visual society magazine
DESCRIPTION
Lifestyle & Cultural Magazine of the Visual Generation.TRANSCRIPT
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ISUAL SOCIETY MAGAZINE
Style
STAGESUMMERCULTURE
COVER: Krystin Massingill
PHOTOG: Blackledge & Co. Studio
DESIGNER: SgM Graphic Design
EDITOR: Beckie Haas
ARTICLES: Kennedy Shelton // Jasmine Jone // Reese Roberston // Alivia Reyes
Hali Furgeson // Paytin Pogue // Megan Harbuck // Kichuana Lewis
THE TALENT
We want you...
If you would like to contribute email us! [email protected]
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Hi there! My name is Jennifer Blackledge, own-
er and photographer for Blackledge & Co.
Studio. At Blackledge & Co. Studio we have
decided to make it our business to tell the
visual story of the younger generation. By
specicallzing in Senior, Teen & Editorial por-
traits we have created a laser focus on the
younger generations likes, dislikes and culture.
Several months ago I interviewed my 2016
models for a competition that I was submit-
ting them in. When I sat down and began
writing their story I felt this overhwhleming
responsibilty to provide a way for them to
share their style, culture, talent & stories with
the community. To give THEM a STAGE and
VISUAL VOICE. I am fascinated with the in-
telligence, independence and seflessness this
generation has to offer and Visual Society
Magazine is just the form of media I chose
to share it with. Our mission is to unite the
younger community and provide the insight
into their worlds.
- Jenni BLackledge
THE VISION
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This ISSUEV6
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SHOOT
S-POSE
STAGE
STYLE
STORY
SPORT
STRENGTH
SELFIE
SCHOOL
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Shoot
Rachael Meyer Alivia Reyes
Destination Couture Shoot
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Krystin Massingill Mariela Solis
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S-Pose
1 Alexus Walker (Huntington HS)
2 Bailey Cho (Lufkin HS)
3 Brittiny Williams (Nac HS)
4 Bryssa Acevedo (Lufkin HS)
5 Clarissa Alanis (Lufkin HS)
6 Creed Cullen (Hudson HS)
7 Haley Shurley (Lufkin HS)
8 Lucy Gabriel (Lufkin HS)
9 Micha May (Hudson HS)
10 Myrka Lila (Lufkin HS)
11 Ravyn Hopson (Hudson HS)
12 Taylor Squyres (Hudson HS)
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CENTERStage
Jordyn Haas loves to spend her free time playing
basketball with her family and friends. “My goal, when
I get to High School, is to be on the varsity basket-
ball as a freshmen. I also train for basketball at least
two times a day,” Haas said, “and I love that I have
the ability to learn from my teammates and coach-
es while playing.” Haas also said that when playing
basketball she has learned, over the years, how to
have good sportsmanship, and gained friendships
along with bonds that can never be broken. “I also
love the fact that when playing basketball you can
get into shape while also having fun,” said Haas.
Although Jordyn has many friends at school, many
people do not know that she also has a passion for
singing and enjoys singing for the Hudson Middle
School choir. “I am really good at singing actually,”
said Haas, “and many people do not see me as a
singing person, but I always end up getting the best
performers award from my choir teachers.” Haas also
said that she loves spending some of her free time
dancing when she is not practicing for her bas-
ketball team or singing. “I have dance on the side
to challenge myself,” said Haas, “aside from playing
basketball and singing in choir.” Even though Jordyn
is only in the seventh grade, she has planned every-
thing out for her future after middle school and high
school. “My dream is to go to the University of Texas,”
said Haas, “and to play basketball for their team.
JORDYN HAAS
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I have been a long horn since day one.” Jordyn also
said that she wants to go to U.T. for the basketball,
but also their great academic programs as well. “I
have good grades and I can keep good grades,”
said Haas, “and I think that keeping good grades in
college is a good goal to have for yourself.” Jordyn
not only wants to keep good grades in her col-
lege years but also plans on following in the foot-
steps of her father, to become the head trainer and
maybe even the owner of Haas Athletics. “ I would
like to be a personal trainer and carry on what my
dad does,” said Haas. “ I would love to follow in his
footsteps because he not only inspires me to play
basketball, but he loves his job.” Haas wants to be
able to help others progress in their physical fitness.
