Latino Lubbock Magazine ~Vol. 17, Issue 12, December/diciembre 2023

Volume 17, Issue 12, December/deciembre 2023

FREE

GRATIS

Page 2

October/octubre 2023, Vol.17, Issue 10

Latino Lubbock Magazine is owned/founded by Christy Martinez-Garcia “Don’t let fear stop you from achieving what you want” said Elizabeth Colón is a speaker, contributing author, philanthropist and CEO of the award-winning language service company, Metaphrasis Language and Cultural Solutions.

ADVERTISING 544-6526

"Una buena acción es la mejor oración."

"A good deed is the best prayer."

(806)

(806)

NEWS & INFO 792-1212 (By appointment only)

MONTHLY DEADLINE News & Info - 18th Ad Submissions - 21st - 23rd To submit news and info: www.latinolubbock.net/have-a-story Or, email: news@latinolubbock.net Website: www.latinolubbock.net Social Media: www.facebook.com/LatinoLubbock twitter.com/latinolubbock www.instagram.com/latinolubbock Write us at: Latino Lubbock Magazine P. O. Box 6473 Lubbock, TX 79493

Online Calendar www.latinolubbock.net/events STAFF

Publisher/Owner

Christy Martinez-Garcia

Sales Consultants Bridge Communications Distribution Frank Garcia, Rosario Smith, Luis & Amanda Peralez, Alfonso Ruben Ramos, Joe Juarez, Nohemi Aradillas CONTRIBUTORS En Aquellos Días Rosario Smith Forward in Christ Pastor Josh Ramirez My College Experience Bailee Alonzo A Teen's View Blaise Martinez

Opinion Pieces

Individuals interested in writing an Opinion piece* may contact news@latinolubbock.net. Please include your name, contact number, and subject. *NOTE: Op-ed pieces are scheduled one to two months ahead, and are at the discretion of the publisher. Latino Lubbock Magazine is published monthly, 12 months per year, and distributed usually the first and second day of each month. With 100,000 readers per month. Over 300 distributions points in LBK, and in out of town delivery in Plainview, Hale Center, Cotton Center, Abernathy, New Deal, Idalou, Wolfforth, Morton, Ralls, Crosbyton, Lamesa, Slaton, Littlefield, Brownfield, Shallowater, O'Donnell, Tahoka, Anton, Lorenzo, and Levelland. Now in Midland and Odessa. Bilingual (English 60%/Spanish 40%). This publication is Hispanic, woman-owned and locally operated.

Copyright 2023 by

Latino Lubbock Magazine, LLC

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Absolutely no part of this periodical may be reproduced without the consent of Latino Lubbock Magazine. This periodical’s name and logo, and the various concepts, titles and headings therein, are trademarks of Latino Lubbock Magazine.

Editor’s Note: The terms “Latino” and “Hispanic” are used interchangeably by the U.S. Census Bureau and by Latino Lubbock throughout this publication to identify persons of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central and South American, Dominican, and Spanish descent; they may be of any race.

Certified

Quote

Dicho

Meaning that o ne's faith is best expressed by one's actions.

¡Feliz cumpleaños! Happy Birthday!

December/deciembre

Mike Solis 11/1 Ernestina Garcia 11/1 Larry Vidaurre III 11/1 Joe Rincones 11/2 Gloria Castro 11/2 Timothy R. Licon 11/3 Ophelia Loa 11/3 Tiffany Ridge 11/3 Ana Villegas 11/3 Brenda Flores-Ortiz 11/4 Amy J. Gordon 11/4 Janie Hilburn 11/4 Michelle Alonzo Vasquez 11/5 Anjanle Madrid 11/ 5 Cindy Adame 11/5 Alex Armenta 11/5 Yolanda R. Hernandez 11/5 Martha Sanchez 11/5 Haylee A. Ramirez 11/5 Skye Martinez 11/5 Soyla Hernandez 11/5 Eloy Rios 11/6 Adam Garcia 11/6 Esmeralda De Los Santos 11/6 Alice Vasquez 11/6 Leonard Lozano 11/7 Johnny Castilleja 11/7 Jaime Flores 11/7 Armando Garcia 11/7 Mary Alice Castillos 11/8 Lupe Cardenas 11/8 J.R. Perez 11/8 Roberto Cardenas 11/9 Jerry Trevino 11/9 Haidyn Nicole Acebedo 11/9 Adolfo Gonzales 11/ 9 Jacob Herrera 11/10 Irma Armenta 11/11 Angel Neveah Martinez 11/11 Cecilia Villa 11/11 Amelia Martinez 11/11 Martin Martinez 11/11 Mary Siders 11/11 Mia Rose DeClark 11/11 Dr. Arlene Brooks 11/12 Andrew Rangel 11/12 Fr. Joseph Palacios 11/12 Michael Salinas Jr. 11/12 Elisa Herrera 11/13 Jeremy Hilburn 11/13 Eric Anthony Cuevas 11/13 Linda Armenta 11/ 13 Madison Flores 11/13 Ricky Mendoza 11/14 Rudy Delgado 11/14 Anita Vidaurre 11/14 Ana Barrera 11/14 Gabriella Cantu 11/15 Brianna Carranco 11/16 Julia Jimenez 11/16 Meghan Flores 11/16

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

December/deciembre

Angel Contreras 11/16 Julia Jimenez 11/16 Mark Blanco 11/18 Cassandra Zamarripa 11/18 Arabella Belgara 11/18 Juanita Cruz 11/18 Angel Daniel Flores 11/19 Alfredo Pena 11/19 Nicholas Medina 11/19 Isabel Chavez 11/19 ReAnna Stubblefield 11/19 Carlos Jay 11/20 Jose Perez 11/20 Andrew Soto Sr. 11/21 Emilio Perez 11/21 Delia Crockett 11/21 Ashley Vidaurre 11/21 Ariel Aldama 11/21 Isabella Perez 11/22 Loretta Madrid 11/22 Sandra Avila 11/23 Elicia Romo 11/23 Ricardo Santiago (KOC) 11/23 Arthuro Santiago 11/23 Isela Torres 11/23 Raul Beltran 11/24 Conrad Matthew Bernal 11/24 Eddie Chavez 11/24 Rocky Martinez 11/24 Vanessa Mendoza 11/24 April Guerrero 11/24 Richard Hernandez 11/24 Raul Beltran 11/24 Izakiyah E. Cole 11/24 Raul Beltran 11/24 Minnie Biera Anaya 11/25 Evalyn Cervantes 11/25 Tony “Lando” Valdez 11/25 Mathew Adame 11/25 Xavier Valdez 11/25 Tony “Lando” Valdez 11/25 Ivan Carrillo 11/26 Isabel Chavez 11/26 Catarino Velasquez 11/26 Mildred Montez 11/26 Nora Briones Baca 11/26 Johnny V. Baca.

