VOL. 6. NO. 4
LONGVIEW BUSINESS MAGAZINE
JULY 2017
VOL.MAGAZINE 6. NO. 7 LONGVIEW’S OWN BUSINESS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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EVENTS
EDITOR’S NOTE The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One . . .
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY
People from all over the world are expected to flock into Longview for its phenomenal Great Texas Balloon Race this month. The event marks 40 years.
F
LRMC’s Senior Circle members boogied ‘til dawn and then some! Blues, jazz, rock, big band and pop — name the genre, and they gamely gave it their all, proving that music is indeed good medicine.
MIND 20 BODY, AND SOUL
F.A.S.T. helps people remember the warning signs of mini-strokes. Recognizing the signs could help save a life.
31 6COVER
S T O R Y
The City gave a bittersweet sendoff to Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary, a man who has long been both their protector and friend. Zackary retired after over 20 years of service. “Johnny was always on the spot to help,” says a friend. He focused on avoiding waste so much, he earned the monicker “Head Recycler”.
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BRAIN TEASERS
There’s the Oscar, Emmy, Grammy. How well do you know the other famous prizes and honors?
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GRUBS UP
An all-American picnic equals grilled sirloin sliders and kid-friendly banana split kebabs.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Patterson Nissan has relocated to a new state-of-the-art showroom on North Eastman Road. Country western superstar Neal McCoy sang the national anthem at the well-attended grand opening event. www.infinitieplus.com
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ire Marshal Johnny Zackary finally hung up his hat and moved on to something different. But not before the City, family and friends roasted him (kinda) and bade him farewell. See the complete story from page 6. Music is good medicine. It soothes the soul and improves sullen moods. There are also those who boogie until dawn. Check out the story of Longview Regional Medical Center Senior Circle ball on page 14. Patterson Nissan celebrated its relocation from 1201 McCann Road to their new state-of-the-art showroom plus nine acres of concrete stocked with primarily Nissan on 3114 North Eastman Road in Longview, Texas. See this one of a kind of a grand opening from page 22. Longview is a wonderful place to live. The citizens of Longview have great passion for our community. Take for example, the upcoming Great Texas Balloon Race slated for Friday July 28 to 30th as an example. It takes a dedicated functioning board and passionate, diligent volunteers, working countless hours behind the scenes to make the nearly impossible, possible at this world- famous event. By the way, let’s not forget, Longview is a town full of people who give their time, talents and treasures for a better community. See the Great Texas Balloon Race story and schedule from page 12.
Marketing / PR Joycelyne Fadojutimi Photography Joycelyne Fadojutimi Keisha Roland Creative Director Cris Bell Contributing Writers Jackie Gingrich Cushman Joycelyne Fadojutimi Malcolm Berko Distribution Teddy Larose Rachel Larose 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.
For Advertising Contact Joycelyne Fadojutimi jfadr@ infinitieplus.com
We hope you will take time and read the whole magazine and enjoy the articles. Thanks for giving us the opportunity to serve. We look forward to doing so again in August.
517 Mobberly Avenue Longview, Texas 75602 www.infinitieplus.com www.facebook.com/ InfinitePlus magazine
The entire contents of infinitieplus magazine are copyrighted 2017. 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. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi
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VOLUME 6 | ISSUE 7
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COVER STORY
Bundles of joy. It’s what we deliver. From the day you find out to the day you deliver, there’s nothing more important to Longview Regional Medical Center than your and your baby’s health and well-being. This is why we provide extra amenities such as private rooms, spacious birthing suites, childbirth classes and breastfeeding support. And if you and your newest addition need a little extra help, we offer perinatal services that include maternal-fetal medicine specialists and a Level III NICU. For more information about our labor and delivery services, visit LongviewRegional.com/baby.
