infintieplus magazine by infinitieplus magazine

infinitieplus May 2021

VOL. 11 NO.5 LONGVIEW BUSINESS MAGAZINE

w e i v g n o L

Resets Agenda

Dr. Tony Evans

LISD Foundation

CASA

Arts!Longview

Business and Finance

FLIP THIS MAGAZINE

Editor's Note

Education

The Magazine for Living Life Beyond, Plus One…

ello Longview and our global readers. We at infinitieplus magazine hope you are doing well, getting your COVID 19 vaccinations, moving on and resetting your agendas. Longview is slowly coming back to life. Many are no longer wearing their masks. Rather, they are attending events without masks. They are excited to see friends again without the dread of catching the virus. People are more than ready to take back their lives, especially with social events. One good example is the recent Art Walk in Downtown Longview. Throngs of people from diverse walks of life attended the event. There were more vendors and displays than we could count. It was pure fun, period. The story is page 25. In this May edition, we brought you the Longview ISD Foundation Lamplighter Awards Banquet that took place at the Lobo Coliseum. The story is from page 3. Check out CASA annual signature event. This year was a blast with new dances and an audience ready to have fun. The story is from page 11. There is more. The Longview Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, a nonprofit organization brought one of the world’s renown speakers, author, teacher, senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church in Dallas Texas, and president of the Urban Alternative Dr. Tony Evans. The story is from page 8 Moreover, the Longview Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting and reception. It was very well attended. From Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt and his counterpart Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran, Gregg County Sheriff Maxey Cerliano with his wife Cathy; to three Longview ISD assistant superintendents: Dr. Wayne Guidry, Dr. James Hockenberry and Dennis Williams plus others in charge of Longview’s economic engine. Please see page 7. Thanks for reading and we look forward to serving you again in June by God’s grace.

Publisher / Editor Joycelyne Fadojutimi Photography Joycelyne Fadojutimi Graphic Designer Kuneho Designs Contributing Writers Dr. Michael Guido Stacey Brown Mechele Mills Shea Vogel

For advertising: contact Joycelyne Fadojutimi at joy@iplusmag.com OUR MISSION

To enrich the local-global community with the “just in time knowledge,” to assure future successes

OUR VISION

students’ essays written over the past nineteen years. It is important to note, the Lamplighter awards offer students the occasion to honor one exceptional individual on their campuses. The student and his or her honoree from thirteen Longview ISD campuses were honored at this one-of-a-kind rousing event. Furthermore, the Foundation honored Emily Erisman Myers, Longview High School alumnae, retired teacher, and Foundation board member, with the annual Cornerstone Award. Her dedication to the Lobo Memorial Scholarship Fund, a scholarship program within the Foundation provides college scholarships to Longview High School seniors. “Emily has faithfully sought donations to

he Longview ISD Foundation recently held its 21st annual Lamplighter Awards banquet in the Longview High School Lobo Coliseum. This venue gave organizers plenty of space for social distancing and following other CDC COVID-19 protocols. Caterer T. Blanco’s served attendees a sumptuous dinner To commemorate its 21st anniversary, the Foundation instructed each student to pen an essay about a unique educator that is dear to their heart because the educator demonstrates qualities of a professional who goes above and beyond the call of duty in their work. According to Kay Ray, LISD Foundation executive director, the Foundation compiled the list of twenty characteristics from the

the fund and chaired scholarship committee to ensure LHS seniors receive the support they need to further their education.” said Ray. Contd. on Page 18

Veronica Sloan shows off her artwork on the Lamplighters brochure

To become an information oracle of functional and constructive reports that serves the needs of businesses and communities. Submission Deadline: The first of every month prior to month of issue. infinitieplus magazine 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 contents of infinitieplus magazine is copyrighted 2021. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. infinitieplus magazine reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of infinitieplus magazine or its advertisers.

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Joycelyne Fadojutimi,

VOLUME 11 | ISSUE 5

Publisher

Longview ISD Foundation Bestows Honors

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SAMIR

Arts and Culture Table of Contents

GERMANWALA L ISD SCHO OL BOARD PLAC E 3

Committed to Education. Dedicated to our District.

MEET DR. GERMANWALA

Priscilla Rios and Kelee Norris

Rolf and Holley Kotulla

Dr Tony Evans and Mayor Andy Mack

Tommy and Kristi Means

Mckenna Vogel Airhart

Pam Andrews and Shawna Westervelt

Allyson Bailey and Wally Rhymes

+ Board Certified Interventional Cardiologist, has cared for the community for 18 years + Two Children in the Longview ISD District + Values transparency, collaboration and will serve as an advocate for district educators, students and families

Isabella McMillan

TIffany and TJ Angus

Rayshone and Wendy McGee with Elyanna Johnson

+ Family founded the district's only youth driven nonprofit, Simple Bare Necessities, providing hygiene for LISD's underprivileged youth in 2020 3 Education

VOTE ON MAY 1 EARLY VOTING STARTS Monday, April 19th- Tuesday, April 27th Education Support Center 1301 E. Young Street | 8am-4:30pm ELECTION DAY Saturday, May 1st Forrest Park Middle School 1644 Eastman Road | 7AM-7PM