11/26 Victoria Kristian Melgoza 11/27 Frankie Garcia J.R. 11/28 Ignacio Armenta 11/29 JoAnn Martinez 11/29 Jose Luis Carrillo (KOC) 11/29 Melissa Licon 11/29 Crystal Gayle Garza 11/29 Melissa Ortiz Licon 11/29 Benjamin Herrera 11/29 Anna Maria Ramos 11/30 Andy Garcia 11/30 Tony Cantu 11/30 Kip Grant 11/30

All Rights reserved.

On the Cover

"Peace... paz at Christmas"

Cover by Christy Martinez-Garcia This month's cover features a dove symbolizing peace. The message of John 16:33 is about the peace and the victory Christ gives His followers who rely on Him when faced with tribulation, and war. Jesus assured us peace and victory in times of tribulations. As always, I include the Virgen de Guadalupe as we observe her special day of obligation on December 12th. I love Christmas and Las Posadas although the holidays have been tougher this year since the loss of my mother. I'm grateful to her and others who have helped us preserve our traditions. Gracias a aquellos que se esfuerzan por mantener la cultura y llevar sonrisas a las familias de nuestra comunidad. Merry Christmas y Feliz Navidad!

Contents

Word from the Publisher Political Opportunity/Business Health/Salud St Joseph's Church Centennial Celebration Education/Youth Faith & Religion Memorials

Page 4 Page 7 Page 8-9 Page 10-11 Page 13 Page 14-15 Page 18 Page 22

Latino Lubbock Magazine's Mission Statement:

"Provide Lubbock news from a Latino perspective for the emerging voice of Lubbock with objectivity, professionalism, cultural competency and understanding, and accuracy; and, give Latinos a publication by, about, and for them that they can take pride in; as well as the community a tool for better understanding and creating dialogue."

Alíviate pronto... Get well soon Our Prayers are with you "Heal me, O Lord, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for you are the one I praise," ~ Jeremiah 17:14 (NIV) Lupe Ramirez Jesse Madrid Juan Contreras Henry Castellano Tony Aguirre Grace Garza Robert Sosa

Coach Edward Hernandez Manuel Posadas Raymond Rodriguez Ezequiel Alvarado Chris Mungia Jamie Lopez Elpidia Paniagua Myndi Yarbrough

Eloisa Abeyta Beto Castañeda Rene M. Dominguez, Sr. Martin Rivera Evie Williams Tavita Dorow Josie Castro

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 3

To add names, and to keep us updated on the condition of those listed in the Get Well List please call (806)792-1212.

Word from the Publisher/mensaje de nuestra fundadora

Querídos lectores...

I

truly believe some of my favorite holiday memories were when we were doing projects beneficial to others.

The first time I helped my parents deliver fruit baskets to senior citizens was heart felt, not too mention the moment I recognized the needs in our community. Those we visited were so grateful and felt valued.

Another experience was delivering a simple bag of pan dulce where we sat with who we were visiting and just caught up with them. Looking back now I understand that it was in the act of validating others that was a gift to us all.

My husband Frank and Amaris always take pride in the season of giving. We delivered gifts to a beautiful family that despite not having a Christmas tree or gifts, understood the meaning of Christmas and displayed a home filled with love and laughter.

As we walked in to the humble home I quickly noticed that they had the oven door open that was heating the house. We walked in with gifts and paper bags filled with fruit, nut, and candy.

We always love preparing the brown little paper sacks that are a shared tradition of many of our Latino families. Even though the bag is so simple it is a gesture of community looking out for each other and assuring the kids had something during the holidays.

For that family, we also brought slippers for the children. As I placed the Big Bird slippers on the youngest child, her feet were ice cold. Once I placed them on her feet, she was so excited and danced around. Her siblings were all so excited for her because she exhibited true excitement about the slippers.

It reminded me of some of my own childhood experiences when my Dad wasn't working due to weather conditions and our heat was limited because of the high bills - my feet were freezing, but I didn't complain because I recall my parents doing their best to make us comfortable - socks and slippers helped.

My grandmother Fidencia looked forward to her annual slippers. The last pair before her death were a royal blue sequenced moccasin. She loved them, and I recall her telling me that every time she put them on she thought about me. She died the next year in January, and because she disliked cold feet, I made sure that her blue sequenced slippers were placed on her feet.

I often share with my husband and daughter that the best gifts are not in material form but in time and experiences with them. We go out of our ways to get something nice and beautiful for our friends or loved ones.

In so doing, we often forget to add something to spice up the gifts and our heartfelt birthday wishes, and that’s prayer.

I share a Bible verse from Luke 2:11 to remind us all the reason for the season. This verse says, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. He came to this earth to die willingly for our sins on the cross. He loved us that much and gave us a gift for everyday of our lives! So amid the presents, cookie decorating, and Christmas parties remember that Jesus is the reason for the season!

That said, I hope that this Christmas season you will find it in your heart to give to others, from your heart to those in need; to those who are lonely, and to those who simply need acknowledgment. Because as you've read, to a child even the smallest gestures make the greatest memories.

Community means everything - let's continue to serve one another and regain putting UNITY in commUNITY. Y como siempre, Latino Lubbock is committed to our community. We are grateful to be 100,000 readers strong and appreciate our advertisers who help make it possible to keep our publication free. We ♥ our readers!

