EAST TEXAS REVIEW NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION by infinitieplus magazine

Stay on good terms with each other, held together by love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when it’s needed. - Hebrews 13: 1 MSG

The community COMMUNITY . GOSPEL . BUSINESS . EDUCATION . HEALTH . POLITICS . OPINION Complimentary Copy

Vol. 29

NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION

Longview Police Officers Johnny Lyons and Luke Altman at Hooray for Heroes parade

July 7, 2021

HOORAY FOR HEROES

Julie Woods, Fire Chief JP Steelman, Longview Mayor, Dr. Andy Mack and Police Chief Mike Bishop

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Home Repairs for Veterans Northeast Texas Habitat receives grant Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity, Inc. recently announced that it has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Fund for Veterans Assistance- Homes for Texas Heroes program. The grant is designated to correct health and safety

Brynn Woods and Realtor Brandi Russell at Hooray for Heroes parade

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INSIDE: Historic Relief for American Families

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Careful: God at Work

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Summer Reading Club Opens

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“The Wizard of Oz“ Online.

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Contd. on Page 7

“KC attracted many top candidates – both in Texas and out-of-state – for this position,” said Dr. Brenda Kays, president.

Texas has jobs galore

Dr. Staci Martin

Contd. on Page 7

Texas extends Senate passes emergency farm aid SNAP benefits By ETR staff report The state’s Center for Rural Affairs is praising the U.S. Senate for its passage of the Growing Climate Solutions Act. The legislation breezed to acceptance by a 92-8 vote. The Center’s Senior Policy Associate Kayla Bergman explained the bill’s significance. Contd. on Page 3

Texas Legislature shows Railroad Commission support Contd. on Page 5

Dr. Staci Martin named KC’s vice president of student services, athletic director The Kilgore College Board of Trustees approved at its last meeting Dr. Staci Martin as the new vice president of student services and athletic director.

Battalion Chief Michael Wylie and Section Chief of Training Andy Parker at Hooray for Heroes parade

hazards in the homes of military veterans residing in Gregg, Harrison, and Upshur counties. This year marks the fifth year that NE Texas Habitat has partnered with the Texas Veterans Commission to serve local veterans.

Contd. on Page 2

Contd. on Page 5

“Texas Proud, Texas Strong, Texas Ready, Texas Booming says Texas Work Commission.”” Texas has jobs—almost a million plus.”

Contd. on Page 3

TWC opens childcare subsidy program to workers engaged in job searches The subsidized childcare program is funded by a federal grant, which provides the state the flexibility to expand to this population. Contd. on Page 3

COMMUNITY

J uly 7, 2021

HOORAY FOR HEROES Local business honors law enforcement By Joycelyne Fadojutimi www.easttexasreview.com

The build up to this year’s local Independence Day celebration was significantly patriotic. It included a parade in sincere appreciation for Longview’s police officers and firefighters. This event dubbed Hooray for Heroes is the brainchild, of Julie Woods President and CEO of Julie Woods and Associates Real Estate Firm. The parade procession included grateful local residents who jumped at this opportunity to express their gratitude to the city’s most vital public servants. Moreover, participants who did not have time to decorate their cars were in good hands because Longview Public Library Youth Service Supervisor Jenna Yeakley and her volunteers donned such vehicles for the parade at Longview Public Library parking lot. It is import-

Longview Police Officers Misty Ryan and Maira Villela

ant to remember that local law enforcement is of the essential services everyday, 24/7, 365 days in the year. As a matter of fact, the work very long hours doing more than a fair share of essential service in these unprecedented times. In this case, the COVID-19 epidemic has forced police to take on more than their usual workload, and they have done this gladly and efficiently without any decrease in their ongoing toils to ensure public safety. In the same fashion, the Longview Fire Department found time to test 685 inmates in the Gregg County jail, and 2389 local nursing home residents for COVID-19. In like manner, Longview police officers, were on hand to protect peaceful protesters, and not only from potential violence

Longview Police Officers Johnny Lyons and Luke Altman

- they provided the demonstrators with cool bottled water in the sweltering East Texas heat. All this considered, the appreciation parade was not only a great success, but a foregone conclusion in light of the police and fire departments’ sterling recent performances. For one thing, Hooray for Heroes Parade was very appropriate in light of how the city’s police and firemen use their own, department vehicles as escorts and for safety during sundry parades and for funeral processions. “At a time when our communities and country are in upheaval, we need to remember to thank the GOOD law enforcement officers for doing their GOOD work,” said Julie Woods. “They have been essential employees through this en-

Battalion Chief Michael Wylie and Section Chief of Training Andy Parker

Sheronda Baker with Walmart passing out Patriotic Bomb Pop popsicles!

