Charm Magazine - September/October 2015 Issue

lisa brown | a balanced life | picture this! | his point of View SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

COVER STORY

Leading

ladiES

ALSO INSIDE

keep calm and

TRuST ThE dOg beauty favors

ThE BOld

Less waiting for emergency care (and a lot more care, if you need it).

In a medical emergency, every minute matters. So, at Longview Regional Medical Center, you’ll find faster care in the emergency room. We work diligently to have you initially seen by a medical professional* in 30 minutes – or less. And, with a team of dedicated medical specialists, we can provide a lot more care, if you need it.

The 30-Minutes-Or-Less E.R. Service Pledge – only at Longview Regional Medical Center.

LongviewRegional.com

*Medical professionals may include physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

s t n e t n o C Keep Calm And Trust The Dog

Beauty Favors The Brave

10

Features 16

Balanced Life: Choose To Unstress Yourself

20

Cover Story: Longview’s Leading Ladies

31

Beauty Favors The Brave

34

Doctors Making A Difference

38

Courage In Caring

50

The Secret Life Of A Summer Intern

54

Lisa Brown: Once Upon A Time

Special Section 43

Charming Physicians

4 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

Doctors Making A Difference

31

Health & Beauty 10

Keep Calm And Trust The Dog

14

Skip The Suds

Skip The Suds

34

14

On the Cover

Fashion 26

Luxe Be A Lady

30

The Power Of Pink

School 52

21 Days To A New You

In Every Issue 42

His Point of View

56

Picture This!

59

Charm Challenge

Check out these three successful Longview female business owners under 40 who are helping the community and serving as positive role models. pg. 20

Spot the Charm Our July/August Spot the Charm winner was Candi Dawson and she has chosen a $100 Visa gift card. She spotted the charm on page 30 in our last issue!

We invite you to spot a special Charm logo in this edition. If you locate it, sign on to mycharmonline.com and click the Spot the Charm link on the homepage.

CHARM SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 PUBLISHER Stephen McHaney EDITOR Ric Brack • 903.237.7759 • rbrack@news-journal.com PUBLICATION DIRECTOR April Harlow • 903.232.7206 • aharlow@news-journal.com MANAGING EDITOR Christina Lane • 903.237.7724 • clane@news-journal.com ART DIRECTOR Katie Case • 903.237.7715 • kcase@news-journal.com PHOTOGRAPHER Chris Lozano • 903.237.7246 • clozano@news-journal.com DESIGNER Rebecca McCallum ILLUSTRATOR Vanessa McGraw INTERN Raenesha Thompson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ashley Anderson • Lisa Brown • Amy McHaney • Christina Lane Tammy Whitehurst • Dawn Whittington • Katie Murphrey ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Susan Payne • 903.237.7721 • spayne@news-journal.com Brittany Dorman • 903.237.7716 • bdorman@news-journal.com Trisha Hall • 903.237.7776 • thall@news-journal.com Stephanie Smith • 903.237.7726 • ssmith@news-journal.com Chris Dean • 903.237.7719 • cdean@news-journal.com Amanda Taylor • 903.232.7276 • ataylor@news-journal.com Thomas Bonner • 361.574.1249 • tbonner@vicad.com CIRCULATION Josh Hart • 903.237.7765 • jhart@news-journal.com

mycharmonline.com

6 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

Let’s go

Everywhere.

Jeep

903.757.3720 | 4181 Hwy 259 N | Longview, Texas | peterscars.com

LETTER

sand. I remember thinking that I wasn’t as afraid of dying as I was

Dear Readers, As busy wives, mothers and professionals, we all have so many things that

of the treatment I would have to undergo if I were really sick. And how colossally messed up is that?!

Thankfully, there was nothing for me to have worried about,

attention

but this whole experience brought me to some pretty compelling

know

I

conclusions. There is something scarier than being sick: not

certainly feel that way!

knowing. We can dream up the most terrifying scenarios based on

At any given moment,

nothing more solid than our own fears. And health care doesn’t

there’s a meeting that I’m

have to be scary. It can, and should, be a partnership with our

almost late for, a report

physicians and health care providers.

demand every

our

day.

I

that’s got to be finished

Our September October issue of Charm usually focuses on

in 10 minutes, 7 emails

health, and for this issue we looked for the bright side of health

to be answered and a

care. In preparing this magazine and reading these stories as they

phone ringing.

came in, I was constantly amazed by the spirit and perseverance

And that’s just at work.

people have. And I’m sure the people I work with are a tiny bit

I won’t even go into the

tired of hearing me go on and on about our feature on therapy

to-do list at home. You

dogs, but it’s seriously my favorite feature we’ve ever done! (Okay,

get the picture. If you’re

I’ll admit I’ve talked about it a lot, but I got to meet one of the

like me, there’s always so

dogs. Phoebe was so loveable and huggable, I wanted to take

much we need to do. It

her home.)

can be so easy for us to

As always, we hope you enjoy this issue of Charm. But more

neglect the one thing that

importantly, we hope it shows you what it showed us … there

should be most important

are amazing stories everywhere, and a difficult diagnosis doesn’t

to us … our health.

mean you’re in it alone

Having had my own relatively brief health scare earlier this year, it became abundantly clear to me that my health was the one thing in life that literally made me want to bury my head in the

April Harlow aharlow@news-journal.com

Longview Mall 903-753-0041 Hours: Mon-Sat 10-9 Sun 12-6

Merle Norman Cosmetic Studios have been independently owned and operated since 1931

8 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Keep Calm and

Trust The Dog Words by TAMMY WHITEHURST Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

10 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

W

hoever said diamonds are a girl’s best friend never had a

After her last seizure and unresponsive behavior last summer,

service dog. These dogs are not a fashion accessory. They

Pittsburg High School teacher Mandy Hobbs was told by a friend

are life-savers. Service dogs are a familiar sight today in

she should consider a service dog. She researched different

stores, restaurants and airports. They can cost as much as $30,000.

companies before deciding on Service Dogs by Warren Retrievers.

Dogs are a man’s best friend, or in this case, a woman’s.

She received a phone call back the next day from the owner, who

Phoebe, Gadget and Pilot are service dogs way beyond fetching a Frisbee or running after a ball. They have amazing talent because they have been trained to save lives.

is also a diabetic.

Mandy’s dog is a male named Gadget that she received in December 2014. Gadget gives Mandy a “paw” if her blood sugar

Phoebe is a service dog and a constant companion of Savannah

is out of range. Not once has he missed an out-of-range blood

Hamilton, who has diabetes. Phoebe is trained to smell and detect

sugar. He is also trained to alert her children if she does not

high and low blood glucose readings. She will grab and pull an

respond. Gadget will even bring her a test meter and is trained to

indicator alerting Savannah to check her blood sugar when they

call 911 on a special device.

are in the danger zone.

A dog who makes 911 calls? Yes, that is exactly right.

Phoebe was trained in California by the organization called

Mandy loves Pittsburg, where she was born and raised.

Canine Hope for Diabetics. Savannah and her mother fly to

The community members love Gadget as much as they love

California every October for training with the organization.

her.

Phoebe is a professional and cannot be treated, petted or

The people of Pittsburg helped raise the necessary

funds to pay for Gadget. Often people will speak and greet

played with like a normal dog. She is always on duty until put her in her crate to sleep. Now before you jump to the conclusion that Pheobe doesn’t get to play like a dog, she is far from mistreated. She is loved like a member of

Savannah Hamilton and her service dog, Phoebe

the family.

During Phoebe’s “dog time” she loves to swim and run.

While a normal dog is stuck home alone, Phoebe is out shopping, watching movies, or flying off to places unknown.

Phoebe is also a food connoisseur, eating only specialordered nutrition to help her stay at optimum health. Many dogs sleep outside for the night but she gets to choose between Savannah’s bed or her bed in a cushioned crate.

Not too bad for a dog’s life.

When Savannah was a senior year in high school, she and friends went to eat at a local restaurant. As soon as they walked in, a woman saw Phoebe and demanded the dog be removed from the premises. It is an awkward and embarrassing memory for Savannah. She shares it only to spread awareness regarding service animals and to prevent things like this from happening to those whose lives are dependent upon their dog.

Owning a service dog makes a person the center of attention. As an owner, he or she must get used to the constant attention wherever he or she goes.

No matter where Savannah takes Phoebe, people always stare. Some make barking noises when they see her. She pays them no attention. She is one girl who is not wooed by whistling or barking. She knows who loves her the most. Savannah. mycharmonline.com 11

Mandy’s dog before they greet her. Most of the time businesses welcome Gadget inside, but there are times Mandy has to explain what his purpose is in

Mandy Hobbs

and her service dog, Gadget

her life.

Most of us do not insure our dogs. Mandy pays $1,800 for mortality insurance yearly for Gadget. No matter what the cost, Gadget is priceless.

The feeling of being at ease and being able to sleep at night and not worry was worth every penny raised for Gadget. He is her life saver and number one man.

People use service dogs for diabetes, seizures, autism, blindness, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and many other challenges in life.

Speaking of PTSD, Rachel Schulik recently trained a PTSD dog named Pilot for a war veteran. She decided to become a service dog trainer to combine her love for animals with her love for helping others. While attending Texas A&M she researched two student organizations that pair with national organizations in training service dogs.

One organization, Patriot Paws, grabbed her attention.

Patriot Paws service dogs work with veterans who have war-related injuries ranging from PTSD to loss of limbs.

Most veterans who have a Patriot Paws dog deal with

perfect,” Rachel explained. “This presents some challenges in

PTSD. Their service dogs are trained to protect them in stressful

training, because some days they might not be in the mood or

situations, wake them from night terrors and help them to face

they are going through their terrible twos. However, as long as

the day.

the dog and trainer have mutual respect, these little issues can

For veterans with physical injuries, the dogs are taught to open doors, get medicine, change out the laundry, and help them get dressed. One Patriot Paws dog was paired with a man who lost both of his arms at war. The trainers worked with the veteran and his dog to teach the dog to pull up his pants and zip zippers.

How amazing is that?

Rachel said it is important to start training a service dog at a young age, preferably when they are 8 weeks old. Labrador retrievers are the most common service dogs.

The breed is used for multiple reasons.

They work hard and gain pleasure by satisfying their owner. Additionally,

be overcome.”

Rachel believes God placed Pilot in her life for a reason, and said he will always be a great friend and part of her life.

It has to be difficult to say goodbye to a dog the trainer has learned to love and worked with for an extended amount of time.

What they must remember when training a service dog is that they can possibly save a life. It is the reason they do what they do.

Pilot helped Rachel through difficult times in her own life. She understands their value to the owner and had to keep this in mind as she parted ways with Pilot and offered him to his new owner, a veteran suffering from PTSD.

Labradors are friendly dogs and

It's hard to put into words everything a service dog does

most people do not fear them when

for its owner. It's physical. It's emotional. You have to live it to

in public settings.

understand it.

