La Voz Latina Central

Latin Link Presents

La Voz Latina Central

What’s Inside: Charitable Donations p. 6

Profiles 2013-2014 EUP Scholarship Recipients p. 8

Pensar Positivamente p. 12

Gift Guide 2013 p. 15

The Bon-Ton, Inc. Partners With Mario Lopez To Announce Its Holiday Charity Partnership With Boys & Girls Clubs Of America p. 19

Nueva Central Mayorista Activamenta Reclutando Empleados En Pennsylvania p. 22

The Voice Of Your Community / La Voz De Su Comunidad

DECEMBER 2013

December 2013 • Volume 3 No. 12

La Voz Latina Central PUBLISHER

Graham Hetrick . ghetrick@lavozlatinacentral.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Patti Hill-Boccassini . pboccassini@harrisburgmagazine.com MANAGING EDITOR

Jadrian Klinger . jklinger@benchmarkgroupmedia.com GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Austin Fitz . afitz@benchmarkgroupmedia.com SOCIAL MANAGER OF WEBSITE

Chelsea Hess-Moore . chessmoore@benchmarkgroupmedia.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kristen Lacaillade | Mark Kogan, Esq. Dr. Hector Richard Ortiz | Joe Benish Oralia Garcia Dominic, Ph.D., M.A., M.S. ACCOUNT SALES REPRESENTATIVES

Joe Benish (717) 609-9059 Jim Laverty (717) 233-0109–ext. 122 Julia Neumyer (717) 233-0109–ext. 121 TRANSLATOR

Marisol Aviles

3400 N. 6th Street Harrisburg, PA 17110 717.233.0109 717.232.6010 fax benchmarkgroupmedia.com

PRESIDENT AND CEO

Davy H. Goldsmith–ext. 114

PUBLISHER

Patti Hill-Boccassini–ext. 130

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Chad Overbaugh–ext. 128

DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING Jim Laverty–ext. 122

CIRCULATION MANAGER / DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS FINANCE Violetta Chlaifer–ext. 124

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 3

A Note From The Publisher

D

ecember is my favorite time of the year. Much of it is because I love the Christmas holidays, but that is not the only reason. There is the newness of winter; the first snow anticipation. At the beginning of winter, you still find the cold to be novel and winter clothing brings comfort and a change of style. It is only at the end of February that the season of winter seems more like a torturous marathon of high fuel bills, endless shoveling and cold walks with collars drawn tight around the neck.

Weather is not the only thing I also love about December. I love the Christmas music. It seems so hopeful to hear these songs filling the background of such a troubled world. The music carries us back to a happier time or really a concept of a better time. I am sure that Christmas in the olden days was just as troubled as our present time. It was just a different era with different issues but still reflecting the defective character of man.

It doesn’t matter whether it is Christmas or Hanukkah, both tell a story of a spirit beyond man, an intelligent being that interjects into our troubled history and gives us hope, a being that lets our soul know that it will not always be cold, there will be a spring, and the sun will warm us all. The world will once again spring into life, flowers will display their colors once more, animals will care for their young and the outside will be a place of joy and relaxation.

I think, during this month, one should forget about the commercialism that has corrupted Christmas and Hanukkah. We should concentrate on living life knowing that, like nature, our life is in cycles. We are born in life’s spring, we grow in summer under the watchful eye of family, in autumn we begin to loose our color and leaves and, in winter, we struggle with aging. The nice part is that nature teaches us that there is this cycle, and for us, there is always the resurrection of Spring.

How clever it is of God to teach us about himself by showing us the cycles of nature. He spoke through Moses, Krishna, and Christ, telling us to embrace life through the love of our fellow man. He shows us that giving is far more powerful than receiving and that material matter can never be destroyed only transformed.

So just like tiny Tim in Dickens’ A Christmas Carol let me say to all of you: God bless you everyone. Have a great holiday and pay attention to the greater lessons taught to us about the cycles.

Value every season.

Graham S. Hetrick Publisher

D

iciembre es mi mes favorita del año. Mucho de esto es porque me encanta la Navidad, pero que no es la única razón. No es la novedad del invierno, la primera nieve previsión. Al comienzo de la temporada de invierno todavía puedes encontrar el frío para ser novedoso y ropa de invierno aporta comodidad y un cambio de estilo. Es sólo a finales de febrero que la temporada de invierno parece más una maratón de facturas de combustible alto, interminables paseos paladas y frío con los collares apretados alrededor del cuello.

El clima no es la única cosa que me encanta de Diciembre. Me encanta la música de Navidad. Parece tan esperanzado a que escuchen estas canciones llenando el trasfondo de ese mundo de problemas. La música nos transporta a un tiempo más feliz o realmente el concepto de un tiempo mejor. Estoy seguro que las fiestas de Navidad en los días de antaño era tan problemática como nuestro tiempo. Sólo era una época diferente con otro tema pero todavía refleja el mal carácter del hombre.

No importa el clima es Navidad o Hanukkah tanto contar una historia de un espíritu más allá del hombre. Un ser inteligente que interponga en nuestra agitada historia y nos da esperanza. Un ser que le permite nuestra alma sabe que no siempre es frío, no será una primavera y el sol cálido todos nosotros. El mundo una vez más en la vida Muelle, flor se mostrará sus colores una vez más, los animales, cuidar de sus crías, y en el exterior, lugar de la alegría y la relajación.

Creo que durante este mes no se debe olvidar el mercantilismo que ha corrompido Navidad y Jánuca. Tenemos que concentrarnos en vivir la vida sabiendo que como la naturaleza, nuestra vida está en ciclos. Hemos nacido en la vida de la primavera, se crece en verano bajo el ojo vigilante de la familia, en el otoño, empezamos a perder nuestro color y hojas, y en invierno se lucha con el envejecimiento. La parte buena es que la naturaleza nos enseña que no hay este ciclo y para nosotros siempre hay la resurrección de la Primavera.

