Volume VI, Issue 14 (May 1, 2021)

“Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that is yours to lead.” ― Nora Ephron

Vol. VI May 2021

Sharing the good news about Longview Independent School District

CLASS OF 2021

Seniors graduate with hope on the horizon

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fter more than a year of a global pandemic, the future is starting to look brighter, just in time for our graduating Class of 2021.

With businesses back open and vaccines available, we hope that Grads|Continued to page 8

COMMENCEMENT 2021 Our administration will continue to re-evaluate the state of the district on a daily basis, and any information below is subject to change. We will be sure to keep you informed on our district website, social media, and through all-calls/emails.

Longview ISD is currently planning multiple graduation options for seniors to select for their final steps at Longview High School.

Multiple graduation options are tentatively

Ceremony|Continued to page 13

Distinguished Alumni to be celebrated Longview Independent School District on May 21st will honor four accomplished former students during the annual Distinguished Alumni Ceremony and Luncheon.

This year’s Distinguished Alumni are Dr. Blanche Henderson Brick (Class of 1957), Dr. James Andrew “Andy” Mack (Class of 1978), Mr. Wray Wade (Class of 1986), and Mr. Joe Don Holley (Class of 1990).

Events are set to begin at 10 a.m.

May 21st with the Longview ISD Foundation Commemorative Brick Presentation at the Lobo Foundation Plaza (near the home entrance to Lobo Stadium).

Alumni|Continued to page 15

Audrey Smith earns Voice Scholarship Congratulations to Longview High senior Audrey Smith for being selected as The Longview Voice Scholarship winner for 2021!

Audrey was selected for her contributions to the SMITH Voice, as well as her superlative level of achievement both inside and outside the classroom. This exceptional student will receive a $1,000 scholarship to college, and is one of the hundreds of LHS seniors earning scholarships in Voice|Continued to page 12

THE

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ongview oice

ALL OUR BEST TO THE CLASS OF

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

OPINION

Despite an upheavel in schooling, you made it

By Mayor Andy Mack

future holds for you. You it was, but little things are closing an important lead to big things. Was ear Lobos, and formative chapter this a life-changing This will be my last letter in your life, but anew, event for me? Of course of the year for those of you who exciting chapter will soon not. But did I refer back are graduating. Unfortunately be unfolding. What are to it in my mind over for the rest of you, I will be here your plans for this new and over again in my for 3 more years and you will still chapter? At this stage life? Absolutely I have. have to listen to me. Ha! of the game, it doesn’t Life has a way of Congratulations on surviving matter much what it’s giving you perspective as MACK probably the most unique school looked like in the past time goes on. As a kid, year of your life. Of course, – it matters what it looks like getting licks at school meant I the last school year also ended going forward. disappointed not just my Coach, strangely, but this school year Don’t sell yourself short when but my family as well. That was began with so many questions you cast the vision for your next pretty earth-shattering for me and concerns. And look at you chapter – go ahead and shoot for at the time. But time has a way now, you made it through! I the moon. of healing all wounds and I was think you all deserve a pat on I would have never imagined able to learn from the experithe back for enduring wearing myself in the position I am in ence. You may have made some masks, temperature checks,sotoday when I was getting licks decisions that feel devastating at cial distancing protocols, changfrom Coach Cowan in the 8th this time in your life as well. But es in schedules, cancellations, grade for leaving my gym locker take heart, life will go on and you closures, and modifications of open. I thought the world was will pull through – if you choose what a normal school year looks ending, but obviously, it didn’t. to. I can now look back at the like. You did it!

And why would I still remember experience and chuckle at the I know we have all said it a that event that happened as a young boy who was careless and number of times over the last 13-year-old? I will tell you. Besuffered the consequences. Mat15 months, but none of us ever cause it left an impression upon ter of fact, I really chuckle today imagined living through a global me that obviously I did not thinking of what Coach Cowan pandemic or how it would imforget. Not the impression that would say about me being honpact our lives. I think we have I was mad at Coach Cowan. He ored as one of the Distinguished all come through this experience was just doing his job. The Alumni for Longview ISD (along wiser, kinder, and more compas- impression left was that I was with some other outstanding sionate. At least I hope so! disappointed in myself for not pillars from our District).

This letter will be mainly fulfilling an obligation and I That 13-year-old boy never geared toward those graduating knew better than that. It might could have predicted all of the fuin a few weeks and what the seem like a little thing, which ture lessons he would learn – all

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part of life and growing through challenge sand blessings. Each lesson learned served as stepping stones helping form character, values, and discernment for future use. Your lessons will serve the same, as long as you do not sell yourself short and choose to learn from them.

I can assure you when I have the occasion to use a locker today (which is not often) I do not leave it open or unlocked!

This is an exciting time for you all. I remember it with gratitude thinking of all the promise that life held for me. May you hold your school memories close, as they will encourage you and bring your joy and gladness many years to come. They will serve as great lessons for your own kids one day and you will enjoy laughing about them with your buddies. Keep your chin up and continue doing great things to make your friends and family proud. Study hard, have some fun, and say your prayers,

Andy — Dr. Andy Mack is a 1978 graduate of Longview High School. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon for more than 25 years, he is owner-operator of East Texas Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in Longview.

A few words of advice to the Class of 2021

By Matthew Prosser Nothing about your senior year was normal. COVID-19 changed so much of the way the school and world operates, but we all pulled through it together. While it seemed like the possibility for another complete shutdown loomed overhead, you guys persevered nevertheless. Despite all that COVID-19 has affected, each of you has become a stronger person for it, and no one will be able to take what you are about to do away from you.