“Dogs are not robots, they have unique personalities and are not

They leave paw prints forever on the trainer and the owner’s heart. C

They leave paw prints forever on the trainer and the owner’s heart.

12 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

HEALTH & BEAUTY

I am constantly trying to find ways to streamline. Become more efficient. Save time. Make time. I’ve long thought that if I didn’t have to eat or bathe I would have a ton of extra time on my hands. This notion of cutting out bathing led to my idea for this month’s beauty column: dry shampoo!

If you are reading this and are friends with me, please don’t steer clear next time you see me – I didn’t cut out bathing altogether. I promise.

I have been intrigued by the mysterious dry shampoo product for years, but have never taken the plunge and tried it out. It turns out that dry shampoo is not a new product at all. In fact, the British model Twiggy was featured in an ad for Mini Mist Instant Dry Shampoo that ran in Glamour magazine in 1968. And prior to that, women had been using DIY dry shampoo for decades, maybe even centuries – cornstarch, rice flour, powdered clay. If it could absorb oil, it seems like someone had used it to “wash” their hair.

The notion of absorbing oil is the primary gist of dry shampoos on the market today. They don’t necessarily clean your hair in the shampoo-and-water sense, rather they provide a very fine powdery coating to the roots of your hair to absorb oil and other gunk (Dead skin cells anyone? Gross). After a few minutes you brush your hair thoroughly and voila! Hair that is presentable without stepping under a shower head or setting foot in a salon!

The vision of all the time I could save if I didn’t have to wash and dry my long hair but once a week? Well, just the idea made me giddy. I did a bit of networking with some of my favorite product-junkie girlfriends to identify the dry shampoo brands to try – here’s my list, in the order tested:

SKIP THE SUDS Words by AMY MCHANEY

A

BATISTE DRY SHAMPOO – Strength & Shine • $5.99 at T.J. Maxx *Batiste is readily available at drugstores, Wal-Mart and Target and the price varies by store.

s a mom of four children, saying time is scarce is an

T.J. Maxx had the best price around and the best

understatement. I feel like I am constantly behind

selection of Batiste dry shampoos.

– running late to school, running late to the office,

My friend Amy – maid of honor in my wedding

running late to the car line, running late to ballet … swim team …

and trusted friend – had two recommendations.

soccer … flag football, church. Believe it or not, the one place I’m

Though she said she loves Klorane, which I’ll get

not late to is the gym at 4:45 a.m. Probably because the only one I

to later, she said she lives on Batiste because it’s

have to get out the door at that time of day is ME!

budget-friendly and all of the scents are delicious.

14 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

Batiste offers 11 dry shampoos – an array of scents plus formulas

accurate description. It didn’t make my hair feel gunky, yet it did

with a hint of color to cover the grays. I chose the Strength &

seem to add volume. If I teased the hair at the crown of my hair

Shine variety because strong, shiny hair sounded appealing,

up just a bit with my fingers, it stayed teased up. No strong scent.

of course.

I plan to use the rest of the can.

The second day after my last wet shampoo, I sprayed the Batiste in, let the dry shampoo sit for one minute per the

KLORANE DRY SHAMPOO With Oat Milk • $19.61 at Amazon.com

instructions, then brushed. I was impressed with the result. The scent was nice and my hair felt light, which I liked (I hardly use

Back to my maid of honor Amy – Klorane is her

any hair products). No weighty residue, no clumpy feel. A winner!

favorite dry shampoo, and I had a second friend

I can’t wait to try the hint of color version in my shade.

endorse the brand as well. Plus it has outstanding reviews on Amazon and is the No. 1 selling dry

HERBAL ESSENCES DRY SHAMPOO Body Envy • $4.59 at Wal-Mart

shampoo on drugstore.com. And the best part? It’s French. As anyone who has read Fancy Nancy knows, French = fancy. I like fancy.

Anne is a roommate of mine from graduate school who has worked in the consumer product

As with all dry shampoos I tested, Klorane

industry since we finished our MBAs. She tries lots

instructs the user to shake well before use. Shaking is key to

of products and gets paid for it. But I’m not jealous.

getting the powder in the can mixed well for an even application.

Anyway, Anne’s favorite dry shampoo is Herbal

Klorane recommends a two minute set time before you brush it

Essences. Like Batiste, the Herbal Essences line

out. Once brushed through, I thought Klorane was great. I would

offers a ton of dry shampoo options. I chose Body

say it had the least amount of scent among the brands I tried, and

Envy – I like my generally straight, flat hair to have

it left my hair feeling light. Honestly, though, compared to the

body, so it seemed like the perfect choice. Turns

Batiste version, I couldn’t tell enough of a difference to justify an

out my hair did not gain any body, but gained a

extra $14.

gunky, greasy feel. I’ll admit that it didn’t look bad; I even did an informal poll around the office and everyone said

My dry shampoo journey was a fun one – let me know if you have a brand you love! amchaney@news-journal.com C

my hair didn’t look greasy. It just felt that way. Maybe Herbal Essences is better for someone who likes the feel of product in their hair? As for me, I counted the minutes until I could find the time to wet shampoo the dry shampoo out.

DOVE HAIR THERAPY - REFRESH+CARE Volume Dry Shampoo • $4.99 at Wal-Mart I went out on a limb on this one – no friend recommendations. While researching how dry shampoo works and its origins, I came across a lot of bloggers who reviewed dry shampoos. I really didn’t spend much time reading the blogger reviews – I didn’t want to bias myself in my very scientific testing! But an article called “The Lazy Girl’s Guide to Dry Shampoo” caught my eye when I saw the words “truly weightless” when describing the Dove

HAIR

THAT IS PRESENTABLE without STEPPING UNDER A SHOWER HEAD OR SETTING FOOT IN a salon!

product. Just home from a workout at the gym, my hair was primed for some dry shampoo – I was at Walgreens in five minutes.

I really liked the Dove product – truly weightless was a fairly mycharmonline.com 15

FEATURE

ED LIFE:

A BALANC

To Choose

s s e r t Uns

f l e s r u Yo TINGTON AWN WHIT D y b s d or W ZANO CHRIS LO Photos by

16 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

W

e live a busy life, don’t we, ladies?

I can close my eyes and think back to younger days when all we had to do was eat, sleep, and pick out our

favorite color jellies for school the next morning. Now, we have school, work, soccer, football, gymnastics, doctor’s appointments, orthodontic appointments, business meetings, picking up kids from here to there and back again, cooking dinner (or picking up dinner!), baths, homework, paying bills, oh and the laundry always awaits. I know there are a dozen more things that I left out.

The struggle is real!

So for the love of all that is sane, how do we hold down the stress? We’ve got a whole list of stuff going on from day to day that everyone in the household depends on, and if any of you are like me, you lose the list. Stress. Me. OUT! Being healthy is not just about your body, but your spirit and mind, as well. I couldn’t help but wonder how I can majorly

se isn’t n u o h e h T n dow r u b o t going reak. b a e k a if you t e tell you m But let ll happen: i what w

l l i w u o y . r e t t e b feel

shave down the stress factor in life? What can I do to actually keep a balanced life? I took to social media to see what other busy working moms suggested to give stress a big kick in the face!

The No. 1 go-to for relieving stress was exercise. Ugh, yes, exercise. Well, if any of you know me, you know that was not my favorite answer! Yoga/meditation was a close second, and a great massage was third. Everyone has to do what works for them.

I was most drawn to the least popular methods that I am coining as the 4S Stress Reliefs: • Speak out positive words of affirmation (Bible verses, famous quotes, or simple positive statements) • Sip on wine or coffee • Spouse/Sister time out for the evening • and finally, Sit still

Another friend told me that while doing laundry — and oh Lawd, you know us mamas are always doing laundry — that when she folds her children’s clothes, she prays for that child. You could even speak out things that you love about him or her. Isn’t that

Any time I am anxious or stressed, I immediately start speaking

precious? Simply reminding ourselves of all of the good that is

out positive words against it. Personally, Bible verses do the trick

actually left in your world can be a huge stress relief and lend a

for me. There is something so magical about hearing yourself

different perspective. And we all need that!

actually voicing positive and faith-filled statements out loud. It’s

All of you know this is one of my favorites: sip on wine or

like I’m giving life to those words and my faith in God reinforces

coffee. Sip, I say — not gulp. The purpose for this is to indulge

what I am saying.

just a bit. For some of us, it’s ice cream or a piece of chocolate. It’s

Any little positive quote or saying is helpful. The other day

amazing what satisfying the taste buds can do for the soul.

a sweet friend shared the phrase, “rejection is protection.”

We all have our guilty pleasures, and for me it’s a glass of red

Every time we are faced with rejection in any form, from the air

wine or a steamy cup of breakfast blend coffee with some sweet

conditioner breaking down to a career opportunity not working

creamer. If none of you have tried only this: not mixing it with a

out, that is God’s way of protecting you from the possibility of

night out with the girls or at a noisy restaurant, but in the comfort

something way worse happening. Love it! So next time you miss

of your own home. A glass of wine after the kids have gone to bed

that front row parking spot, remember that instead of groaning

and the house is quiet and peaceful, or in the morning before

about it.

everyone in your house wakes up to sit with a cup of coffee — mycharmonline.com 43 17

although this moment may not last long — the effects will most

Seriously, we go and go and we have got to sit down sometimes.

definitely last. You are just there with your thoughts. Those silent

Sit and be still. No phone. No computer. Just sit. Maybe read

sipping sessions get this busy lady through the day and ensure a

a book or watch a Lifetime movie without doing laundry at the

good night’s sleep!

same time. Just sit.

“It feels like a party ev-er-y day! Heyyy Jessie! Heyyy Jessie!” I hope some of you know that song. Well, I know that I am not the only mom that hums and knows the words to the shows’ songs that her kids watch. So, when you find yourself singing them when no one is around, it’s time for a night out with adults!

Whether it is date night with your spouse or girls night with your closest friends, spouse/sister time is key! Between work, wife

I have an insanely serious problem with doing this, but lately I have been making myself just sit in my bed and watch a movie on Netflix or read once a week. Feed the kids, send them on their way to play and sit down and unstress yourself. No one is going to do it for you. The house isn’t going to burn down if you take a break. But let me tell you what will happen: you will feel better.

You just will. It is no wonder that our kids need to be constantly on a device or they’ll “get bored.” It is because they learn best from

and mother duties, you must be wiped out! I know I am. So even

us. If we can learn to sit and be still, then we can teach our kids to

if it is a few hours out to dinner and a movie, your batteries need

do it too. Win-win!

to be re-charged.

Can we just try to slow our roll? It doesn’t matter if running

This is exactly what time away will do for you. I usually opt for

or hitting the gym is your thing. Heck, if you like pina coladas

the date night, and let me tell you, no one has date night craziness

and getting caught in the rain, whatever your escape may be just

covered like the Whittingtons! Our last date night consisted of

find one. Stress leads to an unpeaceful and chaotic life, and I’ve

dinner at Outback Steakhouse and a shopping trip to Target. By

got enough chaos going on day to day. The less stress we feel, the

9:30 p.m., we were ready to hit the hay. But just to have dinner without having to cut up food for anyone else and to be able to hold a conversation was well worth it. Of course what did we talk about the whole time? The kids!