Qué ingenioso es de Dios que nos enseñe, nos muestra los ciclos de la naturaleza. Habló a través de Moisés, Krishna, Cristo, nos dicen que reconciliarse con la vida por amor a nuestros semejantes. Y nos muestra que es mucho más potente que recibir y que el material no puede ser destruido sólo transformado.

Así que al igual que Tiny Tim en Navidad Dickens Carole permítanme decirles a todos ustedes: “que Dios los bendiga a todos.” Tenemos una gran fiesta y prestar atención a la mayor lección acerca de los ciclos. Valor cada temporada.

Graham S. Hetrick Publisher

4 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 5

Donaciones De Caridad Por el Mark J. Kogan, Lcdo.

A

l terminar el año, hay muchas maneras de reflexionar sobre su vida y las necesidades de los demás. La temporada navideña es una en la que muchas veces contribuimos a organizaciones para una causa y para nuestras instituciones religiosas. Hay muchas maneras de donar para ayudar a las personas necesitadas en esta época del año.

Por lo general, las personas creen que la mejor manera de contribuir a una causa es donar dinero. No todo el mundo es capaz de hacer esto. Mientras que una donación es la forma más fácil de hacer una diferencia directamente a una organización, sino que también tiene consecuencias y deducciones fiscales que usted no puede tener en cuenta. Para las personas que están presentando declaraciones de impuestos con deducciones, una donación de una cantidad más de $75 es el tipo de pago que se puede identificar en sus declaraciones de impuestos para el año siguiente con el fin de pagar menos al gobierno de Estados Unidos en impuesto.

Hay otros tipos de contribuciones que se pueden hacer directamente a las organizaciones sin fines de lucro. En general, los individuos pueden contribuir artículos para el hogar hasta $500 dólares a causas individuales sin la documentación específica de esos donativos. Para recibir una deducción en sus impuestos, debe de documentar de la caridad que le dio los

donativos a fin de recibir una deducción de dicho impuesto. Si planea darle donaciones de más de $ 500, es necesario documentar adecuadamente estos tipos de artículos y la organización tiene que estar de acuerdo de que los artículos están también digno de una donación de más de $500.

Durante la temporada navideña, la mejor manera de ayudar a los necesitados es ser voluntario. Aunque usted no consigue una tasa real de cancelar por el tiempo que usted contribuye, sin duda está haciendo una diferencia en la vida de las personas y hay muchas organizaciones que necesitan voluntarios para ayudar a cocinar y/o preparar comidas para los necesitados y hay muchas unidades de juguetes que contribuyen a los niños necesitados . Me gustaría animar a todos ustedes en esta época del año para hacer el esfuerzo de hacer una diferencia en la vida de las personas, contribuyendo a su dinero, sus artículos o su tiempo. Dicho esto, les deseo a todos ustedes unas felices fiestas y espero verlos a todos ustedes por un feliz año nuevo .

Charitable Donations

By Mark J. Kogan, Lcdo.

A

s the year ends, there are many ways to reflect upon your life and the needs of others. The holiday season is one where we often contribute to charitable causes and to our religious institutions. There are many ways to donate in order to help people in need a this time of the year.

Typically, individuals believe that the best way to contribute to a charitable cause is to donate money. Not everyone is capable of doing this. While a charitable donation is the easiest way to make a difference directly to a charity, it also has consequences and tax deductions, of which you may not be aware. For individuals who are filing tax returns with deductions, a charitable donation in an amount over $75 is the type that you can identify on your tax returns for the following year in order to pay less to the United States government in income tax.

There are other types of charitable contributions that can be made directly to nonprofit organizations. In general, individuals can contribute household items up to $500 to 6 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

individual charities without specific documentation of those donations. In order to receive a deduction on your taxes, you must document from the charity that you gave the items to in order to receive such a tax deduction. If you plan on giving items greater than $500, you need to appropriately document these types of items and the organization has to agree that the items are also worth an amount over $500.

During the holiday season, the best way to help those in need is to volunteer. Although you do not get an actual tax write off for the time that you contribute, you certainly are making a difference in individuals’ lives. There are many charitable organizations that need volunteers to help cook and/or prepare meals for the needy, and there are many toy drives that contribute to children in need. I would encourage all of you at this time of the year to make the effort to make a difference in individuals’ lives by contributing your money, your items or your time. Having said that, I wish all of you a happy holiday season ww, and I look forward to seeing all of you for a happy New Year.

Gifts That Show You Care Family Features

T

he holiday season is a time for generosity and kindness. While you’re on the quest for the perfect gifts for loved ones, why not pick those that support children in need?

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to save and improve children’s lives, providing medicine, clean water, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The organization is offering holiday shoppers searching for unique gifts the opportunity to support children with a variety of products that benefit UNICEF, including items from corporate partners Gucci, IKEA and Montblanc.

Holiday Card And Gifts Collection With an affordable price range of $10 to $20, UNICEF boxed holiday cards can be purchased at Pier 1 Imports, IKEA, Barnes and Noble and at select Hallmark Gold Crown stores. The holiday catalog features gifts ideal for any age and budget range, from Peruvian fingerless gloves made of soft Alpaca wool and bread-warmer baskets, to a safari bib and blanket set, to President and CEO of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF Caryl Stern’s uplifting new book, I Believe in ZERO: Learning from the World's Children, focused on her travels to developing countries. To shop online, visit shop.unicefusa.org.

Gifts That Support Education Access to education is a fundamental human right, and yet there are 57 million children globally not enrolled in elementary school. Support from partners such as Gucci, IKEA and Montblanc helps enable UNICEF to build schools, train teachers and provide a safe and protective environment where children can learn and play. * Gucci for UNICEF “Nice” shopper bag – 25 percent of the retail price of the Gucci

for UNICEF Nice shopper bag will benefit UNICEF's “Schools for Africa” and “Schools for Asia” initiatives in Malawi, Mozambique and China. The bag, designed in antique rose micro Guccissima leather, is available in Gucci stores worldwide and on gucci.com through May 2014. * IKEA “Soft Toys for Education” – For each purchase from the Soft Toys for Education collection, available in stores and online through Jan. 4, the IKEA Foundation will donate approximately $1.35 to support UNICEF and Save the Children global education programs, including UNICEF's “Schools for Africa” initiative. This year’s collection features new fairy-tale-themed creatures, such as the NOJSIG Soft Toy Princess, KRULLIG Elf Soft Toy and VRIDVINGE Fairy Tail Wings, each for $4.99. For more information, visit ikeafoundation.org. * Montblanc “Signature for Good” collection – Featuring special edition writing instruments, jewelry pieces and leather accessories, 10 percent of the retail price of every piece sold from Montblanc’s Signature for Good collection will be donated to support UNICEF’s education programs for children in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Collection items are available at montblanc.com through March 2014.

