THE
NOVEMBER 2017
magazine an original since 2005
Less waiting for emergency care (and a lot more care, if you need it).
In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at Woodland Heights Medical Center, [QWoNN ƂPF HCUVGT ECTG KP VJG GOGTIGPE[ TQQO 9G YQTM FKNKIGPVN[ VQ JCXG [QW KPKVKCNN[ UGGP D[ C OGFKECN RTQHGUUKQPCN KP OKPWVGU s QT NGUU #PF YKVJ C VGCO QH FGFKECVGF OGFKECN URGEKCNKUVU YG ECP RTQXKFG C NQV OQTG ECTG KH [QW PGGF KV The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – only at Woodland Heights Medical Center.
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*Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Woodland Heights Medical Center is directly or indirectly owned by a partnership that proudly includes physician owners, including certain members of the hospital’s medical staff.
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PINEYWOODS VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION & PARADE Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be a part of this fabulous event honoring our Veterans! The parade will begin at 10am at the Pitser Garrison Convention Center and will end at Louis Bronaugh Park. Once at the park, free lunch will be provided for veterans and their families, with proper I.D. Festivities include live music, provided by the Crime Stoppers Band, and free blood pressure checks, etc. Local food trucks will be on-site and their food available for purchase.
VETERANS DAY CHAPEL SERVICE -ST. CYPRIAN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL This incredibly special service will be presented by St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School and will be held at the church, beginning at 8:15am. The event is open to the public and will be a time to say thank you and honor those whose bravery, hard work and dedication to our country provide the freedoms we all enjoy. For more information, call 936-632-1720.
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED PUMPING UNIT LIGHTING
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FESTIVAL OF TREES -MUSEUM OF EAST TEXAS The Museum of East Texas will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a large variety of trees decorated in every way imaginable. It is a magnif icent sight to behold and thrills and delights countless numbers of visitors annually. This is a free event. Call 936-639-4434 for more information.
25
POLAR EXPRESS -THE PINES THEATER
27
MAIN STREET LUFKIN CHRISTMAS PARADE
The 51st anniversary lighting of this ZMOQWVIT TIVLUIZS Q[ [M\ \W SQKS W ٺ in the parking lot of the Lufkin Mall on Saturday, November 18th. The celebration begins at 5pm with music, cookies and milk, and the posting of the US and Texas ÆIO[ :]LWTXP _QTT PI^M PQ[ ZML nose switched on around 5:30 and will stay lit from 10am – 10pm throughout the Christmas holidays. 5 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E
Ride along with a doubting young boy on an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole. This Christmas classic shows us all the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. There are 7pm and 9pm showings. Purchase tickets online at http://thepines.visitlufkin. com or call 936-633-0349 for more information.
Everyone loves a parade and this is one of the best. The parade winds through the downtown streets of Lufkin with all the sights and sounds of the holiday season. First, second and third place prizes are awarded in commercial and non-commercial divisions. Santa always has a place of PWVWZ WV \PM ÆWI\ I_IZLML NWZ “Best Theme Interpretation.” The parade helps bring in the holiday season as Main Street Lufkin says “Merry Christmas” to the community!
a l e t te r fro m th e
OW N E R
A close friend of mine, Mary King, gave me this card almost a year ago this month. It stirred something in my soul and I kept it on my desk as a constant reminder that we get one life to live, so choose to live it well. There have been many changes in my life since this card was given to me, but each of those changes – some good, some bad – have helped make me the woman I am today. This card is a simple reminder that life isn’t perfect, but it sure is grand! This life was meant to be lived, enjoyed, chased and cherished and I’m thankful for the opportunities I have to do all the above! Happy November everyone – may your hearts be full of life, ness. love and thankfulness.
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THE
magazine an original since 2005
OW N E R & D I R E C TO R :
Kim Ogden kogden@tjmag.com M A NAG I N G E D I TO R :
Beth Johnson beth@tjmag.com 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
CONTRIBUTORS:
Kris Ball Dale Bounds Claire Brody Emily Courtney/Nature's Eye Angela Gandy Kathryn Greene Shanterra Johnson Mike Love
C O N TA C T U S : Mailing:
P.O. Box 150351 Lufkin, Texas 75915 Physical:
1302 East Lufkin Avenue Lufkin, Texas 75901 936-366-5463 Online:
kogden@tjmag.com facebook.com/thejourneymagazine
a l e t te r fro m th e
E DI T O R
It’s hard to believe we are turning our calendars to November and racing to the end of 2017. For many people, this month ushers in the ‘holiday season’ with all its gatherings, programs, dinners and such. I absolutely love the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons. For as long as I can remember, I have looked forward to this time of year. However, it’s only in recent years that I have come to understand why I love it so much. It’s not the decoration, food, parties, etc. Those are nice, but it’s not what I f ind myself gravitating towards. I love the special family traditions. I love the excitement of preparing for gatherings of friends and family and being intentional about our time together. I love seeing how many pumpkin recipes the girls and I can make. I love discovering the beautiful colors on fall leaves and watching as the trees and f lowers transform awaiting the arrival of the Christ child. There is a wonder and joy in the air, and I love f inding that spirit in the small things and sharing it with my family. Calendars can f ill up quickly and this time of year can be completely hectic, if you let it. I challenge you to set boundaries now for your family’s holiday season. What do you love about this time of year? What stresses you about the holidays? Make a list of things you will and won’t do to keep your heart in the right place, a place of thankfulness and peace. It might mean deciding that you won’t schedule more than a certain number of events outside of your home each week. Maybe you want to bring joy to a hurting person by inviting them into your home for a meal. And for goodness sake, decide that you will not look on Pinterest for classroom party ideas! May your soul experience true moments of thankfulness and peace this month. me, All the way home,
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H OM E T O U R | I N T H E K I T C H E N | F I N E W I N E | T I P S & T R I C K S | G E T O R G A N I Z E D
wel co m e | H O M E
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A N N WA T S O N welco mes us ho me
photo credit | LISA CROW 15 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E
home | H O M E
T O U R
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I grew up with a wonderful mother that loved gardening and beautiful plants, and she instilled that love of plants in me and my daughter, Tara. I feel that a beautiful yard and plants always makes your home look more inviting.
During the fall, when my front door steps are decorated with all colors of pumpkins, gourds, and mums is when I love the outside of my house the most, Ann explained. On Halloween night, many parents ask me if they can take a picture of their children on my front steps-----I love that and always consider it a big compliment.
home | H O M E
T O U R
I love any reason to have a party, a gathering of friends & family-----any reason to get together to laugh, have fun and make memories together. It can be out around the pool or inside by the f ireplace depending on the time of year.
I feel that Thanksgiving is my favorite meal. I was raised in East Texas where the typical Thanksgiving meal is chicken and dressing (no sage please), turkey, ham, chicken and dumplings sweet potato casserole, green bean bundles, fruit salad with REAL whip cream, mash potatoes, homemade rolls, cranberry sauce, my Mother’s candied apples, pecan pie and sweet potato pie. My mother made the very best Chicken and Dumplings, and I f inally am beginning to master this recipe---but mine are still not as good as my Mothers.