Till next month, thank you for your support and may God bless you! ¡Gracias por su apoyo! Que dios los bendiga. PEACE and random acts of kindness. Que las bendiciones de dios estén contigo siempre!

Christy Martinez-Garcia, Publisher/Owner & Latino Market Specialist “Lubbock News from a Latino Perspective” Embarking on 18 Years of Commitment to our Community

Page 4

A Time of Traditions

BY CHRISTY MARTINEZ-GARCIA FOR LATINO LUBBOCK MAGAZINE

he voices of young and old can T be heard faintly in the distance in a collective and time-honored

song. Small glowing lights from candles ascend slowly upon the block of houses and harmonize with the reflection from the luminarias that line the streets and sidewalks of homes and the church.

Participating families wait eagerly for this Spanish folk drama re-enactment of the time Mary and Joseph searched for shelter in Bethlehem.

The celebration referred to as Las Posadas is relevant to the Inn at Bethlehem in the Nativity story; it begins each Dec. 16 and continues through Christmas Eve. Spanish friars developed the Posadas celebration as a way to introduce religion to the indigenous people in Mexico.

They used this event to engage them in a very simple way where they could understand the faith and its significance.

Each of the nine nights, the Posadas are observed with religious processions. The tradition varies in different churches and different regions of Texas and New Mexico.

Some churches create live nativities, which portray the Virgin Mary and Joseph. Church members walk from house to house singing and carrying candles. At each house, they ask for shelter and food. Like in the story, they are refused.

Las Posadas is also a way to help keep the traditions and culture alive. It’s part of a tradition to keep the Christmas story alive.

After a Posada procession, everyone returns to the colorfully decorated church hall that is adorned with a star-shaped piñata. The piñata symbolizes the guiding North Star.

Growing up, I remember going to the parish hall for a celebration after the door to door procession.

The Guadalupanos, a Catholic church men’s group, served beverages including coffee, cinnamon tea, and hot chocolate. The Guadalupanas, a group made up of many generations of women, served treats and delicatessen made from family recipes, including a variety of Mexican sweet bread, and sometimes even tamales.

Even today, the conversations in English and Spanish overlap each other and create a restful feeling.

Loud laughter from the men as they talk and share stories fills the

room, while the children strategically anticipate the breaking of the piñata.

“Dalé, dalé,” hollers one of the adults, with that the candy drops.

And as we departed, a small paper sack filled with an apple, orange, peanuts, and candy was given to the children of fruit.

Today many of the traditions are similar. And fortunately, Las Posadas remain as strong.

Posadas will be December 19, 20, and 21st beginning with Mass at 6 p.m. and followed by Posadas from 7 to 9 p.m. each day. Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 1120 52nd St, Lubbock.

Important Numbers Police (Non-Emergency) (806) 763-5333 Fire (Non-Emergency) (806) 765-5757 Emergencies call 9-1-1 Program/Service info, call 2-1-1 City services, call 3-1-1 Suicide & Crisis Line 9-8-8 City - (806)775-3000. www.ci.lubbock.tx.us County - (806) 775-1000 www.co.lubbock.tx.us

OUR OBJECTIVE “Strengthening Families, Building Community” Join our efforts and become a member today.

Lubbock News from a Latino Perspective

LISD - (806) 766-1000 www.lubbockisd.org Latino Lubbock Magazine (806)792-1212 news@latinolubbock.net www.latinolubbock.net

Opinion/opinión Community & Event Brieflies 65TH

ANNUAL CAROL OF LIGHTS more than 25,000 colored lights will illuminate 18 buildings around Memorial Circle, the Engineering Key, and the Broadway Entrance to the campus during Texas Tech University's Carol of Lights. The Ceremony will be on Dec. 2, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a carillon concert Administration Building’s west tower., at Science Quadrangle, Texas Tech campus. The lights will be turned on every night from dusk until midnight through January 1, 2024.

34TH ST. MIRACLES PARADE Entry is now open for the Miracles Christmas Parade, Saturday, December 9th, 6 p.m. The parade route is down 34th Street starting at Avenue Q and going west to Indiana Ave. Go to: www.miraclesparade. com 45TH ANNUAL CANDLELIGHT AT THE RANCH Dec 8 and 9th at 6:30 p.m., at the National Ranching Heritage Center at 3121 4th.

67TH ANNUAL SANTA LAND, December 9-21, 6-10 pm, Free, All Ages, Santa & Mrs. Claus will be out nightly to hear the wish lists of children in Lubbock and the South Plains. Come out and enjoy Santa's village, the 60-foot Christmas tree, animated displays, entertainment, bonfires, snacks, and more! Mackenzie Park, off the East Broadway entrance, 301 I-27.

COMMUNITY COFFEE Stop

by Hodges Community Center, 4011 University Ave, every 3rd Friday of the month for this event that will be held October 15, starting at 10 a.m. featuring the South Plains Workforce Commission.

Free coffee, tea, and snacks will be provided. All welcome!

CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAY Latino Lubbock Magazine, the City of Lubbock, and all Lubbock Public Libraries will be closed Friday, December 22 through Monday, December 25. Regular hours will resume on Tuesday, December 26.

BASIC ENGLISH CLASS – Clase de Inglés – aprender Inglés básico, 3211 58th Street, (east of Indiana) Lubbock.

Horas: Cada Miércoles a las 7:30-8:30 de la noche. 806-239-5352 GRATIS!!

CLASES DE INGLÉS COMO SEGUNDA IDIOMA La Literacia de Lubbock (Literacy Lubbock) ofrecen clases gratis de inglés como segundo idioma (English as Second Language) para la comunidad. Todos los adultos están bienvenido en estas clases. Para más información, llame a (806) 775-3636.

IMMIGRATION SERVICES If you need help with immigration issues call 806-741-0409.

SERVICIOS DE INMIGRACIÓN Si necesitan ayuda con asuntos de inmigración llame a este numero (806) 7410409.

