The Journey Magazine

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Injuries & Illnesses

Antibiotics & Shots

On-Site Digital X-Ray

Urgent Asthma & Allergy Treatment

Lacerations & Broken Bones

Urgent On-Site Lab

Lufkin 634-DOCS (3627)

Between Sam’s andTractor Supply

Livingston 888-634-DOCS (3627)

On 190 AcrossWalmart

8 / The Journey - October 2010

Stephanie OliverP r e s i d e n t

Lisa GarnerM a n a g i n g E d i t o r

Michelle BrileyD i r e c t o r o f S a l e s

Kay HendricksA c c o u n t E xe c u t i v e

Courtney WarrenL a y o u t a n d D e s i g n

Daryl SparksG r a p h i c D e s i g n e r

Lisa CrowEv e n t P h o t o g r a p h e r

Jennifer WilliamsAllyson LangstonC o p y E d i t o r

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To Advertise:Cover photo by

Greg Patterson

New Additions! Hopefully by now you have noticed a few additions and changes to the magazine. We are always looking for new ways to change our look. We also enjoy adding new articles. One of our newest additions is Stretch Marks by Melissa Radke. She is funny, entertaining, and brightens your day. Melissa came up with the name Stretch Marks for two reasons—one, the obvious—the mark of motherhood; and two, because as women we always seem to stretch ourselves! I have enjoyed having her join the magazine and I hope you enjoy reading her humorous stories!! A new addition we added this month is Birthday Bonanza. We wanted to give moms a way to think outside the box with birthday parties. We are not looking for over the top parties or royal sweet sixteens—just fun, creative ideas you have used for your children. It is great to see the venues people find to host birthday parties using our local facilities. . If you have a great party you would like to share with us, email us at [email protected].

Bridal Cover January 2011Do you have an upcoming wedding planned? Would you like to be on the cover of The Journey? If you are available for a photo shoot in the Lufkin/Nacogdoches area the first of December, log on to www.tjmag.com. Click on the Bridal Cover for more information.

Email Us!

Have a great idea?

Inspiring Woman? Is there

a subject we are missing?

Email us your ideas!! We

love to hear from you.

[email protected]


A couple of teases of cool weather and East Texas is hoping October really brings us Fall! The month of October is exciting for many reasons—football games, fall festivals, lots of candy, and (keeping our fingers crossed) cool weather! For many, the month of October is a time women can share and bond in something we all share a common ground in—Breast cancer Awareness.

Cancer is touching entirely too many people and their families. It seems as though every week we get a new update on someone who has been affected by the news. Recently, I heard the statistic that Breast cancer is no longer the leading cause of death for women. In a way, it is sad something else has taken its place. But is it a reflection and result of the fight and vigilance women and the medical profession have placed on Breast cancer? Because of the emphasis placed on early detection and prevent, lives are being saved and the statistics are in our favor. Breast cancer affects so many of us as it touches our family and friends. That is why it is important for The Journey to raise awareness about this disease in the month of October. We are blessed to live in a community that wants to educate and raise more awareness this October. It is important to many organizations and local businesses to bring more resources to East Texans. For the month of October, let’ find strength in numbers. We can lift each other up, encourage each other to get our mammograms, and send a note to a survivor! It is a special time to be a woman created in God’s image.

Pink is Strength! Remember to self check!

Stephanie Oliver

Prestident

Welcome!

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Home Tour Review: Some of our favorite rooms and images from past Home Tours.

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est. 1955

Are you re-modeling your home or considering building a new home? Perhaps you are just looking for a smaller home near you for aging parents. In all the excitement of meeting with the architect,

contractors, interior designers or realtors, there are a few things that you may not have considered. Chances are that sooner or later, either you or a member of your family will get injured, suffer from an illness or just have some physical limitations due to aging. Sometimes, even the simplest injury or illness can require the use of a walker, a wheelchair or other equipment. We would all like to maintain our independence and dignity. Planning for this possibility beforehand can save you a lot of money and heartache.

The modifications suggested are rather simple but address the most significant needs of those who are in a wheelchair, walker, or are just physically aging. It could be the difference between remaining in your home or having to move. The first key area to consider is the width of doorways, hallways, and openings. Making areas large enough for say, a wheelchair, to get through, will make your home “accessible” for anyone. The second area is the restroom. No one, whether 20 or 80, wants to have to ask for assistance in showering or using the facilities.

Simply planning ahead can make a world of difference. 36” doorways will accommodate most wheelchairs or power chairs. Outreach Health Services frequently

see clients with 29” doorways in some of the older homes and surprisingly, they still see them in some newer homes and manufactured homes. Luckily, trends in modern home building allow for modifications that will make these a seamless transition to current décor. Ceilings are getting taller and new homes often feature “oversize” windows, doors, and everything! Having tall, wide doors will appear to be more of a bold décor choice. In the shower, choosing a large area with a glass door, built in bench and multiple shower heads will allow for possible wheelchairs, walkers, etc. Additionally, it will increase the value of your home, as the bathroom is one area where buyers want to see extra amenities. A large, built

in glass shower will surely impress with its added “luxury”.

One last thing to consider is that financial situations change and what was once very affordable may not be if one suffers a change in circumstances. Careful planning for an energy efficient home can make a huge difference in the quality of life. Our Texas weather can be pretty unforgiving, and people with limited means or fixed incomes are often treated for heat or cold related issues because they simply could not afford to turn on the air conditioner or heater.

Preparing Your Home for the Future


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When your doctor tells you he wants your total cholesterol to be less than 200 but, he wants your HDL cholesterol as high as possible over 60 and “keep your LDL cholesterol less than 100 and your triglycerides below 150,”do you ever feel like scratching your head?

According to a national survey of 500 adults ages 45 and older, nearly half said that they were uncertain which cholesterol numbers best indicate heart disease. Despite the confusion, most people understand the lifestyle modifications that can reduce heart disease risk: Maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke, stay active, and limit saturated fats, trans fat and food sources of cholesterol.

HDL stands for high density lipoprotein (LDL – low density lipoprotein). Your total cholesterol is simply adding together the good and the bad. Oil and water don’t mix. These specially designed cholesterol molecules, HDL and LDL carry fat in the watery medium of the blood. But what they do is very different.

LDL, sticks to blood vessel walls causing eventual blockages. Those Low Down Losers! When these blockages occur in the arteries that feed the heart, this is called coronary artery disease and can lead to heart attack. When the blockage occurs in the brain, this can lead to stroke.

HDL cholesterol is always working to remove these blockages, carrying the fat back to the liver to be processed and eliminated. These guys are Happy, Dancing, and Living Life! The problem is that HDL’s are always playing catch-up and for some of us are 10 points behind at the half. But the

game isn’t over until the skinny lady sings! The ratio of bad to good changes day to day depending on what we eat and how active we are. So it is never too late to be active and choose your foods wisely.

Triglycerides are a type of fat and are the main energy source for most body cells. The problem is when we

are overweight or inactive or we have eaten too many sweets or drank too much alcohol, we have too many triglycerides and

this becomes an independent risk factor for heart disease.

To improve your heart health, start by reducing your intake of foods that raise LDL, the bad boys. Replace whole milk with low-fat or skim. Limit cheese and ice cream. Avoid fatty meats like marbled steaks, sausage, bacon, wieners, and brisket. Remove the

skin from chicken. Choose lean cuts of meat and limit meat portions to 3 or 4 ounces. Use soft or liquid margarines and limit crackers, snack foods, and cookies containing trans fat, also called hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil.

But it’s not all about what not to eat. High fiber foods like beans, peas, and oats lower LDL cholesterol and other foods like avocado, olive oil, salmon, tuna, and nuts contain heart healthy mono-unsaturated fats that also reduce the bad boys. Raise HDL’s and lower triglycerides with daily activity. Limit sweets and alcohol to moderate use. Stay Happy, keep Dancing and Live the good Life!

By Tim Scallon, M.S. R.D. L.D.

Tim Scallon, M.S. R.D. L.D is the director of the HC Polk Center for Heart Stroke and Diabetes Education, Department of Clinical Nutrition at Memorial Health System of East Texas

Herb Crusted Catfish with Mango Tomatillo SauceServing Size: 1 fillet with sauce Serves: 4

Ingredients1 tbsp fresh oregano, minced1 tbsp fresh thyme, minced1 tbsp fresh basil, minced3 tbsp fresh parsley, minced½ tsp coarse black pepper4 - 6 oz catfish fillets5 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 tbsp reserved¼ small sweet onion, diced1 fresh jalapeno, seeded and diced4 fresh tomatillos, diced1 medium tomato, diced¼ cup mango, diced¼ cup papaya, diced½ a Valencia orange, juiced1 clove garlic, minceda pinch of salt1 tbsp fresh cilantro, diced

DirectionsIn a medium bowl, combine the herbs and spices. Pat each fillet with the herb mixture to lightly coat. Heat 4 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat and cook the fillets for 3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Reserve warm.To prepare the sauce, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the onion, jalapeno, to-matillos, tomato, mango, papaya, orange juice, garlic, salt and cilantro. Simmer 2-3 minutes.Reduce heat to medium low. Return the fish to the sauce and simmer 2 – 3 min-utes to finish the flavors.

Exchanges per serving: 4 MF Meats, 2 Fats, 1 Vegetable

Nutrients per serving:Calories: 421 Calories from fat: 271 Total Fat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 80mg Sodium: 120mgCarbohydrate: 9g Dietary Fiber: 2g Protein: 28g

Julienne Nest of VegetablesServing Size: 1/4 of recipe Serves: 4

Ingredients2 tbsp olive oil1 small carrot4-5 asparagus spears1 small red bell pepper4 green onions1 small yellow squash1 small zucchini squash1 clove fresh garlica pinch of salt¼ tsp black pepper

DirectionsHeat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the carrots for about 30 seconds. Then add the rest of the vegetables and cook just until they are crisp tender. Season with salt and pepper. To serve, create a bowl resembling a bird’s nest and top with the fish.

Exchanges per serving: 1 Vegetable, 1.5 Fats

Nutrients per serving:Calories: 86 Calories from fat: 61 Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1g Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 36mgCarbohydrate: 6g Dietary Fiber: 2g Protein: 2g

Pineapple Upside Down-Bread Pudding

Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe Serves: 8Ingredients10 slices wheat bread¾ cup margarine, melted3 eggs½ cup egg substitute2 cups fat free half & half2½ cups pineapple¼ cup raisins¼ cup unsalted walnuts½ cup sugar1½ tsp vanilla extract¾ tsp ground cinnamon

DirectionsCut or tear bread into 1-inch pieces. Toss with melted mar-garine; set aside. In a bowl, beat eggs & egg substitute un-til thick and frothy. Add the half & half, pineapple, raisins, walnuts, sugar & vanilla; mix well. Fold in the bread pieces until coated. Pour into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Cover & bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Serve warm.Exchanges per serving: 2 Carbohydrate Choices, 1 MF Meat, 1 Fruit, 3 FatsNutrients per serving:Calories: 423 Calories from fat: 207 Total Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 72mg Sodium: 421mgCarbohydrate: 46g Dietary Fiber: 2g Protein: 10g


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Inaugural Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala


The Cattle Baron’s Gala has evolved from humble beginnings as a barbeque in a backyard held in honor of someone who had been diagnosed with cancer. The event has grown from that into a nationally known and recognized American Cancer Society fund raiser. The 2010 Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala will be held Saturday, October 9th at the Winston “8” Ranch on Highway 59, just north of Lufkin. Nashville star Chris Cagle and East Texas Favorite Kristen Kelly will provide entertainment just beyond the swinging saloon doors. There will be live and silent auctions, chance drawings, games, dancing and dinner by G-Texas Custom Catering. Terri Self, Chair, and Brigettee Henderson, Chair Elect, would like to personally invite you to dust off your boots, pull out your favorite cowboy & cowgirl duds, and join them in the inaugural event entitled “Rhinestones & Ropers”!

