A RHM Publication Vol. 1, Issue 5/April 2013
A sister publication of Alice24-7.com
The Bridal Fair Residential Customer Alice, Texas
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A first for Alice April 21
Also this issue - Coping with Alzheimer’s • Couponing Tips • And More!
CONTENTS For Love
Alzheimer’s has brought the Borses closer together in their marriage.
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Spring has sprung and our fans share with us their favorite snowcone flavors!
Iron Man Alice native Richard Torres takes his health seriously.
The League
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A
pril is designated Women’s Health Care Month, and with the Jim Wells County Relay for Life teams raising funds and awareness, there is no time like the present for women to get the check ups they need. We all get busy. Life is hectic, but you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to take care of yourself, too.
2 a Magazine April 2013
On the cover
Platinum Events is hosting its and Alice’s first Wedding Fair on April 21. Planning on tying the knot soon? Then you don’t want to miss this ‘a Must’ event.
MONTHLY FEATURES
These Bible Drill coaches are more than that to their participants.
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9 A More Excellent Way 12 The Savvy Kitchenista 15 Women’s Health 14 Frugal Living 7 Health & Wellness
Women are often caregivers, but don’t forget yourself So, if you haven’t scheduled your mammogram, please do so. According to Mammography Saves Lives, mammograms have helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the United States by nearly 1/3 since 1990. The Web site provides these other facts: • 1 in 6 breast cancers occur in women ages 40 to 49. • 3/4 of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease and are not considered high risk. • Even for women over the
age of 50, skipping a mammogram every other year would miss up to 30 perccent of cancers. Self-breast exams are also important and should be done at least once a month beginning from age 20. It is important to know how your body looks and feels so as any changes can be easily detected by you. What to look for in a selfbreat exam (breastcancerpreventionfund.org): • Any new lump or hard knot found in the breast or armpit. • Any lump or thickening
that does not shrink. • Any change in the size, shape or symmetry of your breast. • A thickening or swelling of the breast. • Any dimpling, puckering or indention in the breast. • Redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin. • Nipple discharge. • Nipple tenderness or pain. Being informed is key to prevention.
A publication of Real Hometown Media, LLC. 607 E. 7th Street, Alice, Texas, 78332, 361-668-6397 Nicole D. Perez Publisher/Editor Tony Morris Publisher Emeritus Brenda Poe Writer Lois Stephens Writer Mark Molina Writer Anthony Ruiz Writer Jennifer Wallgren Marketing David Rodriguez Marketing Marisol Marquez Advertorial/Accounting Vickie Cummings Marketing Contributing Writers: Dr. Jason Bradford Pastor Kathleen Kasper Megan Hogan Jennifer Wallgren Billy Scoggins, R.N.
Distributed monthly to every household in Alice, Texas. ©2013 Real Hometown Media, LLC
VOTE! Keep Alice moving in the right direction!
The facts about what is happening in Alice
Alice is making huge strides in improving our quality of life. A record amount of water and sewer work has been completed and continues; Texas Blvd. and numerous other streets have been or are being rebuilt; seal coating projects continue all over town; new retail development is underway, particularly on Alice’s east side. We have more jobs available than people available to fill them. Thus housing projects are moving forward and others being considered. Upgrades or construction of parks, walking trails, concession stands, golf course – too many projects to list – are all a reality. A multi-use facility with waterpark, indoor pool, amphitheater and more is planned for Alice’s west side. This project is the result
New Concession Stand
Pictured is the artist’s rendering of the new west side development.
of private and public partnership. Taxes in Alice remain a historic low and have decreased several years in a row. The west side development is being funded with sales tax surpluses,
New Cart Paths
private investments and grants. This will open an entirely new corridor for more retail development along the 281 bypass; a great investment for our future without raising our taxes.
New Playground Equipment
Continue the progress and vote! Dorella Elizondo for Mayor Yvette Terrell Johnson for City Council Early Voting April 29 - May 7 Election Day May 11
New Walking Path
Dorella Elizondo and Yvette Terrell Johnson have worked and voted to improve the quality of life in Alice. Building a community in which we all want to live and be inviting to newcomers. A win for us all! Lightening Rental Tools Wade and Kari Hendricks 1370 FM 665 Alice, TX 78332
Political Ad Paid for by:
Endyn Kevin and Kati Downs 301 W. 1st Alice, TX 78332
Texas Rig Services Commissioner Margie Gonzalez 3305 N. Highway 281 Alice, TX 78332
Alice Pediatric Clinic Dr. Erik and Carolina Nisimblat 305 E. Third Alice, TX 78332 April 2013 a Magazine 3
The Bridal Fair Sunday, April 21 • Platinum Events Ballroom
Story by Brenda Poe
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lice will be showered with ideas at the first-ever Bridal Fair, hosted by Platinum Events Ballroom and Decorations. The Bridal Fair is set for 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 21, at the Platinum Events Ballroom, 108 E Main St., Alice. “We are trying to promote shopping local,” said Jerry Martinez, of Flower Girls, who is helping coordinate the event. “The vendors feature all local businesses, including photography, florists, hotels and much more. Wedding Lace will be featuring their bridal and formal gowns.” Martinez said the gowns won’t be featured down a runway on models. “Instead the models will be walking around the event,” Martinez said. “This will give
4 a Magazine April 2013
people a chance to see the dresses up close.” Martinez said among other vendors is Jolene’s Merle Norman boutique, which will feature hair and makeup for bridal parties. “And what bride doesn’t think about dropping a few pounds, so we will also have In Motion at a booth,” Martinez said. “There will be jewelers and caterers. We will have Accurate Printing at a booth with samples of invitations and more.” And to make sure that every guest feels pampered at the event, everyone will be greeted at the door with a glass of champagne. Martinez said there will be no presale tickets. “Tickets are $10 at the door,” Martinez said. “There will be plenty of samples. This Bridal Fair is to show the
residents of Alice that it is possible to get everything you need for your wedding right here in Alice.”