FOLLOW MY CAMPAIGN: @VOTEGERMANWALA PO LI TI C A L A D PA I D FO R BY THE S A M I R GER M A N WA LA LI S D C AM PAIG N

7 Business 8 Inspiration 11

Nonprofit Business/CASA

Business and Finance

Education

Arts and Culture Tim and Holly Cooper

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Karen Holt

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Richie and Tanay Phillips

May 2021

Business

Chamber holds annual meeting, reception

By IP STAFF REPORTS / WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

he Longview Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual meeting and reception. It was very well attended. From Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt and his counterpart Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran; Gregg County Sheriff Maxey Cerliano with his wife Cathy; to three Longview ISD assistant superintendents: Dr. Wayne Guidry, Dr. James Hockenberry and Dennis Williams plus others in charge of Longview’s economic engine. The event started at LeTourneau University Belcher Center and culminated at Pine Crest Country Club. President of LeTourneau University, Dr. Steve Mason gave the invocation after

which Kevin Hood, president/COO of Texas Bank and Trust and Chamber Chairman elect welcomed everyone. In addition, Hood moderated the business panel where Keith McIntosh of Texas Oncology and Bill Shelton discussed how their companies dealt with COVID 19 and the reset plans they are putting in place. The evening awards went to the following: • Industry of the Year: Flint Hills Resources. • Large Business of the Year: Texas Oncology. • Chairman’s Award: Richard Breneda Mathis Manley.

Bundles Bundles Bundlesof of ofjoy. joy. joy. It’s It’s It’swhat what whatwe we wedeliver. deliver. deliver. From From From the thethe day day day you you you find find find out outout to tothe to thethe day day day you you you deliver, deliver, deliver, there’s there’s there’s nothing nothing nothing more more more important important important to toLongview to Longview Longview Regional Regional Regional Medical Medical Medical Center Center Center than than than your your your and and and your your your baby’s baby’s baby’s health health health and and and well-being. well-being. well-being. This This This isiswhy why is why we wewe provide provide provide extra extra extra amenities amenities amenities such such such as asprivate as private private rooms, rooms, rooms, spacious spacious spacious birthing birthing birthing suites, suites, suites, childbirth childbirth childbirth classes classes classes and and and breastfeeding breastfeeding breastfeeding support. support. support. And And And ififyou you if you and and and your your your newest newest newest addition addition addition need need need aalittle little a little extra extra extra help, help, help, we wewe offer offer offer perinatal perinatal perinatal services services services that that that include include include maternal-fetal maternal-fetal maternal-fetal medicine medicine medicine specialists specialists specialists and and and aaLevel Level a Level IIIIIINICU. NICU. III NICU. For ForFor more more more information information information about about about our our our labor labor labor and and and delivery delivery delivery services, services, services, visit visit visit LongviewRegional.com/baby. LongviewRegional.com/baby. LongviewRegional.com/baby. Bianca Adams , Paula

Loden and Mark Robin

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Inspiration

Dr. Tony Evans Rocks Longview

Says American distress comes from a culture that ignores God hence, the passive wrath of God has come upon the land By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI / WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

cclaimed Gospel Preacher, Bible Teacher, Author, President of the Urban Alternative, a radio ministry heard in hundreds of countries; First African American to earn a doctorate degree from Dallas Theological Seminary, television broadcaster, Senior Pastor of Oak Bible Fellowship with more than 10,000 congregants in Dallas; Dr. Tony Evans keynoted the Longview Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast. (Please

note, this gathering has absolutely nothing to do with the City of Longview). It is the name of a nonprofit organization. Dr. Terry Zeitlow, president of Longview Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast offered a prayer of humility. The mayor of Longview, Dr. Andy Mack gave brief remarks. Reverend LaDarian Brown and president of the Longview Ministerial offered prayer of forgiveness and Mr. Chuck King introduced the speaker.

Dr. Evans electrified his audience with the Gospel truth about the ongoing distress in the nation citing verses 2 Chronicles Chapter 15:6 which says God “troubled them with every kind of distress.” Moreover, he gave various relatable examples. For example, all anyone has to do, is listen to the news and get a mega dose of distress. “God has a standard and you cannot lower it,” he told a captivated audience. According to Evans, the American distress

“What you and I are seeing in America today is what happens when a culture disregards God. We want God in the vicinity. We want him for invocations; we want him for benedictions, as long as He stays away from the meetings in between.” - Dr Tony Evans

Sheriff Maxey Cerliano, Eric Swanson, and Marvin Kehl

comes from abandoning God therefore, if God is causing your distress, then go back to Him because only Him can take it away. Finally, he charged Longview to love God and love each other, be visible, verbal followers of Jesus Christ. “This is not the time for secret agent Christianity,” Evans said. “Everyone is coming out of the closet you might as well do the same.”

All heads bowed in prayer

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Mayor Andy Mack and Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt Jay Mitchell

Pastor Todd Kaunitz of new Beginnings Baptist Church offered the closing prayer for healing, blessings, and unity. Longview Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast is a nonprofit organization whose Founding Board of Directors are Sam Forester, Jennifer Harris, Cynthia Hellen, Richard Manley, Meredith Todd, Dr. Blake Williams, and Dr. Terry Zeitlow.

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Pam Scott and James Pitre

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Nonprofit Business/Casa

Nonprofit Business/CASA

CASA excels

“Under the BigTop” By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI / WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

he enthusiastic crowd was excited to be in Maude Cobb after several COVID lock downs to enjoy an evening of dance, food, booze, and silent auctions. This year’s theme dubbed “Under the BigTop’ focused more on having a fun than competition aspect of it. The event did not have “judges.’ The audience texted in the votes. According to Creator, Producer and Director of the Show, Amy Canton, “We had a show ready to go when COVID down everything in 2020.” Many of the performers had circumstances that would not allow them to dance this year, so Canton had 1/3 of the cast dropped out or changed. The leadership group of the event worked very hard picking up all the pieces ended up with an amazing show.