You are coming of age during a time of chaos and turmoil. As the next generation of leaders and influencers for our community, you will be irrevocably shaped by these recent events. What lessons will you learn? How will you apply those lessons in helping our community grow and move forward?

I am writing to you different part of the with the benefit of country, and pursued hindsight and personal no less than five difexperience, but I also ferent college majors. urge you to earnestly Granted, this meanquestion the narratives dering adventure has you are given. Don’t led me to a job with listen to me because Longview ISD, so I it comes to you in the leave it up to you if my form of words in a path was one you wish PROSSER to emulate. newspaper. In fact, let me ardently urge you to The point is: there’s question the agendas of mass always a choice. media most of all. It is just a Finally, I encourage you to profit-driven business built seek balance in your life. Beupon outrage and partiality. coming consumed with rage Many of you face an inorwill not solve anything, any dinate number of possibilities more than drowning in apathy and career/life paths you can will. There’s a time for passiontake, such that you may feel ate ire and a time for ironic overwhelmed and fearful of detachment, but pursue a path striving off in any one direcof deeper understanding of the tion, for the sake of keeping world and people around you. your options open. In the years Seek truth, beauty, and goodsince I graduated from high ness in all that you do. school, I’ve held numerous Do not squander what you jobs, lived in several different have been so undeservedly givstates, moved to a completely en but look upon it as an inher-

itance still to be earned. You’ll never be able to truly “earn” or “deserve” it but you must still try.

You have so many who want you to achieve great things, and so few hindering your steps, thus you have every reason to succeed and little excuse to fail.

I wish you well.

— An award-winning journalist and photographer, Matthew Prosser is Communications Director for Longview Independent School District.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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LONGVIEW’S BEST AND BRIGHTEST Graduates receive over $7M in scholarships

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ith many Lobo seniors graduating and readying their bags for travel, LISD would like to say how proud we are of the seniors who not only graduated, but prepared for the future by applying for scholarships to help them further their education!

We know that Longview High School’s very own scholarship coordinator, Kay Ray, is so proud of their hard work!

Since so many stuck with it and worked at helping secure their future, the 2021 Lobo graduates received over $7,410,236 in scholarships!

Ms. Ray, along with every other district employee wishes you the best as your future unfolds before you and you make your mark upon the world.

SCHOLARSHIPS & AWARDS

Kate Pimental — Jenny Adams Crain Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Austin Bank Scholarship Braden Nickel and Jonathan Tutt — Dixie Youth Baseball Scholarship Isabel Breaux and Cooper Mayes — The Donnie Daniels, Jr. Foundation Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Ducks Unlimited Scholarship Rylee Babino — Eastman Black History Oratorical Contest Dominick Guiterrez — Eastman Technical College Scholarship Stella Barton — East Texas Coaches Association Scholarship Kate Pimental — East Texas Professional Credit Union Presidential Scholarship Angell Evans — Excelling Eagle Scholarship, Forest Park Middle School Boys in Bowties Gabrielle Casimiro — Excelling Eagle Scholarship, Forest Park Middle School Seventh Grade Class Kelsey Quiett — First Baptist Church of Longview Scholarship Carlos Ramirez and J. T. Markowitz — Flint Hill Resources Outstanding Student Scholarship Longview ISD Foundation, Inc Diana Acuna and Braden Nickel — Foster Middle School PTO Scholarship Royce McConnell — Greater Longview Soccer Association Cooper Mayes — Gregg County Bar Association Scholarship Dagmawit Work — Gregg

County Chapter of the Ex-Students’ Associaion of the University of Texas at Austin Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Gregg County Farm Bureau Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Gregg County Master Gardener Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Gregg County Youth Exposition Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Harvest Festival Jerry Lucy Memorial Scholarship Cooper Mayes and Carolina Olivas — Hudson PEP Elementary School PTO Scholarship Kate Pimentel — Mozelle Johnston Memorial Scholarship, Judson Alumni Association Daisy Nieto — Annie Ozella Jones Memorial Student Scholarship, Claims Administrative Services Lyzvette Martinez and Kate Pimental — Judson STEAM Academy PTA Scholarship Rylee Babino, Isabel Breaux, Taylor Jamison, Melanie Martinez, Kelsey Quiett, Kate Pimental, Valerie Smith, Evie Summers, Zoey Sheppard, Elizabeth Wall, and Emma Cate Williams — Junior League of Longview, Inc. Sustainer Scholarship Catherine Arce, Tarah Lister, and Cree McLemore — Lady Lobo Basketball Booster Club Gabby Casimiro, Tatum Fenton, Camryn Jacobs, Kyla Johnson, Isabelle McMillan, Daija Molina, Alexa Polanco, Alexandra Rojas, and Alexandra Sanchez — Lady Lobo Soccer Booster Scholarship Melanie Martinez, Averie Shobert, and Aiden Shepherd — Lobo Band Booster Club Scholarship Alayna Diaz — Lobo Band Booster Club “Hamburger” Davis Scholarship Kate Pimental — Lobo Band Booster Club Terry and LaDonna Dunn Scholarship Brady Gideon — Lobo Band Booster Club Pete Kunkel/Harvey Durham Scholarship Ian McCarty — Lobo Band Booster Club Willie and Betty Odom Scholarship Jonas Lansford, Wythe Roberts, Daniela Gomez-Pedroso Soto, Colby Stokes,