2901 N. Fourth Street • Longview, TX 75605 • 903-242-3490 • LongviewRegional.com
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
City Bids Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary Farewell By Joycelyne Fadojutimi
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t was a huge assembly that came together to laud the efforts of Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary, whose tenure with the Longview Fire Department (LFD) was ending in retirement. His co-workers and those who benefitted from his tenure as head of the city’s most significant life-saving agency gave a bitter-sweet send-off to this man who has long been both their protector and friend. Fire Chief J.P. Steelman led the cavalcade of speakers who sang the praises of this public servant who shielded citizens from the treachery of fiery misadventure. His enthusiasm for his job and the many responsibilities it carried made him a hero many times over as he tirelessly, expertly served Longview and its citizens. A dedicated family man whose loved ones were always with him and behind him, Zackary could count on the encouragement he needed for his vital post. Besides his blood kin, he had the fire department as a second family, supporting him at every step as he rose through the ranks via his extreme expertise and commitment. c
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
Zackary fully understood the serious responsibilities of his position, and never shrank from his commitments, always meeting them head-on and successfully. He molded his firemen into his example of physical excellence, insuring they were the best possible candidates for their job. Even his secretary, Aeisha Robinson, commented on how working for him was not only a privilege, but downright flattering to be accepted onto such a crackerjack staff. It was not always a case of fighting fires, either. Tony Hollins of the Pine Tree Independent School District recounted how Zackery’s untouched problem-solving ability came through when his district needed to dispose of some unwanted chemicals. “Johnny was always on the spot to help, said Hollins. “Always able to solve problems with outstanding performances.” Recycling was another of his personal functions in the department. He was so
expert at avoiding waste by recycling that he earned the unofficial title of “Expert Laminator and Paper Cutter.” He was also called “Head Recycler.” After Longview City Manager David Willard expressed the city’s gratitude to Zackery and wishes for a wonderful retirement, City Councilman Ed Moore conveyed his council’s appreciation and best wishes. “On behalf of city council, we sincerely thank you for all you have done,” he said. “You have been in charge of the safety of our people, and have done a great job of that. We are going to miss you.” Others spoke on how Zackary’s teaching ability, honor, compassion and faith blessed all those around him and the city. His professional and personal concern for others helped all from the very richest to the homeless. Touched by the outpouring of gratitude and affection, Zackery took his turn at the mike and described his own feelings for his fellow
Jerilyn and Johnny Zackary, with daughter Jennifer Hoffner (nee Zackary) 8
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Officer Bert Scott presents Zackary a gift from the Fire Marshal’s Office — an old-fashioned fire bell He concluded by pouring out his love Longview residents and his firefighters, confor Longview and its people. He expects a centrating on the perils of their calling. wonderful future. “We have had near misses. Pray for your “I am grateful and thankful for the opfirefighters, especially when you hear the amportunity to work with so many great peobulance. Pray for whoever they are going to help. Pray for them and the family involved,” ple,” he said. “Longview is in good hands. he said. “Pray for your police officers and all Keep pressing on and leave everything better than when you found it.” the agencies who work with them.” His selfless professional credits are Zackary credits his Lord and Savior Jesus seemingly endless: Christ for the energy and enthusiasm that • Firefighter 1992-1998 marked his time as fire marshal. He encour• Driver/Engineer 1998-2001 aged the crowd to always remember the last • Captain 2001-2007 and most important chapter in anyone’s life is • Battalion Chief 2007-2010 having a close relationship with Jesus Christ. • Fire Marshall 2010-2017 “That is all that matters,” he said. “If I do • Texas Commission on Fire Protection not let you know that it is the most import• Master Firefighter 2005 ant--then shame on me.” c www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
Fire Marshal Zackary, flanked by his three ‘girls, wife Jerilyn, and daughters Jeana (right) and Jennifer, with her husband, Dillion
• Fire Investigator 2010 • Peace Officer 2011 • Texas EMT Intermediate 1993-2017 • Type III Incident Management Team 2009-2017 • Graduate Texas Fire Chiefs’ Academy 2015 • Fire Chief Award 2011 • Commendation for saving fifteenyear-old girl from drowning 1997 • National Fire Academy alumnus • East Texas Arson Investigators’ Association vice-president • Texas Fire Marshall Association • Spearheaded drive to acquire thermal imaging cameras 1999 • Chaired LFD’s first fitness initiative 2000 • Implemented internal affairs and professional standards section 2012
