EAST TEXAS REVIEW NEWSPAPER

Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. I Corinthians 13:7-8 NIV

C O M M U N I T Y,

E D U C A T I O N ,

B U S I N E S S ,

P O L I T I C S

&

R E L I G I O N

Complimentary Copy

Vol. 29

N E W S September 27, 2018

NEWSPAPER IN EDUCATION STEAM Classroom Spotlight Page 9

Let’s go to...

The Pumpkin Patch!

Page 12

BOND TALKS Citizens Say Yea or Ney

Fall Sports Action!

Page 13

Continued on Page 2, 3, 15

OCTOBER IS DRUG PREVENTION Proper Disposal of Prescriptions

LRMC hosts NICU Reunion

AUTO MECH:

A WINNER

“Our administration and technology personnel care about every student, and they are eager to make sure every student has what they need in every class to be successful.

It is nice to work in a school district where the upper level people work hard for the students to have a better life.”

Richard Westbrook, Pine Tree High School Automotive Mechanics Instructor

MickeyMouseandSophiaposewithNICUgraduates.

By Joycelyne Fadojutimi

L See Page 8

Officer Robert L. “Robby” Brian Jr. Page 7

ongview Regional Medical Center’s (LRMC) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) recently held a reunion for its young patients and their loved ones. The yearly get-together used a Dr. Seuss-type “Oh, the Places You Will Go” theme to entertain the kiddoes. There were also games, character guests, face painting, bounce house, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, pony rides, food and yet other attractions with the Summit Club serving as venue.

Continue on Page 3

Full story on page 10

Sonya Lee Jones and Kaiden Daniels.

See page 9

Superintendent Steven Snell

See page 9

By Joycelyne Fadojutimi

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COMMUNITY NEWS

City of Longview 2018 November Bond Election Frequently Asked Questions & Answers:

KNOW THE NUMBERS! 1. What will be the cost to the typical property owner?

The potential property tax increase is up to eight (.08) cents per $100 of valuation on my home. The average Longview single family home is valued at $128,000. For a family that owns a home in Gregg County that is valued at $128,000.00 by the Gregg County Appraisal District, then my potential tax increase is 1,280 x .08 = $102.40 per year. My property tax bill could increase up to $102.40 per year, or $8.53 per month.

2. When the bonds are approved, will my property taxes go up immediately?

No. The estimate of an eight cent (.08) increase is an estimate for the highest possible increase that may occur.

It would build up to that amount over a period of five years and go back down after approximately five years as the City of Longview continues to retire debt.

4.What about homeowners over age 65?

Homeowners over age 65 can have their property taxes frozen on their residence when they apply to the Gregg County Tax Appraisal District to do so. For homeowners over 65 that have frozen their property taxes, the estimated tax increase will not result in an increase to them for their residence.

5. How much tax debt does the City of Longview currently have?

The City of Longview currently has $64,210,000 outstanding in debt and the final payment will be June 2033.

6. Will the new bonds be issued all at once?

No. We anticipate issuing the debt in three installments approximately two years apart. We are not able to undergo construction on all projects immediately, so receiving funds in three installments allows us to phase in the estimated eight cent (.08) tax increase in over the next five years.

7. When will the new

bonds be paid off?

The bonds will be issued with a 20-year amortization schedule, so the final bond issue will be retired in June 2043.

8. Why can’t the City of Longview pay cash for these projects out of the annual operating budget?

The City of Longview annual operating budget is $69,548,752 for 2018/19 and covers all police, fire and emergency services as well as general operating costs for the City such as road maintenance and other essentials. There are not sufficient funds in the annual City budget to save up the necessary funds for these projects without a property tax increase larger than that estimated for the bonds. Similar to how individuals often take out a mortgage to buy a home, the City must take out a mortgage (issue bonds) to finance capital improvements to avoid imposing higher ongoing taxes on residents. The City also maintains a reserve fund with a minimum of 10% of the operating budget and currently the City of Longview has $12,196,218 in reserves.

9. How does Longview’s debt

burden compare to other cities our size, or even nationally?

Comparing Longview to 21 other Texas cities with populations ranging from 52,000 to 122,000, Longview (with a population of 82,000) ranks 4th lowest in debt per capita and 5th lowest in debt ratio.

Longview is also the 5th lowest in the amount of debt outstanding.

Debt is measured two ways: outstanding debt per capita and debt as a percentage of our tax base, called debt ratio.

The City’s per capita debt is $778 and the debt ratio is 1.1%.

10. What is the City’s bond credit rating?

The City has a “AA” rating with a “stable outlook,” which is an excellent rating for our size community. The highest possible rating is “AAA”.

11. How does the City come up with the costs for the projects included on the bond?

The cost estimates for all bond projects were prepared by City of Longview staff, which includes professional architects and engineers. As with any City project, the estimates must be designed to be commercial grade construction and any equipment withstand significant public use, including weather and potential vandalism that will be reliable construction and equipment for many years.

12. Why does the Police Department building cost so much?

The current cost estimate for the Longview Police Department is 33.4 million. The current LPD building was built in 1977 and was designed to house only 82 employees with 31,000 sq. ft. In 2018, LPD employs 234 individuals and must rent space to accommodate its employees.

