complimentary issue
| november 2015
EXCLUSIVE Interview with
Mayor Dr. Andy Mack Pg. 6 LEDCO Talks Progress Pg. 18
Expanded Airport Takes Off Pg. 26
Money Talk Interest Rates Pg. 30
26 Business Connections
6 Cover Story Longview Mayor Dr. James Andrew Mack is no stranger to helping his city
Expanded Airport Takes Off Longview residents can fly to Dallas and then fly back to Longview
22 Kim Brown
30 Money Talk
14 Body Mind and Soul
FED Reserve Keeps Interest Rates Down
Center for Breast Care of Longview Regional Medical Center Pinks Out
23
Action homebuyers have been waiting
Tyrone Curl and Dean Waskowiak
18 Business Connections
24
32 Grubs Up Thanksgiving Recipes
LEDCO Talks Progress Changes Guards Linda Whitehead
Roast Turkey with Mushroom Stuffing and Green Bean Casserole
Editor's Note
O
ne of the most important holidays is upon us-Thanksgiving; when our hearts are especially thankful and grateful for the blessings God has bestowed upon us, our wonderful city of Longview, our great state of Texas, and our blessed nation. To this end, infinitieplus magazine is thankful to our faithful advertisers who without them, we will not be able to bring our community, stories about people and businesses. We are also thankful to our readers who read infinitieplus magazine hard copy, online and like us on facebook. Moreover, we say gracias to our schools, hospitals, law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS. Most important of all, we are thankful that we live in a great city like Longview. Longview is a beautiful place with wonderful people and great potentials. By the same token, this magazine in keeping with the spirit of Thanksgiving say “Thank You to His Honorable Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt and the Commissioners Court for their labor of love in our new and improved East Texas Regional Airport. Read the story on page 26. That is not all. We also salute our new Mayor Andy Mack and the city council. Read Mayor Mack’s story on page 6 , there is more. The Pink Heals and Good Shepherd Medical Center teamed up to paint the town pink for women in October. Read the story on page 22. Longview regional Medical Center also painted the town pink with a question and answer from their expert Docs. See the story on page 14 Equally important, please go through the magazine, get the holiday recipe, check out the advertisers and what they have to offer. We look forward to serving you again in December.
Happy Thanksgiving To Everyone From IP Magazine. Cover photo and photos on page 8 Courtesy of Sam Smead Photocreative
Thank You for Your Support
Joycelyne Fadojutimi www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One... Publisher/Editor
Joycelyne Fadojutimi Photographers Joycelyne Fadojutimi Graphic Artist Jade Joseph Elevera Contributing Writers Joycelyne Fadojutimi Jim Woodard Terry Savage Public Relations Joycelyne Fadojutimi Distribution Teddy Larose Rachel Larose •OUR MISSION• To enrich the localglobal community with the “just in time”knowledge to assure future life successes. •OUR VISION• To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serve the needs of all people. 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 are copyrighted 2014. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus or its advertisers.
For advertising, contact Joycelyne Fadojutimi jfadr@infinitieplus.com
517 Mobberly Avenue Longview, Texas 75602 www.infinitieplus.com
VOLUME 4 | NUMBER 11 November 2015
5
COVER STORY
T Story & Photos By Joycelyne Fadojutimi
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Dr. James Andrew Mack The Mayor Who Cares
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Longview Mayor Dr. James Andrew Mack is no stranger to helping his city. He started serving his hometown long before he took the title of Your Honor. His oral and maxillofacial surgical practice has been seeing to local needs for 26 years, but has never taken up all his time. From 1997 to 2005, he sat on the city council as representative for District 4, served on the Vision 2015 Task Force, and back in 2010 he won that year’s Tourism Partner of the Year Award. He has worked with Junior Achievement, the Make A Wish Foundation, the Wounded Warrior Project, and the Baseball and Basketball Booster Clubs. He was elected Longview’s mayor last May, and has always moved in impressive circles. As a child he and Governor Greg Abbott were close friends and playmates. Even their
6
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
mothers were best friends. After Mack graduated from Longview High School, he moved on to Kilgore College, and then Stephen F. Austin University where he took his bachelor of science degree as a biology major while taking chemistry as a minor, graduating Magna Cum Laude in just three years. His next stop was Baylor University where he easily earned his doctorate from the college of dentistry in 1985. There is more. Andy is a member of Omicron Kappa Epsilon honor society. He carried out his residency in 1989 in the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, honing his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery skills. His studies at this biggest medical center in the world, also trained him in anesthesia, reconstructive surgery and facial cosmetics as he followed his father, Dr. Sam Mack, into the field of oral medicine. It is a family trend as his brothers Chris and Ben Mack are also men of medicine. “It took all three brothers to make up one of my dad,” he says. It is important to note, Father Sam devoted 37 years as unpaid team doctor for the Longview High School football team, the famed Lobos. It was an example his son took to heart. Even more, Andy’s caring and compassionate nature shows through in his hard work as a healer, but medical service is not his sole avenue toward improving the lives of others. He devoted four years to hosting an outdoor television program on the Sportsman’s Channel, and donates his time and knowledge as a deacon and Sunday school teacher at First Baptist Church.