Gifts That Inspire Join in on the generous spirit of the season by purchasing UNICEF Inspired Gifts in your loved one’s name. These gifts directly assist children in developing countries with urgently needed items, such as mosquito nets to protect them from malaria or School-ina-Box kits that provide all the supplies needed to set up a school anywhere.

K.I.N.D: Kids in Need of Desks offers desks for children in schools in Malawi, where four out of five students do not have a desk or chair. Additionally, the K.I.N.D. fund is providing scholarships for girls in Malawi. These items and more are available for purchase at unicefusa.org/inspiredgifts.

Other Ways To Give Through Delta’s SkyWish program, SkyMiles® members can donate their unused frequent-flier miles to the U.S. Fund for UNICEF for travel in support of UNICEF's lifesaving work for children. Visit delta.com/skywish to donate miles and find more information.

Make this year’s gift-giving experience more rewarding by choosing beautiful gifts loved ones will adore, and also support children around the world.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 7

Profiles 2013-2014 EUP Scholarship Recipients & EUP Gala Photos Claudia S. Arana A few years ago, Claudia graduated with a 4.00 GPA from Solanco High School in Lancaster. She attended HACC Lancaster Campus where she earned an associates degree.

Claudia is now a senior at Millersville University, majoring in early childhood education.

She expects to graduate December 2013 after she is done with her student teaching. In her essay, she wrote, “As an early childhood education teacher, I will be helping to mold the children of the future.”

Claudia has been on the dean’s list every semester of her college studies. She is a fulltime student, holds two part time jobs and managed to keep a 3.65 GPA. She is a secondyear recipient of the EUP Scholarship. Claudia will be doing her EUP eight hours of volunteer work with the EUP GALA. Claudia’s family heritage is from El Salvador.

Sterling Manuel Feeser Sterling Manuel attended York Suburban High School. In ninth grade, he was the youngest student in a college class at PSU while taking Algebra II. Later he pursued dual enrollment while taking Calculus and Analytical Geometry II and graduated from high school in 2010.

He is now a senior at Emory University in Atlanta, keeping a 3.85 GPA. He will soon graduate with a major in marine biology and minor in Spanish. He spent last summer in Spain studying Spanish.

He has received numerous academic honors and recognitions for his volunteer services in various organizations, and he participated in school bands and sports. This is a young man that was told by educational psychologusts and teachers that because of his learning differences, language delay and processing issues, he was “not college material.” His parents’ dedication, persistence and love in seeking support for him made a big difference in his life and higher-education success.

Sterling Manuel’s family heritage is from Mexico and Spain.

Andrew E. Fortney While working in health care, Andrew identified his first passion as that of helping others, which made him decide to pursue a nursing degree at HACC Harrisburg Campus.

In the essay he wrote as a partial requirement for the scholarship application, he wrote about his second passion as follows: “Through my education in physiology, psychology and my life experiences, I have come to understand the importance of maintaining a balance of one’s mind, body and spirit in order to achieve complete physical and mental harmony, reason for which I have been led towards integrative medicine; a field which uses conventional and alternative medicine together to improve one’s health.” His goal is to further his studies in the health field.

Andrew’s family heritage is from Mexico.

8 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

Valerie T. Penaranda Valerie attends HACC Harrisburg Campus where she pursues a business administration major. In the essay she wrote as a partial requirement for the scholarship, Valerie stated: “Throughout my life, I have been interested in helping others. That is why, very early, I began to volunteer with different nonprofit organizations such as Salvation Army, Morning Star, Four Diamonds, Breast Cancer Awareness, American Heart Association as well as with Vacation Bible School and flea markets for different churches in my area.”

She turned in a long list of community service volunteering activities, an area at which the scholarship committee looks. She has been involved in basketball, soccer and chorus groups because her passion is singing.

Her eight hours of required EUP volunteer work will be done for the GALA event.

Valerie’s family heritage is from Puerto Rico and Columbia.

Tina Marie Harrison Tina attends HACC Harrisburg Campus. She received her nursing second-year stripe in May 2013 and is expecting to graduate in May 2014. She is in her second year of the Register Nurse Clinical Program. She is also taking additional courses to continue studies toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing at Penn State University Middletown Campus.

Tina Marie works part time and studies part time. She said she decided on a nursing career because, “I was moved and inspired by the nurses who took care of my husband at Holy Spirit Hospital.”

She will serve the eight hours of volunteer work with EUP at the Latino Multicultural Picnic.

Her family heritage comes from Mexico via her mother.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 9

Top 5 Tips for a Stress-free Christmas Holiday: The Joy of Giving

By Oralia Garcia Dominic, Ph.D., M.A., M.S.

I

t is Christmas time, and many of us will soon partake in many holiday festivities.

Many cities are filled with lights, music and special events starting in November.

Gift giving (or exchange) is also a tradition this time of year. That is why many of us find great deals for gifts to place under the Christmas tree, which is brightly decorated in the living room.

The traditions of gift giving, decorating, hosting parties and baking holiday goodies remain the same. However, the money needed to keep these traditions alive is less than in previous years due to the current global recession. For many, the holidays may present a time of financial hardship, depression, stress and such. This should not be the case.

According to the Pennsylvania 2010 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey data, about 1 in 5 adults reported having limited activity due to physical, mental or emotional problems. Compared to 1 in 4 of adult Latinos reporting the same. For Christmas and holiday safety, you want to be sure to protect yourself and family from these types of problems, which may lead to stress. Below are the top 5 tips for the Christmas holiday. Do not stress, enjoy the gift of giving!