Honoree with his parents, Harva and Shirley 10
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Fire Marshall Zackary’s personal involvement in various community involvements also mirror his drive to help others in every way. • He serves as a deacon in Mobberly Baptist Church • Sat on the American Red Cross board of directors for six years • Worked with Junior Achievement for four years • Volunteered for the CASA Dancing with the Stars event for four years Longview’s Fire Marshal’s Office supervises the local fire department’s Fire Prevention, Investigation, Inspection and Public Information Services Department. Furthermore, the Fire Marshal’s Office www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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serves in a liaison capacity to the local Developmental Services Department. All this is accomplished via the offices of six full-time employees which includes Fire Marshal Johnny Zackary, a fire code inspector, fire education specialist and three fire prevention officers. Zackary’s responsibilities as fire marshal included directing and coordinating the activities and operations off all these assigned services. The Fire Marshal’s Offices also serve in an enforcement capacity, insuring compliance with fire and safety codes while simultaneously providing numerous programs that educate Longview residents of potential fire risk and solutions.
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EVENTS
Great Texas Balloon Race Marks 40 Years
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2017 Schedule of Events
By Joycelyne Fadojutimi They come from all over the world. Longview in East Texas is a destination for the globe’s best hot air balloon pilots. They will navigate here for the 40th annual Great Texas Balloon Race (GTBR.) These airmen see GTBR as the bestrun such event anywhere. It is an event that won Longview recognition as the “Balloon Capital of Texas” by the governor back in 1986. It became official in 2013 when the 83rd Texas Legislature designated Gregg County with this title. This year’s GTBR, will take off July 28, Friday morning as the gaudy, colorful bubbles soar over Longview, and keep racing through Sunday with flights over East Texas Regional Airport. The weather will determine launching and landing sites. On Friday and Saturday nights Balloon Glows will entertain the crowds with a breathtaking extravaganza of color and excitement. Every year spectators are enthralled as they crowd close and watch the balloons being inflated and primed for flight. Both these nights will also feature live entertainment as musical groups belt out their tunes until late at night. In addition, youngsters will also be singled out. A section called Kids Land is to be set aside for children to enjoy attractions designed specifically for them for a small fee. Vendors of all sorts will offer their arts, crafts and varied merchandise in booths to be set up along an improvised midway. As always this will include food concessions providing savory selections throughout the event.
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EVENTS
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Friday, July 28 6:30am Great Texas Balloon Race Competition Flight over Longview 4:00pm Gates Open at East Texas Regional Airport for Great Texas Balloon Race (GTBR) Festival 8:15pm Special Shapes Spectacular 8:45pm Great Texas Balloon Race Opening Ceremony 8:50pm Balloon Glow 9:30pm TEAZUR Midnight Gates Close for the Day
Saturday, July 29 5:45am Gates Open at East Texas Regional Airport 6:30am Great Texas Balloon Race Competition Flight over East Texas Regional Airport Ring Toss Competition and other Navigational Tasks* 11:00am GTBR Festival Closes for Midday 4:00pm GTBR Festival Re-Opens for Evening Entertainment 6:30pm The Darrin Morris Band in Concert 8:15pm Special Shapes Spectacular 8:45pm Opening Ceremony 8:50pm Balloon Glow 9:30pm Travis Tritt in Concert Midnight Gates Close for the Day Sunday, July 30 5:45am Gates Open at East Texas Regional Airport 6:30am Great Texas Balloon Race Competition Flight over East Texas Regional Airport Ring Toss Competition and other Navigational Tasks*
* Balloons will be launched from at least 2 miles away and fly over the event grounds at ET Regional Airport. Launch site and time will vary depending on weather and wind direction All times are approximate and schedule may change without notice. All events at the Great Texas Balloon Race are dependent on prevailing weather conditions. The safety of our pilots, volunteers and spectators is our primary concern. Competitive flight for Friday will NOT be seen at the East Texas Regional Airport but will take place over the City of Longview and parts of Gregg County. Each morning the flight launch and targets will be determined based on prevailing winds.