Have you ever just sat up in the middle of the night or painfully early in the morning because you forgot something or are thinking

better of a mom, wife, and career woman we will be.

We have everything working against us in this, but there is so much beauty in the world to latch onto as well. Speaking positively, indulging in a sip, spending time away with your spouse or sister, or simply sitting still. We have to make the choice to unstress and hopefully peace will fill that little sweet spot.

There are so many inspirational quotes about living stress-free

of all of the stuff that you have to do that day? There will always be

or unstressing yourself, but one simple quote by Ralph Waldo

“stuff” to do. There will always be things that we have to get done

Emerson stuck out the most for me:

and other things that we want to get done, and then there is that

“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.”

long list of stuff we wish we could get done. It’s non-stop, y’all.

So, let’s bring it! C

SHOTGUN SHELLS September 17th 18th 19th only!

and

Wedding Bells Buy her a diamond get a free hunting rifle!!!

903.295.8677 1913 JUDSON RD. LONGVIEW, TX

18 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

FINANCING AVAILABLE WAC.

IN IS STA SU NT E!

Life. Dream!

Live the

Love the

SUPPORT YOUR SCHOOL!

Stop by any TBT branch location to pick up your personal FAN card TODAY! Scan here to view all available FAN cards

Texas Bank and Trust will make a $4 contribution to your school for every new card sold.

A Lifestyle Community For Seniors™

Magic Closet

The

License Pending

Designer Resale

YOUR CLOSET IS A GOLDMINE

Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Care

We take selling your wardrobe seriously!!

NAME BRAND CLOTHING FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! • Chelsea Violet • Buckle • Hollister • Abercrombie • BCBG • Talbots • Tibi

• Rock Revival • BeBe • Trina Turk • Miss Me • Coach • DKNY • Lucky

3104 Gilmer Rd. • Longview, TX 75604 • (903) 297-3390 Mon-Sat. 10:30am-5:00pm • Thurs. 10:30am-6:00pm

903.758.8888 info@parkviewonhollybrook.com 601 Hollybrook Drive, Longview, Texas 75605 Another Exceptional Senior Community by Zerga Companies

COVER STORY

20 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

g n o l

g n i ead

L L

s e i

d a v

's w ie

Words by CHRISTINA LANE Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

There

are

countless

women

entrepreneurs making big moves and shaking up the business

world. Women-owned businesses

are a huge part of our local, state and national economies.

Making that impact when you’re

younger than 40 is, perhaps, even more impressive.

mycharmonline.com 21

E

ach year, October is set aside as National Women’s Small

estate development and construction companies. She learned a

Business Month to honor the contributions women have

great deal about property development, construction, working

made and continue to make to the economy, particularly

with subcontractors and clients, and how to structure real

since the Women’s Business Ownership Act of 1988 provided increased opportunities for female business owners.

estate packages.

She thoroughly enjoyed the sales side of the business, so she

Check out these three successful Longview female business owners under 40 who are helping the community and serving as positive role models.

became licensed to sell real estate and later started her own real estate brokerage, focusing primarily on sales.

Julie chose the business model after speaking with top brokers

Julie Woods

across the country who share the same real estate business coach

Julie Woods, owner of Julie Woods & Associates, started as

a consultant after graduating college for then-private executive benefits and consulting firm Clark Consulting.

She said her job with Clark was a wonderful experience and a great fit for her, but after five years her heart began tugging for her to return to her roots in East Texas.

So Julie relocated to Longview and partnered with her brother and father in the family’s commercial and residential real

as herself. Through those relationships, she has been able to identify core values upon which to build her business.

Julie started her business when she was 29.

“I think part of that is attributed to having been raised in a family of entrepreneurs – my father and grandfather both having created companies in oil distribution, construction, grocery stores and storage buildings – free enterprise was something we discussed regularly at the dinner table and at family gatherings,” she said. “Hard work was a value instilled in my brother and I by our parents and I believe is very much reflected in our lives today.

Hard work has always been a part of my life, so I can’t imagine not ever having my own company or seeking new opportunities and ways to continually improve.”

Her version of success involves having the freedom to embrace what she values most: her family and her time.

“What I wanted was to be able to spend time with my family on my terms and be able to use my time and talents to make the world a better place.”

“When I think about what I wanted when I was a little girl, and look at my life today, I am blessed to be able to say my life is more than I ever could have imagined,” Julie said. “What I wanted was to be able to spend time with my family on my terms and be able to use my time and talents to make the world a better place.”

Her advice for budding entrepreneurs is to seek out other men

e

li u J

W

oo

er own

ds

ods

of

Wo Julie

22 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

&

ates

ci Asso

and women who have succeeded and find out what worked and didn’t work for them. She has found that most entrepreneurs are willing to lend a helping hand so newcomers do not make the same mistakes they did. She also encouraged those interested in starting their own company to hire a business coach and consider it an investment in their future.

Julie Woods & Associates is located at 1116 Judson Road in Longview and the River Bend Business Center and Industrial Park in Kilgore

Lindsay Crenshaw

Ellie Bee’s Paper and Gifts is located at 1418 McCann Road in Longview.

Ellie Bee’s is a paper and gift store owned by Lindsay Crenshaw.

Coleen Manoy

Lindsay Crenshaw opened the store in 2010 in downtown Longview and relocated it to the Brookwood Village on McCann

I-Mocho Natural was founded by Coleen Manoy in October

Road three years ago.

2013. The “I” in the brand stands for “you” the customer, she said,

Ellie Bee’s prints party invitations, personalizes stationery

and all products are developed from the client’s perspective.

and offers a wide selection of wedding invitations. It sells Kendra Scott jewelry, Nora Fleming, Stonewall Kitchen gourmet

Mocho District is located in Jamaica and is a small, rural

foods, gifts for babies and children, Capri Blue Volcano candles

farming community where Coleen spent most of her childhood

and more.

and where she receives inspiration for the entire line.

In the 90s, Coleen moved to Dallas, where she graduated from

A wedding, a baby and a few years later, it’s growing faster than ever with six employees and the best customers Lindsay could

the University of Texas at Dallas with a chemistry degree.

ever ask for.

After working as a consumer safety officer for the U.S. Food

Her business model has developed over time as a result of

and Drug Administration, she developed the vision for the

customer requests and suggestions. It is important for her to try

I-Mocho Natural brand.

to adapt to her customers’ needs.

Her store consists of a little bit of everything including her

Like Julie Woods, Lindsay also grew up in a family of

own natural cosmetics, clothing, jewelry, handbags, Jamaican-

entrepreneurs. Her family has owned a local furniture store for

inspired food, teas, and more. All of her passions are under one

more than 50 years. The furniture store is where she spent most

roof. However, her main focus is her cosmetic line that is targeted

of her time after school, on weekends, and during the summer.

to all ethnicities and is created with natural, quality ingredients.

“It’s been a huge part of my life and their success, along

Growing up in Jamaica, Coleen helped her family run their

with my parents’ strong work ethic, made an impact on me,”

store from as early an age 7. Entrepreneurship and hard work

Lindsay explained.

have always been in her blood.

What is Lindsay’s advice for other startup businesses?

“You don’t have to have it all figured out right away,” she said.

Her advice for other women wanting to start their own

“Take each day as it comes and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

business is that you don’t have to wait for everything to perfectly

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, either. Most people really do want

fall into place.

you to succeed!”

“Just do it and don’t limit yourself,” she said.

Coleen feels that women are often told that they need to focus on one thing, but that women can have it all. She also believes it is important to seek support from other women who have started businesses and to not be afraid to ask for help.

y a s d

n Li

r of

e own

e's

e be elli

I-Mocho Natural is located at 204 N. Fredonia St. in Longview

ifts

nd G

ra Pape

Challenges Of Entrepreneurship

There are many challenges and many

blessings that come along with being an entrepreneur.

continued on pg. 24  mycharmonline.com 23

“If a customer is going to take the time to shop in a small boutique like mine, I feel strongly that they deserve the benefits and attention that should come along with that.”

A more recent challenge Julie faced was having many opportunities present themselves at the same time.

“It can be difficult to decipher what opportunities are true ‘opportunities’ versus ‘distractions’ from my goals,” she said. “A wise person once shared with me, ‘A good idea gets better with time.

A bad idea gets worse with time.’ I try to weigh all opportunities within the parameters of my professional and personal goals.”

Lindsay’s biggest challenge has been balance.

“I struggle with doing the best job I can possibly do while being the best friend, daughter, mother and wife I can be. I’ve learned that it’s okay to stop, take time to be with family and have fun, and

- Lindsay Crenshaw

then go back to work refreshed and in better shape to provide the level of service my customers deserve,” Lindsay said. “If a customer is going to take the time to shop in a small boutique like mine, I feel strongly that they deserve the benefits and attention

“It has been so rewarding to have grown up in East Texas and

that should come along with that.”

Coleen

Manoy’s

biggest

struggle

to now be living here as an adult, serving in a volunteer capacity has

been

people

giving back to the community that has so generously given to me,”

underestimating her because of her age and her unique way of

she said. “One of the biggest blessings in my life has been to work

thinking. People are often surprised by her way of thinking and

alongside other East Texans who have the same heart for our part

what she has been able to achieve before 40.

of the world that I do.”

“I’ve been told my thinking surpasses the ‘thought compass,’” she said.

Coleen is not only passionate about her cosmetic line, but also about mentoring children, nonprofit organizations, and

Passion In Business

supporting local businesses.

The City of Longview’s Partners in Prevention’s “Forever

Most entrepreneurs are passionate about many things and

these women are no exception.

Friends Program” has given her the opportunity to be a mentor.

She also plans to offer tutoring to children in her store this fall.

Julie said she is passionate about excellence, such as doing

Coleen said she wants to bring the community together with

things at a high level of accuracy and efficiency the first go around.

a touch of culture and love. She believes with the support from

She is equally passionate about her desire to serve her community.

other businesses and nonprofit organizations that Longview could one day become the Silicon Valley of East Texas.

“To make an impact we need all hands on deck to move the needle forward,” she said.

Lindsay’s passion lies with her family and business. She said many of her customers have become like family.

ol

a M C

own

l

a atur

oN och

-M

fI er o

24 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

y o n

een

“I get to be a part of their biggest celebrations and sometimes help them through the rough stuff. It’s very rewarding to work with people throughout some of the most important events in their lives.

I get to experience birthdays, reunions, anniversaries, weddings, baby showers, holidays and more,” she said. “Building these relationships is what it’s all about.” C

Needles & Nails Yvonne Sanders & Carrie Sanders 1113 Evergreen St. | Longview, TX 75604 | 903-707-6748

• Completed quilts • Quilting in house • Embroidery • Western Decor • Crosses • Handmade Gifts • Bible Covers • Baby Gift Items

All Special Orders & Lay-a-way Welcome!

