The Journey Magazine March 09 by Suzy Childers

March 2009

Special Section

Education in East Texas

Inspiring Woman

Vickie Evans

Inspiring Young Woman

2009 Angelina County Rodeo Queen Chancey Sessions

Simple Solutions

Organizing Your Child’s Artwork Giving Back

The Helping House Women’s Health

Women and Migraines

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 1

March

CONTENTS

Vol. 4 Issue 10

Your Home

8 At Home: The Art of Learning 11 13 15 17

Landmarks: The Home of Julian & Jill Ornelas Homestead: The Advantages of a Home Warranty When You Sell Your Home In the Kitchen: Start Your Day in a Healthy Way... with Breakfast! Simple Solutions: Organize, Display & Treasure Your Kid’s Art Work

Your Community

20 Giving Back: The Helping House 22 Calendar 24 Places and Faces

Features

30 Inspiring Young Woman: Chancey Sessions 32 Inspiring Woman: Vickie Evans

51 Education - Special Section

36 Directory: Mother’s Day Out Programs & Schools 38 Tanglewood Learning Center 40 Corrigan-Camden ISD 42 Lufkin ISD 44 Central ISD 46 Autism in East Texas

Your Life

48 Hall of Fame Hubbies 49 Parenting: What I Didn’t Know 50 Pretty Babies Sponsored by Woodland Heights

On The Cover Vickie Evans

Medical Center 51 Relationships: I Need Joy! 52 Girls Group: Lufkin H.S. Graduating Class of ‘70 54 Quiet Moments: The Right Direction!

Your Body

56 Fitness 101: Group Exercise 59 Women’s Health: Women & Migraine Headaches

Your Resource

62 The Review 64 Education with Emily: Parent/Teacher Relationships 66 Legal Forum: Protecting Your Family www.tjmag.com

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 3

Welcome

Stephanie Oliver

News

Cookbook Update

The article appeared in the Journey in September and we sold 100 in the following 4 weeks and had sold out by December. We have sold a total of 1,000 books raising $15,000. We decided to reorder, so there are another 200 to be sold. They may be purchased by calling Barbara and Peyton Mathis at 936-634-6253 or at Timberland Discount Pharmacy, Lufkin Farm Nursery, Christian Words and Works, Museum of East Texas, and Planet Beach Spa. Thank you - Barbara Mathis

President & Editor MI Designs

Art Director Michelle Briley

Director of Sales Kristie Huddleston

Graphic Designer Lisa Crow

Event Photographer Woodie Hicks

Website

Great News…The 3D version of

the current issue is on the website! You can now share the magazine with all your family and friends who do not live in East Texas to pick one up. Be sure to visit our blog. We will post daily and weekly happenings that we find out about between each issue. Visit The Journey Facebook Group and tell us what you think!

4th grade Garrett Coleman, McKenzie Ford, Lucy Gabriel, Lauren Glass, Andreus Hadnot, Caleb Harris, CK Hayes, Trey Hensley, Skyler Hunter, Max McCarty, Mattie Wesoloski 5th Grade Elisabeth Alvis, Jarrod Anderson, Carson Frankens, Matthew Hollis, Reagan Jordan, Ryan Maharrey, Scott Morgan, Andrew Morris, Benjamin Osgood, Daniel Ruby, Corinne Rudis, Jessica Todd

What a special issue this month! But, then again, I say that every month. Just a few weeks ago, I had the privilege of speaking to the fourth and fifth grade class at St. Cyprian’s School. The children asked very bright, intuitive, and challenging questions. One student asked me which issue has been my favorite. Talk about pinning you into a corner? The answer is, “I LOVE them all!!” There is so much poured into every issue--trying to do justice to the stories of the Inspiring Women-- I try to capture their heart and their passion and share that with you. There are so many great agencies and non-profits that are working hard to make our community a better place to live. I try to bring their need to the forefront so readers can look at their personal time and budgets and see how they can give back. The list goes on.

Allyson Langston

Copy Editor Susan Childers

Web Designer Ashley Dermakardijian

Staff Writer Sharon Ford

G. Patterson Studio & Gallery

Cover Photographer www.gregpatterson.com

Contributors Samie Montes

Texas. Each one has a different approach from the other-- some have specialized programs and some meet special needs--there is a school that is just perfect for your child. Children come in all shapes and sizes and so do schools. We have most covered in this issue. The great news is that we will leave the education section up on the website for you to access. This will be a great resource to give to anyone that moves into the area. As always, I cannot thank you enough for picking up this magazine. It is because of every one of you loyal readers we are growing and can barely keep up!

Kathryn Greene Emily Parks Brian Bray Joyce Johnson Lacey Keath Pat Murray Jana Redfield

The Project Box

This month’s project will be collecting puzzles for The Helping House. A single puzzle piece is the national symbol to represent Autism. Many children suffering from autism enjoy the challenge and the intrigue of puzzles.You can choose from many different sizes: large foam pieces, wooden toddler puzzles, up to a 100 piece puzzle. We will donate all puzzles to The Helping House. Read Giving Back on page 20 to find out more.

Distribution Janet Glover Lufkin

Lisa Hannah Nacogdoches

Lynna Wright Livingston

Cade McDonald Crockett

Advertising Information:

Happy March!

The Journey

Dr. Jerry Jenkins Correction The article on page 55 in the February issue had an incorrect listing. The correct title should be Robert Standerford, P.A.

This issue is no exception…our second annual Education Issue. Every child is a unique individual; so are the schools in East

4 THE JOURNEY March 2009

Event Photographer

www.tjmag.com

PO BOX 150537 Lufkin, Texas 75915 936-635-7369 michelle@tjmag.com

The Journey is a free monthly publication. All submissions are welcome. We do not assume any responsibility for publications or return of materials, and reserve the right to edit or reject any material contributed. All advertisements and editorials submitted by persons and/or a business assume all responsibility that the submission does not infringe on any third party’s rights and title, including all copyrights and/ or releases. Copyright The Journey 2008. All Rights Reserved.

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 5

Director’s Chair We are so lucky to have such wonderful schools in our area. While each school is a little different, the fact remains that at the heart of each is the genuine love for children. Whether you are a parent, grandparent or a member of the community, it is important to be educated on what each school is doing to make a difference in the lives of our future. As a business owner, it is also important to be educated on the facts about advertising. In tough economic times like

2000-2001

Let The Journey help you increase your sales! The Journey doesn’t just sit at local distribution sites. It moves and it moves quickly! For advertisers, this is great news- their message gets out faster and it sticks as so many of our readers keep and archive each issue. During each month, we often have to go back and restock magazines at many of our locations. Put The Journey to work for you,

Michelle Director of Sales

2002-2003

2001-2002

2005-2006

2004-2005 6 THE JOURNEY March 2009

these, advertising is usually the first thing to be cut from budgets. A study found that businesses that cut advertising during the 1980 – 1982 recession increased sales by only 19% in the post recession period, while businesses that increased spending during the recession increased sales by 275% in the post recession period. Slashing your advertising budget is like putting less gas in your car and expecting it to go farther.

2003-2004 Photograph taken by Lisa Crow

As a former teacher of seven years, this is a very special issue for me. (Aren’t these faces absolutely precious?) Sometimes it seems as if there is only negative news related to education. It’s sad that those negative reports can determine perceptions about the school system as a whole. The truth is there are so many wonderful teachers, aides, faculty members, administrators and board members that truly care about students.They put in countless hours of preparation and work to make students successful learners.

Your Home

2006-2007 www.tjmag.com

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 7

Your home | At Home by Samie montes

The Art of Learning Myths and Truths

MYTH: Solid wood is better than veneer.

Many people are surprised to learn that some of the most expensive furniture in the world is veneered. Veneering, if done right, is close to being an art form. To get those beautiful inlaid tops on dining and living room tables, it must be done with veneers. It is a process that has been done for hundreds of years and doesn’t make furniture inferior at all.

I want to let parents and teachers know how to incorporate art in their teaching and learning environments. You can take these principals and use them in your home, as well. Keep in mind that children grow and learn in different ways, and we need to take every opportunity to enrich their education. With technology, videos, movies and talking books, most children are visual learners; they are learning faster and comprehending more. All children learn in three learning styles: kinesthetic, learning through physical activity; auditory, learning by listening and speaking; and visual, learning by seeing something. Murals transform the school’s “hospital like” hallways into a fun and welcoming place. The 3D murals capture everyone’s attention and before you know it, you will see parents pointing to the wall illustrations reciting the ABC’s with their kindergartener while walking the hallways or sharing character building information from the “Six Pillars of Character” mural. At another moment, you will see first graders pointing to an educational wall illustration describing the cycle of a plant or a monarch butterfly.These murals have provided a “teachable moment” for everyone. These beautiful murals were painted by Natalie Adams. Natalie owns Atalinas 3D Murals, Illustration and Design. She works with teachers, librarians, and administrators to create educational murals; she combines 8 THE JOURNEY March 2009

the school’s personality, sometimes using their mascot with education to unify and enhance learning. These murals introduce children to the arts and art appreciation. She paints during school hours so the students can see the mural progressing. Natalie, a single mother of three children, is originally from Nacogdoches. She taught for 7 years in San Antonio, and in order to help her students remember information, she used her love of painting and asked permission to paint a mural in the hallway.The results were remarkable, word got around to other schools, and within a year she quit teaching and now is painting for a living. She has painted for the San Antonio Children’s Museum and libraries. She has illustrated two educational teaching books and paints many home murals. She also does other murals besides educational, and she paints for restaurants, doctor’s offices, and many other businesses. She has painted in Lufkin for A-1 party rental and donated two beautiful murals that were auctioned off for the Junior League of Lufkin’s Annual Charity Ball. Visit her website for other ideas for your school or home. www.atalinas.com www.tjmag.com

M Y T H :L e a t h e r f u r n i t u r e feels hot during the summer and cold in the winter and is not worth the extra cost. Leather furniture will warm up to your body heat. During hotter weather, because of leather being a natural product and having the ability to breath, it will be cool to sit on. Leather furniture can be easy to care for if done on a regular basis. Do not use cleaning solutions (solvents, creams, saddle soaps, etc.) but instead use a regular bar of Ivory soap and clean water. Then use clear water to make sure all of the Ivory is removed. If you buy quality leather on a frame that is constructed well, leather upholstery can last as much as double the years of fabric. Since leather is a natural product, aging will actually make your leather furniture more beautiful the older it gets when properly cared for. MYTH: Furniture that looks the same is the same. That old adage, “You get what you pay for”, is very true in the furniture industry. There is no magic in this business and if the price is cheap, it is cheap. You’ve heard us say this before; you are much wiser to pay twice as much if it will last 10 times longer. TRUTH: We have been doing this since 1962 and can help you make an educated decision. Come discuss your concerns with us; it’s what we do.

www.castleberrys.net 936.632.8000

Your home | At Home by Samie montes

Your home | landmarks

The Home of

Julian & Jill Ornelas

Located on 315 N. Church Street

Remnants from the fire

Formal living area

his beautiful historic home is a Nacogdoches Landmark. The home was built in 1897. One of the exciting aspects about living in a historic home is the owners learn more about the home, about the structure, and about the time period their home was built in and the changes since that time. The Ornelas became owners of the home twelve years ago in 1997, in the home’s 100th year of existence. A lot One of two original closets has happened in those 100 years; not only in the wonderful city in which it resides, but also inside the four walls of the home. Dr. Jere Jackson, a history professor at Stephen F. Austin, has given the Ornelas’ his view on what the original home looked like and maybe even what the residents of the home where like. In 1916, the home suffered a catastrophic fire. The original home was two stories. Dr. Jackson suggests that the original look of the home was similar to the Cason Monk funeral home. After the fire, the family rebuilt and remodeled to modernize it to the current time. The modern look around 1916 was a prairie style home which had the wrap around porch with columns, and the owners changed out most of the windows frames. (Con’t on next page)

10 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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Outside seating area

Original claw foot tub

Landmark

Remodeled dining area

Jill and Julian Ornelas

Your home | landmarks

The

Advantages of a Home Warranty

Your home | homestead

When You Sell Your Home I

f you are thinking of selling your home, your real estate agent might advise you to take out a home warranty to increase your chances for a good sale. What, after all, is a home warranty? And how does it improve the chances of achieving a successful sale? In this article we will take a look at these questions not only from a potential seller’s point of view, but also from the perspective of a homeowner who plans to stay in and enjoy the use of the home.

