The Journey Magazine, June 09

June 2009

AR 4 YE Y RSAR E V I ANN ION EDIT

EDUCATION WITH EMILY Fun Ideas for Summer INSPIRING WOMAN Ruby Woodard PARENTING Car Seat Safety

BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL June 13 INSPIRING YOUNG WOMAN Caroline Pruitt YOUR WALLET Staycations!

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6 !"The Journey - May 2009

Contents

June 2009

YOUR HOME AT HOME: THE GREAT OUTDOORS 12 LANDMARKS: DOWNTOWN BRICK STREETS 14 HOMESTEAD: HOME INVENTORY 15 IN THE KITCHEN: BLUEBERRY DELIGHT 16 SIMPLE SOLUTIONS: THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO GO 19 LANDSCAPING: DIVIDING PERENNIALS 20 YOUR COMMUNITY GIVING BACK: LUFKIN LANDSCAPE TASKFORCE 22 BUSINESS CONNECTIONS: 24 ANGELINA COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 26 NACOGDOCHES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 28 CALENDAR 31 PLACES AND FACES 33 FEATURES INSPIRING YOUNG WOMAN: CAROLINE PRUITT 39 INSPIRING WOMAN: RUBY WOODARD 41 YOUR LIFE HALL OF FAME HUBBIES 45 PRETTY BABIES 46 PARENTING: CAR SEAT SAFETY 47 WEDDING DAY: KATY AND BRAD RIEMENSCHNEIDER 48 GIRLS GROUP: CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1947 50 RELATIONSHIPS 52 YOUR BODY FITNESS 101: WHMC WALKING TRAIL 54 FASHION & BEAUTY: SUMMER STYLE 56 WOMEN’S HEALTH: DEHYDRATION 58 YOUR RESOURCE THE REVIEW: SUMMER FUN 60 JOURNEY MARKET 61 BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT: RAY’S DRIVE IN 62 EDUCATION WITH EMILY: FUN IDEAS FOR SUMMER 63 WALLET: STAYCATIONS! TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY 55 PARTING ADVICE 66

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Welcome

June means it is HOT and summer has officially arrived!

None of this would have been possible without the support

Hopefully, you are reading this somewhere it is nice and cool:

of our readers and our advertisers. Thank you for being a

maybe from one of our awesome advertisers or a distributor.

dedicated reader of The Journey. It has been a pleasure to meet so many of you in all walks of life. Our advertisers are

June is also a very special month because it marks our

one of a kind and out of this world. So many of them have

FOUR year anniversary. It is very exciting to celebrate four

now become my friends. I have enjoyed getting to see their

years. The Journey has turned into something so much

families grow; their businesses grow, or just catch up over a

bigger than I ever imagined it would be. It is such a treat

meal.

and a blessing for me to be doing this. The Journey is by far something God had in mind because there is no way I could

Finally, I cannot thank everyone who helps put the

physically and mentally be able to have three kids and juggle

magazine out each month—the staff and contributors. I value

this larger than life venture without His guidance.

each one of you and you make The Journey what it is today!

Over the last four years, a lot has transpired. The best thing about print is you have something tangible and archived to go

Here is to many, many more issues of The Journey! Stay cool this June.

back and look at and say, “WOW!” or “oh, remember when?”

The magazine has come a long way. Today it has tripled in size and taken on a new look.

STEPHANIE OLIVER PRESIDENT & EDITOR

8 !"The Journey - May 2009

News

STEPHANIE OLIVER P R E S I D E N T A N D E D I TO R

JOU R NE Y A N N I VERSA RY Happy Anniversary to US! We are excited to announce very important Journey news this month. Saturday, June 20, we will celebrate our 4th anniversary. It will be a special day packed full of excitement! There will be free snow cones, a bouncy house for the kids, giveaways, and you can even stop by to have your photo taken to be in the next issue. More importantly, we have teamed up with Lufkin Mall, ChikFilA, AgLife Extension, KICKS and KFOX for a car seat safety check. As we enter the summer travel season, we want to help you make sure your kids are as safe as possible. Stop by to have one of your child’s safety seat checked to make sure they are secured properly. Just for driving through one of our stations, you will be able to register to win a brand new car seat or a booster seat.

We will be in the Lufkin Mall Parking lot June 20 from 9a.m.-12 p.m.

See you there!

MICHELLE BRILEY D I R E C TO R O F S A L E S KRISTIE HUDDLESTON GRAPHIC DESIGNER GREG PATTERSON SHARON FORD W W W. G R E G PAT T E R S O N . C O M C O V E R P H OTO G R A P H E R LISA CROW E V E N T P H OTO G R A P H E R WOODIE HICKS E V E N T P H OTO G R A P H E R ALLYSON LANGSTON PAULA METZINGER C O P Y E D I TO R SUSAN CHILDERS WEB DESIGNER PAULA METZINGER S TA F F W R I T E R

Anniversaries are special to The Journey! We are also excited to celebrate with two of our treasured advertisers!

FASH ION S H O P Charla Sparks and The Fashion Shop celebrate 25 years in business. What a feat!

Congratulations Charla. We congratulate you on all your success and wish you 25 more years!

CONTRIBUTORS

SAMIE MONTES ANNA LEE K AT H RY N G R E E N E K E V I N R OY RIVERS CARR KIDS SAFE KELLEY MOORE E M I LY PA R K S T E X A S FO R E ST CO U N T RY

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS VA L E N A S P R A D L E Y B R U C E PA RTA I N JIM DENMAN

DISTRUBUTION

A LB E LDTS P H A RM AR CY Buford

Abeldt

with

Abeldts

Pharmacy has been in business this month for 30 years!! We are proud for your many years of great customer

JA N E T G LOV E R LU F K I N L I SA H A N N A H N ACO G D O C H E S K R I ST I E L AV I O L E T T E L I V I N G STO N CADE MCDONALD CROCKETT M O L I N DA S M I T H S A N AU G U ST I N E HELEN WILLIAMS PINELAND KARI SPURGEON WO D E N A N D E TO I L E

service and making Angelina County a better place. Congratulations on 30 Years!

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! twitter.com/journeymag

ADVERTISMENT INFORMATION THE JOURNEY PO BOX 150537 LUFKIN, TX 75915 936-635-7369 ADVERTISE@TJMAG.COM

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Michelle & Meredith at Ellen Trout Zoo 1983

It’s officially summertime in East Texas!

Summer is one of my favorite times of the year. Please don’t get me wrong, I HATE to be hot. So it’s definitely not the “dog days of summer” that I enjoy. What makes summer so special to me are the childhood memories that seem to come alive as another school year comes to an end and summer vacation begins.

As a child, my family did not always take lavish summer vacation trips. My dad was the sole bread winner for our family, and my mom stayed home to care for me and my younger sister, Meredith. Spending money on trips was often not a top priority. Ironically, the memories we made together as a family during those summer months are priceless. I would not trade those treasured times for any tropical destination.

You see, my mom made use of the resources we had available right at our fingertips. She would take my sister and me to tour historic homes and buildings in Nacogdoches. She also made sure my sister and I attended Vacation Bible School at our church. For the longest time, a magnet I made at VBS using the lid from an ice cream cup hung on our refrigerator. We would go to local parks to play, and on special days, we would go swimming in the community pool. I can remember Mom driving us to Lufkin to go to the zoo. Meredith and I were barely able to contain our excitement in hopes of seeing the hippo come up for a breath of air. I often wondered why sandwiches always tasted so good on a picnic lunch at the zoo. Saturdays, when Dad didn’t have to work, were really exciting. Some of my favorite times were when Dad would take us for a boat ride on the lake and then we’d spend the rest of the afternoon playing on the shore, or when our family would sit outside in the evenings eating popsicles together while Meredith and I

10 /!"The The Journey Journey -- May May2009 2009

A Friend & Michelle at Ellen Trout Zoo 1981 giggled each time the “bug zapper” made a funny noise as it claimed another victim.

These experiences will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Because we have so many wonderful resources all around us, I think it is often easy to take them for granted and feel we must travel out of town to have fun. It’s easy to forget people from all over the United States plan trips to visit East Texas. It is never too late to start making lifetime memories for our kids, our grandkids and even ourselves. Let’s start right here at home. Whether it is visiting a local park, going to the zoo, constructing a homemade lemonade stand or attending a festival, claim every opportunity to create memories this summer.

Michelle & Meredith at Stone Fort Museum 1986 Thank you Mom and Dad for the wonderful memories you created for our family!

YOUR HOME

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/ YO U R HO M E

AT HOME

THE GREAT OUTDOORS | WORDS BY SAMIE MONTES

BR I NG TH E I ND O ORS O UT

Extend your living areas outside. The trend now is to set up the outside like the inside. Notice the rug, lamp, and cushions . . . all made especially for the outdoors. The all- weather wicker furniture will withstand our Texas summers! The outdoor fireplace will not be in use this summer, so use it to display beautiful clusters of plants. English Ivy, small Ferns and Caladiums fit beautifully in small pots in this fireplace.

PL AN T I N S PI R AT IO N Plants look wonderful when they are displayed in groupings.

Large pots or urns can hold many plants, adding interest to any back yard or patio.

12 !"The Journey - May 2009

TWO HOT IT EM S FO R YO UR SU M MER Both of these COOL items are available from One Step Ahead. I loved these and I am sure you will, too.

AN YWH E RE TE N TS Provides shade anywhere your kids need it.

Whether you’re at the beach or your own backyard, you can protect your little ones from the sun’s harmful rays ‚and heat.

O UT DOOR C H AL K B OA R D This is too cute! This chalkboard attaches to any outdoor play-structure. Draw

Home decorating and style is a passion for Samie Montes, who is a mother to two beautiful daughters, Grace and Vivian. She and her husband Chad make their home in Lufkin, Texas. Samie is a member of The Junior League of Lufkin.

She is involved with St. Cyprians Episcopal School and is a board member of CASA of the Pines. Samie is now available for home decorating consultations and party planning. You can reach her by telephone at (936) 632-4659 or by email at samie3475@yahoo.com.

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/ YO U R HO M E

LANDMARKS

DOWNTOWN BRICK STREETS | WORDS BYPAULA METZINGER

The

thump

and

bump of tires as they roll over the brick streets of downtown Nacogdoches is part of the charm that keeps bringing visitors to the Oldest Town in Texas.

The beginnings of the brick streets are not officially

documented,

although an article in USA Today in 2003 said most brick streets in the country were originally laid around the turn of the century.

That would agree with Nacogdoches history. According to minutes from a June 1978 meeting of the historical society, the streets were bricked in 1923 by a Lubbock firm.

Brian Bray, Historic Sites Manager and Historic Preservation officer with the city of Nacogdoches, said the streets were dirt, then “paved” with stumps, then bricked, paved and bricked again. This is only a story and has never been documents, he said.

Today there are only a few brick streets that remain in the downtown area, among them the square around what is now the Nacogdoches Convention and Visitors Bureau and Main Street. In all 11 blocks of the downtown area are still brick, according to Sarah O’Brien, Main Street Manager.

