Charm July-August 2016

a p r i l l b r a n d o n | p i c t u r e t h i s ! | fa s h i o n JULY/AUGUST 2016

COVER STORY

kdklb (kim droege keeps longview beautiful)

ALSO INSIDE

beauty

CopYCATS tale as old

AS Time

Kyle Lopez Knee replacement success story

“I was walking on my own in a week. No walker. No cane.”

Years of athletics had taken a major toll on Kyle’s knees. He had one replaced in January of 2014. He had the second one replaced in October, with the knee replacement program at Longview Regional Medical Center. “The experience was amazing,” said Kyle. “The new pain medication allowed me to get up and walk just two hours after surgery without feeling groggy. They prepared me well, and taught my wife how to be my coach. People think they have to go to Dallas to get their surgeries done. But I’m telling them we have a great program right here in Longview. They did an excellent job!”

For more information on The Center for Joint Restoration, visit LongviewRegional.com.

Or, to register for our next free orthopedic seminar, call 903-233-4770.

Patient results may vary. Consult your physician about the benefits and risks of any surgical procedure or treatment.

800.999.2328

JULY/AUGUST 2016

s t n e t n o C Beauty: Beauty Copycats

Feature: Keeping The Ladies of Longview Beautiful

10

Feature: Tale As Old As Time

20

Fashion: A Touch Of Elegance

26

23

On the Cover Features 16

20

Cover Story: KDKLB (Kim Droege Keeps Longview Beautiful) Keeping The Ladies Of Longview Beautiful

26

Tale As Old As Time

32

Aprill Brandon: Mirror, Mirror, On The Wall

Health & Beauty 13

Fashion 23

Beauty Copycats

4 Charm | j u ly / au g u s t

A Touch Of Elegance

School 30

Health & Beauty 10

Skin Care 101

BeYOUtiful

In Every Issue 35

Picture This!

Kim Droege sees Longview’s beauty inside and out. She’s making it her mission to ensure visitors to the city see it for decades to come. pg. 16

Spot the Charm Our May/June Spot the Charm winner was Kim Cassin and she has chosen a $100 VISA gift card. She spotted the charm on page 28 in our last issue!

We invite you to spot a special Charm logo in this edition. If you locate it, sign on to mycharmonline.com and click the Spot the Charm link on the homepage.

charm july/august 2016 PUbLiSher Stephen McHaney ediTor Ric Brack • 903.237.7759 • rbrack@news-journal.com PUbLicATion direcTor April Moore • 903.232.7206 • amoore@news-journal.com MAnAGinG ediTor Christina Lane • 903.237.7724 • clane@news-journal.com ArT direcTor Katie Case • 903.237.7715 • kcase@news-journal.com PhoToGrAPher Chris Lozano • 903.237.7246 • clozano@news-journal.com deSiGner Rebecca McCallum iLLUSTrATor Michelle Laverell conTribUTinG wriTerS Aprill Brandon • Annie Davis Jimmy Isaac • Christina Lane • Amy McHaney Robyn Miga • Megan Whitworth AdverTiSinG direcTor Larry Jobe • 903.237.7727 • ljobe@news-journal.com AccoUnT execUTiveS Sarah Alford • 903.232.7287 • salford@news-journal.com Thomas Bonner • 361.574.1249 • tbonner@vicad.com Chris Dean • 903.237.7719 • cdean@news-journal.com John Habinc • 903.232.7221 • jhabinc@news-journal.com Trisha Hall • 903.237.7776 • thall@news-journal.com Tracy Stopani • 903.237.7726 • tstopani@news-journal.com Donna Spencer • 903.237.7721 • dspencer@news-journal.com Amanda Taylor • 903.232.7276 • ataylor@news-journal.com circULATion Josh Hart • 903.237.7765 • jhart@news-journal.com ProdUced bY TcM PrinTinG Sherri Goodwin • 903.232.7245 • sgoodwin@tcmprinting.com

mycharmonline.com

6 Charm | J U LY / AU G U S T

letter

Let’s face it, a great hair gel can’t replace a great haircut, and pretty

Dear Readers, I read an article

eyeshadow is useless unless we know how to apply it properly.

recently about the

In this issue, the Charm team set out to meet the local

amount of money

professionals who devote their careers to helping women look and

women spend on

feel their best.

products

It’s no surprise that we found some truly wonderful women

each year. I can’t

who love what they do. From gorgeous hair and knockout smiles

remember

beauty

the

to flawless foundation and a beautiful soul, these ladies have got

exact amount, but

you covered. We’re happy to bring you their stories, and we hope

I recall thinking

you’ll love them as much as we did.

at

the

that

it

shockingly

time

On a personal note, it is time for me to leave the beloved

seemed

Charm team. After three years of working with some of the most

high.

talented and wonderful people I’ve ever met, I am moving on to a

I started to think about how much I spend on a monthly basis, just to look “normal.”

I just use a few basic items, right?

different phase of my career.

It’s amazing how close we get to the people we work with everyday, and this team has been a part of my life that I will

Well there’s makeup, of course. Then there are hair products,

never forget. I’m grateful that I got the opportunity to work with

beauty creams and moisturizers, body lotions, nail polish and self-

them, and I’ve learned so much from them. I have no doubt that

tanners. Honestly, if someone told me they had a miracle pill that

they will continue to “wow” me as I watch the magazine grow

would make me look great when I roll out of bed, I’d probably buy

and evolve.

it quicker than Jack bought the beanstalk beans.

So from now on, I’ll be right here with you every month

Okay, so maybe a gazillion dollars a year is accurate.

when the magazine comes out, waiting to enjoy it and see what

As women we spend countless dollars and hours on our

fabulousness they have to offer. I’m sure we won’t be disappointed.

appearance. But in the words of my favorite ad campaign by L’Oreal, I believe we’re worth it.

While the cost of a beauty regimen may be high, the professionals who help us maintain our appearance are priceless.

April Moore amoore@news-journal.com

OUR MAKEOVER IS UNDERWAY BUT THE SHOPPING NEVER STOPS! Open normal hours during construction.

LONGVIEWMALL.COM

8 Charm | J U LY / AU G U S T

HealtH & beauty

conair Infinity Pro Curl Secret

Five StarS From alittlebirdloSt – Amazon.com I have NEVER, I repeat, NEVER been able to get a curl in my hair. I got a perm when I was a kid and (it) fell out … I have to say I am amazed. I read the directions thoroughly, because let's face it - this thing looks a little terrifying and conjures memories of getting my hair wrapped up in a spiral brush as a kid. Small brushed pieces, 1-inch, face towards the head, yadda yadda, some beeping, stay calm...VIOLA - magic curls. I actually plugged this beautiful baby in at my desk at work, and used a pocket mirror to test it out, I couldn't stand the wait! I also tested a piece of my boss' hair for good measure. She is purchasing one tomorrow.

beauty copycats Words by AMy MCHANEy | Photos by CHrIS LOzANO

I

This gal sounds exactly like ME! I just knew the Conair Infiniti Pro Curl Secret was going to be the answer to many prayers for curly hair … but it wasn’t. I read the directions thoroughly. I let the unit heat up until the light indicated it was ready to go. I even had success threading my long hair into the scary-looking curling device – no tangles! But also no curl.