“There will probably never be a time in any of our lives where we face the eminent danger our police and firefighters face. It may not happen today or tomorrow or the next day, but it will happen. And when it does, and their live lives are on the line, be thankful for the job they are doing. I know I am, and I pray for them daily. The sacrifices both they and their families make do not go unnoticed. Thank you both Police and Firefighters for keeping Longview safe.” Longview Mayor, Dr. Andy Mack tire COVID-19 crisis and deserve an ‘Atta boy and Atta girl.’” Longview Mayor, Dr. Andy Mack put it succinctly. “There will probably never be a time in any of our lives where we face the eminent danger our police and firefighters face. It may not happen today or tomorrow or the next day, but it will happen,” he said. “And when it does, and their live lives are on the line, be thankful for the job they are doing. I know I am, and I pray for them daily. The sacrifices both they and their families make do not go unnoticed. Thank you both Police and Firefighters for keeping Longview safe.”

COMMUNITY

J uly 7, 2021

Texas has jobs galore “Texas Proud, Texas Strong, Texas Ready, Texas Booming says Texas Work Commission.”” Texas has jobs—almost a million plus.” By ETR staff report Now that summer is has fully arrived, East Texans are getting really busy. With the current trend toward falling unemployment the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is heartily assisting in putting Texans to work and showing others how to improve in-demand job skills and move into more lucrative careers. Twenty-eight statewide local workforce development boards and a full 180 workforce solutions throughout Texas are at the disposal of those seeking after employment. By connecting potential employers with job seekers these organs excel at creating and providing personalized and customized business solutions for all staffing needs. The TWC is furthermore supporting childcare initiatives for parents heading back into the workforce. The Com-

mission has adopted a waiver permitting the unemployed to enroll in a childcare subsidy program. In the past, only those who were already employed or were participating in education or training were eligible for this resource. This new expansion of eligibility requirements will assist workers who are still, actively looking for jobs, allowing them as much as three months to find employment. The TWC is encouraging Texas families to take advantage of this expanded childcare resource along with training and upskilling options through the Commission. Along with the childcare subsidy the TWC has introduced a new aspect to the Restaurant Recovery Initiative that offers no-cost, flexible online training to prepare potential restaurant workers for jobs in the least possible time while still providing bountiful services to the Tex-

as workforce and employers. This new Restaurant Recovery Training certification is collaborating with the Texas Restaurant Association in an excellent example of how to provide and exploit tools to further connect Texans with employment. The TWC is also partnering with Metrix Learning to supply 5000-plus free classes from leadership to Microsoft to healthcare. This enables industrious Texans to sharpen their skills in preparation for landing top employment op-

portunities. The Metrix online learning platform offers free online job readiness courses. There are jobs in the Great State. Those who are interested can look them up at MyTXCareer.com and WorkinTexas. com. Training opportunities are listed and elaborated on at https://www.twc.texas.gov/ news/twc-opens-child-caresubsidy-program-workersengaged-job-searches. These sites are the first (and promising) steps in finding the best jobs and careers in Texas.

childcare is frequently cited by individuals on unemployment as a major impediment to getting a job. “TWC is committed to providing comprehensive services to help Texas job seekers connect to rewarding opportunities with Texas employers,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “I encourage Texas families to take advantage of the expanded availability of childcare, as well as training and upskilling services through TWC, to pursue a career in Texas’ exciting industries.” The subsidized childcare program is funded by a federal

grant, which provides the state the flexibility to expand to this population. The commissioners will waive the rules effective July 1, 2021, through September 30, 2022. “Texas Workers have faced many challenges over the last year but getting back on their feet after so long has been particularly difficult,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “This is a step we can take that preserves the focus of the program on working families but provides help in that crucial job-search period.” Parents in the program receive a subsidy for childcare, with a co-

pay based on actual income. The changes will allow the parents to qualify for childcare with the copay waived until a job is found. The copay would then be put in place at the appropriate level after the individual is employed. “Texas employers are rebounding from the pandemic and have job openings they are anxious to fill,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “For some Texans looking for a job, childcare is that last piece of the puzzle that will help them re-enter the workforce and this program is win-win situation for both the employers and employees.”

TWC OPENS CHILDCARE continued from page 1

AUSTIN – The Texas Workforce Commission recently passed a waiver of a rule to allow unemployed individuals to enroll in the childcare subsidy program. Previously, only individuals who were already employed, or participating in education/ training, could be enrolled into the childcare subsidy program. This change will help accommodate workers who are actively looking for employment, allowing them up to three months to find employment. The program is designed to assist working families; thus, it is generally not available to parents who are not employed. However, lack of TEXAS EXTENDS continued from page 1

From left to right: Cody Taylor, Sloan Rodberg, Eric McKnight, Kris McMillen, Bubba Perry, Dusty Burks, George Glenn and Eddie Haywood.

