infinitie plus
Broadway Square Mall: 50 Years Strong
Texas Bank and Trust bankrolls Arts and Culture
Million Dollar Producer: Donna Vincent's Journey Inspiration Business and Finance
Fortnite gamers charged unwanted items
Another round of refunds on the way
By BCP STAFF
The FTC is sending out over 969,000 payments worth more than $126 million to Fortnite gamers charged for unwanted items.
If you submitted a valid claim by February 14, 2025, you’ll get the payment via the method you requested. If you get a check, cash it within 90 days. If you get a PayPal payment, accept it within 30 days. You don’t need to do anything else to get your payment.
If you submitted a claim after February 14, 2025, the FTC will review your claim. You don’t need to do anything else.
If you think you’re eligible for a refund and haven’t already submitted a claim, go to ftc.gov/ Fortnite to learn if you’re eligible and how to apply. All claims are due by Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
related to the Fortnite refunds program. The FTC will never ask you to pay money to file a claim. If you get an email or text message that tells you to click a link or pay to get your refund, it’s a scam. Report it to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Get more information about the FTC’s Fortnite refunds program at ftc.gov/Fortnite.
Avoid scams
4th of July 4th of July
INDEPENDENCE DAY
Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt
"Putting Gregg County First."
Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PhD
GREETINGS
TOP TALK
Hello infinitieplus magazine family and friends.
Our team is always excited to bring you heart warming stories for the month.
In this edition, we have the story of Broadway Square Mall in Tyler that is 50 years strong. They recently celebrated community, style, and memories at the monthly Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Business after Hours. This story is from page 6.
A unique and inspiring story talks about how much money you need to be happy. Check it out on page 15.
That is not all.
Another story is Texas
Bank and Trust: Where arts and community converge:
Photography contest exhibition celebrates Texas beauty from page 16.
But wait, there is more.
From rookie to real estate powerhouse piece has many life lessons to teach a reader. Get to know Donna Vincent's journey to a Million Dollar Producer.
There are other stories in this edition so we hope that you will read them.
Thanks for reading. Thank you very much for your support. Happy 4th of July.
We look forward to serving you again in August by His Grace.
Joycelyne Fadojutimi, Ph.D.
LT Class 22 - The Best Class Ever. “Double Deuce.”
VISION
To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities.
Submission Deadline: The first of every month prior to month of issue. infinitieplus magazine is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes since the publishing of this issue. At the time of publication, to the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate though not guaranteed. The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine is copyrighted 2025. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus magazine reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus magazine or its advertisers.
P. O. Box 12473
Longview, Texas 75602-2473 www.infinitieplusmag.com
Phone: 903.918.7706
VOLUME 15 | ISSUE 7
Texas Bank and Trust Marketing TEAM worked hard to organize the annual Texas-sized vibrant Photography Contest and Exhibition : Karen Partee, Lori Osborne, Mandy Hooker, Aaron May, Sabrina Dickerson, Sarah Rector, Macey Alston, Becky Berry, Shannon Massey, Roxane Johns, and Heather Mitchell
Broadway Square Mall is 50 years strong; celebrates community, style, and memories.
Texas Bank and Trust is where arts and community converge with photography contest exhibition that celebrates Texas beauty. And Longview Chamber of Commerce hosts economic business solutions.
Jill Crocker
Jill McCartney Tabatha White
Broadway Square Mall: 50 Years Strong Celebrates Community, Style, and Memories
The Tyler Broadway Square Mall recently celebrated 50 years in business with a Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours (BAH). The well attended event brought some judicial dignitaries such as Chief Justice James T. Worthen, Place 1.
According to Terry Blevins, Broad-
way Square Mall general manager, some renovative updates are in store for the Mall to make it more appealing for shopping, eating etc. etc.
As can be expected there was food and assorted beverages galore plus a celebratory cake for the occasion in addition to door prizes.
Every attendee left the BAH with a goodie bag. Check it out in pictures.
IP STAFF REPORT
Courtney Blevins and Kimberly Taylor
Allie Sharp and Jessica Domingo Margeaux Sullivan
Jackie Cannon LaCrecia Steward Kelbi Campbell
Nicholas Quintana
Community Connections
Health And Wellness Regional Clinics Primary Care Clinic
Longview Regional Medical Center recently and proudly hosted an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of its new Regional Clinics Primary Care Clinic. The event welcomed community members, local leaders, and healthcare professionals to tour the new facility and meet the dedicated team.