Landmarks of

Annual 15th 16th Annual

LONGVIEW An Architectural Home Tour

5pm September 20thth& &20 21thst •● 1pm September 19 1pm -- 5pm

Pegues/Noble Area Huntington Park

Advanced tickets$20 $20 online online &&these locations: Advanced tickets these locations: Barron’s • Horaney’s • Louis Morgan #4 Johnny Cace’s • Barron’s • Horaney’s • Louis Morgan #4 • The BlueAntiques/Pen Door Antiques/Pen and Company The Blue Door and Company • Texas Bank Texas Trust • Citizen’s Bank - Downtown Longview andBank Trust&and Citizen’s Bank in downtown Longview

$25 at participating homes during the tour Ticket includes all 5 homes both tour days

Girls & Doll Dresses to match (18" Doll)

ysand@aol.com 4 Bedford Circle 1401 Noble

#4 Pegues 1306 Montclair

6 Huntington Circle #31 Pegues

7 Huntington 1504 Noble Street

11 Huntington 1505 Noble Street

This program made possible in part through a grant from the City of Longview 214 N. Fredonia St. • 903-753-5840

www.GreggHistorical.org

FASHION

LUXE Be A Lady

1.

Photos by CHRIS LOZANO Assisted by RAENESHA THOMPSON

1. DRESS: by Ark & Co., $68, Gaudy Me; NECKLACE: $24, Gaudy Me; SHOES: by Gianni Bini, $89.99, Dillard’s. 2. TOP: by Gianni Bini, $79, Dillard’s; PANTS: TWO by Vince Camuto, $69, Dillard’s; SHOES: by Michael Kors, $110, Dillard’s; CLUTCH: by Fossil, $75, Dillard’s.

26 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

2.

mycharmonline.com 27

2.

3.

3. DRESS: by Ark & Co., $68, Gaudy Me; NECKLACE: $16, Gaudy Me; CLUTCH: by Kate Landry, $49, Dillard’s. 4. DRESS: by Verty, $44, Gaudy Me; CUFF BRACELET: $25, Gaudy Me; CLUTCH: by Kate Landry, $49, Dillard’s. 5. SHOES: by Gianni Bini, $89.99, Dillard’s.

28 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

4.

5.

mycharmonline.com 29

FASHION

7

Pink the POWER of

Photos by RAENESHA THOMPSON

6

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is October. You will see pink ribbons on newscasters and even pink shoes, gloves and towels on football players to show their support.

Raise awareness and show your support in style with some of these pieces.

5

1

3

4

2

1. JEWELRY BOX: Morgan Abbigail; 2. CAPRI PANT: by Reve Jeans, Moda Me; 3. BRACELET: Moda Me; 4. TOTE: Morgan Abbigail; 5. EARRINGS: Morgan Abbigail; 6. CUFF: Morgan Abbigail; 7. DRESS: by Ya, Trendy Chicks.

30 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

FEATURE

Beauty Favors The

brave Words by CHRISTINA LANE | Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

A wife, a mother, a daughter, an artist, and an entrepreneur, Vicki Dortch Jones is a pro at turning her passion into success, giving 1,000 percent to every endeavor. mycharmonline.com 31

I

t was the mid- to late-1980s when Vicki Jones’ mother

Before Women’s Health Boutique, East Texas women had

was diagnosed with cancer, and Vicki and her sister,

to drive to bigger cities, such as Dallas or Houston, to find such

Seleta, realized there wasn’t much available in

products as breast prostheses.

Longview for women’s special health care needs.

Impassioned to help other women, the sisters started

But by the early 1990s, women were driving from all over the area to shop at the store in Longview.

Women’s Health Boutique, which Vicki continues to own today.

In 1993, the sisters decided to expand and opted to start

Since opening in 1991, Women’s Health Boutique has grown to

franchising because it would allow women to own a business but

have multiple franchise locations primarily in the Dallas-Fort

still operate under their system of success.

Worth Metroplex.

And, Vicki constantly looks for new products and ways to serve her clients, most recently unveiling a new breast pump she created on a private label.

“When a woman goes through a surgery, like a mastectomy,

By the end of 1995, there were eight franchises in six states.

Today, there are more than a dozen Women’s Health Boutiques and Vicki owns five of them.

Services offered

she doesn’t feel attractive. Every day when she gets dressed she

Women’s Health Boutique provides the service of certified

is reminded of that mastectomy,” Vicki said. “My goal is to make

mastectomy fitters, with post-mastectomy and fashion bras,

them feel pretty.”

lingerie, swimwear and accessories. Compression garments and

Meeting a need

hosiery, lymphedema management, and wigs, hairpieces and

Vicki and Seleta’s mother, Billie Dortch, was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 1986. Vicki owned an art gallery and advertising agency at the time of her mother’s diagnosis. Her mother had a rare, drug-induced cancer linked to Thoratrast, a radium dye she had been given 30 years earlier to detect blood flow.

Their mother owned Etex Medical Supplies and continued to build up the business through the time she fought the cancer.

Vicki said during the cancer treatments her mother lost her hair and received a wig, but it looked nothing like her real hair.

other products for women experiencing temporary or permanent hair loss are among the store’s services and inventory.

The boutique also serves pregnant women, with maternity back supports, lumbo-sacral maternity braces, maternity compression hosiery, prenatal and nursing bras and breastfeeding supplies and accessories.

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act, insurance companies have been required to provide breast pumps to pregnant women.

Her daughters wanted to make her daily life easier and to help

So in February 2013, Vicki started working on private labeling

restore what cancer had taken away, but they couldn’t find high-

a breast pump to sell. She worked with a Chinese company to

quality products to meet her needs.

design the product and — two and a half years later — the pumps

In 1990, an employee of theirs died from breast cancer at the age of 39. Marty Thacker had come to Etex Medical Supplies just four months prior to her death, asking about a job. Thacker had a mastectomy and talked to Vicki about her experiences.

are being sold in her stores. The pumps, of which she ordered 1,000, were scheduled to arrive Aug. 30.

“Those are the things that get me so excited,” Vicki said of the new product. “I know I’m going to be helping women.”

Marty had been to a different store to be fitted, and cried as she told Vicki the story of how she had to brush past beautiful lingerie she could no longer wear.

“I cried with her. I could feel her pain. I had watched my mother suffer the same emotions,” Vicki said. “My sister and I vowed that afternoon to design a store just for women like Marty as a legacy to our own mother. An elegant, warm and inviting store filled with products that would restore a woman’s dignity and meet her special needs.”

Vicki and Seleta established Women’s Health Boutique in February 1991 as part of Etex Medical Supplies which they inherited from their mother. They later sold the medical supply company but retained the women’s boutique.

32 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

“When a woman goes through a surgery, like a mastectomy, she doesn’t feel attractive. Every day when she gets dressed she is reminded of that mastectomy,” Vicki said.

“My goal is to make them

Feel Pretty.”

Vicki is often asked how she does it all — being a mom and a wife, running a business that’s constantly evolving as new health care standards emerge, always being on the lookout for new products to serve women.

“I just do it. It’s just what I do,” she said. “But, I’ve trained myself to not work too much.”

Vicki doesn’t work on multiple projects at the same time; instead, she prefers to focus on one task, see it through to completion, then to start on another.

Customer service Vicki’s mother, Billie, was the consummate entertainer. As she grew up, Vicki said, her mother was always entertaining, hosting bridal showers, parties and a variety of events at their home.

Unlike parties where people arrive to find everyone already grouped off isolated, Vicki said her mother’s goal was to make each person feel special and important.

“My mother greeted every guest that came through the door with a big hug. She also told everyone goodbye,” she said. “She always said she wanted each person to feel like they were the most important guest at her party.”

She carried that knowledge with her into her business.

Behind the scenes, it is consumed with contracts, paperwork, filing insurance claims and reimbursements, and striving to meet health mandates.

But what her customers know is how Vicki and her employees make them feel — like they are the most important person in the room.

“In a business that can be hard to do,” Vicki said. “You find employees and you can teach them a lot of things, but for this they have to be able to care and caring hangs on that word – ‘passion.”

Vicki teaches her employees to listen – truly listen – to what the customers are saying, to show them empathy and support.

“We all want someone to care. I teach them to listen to what they say, but also to what they don’t say,” she said.

Customers have the opportunity to fill out evaluation sheets to provide Vicki with feedback on their experience. She takes the time to respond to each evaluation, taking the women’s suggestions into account and listening to what they have said.

Her favorite comments are from the women who let her know that her products helped them feel beautiful again.

For that is the focus and the mission of her store.

“We pay attention to how they feel when they come in and how they feel when they leave,” she said. “We want to help them feel like they are pretty again because they are — they are beautiful.” C

TOP: Vicki with her staff at Women’s Health Boutique in Longview. MIDDLE: The breast pumps that Vicki designed jointly with a company in China are now sold in her boutiques. BOTTOM: Women’s Health Boutique boasts an array of products for women with special health care needs.

Women’s Health Boutique 605 North 6th Street | Longview, TX

903.758.9904

Visit them on the web: www.whblongview.com mycharmonline.com 33

F EATURE

DOCTORS Making a Difference Words by TAMMY WHITEHURST | Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

Dr. Jeannette Liu of Longview Regional Medical Center and Dr. KiAnne Hardee of The Breast Center at Good Shepherd Medical Center both knew they wanted to be a doctor from a young age.

Today, they have wholeheartedly dedicated themselves to serving East Texas as they work to save lives and support their patients.

34 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

Dr. Jeannette “Jeannie” Liu

sincere appreciation. To this day, she keeps that coin in her office and it reminds her of why she does what she does.

If you were to ask Dr. Jeannette Liu at the young age of 6 years

Being a neurosurgeon in the military or the civilian world is

what she wanted to be when she grew up, she would grin and tell

physically demanding. It involves quick decision making that

you she wanted to be a doctor.

can have life-changing consequences and it takes a tremendous

Growing up, she was a competitive gymnast and fascinated by the anatomical models and posters on the walls as she waited in the doctor’s office. Her motivation was fueled by how doctors helped save people’s lives.

amount of dedication to be readily available at any moment — day or night — to take care of a patient, Dr. Liu said.

So how does a woman with this kind of responsibility take a break? Dr. Liu enjoys running and throwing big parties with Elvis,

The love of medicine runs in her family. Her father was

Marilyn Monroe and James Bond impersonators. She can also be

a physiologist and her mother worked as a biochemist and

found playing with her energetic Maltese named Picasso. Her

registered dietician.

love of running keeps her focused. She has run 20 half marathons

“As a neurosurgeon, I think I have the best job in the world,” Dr. Liu said.

throughout the United States. She loves spending time with friends and enjoys art and sculpture.

