THE

SEPTMEBER 2018

magazine an original since 2005

E XCUSE OUR ME SS!

E XCUSE OUR M UN DER CONSTRUC TION

UN DER CONSTRUC TION UNTIL OC TOBER 1S T UNTIL OC TOBER 1S T AG G I E

O W N E D

A N D

O PER AT E D

UNTIL OC TOBE

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bes t of

SE P T EM BER

3 8

LABOR DAY The first Monday in September is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS' DAY We celebrate this national holiday the first Sunday after Labor Day. Founder Marian McQuade wanted to set aside a day to encourage grandchildren to “tap the wisdom and heritage their grandparents provide.”

TEXAS STATE FOREST FESTIVAL The Angelina County Chamber of Commerce began the Texas State Forest Festival in 1938, which was held as an annual county fair event until 1953. With the existing Chamber sponsoring the Youth Fair as part of the event, the Texas State Forest Festival was held on the 30+ acres where Lufkin Middle School currently is located, and drew crowds reaching 8,000!

DINNER & DANCING UNDER THE STARS

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER'S

LUFKIN COMMUNITIY PARTNERS BUTTERFLY RELEASE This is a family friendly event that highlights community organizations who assist children who are victims of abuse or neglect in Angelina County. Activities begin at 5:00 pm at the Farmer's Market with the release of live butterflies at 6:45 pm to honor all who have been affected by child abuse. There will be activities for all ages. Admission is free. For more information or to purchase your butterflies please contact Denise at 936-632-2288 or visit lufkincommunitypartners.org. 3 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E

The Museum of East Texas presents Dinner and Dancing Under the Stars, our annual fundraiser to benefit the Museum of East Texas. Join us for a fabulous night filled with silent and live auctions, live music, delicious food, and merriment.

Join us as we Walk to End Alzheimer's on September 29, 2018. Registration starts at 8:00 am and the walk begins at 9:00 am. When you participate in the Walk, your fundraising dollars fuel our mission, and your participation in the event helps to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in your community. The Alzheimer’s Association provides free, easyto-use tools and staff support to help participants reach their fundraising goal. While there is no fee to register, we encourage participants to fundraise in order to contribute to the cause and raise awareness.

a l e t te r fro m th e

E DI T OR

It’s September, and I keep watching for falling leaves and listening for word of a cool front headed our way; I’m on the lookout for some sign that fall is coming. Something. Anything. However, I haven’t seen many promises of rich orangey-yellow leaves and cooler weather. But I know it’s coming. I know eventually I’ll be sipping a warm pumpkin drink in my soft hoodie while sitting by a f ire. There are certain seasons in life that seem like they drag by and for others it f lies so quickly. Regardless of how fast or slow the seasons change for you, there is always a time of transition… when that season is sort of over, but remnants of it remain. Just like school has started, so summer should be over, right? But really, it’s not. Those hot days are still here, and many are struggling to get back into a ‘fall routine’. Our bodies are forced into something different, but our hearts are a little reluctant to follow. I think God intended us to learn so much from the patterns of nature, rich lessons only attained when we sit still and watch. The process of transition is so important. Think about nature. The leaves must fall from the trees for the tree to properly prepare for winter. The squirrels must gather their food while it’s there for the taking. The birds must migrate to warmer climates to survive the harsh winter. These processes are so important, and in many cases, they are necessary for survival. But there are things we learn in the transition that we can’t learn any other way; the process affords us so much. As we wait on pins and needles for the majestic colors, soothing scents, and cozy textures of fall, I encourage you to pause and study what’s happening around you. Remember, there are valuable lessons to be learned in this time of transition.

All the way home,

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ta ble of

CON T E N T S features

home

community

34 SPOTLIGHT

11 HOME TOUR

30 20 QUESTIONS

42 TOUGH TOPICS

20 IN THE KITCHEN

36 LOCAL TALENT

67 PLACES & FACES

24 TIPS & TRICKS

42 WISDOM FROM THE WORD

26 LET'S CELEBRATE

The Journey Magazine is available free of charge each month per reader. Mail service of The Journey Magazine may be purchased for $50 for 12 issues. Mail check to: The Journey Magazine, P.O. Box 150351, Luf kin, TX, 75915, or contact kogden@luf kinjourneymagazine.com

6 | SEPTEMBER 2018

ta ble of | C O N T E N T S

sports & outdoors

family

46 GANDY NOTES

87 NATURE'S EYE

50 KIDS' CORNER

OUTDOOR EVENTS CALENDAR CONSERVATION FOCUS

56 EVERYTHING ELSE 6 0 COACH ASHLEY

reader showcase

82 YOUR CHALLENGE 83 YOUR JOURNEY

BACKYARD BASICS eat OUTdoors AROUND THE CAMPFIRE

THE

magazine an original since 2005

OW N E R & D I R E C TO R :

Kim Ogden

kogden@lufkinjourneymagazine.com M A NAG I N G E D I TO R :

Beth Johnson beth@lufkinjourneymagazine.com F E AT U R E S P H O T O G R A P H Y:

Lisa Crow

L AY O U T D E S I G N & A D V E RT I S I N G D E S I G N :

Kelly Hudman

C O N TA C T U S : CONTRIBUTORS:

Kris Ball Ashley Berry Emily Courtney/Nature's Eye Angela Gandy Aaron Wilson

Mailing:

P.O. Box 150351 Lufkin, Texas 75915

Physical:

1302 East Lufkin Avenue Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-366-5463

Online:

facebook.com/thejourneymagazine instagram.com/thejourneymagazine

a l e t te r fro m th e

OW N E R is not “Patience passive; on the contrary, it is active; it is concentrated strength.

”

– Edward G. Bulwer-Lytton

Patience is def initely not a strength of mine. It’s a little known fact that I have ON RECORD, 17 speeding tickets. This from a girl who was once a cop in North Carolina (yes, I was really a cop and yes, I gave out speeding tickets. Oh the irony!). I’ve been known to start a hobby (cross-stitching for example) only to be furious when my sugar skull wasn’t completely f inished in 10 minutes. I hate to wait for the endings of movies, so I usually Google them before I ever watch one. I don’t read. EVER. It literally takes all the strength in my body to proofread this magazine with my team. If by some miracle from the Heavens I do actually read a book, I always read the ending f irst. I don’t work out, because I hate taking time to go do it. I’ve only recently begun meditating, and let me tell you, the universe is getting a kick out of watching me physically jitter while I try to make my thoughts stop. I’m on the go constantly and my mind is always racing. My life-blood is made up of adrenaline, not patience. With all this being said, October is bringing with it many exciting changes for The Journey Magazine and her team. I alluded to those changes in September’s issue, and have once more here. While patience is not a virtue I have, the love for this magazine and its team most certainly is. As always, we hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed creating it. The Journey Magazine was born out of this community and will always remain loyal to it. Patiently waiting….

H OM E T O U R | I N T H E K I T C H E N | T I P S & T R I C K S | L E T ' S C E L E B R AT E

wel co m e | H O M E

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Photo Credit - LISA CROW

C H R I S T I E & C R AG G T ODD welcome us home

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home | H O M E

T O U R

The concept for our build began with the home that my dad designed in the early 90â€™s that I grew up in. Cragg and I loved the openness and how a family could utilize every room. We could all be together - eating, cooking and playing games all in the same room. It was important that the entire house be utilized everyday and that the inside and outside f lowed together seamlessly for gatherings with family and friends.

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The kitchen is def initely the hub of our house. My favorite part is the double island. The center island is for food prep and the other island is used for daily meals where the girls can do projects, play games or do homework. I love cooking and having family together and our kitchen combines both perfectly.

An open concept was perfect for our family.

home | H O M E

T O U R

Our f loor to ceiling windows let in so much natural light and help the space feel fresh and airy. Our light f ixtures are Restoration Hardware, as are most other f ixtures throughout our home. The furniture is a combination of Pottery Barn and picking up pieces along the way from our travels.

