La Voz Latina Central February 2014

LATIN LINK PRESENTS

La Voz Y Connexion De La Communidad // The Voice And Connection Of The Community

February 2014

What’s Inside: El Pensamiento Crítico, Un Aliado Del Pensamiento Positivo / Critical and Positive Thinking p. 4

February: The Month of Love, Engagements and Marriages p. 6

Heart Health p. 7

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Hope Is Alive Common Good for the Community p. 8

Artist Drawn To Mentoring Seniors p. 11

Iglesia Católica Brinda Apoyo Espiritual Y Pastoral A Los Latinos/ Catholic Church Provides Spiritual And Pastoral Support To Latinos

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p. 12

Natural Gas – Pennsylvania’s ‘New’ Energy Leader p. 17

What’s Happening! p. 16

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February 2014 • Volume 4 No. 2

La Voz Latina Central PUBLISHER

A Note From The 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

Susan Haas | Mark Kogan, Esq. Dr. Hector Richard Ortiz | Scott Campbell Oralia Garcia Dominic, Ph.D., M.A., M.S. Joe Aponick | Joe Benish | Gloria Merrick 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

The month of February, while it is a short month, is full of memorable moments. The groundhog steps out of his den, and we base the rest of the winter months on whether or not he sees his shadow.

We open our hearts a little wider and offer cards, flowers and chocolates to our loved ones on Valentine's Day. We pray for spring to arrive a little earlier and dream of warm, sunny places.

On the subjects of hearts, Dr. Oralia Dominick offers you informative tips (page 7) to a healthy heart. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease and stroke affects men and women of all ages. Did you know that heart disease is the No. 1 killer in women? Take time to read the article and, if you do not already, include some of the advice into your daily activities.

Contributing columnist Mark Kogan, Esq., from HGSK law firm, advises you on the details of prenuptial agreements (page 6) should you be getting married soon – or know someone who is.

Kogan also gives you sound advice on insurance policies and other important legal matters.

Joe Aponick, director of communications for the Diocese of Harrisburg, introduces you to several of the Catholic priests within the Diocese (page 12). The Catholic church gives great spiritual and pastoral support to Latinos and their families in our community.

Enjoy the issue – there is much more inside. And remember that spring is right around the corner.

Violetta Chlaifer–ext. 124

Graham S. Hetrick Publisher LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 3

El Pensamiento Crítico, Un Aliado Del Pensamiento Positivo Por el Dr. Hector Richard Ortiz

E

l pensamiento crítico es fundamental, ya que este nos permite ejercer una de las libertades fundamentales del ser humano, el de poder pensar sin la imposición de un marco cerrado de referencia o fuera de cualquier pensamiento impuesto u observancia autoimpuesta. El pensamiento crítico ayuda a identificar a los que solo anhelan que fracasemos y, a aquellos que constituyen un soporte para nuestros triunfos. Por otro lado, el pensamiento afirmativo nos ayuda a identificar a los que nos animan y a los que sólo tienden a desalentarnos con sus puntos de vista pesimistas.

El pensamiento crítico posee la energía estructural necesaria para defendernos del negativismo y del pesimismo de aquellos que, en base de episodios pasados o conductas indecisas pueden transformar nuestra actitud proactiva en preocupaciones

vacilantes. Toda decisión implica riesgos y oportunidades. El punto es evitar que la negatividad nos envuelva. Siga manteniendo siempre una actitud positiva y hágale frente a cualquier adversidad, ya que esta usualmente tiene solo una presencia o condición temporal.

A veces, las meras intenciones no son suficientes. Su mentalidad intelectual o marco de referencia interior desempeña un papel fundamental en el pensamiento crítico. La confluencia de la mente y el espíritu es imperiosa si se quiere ganar la fortaleza necesaria para hacer frente a la incertidumbre.

Nuestro marco de referencia adquiere una importancia trascendental en nuestras interacciones sociales. Este dicta el esquema para entender el respeto y el reconocimiento de las diferencias en nuestro círculo de influencia, así como para enfrentamos a los hechos y confrontar las ideas ofrecidas por

los demás. Es al enmarcamos en la esencia de nuestros valores que desarrollamos una actitud de pensamiento positivo y ganamos auto-confidencia. El desafío es enfrentar y manejar los inconvenientes con intuición informada y de manera oportuna para evitar convertir preocupaciones en problemas.

Como escribió John Maxwell, “una de las pruebas de un líder es tener la capacidad de reconocer un problema antes de que este sea una emergencia.” Por lo tanto, vea el panorama general y no sólo la recompensa inmediata. Los problemas pueden causar confusión e incertidumbre y ellos pueden generar una falta de confianza que podría conducir al pesimismo y a la influencia de las respuestas negativas. Sin embargo, incluso la confusión y el escepticismo pueden convertirse en recursos en lugar de exclusivamente malos augurios. De hecho, José Ortega y Gasset define a la confusión como “una fase inicial del conocimiento,

sin la cual uno no puede perfeccionarse y llegar a la claridad.”

En otras palabras, no deje que ciertas preguntas antagónicas o controvertidas lo frustren si su única intención es reafirmar lo que usted considera cierto. Esta es una prueba básica para aplicar el pensamiento crítico y positivo. Hágase el compromiso de utilizar el pensamiento crítico y la permanencia del pensamiento proactivo en cualquier cosa que usted tenga que confrontar en su paso por la tierra. La vida es tan bella que no debería ser disminuida por los inconvenientes situacionales. Trabaje duro, sonría más, mantenga siempre un pensamiento crítico y una mente abierta para disfrutar de la gracia de estar siempre positivo.

Critical and Positive Thinking

By Dr. Hector Ortiz

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ritical thinking is fundamental; it allows us to exercise one of the fundamental freedoms of human beings, to think out of the box or to think out of any imposed or self-imposed observance. Critical thinking helps identify those who compel you to fail and those who make a choice to win. On the other hand, affirmative thoughts help us identify those who encourage us and those who just discourage us with their pessimistic views.

Critical thinking possesses the fundamental energy to defend you against the negativism of those who, based on past episodes or procrastinating behaviors, may transform your initial proactive commitments into procrastinating worries. Any decision implies both risks and opportunities. The point is to avoid letting the negative hold you back. Keep going by maintaining a positive attitude and confront any adversity as an incidental condition.

Sometimes, intentions alone are not enough. Your intellectual mind-set or internal frame of reference plays a fundamental role in critical thinking. The confluence of mind and spirit is necessary if you want to gain the fortitude needed to confront uncertainty.

Our frame of reference becomes of transcendental importance in our social interactions.

It dictates the framework for understanding respect and acknowledging differences in our circle of influence as we confront the contrasted or opposite opinions offered by others.

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It is as we frame our values that we develop an attitude of positive thinking and gain confidence. The challenge is to confront and manage troubles with informed intuition and in a timely manner to avoid turning concerns into problems.

As John Maxwell wrote, “A test of a leader is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.” Consequently, see the big picture and not just the immediate reward. Problems can cause confusion and uncertainties can generate a lack of confidence that leads to pessimism and negative responses. Yet even confusion and skepticism may become resources instead of exclusively bad omens. In fact, Jose Ortega and Gasset defined confusion as “an initial phase of all knowledge, without which one cannot progress to clarity.”

In other words, do not let contested questions frustrate you if your only intention is to reaffirm what you consider truth. It is a basic test in applying critical and positive thinking.