Top 5 Tips for Christmas and Holiday Joy 1. Spend quality time with friends and family. This will help build your social support system, which is important for a person to have.

2. Eat healthy and exercise during the holidays. This will help prevent weight gain that leads to many health-related problems.

3. Keep the family tradition. This will help preserve your culture and value system. You can do this by sharing your favorite family recipes with your children and grandchildren.

This will make grandma happy.

4. Stay within your budget, and do not overspend during the holidays. This will prevent financial hardships.

5. Volunteer at a local charity event and give gifts from the heart, like handmade crafts, a cookbook with your family recipes, an heirloom, a homemade dinner, make a home visit to 10 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

a family member or friend, offer to babysit or help clean around the house or the car.

These are low-costs gifts that are priceless to both the giver and the receiver. These also build community, unity and faith.

Suggestions of places to volunteer this holiday season: • Estamos Unidos de Pennsylvania (EUP) Fiesta Del Niño Children’s Christmas Party on Sunday, December 15 from 2 p.m. - 6 p.m. at John Harris High School, Harrisburg.

• Salvation Army events, including ringing the bell at a kettle for at least one day and encouraging others to participate in the kettle campaign.

• Local church, including soup kitchens, breakfast events or family dinners.

Help serve the meal… or you can donate a food item(s) to a local church to give to a family in need.

• Fire departments, including donating food items or baked goods to these men and women that help save neighbors from fires and medical emergencies.

• Libraries, including helping to carry out their programs, even lending hands for shelving books.

• Senior citizen centers, including helping to carry out their various activities and meal programs.

You decide how you wish to spend your holidays. You can’t go wrong with celebrating as long as you do not stress, and enjoy the gift of giving!

Merry Christmas and happy New Year! Please take very good care of yourself. You can also send me your health questions to ¡Hola, Oralia! at dr.oraliagarciadominic@gmail.com.

Together we can help keep Pennsylvania residents healthy. ¡Salud!

La Voz Latina Central Want To Work In The Fun, Fast-Paced World Of Advertising Sales?

We have a position open for a dynamic account representative to work with La Voz Latina Central clients.

If you have ambition and the drive to help connect different cultures, please give us a call.

Bilingual preferred.

Contact Patti Boccassini at (717) 233-0109–ext. 130, or send your resume to pboccassini@harrisburgmagazine.com. ¥Llame ahora! Gracias.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 11

Pensar Positivamente

Un Factor Esencial Para Disfrutar Esta Temporada Festiva Por el Dr. Hector Richard Ortiz

D

iciembre es un mes en el que las Américas del Norte, Sur y Centro, y el Caribe, consideran generalmente esta época como el mes de las festividades espirituales. Esto quiere decir que la mayoría de las personas se preparan para celebrar al menos una de las muchas fiestas relacionadas con nuestras creencias espirituales, así como el fin de un año y el comienzo del famoso Año Nuevo.

Espero que como parte de sus reflexiones de fin de año, este predispuesto a estar siempre en el lado positivo y actuar en cualquier circunstancia teniendo siempre una mentalidad proactiva. Esto le podría permitir para que usted sea capaz de compartir su energía positiva y expresar la sinergia de sus acciones en un entorno abierto a la innovación, la creatividad y la

imaginación. Espero que todos vosotros os hayáis comprometido a compartir vuestros pensamientos con personas positivas, el estar rodeados de pensadores proactivos y el de relacionarnos frecuentemente con quienes practican el pensamiento positivo.

La energía y la sinergia son dos fuerzas poderosas y necesarias para conseguir la transformación personal. La sinergia se crea y propaga cuando dos o más individuos se unen. La energía se activa cuando dos o más fuerzas coinciden con sus intenciones para continuar un compromiso, mientras que la sinergia existe para extender el compromiso.

Se ha dicho que, “No es lo que se tiene, sino lo que se da,” lo que realmente se mide es el valor intrínseco de la vida.” Esto es cierto, porque al final lo que realmente importa no es lo que quieres conseguir, sino lo que

Thinking Positive

realmente tienes; es el disfrute de lo que uno ya tiene, es lo que en última instancia hace que la vida sea más significativa y gratificante. Por supuesto, que lo que se tiene es importante, pero cómo uno usa lo que se tiene es lo que hace que nuestras acciones sean aún más relevantes, ya que es esto lo que realmente mide la eficacia en el uso de los recursos que recibimos en la vida.

A medida que el año se termina, el volumen de las actividades disminuye. En realidad, las festividades de estos tiempos comenzaron con la celebración del Día de Acción de Gracias, y ahora estamos en la temporada Navideña. Aspiro que todos tengamos tiempo para reflexionar y hacer un compromiso para estar agradecidos por lo que tenemos y asegurarnos de compartir con aquellos que carecen de las necesidades más esenciales. No hay mejor momento

para dar y compartir que esta temporada de Navidad y fin de año.

Por último, para aquellos que son parte de la comunidad cristiana, me permito usar este espacio para desearles a todos ustedes una Feliz Navidad y un ¡Prospero y Venturoso Año Nuevo! Son mis sinceros deseos, aspirando que la paz este con todos ustedes. Y para el resto de mis hermanos y hermanas, tanto de sangre como de corazón, feliz Hanukah , feliz Kwanzaa y felices pascuas! ¡Felices Fiestas amigos y amigas!

Recuerden que “Lo mejor está por venir.”

An Essential Factor in Enjoying the Holiday Season

By Dr. Hector Ortiz

I

n America, the month of December is typically considered a holiday month. It means that most of the people tend to celebrate at least one of the many festivities related to their spiritual beliefs as well as the end of one year and the beginning of another.

I hope that, as part of your end-of-theyear ref lections, you can strive to keep yourself on the positive side and act in any circumstance in a proactive way. This will allow you to be able to share your positive energy and enhance the synergy of your actions in an open environment of innovation, creativity and imagination.