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Burning candles in my home is something I do almost every day, even if I am the only one there. It makes me happy and content, and I feel better just smelling those fabulous scents. I have lots of windows and light coming into my home, and I love the use of shutters everywhere. This home is comfortable; it's warm and inviting. I have no drapes in my home at all.
home | H O M E
T O U R
I really enjoy sitting outside in my backyard swing. There is always a breeze blowing off the lake regardless of how hot it might get in the summertime. It is a place where I can re-group and re-charge after a busy day. I love to sit out there to read a book, look at a magazine, watch Analeigh play, or have a conversation with Tara. As a young girl, I remember my Daddy sitting in the swing with me. I would lay down with my head in his lap and he would tickle my feet with one hand and hold my eyes shut with the other hand until I went to sleep for a nap-----wonderful memories of the farm I grew up on.
I feel my style is very traditional. I love to use colors like red, brown and gold in my home, but I also love the more neutral tones which are popular today. Saltillo tile runs throughout my home, but there are beautiful rugs in every room to make it more comfortable and warm. Family is extremely important to me. There are many photos of my family and friends all over my home---great memories of events and places we have shared together. I'm so very proud of my children and of my grandchildren and feel that my home is a gathering place for everyone; it is somewhere we can sit and catch up and create new memories together.
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home | I N
T H E
K I T C H E N
MIKE'S CHILI: 1 pound of ground turkey (or ground beef ) and 1 pound of sausage. Use the spices from a two alarm chili package, except do not use the MASA and use the salt to taste. In addition to the spices in the "2 Alarm" package, you will need garlic powder, fresh garlic or garlic salt season and some additional basil. Use these seasons to taste. While the meat is browning, place 1 - large can of ranch style beans in a pot with two cans of Hunt's stewed tomatoes and one 8 ounce can of Hunt's tomato sauce. Add the spices to the beans and tomatoes and simmer on low. As soon as the meat is done, add it to the pot and simmer for another 30 minutes to an hour.
Mike graduated from SFA with a double major in Radio/TV/Film and Theatre and went on to work in Houston as a Disc Jockey for 10 years before enrolling in law school. He graduated in 1997 from South Texas College of Law, and currently heads up Mike Love & Associates Law Off ice in downtown Luf kin. When he's not hanging out with his 8 year old son, Michael, Mike can be found f lying airplanes, spending time with friends and family, traveling and cooking for those he loves.
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home | I N
T H E
K I T C H E N
BACHELOR SPAGHETTI: 4 servings 1 pound of ground turkey or ground beef. Cook and drain. While meat is cooking, prepare one box of Kraft "Shells and White Cheddar" macaroni. (Requires 1/4 cup of milk). As soon as meat is done, drain and add your favorite f lavor of Prego Spaghetti Sauce to meat and simmer. (I like mushroom and Basil). When shells are done (12-14 minutes), you're ready to serve. Place a serving of white shells and cheddar in bowl and cover with spaghetti sauce. The white cheese sauce mixes with the spaghetti sauce and tastes amazing! It's the best 14 minute spaghetti recipe. Guaranteed!!
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home | F I N E
W I N E
I have always been a lover of fall and all the holiday months bring. I love waking up on cold, dewy mornings, pulling on my boots, and wrapping myself in a scarf trying to prepare for a nice, chilly day. Nothing beats watching the leaves slowly transition from a nice crisp green to shades of golden amber to brown and fall steadily to the ground. Fall 2016 has by far topped every fall before it. I married my best friend and the man that I feel God created just for me. Together, we have three amazing kids that keep us on our toes. They show us daily that life is truly a beautiful gift. We’re constantly smiling and thanking God for allowing us to see it – as you should, too. With the falling of the leaves as the seasons change, it can only mean that Thanksgiving is upon us. The best part of it all is family, friends, GREAT food, and wine of course! I know most of you think white meat pairs with white wine and red meat goes well with red wine. Let me tell you that is such a myth. I love wine, because it is so versatile. It can complement just about any meal. My rule of thumb when trying to pair wine with a meal is to drink what you like; there are no rules! So as the holidays are approaching, remember to eat and drink what your taste buds desire. Bogle Pinot Noir and turkey, why not? La Vieille Ferme Rose to wash down that ham, yes please! If you are anything like me, having a f ine glass of wine doesn’t mean it must be the most expensive. It just needs to have a great f lavor. I personally prefer Line 39 Excursion Red Blend. It has become my ‘go-to’ red blend. It is inexpensive and can be paired with anything from Luf kin BBQ to NEWK’s to-go. This is the time of year when you can just sit back and enjoy the scenery. All you need is family, great friends and a bottle of wine. The possibilities of memories made are endless. Cheers!
Shanterra Johnson is a fun-loving wife and mother to two amazing children. She loves beautiful meals and nice wines and is always on the look-out for an interesting way to educate people about the beauty of combining the two.
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photo credit |Celebrating Everyday Life
Ho st Ho stin ing in ng T Thank h nk ha nksg k sg sgiv g iv iviin ivin i n g t hi ing h s yea ea arr? r? M ak a ke it e xt xtr x t ra r a s pe peci p e ci cial i al a l for o r att t t en tten e ndi endi d i ng ding n g g ue e st s t s by sts i nco in nco corp o rp r p or rpor orat r at at in iing n g s om o me (or o r a ll l l) of t he he t he he se s e ide de as a s on you ou r T ha h a nk n k sg g iv iv in ivin in ng g t ab ble le .
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photo credit |Dimples and Tangles
CREATE A THEME Create a theme by choosing a color palette to be incorporated through the centerpiece, serving pieces, dĂŠcor, etc. A consistent theme creates a cohesive table that feels thoughtful.
KEEP IT TRADITIONAL A traditional Thanksgiving table (think oranges, yellows, plaids and pumpkins galore) always feels
photo credit |Home Is Where the Boat Is
cozy and classic to guests.
ADD AN UNEXPECTED ELEMENT An unexpected element like a buffalo check pattern or bright, bold colors feels casual and will create a relaxed vibe at the table.
I love the warm feeling of sitting at a simple, yet beautifully decorated table. Claire has some wonderful ideas to help make it easy!
photo credit |Bloom Designs Online
ADD NATURAL TOUCHES Bring the outside in for a warm touch. Think
PERSONALIZE IT Adding a personal detail like name cards will show guests that you were thoughtful in planning the table.
photo credit |Stone Gable
greenery, pine cones, branches, etc.
photo credit |Casa Deperrin
IF ALL ELSE FAILS, JUST ADD PUMPKINS!!!
Hello, I'm Claire, an interior stylist living in Austin, Texas with my husband, Parker. I'm the blogger and business owner behind Claire Brody Designs. I specialize in providing unique and one of a kind spaces on an affordable budget.
home | G E T
O R G A N I Z E D
Quick Cleaning Check List You have guests coming and you need to de-clutter, but don't know where to start? Here is an easy check list on de-cluttering your home to give it a fresh look for this party season.
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GATHER UP THE TRASH Grab a trash can and pick up any unwanted items in your house. This is an easy way to give your house a fresh look and doesn't take too much time.
GIVE YOUR ROOMS A QUICK SWEEP, VACCUUM AND DUST Take time to clean f looring and dust those knick knacks and shelving. Knocking off the dirt always makes your space look and feel clean.