From left to right: Robert Collins, Trent Montgomery, Justin Cameron, Ryan Nicholson, Assistant Chief of Operations Brian Jones, NAME, Kyle Sands, and James Cooper.

Mayor Andy Mack and LHS Viewette Elle Woods

AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is providing approximately $262 million in emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) food benefits for the month of July as the state continues its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Thank you to HHSC for continuing to provide these crucial food benefits to

so many Texas families,” said Governor Abbott. “With the support of HHSC and the USDA, families across the state can continue to put food on the table for their loved ones.” “As the pandemic continues to impact Texas families, we will continue to provide support to these families through emergency SNAP benefits, which allow the purchases of healthy, nutritious foods,” said Texas HHS Access and Eligibility Services Deputy Executive Commissioner Wayne Salter. HHSC received federal approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to extend the maximum, allowable amount of SNAP benefits to recipients based on family size, and all SNAP households will receive a minimum of $95 in emergency allotments. The emergency July allotments are in ad-

dition to the more than $3.69 billion in benefits previously provided to Texans since April 2020. Recipients will also continue to receive a 15 percent increase in their total benefits, which will continue monthly until September 2021. This 15 percent increase and the additional emergency allotment amount should appear in recipients’ accounts by July 31. Administered by HHSC, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately 1.6 million eligible low-income families and individuals in Texas. Texans in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP and Medicaid, at YourTexasBenefits.com or use the Your Texas Benefits mobile app to manage their benefits.

OPINION

J uly 7, 2021

Historic relief for American families is on its way to your bank account If you are a parent, odds are you will be getting a direct deposit very soon. By Karen Dolan Did you hear the good news? If you are a parent or a single, low-income worker, more historic relief is on its way to your bank account. From July 15 through the end of the year, most families with children under 18 will receive between $250 and $300 per child, per month. This is because the American Rescue Plan, passed by Democrats in Congress and signed into law by President Biden this past March, helps families by expanding the Child Tax Credit (CTC) for 2021. Also expanded for 2021 are the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), which benefits childless working people with low incomes, and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) for qualifying caretakers with certain dependent care expenses. Under the expanded CTC, the largest of these benefits, most parents will see monthly deposits in their bank accounts between July 15 and December 15. If you are a single parent who makes less than $112,000 per year — or you and your spouse, make less than $150,000 combined — you will get $300 a month per child under 6. For older kids, you will get $250. If you are better off, you can still qualify for partial benefits. The White House website says payments will go out to all households headed by couples with annual incomes under $400,000, or single parents with incomes less than $200,000. How do you receive this tax benefit? If you qualify and filed federal income taxes

From July through December, every parent of kids under 6 will receive $300 per month, per child under the American ReAscue Plan. (Shutterstock)

for 2019 and 2020, or if you previously signed up to receive your stimulus check, you do not need to do anything. Checks will either be mailed to you or directly deposited in your bank account. If you did not earn enough in the last two years to file taxes, you can simply follow the directions posted on the White House website and sign up as a non-filer. You will get half of this extended tax credit monthly this year and the second half of it when you file your 2021 taxes next year. These payments could be life-changing for millions of people. One analysis projects that the expanded CTC alone will reduce the number of children living in poverty by nearly half. For these kids, the benefits will follow well into adulthood. According to the advocacy organization Zero to Three, infants and toddlers are the demographic that not only experiences the greatest poverty but are also most likely to experience lifelong negative consequences from it. Lifting these

J uly 7, 2021

THANK YOU

to those businesses helping at this time

young children out of poverty now will pay off for their entire lives. The expanded CTC will also reduce the income disparity between rural families and non-rural families and reduce the racial income gap. Currently two in five babies and toddlers live in low-income households, including three in five in Black families and more than half in Latinx families. The costs to the present and future of our society from this deep inequality are great. And the benefits in brain development, long-term educational success, and earning potential that will result from these expanded and fully refundable tax credits are critical to a healthy and more equitable society. The next step is to make these tax credits permanent. President Biden’s American Families Plan seeks to keep the expansion for everyone extended through 2025 and permanently help these credits reach people who are too poor to file taxes. Another proposal by Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) would go further, making the expansion of all three credits permanent. The good news is that for this year, this benefit is on its way. The potentially better news is that the American Families Plan, if it is passed by Congress, will extend that expansion, and achieve a historic reduction in child poverty. Karen Dolan directs the Criminalization of Race and Poverty Project at the Institute for Policy Studies. This op-ed was distributed by OtherWords.org.