“I want to be a personal trainer to help other peo-
ple reach their fitness and sports goals in life,” said
Haas. When Haas is not spending her time practic-
ing basketball, singing, dancing, or trying to pursue
her dreams, she loves to hang out with her family,
go hunting and riding fourwheelers. “I do not come
off as the most country girl,” said Haas, “but when I
get home from a long day of school or practicing
basketball, I just love to hang out with my family, chill,
go hunting, riding fourwheelers, and sitting by the
fire.” Although Jordyn loves having friends that play
basketball with her, sing in choir with her and some
that are in dance with her, she wants people to
know that she is determined to reach the goals she
has set for herself in life. “I want people to get one
thing out of this article,” Haas said. “I want everyone
that reads this to know that I am a very determined
and goal oriented person, and even though I can
be very goofy at times, I am also a very ambitious
person.”
- BY: KENNEDY SHELTON
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CENTERStage
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Andrew Meyer is 14 years old and was born in Na-
cogdoches and now lives in Lufkin, TX. Born a month early
and with severe dyslexia, Andrew does not let anything get in
his way, not even being bullied for his dyslexia. “I have been
bullied most of my life,” Andrew said. “Now that I’m old enough,
I can stand up for myself.” Andrew faces life with his head held
high thanks to his best friend – who has been with him through
the entire journey. “My mom, she is my best friend,” Andrew
said. “She tells me all the time God made me special like all
the famous inventors; without them we would not have all the
cool things.” One of Andrew’s’ biggest fears is losing the most
important person in his life, his mom. Andrew’s interests include
spending time with his family and going to church. Andrew
strives to reach his goals. His number one goal is to be the
best at whatever he does. Andrew likes to put on plays for his
family and friends and hopes to one day be on the stage. “I
could see myself being an actor or being in the music field.”
Andrew loves music and one day hopes to combine all of his
talents. This includes drawing, acting, and his love for music
and he hopes to make videos or films. “I have a natural ability
of rhythm and a passion for the drums.” Having severe Dyslexia
does not impair Andrew’s ability to read music but he does
have trouble with the lyrics. Andrew is a man with powerful
words; with only 14 years of age and an education of only
a 8th grader Andrew is unique, smart, and very wise. Andrew
keeps his family and faith. Above all this he loves God and
thanks God for every footstep he takes. Andrew inspires others
with dyslexia to not let it keep them from doing anything. “No
matter what problems you have in life you can be anything
you want to be, “ Andrew said. “Do not let any disabilities or
being different stop you from living your dreams, we are all
winners in someway.”
- BY: KICHUANA LEWIS
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CENTERStage ALIVIA REYES
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ALIVIA REYES
I have always been the spotlight in my family. I could
put a smile on everyone’s face without even trying. I
loved everyone as they loved me. The older I become
I can see my role more clearly. It had always just been
my mom, dad, brother, granny, and I. Throughout my life
I lost and gained family members. No one has a perfect
family including me. 2009 was a big year for my family
and I. Everything along the way has shown me where I
want to be. I have always helped care for my grandma,
helping her throughout each day, and for my younger
brother. I am independent in a way I never thought I would be. I get that from my momma. My mom and dad are
number one in my life without a doubt. They have given me the ability to grow. This past year has been the busiest
and most exciting of them all. Ive made new friends and incredible memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. Modeling
with 3 beautiful friends of mine has been an experience like no other. I would never have envisioned myself loving
being in front of the lens as much as I did. There are a handful of things I love; the color orange, my friends, and my
family. I am anticipating what the future holds and trying to grasp the crazy idea of finishing high school and “getting
the show on the road.” I’m ready for the “real world”. My plans are to attend Stephen F. Austin State University, get
my nursing degree, and minor in Spanish. Hopefully in a few years you will see me in scrubs taking care of someone,
doing makeup or even in my own house working on some big house plans for someone else. - BY: ALIVIA REYES
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CENTERStage
Mariela always gives it her all with everything she does. She is
the middle child of her family and has a sweet shy side. So many
of her characteristics make her stand out as an individual. She
has blossomed into the most loving and beautiful individual.
When she started high school 4 years ago she found a passion
in dancing that she stuck with. Dance has allowed her to create
even more friendships that she holds close to her heart. Balanc-
ing out school and dance was just as hard as it is for everyone.