and Charlie Ward — Lobo Golf Booster Club Scholarship Diana Acuna, Stella Barton, Isabel Breaux, Cooper Mayes, Carolina Olivas, Kate Pimental, Valerie Smith, Caroline Taylor, and Elizabeth Wall — Longview 2020 Forum Scholarship Cooper Mayes — LongviewGregg County Retired Teachers Association Kiaira Coates, Caitlyn Dixon, Alexandra Sanchez, Avery Shirley, and Tamia Wesley — Longview High School Cheer Booster Club Scholarship Meg Jackson, Colby Stokes, and Emma Cate Williams — Longview High School PTO Scholarship Kaylee Evans — Longview High School Technology Student Association Booster Club Scholarship Ethan Jones and Dagmawit Worke — Longview High School Outstanding Performance in UIL Academics Scholarship Ja’iilah Davis, Meg Jackson, Tarah Lister, Ahrial Martin, Elizabeth Monsour, Stella Moore, Hailey Patterson, Audrey Smith, Valerie Smith, and Emma Cate Williams — Longview High School Viewette Booster Club Scholarship Audrey Smith — Longview ISD Community Relations Department The Longview Voice Scholarship Rylee Babino, Stella Barton, Kiara Coates, Josephine Cowart, Braden Nickel, Daisy Nieto, Carolina Olivas, Kate Pimental, and Valerie Smith — Longview ISD Foundation, Inc., Lobo Memorial Scholarship Kate Pimental — Longview Rotary Club David Brown Scholarship Rylee Babino, Stella Barton, Justin Beltran, Samantha Martinez, Cooper Mayes, and Austin Pencheon — Longview Rotary Club Scholarship Ethan Jones, First Place, Longview Rotary Club 4 Way Speech Contest; Ethan Jones, First Place Northeast Texas Rotary Club 4 Way Speech Contest; Dagmawit Worke, Second Place, Longview Rotary Club 4 Way Speech Contest — Longview Rotary Club Four Way Speech Contest Award Kiaira Coates — Martin Re-

source Management Scholarship Monserrat Gallegos, Ethan Jones, and Jaz’lyn Lewis — Pam Mercer-McWilliams Theatre Scholarship, LHS Drama Mamas and Dads Club Justin Beltran, Mary Hawkins, Cooper Mayes, and Valerie Smith — Cecile Moeschle Trust Scholarship De’Leon Jones — Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church Scholarship Rylee Babino — National Society Daughters of the American Revolution DAR Good Citizen Award Cooper Mayes, Daisy Neito, and Kate Pimental — Ramsey Realty Scholarship Jonas Lansford — RPC, Inc. Scholarship DeMarcus Washington — Leroy Romines Memorial Scholarship Charlie Ward — Rusk County Electric Cooperative, Inc. Scholarship Valerie Ferrell and Avery Shirley — Stephen F. Austin State University East Texas Alumni Network Scholarship Royce McConnell and Elizabeth Wall — Texas Bank and Trust Excellence in Education Scholarship Rylee Babino and Zoey Sheppard — Texas Caucus of Black School Board Members Kate Pimental — Texas IB Schools Diploma Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Ultimate High School Fishing Angler of the Year Scholarship Cooper Mayes — Ultimate High School Fishing Top 10 Finisher Award Ivriah Horton — VeraBank Scholarship Caroline Taylor — Westlake Chemical Corporation Scholarship Justin Beltran and Valerie Smith — Horace Whitaker Memorial Scholarship Isabel Breaux — Zonta Club Young Women in Public Affairs Award

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Academic scholarships offered — (*) denotes scholarships accepted or college attending Diana Acuna — *University of Chicago First Generation Scholarship, *University of Chicago Odyssey Scholarship Mikayla Anderson — *Full Sail University Creative Minds Scholarship Bryant Arthur — *Bethany College Bethany Award, *BethLISD|Continued to page 14

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

CAMPUS SPOTLIGHT Hudson PEP offers a great IB experience W

ith 550 students and 37 Professional Educators on campus, Hudson PEP Elementary is a place where the Baccalaureate Programme is a great fit.

As one of six campuses that are overseen by the LISD Charter Partner, Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS), Hudson makes excellent use of IB. Every campus in the charter makes great use of the IB Programme to aid the education of the students.

“The IB program has provided a framework to plan transdisciplinary thematic units of study that allows teachers to integrate all subjects into a single unit of study/inquiry where students see connections across all subjects and disciplines,” said Hudson Principal, Sue Wilson.

Want to know more about LISD Charter Partners? Go LISD.org/char ters for more information.

“This is extremely beneficial because students understand why they are learning what is taught. Also, the IB program provided a startup grant which enabled Hudson PEP students and teachers to have all the technology needed for 21st-century learners. We now have the ability for a ratio of 1-to-1 computers, teachers have new

desktop PC’s, laptop computers, Smartboards, and programs have been purchased for enrichment and accountability.”

The IB Curriculum and Units of Inquiry provides students with the tools to think both locally and globally about how the world works and how they can individually and collectively make a difference with their

school assignments. This thinking and problem solving impacts their campus, community and even around the world.

From helping children in Africa by raising funds, to the students forming a company to provide food for the homeless in the area, Hudson PEP’s Hudson|Continued to page 19

Is caffeine worth the sip?

By Audrey Smith While the government frantically strives to eradicate nicotine usage in teens, and parents fret about the hundreds of drugs running SMITH rampant in our streets, we overlook the most used, and most easily accessible drug in our country; caffeine.