Make yourself a commitment to use critical thinking, and stay in a proactive mode in anything that you have or encounter on earth. Life is too beautiful to be diminished by situational inconveniences. Work hard, smile more, keep critical thinking in mind and enjoy the grace of being always in a positive thinking mode.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 5

February: The Month of Love, Engagements and Marriages

By Mark J. Kogan, Esq.

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s Valentine’s Day falls on February 14th each year, the month of February is often associated with romance, love and marriage. Thinking about getting married? Before taking the plunge into the depths of matrimony, it may be wise to consider a prenuptial agreement or, at the very least, to discuss each partner’s expectations regarding finances and assets.

A prenuptial agreement – often just called a “prenup” – is a premarital agreement, or contract, between two persons who intend to marry. The terms of a prenup usually dictate what will happen to the couple’s assets and property should the spouses divorce. All 50 states and the District of Columbia recognize premarital agreements.

Generally, a prenup may be beneficial for individuals who: have premarital assets, such as a home, stock or retirement funds; own all or part of a business; may be receiving an inheritance; or have children from a previous marriage.

In those situations, when one spouse enters into the

marriage with more wealth than the other, it is important to discuss the parties’ assets and future financial matters.

While prenups are not necessary in every marriage, every couple should still consider how they plan to handle – i.e. to what extent they will share – assets that are accumulated during their marriage. The most common example of this is a joint bank account, which means that both spouses share equally in the rights and liabilities of the account. A joint bank account entitles either party to exercise full rights to the account – making deposits or withdrawals – without the other party’s consent or signature. In the case of either owner’s death, the surviving spouse automatically takes sole control of account assets without probate, meaning the surviving spouse is entitled to the remaining balance but is also liable for the debt of that account.

Another issue that married couples should consider is life insurance. There are a number of factors that go into selecting the right life insurance policy.

What types are there? How much is

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enough for the policy? Who should the beneficiary/beneficiaries of the policy be?

Certain life events, like getting married or having a child, are key times to evaluate one’s financial situation and the need for life insurance.

Newly married couples may be able to enhance their individual life insurance coverage or reduce their premium amounts by combining their premarital policies into one policy. This often results in a lower premium rate. Another option may be for one spouse to add the other to his/her existing policy, or vice versa. Either way, this should result in some type of discount, so it might be worthwhile to shop around.

As for determining which policy is the right one, obtaining multiple insurance quotes for different types of plans is recommended. Do not hesitate to ask detailed questions about the variety of policies out there, as well as the possible restrictions and exclusions that may apply to some of them. If an insurance agent or organization cannot or will not fully explain the various options out there, it is

recommended that you look elsewhere until you find the policy that suits your needs and the needs of your family.

Consider life insurance for the whole family, not just the adults. Expenses that follow a death or serious illness or accident will add more stress to an already devastated family. Over time, the insurance company may make changes to your policy, and you will be notified of these changes. However, changes may be necessary on your part as well. As your needs change, consider making changes to your life insurance policy/policies, which can be done through a trusted agent.

As always, please feel free to contact us at HGSK with questions on these or other any legal issues – (267) 350-6600 for our Philadelphia office, and (717) 735-3966 for our Lancaster office.

Heart Health Taking Care of Your Heart

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

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ou can live longer for your family by taking care of your heart. Heart disease, stroke and diabetes are the leading causes of death among Hispanics.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for people with diabetes – about two out of three people with diabetes die of heart disease or stroke. Many Hispanics are not aware that many forms of heart disease can be prevented or treated with simple lifestyle changes (healthful life style choices).

Risk Factors Reported risk factors associated with heart disease are: age, sex, family history, smoking, poor diet (a diet high in fat, salt and cholesterol can lead to the development of heart disease), high blood cholesterol levels, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity, high stress and poor hygiene (not regularly washing hands and failure to establish

other habits that can help prevent viral and bacterial infections can put you at risk of heart infections). Talk with your doctor about finding ways to improve your diet and physical activity level as well as your stress level and hygiene habits.

Cholesterol Cholesterol is a fatty substance found naturally in foods such as eggs, shellfish and some fatty meats. Your body also produces cholesterol as it is needed to assist in food digestion and to make hormones and vitamin D. According to experts, 25 percent of your cholesterol comes from your diet, and the rest is manufactured by your body.

High cholesterol may increase your chance of having heart disease or a stroke. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about finding ways to maintain your cholesterol level within normal range (to reach your set target). Ask your doctor to order an

LDL cholesterol test. LDL (low density lipoprotein) is the “bad” cholesterol.

High cholesterol is also more common in persons with diabetes. If you have diabetes, get your cholesterol checked regularly.

This is one way you can help prevent complications from diabetes.

Prevent Heart Disease Through Diet Heart disease can be prevented through diet with heart-healthy and delicious recipes. The United States Department of Health and Human Services (USD HHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH) along with the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) have published a Delicious Heart Healthy Latino Recipes book.

All recipes in this bilingual book qualify as heart-healthy. You can get a free recipe book by visiting the website at nhlbi.nih. gov/health/public/heart/other/sp_recip. pdf. On page 11, you will find a very

popular heart-healthy recipe for sopa de lentejas (lentil soup). One cup of sopa de lentejas has only 151 calories, 3 g total fat, 0 grams saturated fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 248 mg of sodium, 9 grams of protein, 24 grams of carbohydrates and 503 mg of potassium. It is naturally low in fat.

I hope you find these recipes helpful.

There are many heart-healthy recipe books out on the market. Just find the right one for you.

Take good care of your heart. Stay healthy and be well. La Voz readers, you are beautiful. Together we can help keep Pennsylvania residents healthy. ¡Salud!

Do you have a heart-healthy recipe you wish to share with our Latino readers? Let me know and I will do my best to publish them in an upcoming monthly article. Please send your recipes to ¡Hola, Oralia! Email at dr.oralia@gmail.com.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 7

Hope Is Alive Common Good for the Community

Pastor Jody Siliker stands on the steps of the Christ Lutheran Church in Harrisburg.

By Susan Haas, Photography by Ali Waxman

``T

he Hill,” as it is known to many, is where the phrase “17104 – the poorest of the poor” is common knowledge. I sat down for a heart-to-heart chat with Jody Silliker, pastor of the Christ Lutheran Church and founder of Holy Spirit Hospital’s Medical Outreach Services. Silliker started the program while working at a Harrisburg soup kitchen over 15 years ago. A true pioneer and pillar of the community, this soft-spoken and modest wife and mother is quick to deflect any attention on her, and redirect it to the foundation and team who helped make it all happen.

“The foundation by which all of these programs are built stems from the overwhelming support of Holy Spirit Hospital, the vision of the Sisters of Christian Charity and the staff and volunteers who give of themselves tirelessly every day,” says Silliker. “We’re all working for the common good of the community. Our hope is to help people, not just survive, but also thrive in some small way. It’s learning to appreciate the small victories that really matter; providing a warm place to sit for a few hours and have coffee and conversation; knowing a young mother can take comfort in the fact that she and her unborn baby are well cared for; or that a family can dress in their holiday best to have a portrait taken so

they can proudly send it out to their loved ones. These are the things that weave the fabric of a family. Watching a parent learning to read English, or teaching their child to become bilingual – these are survival skills that lead to independence and self sufficiency. All of these things are possible because of people who care.”

Give us a brief description of the clinics and services offered at the church.

Holy Spirit’s Medical Outreach Service is a drop-in center staffed by bilingual RNs who do assessments, simple labs, first aid, health education and referrals to all other services and clinics in the church.

