WomenToday
DECEMBER2025
Regal Strategists
Opening doors, Lifting hearts, Changing futures BUILDING WEALTH
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Expert tips for holiday travels
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Online scam NOT what you ordered
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FLIP THIS MAGAZINE Live the active, beautiful, abundant life
COVER STORY
COVER STORY
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER The women who made it happen
LINDA FELIX: IMPACTING FUTURES Honoring exemplary teachers who inspire students
Together, they transformed EBD gala from a vision into a magnificent, hitch-free reality. Now, it’s time to meet the women who made it all possible—discover who they are, what they do, and why they poured their hearts into supporting EBD gala
Four remarkable women. One unforgettable event.
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Linda Félix
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those gaps, while also empowering them to believe in themselves again, is incredibly important,” Felix said. “Witnessing children rediscover their confidence, dream big, and regain hope in their future was both an honor and a privilege—and it resonated profoundly with my purpose and values.”
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CHEMICAL PEELS
903.663.0061
IV THERAPY
Linda Felix. Christie Hernandez. Sylvia Cardenas. Malva Rodriguez.
extension of this mission. She believes firmly that a strong education empowers individuals to shape their own futures, yet she is deeply aware that many students begin at a disadvantage. Life circumstances beyond their control, diverse learning styles, or the challenges of learning English as a second language can all impact academic progress. “Supporting an organization that helps students bridge
HORMONE OPTIMIZATION
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he inaugural 2025 Education by Design Educators Awards Gala event shimmered with success—an unforgettable celebration of teachers, our true champions in the classroom. But behind the flawless flow, the warm atmosphere, and every thoughtful detail stood a powerhouse team: the FundRaising Committee. Their devotion. Their determination. Their countless unseen hours.
At VIVE Mental Health Coaching, Linda Felix focuses on helping individuals develop emotional resilience, strengthen self-worth, and build practical tools for navigating life’s inevitable challenges. Her work emphasizes creating supportive environments where people— especially children—can reconnect with their potential, rebuild confidence, and discover their capacity to take on difficult tasks. When that foundation is laid early, the result can be transformative, influencing not only a child’s emotional wellbeing but the trajectory of their future opportunities. Felix’s role on the Education by Design Fundraising Committee became a natural
FACIALS LASH LIFT & BROW LAMINATION
By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI
WAXING BOTOX FILLERS VITASHOTS WEIGHT MANAGMENT
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
ETX Tree Clearing & Dirt Work
Clearing land, lifting hearts one student at a time 🌱🌱
Christie Hernandez
In the quiet mornings of Longview—where the sun filters through tall pines, cold fronts and rain move in without much warning yet, neighbors still wave as they pass—ETX Tree Clearing & Dirt Work begins each day with more than machinery and plans. Alfonso and his wife Christie Hernandez, owners of ETX Tree Clearing & Dirt Work and their team begin each day with purpose. ETX isn’t just another name on a truck or a business in the community. They are neighbors who grew up on these backroads, mentors shaped by the lessons life didn’t always
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make easy, and supporters who know firsthand what it feels like to need a hand and not have one. Moreover, their roots run deep in the East Texas soil. And those roots were planted long before the company ever existed—back when resources were scarce, guidance was limited, and dreams felt a little too far out of reach. Those early challenges carved strength, built perseverance, and taught them the power of community. And it’s that lived experience that fuels everything they do today. So, when ETX Tree Clearing & Dirt Work partnered with Education by Design, a local nonprofit
offering free tutoring and diverse educational support to underserved elementary school students, it wasn’t just a sponsorship. It was personal. It was hope—hope that no child in Longview would have to face obstacles alone, hope that every young mind could grow with the support they once went without. Every day, ETX works to move earth, clear land, and open space—but their mission goes far deeper than the soil. They’re helping create new paths for brighter futures. They’re showing the next generation that someone believes in them. And through compassion and commitment, they’re building a stronger, more connected Longview and East Texas. Because here, when one of us grows, we all rise together.