Take a look around your classroom and the odds are, you’ll see a caffeine-infused, sugar-filled, drink in either a colorful can or a quirky coffee mug.

There are a few defining qualities of a caffeine addict, or a caffiend if you will. Although it’s hard to pinpoint an exact number of how many people have caffeine dependency, studies indicate that more than a quarter of people who use caffeine met the criteria listed on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Substance Dependence

list. Based on these qualifications, you could be dealing with a real addiction if you struggle with the following symptoms: A persistent desire to cut down caffeine intake, but failure to do so; continued usage despite knowing it contributes to recurring physical or psychological problems for you (like insomnia, or jitteriness); or finally, experiencing withdrawal symptoms

after less than your usual intake of caffeine.

Acknowledgment of addiction is vital to the future of our health and well-being. Scientists have classified caffeine as a psychoactive drug that can alter moods and behavior. Known medically as trimethylxanthine, caffeine is a mild stimulant of the central nervous system. It affects you in a similar way that amphet-

amines, cocaine, and heroin stimulate your brain. Although it has a much milder effect, caffeine has the same addictive qualities as these other drugs. Caffeine temporarily blocks adenosine, a chemical in your body that promotes sleepiness and muscle fatigue, resulting in an energy boost or heightened alertness.

While this brief “high” may aid in finishing up your homework or cleaning your room, the longterm effects are just not worth it.

We know that caffeine stimulates the brain, but exactly how much alertness is too much?

Even if you don’t drink coffee before you go to sleep, it can still impact the amount of solid sleep you get. Those who have stopped drinking caffeine have often seen improvements in the quality of sleep they get every night. In turn, this leaves them naturally more rested for the next day ahead. Many of us seek out caffeination every day because we believe we need an extra boost of energy. In reality, our bodies Smith|Continued to page 19

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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IT’S BEEN FUN! REMEMBER IT!

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

Senior parents, did we miss your student? Please send us their photo and name to ask@LISD.org and we will publish it during our coming summer issues!

DREAM BIG! AIM BIG!

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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CONGRATULATIONS SENIORS!

Page 8 GRADS |Continued from page 1

whatever our graduates do this fall, be it college, work, or something else, we wish them the best! We hope that they enjoy the graduation experience and are looking ahead to their future.

Congratulations to our 2021 Lobo graduates! We know you will make the Lobo Nation proud!

Senior parents, did we miss your student? Please send us their photo and name to ask@LISD.org and we will publish it during our coming summer issues!

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

2021 LOBO GRADS

Expanding Your Child’s Opportunities International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme World School

IB Programme Informational Meeting

For area 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grade parents/students

Thursday, May 13, 2021 6:30 PM

Longview High School Little Theater (Masks Required)

Prestigious University Prep Program

FREE to all qualified East Texas students

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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KEEP IN TOUCH WITH FRIENDS

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

YOUR HAPPY FUTURE IS ALSO OURS Free mobile banking app Text message banking and alerts Mobile check deposits Free, interest earning checking for all members 24/7 fraud protection and support Online account opening Free financial experts & helpful resources

Discover how it feels to have

903.381.6500 www.ecu.org Your savings federally insured to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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GOOD LUCK, SENIORS!

Senior parents, did we miss your student? Please send us their photo and name to ask@LISD.org and we will publish it during our coming summer issues!

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

VOICE |Continued from page 1 the Class of 2021.

“This Lobo senior did an excellent job of writing about an issue that was important to her, that is the potentially harmful effects of caffeine on health and well-being. Her skill as a student journalist, as well as her many other accomplishments as a Lobo, make her deserving of this scholarship,” said Mr. Dustin Taylor, Communications Specialist and managing editor of The Longview Voice.

“Now in our sixth year of this program, the district has given almost $20,000 in scholarships to Lobo graduates.”

The Longview Voice is a district-wide newspaper that covers student, staff, and local community news. The paper is produced by the LISD Community Relations department in partnership with the Thrifty Nickel, as well as campus staff and volunteers.

“We encourage all our students to contribute articles and photography to The Longview Voice,” said Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox. “That’s why it’s called ‘the Voice,’ because it is a voice for our entire Longview ISD community. We want our students to feel a

sense of ownership toward this newspaper.”

Each year the Community Relations department selects a Longview High School senior student who contributes work to The Longview Voice for a scholarship to the school of their choice.

Past Winners include Estrella Gonzales, Keyarro Hollins, Uwa Ihionkhan, Yosef Ibitayo (Class of 2016); Gaylon Wiley (Class of 2017); German Zelaya, Jose Velazquez, Michael Vera (Class of 2018), Alyssa Shobert, Brady Miller, and Pay-

ton Schaap (Class of 2019), Jesse Gonzalez and Emily Mendenhall (Class of 2020), and now Audrey Smith in the Class of 2021.

Are you a student who is interested in being considered for next year’s scholarship? All you have to do is submit an article for publication in any edition of The Longview Voice newspaper and fill out a scholarship application.

For more information please contact the Community Relations department via email at ask@LISD.org or call (903) 381-2200.

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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BELIEVE IN EXCELLENCE

Senior parents, did we miss your student? Please send us their photo and name to ask@LISD.org and we will publish it during our coming summer issues!

CEREMONY |Continued from page 1 scheduled at Lobo Stadium for the week of May 10-14, with smaller individual ceremonies taking place lasting from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday. A more traditional group commencement ceremony will take place at 7:30 p.m.

Friday night.

For relatives unable to attend in person, all graduation ceremonies will be livestreamed via the Longview ISD YouTube page and linked to the district social media pages.