Cancer is a disease that doesn’t discriminate. It affects all walks of life, regardless of age, gender, race or income. Over 12,000 East Texans will hear the words “You Have Cancer” this year, and will forever have their lives changed. Many more people are surviving due to the breakthroughs in research and medical technology, putting us one step closer towards finding a cure. The goal of the organizers and attendees of the gala is to never lose sight of the underlying reason for this event – it’s all about the cause. Together, we can all make a difference!

No guests under 21 years of age

In Celebration of Life and In Recognition of the American Cancer Society’s Mission, Thank you for helping make the

Cattle Baron’s Gala Smoke-Free

www.pineywoodscattlebaronsgala.org

Underwriters

Cattle Baron

Anonymous Donor

Platinum Baron

George H. Henderson Family

Barbara & Ray Polk & Romy & Carl Ray Polk, Jr.

Gold Baron

Carroway Funeral Home

Brookshire Brothers/Polk Oil

Silver Baron

Wright Buick GMC

Baskins

Temple-Inland

We regret any omission due to print deadlines.

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Abeldt’s Gaslight Pharmacy has been a long time staple in Angelina County. Many have come to know Buford Abeldt and the wonderful service he has provided through the years. Today, the pharmacy has grown into three additional pharmacists and a full time staff of 25.

All the employees and the Abeldt family give back to the community. Abeldt’s Gaslight Pharmacy has been involved with many community organizations, giving time and financial support to non-profit agencies throughout Angelina County.

Some of the organizations Abeldt’s Pharmacy is proud to support include: Power of Pink, Dr. Bill Shelton’s Totally Awesome Fishing Adventure, Women in Red, Healthy Woman, Relay for Life, Alzheimer’s Lufkin Memory Walk, Angelina Beautiful/Clean Amazing Turtle Race, Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce, Lufkin High School Sports Programs, Lufkin Alumni Association, surrounding area school organizations and many more.

Abeldt’s is proud to offer their mastectomy room to East Texans. There also offer a compounding pharmacy with 2 compounding pharmacists, durable medical equipment, therapeutic shoes, diabetic supplies, city wide delivery in Lufkin Monday through Saturday, and city wide delivery in Corrigan and Diboll Tuesday and Friday.

The time and donations given to these agencies are the reasons why Abeldt’s have established their roots and developed a loyal following in Lufkin. They are delighted to serve the community they love and call home.

About the Products Offered: BrasBefore surgery, buying a correctly fitting bra was probably pretty simple - it was simply a matter of trying on a few of them until finding one that worked. After a mastectomy or lumpectomy, fittings aren’t so simple anymore. At Abeldt’s Fitting Room, they have experienced and discreet fitters who are able to help one find the right bra to suit their needs in a comfortable and relaxing setting. They carry the top brands, including Amoena, Naturalwear, Jodee, and more. No matter how special the need, they are ready with a solution! Breast FormsAbeldt’s offers a variety of breast forms in many shapes, sizes and colors to accommodate any body type or breast shape. SwimwearTake a dive into their line of swimwear! They offer bright colors and flattering designs that make it possible to feel comfortable on the beach or by the pool. Made for wearing post-surgery, many of the swim suits feature figure-control or panels for extra smoothing and firming, along with an empire stitch in the bra pocket to keep a breast form in place. Other productsAbeldt’s also carries a variety of products for people undergoing chemotherapy and radiation, such as hats and turbans, Biotene, non-metallic deodorant, and vitamins.

Abeldt’s Pharmacy

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Debbie Stevens is active in the Nacogdoches Community and is consistently finding ways to give back through involving herself in organizations that she feels passionately about.

Debbie has been married to her husband, Dennis, for 29 years and together, they have one son, Ted, who works for Texas Parks and Wildlife at Brazos Bend State Park in Park Operations Management. Debbie works for Nacogdoches Medical Center as the Marketing Services Manager. During Debbie’s responsibilities of planning, coordinating and implementing hospital events, she came into contact with the Breast Cancer Support Group. She immediately bonded with the ladies and felt a special connection with them because of her own mother’s breast cancer diagnosis.

In 2004, Ted was graduating from high school and was preparing to receive his Eagle Scout Award. Following the Eagle Scout Ceremony, Sylvia, Debbie’s mom, asked to go to the Azalea Garden. It was in the beautiful garden that Sylvia shared the news that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer. She was optimistic as it had been detected early and she was a good candidate for a lumpectomy with follow up radiation treatment. Debbie remained with her as much as possible during her battle. The following year, Sylvia and Debbie visited the Azalea Garden and rejoiced in how well she was feeling and her successful treatment of breast cancer. To this day, she is still cancer free and they continue to visit the garden annually as a reminder. Debbie’s favorite quote, “We are nearest to God in a garden,” is a constant reminder of just how special the Azalea Garden is to her.

The members of the Breast Cancer Support Group have offered support for much more than breast cancer. Following Debbie’s open-heart surgery and following the passing of her father, the group was there for her. They’ve laughed together and even cried together, particularly when their sweet Miss June passed away a year ago. Of the group, Debbie says, “these ladies have reinforced the early lessons of my childhood to accept what life gives us with dignity and grace. To this day, I continue to enjoy planning and attending the Breast Cancer Support meetings.”

Three years ago, Nacogdoches Medical Center teamed up with the Belk Department Store to organize “Simply Pink...A Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser.” For the past two years, Debbie has coordinated this event that has been described by one attendee as the, “best feel good fundraiser that she has ever attended.” Debbie arranged for breast cancer survivors to model the latest fall fashions provided by Belk, with makeovers by Estee Lauder makeup artists. All proceeds from ticket sales were donated to the American Cancer Society to assist breast cancer survivors in Nacogdoches County.

Her other activities include being an active Board Member for Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful and a past Chairwoman for KNB. She continues to coordinate the county wide, “Don’t Mess with Texas Trash Off” and “Nacogdoches Blooms” campaign. Debbie also serves on the Stephen F. Austin State University Gardens Advisory Board and is active at her church, Fairview United Methodist Church.

Debbie Stevens


VIP Nails celebrated their remodel with a Ribbon Cutting on Monday, July 19th. Located at 4505 S. Medford Dr, they specialize in sculptured nails, tips overlay, nail designs, refills, manicures, pedicures and waxing. Stop by and see their newly remodeled salon and stay for a relaxing pedicure and manicure. Pictured are: Owner Cathy Nguyen and staff, as well as members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

Restoration Cleaning Services celebrated their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Tuesday, July 27th. They specialize in floor restoration, carpet cleaning, tile floor cleaning and general office cleaning. They help businesses maintain a clean, safe and healthy work environment. Give them a call today at 936.645.6880 for a free estimate! Pictured are Owner Roderick Cotton and family as well as members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

O’Reilly Auto Parts celebrated their new location with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, July 28th. Their newly-built facility is located at 915 North Timberland. They offer Used Oil & Battery Recycling, Battery Testing, Electrical & Module Testing, Loaner Tool

Program, Drum / Rotor Resurfacing, Custom-Made Hydraulic Hoses, and much, much more! Pictured are Store Manager Geoffrey Gibson, his family and staff and members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

The Family Crisis Center of East Texas/Women’s Shelter of East Texas, Inc. celebrated the Grand Opening of their new thrift store on Thursday, August 5th. Located in the old Baskins’ location at 501 S. Timberland Drive, the store is full of gently-used clothes, books, home décor and much more. 100% of the proceeds benefit victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Pictured are staff and volunteers of the Family Crisis Center of East Texas, as well as members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

Dr. Chantal Culpepper of Pineywoods Family Practice celebrated her grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony and open house on Thursday, August 12th. An experienced family practice physician, Dr. Culpepper treats adults and children of all ages and has a particular interest in women’s health. Call her at 936.637.5970 or stop by 517 N. Brentwood Drive in the Sam’s Club shopping center for an appointment today. Pictured are: Dr. Chantal Culpepper with her staff and colleagues as well as staff from Woodland Heights Medical Center. Also pictured are members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

Ribbon Cuttings

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Mark your calendars now to join the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce for their 3rd Annual “Tee It Up For Teachers” Golf Tournament on Monday, Octo-ber 25, 2010, at Crown Colony Country Club.

This event is dedicated to raising funds to provide schol-arships to teachers who teach at any of the six Angelina County independent school districts who wish to contin-ue their education by pursuing a Master’s Degree.

A special thanks to our sponsors for the 3rd Annual Tee It Up For Teachers Golf Tournament: Presenting Sponsor – Bancorp South; Media Sponsor – KTRE TV; Cart Spon-sor – Commercial Bank of Texas; Gold Sponsor – Jordan Family Dentistry; Hole Sponsors – Edward Jones Invest-ments-Vince Treadwell, A R Services, Allen Loggins & Sons, Forestar Real Estate Group, Haglund Law Firm, Ja-son Armstrong, PLLC, Joe Hancock Insurance, The Ad-vanced Financial Group, and Wal-Mart. For more information about this event, please contact Tony Moline at The Chamber at 936.634.6644 or [email protected].

The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Hosts 3rd Annual Tee It Up For Teachers Golf Tournament Presented by Bancorp South

Hammer Equipment celebrated its Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Friday, August 27th. Located on HWY 59N next to Winston 8 Ranch, Hammer Equipment specializes in lawn mowers, tractors, trailers, bucket equipment and mini-excavators. They also offer the top brands such as Kubota, Land Pride and Rhino Machinery. Stop by or give them a call at 936-634-7000. Pictured is Owner Mike Hammer along with his family, staff and friends. Also pictured are members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

Chad Morgan - State Farm Insurance celebrated their newly-builtd office building with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Tuesday, August 31st. Located on the loop at

1503 S. John Redditt Drive, Chad Morgan can help you with all of your insurance needs. Give them a call today at 936.633-5591 and see what they can do for you. Pictured are owner Chad Morgan and staff. Also pictured are members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.

Arely’s Cake & A r r a n g e m e n t s celebrated their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting on Thursday, September 2nd. Located at 611 S. Chestnut Dr., they specialize in custom cakes for your special day. They create cakes for weddings, bridal showers, baby showers, birthdays and any other occasions that needs celebrating. They also create specialty cakes, fruit baskets, table centerpieces, favors and hand-decorated cookies. Pictured is Owner Maria Escalera with her family, friends and employees. Also pictured are members of the Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce Diplomats Team.


Nacogdoches Ribbon CuttingsBest Watch & Jewelry Repair, 3507 North St.Owner Harley Schnell, (936) 205-5959 (936) 205-5959, new Chamber member and newbusiness.

Unique Beauty Salon, 1008 E. Main St.Owner/Head Stylist Sylvia Jackson, (936) 564-3344 (936) 564-3344 , new business andChamber member.

Chamber Information Center Display in the Chamber lobby, 2516 North St .President/CEO Bruce Partain, (936) 560-5533 (936) 560-5533.

T-REX-S Outdoor Store, 4017 North St.President Tim Smith, (936) 715-9944 (936) 715-9944 New Chamber member and new business.