Though they only cover a few blocks, less than a mile in combined length, the brick covered streets have become the signature of the city. Their brick surface links the past history of Nacogdoches to the present, and adding to the charm of the city.

“I think the brick streets immediately give people a sense of nostalgia,” Sarah said.

“It brings them back to yesteryear. Imagining the horse drawn carriage unloading at the hitch lot, and families headed into town to enjoy a 5 cent movie, or to get a soda, it really embraces the image that historic downtown Nacogdoches holds.”

14 !"The Journey - May 2009

HOMESTEAD HOME INVENTORY

Having a traumatic situation happen to

experience. “The main reason I called

your home and valuables usually makes

was because I need to insure my tools

you ask yourself, “What could I have

and guns. I had no idea how much I had

done differently?” A situation like this is

until the inventory was completed. Then

when being prepared and planning ahead

I called my insurance company to make

always works in your favor.

sure I was covered. My agent said there would have been no way his current policy

Total Recall, a local business, helps you

would have covered the amount I had.”

protect your most important assets.

They perform a complete inventory of

Paul Jackson, co-owner of Total Recall,

your property. The purpose behind the

says, “The process starts with a video

inventory is to give every homeowner

of your home, room by room. After the

a peace of mind that the value of your

video, a tech will walk through your home

property and assets stay in tact.

with you personally, photographing your property including documenting serial

An inventory is not only for peace of mind,

numbers. The appraised or estimated

but also highly recommended by insurance

value of the property will be included with

companies.

co-owner

each photo. Then all the information will

Jamie Jinkins, “it makes claims process

come in a bound color portfolio, along

smoother by eliminating disputes over

with video and photographs.

According

to

the value and condition of the property.

For example, say a person reported an

Jamie Jinkins says one of the best things

expensive flat screen TV with a high value

you can do for your family is to be prepared

stolen. The insurance company will most

in every situation. Protecting your home

likely reimburse you for the TV, but how

through a home inspection is one of the

much will be determined by what you can

most important things you can do. “This is

prove.”

great to have on hand for anyone. A rental property, a business, a homeowner, once

When you have a complete home

you determine how much you own, then

inventory on hand, you will have a color

you can decide on the coverage you need,”

photo of every piece of valuable asset

said customer Eric Warren.

in your home. Total Recall helps you go through your home and get all the

Total Recall works because of the

necessary information on each piece of

experience behind the company. Jamie

property. They also have a lot of tips on

Jinkins and Paul Jackson have been in law

helping you secure your property. Having

enforcement for a combined twenty-five

a total home inspection on your side

years.. Not only have they seen devastation

only helps the homeowner. One satisfied

first hand, but they have the investigative

customer of Total Recall explained his

tools to make Total Recall work for you.

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/ YO U R HO M E

IN THE KITCHEN BLUEBERRY DELIGHT | WORDS BY ANNA LEE

Do you remember back when you were growing up, cooking supper with your mom? Or being outside at the grill helping dad flip meat patties or cook hot dog wieners? What about being at Grandmother’s and helping her make a batch of your favorite cookies?

As a young married woman, I often reflect on the times I spent in the kitchen with my mother and grandmothers. By being that special little helper to my mom and grandmothers, I learned so many things that I use today when I am in my own kitchen such as adding thing to mashed potatoes to make them a “sure hit” or making a perfect homemade pecan pie.

Along with cooking, there is also the extremely important tool of teaching your children how to be a resourceful grocery shopper. Kid’s need to learn how to compare prices and quantities, choose fresh produce and check expiration and

Anna Lee grew up right here in East Texas in the wonderful town of Center.

While growing up, she was very much involved in her local 4-H club participating in projects from foods and nutrition, showing chickens in the infamous Poultry Festival, and riding in the Shelby County mounted drill team, played on her High School Golf team, and worked at her parent’s family business, Boles Feed Company. Anna completed a Bachelors degree in Family and Consumer Sciences at SFA, Master’s degree in Family Studies at Texas Woman’s University, and is employed with Texas AgriLife Extension as Angelina County’s Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent. Anna and her husband, Justin, live in Nacogdoches.

BLUEBERRIES WITH LEMON CREAM RECIPE COURTESY OF EATINGWELL.COM

use by dates on food items. This is something that will come in very handy once your children are on their own and buying food with their money.

Here are several ideas on how you and your child can create family memories in the kitchen.

!"

3-6 years old: scrub or peel fresh produce, cover beans with water to soak, clean or set the table, spreading,

pouring

pre-measured

ingredients,

grease pans.

!"

7-11 years of age: crack eggs into bowl, measure and stir ingredients, use a can opener, set the table, fill muffin tins, gather ingredients, cut soft foods, roll out or knead dough, help plan meal, create simple recipes with 6 or less ingredients.

!"

12-15 years of age: use oven, chop vegetables, following and preparing recipes, use grater, mixer, blender, most kitchen appliances.

!"

16-18 years of age: practice halving or doubling recipes, have an assigned night to cook supper for family, cook international foods (Mexican, Chinese, ect.), plan menus, grocery shopping.

Source: Kid’s Cooking Activities

Ingredients 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese 3/4 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt 1 teaspoon honey 2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest 2 cups fresh blueberries Directions Using a fork, break up cream cheese in a medium bowl. Drain off any liquid from the yogurt; add yogurt to the bowl, along with honey. Using an electric mixer, beat at high speed until light and creamy. Stir in lemon zest.

Layer the lemon cream and blueberries in dessert dishes or wine glasses. If not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate for up to 8 hours.

16 !"The Journey - May 2009

TEXAS SWEET AND SPICY SALAD

1lb. fresh blueberries 1 lb. canned pineapple chunks 1/4 cup rum or 1 tbsp. rum extract 1 1/2 tbsp. fresh chopped jalapenos 1 tbsp. grated lime peel 1/4 tsp. hot pepper sauce Mixed greens for salad bed Combine blueberries, pineapple, rum/extract, jalapenos, lime peel and hot pepper sauce; mix well. Serve on bed of mixed greens.

OATMEAL BLUEBERRY PANCAKES

1 1/2 c. whole wheat flour 1 c. rolled oats 2 tbsp. sugar 2 tsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 2 c. milk 2 eggs 1 c. blueberries In large bowl mix well flour, oats, sugar, baking powder and salt; set aside. In small bowl beat milk and eggs until blended, stir into flour mixture and then stir in berries. Using 1/4 cup batter for each pancake, bake on hot greased griddle until golden brown on both sides. tjmag.com / 17

/ YOU R H OME

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL: DENMAN AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH

Vacation Bible School! What a week—What an experience. While some may view this activity as a great opportunity for childcare or a way to get the kids out of the house - VBS is so much more. This summer hundreds of kids from preschoolers thru 6th grade will rush excitedly into area churches to enjoy VBS. In a world where kids between the ages of two and seven average nearly 25 hours per week of mass media intake and those between the ages of eight and thirteen average almost 48 hours per week, VBS provides a positive, life giving message.

Whether the Bible school lasts one day, two days or a whole week, boys and girls have the opportunity to gather together and learn about the Bible and God’s plan for their lives. So what is Vacation Bible School? LifeWay, the publication arm of the Southern Baptist Conventions defines VBS in this way: “Vacation Bible School is a ministry designed to reach people of all ages, leading them to know and respond to Jesus Christ as led by the Holy Spirit. VBS is a fun filled, spiritual adventure that provides concentrated Bible study and encourages real life application.” A typical day in VBS will include crafts, recreation, refreshments, missions education, music and Bible lessons all wrapped up in a high energy, enthusiastic package.

Denman Avenue Baptist Church identifies VBS as one of its major events with more than 100 adults and youth serving in the school’s leadership. This year’s theme, “The Outback Express”, will take kids on a spiritual adventure through the Land Down Under. As the boys and girls journey through Australia they will come face to face with the vastness of God’s love and realize that no matter where they travel or what they do in their life—it all comes back to Jesus Christ. Vacation Bible School at Denman Avenue Baptist Church will take place June 8-12 from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. One of the special opportunities this year will be an adult session each day from 8:30-9:30. This adult session will give parents who drop their children off for VBS the chance to stay a little while longer and become a part of the VBS experience as well. There is no cost for any child or adult to participate and we welcome all kids ages 5 years-sixth grade and adults regardless of church affiliation.

Vacation Bible School has a wide acceptance across many denominations.

While numbers for other denominations were not readily available, in 2007 over 2.8 million people were enrolled in Southern Baptist Vacation Bible Schools. Be sure that you and your children find a church that has VBS and get in on the action! You will be glad that you did!

Kevin Roy Denman Avenue Baptist Church 18 !"The Journey - May 2009

Associate Pastor: Education/Administration

SIMPLE SOLUTIONS THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO GO

Aside from the intense Texas heat, there should be

funds from the City of Lufkin, they were able to expand the

no excuse for anyone to be stagnant and stay indoors this

trail system to 3.4 miles in 2007 using S&S Trials to help

summer. There are many citizens in our community making

construct the new sections. A grant from the Texas Parks and

East Texas a better place to live. We have lots of resources for

Wildlife Department allowed them to add an additional two

discovering things to do and places to go. You can visit your

miles of trail in the park. Both expansions to the trail were

local Chamber of Commerce, Parks and Recreation offices,

heavily supported by volunteers who helped clear the trail

and city website.

and

A d d i t i o n a l l y,

the finish work

many non-profit

on the trail after

organizations

it was initially

have done their

roughed

part to expand

Three

Eagle

their

Scout

projects

special

interests

performed

in.

and

have occurred at

into community

the trail system

activities.

to install a kiosk, signage,

and

D E T T R A C,

benches

along

or the Deep East

the trail.

Texas Trail and Route

Access

Coalition,

In

was

the

2008, Lake

formed in 2004

Enhancement

by

Task

volunteers

Force,

from

the

which is leading

community

for

efforts

to

the purpose of promoting and supporting the development

upgrade the Cassels-Boykin Park along Lake Sam Rayburn,

of multi-use trails in Angelina County and the surrounding

asked DETTRAC to lead efforts to develop a trail system at

areas. DETTRAC received 501(c)3 non-profit status in 2007

Cassels-Boykin Park. DETTRAC is currently engaged in

and has been able to attract limited funding to support their

initial planning of that trail system.

goals. The organization is run completely by volunteers, with no overhead. All of the contributions received have

DETTRAC is also working with the Green Infrastructure

gone towards the development and maintenance of the trail

group in Angelina County to develop longer range plans for

system at Kit McConnico Park.

trail systems in Angelina and surrounding counties.

DETTRAC’s first project was the development of the new trail system at Kit McConnico park. The initial two miles

Get out and ride your bike on one of the marvelous trails provided in Angelina County!

was created entirely by hand through volunteer efforts.