Barely a wave. I tried again and again and suffered the same sad result.

A hairdresser of mine once told me that I need to embrace my straight hair; that many people would LOVE to have straight hair

have struggled with my column this month. Why, you ask? A beauty FAIL.

like mine. I’m beginning to think he was right.

The worst aspect of my experiment with the curling machine is

I have not written about hair in quite some time,

that I was left without a topic for my column. I spent time at Ulta,

and as I was planning my wardrobe for the Longfellows Ball, I

in the cosmetics aisle at Target, wandering in Sephora. Nothing

thought a column on DIy hair might be fun. I researched ideas

struck my fancy.

for a pretty party look and settled on a product called the Conair Infiniti Pro Curl Secret.

During this time of wandering, I had some fancy lip balm that I needed to return in the Big City. I was at the fancy Guerlain

Photos of the product in action looked promising – a model

counter when I thought, “Hey, I’ve seen products like these

with board straight hair, transformed to a curly-locked goddess.

recently … in Longview!” It turns out Physicians Formula

The reviews were great, too – this was my favorite (of more than

markets many, many products – I later realized – that are knock

2,000 reviews!):

offs of very high end cosmetic brands. Here are some examples:

10 Charm | j U Ly / AU G U S T

I’m beginning to think that in addition to wishing for curly hair,

vs.

I’ve been wishing for sun-kissed skin, too. since I am the proud owner of both these products. I’ve had the Guerlain for years and loved it. My recent acquisition of Physicians Formula proved to be a very good substitute, although I would say that the coverage is a little sheerer.

Physicians Formula Powder Palette Mineral Glo Pearls in Bronze Pearl

guerlain Meteorites Perles Teint Dore

$11.40 | Walmart

$62 | Saks Fifth Avenue

vs.

I have used both of these products and both are lovely, giving a shimmery, bronze glow. It’s worth noting that the Guerlain version consists of loose “perles” and the Physicians Formula is a pressed, multicolor powder with dimensional pearls embossed on the top; that said, I think the effect is very similar.

vs.

Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Deluxe Edition $14.99 | Ulta

Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips in Vegas Strip/Light Bronzer

bobbi brown Shimmer Brick in Bronze

$9.99 | Target

$44 | Neiman Marcus

To stick with the bronzer theme – clearly I had summer on my mind – I picked up the Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips to compare to my Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick I received for guerlain Terracotta Original

Christmas. The verdict? It’s a really great substitute.

As much as I like fancy beauty products, I think each of these Physicians Formula bronzers are a great value and do

$53 | Nordstrom

a wonderful job mimicking their high-price-point sisters.

I definitely recommend.

RODAN + FIELDS UpDAtE I’m continuing on as your guinea pig in my year-long RODAN + FIELDS experiment using the Redefine line. Check out the before, after and after photos – I’ve been surprised at the visible improvement in my skin. Shocked, actually. I can’t wait to show you continued progress in the next issue.

Before

After

After

mycharmonline.com 11

HealtH & beauty

Lainey Armstrong, medical aesthetician at Wallis Dermatology in Longview, gave us some tips on how to keep your skin beautiful and healthy no matter what stage of life you’re in.

“It is important for everyone at any age to wear a mineral sunblock every day,” she said.

Guess mom was right about that one! Each decade of a woman’s life provides different issues to tackle.

“It is important to add steps to your skin care as you grow older to keep your skin healthy and free of damage from the sun,” Lainey said.

In your 20s Women in their 20s may not yet see the signs of aging, but our bodies stop producing elastin at 21, and that makes this decade the best time to introduce ingredients that promote collagen production.

“In your 20s and 30s you are more in the preventive stage of skincare so your focus should be on cleansing and making sure your face stays properly clean and clear of impurities and ensuring all make up is removed every night,” Lainey said.

skIn care

101

Words by ashley anderson

1.

Wash with mild, soap-free cleansers to remove dirt and makeup twice a day.

2.

Invest in a great eye cream. Eyes tend to show the first signs of aging so look for ingredients, such as antioxidants and retinol, to slow down the aging process. “Antioxidants are important in skin care just like they are important in our diet. Vitamin C helps brighten the skin, stop the formation of unwanted pigment and also helps with mild redness,” Lainey explained.

3.

Use a moisturizer with sunscreen. As we now know, this is the most important health habit of them all!

4.

At night, remove all of your makeup. Makeup can clog pores and lead to acne so be sure to do this every night – no exceptions!

5.

Spot treat blemishes. Unfortunately the whole “blemishes are only in your teenage years” theory is a myth so you still need to take care of acne as it arises.

The bottom line for 20-something skincare is balance. Balance

S

kin care is one of the most important components of natural beauty, no matter a woman’s age, skin tone or skin type.

Good skin care can keep your skin healthy and glowing for years to come. But how do you know what products and regimens are right for you?

the fine line between dry, flaky skin and oily, clogged pores.

Suggested Products:

Philosophy’s Purity Made Simple Clinique Pep-Start Eye Cream Origins GinZing Energy-Boosting Moisturizer Almay Eye Makeup Remover Pads continued on pg. 14  mycharmonline.com 13

In your 30s The 30s are the time when most women experience early signs of aging as collagen stores deplete. Vitamin C and retinol are the most recommended ingredients to brighten skin and fill in the

Dark spots and sun spots are formed as pigment cells become overactive as we age. In your 40s, Lainey suggests that using a pigment modulator daily can help even out the pigmentation and help achieve a healthier skin complexion.

Suggested Products:

fine lines and wrinkles that plague women during this decade.

1.

Cleanse with mildly exfoliating formulas. Look for a wash with moisturizing ingredients for healthy, hydrated skin.

2.

Exfoliate. Get rid of dead skin by using serums with enzymes or mild exfoliators. Exfoliate at night rather than the daytime because overnight skin is in renewal mode and removing dead skin prior to bedtime enhances the skin’s function.

3.

4.

Use sunscreen. Protect skin during the daytime by combining an antioxidant serum or cream with sunblock as they enhance each other.

Apply resurfacing masks and retinoid night treatments.

Now is the time to start using a night cream that treats fine lines and your first age spots. Resurfacing masks help target excess oil, even skin tone, and shed dead cells to give your complexion a healthy, all natural glow.