There are many talents she holds. When modeling this whole year
it was almost as if she had been modeling her whole life. When
you come across her pictures you can see all the happiness
inside of her painted in these images. Mariela loves country
music and you will rarely catch her listening to rap. It is random
but factual. There is always music blasting when in any car with
her since she loves music. There is never a dull moment when in
her presence. One of the biggest things yet for her to take on;
he college life. Being away from her friends and family is going
to be a huge change but she is prepared to take on any task
thrown at her. This fall she will be attending Texas State University
with plans of getting her nursing degree along with minoring in
business. Keep an eye on this girl; lots of big plans ahead of
her. - BY: ALIVIA REYES
MARIELASOLIS
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KRYSTINMASSINGILL
CENTERStage
Krystin Massingill’s life is filled with twos. Two sisters, two step brothers,
and two step sisters. Born two weeks late and given a second chance
on life. Born with her umbilical cord around her stomach and throat,
Krystin was purple in color which led her to stay in the hospital the first
few months of her life. “I had a lot of stomach problems when I was
younger,” Krystin said. The Pineywoods Christian Academy senior does
not let it affect her appreciation for life. “I love to model, exercise, eat
sushi, watch Netflix and hang out with friends. ” said Krystin, “lol, that is
basically all I do.” She has done small photo shoots since her freshman
year, but she has been modeling for the past year with Jenni at Black-
ledge & Co. Studio. “Modeling makes me feel confident about myself,”
said Krystin. “A big part of modeling is your photographer; Jenni makes
it so much fun, she makes all her models feel very confident.” Krystin loves
modeling! She said it is like a sport to her. In her early high school years
Krystin was on drill team and in choir but decided to pass this year
to focus on college her senior year. She is still involved in Keylclub this
year. Krystin’s advice for upcoming seniors is, “Do not procrastinate, be
involved, live in the moment, and have fun,” she said, “you have many
decisions to make this year including college and your major.” Krystin
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will graduate with an associates degree from Angelina College. She is not sure what college
she wants to attend in the future but wants to major in nursing or physical therapy. Massingill
said; ”While attending college I plan on working as a Phlebotomist.” Massingill has a bright
future ahead of her and big plans. There is no doubt she will thrive and flourish.
BY: JASMINE JONES
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RACHAELMEYER
CENTERStage
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Rachael Meyer is a senior at Pineywoods Acad-
emy and is also enrolled in college courses.
When she graduates high school she will have
her general associates degree completed. Ra-
chael is a strong free spirited young lady but
there have been a few obstacles that she has
had to over come to get there. One in partic-
ular has made a huge impact on her and who
she is today. At age 12 (right before her 13th
birthday) Rachael and her family were on their
way home from a movie, when they got into a
car accident that ended with the fatality of
a pedestrian. This accident affected her entire
family and their hearts were all shattered. After
this traumatic experience she went through a
period of wanting to be alone and not talking
to anyone. She missed two weeks of school. This
process of recovery took place over two years
and while she has moved forward this event has
left an imprint on Rachael’s heart and mind. This
experience has allowed her to really take hold
of her life and not miss out on anything. It has
also allowed her and her mom to grow closer
than before. Rachael knows that life is precious
and doesn’t want to take it for granted. Ra-
chael has always been a shy person but this
past year, being involved in modeling, she has
stood out more than ever. Rachael says she has
enjoyed the experience of modeling and it is
so exciting to get the chance to get in front
of the lens of the camera. She has shone bright
this year and will continue to do so in the years
to come. She has hopes of attending UT Austin
since it is so beautiful there or maybe even go-
ing to Colorado State. She plans to be a nurse
and follow in family footsteps; her uncle is a sur-
geon. Rachael will do great things in the future
led by her strong free spirit. BY: ALIVIA REYES
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CENTERStage Javarius Cooper is a senior at Hudson High School.
He first lived in Corrigan and later moved to Hudson
his 6th grade year. While at Hudson he developed
a passion for basketball and fell in love with it. Be-
ing new to a school it may seem hard to make new
friends but oddly enough Javarius met one of his best
friends, Cameron, on his first day of school. Things
have not always been easy, everyone has their own
obstacles to overcome, and for Javarius it would be
family. One family that has helped and treated him
as their own would be the Bonner family; they have
been a second family to him. The Bonner’s arms have
been open wide and they have made sure he’s al-
ways felt at home. Javarius says the Hudson commu-
nity has also been loving, caring, and supportive.
Javarius is friends with everyone, he says cannot
think of a person that he does not like or that does
not like him. He would describe himself as a peo-
ple person and tries to stay connected with people
as much as possible. One avenue of connection is
church. Javarius’s faith is a big aspect of his life. He is
a Christian, a rescuer, and loves the color orange. A
rescuer? One time he saved the life of another from
drowning. Javarius says he has had a whirlpool of
events happen in his life and is about to be hit by
another one with college fast approaching. He will
be attending Sam Houston State University in hopes
of becoming a physical therapist. Be looking forward
to what the future holds for this kind hearted b-ball
player.