Only original window frame

A home warranty is a type of insurance which covers repairs or replacements of any appliances or major

By Joel McDonald

systems that are installed in the home, such as dishwasher, overhead fans, exhaust fans, drain stoppages, air ducts, and related items. Coverage may additionally include other items such as the hot tub and refrigerator. This is similar to the regular homeowner insurance, but while regular insurance is designed to provide coverage against risk of damage to the house and the personal belongings contained within that are caused by factors, or events such as losing personal possessions, the home warranty covers breakdown of appliances and systems in the house. (Cont’d on next page)

One of four original fireplaces Since that time, the home has been through many owners and changes. When the Ornealas’ became the proud new owners, they did a complete remodel. The home retains the original Harp pine floors, high ceilings, crown molding, original fire places, and high baseboards. Jill is an interior decorator, so she added features to the home that would be reminiscent of the time it was built. The expansive remodel included features such as upholstered walls in the dining rooms, the anaglyptic wall coverings, modernizing the kitchen, central heat and air and electrical plumbing, and adding full, large closets. It is astonishing to see pieces of the home and imagine what life was like over 100 years ago. Compared to today’s homes, it is difficult to imagine that many people lived with small closets, oversized hardwood bedroom doors, original fireplaces made to heat the rooms, gorgeous hardwood floors, and original claw foot bathtubs.

12 THE JOURNEY March 2009

The history and character of this home is what makes this landmark stand out. If you would like your name added to the list of homeowners of this remarkable property, Julian and Jill will soon be putting their historic home on the market, and it can be yours! www.tjmag.com

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 13

Your home | homestead

The

Advantages of a Home Warranty When You Sell Your Home

IN THE KITCHEN Start Your Day in a Healthy Way... with Breakfast!

Your home | in the kitchen

By Anna Lee

“Don’t forget to eat breakfast!” “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Why do educators and other professionals always say this? Food provides our body with the fuel it needs to keep running. Think of your body as a car. If you do not fill your car up with the proper fuel it needs to run smoothly, it will not be able to function the way that you need it to. After 8 hours of sleep, your fuel tank is empty. Just like the car, if you do not feed your body with the proper fuel it needs, it will not function to its full ability. Breakfast provides the body with much needed nutrients and energy. The brain needs energy to think clearly and muscles need energy for physical movement. This is why the habit of eating breakfast is important to children as well as adults. Research has shown a relationship between eating breakfast and school performance. Students who participated in a school breakfast program had improved school attendance and decreased tardiness. These students were at school early enough to eat breakfast, which improved school attendance. Therefore, these students were in the classroom in the morning when subjects such as reading, language arts and math are frequently being taught. If you pay for a home warranty policy you do not need to pay the cost of repair or replacement if any of the covered systems or appliances within the house stop working. There is only a nominal fee involved for a house call for repairs. These charges are generally negligible when compared to the expenses of replacement. One way of looking it is that since repair and replacement costs are pretty much inevitable, it doesn’t hurt to prepay something toward them, with the tradeoff being that you get insurance against having to independently pay for any of the more expensive failures that may occur. One good thing about getting a home warranty is that it is fairly easy to get. A simple inspection of the home is usually conducted, although in some cases even that may be waived. The contract, or warranty policy, will clearly state which items are covered and which are not. Based on how much you are willing to pay, you would need to decide on a length of coverage. You can have a policy for a year and there are longer period home warranty contracts up to lifetime. Normally, as with many things, having a longer period will give you the coverage at a lower yearly cost.

Honey-Oatmeal Muffins

Eating breakfast also contributes to improved dietary quality. Total nutrient intake for the day is With a piece of fruit, these muffins make a good breakfast-to-go. Be usually higher for people who eat a morning meal. Skipping breakfast on a regular basis can result sure to refrigerate or freeze leftovers in an air tight container to eat at in not getting the appropriate amount of nutrients in your daily diet. Research consistently found that a later time. undernourished children who started eating breakfast showed improvement in school performance, more so than children who were not undernourished. 1 ½ cups quick oats 1 cup all purpose flour 1 Tbsp. baking powder If you feel like you or your family does not have enough time to have breakfast, there are many ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar 2/3 cup low fat milk options for quick and healthy morning meals. Try to keep quick-to-fix foods on hand, or prepare ¾ Tsp. salt some “grab and go” foods when you have more time. 1/3 cup applesauce 1 egg, beaten ¼ cup honey ½ cup raisins Some quick breakfast ideas include: ½ cup chopped nuts (optional) • Ready-to-eat cereal mixed with dried fruit and nuts in small individualized bags • • • • •

Instant oatmeal Whole grain breads (bagels, muffins, etc.) with peanut butter or cheese Eggs – hard boiled or scrambled (For a quick scrambled egg, spray a microwavable bowl with non-stick cooking spray. Whisk egg, salt, and pepper. Cook in microwave for 1 ½ to 2 minutes. This is perfect for a quick scrambled egg sandwich.) Fruit and yogurt smoothie Leftover vegetable pizza or soup

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine all dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix well. Add milk, applesauce, egg, and honey to dry ingredients; mix until moistened. Add raisins and nuts, mix well. Spray nonstick cooking spray into 12 medium size muffin cups. Fill each cup 2/3 cup full with batter. Bake in oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.

Tip: Store honey at room temperature. When honey is refrigerator, Making meal time family time can be just as hard for today’s families as making time for breakfast in crystallization is accelerated. If you honey does become crystallized, simple the morning. Some families find that eating breakfast together can be easier than finding “together” pour honey into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave until crystals time for an evening meal. Bringing the family together at mealtime offers an opportunity for family dissolve, stirring every 30 seconds. members to share food and fellowship and to encourage each other.

The home warranty comes with various features and you will find a range of quotes from different providers. In order to ensure that you get the best deal, check around and look into a few sources. The bottom line is that having a home warranty offers an attractive benefit to a buyer. With that, if you’re the seller, it becomes a winwin scenario. And even without regard to improving the sales appeal, if you plan to stay in your home for a long time, a home warranty package could be a very attractive option. About The Author: This article was furnished courtesy of the Colorado real estate experts of HTTP:// AutomatedHomefinder.com. Joel McDonald recommends Automated Homefinder for finding your perfect Colorado home. Article Source: www.isnare.com

14 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 15

Your home | in the kitchen

Oatmeal

Smoothies

Your home | simple solutions

Basic Deviled Eggs

Organize, Display & Treasure Your Kid’s Art Work

This basic recipe is the foundation for some creative additions, among them bacon, shrimp, chives, peppers, and pimento.

Smoothies are quick to fix and are great for a breakfast on-the-go. For a different flavored smoothie, try other types of frozen fruits. Be sure to freeze any leftover fruit to use for smoothies or shakes at a later time.

Oatmeal is a quick and high-fiber breakfast food that will keep you feeling full all morning. Try these different topping ideas to add extra flavor to your next bowl of old fashioned or instant oatmeal.

1 cup low-flat plain yogurt 3 cups frozen strawberries 2 bananas, sliced ¾ cup fat-free milk ¼ cup crushed ice ¼ cup honey

fresh or dried fruit apple butter cinnamon brown sugar nuts graham cracker crumbs flavored sugar free coffee creamer honey

Process all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Serve immediately. Yield: 5 cups

Tip

One large egg has only 75 calories and provides 13 essential nutrients in varying amounts. Eggs are an excellent source of nutrition for people of all ages. Many of the eggs nutrients are found insides its yolk.

By Ariane Benefit

6 large eggs 2 Tbsp. low fat Miracle Whip or mayonnaise 1 ½ Tbsp. sweet pickle relish 1 tsp. prepared mustard salt and pepper to taste Place eggs in a single layer in a saucepan; add water to a depth of 3 inches. Bring to a boil; cover, remove from heat, and let stand 15 minutes. Drain immediately, and fill saucepan with cold water and ice. Tap each egg firmly on the counter until cracks form all over the shell. Peel under cold running water. Slice eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove yolks. Mash yolks. Stir in mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, mustard, salt and pepper. Mix well. Spoon yolk mixture into egg whites. Cover and chill until ready to serve. Yield: 6 servings.

very mom shares the same dilemma. What to do with all the wonderful art your child creates? Without strategies for display, organizing and editing, these delightful treasures will just pile up and become a burden of clutter. Here’s my top 10 neat ideas on how to keep their art from becoming clutter. 1. Set policies on how much you are going to keep. For example, you might decide you want to keep only the top 10 - 20 pieces per year. 2. Edit regularly. Keep only the very best or most meaningful. Each day or week, pick your favorite.At the end of the month, pick the best of the month. That’s the one that gets put in a scrapbook or in a special memorabilia box. Involve your child in selecting his or her favorite. This helps your child learn that not everything is worth keeping, which is a very valuable organizing skill to learn early on. 16 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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3. Go digital! Take digital photos of art you really love and recycle the rest! This preserves the art much longer. Paper eventually fades and tatters. 4. Create an album or scrapbook for each school year and include photos of the best art along with other projects. 5. Label the work. Mark the back of artwork you decide to save with the child’s name, date, and the reason you kept it. 6. Create a revolving gallery. Create a space on a wall or other area that becomes a revolving art gallery. Use magnetic boards, cork boards, etc. Provide one spot for each child and hang their photo or a name marker above their spot. Each time you change the art, decide if the old piece is worth saving. (Cont’d on next page) March 2009 THE JOURNEY 17

Organize, Display & Treasure Your Kid’s Art Work

Your home | simple solutions

Your Community

7. Repurpose and recycle. Find creative uses for art work you don’t want to keep. Use it as: • • • • •

Steamatic

“The Standard of American Homes for Generations” Since 1968

Fire/Water/Smoke Ceramic Tile Drapes

Air Ducts Carpets Furniture We appreciate your business!

Lufkin

936-634-5122

Nacogdoches

936-560-0591

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18 THE JOURNEY March 2009

8. Get funky with clipboards. As an inexpensive and fun alternative to frames, use colorful clipboards mounted on the wall to create an art gallery for your child’s room. Let them decide what they want to hang and when they want to change it. Clipboards allow them to easily change out art frequently. 9. Draw the line. Hang a clothesline across a wall in an area where you want to display art and hang it with clothespins. This makes it easy to change the art whenever you or your child wants to! 10. Make gifts. Create unique gifts for relatives with good pieces. You can make little books, puzzles, calendars, and more. Encourage your child to help think of ways to transform art into fun gifts.

Photograph taken by Lisa Crow

Steamatic of LufkinNacogdoches

Gift wrap Inserts for greeting cards Drawer/shelf liners Decorate containers to use as organizers for arts & crafts supplies Creative disposal placements for a meal. Or, if it’s really good, mount it to construction paper, laminate it, and use the art as place mats for a longer time.

Ariane Benefit, M.S.Ed. has helped hundreds of “unconventional” and “predictably unpredictable” people gently release the physical, emotional, and spiritual clutter that keeps them from living with clear intention and purpose. Her mission is to inspire and empower people to resolve the inner conflicts that keep them from getting organized enough to focus on the passions, activities, and people that make life worth living. www.neatandsimple.com

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 19

Your community | giving back

The Helping House

Photos by Thornton Photography

Mission Statement: The Helping House is dedicated to providing early intervention behavioral therapy for children with Autism and other developmental delays and promoting the educational needs of parents, educators, and professionals.