We love family days spent on the couch, so the family room and TV height was very important to us. We also love entertaining, and music is very important to Cragg. Home Theater Concepts did an amazing job, and the system is f lawless. The sitting room off of the kitchen is also a big part. We spend most of the evenings there just catching up on the day.

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home | H O M E

T O U R

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We are incredibly happy with how our home turned out, and we want to give special thanks to Cragg’s subcontractors: Home Theater Concepts, James Hilliard and Sons, Cherokee Services, Duran Pools, Ritter Lumber, Lonestar Electric, Angelina Glass, Coburns, and Johnson Appliance. Also, we want to thank Dustin Ford (Cragg’s partner in Southern Builders) for putting up with Cragg during this build! Pictured at home are (L to R): Mary Michael (9), Christie, Cragg (owner of Southern Builders), Millie (7) and Bernie Todd (the Golden Doodle).

Protecting them is a big decision... Go with Texas’s biggest broker.

59 South • higginbotham.net • 936-634-2291

All About

Coffee Coffee! It’s the warm cup of caffeinated goodness that so many of us wake up to each morning. For many of us, it’s the reason we get out of bed. If you’re an avid coffee drinker, then you’ve probably dabbled in various techniques to brew your cup of joe. There are many ways to change up your coffee routine and customize your cup to your specific liking. Step out of your normal coffee cup and give one of these new methods a try! Anyone who knows me will tell you that I LOVE coffee. I don't understand people who don't dtink it. If you're on the fence about it, give one of these methods a try. If you arleady love it, then try making it in a new way!

THE FRENCH PRESS The benefits:

The French Press is a very user-friendly way to make a very distinctive cup of coffee that is full of flavor.

You make the coffee by steeping the grounds in hot water and them pressing them out. Because of this, it’s sometimes easy for your coffee to become bitter or oily. However, if you follow these simple steps, using a French press will yield a smooth cup of joe for all the caffeine addicts in your house. You will need: • A French press - Can be found at many local stores and comes in various sizes; get one that will fit your needs. • Coffee – something that is coarse-ground

• Coffee Grinder – a small blade grinder works fine • Water

• Kettle to warm water Time: about 10 minutes The process: • Measure the coffee beans. (Use the chart to determine your how much)

• Grind the coffee beans on the coarsest setting. If using a blade grinder, grind in quick pulses,

shaking the grinder often. Grounds should be rough and coarse. Place grounds in the bottom of your French press.

• Heat your water to boiling and allow to cool for

at least one minute. If the water is too hot, it can

scorch the beans.

• Add the water to the French press and stir well.

• Place the lid on the French press with the plunger part up top.

• Steep the coffee for 4 minutes. After you try this,

you can adjust your steeping time to your liking.

• Push the French press plunger all the way to the bottom and enjoy your coffee immediately!

Leaving coffee in the French press can produce bitter coffee.

The normal French press holds 32 ounces of water and will make about 4 servings. However, you

don’t have to make the entire pot. Use this chart to know how much coffee to use for the number of servings you need.

• 1 serving -

1 cup water (8 fluid ounces) 2 tablespoons coffee beans

• 2 servings -

2 cups water (16 fluid ounces) 1/4 cup coffee beans

• 4 servings -

4 cups water (32 fluid ounces)

1/2 cup coffee beans

• 8 servings -

8 cups water (64 fluid ounces) 1 cup coffee beans

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home | I N

T H E

K I T C H E N

POUR OVER METHOD You will need:

• 30 grams of coffee beans • Food scale

• Coffee Grinder (most of the professionals suggest a Burr grinder) • Pour over brewer

• An appropriate filter for your brewer unless your brewer has a re-usable one • Carafe to brew into, unless your brewer comes with one • Kettle • Timer

Time: 3-4 minutes This recipe makes about 500 grams of coffee. The process: • Bring 500 grams water to a boil and let cool for at least one minute.

• Crease edges of paper filter in opposite directions to ensure it properly fits in

the dripper. Check your brewer to see if it suggests wetting your filter first.

• Set the dripper on top of carafe

• Weigh and grind coffee. The grind should resemble coarse table salt.

• Add ground coffee to filter, making sure the grounds are as level as possible.

• Now, ‘bloom’ the grounds. (This is a

very important step!) Start your timer and gently pour over the hot water in a circular motion. Start in the the

center of the coffee grounds and circle outward over the grounds. Only add

enough water to cover the grounds. You should stop pouring when the coffee starts to flow through the filter.

• Wait 30–45 seconds

• Slowly pour remaining water. Do your best to keep the liquid level over the grounds, between ½ to ¾ full. Don’t

pour the water right near the edges of

the filter. Slow or speed up the pour of your water as needed, constantly

keeping the water level about ½ way over the grounds.

THE AEROPRESS The benefits:

If you enjoy coffee, but you aren’t near the

convenience of your kitchen, an AeroPress is great

for coffee on the go. You will get a full-bodied coffee that you can enjoy quickly. You will need: • AeroPress brewer • AeroPress filter • Grinder

• 1 AeroPress Scoop (17g or 2 ½ Tablespoons) of coffee

• Hot water – about a minute from boiling • AeroPress paddle or spoon • Timer • Mug

Time: Under 2 minutes The process: • Measure and grind 2 ½ T of coffee . This is

equivalent to one rounded AeroPress spoonful.

• Grind the coffee about as fine as table salt.

• Place the filter in the basket. Now, rinse the filter and pour a little hot water in the brewer to heat it up.

• Discard the rinse water from your mug. Put the basket on the bottom of the brew chamber and place it on top of the mug. Add your coffee.

If you have it, use the loader that comes with the AeroPress.

• Pour the hot water into the brewer. You

should cover all the grounds within 10 seconds. You should pour to the #4 on your AeroPress.

Spin the chamber and make sure everything is well saturated.

• Now, stir the mixture and place the plunger on the brew chamber, pulling up slowly to create a seal.

• After about a minute and a half, remove the

pressure seal and give the coffee another stir. Put

the plunger back on and gently press down with steady pressure, stopping as soon as you hear a hissing sound.

Apps for LIFE

24 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

IBOTTA Ibotta is a free mobile coupon

and cash-back shopping app for most

iOS and Android devices. With Ibotta,

shoppers have the opportunity to earn

cash back on select products by purchasing

the product, then providing proof of purchase. You’ll find local stores such as Brookshire

Brothers, Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, Target and many others on Ibotta. Simply download the app (FOR FREE!), choose your stores and off

you go! Ever since Ibotta launched in 2012, the

company has paid out over $275 million in cash back for its users and has been downloaded over 23 million times.

STICKY PASSWORD Have a hard time remembering all

your passwords?! One of the best free

password manager tools, Sticky Password

is available for Windows, MacOS, iOS, and

Android. It provides support for all the popular web browsers. Features include autofill, form filling, password management, two-factor

authentication, and support for biometrics such as fingerprints. One feature that the creators

of Sticky Password promote with enthusiasm is that the password manager app can sync data

across WiFi locally, in case you don’t want to do it over the cloud.

FIRST 5 We could pretend it isn’t the case,

but the truth is we use our phones for

everything. They’re one of the first things

we look at in the morning (we even use them as our alarm clocks—how can we not look at

them!) and they’re with us at all times. That

makes them perfect vehicle for staying in God’s Word. FIRST 5 is a free app that offers 5-minute devotionals designed to be read first thing in the morning. Spending the first 5 minutes of every day with the Lord is the goal, and with

this app you can do it alongside women from around the world.

TAILGATING

101

PREPARE AS MUCH AS YOU CAN AT HOME IN ADVANCE. Cut the vegetables, marinate the meat, mix up batch cocktails—it'll make the actual event much more manageable and fun for you as a host.

USE A FOLDING TABLE AND CHAIRS. They will make it easy to set up and clean up. Also, small accents in your team colors can make a big impact.

DON’T FORGET THE TUNES. Creating a playlist inspired by your favorite team can be just the ticket to tailgate fun. A wireless speaker is perfect for the outdoors.

KEEP A FOOTBALL AND/OR A FRISBEE IN YOUR VEHICLE. Fellow tailgaters will definitely feel inspired to play on game day and movement is always a good thing after enjoying all of the delicious food.