Vaccuum lines and candles lit are always my trick to making my home look pulled together in a hurry!
MAKE SURE YOUR DISHES ARE CLEAN AND WIPE ALL SURFACES Dirty dishes make everyone cringe, but a nice clean kitchen will always impress. Cleaning wipes work wonders and they are easy to use, especially if your guests are arriving sooner than expected.
PUT OUT FRESH TOWELS & LINENS Not only will clean laundry make your house smell wonderful, but your guests will appreciate those clean linens and towels, also.
FLUFF PILLOWS & STRAIGHTEN BEDDING It seems like a silly task to attempt, but if you want your house to look top notch, make your beds and give those pillows a f luff. Your sleepy guests will thank you.
PUT OUT FRESH FLOWERS OR HOLIDAY DECORATIONS Putting out fresh f lowers or decorating with holiday decorations shows you care and makes your home welcoming to guests. It is also a good way to have fun when you have spent the day cleaning.
2 0 Q U E S T ION S | S P O T L IGH T | P O L I T IC S | Da y T R I P P I N '
a l o ving | C O M M U N I T Y
37 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E
twenty questions
-WITH-
L A R R Y S T E W A R T, Lead Singer for Restless Heart Celebrating 34 years as one of America's top Country Music Bands; pictured left to right are Greg Jennings (lead guitar, vocals), Larry Stewart (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), John Dittrich (drums & percussion, lead vocals), Paul Gregg (bass guitar, lead vocals), Dave Innis (keyboards, vocals) 38 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7
1
IF YOU COULD HIRE ACTORS TO PLAY Y’ALL IN A MOVIE, WHOM WOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Good question! But, I’m not really familiar with actors these days. I don’t watch movies.
What would be your dream location to play a concert?
Who’s the “class clown” of the group?
It’s me for sure!
IT’S DEFINITELY BASS PLAYER, PAUL GREGG.
Time travel
9 WE’VE FLOWN AROUND THE GLOBE IN 14 DAYS PERFORMING 8 SHOWS FOR THE TROOPS.
WHAT
ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUR YOUNGER SELVES?
WAKE UP AND GET YOUR HEAD OUT OF YOUR A$*!
15
If you had to choose a collective go-toguy-movie, what would it be?
12
Who is the worst driver in the band?
NOT SURE, BECAUSE I DO ALL THE DRIVING.
16
I'm not sure. Would you rather have the bluest eyes in Texas or a rock that won’t roll?
I give you a kangaroo as a pet. What do you name him?
CAPTAIN
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The Bluest Eyes In Texas cuz the Rock That Won’t Roll would just tick me off!
MEXICAN
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GOOD, SMART PEOPLE AND THE MOST TALENTED YOU CAN FIND. TAKE CARE OF THE BUSINESS SIDE. DON’T TRUST SOMEONE WITHOUT CHECKS AND BALANCES.
to have?
Where’s the furthest place you’ve traveled to play?
6
Mexican Food or BBQ?
Favorite words of wisdom you’ve learned from being in the music industry?
super-power 3 What would you guys like
7
My backyard so I wouldn’t have to travel and deal with hotels or ground transportation!
4
Who’s the worst joke teller in the group?
What is a favorite song of your own that you guys play?
Was there another name y'all had in mind for the group before choosing Restless Heart?
NO, WE DIDN’T CONSIDER ANY OTHER NAMES.
13
Have any of you ever been starstruck? If so, which one of you and by whom?
All of us; Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney at the Grammy awards in the 80's.
17
Favorite city to play thus far in your career?
TOO MANY TO MENTION! THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT CITIES, TOWNS AND VENUES ACROSS THIS COUNTRY.
What artist would you guys love to collaborate with that you haven’t yet? GLEN CAMPBELL, PAUL MCCARTNEY AND ABOUT 20 OTHERS.
"I’LL STILL BE LOVING YOU.”
14
Choose one song (from any artist) as your band’s theme song for your life.
That’s tough to narrow down. Does anyone in the band have an irrational fear of a creature? If so, who and what?
20
I don't know about the rest of the guys, but I fear snakes.
c o m m u n i ty | S P O T LIGH T
photo credit |Lisa Crow Photography Pictured left to right: Becca Chance, Glenda King, Aurelia Newton, Karen Foley, E'Lisa Hurt, Sheila Telford, Melissa Abeldt Not pictured: Susie Worley, Walker McWilliams, Lorelle Coleman and Deidre Oates
c o m m u n i ty | S P O T LIGH T
Angelina County is the 42nd largest county in Texas with 19.4% of our 85,186 residents living below the poverty line. The largest group of those in poverty are females between the ages of 25-34 or those who are most likely to have young children. Statistically, after adult young females, male children (ages 6-11) then female children (ages 6-11) fall below the poverty line. These children in Angelina County live in a food insecure environment; they do not have reliable access to affordable, nutritious food. Given these facts, there is another disturbing realization. In the United states, up to 50% of food is wasted. In Texas schools, large amounts of leftover cafeteria food must be done away with. A group of Luf kin residents set out to remedy both problems in our community. Second Helpings is an organized response to the food insecurity in Angelina County, seeking to erase the question of where the next meal will come from. Second Helpings is a nonprof it group of volunteers who are seeking to f ight hunger in our community while reducing food waste on the Luf kin High School and Luf kin Middle School campuses. Monday through Friday, volunteers pick up unused food from these two school campuses and distribute the fresh food that would otherwise be discarded. During the f irst two weeks of food recovery this school year, Second Helpings recovered 6,842 servings of food from two school campuses alone! Volunteers are partnering with the Luf kin Independent School District, superintendent, Dr. LaTonya Goffney, and the cafeteria staff on these two campuses to recover this fresh food and deliver it to local people in need. Second Helpings is recruiting volunteers to pick up or deliver the recovered food to recipients. The time commitment is minimal. Volunteers spend approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours for one shift either to Luf kin Middle School (pick up at 1:45 p.m.) or to Luf kin High School (pick up at 1:15 p.m.). Volunteers simply pick up insulated transport boxes that will keep the food at a proper and safe temperature, drive to one of the two school campuses and get the food that has been placed in sealed, disposable pans, deliver it to its recipient, and return the insulated boxes. You can volunteer as little or often as you like. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, contact Aurelia Newton or Becca Chance by emailing secondhelpingsofangelina@gmail.com. The more volunteers Second Helpings has the more food that can be recovered and put into the hands of hungry people while driving down the statistic of food insecurity in our area.
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c o m m u n i t y | P O L I T I C A L U P D AT E
T R AV I S C L A R DY
The Clardys celebrate with Barbara and Richard DeWitt, owners of the remarkable Fredonia Hotel.
TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE Among the many rewards of this job is to see the hard work done at the Capitol come to fruition at home. Bringing the Fredonia Hotel and Convention Center back to life was truly a public-private partnership that involved both local and state leadership, and I was honored to participate in its grand re-opening. Judy and I have joined in several celebrations at home for new businesses and other community milestones. It was a pleasure to celebrate the people who have invested in their community through service with the Red Cross and the Charles Bright Visitor Center in Nacogdoches. Thank you, and here's to another 100 years!