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Jim Bartlett, owner of Jim Bartlett Fine jewelry has been an ardent supporter of CASA. Canton first met him when he danced in the Show many years ago. Then, she went to work for him 4 years ago. According to Canton, she loves that Bartlett allows her to give back to the Longview community as part of his company’s ethos. “We are both passionate about children and doing what we can for those who cannot speak for themselves,” Canton said. This year’s winners are as follows: Audience Favorite Diva: Steven Collins and Donna B-Habinc Online Vote: Clowns Best Comedy: Clowns: Rolf Kotulla, Pam Andrews, and Shawna Westervelt. Most Technical Diva: Steve Collins and Donna B-Habinc Canton stated that the event was at 755

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ven

Asst. Principal Ste And the winners are: nna B-Habinc Do e Collins and Judg

capacity to meet CDC COVID guidelines. Next year is BJBG 10th anniversary. “We hope to break all records,” she said. “We are looking for sponsors and dancers. Message us on Face book if you want to join us.” • Amy Canton was Creator, Producer, and

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Director of the show. • Courtney Gill and Christina Hollwarth were Event Coordinators • Michele Threadgill was Assistant Director. • Tye Jackson was Visual and Audio Director. Contd. on Page 12

May 2021

Nonprofit Business/CASA

Nonprofit Business/CASA It is important to note, Big Sandy Presiding Municipal Judge and Gregg County Probation Officer Judge Donna BlalockHabinc; and Chandler Elementary School Assistant Principal Steven Collins have one thing in commontheir undying passion for Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) According to Habinc, it is a wonderful event that helps raise money for children in foster care and it is fun to dance with a professional dancer like Steven Collins. Collins said it allows him to use his Fine Arts talents to raise funds for a worthy cause and organization like CASA. Collins has danced for CASA and Habinc for five.

When asked why they have remained dancing partners for five consecutive years, Habinc jokingly said because they tolerate each other. Seriously, they are able to dance and get along pretty well on or off the stage. “I respect Steven as a dance partner and person,” Habinc said. “Plus, his wife and daughter are amazing people too.” According to Collins, each year is different. There are ups and downs during practice. This year was very different because they did a nouvelle dance. “In the end, it is always fun, and our friendship grow grows each and every time,” Collins stated.

rie and Josh Lowery

Dr. Michael Sims, Samantha Sims, Vale

Jose Sanchez

Luis and Stephani

Castanon

903.291.0020 1408 Lago Trail Longview heartis.com

Assisted Living and Memory Care Community

Cody and Cady Martin

Blue Jeans Ball Gown Cast Members

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Congratulations toto the Congratulations the 2018 2018 Stars Stars Over Over Longview Longview Nonprofit Business/CASA Shalonda Adams Adams Shalonda

Lori Holyfield Ball Lori Holyfield Ball Crista Black

Crista Black

Sharon Bradley

Sharon Bradley Mary Collier

Get personal with GE Café Kitchen Appliances Distinct by Design

Mary Collier Carmela Davis

Gerrie Forbis Carmela Davis Carol Manley Gerrie Forbis

Dawn Martin Carol Manley

Pamela Mercer-McWilliams

Dawn Martin

Mary Morris

Pamela Mercer-McWilliams Julie Woods Mary Morris

Celebrating 18 Years Julie Woods

We are known for Stone, but we do much more!

Thursday, January 11, 2018

Celebrating 18 Years Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey Doors Open at 11:30 a.m. Ceremony and Luncheon begin at noon Maude Cobb Activity Center and Mattie Colan thew Dr. Blake Williams, Chloe Dunn, Mat 100 Grand Blvd. • Longview

Thursday, January 11, 2018

Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey Complimentary valet parking will be available. Doors Openisat 11:30 a.m.in his legs, “commented Even though the dance muscles fun and raises fund, stillLuncheon dancers Habinc. Ceremony and begin at noon Ticket Information want to win.Maude The duo won Activity Center “We were so excited to get Cobb Individual Tickets $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8 Audience Overall Favorite and Audience Choice,” said Collins. Tickets willGrand be available for purchase beginning 100 Best Technical Number. Blvd. “We • Longview “I was surprised at the Most November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional were Complimentary ecstatic to win considering Technical because we were valet parking will be at available. Medical Center’s Marketing Department 903-553-7400. all the injuries we sustained this up against some very young year which included me wearing talented dancers. Most likely, a walking boot two weeks prior the audience said the old folks to theIndividual show and Tickets Steven pulling did well.” $30.00 • $240 for Table of 8

Ticket Information

Amorette Burch

Speaker: Jackie Joyner-Kersey Olympian & Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century

Congratulations to the 2018 Stars Over Longview

Tickets will be available for purchase beginning November 1, 2017. To purchase, call Longview Regional For additional information on this event visit LongviewRegional.com. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine | www.iplusmag.com | infinitieplus | May 2021 Medical Department at 903-553-7400. 14 Center’s Marketing

4523 Judson Rd. Longview, Texas 75605 903-663-3344 | www.stone-works.net

Business and Finance

Time to declutter Digital Closets S B y M EC H E L E AG B AYA N I M I L L S

Dispose of electronics securely. Many of us have a stockpile of unused electronic devices. It is important to dispose of these items securely by permanently deleting old files and wiping it from the device before destroying, disposing of, donating, or selling the device. Consider disposing of the item at BBB Secure Your ID Day which will be conducted at BBB Tyler Offices on Saturday, June 19, 2021. In addition to following the above-listed tips, small business owners should take time in estab-

pring has sprung. And for many households, that means it is time to clean, organize, and declutter their homes. It is also important, however, to conduct a digital spring cleaning on your electronic devices. Failing to do so could result in identity theft, fraud, loss of funds, and loss of company data. Now that much of our lives is being conducted online, focusing on cybersecurity, and protecting sensitive information has become critical. NCSA has advice on how to keep this information safe. Cleaning out digital clutter and backing up devices are processes which are often overlooked. However, it could make all the difference should your device(s) fail or become infected with malware or viruses. Conducting a digital spring cleaning is not only necessary, but also relatively easy. NCSA and BBB advise the following: Lock down your login Security is critical to protecting accounts being used for work and for home. Ensure passphrases for each account are lengthy, unique, and safely stored. Enable multi factor authentication on all accounts that offer it.