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
Charity Work: Dr. Andy Mack treats a patient at no charge. www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
7
COVER STORY
Page 8: Mayor Andy Mack chats with Texas Governor Greg Abbott during his recent visit to Longview. Page 9: Mayor Andy Mack, Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Kelly Mack pose for a photo.
He strives to address not only the physical, but spiritual well-being of those around him. Helping the less fortunate is his means of meeting their earthly needs, and matters of the soul as his beneficiaries can easily see the influence of the Holy Spirit through his selfless labors. But that is not all. He recently started a book club because a friend asked him to read a book, the Go-Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann while he was on vacation. He was not that enthused about the book. “I thought to himself I would rather read a book about someone saving the world than a book like this.” Nonetheless, he gave the book a chance and it blew him away. The text is about giving more than receiving. So, he decided instead of having just a private book club he would invite the whole city to join the club. To put it another way, this is not a private book club. This is a non-exclusive circle dedicated to all who wish to partake of this invaluable resource that meets on Mondays. Once he has finished the club meetings, he wants to donate all the copies to New Gate Mission that feeds East Texas vulnerable population. “Everyone needs self-esteem,” he said. “And everyone has something to give. Giving is a noble action that makes us feel good.” More than this, the results of Andy’s community book club is astounding. After the first meeting, there were 177 comments about it in the first hour. To this end, Go-Giver has inspired a local citizen to donate a 8
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
generous amount of money to the Police Department for body cameras “This book could possibly make our community a better place,” he said. “Not sure if it will make a huge change but it couldn’t hurt. The Go-Giver is about being a servant by any and all capacity. In addition, Andy also has been careful to master technology in his quest to make Longview and its environs a better place. “I don’t have town hall meetings because of Facebook. If there is a concern the citizens let us know on Facebook, and we handle it and move on,” he said. “For our citizens who are not on Face book, they can always call me. If you call my phone it will ring. I always return every call before bed every day.” There is also no room for conceit or arrogance in Dr. James Mack. He learned it well from his father who said, “If you think you are better than anyone, just let the trash man not pick up your trash for a week.” His sense of responsibility for his city motivated him to run for mayor. He feels he can never give enough, and desperately wants to make a positive difference. “I am a really good implementer,” he says. “The city of Longview keeps giving me tasks to do, and I feel I can implement them in the right way.” Apart from all his other attributes, he is a very humble man. He does not see the title of mayor as something to brag about. To him it sets him apart in just www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
Now Available to All TBT checkcard Customers! Surcharge-Free ATMs Worldwide!
It’s as easy as 1-2-3 ! LOOK for the Allpoint logo on participating ATMs. FIND an ATM near you by downloading the Allpoint mobile app or visiting allpointnetwork.com.
GRAPHIC ST
Introdu
GAIN surcharge-free access to your cash!