BE SURE TO ICE YOUR DRINKS IN ADVANCE. No one likes lukewarm beverages. In a pinch, add salt to your ice for a faster chill.

REMEMBER THE BASICS. Be sure you always have a bottle opener, plenty of can caddies, napkins, cups, a phone charger, chairs, ice … and most important, your tickets.

26 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

PRESENTED BY -

2 0 Q U E S T ION S | S P O T LIGH T | L O C A L TA L E N T | W I S D OM F ROM T H E WO R D | T O U GH T O PIC S

Kisses at Crystal Beach! Taken of Anna Page by her mom, Chasity Gauthier

a l o ving | C O M M U N I T Y

29 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E

co m mu ni ty | 20 QUESTIONS

twenty questions

-WITH-

B L A K E H A M I LTO N Founder and CEO of Nature's Eye #NatureBasedLife

30 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

W H AT I S Y O U R WIFE’S NICKNAME FOR YOU?

B!!

IF YOU COULD HIRE ANY ACTOR TO PLAY YOU IN A MOVIE, WHO WOULD IT BE?

JOHNNY DEPP Choose one song as your life’s theme song.

Do you have an irrational fear of any creature and if so, which creature?

AN ELEPHANT BECAUSE I WAS ONCE CHARGED BY ONE FACE TO FACE... LITERALLY

AFRICA

Transformers

Astros or the Rangers?

GO 'STROS!

MY WIFE SAYS TASMANIAN DEVIL

HARD WORK WORKS!

Sherlock Holmes or Watson?

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELF?

SHERLOCK HOLMES BECAUSE WE WENT TO DIFFERENT SCHOOLS TOGETHER

12 Growing up, what was your favorite cartoon?

Which Looney Toons character are you most like?

Favorite words of wisdom?

OREOS AND MILK

Simple Man -Lynyrd Skynyrd the furthest place you’ve traveled?

HAMBURGER

What is your favorite midnight snack?

Where’s

Hamburger or Buffalo Burger?

White or red wine?

RED

What is your go-to guy movie?

JOE DIRT

If you could have dinner with three people (dead or alive), who would it be?

JOHNNY DEPP, THEODORE ROOSEVELT, AND RONNIE VAN ZANT..... RANDOM, I KNOW.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

MONEY FOR SEVERAL KIDS TO ATTEND CHURCH CAMP

Take more photos and journal your memories to document your story of the people and places that built you.

What superpower would you like to have?

TELEPORT If you could be any animal in the world, what would you be?

I give you a great white shark as a pet. What do you name him?

BULLET

PANTHER

BUCKNER FAMILY PATHWAYS

“I was a nervous wreck,” she said. “I didn’t know what to do. I had a daughter. I didn’t have a job. I had no hope.”

32 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

uf kin is home to one of eight Buckner Family Pathways programs

that strengthen vulnerable single-parent families and reduce barriers to self-suff iciency such as lack of education and life skills. Family Pathways provides safe, secure housing for single families so parents can achieve their educational goals. Here’s one story of life transformation: Tiffany Pangarakis was determined. No one ever doubted that. Smart and hard-working, she could succeed at anything she put her mind to. Nothing was going to stop her. But life sure tried. Her father died when she was 15. Her mom died two years later. She was legally declared an adult and was on her own. The Luf kin resident struggled to get by but managed to enroll in Angelina College in Luf kin. Then she became “involved in a bad relationship.” Shortly after, her daughter, Kalista, was born. School would have to wait. Her daughter was what was most important. Tiffany started working full-time, driving 100 miles round-trip to make a living. As if Tiffany didn’t have enough to balance, Kalista suffered through health issues. It required numerous doctor visits, forcing Tiffany to miss work one too many times. She was f ired. And desperate.

c o m m u n i ty | S P O T LIGH T

“I was a nervous wreck,” she said. “I didn’t know what to do. I had a daughter. I didn’t have a job. I had no hope.” An uncle told her about Buckner Family Pathways in Luf kin. The solid foundation of Buckner provided the footing Tiffany needed to take the steps to fulf ill her potential. She quickly bonded with Buckner staff members. “They’ve really become a family to us,” she said. “My daughter’s gotten to grow up here. We came just before her second birthday. This has become her family." When Pangarakis is having a diff icult time, Buckner staff members have known just what to say to keep her moving forward. Once when she and Kalista were sick, staff members brought them homemade soup. On other days, she receives texts that staff members are praying for her. “Seeing how these ladies work

and

seeing

the

difference they’ve made in my life, they’ve inspired me to want to work in social work. To be able to give back would be such a blessing,” Tiffany said. Family Pathways in Luf kin Director

Holly

Valentine

is blown away by Tiffany's ability and determination.

“She is a very smart young woman,” Holly said. “She’s probably the only person I know who can function on no sleep and write a 14-15 page paper in a few hours and get a 98 on it. She’s done that again and again.” Tiffany f inished an associate degree and went on to work on her bachelor’s degree in social work at Stephen F. Austin State University. Now she has her choice of jobs to support her daughter as she begins her postgraduate work. “She’s such a dynamo,” Holly said, unsuccessfully f ighting back tears. “She’s such a smart lady. I’m so proud of all she’s accomplished.” In Luf kin location:

• Family Pathways in Luf kin, the f lagship site of the program now in 8 locations statewide, celebrated its 20th year of operation in 2017.

• Over 400 have been served to date in the Luf kin Family Pathways location.

• At least 60% of all program participants exit with a degree or certif icate in hand.

• We recently surveyed all past participants who now have children aged 18 or older. Of those participants who responded, 96% said their children had gone from high school straight into higher education or vocational training.

“She’s such a dynamo,” Holly said, unsuccessfully fighting back tears. “She’s such a smart lady. I’m so proud of all she’s accomplished.”

c o m m u n i t y | L O CA L TA L E N T

Luf kin’s Own LEGO MASTER BUILDER Told to us by - CORRY LANKFORD

• 7 feet tall, and more than 3 feet at the widest point • The internal spine is made up of over 2,500 pieces • 4 remote-controlled engines • Contains a working elevator with lights • It takes 30 LED lights and battery boxes to power the lights • Each of the 8 living quarters features a bed, computer, a sink and a shelf • 16 docking rings line the space station • The space station breaks into 11 different sections for transporting it in the car

Corry’s award-winning vertical space station has been featured on the world famous, Brick-Brothers blog. Read more on it by visiting https://www. brothers-brick.com/2018/07/23/thats-no-moon-its-a-rebel-space-station/

36 | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 1 8

Lego has always been a part of my life. My brother Donald was 13 when I was born, and he was already into it. When he graduated and left home, he gave me a lot of his collection. I never looked back. Not many people know, but Lego almost filed for bankruptcy in between 1999 and 2004. At that time, it was costing Lego more to build many of their sets than they were making by selling them. One of the major reasons LEGO came out on the other side was due to the success of their “Star Wars” series; it was their first foray into a licensed series and became integral to the company. LucasFilm released Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace in 1999 and then Episode 2 – Attack of the Clones in 2002. With their cobranding effort, Lego brought to life what moviegoers were seeing on the big screen, and it worked. * EDITOR’S NOTE - Lego doesn't track the breakdown of who's spending what, but older fans say adults spend more than kids and might account for half or more of the revenue at Lego Stores. Clearly something has clicked — Lego recently became the world's biggest toymaker. Yes, we adult fans are officially called “AFOL”… adult fan of Lego! Globally there are about 250,000 people in the adult Lego community. There is this thought you know… ‘Am I the only one out there?’… then you find out about this growing community and realize you’re not strange and you’re not alone. It’s a relief!

