“UT Tyler provides invaluable career preparation opportunities, such as the Career Success Conference, which gives students a rare insider's view of corporate America before they enter the workforce.”
Obosa Odia CLASS OF 2027 Marketing BBA & Accounting BBA
The University of Texas at Tyler makes it easy to discover your future with more than 90 undergraduate and graduate degree programs leading to in-demand careers in a variety of fields. Plus, small class sizes, affordable tuition and cutting-edge research opportunities combine to create an educational experience unlike any other.
PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD IN 2025
Happy New Year, readers!
It is such a joy to write to you as we settle into 2025. Can you believe another year has come and gone? I suppose it is a symptom of getting older, because it seems to me each year goes by faster than the previous one. And while I’m more grateful every day, I’m especially grateful now as I reflect on the past year and look ahead to this year.
The start of a new year is always refreshing – a new beginning, a fresh start! With that in mind, our January/ February 2025 issue is a brand new theme for us: “New Year, New You.” I hope the stories our team came up with leave you feeling inspired and ready to tackle another 365 days.
New Year’s resolutions are often health-focused, but that’s not the only area you may choose to improve in this year. Maybe you want to digitally unplug, take up a new hobby, spend more time outside or set stricter boundaries in personal or professional relationships. If you need some help sticking to your resolutions, turn to Page 54 where a local counselor shares some tips.
Overall health and wellness is crucial, and one place in East Texas helping people achieve their goals is New You Weight and Wellness, which is featured on Page 38. I love how Hillary Mitchell, owner and nurse practitioner, put it when we spoke: “… Achieving wellness is a holistic journey — one that combines physical health, mental clarity, and personal empowerment.”
Another local place focusing on the holistic approach is Hotel Ritual + Wellness Center in Jacksonville. This is definitely a magazine-worthy establishment; the grounds are so beautiful and the services are something you’d expect to find in a bigger city. Our writer Katecey Harrell’s descriptive story on Page 18 will really transport you there until you’re able to experience it in person for yourself.
Speaking of beautiful places, take a visual tour through the Pinehurst home in Longview on Page 46. We admire the
tender love and care the Tipps put in to restore and preserve this 1932 gem.
While there are certainly many things to appreciate about big cities, there’s nothing like a small East Texas town. Some of our smaller economic development corporations are proving just how much these charming towns have to offer. From attracting big business to pursuing substantial economic growth, our story on Page 10 breaks down everything these EDCs are doing to achieve their goals in 2025 and beyond.
When it comes to our bodies, what we fuel them with is important. Get some food for thought on Page 28 and be encouraged to eat more of what’s good for you and less of what’s not.
It can be difficult to listen to our bodies sometimes, but when there’s something going on that feels out of the ordinary – even the slightest “off” feeling – it’s time to get a checkup.
LaToyia Jordan – our beautiful cover star! – dismissed some of her early symptoms of congestive heart failure and wound up in the hospital. Now, she is an advocate for others to take even the smallest symptoms seriously. Her health journey and ambition to always “thrive” is truly inspiring; read more on Page 61.
As you flip through the pages of this magazine, I challenge you to jot down some goals of your own. It’s going to be another great year in East Texas, and I’m so glad you’re here.
Thank you for your loyal readership and support of ETX View. This issue, and all the ones in the future, are possible because of your help. Don’t forget to send us story ideas! Email info@etxview. com or email me directly.
PUBLISHER
Justin Wilcox
SALES MANAGER
Donna Valentine
ETX VIEW EDITOR
Santana Wood
PUBLICATION DESIGNER
Haley Holcomb-Capps
WRITERS
Jo Lee Ferguson
Jordan Green
Katecey Harrell
Jennifer Scott
Samuel Shaw
Santana Wood
Raquel Villatoro
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Callynth Finney
Jordan Green
Les Hassell
Jennifer Scott
Santana Wood
ADVERTISING SALES
Alyson Durst
Kelly Benton
Kerri Esposito
Paula White
Sonorah Duty
Stuart James
Suzie Wheeler
Zoie Perry
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY Callynth Photography callynthphotography.com
MEET THE ORGANIZATIONS ATTRACTING BIG BUSINESS TO SMALL TOWNS IN EAST
STORY BY SAMUEL SHAW PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
TEXAS
Residents in just about every East Texas city pay a small sales tax to a quasigovernmental entity they may not know exists.
From small offices and downtown suites, the sales tax is collected and funneled into initiatives touching every layer of the regional economy, attracting foreign investments and manufacturing jobs; boosting workforce development and funding public amenities.
In essence, Economic Development Corporations, better known as EDCs, are voter established nonprofit offices that finance local economic growth and community infrastructure with sales tax revenue; all in coordination with a local government.
EDCs in the Pineywoods have helped draw billions of dollars in private investment to their communities since the Texas Legislature allowed their formation in 1979. Residents in a city vote to create an EDC and define its mission based on local needs.
But generally speaking, the corporations come in two flavors: Type A and Type B. Type-A EDCs fund industrial development by offering incentives, purchasing land and building business parks. Meanwhile, Type-B development corporations can finance parks, sports complexes, public housing and other community oriented projects.
Some communities have both, but the choice between an A or B corporation depends on a city’s existing strengths, its vision for the future, and the best way to channel funds for a coherent development plan.
The region’s largest EDCs in Longview and Tyler are just a slice of a thriving ecosystem. Three women leading EDCs in Gladewater, Kilgore and Lakeport offer a peek into what it takes to develop East Texas’ smaller cities and towns.
KILGORE:
COMPETING WITH THE ‘BIG BOYS’
The home of the world’s richest acre had a problem. The oil industry that made Kilgore among the wealthiest communities in the United States during the 1930s was drying up. Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), was set up in 1990 with a deceptively simple mandate: diversify the economy.
“While we have had an amazing history in the oil and gas sector, It's very cyclical,” said KEDC executive director Lisa Denton. “The city did not want to
THE KILGORE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION continues to work to attract business and industry to Kilgore. (Contributed Photo)
LOCAL COMPANIES like Skeeter Boats have chosen to stay and expand in Kilgore because of efforts by the KEDC team. (Lucas Strough Photo)
| CONT. FROM PG. 10
continue riding that roller coaster where when times were good, everything was great, but then at other times, the city was almost bankrupt because oil and gas was down.”
Kilgore opted for a Type-A EDC to attract heavy industry, distribution and manufacturing companies that were capable of keeping the city’s property tax base afloat. Fast forward 34 years and the development corporation’s track record is studded with win after win.
They attracted Closure Systems International, formerly known as Southern Plastics, which is now the city’s second largest taxpayer by property market value at almost 48 million dollars annually. “That was one of our earliest success stories,” Denton said.
Then in 2007, Orgil, the U.S. hardware distribution company, invested $30 million in a Kilgore facility. Today, it’s the largest single taxpayer in the city, contributing $75 million to area tax rolls. Other companies, including local ones like Skeeter Boats, chose to stay and expand in Kilgore because of efforts by the KEDC team. But what was the development corporation's secret?
From the very first, KEDC approached the problem of diversification by focussing on property acquisition or, more specifically, the creation of premier corporate
business parks with generous incentives, while leveraging a skilled local workforce that could fill staffing needs. There are now four KEDC administered business parks. The best known is Synergy Park, constructed in 2006.
The 672-acre expanse features 13 major companies on a sprawling woodland campus anchored with a scenic trail and lake. “By the time we get a prospective company to drive through the front gates, we basically have them already,” Denton said. “It’s a Class A campus style industrial park, which you can't find anywhere else around here. And there probably aren’t many in Texas that can match up to what Synergy offers.”
