40 Under Forty 2021 from ETX View by mrobertsdigital

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EDITOR’S LETTER

ETX View proud to

Christina Cavazos

recognize young professionals

ur society is built on the foundation that together we can make a difference. Across East Texas, we see young professionals who are stepping up to make an impact on our society. These individuals demonstrate leadership and show dedication to their professional careers, their families and their communities. At ETX View, we decided it was important to recognize young professionals who have achieved success, given back to the community and excelled in their field of expertise before the age of 40. From this desire, we decided to launch our inaugural 40 Under Forty event and special edition magazine. We launched a contest earlier this year in which our readers nominated young professionals in 40 categories of industry. We then held a voting phase in which readers could vote on the top three nominees in each category. Today, we are proud to present the winners of our inaugural 40 Under Forty awards. In the pages of this magazine, you’ll read about 40 young professionals who are making their mark in East Texas. Most of the young professionals recognized are East Texas natives who choose to live, work and give back to the community in which they grew up. One of the resounding things we heard from them is that instead of moving to a Metropolitan city for their careers, they realized they could achieve their dreams right here in the heart of the Piney Woods. If East Texas didn’t have a specific opportunity available, many of them chose to create it themselves by opening their own businesses that, in turn, are helping the community grow. We felt inspired as we learned about them, their

passions, their service and their goals. We hope you’ll feel inspired, too. In launching ETX View in January of 2021, it was our goal to celebrate the best of East Texas life and culture. In the pages of our magazine, our team of award-winning writers, photographers and designers showcase dynamic stories of the people, events and trends that represent the community. We are proud to conclude the end of our first calendar year with this inaugural special edition that serves as a celebration of those young professionals who are giving back and serving our community. We are thankful to all of the young professionals who were nominated for 40 Under Forty. Your work is recognized and valued, and we are grateful for the impact you are making on East Texas. Our community would not be what it is today without your service and for that we applaud you. We look forward to next year when we can continue recognizing those who are changing our society and transforming our dynamic community.

ETX VIEW M

PRESIDENT Stephen McHaney PUBLISHER Justin Wilcox ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Alyssa Purselley-Hankins 903-596-6295 EDITOR Tim Thorsen 4

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ETX VIEW EDITOR Christina Cavazos DESIGNER Ted Townsend WRITER Christina Cavazos PHOTOGRAPHY BY Samaritan Servants International — Joshua Roché

C H R I S T I N A C AVA Z O S c c a v a z o s @ m ro b e r t s m e d i a . c o m

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At BGC, a primary focus is on people. “Partner” is the term we use to describe all employees because of our belief that we are all partners working toward the common goal of making BGC successful. Congratulations to all of the 2021 nominees for 40 Under Forty and setting the standard for our community and those who call it home.

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AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY FIGURE: 8

SUZETTE FARR

f community service were a gene, Suzette Farr inherited it. Farr, who serves as the executive director of the Tyler ISD Foundation, has been committed to giving back to and serving her community however she can. From serving on many community nonprofit boards to being a member of the Junior League of Tyler, Farr said she is proud to carry the title of social impact strategist.

Farr went on to serve as vice president of marketing and community engagement for the Mentoring Alliance of Tyler prior to being named executive director of the Tyler ISD Foundation earlier this year. Farr also is a former Tyler ISD Foundation board member; she served on the foundation’s board from 2014 to 2018. “I am so excited and proud to serve as the new executive director for the Tyler ISD Foundation and help cultivate community engagement to expand the impact this organization provides to the students and teachers of Tyler ISD,” Farr said. “It’s truly amazing to see the considerable impact the foundation has had to help maximize student learning and success over the last thirty years. I hope to build on that legacy and inspire our community to continue to participate in transforming students’ lives and inspiring teachers’ innovative ideas that will benefit our entire community for generations to come.”

Foundation director committed to community service Born and raised in East Texas, Farr graduated from Hallsville High School. She then attended LeTourneau University in Longview, where she earned a bachelor of business management degree with a focus on nonprofit management. She started her professional career as a marketing and business development director for the Cooperative Teachers Credit Union in Tyler. In 2017, she accepted a position with the American Heart Association as corporate market director of the East Texas region. In that capacity, she developed relationships with corporate and community leaders and helped the American Heart Association raise more than $600,000 one year. At the American Heart Association, she also helped oversee events including the Longview Heart Walk and 5K Run, the Tyler Heart Walk and 5K Run, Longview Go Red for Women and the Tyler Heart Ball.

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Farr resides in Tyler with her husband, Lee, parenting their blended family of five children together. She attends Rose Heights Church in Tyler. Her hobbies include spending time with family and friends, travel, attending live theater productions, and exploring new foods and wine.

“I am so excited and proud to serve as the new executive director for the Tyler ISD Foundation and help cultivate community engagement to expand the impact this organization provides to the students and teachers of Tyler ISD.”

SUZETTE FARR

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AGRICULTURE & CATTLE: PHOTO UNAVAILABLE 10

ZACH M MILLAN C

ach McMillan is a rancher and an outdoorsman. “I enjoy being outdoors and watching animals develop,” he said. McMillan, 31, is the head honcho at Iron Ranch and Outdoors, where he said he’s working to grow and develop “a hunting destination for East Texas.” A Kilgore native, McMillan now resides in Gladewater. He said he enjoys living in

provides custom powder coatings, which are often used to create a hard finish that is tougher than conventional paint for coating most metals, such as steel, aluminum and iron. When he’s not working, McMillan enjoys being involved with his church, HighRidge Church in Longview. He also enjoys all things outdoors, including duck and deer hunting. He said he also enjoys dirt track racing. McMillan grew up around racing, attending events at LoneStar Speedway in Kilgore. He began racing himself late in the 2011 season at occasional events, such as at Devil’s Bowl Speedway in Mesquite. In 2012, he started racing full-time with the Southern United Processional Racers (SUPR) in the Super Late Model Series. He claimed the title of 2012 SUPR Rookie of the Year and has gone on to receive other accolades. He continues to progress in racing in the Super Late Model ranks.

Outdoorsman works to develop ‘hunting destination’ East Texas because of the community and the atmosphere here. “I grew up here and have lived in a few other places and nothing compares (to East Texas),” McMillan said. In addition to Iron Ranch and Outdoors, McMillan also is involved in several other business ventures. He serves as vice president of P&W Sales in Kilgore. The company, which is currently owned by McMillan’s father, provides products and services to companies that drill, maintain or manage oil well drilling projects. The P&W Sales team represents manufacturers who design, test and make components for the oilfield and drilling industry. Additionally, McMillan serves as vice president of Power House Custom Coatings in Kilgore. The company

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“I grew up here and have lived in a few other places and nothing compares (to East Texas).” ZACH MCMILLAN

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ARTS & CULTURE: MICAH LYONS 12

hen Micah Lyons was in college, he made up a motto that he’s lived by ever since. “Ideas are a dime-a-dozen; it’s execution that breeds success,” he said. That belief has led to success for the 35-yearold Hallsville native who founded Breath of Life Productions, a television and motion picture development and production company with locations in Longview and in Hollywood, Calif. Lyons founded the company in 2012. He also owns Lyons Family Studios, which offers video production for websites, social media, events and

produced his first movie, “The Runners,” in East Texas. That film starred Netty Leach, Tom Sizemore and Neal McCoy, among others. Since then, Lyons has had a successful career in film. He’s shot four additional movies in Texas since moving back to Longview in 2019 and will be following up with a faith-based baseball film in the spring of 2022. That film will be directed by Mel Gibson with Lyons serving as the second unit director. Lyons has received many accolades for his work. Most recently, in September, a film called “Lockdown” won Best Action Movie of 2021 in the Austin Action Film Festival. He believes persevering and keeping faith are keys to professional success. He’s also found a lot of support in East Texas. “I love this community,” Lyons said. “The people here have supported us, joined us on set and been so amazing.” When he’s not working on films, Lyons enjoys traveling with his family and being involved in the community. He attends Motion Church in Longview and coaches little league football in Hallsville and soccer in Longview. “I also teach on-camera TV/film acting classes once per week at my local studio for both children and adults,” he said. “We also love to attend benefits for local nonprofits and donate to several

Breath of Life Productions sees success in East Texas film industry more. In his profession, Lyons writes, directs and produces movies. Much of his work happens in East Texas, but he also travels around the world for some films. He also works to secure distribution deals with major distributors, retailers, streamers and networks from dozens of countries around the globe. “Producing movies is equal parts creative and business. I truly love both with all of my heart,” Lyons said. “More than anything else, I love when a line, a moment or an entire character’s journey connects in a deep way with someone viewing the film and they feel that their life has been enriched by our content.” After high school, Lyons attended Texas State University where he received a bachelor of fine arts with an emphasis on acting. After college, he moved to Hollywood to cut his teeth in the industry before moving back to East Texas. When he first started his journey in film, Lyons worked many odd jobs to make ends meet. “I even found myself playing my guitar and singing in the subways for change just to make sure that my wife was taken care of and a roof stayed over our heads,” he recalled. “It was extremely tough but I was on an undying mission and after a handful of years like that, things slowly started to change.” Doors especially began to open after he

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wonderful organizations.” Lyons said he enjoys giving back and serving his community because it helps him realize that he is making a difference in someone else’s life. “There is no better feeling on earth,” he said. When thinking about the future, Lyons said he wants to continue producing and creating films in and around East Texas for the rest of his life. “And make a positive impact all over the world through the messages, themes and finances that we create and generate,” he said.

Award Sponsored By:

MICAH LYONS

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AUTOMOTIVE: JOSHUA SPRAGGINS 14

oshua Spraggins grew up in his family’s auto shop, and today he’s looking to leave his mark on the East Texas automotive industry as he strives to continue building trust and respect with the community he loves. Spraggins, 25, serves as the lead automotive technician for Spraggins Auto Repair, a locally owned Longview business that his family established in 2001. Spraggins Auto Repair provides a variety of automotive services, including diagnosis and repair of domestic

solving complex problems that arise continually with the ever changing automotive world, and teaching others how to solve them, too,” he said. Spraggins grew up in Longview and continues to reside in the city. He said he enjoys East Texas because of the “kind and loving people and the community that they bring.” So when he’s not working, Spraggins enjoys giving back to his community. “I love the idea of community coming together for the greater good and working towards one goal unanimously,” he said. “Being involved in your community can lead to great friendships and connections.” Spraggins is a member of New Covenant Church where he serves on the tech arts team. He’s also an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and he and his wife are licensed foster parents through Buckner Children and Family Services. In his personal time, Spraggins said he enjoys spending time outdoors, such as hiking, biking, running, fishing, hunting and kayaking. Additionally, he said he enjoys carpentry and woodworking along with home renovations.

Building community trust, respect through auto industry and Japanese vehicles including engine repair, suspension, steering, brakes, air conditioning, heating, electrical systems, audio and computer. Spraggins said he grew up in the auto repair shop, “absorbing skills every chance I got.” When an opportunity arose for him to begin working at the business, he jumped at the chance. He’s now worked at the business for nine years. He served as an office assistant, janitor, technician’s assistant and technician prior to being named lead automotive technician. In that capacity, he is in charge of operations at the shop. “This includes making sure all technicians in the shop have the knowledge and expertise needed to diagnose and service modern vehicles to the highest standards,” said Spraggins, who also achieved the status of master certified automotive technician earlier this year. Eventually, he plans to take over management of the shop and, even later, ownership of Spraggins Auto Repair. In the meantime, he enjoys working with and learning from his family. “I enjoy working side by side with family,

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Faith plays a key role in Spraggins’ life, as he noted his favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 50:7, which says, “Because the sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced. Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.” “This verse reminds me that no matter what adversity I may face, through God’s mercy and grace, I can press on without shame or fear of judgment,” he said. When thinking about his future, Spraggins said his trust is in God. “I always have my eyes and ears out for whatever the next adventure is that God has for me,” he said. He and his wife are currently expecting their first biological child. He said they plan to continue fostering children alongside biological parenting. Professionally, he said he has plans and ideas to help expand Spraggins Auto Repair as he looks to continue growing his relationships with the community through the automotive industry. “For me professional success is a spirit of excellence and humility,” he said. “All of my strength, knowledge and ability, I attribute to Christ’s blessings in my life.”