Additionally, the technology necessary for LPD today is drastically different than what was available when the building was built in 1977. A police facility study informed the City of Longview that building a brand new facility would be less costly than attempting to renovate the current building as a result of those technology needs.

This cost estimate includes the cost of

land acquisition and the construction and complete outfitting of a state-of-the-art 66,412 sq. ft. Police Station with necessary technology for first responders and dispatch to provide public safety.

13. Will the bonds help the City of Longview save any money?

Yes. As a result of the bond projects, the City of Longview would be able to stop renting facilities for three different offices and house them in City owned buildings. This would result in a cost savings of more than $150,000 annually to the City of Longview.

14. I hear that Lear Park helps bring sales tax revenue into the City of Longview. Will the bond help this?

Yes. The bond proposes improvements and increased facilities at Lear Park. Lear Park is a sports facility that houses tournaments that draw teams and families to our community that spend funds locally that increases our sales tax revenue, as well as hotel occupancy taxes.

In 2017, we hosted 1514 teams here in Longview with an estimated 8,465 hotel room nigh stays from out of area team participants and $5.3 million in direct economic impact to our community.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

September 27, 2018 Continued from Page 1

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ongview Regional Medical Center’s (LRMC) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) recently held a reunion for its young patients and their loved ones. The yearly gettogether used a Dr. Seuss-type “Oh, the Places You Will Go” theme to entertain the kiddoes. There were also games, character guests, face painting, bounce house, arts and crafts, a petting zoo, pony rides, food and yet other attractions with the Summit Club serving as venue.

The Longview Regional NICU opened in 2013, and currently treats about 300 babies annually. Its care for these youngest citizens has been so loving and effective that the unit has earned Level III Neonatal Facility status from the Texas Department of State Health Services. This recognition is reserved for facilities providing 24hour, in-house coverage from specially trained personnel such as board-certified neonatalists, whose attention must be available 24 hours daily. Level III is the second-highest degree of neonatal care. Longview Regional’s earning this ranking is a reflection of its committment to insuring all at-risk newborns have the best possible treatment.

“Achieving this designation in our NICU is an indication of our elevated standard of neonatal care and is a reflection of the commitment we have made through the years to delivering the highest quality medical care to all newborns in Longview and the surrounding communities of East Texas,” said Chief Executive Officer Casey Robertson.

Texas law stipulates that all the state’s NICUs must apply for neonatal levels of care designation, then submit to challenging evaluation and verification so that the units reach demanding guidelines decided upon by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The NICU at LRMC has 21 beds set aside for the most seriously ill and premature babies, all of whom require highly specialized treatment.

The unit is equipped with the most up-to-date intensive care medical technology, operated by a compassionate, expert staff of health care providers.

“Parents can rest assured their babies are getting top-notch care in a setting that promotes family-centered care close to their family and support system,” said LRMC Director of Maternal and Child Services Kelly Chambliss.

For additional information on Longview Regional’s NICU and additional maternal and child services please visit www.longview.regional.com.

BOND TALKS Citizens Say Yea or Ney

JEREMIAH HUNTER

Jeremiah Hunter, Tea Party Chairman Do you support the bond?

I do not support the bonds, any of them. I am against them because they represent about a 130% increase in our City debt, and will require an approximate 16% increase in property taxes, which are already among the highest in our area. That alone is worth opposing it. The project estimates are ill-conceived and full of “pork.”

It is a lot of unnecessary spending on things that are not in the Comprehensive Plan, or are very low priority.

My suggestion on how the City can accomplish the Comprehensive

Plan, is first, to actually follow it.

This bond package is not following the Plan. The first items to be spent on, should start with the highest priority items first, and then work themselves down the list. The current bond proposal is a set of projects cherry-picked from the list, in seeming random order.

The other thing is that we need to save up cash for these projects and pay for them as we go. It is tremendously irresponsible to pile on massive debt and cause a dramatic raise in our taxes all at once (or in a short time.) All because we are impatient and want these things done NOW. Continued on Page 15

T:5.73”

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Mickey Mouse high fives children.

MarilynMariePetty,EmilyAnn,WillFisherandKathyGalvanAdam

visit us at www.easttexasreview.com EastTexasReview

EastTexasReview

etr_newspaper25

The odds listed here are the overall odds of winning any prize in a game, including break-even prizes. Lottery retailers are authorized to redeem prizes of up to and including $599. Prizes of $600 or more must be claimed in person at a lottery claim center or by mail, with a completed Texas Lottery® claim form; however, annuity prizes or prizes over $2,500,000 must be claimed in person at the Commission Headquarters in Austin. Call Customer Service at 800-375-6886 or visit the lottery website at txlottery.org for more information and location of nearest claim center. The Texas Lottery is not responsible for lost or stolen tickets, or for tickets lost in the mail. Tickets, transactions, players and winners are subject to, and players and winners agree to abide by, all applicable laws, Commission rules, regulations, policies, directives, instructions, conditions, procedures and final decisions of the Executive Director. A scratch ticket game may continue to be sold even when all the top prizes have been claimed. Must be 18 years of age or older to purchase a Texas Lottery ticket. The Texas Lottery supports Texas education and veterans. PLAY RESPONSIBLY. For help with a gambling problem, ncpgambling.org. © 2018 Texas Lottery Commission. All rights reserved.