Generalizing and Labelling People is Not Acceptable

am a Mexican American, enforcement deemed Iencountered and over the years, I have my dad "suspicious" certain experiences and subjected him to that have left me bothered and frustrated. Growing up, I found myself shackled by stereotypes that nearly dictated the course of my life. The societal expectations thrust upon me made it seem as though my only viable path was to work construction, wash plates or sell drugs. Anything beyond that was deemed improbable.

Conversations about college felt exclusive, leaving me on the periphery, constantly struggling to assert my presence.

A recurring theme emerged during these encounters – a disheartening trend where certain students were effortlessly included in discussions about the future, while I felt compelled to fight my way into the conversation.

The chosen ones, often, were white students. The simplicity of this reality spoke volumes, emphasizing the disparities that persist in our educational system.

My disillusionment with societal biases deepened when an incident involving my father unfolded. A simple trip to the gas station turned into a traumatic experience as law

¿Que Piensas?

We know our readers have a lot to say! Mail letters to Latino Lubbock “Letters to the Editor,” Box 6473 Lubbock, TX 79493, o r email them to news@latinolubbock.net.

Please include your name, address, and contact phone number. Mailed letters must be signed. Please note that unsigned letters will not be published. Letters are limited to 100 words, depending on space availability, some longer will be included.

Writers are limited to one letter per month.

Submissions may be edited for clarity or space consideration. Letters are not acknowledged. Opinions expressed in letters and Op-Ed articles do not necessarily represent the views of Latino Lubbock Magazine.

REMEMBERING THEM The November cover brought a tear to my eye.

My brother was a Veteran. He died earlier this year. Thanks for remembering them.

Alicia

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

a history where each page is stained with the blood of marginalized communities. The unnecessary scrutiny.

American system My father was put on thrived on the labor the ground and cuffed. of people of color and Forced to translate immigrants, yet the the situation to my acknowledgment of father, I found myself their contributions grappling with the remains incomplete. unjust consequences My determination to of being a person of shatter the negative color in this country. image associated with The term "suspicious" Leonel Adape Mexican Americans had become a thinly veiled euphemism for the color became a personal mission. of our skin, a stark reminder of The name "Aldape" was not the systemic racism ingrained in destined to be synonymous with the fabric of our society. Modern stereotypes but rather linked to racism operates in insidious ways, the pursuit of higher education. often subtle and quiet. It manifests However, breaking free from itself in unwarranted stops, ingrained prejudices proved to be employment discrimination, and an uphill battle. The derogatory terms thrown my way, such as systemic barriers.

The textbooks we read perpetuate "beaner," "wetback," and "border a distorted narrative of triumph, hopper," were initially dismissed painting a picture of victory in the as jokes. Yet, as the truth unfolded, Mexican-American Civil Rights I realized that I had become the Movement and the marches led punch line to a cruel joke, one that

by Cesar Chavez. However, the perpetuated harmful stereotypes. reality is far from the monochrome The damaging impact of these images presented in those pages. slurs was so profound that it The struggles faced by people led me to walk out of the SAT, of color are ongoing, rooted in convinced that I was not destined

for a future beyond the confines of those derogatory expectations.

In my journey, there were educators who played a pivotal role in dismantling the negative self-image that had been imposed upon me and their help will not be forgotten. These mentors helped me envision a future beyond the limitation's society had placed upon me. It is through these positive influences and a determination to redefine my narrative that I continue to strive for a reality where the potential of individuals is not constrained by the color of their skin, or the stereotypes society attaches to them.

I implore you to challenge and correct those who engage in generalizations and labeling. To those guilty of such labeling, I urge you to reconsider and reflect upon your own ignorance.

COVID CAUTIOUS We've had several family members getting COVID, even at work several employees have gotten sick. I know it's the new norm, but if you get sick you need to take precautions because not everyone had gotten the vaccines.

I urge people to wash your hands, get vaccinated, if you must wear a mask - do it!

We need to protect the Hispanic community cause , especially after our last experience with this sickness and the loss of so many of our gente's lost lives.

I think there are now three or four updated vaccines and we gotta keep overcoming the next. Will you please remind your readers?

Also, thanks for including the little announcements. I think Latino Lubbock has been the only consistent media group reminding folks that it still exists.

UTILITY CHANGES I'm still trying to figure out the utility companies.

We were ready to change a few months ago before everything was halted. Can you please include some information about how the utility changes are going to work? We didn't get to go to the community meeting. We would appreciate it.

LEONEL ALDAPE, a dedicated Civil Engineering major at Texas Tech and a trailblazing first-generation Mexican American, is on a mission to inspire and empower fellow Mexican Americans to pursue higher education.

Carta Abierta

God bless, Eloy A. Hernandez LLM ONLINE We are enjoying reading Latino Lubbock Magazine online and catching up with home!

We're all the way in New Jersey!

Fernandez Family

All Rights reserved.

MEMORIALS IN LLM Thank you for including the memorials in Latino Lubbock Magazine. It's gotten so expensive to share this news about the passing of our loved ones, and to know that you care enough to include memorials monthly reminds us that ya'll care about our people over money.

Because of the memorial you included of our beloved dad, we had people reach out to give us their condolences and they said they saw it in your newspaper.

We really appreciate all that Latino Lubbock Magazine and its staff, especially Christy, do for everybody. Thank you!

Sincerely, Mary Jane Torres THANK YOU I always appreciate that Latino Lubbock Magazine supports the Veterans in West Texas.

You all don't just advocate for us once a year , but all year, so I really appreciate that and just wanted to let you know that me and my fellow Veterans appreciate that.

Also, this year's Veteran parade was awesome - I'm so thankful to the community who came out to support the Veterans in Lubbock.

Mil Gracias, David Gomez

Thanks, Armando F. Reyna

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 5

Politics/ política

Lubbock Residents will Soon Pick a Power Provider

BY JAMES CLARK FOR LUBBOCK LIGHTS

t a crowded town hall meeting last month A in the Maggie Trejo Supercenter, people heard the timeline is “locked down” as they

Your Year of

Fun

prepare to change how they pay for electricity service in Lubbock. Warnings about price, customer service and avoiding fraud took center stage. Also, customers must either pay a deposit or know how to qualify for an exception.