Kinnie Reina with Rep. Clardy and Evan Reina at Fourth Friday Luncheon with the Nacogdoches Chamber of CommerceShelley Brophy and Mike Bay.with the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
We most enjoy seeing our friends and neighbors at events like the Fourth Friday Luncheon and introducing a new generation to the treasures of the Oldest Town. We like to start ‘em young! Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with our fellow Texans who fell victim to Hurricane Harvey in August. Recovery from the devastation is ongoing and, if you are able, please extend our East Texas generosity to our neighbors in South Texas and embody our state’s motto: Friendship. My colleagues and I always appreciate your input, so please stay informed on the issues and be sure to make us aware of your concerns about your state government. You can find a full list of the bills I’ve authored and sponsored, as well as all other legislative proceedings at http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/.
Cutting the ribbon at the grand opening of the Fredonia Hotel
Please contact me through either my District office or Capitol Office: District 11 Office: 202 E. Pilar St., Rm. 310 Nacogdoches, TX 75961 936.560.3982 Capitol Office: Rep. Clardy celebrating the 100th birthdays of the Charles Bright Visitors Center and the Nacogdoches Chapter of the Red Cross with Nacogdoches Mayor Shelley Brophy and Mike Bay with the Convention and Visitors Bureau.
EXT E2.908 P.O. Box 2910 Austin, TX 78768 512.463.0592 To keep up with the latest news from Austin, you can follow me on Twitter @ TravisforTexas, and “Like” my Facebook page. You may also sign up to receive our newsletter – either electronically or by regular mail – at www.TravisforTexas.com.
Members of SFA Student Government, Rep. Clardy and Dean Adam Peck welcome Uber, a ride sharing service, to Nacogdoches.
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TRENT ASHBY TEXAS STATE REPRESENTATIVE Recently, I submitted a letter to the Speaker urging him to consider three items that may not be on his radar. To start, I am asking the Speaker to review the formulas used to fund certain programs, such as adult probation and community supervision, within the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. For decades, these formulas have gone unchanged. As this critical state agency progresses, and its employees and programs face new challenges in different areas, it is vitally important that the methodology for fund distribution aligns best with their ever-evolving needs. In prior legislative sessions, this same topic has been studied, but I am committed to finding a permanent, fiscally sustainable solution that will provide the best opportunity for this agency.
The second issue I raised for consideration pertains to common law marriage - an antiquated practice that has been outlawed in over 40 states across the United States of America. In studying this issue over the last year, and becoming aware of the abuse that takes place in probate and estate cases throughout Texas, I believe the legislature must enact some reform measures to crack down on lawsuit abuse, if not completely abolish the practice. It is clear why a common law marriage would have benefited Texas citizens a century or more ago, but in today's modern and accessible world, I believe a study and recommendations to reform this practice would be helpful.
Finally, I recommended that the legislature continue to study further improvements to TRS-Care for our state's retired educators. Throughout the regular and special legislative sessions, I fought hard to broker the best deal possible for teachers and school employees. However, for the long-term benefit of TRS-Care participants, the legislature should move away from a funding structure that considers active teacher payroll, in favor of one which considers the true cost of healthcare nationwide. These public servants do not deserve a broken promise on healthcare after years of educating the future of our state.
As always, please do not hesitate to contact our office if we can help you in any way. Our district office may be reached at (936) 634-2762, or you can call my Capitol office at (512) 463-0508
THE JOURNEY MAGAZINE CONGRATULATES
REPRESENTATIVE TRENT ASHBY 2017 RECIPIENT OF THE ANNUAL JACK R. (BUTCH) MCMULLEN SILVER SPIKE AWARD.
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co m mu ni ty | D A Y
T R I P P I N '
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in
G R U E N E -T E X A S -
G RU E NE G E NE RAL STO RE - Although very little has changed since this store was established in 1925, it remains one of the most popular tourist attractions in town. 0MZM aW] KIV ÅVL [W]^MVQZ[ NZWU SMa KPIQV[ IVL post cards to cowboy hats and candies for the whole family. Plus, it produces some of the best handmade fudge, honey butter and salsa around.
GRUENE HAL L - Built in 1878, Gruene Hall is known as the oldest dance hall in Texas. With famous acts like Willie Nelson, Pat Green and Hal Ketchum, PMZM aW] KIV MVRWa I N]V ÅTTML VQOP\ WN LIVKQVO with some of the best country musicians in Texas. T H E G RAPE VINE <PQ[ _QVM \I[\QVO ZWWU Q[ TWKI\ML ZQOP\ W ٺWN \PM UIQV [\ZMM\ IVL WٺMZ[ I P]OM [MTMK\QWV WN TWKIT wines for visitors to try. Sample a few wines inside the shop and then head out to the patio to enjoy a glass under the oaks, accompanied by some live music.
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co m mu ni ty | D A Y
T R I P P I N '
OMA GRUENE'S SECRET GARDEN T his rest aurant is a well-known live mu s ic venue. Aft er a busy day of t ubing or shopping, wh at better way to spend the after noon than with a g lass of cold brewed beer, a delicious Ger man-inspired meal (like the Reuben) and some live music.
One of the most enjoyable times my family shared together was tubing down the Guadalupe River.
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GRUENE A NTIQUE COMPANY
GRISTMILL RESTAURANT T h e Gristmill restaurant re presents a bit of the town’s later h i s t o r y as i t wa s bu i l t i n 1 9 7 7 . T h i s res t aur an t i s n ow a s f a m o u s for its stunning tiered patio along the Guadalupe River as for its mouthwatering bu rg er s and chicken fried steak.
SWIMMING AND TUBING Gruene is not only known fo r i t s r u r al an d h i st o r i c a l l y r i ch environment, bu t it also boasts tons of excitement on the Guadalupe River wh ere visitor s can co o l down o n si z z l i n g h o t days. Visitor s can rent equipment f ro m l o cal bus i n e sse s a n d experience the fun of tubing or kayaking down the Guadalupe River.
T his antique store of fer s 6,500 square feet of antiques and collectibles for visitor s to explore. Here, visitor s can also get a sense of the town’s hist or y as well as what makes central Texas so unique.