T:10.16”

3. Are we retiring any debt currently?

Yes. The City of Longview retires approximately 4-5 million dollars in debt each year and this has been factored in to the estimates regarding

property tax increases.

September 27, 2018

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OPINION

September 27, 2018

NIKE SAYS ‘BELIEVE IN SOMETHING.’ CAN IT SACRIFICE SOMETHING, TOO?

V AMAZON IS MAKING WORKERS TWEET ABOUT HOW GREAT IT IS TO WORK THERE They even get bathroom breaks, they say. Doesn’t sound suspicious at all!

By Jessicah Pierre

“The company has made millions off Colin Kaepernick’s message. That money should go right back to the cause that message supports.

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exas Bank & Trust (TB&T) has published its list of Longviewarea high school seniors selected to sit on the 2018-2019 Student Board of Directors. This panel is a prestigious position that recognizes outstanding East Texas students. Sixty-five young scholars were chosen from Christian Heritage Classical, St. Mary’s Catholic, Trinity School of Texas, Longview High School, Pine Tree High School and Spring Hill High School to comprise the 41st senior class qualified to participate in Longview’s TB&T program.

A recent, TB&Tsponsored orientation reception was the venue for announcing the honored students. It was held in the bank’s main lobby in downtown Longview. Parents and school administrators were present.

The Student Board initiative is intended to educate students on banking and money management at a critical juncture in their lives.

It also gives youngsters

basic knowledge of the financial foundations of earning, spending, saving and investing.

This year’s crop of Student Board members will undergo a special program, titled “The L.I.F.E. (Living Institute for Financial Education) It will feature realistic simulation of their coming freshman years of college. Furthermore, they will work as bank advisors on products and services for a full year.

Since 1978, the Student Board has been the TB&T’s most enduring, effective financial learning curriculum.

Participating students are picked on the basis of grade point averages, extracurricular activities and after school work activities. To be considered for the program, interested students must fill out an application and accompanied by an essay and at least two letters of recommendation from faculty members and/ or administrators to qualify. Those chosen were notified in May.

Counting this year’s class, the Student Board has educated more than 2200 high school seniors in banking and money management.

The new Student Board of Directors were clear on what they personally want to gain from the program.

LHS students Ben Taylor, Anna Ward, Mary Claire Henderson and Adam Jones hope to become great money managers and reap the fruit of financial stability.

Pine Tree senior Kamryn Miller is no different. “I want to become a very good financial manager,” she said.

Trinity School of Texas senior, Carter Hill took it further. “I want to be the very best financial manager there is,” he stated.

Pine Tree senior, Kailey Quiett wants to be financially prepared for college. At a time when college loans are drowning students, Quiett is on the right track, thanks to Texas Bank and Trust Student Board of Directors program.

STATE/NATIONAL Veterans’ cemetery get funding

September 27, 2018

By Jim Hightower

I

n Corporate World, when trouble pops up and things get sticky, CEOs don’t wring their hands and try to dodge the issue.

No-sir-ee, the chief gets paid the big bucks to step forward confidently and seize control… by ringing up the company’s PR consultants and having them try to dodge the issue.

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is an expert at this.

The uber-rich online marketing colossus has been hit with a long string of exposés about the corporation’s nasty practices. From profiteering as a flagrant tax dodger and predatory killer of independent, local businesses to running a massive network of publicly subsidized warehouses with sweatshop labor, Amazon’s carefullycrafted image as a “cool” company is… well, getting fried in negative headlines and online chatter.

Thus, Bezos (known for thinking outside the cage), has hired a flock of tweety birds to counter the negativity.

They’re former

warehouse workers who now tweet fulltime about how absolutely wonderful those warehouse jobs are.

The tweeters tell us that air circulation in the warehouses is “very good;” in a 10-hour shift, they assure us, lucky workers get not one, but two 30-minute breaks. And they’re even allowed bathroom breaks (within reason, of course).

Bezos has given his Twitter testifiers the title of Amazon “ambassadors,” and each of their Twitter accounts is branded to look alike, topped with the corporation’s happy smile logo. It’s claimed that the tweeters aren’t scripted or told what to write — but you can bet every tweet is monitored by corporate supervisors. And note that Amazon won’t let reporters interview any of them.

As Senator Bernie Sanders said of this PR gimmick: “If Amazon actually paid all its workers a living wage and treated them with dignity, they would not have to pay dozens of people to tweet all day.”

eterans Land Board (VLB) Chairman George P. Bush recently released the following statement celebrating the Department of Veterans Affairs grant fully funding the Central Texas State Cemetery expansion and improvements project in Killeen. The VA has awarded the VLB a grant of $2,650,880 for 100 percent of allowable costs for the expansion of the cemetery.

“There is no service greater than that of a United States Military Veteran,” said Chairman Bush. “Our Veterans who honorably served our country deserve a cemetery fitting of their commitment and dedication to the United States. As Chairman of the Veterans Land Board, it is my duty to ensure that our veterans receive services that go above and beyond those of other states. This grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs will fund the construction of new columbaria, expanding the cemetery by approximately three acres, allowing the state of Texas to continue free burials for United States Veterans and their families

who call Texas home.”

The Texas Veterans Land Board (VLB), a division of the Texas General Land Office, operates four Texas State Veterans Cemeteries, conveniently located across the state. These Texas State Veterans Cemeteries are hallowed grounds that are an expression of our respect for the Texas men and women who have served our nation with honor. The VLB also provides free burial of veterans with military honors at Texas State Veterans Cemeteries in Abilene, Corpus Christi, Killeen and Mission.”