Wedding Lace, which is one of the vendors at Alice’s first Bridal Fair, carries Exquisite Bridal gowns from Karelina Sposa SUBMITTED
Coming soon...
Family fun at the City of Alice new Multi-use Complex. creating a place to live, work and play! April 2013 a Magazine 5
In sickness and in health
“
For better or for worse, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.” These are words spoken at countless weddings, a vow made between a man and woman to stay together, no matter what happens. Alan and Diana Borse of Alice have been together through 52 years of marriage, nine children - six daughters and three sons, 26 grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren, and the usual vagaries of married life. They didn’t know, when they made that vow all those years ago, that they would ultimately face the prospect of a disease that would - little by little - rob them of Alan’s identity. Borse doesn’t remember exactly what caused him to approach their family doctor in November 2008, but unbeknownst to his wife, he began taking medication to treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease. He was more aware of
Story by LOIS STEPHENS
the symptoms because several of his family members suffered from dementia and his father died from Alzheimer’s in the early 1990s. Diana Borse said she was working full-time as an English professor at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and had started to notice slippage
in her husband’s short-term memory. “He would ask me a question, and then ask me the same question again 10 minutes later with no memory of having asked it the first time. Telling the same stories over and over again. And having long term memories that I am not sure whether they actually happened or not,” she said. He was also losing weight because he would not eat when she was not home, and ultimately had dropped to 95
lbs. before she retired from her job to come home and care for him full-time. “By the time I started thinking maybe it was time for him to be on medication, I realized he already was, and had been for some time,” she said. The Borses were told the general rule of thumb averages for dementia patients was about 7 to 9 years. “But I think we’re pushing 6 now,” Diana Borse said, “and he knows everybody, and he manages - he does all his dressing, he eats, he takes care of a lot of things - most things that you take care of yourself. We are just coming out of early stage and tipping into mid-stage. I think the rule of thumb time frame isn’t good anymore. I think the drugs are significantly slowing it down.” Alan Borse said, “There’s something that I’d like to see, and that’s more general public knowledge and understanding
New Arrivals
Alan and Diana Borse - SUBMITTED of the disease. “I think that one of the most difficult parts of having Alzheimer’s, is that all
of my life, I was the guy who could cope. When I was in the Army, I had way uu
Page 7
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Laugh for better health
A
pril is National Humor Month, so this is the perfect time to add a little humor into your daily routine. Founded in 1976 by author and humorist Larry Wilde, the original idea was to heighten public awareness of the therapeutic and restorative values of joy and laughter. Studies have shown that intense laughter can cause heart and re- By All Means spiratory rates - Health & to rise, as well as increased Wellness respiraBy BILLY tory depth and oxygen SCOGGINS, RN consumption. Wesley Nurse Immediately following these changes are relaxed muscles and a corresponding decrease in respiratory rate, heart rate and blood pressure. There may be something about that old adage that advocates laughter/humor being the best medicine. Short-term benefits A good laugh has great shortterm effects. When you start to laugh, it doesn’t just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can: • Stimulate many organs. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain. • Activate and relieve your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response and increases your heart rate and blood pressure. The result? A good, relaxed feeling. • Soothe tension. Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, both of which help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress. Long-term effects Laughter isn’t just a quick pickme-up, though. It’s also good for you over the long haul. Laughter may: • Improve your immune system. Negative thoughts manifest into
chemical reactions that can impact your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. In contrast, positive thoughts actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses. • Relieve pain. Laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers. Laughter may also break the pain-spasm cycle common to some muscle disorders. • Increase personal satisfaction. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations. It also helps you connect with others. How to improve your sense of humor Put humor on your horizon. Find a few simple items, such as photos or comic strips that make you chuckle. Then hang them up at home or in your office. Keep funny movies or comedy albums on hand for when you need an added humor boost. Laugh and the world laughs with you. Find a way to laugh about your own situations and watch your stress begin to fade away. It does your body good. Share a laugh. Make it a habit to spend time with friends who make you laugh. And then return the favor by sharing funny stories or jokes with those around you. Laughter is the best medicine Many studies have shown that laughter can actually improve one’s health. And laughter is fun! After all, you can’t feel sad or angry when you’re laughing, right? That being said, a bout of uncontrollable laughter is no substitute for regular, moderate exercise, but it can provide mood elevation and improve how we manage stress on a daily basis. Laughter can enhance relaxation, help us feel more connected to others, or just better, by creating positive immune and cardiovascular effects that can improve overall mental and physical health.