Ribbon Cutting, At Home Healthcare, 1:15 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 14, at the Chamber 2516 North St. Jodi Ellis, (903) 571-9063 (903) 571-9063, new Chamber member. Ribbon Cutting, Austin Finance, 11:45 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 20, 130 N. University Dr., Ste. 100. Amanda Scarbrough, (936) 552-7874 (936) 552-7874 . New business location near N.E. corner of E. Main and N. University. Light refreshments will be served. Alive After Five, Bryan Davis, M.D., Family Medicine, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21, 129 Creekbend Blvd., (936) 205-5949 (936) 205-5949 . Enjoy good food, refreshing beverages and music by the Hotrod Cadillacs. Fourth Friday Luncheon, Economic Development presented by NEDCO Chairman Ed Pool. Noon –; 1 p.m., Friday, Oct. 22, Hotel Fredonia. Registration required.

Battle of the Piney Woods, SFASU vs. SHSU, 2 p.m., Saturday, October 23, in Houston ‘s Reliant Stadium. Tickets for the game available through the SFA Ticket Office, call (936) 468-JACK.

Ribbon Cutting, The Hospice of East Texas Walk of Friends, 4:45 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 28, in the Master Gardeners Demonstration Site, corner Main St. and University Drive . Jessica Henderson, (936) 615-6404 (936) 615-6404 . Celebrating Hospice of East Texas first anniversary serving Nacogdoches , Shelby and San Augustine Counties. Scare on the Square, 5 - 8 p.m., historic downtown Nacogdoches . Main Street Office (936) 559-2573 (936) 559-2573 .

Ribbon Cutting The Blood Center - East Texas, 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 10, 3520 N. University Drive. Mary Francis Bradford, (936) 560-3054 (936) 560-3054. Facility remodel. More community events posted on the Chamber’s online calendar at nacogdoches.org. Submit your events, too!

Events

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Stay connectedwww.Nacogdoches.org

Browse the county’s best commu-nity event calendar and submit your

events.

Check the Hot News Look for the Chamber Member Spotlight.

Find links to the Chamber’s Twitter and Facebook pages,

Shop Nac First,

plus more!

Pictured is the 2010-2011 Leadership Nacogdoches group ready to go to Orientation Retreat at SFA Piney Woods Conservation Center .

Leadership Nacogdoches 2010-11Leadership Nacogdoches program co-chairs Linda Foshee and Paul

Smith III are proud to introduce the 29-member LN 2010-11 class:

Judy Abbott, SFA James I. Perkins College of Education; Daniel Alders, Charles Pool Real Estate, Inc.; Carol Bostian, Regions Bank; Rebecca Carlton, CASA of Deep East Texas; Randy Coe, Silver Lion Photography; Veronica Ellison, Etech, Inc.; Clay Farell, Nacogdoches Medical Center; Laminta Fowler, Etech, Inc.; Terrence Frazier, SFA Multicultural Center; Dixie Groll; SFA College of Liberal and Applied Arts; Derek Head, Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital; Jessica Henderson, Hospice of East Texas; Angie Hermenitt; SFA East Texas Research Center; Meagan Leclaire, Huntington State Bank; Brianna Lewis, Commercial Bank of Texas, N.A.; Maury Littleton, Party ‘N Things; Peggy Muckelroy, Nacogdoches Economic Development Corp. (NEDCO); Heather Owens, BancorpSouth Insurance Services, Inc.; Kevin Pace, Huntington State Bank; Paige Pattillo, Nacogdoches County Attorney Office; Jessica Rocha, Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital; Grace Romero, Mark A. Randel, MD; Kyle Sanders, University Rental; Rayanne Schmid, The Daily Sentinel; Sherri Skeeters, Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau; Susan Swearingen, BancorpSouth; Kevin Tomsic, MDDC, Allmed Family Care Center P.A.; Cathy White, Nacogdoches County Board of Realtors; and Jessica Wood, City of Nacogdoches Historic Sites Dept.

..A very special thank you goes to Jimmy Mize with First Bank & Trust East Texas for providing a scholar-ship to this class as well as the 2008-09 class,” Smith said. “Supporting the pro-gram in that way sets an excellent example of leadership for more to follow..


5-9 Almost, Maine By John Cariani W.M Turner Auditorium For info call: 936.468.6407

5-28 New Works by Aloma Marquis Angelina College of Arts; Art Gallery Michele Hill 936.633.5233

8 Entertainment in the Park 12:00 pm-1:00 pm Cotton Square Park For info call: Barbara 936.633.0205

8 “Hot Harley Nite” South US Hwy 59Lugnutz Sports Bar and Grill 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

8 Jazz on the Patio at The Hotel Fredonia 7:00 p.m. For info call: 936.564.1234

8-Nov. 23 Message from Siberia Opening reception is October 8th at 6 p.m. The Cole Art Center, Reavley Gallery For info call: 936.468.6407

9 Jazz on the Patio at The Hotel Fredonia 7:00 p.m. For more info: 936.564.1234

9-10 Millard’s Flea Market Dawn to Dusk For info call: 936.564.4490

9 Blast from the Past - Hosted by the City of Nacogdoches Festival Plaza Downtown Nacogdoches 9 am - 1 pm For info call: Jessica Wood 936.560.5426

9 ETTRA Team Roping George H Henderson Exposition Center For info call: Glenn 936.637.3976

9 Pineywoods Cattle Baron’s Gala 7:00 pm-1:00 a.m. Winston 8 Ranch American Cancer Society For info call: 936.634.2940

10 Faculty Recital Angelina Center for the Arts, Temple Theater 2:30 pm-4:00 pm For info call: Michele 936.633.5233

12 Wind Symphony & Symphonic Band W.M. Turner Auditorium 7:30 p.m. For info call: 936.468.6407

13-17 Pineywoods Fair Nacogdoches Expo Center For info call: 936.564.0849

13-17 Team Impact 7:00 p.m. Calvary Baptist Church For info call: Randy Brown 936.634.6674

14 Leadership Lufkin City/County Government Day 7:45 am-5:00 pm For info call: Susie Cardwell 936.634.6644



15 Swingin’ Axes & Swingin’ Aces W.M Turner Auditorium 7:30 p.m. For info call: 936.468.6407

16 Alzheimer’s Memory Walk 8 am registration 9 am walk SFA Native Plant Center For info call: Robin Dawley 936.569.1325

16 Fall Vintage Flea Market, $10 fee, clean out a closet and set up in our parking lot, Heritage Antiques For info call: 936-632-0110

16 Lego Club, 1:30 – 3pm, ages 5-17 welcome, Nacogdoches Public Library, For info call: 936-559-2970

16-17 Trade Days Dawn to Dusk For info call: 936.564.2150


16 SFA Lumberjack Football vs Central Arkansas Lumberjack Stadium 6:00 p.m. For info call: 936.468.JACK

17 AC Concert Band Angelina College of Art; Temple Theater Michele 936.633.5233

19 Vision 2020 Infrastructure Meeting 8:00–9:00 am Lufkin Chamber of Commerce For info call: 936.634.6644

19 The Music of Michael Daugherty W.M. Turner Auditorium 7:30 pm For info call: 936.468.4607

20-22 Texas Forestry Association Annual Conference For info call: Susan Stutts 936.632.TREE

21 Drumline LIVE!, 7:30pm, Temple Theater

21 2010 Les Reeves Lecture Series SFA Mast Arboretum For info call: 936.468.1863

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21 Angelina Photographic Association Meeting 7:00 pm-8:30 pm Museum of East Texas

21 Drumline Live! 7:30 pm-10:00 pm Temple Theater For info call: Kristie Bailey 936.633.5454

22 Vision 2020 Healthcare Meeting 8:00 am – 9:00 am Lufkin Chamber of Commerce For info call: 936.634.6644


22 PineKnot Music Co-Op Millard’s Crossing Historic Village 6020 North St Bus 59 8:00 p.m.


22 Broadway, Movies, and Classics with Ron Raines W.M. Turner Auditorium 7 p.m.

23 5th Annual The Dish and the Spoon Kids and Teens Cooking Contest, 11:30am, deadline to enter is Wednesday, Oct 20th, Nacogdoches Public Library For info call: 936-559-2970

23 Pray for the Children - Concert Festival Plaza Noon - 6 pm For info call: Debbie Tanner 936.564.2446

23 Eighth Blackbird W.M. Turner Auditorium 7:30 p.m. For info call: 936.468.4607


23 Make A Difference Day - Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

25 Changing the Path Autism Support Group 6:00 p.m. St. Cyprian’s Episcopal School For info call: 936.414.2767

28-30 FLW Outdoors College Fishing Festival Stephen F. Austin & Sam Rayburn For info call: Scott Ellison 270.252.1584

28 A Capella Choir Cole Concert Hall 7:30 p.m. For info call: 936.468.6407

29 Cinderella W.M. Turner Auditorium 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. For info call: 936.468.6407


29 Stephen F. Austin College of Fine Arts “Cinderella” W.M. Turner Auditorium 12:30 p.m. For info call: 936.468.6407

29 Deep East Texas Rasslin 6:30 pm-9:30 pm Lufkin Pitser Garrison Civic Center


30 Super Saturday Pumpkin Party Museum of East Texas 1:00-3:00 pm For info call: 936.639.4434

30 Pineywoods Jamboree 7:00-9:00 p.m. Pineywoods Community Academy For info call: Jimmy 936.639.9268

30 Scare on the Square 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. For info call: Sarah Obrien 936.559.2573

30 SFA Homecoming Parade 10:00 a.m.


30 SFA Lumberjack Football vs. Texas State 2:00 p.m. Lumberjack Stadium For info call: 936.468.JACK

30 SFA Homecoming 2010

31 Ghosts of Millard’s Crossing Millard’s Crossing Historic Village 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. For info call: 936.564.6631

November

4 SFA – Johnson Coliseum - Miranda Lambert, Eric Church and Josh Kelley in Concert. For info call: 936.468.JACK for info

4 Banita Creek Hall - Aaron Watson in concert

4 3rd Annual Salute to Health Care Banquet, 6pm – 9pm, Pitser Garrison Civic Center For info call: 936.634.6644

4 Mistletoe Market, 10am – 4pm, Pinecrest Retirement Community Auditorium

Power of

Pink


MARK YOUR CALANDER!!! The Annual “Power of Pink!” luncheon is scheduled for October 21st, 2010. The luncheon, presented by Memorial Health System of East Texas, is one of the largest public events for breast cancer awareness in East Texas. Community members are invited to attend and participate before the luncheon by donating baubles for a custom piece of art work or by participating in the 2nd Annual Art Bra Contest.

Heidi Marble will be presenting this year during the luncheon. Ms. Marble is a 10 year survivor of inflammatory breast cancer. Her presentation blends humor and her own real life experiences to touch and inspire audiences. Heidi also uses a extraordinary form of artwork to draw attention and raise money for cancer patients. She uses broken and unused jewelry from Cancer survivors and those interested in the cause to create life forms that will ultimately benefit her cause! Additionally, Heidi plans to do a special piece of artwork for Angelina County to go along with her presentation. To donate items to be used in this special piece, please stop by the Arthur Temple Sr. Regional Cancer Center or the Marketing Department at Memorial Health System of East Texas. Both locations will be collecting old jewelry, broken jewelry, buttons and other baubles to send Heidi for the creation.

Another event requiring community participation is the 2nd Annual Art Bra Contest, presented by Memorial Health System of East Texas, Abeldt’s Pharmacy and Neches House Assisted Living. Community members are invited to decorate bras that will be judged and displayed at Power of Pink! Winning bras also will be modeled during the event. Individuals or groups can submit Art Bra entries.

For more information on the Power of Pink! and how you can become involved, contact Lindsey Mott at 936-639-7613 or [email protected]. Information also can be found at www.memorialhealth.org or on Facebook group Power of Pink!