If KEDC has a problem these days, it’s a lack of space. So many industries have purchased lots at the four existing business parks that KEDC is struggling to find space to keep up with demand. Right now, Denton said, her team is working to acquire more land for a fifth park. But if KEDC has been a victim of its own success, the bottom line is Kilgore’s development corporation achieved what it set out to from the start, though Denton and her team won’t be resting on their laurels.
“In order to compete with the big boys — Waco, Greenville, even Dallas — we've had to make sure that we stay on top of what our offerings are,” she said. That | CONT. ON PG. 14
CONSTRUCTION IN KILGORE
KEDC EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Lisa Denton at Synergy Park.
means fostering partnerships with Kilgore College and LeTourneau University so graduates are trained in the future-facing skills which companies demand.
“Someone's got to be able to operate those machines; someone's got to be able to program the robotics, for example,” Denton said. The idea is to build a pipeline. Not for oil, but for homegrown talent trained at East Texas universities.
“We've got kids that are coming out with an associate's degree before they even walk across the stage with their high school diploma,” Denton said. “We need to continue to see those initiatives increase as well.”
GLADEWATER: THE PAST AND FUTURE HUB
Before there were oil wells in Gladewater, there was a railroad. The Texas and Pacific Railway company founded the city in 1873, where it remained a small train-stop town by the Sabine River until the discovery of fossil fuel reserves a half-century later. And nearly a full century after that discovery, Gladewater EDC, or GEDCO, is taking inspiration from the city’s oldest legacy — its connectedness — to write its next chapter.
“GEDCO is actively working to position the town as a hub for growth and opportunity,” said executive director Anna Conlan. The town of 6,000 is at the confluence of a major railroad, the Sabine River, U.S. Highway 80 and resides roughly half-way between the region’s two largest cities in Tyler and Longview.
Conlan took the job in October when the chance came to move from Frisco back to East Texas where she grew up. The GEDCO director felt like it was an exciting time to come home.
“Obviously, Gladewater sits on the intersection of 271 and Highway 80, and the loop was expanded around the city. All three of those (Texas Department of Transportation) highways are being expanded into four lanes all the way through Gladewater,” Conlan said. Construction on the loop expansion is anticipated to begin next spring, “So it’s just around the corner.”
That will mean opportunities for manufacturing, transportation of goods and could boost the city’s well-established antique tourism sector. Premix-Marbletite, a Floridabased pool supply manufacturer, broke ground on a manufacturing facility just off the southside of Gladewater’s loop in late 2022.
Though Conlan's job involves promoting business and building the city’s tax base, it also demands a level of awareness about what the city’s residents want, using
GEDCO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Anna Conlan in Gladewater.
those insights to direct or steer development instead of being dragged along behind it.
“A community can work with the growth so that they can steer its direction and keep it aligned with community values, as opposed to the growth happening to you,” Conlan said.
Compared to Longview and Kilgore, Gladewater has a far lower proportion of its economy dedicated to manufacturing. It’s a cozy bedroom community with a walkable
OWNERS JACKSON FOLTYN and Lana Niemann at Roxy's Candy Lounge in Gladewater.
UTILITIES WORK IN GLADEWATER.
and thriving downtown, which is why GEDCO is both a Type-A and Type-B development corporation.
Tourism and retail are a significant part of the city’s economic identity, something Conlan sees as a natural strength.
Jackson Foltyn, who brought a theater, general story and most recently, a candy store, to Gladewater’s main commercial drag over the past two years, was case in point, she said.
Making existing businesses like his
feel taken care of is just as essential as drawing in new ones. “Probably 60% of what I do is business retention,” she said.
Foltyn took advantage of one of GEDCO’s initiatives, the Grow Gladewater Grant Program, which provides matching financial support to local businesses for facade and interior improvements. He and his business partner used it for their latest venture, the Roxy Candy Lounge on Main Street. “The program helped Jackson
come in here and create jobs, new businesses,” Conlan said.
“It’s become quite popular.” The city’s well known antique importer, Decorate Ornate, also received funds from the grant.
“It's much easier to continue to grow a business you already have in town than to recruit a new one, but both are important,” Conlan said.
And just like KEDCO, workforce development is a central focus for GEDCO. The corporation partnered | CONT. ON PG. 16
LAKECO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Carol Sammons in Lakeport.
with Kilgore College this year on an Adult Education & Literacy Program at the Gladewater Center for Community Education. That’s in addition to a joint effort with area EDCs and Kilgore College, which is investing in equipment and industry-specific training for the next crop of local employees.
“The opportunity is here in your backyard to be able to graduate from high school or college and stay here, to make a good living, because we've aligned our industry with our workforce progression," Conlan said. “That’s the vision.”
LAKEPORT: ON THE COME-UP
Kilgore and Gladewater aren’t big cities by any stretch, but they are compared to Lakeport, the community of roughly a thousand residents just north of Lake Cherokee.
The challenges for the small, young city — incorporated in 1965 — are different from its neighbors and partly defined by them, too. With only a few miles separating Lakeport from neighboring Longview and Kilgore, LAKECO, the city’s Type-B development
corporation, decided to focus on what was fundamental for its residents, instead of courting large manufacturers.
Figuring out those local needs was one of the main priorities for LAKECO’s founding executive director, Carol Sammons. She transitioned the development corporation from a Type A to Type B in late 2016 to pursue quality of life improvements in the city, and then, just before the COVID pandemic, she and her board saw to a community-wide survey on what residents wanted in Lakeport.
Residents sought a park, “a hotel that they could have a conference in, restaurants and accessible health care,” Sammons said. Through her advocacy, LAKECO was able to fund the city’s first public park project this fall. It’s expected to be complete before the end of the year and will include a play structure, walking trail and shaded picnic and exercise areas.
News of the park’s impending completion was followed up in October with a second pivotal decision for the small community. The city council of Lakeport agreed to finance a new municipal building, allowing the local police department, city workers and LAKECO to move out of the former hay barn which had housed all government services for nearly 50 years.
| CONT. FROM PG. 15
A CUSTOMER shopping at Skinner's Lakeport
Sammons described the municipal building project as an expression of the close collaboration between her office and the Lakeport city government. In such a small community, kick starting growth is a collective endeavor. “We will pay leasing fees to the city in excess of a normal rent just to help along with the building,” Sammons said.
There’s more coming down the pike in the near future. Sammons is reaching out to a consulting firm to fulfill other needs highlighted in the resident survey, namely hotels and restaurants.
She sketched out a future Lakeport where passengers arriving from the nearby East Texas Regional Airport stop into locally owned eateries on their way up to Longview instead of passing Lakeport by. “We’re not trying to get those big chain stores out here. We want those mom and pop shops. A small-city-big-city feel is what we’re trying to market ourselves as,” Sammons said.
Yet one stream of future retail revenue doesn’t depend on the airport or highway traffic, but something that’s been there all along, the Sabine River winding through Lakeport city limits.
The Sabine has experienced a massive increase in kayaking and canoeing since the COVID pandemic and Sammons wants Lakeport to capitalize on the Sabine’s
renaissance.
Currently, the river is the subject of a multi-city effort seeking to install boat access infrastructure and secure a state designated paddling trail. Gregg County officials have backed the paddle trail project this year, in partnership with the cities of Gladewater, Longview and others; each hoping to capture dollars from what could become a regional tourist magnet.
Perhaps none of those communities stand to benefit as much as Lakeport, which already boasts one of the river’s few existing public access points. There’s already a popular seafood restaurant next door to the dock.
“We want to give the paddlers a reason to shop in Lakeport,” Sammons said. “When they get off their kayaks and dock here, they don't have to go to Longview to get a good meal.” LAKECO and the Lakeport city government have been active in discussions surrounding the proposed Sabine paddle trail.
