infinitieplus magazine

infinitieplus September 2024

UT TYLER UNVEILS

VOL. 14 NO. 09 BUSINESS MAGAZINE

WIN

A CUSTOM

Braithwaite expansion

1965 SHELBY COBRA

LRMC Delivers 251 Babies in One month

AUTHENTIC REPLICA ROADSTER

TEXAS BANK AND TRUST

Presents Student Board of Directors

Ginia Northcutt Epitome of Compassion

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Money Matters Scammers use Bitcoin ATMs to steal your money

By COLLEEN TRESSLER

M

ost of us use ATMs pretty often to withdraw cash. But Bitcoin ATMs (or BTMs) are a different beast. Increasingly located in convenience or grocery stores, gas stations, and other places, they’re a way to buy or send cryptocurrency. Only scammers are now using BTMs to steal your money. A new FTC Data Spotlight explains how people are losing millions to fraud at BTMs — and how to protect yourself and the people you care about.

Many of these scams start with a call or message about something supposedly wrong: they might say there’s suspicious activity on your Amazon account, for ex-

ample, or unauthorized charges on your bank account. (Untrue.)

The caller will say your money is at risk, or even that you’re somehow linked to money laundering or drug smuggling, but they can help. (Also false.) They tell you to withdraw cash from your bank, investment, or retirement accounts and deposit it into a specific BTM. This, they say, will protect your money or fix the alleged problem.

But it’s all a lie. Once you deposit the cash, it goes straight into the scammer’s wallet.

To avoid this scam: • Don’t believe anyone who says you need to use a Bitcoin ATM to protect your money or fix a problem.

Real businesses and government agencies will never do that — anyone who does is a scammer.

• Never withdraw cash in response to an unexpected call or message. Only scammers will tell you to do that.

• Verify the story. If you think there’s a real problem with one of your accounts, use a phone number, website, or app you know is real to contact your bank, investment, or retirement company. Don’t use contact information in the unexpected call or message you got.

That will only take you back to the scammer.

Report the scam. Go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

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Editor's Note

GREETINGS TOP TALK

Hello infinitieplus Family and this story is about. This is Friends, an opportunity to know who Welcome to the month of Ginia Northcutt really is. You September. Cooler weather will enjoy the story and maybe is upon us. This is a good come away with how you can relief from the sweltering and also assist others. scorching Texas blazing heat.

Want to win a classic Dr. Paul Liu OBGYN car? YES, YOU CAN! Martin with Diagnostic Clinic and House Children Advocacy Longview Regional Medical Center is giving everyone Center Chief Executive Officer an opportunity to get their Steve Gordon are excited hands on a stunning custom about delivering burgundy 1965 Shelby 251 babies in the Cobra authentic replica month of July roadster, meticulously at Longview built by Backdraft Racing.

Regional Medical Featuring a manual Center.

5-speed 427 Iconic Longview is Cobra engine and growing to a luxurious tan say the least. diamond tuck Check out leather interior, the story and this beauty has photos in been driven only this edition 700 miles and of ip mag. is appraised at a Our remarkable value of cover story $87,000 - $94,000. Flip is a hit. Ginia this magazine and get Northcutt the details. is woman of Check out the rest numerous talents of stories. Thanks for with a Godly reading and we look heart. Her love forward to serving you for others in again in October by Paul Lin, MD and dire need is what God’s grace.

CEO Steve Gordon

J oycelyne Fadojutimi, Ph.D.

The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One… Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PhD Chief Public Relations/Mkt. Officer Paula Jimenez Staff Writer Peace Floris Contributing Writers Glenn Miller Mechele Agbayani Mills Dr. Michael Guido Scotts Roberts Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs

LONGVIEW BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Money Matters

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Education

06

Business and Finance

08

Cover Story

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Inspiration

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To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities.

Puzzle

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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 2024. 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.

Grubs Up

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Business and Finance

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OUR MISSION

To enrich the local-global community with the “just in time knowledge,” to assure future successes

OUR VISION

Scammers use Bitcoin ATMs to steal your money UT Tyler Unveils Expansion to Braithwaite Building Bank Names Board

Ginia Northcutt: Epitome of Compassion

Good Enough 10 top common mistakes of home renovations Signature dishes of popular cuisines

Frankie’s Gas Station celebrates grand opening

About the Cover

Ginia’s family of origin made a great impact in her life.

She has a younger sister and a brother. Her father saw the world from a different lens than many Southerners of that epoch. He taught his three children that all people should be treated not just with respect but with love. In addition, he was a precisionist with attention to detail. Hence, he expected Ginia and her siblings to do their absolute best, to be honest and not shy away from the consequences of their actions.