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FOCUS
COMMUNITY
By Joy Fad celyn oju e tim i
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY
Bob Gilley and Sonya Derrick show off their smooth moves
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FOCUS ON
COMMUNITY
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY
Everett English and Janette Nolen Tina Smith, Danny Daniels and Trisha Hilburn
Debra Ward
Sherry Samuelson, Don Mohan and Sue McBride
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te net r a nB oly ke the r a C a nd it to t a nd d h a g to Byr not wa t i e c i Sm in aur could ina n even rdinaM T , y n a e o ke pso ce. Th rs li it was ram co lready e m i h g ot re sa ry S dan ere ensu h [pro ladie ing Ma atten w ere me to g wit Both provid ings. in or. h e t r , eet we ce flo eless ho ca orkin said. n to m s e y o ’ h w w i n e da onet burn njoy t,” th addit Circle Hom e e t N Hil s e in ta he ur . Th ha er. “W hiteh Circle s for t Righ adults s i r y e T emb a W ior led osts pan priz d rem Melin for Sen door ’s com l disab with c me tor nteer ks and ilburn or loca bined in-ho any. s volu , snac and H care f e com make n for m d e c foo mith’s t-hom at hom home e optio S g a v g i in in es ct vid of be n nurs attra o r y p rity tha ver secu lower care a www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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FOCUS ON COMMUNITY
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY Cynthia Dowell and Mary Lain
Ruus R s R Raaeensseell aannd neelll d lC Cra rafftt
Ma an d r y Si m Ma ps o uri c n eB y rd
Member Benefits Include • Physician-led health seminars • Social engagements • Education programs • Volunteer opportunities • Entertainment events and activities • A subscription to a health and wellness publication • Complimentary private room upgrade during your hospital stay (when staffing and availability permits) • Free meal for spouse or caregiver each day member is hospitalized • Prescription discounts • Hearing care discounts • Vision care discounts • Prescription eyeglasses or contact lens discounts • Emergency response discount with ADT • Car rental discounts
Cammie and Mike Camp
Gloria Richards
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o wh how r e e s unt rst to l o fi in rv the as the t sign ning. o n w sa eve urs rd i st. She hiteh r the found a o W ah itehur ing W ited f aniels ed r o d c p b De s. Wh nt hel as ex nny D provi iod. s M eve oo w Da e. It per like t the She t owed danc bleak ived a . up bers ly wid to the n this e rece ced m ent ing i h in e m ec ion ponse conv ke m t c o R c s ra a re d f in le dist ing re re the nd m e i age e l a v e e re yab , lo s e o iv o o w rcl r th an act al enj warm rs wh or Ci o f n i e y m The othe n Sen gra pursu motio to tr o r i m e d p to d a ge ese fro to jo s. d cle is hope cal an coura joy th m n i e h fri en ho hysi e en Cir new enior lder w ieve p ers ar es and . S do b h es iti an and ac . Mem activ ntanc y t i s and fif tyle efit qua Harold Harris il fes th ben obbies ew ac n l and Carolyn hea new h with s Barnette out time t s pa www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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BODY, MIND AND SOUL
BODY, MIND AND SOUL
Understanding the Serious Nature of Mini-Strokes
A survey conducted by the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association shows one-third of United States adults have had symptoms consistent with a transient ischemic attack (TIA), also known as a mini-stroke, but only 3 percent called 911 for help. “Ignoring any stroke signs could be a deadly mistake,” said Mitch Elkind, M.D., chair of the American Stroke Association Advisory Committee. “Only a formal medical diagnosis with brain imaging can determine
few minutes and 24 hours. People who suffer a TIA, sometimes called a warning stroke, are more likely to have a stroke within 90 days, according to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Elkind said anyone who experiences a stroke warning sign that
appears suddenly, whether it goes away or not, should call 911 immediately. This could improve the chances of an accurate diagnosis, treatment and recovery. Stroke symptoms come on suddenly with no known cause and may include confusion, trouble speaking or understanding;
weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body; trouble seeing in one or both eyes; trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; or a severe headache. To learn more about stroke warning signs and treatment, visit StrokeAssociation.org.