uu
Borse
more authority than my rank. I was in a technical outfit and I knew more than anybody - including the instructor in the courses I was required to take. So I’m not used to not being the one that was ahead of the curve - on everything. It was very difficult for me to not continue to think that I was probably ahead of most of the people - I have to be nice about it,” he said, laughing. The Borses are devout Catholics, and one of the hardest changes for Alan Borse was having to step down from his service as an assigned Deacon at St. Elizabeth Church, which he had performed for 20 years. He retired after his illness was diagnosed. He is likely familiar to many of the Catholics in Alice, because as “Deacon Al” he lead countless Rosaries, performed Communion services, graveside services, and blessed many headstones and new homes. “He finds it very difficult not to be on the altar, he really misses it,” Diana Borse said. “We frequently go to a different church to go to Mass.” “I do miss it, and I resent having to miss it, but it’s where I am,” he said. “He’s very hurt that we’ve lost things like that,” she said. “But I love it that we’re almost never apart,” he said, “we get to do things together, whatever we want to do.” Diana Borse said the strongest advice she could give anyone facing this situation is to not borrow worry from the future. Prepare for what’s coming, but “Don’t borrow that anxiety, unhappiness and fear and whatever worry and whatever comes with it if it hasn’t happened yet. Appreciate what you’ve still got and enjoy it while you’ve got it. Because the thing with
Article adapted from the following references: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ stress-relief http://www.heartmdinstitute.com/ v1/heart-healthy-lifestyles/mindbodyconnection/laughter-medicine
10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s:
u Memory loss that disrupts daily life u Challenges in planning or solving problems u Difficulty completing familiar tasks u Confusion with time or place u Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships u New problems with words in speaking or writing u Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps u Decreased or poor judgment u Withdrawal from work or social activities u Changes in mood and personality www.alz.org
Alzheimer’s is, now is the best time you’ve got left. “Our long marriage is a tremendous advantage,” she continued. “Marriage is a vocation, it’s a part of our faith. We’re both pretty profoundly Catholic - but in a pretty practical sense, a day-to-day sense. Basically the vow is ‘until death do us part,’ not ‘until I get tired of this; and the advantage of a very long marriage is that you are going to go all the way. You promised to see it all the way through. You’re committed to that, because that is what marriage is about,” she said.
(361) 701-0740 khendricks@txfb-ins.com
Kari Hendricks
Diving into Progress in Alice
As a long term resident of Alice I have seen good ideas abandoned because a few people did not support a particular project. Our most recent example of abandonment being our recent AISD bond issue. In that bond election the bond issue passed at every polling place except Schallert School. At that time eleven simultaneous bond elections were held in our region. Nine passed. The only two that did not were Alice and Crystal City. We are behind our peers in the development of new facilities. If you follow the Coyotes, that should be apparent. To be progressive we have to look polished. It is particularly frustrating when we deny ourselves the benefit of state funds and other assistance which greatly reduce the cost of new facilities. If you never build it you always chase it, then years go by, along with missed opportunities. Certainly cost was an issue when Dubose was built in 1953. The Alamo Dome, the American Bank
Center and Whataburger Field are a few shining examples of what were originally considered terrible ideas. In those settings the city fathers made investments in what were then considered unsightly places of blight and low valuation. The mixed use facility approved by our city fathers has merit for many reasons. The natatorium must be built by a governmental entity with taxing authority. Substantial maintenance costs can be passed along proportionately to principal and seasonal users which certainly will include other school districts. There will always be peaks and valleys in our local economy. For a few years we have been at a peak. Let’s take advantage of all available resources and cut hay while the Sun is shining… “In times of crisis people will follow someone who is strong and wrong more quickly than someone who is weak and right”…B. Clinton. Sincerely, Roger Saenz
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April 2013 a Magazine 7
THE LEAGUE
of
Extraordinary Ladies
League members include Mellie Smithwick, Kookie Gutierrez, Bertha Rodriguez, Brenda Gonzalez, Barbie Wymore, Lelia Keliehor, April Anzaldua and Seana Towler.
Story and Photo by LOIS STEPHENS
T
he Bible says in Romans 12:7 that everyone should act according to their gifts, among which admonitions is, “and if it is teaching, teach.” Three women at West Main Baptist Church have volunteered thousands of hours over the past 11 years to teaching the young people of their congregation how to use their Bibles; both as Sunday School teachers and as the leaders of the church’s Bible Drill team. Wanda McDaniel, Shirley Dennis and Maureen Bergmann have taken what was originally intended just as a program for the youth and turned it into a ministry which has created several state winners, a national third-place winner and changed the lives of “their kids.” For their loving and dedicated efforts on behalf of their church’s children, they have been selected as this month’s inductees into a Magazine’s League of Extraordinary Ladies. West Main was looking for a program for its young
people and heard about Bible Drill from another church. The Baptist church from Agua Dulce was invited to come and do a demo for the children and the women were amazed at the immediate and enthusiastic response from their students. Despite the intense dedication and time they were told it would require of them, seven of the children wanted to begin immediately, and thus the program was born. Dennis helped McDaniel the first year, and Bergmann came on board the second year. The West Main Baptist Bible Drill team has grown to include students from fourth grade through high school, with 15 members on this year’s team. The students compete on an individual points basis, through several levels of competition to reach the state level; but West Main almost always fields a large team at the state competition. In addition to teaching Bible Drill, they also teach Sunday School, drive the church van to act as chauf-
Pictured (l-r) are Shirley Dennis, Wanda McDaniel and Maureen Bergmann. feurs for the children to get to church, and generally become involved in the children’s lives not just as teachers but as confidantes and sometimes counselors. The ladies work together so well they can - and do -
for MAYOR
e t o V
8 a Magazine April 2013
Political Ad Paid for by Dorella Elizondo Campaign, Ella Munoz, Treasurer, 301 E. 1st St., Ste. A, Alice, TX 78332.
finish each other’s sentences. They said of their work with the youth, “We don’t limit it just to Sundays. We want to know them, their families it’s a 24-hour relationship. We become a household name in each one of these fami-
lies - it’s an emotional roller coaster for us sometimes, because we get very involved. It’s just a tough job at times.” The youth spend so much time with their Bibles, learning passages by heart and uu
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Is it Law or Love?