Dr. Jose Acevedo, the clinic’s primary care physician, spoke about his commitment to making high-quality care accessible to families throughout East Texas stating:
“We’re here to build lasting relationships with our patients and make it easier for them to take charge of their health,” said Dr. Acevedo. “Whether it’s a routine checkup or managing a chronic condition, we want our patients to feel at home here.”
Dr. Acevedo is bilingual, which is especially helpful for Spanish-speaking patients
looking for a provider who can communicate clearly and personally about their health needs.
The new clinic is accepting new patients and offers a full range of primary care services including preventive screenings, wellness exams,
Longview Regional Medical Center celebrates open house, ribbon cutting
immunizations, and chronic disease management. It also accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance.
The clinic is located at: 2021 W Loop 281, Longview, TX 75604.
Their phone number is (903) 247-0660
They are now accepting new patients
“We are grateful for the support from the Longview community and excited to continue serving with compassion and excellence,” said Dr. Acevedo.
To learn more or to
schedule an appointment, call (903) 247-0660.
About Longview Regional Medical Center – Regional Clinics
Regional Clinics is a network of primary and
specialty care providers affiliated with Longview Regional Medical Center. Committed to providing highquality, accessible care close to home, the clinics offer personalized healthcare for every stage of life.
Jose Acevedo, MD speaks at ribbon cutting. Chamber Team Members Shawn Ingram and Paula Loden look on.
Regional Clinics Primary Care Clinic cuts ribbon, celebrates open house
Post-Session Analysis:
How new Texas laws shape the East Texas business landscape
Story and
by JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI www.infinitieplusmag.com
Justin Coppedge, the Senior Vice President of Strategy and Operations at Texas 2036, keynoted the recent Longview Chamber of Commerce “State of the Economy Luncheon.” TX2036 is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization focused on improving the state's future as it approaches its bicentennial in 2036.
He spoke on the recent legislative session that has noteworthy impact on the East Texas economy. For brevity and clarity here are the key points:
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT:
The legislature approved an initial $2.5 billion investment in Texas's water infrastructure, addressing long-term needs in water supply and quality. This investment is crucial for ensuring water availability for various sectors, including agriculture and manufacturing, which are vital for East Texas.
REDEFINED EDUCATIONAL GOALS:
The state's funding bill now explicitly states that the purpose of public education includes ensuring that students graduate with the necessary skills and credentials to enter the workforce directly, as well as being prepared for postsecondary education without the need for remediation.
ENHANCING TEACHER QUALITY:
The legislation includes provisions for better teacher preparation and enhanced instructional materials to improve educational outcomes.
TAILORED CREDENTIALS FOR RURAL AREAS:
Coppedge discussed a "credential of value" designation. There's a move towards developing credentials specific to regional needs, enabling educational institutions to align their programs with local workforce demands. This tailored approach supports economic development in rural communities like those found in East Texas.
Jennifer Harris Senior Vice President
PRISON EDUCATION INITIATIVES:
He discussed efforts in prison higher education, indicating that individuals who leave prison with skills and credentials are less likely to reoffend. Hence, legislative support has improved educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals in Texas, allowing them to earn provisional occupational licenses while still in prison and become eligible for dual credit programs.
photos
Contd. on Page 12
Jennifer Harper
Morgan Wilcox
Marleena Cooper
SUPPORT FOR TECHNICAL COLLEGES:
Coppedge mentioned the importance of funding, particularly an endowment for Texas State Technical College, which serves as a vital resource for developing a skilled workforce in rural areas. These points emphasize a comprehensive approach to aligning education with the economic landscape, ensuring that individuals are adequately prepared for the job market upon graduation.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT:
A focus on education was evident, with an increase in funding for public education and the introduction of workforcealigned credentials. This aims to equip students graduating from high schools in East Texas with necessary skills, targeting local job market demands.
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY:
The legislative changes also aimed at addressing housing affordability, which is critical as median home prices in Texas
Coppedge said, "As we see the progress made this session and we're excited about it in a lot of areas, we also know that there is a tremendous amount more left to do."