BY: ALIVIA REYES
JAVARIUSCOOPER
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Style TIPS DO:
DON’T:
XOXO,
Paytin Pogue
PRINTED SHORTSStart with a small pattern and work your way to a
larger pattern
JEWELRYIf you’re feeling bold
you could pair a chunky necklace, but if you’re still a little nervous just
pair it with a little dainty necklace
Pair two patterns together! Most patterns will clash
and not look good!
SOLID COLORED TOPS
Great with almost
anything. You candress
it up with a pair of heels,
you can also dress
down with a pair of
ballet flats
Suede + Suede + More Suede
I LOVE SUEDE!
Dress up
in something
you feel comfortable
in wearing and
showing off!
Experiment
with colors &
HAVE FUN!
DO:
DO:
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BE LIKE A PINEAPPLE. STAND TALL. WEAR A CROWN. BE SWEET ON THE INSIDE.
Summer
Fashion
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VISUAL Story
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I didn't know that different meant that the month after my birthday, my heart and my head would be in two completely different places.My mind was set on tests and college and work and my heartMy heart was grieving for a love that had been lost and the death of one of my closest friends.
I didn't know that sixteen meant complete opposites, ups and downs I had never experienced to that degree.Love, anxiety, hate, sadness, pride, my head and my heart just didn't know what emotion to pick.I got accepted into college, pride.I learned how terrible boys my age can be, hate.My best friend died, and I couldn't tell you how many emotions that still makes me feel.
I'm not even halfway through this year and I'm almost scared of whats to come.The good, the bad, they always come together and they balance each other out so perfectly you can't tell a difference on the scales upon which they sit.And that's terrifying to a girl of only sixteen.
Let me tell you about the number sixteen,
Sixteen is a number I was a little afraid of, it's still a number I'm a little afraid of.In the movies, you see sixteen as rebellion, drugs, driving cars and skipping school.But that isn't the sixteen year old reality.
My reality is anxiety mixed with a healthy dosage of depression, my first college campus and perhaps another job, and figuring out who I want to hold my hand.Sixteen for me is not driving, I'm too scared to, and it certainly isn't skip-ping school, that doesn't bode well for my college professors.The only drug I really need is called happiness and I get that from being with the people I love, and if we're going to be honest, the only rebellious thing I've done is drink a soda when my dentist told me not to.
The girls my age, they are in the same head space as me, just as confused and wary.They aren't sure if they really like that boy, aren't sure if they are going to get into college, aren't sure if they're gonna be able to get a job.Scared, yeah, but they work their hardest, and let me tell you sixteen year old girls are so kind.So smart.
I knew the day I turned sixteen something would be different.But no one could have warned me about the adventure in front of me.
Megan Harbuck
I KNEW THE DAY I TURNED SIXTEEN SOMETHING WOULD BE DIFFERENT...
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Sport
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I have learned so much since
joining the LHS Tennis team
and traveling for tournaments.
It has taught me passion,
humility, and preserverance.
My favorite part about the
game is that feeling when I hit
an incredible shot. It fills me up
with joy and confidence which
makes me never want to stop
playing! I like Tennis because
its a combination of physical,
mental, technical, and tactical
skills. I never thought I was very
competitive until I started to
play tennis and realized I love
the challenge! I’ve made some
amazing friends who love the
game just as much as I do
and who are so supportive! It
is incredible
Halli Furgeson
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MYStrength
When I was young I grew up in a Christian home and that was a huge blessing for me. Most people take it for granted but when I realized not everyone gets lucky to have a home that loves the Lord and prays for one another it made me appreciate my parents more. I knew they made many sacrifices for me and they still do… I mean the bill for my college is not cheap but yet my parents are steadfast in the Lord knowing He will provide. Having the faith and trust of knowing He would provide and be there for me throughout my first year of college gave me more comfort than anything and still does to this day. That is what I have held onto these past two semesters and being a girl that dealt with self-worth and overcame depression I was scared of college but I knew my heavenly Father had His hands on me. I have grown in the Lord more this year than any other year because leaving home makes you realize you won’t be able to hold onto your parent’s hands for much longer. I’m a daddy’s girl and leaving him behind was heartbreaking for me one of the biggest things I had to overcome about moving away from home. I also missed my mom of course and not always having someone to talk to, and man do I miss her meals. That’s the best part of coming home besides seeing my dog and of course my big brother who gave me sermons every day to lift me up.