T
A More Excellent Way By PASTOR KATHLEEN G. KASPER
Pastor Kathleen holds degrees from Texas Tech University, Valparaiso University, and Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago. She is currently enrolled in the School of the Holy Spirit. She is an avid reader and enjoys mentoring others in the Christian faith. She is the pastor of Living Word Fellowship in Alice and can be reached at livingwordradio@hotmail.com
he Ten Commandments have become a source of dispute in many communities throughout the United States. Some people protest the display of them because they believe that such displays violate the “separation of Church and State.” Others believe they are helpful to individuals and communities alike because they provide guidelines for how people are to live in community. Many people know the Ten Commandments word for word and have been taught to “live by them.” However, even many of these people get tripped up over the word “commandment.” Why is this? The reason we “trip” over the word “commandment” is this: Few, if any of us, like to be told, much less “commanded,” to do anything and, at first glance, the Ten Commandments appear to be a list of ‘dos and don’ts.’ But, are the Ten Commandments really a set of “commandments,” that is, a list of “dos and don’ts,” or are they something entirely different? Though they appear to be a list of “dos and don’ts” they actually are not! When an expert in the law asked Jesus “What is the great-
est commandment?” Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” We read Jesus’ words and we shake our heads and think: “But love isn’t even mentioned in any of the commandments.” If love isn’t mentioned, how then can love summarize them? Here’s how. In the beginning when God created human beings, He created us to be relational creatures. We were created to be in relationship with God and with other human beings. In the perfection of the Garden of Eden, the relationships our first parents had with God and with each other were perfect. Our first parents loved God with all their heart, soul, strength, and mind, and they loved each other as they loved themselves. Having a perfect relationship of love for God and each other meant that they willingly did nothing to harm either relationship. They were not in any way forced to love in this way; they did so for love’s sake. We are most certainly aware of the fact that we
don’t live in a perfect world. Sin entered into the world in the Garden of Eden through the deception of the devil and when it did, our ability to love God and love one another perfectly was affected. Sin affected (infected) people; they need to be instructed how to love God and love one’s neighbors and this is what the Ten Commandments are: They are words of instruction to us – words instructing us how to love. Knowing that the Ten Commandments are words instructing us how to love rather than a list of “dos and don’ts,” we can consider them and see this truth. For example, the First Commandment states: “You shall have no other gods before me.” This means, God is central to our lives. From the perspective of knowing that “love” is the summary of the Commandments, we understand that if we truly love God with all of our heart, soul, strength, and mind, we will be sure to love God as He desires to be loved and we won’t love anyone or anything more than Him. Our lives will be devoted to Him. Our hearts will be set on being who He created us to be while doing what He directs us to do. This would be our outward expression of our
Anti Aging
love for Him. We can go through all of the Commandments in this way and see them through the lens of love. To love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind, means that we aren’t going to dishonor His beautiful and precious Name. It also means that our heart’s desire will be to spend time with Him. The Sabbath Day was set aside for the rest of God’s people and to enjoy God’s company. When we love God with all we are, we love spending time with Him. In fact, one day a week will not be enough; twenty-four/seven will be more like it! Regarding the second great commandment, when we love our “neighbors as ourselves” we will not hurt or harm them in any way. We won’t kill them or steal from them or commit adultery with them or use our tongues to destroy them with gossip and lies. Such things harm relationships! We won’t covet their property, neither will we connive and scheme to get what belongs to them for ourselves. We will also honor our parents for this is how we show our love for them. So “love” does summarize the Commandments! Isn’t this nice to know?
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April 2013 a Magazine 9
Expansion Advancement Progress “Moving forward is a process in life that many people loathe because moving forward is a time that requires one to make changes. Being able to move forward in life is a true test of a (community’s) maturity level, and a true test of the confidence that they have within themselves. In order to succeed in the accomplishment of the dreams and goals that we have in our hearts we must be able to not only look forward, but also have the capacity to move forward as well. We must resist looking back, and trying to relive the past, because our past can only be lived but once, and the mistakes that we made in it can not be redone. We can choose to make wiser decisions, and learn from the experiences that we went through in order to become the best person possible in moving forward in our lives.� - Author unknown
Way
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Torres - Full Speed Ahead
I
t isn’t always easy to get up and go out and do something, but when you add passion to the mix, it is hard to deny yourself the opportunity whether it is the norm or not. Richard Torres, a 43-yearold Alice native, resides in San Diego and has been cycling and competing in triathlon-type events for more than two decades (22 years); doing so all over Texas and places such as New England, Providence and Arizona. He aspires to qualify as a rider for international competitions. While all sports require an individual to be dedicated in some way, cycling is something that Torres feels can be very self-fulfilling. “Cycling is one of those things where if you are successful it is because of you and nobody else,” Torres said. “It is more than just a competition. It takes dedication to want to put in what you would like to get out of it.” Torres has raced in events ranging from triathlons to
Richard Torres regular 5K runs and has placed at least in the top four in a majority of those races in
the last two years. Fueled by a weekly workout schedule that involves things
Story by MARK MOLINA Photos SUBMITTED