JOSHUA SPRAGGINS

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BANKING & LENDING:

ARIANA THOMPSON

t Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, Ariana Thompson helps East Texans become homeowners. Thompson, 30, is a residential mortgage loan originator at Fairway. In her role, she walks buyers through the home financing process, helps them get pre-approved to start home shopping, gathers qualifying documents, works with underwriters who approve the loan files and helps buyers get to the closing table.

in the area is amazing to witness and be a part of.” Outside of work, Thompson enjoys spending time outdoors, going to the lake or beach, hunting, spending time by the pool, shopping and traveling. She attends Grace Creek Church in Longview, describing it as her “home.” “There is nothing like spiritual family and I have grown so much over the last six years being a member there,” she said. “Nothing is possible without Jesus.” Thompson said she enjoys being part of the community as she enjoys meeting new people and being part of activities that benefit a good cause. She said she also enjoys learning from others and hopes to share insights as well. Thompson believes being consistent and having good communication, customer service and a hard-working team contributes to a person’s overall success. She gives much praise to the team at Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation for contributing to her personal success as well as the business’s growth overall. “Without my team, my business would be

Mortgage corporation helps East Texans become homeowners “I love the excitement and pure joy on the faces of my buyers at the closing table,” she said. “The most rewarding is when someone tells you that they never thought purchasing a home would be possible and they finally were able to.” Thompson has worked for Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation for three years, but she’s been in the mortgage industry overall for seven years. A proven residential mortgage loan originator, Thompson was awarded a $10 Million Club Award by Fairway in 2019 and a $15 Million Club Award by Fairway in 2020. “I am on my way to closing over 100 units and over $22 million for 2021,” she said. A Longview native, Thompson now resides in White Oak. She said she enjoys living in East Texas because of the close relationships she has formed. “I love East Texas hospitality and everyone being so quick to lend a helping hand,” she said. “The care and compassion people have 16

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nowhere close to where it is today,” she said. “Working as a team and being consistent is how goals are met and success thrives.” Looking toward the future, Thompson said she plans to continue growing her business and serving families in East Texas as they pursue their dreams of owning a home.

Award Sponsored By:

ARIANA THOMPSON

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CHILDHOOD LEARNING & ACTIVITIES: 18

EMILY M GAUGH C

s a child Emily McGaugh learned life skills and lessons from the game of golf. Today, she’s imparting that wisdom on the next generation of young golfers. McGaugh, 25, serves as program director of First Tee – Piney Woods, a nonprofit youth development organization that introduces the game of golf and its core values to children ages 5 to 18. “I enjoy teaching kids about golf and life skills,” McGaugh said. “The First Tee program is

it can instill in people. She said the game and its core values relate to life itself. The late golfer Bobby Jones once said, “Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots, you get good breaks from bad shots, but you have to play the ball where it lies.” “I believe that golf is just like life,” McGaugh said, “and a lot of struggles I have had in my life I can relate back to golf and the First Tee program. I remember my core values and I remember what’s most important and that’s the shot you are hitting, right here and right now.” The First Tee program teaches children nine core values that relate both to golf and to life. Those values are respect, honesty, integrity, judgment, sportsmanship, courtesy, perseverance, confidence and responsibility. “These core values can lead you down the path to success,” McGaugh said. “I believe that the key to professional success is all about your values and how you present yourself in the community.” The next step in McGaugh’s professional career is to pass an exam in January to obtain her license to practice physical therapy. She recently attended Kilgore College to become a physical therapy assistant.

Teaching life values to next generation through golf a national program that allows children to learn life skills while introducing them to the game of golf.” The Piney Woods chapter of First Tee was established in 2005 and is based at Alpine Target Golf Center in Longview. In her capacity with the organization, McGaugh oversees the program and coaches children. McGaugh is no stranger to the First Tee program. A Longview native, she began playing golf when she was 3 and started in the First Tee program when she was 5. After graduating from Longview High School, she went on to attend Texas Christian University in Fort Worth where she also interned for the North Texas Professional Golf Association. “As an intern, my job was to help run the junior tournaments in Dallas through East Texas,” she said. “Since I was born and raised in Longview, I managed to run most of the East Texas tournaments by myself while the other interns stayed in the DFW area. “ McGaugh loves golf and the core values that

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“Golf is my passion and physical therapy is my dream,” she said. But, she also intends to stay with First Tee – Piney Woods. She wants to achieve a higher level of coaching so she can help not only beginners but more advanced golfers as well. In her personal time, McGaugh enjoys golf as a hobby. She attends Longview First Assembly where she is currently involved with the children’s church. McGaugh is proud of her East Texas roots and she said she enjoys giving back to the community that supported her as a child.

Award Sponsored By:

EMILY MCGAUGH

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CITY OFFICIALS: AMBER VARONA 20

mber Varona is working to transform downtown Tyler into a destination while instilling in residents a love for the heart of the city. Varona, 34, has served for 10 years as the Main Street director for the city of Tyler. “My role is to showcase downtown Tyler as a destination through arts, culture, economic development/revitalization, community relationships and engaging activities,” she said. Varona is a native of Kaufman who moved to

In her personal time Varona also gives back to the community, noting she feels she is “making a lasting impact for future generations while highlighting and celebrating what makes Tyler unique.“ Her civic involvement includes the Caldwell Arts Alliance, Tyler Young Professionals, Heart of Tyler, Good Shepherd School and the Downtown Tyler Arts Coalition. For her work and contributions to the community, Varona has received many accolades. Recognitions and achievements include the City of Tyler Blueprint Award, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, City of Tyler Leadership Academy with Honors, Leadership Tyler Class 32, certified Main Street America revitalization professional and the Anice B. Read Award of Excellence in Community Heritage for the City of Tyler. Varona believes demonstrating empathy is key to personal and professional success. “No matter what field you are in, we are all in the people business,” she said. “Allowing yourself to connect with those around you creates an environment that is understanding and supportive. Showing those around you that you genuinely care for their personal and

Main Street director works to transform downtown into destination Tyler 16 years ago. Prior to being named Tyler’s Main Street director, she served as a planning technician, customer relations supervisor and as a historic preservation officer. As Main Street director, Varona has many duties that all relate to promoting downtown Tyler. She oversees the Main Street board and completes reporting requirements for Tyler’s state and national Main Street accreditation. Other duties include maintaining the Downtown Ambassador program, Fair Plaza Parking Garage, creating and implementing a strategic plan for downtown Tyler, collaborating with Visit Tyler for the Downtown Visitor’s Center and more. Varona also maintains many of the city’s downtown programs that residents enjoy. For the monthly Hit the Bricks, she helps promote support for downtown businesses; meanwhile, each week Tunes at Noon invites residents to come downtown for live music. She also oversees Gallery Main Street, a fine art gallery that showcases the work of area artists, and Art Alley, which features outdoor murals as public art. “(I enjoy) interacting with people and working on projects that enhance the quality of life for my community,” she said.

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professional success can foster a positive, engaging and dynamic group.” Varona said she also believes it is important to listen to others with the goal of understanding them as communication helps build strong, productive relationships. She also believes in showing enthusiasm and positivity. “Enthusiasm and positivity are infectious and what better way to start spreading it than through projects and interactions you are involved in,” she said. In her personal time, Varona said she enjoys family activities, watching and playing soccer, fishing and hanging out downtown. She enjoys living in East Texas, noting that she appreciates being in a “close-knit community but still having access to big city amenities.” Up next, she plans to finish up the process of obtaining her master of public administration degree through the University of Texas at Tyler. She also intends to continue working to transform downtown Tyler into a destination where people from East Texas and beyond come for entertainment, shopping, dining and more. “My personal goal is to create a love for our community in the heart of my son,” she said.

AMBER VARONA

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT:

TREY BREWER

t The Genecov Group, Trey Brewer gets to help the city of Tyler grow. “I get to work with a great team of people to help grow the city of Tyler by building places to live, work and play,” he said. Brewer, 35, hails from Maryville, Tennessee. He graduated from Maryville High School and obtained

and Beaumont. The company also has an oil and gas division that manages mineral and leasehold ownership of various oil and gas holdings owned by the Genecov family. Brewer said he enjoys working for the company because each day is different. “No two days are the same and there is always something new to look forward to coming to work,” he said. Outside of work, Brewer enjoys playing basketball as a hobby and being active in the community. He attends South Spring Baptist Church in Tyler and serves with The Mentoring Alliance, which focuses on providing high-quality after-school programs, summer camps and dedicated mentoring relationships to youth in East Texas. After 11 years in Tyler, Brewer said he enjoys life in East Texas. “We have found a supportive

Through real estate management, Brewer helps East Texas grow a bachelor’s degree from Maryville College. He’s lived in Tyler for 11 years, earning a master of business administration degree from the University of Texas at Tyler. At The Genecov Group, where he’s worked for four years, he serves as vice president of real estate. The Genecov Group specializes in managing a commercial real estate portfolio from East Texas, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin

community of friends and family that make it an easy place to raise a family,” he said.

“No two days are the same and there is always something new to look forward to coming to work.”

Award Sponsored By:

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TREY BREWER

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CONSTRUCTION: SMITH REID 24

t Reid Construction, Smith Reid and his team are focused on their customers, not the competition. “At Reid Construction, we are always trying to make sure our customers are happy and that we do our part to help them be successful,” he said. “If we are focused on the competition, we lose track of our purpose.” That foundational belief in a focus on quality customer service has led to much success for

foundational principles, which still guide the firm today, are integrity, efficiency and craftsmanship. In addition to its Tyler headquarters, Reid Construction also has an office in Irving from which it is able to service the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Because of its quality work, Reid Construction has played a role in the development of several high-profile Tyler projects, including work at Tyler High School (formerly called John Tyler High School), Chistus Trinity Mother Frances Hospital in South Tyler, Christus Trinity Mother Frances HealthPark Herrington-Ornelas, Tyler Classical Academy, Nike, KP Engineering and more. “What I enjoy most (about my job) is being involved in the construction of buildings that will be around for years to come,” Reid said. “There is a certain amount of pride that you take when a project is complete and you can say I had a part in building that.” Reid grew up in Tyler, graduating from the former East Texas Christian Academy. The school formally closed in May of 2020. He continues to reside in Tyler and said, for him,

Focusing on people, partnerships at construction firm this Tyler construction company that has served East Texas and beyond since 1975. Reid, 34, serves as president and commercial concrete contractor for Reid Construction, which his family established 46 years ago in Tyler. “My current role as president involves day-today oversight of all operations of the company that include anything from project estimating to safety,” Reid said. “I establish the long-term goals and plan of the company.” Reid Construction is a full-service commercial concrete contractor. From its headquarters in Tyler, Reid Construction has provided commercial and residential concrete work that emphasizes high-quality construction and efficient production schedules. Charles R. Reid founded the construction company in 1975 as he began working with East Texas residents on their concrete needs. He built a reputation for being fair and honest, and his list of clients grew. After years of working with residents, the construction company expanded to begin offering commercial concrete construction services; however, it maintained the same principles in its commercial work. The

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East Texas is home. “In my opinion, the people of East Texas make this one of the best places to live,” he said. Outside of work, Reid said he enjoys spending time outdoors. He also likes to hunt. Reid gives credit for the company’s success to the foundational principles that continue to guide it and to the team that he works with on a daily basis that help make Reid Construction what it is today. “I think the key to professional success is to never stop being willing to learn and to surround yourself with a good team of people,” he said.

“What I enjoy most (about my job) is being involved in the construction of buildings that will be around for years to come . . .”

SMITH REID

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COSMETIC & BEAUTY:

EMILY SANFORD

mily Sanford enjoys helping others feel beautiful – both inside and out. Sanford, who holds an associate of nursing degree, is a cosmetic nurse injector at Face Studio, which is owned by Lisa Stiles. As a cosmetic nurse injector, Sanford said she offers “aesthetics such as neurotoxins, fillers, and facial threading.”

When she’s not working, Sanford said she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, attending her son’s sporting events and shopping. In life and in work, Sanford believes in the motto that “less is more.” That’s something she keeps in mind in her line of work. “I say it at least once a day but repeat it to myself over and over,” she said. “Being in the aesthetic business it’s easy to get caught up and overdo a lot, but I will always believe that a better looking client is the one that you look at and notice a subtle change but never know what physically changed.” When thinking about the future, Sanford said her primary goal is to continue making an impact in her clients’ lives. “My goal for the future would be to continue to make a difference in my

Sanford helps women feel beautiful at Face Studio “I enjoy being able to not only help others age gracefully but most importantly to overcome flaws, insecurities and birth defects,” she said. Sanford, 28, is originally from Wichita Falls but now resides in Hallsville. She said she enjoys living in East Texas because of the “hometown feel.” “The community in East Texas is very supportive and it makes it easier to succeed in something you enjoy doing,” she said. Prior to working at Face Studio, Sanford served as a field nurse providing home health services. She believes the key to professional success is to “enjoy what you do, thrive on what you’re good at and strive to always reach your goals.” 26

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clients’ lives along with growing my shop and my business and have a widespread community,” she said.