ABELDT’S PHARMACY ABNEY & SONS BEARD FINE JEWELERS CARPETS BY CURIOSITY CA R ROWAY F U NE R AL HOM E CAVA NAUGHS JEWELERS CHI CK- F I L- A S OU T HLOO P C RO SSI N G CLARK INSURANCE AGENCY HIGGINBOTHAM/DAVIS INSURANCE VINCE TREADWELL-EDWARD JONES FI R S T BA PT I S T C HU RC H OF LUF K I N IRON GATE LAND COMPANY LICE CLINICS OF AMERICA LUFKIN MED SPA LUFKIN PLASTIC SURGERY LUFKIN RU BBER & GASKET CO. MAD D U X LU MB E R & H AR DWAR E MASSINGILLS MEDI TRIM OF EAST TEXAS MIKE LOVE & ASSOCIATES NACOGDOCHES EYE ASSOCIATES NATURE’S EYE NECHES PINE GOLF COURSE PERMANENT COSMETICS BY LYNANNE PINEYWOODS COMMUNITY ACADEMY S & W EXPERT COLLISION REPAIR SHAFER FUNERAL HOME SHWEIKI MEDIA ST. CYPRIAN’S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL TEXAS STATE BANK TIMBER COUNTRY REAL ESTAT E WA RTHAN DERMATOLOGY CENTER WOODLAND HEIGHTS MEDICAL CENTER
G A N D Y N O T E S | T O U G H T O P I C S | E V E RY T H I N G E L S E | P R E T T Y B A B I E S
tim e | F A M I L Y
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Are you a part of brightening someone’s day? Do you say, “Thank you,” enough? Are you showing appreciation to the people who deserve it the most? These are all questions that are generally answered around Thanksgiving, but the truth is they should be questions that are answered all year long. We tend to focus on being thankful only around Thanksgiving. We all go buy the cutest boutique shirt we can f ind that says something about thankfulness on it. We post something we’re thankful for once a day on Facebook for the entire month of November. We pray over our Thanksgiving dinner and thank God for all of our blessings. But when you stop and think, do we f ind ourselves doing those things only once a year, or are we thankful all year long? Before I sat down to write, I searched my soul and came up empty-handed. I know my heart is thankful, but my lips aren’t. I don’t show thanks all year long. I f ind myself saying ‘thank you’ as more of a habit rather than stopping to truly mean it. And while I was thinking of all the ways I haven’t shown my gratitude, I couldn’t help but think of the one person who has shown me how to truly appreciate someone….my husband. Maxx and I just celebrated our seven-year anniversary
(October 2nd – just reminding him while he reads this, in case he forgets again). In those seven years, we have overcome so much. We have had money f ights, parenting f ights, stupid f ights, f ights just to f ight, childish f ights…you name it. But I can only think of one f ight that has never been a problem again - f ighting about not feeling appreciated. It wasn’t a knockdown drag-out…it wasn’t in the top 10 worst f ights. It was almost an exhausted plea. I was tired, crying and begging him to notice all the work I do and to appreciate me for it. It only took that one time, that one f ight. That was f ive years ago, and as much as I don’t want to admit it, I feel like the roles have reversed. I’m the one who isn’t thanking him. So my hope is that if I write about it, I can stop the f ight before it ever happens. I don’t want to have The Appreciation Fight: Round 2. As I pour my heart out very publicly to my husband, I hope you can see that we’re all human. We all fall victim to getting so busy with our schedules and our lives that we don’t stop to thank those that are most important to us. I hope you are able to start a new trend in your household – one of daily thankfulness. And it wouldn’t be right if I didn’t thank you for reading…so thank YOU!
Thankful for you!
Maxx I know I don’t say it enough, but thank you for being my husband. I didn’t know when I met you 10 years ago that we’d be here today, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. You are my rock and you’ve shown me how to be a bet ter spouse. Thank you for being the Dad you are to our beautiful boys. You are selfless when it comes to anything related to them. Even if you had your worst day, you come home and put their needs before yours. You inspire me every day to be a bet ter Mom. Thank you for being a great friend. Even if I just want to vent, you care enough to hear my problems and help me solve them. You have taught me how to be a bet ter person. Thank you for being the spiritual leader of our household. I know you have prayed and asked for God’s hand over our house and we have been blessed because of you. You have led our family wisely and with discernment. Thank you for being you. Without you, I couldn’t be me. I’m grateful for every day with you, and I don’t want to spend a day without you. For all the times I don’t say it enough, know that I think it that much more. Thank you again. I love you.
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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.
f a m i ly | T O U G H
T O P I C S
WALK WITH A FRIEND NAVIGATING DEPRESSION WITH A LOVED ONE
Depression is a feeling of hopelessness. Whether it is the result of a crisis experience, a rejection, the loss of a loved one, or a child making bad choices, it all feels the same. Depression has been called “the common cold of the mind.” People are without hope – they feel there is no valid reason to go on. One of the most common causes of depression is anger turned inward. That person stuffs their anger or swallows it rather than expressing their anger in a healthy matter. It is important that when we feel our anger, we get in touch with it and learn to handle it less destructively. Anger felt is no longer anger turned inward and directed against self. This results in a decrease in depression.
Here are some things you can do to come alongside and support a friend dealing with depression:
~ Encourage your friend to start keeping a journal. She can write out her prayers to God expressing her feelings and sense of hopelessness. Tell God what she is angry about – He can handle it. ~ Help her with the everyday tasks. Help her plan her meals for a week with good, healthy foods. There may even be a need to go with her to buy the groceries because she may feel overwhelmed with the task. ~ Tell her that rest and exercise is very important. She may need to take an over-the-counter sleep aid to help get good sleep and get her sleep cycle re-established. Encourage her to start an exercise activity such as walking, swimming, tennis, bicycling, or anything that will help to get her heart rate up for a reasonable amount of time. The best thing you can do is to participate in the activity with her, giving her a sense of support and accountability. ~ Encourage your friend to be a part of a support group where there are people who understand depression and will also be praying for her. ~ Seek to be a friend to whom she feels safe to express her feelings of anger. Really listen to her. She needs to know she is accepted and not being judged for some of her irrational thoughts and feelings. Be ok with silence and wait until she is ready to talk.
My depression and anxiety started after the birth of my f irst son 21 years ago. My doctor at the time said it would go away eventually, but I have battled this demon for a long time. Exercise and prayer really help me through times of sorrow, but sometimes I must have extra help. It was hard for me to take medicine because I have always been taught to just be happy and pray. I felt I was weak for taking medicine and, in some way, had failed my family and my friends. This is how depression and anxiety trapped me. They owned me! They kept me frustrated and made me feel like a failure which caused an ugly cycle that took over my life. Was I broken? Maybe. But aren't we all in some way, shape or form? Broken is a good word for it, but not broken in the way you think. My body has trouble making a chemical in my brain that keeps depression at bay. Everyone gets sad from time to time; I just have to take medicine to help rebound back to normal. After the birth of my last child, my doctor asked me why I felt like a failure for having to take medicine for my depression. Then he said something that changed my life for the better. He asked me if I took medicine for a cold. His point being, if you take medicine for a cold, why wouldn't you take it for your depression. I know now my depression is just a sickness that I can beat. I am still me. My God still loves me. My family still loves me. My friends still love me. I am a strong wife, mom of four, daughter, sister and friend. I am no failure and my depression doesn't own me anymore.
MY GOD STILL LOVES ME. What do you do when the lights go out? Growing up in rural East Texas, we were accustomed to storms that would knock out the lights. We got accustomed to scrambling around the house looking for candles and f lashlights. After happening so often, you learned to put lights in strategic places. But what about when you are hit with a storm that knocks out your hope? For those of you who have faced depression, you know about these storms. I had one hit that began in 2010. I truly felt like I was stumbling in the dark, trapped in a dungeon with the key forever thrown away. When crying out to Jesus seemed to go nowhere, I felt that nothing would change. During that time, I told my wife I’d rather have lost a leg than go through that darkness. But now I see things differently. Yes, my God is faithful. Because of Him, I have hope. He sends that hope in various ways. At times, this is through the encouragement of others, perhaps medicine can provide some aid, the Scripture, though, has been invaluable. So where is my hope? Psalm 88 is perhaps one of the bleakest of songs, but it helped me greatly. The only hope it offers is the only hope needed, and it is found in the f irst verse, “O, LORD, the GOD of my salvation.” Yes, He is all you need when the lights go out. I cannot claim to know how everyone with depression struggles, because all experiences are different. Every now and then the darkness may visit me. He is where I turn. I have come to realize this- He has led me into the depths that I may know the heights of His love.