“We want to ensure our stu-

dents, families, and staff safety and still allow our students to have this milestone moment,” said Mr. James Brewer, LHS Principal. “We could not be more excited to celebrate our seniors’ time at Longview High School.”

For more information about this year’s graduation please contact the high school office at 903-663-1301.

GRADUATION FAQ

Is there a limit to the family members that may at-

tend the individual ceremonies? Is there a limit to the family members that may attend the Formal Graduation Ceremony?

At this time, there is not a limit to the number of family members that may attend the individual or formal graduation ceremony.

Can a graduate participate in both the individual and the group ceremonies?

Unfortunately, students may not participate in both ceremonies.

Will there be an IB Robing before the Formal Graduation Ceremony?

The IB Robing Ceremony is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. May 7th. Please contact the high school to make arrangements to attend.

When will students receive honor cords?

Students will be presented with their honor cords prior to the commencement ceremony.

For more questions please call the high school directly at 903-663-1301.

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

LISD |Continued from page 3 any College Merit Award Rylee Babino — *University of North Texas President’s Honors Scholarship Stella Barton — *Texas A&M University Opportunity Award Scholarship, *Texas A&M University President’s Achievement Scholarship, *Texas A&M University Foundation Excellence Award Scholarship Justin Beltran — *Texas A&M University Keys to Aggieland Outreach Scholarship, *Texas A&M University President’s Achievement Scholarship, *Texas A&M University Tuition Support Award Isabel Breaux — Dallas Baptist University Presidential Scholar Academic Award, Dallas Baptist University Track and Cross Country Scholarship, *Ouachita Baptist University Presidential Academic Award, Ottawa University of Arizona Track and Field Scholarship, Ottawa University of Kansas Track and Cross Country, Southern Methodist University Provost Scholarship, University of Arkansas at Little Rock Track and Cross Country Scholarship, University of Southern Mississippi Academic Excellence Scholarship, University of Southern Mississippi Track, Field and Cross Country Scholarship, University of Texas at Arlington Track and Cross Country Scholarship, University of Texas at Tyler Academic Excellence Scholarship, University of Texas at Tyler Patriot Scholarship, University of Texas at Tyler Track and Cross Country Scholarship, West Texas A&M University Presidential Award, West Texas A&M Track and Cross Country Scholarship Kiaira Coates — Spelman College School of Creative Art and Design Award, *Texas State Merit Award, University of New Mexico Scholarship, University of Texas at Arlington Academic Award Valerie Ferrell — Abilene Christian University Royce L. Money Chancellor’s Awards for Academic Excellence, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Bulldog Scholarship, Ouchita Baptist University Merit Scholarship, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Dean’s Scholarship, University of Texas at Tyler Academic Excellence Scholarship Sarah Elizabeth Frederick — *Texas Christian University Scholarship, Texas Tech University Presidential Merit Scholarship, University of Arkansas New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award

Monserrat Gallegos — *University of North Texas Excellence Award Daniela Gomez-Pedroso Soto — *Texas A&M University Academic Scholarship Alanee Nickole Gonzales — University of Dallas President’s Scholarship, University of New Mexico Academic Scholarship, *University of Redlands in Southern California Academic Scholarship Karina Hernandez — *LeTourneau University Founder’s Scholarship Camryn Jacobs — *University of Arkansas at Little Rock Provost’s Academic Excellence Scholarship Margaret Jackson — *Baylor University Provost’s Scholarship, Texas Christian University Dean’s Scholarship De’Leon Jones — *East Texas Baptist University Christian Leadership Scholarship, *East Texas Baptist University Dean’s Scholarship Ethan Jones — *University of Oklahoma Distinguished Scholarship Jonas Lansford — University of Arkansas New-Arkansan Tuition Award Jaz’lyn Lewis — Stephen F. Austin State University Theatre Scholarship Caedmon Liebergood — Azusa Pacific University President’s Scholarship, Covenant College Founder’s Scholarship, St. Edward’s University President’s Distinguished Scholarship, University of St. Mary Augustinian, Southwestern University Cody Scholar Award, University of St. Mary Augustinian Presidential Scholarship, Westmont College Wallace L. Emerson Scholarship Royce McConnell — *East Texas Baptist University Christian Leadership Scholarship, *East Texas Baptist University Honor Scholarship Daija Molina — *University of Texas at Tyler Academic Excellence Award, *University of Texas at Tyler Patriot Award Riley Nichols — *Kilgore College Theatre Scholarship Braden Nickel — *Louisiana Tech University Bulldog Scholarship, *Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Award, University of Dallas President’s Scholarship, University of Nebraska George Beadle Scholarship, University of Nebraska Husker Heritage Scholarship, University of Pittsburgh Panther Pride Award, University of Pittsburgh Pitt Success Grant, University of San Francisco University Scholar Award, University of San Francisco University Tuition