Sammons allowed her imagination to drift like the river toward bigger plans for her community. “I would love to have the Sabine River bank turned into a boardwalk,” she said. It was the sort of “long, long term plan" that was further downstream, but the currents seemed to be pulling in the right direction.
SANCTUARY FOR THE
JACKSONVILLE GETAWAY OFFERS MENTAL, PHYSICAL REFRESH THROUGH LUXURIOUS AMENITIES IN EAST TEXAS
STORY BY KATECEY HARRELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
Hotel Ritual + Wellness Center in Jacksonville isn't just a getaway spot — it's a sanctuary for the soul. Owner Whitney Graham has created an experience that feels ahead of its time, blending ancient healing practices with modern comfort.
"This is the future," Graham explains. "We're working through those subtle energy layers, releasing what no longer serves you. By the end, you come out feeling light as a feather."
This unique retreat offers a range of amenities designed to nourish both body and spirit. Every detail is thoughtfully sourced and curated, aiming to elevate wellbeing at a deeper level.
For a small taste of what Ritual has to offer, people can visit the Luncheonette and Bar at 214 South Main Street. Here, they can enjoy a meal or drink or get a glimpse of the wellness journey, with access to the wellness studio featuring a meditative labyrinth, sound baths and yoga.
The menu features locally sourced products, like Wagyu beef from Texas Beef House and honey from Elzner Farms. Many ingredients, including syrups, are made in-house, and the herbal teas, such as Reishi, are carefully selected for their quality and benefits.
OWNER WHITNEY GRAHAM and Parker Edmondson at Hotel Ritual in Jacksonville.
Across the street from the luncheonette, at 221 S. Main Street is Ritual Laboratorium + Soda Fountain of Youth, guests can explore a collection of all-organic skincare, makeup and body care, while enjoying a selection of homemade organic custards and smoothies.
The Soda Fountain of Youth draws inspiration from the soda fountains of the 1920s, with its vibrant colors and 24 flavors of ice cream. Visitors can sit at the old-fashioned bar and order from a variety of floats, malts, smoothies and more.
Dried herbs from Graham's garden hang from the ceiling, filling the space with a natural, earthy scent. Crystals, religious and retro décor are scattered throughout, creating a space that feels both grounded and full of character. Every detail adds to the unique vibe of the place, making it feel like a sanctuary where the past and present coexist.
The hotel, located at 540 El Paso St., was originally built by W.H. Brown in 1932. Its timeless architecture, featuring elegantly rounded archways, blends seamlessly with eclectic interiors, creating a space that feels both exotic and comforting, with a rich history that adds to its charm.
There are seven uniquely designed suites to choose from, each with its own personality. Some feature pink,
| CONT. FROM PG. 18 | CONT. ON PG. 22
RITUAL LABORATORIUM AND SODA FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH.
HOTEL RITUAL
yellow or blue-themed bathrooms, with a mix of carefully curated wallpaper that adds to the soulful, immersive atmosphere.
The day detox is perfect for a quick reset. In a four-hour session, guests access rain showers, a sauna, a jacuzzi and a temperaturecontrolled pool. A freshly prepared lunch —f ree from artificial ingredients or preservatives — is delivered directly to them.
To unwind further, visitors might tour the gardens, learn about the on-site bees and chickens or participate in a burning bowl ceremony for a more reflective experience. For deeper relaxation, there are Reiki and sound therapy sessions, aligning the body's energy with natural earth frequencies.
The Shirodhara treatment — a 5,000-year-old Ayurvedic practice involving warm sesame oil poured over the forehead — helps reset the mind-body connection.
The Aura Glow treatment offers a complete rejuvenation package, including a sauna, facial, hair treatment, aura cleansing, Reiki and Swedish massage. By the end of the day, guests leave feeling refreshed, balanced and at peace.
When Ritual first opened, the wellness landscape was different. People were attached to traditional routines. COVID-19 changed perceptions, and now more people embrace holistic well-being. The retreat has attracted visitors from all walks of life — Parisian ballerinas, celebrities, CEOs and frontline responders — many of whom describe their experience as "lifechanging."
"People looking for new ways to heal have found us," Graham said. "We're using ancient technologies, reminding them that these rituals are their birthright."
If guests decide to stay longer, they can really immerse themselves in everything the retreat has to offer. Extended stays give the chance to dive deeper into the wellness programs, from personalized treatments to daily rituals.
And in the morning, guests might wake up to the sounds of Parker Edmondson, dressed in period
| CONT. ON PG. 24
RITUAL LABORATORIUM AND SODA FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH.
OWNER WHITNEY GRAHAM waits on a customer at Ritual Laboratorium and Soda Fountain.
CONT. FROM PG. 22
clothing, playing the piano or singing a ragtime tune from the early 1900s. His music sets a timeless, ethereal tone, making it feel like they've been transported somewhere truly special. He may even take guests on a tour in his Model T, or 1928 Durant, offering a charming, nostalgic experience that adds to the retreat's timeless vibe. Cruising through the area in an iconic vehicle, guests get a taste of the past, all while enjoying the serene surroundings of East Texas.
Sacred geometry links all the properties and is deeply connected to the retreat's purpose.
Geometric principles are woven into every corner of the space, enhancing the healing experience and supporting the body's energy and connection to the Earth. Every curve and angle has meaning, creating a harmonious environment that helps guests feel more grounded and balanced.
Graham's journey includes working with a scientist behind glycolic acid, where she learned about alchemy
and its connection to everything from the earth's rhythm to human experience. She believes that trauma disconnects people from their senses as a survival mechanism, and her goal is to help guests release those blocks and reconnect with their true selves.
Looking ahead, Graham plans to expand Ritual's offerings.
Future projects include new treatments, more inhouse products and an anti-anxiety app. There's also talk of an online library, outdoor treatments and musical experiences — all designed to deepen the connection between spiritual consciousness, nature and overall well-being.
"It's about letting go of the past and staying present," Graham said. "We want people to trust that everything they need is already within them."
From a young age, Graham felt an innate desire to help others feel better, though she wasn't sure how that would manifest.
"[My mom] encouraged me to focus on my skills
PARKER EDMONDSON and his Model T at Hotel Ritual.
OWNER WHITNEY GRAHAM in the Ritual Wellness Studio.
in math and science, which came naturally to me, and suggested I consider becoming a doctor," Graham recalled. "She'd buy me National Geographic magazines to broaden my awareness of what was happening in the world. Seeing people suffering, I wanted to help, so I thought I could join the Peace Corps or become a doctor."
Her journey with health and wellness was rooted in her background in science and movement.
"I've been around medicine and working in science for most of my career," she said. "As a gymnast and dancer, I felt light as air when I could do certain things, but as I got older — especially before having my baby — I realized my body was starting to feel different."
She noticed a shift in her energy. "My brain was foggy, I had bouts of low energy and high stress," she explained. "I was running a company with a couple of guys in a busy environment, so there was a lot going on. But what I learned through all of that was the importance of alignment, of becoming aligned with your true self."
For Graham, it was a process of recognizing the need to care for herself more intentionally physically, mentally and emotionally. She focused on preparing her body for pregnancy and balancing her responsibilities, which led her to embrace holistic wellness practices and the rituals that ultimately shaped the foundation of Ritual.
Today, Graham has discovered her true calling — not in traditional medicine, but as an energy practitioner.
"I know it might sound crazy, but it's like being an energy surgeon," she said. "I work with spaces, the way food is prepared and every single detail to promote healing. Ritual isn't just a vacation; it's about what you do every day to put high vibes in and around your body, using only the highest quality things, because we're worth it."