With the receipt of a charitable gift coupled with supporting

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/ YOU R H OME

LANDSCAPING

DIVDING PERENNIALS| WORDS BY RIVERS CARR

Perennials are plants that live in the garden from year to year. If you have perennials in your garden and you’ve noticed yours aren’t blooming like they used to, it may be time to divide. Every 3 to 5 years is a good rule of thumb. Daylilies and irises can be divided anytime of the year in the south.

However, dividing perennials in the season opposite their bloom time is a general rule. Divide summer bloomers in either fall or spring for best results.

First you want to lift the plant to be divided, digging at the drip line and taking care not to damage the roots. Gently shake off loose soil and carefully remove dead foliage and stems. Separate the plant into clumps of two to three fans each, using your hands or a garden knife. Prepare your soil by adding organic matter and fertilizer. Replant the divided sections and water thoroughly. Continue watering often until plants are reestablished. Then apply mulch to protect your plants during the winter months.

Dividing your perennials is an easy and inexpensive way to gain additional plants for your garden. You might even want to share some of your extra plants with a friend. Happy gardening!

“Where flowers bloom so does hope.” - Lady Bird Johnson

20 !"The Journey - May 2009

PHOTO BY LISA CROW

YOUR COMMUNITY

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/ YO U R CO MM U NITY

GIVING BACK

LUFKIN LANDSCAPE TASKFORCE | WORDS BY PAULA METZINGER

Everyone enjoys a lovely landscaped yard with green grass, colorful flowers, and the added touches of water features and garden statues to enhance the view.

Realtors call it curb appeal.

For the Lufkin Landscape Task Force, the city has become their “front yard” as they work to create citywide curb appeal for everyone’s enjoyment.

Indeed, Rock House at Chamber’s Park

the

mission

statement of the group, which

was

formed

less than a decade ago, states the group was “created to formulate, design, facilitate, implement, promote and fund public landscape projects for the purpose of enhancing the image and appearance of Lufkin, thus making it more attractive for its citizens, visitors, and potential businesses.”

Genie Flournoy serves as president of the group which numbers a small but mighty army of twenty-two landscape soldiers.

No matter where you go in Lufkin, you can see touches of their work--from the landscaped median of Gaslight Medical Boulevard planted with native East Texas plants to the entrance at Ellen Trout Zoo. “Once completed, Gaslight was turned over to the city and they maintain the area,” Genie Flournoy said. “Our next project was the entrance to the zoo.”

The restoration of Chambers Park was a multi-year project of the taskforce and the work included a new bridge and sidewalks, parking areas, fencing, signage, stonework, plants, and a mural. The project was officially dedicated in the fall of 2007.

The taskforce’s current project is The Spirit of America Garden and Louis Bronaugh Park in downtown Lufkin, adjacent to City Hall.

“Funds for the bronze eagle sculpture (in the park) were raised by five individuals,” Genie said. “We wanted a Texas sculpture and selected a guy from The Woodlands. As it turned out, he is the official sculptor for the State of Texas.”

22 !"The Journey - May 2009

The park has a memorial to honor the crew of the Columbia and the volunteers who assisted in the recovery effort. One of three flags of the shuttle mission flies at Bronaugh Park. The eagle and center flagpole honor the terrorist victims of 9-11.

The Avenue of Flags is the next project for Bronaugh Park.

Fourteen thirty foot American flags circle the park. The display will be lighted and will present a striking picture of patriotism against the evening skies. Benches and a statue of former Mayor Louis Bronaugh are also featured in the park. A portion of the rock wall from the forest service’s property on US 59 has been relocated to the park.

Future plans are for an amphitheater in the park to be used for a variety of events. More of the rock wall will be used in that project, Genie said.

To help fund the group’s projects, the taskforce sponsors a garden tour each spring and a gala in the fall. Last year’s gala was a “Taste of Tuscany” and this year’s will be a “Taste of Down Under” with an Australian theme.

The Lufkin Landscape Task Force has given much to the city, and residents and visitors will reap the benefits of their labor for years to come.

Front Row (l-r): Dr. Tom Croley, Debra Green, Billy Lawrence, Jeanetta Stewart Second: Clydene Miles, Karla Anderson, Sally Denman, Deborah Ruckman, Gay Parker Back Row: Genie Flournoy, Devereaux Chapman, Mike Riley, Carolyn Tinkle, Dawn Dupuis, Don Hannabas, Mark Dunn, Richard Rainwater Absent: Mike Hampson, Keith Hester, Rachel Emmrick, Dr. Merrick Roche

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/ YOU R COM M U NI TY

BUSINESS CONNECTIONS

Volunteers and community leaders are what make East

piano since 1961. Through her passion of piano, Music World

Texas strong. Individuals like Bonnie Dowdy take it upon

came to be. She became an official small business owner in

themselves to step up where their time and talents are

Angelina County in 1985. “Thru the years, we have grown

utilized.

substantially!� said Dowdy.

Bonnie has been in Lufkin since 1971, and has taught

24 !"The Journey - May 2009

It is dream for many to have their own business. Boonie

Dowdy with President of Angelina County Chamber of Commerce, Jerry Huffman

says, “Being a small business owner is rewarding, but it is never 8-5. For the most part is is 8 a.m. -7 p.m., and we always take our work home.”

Outside of running her own business, Bonnie is passionate about being involved with the community. She is very involved with her church as well as an active member with the Chamber of Commerce.

If you are a member of the Angelina County Chamber of Commerce, you have seen Bonnie! She is an active participant of the membership arena of the Chamber with the purpose of developing membership growth. In particular, she plays a strong role as a Diplomat. According to the Chamber of Commerce, “The purpose of a diplomat is to cultivate and promote membership retention by attending ribbon cuttings, ground breakings, open houses, attend Power Networking Breakfasts, Chamber Night Out, First Friday Luncheon, and other chamber events, encourage new members to become involved, and to help recruit businesses to join the chamber.”

“I have always been involved in my church, but the Chamber is something new to me.” Bonnie continues to says, “I really enjoy it. Our Chamber is a remarkable community and my involvement is important to me. All businesses can benefit from being involved in the Chamber.”

Her time and dedication has not gone unnoticed. This past January at the annual Chamber Banquet, Bonnie was awarded the Diplomat of the Year for 2008. It is because of outstanding people like Bonnie who support the community in helping other small business succeed and thrive!

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ANGELINA COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE LEA DE R SHI P LUF K IN G R ADUAT IO N

RECENT RIBBON CUTTINGS

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce hosted the graduation of 20 members of the 2008-2009 Leadership Lufkin class on Tuesday, May 19th, at a celebration dinner at Crown Colony Country Club.

Ty Thornton, of Lufkin Industries and President of the Leadership Lufkin Alumni Association, emceed the event which was sponsored by Davis Insurance.

Graduates and their sponsors this year were: Loyd Davis (Davis Insurance); Bobby Fenley (Consolidated Communications); Rebecca Garza (Lufkin Industries, Inc.); Joy Scott-Killam (Memorial Health System of East Texas); Claudine Kindred (First United Methodist Church); Rhand Lawson, (Brookshire Brothers); Gabe Lindsay (Commercial Bank of Texas); Lyndee Matthews (Lufkin/Angelina Chamber of Commerce); Karen Meyer (Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control); Belinda Murphy (Carter BloodCare); Brenda Newton (Angelina Plastic Surgery); Tarah Peace (Etech, Inc.); Angela Quillin (Angelina County & Cities Health District); Sarah Ramirez (Atkinson Candy Company); Russ Reeder (Brookshire Brothers); Roger Sanders (Hesters & Sanders Architecture); Amanda Warren (BancorpSouth); Judi Wells (Zeleskey, Cornelius, Hallmark, Roper & Hicks); Melissa Wheeler (Memorial Health System of East Texas); and Toni Wilson (Huntington State Bank).

26 !"The Journey - May 2009

GET FIT & WOODLAND HEIGHTS MEDICAL CENTER AFFINITY CENTER RIBBON CUTTING Get Fit & Woodland Heights Medical Center celebrated the grand opening of their new Affinity Center with a Ribbon Cutting and Open House on Wednesday, April 1st. Located at 302 Medical Park Dr., Ste. 103, the Affinity Center hosts programs such as Healthy Women, Senior Circle and Get Fit, which is led by Connie Reeves, CPT. Pictured is: the Woodland Heights Marketing Staff, Tara Watson and Jennifer Stevens, Get Fit owner Connie Reeves and employees of Woodland Heights. Also pictured are members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats team.

YO UR COM M U NI TY /

ANGELINA COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce is excited to have this opportunity to reach out to the readers of The Journey Magazine.

We are thrilled to represent Lufkin/Angelina County, which is located in the heart of the Texas Forest Country and is the regional hub for healthcare, retail, dining, entertainment, and cultural events.

As a Chamber, we work everyday to support existing businesses, encourage new business, and maintain the outstanding quality of life we enjoy in Angelina County. The giving nature of the citizens of our community is second to none. We have a long history of working together for the greater good with the bottom line to benefit the growth of Angelina County.

Our theme for 2009 is “Leading Businesses. Leading Communities.” That is truly what we are as a Chamber – an organization of leading businesses interested in leading our community to greater heights.

One of our major promotions for 2009 is “Shop Local, Buy Local,” and we encourage you to take this to heart. Think about Angelina County first when you go out to buy. The money you spend is put back into our community for everyone’s use. We ask that if you can buy it in Angelina County, you please do so. Take a minute and look at the ads in The Journey Magazine and see just a small portion what is available in our community.

We look forward to sharing with you what our area has to offer and all of the exciting events that happen in Lufkin.

THE SI LVER SP IK E AWAR D The

Lufkin/Angelina

County

Chamber of Commerce is now taking nominations for the coveted Jack O. (Butch) McMullen Silver Spike Award, to be presented at the First Friday Luncheon on July 10, at Crown Colony Country Club.

Since 1991, Leadership Lufkin has selected a graduate of the program to honor with the Silver Spike Award. Named in honor of Butch McMullen, of the Angelina and Neches River Railroad, the award is presented to an outstanding member of the alumni who has excelled in their role as a leader in all areas of their life.

tjmag.com / 27

/ YOUR CO MM UNITY

FOR EVENT SCHEDULE, PLEASE VISIT: HTTP://WWW.TEXASBLUEBERRYFESTIVAL.COM/

28 !"The Journey - May 2009

NACOGDOCHES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 13

20th Annual Texas Blueberry Festival 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, June 13 in downtown Nacogdoches Find more information including an event schedule at: www.texasblueberryfestival.com

18

Ribbon Cutting for Sisters Gifts, Etc. at Hotel Fredonia 301 Hospital St (across from Hotel Fredonia). Reception will follow.

23

Ribbon Cutting for Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful The City of Lufkin along with local churches will be hosting the National Day of Prayer Ceremony in the Lufkin City Hall Atrium beginning at noon on Thursday, May 7, 2009.

Lufkin City Hall Atrium Lance Moore. Contact: 936-633-0297 or lmoore@ cityoflufkin.com

26

Fourth Friday Luncheon – “Staycation” Speakers Melissa Sanford and Sherri Skeeters, Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau. Hotel Fredonia Banita Ballroom. Reservations required.