Award Sponsored By:

EMILY SANFORD

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DENTAL: DR. SPENCER MACK HANSEN 28

r. Spencer Mack Hansen enjoys having the opportunity to help change people’s lives, increase their confidence and give them the smiles they have always wanted. She and her husband, Andrew, do just that at Mack & Hansen Orthodontics, a Longview orthodontics office the couple established four years ago. “It’s truly a dream job, and we are so grateful to our team for giving us the ability to give our patients the best possible experiences and so

to do what we love through the trust that the people of East Texas place in us.” Two guiding mottos play a role at Mack & Hansen, she said. Those are: “Love one another” and “Kind people are our kind of people.” Hansen said the mottos remind them to show kindness in all they do while making people feel special. A board-certified orthodontist, Hansen’s master’s thesis was published in the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics. Mack & Hansen Orthodontics also is a past winner of Best of East Texas and Locals Love Us. Hansen said drive, determination, focus, a good support system, empathy and confidence play key roles in professional success. Professionally, she’s a member of Flossy Ladies of East Texas (a dental study group for women in dentistry), American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, American Board of Orthodontics, Texas Association of Orthodontists and the East Texas Dental Society. With a servant’s heart, Hansen also is committed to giving back to her community. She attends First Baptist Church of Longview

Orthodontic practice changes lives and brightens days thankful to our patients for choosing to embark on their smile journey with Mack & Hansen Orthodontics,” she said. A Longview native, Spencer Mack Hansen grew up in dental offices where she watched her family – particularly her father, Longview Mayor Andy Mack – transform people’s lives. After graduating from Longview High School, she attended Texas A&M University and then went to the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas to obtain a doctor of dental surgery degree. After graduating from dental school, she moved to Houston for an orthodontic residency at the University of Texas, where she completed her master’s thesis and earned a master of science in dentistry degree. Upon finishing her residency, she returned to Longview and started her career. At Mack & Hansen Orthodontics, she and her husband meet and treat people of all ages using the latest technology and techniques. “Through the use of Invisalign or traditional orthodontic brackets, we are able to help people align their teeth, correct their bites and enhance the beautiful smiles they already have,” she said. “We are blessed to be in this profession and are thankful for the opportunity

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and is a member of the Junior League of Longview and the Down syndrome Group of East Texas. She previously served as a board member of the Miracle League of East Texas, Camp Gilmont and the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Pines. “It’s rewarding to help others and help our community be the best we can be,” she said. “Working together toward a common goal brings about a sense of accomplishment and community.” In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, their daughter Andee, family and friends. She also enjoys walking, traveling, dining at new places, reading, exercising and watching movies. As for her future, Hansen said she and her husband want to grow their family and be the best parents they can. From a business perspective, they want to grow their practice and continue caring for patients in East Texas. “From a community perspective, we want to continue giving back to our community and would love to be able to do more of that,” she said. “Being involved with our patient’s organizations, their schools and their activities is important to our mission, and we hope to continue down that path.”

DR. SPENCER MACK HANSEN

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EDUCATION: AMY BRUYERE 30

my Bruyere feels like she is making a difference each day when she goes to work at Judson STEAM Academy in Longview. At Judson, Bruyere teaches seventh-grade English and language arts and serves as the school’s dance director. “I feel like working with children of any age in a school setting creates numerous opportunities to make a positive impact on our future generations,” Bruyere said. “Sometimes this happens by teaching academic skills to further

teaches traditional English and language arts classes as well as honors and pre-AP classes. Bruyere also started the school’s dance program this year. “I use a mixture of whole group and small group teaching strategies to grow students each day as they learn to read, analyze, write and comprehend at a deeper and more complex level,” she said. Outside of work, Bruyere said she enjoys spending time with her husband, Bo, their family members, friends and their miniature pinscher, Harley. She also enjoys dancing, swimming, working out, decorating for special occasions and cheering on the Texas Longhorns. Committed to giving back to her community, Bruyere attends St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Kilgore and is a member of the Rangerettes Forever alumni organization at Kilgore College, ETX Rangerettes Forever and the Kilgore Chamber of Commerce. She also is a supporter of Longview Ambucs and the Boys and Girls Club. “I think it’s important to give back to groups who helped shape and mold me into who I am today,” she said. “I want these groups and organizations to be able to continue to do the same for other individuals, but I know they need

Teacher transforms children’s lives through education, dance their educational journey and sometimes this looks like serving as a mentor who teaches good character and life skills that will be necessary outside of the campus walls.” Bruyere, 33, is a Kilgore native who continues to reside in the City of Stars. She graduated from Kilgore High School in 2006 and attended Kilgore College, where she was a member of the 67th Rangerette line. From there, she attended the University of Texas and today she continues to be a student at UT-Tyler where she is working on a master’s degree. Her teaching career began in her hometown when she taught for eight years at Kilgore ISD. In addition to being a teacher, Bruyere also previously owned and served as director for In-Step Dance Co., where she taught a variety of dance classes to students ages 3 to 18. “Although I no longer teach weekly classes, I still choreograph for area drill teams, dance teams and studios,” she said. “I also teach private lessons and choreograph private solos upon request.” In Kilgore, Bruyere received much recognition including the Rising Star Women in Business Award and the People’s Choice Award from the Kilgore Chamber of Commerce in 2019. She began working at Judson STEAM Academy two years ago. At Judson, Bruyere

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my involvement and support, along with the support of our communities, to make those goals a reality.” Bruyere is committed to working to continually better herself. She believes success doesn’t happen just because someone wants it; it happens when people work for it. “If we are constantly trying to better ourselves, then that’s exactly what happens,” she said. “We become better for not only ourselves, but for all of those around us.” In August of 2022, Bruyere will graduate from UT-Tyler with a master’s degree in educational leadership. She hopes to find an administrative role in the education field where she can continue impacting youth.

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AMY BRUYERE

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Raffle (detail) by Nancy Lamb

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Nov. 7, 2021 - Jan. 30, 2022

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awards program offered by Longview Regional Medical Center and was recognized as “People of Our Community Who Make a Difference.” Professionally, she has been a “Who’s Who Among Young Professionals” nominee. Outside of work and civic involvement, she and her husband enjoy cooking and hosting friends. They also enjoy golf and traveling with their children, Benjamin, 11, and Abigail, 7.

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allows her to go out into the community and help meet any needs that she sees. “What I love most about my job is the opportunity to help others,” she said. “Having dealt with a personal loss, and now working in the funeral industry, I have seen firsthand the needs to be better met for families in their time of loss and grief.” To help be part of the solution, Rader said she created a Hospice Relations program “to help strengthen the relationship between hospice, clergy and funeral homes.” The program is now used in communities across the country, she said. In June 2021, she also founded her own company, Everlasting Legacy Memorials. “Through working in the funeral industry, especially during a pandemic, I saw a need to modernize cemetery space,” Rader said. “Everlasting Legacy Memorials (ELM) is patented memorial technology which connects families regardless of where they live by providing an interactive ‘living’ memorial that is a legacy for future generations. My hope is that families nationwide can have the ability to memorialize and remember their loved ones, no matter the distance between them.” A Longview native, Rader’s grandfather gave her advice that she chooses to live by when he said, “It’s not about what you know, it’s about who

END OF LIFE CARE: ERIKA RADER

Striving to help people through moments of loss, grief

hrough her job, Erika Rader has felt privileged to meet many people as she strives to help them during some of life’s most difficult moments of loss and grief. “My role has allowed me the privilege to meet many amazing people and be a presence of support in some of their hardest times,” Rader said. Rader, 32, serves as the community relations coordinator for Rader Funeral Home. She’s worked there for five years and said her position

you know – and how you treat them.” “I’ve applied that principal to my own professional life and the relationships that I have been fortunate enough to establish have been invaluable,” she said. “We get so much more accomplished when we work together because individually, our knowledge is limited and we can only go so far, but when we form deep connections with others, opportunities are endless.” To further develop those relationships and give back to the community, Rader has served with many nonprofit organizations. She is a member of the Junior League of Longview and serves on the board for Asbury House Child Enrichment Center as well as the Camp Gilmont board. She also serves with the East Texas Alzheimer’s Alliance, HeartsWay Hospice, Longview ISD Foundation, TCIS Advisory Council, Rotary Police and Fire Golf Tournament, and works with veterans in the Longview and Henderson communities. She and her family attend First United Methodist Church of Longview, where Rader serves on the Children’s Advisory Committee and helps teach Sunday school. Rader has been recognized for her work in the community by a variety of organizations. She was a Star Over Longview in the annual

T T E XA

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ERIKA RADER

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ENERGY, OIL & GAS:

WESLEY KILLINGSWORTH

hortly after graduating college, Wesley Killingsworth was hired on at KP Engineering – and he’s never looked back. Killingsworth, 39, serves as the design manager for KP Engineering in Tyler. The company provides engineering, procurement and construction services primarily to the refining and syngas (“synthesis gas”) markets.

he enjoys spending time with family and friends, Scuba diving, being outdoors, backpacking, golf and watching sports. When asked about his accomplishments, he said, “According to my coffee cup, I am the world’s greatest dad.” As a father, Killingsworth is involved in the Cumberland Middle School PTO. He’s also committed to giving back to his community in other ways. He is involved in For the Silent, a nonprofit organization that is working to end trafficking. He holds roles on various leadership committees and is involved with the East Texas Entrepreneurship Center. Killingsworth said he believes “communication, determination and perseverance” are the keys to professional success. He also believes in the power of positivity, noting a quote by Henry Ford who once said, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right.” “This speaks to how a positive mental attitude can shape the person you are and who you become,” he said.

Positivity, determination influence engineering design manager As the company’s design manager, Killingsworth is responsible for overseeing all design aspects for KP Engineering’s projects. He manages a team of 16 multidisciplined designers for the company. His team at work is his favorite aspect of the job, he said. “Here at KPE, we have some of the brightest minds in the industry,” he said. Killingsworth is a Gilmer native, who graduated from Harmony High School. He moved to Tyler about 20 years ago when he began attending the University of Texas at Tyler. He began his career at KP Engineering about 15 years ago, working his way up to design manager. Prior to his current position, he held various other roles, including draftsman, designer, senior designer and project design lead. Outside of work, Killingsworth said 36

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“. . . communication, determination and perseverance” are the keys to professional success. WESLEY KILLINGSWORTH

WESLEY KILLINGSWORTH

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FASHION & HOME DÉCOR: 38

ANDREA MOORE

t a Gilmer boutique, Andrea Moore helps women feel beautiful inside and out. Moore is the owner of Urban Local Clothing, a downtown Gilmer boutique she opened in 2021. At the boutique, Moore wears many hats as she oversees all operations of the business. “I absolutely love what I do and I am beyond thrilled that I am finally doing it for

“I love building connections with new people and really learning about them,” she said. “Putting a smile on someone’s face warms my heart so much.” Aside from work and civic involvement, Moore said she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, shopping, fishing and watching football – especially the Texas A&M Aggies. She also enjoys living in East Texas. “I love the small town atmosphere (of East Texas) and how our communities are family,” Moore said. “You don’t find that in many places and it makes calling it home even better.” Moore has many goals and dreams for Urban Local Clothing as she works to grow the boutique through both its local storefront and social platforms. She believes the key to professional success is to “stay true to yourself.” That’s part of how she’ll help Urban Local grow. “We have many things in the works and can’t wait to share them all as we move along,” she said.

Boutique owner helps women feel beautiful through fashion myself and my business,” she said. Moore, 28, grew up in Gilmer, graduating from Harmony High School. She attended Tyler Junior College and has worked in retail since 2012. In the retail industry, she’s held just about every role, including sales associate, sales floor leader, managing and buying, as well as social media marketing. She’s proud to have opened her own boutique and she said she enjoys “helping women to feel beautiful in their own skin no matter their age or size.” Committed to being active in her community, Moore is a member of the Gilmer Area Chamber of Commerce and attends Grace Creek Church in Longview with her family. She said she plans to join a sorority in her hometown soon to continue helping to improve her community. Moore said she enjoys civic involvement because it allows her to meet new people and build relationships.

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“I love the small town atmosphere (of East Texas) and how our communities are family. . . . You don’t find that in many places and it makes calling it home even better.”