Learn more about Hotel Ritual + Wellness Center or book a stay by visiting hotelritualtexas.com or ritualtexas.com. The property is located at 540 El Paso St. in Jacksonville and can be reached at 903-339-1155.
PARKER EDMONDSON plays piano at Hotel Ritual.
PERSONAL TRAINER CHRIS HILL prepares a lunch using a low-carb tortilla filled with turkey, wilted spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
FOOD for thought
IN NEW YEAR, TRY
EATING FOOD
WITH MORE OF WHAT YOU NEED –AND LESS OF WHAT YOU DON’T
STORY BY JORDAN GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JORDAN GREEN AND LES HASSELL
As a personal trainer, Chris Hill has a mantra for his clients: No matter how much you exercise, you won’t get in shape unless your diet is right. But in America, highly processed foods low in nutrients and laden with unhealthy additives are readily available – and less expensive – than their more natural counterparts.
Americans are accustomed to fast-paced lifestyles and cheap, on-thego eating, and food manufacturers have catered to that demand for years. Many of the boxed and frozen entrees that line grocery store shelves are filled with artificial preservatives, sweeteners and other additives, some of which are banned in other countries because of health concerns. Hill and fellow nutrition-minded folks in East Texas agree improving people’s health begins with eating higher-quality food – and they can start doing that this year.
"We kind of teach them to eat the way God made it. So, if it's a potato, eat it as a potato. Don't eat it as a potato chip or a French fry,” said Hill, owner of Personally Fit training service in Longview.
WHAT’S
THIS STUFF?
If you’ve looked at the ingredient list of your favorite cereal box or frozen breakfast sausage wrapper in bewilderment, you’re not alone. Ingredients like Maltodextrin, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate and Monocalcium Phosphate probably sound more confusing than tasty. Food additives and artificial preservatives have been linked to chronic disease, mental health issues, weakened immunity and more.
“Our food industry has become adept at catering to taste and texture preferences
as well as creating foods that are shelf stable for extended periods of time,” said Marie Tucker, diabetes and nutrition outpatient education program coordinator for Christus Good Shepherd Health System. “It created a place for preservatives, food coloring, artificial flavors, sugars, salts, non-nutritive sweeteners, etc. Any of these ingredients can be problematic. Specific ingredients aren’t likely the problem as much as the overall diet quality.”
Not all food processing is bad, Tucker notes. Fruits and vegetables are canned to preserve their nutritional value. But other forms of food processing – such as flour manufacturing – often strip away natural vitamins and minerals. In the case of bread, they’re replaced after being processed, and the flour is called “enriched flour.”
“There are a lot of landmines out there,” Tucker said. “The overall food pattern should include more foods without lengthy ingredient lists that contain items we can’t even pronounce. We need to eat more whole foods: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins (meats/ fish/beans/nuts/eggs), low-fat dairy products. These nutritious foods should be viewed as fuel for an active and healthy body.”
Two terms shoppers should familiarize themselves with are “organic” and “natural.” They’re similar but not the same. The term “organic” describes how the food was raised, and the food has to meet certain federal standards to be certified as such. Generally, organic farming means crops aren’t treated with hazardous chemicals, and cattle and chicken are raised humanely. Organic substances also don’t contain genetically-modified organisms, which are foods that have scientifically modified DNA. Natural foods generally don’t contain artificial ingredients, but there’s no guarantee they were raised organically.
CONVENIENCE, COST OVER QUALITY
Many industrialized nations such as the U.S. consume too much highly processed food, Tucker said. In part, that’s because people often lack the
CONT. ON PG. 33
SALMON, roasted broccoli with sun-dried tomatoes, and saffron rice prepared by
BAKED
Chris Hill.
PERSONAL TRAINER CHRIS HILL prepares a breakfast meal of scrambled eggs, oatmeal with blueberries, and fresh strawberries at his home in Longview.
time or energy to prepare healthier meals at home.
Another part of the problem is that people often lack the knowledge they need to make healthier choices, said Dana Skaf, a nutritionist and owner of Body Wisdom Breakthru, a weight loss center in Tyler. People are susceptible to aggressive, colorful psychological marketing techniques used by food companies that make food look delectable but don’t inform people about what they’re putting in their bodies. Even foods that seem healthy – like products that advertise being free of sugar and trans fat – contain other ingredients that aren’t good.
Affordability is yet another conundrum: Unhealthier, processed food tends to be cheaper than more natural options, Skaf said.
But eating a healthy diet doesn’t always have to come at a high cost. Perry and Nancy Worthen family
saw a need for affordable, organic food in East Texas in the ’90s when they opened their first grocery store in Gladewater: Granary Health Foods. The store eventually moved to Longview and has expanded to include locations in Tyler, Lindale, Conroe and Texarkana.
The demand for healthier food – free of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs – began in the late 1990s and early 2000s, said Wynn Worthen, Granary’s regional manager. It grew even more as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, when people became more concerned about what they’re putting into their bodies.
The store’s products contain no dyes, artificial flavors or artificial sweeteners. Making healthy food affordable and accessible for families is the company’s goal, Worthen said.
"One of the biggest things at the Granary is we try to keep it as simple as possible. We have very low
overhead. We try to treat people right," he said. "We don't do sales, but our prices normally beat most of our competitors. We just try to do everyday low pricing in order to do that.”
STEP BY STEP
Nutritionists encourage people to check out ingredient labels when they’re making food selections. Skaf also suggests that people avoid shopping in the center aisles of grocery stores. That’s because the freshest, healthiest food –fruits, vegetables, meats and dairy products – are along the walls of the store. She also suggests that shoppers abide by a list to avoid “impulse buying.”
Planning for meals and preparing them in advance can help people avoid trips to the nearest fast food joint for lunch. And, of course, cooking healthy recipes at home is still a good way to eat better food.
Just as important as buying healthy food, however, is caring for a person’s overall health. Skaf teaches clients about brain and gut health, sleep, stress management and more. Rather than a diet, she teaches clients about “lifestyle,” she said. Making any lifestyle changes, however, should be a gradual process: “I think that people need to just have a positive mindset, to be patient and actually give themselves grace,” she said.
"People that jump 100% into things when they're not ready, they never succeed," she said. "And then they try something else and something else, and they keep saying, 'I tried everything. I'm not succeeding.' It's because maybe they're not just taking the steps to do it correctly.”
Hill, the personal trainer, reminds folks to have balanced meals, with protein, carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables.
Hill and Tucker emphasize that having a healthy diet doesn’t mean eliminating foods people enjoy. Rather, moderation is the best approach.
"If you can be 80% compliant to a healthy diet, you'll get physical changes – better physical changes,” Hill said. “But don't expect perfection. No one's gonna ever have a perfect diet.”
A Holistic Journey
Wellness is a combination of physical health, mental clarity, and personal empowerment at New You Weight and Wellness
STORY BY SANTANA WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
Awellness clinic in East Texas is helping clients better themselves, one day at a time.
As the new year gets underway, the team at New You Weight and Wellness Center, with locations in Longview and Marshall, is ready to lend a hand to anyone looking to improve their overall wellbeing.
For owner and nurse practitioner Hillary Mitchell, wellness is a holistic journey. She said it is more than just physical health but a combination of that, mental clarity and strength, and personal empowerment.
In operation for almost four years, New You Weight and Wellness Center was founded with the mission of helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized care and comprehensive support. The business was started by Mitchell, who brings a passion for wellness, nutrition, fitness, personalized care and years of experience as a nurse practitioner.
“The idea for New You Weight and Wellness Center came after COVID after seeing a real need to help people achieve their ultimate wellness to help prevent such severe illnesses down the road,” Mitchell said.
