Take flight
Qualities women Bring to Business Blooms and Butterflies
Rebecca Lanham: Leading with Purpose, data, And heart
Trail blazer shares tips, information And strategic advice for success
Judy Carpenter: Emboldens Teachers, Transforms Students
8 facts about Women’s health, fitness
By PAULA JIMENEZ www.infinitieplusmag.com
In the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas, Cori Ann Moore was born in 1982 into a world of uncertainty. Her childhood ultimately led her to lay roots in East Texas. Beginning her college career at UT Tyler, she earned a Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences and later a Master's Degree in Business Law and Compliance from Texas A&M. Her upbringing was anything but conventional. Her parents divorced when she was five, and she spent years flying between Florida with her mother and Texas with her father. She described her life as a dysfunctional rollercoaster. Her mother was a drug addict and drug dealer, which led to her frequent incarcerations. At ten, Cori asked to live permanently with her biological father, Jim Gutierrez, who raised her as a single parent with help from his own parents. “She loves you the best way she knew how,” he would say. Cori knew her dad was trying to comfort her, but even as a child, she could not comprehend how a mother could choose drugs over their children. While she has found it in her heart to forgive her, they no longer have a relationship. Nevertheless, as she settled into her new life with her dad’s
limited budget, she learned early that life’s most important riches aren’t measured in dollars. It is in discipline, dedication, and responsibility, qualities her father instilled. As the years passed, she found strength in her hardships and made a powerful vow not to follow in her mother’s footsteps and create her own story. Fast forward into her younger twenties, she met her adopted parents, Dr. Dennis and Dianne Santo, known as Mimi and Papi. Owners of Santo Chiropractic, where Cori was employed and worked her way to manager. “God has a beautiful way of bringing you exactly what you need, when you need it, even if it’s not how you thought it would look,” she says. This was where her story changed forever, laying down a memorable romantic twist.
Meet Ryan Moore, a motocross racer with a knack for needing regular chiropractic adjustments who also developed a reputation for being the “absolute worst” at remembering his appointments. As part of her job, Cori often had to give him courtesy reminder calls. She’s still convinced he forgot on purpose just so she’d have to call him. Her prediction came to life in February 2006. Ryan
asked her out, but she declined because she already had a date. But as Mimi watched the whole thing, she insisted that her daughter accept his invitation. “He’s so cute, and it’s not like you’re going to marry him,” Mimi said. So, she called off her first date and rang Ryan to see if his invitation was still available. That same night, they had their first date. And, surprise, they did in fact marry one year later with an intimate outdoor/indoor wedding, pushing through the Texas heat during the day and wind chills at night. Today, the couple shares
two beautiful children, Addison (17) and Grayson (15).
On her career front, Cori reflects her belief that unpredictable childhood obstacles can forge true leaders. At just 23, she owned her first magazine franchise. She has since written a book, become a public speaker, founded iTRI365, and is Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer of Project One® Roofing.
“Knowledge is power and knowledge is safety,” Cori says. She’s learned to use every mistake as a quick fall. Out of her many achievements, she is most proud of creating a life that allows her to be present for her children. Balancing an entrepreneur career with family is no small feat. She is grateful at
helping build her strong leadership teams, allowing her the ability to attend her children’s key moments.
Despite her success, she has had to overcome challenges in male-dominated industries. Early on, she needed to prove herself. Yet, having grown up a tomboy and athlete, she never saw herself as disadvantaged. Instead, she viewed skepticism as a reflection of others’ biases, not her own abilities. As she matured, she found her voice, confident and unafraid to stand her ground.
Ending an unwanted childhood and flourishing it into an everlasting ending to her story. Moore’s have a family tradition when they travel.
They are all to experience something new. And, when the couple has date nights, they enjoy one of their favorite local spots, Kiepersol.
Cori’s story is one of resilience. Having completed two Ironmans and countless running and cycling events, she shines through with her competitive spirit and determination.
There is more to Cori. During difficult times, she has mastered what not to do when making major decisions. According to her, the strength to handle big successes comes from overcoming big challenges, and hard times don’t last forever. Giving up doesn’t get you where you want to be.