There is no “labor shortage.”. There is a wage shortage To find workers, there is a free-enterprise solution right at employers’ fingertips: raise pay, improve conditions, and show respect. By Jim Hightower At a recent congressional hearing on America’s so-called “labor shortage,” megabanker Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase, offered this insight: “People actually have a lot of money, and they don’t particularly feel like going back to work.” Dimon is a billionaire who may be unaware that most people are living paycheck to paycheck. Since COVID-19 hit, millions have lost their jobs, savings, and even homes. Relief measures have helped, but ordinary people are not exactly lollygagging around the house, counting their cash. Instead of listening to the uber-rich class ignorance of Dimon (who pocketed $35 million in pay last year), Congress ought to be listening to actual workers explain why they are not rushing back to the jobs being offered by restaurant chains and such. These workers would point out that there is no labor shortage — there is a wage shortage. More fundamentally, there is a fairness shortage. It was not lost on restaurant workers, for example, that while millions of them were

jobless last year, their corporate CEOs were grabbing millions, buying yachts, and living large. Yet more than half of laid-off restaurant workers could not even get unemployment benefits because their wages had been too low to qualify. Then there is the high risk of COVID exposure for restaurant employees, an appalling level of sexual harassment in their workplace, and demeaning treatment from abusive bosses and customers. No surprise, then, that more than half of employees said in a recent survey that they are not going back to those jobs. After all, even a dog knows the difference between being stumbled over and being kicked. So rather than demanding that government officials force workers to return to the old exploitative system, corporate giants should try the free-enterprise solution right at their fingertips: Raise pay,

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improve conditions, and show respect. In short, create a place where people want to work! For a straightforward view from workers themselves, go to OneFairWage.site. OtherWords columnist Jim Hightower is a radio commentator, writer, and public speaker. Distributed by OtherWords.org.

STATE/NATIONAL TEXAS LEGISLATURE continued from page 1

The RRC’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on Sept. 1, was approved at $144.4 million, which enables the agency to continue to fulfill its most caritical mission of protecting public safety and the environment.

AUSTIN – Texas owes much to its abundance of energy resources, which the Railroad Commission oversees. The oil and gas industry accounts for roughly 30% of the state’s economy, including $16.3 billion in royalties and taxes paid in 2019, according to the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association. The Texas Legislature, recognizing the importance of these resources to the state, showed continued support for the RRC by approving most of the Commission’s requests during its recent session, which ended on May 31. The RRC’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins on Sept. 1, was approved at $144.4 million, which enables the agency to continue to fulfill its most critical mission of protecting public safety and the environment. The agency regulates the broad spectrum of the state’s vital energy industry, including oil and gas; surface mining of coal and uranium; the alternative fuels of LNG, CNG, and LPG; intrastate pipelines and natural gas utilities. The Legislature’s funding allows the RRC to continue its important work in permitting, compliance and enforcement. The RRC will also be working on weatherization regulations to secure critical gas infrastructure.

RRC’s track record of meeting legislative targets speaks for itself with the agency, despite the pandemic, having already exceeded or on track to exceed legislative goals for the current fiscal year, which ends August 31. Examples of goals already exceeded include: Number of oil and gas well and facility inspections performed: exceeded the 189,367 goal four months ahead of schedule in April. Number of accident and special pipeline investigations: exceeded the 1,200 target in April. In recent years, the RRC has been working to modernize its computing systems and move away from its reliance on its aging mainframe system. In its last session, the Legislature provided $21.5 million in House Bill 2 for RRC’s Mainframe Transformation Phase 2. That project will move several permitting processes off the current mainframe system into a more robust cloudbased platform, which further improve efficiencies at the agency and make more data readily available to the public. Challenges still lie ahead. Despite the price of oil being above $70 per barrel, there has been a slow recovery in drilling permit activity, which has not yet reached pre-pandemic levels. But the agency is keeping a watch on various points of data to track rebounds in the industry.

SENATE PASSES FARM AID continued from page 1

“Carbon payment programs offer a financial opportunity for farmers voluntarily implementing important conservation on their farms,” she said. “While there has been growing excitement for these programs, we are now at a point where setting standard protocols is necessary.” Bergman also applauded the bill’s bi-partisan sponsorship. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE,) Joni Ernst (R-IA,) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) joined with Sen-

ators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI,) Mike Braun (R-IN,) Lindsey Graham (R-SC,) Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI,) and forty-seven of their colleagues in the bill’s co-sponsorship. “The large group of bi-partisan legislators sponsoring this bill, including senators from our heartland states, demonstrates broad support for giving America’s farmers a role in ongoing efforts to address climate change,” said Bergman. Continued on page 7

GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT

J uly 7, 2021

CAREFUL: GOD AT WORK

One morning, a man seeking direction in his life was going through his mail. He had prayed earnestly for direction from God, but it never seemed to come. On this day, however, things changed. Tucked away in the pile of mail he was sorting through was a magazine that was addressed to his neighbor. He looked at the cover and saw an article entitled, “The Needs of the Congo.” His curiosity got the best of him, so he opened the magazine and read the article. It touched his heart deeply. For days he prayed about its contents and the opportunities and challenges it represented. Finally, one day he declared, “My search is over.” He went to the Congo, lost himself in his work, and became a great medical missionary and author. Ultimately, he received the Nobel Peace Prize for his work. Albert Schweitzer was a theologian, philosopher, organist, and physician. But

one day, he set it all aside and became a medical missionary where he lost himself in God’s will doing God’s work among the lost and dying in God’s world. Wherever we are is where God wants us to be! Was it an accident that the mailman put the magazine in the wrong mailbox? Of course not. He too was doing God’s work even though he did not know it. Although some may consider it an “accident” it was actually “an act of God” to get Schweitzer’s attention. Prayer: How marvelous are the different ways, Lord You use to get our attention to do Your will. May we be alert to see and hear what You have for us to do TODAY! In Jesus’ Name, Amen. Scripture For Today: Romans 8:28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

One of the most common questions of persons who are in the One of themidst mostofcommon questions whoHow are in the grief is some variationofofpersons “how long?” long will midst of grief ispain some variation ofbefore “howI long?” longlike willI did this last? How long am able How to function this pain last? How long before I am able to function like I did before? How long before I stop crying whenever someone before? How long before I stop crying whenever someone mentions the name? mentions the name? We think sometimes thinkas ofagrief as a condition - an illness V. Stanmore Director We sometimes of grief condition - an illness that that V. Stanmore Director has to run a course. particularWith course. With or a cold flu,can we take can take has to run a particular a cold flu,or we that in a we few will days recover. we will recover. Webe will be back to normal. Allsigns signs of of comfort that comfort in a few days We will back to normal. All the be illness will be merely a memory. the illness will merely a memory. Grief is not or an aillness or a disease. It is a transition.We do not better.We We Grief is not an illness disease. It is a transition.We do not getget better. reconstruct in of thethe faceloss. of theWe loss. We learn to live with that loss.Grief Grief is is aa reconstruct our lives inour thelives face learn to live with that loss. difficult journey. We may experience allof sorts of emotions - guilt, anger,sadness, sadness, difficult journey. We may experience all sorts emotions - guilt, anger, loneliness to name may find it difficult to concentrate, distressedby by so so loneliness - to name a- few. Wea few. mayWe find it difficult to concentrate, distressed many We memories. We may hurt physically, less than best. may many memories. may hurt physically, feelingfeeling less than our our best. It It may the we waysbehave. that we We behave. Wefind mayourselves find ourselves avoiding othersororangry angry influence theinfluence ways that may avoiding others the normal of may life. We may struggle withfaith, our faith, trying sortout outall all at the normalatirritants ofirritants life. We struggle with our trying to to sort our whyto this had to happen. our questions ofquestions why thisofhad happen.

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EDUCATION

J uly 7, 2021

Dr. Staci Martin named KC’s vice president of student services, athletic director

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The Kilgore College Board of Trustees approved at its last meeting Dr. Staci Martin as the new vice president of student services and athletic director. “KC attracted many top candidates – both in Texas and out-of-state – for this position,” said Dr. Brenda Kays, president. “We interviewed well-qualified yet unique candidates who each brought a distinctive skill set, perspective and philosophy to the position.” “Dr. Martin has a proven and admirable track record at the college, and I know that she will do a stellar job with her new role at KC,” Kays said. “We look forward to her leadership as we continue to reimagine and build on the vibrant student life experience and student services at the college.” A native of Daingerfield, Martin has 24 years of higher education experience with 17 years in student services and 15 years in a leadership role.

Martin has worked at KC since 2001, serving as assistant registrar from 2001-05, associate registrar from 200507, the registrar and director of admissions from 2007-14, and as vice president of institutional planning since 2014. She has also been voted outstanding employee of the year in her employment category three times. “I am honored that the board of trustees and President Brenda Kays have entrusted me with this new role. I have a passion for providing high-quality student services and look forward to making a positive impact on the student experience at Kilgore College,” Martin said. “It is also my privilege to provide administrative leadership to KC’s tradition-rich athletic programs and the worldfamous Kilgore College Rangerettes.” Martin will fill the position of Dr. Mike Jenkins, who has

been named the college’s executive vice president of internal collaboration and strategic initiatives. She also takes over some the responsibilities of Jimmy Rieves who retired in March as KC’s athletic director. Martin is scheduled to assume the new position on July 16. Martin graduated from Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, earned a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas A&M University-Texarkana and earned a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Administration from Texas Tech University. She began her professional career as a middle school math instructor at Atlanta Independent School District from 1992-95, then taught eighth grade math at Redwater Independent School District

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from 1995-96. From 1997-2001, Martin worked for Texas State Technical College where she served as student recruiting officer from 1997-98, placement officer from 199899 and coordinator of student marketing from 2000-01.