For additional information on Texas State Veterans Cemeteries, Homes, land and home improvement loans, call 1-800-252-VETS (1-800252-8387), or visit the VLB website at TexasVeterans. com. Follow the Texas Veterans Land Board at Facebook.com/TXVLB, or on Twitter at Twitter.com/ TexasVLB, or YouTube at Youtube.com/user/ TexasVLB. Read the VLB Blog at TexasVeteransBlog.com or listen to The Dog, a podcast for veterans by veterans at TexasVeteransBlog.com/ DogTag.

Be Warned:

Payroll Diversion Scam

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he FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has issued an urgent warning about an old scam which has come back with a new twist. The Direct Deposit phishing scam targets the online payroll accounts of employees in a variety of industries. BBB warns consumers to be on the lookout for emails requesting personal information, as they may be from cybercriminals looking to access bank account information.

Once credentials have been obtained, the cybercriminal has the ability to block the employee from accessing their account, allowing the scammer to reroute direct deposits to prepaid card or other account which they control.

“Cybercrime continues to be a major issue”, said Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. “It is becoming increasingly important for

businesses to be vigilant in protecting their systems and their data against intruders, potential theft and other cybercrimes which could affect the company.”

The FBI offers the following tips to mitigate the threat of payroll diversion: • Alert and educate your workforce about this scheme, including preventative strategies and appropriate reactive measures should a breach occur.

• Instruct employees to hover their cursor over hyperlinks included in emails they receive to view the actual URL. Ensure the URL is actually related to or associated with the company it purports to be from.

• Instruct employees to refrain from supplying login credentials or personally identifying information in response to any email.

Vision Services Optometry & Optical

Wellness Pointe accepts most medical and dental insurance plans, CHIP, Medicaid, and Medicare. Affordable payment options are available for qualified patients.

Walk-ins and new patients are welcome at all locations!

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gospel spotlight

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September 27, 2018

Making Space for God in Your Life

f we want to have a closer relationship with God— and we should want this above all else—it is important to create the time and space necessary to do so. In much the same way that a new exercise or study regimen will probably require a change in our schedule, if we want to be a more spiritual person, we must carve out the time and space necessary for it. In our busy lives this usually entails finding time (and space) at the beginning or end of our day, since the middle of our day is usually filled up with work or school or taking care of family.

God won’t force his way into our lives. If we want more of God in our lives, we should create the time and space for that to happen. There is a good reason why most monks start their days early—it’s the only time that they aren’t likely to be interrupted by life’s other necessities. It is also important that the space where you pray or meditate be conducive to it.

A quiet comfortable corner of a room is all that is necessary.

Find some quiet time and space at the start or end of each day to make room for God in your life.

– Christopher Simon

“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

—Matthew 6:33 NIV PHARAOH’S PROPHETIC DREAM BAKER CHARIOT CORN DISCRETE DREAMS FAMINE FED FOOD GATHER GOD GOLD GOOD EARS HANGED INTERPRET KINE LAND LINEN MAGICIANS PERISH PHARAOH PLENTY RIVER RULER SEVEN STALK STORE THIN EARS WIND WISE YEARS

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We learn to live with that loss.Grief Grief is is aa difficult journey. We may experience all sorts of emotions - guilt, anger, sadness, difficult journey. We may experience all sorts of emotions - guilt, anger, sadness, loneliness - to name a few. We may find it difficult to concentrate, distressed by so loneliness - to name few. We mayfeeling find it difficult to concentrate, by so many memories.

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Longview Full Gospel Holy Temple 6 E. Pittman St. Longview, TX 75602 | 903-758-9532 Sunday School 9:45a.m. Sunday Worship 11:00a.m.

Pastor Jerry Stanmore

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Sunday Worship 10:30a.m.

2717 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Longview, TX 75602 | 903-757-6440

Pastor H.C. Rockmore

Sunday School 9:45a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00a.m.

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Pastor Tim Ingram

First Service: 9:30 am 2nd Service: 11:00 am

September 27, 2018

Name of Officer: Robert L. “Robby” Brian Jr.

Education: Marshall High School Graduate 1992

Home town: Marshall, TX

Prior job experience if any: Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Gilmer PD, Marshall PD

How do you feel when you put on your uniform each day? I feel the same as I did before I put it on, I’m still the same person. My job just happens to be that I’m a Police Officer. I’m proud of the career I chose.

People don’t often understand how hard police officers work to keep citizens safe. What inspired, you to become a protector of the community and can you tell us of any daily risks you’ve seen or experienced? I had family members before me who were Police Officers who had some influence on me as a child.

What is a misconception you have seen that the public have about the police officers? That they (Police) are all the same, but in fact we are all different. The main misconception about Police Officers is that people believe we are “above the law” and everyone else because we enforce the law. Even though we enforce them, we have to still obey them, just like everyone else.

As a police officer, what do you want your legacy to be? When I want to believe that I did everything I could to help those in need at the worst moments in their lives and that it made a difference.

What was one of your toughest days on the job. Seeing the death of a small child and knowing that there was not anything I could do to save him.

How does your family feel about you being a police officer? My family has always supported me in my career even though they knew of the dangers that were involved.