‘Cycling is one of those things where if you are successful it is because of you and nobody else’ like spinning, gym time, and mock triathlons, Torres has competed in state duathlons (running and cycling) and hopes to qualify for a trip to Spain when he competes at the USAT National Duathlon Championships this October in Tucson, Ariz. Age, however, has not and probably will not become an issue for Torres as the format keeps it competitive for everyone. “There are just so many competitions out there and new competitors, but it doesn’t really matter because you eventually get put into categories,” Torres said. “It allows you to keep pushing yourself and discover new goals.” Even with all the success and happiness cycling has brought Torres, he has had his share of downs to go along with his ups. During 2012, Torres was involved in two accidents that resulted in serious injuries for him, but despite all that he considers himself more for-
tunate than others who have been in similar situations. “It was kind of a bad year with two car wrecks into me that left me with concussions, nice scars, some disc damage, broken ribs, a new nose and a lot of blood loss,” Torres said. “I am happy to be alive because friends of mine have been killed or left paraplegic.” With the sport of cycling being a dangerous one, Torres urges all to ride with a partner or in a group for safety reasons as well as fun, and has wanted to introduce the sport to the area to help participation grow. Torres also wishes to get kids involved simply to get the sport introduced and show what it has to offer. Unfortunately, for Torres, it is easier said than done, especially in South Texas where football, baseball, basketball and even track are the main sports. He also has dealt with negative energy in South uu
Page 18
ELECT
Larry Martinez for Mayor
The reason I have been proud to call Alice my home for most of my adult life is because of the citizens of Alice, and this is why I have chosen to run for mayor. In order to move Alice forward, we as citizens must unite and work together for the future of our families and community. As your future mayor, I believe that my dedication to public service, my personal devotion to economic growth, and my proven record of facilitating compromise can help Alice achieve even more. I am confident that I can work with all the citizens of Alice to build a better today, and an even brighter tomorrow. - Larry Martinez
r r Former Alice Planning and Zoning Commissioner r Retired United States Postal Service Letter Carrier for 33 years r St. Joseph Catholic Church parishioner for 35 years in the development of the Forrest Creek subdivision r Partnered located off of South Texas Boulevard. Former Alice City Councilman
r Owner of South by Southwest restaurant
www.unifyalice.com
Last day to register to vote is Thursday, April 11th. Early voting begins Monday, April 29th and runs until Tuesday, May 7th.
AlIce, TX
Election Day is May 11, 2013. Pol. Adv. Paid for by the candidate, 1131 Cobblestone, Alice, Tx 78332.
April 2013 a Magazine 11
Smoothies: Hype or Healthy Habit?
A
re smoothies a healthy meal option? That depends since not all smoothies are created equal. Smoothies are so convenient for a grab-and-go breakfast or a portable lunch. While some smoothies offer outstanding health benefits, others are essentially a full-fat milk shake wearing a health food halo. Smoothie recipes, powders, and mixes vary drastically in nutritional benefits. Most smoothie establishments add extra sugar, fruit juice, whole milk, or even ice cream. Even the smallest size smoothie at a popular restaurant chain has 70 grams of sugar, about twice as much as your recommended daily allowance. That amount of sugar will spike your insulin levels sky high; then be followed with a dramatic energy crash. Any sugar not burned during physical activity will be stored as fat. Suddenly, ordering a hot fudge sundae seems like it would have been a better option. A well-made smoothie can do wonders for your health;
helping you boost your immune system, gain energy, and lose weight. Making them at home is the best way to guarantee quality ingredients that boost your nutritional fitness rather than hidden calorie bombs that go right to your thighs. You don’t need rigid recipes. To make a delicious smoothie, focus on the healthy ingredients you want to add in and balance it with ingredients that will taste good. Try the following ideas for healthy, satisfying smoothies. All you need is a blender. Start with a liquid Choose water, coconut water, aloe vera gel, almond milk, juice, or even chilled herbal tea or coffee. Water is a no calorie option that you’ll always have on hand and coconut water may be better at replacing lost fluids than a sports drink if you work out heavily. Aloe vera gel can be bought at the supermarket near the supplements and is great for your health. Aloe soothes and cleanses your digestive tract, reduces
THE SAVVY KITCHENISTA Megan Hogan is a Board Certified Health Coach in Kingsville, Texas, and founder of www.takeoutintervention.com
inflammation, and helps you resist illness. Almond milk adds a creamy texture with only 45 calories per cup and juice diluted with water is a good option if you don’t add a lot of other sugary sweet components. Teas or coffee chilled or at room temperature are a great way to add an energy boost. Add something nutritious My favorite nutrient powerhouse is greens. One cup of spinach, kale, broccoli florets, or collard greens helps you get a jumpstart on eating your daily dose of vegetables.
Adding a spoonful of oatmeal or flax seeds adds fiber to keep you full. You can even blend in your multivitamins or protein powder. Half an avocado, a teaspoon of all-natural nut butter, or a spoonful of chia seeds is an excellent source of healthy fats to keep you satisfied. And a few tablespoons of Greek style yogurt adds a rich texture and protein. Make it delicious Fruit is a fantastic way to add sweetness with healthy carbohydrates that can fuel you through your day. Fresh fruit or frozen un-
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sweetened fruit is a fantastic option. Try peaches, strawberries, bananas, blueberries, mango, pineapple, or your favorite fruit. Fruits contain sugar, but the fiber present when eaten in their whole form helps maintain steady blood sugar. Mix and match your fruits or choose just one, but keep the measurement to about 1 cup or less. This formula gives you the freedom to use what you already have, allowing you to keep your sanity while eating healthy. This new healthy habit will help you feel alert, energized, and lighter on your toes. Try this tasty treat Morning Energizer Coffee Protein Shake • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt • 1/2 cup almond milk • 1/4 cup coffee • 1 banana • 1 cup spinach • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder or cocoa powder with a squeeze of agave nectar • 1 tablespoon all natural peanut butter Blend together and enjoy!