The legislative session appears to have left certain groups and issues unaddressed, leading to some potential "losers." Here are key points highlighting those negatively impacted:
ENERGY PRODUCTION:
There were some advancements in energy policy, particularly around natural gas, and nuclear energy, but the expected progress
have surged. Ensuring affordable housing can help retain a skilled workforce, which is essential for local businesses in East Texas.
HEALTHCARE AND CHILDCARE IMPROVEMENTS:
The session also targeted improvements in healthcare affordability and access to childcare, laying foundations for a stable workforce. These measures can attract and retain families in the East Texas area.
Legislative sessions have winners and losers.
was not fully realized. This lack of comprehensive energy strategy may leave some sectors vulnerable, particularly as demands increase from areas like data centers and manufacturing.
PUBLIC EDUCATION:
While there were increases in funding and a shift in focus towards aligning education with workforce needs, challenges remain, especially in improving the overall educational outcomes. The push to redefine education metrics might not benefit all students equally.
Contd. on Page 14
Becca Culpepper and Taryn Taylor Sheila and Martin King
Dr. Shalonda Adams
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY:
With a significant rise in housing prices (40% increase in five years), many families have found it increasingly difficult to afford housing. Efforts to address this have been inadequate, particularly for those in lower-income brackets.
CHILDCARE AND REGULATION:
The complexity of regulatory frameworks impacting childcare providers has not been fully resolved. The inability of multiple agencies to coordinate effectively continues to pose challenges for operators.
LOCAL COMMUNITIES:
Smaller or rural areas may feel neglected as funding and policy focus tend to prioritize more populous regions, thereby perpetuating economic disparities.
INCARCERATED INDIVIDUALS:
Despite some improvements, significant obstacles remain in providing education and rehabilitation opportunities within the prison system. There's a significant waitlist for educational programs in prisons, suggesting a need for better alignment and resources.
These points suggest that while there were some advances during the session, many ongoing issues persist that could adversely affect various groups and communities in the state.
In essence, the legislative session introduced policies that could enhance the economic landscape in East Texas by investing in critical infrastructure, education, and workforce development while also addressing housing needs. This combination is poised to foster sustainable growth in the region.
Lifestyle Options and Senior Care Services
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Aman whose wealth exceeded his common sense was once asked, “How much money does a man need to be happy?” His reply was quick and honest: “Just a little more!” Many “things” promise satisfaction and happiness at a distance. But as possessions increase and wealth accumulates, expectations once valued are never fulfilled.
It is different with those who seek the Lord. In Psalm 84 the author wrote, “Blessed - or happy - are those whose strength is in You, who have set their hearts on
being with You and following You on life’s journey.”
Happiness is not found in what we have but Who has us. Christianity is not about our possessions but what we possess in Christ and the fact that He possesses us. A true believer, an honest disciple or a sincere “follower of the way” is one who recognizes that the Lord is all-powerful and gives us the strength we need to live the Christian life.
And living the Christian life will bring true blessings and genuine happiness to the one who walks with God. Those who live the Christian life as described in His Word will find fulfillment
How much money do you need to be
and completeness in Him.
One translator studied this verse for years and finally decided that it would best be translated, “How enriched are those who draw their strength from You, whose hearts are focused on You.”
Those attempting to draw strength from the “things” that are of this world will be left weak, weary and worn-out. And anyone whose heart is focused on what is seen will discover that their vision will not survive reality.
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Arts and Culture
Photography contest exhibition celebrates Texas beauty
Story and photos by
JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI
www.infinitieplusmag.com
Texas Bank and Trust is once again demonstrating its commitment to the arts and community
engagement with its Texas-sized vibrant annual Photography Contest and Exhibition, currently on display at the Main Bank Lobby located at 300 East Whaley in Downtown Longview, Texas.
This year's competition saw an outstanding 620 entries, with 43 photographers recognized for their stunning depictions of Texas life at a recent Sunday awards reception.