“God has a beautiful way of bringing you exactly what you need... even if it’s not how you thought it would look.”
- Cori Ann Moore
In addition, she views leadership as both a duty and a privilege. Some days are overwhelming, others exhilarating, but she embraces both. Her secret weapon is prioritizing sleep and maintaining her health. What truly motivates her is the responsibility she feels toward her business partners and employees. When asked what advice she would offer women aspiring to become entrepreneurs, Cori is both candid and encour-
aging. She draws from her own professional and personal journey to uplift others starting on their path: “Don’t fear mistakes, take risks, and always ask for what you want. Every expert was once a beginner. If you fail, so what?” says Cori Moore. “Learn from it, get over it, get back up, and try again. Your next try will be smarter.”
Fun fact: If she could dine with any woman, she’d choose Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx.
The year the United States came to be was an interesting time to be alive, particularly for those living in colonial America. The American Revolutionary War began in 1776, and much of the year was marked by events stemming from that conflict. Below are some of the more notable events to take place during a year that has come to symbolize so much to generations of Americans.
• Thomas Paine publishes his 47page pamphlet Common Sense in Philadelphia on January 10. Initially published anonymously, the pamphlet is considered a watershed moment in American history, as Paine’s easily digestible writing style appealed to the masses, helping promote his arguments that encouraged common people to fight for an egalitarian government.
• The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge takes place near Wilmington, North Carolina on February 27.The battle is sparked when loyalists, after storming across a bridge over Moore’s Creek, attack a group of men they believe to be rebels. Though the engagement was brief, two loyalist leaders are killed, another is captured and the force is scattered. The failed attempt later complicated efforts to recruit loyalists in the area to fight.
• The Fifth Virginia Convention is held in Williamsburg between May 6 and July 5.The meeting of the Patriot legislature of Virginia ultimately leads to the declaration of Virginia as an independent state and the production of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which asserts the state’s right to reform or abolish any form of government it deems inadequate.
• Thomas Hickey becomes an early casualty of the burgeoning conflict between the colonies and England when the Irishborn soldier is the first to be executed by the Continental Army for “mutiny, sedition, and treachery” on June 28 in New York City.Hickey had been part of a protective detail for General George Washington but was briefly jailed for passing counterfeit money. During that brief incarceration, Hickey told a fellow prisoner he was part of a conspiracy, and reports ultimately indicated he might have been part of a plot to assassinate General Washington, which proved enough to warrant his execution.
• An uptick incidents of violence between Native Americans and settlers in Kentucky was a ripple effect of the American Revolutionary War, and that increase in aggression was behind the capture of Jemima Boone and the Callaway girls on July 14. Days later Daniel Boone led a successful attempt to rescue his daughter and Elizabeth and Frances Callaway, who were the children of Colonel Richard Callaway, one of the first white settlers in Kentucky. A fictionalized version of the incident was included in James Fennimore Cooper’s novel The Last of the Mohicans.
Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge takes place near Wilmington, North Carolina on February 27.The battle is sparked when loyalists, after storming across a bridge over Moore’s Creek, attack a group of men they believe to be rebels. Though the engagement was brief, two loyalist leaders are killed, another is captured and the force is scattered. The failed attempt later complicated efforts to recruit loyalists in the area to fight.
The Fifth Virginia Convention is held in Williamsburg between May 6 and July 5.The meeting of the Patriot legislature of Virginia ultimately leads to the declaration of Virginia as an independent state and the production of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which asserts the state’s right to reform or abolish any form of government it deems inadequate.
• The Great Fire of New York destroys as much as 25 percent of all buildings in New York City as it burns through areas in lower Manhattan on September 20 and 21. The fire broke out shortly after British forces began occupying the city. While each side accused the other of arson in the aftermath of the fire, historians dispute such assertions, noting the fire likely started with burning rooftop debris before windy conditions spread the conflagration to surrounding buildings.
By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI /INFINITIEPLUSMAG.COM
Holding the office of the President of the United States of America is an immense honor bestowed upon an individual by the American people every four years. Overseeing the country comes with immense responsibility, and the president relies on a sizable team to keep order, maintain accountability and ensure operations run as smoothly as possible.