Police officers work long hours and the work is very stressful, how do you like to relax? Hunting and fishing.

If you could go back in time and tell your younger self one thing, what would it be? I would tell myself to go to college so that I could become a Game Warden because of my love for the outdoors.

HOME FRONT

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In a time when pop culture encourages not co-operating with police officers, can you expand on the dangers this causes? Sometimes the community doesn’t want to get involved because they are afraid of retaliation.

Sometimes that lack of cooperation has placed Officers in life and/ or death situations.

Those are situations that could have been

avoided if that one small piece of information had been told.

As a protector of the community and symbol of justice how can we as a community better support the Police? Get to know the Police Officers that work in your community and bridge that gap so that everyone can work together to make it a better and safer place to live and work.

Do police officers really like donuts?

I can only speak for myself. I have eaten donuts because they are quick and easy to stop and get on the way to work, but I prefer a better breakfast.

Do you think the Cowboys have a shot at the Super Bowl this year and why? I would hope they have a chance to play in the Super Bowl.

Robert L. “Robby” Brian Jr.

September 27, 2018

Proper Disposal of Prescription drugs 18-25) are the biggest abusers of prescription opioid pain relievers, ADHD stimulants and anti-anxiety drugs.

Through proper disposal of unused medications, our community is reducing access and availability of medications that could potentially be misused.

Britney Peirce

By Britney Pierce/PIP

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hy should people dispose of unused medications?

Students report that prescription drugs are “easy to obtain” in the 2018 Regional Needs Assessment

for Gregg County. In our region, students 7th-12th grade have the highest reported current 30-day use, lifetime use, and school year use of opioids in the state of Texas. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports young adults (ages

Is there any error in adults saying unused medication is in the cabinet or it is tamperproof for children?

Twenty percent (20%) of citizens obtain prescription drugs from a home medicine cabinet in Gregg County, according to the 2017 Regional Needs Assessment.

That being said, it is not recommended to store prescription drugs in a medicine cabinet for easy accessibility. However, some suggested preventative tips include: locking prescription drugs or opioids in a hidden place, monitoring the quantity of prescription pills by taking inventory, educating children about the dangers of taking a medicine not prescribed to them, and disposing medications once they are no longer needed.

How rampant is teenage/ adult drug abuse due to access of unused medications in homes?

The 2017 Regional Needs Assessment revealed that 1 out of 5 people obtain prescription medication from their home medicine cabinet. Additionally, our region (Region 4) has the highest reported current 30-day use, lifetime use, and school year use of opioids in the state of Texas for 7th-12th graders. 23% of youth in our area perceive that prescription drug use is not “very dangerous,” according to the 2018 Regional Needs Assessment.

With easy accessibility and low perception of harm associated with prescription drugs, teenage use has increased.

How can one dispose of unused medications?

Community members can dispose of expired, unwanted, or unused prescription drugs or opioids 24 hours a day/7 days a week through the Prescription Drug Drop-Boxes located at the Longview Police Department (302 W. Cotton St.) and the White Oak Police Department (103 E. Old Hwy. 80 in White Oak.) No sharps or liquids, please. Citizens can also dispose of used syringes at the downtown Longview Fire Department, located at 100 E. Cotton St, MondayFriday, 8am-5pm in the lobby. Limit of 10 syringes per person/month. Deterra prescription disposal bags are available at Longview Drugs, Longview Medical Plaza, Drug Emporium, and the downtown Longview Fire Department for safe prescription drug and opioid disposal.

Member FDIC

As the Mayor of Longview, and a Dad myself, I care about our children. It is important that you grow up healthy, safe and drug free.

If you want to be successful, it is important that you stay in school, study, and set goals for your future.

Making the choice to stay drug free will help you accomplish those goals! Drugs can harm your body and cause your parents, teachers and other people who care about you to be sad.

We are counting on you to be good citizens and be the future leaders of our community. Remember to make good choices and stay away from drugs!

Member FDIC

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How can you do that?

Exercise every day. Eat many fruits and veggies, too. When you're healthy, you feel good.

Now, that's cool!

September 27, 2018

PANTHER NATION

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Steven Snell

t’s October and that means Red Ribbon Week Campaign will kick off in our schools. Reb Ribbon Week is recognized nationwide annually in the month of October and is the largest and oldest drug preventative campaign. This year’s theme is Life is Your Journey, Travel Drug Free. Spring Hill ISD is proud to participate in this event. Campuses will schedule activities each day of the campaign. I ask you as parents to encourage your student(s) to participate and stand up in the fight against drugs. Research shows that children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42% less likely to use drugs than those who don’t, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations.

The mission of Spring Hill ISD is that as the center of our community, Spring Hill ISD is committed to the fulfillment of each learner’s intellectual, creative and physical potential through the collaborative efforts of exceptional educators, dedicated parents and integrated rigorous instruction provided in a safe environment. Drugs derail student dreams and goals and keeps them from reaching their potential.

At Spring Hill ISD, our students’ safety and well-being are our number one concern. We have worked diligently with our Board of Trustees, School Resource Officer, administrators, counselors, teachers, support staff and parents to provide a drug free and safe environment for education.