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(936) 634-8551 634-8551 4505(936) S. Medford Dr., Ste. 301 HOURS OF OPERATION 4505 S. Medford Dr., Ste. 301 4505 Medford Dr., Lufkin, TXTX75901-5663 Monday -S.Saturday, 10 Ste. a.m.301 - 8 p.m. Lufkin, 75901-5663 Fax: (936) 639-8858 Lufkin, TX10 75901-5663 Fax: (936) 639-8858 Wednesday, a.m. - 6 p.m. Fax:HOURS (936)OF639-8858 OPERATION

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It’s time for a change,Wednesday, I will no longer gripped by the world’s 10 a.m. be - 6 p.m. HOURS OF OPERATION warped mindset.HOURS I have been transformed by Jesus Christ and OF OPERATION It’s time for a change, I will no longer be gripped by the world’s Monday Saturday, 10 a.m. -p.m. 8 p.m.I can’t my thoughts and actions are subject to a higher warped mindset. I have been transformed by Jesus Christ and Monday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 8standard. thoughts and actions are subject to a higher standard. I can’t change theWednesday, pastmy but can difference today. In God’s change theIpast but Imake can make a a difference today. God’s 10 a.m. -2Corinthians 6 Inp.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m. p.m. Romans 12:1-2-and6 5:17 power, I will be a revolution!!! power, I will be a revolution!!! Romans 12:1-2 and 2Corinthians 5:17 It’sIt’s time forfora achange, nolonger longerbebe gripped byworld’s the world’s time change, I will will no gripped by the

warped mindset. have been by by Jesus Christ and and warped mindset. II have beentransformed transformed Jesus Christ 20 THE JOURNEY March 2009 my thoughts and actions are subject to a higher standard. I can’t

my thoughts and actions are subject to a higher standard. I can’t change the past but I can make a difference today. In God’s change the past but I can make a difference today. In God’s power, I will be a revolution!!! Romans 12:1-2 and 2Corinthians 5:17 power, I will be a revolution!!! Romans 12:1-2 and 2Corinthians 5:17

There is a rise in the number of children diagnosed with Autism. Thanks to the vision and the determination of two women in Nacogdoches, parents have one more resource to turn to when their child is facing Autism. The Helping House is a private school dedicated to helping children dealing with Autism.

Amanda Johnson and Josie Johnson decided there was a huge need for a facility like The Helping House. Josie’s daughter deals with aspects of Autism on a daily basis. This personal experience was the driving force behind this a small private school that helps families. The Helping House incorporated in 2007 with the purpose of providing early intervention services to local children with a diagnosis on the Autism spectrum. The doors officially opened the fall of 2008. Amanda Johnson says, “We are a private school, yes. But we want all parents and families to know we are a resource for them as well. Their child may not be enrolled, but they can still call us and ask us questions. We want to be a resource to the entire community.” The common goal of the organization is to work on the areas of deficit that are commonly seen in children with Autism. The teaching goes beyond the traditional

Physical address and directions: 919 Jack Lock Nacogdoches, Texas 75964 Telephone: 936-371-1536

P.O. Box 631513 Nacogdoches, Texas 75963-1513

academic goals. Some skill sets that are addressed are communication skills, social skills, toileting, feeding, and other basic life skills.

Email:

ajohnson@the-helping-house.org jjohnson@the-helping-house.org mtostado@the-helping-house.org (español)

www.the-helping-house.org

According to Amanda, “We do have a monthly budget to purchase school items and every day home needs.We were blessed to receive a few small grants to get us up and running, but there is still so much we could use.” The hours of operations for the full day program are 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., 8 - 11 a.m. or 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. One very exciting addition The Helping House will offer is a summer program. You can contact The Helping House to find out more about the program and what it will offer. Like many new non-profits, The Helping House can use extra funding to help provide more tools and resources to the children. If you would like to help in more specific ways, here are a few ideas: gift card for everyday household items and/or school supplies. One item they desperately need is board maker software. This price of this is between $300-$400. There are many ways to help make sure this newly established organization succeeds and continues to follow out their mission. www.tjmag.com

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 21

March 2009

Your community | calendar

March 1-31

Historic Gardens Exhibits 1-4 p.m. Old University Building, 515 North Mound.

Showtime! 2009 7:30 p.m.Temple Theater, Angelina College For more information, call Michele Hill at 936-633-5233

Passionate Pursuit Ladies, come and enjoy an elegant dessert bar, prizes, music and uplifting message as Natalie Nichols shares “Through Spoken Times – How We Develop Effective Faith.” Hotel Fredonia 6:30 p.m. Admission: No Charge. RSVP online at www.shadesofgrace. org or by phone at 936.569.8741.

New Works by Gary Parker 5-8:30 p.m. Angelina Center for the Arts. For more information, call Robbie Roach at 936-633-5233

Wee Wednesday Story time with Cow at 10:30 a.m. in the Lufkin Mall party rooms.

MOPS- “Creatives Ideas For Kids” MOPS- Mothers of Preschoolers meet once a month on the second Monday of the month. The group meets from 10am-noon at Carpenters Way Baptist Church and childcare is available.

To Kill a Mockingbird 7;30 -10 P.M.Temple Theater 936-633-5454

13-17

Biennial Quilt Show 10 – 5 p.m. First United Methodist Church, Quilt Guild of the Pineywoods 936-634-2771

Farmer’s Market. 107 Pearl Street 8 a.m. - Noon

14-31

Nacogdoches Azalea Trail featuring the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, the largest azalea garden in Texas. Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN

Calendar of Events Sponsored by

photographers throughout the state. Photos on display until May 30th.Top twelve entries will be announced at the opening and will travel throughout the state after May 30th. For more information, call 936-639-4434.

MOPS Playdate Ellen Trout Zoo & Train Ride 10am Questions? Contact Lisa Crow at 936-676-0467

Preserving Foods - Freezing & Drying Anna Lee will conduct a class on successfully freezing and drying fresh foods to help your family be able to always have fresh foods home and saving money on groceries. 6 p.m. at the Angelina County Extension Office (located off of the loop in Lufkin near the Farmer’s Market) Cost $5 per person RSVP to 936-634-6414 by March 20

24-29

Nacogdoches Azalea Trail Photography Show, 12:30 - 5 p.m., The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House. 329 E. Main. Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN

26-28

Carpets By Curiosity

“Little Princess” Garden Party Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden. Limited Seating, ticket required. Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN Farmer’s Market Spring Fling. 8 a.m. 107 Pearl Street. Brownies with Bunny at Lufkin Mall Children 8 and under are invited to celebrate the arrival of Bunny at 9:45 a.m. with brownies provided by Chick-fil-A. While supplies last. The Art of Floral Design, Color & Textures from the Gardens. 10 - 4 p.m., The Cole Art Center @ The Old Opera House. 329 E. Main. Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN

Lamp-Lite Theatre presents, “The Diary of Anne Frank” 2 p.m., Lamp-Lite Theatre, Old Tyler Road and Loop 224, Students $8, Sr. Citizen $12, Adults $15. Ph: 936-564-8300

31-April 15

PRCA Rodeo Nacogdoches Expo Center, 936-564-0849

SFA A Capella Choir 7:30 p.m., Cole Concert Hall. Ph: 1-888-240-ARTS

Azalea Trail Plant Sale. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Downtown. Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN

Farmer’s Market 8 a.m., 107 Pearl Street

Tuna Does Vegas 7:30 p.m. Temple Theater on the Angelina College Campus 936-633-5454

Passionate Pursuit Ladies, come and enjoy an elegant dessert bar, prizes, music, and uplifting message as Natalie Nichols shares about developing unwavering faith in hard times. Hotel Fredonia 6:30 p.m. Admission: No Charge. RSVP online at www.shadesofgrace.org or by phone at 936-569-8741.

Main Street Sidewalk Sale Enjoy a beautiful day shopping in downtown Nacogdoches as the downtown stores participate in the sidewalk sale. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Lamp-Lite Theatre presents, “The Diary of Anne Frank” 7:30 p.m., Lamp-Lite Theatre, Old Tyler Road and Loop 224, Students $8, Sr. Citizen $12, Adults $15. Ph: 936-564-8300

Piney Woods Jazz Festival Concert 7:30 - 9 p.m. Hudgins Hall Auditorium, Angelina College 936-633-5233

Shop late till 8! Downtown Nacogdoches.

Longhorn Show Nacogdoches Expo. Ph: 936-564-0849

Lufkin Kiwanis T.V. Auction 1-5 p.m. Aired thru KTRE Channel 9, Cable Channel 4 , event held at The Main Event 936-299-1190 or 936-637-1909

22 THE JOURNEY March 2009

Fajita Fly-In 10 – 2 p.m. Angelina County Airport Ph: 936-225-0422

21-22

Trade Days Dawn to Dusk, Loop 224. Ph: 936-564-2150

“Azaleas & More”, Azalea Symposium. 9 - 2 p.m., SFA University. $50 Registration Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN Museum of East Texas Opening for “Life on the Neches” Photography Exhibition. 7 to 9 p.m. Enjoy the beauty of the Neches, as captured in one hundred photographs taken by

PineKnot Music Co-Op 8 p.m., Millard’s Crossing, 6020 North Street. Enjoy Local Music. Ph: 936-552-7462

“A Blooming Good Volkswagen Show” 8 a.m - 2 p.m., Festival Plaza. See up to 100 vintage Volkswagens, from mild to wild! FREE. Lamp-Lite Theatre presents, “The Diary of Anne Frank” 7:30 p.m., Lamp-Lite Theatre, Old Tyler Road and Loop 224, Students $8, Sr. Citizen $12, Adults $15. Ph: 936-564-8300 Loblolly Liberator Bike Ride, featuring five courses ranging from 10 - 100 miles. Ph: 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN www.tjmag.com

Pet photos with Bunny at Lufkin Mall K-9 friends and fluffy felines are invited to sit pretty with Bunny from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Sponsored by Southwood Drive Animal Clinic in Lufkin.

Fajita Fly – In 2 p.m. Angelina County Airport 936-225-0422 Story time with Bunny at Lufkin Mall 10:30 a.m. in the Bunny Patch First Christian Church Easter Eggstravaganza 10 a.m. - 12 noon First Christian Church 936-634-8341

St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School’s Bayou Bash 6 – 10 p.m. St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School gymnasium 936-632-1720

Visual Arts Student Exhibition Angelina Center for the Arts 936-633-5239

Demolition Derby Nacogdoches Expo Center. Ph: 936-564-0849

31-April 1 April 3 4

Don’t Mess With Texas Trash Off All Day Event-Angelina County, Contact Amanda Anderson at 936-632-5326 Story time with Bunny at Lufkin Mall Enjoy story time with Bunny at 10 a.m. in the Bunny Patch. Angelina County Master Gardeners ANNUAL Plant Sale 8 - 3pm at Farmers Market on S. Medford Drive, in LufkinTexas.This is our biggest fund raiser and funds raised are used to provide programs and projects for the community. Don’t miss this event and come early to pick up those tried and true plants that just love East Texas. Contact Carol Chalfant at lbc123@peoplepc.com or 936-639-2520 www.tjmag.com

Be sure to visit our blog at www.tjmag.com for added events during the month.