ANDREA MOORE Award Sponsored By:

ANDREA MOORE

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FINANCE & INVESTMENTS: 40

TRAVIS BEARDEN

yler native Travis Bearden enjoys getting to know families and their goals as he helps them plan financially for their future. “Helping connect their balance sheet to their heart and watching families take joy in their own stewardship is a driving joy of mine,” he said. Bearden, 37, is a certified financial planner with Northwestern Mutual in Tyler. In his role, Bearden works with everyone from business owners to retirees by providing them with guidance for financial security. He said he works with clients to identify their financial security needs and then

all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.” Bearden said he likes that quote, in part, because it reflects a message from a mentor imparting wisdom to his mentee. “Identity comes from our mentors who we respect and follow,” Bearden said. “This is a great example of how to give wisdom to your mentees and also what type of relationship to expect when you are being mentored. I’ve always admired the relationship Paul and Timothy have for that reason.” Outside of work and civic involvement, Bearden’s personal hobbies tend to veer down the same path of teaching as he strives to equip his children, who are 10 and 6, with skills as they grow and develop. Bearden said he enjoys woodworking and building a custom tree house with his son; he also has fun doing princess dress-ups with his daughter for daddy-daughter date nights. He coaches soccer and basketball teams for his children, enjoys taking them to football games to watch the Texas A&M Aggies play and has fun camping at various state parks. Looking toward the future, Bearden said he has both personal and professional goals. Professionally, he wants to grow and expand financial planning habits in the community by recruiting, training and

Helping business owners, retirees plan for financial futures focuses on solutions that are “meaningful and doable.” Growing up, Bearden attended Bishop T.K. Gorman Catholic School in Tyler and then went on to Texas A&M University. After graduating from college, Bearden worked for four years as a civil engineer in Dallas. He earned a professional engineering license before transitioning to the field of financial planning, which he found to be his passion. Outside of work, Bearden attends South Spring Baptist Church and is involved in the Mentoring Alliance, Royal Ambassadors and Upward Soccer. He said he enjoys serving alongside other men and women “of higher character than myself” and being part of his community. “I’ve always loved supporting other leaders more than I’ve wanted to be one,” Bearden said. As a person who strives to be a mentor to those around him, Bearden also has been a mentee who has developed professional skills by learning from the men and women around him. He believes in working hard to serve and love others, regardless of the outcome. One of his favorite quotes is from 1 Timothy 6:11-12, which says, “But you, man of God, flee from

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developing others to be good financial advisors. “I plan to work with my clients and peer advisors for decades as I get the honor of watching them live out their dreams while I help guide a small part of their journey,” he said. Personally, he hopes to impact the next generation of men and women. “Encouraging younger men, women and kids to know how valuable they are and understanding how quickly they can turn around and start impacting their community has been a constant vision of mine,” he said.

Award Sponsored By:

TRAVIS BEARDEN

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FIRE & RESCUE: AMBER HILL 42

ach day, Amber Hill helps train the next generation of firefighters. A state-commissioned and volunteer firefighter herself, Hill understands the training and passion that firefighters have and she is committed to giving her students the knowledge they need to be successful in the career. “Bettering the fire service in any way is my heart’s desire,” she said. “If I can give these students the knowledge they need, help them

Beginnings Baptist Church, where she teaches children’s Sunday school and is a member of the missions’ team. She also owns another business, Everlasting Memories by Amber, where she is able to showcase her skills as a wedding coordinator and wedding florist. “I go from full wedding attire to throwing my bunker gear on in a second to going into a fire,” Hill said. “Yes, I’ve actually fought fire in a dress under my bunker gear.” She enjoys helping all youth, but particularly young women, learn about firefighting. “Letting young girls know that women can do anything men can do and sometimes do it better,” she said. “I’m not a feminist, but I want to empower young girls to aspire to be anything their heart desires.” Hill was named Upshur County’s Firefighter of the Year in 2020 and holds certification as a level one and two fire instructor. She enjoys continuing to grow in her own education, and attends state and district conventions every year to try to better her knowledge and help volunteer firefighters. She said she believes listening is key to professional success.

Volunteer firefighter helps train next generation for success find their passion and love for firefighting, teaching them the safety aspects on scene and off, like the mental demons we battle, then I am in the end bettering the fire service by giving the students a solid foundation to grow from.” Hill, 31, is an Upshur County native. She grew up in Harmony and now resides in Gilmer. A fire instructor through the Kilgore College Fire Academy, she teaches students at Gilmer High School and Gladewater High School each day through a dual credit firefighting program. “When these students graduate high school they will do a two-week, hands-on boot camp at the college, and then be able to take the state test to become a certified firefighter,” she said. When she’s not teaching at the high schools, Hill helps with live fire training at Kilgore College for students going through the academy. She also serves as a volunteer firefighter with the Gilmer Fire Department and as the assistant secretary for the Northeast Texas State Firefighters’ & Fire Marshals’ Association. In addition to her fire departmentrelated service, Hill also serves on the East Texas Yamboree Board of Directors and as the marketing manager for the Yamboree Association. She is a member of New

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“When you take the time to listen, you learn and grow. You can learn from other people’s advice, mistakes or their own knowledge,” she said. “You don’t have to have the last word or even the first word. Sometimes by listening more issues are resolved and lessons are learned.” Outside of work, Hill enjoys spending time with her two daughters and making memories with them. In the future, she hopes to help expand the dual credit firefighting program to more high schools in East Texas. She already has two additional Upshur County high schools signed up to participate in the program next year and hopes to have more soon. “My goal is just to be the best I can be which in return will hopefully make a change in the fire service and better it,” she said. “Firefighters are in a very long line of brotherhood and each of my fellow firefighters are my brothers. I want to be their biggest encourager to be all they can be.”

“Bettering the fire service in any way is my heart’s desire . . .”

AMBER HILL

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FITNESS: KRISTEN HENTON 44

or Kristen Henton, the measure of success is in the amount of lives she impacts each day in and out of her gym. “I believe putting others first and treating people the way you would want to be treated is key: showing compassion, encouraging others and making sure to not just be there for our members in the gym but also outside of the gym as well,” she said. Henton, 35, is an owner and head coach of CrossFit Longview. CrossFit is a strength

forward to every time they have it,” she said. Art is a personal passion for Henton. She is also a local artist who creates hand-painted earrings and large, hand-crafted wooden art pieces. She enjoys showcasing her custom work at the quarterly ArtWalk events. “The ArtWalk in downtown Longview is my favorite (event) because it allows so many of us to come together and showcase our various talents and abilities, and highlights just how unique we all are,” she said. Outside of work and creating art, Henton enjoys spending time with her husband and their three sons. They work to stay involved in their children’s sports and activities, including coaching their teams occasionally. The family attends First Baptist Church of Diana. In addition to family time, Henton said she also enjoys exercising, playing almost any sport, shopping and getting coffee with her friends. Henton believes in showing enthusiasm in all that she does and noted that one of her favorite phrases is, “Nothing great was ever accomplished without enthusiasm.” “I think it is so important to be enthusiastic about the things that you are passionate about. Get excited about what you get to

Helping community develop healthy habits through strength and conditioning and conditioning program that also educates participants about a nutritious diet and healthy habits. Henton and her husband have owned the Longview gym for nine years and both serve as head coaches there. They lead group fitness classes and host personal training sessions. “All of our classes are coach led, community focused and results driven,” Henton said. The people – young and old – who attend CrossFit Longview help make the gym a success, she noted. “We have the most kind, generous and hardworking people in our CrossFit community. Without them, our gym would not be what it is,” she said. “They are truly our second family, and we are all constantly filling in the gaps for one another in various aspects of our lives both in and out of the gym.” Henton is proud to call Longview her hometown. She graduated from Spring Hill High School and went on to attend the University of Texas at Tyler, where she studied and played softball. She moved back to Longview when she and her husband decided to open their gym. She said she loves “our small town.” “I absolutely love how downtown has grown, and the Longview ArtWalk is something I look

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do every day and let people know what you love by your enthusiasm,” she said. “I was an enthusiastic athlete growing up, and I try to be an enthusiastic coach now at my gym.” When thinking about her future, Henton said she enjoys her job so much that she wants to continue on the path she’s been on. “We just want to continue to deliver quality coaching and help as many people as possible in their health and wellness journey,” she said. “We want to continue to spread the word on the importance of daily movement and healthy eating habits.”

“I think it is so important to be enthusiastic about the things that you are passionate about. Get excited about what you get to do every day and let people know what you love by your enthusiasm.”

KRISTEN HENTON

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HISPANIC COMMUNITY FIGURE: 46

ANTONIO MARTINEZ

ntonio Martinez enjoys helping people connect to job opportunities. Martinez, 28, serves as a branch manager for PeopleReady Staffing in Tyler. As the branch leader, he helps connect people to work, builds business relationships and gives back to the community. “As the branch manager I am responsible for the overall financial stability of the branch along with recruiting, hiring and training

he oversaw the recruiting departments for locations in Tyler, Jacksonville and Waco. When he’s not working at PeopleReady Staffing, Martinez enjoys participating in Tyler Tabernacle United Pentecostal Church. He also serves as the vice president for the Cumberland Academy Elementary PTO Executive Board and as a board member of the Literacy Council of Tyler. Martinez said he enjoys giving back to the community because he believes in the philosophy that “people change people.” “Being a part of the community and all the amazing things I have witnessed and been a part of has me believe in people,” he said. “The fact that I connect people with work has a factor that plays into that but the people really do the work. People change people.” He believes in building others up for professional success. “I believe professional success is when you have built someone else up to achieve their goals in their professional life and/or change someone’s life for the better,” he added. In his free time, Martinez said he enjoys

Branch manager believes ‘people change people’ internal staff all while continue to gain and maintain current business,” he said. Martinez is a Lufkin native who has resided in Tyler for about five years. He attended Lufkin High School and the National Paralegal College. Martinez started his career working in a law firm. “At the age of 16 years old, I walked into my first law firm as a file clerk working weekends, after school and during holiday/summer breaks,” he said. “I found myself quickly moving into a legal secretary role and into a paralegal role shortly thereafter.” He served for eight years at that law firm and left to change career paths when he chose to pursue staffing. He started his staffing career as a recruiter with Select Staff, where he said he gained “much knowledge and experience” as he learned the ins and outs of the industry. He then went on to work as the director of recruiting with another staffing agency where

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reading and writes book reviews on Goodreads. He also plays golf and collects journals from around the world. Professionally, Martinez has received many accolades including Select Staff being named branch of two quarters in 2018 and being named to the President’s Club for gross profits at Select Staff in 2018. Looking toward the future, Martinez said he hopes to own a company one day and he hopes to continue helping others succeed by building them up for their own future success.

Award Sponsored By:

ANTONIO MARTINEZ

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INSURANCE & PROTECTION: 48

COLLIN PHAUP

s a second-generation insurance professional, Collin Phaup enjoys educating and serving his clients and growing his team. “Educating the client on the protections available to them and saving them money is great, but the ultimate satisfaction has been growing my team at work and putting them in a position to be successful,” he said. Phaup, 40, is an insurance professional and

exceptional coverage at a competitive price.” Phaup has been a Certified Insurance Counselor since 2008 and has received much recognition throughout the years. He was voted Best in Town in 2019 and 2021 in the Tyler Morning Telegraph contest. He was named the Greater Tyler Association of Realtors Affiliate of the Year in 2019 and the Women’s Council of Realtors Tyler Chapter Affiliate of the Year in 2014. Outside of work, his hobbies include being a cheer dad and playing racquetball, golf and going to the gym. He’s also committed to giving back to the community. “Opportunities to give back to the community are abundant, and it’s a joy to call East Texas home,” he said. Phaup serves as the board president for Azleway and is a board member with Next Step Community Solutions. He’s also a member of the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research and a member of the Greater Tyler Association of Realtors. “I love Tyler because the city has a small town feel and a ‘huge heart’ for others,” he said. “East Texas is such a diverse community that

Insurance agent enjoys educating clients, growing team agency owner at Goosehead Insurance - Phaup Agency in Tyler. A Tyler native, Phaup attended college at Tyler Junior College and the University of Texas at Tyler. He grew up in the insurance industry as his father owned a Farmers Insurance agency for 28 years. He said his parents mentored him on the business and he credits much of his own success to that. “Learning to do business morally and ethically with drive and determination and not to succeed on my own but with others,” he said. Phaup got his own start in insurance by also working as a Farmers agent for eight years before venturing out on his own. “After a successful eight years as a Farmers agent, I desired a choice model for my clients and to work directly for the client instead of the insurance company,” he said. “Goosehead offered me the ability to focus on my clients and my referral partners, allowing me to do what I do best – managing a client’s risk and placing the client with a carrier that consistently offers

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offers broad appeal for those that want to make their home here.” When thinking about the future, Phaup said his goal is to “continue to grow my agency and give back to the East Texas community that has so richly blessed me personally and professionally.”