H• early casualty of the burgeoning conflict between the colonies and England when the Irishborn soldier is the first to be executed by the Continental Army for “mutiny, sedition, and treachery” on June 28 in New York City.Hickey had been part of a protective detail for General George Washington but was briefly jailed for passing counterfeit money. During that brief incarceration, Hickey told a fellow prisoner he was part of a conspiracy, and reports ultimately indicated he might have been part of a plot to assassinate General Washington, which proved enough to warrant his execution.
Although it might seem that the president has absolute authority, there are certain things a president can and cannot do. The following are some of the privileges and powers that the POTUS is allowed, courtesy of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum.
Although it might seem that the president has absolute authority, there are certain things a president can and cannot do. The following are some of the privileges and powers that the POTUS is allowed, courtesy of the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum. Make treaties with the approval of the Senate.
and employ a national platform to sway public opinion and convince Congress to support policy.
Apart from the more obvious, there are certain things the U.S. President is not supposed to do.
olding the office of the President of the United States of America is an immense honor bestowed upon an individual by the American people every four years. Overseeing the country comes with immense responsibility, and the president relies on a sizable team to keep order, maintain accountability and ensure operations run as smoothly as possible.
Serve as the leader and mouthpiece for a political party.
Entertain foreign dignitaries and other guests.
and employ a national platform to sway public opinion and convince Congress to support policy.
Recognize foreign countries in different ways.
However, although the Secret Service can advise and strongly discourage the behaviors below, the president does have the final say.
• Presidents shouldn’t attend their children’s performance or sporting events due to the extensive security preparations that would be necessary.
• Similar to driving a car, a president shouldn’t take a commercial airline flight.
ebecca Lanham holds an AAS in Industrial Safety, a BAAS in Human Resources and Technology, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and a Superintendent Certification. Her professional journey reflects a steady commitment to growth, service, and leadership in public education.
sistant superintendent-level position, she realized her passion remained closer to campus life and direct student impact. That realization ultimately led her to her current role at Ware ETMA.
• Make treaties with the approval of the Senate.
• The implied ability to fire executive branch officials, even if it’s not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
• An uptick incidents of violence between Native Americans and settlers in Kentucky was a ripple effect of the American Revolutionary War, and that increase in aggression was behind the capture of Jemima Boone and the Callaway girls on July 14. Days later Daniel Boone led a successful attempt to rescue his daughter and Elizabeth and Frances Callaway, who were the children of Colonel Richard Callaway, one of the first white settlers in Kentucky. A fictionalized version of the incident was included in James Fennimore Cooper’s novel The Last of the Mohicans.
• Act as Commander-inChief during times of war.
The implied ability to fire executive branch officials, even if it’s not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution.
Serve as the leader and mouthpiece for a political party.
Grant pardons to individuals found guilty of federal offenses.
• Current and former presidents and vice presidents aren’t supposed to drive on the open road.
Secret Service agents may allow them to drive around secured properties.
Entertain foreign dignitaries and other guests.
Act as Commander-inChief during times of war. Veto bills and sign bills. Enforce the laws passed by Congress.
Make suggestions about what should be new laws
Recognize foreign countries in different ways.
Grant pardons to individuals found guilty of federal offenses.
Nominate Cabinet members, Supreme Court Justices and other high officials. Appoint ambassadors.
Apart from the more obvious, there are certain things the U.S. President is not supposed to do. However, although the Secret Service can advise and strongly discourage the behaviors below, the president does have the final say.
Call Congress into special session, or end sessions if they cannot agree.
• Current and former presidents and vice presidents aren’t supposed to drive on the open road. Secret Service agents may allow them to drive around secured properties.
• Presidents shouldn’t attend their children’s performance or sporting events due to the extensive security preparations that would be necessary.
• A sitting president is not to use off-the-shelf personal electronic devices due to security concerns.
• For security reasons, opening windows in the White House and in the presidential vehicle is prohibited.