HOME REPAIRS FOR VETERANS continued from page 1

The Critical Repair program focuses on disrepairs that threaten the health or safety of the occupants and home modifications that allow full accessibility for persons living with disabilities. The organization expects to repair up to sixteen homes with the $200,000.00 award. “The men and women who wear the uniform of our nation care for us daily, having pledged their very lives to protect our nation and its sovereignty. It is our honor to care for them by assuring that they have the opportunity to maintain their dignity and independence in a safe and healthy home

environment,” said LaJuan Gordon, Chief Executive Officer of NE Texas Habitat. The program is available to military veterans in all the counties that Northeast Texas Habitat serves. For an application and eligibility information, visit www.netxhabitat.org or call 903-236-0900 ext. 204 or visit the Habitat offices located at 905 McCann Road, Longview, TX. And 401 S. Alamo St., Marshall. About Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity Northeast Texas Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit housing ministry dedicated to eradicating the devastating effects

of poverty housing. The organization founded in 1985 serves Gregg, Harrison, and Upshur counties. We partner with people to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through the creation of decent homes. Habitat assists in affordable homeownership, health, and safety hazard repair and operates a ReStore. To learn more, to volunteer, or to donate, visit www.netxhabitat.org or call 903236-0900 ext. 204. Improvement and donation center. To learn more, to volunteer, or to donate, visit www.netxhabitat.org or call 903236-0900 ext. 204.

SENATE PASSES FARM AID continued from page 5

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The Growing Climate Solutions Act establishes a certification program via the U.S. Department of Agriculture for private parties who collaborate with producers to establish payments for carbon sequestration. This program will develop baseline standards for carbon markets, thus hopefully making this tool more effective. “Carbon markets have tremendous potential,

but current versions vary widely in design and structure,” said Bergman. “We all want carbon markets to work. Developing a framework that includes basic standards and requirements is a critical step toward making this happen.” The companion bill was referred in April to the U.S. House of Representatives Agriculture Committee. It will have to pass

that body, then move to the floor for a vote to advance the legislation. The Center for Rural Affairs was established in 1973. It is a private, non-profit organization seeking to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities via action-oriented initiatives that address social, economic and environmental issues.

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Mission - Why We Exist To continuously improve communication between the people of East Texas. Vision - What We Want To Be One of the best community newspapers in the nation. Provider of positive and edifying News about people, place and businesses.

Publisher/Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi, PHD Marketing/PR Keisha Roland Contributing Writers Jim Hightower Karen Dolan Mechelle Agbayani Mills Graphic Artist Kuneho Designs Website Design Joe Fuentes CEO/Media Quest East Texas Review Newspaper is not responsible for any discrepancies or changes since the publishing of this issue. At the time of publication, to the best of our knowledge, all information was accurate though not guaranteed. The entire content of East Texas Review Newspaper is copyrighted 2020. Any reproduction of use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. East Texas Review Newspaper reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers does not necessarily reflect the views of East Texas Review Newspaper or its advertisers.

July 7, 2021

Bright Star Theatre Presents:

"The Wizard of Oz" Online

Sponsored by the City of Longview Water Department

Turn off lights when you leave the room or when you don’t need them!

Wood and fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are our main source of energy. We need to conserve these sources of energy. We also use water and solar power. We need to produce energy without polluting the environment. Conserving energy also helps control pollution. Bright Star Touring Theater Presents “The Wizard of Oz” Online, July 14, via the library’s There’s no place like watching The Wizard of Oz, from home. Our last Summer Reading Club Performer will be an online show from Bright Star Touring Theatre. A true touring theatre that has been all over the United States, Bright Star Theatre created programs that allow them to bring theatre to schools and communities that are often underserved by the arts and bring the magic of theatre

to young people who may not always have the chance to see it. They are sharing with us a special production of L. Frank Baum’s classic story: “The Wizard of Oz” Watch along with us via Facebook Premiere on July 14, at 10:30 AM on our main FB page. When you finish watching, come check out all the Oz books from the library to read at home. Their online video will remain up for a short time so you can catch it later, but do not wait too long. We will have to take it down eventually

and you do not want to miss out. Please call (903) 237-1345 if you have any questions.