This Graphic Standards section of these O facilitate the use of the Allpoint® Brand Terminals, signs, marketing materials and LLC. must approve in writing any deviation
Rights and Re
find allpoint at these retailers: Target® CVS/pharmacy® Walgreens®
Kroger® 7-11® Winn Dixie®
ATM National, LLC. is the sole owner of uses, designations or registrations own Allpoint® Brand Mark. ATM National, LLC Allpoint® Brand Mark and shall have all maintenance on all signage applications a
Sunoco® Costco Wholesale®Standards and Ge The Allpoint Brand Mark consists of th rectangle box. None of these elements Safeway® any way. ®
* Look for the Allpoint logo to ensure your transaction will be surchargeThe Allpoint Brand Mark may appear in a free. Not every retail location has an Allpoint surcharge-free ATM inside. Approved Color Versions
®
Color Version A Green (Pantone® 355 C) and Yellow (Pan
find the nearest allpoint atm location @ www.texasbankandtrust.com www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
9
COVER STORY
one way--it designates him as the city’s highest ranking public servant. Again, this reflects a blessed family trait. “It is abnormal how three brothers who are from Longview and that are now doctors all came back here just as we have,” he said. “Now I would like all my children to become doctors and to come back here just as we have. We have to make Longview a place where our kids want to come back to. We need to make the city something to be proud of--not just a place they say they came from.” Older brother Chris Mack is a general dentist. Younger brother Ben Mack is a surgeon specializing in breast cancer surgery. Andy’s personal campaign to enrich the city is welldemonstrated by his drive to construct, complete and promote Lear Park. “Lear Park is not complete. At some point it needs to be completed,” he says. “We can’t let the plan become stagnant because it will lose its drive. Whatever we do, it has to be something. We can’t just do nothing.” Filling the positions he holds gives him a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, but he will never allow his ego to deter him from taking the best avenues to civic success and improvement. Should he ever lose the ability to profitably serve he sees stepping aside as his best course of action. He will willingly stand down should he realize someone else would be more effective. “If and when I become ineffective I will step down, but as long as I am effective I will stay and serve as long as the people will have me,” he says. “I don’t want to know what people want to see in 15 to 20 years. I want to know what people want to see within five years.” His Honor also welcomes all who wish to help. He looks upon anybody desiring and able to work for the betterment of Longview as a resource to be eagerly employed--including his past political opponents. “The election is over with for now,” he says. “I do not hold grudges on anyone who did not support me. When I lost to [former Mayor] Jay [Dean] I stayed and supported him for ten years. Grudges are for children. We are all adults. We have to move on and move forward. Life is too short for grudges. They make you old and tired. Besides, it is detrimental.” Not one to crow over his accomplishments he replies in low-key fashion when asked for a self-evaluation. “There are no surprises so far,” he says. “I’ve enjoyed
every minute that I have been mayor, but I know that there will be bumps in the road ahead. It is a growing phase for me.” Mack’s sense of humor, grasp on reality and overall positive outlook on life are apparent in his words. “The people that keep me active and motivated every single day overwhelm me,” he says. “I actually feel younger now. I have to stay positive at this time. I am the glass half-full kind of guy. Positive thoughts bring positive results.” He keeps his blessings close--especially his beloved wife Kelly and children. Daughters Spencer and Madison are both studying to be dentists, with Spencer specializing in Orthodontics. Son Luke is pursuing a dual degree as both a dentist and doctor practicing general surgery like his paternal grandfather. The altruistic inclinations of these young people may be something they inherited from their father, but he is quick to give his beautiful wife Kelly all the credit not only for molding their children in the best possible image, but in keeping him grounded and for supporting him in his unselfish endeavors. “I cannot take an ounce of credit for their upbringing because my wonderful wife did all the work,” he says. “She has always been there for the kids and for me. She has been the kids’ motivational drive, leading them into their successful lives.” His love for his children has also led him to work hard for local education. He sees a glaring need in this area. “I’m going to try to work with all the school systems to build a bond between the schools and the city because education is key, he says, “It is a partnership that needs to be expanded, and we haven’t done a very good job of it so far.” If local education has been a problem it is one that is not reflected in the Mack children. Spencer graduated from the Baylor College of Dentistry in May of 2014. She presently is working in the residency program at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, specializing in Orthodontics. Madison is in her third year at the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Luke is also attending the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, where he is in his first year. He will follow his father and grandfather’s example of becoming a specialist in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
East Texas Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Ladies Talk About Their Work See Page 11
10
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
COVER STORY
Wendy Ashley Surgical Assistant Has been for 6 years. Really enjoys the fast pace environment.
Alicia Newell
Receptionist Has been for 5 years Enjoys the fast pace and interaction with patients.
Becky Aleshire Insurance Working for 10 years – Says it is a close knit group of girls and the doctors are not only their bosses but also their friends.
Erin Underhill Surgical Assistant Working for 9 months. Really enjoys helping people that are in need.
Sherri Herring Dental Assistant Working for a year – Dr. Mack is very generous to work for.
Chelsey Williams RDA/Recovery Working for 3 years. Enjoys making the patients happy and likes the dentists.