Registration form available at www.nacogdoches.org.

VISIT US ON THE WEB The Nacogdoches County Chamber Web site is also a great place to find a community event online calendar (submit your events, too), links to the Shop Nac First and NacBlog sites and more! Visit: www.nacogdoches.org tjmag.com / 29

/ YOUR CO MM UNITY

NACOGDOCHES COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RECENT RIBBON CUTTINGS:

Edward Jones – Heather Harris

Walmart

1105 N. University Dr., Ste. 3, (936) 559-5672

4810 North St., (936) 560-6969

http://www.edwardjones.com/

http://www.walmart.com/

Main St. Salon

Posados Cafe

4909 North St., Ste. 208, (936) 715-0050

1315 North St., (936) 560-2940

http://www.mainsthair.com/

http:// www.posados.com/

30 !"The Journey - May 2009

JUNE 2009 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 1- August 21 Art Camp Museum of East Texas, 936-6394434, lhudgins@metlufkin.org.

Registration materials are available online at www.metlufkin.org.

Classes for age 3 through adults.

Scholarships available.

4 Taste of Nacogdoches. 7 p.m. Hotel Fredonia. $10 adult, $5 child 5 First Friday Cruise Night. 5 - 8:00 p.m.

Downtown Nacogdoches. Cruise into downtown and shop late till eight!

559-2573 5 Heritage Breakfast. 7 a.m. First Methodist Church, Nacogdoches $15 6 12th Annual Neches River Rendezvous Starting at Temple-Inland’s North Boggy Slough, 936-634-6644, lchristmas@lufkintexas.org 6 Heritage Coronation. 6:30 p.m.

Turner Auditorium, Griffith Fine Arts, SFASU $20.00 6 3rd Annual Nacogdoches Jaycees Benefit Bass Tournament. For info call: Gregg Holmes at 936-4623943. Shirley Creek Marina - Sam Rayburn. $100 per boat 2 fishermen per boat max. Optional $10 Big Bass entry. Payout 5 places plus big bass.

1st place is guaranteed $500 6 RCA Rodeo. Expo Center. 564-0849

6 Widows and Widowers. Meet & Greet Social Club Lunch 11 a.m.

Golden Corral, Lufkin. Lunch available for purchase, but not necessary. Come for fun & socializing. Brenda Warren, club coordinator, 936-366-8160 6 1st Saturday Sidewalk Sale.

Downtown Nacogdoches. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. 559-2573 6 Heritage Ball. 8:30 p.m. - midnight.

Hotel Fredonia $80.00 8 Only Spanish. Summer Spanish Class. A two week class from beginners to college level. There are three sessions and four levels. To find out more, call Ms. Zaida Aguilar at 824-3783 8 Cub Scout Day Camp. The Red Barn, 936-632-9535, lisawestenergy@ yahoo.com 8-12 EEK! Week. Texas Forestry Museum, 936-632-9535, info@treetexas.com 8-12 Boomerang Express Vacation Bible School. Get on Board! Kids ages 4-6th grade. 8 a.m. – 12 noon.

Denman Avenue Baptist Church.

For more information, contact Kevin Roy at 936-634-6691 8-12 Camp E.D.G.E. Vacation Bible School Join us at the First United Methodist Church for a fun time! Kids completed kindergarten-3rd grade.

Extreme Camp is available for kids completed 4th-5th grades. 9 a.m. – 12 noon. For more information, contact Carolee Brink at 936-639-3141.

tjmag.com / 31

CALENDAR OF EVENTS CONTINUED

11 SFA Summer Orientation. For info call: Hollie Smith. 936-4686641

26 PineKnot Music Co-Op. 8 p.m. Millard’s Crossing 6020 N Street.

936-552-7462

11 Purple Heart Convention. Hotel Fredonia. For info call: Bud Nettles at 936-462-8519

26 ATV Mud Races. Nacogdoches Expo Center. 564-0849

12 Camino Real Heritage Education Project. First United Methodist Church--701 Goliad Ave, Nacogdoches 468-2408 5:30 p.m.

20 Trade Days. Dawn to Dusk. Loop 224, Nacogdoches 20 The Journey Magazine 4th Anniversary Celebration. Come out to the Lufkin Mall Parking Lot by Texas Shaved Ice. Just in time for the busy traveling season, come out and make sure your child safety seat is secure. There will be lots of giveaways to enjoy, drinks, snowcones, bouncy house, and much more. Stop by and have your photo included in the July issue of The Journey.

20 Super Hero Party. Father/ Son Lookalike Contest. Lufkin Mall.

10am-12pm 22-25 Gourmet Kids Cooking Camp. Texas AgriLife Extension Angelina Co. & Brookshire Brothers 8 a.m. - noon $20 per child For children ages 8-16.

Contact Anna Lee at amblee@ag.tamu.edu for registration.

24 Treatment of Osteoporosis and Spinal Fractures. Women’s Power Lunch, Memorial Health System. Noon -1pm. Medical Staff Meeting Room with lunch provided. Seating is limited.

RSVP 936.631.3099 24 Texas Association of Museums Workshop 8:30 a.m.- 4 p.m. For info call: Brian Bray, (936) 560-4441.

CVB. $25. Learn how to expect the unexpected in Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery. This workshop is a oneday session covering types of disasters, risk analysis, writing disaster plans, emergency response, and salvage procedures and demonstration. An experienced instructor on this topic, Rebecca Elder of AMIGOS, will lead the program.

32 !"The Journey - May 2009

July 2009 3 First Friday Cruise Nights. 5 - 8 p.m.

Downtown Nacogdoches. Cruise into downtown and shop late till eight! 559-2573 4 1st Saturday Sidewalk Sale. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Downtown Nacogdoches. 936-559-2573 4 Freedom Fest. Festival Plaza. 888-OLDEST-TOWN 4 Mike Love & Associates 4th of July Celebration. Ellen Trout Zoo, 936-633-0250 4 El Camino Real Heritage Education Project and “Now and Then” 2:30 p.m. Cole Art Center, 329 E Main St. For info call: Stone Fort Museum, 468-2408. FREE. Jeffrey Williams, landscape geographer and GIS systems administrator for SFA’s Arthur Temple College of Forestry and Agriculture presents “Now and Then”, the project of 2008 students’ work which blended historic photographs of downtown Nacogdoches with recent images. This has led to a trail-wide project documenting communities.

6 Timber Tots. Texas Forestry Museum, 936-632-9535, info@ treetexas.com

Send us your events.

Calendar@tjmag.com Submission deadline is the 15th of the month prior to publication. (June 15th for the June issue) In order for your event to be included please list all of the following: Date, Event Name, Brief Description, Event Location, Time, and Contact.

YO UR CO M M UN ITY /

PLACES AND FACES EXPO ANNIVERSARY PARTY May 13, 2009

George H. Henderson Expo Center Lufkin, Texas

Tara Watson Valena Spradley

Marilyn Phillips Yana Ogletree

Amanda Anderson Glen Sullivan

Glenda Merrell Tami Koonce

Clyde Dickens Danny Merrell

Lindsey Mott Mr. Mott

RACE FOR LIFE May 2, 2009

Lufkin Middle School Lufkin, Texas Trent Ashby Nickie Ashby

Mr and Mr Batten Mr and Mrs Brian Cyr

John & Sue Jasper

Lauren & Erin Moore

The Mendoza Family

Jennifer & Kathy Conn

The Simms Family

The Winners

tjmag.com / 33

/ YOUR CO MM UNITY

JUNIOR LEAGUE MAY MEETING May 13, 2009

Museum of East Texas Lufkin, Texas

Sam and Rebecca Brightwell

Daniel and Jennifer Webster

Reba Squyers, Nancy Ramsey, Angie Roper Cindy Neal, Susan Harris

Jeanie McCusker Linda Poland

Robin Flournoy Stephanie Cook

Mike and Cindy Tierney

Kendall Beard

Lyndee Matthews, Lindsey Mott, Amanda Anderson & Holly Tolar

James Flournoy, Ernest Thompson, Rodney Moore, Brian Cyr, & Koshy Alexander

Claudia Sweetwood, Sherrie Scogin, & Vanessa Durham

Lisa Beard & Tracy Pinkerton

Michelle & Patrick Hoover and Cindi Miles

Sherrie Scogins, Christie Maddux, Michelle Briley & Vanessa Durham

Kendall Beard, Brant Lee & Christie Maddux

Kendall Beard & Kendall Jackson

Michelle & Patrick Hoover and Cindi Miles

Al Meyer & Barbara Thompson

Claire & Kendall

Todd Kasaw, Kendall & Darrell Beard

Kendall & Mallory

BUSINESS AFTER FIVE May 7, 2009

Beard Fine Jewlers Lufkin, Texas

34 !"The Journey - May 2009

WOODLAND HEIGHTS MEDICAL CENTER WOMEN IN RED April 30, 2009

Lufkin Civic Center Lufkin, Texas

POWER NETWORKING BREAKFAST May 22, 2009

Museum of East Texas Lufkin, Tx

JoAnn Bocock, Paula Havard

Tony Moline, Amanda Anderson Anna Lee, Jerry Huffman

Rachelle Frankens

Michelle Briley Stephanie Valentine

Ofc. Ralph Bean, Donna Busler Lynn Hoper, Carolyn Faulkner

SLEEPING BEAUTY

April 28, 2009 Temple Theater Lufkin, Tx

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/ YOUR CO MM UNITY

BLUEBERRY GOLF BASH May 2, 2009

Pineywoods Country Club Nacogdoches, Texas

Morgan Insurance

First Bank and Trust

Commercial Bank

Doug Brown First Place

Axley & Rode Third Place

City of Nacogdoches First Place

RELAY FOR LIFE May 8, 2009

Lufkin Middle School Lufkin, Texas Jan Dawley, Paul Smith Kelly Daniel

Bancorp South

ABOUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER: Lisa Crow is a certified Wedding Consultant and the owner of Special Events in Lufkin.

Special Events is a comprehensive events consulting company that specializes in distinctive weddings and unique events. With over fifteen years of event management and planning experience, Lisa combines creativity and style with enthusiasm and professionalism. To better assist their clients, Special Events offers a full range of invitations and announcements, including the popular photo invitations, and also, event photography. Lisa and her husband Steve have two adorable daughters, Reagan & Cailyn. For more information, or to view and purchase event pictures, go to www.specialeventstx.com or call 936-676-0467.

36 !"The Journey - May 2009

LEADERSHIP NACOGDOCHES GRADUATION May 14, 2009

Fredonia Hotel Nacogdoches, Texas

MUSEUM GUILD MEMBERSHIP DRIVE April 29, 2009

Museum of East Texas Lufkin, Texas

tjmag.com / 37

FEATURES “Summer Days and Summer Nights ­ A journey one should not miss!”