P. O. Box 12473 Longview, Texas 75602-2473 www.infinitieplusmag.com Phone: 903.918.7706

VOLUME 14 | ISSUE 09

Publisher

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infinitieplus

Table of Contents

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Becca Culpepper, Libby Bryson, Kelly Chambliss and Taryn Taylor

Judge Tim Bryan and Sam Howell

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Cover Story Education

Education

UT Tyler Unveils Expansion to Braithwaite Building

T

YLER, Texas - The University of Texas at Tyler hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for the expansion of the David G. and Jacqueline M. Braithwaite Building, which houses the School of Nursing.

The addition added 47,000 square feet and increased simulation and skills lab spaces.

“There continues to be a shortage of nurses, and this expansion will allow us to train more students and better serve the health care needs of East Texas,” said UT Tyler President Julie V. Philley, MD. “We are extremely grateful to the support from our community and UT System.”

(L to R) President Julie V. Philley, Dr. Maggie Ruelle, Dr. Susan McBride, Dean Barbara K. Haas, Dr. Jenifer Chilton, Dr. Carol Rizer and Dr. Amir Mirmiran gather for the ribbon cutting to the expansion of the Braithwaite Building.

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Expansion of Nursing Facility: The addition added 47,000 square feet to the existing facility and more than tripled the program's capacity for simulations.

The UT System Board of Regents allocated $50.5 million for the addition and complete renovation of the building.

Construction began in 2023.

Since the expansion, the school has more than tripled its capacity for simulation.

The first floor is comprised of simulation spaces, designed for training in medical surgical acute care, intensive care, pediatrics, mother-baby and home health. The first floor also features an open lab where students can prepare for clinicals, a student lounge, debriefing rooms, offices, a work room and health assessment labs. The complete reno-

vation and second floor, which will host spaces for student wellness, collaborative research and student affairs and marketing, are estimated to be complete in 2025.

“We are incredibly excited to see our vision come to life with this expansion,” said Dr. Barbara K. Haas, School of Nursing dean. “Every aspect of this project was designed with the student experience in mind. This state-of-the-art facility will provide our students with the resources and environment they need to excel in their education and future careers.”

With a mission to improve

educational and health care outcomes for East Texas and beyond, UT Tyler offers more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs to nearly 10,000 students. Through its alignment with UT Tyler Health Science Center and UT Health East Texas, UT Tyler has unified these entities to serve Texas with quality education, cutting-edge research and excellent patient care. Classified by Carnegie as a doctoral research institution and by U.S. News & World Report as a national university, UT Tyler has campuses in Tyler, Longview, Palestine and Houston.

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Business and Finance

Business and Finance

BANK NAMES BOARD Texas Bank and Trust formally presents Student Board of Directors

John Jackson, Jennifer and Marshall Jackson with Morgan Teague.

IP STAFF REPORT

S

tudents, their families, school administrators and Texas Bank and Trust personnel recently gathered at the downtown location to introduce the 2024/2025 Student Board of Directors.

This marks the 47th annual Student Board of Directors reception.

The program is designed to introduce students to banking and money management at a critical point in their lives and provide them necessary economic building blocks to earning, spending, saving, and investing money in tandem. But that is not all.

Student Board members will serve as advisors to the bank on developing the next two-year curriculum of the Student Board program.

Equally important, these Student Board members will test their ingenuity and business development skills with “Investments Quest. ” Investment Quest is a signature program back by popular demand. As

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Avery Lambright, Julie Guidre and her daughter, Sydney.

Longview High School Principal Shemeika Allen

Pine Tree ISD Superintendent Steve Clugston

L-R: Clay Thompson, Leslie Paull, Dorrie DeLand, Stacy Cammack, Lori Osborne, Kristal Martin, Branden King, and Matt McDaniel.

Scencier Tatum and Aisha Anderson

Texas Bank and Trust Digital Team : Orlando Cabrera, Kathy Mosley, Wendy Weaver, Kori Johnson, and Ann Stallings

Mary Gill and her daughter Madison Anderson, Dr. Wayne Guidre and wife, Julie attend the recent Texas Bank and Trust Student Board of Directors reception

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Texas Bank and Trust EVP/ CMO Karen Partee and VP/CRM Sabrina Dickerson

aspiring entrepreneurs, students will have eight months to conceptualize a product, service, or business they could possibly bring to market.

Students will be divided into teams. These student teams will pitch their concepts to a panel of “potential investors,” at their final meeting in April in hopes of securing hypothetical funding for the project.

Panel members will represent local east Texas entrepreneurs familiar with what it takes to launch a new product or small business.

The team that is successful in bringing the largest amount of investment dollars for their innovation will be named and promoted to “TBT Young Entrepreneurs of the Year.”