These include: Health Ministries Prenatal Care – a prenatal care service for undocumented women who are having an uncomplicated pregnancy. It also includes Abuelita, a program of partnering with new moms from their last trimester until the baby is 6 weeks old. All potential participants must be evaluated and referred by an Outreach nurse. We have had great success with this service and find it rewarding both for us as well as for new and expectant mothers.

Health Ministries Dental – fillings and simple extractions for urgent dental conditions.

Health Ministries Urgi-Care – access to an MD for urgent, simple conditions.

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Must be evaluated and referred by an Outreach nurse.

Mission of Mercy – a mobile doctor’s office on-site two days per month that provides ongoing primary care.

What would you like people, both potential volunteers and participants, to know about the services provided by the Holy Spirit’s Medical Outreach Program?

Our services are very limited, and the demand always outstrips the supply. The only promise that can be made to any potential client is that he or she will be treated with respect and that the staff will do their very best to help. As much as we wish it were otherwise, not all requests can be fulfilled. No assessments or screenings can be done over the phone. People needing help must come in person to the Medical Outreach Service during normal hours of operation.

What keeps you, as well as your team, going and your spirits afloat during times when there are your own bills to pay, children to care for, and a lack of funds, items or donations within the organization? What keeps you motivated to push a little harder and dig a little deeper?

The relief and appreciation often expressed by our clients is a constant reminder of why we exist. The joy of

relationship is a powerful motivator.

It’s a privilege to be allowed to share with another at such private, and often significant, times in their lives. There is also the deep satisfaction of being able to help in some small and humble ways.

We love what we do here. Every day I am grateful for having the opportunity to work with such a dedicated staff, as well as very deserving people. It’s a win- win.

What three words would you use to describe your team? What advice would you give someone who wants to volunteer or become a part of the team, but is apprehensive for one reason or another?

Creative. Loving. Committed. Also, please let me add “highly skilled.” Volunteers are the backbone of every charity. They are welcome and needed. Try to keep an open mind, though, as to where you might best serve. For example, because we focus on health care, our volunteer needs are pretty specific: health care professionals and translators. Due to the nature of what we do, limited space and our slender administrative structure, we are not a good place for short-term volunteering or projects. I’d be happy to talk to anyone interested in volunteering. If we’re not a good match for their particular skill set, I can refer them to other wonderful community efforts that might be more appropriate.”

What is the most rewarding memory you have since starting this program?

This is an intriguing and difficult question because there are so many rewarding memories. New ones are made every day. While I can think of many examples of times spent with clients, what is most rewarding for me to contemplate is what an amazing and wonderful program this has grown into. Meetings that seemed random at the time proved to be the start of lasting collaborations, like the work of my dear friend and HACC nursing instructor, Marti Spear. We met in a soup kitchen 15 years ago, and she developed clinical opportunities for students at Outreach that cover most of the soup kitchens, shelters and food pantries across the city. The staff of Medical Outreach, which includes our steadfast volunteers, is a warm and talented team. The Sisters of Christian Charity provided the vision, and people from all over the south Central Pa. region have joined in. It’s a privilege to be a part of all of this. However, I am not the only one who reaps these rewards, so I asked the question to two of our nurses to gain their perspective on what are some of their most rewarding experiences.” Vanessa Garcia said, “Providing wound care on someone with no insurance and no resources until the wound is completely healed is something I take great pride in. Without the clinic, this wound would worsen, become infected and turn into a crisis. We can prevent that from happening.” Vera Mielke said, “The most memorable moment is a tough one because we have a lot of small, seemingly insignificant memorable moments, but nothing that feels noteworthy.

For example, the lady who cried when her school-aged son was given a voucher for an eye exam and glasses so he could read in school, or the man who came in bleeding heavily after cutting his thumb. The look on his face when the bleeding stopped and the clean dressing was placed was priceless. Then there was the lady who was living in an abusive relationship. We were able to separate her from her abuser and sneak her out the back door to get to the YWCA. These are the things that I find memorable and rewarding.”

For some this is a lifestyle, however for others it is merely a stepping stone to a better life, which is the ultimate goal. For the single mother, father or family who feels they have very little hope of surviving, let alone thriving, what advice would you give them?

Be not afraid! There are almost always definite, specific steps out of any troublesome situation. We’re pretty good at pointing them out and/or referring a person to whom someone else can. Hope is alive, even when you are feeling too overwhelmed to see it.

If you had a magic wand and could change one thing in the world, what would you change?

I would have an old-fashioned sense of community restored where all are more directly responsible for themselves and for each other. Virtue is hardly even a known word any more. Modesty, healthy pride and shame have gone awry. The ways our elders taught us to show courtesy and respect have fallen by the wayside. We seem to have forgotten that we are all in this together. Services like Medical Outreach should not be needed.

QUE PASA at The LATINO HISPANIC AMERICAN COMMUNITY CENTER (LHACC)

By Gloria Merrick, Executive Director, LHACC

Harrisburg’s first Latino Poet Laureate, Rick Kearns, Gloria Vazquez Merrick, Harrisburg Mayor Papenfuse and Ibiyinka Alao, Nigeria’s Honorary Arts Ambassador to the United Nations.

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ecently, Harrisburg’s Mayor Papenfuse announced Rick Kearns of Harrisburg as the Poet Laureate of Harrisburg at the International Poetry and Storytelling Festival, which was sponsored by the World Affairs Council of Harrisburg at Temple University.

Joyce Davis, communications director for the City of Harrisburg, orchestrated the event, moderated by Nate and Pat Gadsden. Kearns, a professor at Harrisburg Area Community College, received the formal proclamation and is the first Latino to be named Poet Laureate of the capital city. “On behalf of the Latino Hispanic American Community Center (LHACC), we are honored that Rick was chosen,” expressed LHACC Executive Director Gloria Merrick. “Rick is a well known Latino poet, freelance writer and musician. His work has been widely published, and he has appeared in literary reviews nationally.”

In late 2013, Kearns published an eBook, Tainos in New York. Articles about Taino History and the Taino Cultural Restoration Movement. This collection includes articles from regional and national publications covering the years 1997-2013. Many of his articles dealing with the indigenous heritage of Puerto Rico were listed in a collection on the Caribbean Amerindian Centrelink: centrelink.org. The CAC was a scholarly project organized and managed by anthropologist Dr. Maximilian Forte.

Kearns has also given many talks and speaking engagements, including one titled “No Longer Waiting for Justice/The Rise and Return of Indigenous Latin America” at Millersville Univeristy in November, 2008.

Kearns received his B.A. in Spanish from Millersville University (1984), and an M.S. in Journalism from Columbia University School of Journalism (1986).

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LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 9

As I See It

By Graham Hetrick

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want to discuss with you a growing epidemic. This epidemic is not from some exotic viral strain. This epidemic comes from your own medicine cabinet. It is the potential of opioid drug abuse.

We are a society of pill takers. We go to our doctors and they take about five minutes and then write us a prescription to take care of a symptom such as back pain.

The symptom is there because our body’s wants to tell us we have a problem; something is wrong. Many time the doctors treat only the symptom and in doing so never find the cause of the problem. We can’t blame the doctors alone. We are a society that wants a pill for everything; pills to be happy, pills to make love and pills to get thin. We don’t want to alter our lifestyles or listen when our bodies tell us we are too heavy or eat too much. We want the quick fix.

One of the biggest problems facing American society is the expansion of opioid abuse.