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 23

Your community | places and faces

Lucy and Danny Chalker and Dr. Melanie Rushing and Dr. Jerry Saldana

Allyson Langson, Stephanie Oliver, Michelle Haney, Nickie Ashby, Julianne Greak, Karen Roanegan

Lacey and Clay Keath

Lori and Travis Cotton

Love, Laughter, &Lipstick February 20, 21 Harmony Hill Baptist Church Lufkin

Tara Watson, Michelle Briley, and Carla Davidson

Jean and Keith Hester

Shawn and Mark Dunn

Junior League of Lufkin Charity Ball February 14, 2009 Lufkin

Robin and James Flournoy, Judge Derek and Lisa Flournoy

Stephanie Valentine,Valena Spradley, and Michelle Briley

Melissa Roberts And Reba Squyers

Teri Nichols, Tracy Nichols, Donna Mathis

Dr. Jerry and Angi Jenkins

Jennifer and Daniel Webster

Lindy and Chris Ward, Rachele Frankens

Christie and Johnny Lathrop

Brenda and Phillip Broadway,Yana and Clark Ogletree

Ashley and Scott Bowers

Brent Slaton and Jack Sparro

Rebecca and Sam Brightwell

Marilyn Phillips and Clay Berry, and Christine and Les Leach

Dr. Rick and Anita Martin

Shelly and Brent Slaton

Nancy Ramsey and Darrell Beard

Dr. Taylor and Laura Pickett

Tanya and Chance McDonald and Tina and Tim McDonald

Donna and Scott Ross

Courtney and Brett Gould

Stephanie Oliver, Susan Childers, and Lindsay Goforth

Mr. and Mrs Edgar Burton

Lacey and Clay Keath, Julianne and Stephen Greak

Julianne and Stephen Greak

About our 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.

Your community | places and faces

Girls Weekend Getaway Junior Forum State Retreat February 20,21, 2009 Hotel Fredonia Dina Tatum, Angie Nichols, JFI State President Ginger Stephens

Ginger Stephens, Angi Hightower, Kim Bowyer

Nacogdoches “Dancing Queens”--Kim Bowyer, Caroline Garner, Ginger Stephens

Dallas Forum ladies arriving at Cocktail reception

Connie Dorsett and Janet Westbrook

Julie Stephens and Janet Sue Rush

Angie Hightower, NJF President Elect, Stephanie Stephens, NJF President

Janet Westbrook and Connie Dorsett

Lasa’ Renfro

LHS Individual Art Reception Feb. 2009

Carolyn Ballenger

Alexz Mathews

Kelley Chance

Julie Stephens and Brad Maule

Gary Wurtz and Tracy Ward

Kristen Martinez

LHS Art Students

Jonathan Clos

Black & Bling Dinner at the Cole Art Center --Austin Forum members

Stephanie Crelia, Anjela Dungan, Wendi Molandes

Jeni Criss and Carolyn Ballenger

Forestry Museum’s “Fun in the Forest After Dark” Feb. 2009

Sustainer cocktail hour at the Fashion Shop hosted by Charla Sparks -Daine McLain, Bobbie Anderson and active member Kristi Randle

Mandy Lasiter

Lasa Renfro, Angie Nicols Jolene Montlezun, Jennifer Young, Melanie Theiss, Juree Ballow

Grant & Trent Ashby

Denise Davis, Adell Becker, Charlie Becker, Gladys Swanson

Tes Dixon

Lisa & Sam Kimmey

Petting Snake

SFA Amigos del Bosque

Smokey the Bear

Amanda Reynolds & Tamberly Conway

SFA Amigos del Bosque & TX Forest ServiceTodd Nightingale

The Reynolds’s Family

Kid Club Members

Beth & Jewell Jordan

Samie & Chad Montes

Perry & Judge Flourney

CASA Gala January 29, 2009 Lufkin Civic Center

Superior Limousine

Charles & LaVern Williams

Tanya Tyler, Teri & Larry Cawley, Robert Giovanngelo, T.D. & Angela Howarth

Ron & Tina Cook, Robert & Nancy Gilmer

Brenda Rodway, Damon & Gail Lazarine, Dennis & April Holder, Steve Crow

Features

Your community | places and faces

Sculpture Saturday February 21, 2009 Museum of East Texas Lufkin

Kristy and Audrey Bice

Jessica Savage, Linda Skillern, and Stephen Alford

Ashley and Landry Bowers

Brynn and Bosten Oliver and Lilly Grace Langston

Alexis Wagstaff, Travonte Clark, Matte Prout, Alexis Sowell

JP McDonald and Laura Hudgens

Clint and Brett Briley

Rhista and Caden Gibbs and Slade Smith

Luke Langston

Blaine Overby and Joy Wright

Trent, Matthew, and Liz Gorman

Sarah Vier

Teresa, Angeli, and Mia Sandoval

Brynn and Bosten Oliver

“To get through the hardest journey, we need take only one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping”

St. Cyprians 3rd Grade Wax Museum February 2, 2009 Lufkin

Elizabeth Grimes and Elizabeth and Will Simpson 28 THE JOURNEY March

2009

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Photograph taken by Lisa Crow

Blaine Overby and Joy Wright

Ben Harbuck and Megan

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 29

features | inspiring young woman: Chancey Sessions

Inspiring Young Woman

Chancey Sessions C

hancey Sessions is a very special Inspiring Young Woman. She is the face of the first annual 2009 Angelina County Rodeo Queen. Miss Sessions is eighteen, a high school senior, and she attends Central High School.

her 7th grade year. When she entered high school, she became a member of the Partners Club. Chancey says she has learned so much from the girls. “They are so loving, always positive, and accepting.”

Chancey got involved with 4-H when she was in fourth grade. “My grandmother pushed me to do it. She thought it would be something to get me on the right path and teach me responsibility,” Chancey says.

What she would tell younger girls is to “get out of your comfort zone. Just because someone is different doesn’t mean you can’t find something in common. I have really learned a lot through animals and my girls that I coached. I would have missed a lot if I stayed in my comfort zone.”

Today, Chancey is very involved with many activities at her school. She plays softball, is a member of FFA, is involved with Partners Club, is part of the show team, and volunteers, helping low income families right here in Angelina County. She says that she is glad she was able to get involved with 4-H and FFA. “It has been a part of my life for so long. I am really going to miss it.” Chancey has shown heifers, goats, and steers. When you show an animal, there is a lot of preliminary work involved. The student has to feed twice a day and take care of all their needs: exercise, grooming, medication, and anything else that they might need. 30 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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Another project that is near and dear to Chancey’s heart is the Special Olympics. She has been a basketball and bowling coach since www.tjmag.com

Chancey attributes her getting involved and making an impact around her to her grandmother, Sue Sessions. She says she encouraged her when she was young and helped her a lot. There are a lot of mixed emotions as the end of her senior year approaches. Chancey is going to miss seeing her friends everyday. She wants to move away, but still be close to home. Chancey Sessions wants to become a respiratory therapist and either go to Angelina College or SFA. To meet Miss Chancey Sessions, come to the Angelina County Benefit Rodeo, April 22,23,24, and 25 beginning at 7 p.m. nightly at the George H. Henderson Expo Center in Lufkin. March 2009 THE JOURNEY 31

Vickie Evans

features | Inspiring woman: Vickie Evans

ickie Evans is one in a million educator. According to her peers, she is someone they all aspire to be. Many people that encounter her through various facets of everyday life say she has a special spark about her and there is nothing she will not do for her kids. Vickie Evans holds the position of Lufkin Middle School Principal. Because of her proactive, hands-on, effective action approach,she is our Inspiring Woman. This day in age, we need more educators who are passionate about their career. Our teachers, administrators, and educators are one group of people that will inspire our next generation. Vickie Evans is one who understands the depth of her day job. When you talk to her about the 8-5 aspect of it, she says, “These young lives are in our hands. We cannot make excuses. We have to find ways, and we don’t give up.” Her mindset always operates as a team, joint ventures, and group efforts. You can hear it when she talks--it’s we, me and my staff, all the teachers. Mrs. Evans has been in education for over thirty-five years. She came in as the Associate Principal when the Middle School started in its new location. She has served as the principal for the past six years. With 1800 students, Lufkin Middle School is undeniably one of the largest Middle Schools in Texas. Because of her team mindset, one program that she implemented to face the challenge of the large campus was breaking down the students and teaming them with teachers. There are four teams at each grade level. Every team has 150 students that they look after and take special interest in. This prevents students from falling through the cracks. When problematic situations like attitude and grade issues occur, these teams will be the first one to spot those red flags. Over and over again, you can see the loving and caring hand of Vickie Evans. One aspect that she is personally passionate about is teaching kids the importance of service to others. Throughout the school year, there are projects that the middle school will adopt to give students the means of doing something for a person, an organization, and the community. “Students come and tell me how great they feel after they have worked on a project. We fill that void and give them the means and opportunity to see what it feels like to do something for someone else.Then I have students come into my office saying, ‘We have an idea for a project,’” says Evans. Her approach is very simple, straight forward, and to the point. “I love each and every one of these kids like they are my own. I discipline with love. And I do not cut them any slack. The code for our school is the Panther Way which says, ‘Treat others kindly and mannerly.’ This is how I expect all my students to act and this is what we run

32 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 33

features |Inspiring Woman: Vickie Evans

everything against. It is a simple way to bring the right actions and behaviors to the forefront.” Because Mrs. Evans feels like every one of the students are her babies, she truly is concerned with their whole well being. The staff and administration are on the same page to always look at the whole picture for every student. She says, “On a day to day basis, our student body experiences many life issues they should not—physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, worried about health issues, low self-esteem, or the everyday demands of school and not knowing how to study.” There are many programs Vickie has created because of this harsh reality that young students face. For instance, 60% of LMS students were uninsured. The school partnered with Sharon Shaw at the Angelina Counties Cities Health District and Lufkin Middle School received the first school based healthcare for rural school, known as MiPac. This was provided by a three-year grant.

Education

Vickie Evans

34 THE JOURNEY March 2009

Photograph taken by Lisa Crow

There are a large number of at-risk students at LMS. Because of the team approach at every grade level, the teachers learned that these students did not know how to study. This January, LMS started a program called Overtime. It is from 4-5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.Teachers work with the students on their homework, the students eat a hot meal, and then head home by 5:30. The results are already great. Grades are up; but more importantly, self-esteem is up. The examples of Vickie’s work at LMS are immense. She has a true gift and has answered her calling as to where she is to make her mark in the world--it is with the 1800 students she encounters every year. Every one of her students are blessed to have the guidance and leadership she has to offer. She truly believes in the potential of every student and it shows in everything she does. Her husband, Marty, jokes saying he can always tell if she worked with the students or not. “If she walks in happy, I know she was in the classroom with the students!”

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 35

Directory

Legend

Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Out Programs 1.

Angel Keepers Day School Director: Cindy Odom 711 North 2nd Lufkin, TX www.lufkincentral.com M-F MWF TH 6-4

Calvary Baptist Church Director: Alicia Whitehead 3732 NE Stallings Nacogdoches, TX (936) 564-4539 T/H 1-4

Carpenters Kids Carpenters Way Baptist Church Director: Alicia Bonnin 400 N. John Redditt Lufkin, TX (936) 632-6599 www.cwbc.org TH 6-4

First United Methodist Director: Betsy Bales 201 E. Hospital Street Nacogdoches, TX (936) 560-4631 www.fumcnac.org M-F TH MWF 1-4 S x

6. 7.

36 THE JOURNEY March 2009

Private Program Yes No Special Subjects x Music Sports Chapel Computers S Spanish

b f

Accredited Yes y No

Kids Day In Director: Regina Shupak First Presbyterian Church 607 Janeway Lufkin, TX (936) 634-3711 www.fpclufkin.com TH 18-4

Days M-F T/H MWF

Ages 6 - 6 mo 1 -1 year 15-15 months 18 - 18 months 2 - 2 years 3 - 3 years 4 - 4 years 5 - 5 years P - K-5 J - 6-8 H - 9-12

Times 7:30 - 5:30 8:30 - 11:45 9 -2:30

Schools 1.

My Growing Place Director: Debbie Denby 805 E Denman Ave Lufkin, TX (936) 639-6884 www.lufkinfirst.com/mygrowingplace.htm M-F TH TWH 2mo-4 x

SFA Early Childhood Lab Director: Lori Harkness (936)468-4006 www.sfasu.edu/echl M-F 6-4

Sonshine School North Street Church of Christ Director: Susan Bentley 3914 North Street Nacogdoches, TX 75961 (936) 564-2471 www.northstreetcoc.org M-F MWF TH 1-4

Tanglewood Learning Center Director: Carolyn Morley 1118 Tanglewood Cir Nacogdoches, Texas 75961 936-564-1484 M-F 15-5 Ext care to 6th S 7

10.