She served in the U.S. Air Force as a combat military

Once, Dr. Liu performed surgery on a young nurse who had

neurosurgeon from 2006-2010 in the middle of a war zone. As

been involved in a car accident and came through the emergency

the only American neurosurgeon in Afghanistan, she often

room at a local hospital. Upon arrival, the patient had no movement

had to improvise with whatever equipment was available. Her

in her arms or legs. Dr. Liu and another spine surgeon operated

experience in Afghanistan gave her more confidence in regards

for many hours on her. With time, fierce determination, family

to her surgical skills because of the injuries she handled on a

support and a tremendous amount of faith in God, the patient was

regular basis.

able to regain almost all of her strength and completed Certified

One of her patients in Afghanistan was a high-ranking officer

Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) school. That same young

in the U.S. Marine Corps who was shot in the head by the Taliban.

woman is now a medical colleague who works with Dr. Liu in the

The bullet went under his helmet and shot through the top of

operating room administering anesthesia. Dr. Liu describes her

his brain. Dr. Liu was not sure he would even live and he was

as a walking miracle.

transported to a military base in Germany.

To her surprise, she later discovered he was a public speaker promoting awareness about head injuries.

She contacted him, explaining that she was the neurosurgeon in Afghanistan who had operated on him. He thanked her for saving his life and mailed her a military coin as a token of his

Dr. Liu has been practicing neurosurgery for nine years and has been practicing medicine for a totof 15 years. Her advice to those desiring to be a doctor is to study hard and maintain a strong work ethic. Learn as much as you can from observing physicians who have been in practice for a long time and stay humble. She says her patients say she is not only an amazing doctor, but a humble woman taking the time to listen to them.

“I may be a neurosurgeon, but I cannot do my

Dr. Jeannette Liu

job without a lot of help from nurses, surgical technicians, unit clerks, hospital operators, office staff, and even the person who takes out my trash,” Dr. Liu said. “Everyone has something to offer and I would not be where I am now without the assistance of many people around me.”

Her outlook on life is a positive one. She said people should remember what really matters because life is fragile. Make the most of what you have and set goals. Stay healthy and live life to the highest potential.

And one more thing … Don’t forget to have fun along the way, but please wear a helmet if you ride a motorcycle!

continued on pg. 36  mycharmonline.com 35

Hardee’s heart. She also remembered a female patient who lost her previous baby due to a genetic abnormality and who later got pregnant again and came in to assess for abnormalities. When the patient was told the ultrasound was normal, she burst into tears of joy. It was a doctor/patient moment Dr. Hardee said she will never forget.

Her mind is the kind that wants to find the solution to every problem — to fix things. She would like for all work to be done at the end of the day. It did not take her long to figure out that in radiology the work is never done. There will always be another patient who needs another study, another problem to be fixed, and another patient who needs compassion.

As a physician, it is very challenging and demanding trying to juggle career and family. She has learned to walk away from the office at the end of the day and devote the rest of

Dr. kianne hardee

the evening to husband of almost eight years, Hamp, and their daughters, 6-year-old Olivia, 4-year-old Camille and 10-month-old Hallie.

Dr. KiAnne Hardee

Giving her husband and her girls what is left after a long day is not an option. Giving them all she has and making them feel

Dr. KiAnne Hardee doesn’t do anything halfway. Whether

special is what she does. Some days that is easier said than done.

she’s working at The Breast Center or discussing results with a

The Hardee family loves music and has been known to have

patient, she gives of herself wholeheartedly.

dance parties and put on concerts at night together in the privacy

The oldest of three siblings growing up in Northeast Louisiana, Dr. Hardee always knew she would be a doctor.

When she was younger, her father was a veterinarian. He later went to medical school and became a family physician.

“I was old enough to see the difference he made in patients’ lives and was inspired to do the same,” she said. “I saw the field of medicine as an opportunity to really be able to make a difference.”

As a strong-willed and determined firstborn, she possesses the typical characteristics of a perfectionist. She feels it makes her a

of their own living room.

Aside from her family, Dr. Hardee finds calmness when she is reading a book. She loves to spend weekends at the lake. She says there is nothing more peaceful than waking up and drinking a cup of coffee with a beautiful view. Other things she enjoys outside the office are the beach, snow skiing and traveling.

“I saw the field of medicine as an opportunity to really be able to make a difference.”

better physician. She wants to make sure nothing is overlooked and is passionate about making correct decisions regarding a patient’s care.

While she considers her family the best decision she’s made in her life, following her lofty goals of becoming a physician may be the best decision she could make for others.

As a radiologist, she is passionate about breast health for women in East Texas. She says she is happiest when she is at The Breast Center.

As a physician she stresses the importance of yearly mammograms beginning at the age of 40 or earlier if there is

Dr. Hardee’s love for being a physician is often seen in her smile

a family history. Dr. Hardee cannot stop a patient from getting

and her heart. She has many patients who have touched her heart

breast cancer, but she can detect it early if they will come in for

in the four years she has practiced medicine. Keeping the patient

a mammogram. Her goal is always to detect cancer early so the

first is important to her. Her patients trust her and she values

patient has the best possible outcome.

their lives.

She once had a patient who was a young mother who lost her battle with breast cancer. As a mother herself, it broke Dr. 36 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

And without a doubt, this same level of purpose and dedication defines who she is as a doctor. She is a woman on a mission to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer. C

Introducing

The Affordable Care Act now requires most insurance plans to cover breast pumps. We have customized our own effective double electric breast pump that is superior to any breast pump offered under insurance plans. ❦ Air & milk separation to prevent milk backflow ❦ Mimics baby’s sucking ❦ Designed by lactation experts ❦ Available October 1st

Call to see if you qualify for a breast pump with no out-of-pocket cost!

903-758-9904

605 N. Sixth St. | Longview, TX Mon-Fri 9-5 | Sat 10-2

Highland Pines Nursing & Rehabilitation HOMEWARD BOUND REHABILITATION UNIT FOR PATIENTS GOING HOME • Physical Therapy • 24 Hr. R.N. Coverage • Occupational Therapy • Respiratory Care • Speech Therapy • Wound & I.V. Therapy

Medicare • Medicaid Private Insurance • Managed Care

Carla Reaves Business Development

Patricia Johnson Director of Admissions

Jennifer Wright Administrator

1 10 0 N o r t h 4 t h S t r e e t • (9 0 3 ) 75 3 -76 61

Loop 281 @ McCann • 903.663.2060 • Mon-Sat 10-6 Follow us for inventory updates, in-store events and exclusive online giveaways! /barronslongview /barrons_cafebarrons

F EATURE

Courage In

CARING Words by CHRISTINA LANE Photos by CHRIS LOZANO & RAENESHA THOMPSON

38 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

W

hen people hear the words “Alzheimer’s disease,” their

who married Mark Nance, had her first child and baby Nathaniel

thoughts about the condition tend to be negative, scary,

became the apple of his grandparents’ eyes.

depressing. They describe the disease as a “living hell”

and say it is like “entering a nightmare.”

But Nathaniel’s birth changed the landscape of his grandparents’ lives in more ways than one.

There are an estimated 5.3 million Americans with Alzheimer’s

The chemical changes their daughter experienced after giving

disease, and on Nov. 9, 2011, Dorothy Horne’s husband became

birth triggered a severe mental illness, obsessive-compulsive

one of them.

disorder. She was also diagnosed with post-partum depression.

Though initially riddled with feelings of grief, Dorothy and her husband, Byron, chose not to focus on the negative aspects of the disease and instead to act as “light-bearers” who look toward the hope, joy and glimpses of grace that each day brings.

“Our lives are not about our circumstances; our lives are about what we allow God to do in our circumstances. Alzheimer’s is not the end of the world, nor is it the center of our world. It is only a part of our lives now, and you can have a very gratifying life throughout it,” Dorothy said.

A teacher Dorothy and Byron met on a blind date in 1974 when he was stationed at Fort Hood and she was a college student at Northeast Louisiana University in Monroe, where she graduated with a

“We were there when Amanda came home from the hospital, and I could tell something was wrong, but it never crossed my mind that it could be mental illness,” Dorothy said.

Dorothy and Byron didn’t know much about mental illness before their daughter’s diagnosis. They didn’t know anyone who had ever dealt with mental illness.

“I felt completely helpless,” Byron recalled.

They needed medical help, information and advice but found that when navigating the maze of the mental health care system, you get in line and wait – and it could take weeks, months or years for your turn to arrive.

“There was so much red tape. We started praying a lot,” Dorothy said.

degree in law enforcement.

He was a man of faith, a musician, an artist and the funniest man she had ever met. They married in 1977.

After she and Byron moved to Denton, Dorothy decided to

byron and dorothy horne

pursue her first love – teaching. She went to the University of North Texas to obtain her teaching certification.

Her first job was teaching at a Dallas school, but with the birth of her first daughter, Amanda, she decided to stay at home. Three years later, their daughter Karly was born.

As Amanda became near school age, Byron – who worked for the state – requested a transfer to East Texas so their daughter did not have to attend an inner-city school. Byron was transferred to Longview.

In his free time, Byron entertained and delighted thousands of East Texas children (and their parents) with his various personas.

He has performed as BeeRon the Clown, Elvis, the Easter Bunny and Santa Claus over the years.

Dorothy has shared Byron’s love for working with children.

In 1991, after being a stay-at-home mom for about 10 years, Dorothy decided to begin teaching again. She taught at campuses in Longview and Pine Tree ISDs until she retired in the spring of 2007 from Hudson PEP Elementary School.

A mother In the fall of 2007, Dorothy and Byron’s daughter Amanda, mycharmonline.com 39

Five months later, she came across an announcement in the

“We feel that God led us to NAMI and that God used the illness

newspaper for classes being offered through the National Alliance

through which Amanda has struggled to help others,” Dorothy

on Mental Illness (NAMI). Dorothy said in all of her phone calls,

said. “Before my daughter was diagnosed with mental illness, I

research and requests for help, no one had ever told her about

didn’t know anyone with mental illness. As I learned more and

the organization.

began to be an advocate and raised awareness of it, I realized

When they went to their first class, Dorothy wondered what kinds of people they would encounter.

that it is something that can happen to anyone. It doesn’t mean there is something wrong with the person. It is a disorder that

“We soon found out – all kinds, and from all walks of life,” she said.

can be triggered by many things – a chemical imbalance, stress, a

“Mental illness does not respect of race, religion or socioeconomic

traumatic event. And it can be treated by medication and therapy.

status. We all had a common denominator – a family member with

The aim is recovery, to have it under control.”

a mental illness.”

A wife

As everyone in the group shared their stories, there were tears for the pain and grief but Dorothy and Byron said there was also “an immense relief” in finally having a place to share their struggles and to be with people who understood what they were going through.

“That’s when we first started seeing the glimpses of grace,” Dorothy said.

As Amanda recovered, she and her family began to use their experience as platform to raise awareness for mental illness.