There’s more to it, though than just building for you. Internationally, there are more than 150 huge conventions that AFOL’s spend months prepping displays for – a chance for fans to come out from behind their collections. It can be extremely competitive. It’s definitely the thrill of finding new uses for old pieces. There are infinite ways to build with Lego, but the challenge is working within the constraint that Lego binds you to. I don’t cut the Lego and I don’t glue the Lego. There’s always a way to make your ideas work, you just have to be willing to change your design and go with the flow.

interpretation of a vertical space station on a Lego Star Scavenger box. The space station wasn’t actually a piece you could build in the set; the artist had simply drawn it for artwork behind the Lego creation. I took that idea and ran with it. Having never seen anything like this, I had to create a way to make the Lego stand vertically. Lego isn’t built to support itself at heights like this, so I created a base plate with a vertical metal rod in the center. The rod isn’t attached to the piece in any way, it merely supports it internally. As with any of my builds, I can break the entire thing apart and use each and every brick in another build.

* EDITOR’S NOTE – Texas launched its own Lego convention – Brick Fiesta – in 2011, drawing fans from across the nation to enter their builds and compete against each other for the title of Bright Ideas (the best of the best). Corry competes every other year.

Overall, my goal for this vertical space station was to create something no one had ever seen, make it extremely detailed and make it believable as a structure that could be in Star Wars. A lot of people will build something from those movies for competition and will try to get it as close as they can to the movie; the problem with that is someone will always be able to point out how the piece isn’t exactly like the movie. With my vertical space station, it doesn’t exist in the movies or any of the Lego sets, but it makes sense that it could.

Planning and collecting the pieces takes me roughly 8 – 9 months. I don’t sketch my designs out though. Sketching it puts too much of a burden on the design. Leaving yourself open to the process of building is the best thing you can do and it always turns out better than your original idea. Building my display takes the same amount of time, 8 – 9 months. Because of this, I enter Brick Fiesta every other year. This year, I won not only the Bright Idea Award (which is judges' choice). I also won Best of Star Wars (which is the public’s choice). The idea behind this piece came from an artist’s

Pictured - Corry Lankford, Adriana Thomasee and son, Sebastian Ortiz

At the end of the day, I could break this thing down in 2 or so hours and take it back to its natural form… just a bunch of bricks lying around waiting to be used for another creation. That’s the joy in it for me. But on that note…. I’ll probably wait just a tad longer than I normally do to tear this one down!

c o m m u n i t y | L O CA L TA L E N T

c o m m u n i t y | W I S D OM F ROM T H E WO R D

Songs Sojourner of the

Continuing the Journey

This may be the end of our series in the psalms, but our journey continues on! The road that is the Christian life may be straight (Proverbs 3:6), but it’s not easy (Matthew 7:13). And there’s no Buc-ee’s along the way to pull over and refuel! So, as we continue our pilgrimage through a world that is not our own, I trust our time in the psalms has given you a place to go for true rest and refreshment.

We’ve found our Lord shepherding us through the valley of the shadow of death and hosting us in

presence of our enemies (Psalm 23). We also learned how to counsel our own souls when cast down and to put our hope in God (Psalm 42-43). And f inally, we saw the convicting power of God’s revelation in the skies and the converting power of God’s revelation in the Scripture (Psalm 19). These are but a few of the divine resources at our f ingertips in the 150 chapters of psalms. But there is so much more!

Did you know there’s a psalm written by a worship pastor who almost faltered in his faith? Do you

know why? He was jealous of the ungodly all around him living the good life while he seemed to be living the godly life for nothing! Psalm 73 pivots on a moment of worship and will help answer those nagging questions of why bad things happen to good people and good things happen to bad people. It ends with the well known confession, Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My f lesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:25-26

There’s even a psalm about worship preferences. What do you like when you worship? Hymns or choruses? Electric or acoustic? Traditional or contemporary?

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Better yet, what do you think are God’s worship preferences? Psalm 95 tells us what God prefers when it comes to worship, and it may surprise you that none of those things are mentioned! In fact, other than the word “sing,” this psalm about worship will say nothing about music, instruments, or style. In psalm 95 we receive three invitations from God to worship him - complete with instructions on how to worship and incentives for why to worship. This psalm will erase all of the unbiblical misconceptions of worship that we often have. Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker! Psalm 95:6 Finally, let me introduce you to Psalm 121, an actual song sung while the Israelites were traveling (with family in tow) up the rugged road on their sacred trip to Jerusalem for worship. As they went, they were looking up at the tops of the hills where they saw pagan temples and false idols lining the landscape like billboards line our interstates. There was a real temptation to look to these false gods when fearful, alone, weary or in need. Can you relate? Psalm 121 reminds us six times in just eight verses the promise of God as our keeper. When we’re tempted to seek help from those things that will hurt us, safety from things that are a danger, and security from things that leave us vulnerable, trust that as New Testament believers, we have a conf idence that God will keep us because we have at our side Immanuel, God with us (Matthew 1:23). He has promised never to leave us (Hebrews 13:5-6). The LORD will keep your going out and your coming in from this time forth and forevermore. Psalm 121:8 Oh, fellow traveler, spend time in the psalms as you’re on your way to your heavenly home. You join the company of many who have gone before us and left behind instructions and invitations to look to Yahweh to supply your every need - ultimately in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)!

Aaron Wilson is the Pastor of Administration and Families at Keltys First Baptist Church in Luf kin, Texas. He has served in various ministries from children to adults for over 20 years. He also served for seven years with the national radio broadcast of Revive Our Hearts (Nancy Demoss Woglemuth). Aaron received his BS in Bible from Central Baptist College and is currently pursuing his Mdiv at the BMA Theological Seminary in Jacksonville, Texas. Aaron and his wife, Anita, have four children and enjoy reading, photography, collecting vintage games & toys, being outdoors, and cheering for the Arkansas Razorbacks.

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A L Z H E I M E R' S ( PA R T 1 O F 2 )

ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S® : JOIN THE FIGHT FOR THE FIRST SURVIVOR (Participants to Raise Critically Needed Awareness and Funds for Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Research) The Alzheimer’s Association® is inviting East Texas residents to join the f ight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. There are 3 opportunities to Walk – Luf kin on September 29th; Nacogdoches on October 13th; and San Augustine on October 27th. "Each year, I’m overwhelmed by how our East Texas communities embrace the cause and participate in the Walk,” says East Texas Outreach Coordinator, Crystal Capps. “We have incredibly hardworking, dedicated volunteers on our planning committees. We couldn’t do it without them." Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's participants will learn about Alzheimer's disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical studies enrollment and support programs and services from the Alzheimer’s Association. Walk participants also honor those affected by Alzheimer's disease with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony. Capps looks forward to the events, "The opening ceremony is my favorite part. We honor those who are currently living with the disease and those we have lost. Each participant will receive a Promise Garden Flower when they arrive. There are four colors of f lowers, and each represents the person’s relationship to the disease: • Blue: I have Alzheimer’s or dementia. • Yellow: I am currently caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. • Purple: I have lost someone to Alzheimer’s or dementia. • Orange: I'm not directly connected to the disease, but I believe in a world without Alzheimer’s.” Capps says, "Toward the end of the opening ceremony, we have a representative for each f lower stand on the stage. We share a short story about the person and everyone else who shares the same f lower color holds up their Promise Garden Flower as a symbol of unity in the f ight against Alzheimer’s disease. It’s really a beautiful moment." More than 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only disease among the top 10 causes that cannot be cured, prevented or even slowed. Additionally, more than 16 million family and friends provide care to people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in the U.S. In Texas alone, there are more than 380,000 people living with the disease and over a million caregivers. Register today. Sign up as a Team Captain, join a team or register to walk as an individual at alz.org/ walk. Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.

MCWILLIAMS AND SON'S PERSONAL STORY COMING IN NOVEMBER.