To prepare for this big change, Lubbock Power & Light already switched 70 percent of customers from one power grid to another. The remaining 30 percent will switch December 9-11. Shortly after that’s done, the process of shopping for a new power provider begins.

“This is real,” said Matt Rose, LP&L public affairs & government relations manager, to a crowd of 150 or so people. The timeline was previously delayed as federal regulators wanted to take one more look. But now the calendar is filled out.

“We will still exist,” Rose said. But LP&L’s role will be limited to one thing. “We will be the delivery system for the electricity you choose.”

That means you must get someone else to provide your electricity, not LP&L. Starting on January 5, you can sign up for electricity from one of 34 providers. But even now, there are things you can learn.

‘There is still denial’ “We need to start getting ready,” Joel Ivy, Lubbock’s director of electric utilities, said to Lubbock Lights a few days before the town When you see the world hall. “There’s still denial and people really through her eyes, it’s more aren’t sure what it is and how to get ready.”

The “it” in this case means the transition to vibrant than ever. Get the customer choice.

“This is where we need help from news whole family involved outlets,” Ivy said.

The next big step is a physical switchover for a year of fun and from the Southwest Power Pool to ERCOT, extraordinary memories Ivy said. ERCOT is the Electric Reliability Council of Texas which covers most of the state that will last a lifetime! but not the Panhandle. Most LP&L customers are already on ERCOT. In December, the remaining 30 percent of LP&L customers will experience a temporary power outage while the switch is made.

Join & volunteer today at gs-top.org The outages will be spaced out across a Saturday, Sunday and Monday – typically lasting 15 minutes but it could be 30 minutes.

“ERCOT has already given us fair warning.

If we’re under a winter advisory or some kind of inclement weather, then they might ask us to postpone. If it doesn’t work out that way, it doesn’t kill us,” Ivy said.

Ivy has a 17-point checklist. His goal is to stand before the city council on December 12 and say, “We’re 100 percent ready to go.”

That’s the physical switchover with power Lubbock Area United Way © 2021 Girl Scouts of the USA. All Rights Reserved. lines and power grids. The financial and billing switchover comes later.

“We’ll start transitioning to their retail electric Email your news and information to news@latinolubbock.net Page

6

providers on March 4th and by April 2nd we should be complete,” Ivy said.

Timeline of events • • • • • • • • • • •

Dec. 9-11: Roughly 30 percent of LP&L customers will be switched from the Southwest Power Pool to ERCOT. Dec. 12: LP&L will certify to the city council everything is 100 percent ready to go.

Jan. 5: Customers can shop for a power provider. First “shopping fair” at the Civic Center (CC) to meet electric provider representatives.

Jan. 6: Second shopping fair at CC. Jan. 22: Third shopping fair at CC. Jan. 23: Fourth shopping fair at CC. Feb. 10: Fifth and final shopping fair at CC. Feb, 15: Deadline to sign up with a provider.

Feb. 16-29: Blackout period; those who did not sign up will be assigned to one of three default providers.

March: Last LP&L bill.

April: First bill from your new electric provider.

Saving money or spending more Electric customers can save money, Ivy said.

“They will have the opportunity to if that’s what’s important to them,” Ivy said. However, maybe some people want to prioritize customer service or protecting the environment.

“They can say, ‘I want to go 100 percent renewable,’” Ivy said. Customers choose for themselves, he said. “Want to be able to look at it that way as opposed to just simply, ‘Is it a cost savings?’”

Rose told the crowd at the Maggie Trejo Supercenter, “Every single one of these providers has to offer you a fact sheet.”

That’s how you will know the price, fees and commitment to wind or solar energy.

“And this fact sheet, there’s no fine print.

And it’s got to be apples-to-apples as much as it can possibly be, so the customers know exactly what they’re signing up for,” Rose said.

“It’s going to explain to you what all the different charges are,” Rose said while pointing to a sample fact sheet. “That’s where you’re going to see your contract length is going to be spelled out.”

You can expect a cancelation fee for breaking contracts early, Rose said. There might be a fee for calling customer service. The deposit policy should also be disclosed on the fact sheet.

LP&L cannot recommend one company over another. However, LP&L can offer consumer advice.

“You’re going to want a fixed plan,” Rose recommended. That means the price is more reliable compared to a variable plan.

“The variable is something that month to month your price could change,” Rose said.

Variable plans, Rose said, are regulated more tightly than they used to be. But he still recommended a fixed rate.

To read more and for more info, visit https://lubbocklights.com/starting-jan-5lubbock-residents-will-have-to-pick-a-powerprovider-heres-what-you-must-know/

UnidosUS Unveils Hispanic Electorate Data Hub and Partners with Mi Familia

nidosUS, the nation’s U largest Latino civil rights and advocacy

organization, is unveiling a first-of-its-kind Hispanic Electorate Data Hub, which will provide data on the size and growth of the Latino electorate over the last two decades, a chart of 2024 competitive districts with Hispanic voter influence, and dynamic multi-cycle polling results on Latino perspectives and issue priorities.

This includes the results of the most expansive poll on the Hispanic electorate this year, providing timely insights into the perspectives and priorities of this electorate a year out from the 2024 elections.

Janet Murguía, President and CEO, UnidosUS said “Hispanics are the second largest group of voting age Americans and a critical factor in the race for the White House, Congressional balance of power, and beyond. Yet, oversimplifications and mistaken assumptions about these

voters persist. We have created this first-of-its kind Hispanic Electorate Data Hub to promote an accurate understanding of this fastgrowing group of voters, starting with the largest poll this cycle of Hispanic voters’ perspectives and priorities, including the one in five Latino voters who will be will be casting a vote for the first time in a presidential election. In a landscape of close elections, Hispanic voters are difference-makers, and are putting an exclamation point on the need for parties and candidates to meaningfully engage them and respond to their priorities, which are topped by cost of living, jobs, housing, and gun safety concerns.”