During her daughter’s illness, Dorothy began writing about her family’s experiences. Writing became her outlet and a platform from which she could let others know they are not alone in their struggles.

She and her daughter also spoke publicly about their journey, hoping to help others.

In

November

2011,

Byron

was

diagnosed

with

Alzheimer’s disease.

Byron said his first thought was to wonder, “Why does it have to happen to me?” At first, did not want to tell anyone about his diagnosis.

Though upset, the family’s faith in God and the grace they had seen through their daughter’s struggle encouraged Byron that He would provide.

About a week later, Dorothy found a support group for those struggling with Alzheimer’s and their families. There she met a man who seemed upbeat and accepting of his diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s. She asked him if he would be willing to talk to Byron.

“He told Byron that talking about Alzheimer’s was better

Unforgettable Tuesdays group meeting at

Greggton United Methodist Church in Longview

than keeping it all in. He told him that when he talked about Alzheimer’s that it helped other people who were going through it,” Dorothy recalled. “He said it would probably be the same way if Byron would open up about his diagnosis of Alzheimer’s and that God could minister through him.”

The words gave Byron the strength and the courage to step forward and unashamedly acknowledge his disease.

And when he did…

“What was on me was lifted. The weight that I had felt was gone,” Byron said.

They told their family first and then close friends.

Before the end of November, Byron was speaking publicly about his disease to small groups in informal settings. Always one to try to make people laugh, Byron even wrote a song about his diagnosis which he called “I’ll Never Forget Old Alz’Heimer.”

During a support group meeting, Dorothy said, God’s reassurance was shown to them – a glimpse of grace.

Former state Sen. Jack Strong and his wife, Nelda, were at the meeting. Strong, who struggled with Alzheimer’s, passed away in July. Dorothy said the Strongs in 2011 gave she and

40 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

Byron some needed encouragement in their journey.“They

retaining trial participants is the greatest challenge. The goal for

said it better, but it went something like this: ‘We are viewing

curing Alzheimer’s is 2025.

this disease as a curve in the road, not the end of the road.

Knowing all too well that the clock does not stop ticking

We view it as an inconvenience. It is part of our lives but not

for those with Alzheimer’s disease, Byron chose to become a

the center of our lives. We seize every moment. We laugh,

participant in trial studies.

have fun, and enjoy each other to the fullest. God is good,’ ” Dorothy recalled.

Their statement helped Dorothy and Byron to realize that Alzheimer’s is part of their story but it does not define them.

An entertainer Through Alzheimer’s, Byron has continued to do what he has always done best – entertain audiences, particularly children.

He even entertains at his weekly support group meetings. The meetings, particularly Unforgettable Tuesdays, allow him to bond with others who share his struggles.

“It’s nice to go there and just have these really nice people who know what I’m going through and to be able to get in a group of people who understand me,” Byron said.

The meetings are filled with laughter and conversation over coffee with time set aside to play games and sing (and Byron loves to lead the singing).

“Unforgettable Tuesdays has made all the difference in the world for us,” Dorothy said.

He has participated in two trials so far, and Dorothy said the drug he received during his first trial seemed to stabilize him.

“I feel a lot of hope with the trials,” Byron said.

The rate of Baby Boomers being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is steadily increasing and the need to find a cure is urgent.

Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and is the only cause of death in the top 10 that cannot be prevented, cured or slowed, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

That makes Byron’s involvement in the trials even more important.

“Without people to participate in the trials, how would we find a cure,” Dorothy said.

As the research remains ongoing, Dorothy is continuing to write. She has recently published a book, “Glimpses of Grace,” which is available in paperback and on Kindle at www.amazon. com. The book chronicles her family’s journey with mental illness and Alzheimer’s disease.

Though they take each day as it comes and look to the laughter that each day provides, not every day is easy.

“When a behavior changes, it’s really hard,” Dorothy said.

“When he is no longer able to do something that he used to be able to do, we have to adapt and change.”

She goes through the cycle of grief, but she writes and shares in her support group. She recovers and she moves on.

Dorothy chooses not to focus on the things that Alzheimer’s has taken from her family. She grieves their loss then quickly moves

“And finally, be thankful and joyful in all things, even in the midst of Alzheimer’s.

With God’s strength, You Can Do It.”

on for there is one thing she does not want: to let the disease rob her of the time she and Byron have now.

“We take one day and one moment at a time,” she said. “I want to be there for Byron where he is now and I have faith that God will help me in where he is tomorrow or the next day.”

A warrior

Her primary message to others is to keep a positive attitude through your journey with the disease; stay involved with people and activities you have always enjoyed; have hobbies and take care of yourself mentally and physically; find support in the Alzheimer’s community and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

After being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, being a singer, a

“Most importantly, trust and have faith in God. Know that He

musician, a comedian, a performer, the Easter Bunny and even

has a plan and will work all things together for good for those who

Santa Claus wasn’t quite enough for Byron.

love Him. Ask Him to use you and your loved one through this

He wanted to be a lab rat, too.

disease to show others His light and bring glory to him,” Dorothy

According to the national Alzheimer’s Association, more than

said. “And finally, be thankful and joyful in all things, even in the

100 research studies are underway; however, recruiting and

midst of Alzheimer’s. With God’s strength, you can do it. C mycharmonline.com 41

HIS POINT With October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, it is

Words by C. H. ARMAN

of VIEW

The American Cancer Society says the discussion about

important that we men support those women in our lives who have

prostate cancer screening should begin at:

been affected and encourage those others to take the necessary

• Age 50 for men who are at average risk of prostate cancer and are expected to live at least 10 more years.

• Age 45 for men at high risk of developing prostate cancer.

This includes African-Americans and men who have a first-degree relative (father, brother or son) diagnosed with prostate cancer at an early age (younger than age 65).

• Age 40 for men at even higher risk (those with more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age).

steps toward detection and treatment.

However, just as importantly, we must also remain diligent when it comes to our own health.

For several years, November has been dubbed “No Shave November.” The general concept behind No Shave November is to skip shaving for the whole month and donate what you would have spent on shaving and grooming supplies to cancer research, most notably the American Cancer Society.

But with the popularity of No Shave November, some may not

The American Cancer Society also says that because there is no

realize that since 1999, September has been National Prostate

known cause of prostate cancer, there is no surefire way to prevent

Health Month. A decade before that in 1989, the week of Sept.

the disease. However, the organization says a combination of diet,

17-24 was chosen as Prostate Cancer Awareness Week.

exercise and healthy body weight, along with certain supplements

As someone who really doesn’t enjoy shaving much anyway,

and medications, are a good place to start.

I generally keep a beard year round, albeit with brief intervals

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the

of mustache and goatee thrown in for good measure. Come

United States, other than skin cancer. But it can be treated and

November, I think I will let it get a little thicker.

it can be beaten. The American Cancer Society says more than

But more importantly, that doesn’t mean one should put off

2 million men in the U.S. count themselves as cancer survivors.

thinking about his prostate health for the next two months. You

Raising awareness about early screening and raising funds for

don’t have to be a doctor to know that early detection is key in

cancer research can help make sure we have even more survivors

surviving and beating cancer.

in the future. C

For more information visit the American Cancer Society prostate cancer online section at: www.cancer.org/cancer/prostatecancer/index.

42 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Charming Physicians

mycharmonline.com 43

Diana Ward - Rosemary Jacobs - Dr. Gary Jacobs - Susan Jarrell - Kourtney Nolan

You are invited to an all day event!*

Tuesday, September 22nd | 10 am. till 6 pm.

Learn about non-surgical procedures and products offered:

Our representatives will be on site to answer questions.

Complimentary Consultations Live Demonstrations Special Discount Pricing for all whom attend

CALL NOW TO RESERVE YOUR TIME! -Back to School Special -

10% off*

injectables *10% off cash only price

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Free gift with $250 purchase of our new ZO Skin Health Products ($135 value)

Dr. Gary r. Jacobs, M.D., F.a.c.s Cosmetic Surgery of East Texas 703 East Marshall, Suite 4008 | Longview, TX (903)753-2276 www.cosmeticlongview.com www.bodysculptinglongview.com mycharmonline.com 45

Ronald G. Morton Md, FAAo/hnS

East Texas Sinus and dizziness Center, longview, TX. Ronald G. Morton, MD, FAAO/HNS is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. He has been in practice in East Texas for 25 years and has specialized in the treatment of sinus disease and disorders of equilibrium for several years, having founded the only clinic fully dedicated to the treatment of dizziness and imbalance in 2009.

Most recently, Dr. Morton and the East Texas Sinus and Dizziness Center were recognized as a National Center of Excellence in the treatment of sinusitis. He has been invited to speak to many groups of physicians and has been selected as an honored guest at a symposium at his specialty’s annual meeting in Dallas, Texas recognizing leaders in his field in September, 2015.

Physicians from around the country travel to East Texas to receive instruction from Dr. Morton in the treatment of sinusitis, and in particular, the performance of Balloon Sinus Dilation procedures, which he performs in both of his Longview and Mt. Pleasant office utilizing the most advanced technology available.

The East Texas Sinus and Dizziness Center is equipped with its own CAT scanner for the evaluation of sinus and inner ear disorders, procedure facilities, audiology and vestibular (inner ear) services, hearing aid dispensing, and beginning in September, full allergy evaluation and treatment.

ronAld g. MorTon, Md FAAo/hnS

EAST TEXAS SinuS And dizzinESS CEnTEr hEAring loSS • AllErgy • gEnErAl EnT 901 PEGUES PLACE • LONGVIEW, TX • 903-212-4399 | 105 WEST 20TH STREET • MT. PLEASANT, TX • 903-717-8765

- easttexassinus.com 46 charm september/october

specIAL ADVertIsING sectIoN

W

Zeid Women’s Health Center (Zeid WHC)

ith locations in Tyler, Longview and Henderson, Texas, is an all -inclusive women’s gynecology and obstetrics health center that is dedicated to caring for women throughout every single stage of their lives. Whether you are looking for health information and resources for you daughter in her teen years, you are thinking of starting a familiy of your own in the future, or you are a woman experiencing menopause, the experienced physicians at Zeid Women’s Health Center can help guide you along the way.

Dr. Yasser F. Zeid, M.D., and his experienced staff of doctors and physicians are also proud to offer some of the most cutting-edge technology available in women’s healthcare, including procedures such as DaVinci Robotic Surgery - a sophisticated, minimally-invasive option for patients interested in undergoing a undergoing a hysterectomy.

Call us today to schedule your appointment at any of our locations.

Dr. Yasser f. zeiD Zeid Womens Health Center • 705 E Marshall Ave Suite 3000, Longview, TX 75601 • (903) 315-2700 • www. zeidwhc.com

Vitality Health & Wellness

Vitality Health & Wellness is committed to a natural approach to medicine with focus on creating optimal wellness through personalized quality care. Caleb Brown, NP is a national board certified Nurse Practitioner. He and his wife Kameron, along with their team, are dedicated to improving lives specializing in bio-identical hormone replacement therapy for men and women in all stages of life.