Christy Morse and Lily Newland

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Cover Story

Cover Story

Ginia Northcutt: Epitome of Compassion

H

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI

er name is Ginia, and she has been married to her beloved husband Gordon Northcutt, for three and half decades. They are immensely proud of their married two children – a daughter Conlan and son, LeGrand. Their two children are citizens of the Lobo nation graduating from Longview High School. Conlan and her husband Joshua have a one-year-old son, Peter. In addition, Legrand and his wife Lauren, have an 11-month-old daughter named Lily. A passion for helping others shines forth in their lives and actions.

After Ginia graduated from the University of Tennessee, and Gordon from Austin

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College, they bumped into each other while working at a Washington D.C. eatery called Julio's of Capitol Hill.

They fell madly and permanently in love.

Gordon's roots are in Longview, Texas where he was a lifelong member of the local First Baptist Church.

Ginia, though, took a roundabout trek to East Texas. They collaborate beautifully to make Longview and beyond a better place.

Ginia is the oldest of three children and got her start far from East Texas.

"I was born and raised in Memphis, where my mother's family were farmers across the Mississippi River in Arkansas," she says.

"My father was from New Jersey, and I distinctly remember growing up in Memphis during the civil rights movement."

tail. Hence, he expected Ginia and her siblings to do their absolute best, to be honest and not shy away from the consequences of their actions.

But wait, that is not all.

There is more.

Her mother was a home engineer and avid volunteer who set another altruistic example for Ginia. Barely in her teens – ten years old to be exact, Ginia was marketing calendars to raise funds for a noble cause.

"I remember selling calendars at the local McDonald's when I was ten years old to raise money for Les Passes

Children’s Hospital in Memphis" she says. "Weekends were spent working in the yard or volunteering. It was a fun time."

Ginia was not alone. Theirs was a community service family. They volunteered in church and other civic organizations. One can definitely see why it is safe to say that Ginia was born with magnanimity in her blood.

Although she has lived a rather itinerant life, she married into a family with roots stretching far back into Deep East Texas. Gordon's great-

grandfather W.G. Northcutt was one of Longview's first settlers and brought his clan here in 1871. When she accompanied Gordon here, she fell in love with Longview that she sees as the perfect place to raise children and provide great opportunities. Her education set her up to fruitfully serve her adopted hometown and its people.

Ginia holds a bachelor's degree in zoology from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, where she also starred on the women’s rowing team, never losing a race.

Contd. on Page 12

IN IS STA SU N E! T

Jillian Greifenkamp, Ginia Northcutt, and Renea Schott at Drawdown fundraiser

Ginia’s family of origin made a great impact in her life. She has a younger sister and a brother. Her father saw the world from a different lens than many Southern-

ers of that epoch. He taught his three children that all people should be treated not just with respect but with love. In addition, he was a precisionist with attention to de-

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Texas Bank and Trust will donate $4.00 to your card issued! school for every new

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Cover Story She then pulled down a mediation certification from Southern Methodist University before embarking down the straight and narrow path to success and selfless service.

She has worked as executive director of Refuge International since 2019, but earlier held down the positions of blood service representative for the American Red Cross, National Capitol Chapter, in Washington, D.C. before moving on to the post of assistant director for Donor Resources Development. She then moved on to the Children’s National Medical Center and carried out a Center For Disease Control-sponsored study to ascertain the extent of HIV contamination in blood supplies. After giving birth to daughter Conlan in D.C. they relocated to Waco so Gordon could earn his MBA from Baylor University.

Gordon took a job in Richmond, Virginia where Ginia was a home engineer and gave birth to son LeGrand. In 1998, the family settled in Longview, and Ginia worked as executive director of the Gregg County Historical Museum from 2002-2006. Following LeGrand's graduation from high school Ginia filled the position of special events coordinator for the Buckner Foundation, serving until 2018. Apart from a few part-time, odd jobs she has spent her entire working

Cover Story

CHARITABLE CAR RAFFLE “Gordon has been my rock and loved me unconditionally. I am a better person because Gordon is in my life.

He is the kindest and most generous person I know. He will do anything to help a friend and has supported me and my crazy ideas for a long time.”

Ginia Northcutt

Refuge International Executive Director. career with non-profits.

"It was nothing I planned," she says. "I love the heart of non-profit work because there is always a mission of service to others."

Ginia currently serves as executive director of Refuge International, which concentrates its efforts on providing needed healthcare to people in Guatemala, most of whom have no other source of medical treatment and/or cannot afford it because of a public health system vastly different from the United States healthcare system.

For example, in Guatemala, families have to pay for their loved ones' food while they are hospitalized, for supplies needed for surgery, bloodwork, MRIs, X-rays and other various testing. Besides being cripplingly expensive, this process is time-consuming,

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and once the supplies and testing are finally finished, doctors may decide the test results are too old, and the whole process must start over.