I hope you have pledged to share your

thoughts with positive individuals, to connect with proactive thinkers and to relate more frequently with practical doers. Synergy and energy are two powerful forces required to procure transformation. Synergy is created when two or more proactive individuals come together. Energy is activated when two or more forces spread the commitment while synergy enhances the commitment.

It has been said that, “It is not what you get, but what you give, that really measures the worth of life.” It is certainly true, because in the end, what really matters is not what you would like to get, but what you already have what

12 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

ultimately makes life meaningful and rewarding. Of course, what one has is important, but how you use it becomes even more relevant because it is what really measures the effectiveness in using the resources given to us in our lifetime.

As the year begins slowing down and the multiple festivities have already started with the Thanksgiving celebrations moving us on to the holiday season, we ask you to ref lect and make a commitment to be thankful for what we have and give back to those who may not have the more essential needs. It is no better time to give and share than this holiday season.

Finally, for those who are part of the Christian community, I use this opportunity to wish all of you a merry Christmas and happy New Year. It is my sincere intention that peace be with all of those who celebrate these festivities. For the rest of my brothers and sisters both by blood and by heart, happy Hanukah, happy Kwanzaa or happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas! Feliz Navidad!

Remember that next year will be even better because, “The best is yet to come! ”

Omar Shute With Passion, The Rest Falls Into Place

By Kristen Lacaillade

T

he U.S. has long been known as the “land of opportunity.” No matter what your interests or educational background may be, living in this country affords each and every one of us endless opportunities.

Peruvian-born Omar Shute has taken full advantage of all the U.S. has to offer and has made a name for himself in the business world. Raised in Lima, Peru, Shute completed his pre-school through high school education in Peru, while living with his maternal grandparents, then made his transition to the U.S. Shute got his start when he moved to the U.S. shortly after turning 18. His permanent residency here allowed him the chance to pursue a college degree after finishing high school in Peru. When Shute arrived in this country, he joined his parents who had settled in Harrisburg, and enrolled at Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC), where he earned his associate degree in business administration. Shute later went on to earn bachelor’s degrees from Penn State University in both marketing and business management, and earned his master’s degree in business administration from Shippensburg University. Shute took every opportunity life afforded him and worked hard to pursue his educational dreams the moment he came to the U.S. Shute didn’t stop there. He used his valuable education to further pursue business, one of his biggest passions. Before coming on board with his current employer, Members 1st Federal Credit Union, based in Mechanicsburg, he held the position of president of the Cumberland Area Economic Development Corporation as well as working at Community First Fund.

“I have always admired Members 1st Federal Credit Union as an organization that is very successful and a great employer. So, I was honored to come work for them. I have been very fortunate to have very rewarding jobs throughout my career,” Shute explained.

The business world can be both complicated and competitive. With so many people diving into different and assorted pursuits, it can sometimes be a challenge. In some senses, the business world can be a “sink or swim” atmosphere. For Shute, it seemed to be an easy choice that he was meant for this field of work. “I am a competitive person and, in business, if you are not competitive, you are done. In many regards, it is survival of the fittest. So that fascinates me. I also love getting to know businesses and developing an understanding of how they work and make money,” Shute noted.

Using his extensive education and passion, and applying it to the business world has allowed Shute to truly shine as a business leader.

Outside of his work, Shute is able to balance business with pleasure and take time to enjoy various hobbies. In particular, Shute enjoys watching TV – mainly sports. To keep ties to his Peruvian heritage, he watches soccer from Peru through Direct TV, allowing him the chance to follow Alianza Lima, a soccer club from Peru. In addition to soccer, Shute is also a big Penn State football fan and follows the team throughout the year, including games and recruiting. In addition, Shute’s son, Alec, enjoys playing and watching baseball, so this time allows him to bond and participate in these family activities.

Shute currently resides in Mechanicsburg with his wife Kassy and their three children, Alec (8), Gabriela (7) and Allison (5). Between spending time with his family and being a prominent figure in the business world, he has been able to do what he truly loves.

No matter what your heritage, or where you’re planning on going – as long as you pursue what you are truly passionate about – the rest will fall right into place.

Gift Guide 2013

The Holiday Season Is Upon Us! Let us help with your holiday shopping experience by keeping you out of that mall and sending you into locally owned businesses that offer some great gift ideas at a variety of price points.

14 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

Men’s Gifts

Women’s Gifts

PlayStation 4 ($400) or XBOX One ($500) For the video game fan in your life, the wait is finally over. Head to Play N Trade in Camp Hill to pick one up.

Canon EOS Rebel T3 Kit ($450) Fine Art Photography in Lemoyne offers this fantastic DSLR kit for the budding photographer you know. It includes everything she needs to get started, plus Fine Art throws in a 4GB Class 10 SDHC memory card in for no additional charge.

Michele Tahitian Ceramic White Diamond Watch ($2,000) This breathtaking ceramic and stainless steel chronograph features 100 round diamonds set in a diagonal pattern around bezel. Pick one up at Mountz Jewelers in Camp Hill.

Gift Guide 2013

Men’s Gifts Vintage Sweater ($20) A cozy vintage sweater, like this one from Stash in downtown Harrisburg, is the perfect gift to help your man take the chill off winter while still staying fashionable.

Brewer’s Beast Equipment Kit ($140) The most complete equipment kit in the homebrew industry is now available at Scotzin Brothers in Lemoyne. It includes everything your beer hound friend needs to make the finest batch of beer in one box.

16 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

Women’s Gifts Vintage Faux Fur Jacket ($30) Keep your lady cozy warm in this unique vintage jacket from Stash in downtown Harrisburg. Shopping vintage ensures that she’ll be the only one rocking this unique piece of outerwear this winter.

The Great Escape Spa Package ($275) Head to Polished Salon and Spa to get a pampering present for the special woman in your life. This particular package includes a body contour mud wrap, a one-hour deep tissue massage, a Hydralessence facial, a manicure, a pedicure and a spa lunch.