38 !"The Journey - May 2009

Inspiring Young Woman tjmag.com / 39

/ F E ATUR ES

Caroline Pruitt WORDS BY PAULA METZINGER

Inspiring Young Woman

Like any 14-year-old freshman at Nacogdoches High

“In Cameroon I saw what a third world country really looks like.

School, Caroline Pruitt is at home hanging out at the mall

It’s very different from the pictures you see. Someday I would

with her friends and handling a new pair of jeans. Unlike most

like to go back and do something to help the people,” she said.

of her friends, she is just as at home in the forest or jungle

“Hunting has taught me patience and other life skills,” she said.

handling a cross bow or a Winchester stalking wild game.

“It’s also taught me to slow down and appreciate things. It’s

Born into a family of hunters, Caroline, the daughter of Kerry

made me appreciate what I have.” Her experiences in the wilds

and Lori Pruitt, said she had only hunted deer twice when she

have also brought her closer to God, she said.

accompanied her dad on a hunt to Zimbabwe two years ago.

“I became a Christian when I was seven but I feel so much “We were stalking an Impala and the guide handed me

closer to God outdoors. He has always been there for me and I

a gun and said, ‘why don’t you take a shot?’ I bagged it with

know He keeps me safe.” And she has had one close encounter

one shot,” she said. “I loved it and discovered I have a natural

of the Rhino kind that re-enforced that belief and trust.

feel for (hunting.)” In addition to the Impala, on that hunt she shot eight

“These animals are dangerous

other animals…seven with only one

and can be aggressive,” she said. It

shot, she said. “They started calling

wasn’t the animal she was watching

me Annie Oakley,” she said.

but another hunter’s Rhino that came at the hunters. “The wind shifted and

Her most recent hunt was just

he caught our scent and charged us.

last month in Vancouver Island,

My dad snatched me back. I realized

British Columbia in Canada where

then you can’t panic. You have to stay

she bagged two Black bears, one with

focused. So when we were on the

a muzzle loader and one with a bow at 20 feet. She started

bear hunt I had made mental plans for what I would do if the

hunting with guns and rifles then learned to use a cross bow

bear did charge.”

and now is trying to master the compound bow. “Using a bow is truly hunting,” she said. “You have to be sneaky because

The Rhino hunt was also different in that it was what is

you’re in the animal’s territory. You have to get really close to

called a “darted, conservation project,” she said. The Rhinos

the animal. It’s not like shooting with a gun when you’re 300

are not killed but shot with a tranquilizer dart, examined by a

yards away.

veterinarian and then released back into the wild. An article she wrote about the Bongo hunt in Cameroon will be published

With a crossbow, about 60 yards distance is max.” Since

in the Safari Club International magazine this month.

that first hunt Caroline and her father have hunted in South Africa, Cameroon (where she and her dad camped for almost

Right now the young hunter is working on earning a youth

two weeks in the jungle with the natives), Namibia, New

hunter award through the Safari Club International and still

Zealand, Argentina and a few less exotic places like New

needs to get a hog to stay in the competition. She expects that

Mexico and Waco.

hunt to be a little closer to home, maybe even in the woods

The meat from all the animals taken on the hunt is eaten…

surrounding her home. And she may just show up on your

either by Caroline’s family or given to shelters, she said. But

television one day. Caroline’s Black bear hunt in Canada will

more than just trophies or animal hides to show off, Caroline

be featured later this year or in 2010 on Jim Shockey’s Hunting

said her hunting experiences have opened her eyes to the world.

Adventure program shown on the Outdoor Channel.

40 !"The Journey - May 2009

Inspiring Woman tjmag.com / 41

/ F E AT UR E S

Ruby Woodard

Inspiring Woman

WORDS BY PAULA METZINGER

As a young girl in North Carolina, Ruby Woodard used to

also a musician, playing guitar for the praise team at their

follow her Poppi around and try to imitate his whistle, which

church and in another band with friends. “Family” now includes

was really just a simple bird call. “He used to toodle around

Tread, who will be five this summer and begin kindergarten in

the house, whistling these two little notes over and over and

the fall.

eventually, I picked it up,” she said.

“I have been a stay-at-home mom for the last five year, Little did she and those around her know that two little

but before that I taught middle school art in Huntington,” she

notes in a bird call would turn into a note-worthy ministry

said. “I’ve continued to teach private lessons in my studio

and an encouraging sound to others. After mastering her

since I had my son, but I had to get a little more creative to help

grandfather’s two-note whistle, she

supplement that income. Enter:

moved onto some classics, inspired

clowning and whistling telegrams.”

by a set of records, “Hooked on Classics.”

Ruby said she has always “gravitated to silly and humorous

“Yes, my introduction to classic

things” so clowning just seemed

music had a disco beat in the

like a logical step. From Sesame

background,” she said. “It was

Street to PeeWee Herman (she was

pretty bad stuff, but popular when I

a member of his fan club and still

was a kid and very catchy to whistle

cherishes her autograph picture

to. It seemed as natural as humming

of the actor) to shows like “I Love

or singing for some people. I really

Lucy” and the Carol Burnett Show,

enjoy music so I just whistled along.”

her favorites were always shows that created laughter.

In college at SFA, Ruby would whistle “Happy Birthday” to friends

“Silly people made me laugh

and eventually people began to ask

and I discovered that if I acted silly,

her to whistle for their friends who would ask her to whistle for their friends.

I could make people laugh too. As far back as I can remember I always had friends that were up for making skits, dressing up in costumes or doing pranks of

It was also while studying at SFA that Ruby met Brad Woodard, a film student. The two married in Nacogdoches in

some sort,” she said. I feel like I’ve been in training for clowning all my life, she said.

1996. Ruby’s father had worked for DuPont and she had lived in North Carolina, Arkansas and Florida before her family

“Initially, I got into clowning about four years ago to help out

settled in the Houston area and she claims Texas as “home.”

a friend, another clown I know, named “Joy.” She does fabulous

Brad is originally from Dallas. After marrying, they decided

balloon sculptures and would use them to help illustrate

Nacogdoches would be a great place to raise a family and

stories for the kids at our church. I noticed how enthralled the

stayed. Today, Brad owns an air conditioning business.

kids were by her colorful storytelling and remembered that joy as a kid. It was very exciting. I never got the hang of balloon

“He’s very popular in the summertime,” she said. Brad is

42 !"The Journey - May 2009

sculpture (that’s quite a skill) but I soon got into face painting.

On several occasions I would accompany Joy to birthday

and smile or I’ll wave really exaggerated, until they smile. It is

parties as her sidekick “Whistling Dixie.” I didn’t know there

also big fun to run errands, like going to the bank or driving

was enough demand in our little town for more than one

through Java Jacks for coffee. If someone gets a chuckle, I

clown but eventually she was passing opportunities my way.

think it might brighten their day a little and I hope I’ve been

It seemed a natural progression.” Although clowning may be

that “something” for someone.”

a long way from Picasso or Rembrandt and whistling a far cry Beethoven or other classics, Ruby believes God has led her to this ministry.

And often after performing, someone from the audience will find her and tell her that whistling reminded them of their grandparent or of memories of being a kid. I’m glad to have

“I truly feel like I’ve been blessed with some things

sparked such nostalgia and happy memories, she said.

(talents) that are meant to be shared. I certainly didn’t set out to become a “Whistling Clown” but I’ve been led to this

“I genuinely love going to retirement homes or assisted

destination and I have faith that things happen for a reason. I

living facilities and performing nostalgic songs for the

don’t question it. I just go through the doors God puts in front

residents. I’ve seen people sing the words to songs they may

of me. I have been studying “silly” my entire life and now it’s

not have heard in decades and know every word, it seriously

coming in handy…to help

warms my heart to see

other people smile. I believe

them smile, tap their feet

talents are given to be

and sing,” she said. “Music

shared.” One door Ruby was

is such a gift. I really

not expecting was the one

love the time we share

marked “cancer” that she

together during a song.

was forced to walk through

They relive old memories

two years ago.

and create new ones for me…it’s very special and

“I was treated at MD

heart warming.”

Anderson and kept a blog during that time in which I

Ruby said she does

used humor to keep my wits

not have a favorite tune to

about me. It was powerful in its ability to squelch the scary

whistle, “from Mozart to Metallica” she enjoys whistling them

aspects of what I was going through,” she said.

all, but if forced to narrow it down she said anything from the 30s and 40s would be at the top of the list.

“When I was in the hospital, days after my surgery, two clowns came to visit. It was refreshing to see these colorful

“Recently, I’ve discovered a Disney song “Give a Little

characters in such a sterile environment, standing out

Whistle” from Pinocchio,” she said. “The lyrics are what I like

amongst all the staff in their scrubs. I was inspired by them,

about it more so than the whistle…”When you get in trouble

even though I don’t even remember if they were funny or not.

and you don’t know right from wrong, give a little whistle…

It was a great distraction from an uncomfortable situation.

When you meet temptation and the urge is very strong,

I like to keep that in mind when I’m clowning. Everyone has

give a little whistle…take the straight and narrow path and

their bad days. I never know who I’ll encounter or whether it

if you start to slide, give a little whistle…and always let your

might be the first time they smiled that day.”

conscience be your guide!”

Ruby even enjoys the time she spends driving to and from a job. “When I pull up next to someone at a stoplight, I get the funniest looks…it could be the bright blue afro or maybe the glitter eyelashes but when I catch them staring I look back

For some added fun, look for Whistling Dixie aka Ruby Woodard as you stand in line for blueberry pancakes at 8 a.m.

She will entertain you at the Nacogdoches Blueberry Festival June 13.

tjmag.com / 43

YOUR LIFE 44 !"The Journey - May 2009

YO UR L IF E /

HALL OF FAME HUBBIES Scott Lucas I have been married to Scott, the love of my life, my best friend and my soul mate for 14 years. He truly is the best husband anyone could ever ask for. During the last 4-5 years going through infertility, I could always look to him for encouragement and just know I had a shoulder to cry on. We were finally blessed with two precious babies January of this year. He has been an amazing father to Brayden & Kaitlyn. I don’t think he realizes just how amazing he really is. Every night he is feeding, changing diapers, cleaning bottles, and everything else that goes with having children. I am truly grateful that God gave me such a special person to share my life with. We are blessed to have such a wonderful, loving husband & daddy. Scott Lucas, husband of Jean and proud father to Bryce 17, Brayden & Kaitlyn 4 ½ months.

Justin Carnley Justin has always helped with regular household chores, including cooking!! He’s also a great dad. He plays with the kids and willingly takes care of them when I am away. Over the past five years, he has endured much physical pain at work in order to provide for his family. Although these are worthy attributes, they are not the most important qualities he possesses. Justin has never used a harsh word against me. After eight years of marriage and three children, he still thinks I’m beautiful. He calls me just to say, “I love you!” or “I miss you.” He still reaches to hold my hand when we are in the car. He prays with the kids and sings to them at night.

These simple actions make him the best husband and the best father for my children. Husband of Kacie and father to Sidney, Lachlan, and Paisley.