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jdean642@aol.com 12 a Magazine April 2013
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Jim Dean, CEO P.O. Box 248, Sandia, TX 78383
(361)
387-1480
Making a
e c n e r e f f i D Our Promise to You
Administration
The Sheriff’s Department is committed to helping and educating our children on the dangers of alcohol and drugs. Since 1992, our department has had programs like D.A.R.E. and C.O.P.S. in Schools to reach out to our kids. With the changing demands in programs, our department will continue to educate our young ones about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, about how to cope with bullying, teach them about gun safety, and how to use the 9-1-1 system. By being involved with our children, we can make a difference!
Be a role Model, Say no to drugS!
Clerks
Criminal Investigations
Jail Division
Communications
300 n. CaMeron St. aliCe, texaS (361)
668-0341
Patrol Division
SWAT Division
Sheriff Lopez is a GOOD Man - Government Officials Opposed to Drugs April 2013 a Magazine 13
You’ve got your coupons, so what’s next?
ING
FRU
LIV L A G
By JENNIFER WALLGREN
S
o, by now, you have your book with all the dividers showing the different sections of the store and you have gotten your baseball card holders to separate all the different coupons in your collection. What to do now? Go shopping, of course! If you are anything like me, distractions can destroy an unplanned grocery store visit. Never plan to go on a trip without the visit being well planned and laid out. Know what you need and make your list, this is important to make sure you use coupons that are relevant to what you need. I had a nay sayer once tell me that coupons are useless because women always buy things they don’t need just because we have a coupon! If you follow this advice, that will not be a problem! Once you have made your list, for each individual item, perform a search online for that product. Once you find it, clip it. If you are working with newspaper inserts, do the same, you just might not find a coupon every time. On your list, write down that you have a coupon ( c ) and what the terms of the coupon are.
Sometimes, you need to buy two in order to get that $1 off. Is it worth it? If you use this product religiously and there are no expiration dates on that product, then yes! (ex: shampoo) When you have your list, look at the ad inserts for the stores that you shop at. Most of them can be found online, you don’t have to have the paper insert. Find out what is on sale or what items might have a store coupon that week. Store coupons and manufacturer coupons are not the same! You may only use one store coupon or one manufacturer coupon at a time but you may use both of them together on one product! Here is an example....
$40. While we might not be able to do that here in Alice, Texas, USA, we can find that there are many deals and steals available to us every day. There are a few stores here in town, that utilize reward cards. When you buy certain items in their store you rack up points and you also get the sale price for the items bought. The points accumulated at Walgreen’s can be used as cash towards your next purchase. If you utilize these points, you cannot acquire more points during that purchase. Here is an example:
One name brand shampoo ($4.99/ea) $1 off in-store coupon $1 off manufacturer coupon Use both coupons and get the shampoo for $2.99!
You have 10,000 points which is worth $10 You purchase something for $25 You will only owe $15 at the register You will not be given any reward points at this point of sale
There are no stores in our area that double coupons. When I find one that does, that is any closer than 2 hours away, my readers will be the first to know! I know many of you have watched that series that you can walk out of the store with $600 in merchandise and only pay
As you are doing your shopping, keep an envelope handy so that as you place an item in your cart, remove the coupon, make sure you have followed the instructions for the coupon, and
Platinum Events Ballroom presents the
1st Annual Bridal Fair 2 - 5 p.m.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Admission $10 Complimentary Champagne Models • Door Prizes Free Samples Cash Bar Available
Over 20 LOCAL Vendors providing displays and vendor information (Catering, Hair, Makeup, Cakes, Hotels, DJ, Photo Booths, Invitations, Photography, Chocolate Fountain Rentals, Bridal & Formal Wear and more) Featuring Platinum Events Decorating & Wedding Coordination
14 a Magazine April 2013
place the coupon in your envelope. When you walk up to the cashier, s/he will usually have a look of relief on their face because you are an organized Couponer! They stress as much as we do because they have to make sure everything is done correctly for
the store. If you have any tips or advice that can be used in everyday couponing or tips at being frugal, send them to me! If I pick your tip, your name will be used! Happy Couponing, Alice, Texas!
Use food to help you maintain a healthy weight Maintaining or adopting a healthy lifestyle involves a host of factors. Getting off the couch to be more active is one such factor, as is taking control of your diet so it’s helping you and not hurting you. While adopting a more active lifestyle is a relatively simple step for many people, modifying a diet is oftentimes a much steeper hill to climb. Dietary habits can be hard to break. But altering your selections so the food you consume is helping you instead of hurting you is possible, and you won’t have to abandon your favorite foods, either. The following are a few tips aimed at helping you make your diet work for you. * Choose the right foods. Many people feel the culprit behind their unhealthy weight is the portions they conuuPage 17
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
H
PV is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. HPV is associated with almost all cases of cervical cancer. Not everyone who gets HPV will go on to have cervical cancer, but almost everyone who has cervical cancer also has HPV. In the U.S., women are much more likely to get regular Pap smears than in other parts of the world. Therefore, the number of deaths from cervical cancer in the U.S. is lower than other places. However women must take advantage of the health care opportunities available to them. Patients need to see their health care providers on
a regular basis, keeping follow up appointments when asked to do so. There are about 150 different strains of HPV. Approximately 40 of those strains can infect the genitals. Some of those strains can also cause warts, but not everyone will get warts. The bottom line is that if you have ever had sexual intercourse with more than one person or if your partner has been with other partners, you very likely have some form of HPV. Most of us will have the virus and never know it. Others will have a “bad” Pap smear that requires us to go back more often for a while. Having a normal Pap smear does not mean that a woman has not had HPV. A
normal Pap smear means that the cells of the cervix look normal and don’t show any effects of HPV infection. A negative HPV test does not mean that a woman hasn’t had HPV, it simply means that the virus is not active at that time and is not likely to cause her any problems in the near future. Some 75 percent of women will have HPV at some point in their lives. Most HPV infections will not develop into cancer. Today, males and females between 9 – 26 years of age can receive a vaccination against HPV. This vaccine, along with regular female examinations will help women to protect themselves from cervical cancer. Having HPV doesn’t make you a bad person, but it can kill you if it leads to cervical cancer and goes untreated. We are blessed to live in this country at a time when help is available from many sources for many illnesses. Women do not have to die from cervical cancer, but they cannot be treated if they do not seek help. Make your appointment today for your screening Pap smear.