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G A N D Y N O T E S | K I D S ' C O R N E R | E V E RY T H I N G E L S E | C O A C H A S H L E Y

Summer smiles! - by Tiffany Jackson

tim e | F A M I L Y

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f a m i ly | G A N D Y N O T E S

Written by - ANGELA GANDY I'm a sucker for a good deal. If it's $10 or less, I'm going to seriously consider buying it. BUT, even better, if it's $5 or less, it's already in my basket. I'm not your usual deal hunter, though. I don't like couponing, unless it's easy. If I have to use my brain too much to combine offers to see how much I can save, I'm out. My husband is really better at that. It's like a game to him. My game is more like this… “90% off sale!” - I'm there. I wish I was a really good “antique-er” and found tons of good bargains at thrift stores, but I'll admit, I'm just not creative enough, nor am I patient enough. So after admitting my faults, if you're still with me, I'll share what I AM good at. I enjoy browsing “The Spot” in Target, (I think that's the off icial name. I refer to it as “The Dollar Section”) The Family Crisis Center Thrift Store, Goodwill, The Dollar Tree, and garage sales. I promise you, the photographs you're about to see are from my house and I’ll point out the items I spent less than $5 on and show you the comparables from other stores.

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or Less

Photo #1 is of a bookcase that is in my dining room. Yes, I also have a table in there, but who uses a formal dining room anymore? I wanted to give it more life, so I moved this piece in there after Christmas and decided to leave it there for good. The Wreath I found this wreath at The Family Crisis Center Thrift Store about a year ago. It was $3.99! COMPARE AT - $94.99 on Wayfair. The Hello Sign This was a famous Target f ind. I bet you already know where I found it, too. Yes, “The Dollar Section”! It was $3. COMPARE AT - $27 on Etsy.

The Wooden Planter Box This planter box was another Target f ind. It would be precious with something actually planted in it, because it has little chalkboards on both ends of it. However, my thumbs aren’t exactly green, so I turned it on its side and made it more useful for me for a whopping $3. COMPARE AT - $14.98 at Home Depot. The Two-Toned Blue Ceramic Jug This was a Hobby Lobby clearance f ind. I love when they put the seasonal items on clearance. This was labeled a “Spring Shop” item. Although I’m not sure what makes it only for spring, I was happy it was 80% off. After the sale, it came out to $5 exactly. COMPARE AT - $29.99$105.99 on Wayfair.

f a m i ly | G A N D Y N O T E S

In photo #2, you’ll see exactly how handy my husband is. Ladies, even if you don’t think your man is capable, give him a woodshop and a hammer, and let him go at it. He’ll be rusty at f irst, but then, he’ll make you something you always wanted. I showed Maxx a picture of a door tree I liked, and this was my recent Christmas present. I was thrilled, and he loved how much I loved it. Win-Win! The Floral Print Galvanized Plate This was a very recent Target purchase. I’m sure some of you have it in your home! As with a lot of other “Spot” Target items, it was the magic price of $3. COMPARE AT - $9.95 at Pier 1 Imports. Bless this Home Wooden Plaque I already told you I love a good Hobby Lobby sale. This was originally $8, but had a 50% off sale on wooden decor items which made it $4! COMPARE AT - $25 on Etsy. Hanging Metal Tobacco Basket I was so excited when I found this for $4 at Hobby Lobby! I recently went to Canton Trade Days and saw many of these for $15+. I couldn’t bite the bullet for $15, but I almost bought one in every size for $4. COMPARE AT - $34.99 at Kirkland’s. HOME Distressed Faux Metal Sign Interestingly enough, this sign is NOT metal. I grabbed it at Hobby Lobby thinking it was going to be sharp and heavy. To my surprise, it was light and cardboard! I put it right in my buggy full of other cheap f inds for $4. COMPARE AT - $19.99 at Hobby Lobby Original Price.

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I hope this gives some of you encouragement to decorate, or redecorate, your space! Home decor is NOT cheap. If you’re newlyweds and are trying to furnish your new home, take my advice. Do not try to go buy all brand new decorations from Target and Hobby Lobby (unless they’re on sale) just to try to make your home look like everyone else’s. Maxx and I have been married for 8 years, and I just now feel like I have “stuff ”. I remember trying to f ind stuff to put on shelves we had and asking Maxx, “what stuff do I put up here?” Furnishing a home takes a long time and good sale. If you’re a crafty person, I’m sure this is going to be a breeze for you. But if you’re like me, it will take patience. Wait for a good garage sale; I promise you’ll be happy you did. And even if you end up not liking your new piece with your other decorations, who cares...it was only $5 anyways.

Gandy Notes

Angela is a multi-tasking wife and mother of two boys who keep her on her toes. She loves a good story and enjoys writing. You can contact her at angelagandy@gmail.com.

- FEATU RI NG -

COOL CATS There are so many fabulous kids doing amazing things! Do you know a Cool Cat who needs to be recognized? Email the details to kogden@lufkinjourneymagazine.com and you just might see them featured here.

LET'SLOL

WORD FI N D AN D MORE !

WELCOME

AU T U MN

LEAVES CIDER AUTUMN TWIGS

NUTS TREES FALL SQUIRREL

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CROWN COLONY A L L S TA R S

rd, & De laney Ne al en, AJ Pau lsey, Wi ll Sta ffo uss sm Ra el cha Mi , ala ond Ch Ba ck Row (L to R) - Daym llac e, & Pax ton Co ok a, Lo gan Houl, Lu ke Wa eut Ur ob Jac dd, To ller Front Row (L to R) - Mi

The Crown Colony Junior Golf Program, under the direction of coach and instructor Cory Ryan, has been a member of the PGA Junior League since the national program f irst began 3 years ago. This golf program has provided expert coaches and golf team experiences. The team has grown from 9 kids its f irst year to 41 participants this year. Each league is able to have 10 members compete as an all-star team against other junior golf clubs, with the hopes of making it to nationals. This year, the Crown Colony All-Stars brought home third place!

g n i R E W O P em

PR IS C IL L A

G U IL L E N MICHAEL DAVIS

A Snack Mix Just for You! Your favorite yogurt covered fruit (raisins,cranberries, etc.) Pretzels

Your favorite whole grain cereal (Cheerios, Chex, etc.) Chocolate chips or candies

Your favorite dried fruit (bananas, apricots, cherries, etc.) Your favorite small crackers

Your favorite nuts or a mixture of all of them

B E N JA M

I N B O AT

MAN

LET'S

LOL! .. .. 3. .

1. 2.

WHY DO TREES HATE TESTS?

WHAT DID THE TREE SAY TO AUTUMN?

WHAT READS AND LIVES IN AN APPLE?

A NS W ER S - 1. B EC AUSE THE Y GE T S T U M PED BY THE QU E S TI ONS. 2 . LEAVE ME ALONE. 3 . A BOOKWORM.

www.thechildrenscliniclufkin.com

PREPARING FOR SCHOOL

• Schedule your child’s yearly pediatric well-child visit. • Make sure your child is caught up on immunizations.

• Don’t forget to get your child the seasonal flu shot when the new vaccines become available (usually in September)

STAYING HEALTHY AT SCHOOL

• Wash your hands with hand sanitizer or soap and water often during the day. • Don’t share food or drinks.

• Keep your hands out of your eyes and mouth. • Cough into your elbow. • Get plenty of sleep.

SAFETY TIPS

• Choose backpack with wide, shoulder straps, padded back and always use both shoulder straps. • The backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of your child’s weight.

• Bus riders — make sure your child walks where he or she can be seen by the bus driver. • Remind your child to wait for the bus to stop before approaching it.