The Center for Disease Control in a 2013 report states that it is an “epidemic.” There are more people dying of prescription opioid overdose than all the deaths from heroin and cocaine combined; more than 27,000 a year. We are not talking about street drugs – we are talking about pharmaceutical products.

How does this happen? First understand what an opioid such as Oxycodone is. An opioid is any psychoactive chemical that resembles morphine, heroin or other opiates. In increasing numbers, young people are using pharmaceutical opioids thinking they are 10 FEBRUARY 2014 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

safer than heroin – but in reality these drugs are the road to addition, and usually end up with the abuser becoming a heroin addict.

Once an abuser is hooked on an opioid like Oxycodone where the street cost can be as high as $80, they begin looking for a cheaper alternative and that is where heroin takes over at a cost of around $5 a bag.

So what must be done?

We must set tighter prescribing guidelines for opioids.

Monitor the supply chains from pharmacy to patient.

Unused opioids must be immediately disposed of. Most abusers, especially teenagers, get their beginning drugs from the home. Locally the Dauphin District Attorney has a drop off program for unused opioids. Check and see if your county has such a program.

Understand and make sure your family members understand how addictive pain killer opioids can be.

Avoid the concept of a pill for every occasion. If parents tend to abuse drugs so will their children.

Be smart and be safe. Use opioid drug only when necessary and dispose of any remaining in the house. As a coroner and death investigator, I can tell that the price for abuse is way too high.

Artist Drawn To Mentoring Seniors

By Scott Campbell

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rtist Barbara Passeri-Warfel spent five years teaching high school art in New Jersey after graduating from college. Thereafter, marriage and the birth of her two sons preoccupied Warfel’s time and attention. In 1980, she arrived in Harrisburg when husband, Steve, accepted a position with the State Museum.

“I kept at my own work,” says Warfel of her art, “and I did a little substitute teaching along the way. But, I’ve always enjoyed being around older folks…my aunts and uncles, neighbors and others. So, in 1998, I approached Country Meadows in Mechanicsburg with the idea of giving art lessons to interested residents. They were receptive, and that’s how it began.”

Eventually, when Warfel’s enterprise covered three counties, a reduction became necessary. Currently, the 65-year-old New Cumberland woman offers instruction at facilities in the Harrisburg area. They are Essex House, Church of God Home, Emeritus at Creekview, Bethany Towers, Ecumenical Community Center and Homeland Center.

In 2006, the Penn National Gaming Foundation provided a state grant to Warfel, administered by Jump Street, to produce a manual that delineates her teaching methods.

It is entitled Simple Lines Make a Difference. “Capital Blue Cross covered the publishing expenses,” she says. “It is designed as a guide for creative art instruction.”

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 11

Iglesia Católica Brinda Apoyo Espiritual Y Pastoral A Los Latinos Por el Joe Aponick, Director de Comunicaciones de la Diócesis de Harrisburg

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a atención pastoral de los católicos de habla hispana tiene una rica historia en la Diócesis de Harrisburg. Su origen se remonta a la década de 1940, cuando el obispo George L. Sanguijuela fue nombrado como el primer sacerdote para ministrar a los trabajadores migrantes en la diócesis.

El apostolado está celebrando 70 años de prestación de servicios y asistencia espiritual y pastoral a las personas latinas en el 2014.

Actualmente la Iglesia Católica ofrece servicios y ministerio a los hispanos en 10 parroquias de la región central de Pennsylvania.

Padre Bernardo Pistone, párroco de la Parroquia San Francisco Javier en Gettysburg, ha estado sirviendo a la comunidad latina desde 1974. Padre Bernardo dijo, “es más que decir misa, enterrar a los muertos y bautizar a los niños. Se trata de abrazar la espiritualidad de las personas y luego catequizar o enseñar, es mucho más que eso.

Se trata de darles un hogar en la Iglesia.”

En sus primeros años, el programa del Apostolado para los católicos de habla hispana como era conocido después de su fundación por el obispo Daley – incluye visitas de verano a los campamentos de migrantes, llevándoles ropa y artículos personales, celebra la misa en español y realiza eventos sociales. Hoy en día, la iglesia ha ampliado su programa para incluir misas y otros servicios en español, educación religiosa para adultos y jóvenes, grupos de danza, preparación de Quinceañeras, encuentros juveniles, grupos de oración, ministerios de música, visitas familiares, dirección espiritual, estudios bíblicos, deportes, apoyo familiar, transporte y consejos matrimoniales. El Mes de la Herencia Hispana, que se inicia a mediados de Septiembre hasta mediados de Octubre, esta registrado por la diócesis para ofrecer una misa especial en español el 14 de Septiembre, en la Catedral de San Patricio en Harrisburg.

“La iglesia necesita posicionarse a sí misma para dar la bienvenida al extranjero con amor, integrarlos y decir. Hay espacio para usted, queremos que usted participe, y apreciamos sus regalos,” Padre Pistone remarcó. “Si yo, como sacerdote, hago mi mejor esfuerzo para respetar sus tradiciones, confirmo que son bienvenidos y que la Iglesia está dispuesta a respetar su cultura.”

Riqueza cultural “La unión de lo humano y lo divino realmente viene a la vida en la comunidad latina,” dijo el padre Robert Gillelan, Administrador Diocesano y ex párroco de la Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María en la Parroquia York. El empezó su ministerio apostólico con la comunidad hispana en 1989. “Creemos que es importante estar con ellos en los diferentes momentos de su vida.”

La Parroquia de San José en Hanover es una de las nuevas comunidades que ofrece servicios a la comunidad hispana.

Ellos comenzaron un programa de hecho y derecho de los católicos latinos hace unos siete años, que incluye un grupo de danza hispana.

Adorar en Español Amelia Contreras es originaria de México y es una ciudadana americana. Habla con fluidez en inglés y español. Ella es la directora del exitoso programa Manos Unidas en Gettysburg, un programa de servicios humanos para los hispanos. Ella habla de lo que significa adorar y orar en su lengua materna.

“No sé cómo explicarlo,” dijo. “Puedo ir a una misa en Inglés, 12 FEBRUARY 2014 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

entender y hablar de todo, pero simplemente no se siente lo mismo. La fé es más que una cultura, esta es parte de tu identidad. Es lo que eres. ...La iglesia da la bienvenida a todas las formas en que cada uno ora, y todas sus lenguas.”

Padre Allan Wolfe, párroco de la iglesia San Juan Bautista en Lancaster, una parroquia de habla hispana, señaló que el lenguaje no es sólo palabras, sino más bien la manera en que pensamos.

“A pesar de las palabras ‘Our Father’ y ‘Padre Nuestro’ se traducen entre sí, no es una manera muy diferente de pensar.

Las palabras expresan algo diferente,” dice. “A pesar de que los hispanos son bilingües, es necesario ser capaz de orar con ellos y para ellos, en el idioma que habla su corazón, no sólo su cabeza.”

La parroquia San Juan Bautista ofrece clases de educación religiosa, actividades recreativas, programa después de la escuela, clases de inglés y una tienda de segunda mano. La plaza es una parte integral de la parroquia y la vida comunitaria.

Corpus Christi Parish 320 Philadelphia Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201 (717) 264-6317 Domingo 5:00 p.m.

Immaculate Conception BVM Parish Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María 1730 Fowler Avenue Berwick, PA 18603-1462 (570) 759-8113 2do Domingo 12:30 p.m.