Update your system and software. Having the most current software, web browsers, and operating systems are some of the easiest and fastest ways to protect your most sensitive assets.

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Back it up. Protect your personal and workplace data by making electronic copies – or backups – of your most important files. Use the 3-2-1 rule to help guide you: 3 backup copies, 2 different media types, and 1 offline in a separate location.

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lishing, updating, and communicating policies and procedures around topics like record retention. It is also imperative that a cybersecurity strategy is in place and used by all employees. BBB has tips on BBB.org/small business on how to avoid online scams when working from home. To companies you can trust, go to bbb.org. To report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices, please call (903)5815784 or use BBB Scam Tracker. Mechele Agbayani Mills, President and CEO of BBB serving Central East Texas

Clean up your online presence. Delete all unused apps, empty recycle bins, review social media account privacy settings, delete old photos, review the strength of your passwords, delete nonessential friends and followers, and make updates where needed.

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Education

Knowing Mrs. Saravia

The Best Curveball

“T

here’s always baseball,” I remember thinking. I played my first baseball game when I was five years old. From that season on, I knew baseball would be my life. My training improved, my teams became more competitive, and my equipment grew more expensive. I traveled from New York to Florida to the Dominican Republic, playing games on the most elite fields. All my experience and training led me to my ninth-grade year when varsity baseball would take over and lead me to my dream of playing Division I baseball. The first varsity practice was on a Friday night. While I do not remember the time or date, I remember the specific throw, the sound of my shoulder popping, and my injured arm dropping to my side. Varsity baseball was my only plan, but life threw me a curveball. Examining my arm, the doctor said, “Career ending injury.” After countless doctors’ visits, therapy sessions, missed practices, skipped seasons, and only a partial recovery, I was not sure I could even compete on the junior varsity team much less varsity. Coach Ja’Ron Shepherd moved me down the roster to the junior varsity team. Little did I know, my life was about to change. Coach Shepherd would soon become one of the biggest blessings in my life. As my shoulder rehabbed, Coach Shep was my encourager. He saw the good in me and each player on the team. He was a level head to my hotheaded nature. I wanted to play better, not just for myself, but for Coach Shepherd. If he were committed to our team, then I wanted to be too. I felt like I could tell Coach Shep anything. He did not just listen; he responded. He did not just value me; instead, he valued

each player on the team. He made me feel not only like an important player but also like an important part of God’s plan. Coach Shepherd was fair in the game of life. I know that may sound silly, but in a sport like baseball, it is easy to lose sight of the big picture. Coach Shepherd was always one step ahead of us. His baseball IQ was impressive, and his love for the game was unmatched. Curveballs happen in life, and I was pitched another one during my sophomore year. My dad was diagnosed with stage four head and neck cancer. We were not sure he would survive. I considered quitting the Lobo team. Baseball seemed such a trivial worry in the midst of my family’s new normal. I was not sure I would be able to commit to my team with my dad’s cancer being our family’s biggest concern. I went home every night and told my dad about the practice or game while he lay with his eyes closed, slightly smiling. My baseball was his medicine. I am not sure when it happened or if I even noticed it, but Coach Shepherd quickly became more than my coach. After Coach Shep learned the news about my dad, he prayed with me. He is a man of God, and I admire his personal walk with Christ more than he will ever know. Each day, each practice, he was my constant. A practice did not go by when he did not reach out to me and ask me about everything other than baseball. It is hard to find a man who cares so deeply about his players. Through baseball, I have seen umpires make many game altering calls. I have especially seen many while playing at the junior varsity level with Coach Shepherd. Such calls can test a man and his ability to stay calm in situations. I have noticed many times when Coach

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D Cooper Mayes and Coach Ja’Ron Shepherd

Shepherd could have thrown a fit over these calls; instead, he acted like a mature, level-headed adult. He served as a role model for the entire team, showing his players how mature men act. We have shared many experiences with each other, and through these experiences, I have learned what a good man looks like. Coach Shepherd is an example to each of us, showing us how to live, old and young alike. Whether I am sitting at my dad’s bedside wiping his forehead or making a tag at second base, I know how to be man because of Coach Shepherd. A coach’s worth is not found in his win/loss record or on his resumé but in the impact he makes on his players’ lives. There are hundreds of quotes about baseball and coaches that I could use to describe Coach Shep. I could fill pages, singing his praises and giving examples of his innate goodness. However, when it comes to the truth, he is a life changer. I know he changed mine, and for that I will be forever grateful. There is always baseball. There is always Coach Shepherd. He is the best curveball I have ever been pitched. Ja’Ron Shepherd, Lobo baseball coach, honored by Cooper Mayes, senior and Lobo baseball player, Longview High School

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o you know anyone who is willing to watch a movie about something she is totally terrified of just because someone suggested it? I have a teacher, Mrs. Saravia, who did just that. I love a show called Stranger Things, and I told Mrs. Saravia about it. She then binged watched is one weekend. Even though she hates scary shows, she watched it. She also created a Stranger Things escape room for our class so we could review decimal operations. I told her, “This is the most fun I have ever had.” I have known Mrs. Saravia for many years. In fact, she taught me math one summer when I was just five years old. Back then she

taught me how to add and subtract. Now that I am in the fifth grade, she has taught me so much more than just addition and subtraction. Mrs. Saravia is so nice. I knew I wanted to be in her class when I got to fifth grade. I asked my mom to make sure I was in her class. Mrs. Saravia is so nice. When I finish my work, she gives me activities that are fun but help me learn more skills. I like being challenged with work that helps me increase my fluency and knowledge in math. Mrs. Saravia is also really helpful. She taught me to look up skills on Education Galaxy so I can practice even more and master them. I was not happy with the