W? O N K U O DID Y the e s se s in f late d il ln o

- re ity fro m f lu n a n d th e m aj o r re n d ie d o d s cc in e . il a a h e v c s 8 lu lu 17 la s t f th e ir f s d e e t o se a iv t e c S o t re u la r ly th U n ite d en had n d p a r t ic r n u ld d a il o , h h p c s u , e e a se th o s s a nd ro n ic d is a r. 6 m o nt h h n c e e r v d a il h h A ll c y ye r who in e e ve r yo u n g o f lu va cc w h o a re ir e h t e re ce iv

h o m e | E V E RY T H I N G E L S E

Coming to a close... Written by - KRIS BALL

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ell the “Summer of Vacations” has come to an end. We wrapped up our totally awesome summer with the grand f inale trip to Branson, Missouri in July. Leslie and I found a nice log cabin right on the banks of Table Rock

Lake, about f ive miles from the strip in Branson. It was truly a remarkable vacation. We are so grateful to have been able to do something like that with our family. I’m grateful to have a family. God has blessed me with so much that it would sound like a fairy tale if I were to list everything out and tell you about it. And I’m not talking about material things. I’m talking about our health, my children, and my wonderful wife. I’m talking about my church and about the amazing support system that I have. Vacations are blessings, too. It’s nice to get away from the daily grind and experience new things, mostly a change in scenery. Leslie and I have never been through Northern Arkansas or Missouri. The Ozark Mountains are amazing. If you’ve never been to that part of the country and you ever have the chance, I encourage you to take that trip as I don’t think you will regret it. Some of the fondest memories I have of my childhood are about vacations. We drove to the Grand Canyon when I was nine or ten. My parents had an Oldsmobile ninety-eight, and we all loaded up for two straight days of driving. This was before cars were equipped with TV’s and electronics. There were no cell phones. This was probably around 1988 when all we had were our walk-man cassette players and magazines. I don’t remember much about the ride to Arizona or even the Grand Canyon really. I just remember us being together as a family. There were other vacations, but that trip to Arizona was a big one in my mind. My parents got divorced three or four years after that and the good memories became overshadowed by resentments that took over my life for 25 years. As a child I couldn’t see what was happening; I couldn’t see the big picture of the events that were taking place that would shape my life and potentially my children’s lives. I couldn’t see the generational curse that was being passed down to me. It’s easy for some people to talk about their childhood and sum it all up by saying something like, “My childhood was great,” or “I had the perfect childhood.” But that’s not

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h o m e | E V E RY T H I N G E L S E

the case for many people.

happened, as if they are happening to us again. I’m guilty

I know many people that blame their present situation

of that myself. That’s not how God wants us to feel.

on their childhood and still struggle daily with things

You see I can’t make up or undo things of the past. I can’t

that happened to them when they were children. But why

go back and apologize for people, but I can forgive. Thank

is that? Why should I go through my entire life feeling

God for his forgiveness because I’ve hurt and wronged

ashamed or guilty about things that went wrong, over which

people in my life. Am I not to be forgiven? Forgiveness is

I essentially had no control? Why is it that when looking

for everyone. All you have to do is receive it. God doesn’t

back at my life I want to focus on the negative things and

want us to dwell on negative things in our lives or in the

not the positive? When I think of my childhood, why can’t

world. God wants us to dwell on his love and forgiveness.

I focus on the vacations and the times that we were happy? Those negative thoughts and feelings can’t be from God.

My debts have been paid and generational curses have been broken in my family.

God did that for me, not

Fear, anxiety, guilt, remorse, shame, those emotions are

because I deserve it, but because he loves me so much. I’m

not from the Father. Those are things that are planted

not perfect and have never claimed to be. I’m shooting for

in our minds to disconnect us from our Higher Power.

progress, not perfection.

If I am to remain in “constant contact” with God, then

When my father and I talk, the past often comes up. He’s

dwelling on anything other than His love for me would be

expressed to me that he sometimes wishes things could

detrimental to my existence.

have been different. He’s happy for me and the changes I

You see the world doesn’t know what I know. The news

made in my life 31 months ago. Whenever the conversation

media, magazines, the internet, the general population

starts to head down that road, I bring up that vacation to

encourages us to f ind answers and make sense out of

Arizona.

everything. It has to explain why certain things happen

Focus on the good in the world and your life. Forget

and why the world looks the way it does. The world wants

and forgive the negatives and mistakes. Remember that

you to see the bad, and never the good.

fear and shame are not from God and will only separate

Just like looking back on our childhoods, we want to see

you from Him. I hope our boys remember Branson for

the bad and not the good. Once you begin to see and focus

years to come. Leslie and I have already started saving

on the bad, or the negative things in your past or present,

and planning next year’s vacation. If you see her in public,

it’s easy to drift into “morbid ref lection”. This is where we

be sure to tell her how nice Northern Arizona is in the

begin to feel the way that we did when those past events

summer. I sure would like to see that Grand Canyon again.

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Kris Ball Kris Ball grew up in Mt. Pleasant, Texas but has called Luf kin his home for the past 20 years.

He is a graduate of Stephen F.

Austin State University.

He brief ly toured

as the Ringmaster for the Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey circus. He was disbarred from the circus community after supporting the efforts to continue with live elephant performances. Kris has been married to his lovely wife, Leslie for 12 years. They have two boys, Brett who is 6 and Luke who is 4. In his spare time, he enjoys farming, hunting and coaching t-ball.

TOP 10 TRUTHS to help you focus MOST ESSENTIAL TRUTHS NEED REPEATING. WE ALL NEED REMINDERS TO HELP US STAY FOCUSED. KEEP THESE TRUTHS IN MIND, AND THEY WILL BE A GREAT HELP TO YOU!

Ashley Berry

(Lover of Jesus, Mother of One, Entrepreneur, Life Coach and Survivor)

Seeing others come to know Jesus as their Everything and extended naps are her idea of a great day! She’s passionate about coaching others into better days and seeing lives transformed for the better. Her story of overcoming breast cancer is sure to inspire as she proves God's love for each of us even through uncertainty. She’s certain her future husband is stuck in traffic... in a random city, if you find him before she does... please contact her at: ashley@livingzoe.net

1. GREAT SUCCESS IS OFTEN PRECEDED BY FAILURE.

• You must choose to react or respond.

• Embrace it and keep moving.

BEING BUSY DOES NOT MAKE YOU PRODUCTIVE.

• Put systems in place to assure you are making the most of your time.

• Train your brain to FOCUS.

3. YOU’RE ONLY AS GOOD AS THOSE AROUND YOU.

• If they’re not helping you grow–they’re probably slowing you down.

• Surround yourself with people who inspire you and push you to great levels.

4. YOU’RE LIVING THE LIFE YOU’VE CREATED. • Give 110%-110% of the time.

• You can’t recreate your past, but you can create your future.

5. FEAR IS THE GREATEST WASTE OF TIME.

• Some of the best decisions of your life are wasted because you’re too fearful to move forward with them.

• Challenge yourself to overcome your fears and you’ll have less fears.

6. YOU WON’T ALWAYS RECEIVE AN APOLOGY.

• Forgive anyway.

• Unforgiveness hurts you more than the other person.

7. LIVE FOR TODAY.

• Tomorrow is NOT promised.

• Today might just be the very best day of your life.

8. OTHERS' OPINIONS ARE JUST THAT… OPINIONS.

• Be who you really are–stay true to self.

• Resist the temptation to live beyond your means because you desire the lifestyle of others.

9. LIFE IS SHORT.

• Live today like it’s your last.

• It's ok to be spontaneous.

10. CHANGE IS A GOOD THING.

• Learn to embrace change.

• You never know… the next change you make could be the best one yet! Go for it!

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Don't know much about history. Don't know much biology. When talking about education, being a student and knowledge it’s hard not to think about the word TEST! Not sure who out there enjoys a good ol’ pop quiz, but learning new things and being passionate about something is fun and rewarding. At Woodland Heights Medical Center we know a lot of people who are awesome at biology and our halls are full of nurses, physicians, lab and radiology technicians who are excellent at science and math. Throw in a CEO history buff and a French speaking dietitian and Woodland Heights could pass any pop quiz. Woodland Heights not only strives to educate its patients who receive care but establish real world, hands on education for those learning specific fields. The hospital has a great relationship and partnership with Angelina College, Stephen F. Austin State University and Kilgore College to help educate and grow students in the ever-changing medical profession. Under supervision from medical directors, mentors and instructors students have an opportunity to see “real world” scenarios and experience hands-on training that cannot be learned in a classroom. Angelina College's School of Respiratory Care has been working alongside Woodland Heights to produce high quality Respiratory Care students for 27 years. Angelina College and Woodland Heights have jointly worked to provide hands-on training via clinical rotation throughout the hospital. And as the healthcare community and resources grow the experience grows… until recently Angelina College Respiratory Care students had to travel to Houston to receive neonatal clinical training; however, since the opening of Woodland Heights NICU in 2013 the students now receive their neonatal training locally, without the time and expense of travelling to Houston. The students enjoy their rotation at Woodland Heights not only because of their facility and resources but the staff is eager teach the students. Students have a great opportunity to learn and participate in such departments of the hospital as:

Don't know much about a science book. Don't know much about the French I took. MARIYAM CHERRY M.D. Internal Medicine What’s your favorite school subject? I loved my world history class in high school. I spent the first decade of my life in three different countries and so the subject was very interesting to me. What’s your worst school subject? I didn't particularly enjoy calculus. I try to apply what I learn in the classroom to real life, and I had a hard time doing this with calculus. Do you like being the student or the teacher? I enjoy both roles. In medicine, you have to embody both roles at the same time. As a student, medical resident, and now physician, you never stop learning. At the same time, you pass down your knowledge to your juniors. This is how physicians gain much of their clinical skills. DEBRA TAYLOR Chief Nursing Officer What’s your favorite school subject? History in high school but in College it was Speech. What’s your worst school subject? Algebra Do you like being the student or the teacher? I love being the teacher. I enjoy helping people learn new things and I enjoy watching the reaction when they realize how something new can help them in the future.