Wee Care Director: Janie Lowery 106 E Bremond Lufkin, TX (936) 634-3386 TH 7 x 1-4

Christ Episcopal School Head of School: Audrey Russell 502 E Starr Ave Nacogdoches, TX (936) 564.0621 www.ces-nac.org

S34P6x

Eastview Academy Principal: Rev. Andy Gossett 2413 Paul Avenue Lufkin, TX 75901 (936) 632-3339 www.eastviewacademy.com

Fredonia Hill Baptist Principal: Mrs. Emily Harris 1711 South Street Nacogdoches, TX 75961 (936) 564-4472 www.fhbacademy.com

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Harmony Christian School Administrator: Flo Davis Principal: Tracye Brashear 1601 Rice Drive Lufkin, TX 75901 (936) 632-1905 www.harmonychristianschool.org

Lufkin ISD P.A.C.E. Gifted and Talented Director: Cindy Henderson (936) 630-4258 www.lufkinisd.org

Nacogdoches Christian Academy Director: Donna Baker 211 SE Stallings Nacogdoches , TX (936) 462-1021 www.nacogdocheschristianacademy.com

PJH

y 8.

Lufkin ISD DUAL Language Director: Sylvia Eubanks (936) 630-4290 www.lufkinisd.org

234PJ H

Pineywoods Community Academy Principal Lynette Cheek/David Greak 602 S Raguet Lufkin, TX 75904 (936) 634-5515 www.pineywoodsacademy.org

Regents Academy Administrator: Mary Ann Bentley 200 NE Stallings Nacogdoches, TX 75969 (936) 559-7343 www.regentsacademy.com

10.

SFA Charter School Principal: Lysa Hagan M-F 7:30-5:30 p.m. (936) 468-4006 www.sfasu.edu/charter_school

11.

St Cyprians Episcopal School Head of School: Brinn Willford 1115 S. John Redditt Lufkin, TX 75904 (936) 632-1720 www.saintcyprians.org

12.

St Patrick Catholic School Principal: Steve Coryell 2116 Lowry St. Lufkin, TX 75901 (936)634-6719 www.stpatricklufkin.com

4PJ

PJH

S 3 4 Px

34PJ

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 37

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 41

Lufkin ISD New Auditorium

he city of Lufkin is made up of only 35,000, but the county has over 70,000 residents. There are many benefits to living in a community of this size--one of those is the vast educational opportunities Lufkin Independent School District offers the area.The school district has the resources of those in a larger city, but adds a personal touch. In the last year, LISD has made major advances in programs, growth and expansion, and increased technology. The school district is made up of five elementary schools, six primary campuses, one alternative learning campus, one middle school, and one large high school. With a total of fourteen campuses, there is an elementary gifted and talented program, P.A.C.E; a dual language program that starts at the kindergarten level; Destination Imagination teams; a 5th grade Model United Nations program; a Middle School math and science magnet program; a Dyslexia program; and multiple advanced math, science, fine arts, and technology programs at the high school level. There is an infinite amount of possibilities for every child that attends LISD, not only because of the support and quality of the teaching staff, but also from all the available programs, hand-on learning opportunities, and the challenging curriculum that enhances learning. There are two new developments in LISD. The first is a brand new primary school, recently named Ecoment Burley, Sr. Primary. This campus will provide a beautiful new place for learning to the district. Roy Knight, Superintendent, “ Our start up

New Primary School, recently named Ecoment Burley, Sr. Primary cost for programs and building additions is very expensive. But LISD believes in the investment and we want to produce a real and diverse opportunity for every student.” The second major development is the new auditorium for Lufkin High School. There is no doubt that Lufkin Independent School District is investing in the future. They continue to be at the forefront of curriculum; technology in the classroom; diverse, rich, and hands-on programs; and overall growth and expansion of their infrastructure. Elementary Highlights • Herty, Coston, Trout, Brookhollow, Kurth, and Anderson are RECOGNIZED campuses. • Pre-K 2 and Pre-K 3 available • Increased math and science incorporated into curriculum • Hands-on learning through the addition of Smart Boards in the classrooms • Coston was named by Texas Monthly as a super-achieving primary • Ecomert Burley Sr. Primary opening Fall 2009 Lufkin Middle School Highlights • Recognized by Texas Monthly as an over-achieving campus • 3 consecutive years of out scoring peers • New Science Wing coming Fall 2009 • Student Health Center • Allows students to work on high school credits • Math and Science Magnet Program

High School Highlights • 3 National Merit Scholars • 33 Pre-AP and AP courses available • Competitive Robotics Team • Culinary Arts Program • Large Technology and Workforce training- welding, auto mechanics, digital photography • Digital Animation Program About Our Staff • 621 teachers educate our children • 25% of our teachers have Advanced Degrees • The average number of years of teaching experience is 13.7 years. • We average 13.9 students per teacher. The state average is 14.9. TAKS Scores • LISD exceeds state performance in all areas tested. 6 campuses are recognized . Enrollment • 8,514 students are enrolled in our chools. Enrollment by campus: Hackney - 261 Anderson - 309 Garrett - 438 Trout - 448 Brandon - 413 Brookhollow - 371 Herty - 471 Slack - 688 Coston - 365 LMS - 1728 Kurth - 359 LHS - 2361 Dunbar - 302

entral ISD is located seven miles north of Lufkin, Texas on Highway 69 North in Angelina County. Total enrollment for grades PK-12 is approximately 1550 students. Central ISD was established in 1929. The district was consolidated into one district from five area schools: Durant, Union, Allentown, Pollok, and Clawson. Central’s “claim to fame” is that the school sits on the highest hill in Angelina County and is the only school in Angelina County that holds five state championships in athletic team sports: 1956 Boys Basketball, 1959 Girls Basketball, 1984 Boys Baseball, 1985 Girls Basketball, 1997 Girls Softball. In addition, the 1988 Bulldog yearbook received the state’s highest award from the Interscholastic League Press Conference. Central ISD has seen many changes over the past two years, starting with the hiring of a new superintendent, Dr. Allen Garner. Garner began working with his leadership team to take Central ISD from a good school to a great school. “Our desire is to create and cultivate a safe climate where all young people are valued and thrive. Our purpose is to provide hope and encouragement through positive relationships, leadership, and education to promote healthy young people,” said Dr. Allen Garner. As a result of the hard work of the staff at Central ISD, the elementary/primary campuses received a rating of Recognized through the state accountability system. The junior high campus received a Gold Performance Acknowledgment for reading and English language arts, while the elementary campuses received Gold Performance Acknowledgments for writing and mathematics. State assessment (TAKS--Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills) performance for all students tested in all grades has improved and the overall scores include reading/ language arts (90%), math (86%), writing (91%), social studies (89%), and science (74%). District wide math performance increased for all students by 7%, African American by 13%, Hispanic by 12%, White by 6%, and economically disadvantaged by 8%. High school math and science scores showed strong improvement. High school math scores for Hispanic students increased by 26% and science scores increased by

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11%. Junior high school math scores for all students increased by 9% and by 13% for economically disadvantaged students. Elementary math scores for African American and Hispanic improved by 15% and 10% respectively. Science scores for White and Hispanic students improved by 11% and 7% respectively. The district continues to work to make significant gains in all TAKS tested areas with a focus on mathematics and science, especially at the junior high and high school. All grade levels are benchmarking students at the end of each six weeks to measure student academic progress in the four core areas of reading, mathematics, science, and social studies. In another systems approach, the district is embarking on a mission to provide “value added” instruction to all students. Value added instruction simply means that all students make positive gains in their TAKS scores. Regardless of whether a student does not reach the passing standard for the TAKS or whether a student makes a high passing score on TAKS, the goal is to make sure each individual student makes gains in academic performance. These gains are measured mathematically through the TAKS scores and provide teachers with the data showing student progress or “value added” progress. “The goal is to see a student enter each classroom at the beginning of the year with a certain amount of academic knowledge and skills and to leave at the end of the year with a greater amount of academic knowledge and skills,” said Garner. In addition, the district continues to provide programs focused on college and career readiness for all students. The district offers career and technology courses in business and computers, agri-science, and family and consumer sciences. Several of these areas offer students the opportunity to earn certificates in these fields. A culinary arts program was implemented this year in family and consumer science, offering students the opportunity to explore the food service fields that have become so popular across the nation. Next year a health occupations program will be started, giving students the opportunity to explore health careers and to job shadow at local hospitals.

The district offers Pre Advanced Placement and Advanced Placement courses at the junior high and high school and a gifted and talented program in all grades as part of the focus on increasing academic rigor and college and career readiness. New courses are being implemented each year. Also, all campuses have successful UIL Academic programs, which provide students the opportunity to excel in academic competitions. Finally, Phase I of a five year master plan which includes construction of a new 86,000 square feet elementary campus and eight lane track is well under way.The track is scheduled to be complete in early March 2009 with the school completion date set for spring 2010. The new elementary will be opened for the start of 2010-2011 school year.The $12.5 million dollar bond package also includes renovation of secondary campuses in Phase II. “Our district will continue to look for specific, targeted programs and systems that will provide students with tools for meeting not only the state standards, but also for reaching their academic potential. We believe our students deserve the best education we can offer”, said Garner.

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 45

Autism

Special section | education

The latest statistics show that 1 out of 150 children are affected by Autism, and continue to steadily grow.Today, there are more moms that are rolling up their sleeves and getting involved. Because there is not “cure” per say, parents, teachers, and caregivers want to find out more ways they can help children dealing with all levels of autism.

East Texas is no exception to national statistics. There is a growing network of resources for families dealing with Autism. Many professionals and parents have been working at compiling a list

Local Resources

of information so anyone affected by autism know where they can turn and reach out for help. Autism is a developmental disability, affecting a persons understanding of what he/she sees, hears, and senses. As a result, individuals with autism have problems in social situations and relationships, communication, behavior, variable sensory responses, and uneven skill development. No two autistic children are the same due to the fact that its effects range from: Autism spectrum disorders(ASD) known as PDD(pervasive

evaluations to determine hearing

Seminar on biomedical acuity,speech and language therapeutic intervention, and consultation with intervention Autism: Recovery is Possible parents and clients. James R.Young, MD April 29, 2009 at Noon Nacogdoches Medical Center RSVP 569-3289 (luncheon)

Churches Lufkin First Assembly

Meet once a week for special needs kids during the 11 am worship service for parents who desire a secure and fun place for their child while they attend the service. Contact Deanna Ramsey at 632-3540 or dramsey@lufkin.org.

Grace Bible Church

Has a ministry during the 9:30 service for children with special needs including ASD.

Speech and Language Alicia Scoggins & Jan Ward, M.Ed.,CCC/SLP, Debra Bankson Professional Speech & Language Services 936-564-0952 or 936-639-3007

Layne DeBardelaben, M.A., CCC/SLP Clinical Instructor Stephen F. Austin State University 2100 N Raguet HSTC Rm205 Nacogdoches, TX 75962 936-468-1155 voice email: debardellj@sfasu.edu

SFA Stanley Speech & Hearing Clinic

The Speech and Hearing Clinic offers a variety of services for individuals demonstrating communication disorders. Services that are provided are: speech and language evaluation, audiological

developmental disorder) range from a severe form called autistic disorder, through PDDNOS(pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified), to a milder form known as Asperger’s syndrome. They also include two rare disorders, Rett syndrome and childhood desintegrative disorder. This may help explain way behaviors and intellect vary so greatly and no two children with a diagnosis will be the same. The outcome will vary from person to person. One “key” fact is all we have in that the earlier the intervention, the greater the success

Cornerstone E.C.I.