“Opportunities to give back to the community are abundant, and it’s a joy to call East Texas home.”

COLLIN PHAUP

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IT & TECHNOLOGY:

CODY GRACE

ody Grace serves as a leader in the realm of technology in East Texas, but soon he’s hoping to serve as a leader in the state. Grace, 38, serves as president of Waypoint Digital Networks, a software company that he described as being primarily a Microsoft Cloud Solutions Provider. The business sells, implements and supports Microsoft365, Dynamics365 CRM and Microsoft Surface devices. Grace handles most aspects of the business.

that says, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” That quote speaks to the equity he is seeking for everyone in his bid for the Texas House of Representatives. “One of my core beliefs is that ‘rising tides raise all boats.’ I want to see our city and state grow in a way that is equitable to everyone,” he said. While Grace is currently busy preparing for the upcoming election, civic involvement has been important to him in the past as well. He’s previously worked with disaster relief organizations, community building, mentorship programs and programs focused on technology for children. Professionally he’s received many awards over the years, but Grace said to him awards are “just recognition of good work.” “I try to always do my best work regardless of recognition for my own personal satisfaction,” he said.

Technology company president seeks to make broader impact on state “I enjoy fixing complex business problems with technology, automation and collaboration,” he said. “I also enjoy working with several different businesses with different challenges.” Grace is a Tyler native who attended and studied at Tyler ISD, Tyler Junior College and the University of Texas at Tyler. He said he still enjoys living in this area and that it has many positive attributes. “We have amazing people, world class dining, beautiful outdoor areas and a smalltown feel,” he said. “I love East Texas.” Waypoint Digital Networks is the second technology-related business that he’s started. The first, he said, was a PC resell business that helped him get through high school and college. Grace started Waypoint Digital Networks about six-and-a-half years ago. Soon, he will be taking on a new challenge. Grace is running as a Democrat for Texas House District 6 in the 2022 election. Grace referenced a quote by Mark Twain 50

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Success, he said, is about failure and knowing what not to do. “You will fail and that’s OK, keep going,” he said. “Success is also about accomplishing your goals. Goal setting is key to that.” His goal currently is to help make the city, region and state “more accepting and prosperous to everyone,” he said.

“One of my core beliefs is that ‘rising tides raise all boats.’ I want to see our city and state grow in a way that is equitable to everyone.”

CODY GRACE

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LAW & POLICY: JUSTIN ROBERTS

s an attorney, Justin Roberts enjoys not only serving his clients but developing his team. “Finding opportunities to grow the knowledge, skills and habits of our attorneys and staff is deeply important to me,” Roberts said. “I know that over the years, people may come and go from our law firm, but during their time with us, we should do everything possible to help them develop into the people they are called to be.” Roberts, 35, is a managing attorney with Roberts & Roberts Law Firm, a Tyler-based law firm

the Texas House Republican Caucus during the 83rd Legislative Session, after he had a stint as the general counsel of the House Select Committee on Federalism & Fiscal Responsibility. “I also worked as an attorney in the Elections Division of the Office of the Texas Secretary of State, where I advised state, county and municipal officials on election-related issues, as well as served as the lead attorney in advising state political parties on the primary process,” he said. Throughout his career Roberts has received many accolades. He has been recognized as a “Top 40 Under 40” attorney by several organizations, including The National Trial Lawyers, The American Institute of Trial Lawyers and The American Academy of Attorneys. He is a fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation, a fellow of The National Association of Distinguished Counsel and a member of the Texas Bar College honorary society. In Tyler, Roberts and his wife are members of Green Acres Baptist Church and he recently graduated from Class 33 of Leadership Tyler. He believes civic involvement is important to communities. “Communities live and die by their strength and wisdom of their leaders,” he said. “That means, however, that a group of committed

Law practice seeks to grow team, serve clients that also has offices in Longview and Dallas. In his role, Roberts practices law and helps manage the daily operations of the firm. “In doing so, I get to work with an incredible team of 40 brilliant, creative and respected colleagues who are doing outstanding work for our clients, our community and the legal system,” he said. A Tyler native, Roberts attended All Saints Episcopal School. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a juris doctor degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law. He’s worked at Roberts & Roberts for four-anda-half years, but prior to that he had the unique experience of working in all three branches of the state government. He served as a briefing attorney for Judge Paul W. Green at the Texas Supreme Court. He served as general counsel of

leaders have the power to dramatically improve their community in very tangible ways. I enjoy getting to collaborate with people across different industries to make East Texas an even better place to live and raise a family.” When he’s not working, Roberts said he enjoys spending time with his family. He also enjoys playing guitar and, occasionally, golf. When thinking about the future, Roberts said his desire is to practice and “perfect both of my crafts” – practicing law and growing a stable business. He said he believes part of the key to success is to balance listening to both one’s head and the heart. “You need to be able to have a gut sense of purpose and mission, while staying sober and rational about the decisions in front of you,” he said.

Award Sponsored By:

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JUSTIN ROBERTS

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LAW ENFORCEMENT:

LaDARIAN BROWN

s a police officer, LaDarian Brown is proud to serve the community that raised him. At 29, Brown serves as a Police Area Representative – or PAR officer – with the Longview Police Department. His beat includes a South Longview neighborhood where he gets to interact with the community. Brown said he enjoys community policing

Police Officer serves community ‘that I grew up in’ because he gets to serve “members of the community that I grew up in.” A Longview native, Brown graduated from Longview High School and attended Kilgore College. While in high school Brown was a member of the Longview Police Department Explorer program, which teaches youth about possible careers in law enforcement. He began his career in law enforcement by serving as a jailer for the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office. He then joined the Longview Police Department in 2013. Brown served as a patrol officer for six years prior to being selected as the Beat 60 Police Area Representative. As a PAR officer, Brown serves as Longview Police Department’s community liaison in Southeast Longview. His duties include implementing neighborhood improvement projects, such as Crime Watch groups. He also helps promote crime prevention and develops programs in

support of the department’s objectives that address the community’s needs. Outside of work, Brown enjoys music, spending time with family and friends, and is currently planning his wedding. He’s also committed to giving back to his community in other ways. Brown serves as senior pastor of Parkview Baptist Church and as the president of the Longview Area Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance. Additionally, he serves on the Board of Directors for the East Texas Advanced Academies, and holds the position of board secretary. He’s also a member of the Leadership Longview Class of 2022. “I enjoy seeing the lives of others changed in a positive way,” Brown said of his civic involvement. Former President Barack Obama once said, “You can’t let your failures define you. You have to let your failures teach you.” That’s a quote that rings home for Brown as he strives to make sure he serves “the citizens with dignity.”

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Outside of work, Brown enjoys music, spending time with family and friends, and is currently planning his wedding. He’s also committed to giving back to his community in other ways. Award Sponsored By:

LaDARIAN BROWN

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MANUFACTURING, GROCERY & DISTRIBUTION: 56

JARED JOHNSON

ne of the core values of Brookshire Grocery Co. is “team matters,” and Jared Johnson takes that to heart while serving as the store manager for Fresh by Brookshire’s. In his role, Johnson leads a team of store staff, manages inventory levels, cash flow and customer satisfaction. “My favorite part of my job is being

“No. 1, set a goal for yourself. No. 2, surround yourself with positive people,” he said. “No. 3, be willing to be coached.“ Outside of work, Johnson said he enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his wife and children. He is a member of Rock Hill Baptist Church. His wife is a teacher in Chandler, and Johnson said he is able to help with fundraisers and extracurricular activities at the school. “I enjoy the many options East Texas has for civic involvement,” he said. “What I really enjoy is that it brings people together to share in something good.” Looking toward the future, Johnson said he wants to continue working for Brookshire’s and to continue serving his community. “I love the impact I have with my staff and my guest each and every day and I would not want to do anything else,” he said.

Store manager brings fresh perspective to grocery industry able to provide more than just an excellent shopping experience but also building relationships with my customers,” he said. Johnson, 30, is from Tyler and currently resides in Flint, where he enjoys the community. “East Texas has so many things to enjoy, but for me it’s that most of my family is located in East Texas,” he said. He started working for Brookshire Grocery Co. about 12 years ago. In 2020, he was recognized as assistant store manager of the year by the grocery company. “‘Team matters’ to me is a reminder that you have to work together with others to achieve greatness,” Johnson said of the company’s motto. Johnson believes there are several keys to professional success.

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“My favorite part of my job is being able to provide more than just an excellent shopping experience but also building relationships with my customers.”

JARED JOHNSON Award Sponsored By:

JARED JOHNSON

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MARKETING & ADVERTISING: 58

JENNIFER WARE

ennifer Ware enjoys being part of a “mission-driven organization” that works each day to provide care to the East Texas community. Ware, 38, serves as the regional director of marketing and communications for Christus Health. In her job role, Ware leads marketing and communications activities in the Northeast Texas region of the Christus Health System, which includes adult acute care hospitals,

In addition to her job, Ware also believes in giving back to her community through civic involvement. She is a co-founder and director of the Longview Community Foundation; director and president of the Longview Museum of Fine Arts Board of Trustees; a member and sustainer of Junior League of Longview; and a co-founder of Longview’s Stragent Dog Park. Ware said she enjoys giving back to her community, “making so many new friends and building a wonderful place to live now and for future generations.” In her personal time, Ware enjoys fitness, gardening, reading and quilting. A personal accomplishment, she noted that she has completed four marathons. Through her work and civic involvement, Ware has achieved many accomplishments. She has been recognized by the Healthy Communities Fellowship in 2018 and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. She received the Emerging Young Leader Award from the Longview Chamber of Commerce in 2012 and was a member of Leadership Longview’s Class of 2009 and Leadership Texas’ Class of 2011.

‘Mission-driven organization’ supports care for East Texas clinics, outpatient centers and other programs and facilities throughout the Tyler, Longview and Texarkana areas. “I am responsible for leading marketing and communication activities for both new and existing services to achieve strategic growth and improve the health and wellbeing of those we serve,” said Ware, who has worked for the health care system for 12 years. A native of Shreveport, Louisiana, Ware attended and obtained a bachelor’s degree at Centenary College and earned a master of public policy degree from The George Washington University. She has lived in Longview for 14 years and is part of the Spring Hill community. “I enjoy living in East Texas because the sense of community makes it such a wonderful place for families,” Ware said. She believes hard work, a commitment to excellence and building relationships to be keys to professional success.

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Ware believes in the motto, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” “Great leaders don’t sit back and wait for ‘someone’ to affect change,” she said. “Being a leader means being willing to set the example and make the first move to step up and do the hard work.”

Award Sponsored By:

JENNIFER WARE

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21-16

MEDIA & NEWS: REAGAN ROY-YOUNG 62

s the director of digital content for CBS19, Reagan Roy-Young is committed to keeping the community informed. Roy-Young, 34, has worked for TEGNA-KYTX CBS19 for three years. As the director of digital content, she manages the Digital Content Team and leads digital strategy “to grow multiplatform content, audience and engagement for CBS19.” She strives to help the TV station’s newsroom develop workflows to deliver content 24/7 across

news director and assignments manager. She also has been a teacher in her past. For her work, Roy-Young has received two Edward R. Murrow Awards and was a runnerup for two Lone Star Emmy Awards. She also worked on a marketing campaign that won a Lone Star Emmy for best sports promotion. Roy-Young also is committed to giving back to the community in which she grew up. She attends Christ Episcopal Church in Tyler and is a member of the Steering Committee for the Downtown Tyler Film Festival, the Census Advisory Committee for the City of Tyler and Smith County, the Texas Music Friendly City Committee for the City of Tyler, and serves on the Career and Technical Education Executive Advisory Board for Tyler ISD. “I love working with others to make a difference,” she said. “I enjoy being able to work alongside such diverse community members with the common goal of making East Texas a better place for everyone who lives here.” Outside of work and civic involvement, RoyYoung described herself as an avid sports fan. “I love playing and watching any sport, especially when my Oregon Ducks are on,” she said.