• Similar to driving a car, a president shouldn’t take a commercial airline flight.
• A president shouldn’t do spring cleaning, like tidying up an office. Under the Presidential Records Act, presidents are mandated to hang on to things that normally would be discarded by others, such as emails and paperwork.
The President of the United States has many privileges, but absolute power is not one of them.
• For security reasons, opening windows in the White House and in the presidential vehicle is prohibited.
• A president shouldn’t do spring cleaning, like tidying up an office.
• Veto bills and sign bills.
• Enforce the laws passed by Congress.
• Make suggestions about what should be new laws
• The Great Fire of New York destroys as much as 25 percent of all buildings in New York City as it burns through areas in lower Manhattan on September 20 and 21. The fire broke out shortly after British forces began occupying the city. While each side accused the other of arson in the aftermath of the fire, historians dispute such assertions, noting the fire likely started with burning rooftop debris before windy conditions spread the conflagration to surrounding buildings.
Nominate Cabinet members, Supreme Court Justices and other high officials. Appoint ambassadors. Call Congress into special session, or end sessions if they cannot agree.
• A sitting president is not to use off-the-shelf personal electronic devices due to security concerns.
NUnder the Presidential Records Act, presidents are mandated to hang on to things that normally would be discarded by others, such as emails and paperwork.
The President of the United States has many privileges, but absolute power is not one of them.
ames like John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and, of course, John Hancock might instantly come to mind when pondering the men who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. But what about the remaining signatories to the founding document of the United States? According to the National Archives, 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence, and even historians and armchair history buffs might be hard pressed to name all 56 signers of the pivotal document. Some might even be surprised to learn that various notable figures from the era were not among the 56 signers on the Declaration of Independence, a list that includes Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and George Washington. George Mason, another influential figure of the
56 men signed the Declaration of Independence
Names like John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and, of course, John Hancock might instantly come to mind when pondering the men who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. But what about the remaining signatories to the founding document of the United States? According to the National Archives, 56 men signed the Declaration of Independence, and even historians and armchair history buffs might be hard pressed to name all 56 signers of the pivotal document. Some might even be surprised to learn that various notable figures from the era were not among the 56 signers on the Declaration of Independence, a list that includes Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and George Washington. George Mason, another influential figure of the era, also decided against signing the Declaration of Independence, citing its lack of a “Bill of Rights” as motivation for keeping his pen to himself.
Originally recruited into teaching in 2002 from the graphic design industry, Rebecca returned to her alma mater to teach the very shop class she had participated in for four years as a student and worked in during the summers. She later transitioned to Nacogdoches ISD, where she taught Graphic Design, Audio and Video Production, Animation, and other visual arts courses. While there, she completed her M.Ed., and in 2014 her principal encouraged her to move into administration. She became responsible for a freshman class of more than 400 students, overseeing discipline, attendance, and a wide range of academic and behavioral supports.
In 2017, Gladewater High School invited her to return as an administrator, prompting a daily commute from Nacogdoches. In 2022, she became principal of Gladewater Middle School, serving in that role until June 2025. Although she later accepted a promotion to an as-
At Ware, Rebecca’s primary instructional focus is strengthening Tier 1 classroom instruction. She believes high-quality, foundational teaching is essential to reaching every student, every day. At the same time, the school continues refining Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports to meet the wide range of student needs typical at the elementary level.
To support teachers, Rebecca prioritizes visibility, time, and data. She believes in being present in classrooms, protecting instructional time, and providing coaching when needed.
In addition, assessment extends far beyond standardized testing. Student progress is monitored through both formal and informal measures, with data driving instructional decisions. In the PLC room, two guiding questions are posted on the wall: “What do we think we know?” and “What does the data ACTUALLY say?”
For students who struggle academically, the school utilizes WIN (What I Need) time to provide targeted Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions. Teachers are deeply committed to reteaching concepts in multiple ways until understanding is achieved.