As a matter of fact, during Refuge International's most recent visit to Guatemala, a "Mr. Topp" approached the team because he was in dire need of an ileostomy reversal. Four years earlier, he had checked into a hospital to have hernia surgery. Instead, the doctors inexplicably performed an ileostomy on him, forcing him to cover his ileostomy with a plastic bag held on by a strip of cloth. The hospital offered no explanation for this flagrant malpractice and took no responsibility for it. The ileostomy reversal operation the Refuge International surgeons performed on him was life-changing, and his delight was clear and intense.

Contd. on Page 14

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Cover Story

Jim and Anne Hugman at Drawdown fundraiser

"By the end of the week he had our team wrapped around his finger with his smile and infectious joy," says Ginia. "This is one example of many of how we affect people, and it is an honor to work for an organization that cares so deeply for others."

She also knows exactly whom to credit for her status as a source of critical healing for so many.

"I have never climbed the ladder of corporate success," she says. "I have always had a passion for helping others, and God has provided the opportunities."

Ginia’s work is a complex calling that compels her to

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Cover Story

Jim and Genie Bartlett at Drawdown fundraiser

expect the unexpected. There is no such thing as a run-ofthe-mill day as she and her team assimilate donations and see to various logistics while also making plans and arrangements for the treatment aspects of medical/missionary trips. Then, there is fund-raising, donor development and the overall business side of operating Refuge International. Making a positive difference in the lives of those she serves compels her to search out and cultivate selfless people with big and generous hearts who, like her, are dedicated to bettering the lives of those in need. She is the ultimate people person.

Dr. Jonathan and his Dad, Dr. John Greifenkamp at Drawdown fundraiser

"I love working with people," she says. "From our staff and volunteers in Longview and across the country to our staff and volunteers in Guatemala."

She is clear on what it takes to follow her example as an unselfish, competent, compassionate and industrious agent of total assistance and healing. She recommends being adaptable, flexible and willing to work with others. Although there are always alternatives, they are not always obvious, but the ideas and opinions of others can present great opportunity, especially when coworkers are treated with consideration and respect.

"No one succeeds without

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Ben Wooley plays at Drawdown fundraiser

Jayanna Laird and Judge Tim Bryan at Drawdown fundraiser

Taylor Wooley plays at Drawdown fundraiser

other people walking alongside, behind and in front of them," she says. "Be grateful and express your gratitude to others."

Ginia is careful to give credit to a higher power and lives her life according to her understanding and acceptance that the Holy Spirit guides her steps, actions, decisions and the quality of her work.

"My faith touches all aspects of my life as I attempt to know God and make Him known, knowing that I do not do it perfectly," she says.

With her workload, she needs the Lord's guidance and direction. As a member of Longview EPC Church, she has served on Session, as a youth leader, Bible study leader, chair of the Facilities Assessment Team, and on the curriculum commission.

From 2014 to 2023 she served on the Longview Independent School District's Board of Trustees, and currently serves on the board of the Longview Symphony, and is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Longview. She considers her many activities as a privilege rather than a chore.

Ginia’s work with Refuge International keeps her hopping as she partners with the medical community, universities and various non-medical individuals to recruit the volunteers that make their work in Guatemala possible.

Contd. on Page 16

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Cover Story

Cover Story

“Refuge International is a better place because of people like Carroll Greenwaldt, Jillian Greifenkamp Renea Schott and many others who are selfless givers.”

Ginia Northcutt

Refuge International Executive Director.

Gordon and Ginia Northcutt with Nancy and Judson Murray at Drawdown fundraiser

It is important to note, Refuge International is sustained by generous financial donations, medical supplies and various in-kind contributions and resources.

Of course, she realizes how crucial it is for her to be part of a smoothly operating team.

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Ginia works in efficient harmony with Refuge International Board President Carroll Greenwaldt, and with her sister volunteer and standout colleague Jillian Greifenkamp, who works tirelessly both on the mission trips and in the Longview warehouse as she

also organizes the pharmacy.

Ms. Greifenkamp also works closely with Renea Schott as she toils as Refuge's inventory controller. Every person is vital to securing funding including their annual fund-raiser.

"Drawdown is our annual fundraiser, and this year we

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raised over $35,000," Ginia says. "Taylor and Ben Wooley provided excellent music, and our silent auction and market had unique one-of-a-kind items from Guatemala, including coffee."

According to Ginia, Drawdown is a reverse raffle in which the last person standing gets a cash prize. This year, it provided a means for supporters to donate a Starlink satellite system enabling them to have WIFI in Guatemala.