An early childhood intervention program that helps families who have children birth to three years of age, overcome difficulties in the areas of early development. Together, parents and staff work to improve the child’s physical, cognitive, social, and adaptive development in an effort to build a stronger foundation for the child’s future. 4101 South Medford Drive Lufkin , TX 75901 936-639-1141

Softball Team Lufkin Parks & Recreation

Special Needs Softball Sign-up is March 16-April 3rd at the downtown Lufkin Parks and Recreation building. Bridget Studer, MS, CCC This team is open to any child with Speech Pathologist special needs, any age, gender or 714 Largent diagnosis is also welcome! The cost Lufkin, Texas is only $20. For more information, 936.639.2693 contact Deanna Ramsey at 639Serving Children and Adults 9554 or by email at dramsey@lufkin. org. Our 1st Special Needs Softball Education Evaluation Practice will be on April S.T.A.R.S East Texas Autism Coalition 4th at Winston Park from 9 - 11:30 Nacogdoches Independent School Support group for parents and a.m. families affected by autism spectrum District disorders 511 South University Dr. Evaluation Brenda Jones Nacogdoches, Texas 75961 Dr. Kathryn Akin M.D. 936-632-7944 936- 569-5000 Developmental-Behavioral Changing the Path Pediatrician GETCAP Head Start 1508 S. First Street Tyler, Texas Nacogodches County Lufkin, Texas 75901 903-592-1890 936-631-3110 Fax: 936-631-3109 Charlotte Weaver Stokes Complex 1902 Old Tyler Rd. Nacogdoches Changing the Path is an organization dedicated to making sure children Internet Resources Texas 75964 diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Autism Speaks Inc. 936-564-1142 Disorders and their families have www.autismspeaks.org access to various health, wellness and Future Horizons Inc. The Helping House therapeutic treatments not otherwise www.fhautism.com Private School covered by health insurance or other First Signs financial means. 919 Jack Lock www.firstsigns.org Nacogdoches, Texas 75964 Social Cure Autism Now 936-371-1536 Best Buddies-SFA Program www.cureautismnow.org www.the-helping-house.org A nonprofit organization dedicated The National Autism Society to enhancing the lives of people www.nas.org LISD with intellectual disabilities by Special Education providing opportunites for oneto-one friendships and integrated Books Deidra Harrison employment. Stephen F. Austin Thinking In Pictures 936-634-6696 chapter of Best Buddies, please by Temple Grandin the current College Buddy Therapy Functional Pediatrics contact Director, Sarah Mullen Could it be Autism? Physical, Occupational, & Speech cbd@bestbuddiessfa.com By Nancy D. Wiseman Therapy 3316 N University Dr D, Burke Center Family Counseling Association Nacogdoches, TX 75965-2632 4101 South Medford Drive 936.564.4661 Lufkin , TX 75901 936-639-1141

46 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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Photograph taken by Lisa Crow

in East Texas

Your Life

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 47

Your life | hALL OF FAME HUBBIES

Your life | pARENTING

Stan Laviolette

I could go on and on with all sorts of mushy stuff to explain why my husband is such an awesome dad and husband. I will instead explain it in a more tangible way. I have been working LOOOOOng weekends for almost a year so that I would be at home during the week with the FOUR kids ages 7mths, 2, 6, and 11. He works all week and he’s been a “single parent” on the weekends while I’m at work, all the while keeping a smile on his face and still sincerely saying, “I LOVE YOU,” when I walk in the door at midnight on Sunday nights.The house is always in better shape than when I left it.What a guy! I Love You, Stan Laviolette. With all our hearts, Chrissy, Reagan, Paige, Andrew, and Davis

What I Didn’t Know

Roland Brent

Roland is a devoted husband and father. He is a positive Christian role model for his three children and enjoys spending quality time with each of them. He can often be found hunting with Taylor, singing and dancing with Blayre or cuddling with baby Corbyn. He treats our marriage as a partnership and confirms that with little things like cooking dinner and cleaning the kitchen. I know I don’t say it often enough, but I am truly blessed to have him as my spouse. Husband of Mendi, Dad to Taylor, Blayre, and Corbyn Mendi Brent

Jerry Simmons

Among Jerry’s many fine qualities is his ability to connect with many different people. He is trustworthy, hard working, and honest. Jerry has a talent for ‘fixing’ almost anything around the house. He is very dedicated to his job, but truly loves spending time at home with his family. Not content to sit around, once he finishes one project, he is off to another. He is often quiet, but those who know him well know that he is not afraid to be himself. His love of ‘nature’ is reflected in our son Madison who can’t wait to get in ‘camo’ gear during hunting season or help his daddy load the boat for a fishing excursion! We are blessed to have him in our lives. Husband to Fern, daddy to Madison 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. halloffame@tjmag.com

By Shea Fisher

I ask myself how I could have not known sooner that something was wrong. Luke was the largest of my babies. He had a normal birth with no complications. He got the occasional cold like any child, had ear infections, went to all the well checks, and got all the shots when he was scheduled to have them. When Luke was 2 ½, he and started to withdraw from us and acted like he couldn’t hear us when we talked to him. My husband and I thought maybe it was the ear infections. We took Luke to the doctor and everything checked out. Six months later, I had him scheduled for a hearing test. Results came back within the normal range and we were told he was fine. The next six months Luke got worse. He started to lose what little language he had and separated himself from us even more. He became uncomfortable with clothing and sensitive to touch. Luke began to twirl objects and became obsessively attached to them. There were other things--like grunting for things he wanted-and he developed his own words for certain things. He would cry and scream with frustration. A Sunday morning at church changed everything. I was called into Sunday school to get Luke because he would not keep his clothes on. I was told he had isolated

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himself and that the other kids thought he was weird. It was the most profound moment of my life. There was no way I could go back to believing he was just learning at his own pace. That day and night I watched his mannerisms and took note of everything he did. There were four things that stood out to me. Luke didn’t make eye contact, he twirled objects, he couldn’t communicate, and he had sensitivity issues. That night I Googled those characteristics and the answer was Autism, a neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person’s lifetime. Monday morning I called my doctor for a referral to get Luke tested. Luke was scheduled that next week to go in for his evaluation. That appointment confirmed what we already knew. I have learned that there are many resources available to parents, from money to help with transportation to and from the doctor, social workers to help you coordinate the care for your child, medical care to help with sanitary products such as diapers, disability to help with additional items that may be needed for your child’s care. I have also learned that you have to ask and search for this information.

It’s been a little over a year since Luke started therapy and the changes in him are incredible. He has learned everyone’s name in the house, he is building his vocabulary, he is learning how to adjust to sensitivity issues, he gives hugs, and every once in a while he’ll give a kiss, but will wipe it off. We have good days and bad days. I have gotten stares at stores. I have learned that not all people are sensitive to what might be wrong with a child and Luke has taught me to look beyond what I am seeing in front of me. I am very lucky to have a wonderful husband that continues to support and take care of us and friends and family that don’t mind when I need to talk to them and who lift my family up in prayers. Luke has a long road ahead of him and I don’t know what’s around the corner, but we will face it together. I will be there through every therapy session so that I can learn how to help him. I will continue to advocate for his needs and will try to help him through the hard times. I have learned that you have to fight for your child and that you know better than anyone what he or she needs. I look forward to the future and I try not to think about what Luke lost, but what I have gained and learned from him. For a list of resources and contact information of government agencies, go to our website at www.tjmag.com March 2009 THE JOURNEY 49

Andrew Douglas Cota

October 1, 2008 Proud Parents: Becky & Kevin Cota Lufkin, TX

Madelyn Vesta Johnson

Sept. 4, 2008 Proud Parents: Jaime & Jeremy Johnson Lufkin, TX

Journey Cole Tinsley

Rebekah Elizabeth Sapp

Brayden Scott Lucas Kaitlyn Grace Lucas

January 8, 2009 Parents: Jean & Scott Lucas Lufkin, TX

Coley Lynn Walton

Lexie Aracely Luna

September 30, 2008 Proud Parents: Claudia & Ezequiel Luna

Brianna Nicole Warner

I Need

Joy!

“… weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Psalm 30:5

T June 5, 2008 Proud Parents: Sarah & Jacob Sapp Lufkin, TX Grandparents: Sally & Terry Clifton (Lufkin) Libby & Lewis (Huntington)

October 20, 2008 Proud Parents: Lauren Tinsley Grandparents: Laura Placker & Jack Tinsley Lufkin, TX

August 20, 2008 Proud parents: Brittany & Cody Walton San Augustine, TX

December 22, 2008 Proud Parents: Lindsey & Brian Warner Pollok, TX

Pretty Babies

Email all submissions to: prettybabies@tjmag.com Photos will not be returned

hat verse of scripture is found in the Old Testament of the Bible – it brings me a lot of comfort in these days filled with so much suffering and uncertainty. It seems like we are surrounded with people who have terminal illnesses, who have lost their job, and those who have spouses that have filed for divorce causing so much emotional pain for their family and friends. The news media reports story after story about bad economic times that affect people of every class and income bracket. Where do we find joy in these “perilous” days? My main source of comfort for these days is found in the Bible. I need joy in these days when there are not many circumstances happening that make me happy. Happiness is when everything in my life happens happily. But, joy is not based on the circumstances of my life – it comes from within. Psalm 16:11 (New Living Translation) says,“You (Lord) will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence…” I can rest at night because I know that God is in control – He sees everything going on and He has not been caught off guard. Because of the promises of His Word, I can know that He has already made provisions for everything I will need. In Philippians 4:6-7, and verse 19, I read, “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done. If you do this, you experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus… And, this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from His glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.” My challenge is to keep my heart and mind focused on Jesus. If I allow myself to be influenced by what I read in the newspaper or hear on television, I will not experience joy. Isaiah 26:3-4 reads, “You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the eternal Rock.” I cannot “do life” by myself – I am dependent on Someone who sees down the road. He knows the end! He knows what I need to make it to the end. I want to keep my focus on Him and not become distracted by all the cares of this life.

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Your life | relationships By Kathryn Greene

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Some Verses That Bring Me Comfort In Times Of Trouble: • When I am having trouble sleeping because I am afraid, I read: “I will lie down in peace and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe.” (Psalm 4:8) • When I become fearful, I remember a verse in II Timothy 1:7, “God has not given ‘me’ a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” • When there is an approaching storm, I think of the verse in Psalm 46:1-2 – “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come, and the mountains crumble into the sea.” • When I feel that I am in danger, I read “The Lord is my light and my salvation – so why should I be afraid? The Lord protects me from danger – so why should I tremble?” God, I ask you to help me recall these scriptures and these promises when the circumstances of my life are not good. When joy is being drained out of me, help me to remember your words. I ask You to give me ears to hear and a heart that is willing to be obedient. Thank-you, Lord!

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.

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 51

Your life | Girls Group Confidential

1980

Lufkin H.S.