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Beth Moore SimulcastHarmony Hill, Lufkin September 18


Cattle Baron Kickoff at Beard Fine Jewelers

September 9

Lufkin Chamber First Friday Luncheon

Crown Colony, Lufkin September 3

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Forestry Museum’s Back to School Party August 26


Leadership Nacogdoches Retreat

Junior League of LufkinCamp Get Fit

August 2-6

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Macy MayOne Year Celebration September 25


Demetra Holcomb, Patty Heflin, LaChanda Maxie, and Susie Randolph are four very different women with far too much in common. It’s not as simple as the fact that they all work for Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital, they are all mothers or even that they are all survivors of breast cancer. The biggest bond these women share is their passion for life since their battles with breast cancer. Their incredibly positive attitudes in the face of adversity make them some of the most Inspiring Women The Journey Magazine has had the honor of featuring.

LaChanda Maxie has worked with Memorial Hospital for over 20 years in the Health Information Management Department as EDM Coordinator. Born and raised in Nacogdoches, she has one daughter who attends Tyler Junior College and plans to become a social worker. LaChanda is very active in her church and enjoys learning different songs for her church choir. She read devotionals to keep her encouraged on a daily basis.

When asked about her journey, she said, “Who was it that said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step? I was diagnosed with breast cancer when I was 40 years old. Ever since, I’ve been taking single steps to get through the next phase of this journey.” LaChanda knew with her family history that at the age of 39, she needed to be checked. Working in Medical Records, she often came in contact with patients undergoing treatments and she was fully aware of the benefits of early detection. Still, she was hesitant. When asked why, she says “quite frankly, I was scared. I had a sister who had been diagnosed when she was 49, and later lost her battle at 56; but I still didn’t want to believe it could happen to me. So at 39, I gave myself a deadline. I If I hadn’t gone to see the doctor by my 40th birthday, then I was going to set up an appointment for my birthday. That was the day that a mammogram confirmed that I had a lesion in my left breast.”

Listening to these women recall how they felt in the moments following their diagnosis and how they felt when telling their

Inspiring Women

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“Demetra Holcomb, Patty Heflin, LaChanda Maxie, and Susie Randolph: four very different women with far too much in common.”

families is heart-wrenching. You don’t have to know them personally to understand how difficult it must have been as a wife, mother, daughter, coworker, or friend. LaChanda’s recollection is no different. Going home on her birthday to tell her husband, daughter, and sisters, she remembers feeling like she was sleep walking. “I remember my husband just looked at me and said, ‘No you don’t! Well, you’re going to be okay.’ Okay?!?! I just went to the bathroom and screamed silently with my mouth wide open.” LaChanda chose to wait to tell her daughter until the biopsy was done, but she was more hurt that she waited to tell her. Although she was hurt, she was LaChanda’s biggest nurse and cheerleader all through her fight.

LaChanda opted for a lumpectomy, and the next step was to see the oncologist. At this point, LaChanda’s health was like a series of dominos on a very unstable table. The oncologist told LaChanda she also had cysts on her ovaries. Finding this out sent her blood pressure skyrocketing! A lumpectomy would not help the possibly cancerous cysts. The biopsy on these cysts would have to wait. It was more important to begin aggressive treatments on the breast cancer. Now on blood pressure medication and undergoing radiation, she constantly found herself weak and sunburned (effect of radiation). The next step was chemotherapy, which left her weak, bald and without confidence. Of the chemo, LaChanda says, “ if it wasn’t for my daughter and the grace that God has on my life, I don’t know how I would have managed to get up every morning knowing that I would have to take chemo for four months.”

F o l l o w i n g the chemo treatments, she underwent a full h y s t e r e c t o m y, which revealed that she only had cysts. Understandably, she says, “Every visit to a doctor is so nerve racking and no matter how much faith you think that you have, (because believe me, I thought I was very faithful), you are only human and it’s scary! But God has been with me through all my steps. I know because I remember when I was taking chemo and my hair was coming out, I told my husband to cut the rest of my hair off. He was very hesitant at first, but he did it and when I went to the mirror, I smiled. I didn’t look all that bad! Who else but God could make you smile in a situation like that?”

This past July, LaChanda lost her husband Tommy to cancer. Tommy was diagnosed with Lymphoma but the treatments didn’t work for him. It’s difficult for LaChanda knowing that Tommy was there for her during her treatments and although she was there for him, their outcomes were so different. This

will be LaChanda’s fifth year of being clear of cancer. Because of her journey, she now finds joy in the small things in life. The road to today has not been an easy one. Because of the difficulties she’s faced, she is much more likely to sit on the porch watching birds or to stop in the middle of traffic to take a picture of a beautiful sunset.

LaChanda says “God opened my eyes to find that joy, because until this I was more occupied with things that really didn’t matter at the end of the day. That’s why no matter what, the best way to fight cancer is to catch it before it catches you. Early detection and then aggressive treatment are crucial. You have to attack it and keep attacking it any way you can. And not just with medicines, but spiritually as well. Because God gave knowledge to the doctors and scientists, but only He can heal and save. And when the treatments don’t heal you then I want God to be there, to heal and save my soul, so that I know that I will live forever with Him. I’m still on my journey, and only God knows where my steps will take me, but as long I continue to believe ‘He will never leave me nor forsake me’, then I’ll just go where He wants me to go.”

Patty Heflin a.k.a. Payroll Patty, the Payroll Manager, has been at Memorial Hospital for 33 years. Although she moved to Texas (from Indiana) at the age of twenty, she calls herself a Texan! Patty is married to Wayne, whom she refers to as her “soul-mate”, and together, they have four children: Jeff, Jason, Greg, and Amanda. All four children are nearby and Patty is now a grandmother to seven wonderful kids.

Patty found the lump in her breast while on vacation in 2006, merely by accident. It took several days before she found the courage to

talk to her daughter, an RN. It was apparent by the look on her daughter’s face that it wasn’t good. An appointment was made with Dr. Walker, and a few short days later, Patty was in surgery having a partial Mastectomy done. She was diagnosed with Medullary Carcinoma Breast Cancer Stage 3. A second opinion from MD Anderson just confirmed the diagnosis she had already been given. Due to the stage and size of the lump, Patty did four treatments of chemotherapy and twelve treatments of Taxol (an anti-cancer chemotherapy drug). Following the chemotherapy, Patty chose to have a bi-lateral mastectomy without reconstruction instead of radiation. Patty is also battling Lupus and radiation would have deteriorated her chest wall. Patty is now only required to have blood work done every six months and see the oncologist once a year.

Continued Pg 38


Patty is currently in her fourth year of remission. She is so thankful for her wonderful coworkers who supported her during her journey. To give back, she participates in the Relay for Life every year. In 2008, Patty, her daughter, daughter-in-law, and niece walked in the Susan B. Komen 3 Day Walk for the Cure and raised over $9,000 for breast cancer research.Additionally, Patty has a pillow ministry at the hospital. The recovery room nurses hand out a Breast Cancer pillow from the ministry to those who have undergone breast cancer surgery. Due to HIPPA Laws, Patty is unable to hand the pillows out herself, but includes a personal letter and information from the American Cancer Society. It’s her way of letting women or men know that they are not taking this walk alone.

Susie RandolphSusie Randolph, also a Nacogdoches native, has been married for 28 years. Susie is a registered nurse in the G.I. Lab. Susie and her husband have two sons, Derek (23 years old) and Brad (20 years old). Knowing her mother, her aunt, and her grandmother all had breast cancer, Susie knew the importance of having her mammogram. Susie had been having mammograms since the age of 30, but it wasn’t until she was 45 that she was actually diagnosed. To her, it wasn’t a matter of if she had breast cancer, but when.

In talking with Susie, it’s much more apparent that Susie had a different perspective on her diagnosis. Maybe it was the expectation of having breast cancer at some point in

her life, and that she had been facing the disease head-on by getting annual mammograms for quite some time. Perhaps it was that she had already witnessed her mother and aunt’s journey with breast cancer and had already been through the various stages of grief. Whatever it was, Susie has a more “matter-of-fact” rendition of her journey. Susie and her husband told friends and family right away and immediately went to work on her course of action.

Given her family history, Susie spoke with several physicians and decided it was best to do a bilateral mastectomy. In September, Susie underwent her mastectomy and began

the reconstructive surgery process. Because Susie is BRCA gene positive*, she had a hysterectomy two short months after her mastectomy. Being BRCA gene positive* increases the risk of ovarian cancer by 70%. Just four months after the mastectomy, Susie was able to have her final reconstruction surgery. Fortunately for Susie, her diligence in testing and her immediate, aggressive treatment, made it so that she was not required to undergo chemotherapy.

The women at the hospital have been a big help to one another. Patty made Susie her “coughing pillow” (a pillow to hold over your chest after surgery to help ease the pain of coughing). Patty checked on Susie regularly and Dee had her final reconstructive surgery on the same day as Susie. Susie is currently in remission and wants other women battling breast cancer to know the importance of talking to others, just like she and the other women of Memorial Hospital have done. She says, “Do not close yourself up; let people help you!”

Demetra “Dee” Holcomb Dee is a charismatic, pleasant person who lights up any room she enters. A Nacogdoches native; she works in the x-ray department of Nacogdoches Memorial Hospital and lives to be a mother. Her three sons, De’Aundre (10 years old), Ja’Braylon (4 years old) and Jacob (10 months old) are the lights of her life. They keep her busy, they keep her smiling, but most of all, they kept her fighting!

Continued Pg 39

When talking with Dee about her diagnosis with breast cancer, she recalls, “It was almost the worst news I could ever imagine hearing. Honestly, I was heartbroken and I just wanted to scream. All I could think about was my boys…thinking, ‘If I die, what’s going to happen to my boys?’ I kept asking, ‘Why?’ I was only 27!” Similar to Patty, Dee found out merely by accident one night while taking a bath. Given her family history, she knew it needed to be checked. On Valentine’s Day 2008, Dee learned of the cancer in her left breast. From the beginning, Dee says the support of her family, coworkers and many others at Memorial Hospital gave her the encouragement she needed to fight. Dee was told she needed to have her left breast removed, but she opted to have both removed for the sake of her children. At that moment, she chose to do whatever it took to live in order to raise her boys. Following the surgery, she underwent a full year of chemotherapy treatments. Family, friends and coworkers kept her motivated during the chemotherapy and made sure she continued to eat. In the process of losing her hair, her best friend Nikki opted to cut her hair in support and her friend Kristi bought hats and ribbon to help keep her feeling pretty.

After all of the chemo treatments, Dee didn’t think it was possible to get pregnant again. What a shock to her and everyone around her to find out she was pregnant with Jacob, now 10 months old. She is so thankful God blessed her with a healthy, happy baby after all that she has been through. Through all of this, she had faith and she knows for certain she wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for His grace. Today, Dee is in remission and healthy. She is especially thankful for the help of her Aunt LaChanda, Patty and Susie, and the many others at Memorial Hospital who are battling cancer or who have been affected by cancer.

In talking with all four women, their advance to all women is to get annual mammograms. Dee encourages women of all ages to get checked, because breast cancer can affect anyone. Susie encourages women to find support in friends, family, or a support group. It’s important to let others help! Patty adds that it’s important to have someone with

you during chemo treatments, because the hours of sitting alone can be the worst. Most of all they want women to enjoy life, because you never know what tomorrow may bring!

*BRCA (specifically 1 or 2) are human genes that belong to a class of genes known as tumor suppressors. Mutation of these genes has been linked to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. For more information, visit www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/BRCA


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Kaiti Turney is the type of person who appears not to have a care in the world when you first meet her. Her eclectic style, free spirit and happy-go-lucky attitude make her appear to many as a modern-day hippie. What is interesting about Kaiti is that after getting to know her, it is obvious she has a heart the size of Texas. She has a genuine drive to help others and create a better community. The way in which she volunteered her first summer “home” from college is evidence of this.