The contest, now in its 43rd year, provides a platform for both amateur and professional photographers to showcase their skills, attracting entries from 134 photographers across 68 Texas communities. Texas
Bank and Trust supports these artists through cash prizes awarded in four categories – Fine Art, Human Interest, Landscape/Nature, and Spirit of Texas – as well as various special awards. The award-winning images will be prominently featured in the
bank's popular 2026 Collector's Calendar.
photographer with extensive experience in various genres, served as the juror for the competition, lending his expertise to the selection process. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity for the community to admire these captivating images, on display at the Whaley in downtown Longview, until Thursday, July 10.
Moreover, a People's Choice Award will be announced, based on public votes collected during the exhibition period.
Landscape Nature
OMNIClub Birthday Card Award Texas Bank and Trust
Omni Club Birthday Card: Why the cow jumped over the moon: Spirit of Texas By BJ Wood
Best of Show: Before the Draw: Spirit of Texas By Becky Koesel
Christmas Card Award: Explosion of Christmas: Fine Art By W.H. Lanier
Finish Strong: Your Mid-Year Roadmap to a Successful 2025
The middle of the year is like halftime in a game - You regroup, rethink your strategy, and make sure your team is set up to win the second half. It’s a powerful opportunity for business leaders to sharpen their focus and recommit to their goals.
By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS
As we move into the second half of 2025, many business owners find themselves caught between reflection and momentum. Mid-year is more than a calendar checkpoint—it’s a strategic opportunity to revisit goals, assess performance, and set a stronger course for the remainder of the year.
BBB provides the following steps to help your business reset and finish 2025 with confidence:
Revisit Your Goals.
Start by reviewing the business objectives you set back in January. Are you on track to meet them? Do they still reflect your current environment or customer needs? Sometimes, the best decision isn’t to double down— it’s to shift focus altogether.
Conducting a goal check mid-year helps companies ensure team members are on the same page. If you haven’t looked at your mission statement, marketing plan, or revenue targets in months, I’s a great idea to do so.
Analyze Performance Metrics. Dive into your numbers. Revenue and profit margins are obvious indicators, but what about customer satisfaction, repeat business rate, employee turnover, or lead-conversion rates? These metrics tell a deeper story of how your operations are performing and where improvement is needed.
Dashboards and analytics tools can help you visualize progress and isolate gaps. Make sure you not only identify what needs fixing, but also why things may have emphasizes the value of identifying not only what needs fixing, but also why things may have veered off course.
Conduct Team Check-Ins and Mid-Year Reviews.
Your employees are on the front lines every day—don’t overlook their insights. A midyear performance review is more than a scorecard; it’s a chance to clarify expectations, celebrate wins, and uncover unseen barriers. The Houston Chronicle notes that regular evaluations increase employee engagement and retention, especially when paired with actionable feedback and support. Don’t wait until yearend to course-correct.
Refresh Your Strategy. Markets shift. So should your tactics. Have new competitors emerged? Are your marketing messages still resonating? Are there operational inefficiencies costing you time or money? The Star Tribune suggests using mid-year as a “mini strategic planning session.” Whether it’s refining a product
offering or updating pricing models, small shifts now can yield major returns in Q4.
Document and Communicate.
Don’t keep your findings to yourself. Once you’ve reviewed and refined your plans, document the changes and share them with your team and stakeholders. A clear, updated roadmap builds accountability and keeps everyone aligned as you move forward.
And if you’re a BBB Accredited Business, this is the perfect time to review how your practices are aligning with BBB’s Standards for Trust—especially in transparency, responsiveness, and safeguarding privacy.
Mid-year isn’t just a chance to catch your breath, it’s a chance to catch up, recalibrate, and recommit to building a better business. Taking just a few hours to assess and act now can save months of confusion later. So, grab your
scorecard, rally your team, and move into the second half of 2025 with purpose. For more information, go to the BBB Business Resources page. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, expand your knowledge, strengthen customer relationships, or more—you’ll find the support you need at bbb.org.
Mechele Mills is president and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas.
TIPS FOR PURCHASING A NEW CAR
Buying a vehicle is one of the biggest purchases most consumers make outside of a home. Doing your homework ahead of time can save you money and help you avoid buyer’s remorse.”
By MECHELE AGBAYANI MILLS
If you’re considering a new car this year, you’re not alone. Global vehicle sales are projected to exceed 15 million units in 2025, according to a JD Power report. While the process can feel daunting, it doesn’t have to be. By preparing in advance, you can walk into the dealership with confidence and drive away knowing you made a well-informed decision.