BECAUSE OF HIM, I HAVE HOPE. 55 55 || TTH HEE JJO OU UR RN NEEYY M MAG AGAAZZIIN NEE
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“A MAN WAS WALKING IN A WILDERNESS. HE BECAME LOST AND WAS UNABLE TO FIND HIS WAY OUT. ANOTHER MAN MET HIM. ‘SIR, I AM LOST, CAN YOU SHOW ME THE WAY OUT OF THIS WILDERNESS?’ ‘NO,’ SAID THE STRANGER, ‘I CANNOT SHOW YOU THE WAY OUT OF THIS WILDERNESS, BUT MAYBE IF I WALK WITH YOU, WE CAN FIND OUR WAY OUT TOGETHER.“ - ANONYMOUS
Happy Thanksgiving We thank you for the opportunity to work together and for making us feel at home in our community.
Vince Treadwell, CFPÂŽ, AAMSÂŽ Financial Advisor .
321 South First Lufkin, TX 75901 936-634-6116
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
f a m i ly | E V E R Y T H I N G
I
E L S E
remember as a kid, always hearing adults talk about the “good old days.” Often it was at family
gatherings, maybe Christmas or some cousin’s birthday party. There would always be a conversation going on, mostly among men, about old cars, the old high school football team, or even a mention of a drive-in theatre. If it was a real deep conversation, they might bring up the milkman or the doctor that made house calls. I mean, who doesn’t love dairy products left on their porch? Now, I enjoy a warm glass of porch milk as much as the next guy, but is that all that made the “good old days” that good? My brother-in-law and I were having this very discussion the other day. I love old cars. Old mustangs, Camaros, Nova’s, Chevelle’s, anything from the late sixties, early seventies. I was doing a little reminiscing myself, talking about a 1965 Chevy Nova II I had. How gas was $1 per gallon, how carefree high school was, and those sweet summer nights. I know some of you remember gas being like a nickel or something, but I’m reminiscing about the 90’s here. “Weren’t those the days?” I said. He replies, “Not really. “ I couldn’t believe this, so I asked him to explain. He said, “I don’t really miss riding around in an old Toyota, no air conditioning, not having any money, or any of that. It’s your perception associated with those times that you like.” Boom. There it was. The good old days for me weren’t really all that good. It’s my life today that is the best. My wonderful wife, our two amazing little boys, and all our family and friends. The stability of our household built on the foundation of our faith in God, and all the blessings that come with those beliefs. God is good all the time. But the world
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remains broken. Not our country, the world. People talk of the good old days, how it was safe to walk down the street at night, how terrorism didn’t exist. People remember how “everybody got along.” Maybe that’s true to some extent, but did we forget that schools were segregated until the mid-1960’s? The “good old days” were just as divided by race and politics as they are now, maybe more so. Of course, they didn’t have social media or news coverage broadcasting 24/7, so some things had to go unnoticed. How about the Oklahoma City Bombing? One hundred sixty-eight people killed, 19 children in the facilities day care, 650 injured. That was before we ever heard anything about ISIS. How about 9/11? What about all the school shootings? Then we have the latest in Vegas. A mortal can make no sense of these senseless massacres. But as horrible of a tragedy as the Las Vegas shooting is, is it really anything new? People lashing out and doing horrible things is nothing new. People’s hate towards one another is nothing new. People being spiritually sick is nothing new by any means. People ask, “What could make someone do something like that?” The answer? We are spiritually sick. Some sicker than others. So now we see celebrities and politicians use tragic events to promote their agendas. Some cry and utter a word we rarely hear people mention on TV, prayer. They say we need to pray. Then you see pictures of people, all colors and races, all genders, embracing each other and comforting one another. Praying. Here’s the big question I need answered. Why do we need to see a tragedy before we love each other? Why do innocent people, children, and babies have to die before we pray? Why do we have to lose something before
f a m i ly | E V E R Y T H I N G
E L S E . . .
we turn to The Father? Times haven’t changed. There were no good old days. There were just times when our perception or expectations were different. But I know something that meets all expectations; I know something that answers all questions and f ixes all the problems. It’s not gun control. It’s not politicians or celebrities. It’s you and me, it’s our children, it’s humans, not races or groups, believing in the one true God. It’s about giving thanks for all He does, every day. You see, God supersedes laws, rules and ideas. God changes a wicked man’s heart the same way he can heal a broken mother’s. We are hard-headed as a society. All I’m saying is the “good old days” aren’t something of the past. They are right here, right now. All the calamity, all the turmoil, all of the crazy world events, they are not ours to fret over. God will handle them. That’s the truth right there. So here is what you do. Find a real quiet place to sit down, maybe outside under a big old tree. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Then tell God you love Him. Tell God you need Him. Thank Him. Then rest in His presence, and enjoy “the good old days” once more.
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 5 and Luke who is 3. In his spare time, he enjoys farming, hunting and coaching t-ball.
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f a m i ly | P R E T T Y
B A B I E S
Warren James Chumley September 11, 2017 Parents: Grey & Jordyn Chumley
Grandparents: Jim & Joan Nerren Don & Charlene Chumley
Remy Tasia Jones June 28, 2017 Parents: Malik & Ashlee Jones
Grandparents: Laila Jenkins Joseph & Gwendolyn Hawkins
P L A C E S & FA C E S | S H O W C A S E
| YO U R T HO U GH T S | YO U R JO U R N E Y
re a d e r ' s | S H O W C A S E
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PLACES
& FACES R E C O V E RY I N T H E PA R K , T E X A S S T AT E F O R E S T F E S T I VA L , LU F K I N B I S T R O , S I L O R I B B O N C U T T I N G & N A R A N J O 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY G A L A
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | R E C O V E RY I N T H E PA R K
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | T E X A S S T AT E F O R E S T F E S T I VA L
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | LU F K I N B I S T R O
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p l a c e s & fa c e s | S I LO R I BB ON C U T T I NG
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p l a c e s & fa c e s | S I LO R I BB ON C U T T I NG
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p l a c e s & f a c e s | N A R A N J O 5 T H A N N I V E R S A RY G A L A
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re a d e r ' s | S HOWCA S E
The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting ceremony for the opening of the second location for Head Pediatrics, 625 Russell Blvd., 936-3055151, www.headpediatrics.com. Ryan Head, MD, FAAP; Scott Nelson, MSN, RN, FNP-BC; and Operations Manager Dina Tatum welcomed Chamber members sponsors and guests.
The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting ceremony for the 100-year anniversary of Heritage Land Bank, 2519 N. Stallings Dr., (936) 564-8271, www.heritagelandbank.com. Vice President/Branch Manager Lindsey Vardeman, CEO Bill Tandy, and Board Member George Hodges welcomed Chamber members sponsors and guests.