wait it out, rest or take medicine rather than call 911. Stroke is a leading cause of serious, longterm adult disability in the United States and among the top five causes of death. However, with proper, timely medical attention, stroke is largely treatable. The faster you are treated, the more likely you are to have a positive outcome. The American Stroke Association’s Together to End Stroke initiative, nationally sponsored by Medtronic, teaches the acronym F.A.S.T. to help people remember the most common stroke warning signs and what to do in a stroke emergency: F – Face drooping A – Arm weakness S – Speech difficulty T – Time to call 911 While the symptoms are the same, the difference between a TIA and a stroke is that the blockage is temporary, lasting between a
Knowing the warning signs of a mini-stroke could help save a life whether you’re having a TIA or a stroke.” The survey showed 35 percent of respondents experienced at least one sign of a TIA or mini-stroke, such as sudden trouble speaking or a severe headache with no known cause. According to the online survey, those who suffered symptoms were more likely to 20
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Trey Patterson cuts Grand Opening ribbon. Neal McCoy, Kelsey and husband Ty Patterson; Tiffani Patterson, Ray Cox, Mayor Andy Mack, Jan Maynard, Chris Cobb, State Representative District 7 Jay Dean, Charlotte Davis, Linda Whitehead, Heather Watson, Linda Voyles, Angela Hanley and others look on. Lori Eats of Gilmer catered the sumptuous food
By Joycelyne Fadojutimi Patterson Nissan celebrated its relocation from 1201 McCann Road their new state-of-the-art showroom plus nine acres of concrete stocked with primarily Nissan on 3114 North Eastman Road in Longview, Texas. The first official grand opening started with Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting. The occasion drew some famous and important dignitaries such as Neal McCoy who sang the national anthem; State Representative District 7, Jay Dean; His Honorable Gregg County Judge Bill and his wife Suzanne Stoudt; Mayor Andy Mack, Texas Bank and Trust Officers, Longview Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors and Chris Cobb, Nissan’s regional operations manager for the central region plus a whole host of people. Many weekend-long activities marked the occasion including public invitation to get a first-hand tour of the
Hospitality Health ER supplied the champagne bar
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Country western superstar Neal McCoy sang the national anthem. In the background, the facade of the new facility. new Nissan innovative showroom built for maximum customer experience. The Pine Tree High School Jazz Band performances, face painting, fire safety brought to the public by Longview Fire Fighters and Hospitality Health ER ice cream truck were part of the festivities. c www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
General Manager Ray Cox receives a Japanese sword from Nissan Regional Operations Manager Chris Cobb
Longview Mayor Andy Mack led the way in expressing local gratitude to Patterson Nissan for the investment it has made in the city’s financial health via the 25 to 30 new jobs it has created. “Thank you for having the faith to build a facility like this,” he said. “We in the city appreciate what you have done. Thank you for investing in Longview.” Patterson Nissan business partner Trey Patterson revealed that constructing the new, state-of-the-art dealership was something he and his colleagues planned carefully for a long time. The new dealership is a reaction to a simple need for expansion. During the past 15 years the dealership has sold more than 35,000 new and used cars. Furthermore, there was every reason to expect this sales bonanza to gain momentum if the car shopping experience itself were to become more enjoyable. Lastly, the new facility makes it possible for the dealership to carry a yet greater selection of vehicles from which customers can choose. Constructing a new car wash further sweetened the deal since customers who bring their vehicles in for servicing will come away with cars that are not only repaired, but squeaky clean. Patterson credits Texas Bank & Trust for bankrolling the project. The city of Longview itself also assisted by 24
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Trey Patterson receives a samurai sword from Nissan Regional Operations Manager Chris Cobb
Stephanie and her husband Trey Patterson; Ty and his wife Kelsey Patterson
guiding the owners to meet city codes. Among several local contractors who participated in the construction, Chris Tucker with TRANSET did the vitally important concrete work. Still, Patterson