BBB provides the following tips to Help You start the carbuying process
Evaluate your payment strategy. First, decide whether you’ll pay in full, finance the vehicle, or lease it. If you’re considering a loan or lease, carefully review the terms. Be sure to understand the annual percentage rate (APR), total cost over time, and any early termination or mileage penalties if you decide to lease.
Create a realistic budget. Go beyond the sticker price. Factor in registration fees, insurance, taxes, fuel, and maintenance. According to the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, transportation is a top household expense, so a comprehensive budget is essential.
Narrow your options.
Think about what you really need in a car—passenger capacity, fuel economy, safety technology, comfort features, and so on. Use resources like Consumer Reports and IIHS crash test ratings. Don't forget to check the insurance cost for each model; some vehicles cost more to insure due to higher theft rates or repair costs.
Compare models and pricing online.
Websites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds allow you to compare vehicle prices, trims, and features. They also help estimate your current vehicle’s trade-in value. This information gives you the upper hand when negotiating.
Find a trustworthy dealership. Check business profiles and read reviews at BBB.org to ensure the dealership is reputable. The BBB Accredited Business Seal is a sign that a
business is committed to ethical practices.
At the Dealership
Take your time. Avoid pressure to buy immediately. Stay in control of the timeline to ensure you make the decision that’s right for you.
Test drive thoroughly. Drive in different conditions—city streets, highways, hills—if possible. Evaluate the vehicle’s handling, braking, visibility, acceleration, and comfort. Turn off the radio and listen for unusual sounds. Check the ease of use of tech features, dashboard visibility, and seat adjustability. Also inspect the car’s exterior and trunk space.
Discuss your trade-in separately.
Once you’ve finalized the price of your new car, then shift the discussion to your trade-in. Keeping these negotiations separate can help ensure you receive a fair deal on both transactions.
Review warranties and extras.
Make sure you understand the type and duration of any warranty. Review service contracts in detail before signing.
Finalizing the Deal
Once you sign a purchase agreement, you're legally obligated to follow through— unless the contract explicitly includes a cancellation clause. Always read the fine
print and ask questions before signing anything. Retain all paperwork related to the purchase in a secure location, including your warranty and financing documents. Whether it’s your first car or your fifth, buying a vehicle should be a thoughtful and empowering experience, BBB is here to help you navigate every step of the journey with confidence. For more information, go to the BBB Auto Resources page. It’s your one stop for all things regarding your vehicle. Go to bbb.org to find new car dealers near you.
Mechelle Mills is president and CEO of BBB Central Texas.
pieces each banana, pineapple, and process to assemble 23 more skewers. Place all on parchment-lined
melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. kebabs and top with chopped pea-
Mark Twain Prize Answer 7. Clio Awards Answer
8. Davis Cup Answer 9. America’s Cup Answer
10. Vince Lombardi Trophy Answer
15. Robert Frost Medal Answer
Six Strategies to manage and tame stress Common health issues affecting women
Stress is a part of life. In small doses, stress can have a positive effect. But when stress is chronic, it can take its toll on the body and mind. Stress can make people irritable and cause them to lash out at others. Stress also can contribute to high blood pressure and adversely affect sleep. When confronting chronic stress, individuals may have to take action to find relief. These stress-busting strategies can help.
Engage in physical activity. The Mayo Clinic says any form of exercise can help relieve stress. Physical activity boosts chemicals in the brain and endorphins that help a person feel good. Exercise also can refocus attention, so a person is not preoccupied with stressful thoughts or situations.
Listen to music. Music can be calming and serve as a distraction from stressful feelings. Simply listening to music can be a quick fix for a stressful situation and a bad mood.
Review your lifestyle. It’s easy to take on too much but doing so can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, says the Mental Health Foundation. Prioritizing some things over others and delegating, when possible, can tame stress. Practice mindfulness. Breathing and mindfulness exercises can be practiced anywhere. Research has shown that mindfulness can reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. Deep breathing and being in a quiet moment when stress peaks may help to reduce stress.