Grant, University of Seton Hall University Scholarship, University of Seton Hall Grant Daisy Nieto — *University of Texas at Tyler Academic Excellence Scholarship, *University of Texas at Tyler Patriot Scholarship Carolina Olivas — Loyola University Chicago President’s Scholarship, *University of Chicago Odyssey Scholarship Austin Pencheon — Eastern New Mexico University Athletic Scholarship, Midwestern State University, *Mississippi State University General Merit Scholarship, Southwestern Oklahoma State University Athletic Scholarship, Southeastern Oklahoma State University Athletic Scholarship, University of New Mexico Athletic Scholarship Skye Pickron — *Johnson and Wales University Scholarship Award Jairen Pradia — Abilene Christian University Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence, Abilene Christian University ACU Grant, Abilene Christian University Endowed Scholarship, Abilene Christian University TEG Award, The College of Wooster Dean’s Scholarship, The College of Wooster Grant, Seton Hall University Scholarship, Seton Hall University Summer Scholarship, University of Alabama at Birmingham Blazer Distinction Scholarship, University of New Mexico Freshman Lobo Undergraduate Exchange Plus Scholarship Kelsey Quiett — *Judson University High Merit Award, *Judson University Honors Scholarship, *Judson University Hugh McGregor Scholarship, *Judson University President’s Scholarship Mallory Reeves — Baylor University Provost’s Scholarship, Texas Tech University Presidential Merit Scholarship, *University of Arkansas New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award Rafael Reyes — *University of Texas at Tyler Academic Excellence Scholarship Cameron Roberts — *Baylor University Academic Scholarship Wythe Roberts — *Baylor University Academic Scholarship Alejandro Rojas — East Texas Baptist University Presidential Scholarship, *LeTourneau University Dean’s Scholarship, *LeTourneau University Trustee’s Scholarship, Southern Methodist University Provost Scholarship Alexandra Rojas-Monsivais — *University of Notre

Dame Provost’s Scholarship, *University of Notre Dame University Scholarship Aiden Sheppard — Abilene Christian University John C. Stevens Award for Academic Excellence, Baylor University Academic Scholarship, LeTourneau University Founder’s Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Bulldog Scholarship, Louisiana Tech University Outstanding Student Scholarship, Oklahoma State University Out-of-State Achievement Scholarship, Texas Tech University Presidential Merit Scholarship Zoey Sheppard — *Baylor University Academic Scholarship Averie Shobert — Texas Tech University Presidential Merit Scholarship, University of Houston College of Human Sciences Recruitment Scholarship, *University of Oklahoma Freshman Welcome Home Scholarship, *University of Oklahoma University Scholarship Colby Stokes — *Texas Tech University Presidential Merit Scholarship Evie Summers — *Texas Christian University Scholarship, *TCU Horned Frog Scholarship, University of Arkansas New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Scholarship Caroline Taylor — *University of Oklahoma Award of Excellence DeCameron Thomas — *Mississippi College Opportunity Scholarship, Bethany College Merit Scholarship Elizabeth Wall — *Auburn University Academic Presidential Scholarship, Baylor University Academic Scholarship, University of Alabama Presidential Scholarship Charles Ward — *Texas Christian University Dean’s Scholarship, University of Arkansas New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award, University of Oklahoma Award of Excellence Emma Cate Williams — *Baylor University Provost’s Scholarship, Louisiana State University Flagship Scholars Award, Texas Christian University Dean’s Scholarship, University of Alabama Presidential Scholarship, University of Georgia Presidential Leadership Scholarship and Presidential Waiver Dagmawit Worke — *The University of Texas at Austin Moody College of Communications Scholarship

ATHLETICS

Athletic Scholarships and Signees Presented by Colleges and Universities LISD|Continued to page 17

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ALUMNI |Continued from page 1 An 11:30 a.m. reception at Lobo Coliseum will be followed by lunch at Noon.

Distinguished Alumni typically have excelled professionally, in addition to serving the communities in which they live. Honorees are nominated at-large and chosen by a committee of previous honorees, volunteer Distinguished Alumni Committee members, and the district’s Community Relations office.

For more information please contact Kacy Swaim at 903-381-2235.

Blanche Henderson Brick

A 1957 graduate of Longview High School, Blanche continued her education at Baylor University wherein 1961 she earned a bachelor’s degree in education, followed in 1966 by her master’s degree in education from George Washington UniBRICK versity, a master’s degree in American History from the University of Hawaii (1970), and then her Ph.D. in Education, Curriculum, and Instruction from Texas A&M in 1983.

Dr. Brick enjoyed a long and varied career as an educator, including a stint right here at her alma mater from 1963 to 1965 as an English teacher for 7th and 9th grade classes. Her teaching career has included stops as a Language Arts teacher for Dallas Public Schools, a 4th grade teacher in the American School in Karachi, Pakistan, and a high school history teacher in Honolulu, Hawaii, before serving as Special Assistant to the President of the University of Hawaii.

Later returning to Texas, Blanche continued her career as a teacher and administrator in positions at Texas A&M University, College Station Independent School District, and Blinn College, before retiring in 2017.

An active speaker, columnist, and presenter, Dr. Brick’s research papers have included such varied topics as Lois Killingsworth Jackson: The first female Mayor of Longview, to William Morris Ford, Pastor of First Baptist Church, Longview, Texas, and the Southern Baptist View of Race Relations 1945-1971, and the Educational Philosophy of Horace Mann along with other contemporary political issues. Her columns have been featured in academic journals and local newspapers, and she has presented before numerous organizations such as the East Texas Historical Association, The Society for Educational Biography, The American Educational History Association, and the Pakistan-American Cultural Center. She has also served on the boards of various academic and civic organizations, including two terms as a city councilwoman for College Station from 2011 to 2017 and member of the Board of the Brazos Valley Symphony.

The daughter of Lewis and Blanche Killingsworth Henderson, Dr. Brick was nominated by J. Rex King who described her as “a perfect nominee (for this honor).”

“Not only has she had — and continues to have — a profound effect on others through her teaching and other activities, but she continues to be a proud spokesman for the city of Longview and her alma mater.”