FATHER GILLELAN

Immaculate Conception BVM Parish Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María 309 South George Street York, Pa 17401 (717) 845-7629 Miércoles 7:00 p.m.; Domingo, 11:15 a.m.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish/Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish Parroquia Sagrado Corazón de Jesús / Parroquia San Judas Tadeo William Penn Highway Mifflintown, PA 17059 (717) 436-6722 Sábado 6:30 p.m.

FATHER PISTONE

Integridad de la Iglesia “En la situación en la que las personas emigran aquí desde un país diferente, pueden ser conducidos por el mal camino si la iglesia no se preocupara por su vida,” dice Contreras. “Por eso, el Apostolado Hispano es importante.

Trae temas a la mesa y muestra cómo la iglesia debe proveer a la comunidad hispana.”

“Tenemos la obligación de atender a FATHER WOLFE todos nuestros hermanos y hermanas, y esa es la razón por la cual el Apostolado Hispano empezó,” Padre Gillelan señaló. “Asumimos el compromiso de alimentarlos espiritualmente y ofrecerles los servicios que la iglesia presta.”

El Padre Wolfe habló acerca de la misión que la iglesia tiene para que la gente vaya al cielo. “Si se piensa en los sacramentos, su objetivo principal es hacer gente santa, para ayudarles a crecer en su relación con Dios, para que puedan sentir a Dios ahora y estar preparados para su relación eterna con él,” dijo.

“La Iglesia quiere que seamos miembros activos de la familia de Dios. Eso significa afirmar la dignidad y el valor de los demás,” Padre Wolfe comentó. “Si estuviéramos simplemente proporcionando los sacramentos a la comunidad hispana en su lengua nativa, y nada más, entonces no estamos dando la experiencia necesaria que es tan esencial para que la comunidad de la iglesia experimente a plenitud.”

Para obtener más información, vaya a hbgdiocese.org.

Saint Benedict the Abbot Parish Parroquia de San Benito Abad 1300 Lehman Street Lebanon, PA 17046 (717) 450-4506 Jueves, 7:00 p.m.; Domingo, 11:00 a.m.

Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Parroquia San Francisco de Asís 1439 Market Street Harrisburg, PA 17103 (717) 232-1003 Domingo 9:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m.

Saint Francis Xavier Parish Parroquia San Francisco Javier 455 Table Rock Road Gettysburg, PA 17325 (717) 334-3919 Domingo 8:30 a.m a, 12:30 p.m., Miércoles 6:30 p.m. at 25 West High Street Saint Joseph Parish Parroquia San José 5055 Grandview Road Hanover, PA 17331 (717) 637-5236 Domingo 12 p.m Miércoles 6:30 p.m.

Saint Joseph Parish Parroquia San José 109 Broadway Milton, PA 17847 (570) 742-4356 3er Domingo 12:30 p.m.

San Juan Bautista Parish Parroquia San Juan Bautista 425 South Duke Street Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 392-4118 Sábado, 7:00 p.m Domingo 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. (bilingual)

Catholic Church Provides Spiritual And Pastoral Support To Latinos

By Joe Aponick, Director of Communications, Diocese of Harrisburg

T

he pastoral care of Spanish-speaking Catholics has a rich history in the Diocese of Harrisburg. It dates back to the 1940s, when Bishop George L. Leech appointed the first priest to minister to migrant workers in the diocese. The apostolate is marking 70 years of providing spiritual and pastoral services and support to the Latino people in 2014. Currently, the Catholic Church offers services and ministry to Hispanics in 10 parishes in the Central Pennsylvania region.

Father Bernardo Pistone, pastor of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Gettysburg, has been serving the Latino community since 1974.

Serving the Latino community, he said, “is more than saying Mass, burying the dead and baptizing babies. It’s about embracing the spirituality of the people and then catechizing, or teaching, them.

It’s about giving them a home in the Church.”

In its early years, the program of the Apostolate for SpanishSpeaking Catholics – as it was known after its founding by Bishop Daley – included summer visits to migrant camps, distributing clothing and personal items, celebrating Mass in Spanish and conducting social events. Today, the church has expanded its program to include Masses and other services in Spanish, religious education for adults and youth, dance groups, Quinceañeras preparation, youth encounters, prayer groups, music ministries, family visits, spiritual direction, bible study, sports, family support, transportation and marriage support. Hispanic Heritage Month, which starts mid September through mid-October, is marked by the Diocese with a special Mass in Spanish on September 14, at the Saint Patrick Cathedral in Harrisburg.

“The church needs to position herself to welcome the stranger, lovingly integrate them and say, ‘There is room for you, we want you to be involved, and we appreciate your gifts,’” Father Pistone remarked. “If I, as a priest, do my best to respect their traditions, I confirm that they are welcomed and that the church is willing to respect their culture.”

Cultural Richness “The marriage of the human and the divine really comes to life in the Latino community,” said Father Robert Gillelan, Diocesan Administrator and former pastor of Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in York. He began his ministry with the Hispanic Apostolate in 1989 as a newly ordained priest. “We feel it is important to provide for them at all the different moments of their life.”

St. Joseph Parish in Hanover is one of the newest communities to offer services to the Hispanic community. They began a full-fledged program for Latino Catholics about seven years ago that includes a Hispanic dance group.

Worshiping in Spanish Amelia Contreras is a native of Mexico and an American citizen. She is fluent in English and Spanish. She is the director of the successful Manos Unidas program in Gettysburg, a human-services program for Hispanics. She talks about what it means to worship and pray in her native language.

“I don’t know how to explain it,” she said. “I can go to a Mass in English and understand and speak everything, but it just doesn’t feel the same. Faith is more than culture, it’s part of your identity. It’s who

you are. ...The church welcomes all the ways that everyone prays, and all their languages.”

Father Allan Wolfe, pastor of San Juan Bautista Parish in Lancaster, a Spanish-speaking parish, pointed out that language is not just words, but rather the way we think.

“Although the words ‘Our Father’ and ‘Padre Nuestro’ translate each other, there is a very different way of thinking.

The words are expressing something different,” he said. “Even though there are Hispanics who are bilingual, you need to be able to pray with them and for them, in the language that speaks from their heart, not just their head.”

The parish’s Plaza San Juan Bautista offers religious education classes, recreational activities, after-school program, English classes and thrift store. The plaza is an integral part of parish and community life.

Corpus Christi Parish 320 Philadelphia Avenue Chambersburg, PA 17201 (717) 264-6317 Sunday 5:00 p.m.

Immaculate Conception BVM Parish Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María 1730 Fowler Avenue Berwick, PA 18603-1462 (570) 759-8113 2nd Sunday 12:30 p.m.

FATHER GILLELAN

Fullness of the Church “In the situation where people migrate here from a different country, they can be led astray from the church if FATHER PISTONE the church is not concerned about their whole life,” Contreras said. “That is why the Hispanic Apostolate is important.

It brings issues to the table and shows how the church needs to provide for the Hispanic community.”

“We have an obligation to care for all of our brothers and sisters, and that’s the reason why the Hispanic Apostolate started,” Father Gillelan noted. “We have an obligation to feed them spiritually and to offer services to be church for them.”

Father Wolfe spoke of the church’s FATHER WOLFE mission of getting people to heaven.

“If you think about the sacraments, their primary goal is to make people holy, to help them grow in their relationship with God so they can experience God now and be prepared for their eternal relationship with him,” he said.

“The church wants us to be active members of the family of God. That means affirming the dignity and value of others,” Father Wolfe remarked. “If we were simply providing the sacraments to the Hispanic community in their native language, but nothing more, then we’re failing to provide the experience of community that is so essential for experiencing the church in its fullness.”