The Nacogdoches County Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon Cutting ceremony for the new location of The Precious Cycle, 2512 South St., (936) 305-5330, Tree and Ron welcomed Chamber members sponsors and guests.
• South Loop Crossing • 4605 S Medford Dr • (936) 632-2333
Brandon Elementary 2017-2018 President & Vice-President's of Student Council. from left to right Kelsey Garcia (Vice President), Austin Brown(President), and Elijah Menefee (Co-Vice President).
Peavy Primary Pre-K "Students of the Month" for the month of September: Emmanuel Alaniz, Daniyal Ahmad, Ma'Kahai Williams, Eli Wise, and Blade Kipfer. Not pictured is Eduardo Ruiz, Cordero.
Peavy Primary "Students of the Month" for the month of September: Caylee Chumley, Ruby Cabrera, Xena Johnson, Kalia Johnson, Imani Jenkins, Trent Gentry, Maddie Barnhart, Peyton Taylor, Athalia Herrera, and Lilly Williams .
From left to right on bottom: Dr. Patricia McKenzie; Coalition Board Member and Family Friendly Festival Committee Chair, Terry Burrous, Amy Mitchell, Rachelle Ebarb; Huntington Business Association and Catf ish Festival Committee Members, Alejandra Padierna; Coalition Board Member and Family Friendly Festival Committee Member, Pam Hooton; Huntington Business Association and Catf ish Festival Committee Member. From left to right on top: George Kelley, Dennis Bell, Clark Bewley & Jody Mitchell; Huntington Business Association and Catf ish Festival Committee Members.
Peavy Primary Kindergarten "Students of the Month" for the month of September: Elizabeth Baker, Logan Bozeman, Jayleigh Weeks, Easton Wallace, Madison Fleming, Gunner Porter, Gracie Moore, Karime Vega, Maxx Bozeman, and Emma Carswell.
your | T H O U G H T S
ST. CYPRIAN'S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL'S FIELD TRIP TO NASA
"while we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about."
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ENJOYING THE VIEWS OVER QUEEN WILHELMINA STATE PARK IN MENA, ARKANSAS. - BY WENDE ELLIS
PUMPKINS, S'MORES AND FUN GALORE, ANALEIGH IS TURNING 4! - BY TARA WATSON-WATKINS
ARE YOU A PRO, OR JUST A HOBBYIST? SHARE YOUR BEST PHOTOGRAPHY WITH US AND GIVE YOUR JOURNEY SOME EXPOSURE. SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS WILL APPEAR IN THE JOURNEY MAGAZINE AND ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE. PLEASE SEND YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION (300 DPI) IMAGES TO
kogden@tjmag.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!
BRIDAL PORTRAIT, KENDALL WINDHAM - BY AMBER MICHELE PHOTOGRAPHY "SUNSET FROM THE SKIES" - BY DEANNA WALLACE
WE WILL LOVE AND MISS YOU TERRE - BY ERIKA NEILL
ALOHA MAUI! - BY LORELLE COLEMAN LIFE IS GOOD AT MEME AND PAPA'S -BY WENDE ELLIS
NEW PUPPY ROGAN PICKED A MUSHROOM RUNNING! - BY TABITHA LATHAN
SHE SAID YES!! - JORDAN DIETZ AND EMMA WILSON
Prese n ts :
sp o r t s & | OU T D O OR S
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T EX AS OUT D O OR EV ENT S | NWTF WHEELIN' SPORTSMAN DEER HUNT | GATH ERI NG PLACE | V EN IS ON CH I LI | JOU R N EY OUT | A ROU N D TH E CAM PFI R E
TEXAS
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | T E X A S O U T D O O R E V E N T S
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 f ind more information on specif ic times, maps/directions, and contact info. Visit https://tpwd.texas.gov/calendar
RAY ROBERTS LAKE STATE PARK
Novemb er 4: Texas O utd oor F am i l y 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 is included with each reservation!
ENCHANTED ROCK STATE PARK NATURAL AREA
November 4: Summit Trail Hike Hike the Rock!
HUNTSVILLE STATE PARK
N ove m b e r 1 1 : S atur d ay A r t i n t h e P a r k Arts & Crafts in the park every Saturday morning.
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MARTIN CREEK STATE PARK
No v e mb er 18: East TX Bla ck P ot C ook e r s Learn about cast iron Dutch oven cooking.
SHELDON LAKE STATE PARK
Nove m b e r 1 8 : S unr i se P h otog r a p h y Catch the sunrise at Sheldon Lake State Park! Registration is required.
LAKE MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK
Novemb er 18: Ki d ' s W i l d e r ne ss S ur vi val A great program for your child’s outdoor safety and parents learn as much as the kids.
INKS LAKE STATE PARK
Nove m b e r 2 5 : G e ocach i ng Tu r k e y S t y l e We teach you all about the modern day treasure hunt called geocaching with some fun turkey help.
DAINGERFIELD STATE PARK
Novemb er 25: Saturday Ni g h t D ance s Come join us this Saturday for music, dancing, and fun for the whole family!
LYNDON B. JOHNSON STATE PARK & HISTORICAL SITE
N ove m b e r 2 5 : H ol i d ay C ook i e Decorating and German Traditions Your family and friends will have fun decorating cookies as it was done for a German Christmas tree in the early 1900’s.