Kaiti Turney

Continued Pg 42


Most college students who are finishing up their freshman year away are eager to return home to mom and dad, their friends, and be free of homework and tests. Rather than racing home to Ja c k s o n v i l l e for a carefree s u m m e r of visiting friends and w o r k i n g part-time to save a little s p e n d i n g m o n e y ,

Kaiti volunteered nine weeks of her time with what she

says are the “best kids” she had ever met. Right off the bat she recalls, in an awe-struck way, of witnessing a boy without legs and only one arm, climbing a rock wall for the first time. Of that experience, Kaiti describes it in the most poignant of ways “the passion that you see in the eyes of that boy is something that can never be replicated.”

The Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville, Texas is camp that provides the ultimate camping experience to children with medical conditions at no charge. The camp is broken up into week-long sessions and five of Kaiti’s nine weeks were devoted to handicapped sessions. The sixth week, referred to as “Camp Discovery” is devoted to cancer survivors. The seventh week is called “Camp David” and is committed to burn victims and the last two weeks are devoted to diabetic children. Kaiti’s position was on the Activity Staff under the direction of the camp’s activity leader, Caroline Cormier.

All through high school, Kaiti was active in her theater department as well as the Rusk Civic Theater. Her first year of college was no different, as Kaiti acted in four lead roles and a fifth supporting role for the Stephen F. Austin State University theatre department. Performing one of these roles completely in sign language lead Kaiti to realizethat she had a desire to do more. Almost a year ago, her mother saw a poster advertising the Lions Camp and immediately told Kaiti about it. The rest is now history!

Naturally, Kaiti was put in the role of “Center Stage” or theatre activities. She had the children play acting games and rehearsed a song and dance number with them for presentation at the weekly talent show. The older campers were able to write and rehearse an act of a play, and also perform for the talent show.

Kaiti also really enjoyed the other counselors she became friends with at the camp. There were multiple counselors from out of the country, including locations such as New Zealand and Australia. She still keeps in touch with many of them and they all talk about their plans to see one another next summer at Lions Camp. While at the camp, Kaiti opted to stay in the bunk house with campers to help take care of them and participate in nightly activities to entertain them. Once a week, the counselors and the campers were able to camp outdoors under the stars. The campers enjoyed making camp food and roasting marshmallows by the camp fire.

The opening of each weekly session was special for campers and counselors. According to Kaiti, the camp was opened with a “wish stick ceremony” where everyone, including campers and counselors, drop a stick in the bonfire. The sticks help fulfill individual wishes during the week because the smoke that comes from the burning stick is carried across the camp. Throughout the week, this is often referred back to as the “Coup Spirit” that watches over all at Camp Lion. What a memorable way to begin their week!

Other activities the campers participated in included horseback riding, ropes courses, swimming, music, arts and crafts, nature studies green thumb, and radio. Another memorable moment for the campers is the Thursday night dance. Counselors put on a little show to make the kids laugh

and the campers enjoy watching them act “goofy”.

Kaiti is already looking forward to going back next year and

she summed her summer up in two simple words

: “simply epic.” It’s clear in the way she talks about

it, she misses it dearly and hopes all the campers

she got to know are doing well. Already, the camp has

inspired her to change her college minor. It is now listed

as “Deaf Communications” in order for her to be an interpreter

one day!

To learn more about Texas Lions Camp, or to donate to make this

camp possible for years to come, please visit www.lionscamp.com.

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Medical Resource

“Unconditional, selfless and pure love that is passionately committed to the well being of others.” This definition of agape is the foundation on which Brian and Angie Hathorn based their business when they opened the doors of Agape Home Care Services in June 2009. Brian had been part of the home health care industry for many years. After much prayer and consideration, he and Angie decided to open a business of their own.

Their desire was to establish a company name that would truly represent their hearts and exemplify the type of service they would provide. It was also important for them to establish a legacy for their children Cameron, Kenady Kate and Brylon, a legacy that teaches their children how to treat and serve other people. “Agape is a form of love that is self-sacrificing, expecting nothing in return. It’s Godly love,” says Angie. “Our business is about extending that kind of love to our patients and the people we come into contact with daily. We are a Christian company. That is what drives us and sets the standard for everything we do. It doesn’t mean we are perfect. but that we are held accountable to someone bigger than ourselves.” The definition of Agape is so important to the Hathorns that it is painted on the wall above the doorway as you enter the agency. “We wanted it there to serve as a constant reminder to us and our staff,” explains Angie.

Home health care is a service in which patients can receive at-home medical treatment from skilled nurses, therapists and nurse aides under the supervision of their physician. “There is a feeling of comfort and relief for the patient being at home, in a familiar environment surrounded by loving people and their most treasured possessions. This type of care is more conducive to the patient’s recovery,” says Brian.

The Hathorns strive to provide the same quality of care for their patients that they would for personal friends or family. “Providing that extra personal touch is something we take great pride in. We are a family owned business, and we take quality of care and patient satisfaction very seriously,” says Brian. “We are blessed to have a wonderful staff of qualified medical professionals who love our patients and are committed to providing excellent healthcare at home,” continues Brian. “We consider it an honor to serve, in this capacity, the people of deep East Texas,” says Angie.

“The staff from Agape Home Care Services has provided me the ability to maintain my independence. They strive to tailor an individual care plan based on understanding, environmental and client needs,” says client Beverly Dunn. “The entire staff continues to maintain professional skills mixed with compassionate, personal qualifications, making each visit a rewarding and beneficial experience. No question is too small or insignificant to address. They manage my health

Agape Home Care Services

Agape Home Care Services

issues, my comfort and my piece of mind with dignity and always with respect for my privacy. When I have a question or an unexpected health issue, all it takes is a phone call and the staff responds immediately. I highly recommend their services to those individuals in need of home care services. Agape Home Care demonstrates excellent customer services in their commitment to their clients. I look forward each week to visiting with their professional staff.” Another client, Sue Morgan, describes her experience. “We were excited but somewhat apprehensive the middle of May after being in a hospital or rehab facility since December. We were accustomed to having help just a few steps away. Brian came in to meet us the day of our dismissal. Pam, RN, came to our home the following day. Since then, we have had regular contact with Agape Home Care Services and find that help is still available and just a phone call away. Their staff is professional, dedicated and competent. We look forward to our visits from Bob’s nurse and physical therapist. We sincerely appreciate and are grateful for their concerns and efforts for Bob’s improvement.”

Agape Home Care Services provides a number of services: Skilled NursingCertified Nurse AidesMedical Social WorkerPhysical TherapyOccupational TherapySpeech TherapyWound CareWound VacBilingual Nursing Staff

Agape Home Care Services is a home health agency licensed by the state of Texas and certified by Medicare with accreditation through The Joint Commission.

1001 Ellis Ave. Suite BLufkin, TX 75904

936-632-4273


Dr. William Strinden is a board certified Plastic, Reconstructive, and Hand Surgeon. He has been in practice for over twenty years since opening his practice in 1988. Dr. Strinden performs many cosmetic procedures such as tummy tucks, liposuction, breast enhancements, nose revision, facelifts, and more. He also performs numerous reconstructive procedures such as skin cancer removal, scar revision, carpal tunnel surgery, tendon repairs, wound closures, and more. According to Dr. Strinden, “Our goal is to provide excellent surgery of a quality expected in a major medical center, but delivered with personal attention.” Safety, privacy, and affordability are the top concerns of the entire staff at Lufkin Plastic Surgery. Every patient is treated with kindness and the utmost professionalism. You can come in to visit the office and discuss your needs, knowing your visit and information is confidential. You can view actual photographs of the procedures you are interested in and receive price quotes competitive with any plastic surgery center in Texas . Dr. William Strinden is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and the American Board of Surgery. The office surgery center is accredited by the Joint Commission. For a comprehensive list of services and procedures, call Dr. Strinden’s office. An initial cosmetic consultation appointment can be arranged to go over which procedure would be the best for you. Lufkin Plastic Surgery William D. Strinden, M.D. 116 Christie Drive Lufkin, TX 75904 936.637.1145

Lufkin Plastic Surgery William D. Strinden, M.D.

It’s a fact of life: At some point, most of us will experience hearing loss; however, it takes most people an average of seven years to do something about it. This means the only thing standing between you and the chance to improve your hearing and your quality of life is YOU.

Drs. Sally E. Muhlbach and Amanda Weaver can help you recapture the sounds you’ve been missing. They have years of advanced education and training in many areas related to hearing science, so you know you will receive the professional and high level of hearing health care you can trust.

Diagnostic audiological evaluations and hearing aid services for children and adults are available in our office. If a medical condition is identified regarding one’s hearing loss, the appropriate referral is made.

Exciting new technology with connectivity to a cellular phone, home phone and/or television is available. Dr. Amanda Weaver advises, “The gradual introduction of the various components helps our patients become comfortable with the technology and reduces the frustration level.”

Audiological Services, established in January, 1995, is owned and operated by Sally E. Muhlbach, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA. After ten years’ experience, Amanda Weaver, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA, joined the team as a staff audiologist in June, 2010. They understand the value of honesty and integrity with personalized care—the cornerstone of their practice.

“Our patients are friends like family.”

Audiological Services


‘Chiropractic care is more than just making the pain disappear. It is about learning, understanding and taking care of your body to improve your quality of life.’At Alvey Chiropractic, Dr. Tina Alvey firmly believes in improving your life. By educating patients about Chiropractic and other natural solutions to common health problems, Dr. Alvey’s hope is to motivate you to take a more active and responsible role in restoring and maintaining your own health as well as the people around you.“As a chiropractor, we tailor a specific plan of action to meet your needs, goals, and unique medical and physical condition,” says Alvey.

Finding a chiropractor who understands changing health care needs and the most current techniques and approaches to addressing health problems can be a daunting task. The goal at Alvey Chiropractic is to make that task easier and make you feel at home.

Dr. Alvey states, “With many years of chiropractic training and education under our belt, we have treated many patients with conditions ranging from whiplash to scoliosis to herniated discs to migraine headaches. We have had stunning success with these conditions and many others.” Patients seeking treatment at Alvey Family Chiropractic Clinic are assured of receiving only the finest quality care, because Dr. Tina Alvey has a genuine concern for your well-being.

Contact us today and experience the Alvey Family Chiropractic Clinic difference!

Alvey Chiropractic Dr. Tina Alvey

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Dr. Brian Humphreys provides the newest and most advanced treatments for sinus and allergy sufferers as well as those with hearing problems.An Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist, Dr. Humphreys cares for children and adults with health issues concerning the head and neck. His specialties include problems with nose and sinuses, allergy, throat and voice disorders, neck tumors, sleep apnea, ear and hearing surgery, facial cancers and injuries, care for those suffering with sleep disorders and plastic reconstructions of the face.

Dr. Humphreys received his M.D. from UCLA School of Medicine and has practiced at numerous medical facilities including Detroit Receiving Hospital and St. Johns Regional Hospital.