Please submit your Hall of Famer to halloffame@tjmag.com. Be sure to include a photo with 75 words telling us about your husband. Do not forget to list your children or grandchildren’s names if you would like to include them.

tjmag.com / 45

/ YO U R LI FE

Pretty Babies 1.

2.

3.

4.

JULIANNE HENNESSEY BORN: AUGUST 18, 2008 PROUD PARENTS- PETER & CLAIRE HENNESSEY PROUD GRANDPARENTS - COOPER & JULIE CASTLEBERRY SAN ANTONIO, TX BLADEN SHANE BRITTON BORN: SEPTEMBER 23, 2008 PROUD PARENT ROBIN PIPPIN-BRITTON GRAND PARENTS KATHY MARSHALL AND THE LATE RANDY MARSHALL HUNTINGTON, TX JAMES BENJAMIN MERREL BORN: SEPTEMBER 9, 2008 PARENTS: BRANDON & TIFFANY MERREL GRANDPARENTS: LAURA PLACKER, JACK TINSLEY LUFKIN, TX EMMY CLAIRE FINNERUD BORN: JULY 22, 2008.

RYAN AND KELLY FINNERUD NACOGDOCHES, TX

5.

1.

2.

3.

4.

JAMES “PAXTON” COOK BORN MARCH 18, 2009 CARON AND JEFF COOK LUFKIN, TX

5.

We cover everything from top to…you know.

C h o o s e We l l . www.woodlandheights.net 46 !"The Journey - May 2009

40883_WHMC_8_375x3_625_4C.indd 1

4/27/09 10:33:57 AM

PARENTING CAR SEAT SAFETY

The single most important thing you can do to protect your children is to buckle them up properly, every time. Best of all, it works: from 1975 through 2007, 8,709 kids under 5 were saved because they were restrained in car seats or seat belts.

Child safety seats, when properly installed and used, reduce the risk of death by up to 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for children ages one to four Here are a few tips to remember: 1. All children under 13 should ride buckled up in a back seat for the most protection available.

2. Recent information available from the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that infants under 2 fare best in crashes when they ride rear-facing in a back seat. Many newer convertible car seats enable use a harness that can hold a child who weighs up to 30, 35 or even 40 pounds in the rear-facing mode. Read your instructions to see what your car seat allows. At a minimum, infants should ride rear-facing up to age one AND 20 pounds.

3. Children who have outgrown the rear-facing harness in their convertible seat should move into a forward facing seat with a harness. Use the harness to the highest weight allowed by the car seat manufacturer. Many car seats have harnesses to serve the young children who weigh up to 50, 65 or even 80 pounds. Check your car seat instructions to see what child weight and height your car seat will handle.

4. Once the harness is outgrown for the forward facing child, it is time to move into a booster seat. It can be a high back (great for kids who still like to sleep in a vehicle and rest their heads on something) or a backless (great for older kids who do not want their friends to see them in a booster seat). Keep your child in a booster seat until they can pass the Safety Belt Fit Test. Once they can pass that test, they are ready for a seat belt. Most kids will outgrow a booster seat at about 4’9” in height and between 80 to100 pounds. For many kids that is between 8 and 12 years of age.

5. Safety Belt Fit Test: ƀɠ Have your child sit in a back seat with their bottom and back against vehicle seat back.

Do the child’s knees bend at the seat’s edge? If yes, go on. If not, stay in a booster seat. ƀɠ Buckle the seat belt. Does the lap belt stay low on the hips? If yes, go on. If not, stay in a booster seat. ƀɠ Look at the shoulder belt. Does it lay on the collarbone and shoulder? If yes, go on.

If no, remain in the booster seat. ƀɠ Can the child maintain the correct position with the shoulder belt on the shoulder and the lap belt low across the hips? If yes, you have passed the Safety Belt Fit Test.

If no, return to the booster seat and re-test in a month.

6. Every occupant in the vehicle needs to use a restraint. Seat belts should never be placed behind the back or under the arm.

7. Replace car seats that have been in a crash.

8. For more information about child passenger safety, visit Safe Kids’ Web site at www.usa. safekids.org.

Go to Safe Kids USA’s Web site (www.usa.safekids.org) to find the nearest inspection station staffed by a certified child passenger safety technician. They can teach you how to best protect all the children in your family.

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Katy and Brad FEBRUARY 7, 2009

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY WWW.IMAGESBYBECKI.COM Katy Schaeffer met the love of her life and best friend, Brad Riemenschneider, at a New Year’s Eve party in 2002.

Brad proposed to Katy at her parent’s house the day after her 21st birthday.

“Brad was getting ready to leave. My dad’s truck was

“I actually went to Brad’s New Year’s Eve party with

parked behind his car and my dad had gone out to move

another guy,” she said. But we became friends and have been

the truck so Brad could leave,” she said. “But Brad was just

“hanging out ever since.”

standing there holding my hand and he wasn’t leaving. My best friend was there taking pictures. I was telling him he

At first it was a long-distance friendship. Katy grew up in

needed to leave because my Dad was waiting for him so he

Beaumont. Brad was in Crockett. Katy spent almost every

could move his truck. Finally, he got down on his knees and

weekend at her grandparents in Pennington, outside of

told me he wasn’t leaving until he asked me to marry him. I

Crockett.

was shocked. My mom was crying like a crazy person. Finally I realized I needed to answer him.”

“We were friends for five years and then dated for two,” she said. “On our first real date we just rode around, just me

The wedding was one year later, February 7, 2009 at Fist

and Brad. There isn’t a lot to do in Crockett so we just rode

Assembly in Crockett. Our colors were purple and green and

around town. Usually we were with a bunch of friends but

we actually had six attendants each.

this time it was just him and me.”

48 !"The Journey - May 2009

“Brad had two best men and four groomsmen and they couldn’t decide who was going to keep the ring. So when the pastor asked for the ring, they acted like they couldn’t find it,” she said. “I was actually getting sort of mad because I thought they had lost the ring but then they passed it up to Brad, all the way up the line through the six groomsmen.”

The couple spent their honeymoon in Las Vegas. They make their home in Crockett where Brad works for a chemical company and Katy works at KIVY, a local radio station.

Katy said says she has loved every minute of being married to Brad.

“We get to be with each other every day,” she said. “He’s my best friend. I wouldn’t trade him for the world.”

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Girls Group

CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 1947

So many of our days and schedules fly by. We can hardly remember what we did last week, let alone a few years ago. For those who can remember, try to remember what you were doing sixty-two years ago. One group can- Central High School graduating class of 1947.

This group has been getting together for over sixty-two years since they graduated. They were a small class of only 18. Like most small schools, they were combined with other grade levels for certain subjects. One classmate said, “It wasn’t like we only had our class. We were really a part of the entire high school.

Everyone was close- we knew everyone’s first and middle name and all their family.”

Looking back at the class photo, you can see how times have changed. “My have times changed. Everything was different back then. We didn’t have a dress code; we just knew to come dressed in our best. It was implied that girls did not wear slacks.

We treated our teachers as if they were our parents. There would never be anyway we could be disrespectful because of the thought of what our parents would do to us,” said Margie Mathis.

Over the years, each member of the class moved on in their life- for many, starting their own family. “These were the years very few of us kept in touch. We were all busy raising children and starting careers,” said Jeffie Anderson Oliver.

Their first official reunion was the ten year reunion like many schools organize.

After that it was another few years and they had another. Then more years went by, and they organized another reunion.

50 !"The Journey - May 2009

There were many milestones along the way like their 25th reunion, 50th reunion; their last “big” event was in 1997. This past May they joined back together again after sixty-two years from their graduation in 1947. Jeffie says, “After this year, we plan on making it an annual tradition and not letting as many years go by.”

Being able to look back and reminisce through photos and memories bring back special feelings for each member of the class. They have truly enjoyed being able to share those memories together of being best friends during the high schools years, and for many of them still being best friends today.

Back Row (l-r): Charlene Brown, Frankie Willman, Margie Mathis, Pauline Arnold, Jeffie Anderson, Othela Oliver, Jolene Hodges. Middle Row: Vernon Johnson, Clarice Heaton, Ladelle Berry, Lavita Jones, Miss Faye Wilson, teacher, Peggy Sue Allen, Bottom Row: Mr. Pierce, teacher, Betty Sue Nerren, Doris Nell Allen, Jack Blackburn, Brownie Conditt.

Missing from photo: Billie Jean Allen and Jean Dees Modisette

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RELATIONSHIPS

GRANDPARENTS OR FREE BABYSITTERS! | WORDS BY KATHRYN GREENE I dearly love my grandchildren – all 8 of them! (Yes, number 8 was born April 25 – Ava RiAnn.) When they are all at our home my husband warmly refers to our time with them as doing “day care”. The oldest grandchild is 8 years old, so we have eight under the age of 8! God has blessed us with healthy as well as beautiful grandchildren - for that we are deeply grateful. I love to spend time with them (two at a time is probably the best and most enjoyable scenario). When it is just us girls, we can do tea parties, watch the “Cinderella” movie, play with dolls, and go to Target “Toy” Store– do “girls” stuff. When it is the boys, they love to watch Star Wars (with Papa), build transformers, ride scooters, and go to Target “Toy” Store. One thing they all have in common is that they love to go to Target “Toy” Store. Of course they want to buy something, but to get Grama to go to the store; they say they just want to look! The grandchildren help me get my mind off of the everyday, and provide an escape from its problems.

They help me see life from their perspective – which is usually fresh and entertaining.

Seeking to be neutral (which is hard for a grandmother), I have heard grandparents as well as adult children share some of their relationship struggles concerning the children.

The adult children are very appreciative of the grandparents keeping the children so they can have a night out occasionally.

The problem that I have heard expressed by some grandparents is that they feel like they are just babysitters and that their children feel free to impose on them rather frequently. They love to keep the kids when they have free time. They also say they don’t mind keeping the grandchildren when they know that their time with them is truly appreciated and that they do not feel like they are being taken advantage of. They love to hear the words – “thank-you”!

The other side of the story that I hear from the adult children is that they wish their parents would volunteer to keep the children without having to be asked and being made to feel that it is an imposition. Many of them feel it is the 52 !"The Journey - May 2009

responsibility of the grandparents to help with the raising of the grandchildren. They would love for the grandparents to ask what they can do for the children that would be meaningful to their parents rather than buying them toys when they have more than they could ever play with.

Grandparents would like to feel that their adult children believe that they are qualified to keep the grandchildren. It is amazing to grandparents that their children have become adults when they were given honey before the age of two, put on their stomach to sleep when they were infants, arms raised above their head when being choked, allowed to eat nuts whenever they wanted, and did not have to be put in a seat harness until the age of six.

Times do change things and for some reason the adult children think their parents have forgotten how to take care of little ones. So, they leave notes – pages of notes on how to and how not to take care of “their” grandchildren.

On the other side of the issue, the adult children would like to make sure their parents know what to do for their children (since times have changed from when they were children).