Graduating Class of ‘70 1978

“To share a deep bond with one girlfriend is something to be desired. But to know you have seven friends that you can count on through thick and thin is a truly a blessing”

1988

2008

1995 This Girls Group has a long history with one another and goes back many boyfriends, weddings, baby showers, children and grandchildren. Their story starts as far back as the elementary years, over forty years ago. They cannot be shy about their ages because they are more excited and feel more bonded with one another than to worry about showing their age. All but two attended the same elementary school in Lufkin, but the important thing is that they went to Lufkin High School together.This group of ladies became the graduating Class of 1970. The seven ladies are: Donna LaBlanc Pig, Becky Shands Getter, Jill Culwell Amend, Gail Brown Carney, Suzanne Gardemal Wagner, Julie Noland Castleberry, and Christy Dailey Stage. It is funny to hear them talk and share their stories of their carefree days all the way until now. They have their very first photo together right before their May graduation. After graduation, they all kept in touch and in contact. They would get together off and on. Years went by, kids came, and more kids came. Then they really started making their “getting together” into an annual event. Julie Castleberry says, “In 1978, we started staying at the Westin attached to the Galleria. We would shop and shop. We would 52 THE JOURNEY March 2009

shop until we could not walk or move! Now, we get together and we just want to sit and sit and not move.” Each one of the ladies has their own personality and brings her own pizzazz to the group. They all say how important her friendship and their bond is. Jill Amend says, “Every time we get back together it is like we haven’t been apart or have lost touch.” To share a deep bond with one girlfriend is something to be desired. But to know you have seven friends that you can count on through thick and thin is a truly a blessing. “Some people have those friendships that just click when you are in college or after you have a child.We were just lucky that we all clicked in high school and we have stayed connected,” said Becky Shands Getter. “This group of friends is so valuable to me. We are a support system for each other. We have all gone through so much together-happy times, sad times, life changing events, and so much more. More than anything we can be real and just be ourselves.” www.tjmag.com

Years later after their 1970 high school graduation they are still having fun together. “One really neat thing is that our kids (the girls more so) are really close and keep up with each other, too. Every year we would have a trip where we bring our kids and all those times really bonded them as well,” says Julie Castleberry. This girls group has gathered together for over 39 years; sharing love, tears, laughter, and memories. www.tjmag.com

March 2009 THE JOURNEY 53

The Right Direction! Your Body Your life | quiet moment

By Lois Marie Guymer

“Point your kids in the right direction – when they’re old they won’t be lost.” Proverbs 22:6 The Message Bible

ave you ever been lost, turned around, unable to decide which way is the right way to go? Well I have, and it’s not a happy feeling. My family will be quick to tell you that I’m not very good with directions. Once I even got lost in our local “Mart” parking lot. The engineer who designed this establishment obviously had women like me in mind, for a helpfully numbered sign resides at the end of each parking aisle. But woe was me, the summer day I forgot to note my number! Unfortunately, that was also the day I didn’t even park in the same vicinity I usually do. You guessed it – after a couple of hours of shopping, I exited the store with a bunch of groceries, only to discover that I didn’t remember where I’d parked. Talk about being frustrated! There I went, pushing my load up and down the rows, growing hotter and more desperate by the minute.

54 THE JOURNEY March 2009

At one point a nice gentleman even noticed my deranged drifting and asked if something was wrong. Red faced and embarrassed, I was forced to grimace a smile and confess my memory lapse to a total stranger. To make a long story short, I eventually found the van after apparently walking right past it several times.

those directions is a vitally important, learned skill that we, as followers of Christ, teach through example. Our own obedience to God will speak volumes more than our mouths, and in greater decibels, too! Ask any parent and they will tell you, attitude in obedience is almost as important as the obedience itself.

Granted, my getting lost wasn’t headline news, but it was still an urgent moment for me. How much more so is it for our kids, when they get lost and can’t find their way? Growing up can sometimes be a maze of unmarked dangers and temptations too numerous to number. That is why it is of tantamount importance that we, as loving caregivers, ground our children in the teachings of God from the very beginning.

So, point your kids in the right direction by loving God and teaching them about His rules for life, His Son’s great sacrifice, and the rewards of becoming His obedient child. As they grow, it will be easier for them to choose the right path. And when they are old like me, they won’t be out there lost and pushing a heavy load through the crowded lot of sinners, but instead will be safe in the service of the Savior!

Knowing right from wrong is an essential key to the direction our lives will take. Having the respect and trust to follow

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March 2009 THE JOURNEY 55

Group Exercise

Your Body | Fitness 101

Step Aerobics

Steps are combined with arm gestures to increase large muscle movements and increase fat burning. You place a step four to ten inches in height before you and the routine is arranged so that students step up and down to the music.

Yoga

Many people think that yoga is just stretching. But while stretching is certainly

involved, yoga is really about creating a balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility.

Zumba

Ditch the workout, Join the Party! These dance routines feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training combine to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat. Add some Latin flavor and you’ve got it.

You probably see a class that fits your needs, BUT you just don’t have time. One of the biggest assets at The Court Club is our well-qualified instructors. They are not “fitness freaks”. They are people just like you with careers, families, local volunteer work, other hobbies, etc. These instructors make time to exercise, just as you can. Kim Archer has her Doctorate in

roup exercise classes are fun and a challenging alternative to weight and treadmill routines. The classes can be cardio conditioning, dance based, flexibility training, senior fitness, strength training, or a combination. There are classes available at The Court Club to suit everyone’s interest.

The Advantages to Group Exercise are: •

• • • •

Workout longer and consistently with a professional instructor leading the way. The instructor provides a safe, fun, and effective program to meet your individual goals. Make fitness fun when you learn new exercises and techniques Stay motivated when you work out with other people Bring structure and discipline to achieving your goals with a set class schedule Meet new people and make new friends

Whether you are trying to lose weight, build muscle mass, or just maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise needs to be a part of your daily life. At The Court Club we offer group exercise classes for everyone.

Indoor Cycling

You probably have been on a stationary bicycle before, riding and going nowhere. Boring. But add to this a group of friends, invigorating music, a level of intensity that you control, and a top notch instructor, and the class will come together to be both fun 56 THE JOURNEY March 2009

and effective. Regardless of how fit, flexible, or coordinated you are, you’ll get a great workout.

Low Impact Floor Aerobics Not quite ready for high impact aerobics, or maybe your body just says to you “No jumping” or “My knees hurt” or “My body just can’t take all of that moving around”? This is the class for By Dane Fletcher you. Enjoy a gentle warm-up, low impact simple dance moves, a light weight routine, floor exercises targeting the core and legs, stretching, and ending with complete relaxation.

Pilates Pilates is a safe, sensible exercise system using a floor mat that will help you look and feel your very best. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and are essential to providing support for the spine. No matter what your age or condition, it will work for you.

Senior Fitness Our classes are designed to keep bones and muscles strong, promote good balance, increase cardio endurance, and, most importantly, be fun. There are classes available for all levels. Just recently, The Court Club teamed up with Silver Sneakers. Those of you with an eligible Medicare Advantage plan can participate in our classes at no cost. www.tjmag.com

Health Education. Her certifications include AFAA Primary Instructor, Kickboxing, Mad Dogg Spinning Instructor and CPT (National Strength and Conditioning Association Certified Personal Trainer). In her “spare” time she is volunteering with the Healthy Nacogdoches Coalition and planning her July wedding to Musashi Cummings.

Cynthia Ballew has been teaching

group exercise for almost 30 years in South Carolina, Florida, and Texas. “After the birth of my first child there was some serious weight to lose, so off I went searching for a way to lose 20 pounds in 2 days! It was tough losing that weight, but it set me on the path to a lifetime of fitness.”

Lauren Combs has been a fitness

instructor for 7 years. She has certifications in step, kickboxing (Turbokick), yoga/pilates, spinning, and weight training. Lauren and her husband Danny, the Youth Pastor at Grace Bible Church, are the parents of a 7-week-old son, Owen. Between being a mom, an instructor and a youth pastor’s wife, Lauren keeps a full schedule! “My husband says this is the perfect job for me because it combines two of my favorite things, exercise and telling people what to do!” www.tjmag.com

Megan Durell is 23 years old and holds a Bachelor of Science in Dance, with a minor in Philosophy and is group exercise certified. She also teaches dance at a local studio and has danced for the past three years with an east Texas dance company, Motor Dance. Juanita Finkenberg, born and raised in Los Angeles, California, moved with her husband Mel to Nacogdoches in 1989. She is on the adjunct faculty in the School of Theatre at SFA, Coordinator of Employee Wellness Connection program at SFA, and the artistic director of Real Women Dancing (a local modern dance company). Juanita enjoys volunteering at Millard’s Crossing Historical Village, scuba diving, gardening, and tatting. Sharon Miller, married to Glen Miller for 27 years, has four amazing children who are mostly grown up! Their oldest is in a rock band, youngest is still in college, and their two daughters got married last summer. Sharon has been teaching aerobics for 23 years and is also a music teacher for Woden ISD. “I will be turning 50 this summer, but I am better shape now than ever. I view age as just a number--you are as young as you feel! “ March 2009 THE JOURNEY 57

Group Exercise

Your Body | Fitness 101

Your Body | Women’s Health

Kristen Morgan has a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and

Women & Migraine Headaches By: Ruth Dalsky, MEd and Diane Wakat, Ph.D.

a Masters degree in Education/ Kinesiology. She is married with 3 boys that have a very busy schedule. “While growing up, my father always took me to the gym; he loved boating, hiking, water skiing, and camping out. He taught me that exercise is a very important part of my life. I am passing the baton to my children as well.”

Helping to make all your days a beautiful sight

Gregg Nichols, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, fits time into his busy schedule to teach indoor cycling classes. Gregg’s wife, Angie, is a teacher at Fredonia Hill Baptist Academy and they have two boys, ages 6 and 4. Fitting in exercise for Gregg normally requires that he goes early in the morning or during his lunch hour. “I feel so much better when I get my work out in.” Patricia Thompson is the co-owner of The Court Club. She has been doing group exercise since her college days…those were the days of Saturday Night Fever dance classes and belly dancing! She is group exercise certified. Tony and Patricia have 3 boys.

Tony Thompson is a board certified OB/GYN. His love

for outdoor cycling began after he had knee surgery and the stationary bike became a “daily torture machine”. He teaches indoor cycling classes to stay in shape for riding his road bike. Last summer, Tony completed the Hotter-N-Hell 100.

Jana Redfield, Ph.D. teaches indoor cycling classes 2 days

a week. She is married to JD, a local CPA, and has 2 daughters, Carley, age 15, and Cori, age 14. Jana is a grant coordinator for SFA and volunteers for CASA and Nacogdoches Parks and Recreation. Her hobbies include traveling and hiking, water and snow skiing, cycling, walking/jogging, cooking, and gardening.

936.634.8434 2 Medical Center Blvd. • Lufkin www.thecenterforsight.com

58 THE JOURNEY March 2009

Camilla Saulsbury’s primary profession is that of freelance food writer, recipe developer, and cooking instructor. She is the author of ten cookbooks and is the brand ambassador for Pepperidge Farm® Puff Pastry. She holds a Ph.D. in sociology and has worked in the fitness industry for almost two decades as a fitness instructor and personal trainer. www.tjmag.com

igraine headaches have been tormenting people since the time of Hippocrates. And torment is the correct descriptor, because migraines can be debilitating.They can range along a continuum from mild headache and no disability to excruciating pain and complete dysfunction. They can last for hours or days; they can make you nauseous, photophobic (sensitive to light), and phonophobic (sensitive to sound). And they have serious economic consequences as well, leading to the loss of millions of work days per year. Headaches are not a minor malady; they are the seventh leading reason for why people seek medical assistance in the US. More than 18 millions out-patient visits per year are due to headaches. Of the different types of headache, women are more likely to develop tension headaches or migraine headaches, while men are more likely to experience cluster headaches. Migraines are unfortunately too common, affecting about one in 10 adults internationally - predominantly women. The prevalence of migraine headaches in adults is about 6% in men and 15-19% in women.These figures vary with age, but the occurrence increases from puberty until age 40, and then declines more significantly in older men. At least we’ve come far enough along the path of understanding migraines to have dismissed the ancient belief that a headache www.tjmag.com

was the result of demonic possession. But we still know more about what the precipitating factors are and about how to treat migraine pragmatically than we know about its underlying biological cause. There is a long standing debate as to the cause and nature of migraine headaches.This debate focuses on whether the origin of migraines stems from a vascular disturbance or a neurobiological imbalance. However, there may be an underlying mechanism involved in the development of migraine headaches that is characteristic of both theories. The role that serotonin plays in the brain may be a link between the neural and vascular systems. Therefore, regulating the role of serotonin receptors may help prevent migraines and lead to significant therapeutic outcomes. Experience has shown that certain foods can act as triggers in the onset of a migraine attack. Food culprits such as chocolate, caffeine, cheese, fish, wheat, nuts, tomatoes, and alcohol (red wines and champagne) are the most well-known triggers of migraines. Certain food additives such as sodium nitrite (found in processed meats and hot dogs), MSG (Chinese foods), and food colorings may also cause migraines. Tyramine, a natural substance which is found in foods that have been fermented or aged - such as wine, cheddar and blue cheese - may trigger migraines. (cont’d on next page) March 2009 THE JOURNEY 59

Women & Migraine Headaches

Your Body | Women’s Health

Certain levels of female hormones may also trigger the onset of or contribute to the intensity of a migraine. The all-too-predictable headaches that develop across the 3-5 days before a woman’s period are even referred to as ‘menstrual migraines.’ Women may experience a greater number and more severe migraines with pregnancy, lactation, and with menopause. Estrogen replacement therapy does not seem to alleviate these migraines, and in some instances may even exacerbate the condition.