College is not what I expected it to be and the first semester was hard. At the beginning I was doing great, loved my classes, hung out with friends, and went to all the school events I was enjoying college and learning how to become independent even when I missed home. During the middle of my first semester everything changed...boom I was dumped. It was out of the blue and of course I was heartbroken. Getting dumped you can lose lots of friends and I lost about every single one (yay) and I had no one to go to but luckily God placed an amazing roommate in my life that helped me and prayed with me (Thank God for Jesus loving roommates they are the best). During that time my outlook on life changed and to this day I could not be more thankful that this happened. God used this to show me to stop putting my hopes and dreams in this world and to let Him take over and put all my hope in Him alone. After I realized this I began to fall deeper in love with Christ and life became more radiant for me. I was truly joyful and a began a new journey in my life. I ended the semester by making the dean’s list of honors and making all A’s (except one high B) and new friendships God placed in my life. The first semester taught me life is not what you always think it’s going to be but it’s what God has instore for me.
Ohhhh…the second semester God surprised me, and I mean surprised me but I listened and prayed a lot. I thought I was not going to date for the longest time but God has a sense of humor (we all know that). In the last semester I met a guy through and organization and through mutual friends. It was funny how it all started because I never would have pictured myself with him until I got to know him, and I’m
glad I did. I made him wait almost two months before taking me on ONE date (I could tell he wasn’t going to give up) but he kept pursuing me in ways I never was before and that’s what got my attention the most.
Ladies wait for a man that is willing to go out of his way for you, and not just a man who calls you pretty but shows you how precious you are in God’s eyes and treats you like the King’s daughter you are. Who knows you have worth, and does not just speak words but allows his actions to speak louder than those words.
Through this I saw God in the works more and more no matter how much of a mess the first semester was God was continuing to pour into my life. The new friendships He placed in my life could not have been any better by their constant love and support. I needed it because this semester has not been as easy as the first… so words of advice listen to people when they tell you second semester is worse. I finally had that class that makes you cry and more frustrated than anything… through this I failed my first college test. Go me. I thought I was in the dumps and my parents wanted me to drop it so I wouldn’t waist their money. I studied my brain off but nope still failed until my third test I finally passed. My new saying is “My grades might not be good, but God is good” and honestly that’s truth when it comes down to college.
After I started to get the drift of the class things started to look up but realizing I have 4 more weeks left of my first year of college life began to get a little crazier. I now have a job on campus as a student worker in admissions (get a job it helps and you won’t be the poor broke college kid anymore), I am now a part of Student Foundations and will be an RA next year. Yeah, my schedule is more full than last semesters but being more plugged in on campus was a great choice and fit for me. It’s what I needed and I encourage more people to be involved at their universities, you will have a better experience of college.
God has defiantly placed me where I needed to be and has done such wonderful things in my life during my first year of college. The amount of growth I have done over the year is crazy and shows how much can change and how your plans are not your plans after all. God is the planner, and God will lead you every step of the way, just follow Him because HE knows what is best for you at the end of the day. Don’t astray God during college because you want to have fun and you think you can do it all on your own because when it comes down to it you can’t. Rely on Him to give you the wisdom and strength so whatever comes your way you can overcome it. College is not the easiest but with God all things are possible even the hardest classes, heartbreaks, missing home and stress you can defeat with the power of prayer.
...my outlook on life changed and to
this day I could not be more thankful that
this happened. God used this to show me
to stop putting my hopes and dreams in
this world and to let Him take over and put
all my hope in Him alone.
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Selfie
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David Macpherson aka Coach “Mac” gets the vote of Visual Society Magazine as be-ing one of the COOLEST teachers at Lufkin High School. Why you ask? Students like his straight forward teaching style along withhis-funny commentary phrases, such as “you’re full of bull do do” and referring to all his stu-dents as “suckers”. Not only is he fun or cool he has also had a huge impact on his students by creating a relaxed learning enviroment that feels more like a discussion than a classroom. If you see him in the hallway be sure to say
“what’s up sucker” he will love it.
- BY: ALIVIA REYES
School COOL TEACHERS
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V-Photo Contest Winner
Photo by: Madeljne Paige Wren
6th Grade Hudson Middle School
V44Peace OUT