?
Did you know
T
he proverb “April showers bring May flowers” can be dated back several centuries. Even those who repeat the proverb are likely unaware it dates all the way back to an English poet and farmer who made a name for himself nearly half a millennium ago. Thomas Tusser, an English poet and farmer in the 16th century, is best known for many proverbs, many of which originated in his “Five Hundred Points of Good Husbandry.” The poem includes the line “Sweet April showers do bring May flowers.” That oft-repeated proverb has since widely been shortened to “April showers bring May flowers.” As much as those words have held up over the years, they’re not Tusser’s only words of wisdom to withstand the test of time. “A fool and his money are soon parted” is also credited to Tusser, as is the holiday advice, “At Christmas play, and make good cheer, For Christmas comes but once a year.” Tusser died in 1580 at the age of 56.
Judy Perdue spends four days each week as a women’s health nurse practicioner with Dr. Jason C. Bradford, M.D., at Alice Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates.
April 2013 a Magazine 15
Texas
Rig Service Servicing the Oilfield Industry 24/7.
Welder fabricating 6” suction line and also installing suction screen on pump that is being unitized at STRS shop.
Mechanic dismantles rotary table and prepares it to be sent to sandblasting shop.
Welder and mechanic install air line on generator house and prepare it to be sent to sandblasting shop.
H&H F-1000 mud pump with D-398 CAT engine being unitized at STRS shop.
Mechanic preparing to install radiator on D-398 CAT engine that is being used on H&H mud pump unit.
Welder fabricating belt guards for rod oiler pump and 6X5 charging pump.
“Specializing in all types of oilfield equipment sales and service” • Drawworks • Diesel Engines • Mud Pumps • Rotary Tables
• Swivels • Blocks • Hooks
3305 N. Hwy 281 • Alice, TX 78332
361.661.0036 Owners: Jesse & Margie H. Gonzalez
16 a Magazine April 2013
Top Snowcone flavors With or without ice cream, our alice24-7.com fans cast their vote for their favorite snow cone flavors. The snowcone shops preferred are Silva’s, Snowee Melts, Cool Me Down Snowcones (Orange Grove) and Texas Snow Cones (San Diego). The most voted-for flavors were:
1
2
3
4
5
Strawberry
Natural Lemon
Leche
Picosito
Wild Cherry
The first recorded snow cones were produced by Samuel Bert of Dallas, TX in 1919 at the State Fair of Texas. He Editor’s Note: Many of our fans said they missed Alicia Trevino’s snowcones, which were sold under created the first ice-crushing snow cone machine in 1920 and sold both snow cones and snow cone machines until the water tower by the baseball fields on the city’s northside. She is no longer with us, but her snowcones still bring back great memories for our readers. his death in 1984. www.epopcorn.com
uu
Weight Tips
sume. While portion size might have something to do with it, the foods you’re eating are likely the primary suspect. If your diet is devoid of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and the dairy products you choose are not fat-free or low-fat, then this could be why you have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. Choose low-fat or fat-free, formerly known as “skim,” milk and dairy products instead of whole milk for your morning cereal or when preparing recipes that call for cheese. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains each day. Choose lean meat when buying red meat, but don’t overdo it even if you are buying lean meat. Red meat once per week might
be enough to satisfy your craving, so enjoy poultry and fish for dinner on other nights of the week. * Alter your recipes. Many of the foods you enjoy may not be unhealthy. But how you prepare those foods could be compromising their nutritional value or unnecessarily adding calories and causing weight gain. For example, fried foods are typically loaded with salt and contain more calories than foods that are baked or grilled. Foods that are fried are typically fried in oil, and that oil undergoes changes to its molecular structure during the frying process. The molecules become harmful free radicals that can damage the body’s cells while negatively affecting your cholesterol levels and your body weight. Instead of frying foods like fish or
chicken, grill or bake them instead. It’s alright to occasionally indulge in some fried chicken or other popular fried foods, but keep such indulgences to a minimum. Another way to alter your recipes is to replace potentially harmful ingredients with lower-calorie alternatives. When preparing a meal that calls for butter, choose a more heart-healthy alternative such as a low-calorie butter spread. You likely won’t be able to taste the difference, but your body will feel the difference. * Plan your snacks. Many people run into trouble when they find themselves hungry in the hours between lunch and dinner. Healthy snacks that are rich in nutrients do not seem as readily available as snacks like potato chips or
cookies that provide little or no nutritional value. But snack time does not have to be a daily sacrifice of discipline in favor of convenience. Plan ahead for snack time just as you do for meal time, packing items like fresh fruit, dicedup vegetables or low-fat yogurt when you leave for work each morning. These foods can satisfy hunger just as successfully as their less-healthy alternatives,
Choosing fresh fruits like strawberries instead of potato chips at snack time is one way for men and women to maintain a healthy weight but they won’t do so at the cost of your waistline. Food is too often seen as the enemy for men and women looking to maintain a healthy weight. But when you choose nutrient-rich, low-fat foods, then maintaining a healthy weight becomes a lot easier. April 2013 a Magazine 17
uu
Torres
Texas while trying to bring awareness to the sport, which is different than what he is accustomed to when racing out of the local area. “When you go out of state and further north the attitude is different. “People in this area are statistically so unhealthy and closed off to the idea,” Torres said. “When you surround yourself with different people it reflects how you are as a person. It really takes a lifestyle change to get healthy and it takes determination and drive.” While attending college at then-Texas A&I in the late 1980s, Torres attempted to bring in cycling and triathlontype sports in an effort to belong to something, but much like now, he was turned down and given hardly any consideration. However, that still hasn’t shaken him from his routine or drive to bring the sport to those around him. “You see a lot of people starting trends like cross fit, or MMA training, but I
uu
always wanted to belong and bring the positive energy and let people know that anyone can get in shape and participate,” Torres said. “Sometimes I see thousands of people at races and I can’t believe that I am this one guy from Alice, Texas, and I wish that someone was there to push me when I was the fat
Torres is competing at USAT National Duathlon Championships this October in Arizona. Competing well means a trip to compete in Spain. kid growing up.” Now, Torres is in the process of starting a triathlon team, preparing for his race in
October along with his firstever Iron Man next year. “Over 20 years ago I made the decision to get up and
make a change in my life,” Torres said. “I made that change and I never looked back.”