Your Resource

The use of computers has also contributed to an increased incidence of migraine. One type, ‘cervicogenic migraine,’ is precipitated by muscle tension and spinal rigidity in the neck. Staring at a computer screen or holding your head in one position for long stretches really tightens up the neck and shoulder muscles, constricting the nerves and blood supply to the neck and head. That’s a prime trigger for a migraine. There are natural remedies that can benefit a person susceptible to migraines. Nutritional therapies that have been shown to be helpful include Vitamin D and calcium (for menstrual migraines, in particular); magnesium (600 mg/day); and high-dose riboflavin (400 mg). Good hydration (drinking enough fluids) is also important. One of the most effective natural remedies for preventing migraines is parthenolide, a compound found in the herb feverfew. It is used best as a preventive, but can also help blunt a migraine when it occurs.The key is in getting the effective dose of parthenolide, which is 250 micrograms. Just using a feverfew supplement may not work, since it doesn’t contain a standard amount of parthenolide. Another herbal aid for migraine is ginger. Ginger can settle the stomach and may reduce some migraine symptoms after the fact. Standard medical treatment for migraines includes one or more of the following, depending upon whether the strategy is to prevent a migraine attack or if symptomatic relief is being sought. Options include aspirin (low dose for prevention), non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS), Sumatriptan, Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and even hyperbaric oxygen.

Photograph taken by Lisa Crow

Although there has been no steadfast cure or prevention of migraines, exercise and other natural remedies can be used effectively to prevent or abort a migraine attack. Chiropractic and massage may be especially helpful for cervicogenic migraine. Acupuncture, biofeedback, and stress reduction have been proven effective in many cases. By the way, if you use exercise to reduce the frequency or intensity of a migraine, don’t exercise during an attack (as if you felt like it!). It’s important to appreciate that ‘migraineurs’ may need to practice one or a combination of these strategies to prevent migraines, or to limit the intensity of a migraine headache. Knowing and avoiding migraine triggers, especially in foods, can make a big difference in the quality of life - by preventing the pain and debility that these nasty headaches cause. 60 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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Your Resource | The Review

Hair Bows & Nap Mats

Casey Slaughter is a mom that works part-time as a home health nurse. The other portion of her time is allocated to making hair bows and nap mats. Sewing has been a tradition passed down from her grandmother and mother, and she now shares her passion with others. She loved using her crafts for her own son and daughter, and after many request from her friends and family what once was a hobby has now grown into a rewarding business called Munchkin Land Embroidery. The nap mats come with a blanket and pillow that stays attached, bright, vibrant colors, a monogrammed name, and closes with a beautiful ribbon or velcro closure. Casey also makes custom hairbows perfect for any size princess.To order beautiful, custom hairbows or nap mats, you may contact Casey at caseys1214@yahoo.com

Talented Local Authors

We have three talented local authors in our very midst. Purchasing one of these books would make a great gift and will also support the local authors and possibly lead to more books! Our first author is Jan Allbritton. Jan is a retired teacher from the public schools after 26 years. She is now a fifth grade teacher at St. Cyprians School in Lufkin. She and her husband Mike live with Sweetie in Diboll. Super Sweetie to the Rescue is about a 2.5 pound teacup Chihuahua that just happens to be a superhero. She rescues the Allbritton grandkids from peril. She saves the 2 youngest grandkids from a flashflood in central Texas.This book was based on years of telling stories to the grandkids about Sweetie. Super Sweetie to the Rescue is available at Time Will Tell, 304 E. Lufkin Avenue for $11. The second author is Kathy Franco of Livingston. Kathy has a passion for writing children’s stories. She wrote a book titled, A True Winner that was published in 2005. The book is about a young girl who thinks her donkey can win a horse contest.The moral of the story is that no matter how different you are, you are still special. The horse contest even takes place at the “Polk County Fair.” To order this book, go to: www.xlibris.com/atruewinner. Our third book is written by a mother daughter duo, Margie and Claire Brody titled, Skippy Dimpledot, the Christmas Elf. Margie and Claire wrote their book five years ago and continue to share the excitement and wonder of Skippy Dimpledot every Christmas season. Their book is based on a magical elf that visited Claire when she was a young girl. In addition to their book, they have three elves named Skippy Dimpledot, Henry Dimpledot and Julie Jellybean. Be on the lookout for a new elf to visit this Christmas. To order a book or elf, contact Margie by email at jbrody@consolidated.net 62 THE JOURNEY March 2009

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Your Resource | Education with emily Becoming defensive just makes another person defensive…and that is not a benefit to the child. Set an example for the child on the best way to talk about a disagreement or difference in opinion.

Parent/Teacher

Relationships T By Emily Parks

here is a direct relationship between a parent and a teacher. Both share in the responsibility of a child’s successful educational journey. Both share the desire of wanting what is best for a child and keeping the child’s best interests at heart. The key to a successful relationship is open communication and respect. The following are my suggestions on how to create a positive parent/teacher relationship:

Parents: •

Introduce yourself. If a teacher does not contact you at the beginning of the year, contact him/her. Let them know who you are and who your child is. It would also be good to let them know how to best contact you.

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Check In. You have heard the saying, “No news is good news.” That is generally true at schools, but double check anyway--just a quick phone call asking if everything is going okay.

•

Don’t miss out. Anytime you can be involved--do it! Relationships are built through time and understanding. If there is an open house or special event, take this opportunity to get to know the teacher a little bit more.

Sit in on a class. It would be best to let the teacher know when you would like to come. This is a great way to see what goes on in the classroom and how your 64 THE JOURNEY March 2009

•

Write thoughts and questions down. Unfortunately, most everyone is on a tight schedule, so to keep your conversation on track, take a few minutes and write down what you would like to address.

•

Be understanding. Middle school and high school teachers can teach 75 students or more each day. It is impossible to memorize one student’s grades. Be mindful that the teacher may not have an answer off the top of their head. Allow them time to look back at a student’s work and grades in order to give informed feedback.

•

Teachers--be prepared. If a conference is scheduled, have examples of work, progress reports, etc. ready to share. Ask the parent what the conference is concerning so you can jot down thoughts on the concern as well.

•

Teachers/Parents--Put yourself in the other person’s shoes. This may be tough, but it really helps to view the other person’s perspective. Conduct conversations based on the Golden Rule: “Treat others as you would like to be treated.”

child acts in that environment. I am sure you will be amazed at the choreography of learning and you will probably get to see lots of sparks in children’s eyes as they grasp a concept. It is really very exciting to see!

Teachers

•

Contact parents at the beginning of the year. Don’t wait until you have a concern to introduce yourself. Make the first contact a positive one.

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Let parents know the appropriate ways to contact you. One of the options should be before or after a school day, since most parents work during the day and many cannot make or receive calls unless it is an emergency.

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Have an open door policy with stipulations. Let parents know that they are always welcome in the classroom unless there is testing going on. Also, request advanced notice.

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Respond promptly. When a parent writes a note, sends an email, or leaves a phone message, it is courteous to respond back in a timely manner. Communicating with parents should be one of the top priorities as a teacher.

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Conflict Resolution: •

Try to resolve any problem with the teacher first. Give them a chance before going to the principal. A lot of times, it may just be a misunderstanding or misinformation. Principals should be contacted if the problem was not resolved with the teacher or it is a reoccurring issue.

•

When appropriate, involve the child. This really helps in understanding what is going on and relieves the “he said/ she said” conversation. Let the child express how he/she feels about the situation or concern. Children can give much insight into the problem and can even help resolve it. Questions to ask: “How do you feel about ________?” and/or “What can we do to make you feel better about ____________?” and/or “Do you understand our concern about _____________?”

•

Do not speak out of anger. Take a step back, take some slow breaths, and then think about the situation.

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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. March 2009 THE JOURNEY 65

Your Resource | Legal Forum

Protecting Your Family

What You Really Need to Know About Your Auto Insurance Policy By Mike Love

explain to my clients that purchasing UIM coverage is like buying a liability policy on every single person in the world just in case they crash into your car (or family). In other words, your liability policy protects other people if you cause an accident. That’s good. However, for just a few dollars a month, a UIM policy also protects you, your family, and every passenger in your vehicle if the other driver caused the accident. Another piece of critical advice I give my clients is to be sure to get price quotes on a range of different coverage levels. Unless you ask, many agents will only quote a minimum level policy (perhaps hoping to win your business with the cheapest bid). However, you can probably get ten times the protection [$250,000.00 in coverage] for just a little more money. For example, my premium for a six month auto policy with USAA is $463.15 and provides coverage at $300,000/$500,000/$50,000. Out of the total six month premium, $78.07 is for liability property coverage (i.e. $50,000 to pay for the other person’s car if the accident is my fault). At the same time, I pay only $38.31 every six months for $500,000.00 in UIM coverage protecting every person in my car if we are hit by an uninsured/underinsured driver. That is a mere $6.38 per month for a half million dollars in UIM coverage! Insurance companies are able to sell these much larger policies for only slightly higher premiums because serious injuries are statistically rare. On the other hand, it is in the case of a rare but serious accident when most individuals and/or families need protection. With the high costs of today’s medical bills, adding Uninsured/Underinsured motorists coverage [UIM] to your auto policy makes a lot of sense. Once your agent has provided prices for a range of different coverage amounts, then you can chose the level of coverage that protects your family and meets your budget.

It is common knowledge that automobile accidents represent one of the highest ‘risk of injury’ in the lives of most people. Over the years, my law firm has seen hundreds of East Texans injured in serious automobile accidents. Sadly, in many of these cases, the person at fault either had little (or no) insurance to cover the injuries caused by the accident. By making sure that your auto policy includes a relatively inexpensive ‘add on’ coverage, you can go a long way toward protecting yourself and your family in the event you are involved in a serious accident of this nature. In fact, for just a few dollars a month (over state required minimum policies) most people can significantly increase their coverage protection. There are basically three types of auto insurance: 1. Liability Insurance -Designed to pay others for personal injury and property damage if you cause an accident. [State required and expensive] 66 THE JOURNEY March 2009

2. Collision -Designed to pay for your car repairs. [This coverage can be moderately expensive.] 3. Personal insurance designed to protect you, your family, and your passengers in an accident. This coverage is relatively inexpensive and is by far the most important coverage to protect your family. Unfortunately, most people never get a full explanation of the real value of this relatively cheap insurance from their agents. There are also three types of auto insurance in this third category. They are Underinsured/Uninsured motorists coverage [UIM], Personal Injury Protection [PIP], and Medical Benefits Coverage [Med-Pay].

As a service to the community, our office offers a free review of your insurance policy. Anyone who would like more information can call (936) 632-2000 to schedule a free appointment. Additional answers to common questions [like why you should always buy PIP instead of MedPay] can be found on our website at www.TexasLawOffice.com.

Mike Love Mike Love & Associates L.L.C. 202 East Lufkin Avenue Lufkin,Texas 75901 www.TexasLawOffice.com

Perhaps the most important of these is Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage. UIM covers you, your family, and any other person riding in your vehicle if the at fault driver doesn’t have insurance (or enough insurance) to cover all the damages. I www.tjmag.com

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“When you’re injured by someone else’s negligence, you deserve to be treated fairly. We can help.” THE LAW OFFICE OF

Mike Love & Associates, L.L.C 936.632.2000 • www.texaslawoffice.com 202 E. Lufkin Ave, Ste 201 • Lufkin, Texas 75901