberts, women's basketball /// Ralph Todd Male Athlete of the Year: Gus Johnson, football
76 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
2015 SFA Champions Dinner Award Winners Team Awards Selected by respective sport head coaches • Ladyjack Bowling Team MVP: Stephanie Schwartz • Lucille Norton Award (Women’s Basketball): Porsha Roberts • Sue Gunter Offensive Award (Women’s Basketball): Taylor Ross • Gary Blair Defensive Award ( Women’s Basketball): Tierany Henderson • Sandy Miller Award (Athletic Trainers): Emily Montana and Ashley St. Clair • Dianne Baker Award (Tennis): Vivienne Kulicke • George Reese Award (Men’s Golf ): Blake Pugh • Lady jack Women’s Golf Team M V P: Jessica White • Scotty Bailess Award (Volleyball): Paige Holland and Jill Ivy
• George Johnson Offensive Award (Men’s Basketball): Thomas Walkup • Pam Thorsten Award (Soccer): Megan Dunnigan • Joe Richardson Award (Men’s Track and Field): Josh Taylor and Charles Mathenge • Carolyn Barnett Award (Women’s Track and Field): Demi Payne • Sadie Allison Award (Softball): Brittany Lewis • Lumberjack Baseball Team MVP: Cameron Gann • Mart Crawford Award (Football): Marvin Gray • Cally Belcher Award (Football): Joshawa West
Murray Shaw Academic Award Winners Highest GPA for a two-year letterwinner per sport • Baseball: Dan O’Neill
• Michelle Reid Award (Volleyball): Janet Hill
• Men’s Basketball: Tanner Clayton
• Robert Maluski Award (Men’s Cross Country): Charles Mathenge
• Women’s Basketball: Brittney Matthew
• Gwen Cole Award (Women’s Cross Country): Samantha Ottman
• Football: Aaron Thomas
• Buddy Lowery Defensive Award (Men’s Basketball): Trey Pinkney
• Bowling: Paige Kraushaar • Men’s Golf: Baxter Ward
• Men’s Track and Field: Joshua Taylor • Women’s Track and Field: Shambrail Woods • Men’s Cross Country: Ervin Mooney • Women’s Cross Country: Courtney High • Soccer: Morgan Glick • Softball: Hannah Welch • Tennis: Malena Gordo • Volleyball: Paige Holland
Major Award Winners Voted on by SFA Athletic Administrators • Jene’ Carter SAAC Award: Shawn Goff, men’s track and field • Kathy McGough Academic Athlete of the Year: Paige Holland, volleyball • Dick Wright Sportsmanship Award: Thomas Walkup, men’s basketball • Steve McCarty Award: Megan Dunnigan, soccer • Bob Shelton Award: Jacob Parker, men’s basketball • June Irwin Female Athlete of the Year: Porsha Roberts, women’s basketball • Ralph Todd Male Athlete of the Year: Gus Johnson, football
• Women’s Golf: Mackenzie Steiner
tjmag.com • 77
FITNESS
by Deana Olszewski
LIFE CHANGE
I
n December of 2013, I looked in the mirror and was not happy with what I saw. I was overweight, depressed and not happy with the way I looked or felt. I began to fear that if I did not take control of my weight then, one day I would wake up and find myself extremely obese, wondering what happened to my life. Not wanting this fear to become my reality, I decided that it was time to get serious about losing weight. Things went well at first, but in April of 2014 I injured my knee. After failed attempts to get my knee to heal on its own, I found myself having knee surgery in the middle of June. This is when I hit rock bottom. I was depressed and spent weeks in my bed, unable to move and eating as many cookies as possible. God began to slowly change my life when I started Physical Therapy. I was blessed with an amazing Therapist who encouraged me that with hard work, my knee would get better. I couldn’t imagine that my knee would ever return to normal, but I decided that I was only 27 years old and that I was too young to have a bum knee for the rest of my life. I made the decision that I would do what ever it takes to get my knee back in best the possible shape that I could. I didn’t know it at the time, but that decision would take me on a journey that would change the rest of my life. From July until August, I spent 2-3 days a week in Physical Therapy. Along the way, I had people tell me my knee may never get back to what it was, but I kept believing and pushing because I was not ready to accept that as my fate. In October I was finally released from my Physical Therapist, but I knew my strength was not all the way back; I still had a lot of work to do and I still wanted to lose weight. I decided to take a risk, join HAAS Athletics, and hire a Trainer to help me finish rehabbing my knee. At first I was absolutely terrified to trust my knee with anyone other than my Physical Therapist, but not long after I started meeting with Josh Brown (my trainer) my mind was put at ease. He not only helped me start to get the strength back in my leg, but he made sure to teach me
78 • THE JOURNEY • THE GRADUATION ISSUE
proper form. I learned how to do exercises the correct way so that I would not injure myself again. Slowly, but surely, I started to transform. I was introduced to a quote from Eric Thomas that changed my life. It says, “When you want to succeed as bad as you want to breathe, then you will be successful.” This quickly became my motto by which to live. I started eating healthy, working out as much as possible, and learning as much as I could about fitness and being healthy. I met friends along the way and did everything possible to stay motivated. It didn’t happen over night, but slowly the changes began to happen. I made a lot of mistakes along the way, and I have had to grow and change with this process, but this process has changed my life. I have lost about 30lbs (so far… I’m not done yet), I have regained my confidence, and I have grown and changed as a person. Fitness has become my passion and I now dream of one day helping others in the way that HAAS athletics has helped me. I am thankful for my husband, friends, and family who have been my constant source of encouragement. I thank the Lord for bringing HAAS and the people there into my life, because without them I would not be who I am today. Overall, I give God the glory for changing my life because with out Him, none of this would be possible. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.
brought to you by
HAAS ATHLETICS
2109 W Frank Ave, Lufkin (936) 238-4023
TROPHY ROOM
East Texas Outlaws 12U.
Commissioners Cup Beaumont. (top, L-R): Reece White, Cody Cox, Quint Graves, & Carson Hooks. (bottom, L-R): Bryce Case, Cade Venegas, Garret Adkins, & Hunter Parish. (front): Brady McDonald. Coaches: (back L) Del Graves, (R) Jason Harris, (front L) Scott McDonald.
Blackhawks 8U.
Bombers 9U. College Station USSSA Tournament. 1st Place 9U. (Row 1, L-R): Blake Buchanan, Jadon Grigson, Cole Windham, Camari Taylor, & Kedren Young. (Row 2, L-R): Jamarion Evans, Cason Pool, Brock Williamson, & Mac Street. Coaches: David Grigson, Jeff Buchanan, & Tommy Street.
Big League Dreams 10U. Coaches: Jason Adams, Matt Knight, & Jeff Buchanan. (back): Charlie Deaton, Jacob Weibe, Chip Buchanan, Bosten Oliver, & Kolby Adams. (front): Kolby Kovar, Zach Phipps, Riley Jenkins, & Cooper Knight.
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