In your 30s, you should be less focused on preventing and treating acne, and more focused on heading off wrinkles and age spots.

Suggested Products:

Burt’s Bees Sensitive Facial Cleanser Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Moisturizer Night

In your 40s One of the biggest challenges women face in their 40s is the onset of dark spots caused by years of sun damage. Products with hydroquinone will help even skin tones and lighten spots and freckles. You also want to combat collagen loss with retinoids and fight fine lines with moisture during this decade.

1.

Choose creamy cleansers that add moisture

2.

Use retinoids. “As we age, our cells take longer to turn over so proper usage of retinols or Retin A is an important step. In conjunction with helping brighten skin, they also increase collagen production and creates healthy skin in the base layer where new skin is born,” Lainey said.

3.

Choose a higher SPF. Sunscreen is critical in preventing and protecting mature skin from further sun damage.

4.

Moisturize with a hydrating serum and use anti-aging boost night creams.

14 Charm | j u LY / Au G u S T

Olay Regenerist Regenerating Cream Cleanser Philosophy Time in a Bottle for Eyes pH Advantage Pigmentation Fader

In your 50’s and up The loss of hormones can cause skin to go through dramatic changes during and after menopause. Moisture should be your main concern. Most women will find that their skin becomes very dehydrated and more prone to fine lines and wrinkles.

1.

Use a creamy or milky cleanser that can both hydrate your skin and remove impurities.

2.

Apply a serum that’s rich in peptides. Most serums are filled with antioxidants which help restore your skin and give it brightness and hydration. Choosing one that also has peptides helps to build collagen.

3.

Moisturize! Oil production in the skin diminishes after 40, so it’s important to moisturize your skin regularly.

4.

Protect your skin. Sunscreen is important at any age, but it gets more important the older we get. If you are using retinoids (which you should) then your skin is also more prone to sun damage.

“True beauTy In a woman Is reflecTed In her soul.

The beauTy of a woman

Only Grows With Passing Years.”

Lainey said the usage of a mild acid daily is also important.

Along with increasing cellular turnover, it also sloughs off the top layer of dead skin that can cause dullness. “Think of little PacMen going and eating that dead skin away daily,” she explained.

Suggested Products: Pond’s Cold Cream Cleanser Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair

It’s possible to have vibrant skin at any age, as long as you take steps to properly care for your skin. Always remember, however, that beauty is more than skin deep. It’s important to take care of our skin and body, but just as important to take care of what’s inside.

Besides our mothers, Audrey Hepburn offers some of the best beauty advice possible.

“True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. The beauty of a woman only grows with passing years.”

If you have questions about your skincare problems or services available, contact Wallis Dermatology at (903) 236-3266. C

W I T H

A

L I M I T E D

E D I T I O N

VISA® FAN checkcard as we celebrate the Summer Games!

INSTANT ISSUE

Stop by any Texas Bank and Trust location and walk out with your VISA® FAN checkcard today!

Available exclusively July 1, 2016 through August 31, 2016. NO monthly Texas Bank and Trust checkcard fee with a Texas Bank and Trust Direct Value, Super Now Advantage, TBTmyWay, Preferred and Preferred Plus checking account. For all other applicable Texas Bank and Trust checking accounts, the VISA checkcard is $1.50 per monthly statement cycle plus $1.00 for each additional card. There is a $5.00 fee if replacing an existing Texas Bank and Trust checkcard.

mycharmonline.com 15

COver stOry

16 Charm | J U LY / AU G U S T

KDKLB (Kim Droege Keeps Longview Beautiful) Words by Christina lane | Photo by Chris lozano

continued on pg. 18 ď ˝

mycharmonline.com 17

im Droege sees Longview’s beauty inside and out. She’s

K

“We have to be good stewards of our community; we work to help

making it her mission to ensure visitors to the city see it for

the public understand how important those things are to a growing

decades to come.

community,” Kim said.

Kim is the executive director of Keep Longview Beautiful, a

The first major project Kim was involved with was the Judson

nonprofit organization that works to engage and educate the community

Road median at North Fredonia Street. In 2012, the Keep Longview

to improve the environment through litter prevention, waste reduction

Beautiful board decided to update the area to improve pride for

and beautification. In this capacity, Kim – along with her dedicated

residents and to help make it more attractive to visitors.

board members – is working to make Longview an even better place to live for generations to come.

“We sustain that; we pay for plants to go there, we plant them, we keep the weeds out,” Kim said.

“There is so much to look forward to in Longview,” Kim said. “If

The city partnered with Keep Longview Beautiful and helps provide

the community comes together and we make improvements, Longview

irrigation and mowing. Kim noted the city of Longview has been Keep

can be an even better place to live for years to come.”

Longview Beautiful’s greatest community partner over the years.

Kim and her husband, Dan, moved to Longview two decades ago for the city’s banking industry. Dan is now market president at First Bank and Trust East Texas, and served at other banks prior to that.

On their visit to Longview, the Droeges drove into the city from Interstate 20 via the Estes Parkway corridor, and Kim noted that the entryway could use a little makeover to make it more appealing to visitors. But the couple fell in love with East Texas on their visit.

“We had a 2-year-old at the time and Longview seemed like a great place to raise a child,” Kim said.

An important factor in Keep Longview Beautiful’s decision-making process for projects is whether the organization can maintain those.

“If we put our name on something, we need to maintain it and sustain it,” Kim said.

As the organization has grown, so have its projects but its commitments to each remain as strong as ever.

The organization has taken on and been a part of many projects since the Judson median. The organization maintains recycle bins at heritage plaza, helped with creating a new city entryway at Texas 31

So the couple made the move for their family. Kim, a former teacher,

and Spur 63, encourages the community to maintain street corners in

did some teaching in East Texas before moving on to a different career

downtown Longview through its Downtown Corners program, and

endeavor. She took a post as educational director at the Gregg County

helps to serve a garden in Spring Hill ISD.

Historical Museum and helped push the museum into a new age, even assisting with Christmas the Courthouse.

As her son, Dylan, got into middle school, Kim decided to take some time off from work to help him get through classes. As Dylan got older, and was nearing college, Kim decided it was time to get back involved in something.

Through its Adopt A Street program, Keep Longview Beautiful encourages individuals, businesses and organizations to find a stretch of a street they are passionate about, adopt it, and pick up litter four times a year.

Art from the heART is a program that seeks to inspire people to beautify areas of Longview through outdoor art. Keep Longview

That’s when Keep Longview Beautiful came into play.