Megan Holloway Collections Enjoy interacting with the people.
Charlotte Wilks Office Manager Working for 17 years. The employees are like family. www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
11
Congratulations to the 2016 Stars Over Longview Glenda Burt
Dorothy Horne
Kristen Ishihara Cherika Johnson
Dorothy Khoury Laura Laster Carolyn Northcutt Dana Parr Francye Phillips Sandra Skoog Lisa Van Burkleo Chrissy Berry
Celebrating 16 Years Thursday, January 14, 2016 Speaker: Liz Murray
Doors Open at 11:30 a.m. Ceremony and Luncheon begin at noon Maude Cobb Activity Center 100 Grand Blvd. • Longview Complimentary valet parking will be available.
Ticket Information Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8 Tickets will be available for purchase beginning Monday, November 2, 2015. To purchase, call Longview Regional Medical Center’s Marketing Department at 903-553-7400.
Speaker: Liz Murray
New York Times Best-Selling Author of “Breaking Night” & recipient of the White House “Project’s Role Model Award” and Oprah Winfrey’s first-ever “Chutzpah Award”.
For additional information on this event visit LongviewRegional.com. 12
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
LIVING WELL
Thanksgiving Feast, Family Talk By Terry Savage
The Thanksgiving holiday approaches. Do you anticipate this event with desire or dread? For many families, it is the one time of the year they can get together for at least a few hours to create memories, reminisce and share a traditional feast. But it can also be a time of anxiety, with issues to avoid and feelings that can easily be hurt. How, then, can I even consider suggesting you bring up the subject of growing older — not only the physical aspects but the financial planning issues that will inevitably arise? Certainly, this is not a subject to bring up over dinner or immediately after when the family is headed to the couch to watch the football games. Maybe you could postpone the topic until the next day. Black Friday is so passe, with holiday sales starting early. Instead, we could rename it “Family Friday” — a time to catch up on those touchy intergenerational financial questions: — Do you have a will and a health care power of
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
attorney? — Who will be guardian for your minor children in case of a tragedy? — Have you thought about downsizing from this big house to a smaller place? — What about the costs of care that are not covered by Medicare or supplement policies? “Tread lightly,” advises Dr. Barbara Nussbaum, a New York psychologist and specialist in coaching individuals and families with money issues.“Everyone knows they are getting older, but few are open to discussing the financial issues in advance.” Tips for Talk So how do you bring up these topics without causing a family meltdown? Dr. Nussbaum has some tips: — Start with the “easiest” family member. If you know Mom is adamant about remaining in the house, ask Dad if he thinks it is getting to be “too much” for her to handle.
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
13
BODY MIND AND SOUL
Pink Out
Christine Moulds-Merritt, M.D. and Elizabeth Baumgardener 14
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
g
C
enter for Breast Care of Longview Regional Medical Center presented a Breast Cancer Awareness Program at the Summit Club. Expert doctors, Christine Moulds-Meritt, general surgeon; Randy Erwin, radiologist; Frank Tibiletti, OB/GYN; and Ben Mack, general surgeon were on the panel and answered questions from the audience. Discussion topics included breast health, breast cancer prevention, early diagnosis modalities, cancer screening and breast cancer risks. The evening showcased dinner, shopping, raffles and lots of pink out fun.
Caitlin Leone, Terri Welch, Dar-Necia Wright and Allison Hebert
g Iva Holyfield, Jill Smead, Susan Pope, Susan Gage and Ann Smead www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
15
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
BODY MIND AND SOUL
Amy Tillman, Theresa Walker and Carla Worskam
Darlynn Jones and Janiece Baldwin
g Dawn Vaughn and Taylor Murphy
Carolyn Northcutt and Natalie Rabicoff www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
Christin Charlton, Libby Bryson and Page Brown infinit ieplu s
November 2015
17
BUSINESS CONNECTIONS
LEDCO Talks Progress Story and Photos By Joycelyne Fadojutimi
Even though eight of its members were being replaced, the Longview Economic Development Council (LEDCO) Corporation felt a glow of accomplishment over its achievements of the past five years. Board members and staff along with representatives from local businesses attended the celebratory luncheon for the event October 7 at the Longview Business Park Pavilion. LEDCO Executive Director Susan Mazarakes-Gill explained what is meant by the overhaul. “The board members will be rotating off in October, and we wanted to highlight and thank them for the hours they have put in that have resulted in our progress,” she said. “We are thankful for their service.” By approving the economic development sales
tax Longview local voters insured funding for recruiting and retaining primary employers and the vital jobs they provide for Longview. For example, such retail jobs pay $8 to $11 per hour, and manufacturing jobs pay $13 to $33 per hour. Both returning and outgoing LEDCO members hope and expect the success to continue. Mazarakes-Gill is highly impressed with the panel’s recent performance. “I don’t know of another economic development office in this state that’s closed on eleven projects in this fiscal year the way we have. In its history, LEDCO has never done that,” she said. “It’s directly attributed to the work our board and staff have put in over the past five or six years. This doesn’t just happen overnight.” She also points out that during the past five years Longview has seen a 4150% return on investments. Thirty-one individual projects using $12.2 million in LEDCO incentives have created 1517 jobs and $518.9 million in five-year payrolls, capital investment and taxes. During this period, LEDCO also invested another $2.9 million in such projects as street renovation and upgrades.