They want to make sure the grandparent knows their child’s schedule, what the child likes and doesn’t like, and above all that they are not be given candy, artificial sweetener, or any thing that would stunt their physical and cognitive development. They would like for their parents to know that while they appreciate the gifts of toys and clothes, there are other things the grandchildren really need. One of the things that is really needed is their time. The time the grandparents can give to spend with the children allows the adult children to take a needed break, have a night out, or run errands. They love for the grandparents to call and say, “Can we keep the kids today, or tonight?”

For the rest of the story as Paul Harvey would say…

Grandparents want to know they are appreciated for the help they give in helping raise the grandchildren; and adult children want their parents to know their time is much more needed and appreciated rather than gifts.

Kathryn Greene is a Counselor at Harmony Hill Baptist Church. She is the wife of the Senior Pastor, mother of two sons, and Grama to 7 grandchildren.

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FITNESS 101

WHMC WALKING TRAIL | WORDS BY DR. KIM ARCHER You know that walking is good for your health. But you often

time your local indoor mall opens for mall walkers. Most malls let

find yourself too comfortable on the couch, too tired, or too busy

people walk before the shops even open. So you don’t even have to

to get a walk in before dark. How is it that some people have no

deal with the shopping crowds!

trouble getting physical activity to be such a natural part of their

Are you a people-person? Grab a friend for a walk, join a

day? What’s their secret?

It’s simple. There are people who have made walking fit with their personal interests, activities and responsibilities.

They make it a part of every day living. In fact, often they don’t even recognize that they’re getting exercise and improving their health!

How? Dean Witherspoon of Health Enhancement Systems, a leader in health behavior change innovation, explains why.

“Because they’ve made walking both pleasurable and functional. Maybe they accomplish daily tasks and activities on foot. Or they enjoy great conversation with a friend, spouse, or grandchild during a walk with one another. Making walking part of your life is easier than you think,” he says. “Some people

walking club, or take part in a community walk event. You’ll enjoy

find peace of mind while taking a hike; others may use the walking

the company while getting a work-out.

time to listen to an audio book. There are many ways to make walking enjoyable.” Are you convinced? See how simple it can be to make walking routine in your life:

Get bored easily? Need a challenge? Try a walk up and down hills. Take different walks each day instead of always following the same route. Add some stairs into your walk, such as stairs in front

Do you have a bank, post office, library, or stores under a mile from your home or work? If so, leave the car behind! Walk to do

of a building or museum. Or mix up your walk by adding some deep lunges and squats before crossing a street.

an errand, grab a newspaper, or pick up a healthy lunch. And don’t stop at the closest store. Choose one a little further down the street so your walk is a little longer.

These are just a few tips to show you how easy it is to add walking into your day. Here’s another idea: Talk, better yet, walk with someone you know who walks a lot. Find out what they do,

Do you love to be outdoors? Enjoy a walk around a park, pond,

and how they do it. And of course, don’t forget to take advantage of

or new neighborhood. Look for walking or hiking trails nearby.

all the AARP walking resources to help you become an avid walker.

Even cities often have walking paths by woods, streams, or rivers.

You can make walking an easy and enjoyable part of your life.

Dislike hot weather, traffic, or bad air quality? Check what

54 !"The Journey - May 2009

Source: Association of Advancement of Retired Persons David Ellis created a walking trail for the employees of Woodland Heights Medical Center. Since the creation of the

trail, it has been utilized by more than the employees of the hospital: nearby physician’s offices and businesses, as well as the new affinity groups Healthy Woman and Senior Circle utilize the path. Woodland Heights Medical Center wanted to share it with the community and let everyone know there is something available close by. The map is full of different routes to walk, depending on how many miles you would like to cover. For more information on Healthy Woman or Senior Circle, contact Jennifer Stevens or Tara Watson at 936-6378688 or 936-637-8687.

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FASHION AND BEAUTY SUMMER STYLE | WORDS BY KELLEY MOORE

Welcome to the “anything goes” era of women’s fashion,

outfit has turned fabulous.

where one woman’s dress shirt is another’s casual top,

Ultimately the difference between casual and dressy

where an untucked shirt is no longer considered unkempt,

is very personal. It means you should have the options

and where jeans are

necessary depending on

accepted in more places

your mood, the event,

than one might expect.

and the image you wish

So what is the dividing

to convey. Great style

line between casual and

is knowing what works

dressy? The answer is

for you. Remembering,

harder than ever before.

clothes that fit well make you appear thinner and

When it comes to

present a more polished

fashion nothing is more

look.

fundamental than the color black.

It is the

So what does this

anchor color of every

mean for you?

As

wardrobe,

a

my

the

one

consultant,

color that is not only

knowledge as well as

comfortable

any

your preferences can

situation, but entirely

provide guidance and

appropriate

reassurance

in in

even

that

is

an elegant situation.

priceless.

While other colors may

confidence in knowing

come and go black is

that you look and feel

enduring.

great with what you’re

Therefore,

black is always the right

Offering the

wearing…all the time!

choice when you are not sure the dress for an event.

The perfect black pant paired with strappy heels, a silk blouse, or a beaded jacket is perfect for just about any occasion. If you prefer a little black dress, accessorize for the occasion with a beaded handbag or great scarf. Complete the outfit with a chic pair of shoes.

Don’t rule out a great pair of dark denim jeans topped with a favorite dressy blouse. Add a fabulous pair of earrings, your favorite sandal, and evening make-up and an everyday

56 !"The Journey - May 2009

Kelley Moore will present the Carlisle Fall Collection August 11th thru August 19th at Studio 319, 319 E. Frank Ave., in Lufkin.

The Carlisle Collection is designer

inspired clothing in sizes 0-18.

Specially designed

accessories such as scarves, belts, handbags, and jewelry compliment the collection. Email kelleys@consolidated. net for brochures and information.

YO UR B O DY /

FASHION

PERFECT ACCESSORY | WORDS BY KELLEY MOORE A chic and classy pair of sunglass can put the finishing touch on that new summer outfit. This essential summer accessory comes in a variety of styles including aviators, vintage look or chick tortoise shell. Select a pair of sunglasses that complement the shape of your face and can be versatile with your wardrobe. Oversized sunglasses may be the hot trend this summer but if they don’t complement your face, choose one of the more classic styles that fits your face shape. The Center For Sight has many styles to choose from and the staff there will help you select a frame that flatters your face and fits your lifestyle. They also have all the brand names you love: Mont Blanc, Dior, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, and many more.

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; She can laugh at the days to come.”

- Proverbs 31:25 -

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WOMANS HEALTH DEHYDRATION

What causes dehydration?

ƀɠ

skin that does not flatten when pinched and released

Under normal conditions, we lose body water daily through sweat,

tears,

urine,

and stool. In a healthy

How can dehydration be prevented?

Take precautionary measures to avoid the harmful effects of dehydration, including: ƀɠ

person, this water is replaced by drinking

playing in the sun. ƀɠ

fluids and eating foods that contain water. When a person becomes sick with fever,

ƀɠ ƀɠ

Drink appropriate sports drinks to help maintain electrolyte balance.

ƀɠ

Occasionally, dehydration can be caused by drugs, such as

For infants and young children, solutions like Pedialyte will help maintain electrolyte balance during ill-

diuretics, which deplete body fluids and electrolytes. Whatever the cause, dehydration should be treated as soon as pos-

Try to schedule physical outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day.

water content and essential body salts such as sodium, potassium, calcium bicarbonate, and phosphate.

Make sure you are taking in more fluid than you are losing.

diarrhea, or vomiting, or if an individual is overexposed to the sun, dehydration occurs. This is caused when the body loses

Drink plenty of fluids, especially when working or

ness or heat exposure. ƀɠ

sible.

Do not try to make fluid and salt solutions at home for children.

What are the symptoms of dehydration?

What is heat stroke?

The following are the most common symptoms of dehy-

Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness and is

dration, although each individual may experience symptoms

a life-threatening emergency. It is the result of long, extreme

differently. Symptoms may include:

exposure to the sun, in which a person does not sweat enough to lower body temperature. The elderly, infants, persons who

ƀɠ

thirst

work outdoors, and those on certain types of medications are

ƀɠ

less-frequent urination

most susceptible to heat stroke. It is a condition that devel-

ƀɠ

dry skin

ops rapidly and requires immediate medical treatment.

ƀɠ

fatigue

ƀɠ

light-headedness

ƀɠ

dizziness

ƀɠ

confusion

as heat stroke can cause permanent damage or death. There

ƀɠ

dry mouth and mucous membranes

are some immediate first aid measures you can take while

ƀɠ

increased heart rate and breathing

waiting for help to arrive.

ƀɠ

In children, additional symptoms may include:

ƀɠ

Get the person indoors.

ƀɠ

dry mouth and tongue

ƀɠ

Remove clothing and gently apply cool water to the

ƀɠ

no tears when crying

ƀɠ

no wet diapers for more than 3 hours

ƀɠ

Apply ice packs to the groin and armpits.

ƀɠ

sunken abdomen, eyes or cheeks

ƀɠ

Have the person lie down in a cool area with their feet

ƀɠ

high fever

ƀɠ

irritability

58 !"The Journey - May 2009

How is heat stroke treated?

It is important for the person to be treated immediately,

skin followed by fanning to stimulate sweating.

slightly elevated

YOUR RESOURCE tjmag.com / 59

THE REVIEW OFF! CLIP-ON Just in time for outdoor activities, Off! Clip-On has arrived. Off! Clip-On will protect you for up to 12 hours, providing head to toe protection. Unlike most personal repellents, it is odorless and there is no skin application. The clipon unit is battery-powered and has a fan that circulates repellant all around you. Look for the OFF! Clip-On at any of your local Brookshire Brothers.

LEAPFROG Looking for the perfect traveling tool to keep your child happy? LeapFrog has a brand new product on the market. The Tag Junior book pal brings stories to life in a way that is just right for two- to four-year olds, encouraging little ones who are just discovering books to build a lasting interest in them. It comes in an appealing, chunky little character, which is easier for younger children to manipulate. The Tag Junior pal works when children “stamp� its wide base anywhere on the pages of a Tag Junior book.

Kids can hear a block of text read aloud. Tag Junior are available anywhere LeapFrog products are sold.

MOISTURE BURST FACIAL MIST This summer heat creates thirsty skin. Offer your skin a refreshing, facial mist that provides instant relief for dehydrated skin, keeping it healthier looking and more vibrant. You can use it immediately out of the shower to keep pores small or mist throughout the day for continuous skin hydration and an instant radiant glow. You can feel the difference just seconds after you mist your face. Available now from BareMinerals at Expressive Images Salon in Lufkin.

60 !"The Journey - May 2009

Market

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BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT RAYS DRIVE IN | WORDS BY PAULA METZINGER

Jerry Ray often tells people, “we’re not fast food, we’re

ing room and drive through window was added. A second din-

good food fast.” It’s something his family has been doing for

ing room was added in ’86 and a decade later Ray’s West was

almost 50 years. In fact, you might say a Ray’s burger and

purchased. In 1995 Jerry’s parents were ready to retire and

golden onion rings from the restaurant on Timberland are a

Jerry and his wife, Lawana became the sole owners of Ray’s

Lufkin tradition.