• Cardiopulmonary • Laboratory • Physical Therapy/ Speech Therapy • Dietary • Nursing (all departments) • Radiology • Human Resources

KYLE SWIFT WHMC CEO What’s your favorite school subject? I loved history. I think you view the world through a better lens when you know about the successes and failures of the past.

Education is valuable… and Woodland Heights knows the importance of maintaining a stable workforce. Mentoring and educating our local students helps build and grow our community. The benefit of a healthy and knowledgeable hospital makes for a healthier and better community.

What’s your worst school subject? Organic Chemistry. That was simply tough subject matter for me and was hard to engage with. Do you like being the student or the teacher? That’s hard. I like both and it’s hard to be one without the other.

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63 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E

P L A C E S & FA C E S

| R E A D E R S HOWC A S E | C H A L L E N GE | YO U R JO U R N E Y

Sibling love - by Lacey Luce

re a d e r | S H O W C A S E

65 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E

& PLACES

FACES

B AC K T O S C H O O L B ON A N Z A , B E YO U R S E L F , F R E E YO U R S E L F , YO U R JO U R N E Y

R E M I R A LLI E D

( P L A C E S & FA C E S P H O T O S P R O V I D E D B Y L I S A C R O W )

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p l a c e s & fa c e s | B AC K T O S C H O O L B ON A N Z A

The Junior League of Lufkin, in partnership with Angelina County churches, businesses and service organizations, hosted the 8th annual Back to School Bonanza on Saturday, August 11th. Back to School Bonanza provided over 2,000 FREE backpacks filled with school supplies to Angelina County school children (K-12). In addition to the backpacks, children could have a dental screening and received a free health kit, haircut, school uniforms, shoes and socks. The motto of Back to School Bonanza has been â€œTogether, we will make a difference in the lives of the children in Angelina County!â€?

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p l a c e s & fa c e s | B AC K T O S C H O O L B ON A N Z A

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p l a c e s & fa c e s | B E YO U R S E L F , F R E E YO U R S E L F

Be Yourself, Free Yourself was an event hosted on Friday, July 27th at The Silo in Lufkin. A night of fellowship, faith, food, fashion and fundraising, this eveningâ€™s purpose was to help women learn how to love who they are through God's love. The event included dinner, guest speakers, a fashion show and musical performances. Proceeds benefitted the Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin.

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p l a c e s & fa c e s | YO U R JO U R N E Y

SUMMER IN GREECE - BY ASHLEY EASLEY

FUN IN THE SUN - BY TARA WATSON WATKINS

THESE ARE THE DAYS! CRYSTAL BEACH - BY LESLIE BALL

DISCOVERY COVE, FLORIDA - BY ROBYN DEVORE

CRYSTAL BEACH FUN - BY AMANDA HEMPHILL

DOING THE STING RAY SHUFFLE IN THE CAYMANS! - BY JENNIFER WEBSTER

JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING - BY GINIA LUKER

Summer is the time when the flowers are in full bloom, the sun rays are beating down the necks of all people, and the bees won't give up swarming all around. It's the season when children and teachers are out of school, the time when many families take vacations together to exotic places, and the time when birds are the new alarm clocks for many people. There is so much freedom that comes along with this incredible season. Enjoy this selection of local families enjoying their summer!

GETTING THE PARTY STARTED - BY JUSTIN (ZUMBA) WALKER

KATI AND JEFF ROUNDTREE'S WEDDING - BY SHELLI ELLIS

KICKIN' IT IN KEY WEST - BY KANDEE ALLEN

CABO CUTIES! - BY VERONICA LUCE

SPLASHIN' INTO SUMMER! - BY REBECCA DAVIS

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p l a ces & fa ces | R E M I R A L L I E D

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Born 8 weeks early, hospitalized 4 months, 5 surgeries (many procedures), on some sort of airway support most of the NICU stay, was told may have multiple delays and hospital stays BUT GOD... she walked on her own (three days post op), seven days before her first birthday, and has been home just shy of eight months. Itâ€™s impossible to say that God has not had his hand on this little girl her entire life. We can now sayâ€Ś Remi Rallied!!

p l a ces & fa ces | R E M I R A LLI E D

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re a d e r ' s | S HOWCA S E

Congratulations to the Junior League Southwest Champions 2018! World Series here we come AGAIN!

• South Loop Crossing • 4605 S Medford Dr • (936) 632-2333

Element Dental & Orthodontics is proud to serve the Luf kin community with only the f inest, state-of-the-art dental and orthodontic care, ensuring you and your family will achieve an amazing smile. Visit us in person at 103 N Brentwood Dr., Ste. #400 or give us a call at (936) 465-9266.

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McNutt Cremations Online We are proud to be the most affordable cremation service in Conroe and Luf kin, TX! With us, there are no hidden fees. Our price includes everything that is necessary for a dignif ied cremation service. To learn more about our services, call us today at 936- 676- 7677.

your | C H A L L E N G E

DONT QU I T We must be happy with what we have while we work for what we want.

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A RE YOU A PRO OR JUST A HOBBY IST? SHA RE YOUR BEST PHOTOGR A PHY WITH US A ND GIVE YOUR JOUR NEY SOME EXPOSURE. SELECTED PHOTOGR A PHS WILL A PPEA R IN THE JOUR NEY M AGA ZINE. PLEASE SEND YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION (300 DPI ) IM AGES TO kkhudman@yahoo.com INCLUDE YOUR NAME, CONTACT INFORMATION AND ANY TITLE YOU WISH TO GIVE YOUR PHOTO. WE WANT TO PUBLISH YOUR JOURNEY IN THE BEST MAGAZINE!

2ND GRADE HERE WE COME! - BY ALLYSON LANGSTON

DIXIE YOUTH WORLD SERIES, NORTH CAROLINA - BY AMANDA HORAN

BEEN PLAYING TOGETHER SINCE THEY WERE SIX, NOW EVERY KID PICTURED WILL BE PLAYING COLLEGE BALL! - BY AARON TERRY

COLORADO VACATION 2018 - BY REBA SQUYERS

DANCING IN THE RAIN; LHS MAJORETTES AT BAND CAMP - BY VICTORIA HUTTO

HANNAH, QUEEN OF THE MOUNTAIN, ENJOYING HER FIRST SNOW! MT. BAKER, WASHINGTON - BY LAURIE LOVE

HOT SPRINGS NATIONAL PARK, MOUNTAIN TOWER - BY RACHEL HAMILTON

5 BESTIES, 5 DIFFERENT UNIVERSITIES! - BY JULIE JACKSON

ASHLYN ENJOYING THE BEACH - BY ASHLEY COOPER

CELEBRATING HAPPIENSS AND HEALTH - BY JENNY CALDERA

LOUISIANA SWAMP TOUR - BY ASHLEY MONSANTE

SLED DOG & MUSHER'S CAMP, NORRIS GLACIER, ALASKA - BY ROBIN FLOURNOY

POOL LADIES! - BY KAYLA WALKER

GETTING READY FOR SENIOR YEAR AS AN OFFICER FOR PANTHER PRIDE - BY BELINDA GOMEZ

ENJOYING FT. WALTON BEACH, FLORIDA - BY CHANEY CHITTUM

NO TRIPS NEEDED! WE'VE HAD THE BEST SUMMER! - BY LISA GEORGE

SWEET FUN IN THE FLORIDA SUN! - BY EMILY HAVARD

TAYLOR AND PARKER ENJOYING LA JOLLA COVE, CALIFORNIA - BY LESLIE DAY

Prese n ts :

sp o r t s & | OU T D O OR S

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T E X A S OU T D O OR EV E NT S | CONSERVAT ION FO C US | BAC KYA R D BA SICS | e at OUTd o o r s | A ROU N D TH E CA M PF I R E