ON THE ISSUES Four of the top five concerns for Hispanic voters are dominated by economic and pocketbook issues – specifically, inflation and the rising cost of living, jobs, healthcare and housing affordability. Notably,

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

housing rose to the top five concerns as a stand-alone for the first time.

Gun violence remained among the top five, doing so for the first time in 2022.

On abortion: By a 71% to 23% margin, Latinos continue to oppose efforts to make it illegal or take that decision away from others, no matter their own personal beliefs on the issue.

On immigration: While not in the top five priority issues, immigration is ranked higher than it was in 2022.

Top action items include providing a path to citizenship for long-residing undocumented individuals and Dreamers; the lowest support of any issue in the battery is for finishing the wall or mass deportations On climate: Latino voters think climate action is urgently needed to forestall weather and climate related catastrophes. Only 6% think climate change is not real.

Medicaid expansion is wildly popular (over 80% in favor) in the states that have failed to do so.

Read additional results at www. latinolubbock.net/news-1

All Rights reserved.

Homeless Person's Memorial & Candlelight Vigil

BY CHRISTY MARTINEZ-GARCIA FOR LATINO LUBBOCK MAGAZINE

recognition of National IDay,nHomeless Persons' Memorial a Homeless Person's Memo-

rial & Candlelight Vigil will be held on December 21, 2023, at 6 p.m., at Dave Freriks Park, located at 16th and Avenue K. The event is held for the city's homeless citizens and affords them the chance to pay their respects to those who have lost their life and to be recognized on the longest

night of the year. More so, the event is organized to bring awareness to the plight of the homeless in the city.

Each year since 1990 on, or near December 21- not coincidentally, the first day of winter and the longest night of the year - homeless service providers, in more than 150 communities across the country, conduct similar services to recognize the need for political advocacy and efforts to end homelessness.

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 7

Opportunity/Oportunidad

LPD's Respond to High Priority Calls

to adjust call response to traffic crashes

With the growth we’ve n an online announcement, ILubbock Lieutenant Brady Cross of the seen in the Hub City, Police Department's we’re reaching a tip-

FELIZ NAVIDAD Y PROSPERO AÑO: Christy Martinez-Garcia, Publisher of Latino Lubbock Magazine along with her husband Frank Garcia, and daughter Amaris Garcia, along with their pets - Charlie, Finch, Pippa, Oliver and Phoebe wish you the happiest and healthiest Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! May God Bless us one and all!

Consider Los Hermanos Familia for Your End-of-Year Giving os Hermanos Familia (LHF) realized with your support and each donation goes a long Ltakes pride in way," said Christy its service to the community and holds a variety of events - including the "Vamos a Pescar, Let's Go Fishing" event; offers bilingual financial literacy, placed exercise equipment in a public park, advocates for Veterans, promotes cultural & arts events, and so much more!

"Our objective of Strengthening Families, Building Community is

Martinez-Garcia, President & Founder.

She said that those considering an end of year donation can make it at www.loshermanosfamilia.org/ end-of-year-donation .

"We are truly grateful and look forward to serving our community in 2024."

To learn more about the many projects and events donors can visit www. loshermanosfamilia.org .

Public Information Unit announced changes in an effort to reduce the number of calls for service and respond to higher priority calls more quickly, the Lubbock Police Department will be adjusting the call response to certain traffic crashes on January 1, 2024.

If you are involved in a minor traffic crash with no injuries, involved parties will exchange and complete a CR-2, or Blue form, in lieu of waiting for an officer to respond. A CR-2, or Blue Form, is a Driver’s Crash Report completed by persons involved in the traffic crash. The CR-2 is currently available on the LPD website, all three Division Stations and at LPD Headquarters.

Over the last four years we’ve responded to more than 48,000 crashes. Out of those nearly 3,000 ended with citizen’s filling out their own CR-2 Form. For the remaining 45,000 crashes, LPD Officers filed the State of Texas Peace Officer’s crash report.

Currently LPD Officers respond to almost all crashes reported in the City of Lubbock. When we breakdown what that means for department resources, we found it takes about one hour for an officer to gather the appropriate information and complete their report. That’s more than 1,922 days’ worth of time.

ping-point where in order for us to respond as quickly as possible to life-threatening situations, we need your help in reducing the amount of lower priority calls we respond to, specifically minor traffic crashes.

So, in order to reduce the number of calls for service and the amount of time our officers spend on those minor crashes, beginning January 1, 2024 we will adjust the call response to certain traffic crashes.

Officers will continue to respond to and file a CR-3 report for all crashes involving injury or death.

Officers will also respond if any driver does not have a driver’s license or proof of insurance or the crash is blocking the roadway.

Remember, drivers are required to remove drivable vehicles from the roadway.

If there are no injuries, officers will block traffic until the vehicles have been towed or removed. Officers will then assist in the exchange of information and provide access to a CR-2 Form.

Officers will respond to crashes

Lara Hired as the City's New Human Resources Director

YOUR LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED MOVIE EXPERT IN TOWN TEXAS TECH CORPORATE SPONSOR

www.pccmovies.com facebook.com/LubbockPremiereCinema16Imax

Page 8

806-791-7643 6002 Slide Rd.-Unit Q

he City of Lubbock T is thrilled to announce Elizabeth Lara

as the new Director of Human Resources. She brings more than 15 years of experience in Human Resources and management in both the public and private sectors.

Lara received her Bachelors in Business Administration from New Mexico State University; and a Masters Degree in Business Administration and Educational Leadership and Administration from the University of Phoenix, and New Mexico State University

respectively.

Elizabeth started her career as an HR Generalist in Weld County, Colorado, and has held several positions since. She served as Executive Director of Human Resources at Texas Southmost College; Associate Director of Classification and Compensation at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC); and most recently Human Resources Director, also at TTUHSC. Lara began her role on October 30, 2023.

Latino Lubbock Magazine is Hispanic Owned & Operated

and file reports when it involves a hit and run or other crime, like a DWI or Evading.