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knows who deserves most of the credit. “God has blessed us, and we are grateful for his blessings,” he said. The dealership’s grand opening saw Tim Wiseman of Wiseman Ministries give the invocawww.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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tion, followed by country/western superstar Neal McCoy, who sang the national anthem. McCoy lived up to his reputation for being folksy, warm and someone who never meets a stranger. His steady stream of jokes and unselfish posing for selfies with those in attendance put everyone in a delightful mood. He even told some of his intriguing family history. McCoy’s mother hails from the Philippines, and never forgets to express her love for America. Her son believes America is always great no matter who is president. As far as he is concerned, America is great because of the people who live in it. Americans make this country great. Period! The new structure he helped unveil and dedicate is also great. Chris Cobb of Nissan North America, says this new facility is just about perfect for the use it is intended for, and this makes it rank as one of the ten best Nissan dealerships in the nation. Cobb says that like everything in Texas, Patterson Nissan is big and beautiful. It is so big it is easy to find and a delight to explore. “There is nothing better than having the birds-eye view,” he said. Still, not all the imagery was of Texas. Cobb presented Patterson with a Japanese samurai sword as a symbol of strength, courage and community. He also gave a Japanese sword to General Manager Ray Cox. c
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Zac Terry, Cindy Terry, Barbara Smith, Elaine Reynolds and Tammy Skinner
State Representative District 7 Jay Dean, Jennifer Harris, Honorable Judge Bill and his wife Suzanne Stoudt; and Neal McCoy
Samurai of a bygone era believed these weapons contained the essence of their warrior spirit. The sword presented to Cox was specifically intended for use in the suicide ritual Samurai called seppuku. Despite the Far Eastern flavor of these presentations, Cox was decidedly Christian in his professions of gratitude. Robert and Laura McCown “Trey and I have been dreaming and coordinating this project for three years before it started,” he said. “I thank God for giving us the perseverance we needed.” He also credited his wife and children for their crucial support throughout this operation. His wife Kara even declared the project was so dear to Cox that it was virtually his fourth child. Other persons and firms that participated in the project include: ABC Auto Parts New Orleans Gardens Johnson and Pace Ellis Pottery Fire Marshall Johnny Zackery Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt Robin and her husband Kyle Adams; and Kay Bowles
Linda Voyles, Reagan Weaver, William McWhorter, Charlotte Davis, Laticia Smith, Angela Hanley, Heather Watson and Linda Whitehead 26
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Jan Maynard and Ray Cox |
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City of Longview Mayor Andy Mack Patterson Nissan employees “I have worked with a lot of good people, and we would not be here today if not for them,” said a misty-eyed Cox. One of these vital contributors was Nissan Ambassador Jan Maynard, who has contributed to making several Nissan dealerships successful. She was the main organizer for the Hands on the Hard Body competition in which locals held their hands to a Nissan for days at a stretch in order to win the grand prize. Hands on the Hard Body drew national and even global acclaim to Jack Long Nissan at the time. “Jan commanded such authority. When she told me what to do, you would think she is the owner, and I worked for her,” said Patterson. “She knew how to make the dealership successful.” Maynard’s community involvement is not limited to Nissan dealerships either. For nearly 30 years, she was heavily involved in organizing the famous Great Texas Balloon Race. She has worked with Ally Fest, Meals on Wheels, the Junior League and other such worthy causes. In recognition of her service to the community, Patterson named their dealership’s most luxurious annex the Jan Maynard Customer Lounge. Many, many Kudos to Jan Maynard. Owners of Patterson Nissan, Trey and his wife Tiffany; Ty and his wife Kelsey Patterson were ecstatic about the grand opening. Lori Eats of Gilmer catered the sumptuous food and Hospitality Health ER made sure the champagne was flowing. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine
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Trey Patterson receives Longview Chamber of Commerce Member plaque from Ambassador Heather Watson