Carolyn Purdue and Teacher Joseph Ford

grade I earned on numerical patterns, but she helped me find the tools I needed to help me understand. If I ever make a mistake, she helps me reflect on why I got the problem wrong and gives me strategies to solve the problem. She does not just help me; she also helps other students who need help in math. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

Mrs. Swanner

ou got…. Mrs. Swanner! Who is Mrs. Swanner? She could be a witch with green warty fingers or a vampire with pearl like fangs ready to suck my blood. What I discovered after being in her class, however, was a teacher I would never forget. My caring, humorous, grandmotherly teacher, Mrs. Swanner made a significant impact on my life, and I would not be the person I am today without her. Changing schools is tough, especially going into first grade at a school that has first through fifth grade all on the same campus. Maybe it is just me, but on my first time walking into Hudson PEP, in my mind I was thinking, “The fifth graders are like giants, and I am like a teeny tiny little ant who could be stepped on at any moment.” When I walked into the classroom, Mrs. Swanner came right over to me, asked me my name, and

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showed me to my seat. She asked if I knew anyone, and I quietly shook my head no. She led me over to a quiet, shy, nervous, kind-looking girl and introduced us to each other. We ended up sitting next to each other at lunch, we played with each other at recess, and we read with each other in the reading corner. Now, here we are almost five years later, and we are still BFF’s! It is all because of Mrs. Swanner. One of my favorite memories of being in her class was “The Birthday Spanking Paddle.” That is another way she left a “mark” on me. The words still ring in my ear— “1..2..3..4..5..6..7..and one to grow on.” I remember it as if it were yesterday. She called me to the front of the room, bent me over, and began. The class roared with laughter every time she did one spanking. The funny thing was that she only acted like she was going to spank students hard. She reeled the paddle back |

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Rebecca Swanner honored by Marley Camp

but then just tapped lightly, but the first person to get a birthday spanking did not exactly know that. That person was terrified and shook with fear, walking slowly to the front of the room. At first the shocked class waited quietly for the spanking to be over. However, as the year progressed, everybody anxiously counted the days until they got their birthday spanking.

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May 2021

Education

Mrs. Juarez

Horizons

“A good teacher is like a candle; it consumes itself to light the way for others.” Mustafa Kemal Ataturk

his quote explains the endless sacrifices that a great teacher makes for the lives of their students, the countless hours that a teacher spends awake at night thinking of their students, and how they might unlock their potential like a chest of opportunity buried inside them. A great teacher hopes that their students absorb the world of knowledge that dwells inside their even expanding minds. Great teachers possess these qualities, but few are willing to give themselves up for their students again and again in order to pass on the

skills their students need to be successful in life. Among those great teachers, one teacher who never gives up or backs down from the challenges that overshadow him every day is Mr. Ford. Many teachers confine their teaching to only the classroom, and students have a limited amount of time to ask questions about assignments and materials. This makes it very difficult for students to have any communication with their teachers whatsoever. Not so with Mr. Ford. I can contact him at any time, and when I have questions, it seems as if he devotes his entire existence to helping me find the

Joseph Ford honored by Carolyn Purdue

answers. Like a book just waiting to be opened, Mr. Ford is always ready to share his knowledge with his students. Mr. Ford tirelessly intertwines his own life with students outside of his classroom through UIL events and practices and other extra-curricular activities. Mr. Ford has never ceased to amaze me through his acts of compassion and devotion to his students inside and outside of the classroom. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

My Lamplighter

eing new to Longview ISD and attending remotely, I have not been able to have face to face encounters with any of the educators and staff members at Forest Park. Upon reading this assignment, I almost got a bit discouraged, but then I realized that I have had a special experience with a specific teacher at Forest Park Middle School. My school year began at the beginning of my eighth-grade year, moving from Ohio, not really knowing anything about the school at all. With that being said, my decision about whom I would choose

to represent all of the amazing qualities of an instructor based on my minimal experience at Forest Park would be my science teacher, Mrs. Terrell-Ramsire. This school year and part of the last has definitely been a struggle for me as I started at a different school where I knew no students or teachers whom I could reach out to on a personal level for assistance. Ms. Terrell-Ramsire would be that person for me. I nominate Mrs. TerrellRamsire for the Lamplighter Awards because she makes learning science fun and interesting. In previous years, science was my

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Daneshia Terrell-Ramshire honored by Alyson Gray

least favorite subject; I found it boring. This year, however, I have really enjoyed learning about our solar system and lunar moon phases, and Mrs. Terrell-Ramsire has inspired me to learn. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

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want to tell everyone about Mrs. Juarez, my favorite teacher whom I had in third grade. Mrs. Juarez always made learning fun. When we learned something new, she would always make it look easy by teaching us a song or making learning into a game. She also gave us free time to work on something we were interested in when we did something good. I liked when we had free time because it showed that Mrs. Juarez was genuinely happy when we earned good grades and behaved well. Mrs. Juarez was not like a nor-

mal teacher who just wanted us to get good grades. She wanted us to really learn. She never had a problem when someone did not understand and needed help. She was always happy to help and encouraged us to ask questions. She never made us feel ashamed or embarrassed if we did not underAllison Nino with Teacher stand something. Yolanda Juarez Best of all, Mrs. Juarez always forgave us if we got in trouble. One day the entire class good and bad behavior. She alwas loud and did not want to lis- ways made sure we learned from ten. Mrs. Juarez was really mad, our mistakes. but she forgave us; however, she www.iplusmag.com for full essay. wanted us to learn a lesson about