Drive –In. The Ray family had always been active in church

J.C. and Opal Ray bought the café in November of 1959

but the restaurant business often took them away from Sun-

from David Boles. At that time there were five or six restau-

day worship. Jerry was leading the music at Crossroads Bap-

rants on Timberland Drive that had curb service. mJerry said

tist Church in ’72 when the new building was built.

his parents had no restaurant experience. “I don’t know what my dad paid for it, but I know that he tried to give it back to the Boles after the first week.

“Our pastor came to me and asked me to consider not opening on Sunday. He told me that if I would close on Sunday and if I didn’t make as

When Ray’s opened, Tim-

much in six days as I made in

berland Drive was the “main

seven, he would make up the

drag” in Lufkin and the thing

difference,” Jerry said. “In two

to do on Friday night was to

weeks we were making in six

drive up and down Timberland

days what we had been making

looking for your friends, Jerry

before in seven.” The pastor

said. The kids would start at

never had to make a payment

Petty’s Motel, turn around at

and the Rays have never gone

the rock house cafe (some-

back to being opened on Sun-

where in the area of Barrett Brothers Kia) then make a

Original Ray’s Drive In on Timberland Drive

circle around Read’s Broiler

day.

Today the Rays have close

Burger at the corner of Denman and Timberland. Eventually

to 50 employees and with managers and assistant managers

the kids would get together in a parking lot somewhere.

at each location. Olene Yarbrough has been with the business for 20 years and Margie Valdez, manager at Ray’s West has

“Timberland was the place to see and be seen. Everyone

been with them 18 years. What makes Ray’s as popular with

was on Timberland Drive,” he said. Located on the main thor-

today’s crowd as it did with their parents and grandparents?

oughfare in town and offering good food and service, the res-

“We do the same thing we did when my parents started this

taurant grew and thrived and for the first nine years the Rays

business,” he said.

ran it with the help of two of J.C.’s sisters and “some good employees.” In the spring of 1968, on a fishing trip, J.C. asked his

“We make our hamburgers with fresh meat bought every

two sons, Billy and Jerry, to come into the business as manag-

morning from Massingill’s Meat Market,” he said. “Lettuce is

ers. In ’72 the brothers became partners with their dad.

chopped, tomatoes are sliced, onion rings are battered and steak fingers, fish, and catfish are hand breaded daily. All food

The current building on Timberland was built that same

is cooked after it is ordered.” “It’s a clean wholesome family

year. From the time the restaurant opened until 1978 it was

restaurant and we know many of our customers by name,” he

curb service only. In ’78 the building was remolded and a din-

said.

62 !"The Journey - May 2009

EDUCATION WITH EMILY

FUN IDEAS FOR SUMMER | BY EMILY PARKS Avoid hearing the dreadful phrase “I’M BORED!” this summer-there are many opportunities in the community to keep your busy bee buzzing all summer long! Here are some of my favorite picks for summer camps for the kiddos:

ART CAMP-MUSEUM OF EAST TEXAS www.metlufkin.org 936-639-4434 From watercolors to quilting, there is something going on at Art Camp that will satisfy your child’s creative style! Put this on the “must-do” list for the summer!

Wee Art June 1-5 Aug. 17-21 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Age 3

with a parent or guardian

$30 (scholarships available)

Art Camp June 8-26, July 6-August 14 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. (morning session) 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. (afternoon session) Ages 4-14 $45-55/week (scholarships available)

High School Classes June 1-5 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Adult Classes August 17-21 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

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/ YO U R RESO UR CE

EDUCATION WITH EMILY CONTINUED

TEXAS FORESTRY MUSEUM, LUFKIN

WILDERNESS ADVENTURES

936-633-6069 (David Young)

936-468-1832 (Elyce Rodewald)

The Texas Forestry Museum offers three exciting camps dur-

Does your child love the outdoors? Well, this is perfect for

ing the summer for nature-lovers to enjoy. The camps are

your avid little camper! This camp includes: canoeing, learn-

sure to spark your child’s curiosity about the beauty nature

ing about nature, teambuilding, and learning outdoor skills,

provides!

including reading a compass, pitching a tent, and making a

www.treetexas.com

EEK! Week

Pineywoods Native Plant Center,Nacogdoches

campfire.

Kids take daily field trips with professional naturalists and

June 22-26

learn about East Texas heritage.

9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ages 11-15

June 8-12

$200 (scholarships available)

Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Includes: lunch and snacks

Grades 5, 6, 7 (in fall of 2009) Cost: $60

CAMP GET FIT/KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

Deadline: June 3 (mention the article in The Journey and

Presented by The Junior League of Lufkin

they will extend the deadline a couple of days!)

936-676-0414 (Susan Harris)

Timber Tots

juniorleagueoflufkin.org

Kids will participate in forestry-related activities daily.

Lazy days of summer? No way! Send your child to this spec-

July 6-10

tacular day camp to get fit and learn healthy cooking tech-

10 a.m. - Noon

niques. Yes, I said COOKING! Your child will learn how to

Ages 3-Kindergarten

make healthy recipes, how to make healthy food choices, and

Cost: $25

much more about nutrition and diet. Fun games are in store

Deadline: July 3

for some physical fitness.

Summer Sylvans

August 3-7

Kids will explore a new forestry or nature related topic each

9 a.m. - Noon

day.

Grades 3-5 (in fall of 2009)

July 20-24

$10 (scholarships available)

9 a.m. - Noon Grades 1-4 (in fall of 2009) Cost: $25 Deadline: July 17

64 !"The Journey - May 2009

Emily Parks grew up in Lufkin and then graduated from Texas A&M with a bachelor of science degree in Education. She taught for 8 years and this year has taken an indefinite leave from the classroom and has been blessed with the opportunity to write for The Journey. Education is very dear to Emily’s heart and she wanted to continue to help parents feel more comfortable throughout their child’s educational journey. Emily and her husband, Chad, own Cross Medical, a local Durable Medical Equipment company. Their two sons, Pierce, 4, and Jackson, 7, also keep her very busy.

YOUR WALLET STAYCATIONS! TEXAS FOREST COUNTRY

Staycation (noun): a vacation taken within a short distance of one’s home. A staycation (or stay-cation, or stacation) is a period of time in which an individual or family stays at home and relaxes at home or takes day trips from their home to area attractions.

East Texans are blessed to have a plethora of resources within driving distance. There is no reason to not take a vacation this year.

Create lasting family memories by visiting some of our area attractions. If you would like to find out more about any of these attractions, visit www.texasforestcountry.com ANGELINA COUNTY Sam Rayburn Reservoir Ellen Trout Zoo and Park Lost Arrow Biking & Hiking Trail – Kit McConnico Park First Street Arts Center Texas Forestry Museum Museum of East Texas Angelina National Forest

HOUSTON COUNTY Camp Street Café Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area Salmon Lake Park Davy Crockett National Forest Pineywoods Fine Arts Association Dennis Ivey’s Texas Opry JASPER COUNTY Boykin Springs Recreation Area Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Downtown Historic District Sam Rayburn Reservoir NACOGDOCHES COUNTY Lanana Creek Trail & Pineywoods Native Plant Center Camp Tonkawa Springs Downtown Nacogdoches Millard’s Crossing Historic Village Lamp-Lite Community Theater Wiley House Stephen F. Austin State University

PANOLA COUNTY Texas Country Music Hall of Fame Texas Tea Room Lake Murvaul Martin Creek Lake State Park POLK COUNTY Lake Livingston Lake Livingston State Park & Dam Pedigo Park Trade Days Alabama-Coushatta Indian Reservation Polk County Museum & Heritage Park SABINE COUNTY Trail Between the Lakes Toledo Bend Reservoir Sabine National Forest SAN AUGUSTINE COUNTY Mission Dolores Santa Fe Park Nature & Birding Trail Alabama Coushatta Indian Reservation Walking tour of Historic San Augustine SAN JACINTO COUNTY Lone Star Hiking Trail Big Creek Scenic Area

Old Town Coldspring Lake Livingston Sam Houston National Forest SHELBY COUNTY North Toledo Bend Wildlife Management Area Lakes Area Art League Center Historic Shelby County Jail & Courthouse Shelby County Museum TRINITY COUNTY Trinity County Museum Lake Livingston TYLER COUNTY Lake Tejas Big Thicket National Preserve Heritage Village Museum & Pickett House Allan Shivers Library & Historic House Museum Tyler County Art League Source: Wikepedia and Texas Forest Country

NEWTON COUNTY Toledo Bend Reservoir Big Thicket Preserve

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Parting Advice: Calling all mothers! I need a little help in trying to put words to my feelings. One of the most important holidays in the calendar year, to a lot of women is- - MOTHER’S DAY! Our role as mom is so much of who we are as a person. My husband does not seem to get that. To make matters worse, he did not get me anything for Mother’s Day. And let me just say it is not about the gift. It is about recognizing one of the most important roles and jobs in my life. All he could say about it was, “Well, you are not my mother!” How do I explain to my husband the importance of a thoughtful gesture, kind words, a memorable token of love from him and/ or our child?

All Out of Words Lufkin, Texas

Dear All out of Words - One of the

have to constantly remind myself of the words written to the

most important things you can do

Hebrews, “…let us run with endurance the race set before us,

for your child is to teach them how

fixing our eyes upon Jesus, the author and perfecter of our

to honor their parents. Mothers

faith…” (Heb.12:1,2) That said, a little acknowledgment from

need to teach children how to

those closest to us feels really good! Be sure you’re filling up

honor their father and fathers how

your husband’s “love bank” and giving him the respect he

to honor their mother. Father’s

needs, and I think you’ll be surprised at how much he begins

Day is a great teaching time for the children and hopefully

to show you love and appreciation in the ways you desire.

next year it will be reciprocated on Mother’s Day. Help them buy a card and a gift for their Father. Make the Day a special

Kelly Finnerud

day verbalizing that it is a day that is all about dad – what

Nacogdoches, Texas

he wants to eat and what he wants to do. Guide the kids in planning the day to really speak to their dad about their love and respect for him. “Do unto others as you would have them

All out of words, this is a tough one!

do unto you!”

You can either stay upset and hope that he’ll change or just consider

Kathryn Greene

that your husband isn’t the most

Lufkin, Texas

sentimental guy! You might wish to change some things about your spouse but be careful! It’s the total I think the most important thing

package that makes up the wonderful man you married -- the

to remember as a mom is that our

good and the not-so-good. Share your feelings and I bet he’ll

security comes from who we are in

come around. In the meantime, buy something special for

Christ, and our greatest rewards

yourself or create a wish list at your favorite store!

and recognition will come from It’s so tempting to look

Suzy Childers

around and judge our success as a

Lufkin, Texas

Him.

wife and mother by how well our kids behave, how clean our home is, or how many bouquets we get from our husbands. I

66 !"The Journey - May 2009

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