J u ly 7, 2021

SUMMER READING CLUB OPENS No one wants to experience a “summer slide” in their reading skills.

Do not fall behind in your reading skills. The Longview Public Library is inviting students to embrace their inner animals and go wild with reading goals.

Moreover, celebrate the occasion with animal and pet stories, and attend some animal themed events. Attention parents and guardians, with Summer

Reading Club, (SRC) you can have fun and encourage students to learn and grow while on break. Longview Public Library incorporates daily educational and

entertaining activities for students that keep them engaged with learning and offer prize opportunities for completion of weekly reading goals and activities. SRC includes hybrid events. Some are offered online, and a few offered in person at the Longview Arboretum amphitheater, where you can watch performers outside, at a proper social distance. This year’s theme is “Tails, Tales, and St-ROAR-ies!”

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J u ly 7, 2021

J uly 7, 2021

J u ly 7, 2021

COMMUNITY / EDUCATION NEWS

Kathryn Pedroza crowned as Miss ETBU 2021 By

nication major Kathryn Junior organizational commuas, is crowned as Miss Tex , eld nsfi Ma Pedroza, from 0, Haley Harmening. ETBU 2021 by Miss ETBU 202

Kathryn Pedroza, a junior organizational communication major from Mansfield, Texas, was recently crowned the 65th Miss ETBU. Pedroza, who embodies the spirit of what it means to be a Christian servant leader on campus and in the community, was selected from nine contestants during the annual pageant sponsored by ETBU’s Student Government Association. Sophomore English education major Leah Akridge was first runner-up, and senior music education major Anissa Mott was second runner-up. “We had a wonderful group of applicants this year,” Associate Vice President for Student Engagement Blair Prevost said. “The judges, along with the students, faculty, and staff who voted, had any number of out-

SYDNEY MCBRIDE

Sophomore English education major Leah Akridge (pictured right) was selected as first runner-up, and senior music education major Anissa Mott (pictured left) was selected as second runner-up.

standing candidates to choose from. After being away from campus last year, we were excited for the Miss ETBU selection process to take place in person again…support ETBU Throughout her time at ETBU, Pedroza has been involved on campus through her membership of the traditions committee of Student Foundation, where she is involved in the planning and volunteering of events on campus, works as a student worker in the ETBU Marketing and Communication Department, and was recently inducted into Lambda Pi Eta, the communication honor society. Additionally, Pedroza will serve as a Resident Assistant for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year. Off-campus, she is actively involved at Mobberly Bap-

tist Church in Longview where she leads worship every Sunday morning, serves as a small group leader, and creates content and takes pictures for social media. “Being involved is important to me so that I can see how the University works, understand students' attitudes and beliefs, and know how to use that knowledge to help everyone have a great experience on the Hill,” Pedroza said. “I can do that through being president of Student Foundation, as a resident director, or through just being a friend. I seek to be intentional about knowing the people around me so that I can have really fun and also really tough conversations that share the love of Christ.” As Miss ETBU 2021, Pedroza

ETBU’s Student Government Association sponsored the 65th Miss ETBU on Monday, April 26. Pictured from left to right are the nine contestants, Anissa Mott, Abby Jones, Elizabeth Wisinger, Brittany Johnson, Kathryn Pedroza, Bailey Bradley, Sarah Ashcraft, Haleigh Akin, and Leah Akridge.

receives a generous academic scholarship as well as the opportunity to represent the University throughout the community and region. “I hope to build intentional relationships, bring different groups together on campus, and represent ETBU in a way that is honest and glorifies Christ,” Pedroza said. “As Miss ETBU, I want to intentionally build relationships with the people around me so that I can learn how to best serve those of the ETBU community...experience.” “It is so encouraging to be first runner-up for Miss ETBU,” Akridge said. “ETBU is all about community, and that has been a tremendous part of my experience. Being able to represent a school that pours into us in such a Christ-like manner and being able to be a Christ-like role model to our community is a tremendous opportunity to have even as a runner-up.” Haley Harmening, Miss ETBU 2020, shared her encouragement with the 2021 recipient. “I want Kathryn to know that her leadership means a lot on campus and this is definitely a God-ordained thing so she should take it with honor and with humility,” Harmening said. “I also encourage her to just love the people around her and be willing to be flexible and take initiative…Miss ETBU2021 Sydney McBride is Communication Coordinator, East Texas Baptist University McBride can be reached at 903.923.2130 | smcbride@ etbu.edu www.etbu.edu