Vitality Health & Wellness is renovating healthcare with services including low testosterone treatment, comprehensive weight loss assistance, labs, and so much more. Call today to schedule an appointment and replace those long doctor’s office lines and delayed appointments with timely compassionate care.

Call or visit our offiCe

2162 US Hwy 259 S, Diana TX 75640 903-663-2055 Dianavitalityhealth.com

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

mycharmonline.com 47

DCOL.

Dedicated Dedicated to to women’s women’s unique healthcare needs. unique healthcare needs.

Francis Tibiletti, M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN, and

Francis Tibiletti,PA-C, M.D., a board-certified OB/GYN, and Devin Brecheen, a certified physician assistant, provide Devin Brecheen,care PA-C, a certified physician provide compassionate for women at every stageassistant, of life, including compassionate care for women at every stage of life, including comprehensive prenatal care, treatment for complicated comprehensivewell-woman prenatal care,care, treatment for complicated pregnancies, infertility treatment, pregnancies, well-woman care, infertility and menopausal medicine. Dr. Tibiletti alsotreatment, performs and menopausal medicine.

Dr. Tibiletti also performs gynecological surgeries, including minimally invasive gynecological surgeries, including minimally invasive procedures when necessary.

Together, Dr. Tibiletti and procedures when necessary.

Together, Dr. Tibiletti and Devin Brecheen provide comprehensive care for their patients.

Devin Brecheen provide comprehensive care for their patients.

To schedule an appointment, call 903-315-2744 or visit To schedule appointment, call 903-315-2744 or visit DCOL.net foranmore information.

DCOL.net for more information.

802 Medical Circle Drive , Ste. 202 802 Medical CircleTX Drive , Ste. 202 Longview, 75605 Longview, TX 75605 903-315-2744 • DCOL.net 903-315-2744 • DCOL.net

720_LONGV_DCOL_8_5x5_3c.indd 1

8/14/15 2:10 PM

720_LONGV_DCOL_8_5x5_3c.indd 1

8/14/15 2:10 PM

Dentistry for Children • • •

Most Dental Insurance Accepted Caring & Professional Staff Sedation Dentistry & Nitrous

Happy kids, healthy smiles for a lifetime!

Call or visit one of our offiCes: #5 Doctor Circle, Longview, TX 903-21-BRUSH 2302 S. Washington Ave., Marshall, TX 903-70-BRUSH

48 charm SepTeMBeR/oCToBeR

SpeCIAL ADVeRTISING SeCTIoN

“The purpose of a doctor or any

Dr. Philip P. Hawner is pleased to announce the opening of his new practice, Hawner Plastic Surgery Associates, specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and body. In practice since 1997, Dr. Hawner makes it his goal to give his patients a personalized and satisfying clinical experience in their pursuit of selfimprovement. He brings to each new encounter the latest surgical techniques, a naturally artistic eye, and medical training from some of the nation’s well renowned institutions. His office is staffed by the friendly faces of Alecia as cosmetic coordinator, Amber as clinical assistant, and Kathy as office administrator. Dr. Hawner and his staff look forward to providing each patient with the highest quality in a friendly environment and invite you to call the office for a complimentary consultation.

human in general should not be to simply delay the death of a patient, but to increase the person’s quality of life.”

- Patch Adams

Hawner Plastic surgery associates 707 Hollybrook Drive, Suite 400 Longview, Texas 75605 (903) 230-FACE • (903) 230-BODY

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

mycharmonline.com 49

FEATURE

Summer The Secret Life of a

INTERN Words by KATIE MURPHREY | Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

Before I started my internship, I knew when I came home for the summer that I wouldn’t be lying on a tropical island for the next three months. It was time to grow up and get a real job that would prepare me for my future career — a thought that eats away at a college student’s mind as graduation creeps up.

With that in mind, the search began.

50 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

A

fter being turned down for jobs and with the stress of

panicking, we decided that ordering pizza for overflow would be

time running out, I came in contact with Amy McHaney,

our best option.

who is in charge of events, sponsorships and promotions

With that problem solved, I went on to help with placing the

at the Longview News-Journal. After talking to her and hearing

salads on the tables and filling glasses with water. I loved helping

the events and plans for the summer, I immediately knew this job

with all aspects of the event. As it was getting closer to time for

was exactly what I wanted and what I was looking for.

the banquet to start, the amazing ice sculpture arrived. It was

After emailing back and forth, Amy told me that she wanted

definitely my favorite part and the center of everybody’s attention.

me for the job. I could not have been more thrilled as I did a

Then, the 100 balloons arrived to be placed on tables. It was a

happy dance around my kitchen! I knew this summer would be a

mad dash running around and making last-minute adjustments.

After making a quick change, I came back in to see the finished

whirlwind, but an incredible learning experience.

When you hear the words “marketing intern,” you may think

product. The dim lights with the decorated tables and stage were

that my day consists of picking up lunch and trying to remember

fantastic. As I stood there, Herschel Walker passed by to make his

everyone’s

way to the VIP room. We exchanged a smile and all I wanted was

complicated

Starbucks

orders.

Typical

intern

life, right?

Here at the News-Journal, that is not the case.

a picture with him. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a picture with him — my one regret of the night.

I have learned so much in the little time that I have been here.

As the event started, many staff members at the News-Journal

My favorite time has been helping with our first ETVarsity

had arrived to help serve food. I have never been a waitress, so I

Best Preps banquet, which honored top athletes who attend high

had to tag team with someone else who could actually carry the

schools in the Longview News-Journal, Marshall News Messenger

tray of food.

and Panola Watchman circulation areas.

This was really a great personal touch to the event. I learned

The best part of it all was the keynote speaker Herschel

that making those personal relationships and having face-to-face

Walker, a former Dallas Cowboy and a Heisman Trophy winner.

conversations with your patrons is key to the success of an event.

I was ecstatic that I was going to have a big part in helping with

After dinner was served, Herschel Walker came up to speak.

this event.

I never really knew what went into planning an event until I had a firsthand take of it all. I did everything from helping to plan the event program to writing bios for the award winners to planning table décor.

As he was talking about his life and the lessons he had learned throughout his football career, I was finally able to sit and take it all in.

The students and their families are never going to forget this banquet. All the special touches were to honor their hard work

I learned that a lot of research comes with finding the most

and to show them that it is acknowledged. I have learned that

appropriate and cheapest table centerpieces. I also learned that

showing people you care is such an important aspect in making

36-inch balloons are way too big for a centerpiece, and they will

an event special. The kind comments and the simple thank-you’s

pop if you try to stuff them in your car! I think I lost my hearing

made my feet hurt a little less and my tired eyes a little brighter

for a couple seconds and decided that 18-inch balloons are the

at the end of the night. C

way to go. I have learned that with event planning, time is of the essence and things can mess up in a matter of hours.

The day of the event, work started bright and early at 8 a.m. at Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center. The room was big and blank, waiting for the special touch of pizzazz.

As table movers were setting, my job was to figure out where the blue and black tablecloths should be placed. Putting tablecloths and colored pebbles on 90-plus tables left me wanting to take a nap before lunch. But there was no time for naps!

The caterers arrived to set up tables, and the room started to look great as things were really coming together. As we were finishing up tables, we learned ticket sales had risen throughout the morning, and we realized we might need more food. Without

I could not have been more thrilled as I did a happy dance around my kitchen!

I knew this summer would be

a whirlwind, but an incredible learning experience.

mycharmonline.com 51

S CHOOL

If you combine the eating plan with a 30-minute workout each day, you are good to go. The workouts include interesting spins on classic moves like the one-arm plank position. Moves like these are designed to work your muscles from head to toe. There is a ton of variety, so you’ll be able to tone every part of your body without getting bored.

In terms of equipment, you’ll need very little of it in order to perform the workouts correctly. Chances are that you already own these fitness accessories, which are dumbbells (or a resistance band) and a Yoga mat. If you don’t, you can find some very affordable accessories at Target or on Amazon. However, you should know that they aren’t included with the program.

It all sounds pretty straightforward and easy to follow especially if you are not a gym enthusiast and don’t like typical diet plans. You can find this program on Amazon or the Beachbody website. The package is about $60, which is a pretty reasonable

21 DAYS TO A NEW YOU Words by ASHLEY ANDERSON

W

price for a fitness plan considering that a gym membership may cost the same amount per month. This is something that you can use over and over again. Here’s what is included:

SIMPLE 30 MINUTE WORKOUTS There are 6 easy-to-follow workouts on 2 DVDs. The workouts are designed to challenge you at every level to help maximize fat loss. There’s also a modifier on the screen to show you how to dial down the intensity without losing the benefits. Unlike other fitness trainers such as Jillian Michaels, Autumn Calabrese is a calm and motivating woman. She’s not there to yell at you while you are working out.

1.

TOTAL BODY CARDIO FIX Keeps your heart rate up and your metabolism revved high long after the workout is over.

2.

UPPER FIX Targeted resistance training helps shape your chest, back, shoulders, arms, and abs.

3.

LOWER FIX Firm and tone your entire lower body while you blast fat and burn calories.

4.

PILATES FIX Strengthen your core, elongate your muscles, and firm your hips and thighs.

5.

CARDIO FIX Get your heart pumping and your body moving as you melt away the pounds.

6.

YOGA FIX Improve your balance, flexibility, and strength as you help relax your muscles.

hen new fitness and health trends claim that you can lose a lot of weight in a few short weeks, I’m usually pretty wary about it. There is a new craze,

however, that has me curious.

The 21 Day Fix workout program by trainer Autumn Calabrese was created to help you lose up to 15 pounds in 21 days.

According to the website, it’s “not another diet.” The main focus is portion control. The problem with so many of these current diets is that you feel like you’re not getting to eat. They usually want you to stick to a 1,000 calorie diet that leaves you starving by the afternoon.

The 21 Day Fix comes with seven containers for your food that are color-coded and pre-measured. This way there is no calorie counting. There are recipes online for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks or you can come up with one of your own as long as it includes the approved food and color categories.

52 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

SIMPLE PORTION CONTROL No more counting calories! When it comes to losing weight, simplicity equals success. These seven color-coded containers and Shakeology shaker cup deliver exactly the right portions every time, so you never eat too much or too little. Fill them up as directed in the Eating Plan. They are dishwasher-safe and BPA-free.

• 1 Green Container (8 oz or 1 & 1/4 Cups): For Vegetables • 1 Purple Container (8 oz or 1&1/4 Cups): For Fruits • 1 Red Container (6 oz or 3/4 Cups): For Proteins • 1 Yellow Container (5.3 oz or 1/2 cup): For Carbohydrates • 1 Blue Container (2.7 ox or 1/4 Cup): For Healthy Fats and Cheeses • 2 Orange Containers (2 oz or 2 Tablespoons): Seeds and dressings • 1 Shakeology Cup: For Mixing Drinks Tip: If you feel hungry, in any moment of the day, Autumn recommends you to take an extra green container (vegetables).