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BUSINESS AND FINANCE
BUSINESS AND FINANCE
Dycom (DY-$90.19) Is a Good Conservative Long-Term Investment
In late 2008, I bought 1,000 shares of Dycom at $5.05 as a speculation based on information from a reliable source. According to an important executive I knew in the telecommunications industry, the stock was supposed to double in price within the following two weeks. It didn’t! So I sold it for a $1,125 loss in early 2009. But a fortnight after that, it was trading at $12. Great Scott! If I had continued to hold the stock, those 1,000 shares of Dycom would be worth $90,190 today. That’s how the cookie crumbles. I don’t have inside information, but I’m convinced that DY, with only 31 million shares outstanding, has the potential to double its share price in the coming four to five years. DY may be a classy way to participate in the rebuilding of the United States’ infrastructure. The company operates three distinct businesses: 1) Telecommunications services, involved in the engineering, installation and maintenance of communications networks. This includes installation and maintenance of towers, power lines, antennas, coaxial cables and client equipment. 2) Underground services, dealing with the location and mapping of underground utility installations for telephone, cable, power, water, sewer and gas lines. 3) Electrical, han28
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dling the design, sale and installation of power grids for electric and gas utilities. Even though DY has grown about twentyfold in the past eight years, the nearly exponentially growing need for telecommunications infrastructure and network bandwidth suggests that DY could be a $200plus stock by 2022. There are many who agree. DY continues to face hugely growing demand for larger and more efficient wireline networks from Verizon, AT&T, Frontier, Comcast, CenturyLink and others. Most carriers and networks are determined to offer higher speeds and greater-capacity networks in the future. And because outsourcing by the carriers and cable networks continues to expand to meet the increasing demand, I’m comfortable suggesting that DY’s future revenues and earnings will be impressive. Video over the internet is constantly driving usage and demand for faster broadband connections and more bandwidth. Infrastructure operators, such as tower owners, consume and need all the wireless broadband growth that DY and others can provide. Telecom carriers are sending out vastly more video and data over their networks, and DY is expert at and instrumental in providing these towers with
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By Malcolm Berko
And managers of mutual funds at Vanguard, Fidelity, BlackRock and Federated, which together own about 80 percent of DY’s float, have added their imprimatur. Dycom could be an expialidocious investment and may even split. Please address your financial questions to Malcolm Berko, P.O. Box 8303, Largo, FL 33775, or email him at mjberko@yahoo.com.
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Main photo from Dycom website
more capacity. This is a continuing and seemingly nonstop business. On the other side of the fence, many electric and gas utilities are experiencing sluggish growth; however, their capital budgets are near record highs. Some 80 percent of this spending is related to the strengthening and expansion of the power grid, and DY is Johnny on the spot, replacing parts and equipment that are 20 to 30 years old. The power grid is a vital and mammoth interconnected network that delivers power from suppliers to consumers. The grid consists of generating stations that produce electricity, high-voltage lines that carry power from distant sources to demand centers, and distribution lines that connect individual customers. This is all part of DY’s continuing business in the years to come. DY’s revenues could grow from $30 billion to $45 billion by 2022, while earnings could double, from an expected $5.45 a share this year to $11. And some DY aficionados believe that profit margins could improve to 7.2 percent by 2022, from 5.4 percent, and that the book value could double, to $40, with zero increase in debt. However, I don’t think DY’s Scrooge-like board will consider a cash dividend. That notwithstanding, the urgent need for new bandwidth and the compelling need to improve and protect our power grid suggest that owning Dycom should be a smart investment for a five-year hold. I’d own the stock faster than you can say “golly gee whillikers!” Thomson Reuters, Market Edge, UBS, Zacks, Bank of America and Value Line seem to agree.