For sinus sufferers, Dr. Humphreys is trained in the latest technology, Balloon Sinuplasty, which is designed to open blocked sinuses using a minimally invasive treatment. Dr. Humphreys has been providing this treatment since 2008 when the procedure was approved by the FDA. This procedure is the first breakthrough technology in the care of sinusitis in 20 years.Balloon Sinuplasty is an alternative to sinus surgery. It is done using an endoscopic balloon technique similar to balloon angioplasty for the heart.Dr. Humphreys also recently added a new procedure, SlimLipo and body-jet, an innovative, body-sculpting procedure that removes unwanted fat.Using a unique “fat melting” patented laser wavelength administered through several tiny incisions, SlimLipo gently melts fat for removal from your body. Body-jet is a water-assisted liposuction using the flow of water to dislodge fat. SlimLipo and body-jet are for men and women, and both are designed to be easier on the body. Many patients can go to work and resume normal activities the very next day.

Please call to schedule an appointment or a consultation. 121 Gaslight Medical Parkway, Suite 100

Lufkin, Texas 75904936-699-3141

www.brianhumphreysmd.comwww.advancedlasercenteret.com

“A New Beginning for a New You!” is the slogan for the Mastectomy Fitting Room at Abeldt’s Gaslight Pharmacy. Staff members Jessica Knight, trained fitter of mastectomy, and Jennifer Trejo, certified fitter of mastectomy, have the knowledge and the compassion to assist women dealing with the effects of breast cancer. Jennifer is certified by The American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics. An ABC Certified Fitter is specifically educated and trained in the provision of breast prostheses and post-mastectomy services. The mastectomy fitting room is a personal and private room for the fitting of breast prosthesis. Their goal for the room is to provide a comfortable, welcoming place where women can feel beautiful, feminine and strong. No matter how special your needs are, they are ready with a solution. From breast prosthesis, mastectomy bras and breast forms to camisoles, hats and turbans, swimwear and compression garments, they can provide whatever you need. Professional fittings are free of charge.

Call to schedule an appointment.200 Gaslight Blvd.Lufkin, TX 75904

936.639.2346

www.abeldtspharmacy.com

Dr. Brian Humphreys

Abeldt’s Gaslight Pharmacy Mastectomy Fitting Room

Jennifer Trejo, CFm and Jessica Knight, TFm


After seeing the need for urgent care medicine in East Texas, Urgent Doc opened their doors in Lufkin in 2007. Today, Urgent Doc has two additional locations in Nacogdoches and Livingston. Urgent Doc operates under the medical supervision of Dr. Michael Iversen and Dr. Savitha Balakrishna. Their goal is to provide East Texans with quality medical care when needed. Urgent Doc believes it is a privilege to be able to serve the East Texas Community. By demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission’s national standards for health care quality and safety, Urgent Doc has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™.Urgent Doc serves in three areas: Urgent Care, Occupational Medicine, and Family Medicine. The team at Urgent Doc provides a long range of services such as illnesses, injuries, infections, on site X-ray and lab, and injections. Many of East Texas’ businesses rely on Urgent Doc for fast reliable occupational health services. Urgent Doc is a leader in occupational medicine. We provide vital occupational medical services for many businesses and can do this for your company, as well. Urgent Doc can treat most job-related injuries, and we are ever vigilant in getting employees back to work fast. For convenience, patients can check in online. The staff will call you when it is your turn to be seen. For a more comprehensive list of services and information about Urgent Doc, visit our website at www.urgentdoc.com

LufkinBetween Sam’s Club and Tractor Supply

in Brentwood Crossing936-634-3627

LivingstonOn Highway 190, across from Walmart

888-634-3627

NacogdochesOn North Street

Across from Walmart in the Nacogdoches Market Place936-560-9898

Urgent Doc

Dr. Kelly McDermott brings 15 years of experience, professional care and personal attention to her patients. New to the Lufkin area, Dr. McDermott has recently taken over the practice of Dr. Robert Levens. Choosing a dental care provider is one of the most important decisions you can make. Dr. McDermott understands the importance of taking time to go over all of your options and treat you as a person, not just a patient. She believes good dental care promotes good health and a beautiful smile.

A graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. McDermott performs fillings, crowns, dentures, extractions, root canals and cleanings for adults and children. She strives to combine compassion with quality dental care for all her patients. Patients are encouraged to ask questions in order to make educated decisions about their dental treatment. It is her desire to improve the dental health of each patient who walks through her door. Dr. McDermott is now accepting new patients.

Call for an appointment today.

111 Gaslight Blvd.Lufkin, TX 75904

936-634-8201

Kelly McDermott, D.D.S.


1.

3.

2.

E-mail Pretty Babies submissions to [email protected] or mail to PO Box 150537 Lufkin 75915. Please include the information seen above.

1-Dixie LeeBirthday: October 21, 2009Proud Parents: Jason & Amanda RobertsonProud Grandparents: Jack & Janis Robertson, Keith & Cindy Millard, David Carter

2-Ryan CelesteBirthday: November 19, 2009Proud Parents: Fred & Patty Groover, Jr.Proud Grandparents: The late Fred Groover Sr., Wes & Robin Clubb, Glenn & Auary Mae Gondron

3-Mackenzie Grace“Kenzie-Lou-Lou-Bug”Birthday: June 9, 2008Proud Parents: Chase Nichols & Kayla NicholsProud Grandparents: Kay Nichols Rodgers & Murry Rodgers, Kathy Griffin & Brad Griffin

SM

www.woodlandheights.net/t inytoes • 936-637-8688

Head

Toes

Tiny Toes™ has your pregnancy covered from the first trimester until your baby is born.

Conceived with you and your baby in mind, Tiny Toes offers expectant moms childbirth

classes, the best-selling book for expectant mothers, What to Expect When You’re Expecting,

online pregnancy and childbirth information, and more! We’ll even give you a tote bag, a bib

and a photo of your family’s newest addition online. And the best part? Tiny Toes is free. Call

us today for more information, and let us welcome your newest bundle of joy to the world.

Introducing a program that covers everything in between.

49225_WHMC_TT_8_375x3_625c.indd 1 6/7/10 5:14 PM

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In 1996, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. I remember that day like it was yesterday. She had come to visit The Attorney General and me in Tennessee and the plan was for her to stay the entire week. Actually, that was her plan. My plan was for her to stay as long as it took to cook and freeze eight meals and three batches of her famous chocolate chip cookies, then she could go home. But as life often goes, plans changed.

Three days into her arrival a phone call came from her doctor’s office in Houston. And eight hours later I was hugging my mother goodbye at the Nashville airport with tears streaming down my face and a lot of confusion in my mind. Had she really used the words, “They found a lump, Melissa?” Had she honestly assured me, “It will be okay, Melissa.” Had I believed her when she said, “God knew this day would come, Melissa. He’s got it under control.”

That was fourteen years ago. And my mom was right. God did know the beginning from the end. And He did have it under control.

And since He knew I would be one digit away from being a 9-1-1 disaster most of my adult life, He chose to have my mother be right. About everything. All of the time. So today, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month and in honor of my mom, I will share with you a few things she has been right about all these many years.

1. “Your faith in God will only go as deep as your knowledge in God goes.” This is a line my mom has told me, repeatedly, throughout the years. When she told me this at 16, it meant very little. But when she told me this through the trials of infertility or through the fear of Breast Cancer, I saw the wisdom in it. I still do.

2. “You don’t need to be easy or cheap. Just be yourself. Although clearing up your skin wouldn’t hurt.” Ah, yes. Talking to your mom about boys; a high school girl’s favorite thing to do (along with invasive dental work and taking your brother to prom.) It was during this conversation that she also

told me “Your hair looks so much better off your face” and “It wouldn’t hurt you to ride a bike every once in a while.” See how much she knew? Bangs were in! But towards the end of this conversation, she also said put her arms around me, looked me right in the eyes and said, “Melissa, don’t you know? The nice girl always wins the guy.” And she was right. One look at The Attorney General can tell ya that!

3. “Babies are miracles. You were. Until you turned 15, then we thought you were possessed by the devil.” There have been very few things I have been unable to turn to my mother about over these last several years, until grandchildren came into the picture. The last three times I have held a conversation with my mom regarding one of my children’s over-abundance of energy and complete disregard for anyone in authority, I have been met with these responses, “Maybe you should bake for them more. I always had cookies made for you,” “Have you even tried taking her to Wal-Mart and letting her pick out a toy?” or my personal favorite, “Why don’t you bring her to me and I’ll try to talk to her.” But I will admit that having my children run into her arms every time they see her does my heart a lot of good. And I am reminded of the miraculous connection that grandchildren/grandparents have with each other. And how every time that miraculous connection is made it takes me about three and a half days to discipline it out of them again.

4. “The only way to have a friend is to be a friend.” My mom loved this quote so much that she bought it for me on a poster and hung it up in my room. I remember coming home one day and seeing it hanging on my wall, “What’s this about?” “I want this to be a constant reminder to you that if you want friends, you have to first be a friend.” Within months it was covered up by pictures of New Kids On The Block posters which then provoked the famous line, “Melissa, if you have a friend by the time you’re 18 I’ll be shocked!” Although I still laugh when I think about that moment, now that I’m all grown up I can tell you, she was right. Friends are hard to come by and even harder to keep. They should be handled delicately and watered daily. I know this because my best friend checks in on me, makes me laugh, helps me up, gives me advice and covers me in prayer. She says, “It’s because I’m a momma.” I tell her, “No, it’s because you’re my friend.”

I assure you those were just a few of the many things my mom has told me, taught me or instructed me on over the years. And for every one of them, I’m beyond grateful. Oh, sure, there are days when I roll my eyes when she’s not looking and (please don’t tell her this) I’ve totally topped her chocolate chip cookie recipe. But I may never top the woman she is or the faith she has in God. Though, thankfully, I plan on having many more years to try.

Things My Momma Told Meby Melissa Radke


Angela S. McGill and Anthony R. MorenoMarried August 9, 2010

Sturgis, SD

Curtis Payne of Krum and Glenda Darnell of Nacogdoches would like to announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Katie Payne, of Nacogdoches to Garrett Massie of Nacogdoches, son of Richard and Carol Massie of Lufkin. The couple is to wed October 16, 2010, in Jamaica.

Gary and Kim Stephenson of Lufkin would like to announce the engagement and approaching marriage of their daughter, Haylee Stephenson, to Brandon Belt, son of Darrell and Janice Belt of Lufkin. The couple will wed December 3, 2010, in Lufkin.

Shannon Ferrara and David Persano

Married July 24, 2010on the beach of Galveston

IslandParents of bride: Danny and Darlene Havard of

Lufkin, TexasParents of groom: Larry

& Rosina Egesdal of Manteca, California


Many of us love the fall season. We usually have grown tired of the long hot summer and are ready for some relief. Fall is when the leaves change to beautiful colors of red, orange, and then brown. There is coolness in the air which is a good indication that there is a cold wind coming soon and a lot less heat and humid air like we have experienced this past summer. I love the seasonal changes. It would not be too great if all we had was hot weather, or cold weather - it would be rather boring. We all like change!

There are not only seasonal changes with the weather, there are also seasonal changes in our life. There is the spring season of beginnings, the summer season of child rearing, the fall season of empty nest, and then the winter season of leaving.

The season of beginning is when we get married – start a new home with the love of our life, make a house a home, prepare for a baby, establish values and standards apart from Mom and Dad (but still remember everything they put into the two of you), so many new things…

Then, there is the season of raising children. Everything seems to focus around taking care of them, thinking about what is best for them, and making sure they are given ample opportunity to develop their talents and skills. (This is the season in which you sometimes find yourself missing the “good old days” when it was just you and your husband and you could go out to eat anytime you wanted, or go to the movies without having to get a sitter - you could just do what you wanted! That really sounds selfish, but we are being honest, aren’t we?) But, this season passes quicker than most of us can imagine. Those 18+ years drag by at first when all you feel like you are doing is changing diapers, wiping up spills, and washing clothes. But, one day you will turn around and the kids are getting ready to be off to college and begin life on their own – and the cycle continues.