Beautiful accepts donations for a piece of community artwork then

“Our son was getting ready to go off to college at the University of

works to find art and locations in which to install it. Art from the heART

Oklahoma. I was at a point in my life where I knew he was going and I

installations have included a statue of children at Flewellen Park and a

needed to have a good focus,” Kim recalled.

herd of bikes at the Boorman Trail. An upcoming art project could soon

Kim had learned about Keep Longview Beautiful and knew she

see pine cones made of shovels gracing Longview.

could help the organization grow. When she began working with the

Through community improvement grants, Keep Longview

organization, it was in a part-time capacity but that changed shortly

Beautiful is able to assist in providing funding to other organizations

after she started for in October 2011, she was named executive director

that want to enhance the environment.

– a position she has held since.

As executive director, Kim works with the organization’s board and with community partners to improve Longview. Keep Longview Beautiful has three main areas of focus: beautification, litter prevention and waste management.

18 Charm | J U LY / AU G U S T

The major upcoming project for Keep Longview Beautiful is The Green.

“The Green will be unlike anything that East Texas has seen before,” Kim said, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

The Green is set to become Longview’s next park. The $1.2 million

facility will feature a pavilion, a music garden, an outdoor classroom, local art, native landscaping and trees, and space for food trucks.

An art round (one of Kim’s personal favorite aspects of The Green) will be a celebration of local artists, young and old, to display their work.

Droege’s vision for The Green started when she visited Klyde

“The Green will be kinetic; something will always be changing

Warren Park in Dallas. The Dallas park is essentially green space

about it so that we encourage people to come back,” she said. “It will

that encourages children and adults to reconnect with nature.

be a place where not only our community can go but also where people

Adults can partake in yoga while kids listen to a story, play soccer,

will want to come to Longview to visit because of this.”

Through her work with Keep Longview Beautiful, Kim

or just run around. Food trucks abound for lunch and there are

equates a synonym for the word “beauty” to be

often free special activities, such as live music or art

“enhancement.”

demonstrations, at the park.

“What can we do to enhance this

“I thought, ‘I want to build that in Longview,’” Kim recalled.

The Green, which Kim hopes to see open within a year, will bring just that to the city. Located at Texas 31 and Spur 63, The Green will be on nine acres of land.

Keep Longview Beautiful worked with 32 educators, including two superintendents from Longview school districts, to give input

“Keep Longview Beautiful has a wide future. I want for it to always be progressive.”

Keep Longview Beautiful will continue its mission in that regard, and Kim sees its future as being very bright.

“I hope this nonprofit continues to grow,” she said. “The Green is in our up with even more projects for the community

A gathering pavilion at The Green will be a place

and we will continue to support other groups that

where bands can play live music under a roof while people

come to us with grants for their ideas.

can pile with blankets on the lawn in front of the pavilion to listen.

“Keep Longview Beautiful has a wide future. I want for it to always

A nature play area will have logs, stumps and boulders for

be progressive. I hope the organization now is better than what it was

children to jump on, climb on and build with.

“We want to encourage them to use their imaginations and

five years ago, and I hope five years from now it is even better. I hope somebody comes in after me who triples its productivity. All of this is so

their minds in nature,” Kim said.

A music garden will feature bright-colored community

that Longview can become that town that people talk about. I want to hear everyone saying, ‘Hey, let’s go visit Longview.’” C

From your first blemish to

Christopher Barr Photography 2012. © 2012 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. merlenorman.com.

Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios have been independently owned and operated since 1931..

3 GENERATIONS OF BEAUTIFUL SKIN

and involve everyone,” she said.

eyesight right now and we will be coming

on what they wanted in an outdoor classroom.

instruments, such as drums and xylophones.

community to make it the best it can be

your first fine line, taking From your first good care of your skin blemish to pays off in a lifetimeyour of beauty. No matter what first fine line, taking your age, the time to care for your skin is now. good care of your Book your personal skin skin pays off in a assessment today — it’s free! lifetime of beauty.

No matter what your age, the time to care for your skin is now.

Book your personal skin assessment today — it’s free!

Made in the USA

Longview Mall

903-753-0041

Hours: Mon-Sat 10-9 Sun 12-6

©2013 Merle Norman Cosmetics, Inc. MERLENORMAN.COM

Studio Name Address Phone Number Business Hours

Slick 12-10 columns x 7" (6-7/16" x 7")

Unaltered photo: Kathie 65, Erin 41, Caroline 12.

mycharmonline.com 19

F eature

beautiful Words by robyn miga | Photos by chris lozano

20 Charm | j u ly / au g u s t

E

very girl deserves to be pampered. Whether it be the

colors, like earthy greens, smoky grey and blue eye shadows with a

occasional Brazilian blowout, new makeup, or a spa day,

hint of purple, cheeks are deeper in color with ginger and mauve

it’s practically necessary to survive a summer in Texas.

colors, and lips vary from copper to deep plum colors.”

Merle NorMaN

saLon 500

Longview Mall • 3500 McCann Rd. 903-753-0041

When it comes to makeup, there are a lot of options for where to shop, brands, colors and latest trends, but for Judy Kennemer, Merle Norman is the only brand, with the best products.

500 E. Methvin st. • Longview 903-758-2500

There are a lot of ways to pamper yourself when it comes to hair, Vanessa Arp, stylist at Salon 500, explained.

There’s more to hair than just cut, coloring and styling

Merle Norman, which is in its 85th year of business, offers

it. At Salon 500, located at 500 E. Methvin St. in Longview,

many services to its customers, including “try before you buy” and

you can get anything from a Brazilian blowout to having your

free, express facials, Judy said.

hair professionally straightened with the salon’s Japanese

“People can come in and get a free makeover and try our products,” Judy said. “They can see what the makeup looks like on and make sure colors are right.”

The express facials take about five minutes, and Judy said there are multiple options including exfoliating, skin brightening, soothing, deep pore cleansing and hydrating.

“We don’t charge for any of them,” she said. “Then, you can follow up with the free makeover.”

straightening system.

“After your hair is straightened with the Japanese straightening system, it is board straight… I mean board straight,” Vanessa said.

“It’s permanent, too, and all you have to do is come back and get your roots touched up.”

In addition to straightening treatments, such as the blowout and straightening system, Salon 500 also offers deep conditioning treatments that moisturize with keratin.

While Merle Norman has been in business for 85 years, Judy

Vanessa described Salon 500 as being “extremely unique”

said there has been a location in Longview since 1946, and she has

to Longview because of its wide variety of services offered in

been in business for the past 23 years.

addition to the relaxed, upscale vibe they pride themselves with.

Over the years, Judy said, trends have changed, but they always come back.

“Colors go in cycles, and what was popular years ago is coming back again,” she said.

“I think everything about us is different and unique to Longview. The atmosphere is cool and the people are nice,” she said. “And we offer an upscale environment and a men’s barber shop, too.”