The One Who Changed Me

ave you ever had someone you honor? I do, and her name is Mrs. Patterson. She is the best! Mrs. Patterson is the best to me because she always had faith in me. On the first day of school, I was scared. I wanted to go home, but then Mrs. Patterson said that I would have fun in first grade. I sat down at my desk, but my face was as red as a tomato because I felt sick. Then Mrs. Patterson said, “Don’t be afraid.” Suddenly I felt good inside. The butterflies in my

stomach flew away. The next day I walked in and sat down at my desk. Then she called my name. I jumped up like a kangaroo in the desert. She handed me a book to read to the class. I became nervous with chills like it was super cold outside. Gently Mrs. Patterson guided me through the book. That day I felt like she changed school for the better for me. I still remember everything she said. I will never forget the times she pushed me academically because she knew I could do better. Mrs. Patterson truly is the one

Treva Patterson Honored by Sheniyah Sedberry

teacher I honor and will never forget because she changed my life and taught me to be a better student and a better person. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

Mrs. Mauras

rs. Mauras was a great teacher who showed me how to respect others in order to earn respect. She taught me how to smile through tough times. Mrs. Mauras also taught me to follow my dreams as well as to be the real person I am inside. www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

Mrs. Mauras taught all her students to be respectful to adults and also other students. She even said that if people treat us wrong, we still need to treat them with respect. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

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Cristina Mauras honored by Levi Servin

May 2021

Education

Laura Johnston

Inspirational Teacher f I came up to you and asked you what teacher inspired you the most, what would you say? If I were in your position, I would say that a teacher named Ms. Long inspired me the most because of her kindness and her compassion. I remember in third grade I accidentally hit someone with a pencil. When I told Ms. Long what happened, she was not angry. Instead, she had a smile on her face and said, “Everyone makes mistakes.” Another time a girl and I were racing to see who could get the last chair in the room when the girl fell. Ms. Long scolded me, saying that I should have been a gentleman and given the girl the chair. After about twenty min-

utes, Ms. Long came to me and reminded me to never act like that again. I knew she forgave me. She made my heart feel warm, and I learned my lesson about being a gentleman. Ms. Long also inspires me because she spreads happiness to others. When I was in third grade, Ms. Long held a raffle. To enter, students had to earn tickets by showing good behavior. Every Friday, she put the tickets in a cup, shook it really well, and pulled out one ticket. She then called out the name on the winning ticket, and that student received a prize. The raffle actually encouraged good behavior and allowed students to have fun at the same time. Ms. Long is really good at

G Stephanie Long honored by Miguel Zuniga

helping students when they do not understand what we are learning. When I was having trouble understanding how to read English, she helped me by explaining what words meant. I believe I am a strong reader today because of her efforts. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

Paul McMillan

r. McMillan is the teacher who has helped me the most. He has shown many of the characteristics that a great teacher possesses, but three really stand out. Mr. McMillan is a good listener, he is accepting of others, and he makes learning fun. He has made such a difference in my life because he listens to me. If I have had a bad day or if I am sad, I can go to him and talk to him, and I know he will listen to me and help me feel better. His willingness to listen is something that will continue to have an impact on my life because he has taught me to be a good listener. I have a lot of respect for Mr.

McMillan because he is a great, fun teacher who has taught me many different things. Most importantly, he has taught me how to code and do a lot of really cool things. This learning is something I will always remember and take with me throughout my life. Mr. McMillan should definitely be awarded the Lamplighter Award this year by the Longview ISD Foundation because he has not only made a big impact on my life, but he has also made an impact on other students who talk about how much they like him. Other students have told me that has helped them with school and has listened to them and helped them through a bad day. Since Mr. McMillan has not

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reat educators have many traits that allow them to be as great as they are. Some teachers shine brighter than others because they have certain traits. The teacher I will always carry in my heart and mind because she has certain qualities is Mrs. Johnston, my English teacher. Mrs. Johnston is one of the best things in my school life this year because she has abilities no one else possesses. The quietest people have some of the darkest thoughts some say, and most teachers do not notice the students who always do what they are sup-

posed to do, but Mrs. Johnston does. She always encourages me and listens to my thoughts when I feel like I am an overflowing fountain. No matter how busy she is, she always understands what I am going through and helps me make the best of it. I feel more comfortable in Mrs. Johnston’s class than in any other class I have. Mrs. Johnston encourages me to pursue writing. She tells me that putting my thoughts on paper can do wonders for people willing to read my writing. She always talks about how I should make a blog and share the things I enjoy with others. Sometimes her comments

Laura Johnston honored by Kamiko Neely

embarrass me when she praises my work. Not only does she encourage me, but she also does her best to help everyone and explain the material we are learning. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

A Life-Changing Teacher Debasish Mridha, an American author, proclaims, “A great teacher plants the seeds of greatness in the minds of future generations.”

M George McMillan honored by Elyanna Johnson

only helped me and influenced the person I have become but has also helped other students too, he should be honored with the 2021 Lamplighter Award. www.iplusmag.com for full essay.

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ridha’s insistence on greatness reflects the great implication of how teachers and mentors generously share their little time and passion to teach a bright future. Any bright future can involve not only students whom the teacher and mentors educate, but it also can involve their children, family, friends, and their extended network as well. A life-changing teacher, Mrs. Scarborough, planted seeds of greatness from the start of my kindergarten year, and those seeds of greatness have followed me to my senior year www.facebook.com/InfinitiePlusmagazine

in high school. As a shy, timid child, I found it challenging to really settle in any environment, especially in school. I was so afraid of being away from my parents that every time they would drop me off at daycare or with a babysitter, I caused a scene with my loud cries and misbehavior. With Mrs. Scarborough, my kindergarten teacher, the best teacher ever, I did not cry nor misbehave. Mrs. Scarborough developed a culture in her classroom of protection and care whether it was physical, emotional, or intellectual. I recall the feeling of feeling safe every time I was in her classroom. She always cheered me up and encouraged me to be a |

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Laini Scarborough honored by Lynette Martinez

leader, even if it were just to be the best line leader I could be. The love she had within her for her students is a love I have never seen from another teacher.