Moreover, local sponsors contributed a critically needed EKG machine and paid for two anesthesia monitors.

Equally important, Refuge International supports a school, ambulance boat driver, and nurses to staff the clin-

ic in Sarstun. Additionally, the local Sarstun committee and Refuge International cooperatively built a medical clinic so that locals there do not have to wait for Ginia and her team but can receive treatment year-round.

Refuge International’s work is vital. For this reason, Longview Regional Hospital eagerly supports Refuge and honored it as non-profit of the year.

Some other supporters include: LeTourneau University, the University of Texas at Tyler School of Nursing, and East Texas Baptist University. They have all recruited students to serve as volunteers on Refuge International mission trips.

In fact, every year, Dr. Jason Murray volunteers for these excursions to Guatemala and honors the top surgical resident from the University of Texas Medical School in Tyler by inviting him or her to come along. Additionally, under the supervision of Marietta Libengood and Ranjit Kodali, the Trinity School of Texas also recruits volunteers for Refuge International warehouse and fundraisers. And the benevolence goes on and on.

"Dr. Tiffany Egbe is a board member and program director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Christus Good Shepherd Medical Center," says Ginia. "Each year she brings the residents to Refuge International warehouse to volunteer."

Refuge International is even branching out. Its founder, Deb Bell, has created another non-profit service organization called Madres and Ninos (Mothers and Children), to educate Guatemala's midwives, all in partnership with Refuge International.

"Without the generosity of our partners and volunteers, Refuge International would not be the organization it is today," Ginia says.

"It is an honor and a privilege to lead this compassionate organization."

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Inspiration

Cover Story Community Connections

LRMC delivers 251 babies in one month

T

By G L E N N M I L L E R

GOD’S WORD: “For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it was consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” – 1 Timothy 4:4-5

A

s we go through life we experience different emotions and feelings along the way. Each of us tends to react differently to certain feelings. Some are stalwart in any tragedy and others can’t make it through a Lassie movie without crumbling.

Some are insensitive to others’ pain and oppression while others lay awake at night worrying about the least in our world. And some can take someone else’s rejection without flinching while others, like myself, let rejection tear away at their self-esteem like battery acid through tissue paper.

We all have our “buttons” and those who know us best know how to push them in order to control or manipulate

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our feelings and/or reactions.

And the enemy knows our buttons as well.

One of his favorite weapons in his quiver is the arrow that pierces our hearts and makes us feel as if we are not good enough. All of us know this feeling. All of us know how much it hurts. All of us know, whether we let it go in a second or keep it inside for a lifetime, what it is like to feel inadequate.

If you’ve ever not been chosen for a team, you know what it’s like to not be good enough.

If you’ve ever been passed over for a promotion or a job opportunity, you know what it’s like to not be good enough.

If you’ve ever been told by someone you love that you’re not good-looking, you’re

overweight, you don’t make enough money, you know what it’s like to not be good enough.

he Maternal Child Team at Longview Regional Medical Center proudly celebrated a new record milestone of 251 births in July.

This incredible record reflects the unwavering commitment and skill of their dedicated team, who go above and beyond to provide

exceptional care for every baby and family.

LRMC has always been dedicated to ensuring the health and wellbeing of both mothers and their babies. This celebration is a testament to the tireless efforts of their entire team.

They look forward to

welcoming many more babies into our community and continuing to support families through one of the most important moments in their lives.

To learn more about our Maternal Child Services visit https://www. longviewregional. com/maternitycare-services

And it hurts like hell.

But Jesus’ healing touch delivers us from those feelings!

In a loud voice louder than anything others or the enemy can muster, Jesus tells us that we ARE good enough!

You’re good enough to be called His child!

You’re good enough to be chosen to do great things!

You’re good enough because God has a special plan for you!

And yes, you’re good enough even for Jesus to die on the Cross for.

Don’t let the enemy tell you you’re not good enough! You are, my friend, you are!

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Longview Regional Maternal Child Services Team celebrates the delivery of 251 babies

Hali Gattis, Macie Rhodes, Crystal Shawa, Ariel Sebo, Lillie Pepper and Kristin Bailey

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Cover Story Business and Finance

Cover Story Business and Finance

10 top common mistakes of home renovations Americans have already spent a sizable amount of money on home renovations this year. Hiring the wrong contractor can have serious consequences, so it’s important to do your research to make sure you hire a company that’s competent and trustworthy, particularly if they will be in your home.

A

By MECHELE MILLS

mericans invest heavily in home renovations. In the first quarter of 2024, Americans spent $463 billion on home renovations.

With that much money going around, some of it will fall into the wrong hands. Whether you’re planning on improving your home’s curb appeal or adding on an entirely new room, BBB advises homeowners to research remodeling companies before you get started.