Step away for a few minutes. If possible, step away from a stressful situation, whether it is a difficult project
at work or a loud room with a lot of activity going on. Many people find commuting stressful. Changing the route to one that avoids busy roads, even if it takes a bit longer to get from point A to point B, might help. Talk it out. Sometimes connecting with others and sharing experiences can help to relieve stress. Keeping feelings in and fixating on a situation may exacerbate feelings of stress. Social situations that encourage talking and laughing can lighten a person’s mental load, says the Mayo Clinic. Don’t turn to substances. Alcohol and drugs may temporarily relieve stress, but this approach can lead to addiction and even worsen the physical and mental toll stress takes on the body. Stress is a part of life, but finding ways to manage chronic stress is vital to long-term health.
Preventive health care is a multifaceted approach that aims to keep people healthy and reduce their risk for various diseases and conditions. Health education is one facet of preventive health care that can be easily overlooked, particularly by busy adults juggling an assortment of responsibilities. Women can do their best to learn about issues that commonly affect them with a goal of taking steps to reduce their risk for various diseases and conditions. Northwestern Medicine¨ reports that the following are some of the most common health issues affecting women today.
Heart disease:
It’s common to view heart disease as a killer of men, but women should know it’s the No. 1 cause of death for women. Menopause does not cause heart disease, but certain risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels and lower levels of estrogen, are more common in post-menopausal women.
Stroke:
Both men and women might be shocked to learn that more women die from stroke than men. Difficulty with speech and numbness of the arms and legs are prominent symptoms of stroke.
Diabetes:
Women with diabetes have a four times greater risk for heart disease than women who do not have diabetes. Making an effort to maintain a healthy weight and committing to routine exercise can lower risk for type 2 diabetes. Quitting smoking also lowers a women’s risk for diabetes.
Urinary tract infections:
People assigned female at birth have shorter urethra than those assigned male at birth. A shorter urethra means bacteria does not have to travel as far to reach the bladder, and UTIs are caused by germs that enter the urethra and multiply. Frequent urination, painful urination and cloudy urine are common symptoms of UTIs.
Breast cancer:
Breast cancer is the most
common form of the disease in women. Women in the United States have a 13 percent chance of developing breast cancer, and that risk may be even higher for women living outside the U.S. Age-based screening and healthy lifestyle choices like exercising and avoiding tobacco can help women in the fight against breast cancer.
Alzheimer’s disease:
More than two-thirds of the six million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease are women. Women historically have lived longer than men, but researchers are exploring if that is the only reason for the disparity between rates of Alzheimer’s in women compared to men. A healthy diet and routine physical activity are some of the ways to promote brain health and potentially reduce Alzheimer’s risk.
Recognition of risk for specific diseases can be a vital component of preventive health care that encourages women to take steps that can decrease the chances they develop various conditions.
“Family is not confined to biological ties, nor is it limited to the place where one is born. Instead, family is a collection of relationships that evolve and adapt with the times. It’s about love, support, and shared experiences that transcend boundaries, whether they be geographical, cultural, or personal.”
Donna Vincent
women who share the same passion for giving back, and together we’ve worked on a number of initiatives aimed
families and children in our learned through all of these spirit of Longview lies in its people—their willingness to come together, support one
another, and create a sense of belonging.”
Additionally, she is delightfully appreciative of Longview, her beloved community.
Donna is filled with “a deep sense of gratitude. Longview has shaped me, and I am proud to have been able to give back to a community that has given me so much. As we move forward, I look forward to continuing to contribute to the events and causes that make Longview such a special place to live and grow.”
Donna Vincent
She is an early adopter. Early adopters tend to be well-connected within relevant communities and actively participate fully in whatever they adopt. This is the case for Donna as she further explains.
“Relocating to Texas gave me a unique opportunity to embrace a completely different way of life. The culture, values, and traditions in Texas were a departure from what I had known in California, yet they brought a new richness to my life,” Donna said. “From Southern hospitality to deep-rooted family values, I found myself learning from an entirely different set of experiences that broadened my understanding of what it means to be part of a community.”
Accordingly, the transitions in Donna’s life convinced her that, “Family is not confined to biological ties, nor is it limited to the place where one is born. Instead, family is a collection of relationships that evolve and adapt with the times. It’s about love, support, and shared experiences that transcend boundaries, whether they be geographical, cultural, or personal.”