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May 2021

Arts and Culture

Education

w e i v g n o L ! s t r A kicks off event

Mrs. Means would like for Mrs. Means to win this year’s Lamplighter Award from the Longview ISD Foundation. She is so sweet and kind, and she really cares about all of her students at Longview Early Graduation High School (LEGHS). There is nothing she would not do for us to help and encourage us to succeed in life. Mrs. Means wants the best for each of us. When I first came to Longview Early Graduation High School from another district, I did not know anyone. I was very shy, but Mrs. Means made me feel welcome and made sure that I was doing everything I was supposed to do. She helped keep me on track with my schoolwork. If she knew that I was behind in a class, she would come to me and talk to me about it. At my old school,

the teachers did not care about me like Mrs. Means does. I was failing all of my classes there, but now I am making A’s and B’s at LEGHS. I was held back in the seventh grade, so when I arrived at LEGHS, I was in the ninth grade but had earned no credits. Immediately Mrs. Means pushed me to stay focused on my schoolwork and do the work I needed to do to earn the credits. By the end of the year, I had earned thirteen credits. With her encouragement, I am now a junior and in the right grade. Mrs. Means and I have formed a strong bond over the years, and I can tell her anything or ask for her help for anything. I know she will be honest with me and tell me what is best for me. If it were not for Mrs. Means, I probably would not be where I am today!

By JOYCELYNE FADOJUTIMI / WWW.IPLUSMAG.COM

Kristi Means honored by Danorius Monroe

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Mrs. Bogue

eople are more than ready to take back their lives, especially the social events. One good example is the recent Art Walk in Downtown Longview. Throngs of people from all walks of life attended the event. There were more vendors and displays than we could count. It was pure fun, period. Cynthia Hellen, Arts!Longview executive director was very delighted with the event. There were at least 3000 attendees with exceptionally high participation of artists, vendors and downtown businesses compared to previous ArtWalks. “We had a very high number of

downtown businesses involved, and for several of them this was their first ArtWalk,” said Hellen. “People were just happy to be out and enjoying an evening with friends for the first time in so long” In addition, Jennifer Rocha won the beautiful Longview 150 screen print by Artist Jason Butler. The City of Longview donated the print and Art World framed it. Arts!Longview took its first shot in coordinating this ArtWalk since the new cultural district adopted the event. Get ready folks. The next ArtWalk is slated for July 1.

Artist Jason Butler, winner Jennifer Rocha, Arts!Longview Executive Director Cynthia Hellen

rs. Bogue has taught me to be a responsible and well-rounded person. She has helped me learn and follow through with my lessons. Angela Bogue, Kindergarten Teacher Honored by Emma Pena, Kindergartener. East Texas Montessori Prep Academy

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Angela Bogue honored by Emma Pena

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Cynthia Hellen and Carol Manley

Steven Spraggins, Natalie Ingram, and Abigail Volle

May 2021

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More couples are embracing edgy, adventurous weddings Outside-the-Box Menus

Couples may want to break with tradition by offering a wide selection of foods at their receptions. These foods can include items that fit with their specific ethnic cuisines, gourmet comfort foods (think cocktail franks wellington), or foods that fit with their dietary choices, such as organic or vegan options. Work with a caterer to provide a variety of tasty choices.

Bold Wardrobe Choices

rides and grooms once felt compelled to conform to the trappings of traditional weddings. From uberromantic vows to pastel colors to the penultimate white tiered cake, various wedding components were long considered must-haves. But modern couples are increasingly expressing their individuality, and even embracing more edgy and adventurous elements, when planning their weddings. According to The Knot, a leading bridal resource and information site, today’s weddings are not what they were just a few years ago. Bold

colors, exotic cakes and nontraditional foliage, are just some of the elements modern couples are embracing to set their weddings apart.

Adventurous Locales

Vineyards and catering halls can be great places to tie the knot, but couples who like to push the envelope are looking to more adventurous locales to impart their unique spin on their weddings. Sharing vows atop a mountain crest at the end of a favorite hiking trail or on a roller coaster at a theme park that harkens back to a first date are some adventurous places to tie the knot.

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Brides can put new spins on their gowns by adding color and texture. Sequins, bold embroidery, shorter hemlines, and whatever adventurous fashion style you want to impart can be considered. If white isn’t your thing, that’s okay, too. Yellow and slate gray look great together. Gentlemen can choose to wear a black suit or any combination of color and style they want to make a dramatic impression. Full of flavor Cakes don’t have to be white with white buttercream. In fact, couples can make things even more tasty by incorporating favorite flavor combinations into their cakes. For example, a chocolate and caramel filling reminiscent of a candy bar might be something to consider. Modern couples are embracing bold, unique and edgy components when planning their weddings. Putting an individualized spin on the ceremony and reception can make couples even more excited to tie the knot.