The next season is the empty nest. What do I do with all my extra time? I don’t have to wash loads of clothes everyday. I only have to vacuum once a week – not every day, and the house is quiet.

I don’t have to look for a place away from all the noise. I’m not reading my Bible trying to get some Godly perspective of how to show respect to my husband, how to lovingly discipline my children, or how to not quit when life is so overwhelming. It is now quiet – sometimes too quiet. I read my Bible to find comfort, encouragement, and direction for these productive ministry years of my life. There is a need to reconnect with my husband because the children have required so much of my time and energy. But we soon begin enjoying our time together. There is time to refocus and meet each others needs and to do things that have been set aside for a “season”. There is time for ministry to young ladies that are experiencing some of the same things I did in those earlier seasons of life. There is time to reflect on God’s purpose for my life. He created me with a purpose in mind. He put certain talents and abilities as well as influences in my life for the plans He had in mind. I have time to search for His purpose – He says if I search for Him I will find Him!

Then there is the winter season of life. This is the time that we find ourselves preparing for from the very beginning. When you learn to save money – you are saving for retirement. The way you are taught to take of your body is so that you will live long and experience healthy old age. It is a great time for spoiling the grandchildren and then sending them back to their parents. It is a time for going places and doing things that have been put off because of a lack of time or money or both. It is a time to enjoy the work of your hands – what you have poured your life into whether it was a job, family, home, ministry, whatever! It is a time of reflection – what kind of legacy will be left behind? How will people remember you – particularly your family? It is important to finish well. There is still time to make memories. Think about the memories you have of your grandparents or significant people that have already left this life. Do you want to leave behind those kinds of memories?

Seasons change whether we are ready for them or not. Enjoy them while you are in them, but do what you can to prepare for the change that is coming.

The Seasons of Lifeby Kathryn Greene


There are definitely times when it is harder for the parent than the child when he or she is getting ready for daycare. Parents may worry about how their child will do with other children, if their child has made friends, or if the child is learning to play well with others. There will be some adjustments for the child going to daycare, too. Here are some tips for making this transition as easy as possible.

At drop off time, assure your child that you will be back to pick them up. It may sound simple, but this isn’t always recognized in small children. Make goodbyes brief, and give a big hug, kiss, high five, or whatever works for you. Never drag it out ; this will confuse and upset your child.

Create a routine for your child. Make your morning as easy as possible for your children and yourself. Laying out clothes and packing lunches is often easier and can be done faster the night before. Avoiding a “panicked” rush will leave you and your child with a much better start to the day.

Consistent bedtimes are a must! Making sure your child has had enough rest will help ensure success and contentment in daycare. Tired children are more likely to “zone out”, act irritably, and perform poorly during tasks.

Make time to visit with your child daily about their time away from you. Recalling and describing events may be difficult for young children; take cues from their teacher, a daily note, or other parents. Reading a book or singing a song that the child participated in at school is a good way to stay involved with what your child does at school. Avoid general questions such as, “what happened at school today?” and ask specific questions such as “can you tell me about this drawing in your folder?”

As a parent, do your homework, too! Make time to meet with the teacher and the director of the school to gather as much information as possible about your child attending school. Knowing the routine in your child’s room will help you to answer your child’s questions and to plan your routine at home. Find out if there are re-quired supplies such as lunch boxes, nap mats, drink containers or other necessary items. Also, with regard to the supplies and your child’s belongings, make sure to label each item. Often children may have similar items that are hard for teachers to keep separate.

Daycare can be a very exciting time in your child’s life. Often, this is the begin-ning of school for them, and it’s exciting to see how much they learn and grow each day. Being proactive, staying involved, and encouraging your child will ensure they flourish during these early days of school!

How to Prepare Your Child for Daycare

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Boot Camp Fitness classes are growing in popularity across the country. Those who stick with it are hooked and the results can be staggering. Johnny, a personal fitness trainer at Ultrafit in Nacogdoches, hosts a six-week Boot Camp at multiple times during the year. The science behind the workout is interval training and rarely repeating exercises during a given week. The constant change in activity keeps the participant interested and keeps their muscles from reaching a plateau. Johnny’s boot camp meets at the Stephen F. Austin State University track. Exercises can include running stadium stairs, lifting light weights, resistance training, running on the track, doing lunges up hill, running several miles on a path around the stadium and more. Johnny prefers to conclude each class with an intense ab workout.

Boot Camp

For more information, contact Johnny at Ultrafit in Nacogdoches or check with your local Health club to see if Boot Camp classes are offered.

Renee -

-“It has gotten me into shape. I’m a cancer survivor and I feel better. I feel... wonderful. I can move, I can do stuff. I feel better about everything!”

Brandy -

-“I love the people and we love Johnny because he’s very uplifting because and he’s not a drill sergeant. You feel a million times better when you leave.”

Kashena -

“I like the way I feel after I’m done. Johnny is very positive, he makes you feel good about yourself, and he doesn’t put you down. I like meeting new people, and getting skinny with them!”

Deidra -

-“I like the people, and Johnny, and the way it makes you feel. Johnny adapts to different people’s levels. He pushes, but not too much.”


October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). Since the program began in 1985, mammography rates have increased and breast cancer deaths have declined.

Breast cancer is one of the most common malignancies among U.S. women and it is the second leading cause of death from cancer among American women. A woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is 1 in 8 or about 12%. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2010, 207,090 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women and 54,010 new cases of carcinoma in situ (CIS) will be diagnosed. It is also estimated that 39,840 deaths will be attributable to breast cancer.

Mammography screening remains the best available method to detect breast cancer early. In 1992, the U.S. Congress passed the Mammography Quality Standards Act to ensure that mammography facilities throughout the country are of high quality and are reliable. To lawfully perform mammography, each facility must prominently display a certificate issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This certificate serves as evidence that the facility meets quality standards.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend the following screening guidelines:

• Screening mammography every 1-2 years for women aged 40-49 years

• Screening mammography every year for women aged 50 years or older

• Breast self exam has the potential to detect palpable breast cancer and can be recommended

• Clinical breast exam every year for women aged 19 or older

Controversy about the potential benefits and risks of screening mammography continues. In November of 2009, the US Preventative Task Force published recommendations against screening mammography in women aged 40-49 years and spacing mammograms to every two years for women aged 50-74 years. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology continues to investigate the details of this report but hold to the recommendations outlined above.

There are many barriers to getting screening mammograms, whether it be denial that you will be the 1 in 8 with breast cancer or fear of pain during the exam. When planning your

mammogram, it is important to remember that a woman who still menstruates should schedule the mammogram for one week after her menstrual period

begins, when the breasts will be the least tender. Women are asked to avoid using deodorant and lotions on the day of the mammogram and you should wear two-piece clothing to make undressing more convenient. A specially trained radiologic technologist will perform the mammogram. You will be asked to undress from the waist up only and stand next to the x-ray machine. Two flat surfaces will compress one breast first; then, the other for a few seconds. Compression is necessary to produce the best pictures using the lowest amount of radiation possible.

The key to mammography screening is that it be done routinely – once is not enough. Encourage the women in your life to get their mammograms.

Mammography Screening

“Mammography screening remains the best available method to detect breast cancer early”

Dr. Carolyn Moyers, D.O.

Dr. Carolyn Moyers is the newest Obstetrician and Gynecologist to join the Lufkin medical staff, which operates at Woodland Heights Medical Center and Memorial Health System. She is employed by Memorial Health System of East Texas and is practicing with Dr. Michael Arnold at 401 Gaslight Boulevard. To learn more about Dr. Moyers, visit www.memorialhealth.org and click on “Find a Physician” or call 936-639-4463. To schedule a mammogram, call 936-639-7374.

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“Threading” is the ancient art of removing hair and has long been popular in Europe, the Middle East, the Far East and India. It was originally practiced as part of the preparation for marriage ceremonies or special occasions and has long been considered a sign of girl becoming a woman. The art of “Eyebrow Threading” is the art of shaping the eyebrows and is now gaining increasing popularity in western countries. It is done using nothing more than 100% cotton thread and is done by twisting and rolling the thread along the hair that is to be removed.

Unlike tweezers which pull the hairs out one at a time, threading can pluck out a whole row of hairs at once which can give you a very clean and natural looking line on your eyebrows. Another advantage of threading is that since there are no chemicals or waxes, it is frequently less expensive and there is no chance of burns, chemical sensitivity or leftover sticky residue.

Eyebrow threading does still require someone with experience. When done improperly, you can end up with missing chunks of your eyebrow or uneven brows. Because threading can remove an entire row of hair at the follicle, it can also be quite painful when too large of a section is removed at once. There is also a risk of ingrown hairs and hair breakage.

Even after learning all of the pros and cons of eyebrow threading, our “tester” was excited to give it a try. She was hesitant and doubtful it would work on her thin eyebrows. To her delight, it was a success! The appointment was made with an expert who works in Lufkin and Nacogdoches, Rizwaana Lakhani. Our tester described the threading as a “tingling sensation” rather than a pluck or pull. Not only was it painlessly quick, it didn’t leave any red marks, and it left her eyebrows with a clean natural shape. Unlike waxing, there were no “residual” hairs to be cleaned up. Our tester said: “I will DEFINITELY be getting my eyebrows threaded again!”

It’s sanitary! Nothing but the thread touches your skin and its thrown away after use!

It’s great for those “trouble” brows! Threading has this amazing ability to be so concise in the hair that it removes. It’s sworn by people who say they can never get their eyebrows even.

No chemicals! When people have certain circumstances, or are taking medicines which conflicts with waxing and sugaring, they can still get threading done.

It’s fast! Very fast. Although every technician is different, it normally takes a tech two minutes flat, from start to finish.

Temporary results can turn into permanent. Over time, frequent threading can cause the hair follicle to become damaged, and stop growing hair.

thePROS

“The cooler weather for Cross Country (Woden) and Camping.”

“I’m excited about basketball and turning thirteen.”

“I’m ready for football to be on tv again! And the cooler weather!”

“I like the cooler weather in fall and playing fall-ball (baseball).”

Cody Wilson (Age 12)

Kade King (Age 12)

Spencer King (Age 10)

Reece King (Age 9)

What are you most looking forward to about fall?

The Lufkin based “Mommy & Me” play group is a relatively new group that has only been meeting for several months. Christine Wells began the group after searching high and low for other groups of this nature and was surprised that find very few activities to get her and her kids out of the house during the day. Christine is the type of person that doesn’t like to just sit around the house all day and she wanted to avoid the loneliness and isolation that some stay at home moms experience. She had been that mom at one point with many friends who worked and no outlet for adult interaction. Between craving time with other adults and her kids’ need to run and play with other children, Christine found a need that wasn’t being filled by others in the community.

The group started with just a few friends, and was spread by word of mouth and the use of Facebook [social networking site] events. Using the Facebook Events and another site called “Cafemom”, the group started growing. By creating a Facebook Fan page, The Lufkin Mommy & Me group began extending into the community and reaching people that Christine didn’t even know!

Currently, Christine and her best friend Korri Robertson plan play dates several times a week and post the information on the Facebook Fan page. Christine and Korri have done an amazing job of utilizing all of the wonderful activities in the community such as Story Time at the Kurth Memorial Library on Fridays, Story Time at the Lufkin Mall by Chick-fil-A, and many more. They also enjoy taking the children to Lufkin’s Ellen Trout Zoo, area parks, museums, and even further away destinations such as the Houston Zoo and Heritage Village in Woodville. The ultimate goal is to provide an opportunity to interact with other children and to learn something in the process.