Consequently, Donna has been successful in whatever she does. For example, thirteen years ago, she commenced her real estate journey with a clear purpose: to help people find their home. This passion has driven her to a successful real estate career. Donna’s hard work did not go unnoticed. She was recognized as Rookie of the Year in the first year. This early achievement underscored the importance of Donna’s work ethic and client trust - principles that have guided her practice ever since. Working with diverse clients, from first-time buyers to those relocating, highlighted the unique aspects of each transaction. The relationships she developed with her clients are paramount, and the referrals she received are a testament to the trust placed in her first-rate professionalism. Even more, Donna achieved the coveted Million Dollar Producer status thus
reflecting her clients’ loyalty and kindness; and reinforcing her hardcore commitment to providing exceptional service and making a positive impact in their lives.
In like manner, Donna made Longview her home twenty-five plus ago. For her, Longview has been more than
just a place to live; it's where a life has been built and a family has been raised. In addition, her commitment to Longview is multifaceted. Donna has served on various committees including the Cattle Barron’s Gala; July the 4th Fireworks Show to mention a few.
Donna and Tracy Vincent
Donna and Tracy Vincent with their family
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
From Rookie to Real Estate Powerhouse Journey to Million Dollar Producer
Donna Vincent's
By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI /INFINITIEPLUSMAG.COM
Donna’s life with husband Tracy Vincent was a tapestry woven with shared threads of love, laughter, and a family built not just by blood but by shared interests and cherished values. For over two decades, they had a commitment to building a life filled with love and purpose, including a thriving blended family.
This foundation of strong relationships and shared vision, cultivated over 20 years, provided a deep understanding of collaboration – a principle vital in both personal and professional endeavors. As partners and best friends, the couple navigated life's adventures, embracing each day with open hearts. Tracy’s presence was the anchor of the world, a constant source of joy and strength.
Then, the unimaginable happened. Tracy died unexpectedly. With Tracy's
passing, Donna’s world was utterly transformed. She was plunged into a profound grief that tested the limits of her very being. This difficult period presented a weighty personal challenge. However, it became a testament to her power of resilience and the strength derived from her faith reinforcing the importance of adaptability and finding inner fortitude in the face of immense change, qualities that are essential for effective leadership.
In this case, Donna emerged with a quiet strength nurtured by her unwavering faith and the grace of God. It was a resilience she had never known, born from a deepseated belief in the enduring power of love and hope.
As a matter of fact, Donna’s days are now filled with the vibrant energy of a 7-year-old grandson. He is a living testament to the love she shared with Tracy. And raising him have brought her a renewed purpose. Donna is teaching him the values that glued her and Tracy together – the importance of love, the power of resilience, and the
beauty of embracing life fully, even in the face of challenges. These principles shaped her marriage to Tracy; hence, she is imparting them lovingly to their grandson.
Donna stated, “With a spirit of gratitude and perseverance, I continue to honor Tracy’s memory by nurturing a new generation to appreciate the beauty of life, no matter the challenges.”
In the first place, Donna was born in California to two loving parents who adored her. They gave Donna a robust foundation and guidance that shaped her initial worldview in her early years. Even so, that foundation was shaken when her parents got divorced.
As an epitome of resilience, she took it in stride. This experience soon broadened her definition of family and reinforced the importance of adapting to change. The extended family that came with this transition further enriched Donna’s life with a diverse range of relatives and noteworthy events.
“Life isn’t always linear,
after their divorce, what could have been a period of upheaval turned into an opportunity for me to experience something even more special. I was fortunate enough to gain not just one, but two sets of loving parents,” Donna said. “My life was further enriched by the extended family that came with it, including several siblings who added depth and joy to our shared experiences.”
Growing up in California's multifaceted, heterogenous milieu further honed her appreciation for different perspectives – a crucial asset in today's global business landscape. Moreover, faith has been a constant source of guidance in Donna’s life shaping her approach to challenges and reinforcing a belief in perseverance. But wait, that is not all. Life happened again.
Donna’s parents moved from California to Texas in her teen years which she described as “initially daunting but ended up being one of the greatest blessings I could have ever imagined.”
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Donna and Tracy Vincent with their beloved grandson
Courtesy photo