BBB recommends homeowners consider 10 common mistakes made when hiring a contractor: 1. Not doing research. Hiring a contractor can be complex. It is important to check their experience, credentials, references, required licenses and performance. Remain organized and informed to be successful.

BBB Business Profiles organize contractor reviews, ratings, complaints, photos and videos.

They also list how many years the business has been in operation. Use the BBB Business Di-

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rectory to view the profiles of local contractors in your area.

2. Not checking licenses, insurance, or permits. You don’t want to be held liable for an accident on the job site or have your project get shut down for not having the required permits. General contractors are required to maintain certain licenses, permits and certifications in different states. Anyone you work with should be up to date on their insurance and certifications and secure any necessary work permits.

As a side note, BBB Accredited Businesses must be licensed, bonded, and insured in all instances where it is required. This competency licensing must be current and is necessary to maintain BBB Accreditation. Look for the BBB Seal to pinpoint those businesses that prioritize trust.

3. Not hiring a designer or architect. Although you have a vision for your home renovation, and your contractor has the know-how to tackle the work, keep in mind, a designer or architect’s expertise could be

critical. Projects involving entire room remodels, reimagined floor plans, elevations, and additions require professional insight. These professionals provide valuable information regarding the project's aesthetic, functionality, and structural integrity. Check out trustworthy designers and architects near you on BBB.org.

4. Not hiring a professional.

Some home improvement projects could be tackled by you or by someone you know. However, hiring an experienced, licensed, and insured general contractor offers you better protection if anything goes wrong.

5. Not gathering multiple bids. Aim to get at least three quotes in writing and compare them based on the prices and what’s included in the service.

Also, ask for comprehensive written estimates outlining the scope of work, costs, and potential additional charges. Make sure you understand everything that is included in the service before making a final hiring decision. Use BBB’s Get a Quote tool to get started.

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6. Not having a signed contract. Never permit work to start without a signed, written contract which includes start and completion dates, exact costs, specific work to be done, the means that will be used to protect your property, and what cleanup and debris removal will

be done. Read the fine print carefully.

7. Not paying responsibly. Never make the full payment or large deposit upfront.

Stagger your payments according to work stages, making the final payment when the work is completed to your satisfaction. Pay with a check or credit card. Not cash.

8. Not considering more than the price tag. Choosing the lowest bid could result in poor craftsmanship, cheap materials and ultimately, a bad end result. Consider all angles – especially regarding things like reputation, experience and communication – when mak

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ing big decisions.

9. Not communicating well.

Pay attention to the communication habits of your candidates during the interview process and be upfront about your communication needs as you explore what it will be like working with them. Responsiveness is one of the main ingredients in a trustworthy relationship; that’s why it’s included in BBB’s Standards for Trust.

10. Not having an emergency budget. Your project scope is always susceptible to things that are just out of your control. Get peace of mind by creating an emergency fund for these unforeseen circumstances.

Mechele Agbayani Mills is President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas.

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Arabella of Longview stands apart by showcasing the best Longview has to offer in Senior Living. We’ve been awarded the “Best of East Texas” award for Senior Living communities for the last five years for a reason.

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21

Grubs Up

Signature dishes of popular cuisines

N

orth America is a cultural melting pot. People who emigrate to the United States and Canada bring many different traditions with them, and food is perhaps the quickest and simplest way for such individuals to share their cultures with their new neighbors.

Certain cultures are known for the foods they eat, and various dishes have come to embody many countries' cuisines. The following are some signature meals from around the world.

Ratatouille: France Ratatouille is a classic French recipe that originated in Nice. It uses fresh, seasonal vegetables, which are thinly sliced and layered to form a casserole. Topped with a rich, tomato-based sauce, this rustic country dish is a one-pan meal.

Souvlaki: Greece The word "souvlaki" is derived from the Ancient Greek word "souvla," which means skewer. Evidence suggests this dish dates back to 2000 BC. It is typically made from small cubes of meat that are grilled and eaten off the skewer. The meat used most often in Greece is pork, but chicken, lamb and beef also can be used.

Cracked conch: Bahamas A visit to this tropical nation will have people eating conch in a number of different ways. The hallmark version, however, is cracked conch, which is breaded and deep-fried. The name of the dish comes from the method of tenderizing the chewy shellfish, which involves hitting it with a mallet or frying pan.

Feijoada: Brazil Feijoada is made with black beans, cuts of pork and organ meat mixed into a stew. The popular dish is affordable because it uses less costly cuts of meat that need to stew to tenderize.

Xiao Long Bao: Taiwan This soup dumpling is one of the most famous foods of Taiwan. Believed to have originated in Shanghai, the dish eventually made its way to Taiwanese cuisine. The Xia Long Bao is a thin-skinned flour dumpling filled with a pork meatball and gelatinized meat stock.