Among staff at the Longview location, they have close to 60

To go one step further, Vanessa said the main goal for all of

years of experience combined, and have seen makeup change

the salon’s employees is to ensure all of their customers have the

quite a bit over time.

“healthiest and prettiest hair.”

“With all the modern technology with creating products,

“We take continuing education courses, stay up with the latest

makeup is just getting better and better for your skin. They add

trends, and use the newest, most innovative products,” she said.

sun protection, different hydrators, fruit acids, which are all

“We really hold ourselves to a high standard.”

ingredients that work so well in our skin,” she noted. “It has been quite a change for the better.”

As far as trends go, Judy said winter, spring, summer and fall all offer different trending colors.

Among trends right now, Vanessa shared, “we’re seeing a lot of edgy, shorter bobs and bangs.”

She also said straight hair is coming back.

As far as colors go, “a lot icy, crystal blondes, or honey blonde,”

“Summer usually offers more sunny colors. Turquoise and coral

she said. “With darker hair, it’s tortoise shell hair, which is a color

eye shadows mixed with the neutral tones, browns and beiges,”

based on the colors that you would see on the shell of a tortoise.

she explained. “Then, in the fall, we’ll start to see deeper earthy

Also, auburns and mahogany rich colors.”

continued on pg. 22  mycharmonline.com 21

“the spa offers a full selection of customized services created to promote better health and overall well-being,” she said. “We believe in natural beauty at the spa. With our professionally Good shepherd institute for healthy livinG

3133 Good Shepherd Way • Longview 903-323-6500

trained estheticians, we are able to enhance features with a variety of services to promote skin health. through the use of natural ingredients, fragrance and therapeutic touch, our treatments restore vitality and promote healthy skin function.”

Kari said all facials begin with a skin analysis to identify each

When it comes to relaxing, good shepherd Medical Center’s Institute for Healthy living knows how to help you unwind. the institute’s spa offers more than 10 different kinds of massages, including aromatherapy, deep tissue, bamboo, lymphatic, healing reflexology, swedish, sports, trigger point, as well as specialties, such as couples massages, as well as pregnancy and postpartum.

individual’s skin type and problem areas along with a full cleanse.

“Every signature facial also includes a hand and foot massage during the masking treatment,” she said. she noted that the spa offers a variety of services tailored for men as well.

Kari described the Healthy living spa as a sanctuary and said it was created to “calm the mind and elevate the soul.”

according to Kari Pickering, executive director of the good

“It is a small and inviting, providing a place to relax and

shepherd Institute for Health living, there are a lot of things that

disconnect from the world to recharge,” she said. “the sustainable

set their spa apart from others.

design creates a natural, elegant feeling.” C

“For the convenience and peace of mind, we provide complimentary childcare for children 2 months to 12 years of age at the Healthy living Hideaway based on length of session availability,” Kari said. she explained that the spa offers complimentary use of the locker room facilities, including a Whirlpool and steam room, as well as complimentary use of the fitness center and any no-fee group exercise class with the purchase of two or more spa services In addition to massages, the Health living spa also offers anything from physician recommended therapies to facials and manicures/pedicures.

22 Charm | j u ly / au g u s t

Deserves To Be PamPereD

Fashion

Touch of elegance

Paintings by GEORGE RODRIGUE "The Art of George Rodrigue - A retrospective" Photos by Chris lozano Hair by The Color Palette Makeup by Barbie Eason Necklace: Natashia, $38.00, Dillards; Skirt: Karl Lagerfeld, $138.00, Dillards;

Location Longview Museum of Fine Arts View more photos and fashion vlog online at mycharmonline.com

mycharmonline.com 23

Earings: Natasha, $24.00, Dillard's; Necklace: Antonio Melani, $95.50, Dillard's; Bracelet: Kenneth Cole, $45.00, Dillard's;

Dress: Gianni Bini, $98.00, Dillards; Bracelets: Natasha, $40.00,

Necklace: Natashia, $38.00, Dillards; Skirt: Karl Lagerfeld, $138.00, Dillards;

22 Charm | m ay / j u n e

Dress: Gianni Bini, $98.00, Dillard's; Purse: Ralph Lauren, $298.00, Dillard's;

mycharmonline.com 25 23

F eature

Tale Time as old as

Words by christina lane Photos by chris lozano

Hair by Bryan mooney | Makeup by jules welch Location and props provided by pursuing eden

26 Charm | j u ly / au g u s t

O

nce upon a time, there was a little girl who put on a dress and twirled around, pretending she was a princess.

Soon, Rachel Webber of Longview will get to be a real-

life princess – a Disney princess that is. Rachel has been cast in the leading role of “Belle” in Theatre Longview’s upcoming production of “Beauty and the Beast.”

“This is a bucket list role for me,” Rachel exclaimed. “This was a role I didn’t think I would ever have the opportunity to do. When I did my audition, I had figured I wouldn’t get it. So when I got the call that I had gotten the part of Belle, I started hyperventilating. … It just blew my mind. It’s all very surreal.”

Theatre Longview is performing “Beauty and the Beast” at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4-6 and at 2:30 p.m. Aug. 6-7 at the Longview Community Center, 500 E. Whaley St. Tickets to the show, which is the first big-time musical for the growing community theater, are on sale now. Tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors 60 and older, and $15 for students with an ID. Tickets are available at www.theatrelongview.com.

Growing Up Theater Rachel, 19, grew up in Longview and graduated from Christian Heritage School. Painfully shy as a child, she became involved in theater through her school and discovered it was an outlet for her.

“Theater was an outlet for the stuff I was too scared to do in my own life. I could be sassy, I could be goofy, I could be sad. I had a really fun experience with my classmates, getting to purge all of those emotions,” she said.

Her first major role was in the school’s production of “Fiddler on the Roof,” a classic musical. In addition to acting, Rachel is also a talented singer. In the play, she had the role of Chava – one of Tevye’s daughters who falls in love with a man outside the Jewish faith.

There was a scene in the play where Rachel was facing the student who was playing Tevye and the two were having an argument.

“I realized ‘I am actually mad at him,’” Rachel recalled.

She wasn’t mad at the student; she was mad at Tevye. She realized she had truly become Chava.

“I realized I was living in another world and that I was another person,” she said. “I realized I loved theater.”

After graduating high school, Rachel decided to attend East Texas Baptist University in Marshall where she is majoring in theater arts with a minor in music.

continued on pg. 28  mycharmonline.com 27

Costumes for the cast of 33 people are coming out of state from

Theatre Longview While Rachel was performing in high school productions and getting involved in artsView Children’s theatre, another theater group was forming in longview – for adults. theatre longview organized in late 2012/early 2013 and began

Mardi gras Costumes in Phoenix, arizona. Meanwhile, the cast is currently rehearsing at least three days a week and every saturday in july for the play.