Director of Digital Content keeps community informed of local news a variety of platforms and oversees all social media for CBS19. She also teaches and mentors members of the newsroom and the digital team in best practices for writing and producing content for digital and social platforms. “I enjoy getting to interact with the public and tell their stories on a digital media,” she said. “Sure, it’s great when you can feature a story on broadcast a few times, but those stories that make East Texas unique can live forever online.” A Longview native, Roy-Young now resides in Tyler. She attended Spring Hill High School in Longview and college at the University of Texas at Tyler. She said she enjoys living in East Texas because of the people. “East Texas is such a caring and charitable community,” she said. “Whether it’s donating to The Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign every holiday season or watching your neighbor’s house when they’re on vacation, East Texas is an incredibly generous area. I’m so proud to be an East Texan.” Prior to being named CBS19’s director of digital content, Roy-Young has held other roles in East Texas media. She has served as investigative producer, sports reporter, assistant

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She also enjoys going to the lake with her husband and their dog, Major, traveling and riding her Peloton. When thinking about her future, Roy-Young said she wants to continue learning and to keep growing as a journalist so she can tell stories that are important to East Texas. She believes hard work and dedication are keys to professional success. “I think nothing that’s worth having comes easy,” she said. “Therefore, hard work and dedication are, what I believe, the keys to success. Success is that much more satisfying when you know what you’ve put into it and how you did what others wouldn’t to reach your goals. That’s the difference between good and great.”

Award Sponsored By:

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

REAGAN ROY-YOUNG

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MEDICAL & HEALTHCARE:

JENNIFER WILLIAMS

t Little Light Pediatric Therapy in Longview, Jennifer Williams is filling an unmet need in the community. Williams, 35, is the owner of Little Light Pediatric Therapy, which offers such services as occupational therapy and feeding therapy for children. Being both the owner and occupational therapist at Little Light, Williams fills many roles each day. “My most important role is in empowering families to help them know how to best support their child,” she said. “My specializations in

for a parent in our one-on-one meetings, when I’m helping them understand how their child’s brain and body work. It’s such an incredible blessing to be able to give families the gift of understanding.” Williams is a Hallsville native who attended Texas Woman’s University after graduating from Hallsville High School. She gained experience working at Baylor’s Our Children’s House and at Children’s Health System before returning to East Texas to open her own business two-and-a-half years ago. “East Texans have such a unique sense of welcome and friendliness that you just can’t find anywhere else,” said Williams, who now resides in Longview. “I love sitting on the front porch, knowing that everyone who drives by will give a friendly wave or smile. I spent nearly 15 years away, but moving back just felt like coming home to the close-knit community I remembered as a child.” Williams holds many professional certifications, including recently completing a program that will allow her to bring East Texas a new way of “engaging and relating to autistic children in therapy.” In her free time, Williams volunteers as a photographer with the nonprofit organization, Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, which provides photography to parents suffering the loss of a baby. She also volunteers with Hope Mommies East Texas Chapter, which provides hope boxes

Occupational therapy clinic meets East Texas’ pediatric needs helping kids with sensory issues and feeding issues allow me to fill an unmet need in the East Texas community.” In her role, Williams works side-by-side with parents to help equip them with knowledge and skills to better serve their children. Williams said in her years working as an occupational therapist, she’s come to realize that what parents most want is to understand how to help their children. In her practice, Williams invites parents to stay for the therapy session. “There is nothing better than empowering a parent to know how to connect with their child on a level they’ve never been able to before,” she said. “I love seeing the moment something ‘clicks’

to the Labor and Delivery departments at local hospitals. Williams also is a foster parent. “Choosing to become a foster family was one of the scariest but most amazing decisions we’ve ever made and I’m thankful to have our village with us along the way,” she said. “There’s nothing more rewarding than sharing our family’s love with kids who need a safe place to land and lots of love to surround them.” In her free time, Williams enjoys maintaining an herb garden, collecting flowers from friends and family, photography and playing the piano. She said she has “big dreams” for pediatric care in East Texas, especially for children with sensory or feeding issues.

Award Sponsored By:

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JENNIFER WILLIAMS

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MEN IN BUSINESS:

JUSTIN HARGROVE

hrough his three businesses, Tyler native Justin Hargrove chooses to give back to the community and make an impact on a new generation. Hargrove, 39, owns Kona Ice of Tyler, Apex Leadership Co. and Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee. Many of his businesses focus on working with schools and giving back. “I grew up in East Texas, mostly in Tyler, and being able to operate a business that makes a financial impact on local organizations is a real

coffee food truck called Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Tyler. In addition to his businesses, Hargrove and his wife, Tara, serve on the national ad council for Kona Ice corporate and represent all Texas franchises on the board. Locally, he serves on the City of Tyler’s Parks and Recreation board. He and his wife attend Green Acres Baptist Church. Hargrove has resided in Tyler since he was in the third grade. He said he enjoys the people and the community spirit of East Texas. “People are generally happy, supportive and passionate about the area and our great state,” he said. In his free time, Hargrove said he enjoys spending time with his wife, running on the treadmill, hanging out with their dogs and traveling. He believes in the motto that “implementation and not ideas is the key to real success.” “You have to rely on discipline,” he said. “Implementing your ideas is the most important step to getting what you want out of life. Taking action is scary to many people. You have to learn to face it.”

Businessman gives back to community through companies blessing,” Hargrove said. “We get to work with hundreds of schools in the area so building relationships with the leaders of the schools and helping support their passion for the students of East Texas is awesome.” Hargrove grew up in Tyler, graduating from Grace Community School and then earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at Tyler. He purchased his first Kona Ice franchise six years ago in Canton and now owns five Kona Ice franchises that serve Smith, Henderson, Van Zandt and Cherokee counties. His team runs a total of eight Kona Ice units. “Kona Ice is primarily a fundraiser for local schools, churches, youth sports and nonprofits,” Hargrove said. “We have given back over $500,000 in the last six years including over $160,000 in 2021.” Hargrove also owns Apex Leadership Co. of East Texas, which he said is an event-based fundraiser for schools that focuses on fitness and leadership. He also recently launched a new 66

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Looking toward the future, Hargrove said he hopes to add more Kona Ice units so he can grow his reach and serve the community even better. He also plans to add additional coffee trucks to Travelin’ Tom’s business. “Our goal has been to raise millions of dollars for our clients of all our businesses through our give back efforts,” he said. “The sky is really the limit.”

“People are generally happy, supportive and passionate about the area (East Texas) and our great state.”

JUSTIN HARGROVE

Award Sponsored By:

JUSTIN HARGROVE

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MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS: 68

MEAGHAN SIMPSON

rior to moving to Kilgore, Meaghan Simpson worked as a professional actor traveling all across the country for performances. Today, she’s happy to have roots in the East Texas arts community, serving as the artistic director for the Texas Shakespeare Festival. “What I love most about my job is that it is in Kilgore,” Simpson said. “The ability to bring fantastic and professional productions to the East Texas region and the ability to hire theatre artists from all over the country is the

plays – including some by William Shakespeare – to East Texas. The festival brings high caliber actors, designers and directors from across the nation to Kilgore. Prior to setting down permanent roots, Simpson was among the actors hired to perform in the festival’s plays. As a professional actor, Simpson said she traveled from job to job across the country. “Over the course of two years I lived in Delaware, Illinois, Minnesota, Utah, Wisconsin, Colorado, New York, and finally Texas,” said Simpson, who is originally from Lake Zurich, Illinois. Simpson said she has always felt welcomed in East Texas, so it was an easy decision to call it home. She added that she also enjoys visiting nearby cities, including Longview, Tyler and Henderson to experience what each community has to offer. Simpson is a member of the Actors’ Equity Association and a certified adjudicator with the Texas Theatre Adjudicators and Officials, serving as a judge for UIL One Act Play competitions every spring. She is also a charter member of the StateraArts organization. “I love finding ways to build a community up that are mutually beneficial to multiple

Texas Shakespeare Festival artistic director sees bright future for arts best part. The East Texas patrons get the gift of theatre and the theatre artists get the gift of living in Kilgore and experiencing true southern hospitality.” Simpson, 38, has been part of the Texas Shakespeare Festival for 12 years since first being hired as an actor with the company in 2009. In 2013, she officially put down roots in Kilgore after being hired as the festival’s associate artistic director and associate casting director. In 2020, following the retirement of founder and artistic director Raymond Caldwell, Simpson was named the Texas Shakespeare Festival’s new artistic director. It marked the first time in the festival’s history for it to change artistic directors. “As the artistic director of the Texas Shakespeare Festival it is my job to guide the vision of the festival, plan programming and productions, and hire the artists that help bring the vision to life,” she said. The Texas Shakespeare Festival is the only professional theatre in East Texas. Each summer, the Texas Shakespeare Festival brings a lineup of

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organizations,” Simpson said of her civic involvement. “I love finding like-minded people in my community who are invested in the growth and future (of the community) and are ready to roll up their sleeves to make something happen.” A mother of two toddlers, Simpson believes in being willing to put in the work to achieve success. “Sometimes it’s not glamorous and sometimes it’s not the straightest path but you have to be willing to do work that progresses your vision forward every day,” she said. When thinking about the future, Simpson said one of her biggest goals is to see the city of Kilgore designated by the state as a Cultural Arts District. That designation would open many doors for Kilgore and its arts organizations. Another goal, she said, is “expanding our current Texas Shakespeare Festival Center to add a scene shop and black box theatre, both of which would help to serve the mission and revitalization of the city of Kilgore.”

MEAGHAN SIMPSON

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NONPROFIT/PHILANTHROPIST: 70

MIKI DOUGHERTY

s the executive director of the East Texas Angel Network, Miki Dougherty is dedicated to serving her community through the nonprofit organization that her parents started when she was a child. The East Texas Angel Network is a Longviewbased nonprofit organization that was established to help enhance the lives of families in East Texas who have a child who suffers from a serious or life-threatening disease. “I have a background in special education,

The benefit weekend is one of her favorite events each year as it allows her to spend time with the Angels (the children assisted by the organization) and their families. “This is also a time for them to interact with and meet other families that may be similar to their own,” she said. “We often hear our families say that when you have a child with special needs or a serious illness, you feel like you are all alone. To be able to give them an opportunity to meet others that feel the same way, is really my favorite thing about this job.” A Longview native, Dougherty taught special education at Wayne D. Boshears Center For Exceptional Programs School in Tyler from 2008 to 2011. She became pregnant with her first son while there and during the school year transition, an opportunity to work for the East Texas Angel Network arose. The nonprofit organization has provided her a way to give back to her community, but Dougherty said she believes even small encounters can make a large impact on people. “I feel that participation in organized groups that do good things in our community is important, but even the small things outside of that are what makes a difference,” she said. “It

East Texas Angel Network executive director gives back to families in need so children with special needs have always been my passion,” Dougherty said. “Our priority and main mission at the East Texas Angel Network is to financially assist our families on a monthly basis with secondary expenses such as partial rent and utility bills, but the best part is getting to actually get to know and interact with those families.” The East Texas Angel Network was established in 1995 by Neal and Melinda McCoy. Dougherty was 8 years old at the time and grew up being involved in the organization in some capacity. Now 35, she began working at the East Texas Angel Network in 2012 and now serves as its executive director. In her capacity as executive director, she oversees the foundation and has a wide array of responsibilities, including planning, organizing and overseeing the East Texas Angel Network’s annual benefit weekend. The benefit includes a golf tournament, meet and greet breakfast for families the organization serves, a sponsor dinner and auction, and a concert featuring several performing artists.

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can be something as simple as listening to a friend that needs to vent or playing with a child that wants your attention to picking up trash that you walk past on the sidewalk or returning a lost dog to its owner. It takes those small things to better your community just as much as it takes the ‘large’ things.” Outside of the nonprofit organization, Dougherty enjoys spending time with her three sons. Her children attend school in Spring Hill ISD and she is active in their school activities. She also enjoys sports, listening to live music, traveling and relaxing at home.

Award Sponsored By:

MIKI DOUGHERTY

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OUTDOOR BEAUTIFICATION: PHOTO UNAVAILABLE 72

DANIEL ROSS

t Landvisions, Daniel Ross works to help clients achieve the outdoor landscape of their dreams. Ross, 38, serves as the project manager for Landvisions, a Tyler-based company that helps clients design, build and manage their outdoor spaces. The company can handle a variety of tasks from backyard renovations to ranch land restorations and from lake front communities to city parks.

Metroplex because of the smaller town feel, but there’s still plenty to do,” he said. “The outdoors here is beautiful, and it’s nice not feeling surrounded by buildings and concrete. We also love the people here. Moving down here originally was to start a business, but the community was the real reward.” In addition to working for Landvisions, Ross also does marketing as part of a mortgage business that he and his wife co-own. When he’s not working, Ross said he enjoys Scuba diving, hunting, camping and participating in whiskey clubs. He attends Wilderness Church in Tyler. He’s a member of the East Texas Whiskey Club and the East Texas Bourbon Society, and he gives back to the community through For the Silent. “I love being able to take my skill set and experience and use it for a positive impact in our community,” he said. “I also enjoy the relationships built in these interactions.” Ross said he believes success comes from doing something one is passionate about.