Harira: Morocco Harira is a Moroccan soup traditionally served during Ramadan or also enjoyed by Moroccan Jews to end their fasts during Yom Kippur. The recipe calls for chickpeas or other beans, onions, rice, bits of meat (not pork), tomatoes, beaten eggs, and olive oil.

Paella: Spain Spain's most popular dish is paella. It is a rich seafood or meat stew with rice and flavored with saffron. It's traditionally cooked over an open fire in a shallow, flat-bottom pan.

Dosa: India Dosa is a type of pancake made from fermented rice batter poured to make a crêpe. It is usually stuffed with potato and served along with chutneys and sambar, a vegetable stew.

People can travel the world by enjoying various ethnic cuisines at local restaurants.

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23

Business and Finance

Business and Finance

Frankie’s Gas Station celebrates grand opening IP STAFF REPORT

F

rankie’s Gas Station excitedly held their grand opening and ribboncutting ceremony of its brand-new facility. This event marked the launch of a modern, customerfriendly gas station that aims to serve the community with top-quality fuel, convenience items, and excellent customer service. Attendees toured the facility, enjoyed refreshments, and participated in special promotions and giveaways.

Local government officials, Longview Chamber of Commerce Reach Team, community leaders, notable guests, and media representatives graced the event.

East Texas Fuels, Inc ., joined in celebrating the grand opening of Frankie’s Filling Station No. 1 – a boutique convenience store & gas station featuring a drive-thru window – at 2301 Judson Road in Longview., Texas.

East Texas Fuels is a thirdgeneration family business and owner Sam Howell, is a 22-year Longview resident.

Frankie’s Filling Station No. 1 will be the flagship location in the company’s upscale relaunch and will offer onestop convenience in the heart of Longview.

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Friends and Family at Frankie’s grand opening

Law enforcement attend Frankie’s grand opening

Frankie’s filling station cuts ribbon at grand opening

Community members at Frankie’s grand opening

Councilman John Nustad congratulates Frankie’s owner, Sam Howell

Community members at Frankie’s grand opening

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Restaurant-quality coffee at Frankie’s filling station

Community attend Frankie’s grand opening

Other highlights include: • Restaurant-quality coffee • Hot prepared food & baked goods • Fresh grab-and-go options • Health-conscious options • Local beer, wine, and other offerings (including Shiver Sticks!)

• Beer cave • Patio • Guest wi-fi • Large, clean restrooms with an emphasis on touchless fixtures Charlotte Davis presents • Well-lit site, designed for easy Chamber plaque to Sam Howell entry, navigation, and exit • Open 24 hours • Valero Top-Tier™ fuel • Fuel discounts via ValeroPay+ loyalty app (https://www. valeropayplus.com/)

Community members at Frankie’s grand opening

Sam Howell, Owner of Frankie’s Gas Station thanked the mammoth crowd for attending the grand-opening and invited the community to stop at Frankie’s and avail themselves of all it has to offer.

The first 50 customers received a Valero gift card that can be used inside, in the drivethru, or at the pump.

Frankie’s grand opening

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25

Women-owned businesses are thriving

COVER STORY HEALTH & WELLNESS

CHARITABLE CAR RAFFLE Custom 1965 Shelby Cobra Roadster Authentic Replica Manual 5-speed 427 Iconic Cobra Engine (driven 700 miles) Luxurious Tan Diamond Tuck Leather Interior Appraised at $87,000 - $94,000

Raffle Tickets are $100 each and available at The Martin House CAC • 903-807-0189 Energy Weldfab • 903-297-2500

For Official Rules & More Photos

Drawing is April 15, 2025 at 8:00 pm

W

omen entrepreneurs are not to be underestimated. Data affirms that womenowned businesses are growing and thriving.

According to North One banking, women-owned firms account for more than 12 million businesses in the United States. In addition, the 2024 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Business Report, in partnership with Ventureneer, Core Women and Women Impacting Public Policy, found the number of women-owned business increased at a rate of 4.5 times between 2019 to 2023.

Women-owned businesses are driving economic growth, and a deeper look at some of the numbers supports that notion.

MONEY

• The Women’s Business Enterprise Council says there are 12.3 million women-owned businesses in the U.S., which comprises about 40 percent of the total number of businesses.

• Women-owned businesses bring in nearly $2 trillion every year, says the National Women’s Business Council. women of color.

• During the pandemic, women- • According to Forbes, womenowned businesses added 1.4 led tech companies achieve a million jobs and $579.6 billion 35 percent higher ROI. A Forbes in revenue to the economy, says study with First Round Capital, Wells Fargo. a venture capital firm, found • World Bank indicates that female-founded businesses in roughly one-third of principal their portfolio outperformed owners of all businesses are male-founded companies by female. more than 60 percent.