Kim and Dan Droege
Susan Mazarakes-Gill with Mallory Mazarakes
18
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
Richard Manly
Les Mendicello
Pete Lamothe
Dean Woodward
“We’ve been persistent and consistent, but through it all we’ve had a very supportive board and diligent staff,” said Mazarakes-Gill. “Still, it’s not just this board, but all the boards, including the visionaries who started it, and all the elected officials.” Please see LEDCO's progress on page 20 and 21.
Pat Britton www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
LEDCO Board Members: Dan Droege, Steve Metcalf, Lester Lucy and Joe Bob Joyce
David Reed www.infinitieplus.com
Jim Green infinit ieplu s
November 2015
19
BODY MIND AND SOUL
DD Johnson, JoCarol Cox and Nikki Youngblood
I n T h e P i n k
Story and Photos By Joycelyne Fadojutimi
Pink is a beautiful color. It was Linda McCartney’s favorite color. When breast cancer took her, it is doubtful she knew the hue that most appealed to her would become the symbol for the international crusade to eradicate this ghastly disease that not only stole this wonderful woman from us, but millions of others every year. Here in East Texas the pink campaign is flies high every October. This
Stars On The Fashion
22
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
Cindy Jordan, Jan Payne, Kathy Mendicello, Angell Fanning, Kathy Jones, Marilyn Hampton, Carolyn McAninch
year was no different. Longview’s Good Shepherd Medical Center (GSMC) rolled out a carpet of pink to those dedicated to seeing the end of a scourge that has maimed and killed men and women of all ages and persuasions.The fifth annual Think Pink Luncheon and Fashion Show was held at the Maude Cobb Convention Center, and the creme of Longview society were on hand to lend their support.
n Runaway
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
Steve Denfeld, Elizabeth Baumgardener, Tim Crofford, Libby Bryson and Shona Cates
Sheryll Mitchell, Jennifer Harris, Kellie Pope, Dorrie De'Land, Maurita Myres, Connie Milligan
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
23
BODY MIND AND SOUL
Mary Murdoch
Linda Whitehead
Renee Hawkins 24
November 2015
Shaerron Wesley
KLTV anchorperson Anissa Centers served as emcee. The show featured local firefighters and volunteers modeling autumn’s hottest fashions from Barron’s, Cavender’s. Dillard’s, Hurwitz, Morgan Abbigail, Trendy Chicks and the Women’s Health Boutique. GSMC Mammography Supervisor Amy Dorsey explained the event’s objective of celebrating the anticipated victory in the war on breast cancer. “The Breast Center at Good Shepherd Medical Center provides life-saving exams for women across East Texas,” she said. “Think Pink plays a critical role in allowing us to care for women who could not otherwise afford an exam.” It is important to note, this was the first time GSMC held the extravaganza at Maude Cobb Convention Center. With attendance growing every year, a venue this size is now required.The points of interest were many prize giveaways which included the handing out of six pink handbags featuring one bag with an additional, $500 prize inside it. In addition the event recognized breast cancer survivors who, along with everyone else, dined on pink cake, drank pink punch and checked out a pink fire engine that all survivors were invited to sign. inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
Marjorie Budd
Doris Ramaly
Gail Ramirez www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
Carolyn Northcutt Breast Cancer Survivor
THRIVING. THE TEAM AT LONGVIEW REGIONAL HELPED CAROLYN SURVIVE, AND THRIVE.