Today, the center’s services include hormone therapy for both men and women, aesthetic treatments, intimate wellness services, weight loss, and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy — all designed to support holistic health and empower individuals on their personal wellness
journeys.
“From our beginnings as a weight loss clinic to becoming a full-service wellness center, New You Weight and Wellness Center remains committed to innovation, compassionate care, and individualized treatment plans that promote lasting change,” Mitchell said.
Mitchell said by providing personalized, evidencebased care, New You Weight and Wellness Center empowers “members of our community to make sustainable lifestyle changes that lead to improved wellbeing.”
“Whether someone is struggling with weight management, experiencing hormone imbalances, or seeking treatments to enhance confidence and quality of life, our services provide the guidance, support, and tools necessary to help them achieve their goals,” she said. “Through our services, we’ve created a compassionate, non-judgmental environment where individuals can access the resources they need, from weight loss to hormone optimization to aesthetic enhancements, all under one roof. We believe that achieving wellness is a holistic journey — one that combines physical health, mental clarity, and personal empowerment — and we are proud to be part of that journey for so many in our community and across Texas.”
While the center offers a variety of services and seeks to provide everything each client needs, Mitchell | CONT. ON
APRIL WEHRING, Practice Manager at New You Weight and Wellness, demonstrates how to use a scale at the Longview clinic. Wehring is wearing fashion from Barron’s and jewelry from Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry.
said two of its most sought-after services are GLP-1 medications and testosterone therapy treatments, both of which have transformative benefits for clients.
GLP-1 medications have gained significant attention for their ability to support sustainable weight loss while also offering a range of health benefits, Mitchell explained. These medications work by regulating appetite, improving blood sugar levels, and promoting satiety, making them an effective tool for individuals struggling with weight management. Beyond their weight loss benefits, GLP-1 medications can improve overall metabolic health, helping individuals feel better and achieve lasting results.
“We also offer testosterone therapy treatments, which have proven highly beneficial for both men and women experiencing hormone imbalances,” Mitchell said. “Low testosterone can impact everything from weight, energy levels, mood, and muscle mass. Through personalized testosterone therapy, we can help restore balance, improve vitality, and support mental and physical wellbeing.”
Clients rave about the center’s services.
“We have over 500 five-star reviews on Google! We also have very strong word-of-mouth referrals which means that our current clients are trusting us to also care for their friends and family,” Mitchell said. “We also have a retention rate of over 90% with our clients, meaning most people continue to return for our services for at least 6 months. This is unheard of in the weight loss industry and tells us that we have managed to create a program that is not only effective, but that our clients value being a part of and want to continue to stick to.”
What sets New You Weight and Wellness Center apart is its personalized, holistic approach to health and wellness, Mitchell said.
“Unlike others, we combine evidence-based treatments like GLP1 medications, hormone therapy, aesthetic services, and intimate wellness treatments under one roof,
CONT. ON PG. 43
APRIL WEHRING models layered rings, earrings and necklaces from Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry in Longview.
NEW YOU WEIGHT AND WELLNESS EMPLOYEES pose for a photo, including, from left, Victoria Williams, Tiffany Bryant, April Wehring and Courtney Castle. The ladies are modeling fashion jewelry and clothes provided by Barron’s and fine jewelry provided by Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry in Longview.
THESE FUNKY SHOES are perfect for someone with a bright personality. They’re available at Barron’s in Longview.
SKINCARE PRODUCTS are on display at New You Weight and Wellness in Longview.
TIFFANY BRYANT models fashion from Barron’s at New You Weight and Wellness in Longview.
COURTNEY CASTLE takes a brief break from her job at New You Weight and Wellness to model fashion from Barron’s and jewelry from Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry.
| CONT. FROM PG. 40
offering comprehensive, individualized care,” she said. “We prioritize convenience with our virtual clinic and Longview and Marshall locations, ensuring accessible, supportive solutions for clients across Texas. Our focus isn’t just on weight loss but on empowering clients to achieve sustainable, long-term well-being through innovative, customized treatment plans.”
Since its inception, New You Weight and Wellness Center has grown to become a trusted resource in the community, focusing on individualized treatment plans and fostering lasting, positive lifestyle changes. The business has grown significantly since it was founded, having expanded its physical facilities twice to accommodate the needs of its clients.
“Additionally, we’ve expanded our services beyond our original focus on weight loss to offer a comprehensive range of health and wellness solutions,” Mitchell said. “In response to the needs of our clients, we’ve also opened a second location in Marshall, Texas, and launched a virtual clinic to provide convenient, accessible care across the entire state.”
The staff at both locations are essential to such a positive environment that leaves clients feeling welcome, comfortable and ready to achieve their goals.
“Our team at New You Weight and Wellness Center is composed of highly trained, compassionate, and experienced professionals dedicated to supporting each client on their unique wellness journey,” Mitchell said. “Our staff includes licensed healthcare providers, wellness specialists, and trained support professionals who bring expertise in weight management, hormone therapy, aesthetic treatments, and intimate wellness services.”
Each member of the team is committed to creating a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes, Mitchell said.
“Their expertise allows us to offer personalized, evidence-based care tailored to individual needs, ensuring clients receive the guidance and tools necessary to achieve their goals,” she added. “Our staff plays a vital role in helping clients not just lose weight but adopt sustainable lifestyle habits that support long-term health and well-being. Their professionalism, encouragement, and dedication are central to building trust, fostering motivation, and ensuring every client has the best chance at success.”
When it comes to making New Year’s resolutions,
| CONT. ON PG. 44
Mitchell offered encouragement by reminding us this is a time for celebration, connection and joy.
“It's important to give yourself grace during this time. Remember, it’s OK to enjoy the festivities, indulge in your favorite treats, and spend time with loved ones,” she said, reflecting on the holiday season. “One day or one week of holiday celebrations won’t derail all the progress you’ve made. Success is about consistency over time, not perfection.”
Additionally, prioritizing your wellness — even just a little — can set you up for long-term success, she said.
“Any time or effort invested in supporting your physical and mental well-being now can save both time and money in the future by helping you maintain balance and optimal health,” Mitchell said. “Approach the season with flexibility, kindness toward yourself, and the understanding that taking care of yourself is a gift worth giving all year long.”
Mitchell and her team promote consistency when it comes to making positive changes for your health.
“At New You Weight and Wellness Center, we recognize that we are not offering quick fixes or ‘cures’ but instead provide tools, support, and strategies that contribute to long-term, sustainable wellness,” Mitchell said. “Weight management and overall well-being are lifelong journeys, and our approach is focused on helping clients create lasting change through personalized, evidence-based treatments and holistic care.
“Our services are designed to address individual needs and support lasting health — not just short-term results. While quick fixes might offer immediate change, they rarely lead to sustainable progress. That’s why our focus is on empowering clients with options that foster balance, improved habits, and overall vitality over time.”
Fortunately, Mitchell said her team partners with clients every step of the way, offering guidance, education, and compassionate care to help them achieve their goals in a way that builds confidence and supports long-term well-being.
“Our mission is to provide options that contribute to lasting change rather than temporary solutions — because true wellness is about consistency, self-care, and making choices that last a lifetime,” she said.
As New You Weight and Wellness heads into 2025, Mitchell’s team aims to “continue to be the clinic of choice for wellness and weight management in East Texas,” she said.
The Longview clinic is located at 905 Judson Rd. while the Marshall clinic is located at 115 E. Austin St. For more information, call 903-2120556, email info@newyoulongview.com or visit newyoulongview.com .
VICTORIA WILLIAMS models a printed dress from Barron’s along with fashion jewelry provided by Barron’s.
THANK YOU!
In each issue of ETX View, we are thankful for a number of supporters who help bring these pages to life. Kicking off the new year, our January/February 2025 fashion shoot was held inside a venue many people will find themselves as they look to start anew this year — New You Weight and Wellness Center.