League
studying so they know the entire book from front to back, that it becomes part of their lives. The ladies were proud that one group of their team members was challenged to recite a verse and even though it was one they had learned several years before, they stepped forward and recited it, in unison.
“We are able to look back over the years and see the changes we’ve made in these kids - how kids that are labeled to be failures turn completely around to become productive, responsible adults. They’ve learned God’s word and how to apply it in their lives,” they said. “If someone had
told me what an amazing journey this would be...” McDaniel said, wiping tears from her eyes. “It’s just been an incredible journey of the heart.” They are confident at least two of “their kids” have a good chance at being state champions this year and are justifiably proud of the fact that “our little church
Gonzalez
from Alice, Texas, is known throughout the state for our Bible Drill team.” “We love these kids,” they said. “We try to
ike
for Alice City Council “I want to ensure Alice is a great place to live, work and play.”
featuring
- Ike Ornelas
DEMDACO
301 E. Main St., Alice, Texas
664-4368 xans er Te t n i W lways Are A ome! Welc
A lice
Country Club
Where South Texas hospitality meets country charm.
You might not right away see where this scripture will play a part in their lives - but at some point you will, and it makes them stronger.”
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lead them with a Christlike attitude to see that God is real and to see God in us. We think we do that and it makes a difference in their lives.
Pictured are Ike Ornelas and his wife Elsa Trejo Ornelas.
As • • • • •
your City Councilman, I will: Keep taxes low Help to deter gang violence Ensure housing needs are met Work to diversify our economy Communicate with the public on key issues
Ike Ornelas, a member of Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors and President of the Alice Chamber of Commerce.
Early voting is April 29 - May 7 The Alice Countr y Club of fers year-round golfing, superior dining facilities & much more.
664-5702
361
• 260 County Road 341, Alice
Terr y L. Kreider, General Manager
18 a Magazine April 2013
Election Day is Saturday, May 11
Vote for Ike Ornelas for Alice City Council Political ad paid for by the candidate.
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Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
(361)
664-9955
www.lovechrysler.com
April 2013 a Magazine 19
Celebrating 4 years in Freer Jacob Cantu,
Continuing the tradition of selling quality vehicles in a friendly, no-nonsense manner to residents of g Freer and the surroundin area. Thank you for your business.
Dealer
Ringing in our 4th year with a new state-of-the art facility
Salinas celebrates 40 years with Freer dealership
Before the old Cantu Chevrolet building was demolished along Highway 44 in Freer, Carlos Salinas made a point of removing and keeping a door from the dealership’s warehouse. “That door was there since I started,” Salinas said, and since he is celebrating his 40th anniversary with the dealership, that is a significant amount of time. The Chevrolet dealership, though it has changed hands at least four times, has stood as an icon in Freer since the 1940s. Dealer Jacob Cantu, who is celebrating his 4th anniversary with the dealership, kept several of the rafters of the building to construct a picture frame to feature photographs of the old building and the new once it’s complete. Salinas, who is planning to build a table or a bench with the door, has remained with the dealership for 40 years because he has always been
treated so well. He began in March 1973 as part of a high school program. He worked half days making dealer trades, moving cars, washing cars and some mechanic work. The dealer at the time, Frank Thomas, was a “pretty good guy,” Salinas recalls. “When we first started here, everybody wanted to leave Freer,” Salinas recalled. “But, I stayed here. My family is here.” Salinas spent about five years working wherever he was needed at the dealership, then he was moved to parts and service, where he has been since. He has met many people through the years. “People from San Diego and Benavides, they keep coming back,” he “They are good to us,” he said. Retirement is not in the cards. said. “We treat them good.” Salinas has four sons. He and his “I’m going to stick it out as long as He says the dealership has “gotten wife, Juanita, also live in Freer. And I can move around,” he said. better and better,” and has nothing his car, after 40 years, practically Cantu quickly said, “We’ll always but praise for Cantu and his family. drives itself to work, Salinas jokes. accommodate him.”
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20 a Magazine April 2013
800-741-1494