Regalos Muy Festivos Para Todos Family Features | Fotografía Cortesía De Getty Images Las fiestas siempre son más alegres y divertidas si ha comprado una bolsa para llenarla con los regalos para todas las personas de su lista. Este año, haga feliz a sus familiares y amigos con grandes ideas para regalos, como un juguete clásico. Llenar una media con el regalo de buena visión y salud visual es otra maravillosa forma de dibujar una sonrisa en la cara de cualquiera. O tal vez necesite un regalo para el amante de música de la familia.

Se moverán las colas cuando regale un peluche a su amigo peludo preferido. Y no hay nada más considerado que un hermoso álbum de fotos personalizado creado por usted. Después de todo, nada alegra más las fiestas que saber que sus regalos traerán alegría a todas las personas especiales de su lista.

Disfrute La Belleza De La Época Festiva Con El Regalo De La Buena Visión En estas fiestas, entréguele el regalo de la buena visión a alguien importante para usted.

Gracias a sus beneficios de la visión para personas y familias, disponibles directamente para los consumidores desde VSP Direct™, puede regalar por un precio asequible la misma cobertura de calidad que ofrecen muchos empleadores. Entre los beneficios, se incluye un examen de vista por un copago bajo o la posibilidad de llevarse un par de anteojos o lentes de contacto. VSP® ofrece los gastos de bolsillo más bajos para el cuidado individual de la visión con ahorros anuales típicos de $227. Para obtener más información, visite givevsp.com.

Juguetes Adorables Para Niñas Pequeñas Calico Critters ofrece el regalo ideal para las niñas pequeñas con imaginación: como la familia de conejos Hopscotch Rabbit Family que mostramos aquí. Si busca un regalo clásico atemporal que promueva los valores de la unión familiar y estimule el juego imaginativo, no hay mejor opción que Calico Critters of Cloverleaf Corners. Estos muñecos galardonados son adorables. Puede elegir conejos, perros, gatos, osos y muchas otras familias de animales, además de una gran variedad de accesorios. Para obtener más información, visite calicocritters.com.

Regalos Para Su Mascota Le presentamos un hermoso regalo para su mascota o amante de las mascotas que también ayuda a salvar a las mascotas sin hogar. Los muñecos para perros Chance y Lucky de Luv-A-Pet™, disponibles exclusivamente en PetSmart, son una acogedora compañía para su mascota que hacen ruido al apretarlos, lo que asegurará diversión a la hora de jugar. Y este año, se unen a la familia Superman Chance, Mrs. Chance y Bret Michaels Chance. Con precios que oscilan entre $5,99 y $8,99, el 10% del precio de compra se dona a PetSmart Charities, que brinda financiación y programas para salvar la vida de mascotas sin hogar en América del Norte. Los juguetes están a la venta en todas las tiendas PetSmart o en línea en petsmart.com.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 17

Para Los Amantes De La Música A todas las personas de la lista les encantará el teléfono inteligente Samsung Galaxy S4 Android de Cricket. Con su pantalla grande y brillante de 5 pulgadas, excelente calidad de cámara y el servicio Muve Music exclusivo de Cricket, tal vez se compre uno para usted también. El GS4 con Muve Music es el regalo ideal para el amante de la música que no quiere gastar una fortuna. Cricket tiene descargas de música ilimitadas, conversaciones, texto y datos a partir de $45 por mes... incluso Santa está un poco celoso.

Visite mycricket.com.

Samsung Galaxy S4, con un anticipo de apenas $25

18 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

El Regalo Más Considerado De Estas Fiestas: Un Hermoso Libro De Blurb, Preparado Por Usted La plataforma de publicaciones creativas de Blurb es simple y lo suficientemente inteligente para ayudar a cualquier persona a preparar un hermoso libro: bloggers, cocineros, fotógrafos, padres, viajeros, poetas, arquitectos y empresarios, entre otros. Y los libros de Blurb son un regalo único y perfecto. No se trata de libros de fotos recortadas, como galletas, y arrastradas hacia el libro, sino que son libros de calidad de librería personalizados que se presentan en diversos tamaños. Con una variedad de opciones de tapas y papel de calidad fotográfica, Blurb ofrece la solución perfecta para el regalo de estas fiestas: libros hermosos y únicos. Visiteblurb.com. de $12.99 a $69.99

The Bon-Ton, Inc. Partners With Mario Lopez To Announce Its Holiday Charity Partnership With Boys & Girls Clubs Of America “Give The Gift Of A Great Future”

T

he Bon-Ton Stores, Inc., parent company of Bon-Ton department store, has partnered with Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and club alum Mario Lopez for its Give the Gift of a Great Future campaign. The campaign kicks off on Black Friday, November 29, and runs through December 24, 2013.

Mario Lopez, alumni ambassador for Boys & Girls Clubs of America said, “As a former Club kid, I know Clubs are safe places where children can grow, learn, develop and belong. I hope you will join me and your local Bon-Ton store this holiday season by supporting Boys & Girls Clubs in your community and across the nation.”

There are several ways the community can get involved and support the Boys & Girls Clubs and help Bon-Ton reach its donation of $500,000. Customers can purchase an exclusive teddy bear or make a donation at any of Bon-Ton’s Stores. The adorable, plush teddy bear is dressed up in a holiday scarf and retails for just $7.

One hundred percent of the net proceeds will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs. Customers can also make a $3 donation at any store or online and receive a very special savings offer for their holiday shopping. On Facebook, fans can spread the cheer by sharing a variety of virtual holiday greeting cards with friends and family. Bon-Ton Stores will donate $1 to BGCA for every card shared up to $15,000.

But the support doesn’t stop there. The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. has initiated a job-placement program and will be providing jobs in our stores to over 200 Club youth during the holiday season. The program will support youth from 17 different clubs in 11 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, New York, Pennsylvania, South Dakota and Wisconsin. The job-placement program helps youth develop professional skills and ready themselves for future careers.

“Bon-Ton is committed to supporting our local communities” commented Brenda Hoffman, president and CEO, The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. “We are thrilled that Mario Lopez is joining us in this partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Boys & Girls Club is a crucial community-based resource for the development of our youth. This partnership is just one more way we can help create great futures for our children.”