Owner Hillary Mitchell, NP, was so gracious to allow our staff to come by and make ourselves at home at the center on a rainy Tuesday afternoon. Practice Manager April Wehring was so helpful during the shoot, plus she made a wonderful model! Other staff members who volunteered as tribute included Courtney Castle, Victoria Williams and Tiffany Bryant. Each of them were such good sports and looked stunning. The ladies wore fashion from Barron’s in Longview and gorgeous jewelry from Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry. Thank you to these two community partners who helped our models look and feel their best.
Thank you to each of these individuals and businesses who partnered with us to make this photo shoot happen. Thank you to the other New You employees who were kind and didn’t mind us running around their clinic for a couple hours during the shoot, and for the clients who weren’t fazed by a casual Tuesday at New You.
Of course, we have to thank our incredible team members at ETX View who help coordinate the fashion shoot for each issue. From our savvy advertising team to our amazing photographer and talented designer, their diligent efforts and creative minds make these sections look fantastic every single time.
If you would like to support ETX View’s fashion or other sections, please contact sales manager Donna Valentine at dvalentine@ mrobertsmedia.com or 409-4992229.
APRIL WEHRING and Victoria Williams model fashion and jewelry from Barron’s and Jim Bartlett Fine Jewelry.
VICTORIA WILLIAMS showcases casual jewelry provided by Barron’s.
‘A BEAUTIFUL PLACE TO LIVE’
Pinehurst homeowners preserve 1932 home, maintaining historical architecture, other elements
STORY BY JO LEE FERGUSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
Woodie and Debbie Tipps have trouble picking their favorite part of the house they live in now — one of Longview’s most iconic homes: Pinehurst at 1210 Judson Road.
For Woodie, it’s probably the light that enters the house through numerous windows. For Debbie, it’s probably the fountain she installed herself in the side yard, replacing a koi pond that previously was there.
“I love it all….” Woodie said. “You often think old houses are dark or cave-like or whatever, but this house, you know, it's up on this hill…. I said just this last night, the sunsets up here are the most beautiful, and I don't know if they're any prettier anywhere else in town. It seems like you're up higher, and (the views) are maybe more unobstructed.”
It’s like living in a treehouse, he adds.
Most people in Longview have never actually seen this home. It was built up on a hill that’s long been shrouded by a stone fence and trees.
It was built in 1932 by one of Longview’s notable families. Jack Yates first bought what was 400 acres of land in that area. He became president of the First National Bank the year after it was robbed by the Dalton Gang in 1894. His wife, Mary Alice Yates, became the first female bank president in Texas after he died in 1908.
The family at that time lived in a house where Heritage Plaza is today, until the Yates’ daughter, Genevieve, married nationally known doctor V.R. Hurst.
Hurst built the new house on the land Yates owned, which is located on what is now Judson Road. Genevieve was the grandmother of B.H. Jameson, Gregg County Precinct 1 Justice of the peace. His mother also lived there for many years, but it had been vacant for more than a decade
| CONT. ON PG. 49
VISUAL
READING NOOK in the Pinehurst Tipps Home.
when the Tipps discovered it. They bought Pinehurst on Dec. 9, 2020, and immediately began renovations.
Debbie fell in love with the home immediately when they toured it, even though it had a leaky roof and would need a lot of work to bring it back to its original beauty. Her husband said he wasn’t far behind her.
The Tipps had never restored a home before, but they knew they didn’t want to change it into a modern-looking home. They wanted to restore it to its original construction as much as possible.
They joked it was like the day when they walked out of the hospital with their first daughter – they have two adult daughters – and Debbie said the hospital shouldn’t be letting them leave with that baby because they didn’t know what to do with her.
But they already had a contractor in mind who they knew would be as committed as they were to maintaining the home’s integrity – Ricky Parker and his Parker Building Contractors in Henderson, which is where the couple previously lived.
“Before we decided for sure that we were gonna buy the house, we had Ricky come and look, and we said, ‘OK, is there anything about this project that scares you?’ And he looked at the house, and he said, ‘Let me sleep on it over the weekend, and I'll let you know.’
And he called us on Monday and said, ‘I like your project. There's nothing about it that scares me. I'll do it.’”
The Tipps praised Parker, but also the crew who worked with him. Parker is “awesome” they said, and his crew is “fantastic.’
They were there working 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. each weekday at the house, the Tipps said. Woodie said they became like family, so much so that he felt a sense of loss when the project was finished and the workers stopped coming to the house.
The couple said Parker knew who to call anytime a door, for instance, needed to be rebuilt from | CONT. ON PG. 51
OWNERS WOODIE AND DEBBIE TIPPS at the Pinehurst Tipps Home.
scratch so it would match the house.
A major repair required his ability to find the right person with the right skills and the right machinery needed for a special project. Debbie said before they bought the house, one of the six columns on the front of the house was lost to a storm.
“Ricky found somebody – an Amish man in Pennsylvania – who had all the equipment to make a wooden column that would look exactly like the other ones,” Debbie said.
One of the last features that was restored in the house were the original chandeliers, which were still hanging when the couple moved in in August 2023. They took the chandeliers to a place in Dallas for restoration. They were hanging from the homes’ ceilings again just in time for the Gregg County Historical Museum’s Architectural Home Tour in September.
“We love original design and architecture,” Debbie said. “When somebody goes in and starts remodeling (an older home), and they add new things, you really lose the character of the home. And we wanted to
maintain the character of the home. This is a house that people have been curious about for many, many years, and when we saw it, I mean … you know, they say love is blind. It's true. I mean, even with holes in the roof … The day we saw the house, it was raining. And when we came inside, thinking we were going to be dry, it was raining inside too. …. All I could see was the beauty, the archways, the woodwork, the French doors, and just all the things that we would want in a house. You know, they just don't make houses like this.”
Woodie said he was probably “excessive” about maintaining the integrity of the original design.
“This house is so symmetrical and precise and all that, you know, if you started changing things, it would lose that integrity,” he said.
That symmetry means the front door opens to a long, wide hallway that allows a view all the way to the back door with a window-view of the back yard. Rooms lines with windows are on either side of that hall and the stairway goes up to the second floor. The home has four bedrooms, but the couple has arranged two of them as their master suite.
| CONT. FROM PG. 49
At the time the home was built, kitchens were small, the couple said. Some suggested they should take out walls and make it larger, but they even wanted to maintain the kitchen and found ways to maximize the space there while adding modern appliances. The kitchen is attached to a butler’s pantry.
The Tipps are still working on some interior touches, but they clearly are happy with the house they saved for the future.
“It’s almost like nature comes in,” Debbie said, and they have a great view of Longview’s early morning Great Texas Balloon Race from a second floor balcony. It was like the balloons sailed right by them, she said.
“It’s just a really beautiful place to live. It’s like living in the woods, only you’re in the middle of downtown,” she said. “It’s hard for me to find something I don’t like.”
| CONT. FROM PG. 51
LOUISE keeps an eye on the happenings at the Pinehurst Tipps Home.
FRESH START Tyler counselor gives advice to stick to your New Year’s resolutions
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY
FBY JENNIFER SCOTT
rench writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry once said: "A goal without a plan is just a wish."
The new year is a chance to pause, reflect and dream about what’s next. It’s the season of resolutions, where we dare to believe in change and fresh starts. For you, maybe 2025 is the year to lose weight, embrace a healthier lifestyle, or pick up a new hobby: gardening, pottery, or crafting candles out of old whiskey bottles. Whatever you choose to resolve, the new year is an invitation to grow.