Becoming Belle

its first performances in 2013. Its organizers have said it formed to

Rachel grew up watching the Disney film.

offer theater targeting adults in the city. While artsView continues

“I loved ‘Beauty and the Beast.’ From the time I was a little girl, it

to offer excellent productions for children and their parents,

was one of my favorites,” she said. “I like the way the romance plays

theatre longview’s goal was to offer something else.

out, and I do believe it’s not the outward appearance that matters. as

the organization has grown over the years to offer full seasons of performances with occasional special events in between that serve as fundraisers for the nonprofit organization.

a Christian, I believe god looks at our hearts. that’s what Belle does when she falls in love with the Beast.”

Rachel said she also likes the fact that in “Beauty and the Beast,”

Now, a few years since its inception, the organization wanted

the Beast is as a much a part of the story as Belle.

to offer longview a big summer musical. theatre longview has

“I like that it also shows moments when they argue because that’s a

performed a few small musicals throughout the years, such as the

part of relationships,” she said. “as far as Disney relationships, I think

“smoke on the Mountain” series, but had yet to embark on a major

it’s one of the most realistic ones even though Belle is falling in love

musical production – something that its organizers feel East texas

with a ‘beast.’”

wants to see.

Rachel’s definition of beauty is something that is untouched, pure,

“We wanted to expand and meet a larger audience. We also wanted

and genuine.

to do something that was more family-oriented. Most of the shows we

“I relate it to the beauty of god, whose love is perfect and pure.

have done so far have been for a more specific audience — an adult

We are created to love god and I think it’s great when we do what we

audience — but we want to reach a younger audience as well,” said

are created for,” Rachel said.

Nathan Olson, who serves as artistic director for the organization.

“I think Belle is ‘pure’ and ‘genuine’ in that sense. she wears her

theater groups have to work with licensing companies to secure

heart on her sleeve; she doesn’t judge on outward appearance; and

rights to perform plays, and at the same time as theatre longview

she’s not timid about being different. she is who she is. she walks

was considering its first big musical endeavor, the rights to “Beauty

around with books held high. she’s honest and open, and I think

and the Beast” became available.

that’s beautiful.”

Nathan said the play will be like the Disney film and will feature all

Rachel loves musicals and believes god has given her a passion

of the audience’s favorite songs. But the production also will feature

and a talent for both music and theater. Musicals are the perfect

more songs that weren’t in the movie because Broadway shows

melding of those two passions.

typically have more songs.

While she says dancing isn’t her strongest suit, it’s something she’s

In addition to being theatre longview’s first big musical, it also will be the first theater production in East texas to feature a digital set.

working on for the play. she’s also excited about the digital set that will be offered.

“It’s brilliant. I think it will make transitions a lot easier and it

“typically when you go to see a play or a musical, they have a full wall to create an interior room with movable set pieces that they

allows us to be able to do some different things that we otherwise wouldn’t be able to do,” she said.

change. there are usually actually moving pieces on the stage that

Her summer has been filled with theater. Earlier in the summer,

require people to move the items on and off the stage as sets change,”

she starred in an artsView production then launched into “Beauty

Nathan said.

and the Beast” rehearsals. she’s also interning at artsView.

“In our production, we will still have furniture on stage, but the

as she tried on a dress for the Charm photo shoot as Belle, Rachel

walls and the scenery will all be digitally projected. the projection will

said it was a moment that transformed her dream into a reality.

also include animation. … With the technology, we will be able to do a

“getting in the dress sealed the deal,” she exclaimed. “this is really happening. this is my life right now, and I love it.” C

lot with this production that people haven’t seen before.”

If You Go: 28 Charm | j u ly / au g u s t

August 4 - 6 • 7:30 p.m. | August 6 - 7 • 2:30 p.m.

Longview Community Center, 500 E. Whaley St.

The Annual Stars Over Longview Award honors twelve of the most influential women who live or work in the Longview area and rise to the occasion to make a difference in their community.

Every day, year after year we witness special women who make a difference in our lives and in the community.

Now is your turn to tell us about them! Women can be nominated from every industry, profession and walk of life! Nominations are selected and carefully reviewed by the Women’s Advisory Council of Longview Regional Medical Center. Nominations should include as much detail as possible about a nominee. Quality of the nomination is more important than quantity; therefore, duplicates submitted for the same nominee will not influence the selection process. Please provide as much supporting information as possible.

Save the Date!

January 12, 2017

Nominate

a Star!

Please e-mail nominations to Marketing@longvewregional.com or visit us online at LongviewRegional.com

Nomination deadline is September 5 th The 2017 Stars Over Longview will be announced in October. Tickets will go on sale in November.

For additional information contact (903) 553-7400

Cosmetic Surgery of East Texas Gary R. Jacobs, M.D., F.A.C.S. 903-753-2276 For weekly specials follow us on Cosmetic Surgery of East Texas

cosmeticlongview

www.

.com

S chool

From battle scars to beauty A Southern girl, Tammy grew up in the community of Jenkins and graduated from Daingerfield High School in 1986.

“I love small towns and big families,” she said.

Her path in motivational speaking started when she was a middle school teacher, serving in a seventh grade classroom.

“Those 12 and 13 year olds were my first audiences,” she said. “I enjoy doing this because I have always loved people whether they are in the awkward middle school stage, the young mother stage or the more mature stages of life.”

Inner beauty isn’t something that Tammy has always felt, personally.

“I have had my share of battle scars, pitholes and potholes in life.

The kind that make us feel unattractive,” Tammy shared. “It was when I began to pray for wisdom that I would see the word ‘beautiful’ differently, resulting in inner beauty ever for myself.”

Tammy said there has to be a defining day for women “when we tell

{

beyoutiFul Words by Christina Lane

the negative committee that meets in the boardroom of our mind to sit down and be quiet.”

“Beauty is so much more than makeup, the number on the scale, or the amount of humidity in the air affecting our hair. We were all created beautiful,” she said. “When we look at life through the eyes of our soul we see beauty all around us. A sunrise, flowers in the spring, birds serenading in the early hours of the morning, or perhaps a sunset to end the day.”

Tammy sees beauty in a mother’s eyes as she is captivated by her

T

children’s laughter or when she wipes a tear from their cheeks. he concept of beauty is nothing new, but beauty isn’t

“I see beauty in a person battling cancer even if they have not a single

limited to having high cheekbones, big eyes and

strand of hair on their head. Sickness cannot take away beauty no more

full lips.

than aging can take away joy,” she said. “I see beauty in friendship, in

It’s what is inside that really counts.

marriage. From battle scars to beauty marks, every life has beauty in it,

“Real beauty isn’t about having a pretty face; it’s about having a pretty

because it is found in the heart of the person.

heart. No beauty shines brighter than a person with a sweet soul,” said Tammy Whitehurst, a motivational Christian speaker.