When Carolyn found a lump in her breast, her doctor recommended a 3D mammogram at Longview Regional Medical Center. The lump turned out to be a form of cancer that required surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. “I had a whole team of people working together to provide care, answer every question, and help my life go on as normally as possible,” said Carolyn. “They even scheduled my treatments around trips to see my grandchildren. The healthcare system at Longview Regional is second to none.” Contact the Center for Breast Care of Longview Regional Medical Center at 903-232-8596 for information or to schedule your 3D mammogram.
Appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis. A physician order is not required, but the patient must provide a physician’s name when an appointment is made. If the person does not have a physician/provider, a list will be provided for the patient’s selection. All mammogram reports will be sent to the physician/provider and follow-ups are the responsibility of the patient.
BUSINESS CONNECTIONS
Expanded Airpo Story and Photos By Joycelyne Fadojutimi
T
he future has truly arrived now that Longview residents can fly to Dallas in the morning for their fun or business, and then fly back to East Texas Regional Airport (ETRA) before dark. Making the deal even sweeter is how parking at the airport is free. Country/western superstar Neal McCoy opened the celebration for the remodeled airport and the Honorable County Judge Bill Stoudt cut the ribbon as local dignitaries looked on. McCoy is delighted with the new facility because he does so much traveling, and as a Jacksonville native he grew up thinking of Longview as a big city. This is why he made it his home.
Neal McCoy and County Judge Bill Stoudt
“I am tickled to death with this new airport. Thank you Judge Stoudt and [Airport Manager] Roy [Miller] for doing such a wonderful job,” he said. “The facility is beautiful, and as always I am glad to call East Texas home. This place is just marvelous.” Miller described how the upgrades will relieve crowding in the holding room. “Everything was crammed, but now we have an enlarged holding room for up to 150 people, convenient restrooms and snacks,” he said. Judge Bill Stoudt outlined how the commissioner’s court cooperated with American Airlines throughout 26
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
the long, demanding process of expanding the air service. “This is five years of blood, sweat and tears,” he said. “This airport is important because it is a diversion airport for Dallas/Ft. Worth because of the landing strip.” Furthermore, Stoudt told the crowd about how his office and the county commissioners’ court worked to achieve the new services and facilities at ETRA. “It is a vision that began with County Judge Henry Atkinson, and the terminal is named after him,” he said. “The other judges carried on the vision, and this court made a renewed committment with 90% of the funds coming from the federal government.” Stoudt also revealed how he made a promise to Atkinson that he [Stoudt] and the commissioners’ court will improve the airport. Atkinson’s son even wrote a letter of commendation for Stoudt and the commissioners’ court for their hard work and competence in realizing Atkinson’s dream. “This day is special to me as a citizen, as a leader and as one elected to serve the people of Gregg County,” he said.“I am privileged to be your county judge.” The Longview Museum of Fine Arts is supplying the airport with artwork to make it look as well as it operates and serves. The museum will insure the airport has a desirable ambience, and will periodically replace the artwork to keep the facade fresh and appealing. ETRA has commenced new flights to Dallas/Ft. Worth Regional Airport (DFW) that started on October 5. Flights depart Longview at 7:00 a.m. to arrive in Dallas at 8:03, enabling passengers to board American Airlines to various destinations. There is also a new incoming flight arriving at ETRA at 9:21 a.m. so that East Texans can work a full day before soaring back home on a flight leaving DFW at 8:25 p.m. These proliferating air routes mean that East Texans can avail themselves of a number of American Airlines flights out of DFW en route to nationwide and international destinations. Business commuters will wing out of ETRA every morning, fly to DFW and take various flights to work destinations and then fly back to ETRA the same day. For those traveling to more distant points it www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
ort Takes Off
The Honorable Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt, Airport Dir. Roy Miller; and Lourie Perticone, Dale Morris Of AmericanAirlines Cut Ribbon for newly remodeled East Texas Regional Airport
now will be possible to return home on a late flight without spending nights on the road. There is even a new midday flight leaving DFW at 1:35, landing at ETRA at 2:26 before lifting back off for DFW at 3:00 p.m.This abundance of new options will be a great convenience for all commuters using ETRA. Stoudt is upbeat and enthusiastic about the new improvements. “We have developed a true partnership with American Airlines,” he said. “They have listened to the recommendations for these schedules that we’ve been hearing for some time from the citizens. It’s now time for us to promote these new schedules so the flights will be full. This is a matter of use it or lose it, so encourage your friends and neighbors to use these services.”