However, for many, starting the new year with big plans can leave them feeling overwhelmed just a few weeks in. People often make New Year's resolutions and put pressure on themselves to maintain their goals rather than consider smaller, more meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier version of themselves.
“When it comes to goals, one of the best ways to approach that is to create SMART goals… Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-specific goals,” said Brittany Bryant, licensed professional counselor in Tyler. “That really helps zone in the goals to make sure they are something that you can really relate to. Something that's doable, something in a time-specific way so that you don't have a goal a year out and you feel like you're never getting there.”
Bryant owns a private practice called Living Water Counseling and Consulting, where she conducts sessions virtually from home. She is also a
certified personal trainer and fitness/nutrition specialist.
“A lot of times, clients will come with anxiety goals — goals to get rid of anxiety, goals to change habits,” Bryant said. “A lot of times my clients, whether it's personal training or counseling, their goal is to create change. No matter if it's anxiety, depressed mood, getting motivated to move their body, losing weight, it all comes down to change.”
As a counselor, Bryant will use action-based or solution-focused coping skills, which are strategies that involve taking proactive steps to directly address a problem or challenge. These strategies focus on identifying potential solutions and implementing concrete actions to achieve positive outcomes rather than dwelling on negative emotions or the problem itself.
“It gets them out of their comfort zone in order to create this change,” she said. “And that does include having hobbies and doing the action things that make them uncomfortable. What we dive into is basically what the goals are and how you are getting the results, and we’re also creating systems to get there. That's the process to lead to those results.”
When working toward a healthier lifestyle, it’s important to foster a more positive relationship with food and exercise. Many with these goals view them as obligations or sources of stress.
“One of the best ways is to not take an allor-nothing approach,” Bryant said. “You don't have to make such drastic all-or-nothing changes because when you do that, it's very easy to fail.”
Bryant recommends making small, substantial changes and finding healthier alternatives. For example, if you’re an emotional eater and tend to reach for unhealthy snacks, substitute those choices with healthier options.
“Maybe reach for an apple or a fruit bowl instead,” she said. “It’s about creating healthier habits over time.”
When approaching goals, it’s important to celebrate small wins. Children are often motivated by a reward system – earning a sticker for completing homework or ice cream for behaving in the grocery store – and the same principle can be applied to adults.
“I think when we reward ourselves, it’s as if to say ‘Hey, I’m on the right track,’” Bryant said. “Everybody's different… it's like ‘I've done all this work, I'm gonna go get me a cupcake… I'm gonna go get me an iced coffee.’ Then some people might want to buy a new workout outfit. It’s creating a tangible reward for tangible goals.”
In a world dominated by notifications, scrolling and endless feeds, the new year can be a good time to consider a digital detox. Bryant believes one of the biggest detriments to mental
BRITTANY BRYANT
SPENDING MORE TIME WITH YOUR HOBBIES – or starting a new one – is a great way to digitally unplug, which is something many people may prioritize in the new year.
SOME GOAL-SETTERS may wish to spend more time outside or in nature. Pictured, a man fishes and hikers walk a trail at Tyler State Park on New Year’s Day in 2023.
(Santana Wood Photos)
| CONT. FROM PG. 56
health regarding social 6edia is how much people compare their lives with the lives of others.
“I have had a negative relationship and burnout with social media and have had to take a pause and delete it because of the negative impact it can have,” Bryant said. “I see that there is a trap that a lot of people get into with a comparison game… whether that's somebody's life, whether that's looking at somebody who maybe looks skinnier than you, is healthier than you, taking more trips than you… doesn't matter where it's coming from.”
Cutting back on screen time or taking a break from social media can improve sleep and free up mental space for more fulfilling activities.
“I used the approach of cutting it off like a cancer,” Bryant said. “I just cut it off for an extended period of time instead of just doing it partly because social media can be a lot of doom scrolling and suck you in so quickly.”
For some, quitting cold turkey is easier said than
done. Health Magazine recommends turning off push notifications, putting away your phone during mealtimes, designating bedtime as a no-tech zone, and doing a cleaning of apps and social media accounts.
You can also start reading physical books more often, or even go the extra mile to add community in the mix by joining a local book club.
Bryant emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the natural world for peace and clarity. She recommends a holistic approach called “grounding” which is essentially finding peace outside by taking your shoes off and letting your feet feel the grass. She says it’s not only a good way to start the day but a good way to tune out any distractions.
“I will go and I will stand or I will sit outside and I'll have my feet on the ground for at least 20 minutes a day,” Bryant said. “I don't have any phones near me –no, social media, nothing. I tune the world out and that is my space to just exist.”
There are many ways to reconnect with nature in general, through hiking, canoeing, having a picnic, or
just enjoying a leisurely walk. East Texas abounds with natural beauty for you to take in.
Heading into the new year could also mean reevaluating financial goals, like creating a budget, managing debt, or saving for future milestones like a new house or a dream vacation.
“The upward trend of household debt underscores the growing financial obligations many Americans face,” said Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. “With the current economic climate, it is crucial to be vigilant about our spending and saving habits.”
To combat debt, BBB recommends strategies like transferring credit card balances to lower-interest options and prioritizing repayment strategies – either tackling high-interest debts first or paying off smaller balances to build momentum. Additionally, vigilance against scams and careful research when choosing businesses can protect both your finances and peace of mind. Free online tools, such as the BBB debt solution tool, are also available to help you stay on track.
When it comes to budgeting, the rule of thumb is simple: stop spending more than you earn. Start by getting an accurate picture of your finances – figure out how much debt you have and track your spending. Differentiate between fixed expenses, needs, and wants. Include debt repayment goals in your budget, and if possible, factor in retirement and emergency savings. Small adjustments, like cooking at home instead of ordering takeout or exploring additional income sources such as selling unused items or parttime work, can make a big difference.
To tackle debt, BBB recommends strategies like transferring credit card balances to lower-interest options and choosing a repayment plan that works for you - whether it’s paying off high-interest debts first or clearing smaller balances to build momentum. Be vigilant against scams, research businesses carefully, and take advantage of free tools like the BBB debt solution tool to guide your financial journey.
Whatever “new you” awaits in 2025, let it be rooted in self-care, renewed hope, and potential growth.
LATOYIA JORDAN
Tyler heart survivor continues health journey THRIVE IN 2025
STORY BY RAQUEL VILLATORO PHOTOGRAPHY BY LES HASSELL
It was late fall 2023 when Tyler resident LaToyia Jordan started to experience difficulty while going up a short flight of stairs or walking from her car to her front door. By the time she made it to her short destination, she was out of breath. Jordan began experiencing the shortness of breath around late September/early October that year. Despite experiencing these symptoms, she did not realize it was linked to heart issues.
It wasn’t until later she learned she had chronic congestive heart failure. Now, she tells others to listen to their bodies.
“Women … we don't listen to our bodies,” Jordan said. “And had I listened to my body months before, probably could have figured this out and not had to go through that process.”
After spending Thanksgiving 2023 with friends and family, Jordan’s breathing issues continued. For weeks, she had trouble sleeping. She could not lay flat and had a “horrible cough.” She tried multiple ways to alleviate the issue, including medicine and a nebulizer. But nothing helped.
On the Saturday after Thanksgiving, she was sitting with her daughter in her home when she told her daughter how bad she felt.
“I feel horrible,” Jordan said. “...I can't take having to sleep sitting up, can't properly breathe (or) walk into the bathroom.”
Although Jordan dismissed it as needing to lose weight, she knew it was more than that. Later that night, Jordan’s daughter drove her to the emergency room. When she got to the ER, her blood pressure was high and her heart rate was elevated. The doctor recommended she see a cardiologist, and Jordan was then admitted to the Christus Louis and Peaches Owen Heart Hospital.