Spring Hill ISD offers numerous leadership and student organization opportunities to keep our students involved, Student Council, National Honor Society, Z Club, athletics and fine arts. I am so proud of the organizations who have added service projects to their goals this year, such as the Blue Brigade and the cross country teams. Character and service are two areas that Spring Hill strives to promote in order to create well rounded students.

Spring Hill’s vision for all students is to be a premier school district focused on

engaged learning and student success.

A premier school district has no place for drug use. Illegal use or abuse of drugs effect users physically, emotionally, and socially. Scientific research show that smoking marijuana can have negative effects on the brain, heart, and lungs and contains 3 times the amount of tar found in tobacco. The health effects of methamphetamines may be the most noticeable because of its dramatic effect on the outward appearance of chronic users, such as rotting teeth, sores and abscesses. Meth also effects the body’s nervous system. Other effects of illegal drugs include increased risk of heart attack and stroke, a long list of psychological and physical problems from sleep disruption to severe anxiety, and the list goes on and on. There are emotional and social consequences to using drugs as well. Using drugs can cost you your friends and force you to give up activities that you enjoy. Drug use can cause users to become paranoid, aggressive and violent towards their family and friends. No one wants to be around someone like that!

I would like to challenge our upper classmen at each campus to be the leaders and support and encourage younger students to stay away from drugs. Turning down drugs, especially if you are at a party or hanging with friends, can be a little awkward and uncomfortable even for the most confident people. Just saying no can be difficult. Some other ideas of turning down drugs could be: • “No, I’m good.” ~ then get really involved in your phone • Pretend you did not hear them and then walk away ~ while walking away, you may also want to stare at your phone or head to the bathroom to avoid awkwardness • “No thanks, I am really not into that” • “Ummm, no. My mom (or dad) would freak out and I really don’t want to deal with that” • “Nope. My friend or someone I knew overdosed and died” • “Aw man, I can’t. My job (or school) could do a random drug test” • “Oh no thanks, I have to go home (or to work, church, etc.) soon and I don’t want to look high” • “No or no, thanks, I’m good” As superintendent of Spring Hill ISD I believe that God has put you in this journey of life to be great. The decisions you make today and the people you choose to surround yourself with will be the difference in a great life or one of mistakes. Take advantage of the opportunities that you are offered. Take charge of your future. Travel this journey drug free.

Together we can keep our school free from drugs, together we can make it happen. Together we are #BetterInBlue!

With much pride, Steven Snell Superintendent of Spring Hill ISD

Classroom Spotlight SCIENCE TEACHER SONYA JONES AND HER 5TH GRADERS AT NED E. ES TACKLE ENGEINEERING CONNECTIONS AND FOOD WEBS.

Melanie Hamilton, principal of Ned E. Williams ES interacts with 5thgradeScientists: ZorayaJacobs,BraleighCastroandMaryCabrera

Lakayla Riley

Keila Pua Williams, Curlaila Higgs and Allison Gomez

JaydenOwensandJaylenWarren

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tudents are designing and constructing a mobile that illustrates the transfer of energy through a food web. All arms of their mobile must be balanced, contain representations of at least one producer, one herbivore, two carnivores, one omnivore, one decomposer and must properly represent the feeding relationship in an environment.

CarolineHernandezandJennifer Martinez work hard at Science

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Name

Think About Fruit

Fruit is one of the healthy food groups. We define fruit as the sweet, fleshy part of a plant that has the seed or seeds of the plant. It may be sweet or sour and is usually edible in its raw state. Eating fruit helps keep our hearts healthy. A healthy heart pumps blood through the body effectively. Healthy foods such as fruits also lower the risk of disease, such as cancer and diabetes.

to 18 years-old young adults. I have fun on my job making sure things are fine. For example, I check to see if they are growing the way they should.

I answer parents’ questions on nutrition, toilet training, and all other questions they may have about their children.

PTHS Automotive Mechanics Program Directions: Here is a list of different fruits. Did you know there were so many? Check the boxes of all the fruits you have eaten. Circle three fruits you would like to try.

Offers Real World Experience Fruits

n apples n apricots n bananas n blackberries

By Rose LaBay n blueberries tudents learning n breadfruit aspects of life that will n cantaloupe help them after they n school cherimoya leave was in full viewn this cherries week at Pine Tree High in Richard nSchool clementines Westbrook’s Automotive n class. coconut Mechanics n High cranberries Pine Tree School’s automotive n program Crenshaw melon received, installed and trained noperate dragon fruit on how to a four-

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n figs n grapefruit n grapes n guava n honeydew to be fixed in real time instead n huckleberries of having to go fruit back and n kiwi forth making adjustments, n kumquat the longtime instructor said.

“Thisn really is a great lemons experience for n limesthe kids,” Westbrook said. “It’s a very n and loquat advanced technical system.nNo mangoes other high school in the area and very few n nectarines colleges have something like this.” n oranges

n papayas n passion fruit n peaches n pears n persimmon “It’s nso pineapples important n plums that the kids haven this,”pomegranate he commented. n quince “It will nprepare raisins them so much n raspberries for when they graduate high n strawberries school.”

Fornstudents in the tangerines automotive program, this watermelon new n system is just one more

important addition to a The system, which is wheel alignment system.

Challenge: Choose one of the fruits you around have an interest in trying. some research out that to is find continually valued $60,000, was Doprogram According to Mr. Westbrook, about this healthy food. your for information to your “New Foods” and pageflourishing. (page 82) in growing by the Perkins Act. Healthy themore advanced technology willAddpaid your journal.