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
East Texans are doing just that. While previously planes were 50% to 60% of their passenger carrying capacity, they now are 85% to 90% full. Aside from free parking and a holding room for up to 150 persons there are enlarged baggage areas, new and highly accessible restrooms, a snack bar, new jet bridge, a high efficiency energy system, making the airport an overall more user-friendly facility. Best of all 90% of expenses are paid by the federal government. It is likely the future will see yet more improvements as transportation facilities continue to expand to cater to increasing demands for commuting resources. For additional information on fees, schedules and sundry services please call (903) 643-3031 or email at roy.miller@co.gregg. tx.us.
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
27
BUSINESS CONNECTIONS “Having been on the airport board years ago when they had one....I never dreamed East Texas Regional Airport would be enlarged and so very beautiful in my lifetime. It is now among the top smaller airports and best of all it has “Free” parking. That’s what good, selfless leadership does for a community. Congratulation’s Judge Bill Stoudt, and team for a job well done that brings your community/region lots of pride. I only wish the decision makers in Longview had followed your lead and finished our Amtrak train station before they rushed to have its ribbon cutting two years ago. It would have looked just as pretty with plants. However, detail work still goes on.” – Natalie Rabicoff Rhonda Bullard and Neal McCoy At ETRA
28
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
29
MONEY TALK
Fed Reserve keeps interest Rates down
By Jim Woodard
M
any prospective homebuyers have been waiting for the ideal economic situation to take action. When the Federal Reserve voted on September 17 to keep interest rates unchanged amid concerns over the global economy and financial market volatility, those buyers thought this might be the right time. On September 24, Freddie Mac announced a further reduction in the average interest rate of mortgages. The 30-year fixed-rate
30
November 2015
mortgage averaged just 3.86 percent. “Fed officials hinted that a modest policy tightening could occur later this year,” it was reported by the National Association of Realtors. The report explained why the Fed took the action. “The Fed’s benchmark short-term rate has stayed near zero since December 2008, which has also helped to keep mortgage rates low ever since. Economists have been largely predicting for months that the Fed would likely raise rates in September, the first time
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
in almost nine years,” the NAR report noted. “The outlook abroad appears to have become less certain,” Fed Chair Janet Yellen said in a news conference. A recent drop in U.S. stock prices and an increase in the value of the dollar were signs of tightening financial market conditions, which was likely to slow economic growth in the U.S. “In light of the heightened uncertainty abroad, the committee judged it appropriate to wait,” says Yellen. Fed officials continued to say they want to
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
see “some further improvement in the labor market” and be “reasonably confident” that inflation will increase before they press ahead on rate increases. The report pointed out that 13 of 17 Fed policymakers said they foresee increasing rates at least once this year. That’s down from 15 at the last meeting in June. Four Fed policymakers say rates should not be raised until at least 2016, it was noted in a NAR release. The Fed will hold policy meetings again in October and December. Q: Were home sales strong during the summer months? A: A recent study shows that housing sales increased 10.7 percent from the same month a year ago. It should be noted that reflects a lowering from year-over-year increases of the prior four months, indicating that housing continues to lead the economy. All four regions reported that unit sales rose from a year ago, with the Northeast leading the way with an increase of 19.1 percent over a year ago. “August housing sales jumped strongly, and that indicates that the housing market continues to have the wind at its back,” said Steve Murray, editor of the Real Trends Housing Market Report. Q: What proportion of homebuyers use the Internet in their search for a home? A: An interesting release from the National Association of Realtors addresses that subject: “House-hunters are increasingly turning to the Internet for their home search, but they still say they need a real estate agent’s expertise. “Forty percent of buyers surveyed said they looked for properties online as the first step in their house hunt (up from 36 percent in 2010), according to NAR. But 88 percent of buyers last year purchased their home with the assistance of a real estate agent, up from 83 percent in 2010. “Ninety-four percent of young adults from the millennial generation and 84 percent of baby boomers said they used online websites in their home search. Older baby boomers — aged 60 to 68 years old — used a mobile device to search for properties at less than half the rate of millennials - 30 percent versus 66 percent.”