Landscaping firm helps people achieve outdoor design dreams “I work closely with our designers and architects in house to make sure their vision is carried out in the field when it comes time to build or install it,” Ross said. “Working with our clients, superintendents and crews on site to make what started out as a small idea into a reality is very gratifying.” Ross, who has been on the Landvisions team for six years, said he enjoys helping create and build “one-of-a-kind environments.” “Knowing our spaces will bring their families joy for a long time makes me happy,” he said. Ross is an Arlington native who attended Arlington’s Lamar High School. He went on to Texas Tech University and owned a construction company for 12 years in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex prior to moving to East Texas. “We were drawn to East Texas from the

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“For me, making sure whatever I am doing is something that I truly enjoy and am passionate about is the main component,” he said. “When you love your job, then I believe success follows.” When considering the future, Ross said he hopes to continue helping Landvisions grow and wants to expand his mortgage brokerage business. He also wants to invest in local real estate development and plans to become a master Scuba diver.

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PHOTOGRAPHY & GRAPHIC DESIGN: 74

LINDSAY STEELE

t is said that a photograph is the pause button for life, and a Longview woman helps people capture memories to last a lifetime. Lindsay Steele is a portrait and studio photographer based in Longview who enjoys helping individuals and families capture memories. “I enjoy bringing out the beauty of

portraits and wedding photography. As a professional photographer, Steele has earned numerous community accolades over the years. She has won the Longview News-Journal’s Best of East Texas Awards each year from 2015 through 2020. She also won Locals Love Us each year from 2015 through 2020. With a downtown Longview business, Steele said she has enjoyed watching the area revitalize over the years. “I enjoy how close and busy downtown is, and I enjoy all of the events we have going on throughout the year,” she said. In East Texas, she said, there is a closeknit community and Steele said she enjoys meeting new people each day. Steele said she believes much of a person’s success comes from believing in oneself and never giving up on one’s dreams. “If you can dream it, you can achieve it,” she said. Steele’s future dreams include one day creating a coffee table book of her

Photographer helps bring out ‘the beauty of individuals’ individuals that I have the honor of photographing,” Steele said. Steele, 34, is a White Oak native who graduated from White Oak High School in 2005. She went on to study at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, graduating in 2010. She started her career by teaching choir at Gilmer ISD from 2010 to 2015. During that time, she directed the intermediate, middle and high school choirs. A photographer by hobby, she decided to turn her passion into a full-time career by opening Lindsay Steele Photography. She went full-time with the business six years ago and operates a photo studio in downtown Longview on Tyler Street. Steele is a professional portrait and studio photographer. She said she specializes in portrait and creative photography, including families, seniors,

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creative work. She also is excited to see how downtown Longview continues to transform. “I want to see how downtown Longview grows while having a studio in the heart of it,” she said.

“I enjoy bringing out the beauty of individuals that I have the honor of photographing.” LINDSAY STEELE

LINDSAY STEELE

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REAL ESTATE: MELANIE NORTHCUTT 76

ith a servant’s heart, Melanie Northcutt is committed to giving back to her community and helping others achieve their dreams of owning a home. “I believe constant personal and professional growth, networking and building relationships, and a servant heart are the recipe for success,” Northcutt said. “I strive daily to be an excellent steward of my community through these capacities.” Northcutt, 37, is a real estate broker and

a sustainer and past president of the Junior League of Longview, and served as a co-chair of the City of Longview’s Sesquicentennial Ball in February 2020. She is a founder and past president of Young Professionals of Longview. Northcutt also serves with Longview 20/20, Longview Regional Medical Center’s Women’s Advisory Council, the Arts!Longview Board of Directors, Stephen F. Austin State University Rusche College of Business RABAC, Alpha Chi Omega Alumni and the Longview and National Associations of Realtors. She attends First United Methodist Church of Longview. She has previously served on numerous other community boards, noting that civic involvement is very important to her. “I chose to move back to Longview and open my business in my hometown. I believe giving back to a town that gives to me daily in so many ways is prudent,” Northcutt said. “I love interacting with our wonderful people and being a member of so many strong and impactful organizations.” In addition to volunteering, Northcutt said she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling and road trips, playing the piano, learning to speak Italian, reading, playing with her dog Chip, cooking and decorating. She said she enjoys living in East Texas because

Real estate agent gives back, helps others achieve dreams owner of Sugar Magnolia Properties in downtown Longview. Through Sugar Magnolia, Northcutt helps members of the community buy and sell homes, land and commercial properties. “I love the problem solving aspect of seeing a need to be met by my client, and working to help them achieve that goal,” she said. “I work entirely by referral, so developing deep and meaningful relationships with my clients and community is key.” She also enjoys contributing to her team’s development, noting that she strives to train, mentor and coach her team to help them achieve their goals. Northcutt graduated from Pine Tree High School in Longview and Stephen F. Austin State University. She served as branch manager of Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Nacogdoches, then worked at the Small Business Development Center as a training coordinator prior to opening Sugar Magnolia Properties four years ago. Northcutt has received many awards and accolades over the years. Recognitions have included being named a 2017 Star Over Longview by Longview Regional Medical Center and being a recipient of the Emerging Leaders of Longview Award in 2013 by the Longview Chamber of Commerce. Outside of work, volunteering is among Northcutt’s favorite ways to spend her time. She is

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of the warm, friendly nature of the community and its residents. “We have the best people who work hard to keep improving where we live and play. We are such a giving community with our time, money and love,” she said. “We are truly situated in the perfect location with our beautiful piney woods, wildflowers, lakes and green pastures, with quick access to anywhere you want to go with our highways and airports. East Texas is truly God’s country.” When thinking about the future, Northcutt said her goal is for Sugar Magnolia Properties to grow to be the top boutique real estate agency in East Texas. “We choose to remain small in number of agents so that we can work as a family/team that is fully trained, engaged and ready to serve,” she said. “I plan on expanding our markets and continuing to develop myself so that I can better coach my team and help my clients.”

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RESTAURANT & HOSPITALITY: 80

CHELSEA CACE

t her restaurant, Chelsea Cace is proud to carry on a family tradition that East Texans have loved for more than seven decades. Cace, 35, is the owner and operator of The Cace Kitchen, LLC. She opened the takeout food establishment after the closure of Johnny Cace’s Seafood and Steak House, a beloved Longview restaurant that her family owned and operated for more than 60 years. “I enjoy seeing the happiness that memories of our food evokes in customers of all ages,”

generation has gotten a toy out of the chest.” In addition to the restaurant, Cace is committed to giving back to the community in which she grew up. She has been involved in Junior League of Longview (now as a sustainer), Young Professionals of Longview (past president), Longview Museum of Fine Arts, Preservation Longview and Leadership Longview. She currently serves as recording secretary for the Longview Child Development Center Board, as a board member of Longview Main Street’s One Hundred Acres of Heritage (a board that serves downtown Longview) and as a member of the Longview-Greggton Rotary Club. She attends both St. Mary’s and St. Anthony’s Catholic Churches. “I want to be involved in what kind of community I live in and own a business in,” Cace said. “I believe if we don’t work to make it a better, more artistic, inclusive society with our own unique culture, we have no right to complain about it.” Cace said she believes dedication, work ethic and a positive attitude are the keys to professional success. A motto that has been framed on the wall of

Cace carries on beloved East Texas restaurant legacy Cace said of The Cace Kitchen, which sells many of the fan favorite items from the former restaurant. At the restaurant, she carries on the Cace family tradition of “serving good food and good memories all over East Texas and beyond.” Cace oversees the kitchen, cooking, ordering and books events. A Longview native, Cace graduated from Longview High School and from college at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth. Professionally, she’s held every job possible in the restaurant industry between working at Johnny Cace’s and now owning The Cace Kitchen. She’s waited tables, bartended, washed dishes, served as a prep cook, done major quantity cooking and more. At The Cace Kitchen, not only does the food evoke memories but Cace enjoys seeing how other items also bring joy to customers. “People love to get in the treasure chest, which has been around throughout our history of 75-plus years,” she said. “Generation after

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Johnny Cace’s and now at The Cace Kitchen has guided her throughout her life. It says, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal, it’s the courage to continue that counts. “In the last 10 years I have truly understood the meaning of this,” Cace said, noting that starting her own restaurant was tough but it is also among her proudest accomplishments. Soon, The Cace Kitchen will be expanding as it moves in 2022 to the original location of the former Johnny Cace’s in downtown Longview. Her grandfather first started Johnny Cace’s in a building at the corner of Green and Tyler streets in downtown Longview. The restaurant was located there from 1949 to 1964. “The building is being remodeled but it has this amazing character already,” she said. “We will still be doing what we do now with our grab and go items but we will also add counter service dine-in as an option. I am really excited to continue my family legacy there with my mom and our great staff.”

CHELSEA CACE

40 UNDER 40 2021 | etxview.com

SOCIAL ENTREPRENEUR: 82

KELLY BELT

elly Belt enjoys seeing small business owners transform their business, leading to a positive impact on them and their communities. Belt owns and operates ActionCOACH of East Texas with her husband, Robert. The company, which the couple has owned for two years, is a business coaching firm based in Longview. “Every day is rewarding because I get to watch business owners take their businesses

organizations are truly passionate about making it a better place,” she said. In addition to helping businesses grow through her work at ActionCOACH of East Texas, Belt also is committed to giving back to her community. She is a graduate of Leadership Longview and of Leadership Marshall. She currently serves in the Junior League of Longview as its president-elect and received the 2020-2021 President’s Award from the Junior League of Longview. Additionally, she serves on the advisory board for the Longview Museum of Fine Arts and co-chaired the museum’s annual fundraiser, Magic and Mayhem. Belt said she enjoys civic involvement as it provides an opportunity to make a positive impact on the community. “I am motivated by being able to see positive change in our community and believe it is a privilege to be able to serve alongside others who want to make big and lasting impacts for future generations,” she said. “It is a way to continuously learn, collaborate and problem solve, not to mention connect with individuals who motivate and inspire me to do more.” When she’s not working or volunteering, Belt

Business coach helps others reach their potential to higher levels, which, in turn, has a positive impact on them and their families,” she said. Belt, 35, is a Sulphur Springs native who received a bachelor of business administration degree from Texas A&M University in Commerce. Her company is based in Longview and she and her husband live on Lake O’ the Pines. Prior to opening ActionCOACH of East Texas, Belt had a background in finance. Prior to transitioning full-time into her own business, she held various finance positions including serving as the controller or chief financial officer for area manufacturers. She also worked in grant management for nonprofit organizations. Belt said when she and her husband moved to Longview in 2012, they quickly realized the community was one in which they wanted to “call home and eventually establish a business.” The reason was simple, she said. It’s because of the people. “There are so many opportunities to serve and give back, and so many individuals and

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enjoys spending time at home with her family and being outdoors. She said jogging and reading are two of her favorite ways to spend her free time. Belt said she believes being confident in one’s abilities and not being afraid to take a leap to try something new are among keys to professional success. Looking toward the future, Belt has many goals – personally and professionally. “In the next few years, I hope to identify new ways to better serve my community through voluntarism,” she said. “Professionally, we believe that the work we do now with business owners will have the biggest impact on those who are still in school. “Our hope is to create more job opportunities for them, as well as to inspire and ignite entrepreneurial passion for our youth. My husband, Robert, and I plan to grow our firm’s footprint across East Texas to serve more business owners, as well as to seek other potential business opportunities alongside it.”

KELLY BELT

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SPORTS: KERRY LANE 84

s the head football coach and assistant athletic director at Pine Tree ISD, Kerry Lane plays a key role in the growth and development of East Texas’ youth. “I enjoy seeing growth in young people,” Lane said. “Getting to know them in sixth and seventh grade and watching them mature and create habits that will help them be successful in life. Second, I enjoy working with people who truly care about kids and are willing to do anything necessary to help them be successful.”