Westbrook has taken Pine Perkins funds allowed school help students in the program Tree Auto Mechanics from districts all over the state of learn a skill that will stay with a minor program to, just Texas to acquire funding for them the rest of their lives. two years ago, a vehicle lift technology and specialty The system, which will be © Teacher Created Resources 13 Healthy Habits for Healthy being installed, and nowKids the items like this system that will #3990 added to the already fully four-wheel alignment system aid students in their learning stocked class vehicle lift, will being added. experiences. be able to check tires and “My students have shown ASA Automotive Systems, show what adjustments need which helped install the four- a lot of initiative,” Westbrook to be made, he said. said. “The kids that are in my wheel alignments system, Students will also be able Automotive 2 class have been also knocked down the price to make the adjustments with me for four years. I trust considerably, Westbrook according to the machine the, and we have watched commented. readout and see what needs

October 2017

Why did you choose this profession? I

Richard Joos, MD Pediatrician

Place of employment: I work

thisWellness program grow.” at Point on Pine Tree’s slogan Marshall Avenue.this year

is “Bringing Pine Tree Back,” and with new additions Education: and innovationsIlike the graduated from Wagner current system it is clear that Westbrook is set on making College and attended the Pine Tree program one Medical School at State that adequately prepares University York. young peopleof forNew a full-time career in the automotive industry.do Either that, or they What you do can have a hobby working everyday on your on automobiles the rest of their job? lives. When I get to work, I likeexcited to getfora “I’m really heads up teach of what is what it will the kids,” Westbrook longme as going on said. that“As helps they can get from point A to know what is goingto point B they will be able to on, thenthis I plan myIt day navigate system. really and course of action. I is awesome.”

see from new-borns up

Vol. 10 No. 10

have been employed and self-employed. This time, I wanted to work Westbrook with peopleconcluded with the by thanking the Pine is my most needs. This Tree Administration and way of giving back to Technology personnel for the community. helping his class acquire

this system. “We have had excellent backing What do you and like excellent support since best about your day one of the automotive I get to chosenhe field? program,” said. “Our work with the people administration and technology who needpersonnel help thecare about every student, anddo they most- parents who are eager to make sure every not have much but want student has what they need toevery see their children in class to be successful. grow healthy.

I It is niceup to work in a school district where the upper like serving them aslevel a people work hard for the pediatrician. I would students to have a better life.” like toLaBay see their Rose is Pinelittle Tree High ones grow up and be School Journalism Student.

healthy.

This newspaper belongs to:

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Football Word Find

COMMUNITY NEWS

BOND TALKS

September 27, 2018

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Citizens Say Yea or Ney we’d use, but others in our city will rely on those buildings, services, and roads—maybe our children and grandchildren— and that makes voting for the bond the right choice.”

an unusable facility and maintain our firefighters’ training to keep us safe.

The current police station will be renovated to house other city departments and consolidate city services currently using privately ANNE HUGMAN: KIMBERLY FISH STEVE CRANE STEVE CRANE rented space.

TYCOON Completing Lear Park, Do you support the upgrading Broughton ANNE HUGMAN: maintain great parks! The bond? and Stamper, to name a ARCHITECT Arboretum and other “Yes!” That is my vote few. Providing money to Do you support the additions to our park for the bond election on complete the Arboretum; bond? system will generate November 6th. a facility that all of us can Yes – I support the bond tourism dollars, increase Beginning in November use and enjoy. Longview 100%! the beauty of our city and 2013, this effort has is 50% behind where If yes, why. Longview quality of life that new been a citizen-led effort. it needs to be in park needs a big push businesses look for when From developing the designation. This money forward, we need to relocating to a new area.

Comprehensive Plan to will narrow that gap and build a legacy for the If no, why not. implementing that plan. upgrade many facilities in future, for our children If you do not support Public safety, parks, and parks all over Longview. and grandchildren. The the bond do you have infrastructure are the three A “complete street” citizens have asked for suggestions how the bond propositions we have concept on Mobberly many improvements City can accomplish the to our city through Comprehensive Plans and the opportunity to vote on. provides a gateway from I20 to the Multimodal the comprehensive continue to move the City All districts will benefit from passage of each Transportation Station. plan. In order to get forward? proposition.

This project will enhance these improvements A new police station walking and biking implemented, we NEED KIMBERLY FISH will consolidate services opportunities as well as to have the money to pay AWARD-WINNING in one location with the increase the green space. for such improvements.

NOVELIST AND space needed to house all Fairmont and Reel Roads To have a safer City, our ENTERTAINING employees and provide will receive much needed police and fire need the SPEAKER most modern technology.

Do you support the bond? state-of-the-art technology makeovers to address traffic issues.

To bring new businesses to Yes :“Sometimes we have to support our police in their efforts to keep us This bond is a great town, we need to have the to do the hard thing to safe.

New fire stations opportunity for Longview streets and infrastructure make our city function well to replace dilapidated to move forward into to handle the growth. for the next generation— ones and a new station to the future. For me, it The improvements to better roads, better public maintain proper response is about my children our parks is necessary for service buildings, better times.