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sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | O U T D O O R E V E N T S C A L E N D A R

TEXAS

SEPTMEBER OUTDOOR EVENTS Texas state parks host a wide range of activities throughout the year. We’ve gathered a few here, but be sure to check out the TPWD online calendar for a full list of events across the state. You can also find more information on specific times, maps/directions, and contact info. Visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/calendar

SEPTEMBER 1 Guided Canoe Trip – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Want to go out on a canoe, but not sure how to get started? Join a park guide for a fun paddling adventure! Pre-registration required.

SEPTEMBER 2 Fishing with a Ranger – Huntsville State Park Come f ish with a Park Ranger!

SEPTEMBER 5 Homeschool Program, Animal Adaptations – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Join a Ranger to learn about animal adaptations and make an animal track booklet! Pre-registration required.

SEPTEMBER 8 Texas Outdoor Family – Huntsville State Park Join us for a fun-f illed weekend designed to help your family discover the joys of camping and Texas State Parks. All camping gear and equipment required for an overnight stay at the park are included with each reservation! See the TPWD online calendar, or call (512) 389-8903 for more information. Pre-registration is required.

SEPTEMBER 15 Saturday Night Dances – Daingerfield State Park Come join us this Saturday for music, dancing, and fun for the whole family!

SEPTEMBER 22 Take Me Outdoors Houston – Discovery Green, Houston Celebrate the great outdoors with the Buffalo Soldiers at Discovery Green during this free, family-oriented festival.

SEPTEMBER 26 Homeschool Program, Bird Adaptations – Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Join a Ranger to learn about bird adaptations and invent your very own bird! Pre-registration required.

SEPTEMBER 28 The Search for Big foot – Daingerfield State Park Join us on our 2nd Annual Search for Bigfoot weekend! Spend this Friday and Saturday by enjoying a Bigfoot themed movie and being educated on the ways of Bigfoot. Then it’s time to put your knowledge to the test. Help us f ind Bigfoot here at our park. Surely he must be here somewhere…

WILDLIFE ACT

RECOVERING AMERICAâ€™S

sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | C O N S E RVAT I O N F O C U S

ew legislation has been introduced that could drastically alter the model of funding for wildlife conservation throughout the country. The Recovering Americaâ€™s Wildlife Act (H.R. 4647) proposes to provide $1.3 billion annual funding to state wildlife agencies by redirecting existing oil, gas, and mineral royalties collected by the federal government. The bill focuses primarily on funding conservation measures for at-risk species, or Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN). This is a bipartisan bill introduced by Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-Michigan) and Jeff Fortenberry (R-Nebraska) in December 2017, with a growing list of cosponsors. Currently, representatives from 30 states are on board. A companion Senate bill was introduced in July. Several representatives from Texas have signed on, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department posted a news release, urging the publicâ€™s support for the bill. It is projected that Texas would receive $63 million per year to help protect an estimated 1,300 fish and wildlife species, and their habitats, that are at risk in the state. In previous years, state agencies were funded from a much smaller funding stream, appropriated on a yearly basis. Supporters of the Recovering Americaâ€™s Wildlife Act say that this new model of dedicated yearly funding would be game changing in allowing agencies to plan and manage proactively, hopefully preventing many species from ever being designated as at-risk. 91 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E

sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | C O N S E RVAT I O N F O C U S

COLLABORATIVE CONSERVATION We are beyond grateful for the opportunities we have to support and collaborate with conservation organizations such as NWTF. The local Pineywoods chapter is one of the best in the nation, and each branch of Natureâ€™s Eye backs their work in every way we can. When we work together, we can achieve so much more for wildlife, their habitat, and the mission of conservation.

Dale Bounds, of NWTF Pineywoods Chapter, presents Natureâ€™s Eye founder Blake Hamilton, with the 2018 Partners Award at the 30th Hunting Heritage Event in Luf kin.

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sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | B A C K YA R D B A S I C S

Fall

Gardening

Keeping a backyard garden doesnâ€™t have to be restricted to the spring and summer months. Many vegetables grown in the warm season can continue growing into fall. With a little extra care and attention to your existing garden, you can continue producing fresh vegetables until the f irst frost. Eggplant, okra, peppers, and tomatoes are all common summer garden plants that can continue producing into the fall.

Some other great options to plant in the fall

are cabbages, carrots, broccoli, caulif lower, radishes, rutabagas, and turnips. Continue to tend to your garden just as closely as you do in the summer. Itâ€™s just as important to actively control insects, diseases, and weeds in the fall as in the summer. Itâ€™s also imperative to continue watering and fertilizing. Once freezing temperatures and hard frosts are looming in the forecast, go ahead and harvest what vegetables have been produced, and use them as they ripen.

sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | e a t O U T d o o r s

MUSCADINE

PIE

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Muscadines are wild grapes, native to America, that grow in the hot, humid southeast. Because of the antioxidants this plant produces, they are resistant to most fungal and bacterial infections. They have a fruity taste and a delicate aroma. The skins are thick and have numerous seeds, but they are perfect for making wine, jams, jellies, and of course, pies.

Preparation Time: 40 minutes Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes Yields: One 9-inch double crust pie INGREDIENTS 2, 9-inch pastry crusts 6 cups fresh muscadines, rinsed 1 cup sugar Âź cup all purpose f lour 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons butter DIRECTIONS 1. Place one crust in pie tin. 2. Mash the muscadines, separating the hulls from the pulp. Set aside the hulls. Strain the pulp through a sieve and collect the juice. Discard remaining pulp and seeds. 3. Add reserved hulls and juice to a saucepan and cook over low heat until tender, about 20 minutes. Allow to cool. 4. Combine muscadine mixture, sugar, f lour, and lemon juice. Mix well. 5. Pour f illing into prepared crust. Dot with butter. 6. Place the top crust. Cut slits to vent. 7. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 minutes, then lower temperature to 375 and bake another 25-30 minutes.

G sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | A R O U N D T H E C A M P F I R E

D & G O OD F R

O FO

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a campfire to share stories and experiences from our time outdoors. We’d like to invite you to share your stories with us here by submitting photos of you and your loved ones enjoying the outdoors. Whether they’re snaps from a weekend camping trip, proof of a conquered hike, or a trophy shot of your kid with their first fish, we want to see them! We know there’s a great community of outdoors enthusiasts in East Texas, and we’d love to see what you’re up to! Submit photos on our Facebook page, or post on Instagram using the hashtag #journeyout, and we’ll choose the best to print here every month!

MY HUSBAND, MASON DUPREE, ON A RECENT SOUTH AFRICA HUNTING TRIP - BY MATTY DUPREE

SUBMIT PHOTOS ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE, OR POST ON INSTAGRAM USING THE HASHTAG #JOURNEYOUT, AND WE’LL CHOOSE THE BEST TO PRINT HERE EVERY MONTH!

FISHING AT THE HS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP, PARIS, TX - BY LORI MORRIS

SHARK WEEK AT CRYSTAL BEACH! - BY ANGI TINDALL

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THE

SEPTMEBER 2018

magazine an original since 2005

E XCUSE OUR ME SS!

E XCUSE OUR M UN DER CONSTRUC TION

UN DER CONSTRUC TION UNTIL OC TOBER 1S T UNTIL OC TOBER 1S T AG G I E

O W N E D