Crashes, including hit-and-runs, must be reported to LPD within 24 hours of the crime or its discovery in order for us to investigate and file a report.

Officers will respond to crashes and file a report when it involves property owned by the government, utility companies or if a vehicle is transporting hazardous materials. This is not a common occurrence, but we feel it is important to report these incidents to the State.

Officers will not respond to crashes without injuries when there are no other crimes involved.

Those involved in minor traffic crashes can go to the nearest Patrol Division Station, LPD Headquarters or to our website, www.

LubbockPolice.com to get a CR-2 Form (Blue Form).

Once you have filled out your CR-2 Form, all you have to do is submit it to your insurance company to file a claim. We know it’s a common belief we determine fault in traffic crashes, however, this is not the case. LPD only determines the contributing factors which led to the crash.

Business/negocío Business & Opportunity Updates WEBINAR - METRICS THAT MATTER Date: 12/13/2023 Time: 11 AM - 12 PM. Contact: Brandy Reed (806) 834-8628.

Program Format: Online Meeting (Live) 34TH & NORTH UNIVERSITY EMPOWERMENT ZONE GRANTS are now available through Market Lubbock. To learn more about the grant opportunities, call MLI Contact – Jorge Quirino at (806)723-8241.

FREE PRACTICE EXAMS Study guides for tests Learn-a-Test, a database of practice examinations, is available at the Lubbock Public Library, 1306 9th St. Hundreds of practice examinations, including SAT, ACT and elementary, middle school and high school skills improvement tests, plus graduate entrance exams, available.

BUSINESS COUNSELING Small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can discuss their business ventures and get expert advice from the SBDC staff. All information will be held in strict confidence. For a counseling sessions call (806) 745-1637.

TAX FORMS AT LIBRARIES they have forms 1040 and 1040-SR in English and Spanish available at all locations. You can also access all available forms and instructions from home at www.irs.gov.

FREE LEGAL AID FOR THOSE WHO QUALIFY Legal Aid of Northwest Texas provides free legal services to eligible low-income residents in such areas as public assistance denials, divorce and child support, evictions, foreclosures, domestic violence and consumer fraud.

Call (800) 933-4557 or visitlanwt.org for more info.

USDA & SBA Partner to

to Create Jobs and Economic Growth

.S. Department of Agriculture start and grow their businesses to U (USDA) Deputy Secretary advance our economy and global Xochitl Torres Small announced competitiveness.” today that USDA is strengthening its longstanding partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to create jobs and expand access to new and better market opportunities for people in rural America.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to a whole-ofgovernment approach to rebuild the economy for the American people from the bottom up and middle out, especially in the nation’s most underserved and rural communities,” Torres Small said. “At USDA, we are redoubling our commitment to drive economic security and prosperity for people in rural America, so they can find opportunities to succeed right in the places they call home. Strengthening our collaboration with the SBA helps us expand these opportunities for people to build brighter futures for generations to come.”

“Rural small businesses strengthen local economies - creating jobs and serving communities,” SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman said. “SBA’s partnership with USDA will build upon the BidenHarris Administration’s commitment to investing in underserved rural Americans and providing the needed resources to help them

Through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed today, USDA and SBA are committing to increase investments in small and underserved communities to help grow the rural economy and create good-paying jobs for people nationwide.

The agencies are also committing to expand opportunities for rural technical assistance providers, entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and small business owners. They will also provide resources to help rural businesses compete in both domestic and international markets.

As part of the MOU, the agencies may work together to: Provide joint trainings, technical assistance and mentorship opportunities for rural small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Help agricultural producers and small businesses identify ways to export their products around the world.

Expand collaboration between USDA’s Rural Partners Network and SBA’s Resource Partners Network.

Cross-promote programs that support rural businesses and socially disadvantaged communities, and more.

For more information, visit www. rural.gov/

BGC ALUMNI HALL OF FAME: The Lubbock Boys & Girls Club held its 17th Annual Alumni Hall of Fame Dinner November 11, 2023. This year’s inductees included (from l to r) Winston Gipson, Stan Fry, and Joe Sanchez Congratulations from Latino Lubbock Magazine!

Get all the Discounts you deserve.

FREE Discount Double Check.

It’s a quick and easy way to make sure you’re saving all you can.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.

CALL ME TODAY.

Ana Borrego, Agent 8001 Quaker Ave Ste. G Lubbock, TX 79424 (806)745-2555 www.anaborrego.com

Hablo Español

Apply for Jobs in December

a job, or switching to a their budget. Managers don’t want Finding second career, can be a chal- to risk their boss eliminating a posiLAA to Host lenge.

Most people on the job mar- tion because it’s been unfilled for so ket know you have to look for ev- long. On the flip side, Jan. 1 means little opportunity to get a new budget year for many State of the ery your foot in the door — and employers, so they may be sometimes timing is everylooking to hire for new poCity Address thing. sitions that are funded at the December, for example, start of the year.

ayor Tray Payne will pres- appears to be a good month M ent the State of the City to apply for new positions message on February 28, 2023 for a variety of reasons.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Lubbock Memorial Civic Center.

Hosted by the Lubbock Apartment Association, the annual event will focus on the latest economic data and the status of current City issues & projects.

Proceeds from the event benefit an area organization. For any questions or to reserve a spot, please call Lubbock Apartment Association at (806)794-2037.

Some potential applicants are too busy: Now is your chance to outsmart the competition by just applying! We all know how hectic the holiday season can get, and many people put their job hunt on the back burner. This decreases the applicant pool and can work in your favor.

Employer Budgets: Typically Dec. 31 means the end of the fiscal year for employers, so they may be rushing to fill positions that they have in

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

Recruiters have goals to meet: Just like everyday workers, recruiters have yearly performance reviews and goals. They may be taking a fresh look at applicants in an effort to get them in front of a manager before or after the first of the year.

So, while family time is important during the holiday season, you might also just want to set aside time for you — to apply for jobs.

After all, studies have found job satisfaction has an impact on your family life.

All Rights reserved.