Q: Is new-home construction down? A: Yes, but builders are quite upbeat. Housing starts receded 3 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1.126 million units in August, the Commerce Department reported. “The decline in housing starts follows on the heels of a survey that shows homebuilders are more upbeat about the new-home sector, as confidence reached its highest reading since October 2005,” the report stated. The Commerce Department’s report showed that “single-family housing starts dropped 3 percent in August to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 739,000, while multifamily starts fell 3 percent to 387,000 units.”
MAKE THE MOVE TO FIRST BANK & TRUST EAST TEXAS GET THE PERSONAL SERVICE YOU EXPECT AND THE MOBILE AND ONLINE TECHNOLOGY YOU NEED TO BANK FROM ANYWHERE.
XPRESS DEPOSIT
MOBILE BILL PAY
Dan Droege Longview Market President
MOBILE BANKING
TEXT BANKING
VISIT FBTET.COM OR CALL (903) 757-4000 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
2395 H.G. Mosley Pkwy | Longview www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
31
GRUBS UP
Thanksgiving Recipe Roast Turkey with Mushroom Stuffing Prep: 25 minutes Roast 3 hours 30 minutes Stand: 10 minutes Makes: 12 servings 3 ½ cups Swanson Chicken Stock (Regular or Unsalted) 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves, crushed 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves, crushed ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper 1 stalk celery, coarsely chopped (about ½ cup) 1 small onion, coarsely chopped (about ¼ cup) ½ cup sliced mushrooms (about 1 ½ ounces) 4 cups Pepperidge Farm Herb Seasoned Stuffing 1 turkey (12 to 14 pounds) Vegetable cooking spray
Green Bean Casserole
1. Stir 1/34 cups stock, lemon juice, basil, thyme and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper in a medium bowl. 2. Heat remaining stock, remaining black pepper, celery, onion and mushrooms in a 4-quart saucepan over medium-high heat to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Remove saucepan from heat. Add stuffing to saucepan and mix lightly. 3. Remove package of giblets and neck from turkey cavity. Rinse turkey with cold water and pat dry with paper towel. Spoon stuffing lightly into neck and body cavities. Fold any loose skin over stuffing. Tie ends of drumstick together. 4. Place turkey, breast side up, on a rack in shallow roasting pan. Spray turkey with cooking spray. Brush with stock mixture. Insert meat thermometer into thickest part of meat, not touching bone.
1 16-ounce package French-cut green beans, thawed 1 cup alfredo-mushroom sauce (I used Barilla) 1/4 cup 1-percent milk 1/2 can French-fried onions (reserve other half for topping) Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all ingredients in a medium size mixing bowl and blend well. Pour into a casserole dish about bake 20 minutes. Remove dish from oven and add remaining French onions. Bake addition 5 minutes. Remove from heat and serve. Photo cap: Alfredo sauce lends a new twist on an old standby www.flavorfixx.com
32
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
www.infinitieplus.com
infinit ieplu s
November 2015
33
34
November 2015
inf init ie p lu s
www.infinitieplus.com
www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
JUST FOR LAUGHS
1. ANIMAL KINGDOM: What would a group of emus be called? 2. SCIENCE: What is the only known metal that turns to liquid at room temperature? 3. MYTHOLOGY: In Greek mythology, what was the name of the ship that Jason used in pursuit in the Golden Fleece? 4. AD SLOGANS: Which company’s ads claim its services are “So easy a caveman can do it”? 5. FAMOUS QUOTATIONS: Which ancient philosopher once said, “If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading”? 6. MEDICAL: What is the condition called cyesis? 7. TELEVISION: Who used to sign off his program with the words, “Good night and good luck”? 8. LANGUAGE: What is the American equivalent of the British term “braces”? 9. MOVIES: In which film is “The Children’s Marching Song” performed? 10. LITERATURE: What is the subject matter of the book “Ten Days That Shook the World”? © 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
1. A mob 2. Mercury 3. The Argo 4. GEICO 5. Lao Tzu 6. Pregnancy
10. The Russian Revolution 9. “The Inn of the Sixth Happiness” 8. Suspenders 7. Edward R. Murrow
Riddle Time
What comes down but never goes up? Answer: Rain www.facebook.com/IPmagazine2
1. Arcade, Arcane 2. Oasis, Basis 3. Canter, Center
www.infinitieplus.com
4. Peony, Phony 5. Sheer, Sheen 6. Bikini, Biking
7. Sally, Silly 8. Quilt, Quill 9. Tryst, Trust
infinit ieplu s
10. Outlet, Outset
© 2014 King Features Synd., Inc.
November 2015
35