The beauty industry spends billions of dollars each year convincing women that they need to look prettier, thinner and younger, which – of course – takes a toll on women’s body image.

“To quote King Solomon who pens it quite well, ‘You are altogether beautiful, my darling, beautiful in every way.’”

the struggle is real Women of all ages, shapes and sizes struggle with attractiveness, and females are infamous for cutting themselves down.

But at the end of the day, it isn’t about having a perfect thigh gap. It’s

“As children, girls twirled round and round and sashayed in pretty

about being a good person who radiates joy from the inside out that makes

clothes. They looked in the mirror, primped and posed. Giggled and

a person truly beautiful.

grinned thinking pink was the most beautiful color and glass slippers were

As a Christian motivational speaker, Tammy talks about many topics

for real,” Tammy said. “Then something happened. Someone entered

but inner beauty is among those. Tammy’s goal, through her speaking,

their world and changed the way they viewed themselves. Someone made

is to encourage women to realize they can have joy through God and

them feel ugly.”

His word.

This shift in how girls view themselves can happen in many ways.

“The most beautiful people I have ever met are the ones who love

Someone might have given unwanted “constructive criticism.” People

deeper, laugh louder, sing at the top of their lungs, and hope against

whisper about clothes being out of style, a girl having a big nose, being

all odds. God created beautiful,” Tammy said. “I think every female,

overweight or underweight.

regardless of age should listen daily to the classic Joe Cocker song ‘You Are So Beautiful’ and pretend it is God singing it to them.”

30 Charm | J u lY / Au G u S T

“Maybe someone suggested they eat less or eat more. Pinched their ‘spare tire’ or called them skin and bones,” Tammy said.

{

after all,

Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

Joy

is the best makeup!

Tammy Whitehurst

“The struggle is real. Self-doubt and comparison are a reality for many women.

We desperately want to measure up to the beauty

of magazines. It is impossible.”

As Tammy says, outer beauty is directly tied to inner beauty.

Everyone knows someone who is beautiful on the outside, but who is not pretty on the inside.

“There is no secret method to the madness of meanness. It comes from a broken heart. A heart that no longer feels beautiful so the mission is to make others feel less beautiful,” Tammy said. “Meanness may fill our world at times, but it doesn’t have to fill our hearts. We must make inner beauty a goal.”

The word “beautiful” has such a connotation that makes women feel

CFasalora

FLOWER SHOP

Monday ~ Friday 8:30am - 5pm • Saturday 8am - Noon 314 Magnolia Lane, Longview • 903.753.4492 www.casafloraflowers.com

more special than if they are called just about any other word, such as “pretty,” “fine” or “sexy.”

“When we are called ‘beautiful’ it often puts a twinkle in our eye, a tilt in our chin, a sly grin from ear to ear ... regardless of the size of our rear,” Tammy said.

Discovering inner beauty So how do you find your inner beauty on the journey of life?

Tammy said that regardless of what stage of life a woman is in, she can

{

feel beautiful if she will realize these things: 1.

Beauty isn’t in a box, a nip or a tuck, and has nothing to do with luck.

2.

Real beauty isn’t tucked, sucked, plucked, tweezed, shifted or lifted.

3.

In life we have defects, errors and blemishes, but God only sees beauty.

4.

Intelligence will never stop being beautiful.

5.

Be the beautiful you want to see in the world.

“Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

gentleness and self-control. When all of these qualities emerge, regardless of age, a woman becomes radiant whether she is wearing makeup or not,” Tammy said. “After all, joy is the best makeup!”

C

716 Glencrest Lane Ste D Longview, Tx 75601

903.230.MOVE www.moveathletictx.com

COMpLiMEnTary

yOGa CLaSS Every Saturday

@ 11:15!!!

mycharmonline.com 31

F eature

Mirror, Mirror, on the wall

I

can’t remember exactly how old I was. It was probably around age 11. A lot of important revelations are made when you turn 11. Like realizing tater tots are

the world’s most perfect food and how one eye-roll is worth a thousand “whatever’s.”

So it was probably around this time that I decided it was my nose. It was so obvious. Literally right there way out in front of my face. All my problems in life began and ended with my nose.

What was wrong with it exactly? Pffft. Where to even start?

Too big from the front view, too long from the side view. It was simultaneously too skinny at the bridge yet too bulbous at the nostrils. If some girls had button noses, I had a jacked up, gigantic, old lady brooch on my face.

I was the love child of Jimmy Durante and Dumbo.

Oh, if only it weren’t for my nose. I then might have had a

Words by aprill brandon Illustrations by michelle laverell

shot at being kind of pretty. Not cute, of course. And certainly not beautiful. I was nothing if not a young realist. But with enough makeup and hairspray and overpriced Urban Outfitter sweaters, I could pass for kind of pretty if you were squinting.

32 Charm | J U Ly / AU g U S T

Sigh.

If only it weren’t for my nose.

It really was a kind of Greek tragedy on a micro-scale. Because when I was 11, if you couldn’t even pass for kind of pretty, it meant you were ugly. And being ugly meant life was over.

Boys will be boys. But girls? Well, girls will be brats.

Of course, not everyone believes this. But it sure feels like it.

And it makes me so utterly sad.

Because whether or not you believe raising girls is more difficult, the fact remains it is more difficult to be a girl.

Over the years, of course, the culprits changed. If only I wasn’t

Remember, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, only

so pale. Clearly I was also meant to be a blonde. My naturally dark

backwards and in heels. And the poor lady was still expected not

hair washes me out. And these crooked teeth. The only girl in my

to sweat her makeup off or muss up her hair.

junior high school without braces and now I’m paying for it with

This is the world my “bound-to-be” difficult daughter is

a smile that would put Steve Buscemi to shame. Obviously I also

entering. Complete with an “I feel naked without 10 pounds of

need to lose 10 pounds. Although 30 would be better.

eyeliner on” mother raising her to boot.

As I got older, entirely new regions became problematic. Was

She doesn’t stand a chance.

that the beginning of a forehead wrinkle? Where did this arm flab

Which is why I now realize something has to change, starting

come from? Apparently these under-eye circles are permanent

with me. Because I don’t want my daughter wasting any time

now. Cellulite? It cellu-bites. Then there was the fateful day I

sitting in front of a mirror hating her face at the tender age of

discovered going braless was clearly no longer an option.

11. Not when there are books to read and trees to climb and

There was always something preventing me from living the perfect life of the women in the perfume ads.