For more information go to hbgdiocese.org.

Immaculate Conception BVM Parish Parroquia Inmaculada Concepción de la Santísima Virgen María 309 South George Street York, Pa 17401 (717) 845-7629 Wednesday 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:15 a.m.

Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish/Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish Parroquia Sagrado Corazón de Jesús / Parroquia San Judas Tadeo William Penn Highway Mifflintown, PA 17059 (717) 436-6722 Saturday 6:30 p.m.

Saint Benedict the Abbot Parish Parroquia de San Benito Abad 1300 Lehman Street Lebanon, PA 17046 (717) 450-4506 Thursday 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:00 a.m.

Saint Francis of Assisi Parish Parroquia San Francisco de Asís 1439 Market Street Harrisburg, PA 17103 (717) 232-1003 Sunday 9:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m.

Saint Francis Xavier Parish Parroquia San Francisco Javier 455 Table Rock Road Gettysburg, PA 17325 (717) 334-3919 Sunday 8:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., Miércoles 6:30 p.m. at 25 West High Street Saint Joseph Parish Parroquia San José 5055 Grandview Road Hanover, PA 17331 (717) 637-5236 Sunday 12 p.m Wednesday 6:30 p.m.

Saint Joseph Parish Parroquia San José 109 Broadway Milton, PA 17847 (570) 742-4356 3rd Sunday, 12:30 p.m.

San Juan Bautista Parish Parroquia San Juan Bautista 425 South Duke Street Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 392-4118 Saturday, 7:00 p.m.; Sunday 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 6:00 p.m. (bilingual)

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 13

Sirva Brillo De Sol

CHEF JUSTIN TIMINER

Family Features

L

as frutas cítricas son populares como aperitivos o complementos de la lonchera, pero pueden aportar mucho más a la mesa familiar.

Por su sabor agridulce, las bondades de los jugos y sus colores brillantes, el pomelo, las naranjas y las mandarinas de Florida se pueden disfrutar en todos los platos. Independientemente de si utiliza el jugo de pomelo en una malteada de leche, la cáscara de limón en productos horneados o los gajos de mandarina en un revuelto, existen diversas maneras de servir este brillo de sol.

“Pruebe cocinar panecillos en la corteza de un pomelo cortado a la mitad y vacío,” sugiere Justin Timineri, Chef Ejecutivo y Embajador Culinario del Departamento de Agricultura y Servicios al Consumidor de Florida. “O gratine levemente la cáscara de una fruta cítrica y utilícela al cocinar: los aceites naturales de la cáscara agregan un toque especial.”

Estas recetas muestran algunas de las maneras en que puede cocinar con los cítricos saludables y deliciosos de Florida. Para obtener más recetas e ideas, visite http://bit.ly/ floridacitrus.

Pizza frutal individual Rinde: 1 porción Apta para niños Es una receta divertida que pueden preparar niños de todas las edades. Los niños más grandes pueden ayudar a cortar, con supervisión.

2 cucharadas de queso crema light

1 cucharadita de extracto de vainilla

1 pan tipo pita de 9 pulgadas de trigo integral

1 naranja de Florida, pelada y cortada

1/4 taza de fresas de Florida, cortadas en rodajas

1/4 taza de melón de Florida, cortado en rodajas

1/4 taza de arándanos de Florida En un recipiente, mezcle el queso crema y el extracto de vainilla hasta integrar. Unte los panes con esta preparación. Decore con frutas y forme patrones y rostros divertidos.

Malteada de leche cítrica Rinde: 4 porciones Apta para niños Los niños más pequeños pueden servir y presionar el botón de la licuadora. Los niños más grandes pueden preparar esta bebida solos.

1/2 taza de jugo de naranja de Florida

1/2 taza de jugo de pomelo de Florida

1/2 taza de leche reducida en grasa

1 cucharada de azúcar

2 gotas de extracto de vainilla

4 tazas de hielo Vierta el jugo de naranja, el jugo de pomelo, la leche, el azúcar y el extracto de vainilla en una licuadora con hielo. Bata hasta formar un líquido suave. Vierta en un vaso, agregue un sorbete y sirva. Decore con trozos de frutas.

14 FEBRUARY 2014 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

Panqueques cítricos de manteca y miel Rinde: 4 a 6 porciones Apto para niños Los niños más pequeños pueden medir, incorporar ingredientes y batir. Los niños más grandes pueden cocinar los panqueques con supervisión.

3/4 taza de jugo de naranja de Florida

1/2 taza de miel, dividida

1 limón, ralladura

1 huevo

3/4 taza de harina de trigo integral

1/4 taza de harina de maíz, finamente molida

2 1/2 cucharaditas de polvo para hornear

una pizca de sal marina

2 cucharadas de mantequilla sin sal, blanda

aceite vegetal para cocinar Precaliente una sartén grande o cacerola a fuego medio.

En un recipiente mediano, mezcle el jugo de naranja, 1/4 taza de miel, la ralladura del limón y el huevo. Utilice un batidor.

En otro recipiente, mezcle los ingredientes secos (harina de trigo, harina de maíz, polvo para hornear y sal). Incorpore los ingredientes secos a los húmedos con un batidor.

En un recipiente pequeño, mezcle la manteca blanda y la miel restante y deje reposar.

Agregue un poco de aceite vegetal a la cacerola o sartén precalentada. Utilice una medida de 1/4 de taza para cada panqueque y cuidadosamente agregue la preparación en la sartén o cacerola.

Cocine los panqueques hasta que comiencen a hacer burbujas en el lado sin cocción, entre 2 y 3 minutos. Cuando comiencen a aparecer las burbujas, dé vuelta los panqueques y cocínelos entre 1 y 2 minutos más. Repita el procedimiento de cocción hasta que haya cocinado toda la preparación de panqueques. Sírvalos tibios con la preparación a base de miel.

Manténgalos en el horno a 200 °F en papel para galletitas hasta el momento de servir.

Carne a la mandarina dulce con verduras salteadas Rinde: 4 porciones Apta para niños Los niños más pequeños pueden buscar y medir los ingredientes, y mezclar la salsa. Los niños más grandes pueden ayudar a cortar, con supervisión.

1 1/2 libra de carne, cortada fina

1 paquete de cebolla de verdeo, cortada en rodajas

3 cucharadas de raíz de jengibre fresco, pelado y picado fino

1 pimiento rojo, cortado en rodajas finas

1 mandarina de Florida, jugo y ralladura, por separado

2 1/2 cucharadas de fécula de maíz

1 cucharada de salsa de soja reducida en sodio

2 cucharaditas de azúcar

2 cucharadas de aceite vegetal

2 mandarinas de Florida, peladas y en gajos

arroz integral cocido En un recipiente mediano, mezcle la carne, la cebolla de verdeo, el jengibre, los pimientos rojos, el jugo de mandarina y la fécula de maíz. Mezcle bien los ingredientes para cubrir.

Precaliente una sartén grande a fuego medio-alto.

En un recipiente pequeño, mezcle el jugo de mandarina, la salsa de soja y el azúcar.

Bata los ingredientes hasta disolver el azúcar.

Agregue aceite vegetal a la sartén precalentada. Agregue cuidadosamente la mezcla de carne a la sartén. Cocine y mezcle constantemente hasta que la carne esté dorada y ligeramente crocante.

Agregue la mezcla de la salsa de soja y cocine hasta que la salsa esté espesa.

