By Darrel Wheeler, Contributing Writer 

Once again, there was no one left behind at the Second Annual Never Leave One Behind Johnnie Lee Gibson Scholarship awards presentation last Saturday at the JR-YMCA. This year’s Scholarship recipients are: Philip Huynh 4.0-GPA (Crawford High), Kemyron McCoy 4.27-GPA (Lincoln High), Jai’ciyah Anderson 3.33-GPA (Lincoln High), and Nikolao Ta’a 4.23-GPA (Lincoln High) were selected for their academic excellence and outstanding conduct.

High-achieving dynamo Nikolao Ta’a said, “I followed my brother’s example and tried twice as hard as he did when it came to sports and academics and my dad always encouraged me to do my best at all times, and it’s paying off. I definitely would like to thank the NLOB organization for their help. I’m going to attend Southwestern JC and then go to a D-1.”

Each student received a $1,000 check in honor of Johnnie Lee Gibson to assist them in their pursuit of higher-learning.  

“This scholarship means a lot to me for being recognized for my achievements and to be given the opportunity to continue my education with some much-needed financial help. I really appreciate this,” shared  Kemyron McCoy, the humble Hornet.

The students with their family and supporters were treated to a first-class BBQ feast with all the fixings and celebrated with plenty of applause for their past accomplishments and encouraging advice for their future.

Jean’e McKinney, a recent graduate from Xavier University of Louisiana, shared her collegiate experience with the crowd of eager listeners. 

“I just wanted to encourage anyone who wants to go to college and continue their education, I went through what they are going through now. I want to let them know, if they put in the work, God will meet them in the middle and a good education will put them in a better situation.” 

NLOB President Larry Price shared, “Remember, a mind is a terrible thing to waste. Let us, as a community, continue to help our next generation of achievers.”

Contact info: PH # 619-255-4134,(Email Inezprice2020@yahoo,com),P.O box 15234415 SD CA,92195-2344