Ware Elementary strongly supports diverse learners
through a robust Special Education department and a thriving Dual Language program. Rebecca has embraced learning from Dual Language teachers as they serve English learners with creativity and care. Social-emotional development is also prioritized through ongoing programming, a dedicated Communities in Schools representative, and partnerships with outside resources when additional support is required. Collaboration defines the school’s culture. As Academic Dean, Rebecca sees herself as a coordinator who helps align efforts among the principal, counselor, and support staff. Weekly “A-Team” meetings and shared calendars ensure efficient communication and purposeful use of time.
She believes one of the greatest academic challenges today is helping students feel safe and learning responsibility. Ultimately, Rebecca finds deep joy in working with elementary students and alongside a vibrant, supportive staff community, reaffirming that she is exactly where she is meant to be.
Women continue to thrive in the workforce.
Wells Fargo reports that, from 2019 to 2023, the growth rate of womenowned businesses outpaced the rate of men-owned businesses in relation to number of firms, rate of employment and revenue earned. The following are some of the traits women may bring to business.
Emotional intelligence
Organization and planning
Women may excel at organizing and planning. Women can look at things with a detailoriented eye and recognize flaws in plans even before getting started.
Adaptability
Women First Jobs says that women often bring high emotional intelligence to the table.
Collaboration
Women employees often have traits that can foster col-
laboration in the workplace, such as reading non-verbal cues and willingness to take turns in conversations, indicates Forbes.
Room for improvement
Women in the workplace continually seek opportunities for improvement, advises Sparklight Business.
Even though it is a cliche, women tend to be natural multi-taskers. Handling multiple jobs at the same time means women can adapt to changing situations.
Generally speaking, there are some inherent characteristics women may possess that can make them viable assets as business owners or leaders in their fields.
The morning sun stretched gently across Zonta Club of Longview’s favorite corner of town, The GREEN. It was the day of Blooms and Butterflies, and already the air hummed with anticipation.
Tables brimmed with vibrant plants, glowing petals and leaves reaching out as if they knew they wouldn’t be there for long. And they weren’t. Like Monarch butterflies catching a perfect breeze, the plants seemed to “fly away” almost as soon as they touched the ground, tucked into the arms of eager attendees who had arrived early for the beloved annual tradition.
However, this year felt different. It fuller and richer. Between the bursts of color, guests wandered through displays of handcrafted jewelry, sampled local food, refreshing drinks, and lingered at whimsical “magic garden” vendor booths that seemed pulled straight from a storybook. In addition, members of the local Z Club moved through the crowd, lending helping hands wherever needed—guiding guests, restocking tables, and sharing smiles. Moreover, families gathered around activity stations where children played and explored, their excitement adding to the festival’s joyful rhythm. It was easy to see why everything, from the plants to the experiences, disappeared so quickly. And laughter drifted through the space, blending with the uplifting voices of a choir from Pine Tree ISD.
it all stood
Dudley, president of Longview ZONTA club watching the event unfold with unmistakable pride. The sold-out success wasn’t just about the bustling crowd or empty plant tables; it was about what it really meant.
With a bright smile, she shared, “Zonta is proud to announce the successful conclusion of our sold-out Blooms and Butterflies event. We are deeply grateful for the community’s generosity; these proceeds ensure we can continue awarding scholarships that empower women and support children’s education. Thank you for investing in our future leaders.”
Various issues affect women’s health and wellness. Certain conditions are unique to women, while others are more likely to affect women than men. The following are eight facts about women’s health and fitness that any woman can utilize to improve her overall health.
1. Women bear a physical and emotional burden of caregiving. Women primarily are tasked with being caregivers to their own families and potentially elder parents or other relatives, and that takes a toll. Women may have to work a little harder to maintain healthy behaviors, curtail stress, include good sleep habits and regular exercise.
2. Heart disease is a significant issue in women’s health. Even though heart disease and heart attacks are thought to be primarily men’s
health issues, heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, according to the American Heart Association.
3. Women are vulnerable to eating disorders. Teenage girls and young women are more likely than teenage boys and young men to have anorexia or bulimia, according to the Mayo Clinic.
4. Menstrual bleeding is a common health concern. Many women do not openly discuss menstrual issues with others, but they should. The CDC says menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding, affects more than 10 million American women each year.