The group has a lot of great activities planned this fall from Halloween Parties to Christmas Parades, as well as a few “Mom’s Night Out” events. According to Christine, the “Mom’s Night Out” events are “much needed!” Additionally, Family Days have been added to the list of activities so that the whole family can get together!

To find the group on Facebook, search “Lufkin Mommy and Me”. To receive updates from the group, a Facebook profile is needed; however, a Facebook profile is not needed to view the page. To contact Christine Wells with questions or to let her know of events that the group may be interested in, please contact her at [email protected]. For a full calendar of events, please visit her website at www.LufkinMommyandMe.webs.com.


Eye examinations are a critical part of insuring a child’s success in school. Since studies indicate that 1 in 4 children have a vision problem, the American Optometric Association recommends that a child’s firsteye examination be performed at the age of 6 months. If no problems are detected, then the next examination should be at the age of 3, then every 2years once the child begins school. Having a child examined sooner would benecessary, of course, if a parent suspects that a child has a problem. For example, have your child seen by an eye doctor earlier if you find that yourchild frequently bumps into objects, if you notice that your child’s eyesare crossing, or if you find that your child puts his head in awkward positions to view things. As your child grows older, it may be necessary tohave him checked if he frequently complains of headaches, if the once straight-A student now finds school difficult, or if your once avid readernow complains about having to read or doing homework.

Once you make the journey to your local eye doctor’s office, here are some terms that you may hear:

If your eye doctor says that your child is “near-sighted” then your child is having problems seeing things far away, like the board at school or road signs. A glasses prescription may be written to wear glasses full time or occasionally for certain tasks like driving or movie watching.

On the other hand, if your child is “far-sighted” then he may have problems seeing things near and in the distance. Typically, young patients can still see far away, but really have to focus to see up close. These children may complain of their eyes being tired or hurting, having headaches, and

usually become easily frustrated with homework, and oftentimes,unwilling to even attempt it by nightfall.

Astigmatism is a term used to describe that the eye has two focus points.The analogy that is often used to explain this refractive error is that theeye is shaped more like a football than a baseball. This curvature can lead to blurred vision, and glasses may be necessary to help sharpen the images.

If you hear “lazy-eye” then the doctor is referring to one eye having better corrected vision than the other. The lazy eye may have developed from a subtle (or obvious) eye turn which means a big difference in the prescriptions between the two eyes. Either way, the visual outcome is typically improved when caught at an early age. It may require lots of hard work on the part of the parent and perseverance by the patient, but with glasses and/or patch therapy, the prognosis is generally good.

While vision screenings are quite effective, there are some subtle eye problems that may go undiagnosed, or learning disorders that are perhaps misdiagnosed, without a comprehensive eye examination. We would encourage you to have your school-age children seen by an optometrist or an ophthalmologist as part of your “back to school” routine. Besides examining your child for glasses, the eye doctor should also rule out the possibility of eye disease.

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Dr. Rushing and Dr. Saldaña have been married almost 6 years and have a 1-year old son, Sladen. They reside in Lufkin and practice with Dr. Richard Ruckman at The Center for Sight.

What Every Parent Should Know About Their Children’s Eyes

By Dr. Melanie Rushing-Saldana and Dr. Jerry Saldana

Why I love being a mom can easily be summed up into one word: Reagan. My son who was born June 30, 2005, is my whole world. He stole my heart the day he was born. My husband and I were living in Houston at the time and both worked full time jobs. I was able to take twelve weeks off to stay home with him. Reagan was a sweet, alert, and curious baby. I cherished this time with him knowing I would soon have to return to work. It was hard leaving him at day care each day, but we soon fell into our little routine.

Our world changed when Reagan was just seventeen months old. He started running a high fever and had a seizure. Raegan endured a lot of poking and proding, everything from a spinal tap and cat scans, to blood work and an M.R.I. The doctors finally came to us with a diagnosis three days later. Our son was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition called Tuberous Sclerosis. They told us he would have developmental delays, but could not tell us to what extent. He would have seizures but they could not tell us what kind or how often they might happen. They would try to control them with medication, but sometimes this did not help. They told us tumors would grow on his vital organs; not cancerous ones, but ones that would affect the functioning of these organs.

We felt lost; we were devastated and we were scared of this disease and all of the unknowns. I prayed, “God please watch over my son. Please let him be okay! Give me the strength to take this on.” I looked at Reagan in his hospital crib, picked him up and held him. I knew in my heart we would be okay and we would get through this.

Our goal has always been to raise Reagan to be the best he can be. We wanted him to reach his full potential no matter what. In our minds, nothing was going to hold him back. We put Reagan in speech therapy, occupational therapy, horseback riding therapy, anything we could to help our baby. When Reagan was almost three years old, we were told he could enter the public school system into the PPCD program for children with special needs. We were excited because we knew this would greatly benefit Reagan. One thing bothered me though; we were living in the center of Houston and the schools were so big. I felt like Reagan would be lost in the system. I had grown up in the Nacogdoches area and went to a very small school. That is what I knew I wanted for Reagan. My husband and I decided to sell our house and

leave our jobs that we loved, and move back to my hometown of Nacogdoches. Reagan is now surrounded by lots of family and friends who love him. As his mom, I can see how much all of this love has helped Reagan grow as a person. He just started his third year at Martinsville ISD and my wish for him to be cared for and nurtured by his teacher came true. Reagan is happy to go to school and has learned so much.

Reagan has been through so much in such a short time he continues to amaze me each day. He has taught me to never take anything for granted. From the very smallest of his accomplishments to the largest, I am filled with pride because I know and see how hard he works at even the simplest things others may take for granted. My son is an inspiration to me. He fills my heart with joy and happiness each day and I am so proud to be his mom. My little five year old angel named Reagan is the reason I love to be a mom!

Amy Welder

The Wilderness RoomThis very cool, masculine room belongs to Will Chance, son of Jeff and Becca Chance. Will was born into a family that loves the outdoors. Much of the decor in the room came from his late grandfather, Dr. Bill Shelton, whose love for hunting and fishing has been passed down and now shared by Will.

Ingredients:• 1 pkg Duncan Hines® Moist Deluxe® Classic Yellow Cake Mix

• 1 1/3 cups water

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 3 large eggs

• 1/3 cup mashed very ripe banana

• 2 tubs Creamy Home-Style Classic Chocolate Frosting

• Gummy Worms, or any Halloween type candy

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line muffin pans with paper baking cups.

Blend cake mix, water, oil, eggs and banana in large bowl at low

speed until moistened [about 30 seconds]. Beat at medium speed

for 2 minutes. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full.

2. Bake 18 to 21 minutes. Cool completely.

3. Frost and decorate.

Creepy Crawly CupcakesRecipe from www.duncanhines.com

Halloween Pizza Strawberry Ghosts

Ingredients:

1 frozen cheese pizza (12 inches)

1 can (6 ounces) pitted ripe olives,

drained and halved

1 medium sweet red pepper

1 small green pepper

Ingredients:30 fresh strawberries

8 ounces white baking chocolate, chopped

1 teaspoon shortening

1/8 teaspoon almond extract

1/4 cup miniature semisweet chocolate

chips

Directions:• Place pizza on a 12-in. pizza pan.

• Arrange olives in a circle around edge of pizza.

• Cut a nose, eyes and mouth from red pepper.

• Cut a stem and eyebrows from green pepper.

• Make a jack-o’-lantern face on pizza.

• Bake according to package directions.

Directions:• Wash strawberries and gently pat with paper

towels until completely dry. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate and shortening at 50% power; stir until smooth.

• Stir in extract. • Dip strawberries in chocolate mixture; place on a

waxed paper-lined baking sheet, allowing excess chocolate to form the ghosts’ tails

• Immediately press chocolate chips into coating for eyes.

• Freeze for 5 minutes. • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt remaining choco-

late chips; stir until smooth. • Dip a toothpick into melted chocolate and draw a

mouth on each face.

A very popular theme for boys is Star Wars. Boys

are enjoying the trinkets and toys, and especially

the dress up and imaginative play that comes

with light sabers and characters. A great place

for the Star Wars theme is Skate Ranch in Lufkin.

If you reserve the Skate Ranch for a private party,

you can add special touches. You can have the

lights turned out and if you burn a CD before-

hand, the Skate Ranch management will play it

for you. This party had the Star Wars theme re-

peating over and over. The party favors were min-

iature “light sabers” or glow sticks for the kids to

play with in the dark. If you get online ahead of

time, you can print out masks to cut out and give

as favors, too. A fun touch is to add “Star Wars”

food. Snacks like Yoda Soda made from lime

sherbert and ginger ale, Asteroids, a.k.a. cheese

balls, and chocolate cookies work great for Wookie

Cookies. It’s a great party that allows boys to run

and be boys!

for boys - star wars

Do you have a great party idea or hosted a great Birthday Bash? Share you photos and ideas. Email us at mailto:[email protected]@tjmag.com

The Very Thing is a great venue to host a little

girl’s tea party. A-1 Party Rental has the perfect

pink linens and rentals you need for the party. This

tea party was just right for 12 to 16 girls. Invite the

girls to come dressed in their favorite party dress.

Have their party favors waiting at their place set-

ting—this party’s favors were beautiful hats perfect

for sipping tea! Each girl had a tea cup and saucer,

a salad plate, and her own personal cupcake on a

stand. Some of the party treats were sugar cookies,

rock candy, ham and cheese sandwiches, tea and

apple juice, of course! The girls had a great time

getting to be dainty and polite.

for girls: tea party

Kathy Brown (9 years survivor)

“My family and, , of course, God! I can’t imagine anyone fighting any illness without God in their life. Overall, it was the amazing support of family, friends, and my coworkers at the time. Another HUGE motivating factor was the birth of my first grandchild several months after the diagnosis. It really motivated me to get stronger after my surgery; so I could pick her up and hold her!”

Beverly Slaughter

Life! My niece and nephew (Logan and Lauren Lair)! Volunteer work! Fellow Cancer Survivors! The wisdom I gained from other survivors gave me the courage to keep fighting!

Allyson Clynch

What kept me motivated most is my faith in God. I know that he will never give me anything I can’t handle. Jeremiah 29:11 states, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I have been so blessed! One thing that I try to remember is that we must praise God through the good and bad times. That is SO important. A song that comes to mind, especially after the second diagnosis, that has been a huge motivation to me is, “Bring The Rain,” by Mercy Me. The chorus says, “If that’s what it takes to praise you, Jesus bring the rain!!!!”

What kept you motivated during your battle with breast Cancer?

Breast Cancer Bling Looking for a fashionable way to show your support of Breast Cancer Awareness? Thanks to Texas Size Bling and her wonderful designs—this cute cadet style hat is something that can be worn all year around. For more in-formation, visit: www.texassizebling.com

Oakley’sOakley’s is proud to offer four different Breast Cancer Awareness sunglasses. $20 from each sale of these special edition sunglasses will go to the Young Survival Coalition. Available at The Center for Sight in Lufkin.

Otterbox This is a new limited edition pink and white Commuter Series “Strength” case for the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade.

To support the cause, 10% of the purchase price from each OtterBox Commuter Series “Strength” case will be donated to the Avon Breast Cancer Crusade. Funding will support finding a cure for breast cancer and advancing access to care for all. For more information, www.otterbox.com/strength

Monogram Lunch Kit This monogrammed lunch box is the perfect gift for anyone on your list. It even makes a cute gift bag when filled with items from Katie’s. The initials are available for just about anyone’s name. To pick up a bag of your own, visit Katie’s in the Walmart Shopping Center in Lufkin.

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The Journey Magazine