Revuelva los gajos de mandarina fresca y sirva sobre el arroz integral.

Por qué la vitamina C es tan saludable Los cítricos son una excelente fuente de vitamina C. ¿Por qué la vitamina C es importante? Por todo esto: – Ayuda a curar cortes y heridas.

– Mantiene saludables los dientes y encías.

– Ayuda al cuerpo a absorber el hierro.

– Es necesaria para generar colágeno en los huesos, cartílagos, músculos y vasos sanguíneos.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 15

What’s Happening!

Salvation Army Basketball League SLAM DUNK! The winter months bring the excitement of indoor basketball. The second season of the Salvation Army basketball league has begun. There are 12 teams, with two divisions (East vs. West).

The public is invited to attend the games, which are free. The games are located in the Salvation Army gym, located at 1031 Guilford Street in Lebanon.

Youth “buddy” leagues are available for ages 5 through 8, 8 through 10, 12 through 14 and 15 through 17 years of age.

For more information, call George at (717) 222-9835 or Thomas at (717) 386-4816.

Multi-Platinum Superstar Bruno Mars Coming to Hersheypark Stadium With His Moonshine Jungle World Tour LEYENDAS INTERACTIVE BILINGUAL STORYTELLING (all ages): Saturdays: February 8, March 22 and April 19 from 1-2 p.m.

Welcome to Leyendas, where we present Hispanic legends, folktales, and stories in Spanish and English. The plays will run for 10 to 15 minutes with an interactive program to follow, involving a hands-on activity designed to engage the children in the themes of the skit.

Presented in association with Franklin and Marshall College. Register online at lpl-leyendas. eventbrite.com or by calling Children & Teen Services at (717) 394.2651, x124.

Lancaster Public Library-Bates Auditorium 125 N. Duke Street, Lancaster lancaster.lib.pa.us

16 FEBRUARY 2014 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

Saturday, July 12 – Tickets now on sale Renowned singer/songwriter/producer/musician Bruno Mars will bring his eagerly anticipated Moonshine Jungle World Tour to Hersheypark Stadium on Saturday, July 12 at 8 p.m. Aloe Blacc will join as the supporting act.

Tickets for this show are available at GIANT Center Box Office. They can be charged by phone at (717) 534-3911 or (800) 745-3000, and online at hersheyentertainment.com or ticketmaster.com.

Recently named Billboard magazine’s 2013 Artist of the Year, Mars is also among the top nominees for the upcoming 56th Annual Grammy® Awards, with “Locked Out Of Heaven,” the No.1 smash single from his blockbuster second album, Unorthodox Jukebox, receiving nods as “Record of the Year” and “Song of the Year.” The chart-topping When I Was Your Man was named in the “Best Pop Solo Performance” category while Unorthodox Jukebox was included among the “Best Pop Vocal Album” nominees.

With 130 million singles sold worldwide, the 18-time Grammy® Award nominee and winner has made music history more than once, including such milestones as scoring his first five Billboard “Hot 100” chart-toppers faster than any male solo artist since Elvis Presley. A charismatic and irresistible live performer, he recently concluded the 2013 leg of the Moonshine Jungle World Tour.

Natural Gas – Pennsylvania’s ‘New’ Energy Leader

By Joe Benish

P

ennsylvania has a long and varied history in energy. In fact, oil was first “discovered” by “Colonel” Edwin Drake at Titusville in western Pennsylvania, and Anthracite coal from eastern Pennsylvania is credited with helping fuel the industrial revolution in this country.

Today, with new technologies like fracking, previously untaped gas reserves, natural gas is fast emerging as the newest energy leader in the Commonwealth. With an abundance of supply, many consumers – including businesses and homeowners alike – are discovering natural gas as a way to save on their energy bills.

According to UGI, Pennsylvania’s largest and oldest natural gas supplier, UGI customers recently were expected to see their gas costs drop. At the same time, U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts natural gas prices to go up across the country. Part of the reason Pennsylvania is bucking the trend toward higher prices is the state’s location atop the natural-gas-rich Marcellus Shale range.

“There is enough supply to support growth in infrastructure and expansion of service because of inexpensive Marcellus Shale and Utica shale gas, which means long-term opportunities,” says George Stark of Cabot Oil & Gas, a major gas exploration company in Pennsylvania.

“The availability of significant supplies of locally produced Marcellus Shale gas continues to have a beneficial impact on natural-gas prices. Many new customers who’ve recently converted to natural gas from other fuels will be seeing extra savings,” according to UGI Utilities Vice President of Rates Paul Szykman. Even with the latest rate adjustment, UGI customers are paying about 25 percent less for their energy than they were five years ago, according to the company.

UGI, which serves 586,000 natural-gas customers in 45 counties, has established programs to assist both business owners and residential customers (including multi-family housing) to convert to natural gas. In Central Pennsylvania, UGI – Gas Division includes communities with large and growing Hispanic-Latino populations, including Allentown, Bethlehem, Reading, Lancaster, Lebanon and Harrisburg.

According to company reports, conversion to natural gas is becoming even more popular, as the average homeowner can saves as much as $1,500 per year, and businesses, including apartment complex owners, can save even more. Between 2009 and 2013, a record of more than 31,000 homes switched to natural gas, primarily from heating oil. In addition, UGI saw some 45 large commercial and industrial plants, 13 government facilities and 18 schools convert during the same period. In total, UGI added more than 58,000 new natural-gas customers in Pennsylvania in the past five years.

The utility’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EE&C) Program helps customers reduce energy by showing them how to switch from electric to natural gas for homespace heating, water heating and clothes drying. The program also shows commercial/ industrial customers implement combined Heat and Power Projects and even extends to showing customers how to recycle old refrigerators and freezers.

“We are helping (our customers) reduce their energy usage and create a cleaner environment at the same time,” notes Brian Fitzpatrick, UGI Energy Efficiency and Conservation Manager.

And to make switching to natural gas easier, UGI has established several programs to help new homebuyers and others. A new website and mobile app called FindNBuild specifically helps prospective homeowners with information on builders and home construction in UGI’s 45-county service territory. It is online at findnbuild.com. Others interested in possibly converting to natural gas can always contact UGI at (800) 276-2722 or visit the company’s website at ugi.com.

LA VOZ LATINA CENTRAL | FEBRUARY 2014 17

QUE PASA at The LATINO HISPANIC AMERICAN COMMUNITY CENTER (LHACC)

By Gloria Merrick, Executive Director, LHACC

O

n Martin Luther King Day, LHACC h o s t e d K a r e n Overly Smith, United Way of the Capital Region, Vice President for Labor Management Participation, AFL-CIO Community Laison, and Zack Hause, Harrisburg Region Central Labor Council, who volunteered at The Latino Hispanic American Community Center (LHACC) for the day. By end of day, all chores were completed and LHACC’s multipurpose rooms were cleaned, organized and prepared for additional upcoming onsite executive visits, special events and community information sessions.

Special thanks to Karen, Zack, Sandra Feliz, LHACC Board Member, and Robert Torres, board president, for their participation in this unique day of service. Agency Carol Obando-Derstine executives, volunteer students, retirees, nonprofits or others are always welcome to The Latino Center (LHACC) in South Allison Hill to tour, visit or volunteer. Please feel free to send me an email at gmerrick@lhacc.org.

Carol Obando-Derstine, U.S. Senator Robert P. Casey Jr.'s regional manager for Berks, Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties and Latino Affairs Advisor, is no stranger to the Latino Hispanic American Community Center (LHACC). This past January she visited the center’s senior program to meet the participants and discuss any questions, comments or concerns they had for the Senator.