5. Intimate partner violence includes various forms of abuse. Intimate partner violence can include one episode or repeated episodes. The Office on Women’s Health reports that IPV can include physical, sexual or emotional abuse, as well as sexual coercion and
Story by JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI | www.infinitieplusmag.com
♦ Deepening conceptual math understanding in grades 3–5
♦ Tightening Tier 1 instruction with clear non-negotiables
♦ Protecting data-driven intervention systems
Mstalking. It affects millions of women each year.
6. The majority of Alzheimer’s patients are women. Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s disease are women, says the Alzheimer’s Association. Women in their 60s are more than twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s over the rest of their lives than they are to develop breast cancer.
7. Young women are vulnerable to HIV infection. The World Health Organization reports that women now bear the brunt of new HIV infections.
8. Women need to exercise with greater frequency. Mana Health Associates says fewer than half of all women over age 18 meet the federal physical activity guidelines for aerobic exercise, which is 150 to 300 minutes of moderateintensity aerobic activity, like brisk walking or fast dancing, each week.
s. Judy Carpenter brings 17 years of educational experience to her work at Bramlette STEAM Academy, having served as a Teacher, Instructional Coach, Reading Specialist, and Administrator. She holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, combining strategic leadership with deep instructional expertise.
Academic Vision: Ms. Carpenter believes that schools thrive when systems are strong, expectations are clear, and relationships are built on trust. Her academic vision centers on people, precision, and purpose. Rather than focusing on programs alone, she prioritizes building the capacity of teachers, creating aligned systems, and ensuring that every instructional decision leads to measurable student growth.
Curriculum and Instructional Priorities: She champions a high-quality, coherent curriculum that ensures equity and consistency across classrooms. However, curriculum is only effective when teachers bring it to life through intentional planning, scaffolding, and differentiation.
Currently, the most urgent instructional priorities at Bramlette STEAM Academy include:
♦ Strengthening early literacy in grades 1–3
The goal is to ensure that every student experiences accelerated, high-quality learning every day.
Teacher Support and Instructional Leadership: As Academic Dean, Ms. Carpenter’s primary responsibility is ensuring every classroom delivers standards-aligned, high-impact instruction. She views instructional leadership not as compliance or supervision, but as fostering clarity, capacity, and consistency. Through coaching, modeling, data conversations, and collaborative planning, she works to strengthen teacher effectiveness and student outcomes.
Assessment and Data Systems: Student progress is monitored through multiple measures beyond standardized testing, including:
♦ Ongoing formative assessments
♦ TEKS-aligned common assessments
♦ Progress monitoring tools
♦ Structured data cycles These systems allow staff to make timely instructional adjustments and provide targeted support.
Intervention and Student Support: Students who are struggling are supported through a structured MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) framework. This includes strong Tier 1 core instruction, protected intervention time, targeted small groups, and ongoing progress monitoring to ensure growth.
Diverse learners, including students with IEPs and language needs—receive support through
intentional differentiation, collaboration with SPED and ESL teams, embedded accommodations, and data-driven small group instruction.
In addition to academics, Ms. Carpenter prioritizes social-emotional learning, believing structured classrooms, positive relationships, consistent routines, and high expectations build both confidence and achievement.
Collaboration and School Culture: Ms. Carpenter collaborates closely with the principal, counselor, and support staff to align academic goals, analyze student data, coordinate interventions, and ensure that instructional decisions and student services work cohesively. This teamwork supports both academic achievement and student well-being.
Challenges and Leadership Strength: The school’s biggest academic challenges include closing early literacy gaps, strengthening conceptual math understanding, and ensuring consistent Tier 1 instruction across classrooms. Ms. Carpenter believes a successful academic dean brings instructional expertise, strong coaching skills, data-driven decision-making, clear communication, and the ability to balance urgency with trust.
Why Bramlette? Ms. Carpenter enjoys working at Bramlette because students deserve strong systems and high expectations. She values the opportunity to protect instructional time, build clarity for teachers, and help both educators and students grow despite challenges. Her leadership reflects a clear commitment: when systems are strong and people are supported, student success follows.