Jordan said she is grateful for the quick response from the local medical professionals. She has heard negative stories of women, especially Black women, being ignored when raising health concerns.
“I was blessed to be able to have doctors and nurses who saw the issue and just jumped in like, OK, this is what we're going to do,’” Jordan said.
At the time Jordan did not have health insurance. “Oh God, I don't know how to pay for this. I don't even know if they're going to see me,” Jordan recalls thinking.
Despite her worries, she blocked those thoughts out. “I have to get healthy,” Jordan said. “Whatever it’s gonna cost, we’ll just have to figure that out later.”
Jordan stayed at the hospital for four to five days. She learned she had fluids around her heart, lungs, knees and ankles.
Before going to the hospital, she had swollen ankles for over a year and a half but ignored it. A cousin of Jordan’s, who was an occupational therapist, once pointed at her ankles and told her she needed to get them looked at. She had trouble sitting for long because her ankles would swell. Now Jordan knows this was a symptom of congestive heart failure.
Her other symptoms were shortness of breath, sleeping sitting up and high blood pressure. In addition, her ejection fraction number — the number used to gauge how healthy one’s heart is, according to Penn Medicine — was 30%. A normal heart functions at 50% or higher, according to Penn Medicine.
During the hospital stay, they took out four liters of fluids from Jordan.
“Once the fluid started coming off, I could feel myself feeling better,” Jordan said. “And I was like, ‘man, that’s so crazy.’ That fluid — having that much fluid around your body — takes a toll on your quality of life at the end of the day.”
After getting on medication and doing regular checkups, Jordan felt good.
In the past year, she has had two hospital stays. She has a great care team consisting of her doctor, Emily Cannon. She recently saw a heart failure specialist at Baylor
LATOYIA S. JORDAN, right, helps LaCrecia Steward set up before a media conference.
Scott and White in Dallas because her symptoms are starting to return. Recently, she has felt more fatigued. Through the specialist, Jordan will receive genetic testing to find out why she has congestive heart failure. She hopes with the testing, the heart program she is in and through prayer, her team finds the right treatment.
“I had to really scale back on a lot of the things that I do, which has been hard, because I like to be out in the community,” Jordan said. “I like to go but it's also opened doors for me to be able to get more involved with the American Heart Association.”
Through the American Heart Association, Jordan has found support from heart advocate ShantaQuilette DeVelle Carter Williams. In addition, her family and friends have been there for her.
Finding out she had congestive heart failure has changed Jordan’s life. She spent time doing cardiac rehab. She is more mindful about what she eats and exercises more.
As part of a 12-week cardiac rehab program at Christus, Jordan gradually worked on increasing her time on multiple exercise machines — mainly the treadmill and elliptical — as a heart monitor read her heart rate. The program helped her with her diet and provided needed support as she learned how to better take care of her body after her diagnosis.
Through her journey, Jordan has learned to not take life for granted.
“I am learning to just take it one day and do things that make me happy, that are good for my family,” Jordan said. “(It) has made my faith stronger. It's made me want to accomplish the things that I want to do, and not take no for an answer, because tomorrow's not promised to anybody.”
She encourages others to listen to their bodies and take even the smallest symptoms seriously.
In 2025, Jordan hopes to keep moving forward, work on saying no and listening to her body’s limits. She is excited to keep working on her fashion blazer collection, continue to be an advocate and shoulder for those with heart disease. She has her own brand, Thriving Daily Media, in which works in digital media as a visibility specialist, content creator and podcaster. She helps people “own the spotlight and thrive with passion,” through personal brand development, creating influential content, increasing visibility for nonprofits, and more. Learn more at thrivingdailymedia.com or call her at 903-655-4325.
“Thrive” has been Jordan’s word since 2020. In fall 2024, she and a friend celebrated a year of being healthy and surviving after meeting at the hospital.
“I'm gonna thrive in 2025,” Jordan said.
And others should be encouraged to do the same.
| CONT. FROM PG. 63
LATOYIA JORDAN is a thriving entrepreneur and active community member who is now encouraging others to pay attention to health symptoms. (Callynth Photography/Contributed Photo)
Introducing ETX View Elite, sponsored content within ETX View Magazine that highlights the best local businesses in our community. Discover the extraordinary entrepreneurs and unique offerings that make our region special. From cozy boutiques to innovative startups to established local favorites, ETX View Elite is your guide to supporting and exploring the local economy. Join us in celebrating the businesses that make our community thrive with exclusive offers and insider tips. Connect with ETX View Elite for a delightful exploration of our remarkable local businesses and services. If you are interested in being part of ETX View Elite, contact Sales Manager Tracy Stopani at 903-237-7726. rom season will be here before you know it! We are ready for you at The Dress Co. and The Tuxedo Co. We offer the latest trends as well as iconic styles in a wide range of sizes. We believe prom is all about expressing your unique personality as you celebrate the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. Come and see why we are The Best Of East Texas!
CASA FLORA
This Valentine’s Day, express your love in the most timeless and beautiful way with Casa Flora. We specialize in crafting exquisite floral arrangements that speak the language of romance. Imagine the look on your partner’s face when they receive a stunning bouquet of red roses, the quintessential symbol of love and passion.
At Casa Flora, we understand that every love story is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of arrangements, from classic dozen roses to lavish bouquets that include a mix of seasonal blooms. Each arrangement is lovingly designed by our skilled florists, ensuring that your gift is as special as your relationship.
In addition, we have unique gift items along with fruit and candy arrangements for the perfect fit for all your Valentines!
This Valentine’s Day, don’t just settle for ordinary. Choose Casa Flora to deliver a heartfelt message. Whether you’re celebrating a new romance, a lifelong partnership, or simply want to show appreciation to
someone special, our flowers are the perfect choice.
Ordering is easy! Visit our new website or stop by our shop to explore our selection. We also offer sameday delivery, so you can surprise your loved one at just the right moment. We also offer recurring deliveries fully customizable to fit your schedule.
Flowers, Gifts & Love Delivered.
https://casafloraflowers.com/
JAN/FEBRUARY CALENDAR events
BULLARD
FOUNDER’S DAY & GRAND
OPENING OF FINE ARTS CENTER
5 P.M. JAN. 12
The Brook Hill School 1051 N Houston St https://www.brookhill.org/ foundersday/
CANTON
COCOA WITH THE COUNSELORS
4:30 P.M. - 6:30 P.M. JAN. 17
Erin Williams Counseling 335 W Dallas St https://tinyurl.com/43wn58ub
FIRST MONDAY TRADE DAYS
8 A.M. - 5 P.M. FEB. 27 FEB. 28
First Monday Trade Days 800 First Monday Lane https://www.visitcantontx.com/
CARTHAGE
PANOLA COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH ROUNTABLE
9 A.M. - 12 P.M. JAN. 22
Panola College 1109 W Panola St https://tinyurl.com/5n6nby78
CHANDLER
SEAN CHRISTOPHER
5:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. JAN. 25
Doc’s Cellar Tx 113 E Main St https://tinyurl.com/4jtd7v9e
DAINGERFIELD
BOOK TO MOVIE
10 A.M. - 12 P.M. JAN. 30
Daingerfield Public Library 207 Jefferson St https://tinyurl.com/3hjtt9yw
Oak Crossing Event Center 101 Glenda St. https://tinyurl.com/2saph66v
— CALENDAR OF EVENTS COMPILED BY STAFFER RAQUEL VILLATORO. TO SUBMIT YOUR EVENT FOR CONSIDERATION IN THE MARCH/APRIL ISSUE OF ETX VIEW, EMAIL DETAILS TO INFO@ETXVIEW.COM BY JAN. 15.