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 19

Volunteers Needed Estamos Unidos de Pennsylvania 12th Annual Fiesta Del Niño-Children Christmas Party – December 15, 2013 Celebrating Our Community – Please volunteer

O

n Sunday, December 15, 2013, at the John Harris High School, Estamos Unidos will once again have “La Fiesta Del Niño – Children’s Christmas Party 2013.”

The John Harris High School is located at 2451 Market Street in Harrisburg, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

As you are well aware, holidays can be stressful, especially when health and/or financial issues prevail. EUP understands the community’s needs and strives to make this season a pleasant time for those who would not otherwise have the opportunity. Toys are desperately needed.

Approximately 120 volunteers are needed. Set-up, wrapping the toys, decorating the stage and more: Saturday, December 14, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Children’s Christmas Party: December 15, 2013 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (All volunteers are needed at 12:00 p.m.)

Please let us know your choice, date and time commitment, and your willingness to help Estamos Unidos with this activity. We are basically asking for your personal support and time. Of course, we have many other needs, so any contribution of toys, holiday foods, refreshments, volunteers and entertainment are also greatly needed.

Please call Marisol Aviles de Ortiz, Chair, Estamos Unidos, Christmas Party 2013, for more information at (717) 991-5372.

20 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

ADVERTISEMENT

EN ESTAS FESTIVIDADES COMPRE DE MANERA SEGURA EN LÍNEA (EN INTERNET) Hacer compras en línea es conveniente y puede ser seguro si se siguen buenas prácticas de seguridad. Los siguientes consejos de USA. gov pueden ayudarle a protegerse y proteger sus finanzas durante esa búsqueda del regalo perfecto: • Conéctese a los sitios web que usted conoce o se lo recomienden.

• Compare precios y ofertas, incluyendo el envío gratis, los contratos de servicio extendidos, u otras ofertas.

• Busque en línea cupones conocidos con códigos de promoción, que pueden ofrecer descuentos o el envío gratuito. Algunos sitios ofrecen vales con cupones de descuento para ser utilizado en las tiendas de ladrillo y cemento.

• Obtenga una descripción completa del producto, como las piezas que incluyen, el precio, y el envío, tiempo de entrega, información de garantía, política de devolución, y el procedimiento de queja.

• Antes de finalizar la orden, vuelva a comprobar si la cantidad y el precio total a pagar son correctas.

• Utilice una tarjeta de crédito en lugar de una tarjeta de débito para las compras. Loa pagos con

la tarjeta de crédito pueden ser retenidos si hay una disputa con una tienda, y si la tarjeta es robada, usted no tendrá que pagar más de $ 50 de cargos fraudulentos. Pero con una tarjeta de débito, no puede retener los pagos ya que la tienda lo debita directamente de su cuenta. Y si su tarjeta es robada, usted podría ser responsable de hasta $ 500, dependiendo de cuando informe del robo de la misma.

• Si está utilizando el WiFi público de una cafetería o librería averigüe si esta es segura (ya que es probable que no lo sea). Las redes no seguras hacen que su información de pago sea vulnerable a los estafadores.

• Siempre lea los términos del contrato de servicio antes de comprar en línea. Usted podría inadvertidamente inscribirse para suscripciones o recibir un debito inesperado. Las condiciones de servicio a menudo se encuentran en letras pequeñas o te ofrecen incentivos justo en los momentos que este más ansioso para hacer las compras.

• Tenga cuidado si usted va a comprar boletos para eventos en línea como regalos. Algunos lugares

pueden realizar la venta de ticket restringida, la misma que consiste en usar la tarjeta de crédito utilizada en la compra en línea, la cual se requiere mostrar como requisito para entrar al evento.

• Tenga cuidado de comprar los activos digitales, como libros y música - que no se pueden dar como regalos si han sido descargados en su cuenta. Usted debe adquirir una tarjeta de regalo para el libro o sitio de música, o consulte con la compañía. Algunos servicios tienen formas de " regalo de un artículo ", pero varía según el proveedor.

• Imprima la orden de compra con detalles del producto y su número de confirmación.

Para más consejos sobre las compras seguras en línea, visite www.onguardonline.gov. Para información sobre cómo ser un consumidor inteligente en estas fiestas y durante todo el año, revise el manual del consumidor que gratuitamente lo entrega el gobierno para proteger su dinero. Si está interesado visite la página web en www.USA.gov

Estos consejos fue presentado a usted por la cooperativa de ahorro y crédito de Pennsylvania. Las cooperativas de ahorros y créditos le ofrecen servicios financieros asequibles a los residentes de Pennsylvania. Para encontrar una cooperativa de ahorro y crédito, visite www.iBelong.org.

SHOP SAFELY ONLINE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON Shopping online is convenient and can be safe and secure if you follow good security practices.

The following tips from USA.gov can help you to protect yourself and your finances during that quest for the perfect gift: • Stick to websites that are known or recommended.

• Compare prices and deals, including free shipping, extended service contracts, or other offers.

• Search for online coupons, known as promo codes, which may offer discounts or free shipping.

Some sites offer promo codes for coupons to be used in bricks-and-mortar stores.

• Get a complete description of the item and parts included, and the price, including shipping, delivery time, warranty information, return policy, and complaint procedure.

• Before you finalize the order, double check the quantity and total price are correct.

• Use a credit card rather than a debit card for purchases. Credit card payments can be withheld if there's a dispute with a store, and if the card is stolen, you won't have to pay more than $50 of fraudulent charges. But with a debit card, you can't withhold payments—the store is paid directly from your account. And if your card is stolen, you could be liable for up to $500, depending on when you report it.

• Find out if the public WiFi hotspot you're using at a coffee shop or bookstore is secure (it’s probably not). Unsecure networks make your payment information vulnerable to fraudsters.

• Always read the terms of service agreement before you buy online. You could inadvertently sign up for subscriptions or get hit with additional fees or restrictions. Terms of service are often in small print or presented right when you are anxious to purchase.