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GRUBS UP
BRAIN TEASERS
What’s more American than a burger? This slider version will be an instant hit, and ready in just 13 minutes! The banana split kebabs are a healthy, kid-friendly spin on a classic.
Directions
• Remove some of the fluffy center from the buns so that they will sit well on top of burgers; set aside. • Combine sirloin with Worcestershire and pepper, form into 12 (2-inch) flat patties. • Preheat a lightly oiled grill pan over moderate heat until hot but not smoking. Cook burgers over moderate heat, turning, and evenly top with cheese, about 2 minutes per side for medium or until cheese is melted. (Use a meat thermometer to check that burgers have reached 160°.) Transfer the burgers to a plate, and grill the buns, cut sides down, 1-2 minutes or until toasted. • Sandwich burgers between buns with about 2 pickles per slider.
Ingredients
• 12 miniature buns or dinner rolls • 3/4 pound lean ground sirloin • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper • Olive oil cooking spray • 2 ounces extra-sharp Cheddar cheese, thinly sliced • 24 small dill pickle slices Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 8 minutes Yield: Makes 6 servings (serving size: 2 sliders)
Banana Split Kebabs Ingredients
• 12 large strawberries, Directions • 2 bananas, cut into rinsed, dried and halved • 2 c. chocolate chips • Make kebabs: Thread two • 1/2 c. peanuts, chopped 1” pieces • 24 1” pieces pineapple pieces each banana, pineapple, and strawberry onto skewer. Repeat process to assemble 23 more skewers. Place all on parchment-lined baking sheet. • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. • Drizzle chocolate over fruit kebabs and top with chopped peanuts. Freeze until ready to serve. Yield: 24 servings 30
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Take this Super Quiz to a Ph.D. Score 1 point for each correct answer on the Freshman Level, 2 points on the Graduate Level and 3 points on the Ph.D. Level. Subject: PRIZES, MEDALS AND AWARDS In which field is the award given? (e.g., Franz Kafka Prize. Answer: Literature.) PH.D. LEVEL FRESHMAN LEVEL GRADUATE LEVEL 11. The Ashes 1. Academy Awards 6. Mark Twain Prize
Answer________
Answer________
Answer________
Answer________
Answer________
Answer________
2. Grammy Awards 3. Tony Awards
Answer________ 4. Emmy Awards
Answer________ 5. Stanley Cup
Answer________
12. Ryder Cup
7. Clio Awards
Answer________
13. Man Booker International Prize
Answer________
14. LEAF Award
8. Davis Cup
Answer________
9. America’s Cup
10. Vince Lombardi Trophy
Answer________
Answer________
15. Robert Frost Medal
Answer________
SCORING 24 to 30 points - Congratulations, doctor. 18 to 23 pts - Honors graduate. 13 to 17 pts - You’re plenty smart, but no grind. 5 to 12 pts - You really should hit the books harder. 1 pt to 4 pts - Enroll in remedial courses immediately. 0 pts - Who reads the questions to you?
Comedian Comedian Billy Billy Crystal Crystal with with aa ‘Mark ‘Mark Twain’ Twain’ trophy trophy Super Quiz is a registered trademark of K. Fisher Enterprises Ltd. © 2017 Ken Fisher North America Syndicate Inc.
ANSWERS 1. Film industry 2. Music industry (recording) 3. Stage and theater 4. Television 5. Hockey 6. Humor 7. Advertising 8. Tennis 9. Yachting. 10. Football American) 11. Cricket 12. Golf 13. Literature 14. Architecture 15. Poetry
Grilled Sirloin Sliders
SOLUTION
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