Gladewater and Waskom ISDs. He has led teams to many notable wins, including Pine Tree ISD competing in the Bi-District Championship in 2020 for the first time since 1976. In Gilmer, he led the football team to win the 4A Football State Championship in 2014 and the track and field team to win the 4A state championship in 2015. Over the years, Lane has received numerous accolades for his coaching. In 2021, he was recognized as the ET Varsity Best Preps Coach of the Year and as the FCA Heart of a Champion All Star Game Head Coach. A Union Grove High School graduate, Lane went on to attend Stephen F. Austin State University and has resided in Longview for seven years. He says he enjoys living in East Texas because of the people. “We have all types of people from all types of backgrounds, tax brackets, political affiliations, nationalities and belief systems. Despite all that could divide us, we still love living here with each other, raising our kids together and are always willing to help a neighbor,” he said. “Besides choosing sides under the Friday Night Lights, we are one big community. That makes me proud to be from East Texas.”

Football coach helps youth grow, excel through sports Lane, 37, has worked at Pine Tree ISD for five years. As the head football coach and assistant athletic director, he wears many hats and has many responsibilities. As the head football coach, Lane is responsible for the development and organization of the football program for Pine Tree ISD. This starts in fifth- and sixth-grade pre-athletics and goes through the high school varsity program. “This includes the recruitment and development of the football staff, the strength and conditioning program, planning of yearly budgets, fundraising, Booster Club, facilities, recruitment and eligibility of all athletes, organization and maintenance of all football equipment, and most importantly the performance and behavior of the football athletes in Pine Tree,” he said. As assistant athletic director, he helps coordinate schedules of all athletic teams’ strength and conditioning programs, oversees budgets and activity accounts, manages facilities, grows and develops coaches, and assists Pine Tree Athletic Director Jody Berryhill with other responsibilities. Prior to working at Pine Tree ISD, Lane coached a variety of sports in Gilmer, Arp,

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Lane attends Grace Creek Church in Longview. In his free time, he enjoys watching his sons, Trey and Tyler, play football and baseball, duck hunting, golfing and learning to cook. When thinking about the future, Lane said his only goal is improve each year, personally, and to help the people around him grow as well. He remains dedicated to guiding and mentoring youth and he said football can help children better understand and excel at life. “In coaching football the key to professional success is to understand that ‘winners’ are more important than wins,” he said. “As a coach our job is to use the game of football to help kids win in life; it is not our job to use kids to win football games. Make each kid a winner, in life and in football, and the success on the scoreboard will take care of itself.”

Award Sponsored By:

KERRY LANE

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TATTOO & ARTISTRY:

MITCHELL HOWIE

itchell “Mitch” Howie isn’t an ordinary tattoo artist. “I specialize in customizing tattoos for clients who have a vision, but don’t quite know how to put it down on paper,” he said. “And then I apply the artwork permanently to their skin, changing their lives forever.” Howie, 28, is a professional tattoo artist and body piercer. He’s practiced tattooing for more than five years and has worked at Pale Horse Tattoo and Piercing in Longview for two years.

Tattoo artist leaves mark, impacts lives through custom work He also helps mentor up-and-coming tattoo artists to help them grow and succeed in their careers. “I love everything about tattooing,” Howie said. “Ever since I began my apprenticeship I have been chasing ways to improve my experience for my clients. I have a burning passion for it, and always give 100% to every single person that I work with.” A graduate of Chapel Hill High School, Howie has won more than 10 awards for tattooing and he said he enjoys “friendly competitions.” “I feel that in the industry iron sharpens iron, and you can learn something from any tattoo artist or even just artists in general,” he said. Howie added that he works to consistently upgrade his equipment and to try new things. He noted he’s not tied to one specific tattoo style. “I love that tattoo artistry is always evolving, but is also rooted with tradition,” he said. “I

have dedicated my whole adult life to the craft and don’t ever plan on stopping.” Howie also is a professional musician and is part of Pure Jiu Jitsu in Longview. His hobbies include art from painting and wood burning to pencil drawing and digital art – and, of course, tattooing. Always striving to improve himself, one of Howie’s favorite mottos came from a fellow East Texas tattoo artist known as Puppet. Owner and tattoo artist at The Lost Boys Tattoo in Tyler, Puppet once told Howie, “I am not competing with anyone except for myself; I am just trying to be better than the guy I was yesterday.” “Puppet told me this a long time ago about the time I started tattooing. It stuck with me, and I feel like it’s a huge part of what I tell myself every time I am struggling to reach a goal,” Howie said. “It has worked for me every time.” Howie believes keys to professional success include a strong work ethic and a passion to grow individually and to build up others. “We are in this together. If all you worry about is yourself, then you lose your humanity in the process, and I wouldn’t be where I am if

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it weren’t for the guidance of those who were there to help me,” he said. When thinking about the future, Howie said his goal is to continue tattooing every day, to learn from each tattoo he creates and to give each customer his best – regardless of what else may be going on. “Just being able to sit in my chair and work is enough for me,” he said. “I am blessed to be a part of the tattoo community. My future is with tattooing.”

“I love that tattoo artistry is always evolving, but is also rooted with tradition. . . . I have dedicated my whole adult life to the craft and don’t ever plan on stopping.”

MITCHELL HOWIE

40 UNDER 40 2021 | etxview.com

VOLUNTEER: LAUREN BRESCH

ith a passion for voluntarism, Lauren Bresch has been making an impact on East Texas, especially in the Hallsville community. Bresch, 38, serves on the Hallsville City Council and helped start PTA programs at Hallsville East Elementary School and at Hallsville Intermediate School. She also served as president of each PTA program for two years. Today, she is working to start a Parenting Group at Hallsville Junior High School, where she also

a business called Southern Serendipity Décor, LLC. At Southern Serendipity Décor, Bresch specializes in creating custom wreaths and home décor as well as decorating homes and businesses for Christmas and other holidays. She started the business about a year ago when she left her job to stay home with her son as he did home-school for the first nine weeks of the 2020 fall semester. Her husband encouraged her to explore her passion for making wreaths and home décor. “It was perfect; I would be at home with my son and could work on creating things that would make people happy during this uncertain time,” she recalled. “In just a few days of announcing my new adventure I had well over 600 followers on my new Facebook page. My friends and family were so encouraging and supportive.” Bresch said she enjoys the business because she is able to bring joy to others. “Having people invite me into their home to decorate for the holidays is so humbling and rewarding,” she said. “As I decorate, I think of all the memories they will make and I love seeing sentimental pieces, such as ornaments, as I hang them on their tree. I love creating custom wreaths for my sweet customers. It is an

Bresch enjoys volunteering, making a difference in community volunteers each week to assist teachers. Additionally, Bresch serves as a director for the Hallsville Education Foundation, assists with the Hallsville United Fund and volunteers at her church, Longview Missionary Baptist Church. She previously served as secretary of her homeowners association and now serves as president. She also served on the Hallsville Beautification Committee and the city’s Sesquicentennial Committee. “I love making a difference in my wonderful community,” Bresch said. “Quality of life is very important to me. I want everyone to feel welcome and be proud to live here and know about all of the wonderful resources we have right here in East Texas. Meeting new people and working together for a common goal is a wonderful feeling.” Bresch hails from Benton, Louisiana. She has lived in Hallsville for the past 13 years and owns

honor to have them hang on their door as one of the first things their friends and family will see when they visit their home or business.” When she’s not working or volunteering, Bresch said she enjoys watching college football, traveling, decorating her home, gardening, attending events in East Texas and spending time with her family and friends. “I have met so many wonderful people, especially through my volunteer work. God sure had a plan for moving my family here and I am reminded of that every day,” she said. “I am thankful that I get to raise my son in this wonderful community full of wonderful resources for him. My husband works for a wonderful company in Longview and I feel very blessed everyday that we get to live here.” When thinking about the future, Bresch said she plans to continue helping her community as new doors open to her.

Award Sponsored By:

40 UNDER 40 2021 | etxview.com

LAUREN BRESCH

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS:

TERI KILLINGSWORTH

he mortgage lending and finance industries have long been male-dominated, but Tyler businesswoman Teri Killingsworth said she’s working to shake that up. Killingsworth is a mortgage broker and coowner of The Mortgage House in Tyler. The company works to help East Texans meet the dreams of owning a home. “My best friend, Marque Ross, and I have been in the industry for about 20 years and decided to open our own company,”

Mortgage broker strives to build up other women, help people achieve goals Killingsworth said of the firm they opened about two years ago. “We wanted to change the dynamic and feel of mortgage lending.” Killingsworth, 39, graduated from Chapel Hill High School and went on to attend the University of Texas at Tyler. She has been in the mortgage industry since college and said she enjoys working with people. “I absolutely love helping people and getting to know them,” she said. “When someone is buying a home you really get a chance to know them in such depth and detail as long as you’re willing to take the time to listen. Single moms, veterans, retirees, investors – they all have stories that showcase the diversity of life. It fascinates me. Most of my clients end up becoming lifelong friends. “ For her work, Killingsworth has received many awards and accolades. She was voted Best in Town in the Tyler Morning Telegraph contest in 2019, 2020 and 2021. She also was part of UT Tyler’s Top 30 Under 30. When thinking about quotes that motivate her, Killingsworth said two statements by the late

U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg ring true for her. Ginsberg said, “Fight for the things that you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you” and “women belong in all places where decisions are being made.” “I think that strong women help to build other strong women,” Killingsworth said. “I love the story of her life. She was such an inspiration to me when I was growing up. Her parents, her marriage, her career — she was a woman who helped build up other women. It’s what I hope and strive for with my daughter. That she sees how strong she is and that she can do anything with her life.” Born in Grapeland, Killingsworth grew up across the U.S. but has lived in the Tyler area for about 25 years. She said she enjoys being part of the East Texas community. “I tell people that Tyler is the largest small town you’ll ever find,” she said. “Population-wise we’re such a large diverse community but it feels as if we all know one another.” She’s also committed to giving back to the community. Killingsworth volunteers her time with For The Silent, a nonprofit organization fighting to end trafficking, and is part of the Tyler Street Team, which works to meet the needs

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of those who are homeless. She said she also provides support to other charities throughout the year. “I love to help out wherever and whenever I can,” she said. When considering the future, Killingsworth said she hopes to continue to grow and to help more people through the realm of mortgage lending. “We’re competing with large companies to make sure that people are getting the best service, the best home loan, the best financial advice and we’re doing that all over the state of Texas,” she said.

Award Sponsored By:

TERI KILLINGSWORTH

40 UNDER 40 2021 | etxview.com

WORSHIP: JULIE ENGLERTH

t HighRidge Church, Julie Englerth helps create a space for the community to worship. Englerth, 34, serves as the worship leader for HighRidge Church of Longview where she works alongside her husband, Chris, who serves as the worship pastor. “My main roles are to create teaching for oncoming worship team members, plan special services, help pastor my team and lead worship on a weekly basis,” she said. “My passion

dream in my heart right here in Longview,” she said. “Now, I am grateful and honored to lead here.” At HighRidge, Englerth leads a team of about 50 people who serve in worship and technical arts, have written training curriculum, host a musician and vocal training course the last three summers and have recently written and recorded a worship song with Joel Barnes from Maverick City Music, which will be released soon. “Music is a gift and it’s an honor to use it in a beautiful and creative way to express love and devotion to God,” she said. “Working together in unity and relationship as a team is something that leaves us all in awe and gratefulness every week.” Through the church, Englerth also has worked with many nonprofit organizations in the community. She noted that HighRidge has partnered with One Love Longview, has worked with other churches to host the Unite Conference at the Belcher Center and has been part of Transformation Longview. “When we get outside of our personal organizations and create the net of community that crosses ideologies, expertise and social

HighRidge Church leader creates space for community to worship is in developing healthy church culture and communicating the heart and purpose of why we do what we do.” A Longview native, Englerth graduated from Longview Christian School and then attended Christ for the Nations Institute in Dallas where she studied theology and worship ministry. When she graduated, she said, she assumed she wouldn’t come back home but God had other plans for her. She returned to Longview in 2008, married her college sweetheart and over the last 13 years she has led worship at her home church, HighRidge. She held positions at Longview Christian School and at Texas Bank and Trust prior to joining the staff of HighRidge Church five years ago. “What I learned over the years was that instead of going elsewhere to find great opportunities, I had the chance to create the

background, our city gets better,” she said. “I see hope for the future reaching into every level of Longview.” In her free time, Englerth said she enjoys songwriting, CrossFit, family time, dinner with friends, music performances and visiting bookstores. When thinking about the future, Englerth has many goals. Personally, she wants to write and record original songs and be a trusted community leader in Longview. Professionally, she wants to help develop other worship leaders and play a role in redefining “what healthy worship culture can be in church by empowering people who are gifted in music to use it for God and his people.” In the meantime, she is committed to helping ensure that HighRidge remains a positive space for the community to gather to worship each week.

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