2017 ANGELINA NWTF WHEELIN’ SPORTSMAN DEER HUNT
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | NWTF WHEELIN' SPORTSMAN DEER HUNT
By Dale Bounds
The 9th Annual Angelina NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsman Deer Hunt for disabled hunters is set for December 8th & 9th, 2017. Applications for this hunt will be available November 1st, please contact Mandy Chumley, Angelina Ranger District off ice in Zavalla, TX for more information on how to apply for the event. mchumley@fs.fed.us or call (936) 897-1068. This award-winning hunt will take place on three properties in southern Nacogdoches County. The properties included in this hunt are: US Forest Service Stephen F Austin Experimental Forest (SFAEF), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Alazan Wildlife Management Area and The Winston Tree Farm. A total of 7,000 acres will be available on these lands for the lucky hunters that are drawn to hunt. All three properties have handicap assessable hunting blinds for the participants. The Pineywoods (Luf kin) and April AWOL, NWTF (Nacogdoches) Chapters are co-hosting the event. We thank our 2017 sponsors who are Luf kin Host Lions Club-Z&OO Railroad, Heritage Land Bank, The Square Shooters, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, SFA Wildlife Society, Natures Eye, and Luf kin Coca Cola . Thank you again sponsors, for making it this event possible! This hunt has been awarded the top NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsman Hunt in Texas for the past 8 years and has been the #1 NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsman hunt in the U.S. two times. The idea for this event began with the Angelina Sabine District Ranger, Eddie Taylor in 2008. Eddie presented the idea to the NWTF, who enthusiastically joined in, partnering with The Winston Family, TXPW- Alazan WMA and the USFS Angelina National Forest to make this hunt possible. The Angelina NWTF Wheelin’ Sportsman hunt has provided over 200 hunters with the opportunity to have a quality hunting experience. Over the last 8 years, an estimated 30 % of the hunters have harvested a deer. They have had an opportunity to harvest game for their freezer and help with the management of deer on these properties. Hunters have commented through the years that they have had wonderful experiences that they will never forget. They have appreciated the hard work that has made the event happen, the great food, fellowship and a new life experience in the deer blind. This past year, the hunt was a very successful event capped off with a great buck harvested by Eric Sánchez of Dallas on the SFA-Experimental Forest. 90 | N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 7
According to Eric“It was 5 p.m., and the sun was going down. I pulled my binoculars out for the last time. To my amazement this big buck came out. I could not keep my heart under control, and I could not believe I was about to get this big opportunity. I put my cross hair on the deer and slowly squeezed the trigger. The recoil was hard, and When I brought the rif le back down, there was no sign of the deer. I thought I had missed him for sure. When the trackers came they could not f ind him. I went home disappointed and sad. I could not believe what had just happened. How could I have missed this great buck? It must have been the rif le scope or maybe the ammo, I told myself. Monday around 12am, Mandy Chumley called and told me they had found my buck. Mandy said she would send me photos and that Hamby Taxidermy had the buck and would mount it for me. I thank everyone involved with the NWTF Angelina Wheelin' Sportsman hunt that makes this possible for people like myself in a wheelchair to enjoy the great outdoors. God bless you all.�
A total of 26 hunters attended in 2016 and 11 deer were harvested with data collected taken by TPWD Biologist, Mica Poteet and his SFA Wildlife Society volunteers. This year, all the volunteers and hunters will be treated to a Bar B Que feast at Alazan WMA Headquarters on Friday night. The Pineywoods Chapter is the host for the Friday dinner with cooking crew volunteers Dale Bounds ,Buck Doiron and John Ippolito cooking the meal. Lunch on Saturday will be hosted by the April AWOL NWTF Chapter volunteers. Interested applicants need to apply for this hunt by November 10th. Applications are available on the USFS National Forests and Grasslands website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/texas) or you can contact Mandy Chumley, Angelina National Forest District Office for more information on how to apply. She can be reached at mchumley@fs.fed.us or 936-8971068. The participants will be drawn from the pool of applications received by the U.S. Forest Service. Each hunter will be notif ied that they have been selected.
Gathering Place
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | G AT H E R I N G P L A C E
by Emily Courtney
F
acebook shared a memory with me the other day. It was a photo of me with three of my best friends from college, taken during a fall hunting trip. We were posed in the woods, all decked out in camo, and laughing at something; most likely someone being ribbed for missing a squirrel earlier in the day. We had gathered at the family cabin of one of the guys in the group and spent a weekend walking the woods together, shotguns in hand, and sharing stories and whiskey by f irelight. We were all students at the time and were bogged down with the pressures of classes and projects, work responsibilities, and social lives. But as the days shortened and the cool, crisp mornings began to settle in, we felt the need to get away and f ind a gathering place. The draw of a cabin in the autumn woods was irresistible to a bunch of kids from the country that had been stuck in classrooms all semester, and we were all too eager to accept the invitation. There’s something about fall that brings people together. It’s a season of gathering in so many ways. There’s a reason that when you think of fall you picture people gathered around f ires at family cabins or hunting camps, or around tables of food at football tailgates or holiday get-togethers. Each season seems to hold its own energy, a sensibility for how we relate to the transition in nature around us. In spring, we embrace the idea of new life and allow ourselves to feel rejuvenated. In autumn, we celebrate a season of harvest, where we reap the rewards of the work we’ve done throughout the year. It’s a season of ref lection and gratitude. It’s in this sense of celebration where the urge to gather is rooted. We want to share our harvest with each other. We want to share in the warmth of a communal f ire and each other’s company. Just as every season has its own vibe, each also holds its own set of memories. For me, fall means hunting memories. Some of our oldest traditions as humans involve gathering to hunt in groups. It’s one that
we have carried with us through the ages and has been adapted to virtually every culture. For modern hunters in the American South, their entire year revolves around it. For many of them, however, the tradition of fall hunting camp isn’t about the hunting at all. It’s about the camaraderie. Fall hunting is the tradition in which I was raised, and I think even if I stopped hunting some day, the season would still be forever associated with that lifestyle in my subconscious. Growing up, I would spend almost every fall weekend at my Grandpa’s farm, hoping for a shot at a deer. But the memories I have aren’t centered on the hunts themselves or the game I pursued. They’re about the people I shared the time with; making the drive with my brother, the evenings spent in my grandparents’ home; walks around the farm with the two of them. I would see more of my family during those months than any other time of the year. The season would call us, and we would gather. For some, fall may mean a ski cabin in the mountains. It may revolve around college football or prepping for the holidays. The common thread is the act of drawing people in and sharing time together. Fall can be a gathering place in both time and space. It is a season of the year, but the essence of fall can also be manifested in a physical place. When I look back at that photo with my friends, everything about it is fall to me; the orange leaves, the hunting attire, and the cabin that is just out of frame. But most of all, it’s the people and the memories of our gathering that bring the essence of fall rushing back. If you never have before, use this season to gather your people close, in whatever way is meaningful to you. 93 | T H E J O U R N E Y M AG A Z I N E
VENISON CHILI INGREDIENTS - 1 lb Venison burger 2 cans of kidney beans, drained 2 cans of diced tomatoes with juice 1 can of whole corn with juice 1 pack of your favorite chili seasoning (French's) 1 tablespoon of garlic powder 1 tablespoon of fajita seasoning
DIRECTIONS sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | V E N I S O N C H I L I
1. Heat a large stock pot over medium-high heat. Crumble the venison into the hot pan, add garlic powder and fajita seasoning. Cook meat until evenly browned. Drain off excess grease. 2. To the stock pot, add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, and whole corn. Add your favorite chili seasoning and follow the directions on the packet. Stir to blend, then cover and simmer over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3. After 30 minutes, taste, and adjust salt, pepper, and chili seasoning if necessary. The longer chili simmers, the better it will taste. 4. Remove from heat. Serve with rice, cornbread, crackers, cheese, onions, sour cream, or whatever chili toppings you prefer!
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HUNTING WITH KIDS? W H AT YO U N E E D TO K N OW ! • Safety First – The most important consideration when taking kids hunting is safety. If firearms are involved, teaching them gun safety is always the first priority. Do not let children handle firearms until they have learned how to do so safely and comfortably, and never without adult supervision. Teaching firearms safety includes not only shooting safety, but also firearm mechanics, ammunition types, and how both work. Always wear safety orange when in the field, and use safety harnesses when hunting from tree stands. • Keep It Fun – Even adults get bored sitting in a tree stand or blind for hours at a time. It can be torturous for an energetic kid! Your best bet is to hunt in a space where they can move around a bit, such as a ground blind, and pack plenty of supplies to keep them occupied, such as snacks, coloring books, and playing cards.
sp o r t s & o u t d o o r s | J O U R N E Y O U T
• No Pressure – As excited as you are to see your little one make their first harvest, keep the experience as pressure-free as possible. Keep it light and enjoy the time together, and everything will fall into place!
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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
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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!
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!
SOUTH TEXAS HUNT - BY JAY TODD
- BY JOE CUELLAR