Blanche and her husband Bob raised

two children and currently live in the Bryan-College Station area.

Mayor Andy Mack

Dr. Mack, a 1978 graduate of Longview High School, continued his education at Kilgore College before graduating Magna Cum Laude from Stephen F. Austin University, with a bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry. In 1985 he earned his DoctorMACK ate of Dental Surgery with honors from Baylor University, followed by a surgical residency at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston from 1985 to 1989.

After completing his surgical residency in 1989, Dr. Mack returned to his hometown to join East Texas Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates, where he has worked ever since.

However, there’s much more to Andy’s career in Longview than what happens from “9 to 5” each day. In addition to his current tenure as Mayor for the City of Longview (elected in 2015), Dr. Mack was a City Councilman for District 4 from 1997 to 2005, served as council liaison for numerous civic committees and boards, and was a founding board member for Legacy Longview, as well as a driving force behind the development and creation of the Lear Park Complex. In addition, Andy has been involved with local Make-A-Wish, Wounded Warrior, and Junior Achievement efforts, as well as an honoree of the Longview Chamber of Commerce’s Tourism Partner of the Year, member of the 2015 Longview Vision Task Force, and various

other civic groups and professional medical associations.

Over the years Dr. Mack has proven himself to be a faithful and energetic supporter of numerous community initiatives, including the creation of the Mayor’s Book Club, which led to the creation of the “Go-Giver” benefit gala. But he’s also lent his time and talents to efforts closer to home, including serving as a coach for youth baseball, softball, and basketball leagues, teaching summer camps for disadvantaged youth with Partners In Prevention, providing free monthly oral health clinics for those struggling to overcome poverty, volunteering in the kitchen at Hiway 80 Rescue Mission, as well as active roles in booster clubs for Longview Lobo Athletics, and serving as an active deacon and Sunday School teacher for First Baptist Church of Longview.

The son of Dr. Sam Mack and Joan McKenzie, and stepmother Marion Mack, Andy is married to Kelly, and was nominated by his three children: Spencer, Madison, and Luke, all of whom are also accomplished Longview High alumni.

In their letter to the Distinguished Alumni committee, the Mack children praised their father’s devotion to tirelessly giving back to the city and school he loves.

“Andy Mack has long been involved with this community publicly, but even more so behind the scenes. His giving and generous heart shines brightly through his time, service, and donations,” the letter reads. “He goes out of his way for family, friends, and people he doesn’t even know because that’s the person he is: a servant.”

Alumni|Continued to page 16

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

ALUMNI |Continued from page 15

Wray Wade

Graduating from Longview High in 1986, Wray Wade’s life journey, thus far, has taken him around the world and back to Longview again.

His talent for basketball — and determination to succeed — guided him through undergraduate WADE degrees from Mount Hood College (Oregon) and St. Martin’s University (Washington), followed by his master’s degree in Speech from Oregon State University and Shonan Institute of Technology (Tsujido, Japan).

Wray continued his basketball career on the professional level as the official English translator for the Aichi-Kikai Red Wolves in the Japanese Basketball League.

In 1999 Wray brought his linguistic talents back stateside when he accepted an offer from the New York City law firm of Amster, Rothstein & Ebenstein. Then in 2001, he took his first steps into entrepreneurship by starting Wade International marketing consultancy, which later transitioned into Wray Wade Enterprises in 2005. Wray Wade Enterprises is best known for his I-20 Sports initiative and the Barber Institute of Texas.

Along the way, Wray has remained committed to always finding new and creative ways to give back. An active church member of Mount Calvary since returning to East Texas in 2005, Wade has lent his time and talents to the Texas Workforce Commission Board, the Longview Symphony, Legacy Longview, the Longview Economic Development Corp. board, the Longview Greggton Rotary Club, in addition to serving as City Councilman for District 3 and being a council liaison for the Comprehensive Plan Committee, East Texas Council of Governments, Housing and Community Development Advisory Committee, and Public Transportation Advisory Board.

Whether it’s volunteering to coach youth basketball or hosting a community-wide Thanksgiving dinner, Wray Wade is an advocate for and an asset to his beloved hometown.

The son of Frank and Willie M. Wade, Wray was nominated by his friend Chapin Miller, who characterized the ambition for success and passion for service that has characterized his life as one of Longview’s best and brightest sons.

“Wray Wade has come a long way. From being a young boy wanting to play basketball, to a successful entrepreneur and civic leader,” he said. “Wray’s determination and positive attitude should be an inspiration to many Longview ISD students, and the entire community.”

Joe Don Holley

A graduate of the 1990 Longview High School class, Joe Don continued his education at the University of Texas where in 1995 he earned a bachelor’s degree HOLLEY in architecture.

In 1996 he began his career with HKS, Inc. of Dallas, working his way up to his current position as Senior Vice President.

Most recently Joe Don received the prestigious title of Principal Shareholder of his firm, where he will oversee the financial activity of over 50 offices worldwide. As a project manager with 22 years of experience, Joe Don’s expertise provides continuity of design, functionality, and client objectives. He works closely with medical professionals, physicians, and consultants in the planning of healthcare facilities.

A few of the many facilities Joe Don has been a part of include Dell Seton Medical Center at The University of Texas in Austin, Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas Ambulatory Pavilion in Austin, Via Christi Hospital St. Joseph Behavioral Health in Wichita

(Kansas), St. Vincent Medical Center in Jacksonville (Florida), Fort Duncan Medical Center in Eagle Pass, multiple Seton Medical Centers in Texas and many, many more.