But the most disturbing thing of all is how this kind of

adventures to begin and secret giggles to share and songs to belt out off-key and races to run and ice cream on hot afternoons to eat.

vicious tearing down of every aspect of our appearance is so

I want her, when she even bothers to notice her face, to see

ingrained into so many of us women that we no longer see the

a face that I gave her, to realize that it’s just one small part of

absolute absurdity of it. It’s completely normal. I mean, talk

the amazing whole that makes up who she is. As are her bony

about multi-tasking.

knees and loud laugh and curly hair and love of dogs and freckled

From a very young age, this internal monologue runs through our heads as we earn top grades in school and play three different

shoulders and all the other actual elements that will make up who she is that I can’t even imagine yet.

sports and act in plays and create art and start our careers and

I want makeup and fashion to simply be something creative

earn accolades and fall in love and volunteer and travel the world

she gets to play around with, not something that determines her

and get published and rescue shelter pets and raise our kids and

self-worth. I want exercise to be fun, not something she has to do

buy our own home.

to be considered desirable. I want food to be delicious fuel, not a

But who has time to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished

life-long battle she always thinks she’s losing. I want success to be

in life when our unruly and patchy eyebrows aren’t perfectly

how she defines it, not how the boy she likes defines it, not how a

plucked into an arch?

magazine defines it and not how the more terrible elements of the

And I’m sure I would have skipped happily to my death with this Imperial March of Imaginary Facial and Bodily Deformities continually running through my head if it weren’t for one small thing. One very small thing, in fact.

Here in a few months I will be giving birth to a daughter. A

Internet comments section define it.

But that can only happen if she has a good role model. And I’m determined that she will.

Because as it turns out, my nose was actually perfect this whole time. C

beautiful, perfect little girl. A sweet, pink-cheeked tiny angel.

Who is going to emerge from my body as the devil herself.

Yes, apparently my wonderful not-yet-born baby girl is bound to be difficult. Because, according to multiple sources, girls are so much more difficult than boys. My closest family members tell me this. My good friends tell me this. Complete strangers who ask the gender of my swollen belly feel the need to tell me this as they are awkwardly rubbing me like I’m a breathing, bloated magic lamp.

I want her, when she even bothers to notIce her face, to see a face that I gave her, to realIze that It’s just one small part of the amazIng whole that makes up

Who She Is.

mycharmonline.com 33

Picture

This!

longview museum of fine arts

Sarah long, charleS deware, KelSi ormS, caelan Freeman

debutante party

longview | LONgvIew muSeum Of fINe ARtS | 5/26/2016 Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

members of the community came together in may to honor five young women who were being presented as debutante’s

Savanah gray, maddiSon hobner

whitney Ford, brooKS hill

during Longfellows annual ball.

Still collum , laura mcKethan

olivia mcdonald, tara diPaSquale, meredith novy, alexa blair Jerry drayer, hannah brown

michelle heath, amy mchaney

tamSin abotteen, Steve raSh

34 Charm | j u Ly / Au g u S t

dianne Smith, elizabeth StrouP, SuSan elmS

Julie glaSS, Kera martinez, amber mahan, haley mcJimSey

emma ruSSell, Farah al chammaS , trevor o’connor

P icture this

34th annual

Kellyn DrAyer, Jerry DrAyer, lAurie Brown

longfellows debutante ball longview | maude cobb convention and activity center | 5/28/2016 Photos by chris lozano

longfellows presented five young women as debutante’s during the organization’s upcoming 34th annual debutante ball. hannah claire brown, evAn HAll, Alex KirKPAtricK, JAclyn AnD clAy ABernAtHy

alissa macaslyn rash, claire elizabeth Ward earnest, sarah elizabeth long and amy lynne avery were presented as debutantes.

HilAry ZAino, leslie JoHnson

Alison elmPettA, vAnce strouP, courtney strouP-HoPPing

conner cuPit, scott mcmillAn steve rAsH, ricK eArnest, sArAH eArnest, lAurA cory

JAcK DArBy, JoHn monsuir, micHAel sPurrier, JoHn temPle

AlAn long, AlAn long Jr., micHAel murrAy

DAviD Henry, BurKe JoHnson

mycharmonline.com 35

P icture this

martin house CaC

superhero Celebration Marshall | the bear cave (bearcreek smokehouse) | 4/30/2016 Photos by chris lozano

superheroes were celebrated april 30 at a martin house children’s advocacy center event at bear creek smokehouse. the martin house cac is a nonprofit

reid Mccain, Maddison hood, donna Blalock, roxanne stevenson

organization works to combat child maltreatment in Gregg, harrison and marion counties.

nick & Jordan Beardsley

Front row, leFt to right: nannette davis, Maigen chastain, audrey wright, Madison hood, donna Blalock, christie glenn-Moore. Back row, leFt to right: roBBy shoults, Joe chastain, reid Mccain, clint wright, JiMMy olson, ron radulescu, John haBinc, sarah radulescu, roxanne stevenson, Jordan Beardsley, nick Beardsley, deBra stiles, wesley stiles, Mike stevenson

clint & audrey wright

36 Charm | j u ly / au G u s t

christie glenn-Moore, nannette davis

siP and Brittany sMith

P icture this

trinity school of texas

spring gala longview | The SummiT Club | 4/23/2016

lanie lenHart, Jennifer fadal, Jennifer JaCkson

Photos by ChriS lozano

Trinity School of Texas’ annual Sprin Gala featured 25 “Golden Girls,” who were grandmothers of Trinity students. The annual event serves as a fundraiser for the private school, which does not receive state funds like public schools.

ranJit kodali, randall and linda motley

krystle and JoHn sPates, BetH and viC PriCe

Brandy williamson, Jamie lane

Conner CuPit, Hunter HeatH

sara and gary niCe, aimee rider

mycharmonline.com 37

P icture this

giants of law enforcement banquet longview | maude cobb convention and activity center | 5/17/2016 Photos by chris lozano

the 25th annual Giants of law enforcement banquet saw seven agencies honoring employees at maude cobb convention and activity center during national Police Week.

scott solis

J.c. HiggenBotHAm, g. FreemAn

JAcoB AnD BetHAny zimmermAn

38 Charm | j u ly / au G u s t

J DonAvAn, sgt. wAgner

teresA rAu, KAren grisHAm

P icture this

Tracy MccorMack, gina granThaM

2016 night at the museum murder mystery fundraiser longview | longview MuseuM oF Fine arts | 4/23/2016 Photos by chris lozano

longview Museum of Fine arts’ annual night at the Museum fundraiser featured a murder mystery theme this year tied to its Blue Dog exhibit.

randy MorTon, kiMberly vannesT

scoTT Forbes, Todd holMan

ToMMy gillinghaM, donna sharP

mycharmonline.com 39