Obando-Derstine also toured Allison Hill, which included a stop at the corner bank, where we found and visited briefly with the jovial Chris Rockey, vice president, PNC Bank Community Development.

The new pharmacy, the corner grocery store and the neighborhood laundromat were proudly pointed out. A wonderful meal was shared at LaBarca restaurant with authentic beef and chicken tacos, served with guacamole, salsa and added garnish.

It was a wonderful visit with Obando-Derstine who stated she will return soon for another visit.

18 FEBRUARY 2014 | LAVOZLATINACENTRAL.COM

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PROTEJA SUS CUENTAS TRAS LAS VIOLACIONES DE DATOS Más del 70 por ciento de los estadounidenses tienen al menos una tarjeta de crédito. Las tarjetas de débito se utilizan ahora más que las tarjetas de crédito para compras del consumidor, el uso de tarjetas prepago está aumentando. En los últimos meses, las violaciones de datos en las principales tiendas minoristas han expuesto a millones de cuentas de tarjetas de posibles fraudes.

Además, millones de nombres de los consumidores, números de teléfono, correos electrónicos y direcciones que también parecen haber sido robada.

La Oficina de Protección Financiera del Consumidor (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau “CFPB”) ofrece los siguientes consejos al consumidor para protegerse contra el robo de datos: • Supervisar cuentas de tasas o débitos no autorizadas: Los consumidores deben revisar periódicamente sus cuentas en línea, si es posible, y como mínimo examinar sus estados de cuenta mensuales de cerca. Los consumidores deben informar incluso de pequeños problemas de inmediato, ya que algunos ladrones pueden procesar un pequeño cargo o débito sólo para verificar si la cuenta esta activa, o los avisos de consumo. Los cargos fraudulentos pueden ocurrir muchos meses después de que la información es robada. Incluso si los consumidores creen que el PIN de su tarjeta de débito no fue robado, deben considerar cambiar el PIN para estar seguro.

• Alerte a la institución financiera o proveedor de la tarjeta de inmediato si se sospecha de fraude: Los

consumidores deben alertar a su proveedor de la institución financiera o tarjeta inmediatamente si sospechan que una tarjeta de débito o cargo no autorizado se ha realizado. Si aparecen cargos inapropiados, el consumidor debe pedir al proveedor de la tarjeta cerrar el acceso a la cuenta y emitir una nueva tarjeta antes de que más transacciones fraudulentas aparezcan. Bajo la ley federal y las demás normas aplicables, los consumidores generalmente no son responsables por los débitos o cargos no autorizados a las cuentas de tarjetas de crédito o de débito, siempre y cuando los reporten inmediatamente a su institución financiera o proveedor de tarjeta.

información de la cuenta. Los bancos y las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito nunca piden información de su cuenta a través de correo electrónico. Si los consumidores reciben este tipo de correo electrónico, debe ponerse en contacto inmediatamente con su proveedor de la tarjeta y de informar de ello. (No haga clic en ningún enlace del correo electrónico). Si los consumidores reciben este tipo de llamada telefónica, pueden pedir un número de devolución de llamada para verificar que el solicitante es en realidad su institución financiera. Llame sólo al número de teléfono que aparece en los documentos oficiales de su institución financiera.

• Haga un seguimiento con la institución financiera o proveedor de tarjeta y mantenga un registro: si los consumidores encuentran una transacción fraudulenta, deben llamar de inmediato al número de servicio al cliente gratuito de la institución financiera o de la tarjeta de su proveedor, y también preguntar si pueden hacerlo con un escrito. Cuando los consumidores se comunican por escrito, deben asegurarse de guardar una copia para sus propios registros. Los consumidores deben anotar las fechas en que se realizan llamadas de seguimiento y mantener esta información en un archivo.

• Revise su reporte de crédito de forma gratuita cada cierto mes: La ley federal requiere que cada una de las tres compañías que da informe del reporte de crédito a los consumidores, como - Equifax , Experian y TransUnion - les dé una copia gratuita de su informe de crédito cada 12 meses, si se le pregunta por ello. Su reporte de crédito contiene información sobre sus cuentas de tarjetas de crédito y otras cuentas que paga, así que es una buena manera de averiguar si alguien ha abierto algun crédito a su nombre. Para obtener su reporte crediticio, visite AnnualCreditReport.com o llame al 1-877-322-8228.

También puede solicitar información sobre cómo poner una alerta de fraude en su cuenta.

• Evite estafas que soliciten información personal por correo electrónico o por teléfono: Un esquema común, conocido como "phishing", consiste que cuando un estafador se encuentra en contacto con el consumidor a través de correo electrónico o teléfono, pide verificar la

Estos consejos fueron presentados a usted por las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito de Pennsylvania. Las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito ofrecen servicios financieros asequibles a los residentes de Pennsylvania. Para encontrar una cooperativa de ahorro y crédito y unirse a ella, visite www.iBelong.org.

PROTECTING YOUR ACCOUNTS IN THE WAKE OF DATA BREACHES More than 70 percent of Americans have at least one credit card. Debit cards are now used for more consumer purchases than credit cards, and prepaid card usage is increasing. In recent months, data breaches at major retailers have exposed millions of card accounts to potential fraud. Additionally, millions of consumers’ names, phone numbers, emails, and addresses also appear to have also been stolen.

Consumers should follow these tips from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to protect themselves from data theft: • Monitor accounts for unauthorized charges or debits: Consumers should regularly review their accounts online if possible, and at a minimum examine their monthly statements closely. Consumers should report even small problems immediately as some thieves may process a small charge or debit just to see if the account is live, or the consumer notices. Fraudulent charges may occur many months after the information is stolen. Even if consumers think the PIN on their debit card was not stolen, they should consider changing the PIN to be safe.

• Alert the financial institution or card provider immediately if fraud is suspected: Consumers should alert

their financial institution or card provider immediately if they suspect an unauthorized debit or charge. If fraudulent charges appear, the consumer should ask the card provider to close access to the account and issue a new card before more transactions come through. Under federal law and other applicable rules, consumers are generally not responsible for unauthorized debits or charges to credit or debit card accounts, as long as they report them quickly to their financial institution or card provider.

over email or phone and asking to verify account information. Banks and credit unions never ask for account information through email. If consumers receive this type of email, they should immediately contact their card provider and report it. (Do not click on any links in the email.) If consumers receive this type of phone call, they can ask for a call-back number to verify the requestor is actually their financial institution. Call only the phone number listed on official documents from your financial institution.

• Follow up with the financial institution or card provider and maintain records: If consumers find a fraudulent transaction, they should call the financial institution or card provider’s toll-free customer service number immediately, and also ask how they can follow up with a written communication. When consumers communicate in writing, they should be sure to keep a copy for their own records. Consumers should write down the dates on which they make follow-up calls and keep this information together in a file.

• Check your credit reports — for free — every few months. Federal law requires each of the three nationwide consumer reporting companies — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — to give you a free copy of your credit report every 12 months if you ask for it. Your credit report includes information about your credit card accounts and other bills you pay, so it’s a good way to find out if someone has opened credit in your name.

To get your report, visit AnnualCreditReport.com or call 1-877-322-8228. You can also inquire about placing a fraud alert on your account.

• Avoid scams that ask for personal information over email or by phone: A common scheme, known as “phishing,” involves a scammer contacting a consumer

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.