Joe Don holds numerous credentials within his field, including an NCARB certification, LEED Accredited Professional Building Design and Construction, is Certified Construction Document Technologist, and a member of the American Institute of Architects as well as the Texas Society of Architects.

In his spare time, Joe Don is also involved with “Hearts and Hammers” of Dallas, a non-profit organization that refurbish homes in economically disadvantaged communities. Joe Don also volunteers for CANstruction International, a charity organization where architects, engineers, contractors, and students they mentor, compete to design and build giant structures made entirely from full cans of food. At the close of the competition, all of the food is donated to local food banks where the competitions are held.

The son of Don and Pat Holley, Joe Don was nominated by longtime friend and fellow LHS alum Whitney Schaap, who praised his artistic skill and innovation as an architect.

“Joe Don has tackled numerous large projects overseeing, designing, and completing structures for his firm,” she said.

“The hospitals are almost like paintings that please the medical teams and make the patients feel like they are in a museum versus a medical facility. And one of our LISD graduates created this environment.”

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

Page 17

YOU ARE THE LOBO NATION

LISD |Continued from page 14 Baseball Trent Bush — Dallas Baptist University FOOTBALL Kaden Meredith — Air Force Academy Jahkamian Carr — East Texas Baptist University Markevion Haynes — Easter New Mexico University Austin Pencheon — Midwestern State University Trevor Tamplin — Mississippi College LaQualon Hale — Navarro College Antonio Onofre — Navarro College Joe Jones — Trinity Valley Community College Kybrien Jackson-Jamerson — University of Alabama at Birmingham

SOCCER Tatum Fenton — LeTourneau University Alexa Polanco — LeTourneau University Camryn Jacobs — University of Arkansas at Little Rock Alexandra Sanchez — University of Texas Permian Basin TENNIS Kelsey Quiett — Judson University TRACK & CROSS COUNTRY Isabel Breaux — Ouachita Baptist University VOLLEYBALL Peja Mathis — Jarvis Christian University Miah Colbert — Kentucky State University Elaija Hatley — Kentucky State University

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THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR FUTURE Senior parents, did we miss your student? Please send us their photo and name to ask@LISD.org and we will publish it during our coming summer issues!

SMITH |Continued from page 4 build a tolerance to this daily intake, and we really don’t reap any energy benefits from drinking coffee every day. Reduced quality of sleep, paired with your body’s growing tolerance to the drug, shows how detrimental caffeine truly is to your energy levels.

As daily dosage increases, effects become more pronounced, leading to anxiety and jitteriness. The bodies’ response to significant amounts of caffeine is very similar to that

of a frightening event, commonly known as “fight or flight.” Studies show that this sudden release of adrenaline can worsen anxiety or even trigger a panic attack. Synonymous with the symptoms of anxiety, one too many cups of joe may leave you feeling incredibly nervous and moody.

While some products may voluntarily list their caffeine content, there’s no labeling standard in the United State. Caffeine

comes in a multitude of forms: painkillers, soft drinks, and even candies. Even a product as seemingly innocent as coffee can vary widely in its caffeine content, with many consumers none-the-wiser. So take the time to read the labels, or do some research. Find out how much caffeine is in your daily fix; it may be worth cutting back.

— Audrey Smith is a senior at Longview High School.

HUDSON |Continued from page 4 students are making an impact in the lives of others while also learning.

In the classroom, they will often have hands-on assignments, such as transformation of their room into interactive activities.

Students performed surgery on math facts a short while ago while dressed as physicians, stethoscopes, and surgical gloves with artificial bags of blood and plasma. Most recently, science rooms were transformed into “Toy Story” and “Mario”to review science learning. In the last week of April and the first of May, 5th graders took part in Science Camp and 4th graders had a Beach Day and a Glow day to review for the STAAR. For Earth Day, 1st graders

took part in numerous activities, including adopting animals and watching the butterfly’s life cycle. The 2nd graders each chose a famous American, learned speeches, and recited them in front of an audience while dressed up as them for the class and virtually for parents. Third graders learned the importance of the planet when they planted a tree for Earth Day, as well as learning the qualities of art during a virtual tour of the Longview Museum of Fine Arts.

From within the class to outside adventures, learning impacts the big and small.

Hudson PEP students receive a well-rounded and balanced education.

“Not only is the curriculum

rigorous but the students have voice and agency in their learning. They are thinkers and inquirers who are constantly thinking out of the box,” Principal Wilson said. “Only about 7-10 students come to Hudson PEP as identified Gifted and Talented students but by the time they are 5th graders, over half of the class has been identified because of the rigor of the thinking required to be a successful student at Hudson PEP.” On Monday, May 17, students in the band, choir, and orchestra will be competing at the Sound Post Music Festival. On Friday, May 14, 5th graders will be visiting Judson, followed by a visit to Foster on Tuesday, May 18.

After their middle school visits, the 5th-grade students will be competing in the 5th Grade Olympics on Wednesday, May 19, at the Lobo Stadium. The next day, students from 3rd to 5th grade will be taking part in Field Day and 1st and 2nd graders will ‘Splash’ their way into the last few days of school on the 20th.

“We have learned a lot about how important it is to have our students in school in the primary grades,” Principal Wilson said. “Learning to read and learn basic facts are the foundation to their current and future academic success. We have been blessed that most of our students chose to be in school.”

Page 20

THE LONGVIEW VOICE — May 2021

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