SYLVIA CARDENAS AND AEP SWEPCO Opening doors, changing futures in the community
Sylvia Cardenas
idea, every detail stitched together a promise—resources and programs that could truly change lives. And with each step, she found herself surrounded by people who cared just as deeply as she did. Collaborating with passionate, community-minded individuals reminded her that service isn’t just something you give; it’s something that connects. Through this experience, Sylvia saw SWEPCO’s values come alive. Doing good isn’t a slogan—it’s a shared effort. And when people come together for something bigger than themselves, the community becomes stronger, brighter, and full of new opportunity.
LA MALVA Where bakery and creative craft meets community To Malva Rodriguez, La Malva has always been more than a small bakery and creative studio. It’s the heartbeat of her family’s story — a place shaped by memories, love, and the community that has lifted her up since the very beginning. “Giving back is a core part of who we are,” Malva often says, her hands dusted with flour as she speaks with unmistakable pride. Supporting Education
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When Sylvia Cardenas joined the planning committee for the inaugural 2025 Golden Apple Educators Gala, it wasn’t just another volunteer opportunity— it was a calling. She’d long believed that education is the key that unlocks possibility, and being part of SWEPCO only strengthened that conviction. Working for a company committed to community and the future, she saw the gala as a chance to help students reach heights they might not otherwise imagine. As the committee gathered to shape the event, Sylvia felt the impact of their mission grow. Every meeting, every
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by Design isn’t just a gesture for her; it’s a promise. “Helping our teachers, students, and local schools is an honor. When our community grows, we all grow.” And in every loaf, cookie, or other scrumptious delicacies she bakes and every project she creates, that commitment to her community shines through.
Malva Rodriguez
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COVER STORY
COVER STORY
BUILDING WEALTH How Tarango Financial Group turns financial chaos into financial peace
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arango Financial Group LLC is reshaping how East Texans build wealth— starting with real estate and ending with long-term financial peace. With more than 50 years of combined expertise, the firm delivers a clear, actionable roadmap that helps clients take control of their finances and design the life they want. The Tarango team anchors its process in six power steps: 1. Own Your Situation — Financial transformation begins the moment clients accept responsibility for where they stand. 2. Stay Accountable — Consistency fuels progress. 3. Create a Plan — Direction determines destiny, without a plan, people drift.
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4. Fortify the Four Pillars — Excellent credit, strong insurance coverage, a solid Will, and a disciplined budget form the backbone of financial stability. 5. Prepare for Emergencies — With the right emergency fund and insurance, crises become inconveniences—not catastrophes. 6. Build Wealth Through Homeownership and Investing — A home remains the most powerful wealth-building asset for the average American, and strategic investing elevates that foundation into a legacy. Tarango Financial Group goes beyond advising—they walk the journey with their clients. Their services span tax planning, financial coaching, credit analysis, lending, and investment strategies. Through
their sister company, Tarango Properties LLC, they also bring more than a decade of construction expertise to clients ready to build or expand their real estate footprint. The firm actively educates the community through monthly seminars, ensuring clients understand their options and gain the tools to achieve financial peace. Core Services Include: • Tax Preparation • Business Consulting • Personal Financial Coaching • Credit Analysis • Notary Services • Investment Options • Lending Services • Residential Construction (via Tarango Properties LLC) Why Tarango Champions Education Tarango Financial Group proudly supports Education by Design and the recent 2025 Educators Awards Gala
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Flor Hernandez, Mar Hernandez, Jessica Ortiz, and Viviana Tarango
recognizing that teachers shape the future workforce, economy, and community. They stand behind EBD’s mission to empower students with resources that unlocks full potential.