• WBENC advises that 64 Women-owned businesses are percent of new women-owned making a large impact on North businesses are started by America and around the world.

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SEPTEMBER 2024

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WOMEN TODAY

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COVER STORY

COVER STORY

Roxanne Stevenson and Rainy says, BUY A RAFFLE TICKET. STAND UP FOR KIDS. CONTIBUTE CRUCIAL SUPPORT AND RESOURCES. EMPOWER VOICES TO END ABUSE IN OUR COMMUNITY. RAISE AWARENESS. DRIVE IMPACTFUL CHANGE. PROVIDE HOPE FOR A SAFER FUTURE.

The raffle prize is a stunning custom burgundy 1965 Shelby Cobra authentic replica roadster, meticulously built by Backdraft Racing. Featuring a manual 5-speed 427 Iconic Cobra engine and a luxurious tan diamond tuck leather interior, this beauty has been driven only 700 miles and is appraised at a remarkable value. Contact Martin House today to learn how to enter to win in 2025!

Roxanne Stevenson and Rainy

4 WOMEN TODAY

SEPTEMBER 2024

HOW TO ENTER: Raffle tickets are $100 each.

To enter the Raffle, purchase a raffle ticket no later than 11:59 p.m. central time on April 14, 2025. Sale of raffle tickets will commence on July 25, 2024. There is no limit to the number of raffle tickets a person can purchase.

Odds of winning depends on the number of raffle tickets sold.

Courtesy Photo.

SEPTEMBER 2024

WOMEN TODAY

5

COVER STORY

COVER STORY

MARTIN HOUSE CHILDREN ADVOCACY CENTER:

A CHAMPION FOR CHILDREN

A

Story by JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI

ccording to Roxanne Stevenson, executive director of Martin House Children's Advocacy Center, (Martin House CAC), the Center after a decade and half recently rebranded but is still staying true to their mission: “To raise awareness and ensure that every child impacted by abuse is heard, protected, and receives vital services for their continued safety and future well-being.”

The rebranding comes on the heels of changes and growth. “We are always serving children who are victims of abuse and will continue to serve children,’ she said. “We will always advocate for children, get justice for them and provide a comprehensive trauma focused care for their total healing.”

The changes Stevenson discussed include social media forms of abuse. Social media

2 WOMEN TODAY

may connect friends and families. However, it has also become a platform for perverts who use it to gain access to innocent children.

Social media platforms has become a hot spot for child abuse such as: • Cyberbullying.

• Emotional abuse.

• Grooming.

• Sexting.

• Sexual abuse.

• Sexual exploitation.

Stevenson made it clear that it is still child abuse. “Even though there is no physical touch, the trauma is still there.”

Moreover, some teens are abusing other teens on social media. Hence it clearly shows that child abuse has actually increased with different types of modern child abuse. “Cases are changing, and children are victimizing other children,” Stevenson said. “There are children who are being raped and there are cowards out there who rely on secret.”

Stevenson is encouraging everyone to:

• • • • • •

Stand up for kids Do not keep quiet Do not say, “It is not my business.”

Do not say, “I do not want to get involved.”

Do not look the other away.

Report abuse because it will not go away.

“Until we all say, we will stand up for kids, we will report abuse, children will continue to be abused,” she said. “Not reporting child abuse is another silent killer.”

Due to rebranding and growth, Martin House CAC has added qualified staff that enables them to work diligently, providing a cross-disciplinary treatment that is traumafocused and provides a holistic approach for the child’s healing.

It is in this vein that Martin House CAC is giving everyone an opportunity to stand up for kids, by purchasing a raffle ticket and get a shot to win this: Spectacular 1965 Shelby Cobra Replica Roadster appraised for $87,000 - $94,000.

SEPTEMBER 2024

ENTER TO WIN The rafflffle prize is a stunning custom burgundy 1965 Shelby Cobra authentic replica roadster, meticulously built by Backdraft Racing. Featuring a manual 5-speed 427 Iconic Cobra engine and a luxurious tan diamond tuck leather interior, this beauty has been driven only 700 miles and is appraised at a remarkable value of $87,000 - $94,000. Contact Martin House CAC today to learn how to enter to win in 2025! Every purchase helps empower voices to end abuse. Courtesy Photo.

SEPTEMBER 2024

WOMEN TODAY

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WomenToday September 2024

MARTIN HOUSE TEAM CAC SAYS THIS

CLASSIC P. 2

Women-owned Businesses are Thriving P. 7

Photo: Rebecca Thomas

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