A new training and grandchildren the continued enjoyment green spaces and parks— facility at a new location and making sure that of all our citizens. All it’s not easy to pay for away from residents Longview not only grows, great cities have and things we don’t think who are affected by the but flourishes. airborne contamination For more information, of training exercises at see the FB page https:// the old location. This www.facebook.com/ new facility will replace LongviewBond2018/

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iabetes is a killer that afflicts multitudes, although many live for years and even decades with the disease.

The effects can be lethal, but generally there are symptoms that tip off those with type 2 diabetes that they have the affliction even though they can be mild to the point of going unnoticed. Common symptoms include: • Frequent urination, Chronic thirst, Feeling very hungry despite eating, Fatigue, Blurred vision • Cuts and bruises that are abnormally slow to heal, Noticeable weight loss even though the patient is actually eating more (Type 1).

Tingling/pain/numbness in hands and feet (Type 2) According to the American Diabetes Association, the medical community is committed to helping the millions of Americans who already have and are at risk of this illness. Education is a prime treatment. Informing the whole world about diabetes, its causes, effects and treatments is the purpose of the following questions and answers.

What does excess weight have to do with diabetes?

As is the case with many physical ailments being overweight is a major factor, but there are other aspects to consider. Person’s amount of physical activity, family histories, ethnicity and age must also be taken into account. Too many are under the misconception that weight is the sole cause of type 2 diabetes, but many type 2 sufferers are either only slightly overweight or not overweight at all. Still, dietary habits are significant.

Does eating sweets and sugars cause diabetes?

Any diet high in calories (including sugar) contributes to weight gain, which is certain to place one at risk for type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is determined mainly by genetics, lifestyle and other, unknown

HEALTH of heart attack. On the plus side diabetes is an illness that can be managed.

DIABETES PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT: FROM HELEN DANIELS, MD Two primary things determine the development of anything in life – GENETICS and ENVIRONMENT. While we can do nothing to change our genetic predisposition to diabetes, we can do our best to decrease HELEN DANIELS, MD our risk and/ or delay onset of disease by optimizing our ENVIRONMENT, that is, optimizing the bodies in which we live. LIFESTYLE CHOICES will dictate this and only we can determine this.

Here are some goals to aim for in the path to prevention.

LOSE excess body FAT, and in particular belly fat. Being overweight or obese are major risk factors for diabetes.

By Joycelyne Fadojutimi MAINTAIN CALORIE factors which precipitate the CONTROLS – with a high disease, but not by sugar intake. proportion of lean meats , fish , Do sugary beverages trigger vegetables and fruits in smaller diabetes? portions, while avoiding food Research indicates that high in carbohydrate contents, drinking sugary beverages saturated fats and processed is indeed a cause of type foods. At each meal or snack 2 diabetes. The American there should be a combination Diabetes Association of protein, healthy fat and fiber. recommends avoiding sugarDRINK WATER. Replacement sweetened drinks in order of high calorie sugarto head off type 2 diabetes. sweetened drinks which have Furthermore, sugary drinks no nutritional value with water also boost glucose (also known significantly reduces diabetes as blood sugar) levels by and obesity. containing several hundred ENGAGE in regular calories per serving.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY. A single 12-ounce can Current recommendations are of regular soda contains for 150 minutes of moderate approximately 150 calories and exercise, such as walking, 40 grams of carbohydrates--in weekly. other words the same amount DE- STRESS. High levels as in ten teaspoons full of sugar! of stress induce hormones Sugar-sweetened beverages that predispose to the include such drinks as: Regular development of diabetes. soda, Fruit punch, Fruit drinks, Find time to relax daily.

Energy drinks, Sports drinks, Get a good night’s SLEEP. Sweet tea and other sugary Chronic sleep deprivation and/ drinks. or poor sleep quality increases As a disease, how serious risk for diabetes. is diabetes?

Know the warning sings Every year diabetes kills ( increased thirst, urination , more people that breast cancer hunger, weight loss, itching) and AIDS combined. Being and see your doctor for an diabetic nearly doubles the risk ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM

Diabetes: What to look for and what to do

September 27, 2018

which will also include screening labs for common diseases.

Diabetes Management Should diabetes develop, all hope is not lost.

Your doctor in conjunction with you, will develop an individualized patient centered approach to the treatment of your disease with an array of meds available, Your goal is to KNOW YOUR NUMBERS and to start and maintain the lifestyle changes previously outlined in order to get to those targets.

Here are some numbers to know.

Glucose Levels: While blood sugar levels are individualized, the ADA recommends the following target for most nonpregnant adults with diabetes Hb A1C <7% or an average glucose reading of 154 mg/dl Fasting blood sugars of 80-130 2-hour Post meal sugars of <180 BP goal of < 140/90 Cholesterol levels.

Improve your cholesterol profile. Bad cholesterol ( LDL ) targets no longer apply, however obtaining values of < 100 with improved good cholesterol ( HDL ) levels of > 40 are preferred.

The current standard of care recommends use of a lipid lowering agent or statin in all diabetics, regardless of how good the cholesterol profile is, due to a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients with diabetes.

The American diabetic association (ADA) recommends that you be SMART, that is, that you set Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Relevant Time-bound goals.

It’s your destiny that hangs in the balance and attaining well planned, timely, worthy goals leads to freedom.

And as always be forever in pursuit of YOUR ULTM8 IDL.