COMMUNITY HEALTH

J uly 7, 2021

Women’s Health receives a Boost

Carlos E. Quezada, MD, FACOG: Innovative, multilingual, trailblazer in robotic surgery, topmost physician makes Longview, Texas home By Joycelyne Fadojutimi Longview Regional Medical Center has hired board-certified gynecologist/obstetrician Dr. Carlos Enrique Quezada. In view of present health trends, COVID-19 is not the only health threat faced by East Texas ladies. WOMEN’S HEALTH AND FIBROIDS A 2016, National Institute of Health research indicates that fibroids affect 65% of all women by the time they reach age fifty. As many as half of all afflicted women experience severe menstrual periods that lead to pain, reproductive problems, depression, emotional problems, and menstrual bleeding so copious it causes anemia. Along these lines, uterine fibroids are the leading cause of hysterectomies in American women. Consequently, uterine fibroids is a major public health problem resulting in $34.4 billion in medical costs annually without the desired results. Quezada aims to educate individual women on their specific and personal health issues, thus lessen the need for hysterectomies that results in early menopause and hot flashes. Although during his twenty-one years of treating and caring for women, he has dealt with several kinds of medical problems, he specializes in gynecology, obstetrics, minimally invasive gynecological surgery, infertility, and hormone replacement therapy. He is a trailblazer in robotic surgery for various female pelvic issues, including pelvic reconstruction. He hopes to use all his skills to decrease the need for hysterectomies. “There are some procedures I want to bring,” he says. “It will bring improved outcomes with-

out having a hysterectomy.” Quezada can best be described as a mixture of state-of-the-art cutting edge technology Doc. found in big cities, but who is actually a small town kid, loves country music, matured in the U.S. Navy, is fervently proud of his Texas heritage, is a dedicated husband, father and brother with a touch of Latino flare. He also has a predilection for smaller cities like Longview, Texas. “We went all over the world when I was in the United States Navy,” he says. “When I got to San Antonio in 2011, it was not the same town I [had] left. It had gotten very big. I was missing the feeling of my small town.” Longview’s size and modest night life also appeal to this devoted healer. “I like the community,” he says. “The drive [to work] is quick, and at my age, I don’t need night clubs.” FAMILY AND FAITH His devotion to family and faith is also remarkable. Now that his children are grown, he has more time to dote on his adoring wife Christie and worshipping at their non-denominational church. “I am madly in love with my wife,” he says. “I cannot be who I am without her. We are looking forward to putting down deeper roots and making Longview our home.” EDUCATION A native of Laredo, Quezada was four when he accompanied his adoptive grandparents to San Antonio, where he became an ardent San Antonio Spurs fan. After attending South San West Campus, he moved on to Palo Alto College and served as

president of Alpha Theta Pi honor society. He pulled down his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and joined the Pre-Med Honor Society. DR. CARLOS QUEZADA Furthermore, he attended the University of Texas Health Science up in Longview, and now call Center in San Antonio with a it home. Considering his endfull scholarship from the Navy, less litany of credits, he is a true earning his Doctor of Medicine blessing to his new port of call, degree. While still in medical Longview Texas. school he established the MiliQuezada is board-certified by tary Medical Honor Society be- the American Board of Obstetfore joining the Navy and com- rics and Gynecology, worked as pleting a residency in obstetrics Chief of Obstetrics and Gyneand gynecology at the San Di- cology at the naval hospital in ego-based Naval Medical Cen- Bremerton, Washington, where ter in 2003. After twelve years of he was also adjunct faculty for touring the world in the Navy, the Family Medicine Program. he returned to San Antonio. He also served as adjunct faculMILITARY SERVICE ty at Christus Santa Rosa Family Quezada spent a total of six- Medical Center in San Antonio, teen years in the Navy, being and for the Obstetrics and Gynestationed at various points of cology residency at University call in Europe, Asia, and all Hospital in San Antonio. across America, and rising to the AWARDS rank of lieutenant commander. He has earned numerous He now heals as a civilian. awards and recognitions along EXPERTISE AND with his professional memberEXPERIENCE ships. He is a member of the Dr. Quezada is a fellow of the American Congress of ObstetAmerican College of Obstetrics rics and Gynecology, the Amerand Gynecology (ACOG,) a ican Association of Gynecologic past member of the Texas Med- Laparoscopists, and the Ameriical Association, the American can Institute of Ultrasound MedCollege of Obstetrics and Gy- icine. He maintains his certificanecology, Bexar County Med- tion with the American Board ical Society, and the Mexican of Obstetrics and Gynecology. American Hispanic Physicians While in the service he served in Association. While with ACOG, the US Navy Medical Corps. His he served as treasurer for Sec- ability to speak English, Spanish tion V, District XI, representing and Italian is another blessing San Antonio in women’s health for his patients. matters. Although they folFor more information and/ lowed a long and winding road or to schedule an appointment he and Christie finally pitched please call (903) 753-7658.