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Family Matters

Letting go of YOUR FLOORING, LIGHTING, APPLIANCE AND MORE STORE

www.stone-works.net (903) 663-3344 SWIMMING POOLS AND SPAS

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SHAME

Through God’s grace, all your mistakes now serve a purpose, instead of serving shame. By SHEA VOGEL/CONTRIBUTING WRITER

’ve been on a journey lately. A journey in the physical sense, but more importantly the spiritual and self-healing kind of journey. “Insanity is repeating the same thing over and over again and expecting different results” and I’ve grown weary of the insanity. A common theme that I keep seeing pop up in my life is fear and shame. But what brings about shame and how does it affect us? Shame comes from the belief that, “I am flawed, inadequate, not worthy, bad.” Shame tells us that we aren’t good enough. It comes from the Greek word aischune, which depicts something as revolting, ugly and grotesque. And how do these horrid self-beliefs manifest in our lives? Through self-destructive behaviors, numbing and avoidance. If we truly think that we aren’t good enough, then we will live this out again and again. We will overspend, drink too much, get into debt, procrastinate, overeat and so on. You can try and run and hide from yourself, but at the end of the day,

you’re still left with YOU and if you’re living in shame, that can be soul crushing. Listen, we’ve ALL made mistakes. I know I have! Acting out, gossiping to take the focus off myself, and too many selfdestructive behaviors to mention. Brene Brown says it best “Shame erodes our courage and fuels disengagement.” However, guilt is just as powerful. It let’s us know that we did something “bad” so that hopefully we learn from it and change the behavior. Shame just says, “We are bad.” If this is a driving force in your life, no matter what you do, you will never feel worthy or “good”. You will look for outside validation, that will never quench the thirst of feeling enough. We teach people how to treat us and if you think that you’re bad or a piece of crap, that is how you’ll allow others to see and treat you. Some say it all starts with you, but I believe that it starts with God. And through God’s grace, all

your mistakes now serve a purpose, instead of serving shame. We are all children of God the mighty king, so what does that make us? More than enough and worthy because of grace, love and forgiveness. And sometimes forgiveness must start with you forgiving yourself. We all do the best we can, with the tools we have at the time. Shifting the focus from self-blame to a learning experience, helps in forgiveness. And I don’t know about you, but some of my greatest mistakes have brought about my greatest victories. So besides giving it to God, how do we let go of shame? Internalizing, processing, and working through it. “You gotta go through, to get to,” my old friend, Cookie used to say, and boy is that true! Growing as humans, means taking time alone, facing yourself, and letting go. Letting go of who you were and who you believe yourself to be. Letting go of negative self-talk and people who help enforce these beliefs. And having courage. Courage to own up to your mistakes and know that they don’t define you. Courage to quit hiding behind the different masks that we wear and to be yourself. Your true, authentic, sometimes flawed self. Courage to let go of the familiarity of shame and be 100 percent you. The good, the bad and the ugly. Letting go of shame, means knowing at the end of the day, that we are all perfectly imperfect. That we are worthy no matter what our past or other’s say. And finally, so very loved and lovable, simply because we are children of God.

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The 4 Cs of Diamond

iamonds are the stone of choice for engagement rings and wedding jewelry. Diamonds are durable and remain a timeless way to complement every style. Anyone who is about to purchase a diamond is encouraged to do their research about selecting quality diamonds. At the heart of the diamond grading process are the 4 Cs of diamond quality. The Cs refer to carat weight, color grade, clarity grade, and cut grade. The Gemological Institute of America {GIA}helped to create the Diamond 4 Cs and the International Diamond Grading System. These benchmarks are used to classify all diamonds. The following is the GIAs explanation of each component of the system.

Carat: Diamond carat weight is the measurement of how much the diamond weighs and is equivalent to 200 milligrams per carat. Each carat is subdivided into 100 points. Therefore, a one-carat diamond is 1.00 or 100 points, while a twenty-five point diamond is .25 carats. Naturally, larger diamonds can be rare and desirable.

Color: A white diamond is more valuable the less color it contains. GIA uses a D-to-Z grading system to determine a diamond’s color value. D would be a colorless diamond and Z the most saturated with color. Clarity: Diamonds are formed by carbon exposed to heat and pressure. Natural internal characteristics known as inclusions and external components called blemishes are the norm. The closer the gem comes to being perfectly pure without inclusions or blemishes, the greater the value.

Cut: To transmit light and sparkle, diamonds must be cut precisely and with great artistry. A diamond will be further graded based on symmetry and proportions, as well as how the stone returns light. Brightness, which is the internal and external white light reflected; fire, or the scattering of white light into rainbow colors; and scintillation, or the sparkle the diamond produces, are factored into how the cut is valued.

Tips for a successful

Engagement

marriage proposal is such a memorable moment in a couples lives together, those doing the proposing often go to great lengths to ensure things go smoothly. While there is no proposal playbook, these guidelines can assist those ready to take the leap.

sider waiting to propose at a more relaxed time.

Enlist help from others. Ask friends and close family members to be your accomplices so that information can be gathered without generating suspicion. This can be especially helpful when finding the perfect ring.

Keep it simple. The more complex a proposal, the more opportunities for things to go wrong. Simplicity, even if it means keeping the proposal to yourself until the question has been popped.

Add a personal touch. Taking a sweetheart back to a special place that recalls a significant moment can set the backdrop for a memorable proposal.

Embrace the old fashioned. Show respect to future in-laws by speaking to them about intentions to propose and ask for their blessings. Get down on bended knee when asking for a sweetheart’s hand.

Consider timing. A person may be so excited to propose that he or she fails to consider how the other person in the relationship is feeling. Con-

Marriage proposals happen every day. With humor, confidence and a heart full of love, popping the question can be a success.

From precious stones to brilliant new creations, our exquisite jewelry collections are truly stunning. JEWELRY

BartlettFineJewelry.com The Village Shopping Center 2002 Judson Road, Suite 101 Longview, Texas 75605 (903) 758 . 4367

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More couples are embracing edgy, adventurous weddings The 4 Cs of Diamond

Tips for a successful engagement

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