21 DAY FIX START This quickstart guide and workout calendar shows you just how simple it is to achieve your weight-loss goals. A step-by-step 21-day plan so you succeed

21 DAY FIX EATING PLAN This simple eating plan takes you step-by-step through the process and makes portion control so easy, you won’t even have to think about it. You can enjoy delicious, healthy food without counting calories.

3 DAY QUICK FIX This is Autumn’s secret weapon for losing weight fast before a fitness competition or photo shoot. Do it during the last 3 days of 21 Day Fix.

THE 21 DAY FIX IS A WORKOUT AND DIET PROGRAM THAT WILL GET YOU IN THE HABIT OF

Eating Healthier...

LIST OF APPROVED FOODS FOR EACH CONTAINER CATEGORY VEGETABLES: Mushrooms Sprouts Onions Radishes Carrots Cauliflower String Beans Broccoli Brussels Sprouts Collards Kale Eggplant Lettuce Jicama Cabbage

PROTEINS:

Ham Slices Ground Chicken Wild Fish Eggs Yogurt Ground Lean Beef Ricotta Cheese Cottage Cheese Protein Powder Veggie Burger Chicken Breast Turkey Breast Turkey Slices Tuna

Pork Loin Tofu

CARBS:

Quinoa Corn Potato Wild Rice Brown Rice Yams Sweet Potato Pasta Pancakes Bagel Tortilla Corn Tortilla Cereal Couscous Crackers Steel Cut Oats Pita Bread English Muffins Rolled Oats

FRUIT:

Mango Peach Nectarine Figs Papaya Blueberries Orange Banana Watermelon Apricots

Kiwi Fruit Cherries Pineapple

SEEDS:

Olives Peanuts Coconut Sesame Seeds Sunflower Seed

HEALTHY FATS AND CHEESES: Coconut Milk Avocado Hummus Parmesan Cheddar Pistachios Mozzarella Goat Cheese Almonds Provolone Feta Cheese Walnuts

DRESSINGS: Seed Butters Nut Butters Extra Virgin Olive Oil Coconut Oil Walnut Oil Flaxseed Oil Pumpkin Seed Oil

DIRTY 30 WORKOUT 4 rounds of fat-burning exercises that help carve out a leaner, stronger physique.

24/7 ONLINE SUPPORT Get extra support and motivation from weight-loss experts and other 21 Day Fix customers.

The 21 Day Fix is a workout and diet program that will get you in the habit of eating healthier and recognizing how much food you really should be eating. The package includes several items to help you get in shape and feel great and is designed with every fitness level in mind. It’s cheaper than hiring a personal trainer or going to a nutritionist. Plus you can do all of it from home! So, whether you’re getting ready for an upcoming event or getting on the right track to reaching your weight loss goal, the 21 Day Fix is definitely a program to consider. C mycharmonline.com 53

FEATURE

e c n O e m i T A n o p U ISA BROWN Words by L A MCGRAW

by VANESS Illustrations

T

iming is everything.

using the word “last” is very prophetic here) he would constantly

Look at Romeo and Juliet, had either one of them

get on to me about being late for things. Like the time I showed

just waited it out, taken a few moments to weave

up at Arby’s at 6:05 p.m. for our first date; therefore missing out

a horse blanket or listen to the lilting sounds of a lute quartet (the equivalent of binge watching Netflix Renaissance), perhaps they would have been able to work things out and had a pleasant honeymoon in Hawaii and a nice piece of broiled fish during their reception.

I think in relationships, timing is especially crucial.

Case in point, when I first started going out with my last

on the early bird “buy one roast beef sandwich, get the second one half off” coupon he had stolen from his mom’s purse. Because of that “time” mix-up we almost didn’t make it to our second date, an exciting behind the scenes tour of the de-boning room at a local chicken plant.

Lesson learned?

boyfriend (and since it’s been about 10 years since I could

Not quite, and I have to say I haven’t eaten a chicken strip

theoretically call a man in his 40’s or 50’s “boy” friend, I think

without thinking of Glenn McCalvy and his mother Mildred since.

54 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

Where was I? Oh yes, time. I’ve never owned a

And that’s basically the true story of why I don’t buy

wristwatch. I did have a groovy necklace watch in the

myself a gold Rolex.

70’s, but that was actually sort of mandatory:

Time has a way of slipping by much faster now

Orange bell bottom pants? 

that I’ve gotten decrepit older. It used to feel that

Embroidered vest or green and yellow striped poncho? 

Christmas took a billion years to get here; now, it seems like it was here just a few seconds ago (that

Jewelry containing peace symbol or smiley face? 

could have a lot to do with the reindeer decorations I have on top of my house though).

But a real honest to goodness watch? No. I

Be that as it may, time seems to be getting away

feel like I have handcuffs on when I try and wear

from me these days.

a watch. It’s a bit unsettling to be quite honest.

When you’re young, time seems infinite, and as

Perhaps in another life I was a glamorous princess

you get older it sometimes feels like one of those

who was booked on shoplifting charges:

old black and white movies where the calendar

Cartoon like Centurion guard: I noticed you have

pages are peeling off and suddenly instead of

something hidden under your long pointy scarf hat, Princess Lisa, would you mind removing it?

looking like a young Sandra Bullock you find yourself looking like the Crypt Keeper (and you

Princess Lisa: My goodness officer, whatever could you

have no idea how you got that way. Of course

be thinking? I’m just out here in the forest conversing with the bluebirds, deer and woodland animals, just like I do every Thursday.

Cartoon like Centurion guard: Yes, and as you know we’ve ticketed you for that very thing several times, but I’m more interested in that large wedge of cheese you placed under your long pointy scarf hat when you were in the Ye Olde Kroger store this very morning.

theoretically I suppose the Crypt Keeper was once young, too, but that’s a different story for a different time).

I guess what I’m trying to get at with this little story is this: The world we live in today is changing at a rapid pace, and for those of us who once thought we had all

Princess Lisa: I have no idea what you might be talking about,

the time in the world, it’s a bit jarring to realize that

I see no cheese.

we now need to be a bit more wise and selective

Cartoon like Centurion guard: Then why are there three

with how we spend it.

rabbits and a squirrel gnawing on your head?

Princess Lisa: Yes, that is a puzzler, isn’t it?

AND….SCENE.

Do I think that I’ve used my hours here on this planet in the best way possible? Well, I guess only time will tell. C

, it w o n k ’t n d l u o You w but I was ob! r h tt r a e H e h T e Quit mycharmonline.com 55

PICTURE

This!

JIM KENDRICK FAREWELL

DR. DAVID PENN, DR. JASON SUITS

LONGVIEW | PINECREST COUNTRY CLUB | 7/9/2015 Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

Employees, friends and members of the community came together to bid farewell to Jim Kendrick, former CEO of Longview Regional Medical Center. Kendrick was hired in 2005 and has left a lasting impression on LRMC and this community. He will take a newly created position as Network CEO for 10 Community Health Systems-affiliated hospitals in Oklahoma.

TONYA & JIM KENDRICK

SUZETTE & LESTER LUCY

56 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

DR. PAUL LIN, CHI CHI LIN

JAMES AND SHIRLEY HALL

ELIZABETH BAUMGARDNER, LIBBY BRYSON

DR. YASSER F. ZEID

P ICTURE THIS

DAN DROEGE (GTBR CHAIRMAN)

2015 GTBR PILOT’S MEET & GREET LONGVIEW | MAUDE COBB CONVENTION CENTER | 7/2/15 Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

The 38th Great Texas Balloon Race was kicked off with the Pilot’s Launch Party. Dan Droege, GTBR Chariman, welcomed all pilots and their crews to Longview and the race. Pilots in the U.S. National Hot Air Balloon Championship and Great Texas Balloon Race were introduced.

OFFICIAL & TEAM OATH LED BY JUDGE BILL STOUDT DARRELL & LESLIE PAULL

ROBERT GONZALES, SAM PARKS, ROBERT WISE

SHARON WILLIAMSON, TAMMY SKINNER

DR. BILL BUSSEY, MAYOR ANDY MACK

ANDI AND JASON BABCOCK

mycharmonline.com 57

P ICTURE THIS

LONGVIEW KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW

ERICA MASSINGILL AND GABBY

LONGVIEW | MAUDE COBB CONVENTION CENTER | 7/26/2015 Photos by CHRIS LOZANO

More than 700 canines were scheduled to compete in the Longview Kennel Club’s 2015 American Kennel Club Licensed All Breed Show. The club’s first show was held in 1957.

LACY NICHOLE NICHOLS AND HEAVEN JAYTON WHITE AND DARCY

JANICE FENNEY, LAUREN GARDNER AND LEVI

58 CHARM | S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

STACY DOYLE, SHARON SHRADER

CHARM

Challenge PRIME TIME BB PRIMER-CREAM by bareMinerals Claim to fame: Perfect, protect, and prime—at the same time. This multitasking primer-cream corrects uneven skintone and diminishes the appearance of discoloration. It provides broad spectrum SPF 30 protection and defense against environmental stressors. The silky, smoothing formula is moisturizing without creating excess oil and minimizes the appearance of pores, prepping skin immediately for flawless foundation application.

SEPHORA $26

WHAT YOU HAD TO SAY: Stephanie S.

Erin H.

“Bare Minerals Prime Time (Fair) BB Cream was a great base for me. It provided the matte finish that I like and I appreciated the added SPF for my fair skin tone.

Thumbs up for sure.”

“I absolutely love the Bare Minerals Primer. As compared to others, it was not heavy on my skin and literally feels silky when putting it on my face.”

Want to be part of our Charm Challenge?

Visit mycharmonline.com to learn how to participate!

mycharmonline.com 59

JOIN US AT THE 5TH ANNUAL THINK PINK BENEFITING THE BREAST CENTER AT GOOD SHEPHERD

L U N C H E O N & FA S H I O N S H O W

TUESDAY, SEPT. 29

M AU D E CO B B CO N V E N T I O N C E N T E R I 1 1 a . m . - 1 p. m . $ 3 0 P E R P E R S O N O R $ 3 0 0 TA B L E O F 8 S P O N S O R S H I P

LU N C H E O N Emceed by KLTV Anchorwoman Anissa Centers

FAS H I O N S H OW Longview firefighters modeling the hottest fall trends from Cavenders, Dillard’s, Hurwitz, La Promenade, Morgan Abbigail, Trendy Chicks & Women’s Health Boutique

H A N D B AG R A F F L E Pink Michael Kors, Antonio Melani, Gianni Bini and Kate Landry handbags are up for grabs – one has $500 hidden inside! $5/ticket or $20/five tickets

P I N K T- S H I R TS , P I N K H E A L S F I R E T R U C KS & M O R E !

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE INSTITUTE FOR HEALTHY LIVING OR BY CALLING:

903.323.6511 I GSMC.ORG

SPONSORED BY