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Tarango acknowledges a hard truth: teachers pour extraordinary energy into their work, yet they often go underrecognized and undercompensated. By supporting EBD’s gala, the firm
aims to honor their commitment and amplify their impact. To the educators Thank you. Your dedication drives the success of our communities—and our future.
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WOMEN WELLNESS
MONEY TALKS
Stress-free holiday travel: Expert tips for a smooth journey B y M E C H E L E A G B AYA N I M I L L S
Despite higher gas prices and airfares, there will be extra levels of congestion on the roads and in the air this holiday season. So, it’s very important to plan ahead, as it won’t likely be the most wonderful time of the year for traveling.
can prepare for bad weather by creating your own safety kit. Basics for the kit include a blanket, flashlight with extra batteries, radio, first aid kit, jumper cables, non-perishable day, chances are higher for foods like granola bars and nuts, cancellations and delays. bottled water, an ice scraper and Look for nonstop flights warm gloves. when possible. Airports will be crowded and missed Ensure your vehicle is properly connections due to delays are maintained. always possible. Breaking down on the side Travel light to avoid possible raveling this holiday of the road can definitely put a overweight baggage fees. Know season? You’re not damper on the holiday spirit. If airline restrictions regarding alone. Many of us will your car is due for a checkup, take baggage size and weight before be traveling to visit it to a trustworthy auto mechanic heading to the airport. Consider loved ones this holiday before making that long haul. At carry-on bags if possible. season. In fact, AAA predicts over the very least, check the car’s fluid Flying is one of many 57 percent of Americans plan to levels, wipers and tire pressure. aspects of your trip to consider. travel this winter, and 96 percent Check the condition of your tires, Here are some other travelplan on traveling as much or and if you plan on driving through related resources from BBB: more than they did last year. So, serious winter weather, consider • Rental cars: make your next car if you plan to drive or fly, expect getting snow tires. rental experience a little easier traffic, delays, and possibly • Hotel rooms: learn what to hot-tempered travelers. Better Minimize distractions. keep in mind when booking a Business Bureau (BBB) advises According to the National hotel room consumers to plan ahead when Safety Council, 28 percent of • Travel agents: know what to traveling this holiday season. accidents happen when people look for in a travel agent and If you’re planning on traveling are talking on their cell phone or find one near you this holiday, BBB offers the sending text messages. When During the holiday or any following tips to help keep your you’re behind the wheel, don’t time of year, find ways to holiday safe and stress free. text and drive or spend time travel safely and avoid scams. fumbling with the navigation Remember to report any Create a car safety kit. system. suspicious activities to BBB Holiday driving often includes If you plan on flying this Scam Tracker and sign up for the threat of dangerous winter holiday season, remember: Scam Alerts. weather. Snow and ice lead to Flights scheduled early Mechele Agbayani Mills accidents, car troubles, long in the morning are less likely is president and CEO of BBB delays and road closures. You to be delayed. Later in the serving Central East Texas.
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DECEMBER 2025
So, an online scam is NOT what you ordered By K I R A K R O W N
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his time of year, you’re probably buying lots of things online. Gifts, decorations, food! But what if something you’ve ordered shows up different than advertised? Or damaged? Or never comes at all? If so, you’re not alone. Scammers often pose as real companies online — or make up fake companies — to try to get your money or personal information. They may post fake ads for things on social media or other websites, and even use a real company’s logo to try to seem legit. But then they take your money, and don’t send what you ordered.
or get a wrong or damaged item, you can dispute the charge with your credit card company. • Check out the company. Before you buy, search online for the company’s name along with words like “scam” or “fraud” to see what issues others might have had. • Keep records. Keep track of the company’s name and
website, any receipts or bank statements showing what you paid, and when they said they’d ship your item. (Sellers have to ship your order by the time they or their ads say they will — or give you the chance to get your money back.) • If an online seller hasn’t lived up to its promises, report it to the FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Here are some ways to protect yourself when shopping online: • Pay by credit card. If you’re charged twice, billed for something you never got,
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