• Be careful if you're buying event tickets online as gifts. Some venues may practice restricted

ticketing, requiring the same credit card used in the online purchase to be shown in order to get into the event.

• Use caution buying digital assets like books and music—they can't be given away as gifts if they've been downloaded to your account. You should either purchase a gift card for the book or music site, or check with the company. Some services have ways to "gift an item" but it varies depending on the provider.

• Print your purchase order with details of the product and your confirmation number.

For more advice on safe online shopping, visit www.onguardonline.gov. For information on being a savvy consumer this holiday season and all year long, check out the Consumer Action Handbook– the free government guide to protecting your money at www.USA.gov.

Tips brought to you by Pennsylvania’s credit unions. Credit unions offer affordable financial services to Pennsylvanians. To find a credit union to join, visit www.iBelong.org.

Nueva Central Mayorista Activamente Reclutando Empleados En Pennsylvania Moderno Centro De Servicio De Camp Hill Por el Joe Benish

A

ctivamente se encuentra contratando trabajadores para su nuevo y moderno centro de servicios localizado en Lower Allen Township, en el Condado de Cumberland, Vantage Foods está llegando al mercado laboral del centro de Pennsylvania para los solicitantes.

“Esta nueva e importante instalación dará empleo a unos 800 trabajadores, incluidos los empleados de producción, cortadores de carne con experiencia, maquinistas y mecánicos de mantenimiento,” explicó Nathan Bryner, gerente de relaciones humanas en Vantage. “Estamos muy contentos de traer nuevos puestos de trabajo en la región.”

Ahold USA ha contratado con Vantage Food para operar en 162.00 metros cuadrados un centro de servicio que preparará y envasará carne fresca de vacuno y productos de porcino para las divisiones de Ahold USA, Giant Carlisle y Giant Landover. El centro de servicio está siendo construido con las normas de certificación LEED y utilizará la tecnología de procesamiento de alimentos mundial más avanzada para garantizar la seguridad, la producción y distribución de primera calidad. LEED significa Liderazgo en Energía y Diseño Ambiental, y es una marca reconocida a nivel internacional de excelencia para la construcción de edificios verdes. Con miles de pies cuadrados de espacio refrigerado y

estrictos estándares de seguridad de cumplimiento de alimentos, Vantage recibirá pedidos de las tiendas, cortará y envolverá el producto en envases que estarán listos para el uso del cliente, montará las órdenes y transportará el producto a las tiendas por divisiones para que su entrega sea fresca todos los días.

El Centro de Servicio de Camp Hill de Vantage Food trae también una nueva mezcla con la producción del Condado de Cumberland y una amplia conexión con la red de distribución y con cientos de trabajadores especializados en construcción y servicios públicos, comprometidos y ocupados con la preparación de la apertura de la nueva instalación prevista para finales de este mes.

“Tener una buena mano de obra, sólida y diversa, junto con una gran ubicación, trae empresas como está al centro de Pennsylvania y del condado de Cumberland, en particular,” señaló el comisionado del condado de Cumberland Jim Hertzler.

Para obtener información sobre cómo solicitar puestos de trabajo en Vantage Food, consulte el aviso en esta edición de La Voz Latina Central o enviar su curriculum vitae directamente a camphillhr@vantagefoods.net .

HACC offers GED and Citizenship Courses

By Kristen Lacaillade

I

t is often said that every day you learn something new. From quirky facts, to academic material, our brains are constantly inundated with new information.

With this constant learning, also comes the idea that you’re never too old to learn either. No matter what your age, it’s never too late to go back to school, or take a course just for fun. HACC, Central Pa.’s Community College, or “HACC” for short, offers the convenient opportunity to help those who are looking to continue their education the opportunity to do so close to home. HACC offers both citizenship and Spanish GED courses to help those who are looking to gain U.S. citizenship be more prepared for what lies ahead, and those looking to earn their GED the tools they need to be successful.

The citizenship classes that the college offers help students learn the basics to answer any of the 100 potential questions given on the citizenship exam. “Students learn about U.S. history, civics, holidays, anthems and symbols. They also practice mock interviews in preparation for the immigration interview portion,” HACC’s Adult Education Pathways department coordinator of instructional programs Melinda Fraker de Fonte explained. Students who are eligible to take this exam are given the chance to take a free citizenship application completion workshop. At this workshop, everyone is able to receive legal advice from a citizenship and integration paralegal.

U.S. citizenship classes are offered for free through a partnership between HACC and the Lancaster/Lebanon Intermediate Unit 13. These courses are 40 hours total and last for 10 weeks. To be eligible to take the citizenship course, individuals must be, “a permanent resident (green card holder) who speaks and understands at least a beginner level of English,” Fraker de Fonte noted.

22 DECEMBER 2013 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

In addition to offering these citizenship courses, HACC also gives students a chance to enroll in Spanish GED courses. The GED in Spanish classes are open to all native speakers of Spanish, no matter their immigration status. “The Spanish GED students study math, science, social studies, reading and writing – all in Spanish – in preparation for the five GED tests,” Fonte said. “The GED test will be computer-based and begins in January 2014, and those who have started the testing process – but have not passed all five exams – will have to start all over. Now is the time to finish GED testing.” The preparation courses for the test are $80 for a six-week, 30-hour course. The GED in Spanish courses allow for the opportunity for native Spanish speaking individuals, no matter their immigration status, to take the course.

The citizenship classes HACC offers take place in both June and October every year, and the Spanish GED courses are offered year round with two class sessions starting per semester. Fonte clarified that individuals should keep in mind that after completing these courses, “students must pay for and schedule their GED or citizenship exams.

Fee waivers are available for both programs to those who qualify.”

For more information or to enroll in any of these classes, students should contact Melinda Fraker de Fonte at (717) 780-2577 or mmfraker@hacc.edu to schedule an orientation and take an assessment for placement into the correct class level. Another great place to receive updates and class schedules is HACC’s Adult Education Pathways Department’s Facebook page.

WE ARE ONLINE AT www.lavozlatinacentral.com

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | DECEMBER 2013 23