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 9

Wellness/ bienestar

Traveling as a Diabetic

BY TRISTIN CHAUDHURY FOR LATINO LUBBOCK MAGAZINE, TRANSLATED

BY ANDRES RIOS

mbracing the joy of traveling E doesn't have to be daunting for individuals with diabetes. Preparation

is key! Firstly, ensure your diabetes supplies are plentiful and easily accessible during your journey. Carry them in your hand luggage to avoid loss or temperature fluctuations.

Secondly, keep your meals balanced and regular, plan for delays, and bring healthy snacks to prevent blood sugar swings. While exploring local

A

cuisines, focus on options lower in sugars and high in fiber and protein.

Hydrate frequently to assist in blood sugar regulation. Lastly, keep active but also allow your body to rest.

Monitor your blood sugar regularly, considering the potential impacts of activities or time zone changes.

Always remember, communication is crucial. Inform your travel companions about your needs and inform local medical services about your condition if necessary. Diabetes needn't restrict your wanderlust; with mindfulness and planning, the world is yours to explore!

Viajar con diabetea

ceptar el placer de viajar no tiene por qué ser desalentador para las personas con diabetes. ¡La preparación es clave! En primer lugar, asegúrese de que sus suministros para la diabetes sean abundantes y de fácil acceso durante su viaje.

Llévalos en tu equipaje de mano para evitar pérdidas o fluctuaciones de temperatura. En segundo lugar, mantenga sus comidas equilibradas y regulares, planifique los retrasos y lleve refrigerios saludables para evitar los cambios bruscos de azúcar en la sangre. Mientras explora las cocinas locales, concéntrese en opciones bajas en azúcares y altas en fibra y proteínas. Hidrátese con frecuencia

para ayudar en la regulación del azúcar en sangre. Por último, mantente activo pero también deja que tu cuerpo descanse.

Controle su nivel de azúcar en sangre con regularidad, considerando los posibles impactos de las actividades o los cambios de zona horaria.

Recuerde siempre que la comunicación es crucial.

Informe a sus compañeros de viaje sobre sus necesidades e informe a los servicios médicos locales sobre su condición si es necesario. La diabetes no tiene por qué limitar su pasión por los viajes; Con atención plena y planificación, ¡el mundo es tuyo para explorar!

welcomes

Sarah Mankin, DO

Dr. Sarah Mankin grew up in Eldorado, Texas. She graduated from Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2009 and began her residency at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.

She has over 11 years of experience and has worked in a variety of towns throughout both Texas and New Mexico.

Arnett Benson Medical and Dental Clinic 3301 Clovis Road Lubbock, TX 79415

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

In her spare time, she enjoys fishing, traveling, and spending time with her husband and family. She is excited to begin her journey with CHCL and looks forward to meeting all of her new patients.

CHCL accepts most insurance including: Private Insurance, Medicaid / Medicare, CHIP and Uninsured. Discounts are available on a sliding scale fee. Services will not be denied due to your inability to pay. Services that are not discounted are to be paid in full.

Call for an Appointment

Page 10

806.763.5557

Or Register Online

chclubbock.org/onlineregistration

Preparing Your Medical Devices For Power Outages

lectrical blackouts pose a serious device whether you plan to shelter at home E threat to those who rely on at-home or evacuate during the power outage. medical devices to live. An expert with “People who rely on medical devices, Baylor College of Medicine explains why preparation for a sudden loss of power is crucial.

“While we are in the middleofhurricaneseason and a heat dome, we are at risk of losing power,” said Isabel Valdez, physician associate and assistant professor of medicine at Baylor. “Because we might not know how long we will be without power or when it will be restored, having a plan can be lifesaving.”

Preparation begins with documentation.

When an at-home medical device is issued, Valdez says to keep a file with the device’s manufacturer, serial number, and photos of the device for reference for caregivers or medical professionals. If a caregiver is not in the same household as the person dependent on the device, friends or family members who are able to assist during an emergency should also have this information to ensure the device is being correctly used or stored.

Before the power goes out, research compatible auxiliary power sources.

Find out if the device works on batteries or a generator and for how long. Keep up regular maintenance on the device to ensure it is in peak condition when an emergency hits. Have a plan for your

like CPAP machines, oxygen tanks or concentrators, and people who undergo dialysis, are safest where there is power,” said Valdez. “If you are able to evacuate, do so. Cities and counties may offer shelters to weather the storm or blackout but be aware that they may be providing refuge to many people and even hospitals will have limited resources.”

Evacuation might be the only option for some, so preparation is key. When preparing for emergencies, Valdez says to have resources for at least two weeks.

This includes extra batteries, supplemental equipment, and an ample supply of regular medications and prescriptions. You also may need special equipment, like coolers to keep insulin usable. Speaking with insurance providers before expected disasters can make the process of replacing your device if it is damaged during a heat or weather event easier. In some cases, people with at-home medical devices can contact their electricity provider to let them know of their health issues to prioritize the restoration of power in their home or area.

(Para leer en español ir a www. latinolubbock.net/news-1)

Schedule a Colorectal Cancer Exam at the Age of 45 dults should be routinely tissue.

Ascreened for colorectal can- You should get a colonoscopy cer starting at age 45, instead of every 10 years. And you should the current 50, a U.S. public health task force recommended.

A colonoscopy is a test where a doctor uses a camera to scan your colon for cancerous polyps.

A polyp is an abnormal growth of

get them more frequently if polyps are found, or if you have a family history of colorectal cancer.

Minorities are at higher risk if not detected, so schedule your exam today.

tinaria a partir de los 45 años, en lugar de los 50 actuales, recomendó un grupo de trabajo de salud pública de EE. UU. Una colonoscopia es una prueba en la que un médico usa una cámara para escanear su colon en busca de pólipos cancerosos. Un

pia cada 10 años. Y debe contraerlos con más frecuencia si se encuentran pólipos o si tiene antecedentes familiares de cáncer colorrectal.

Las minorías corren un mayor riesgo si no se detectan, así que programe su examen hoy.

Programe un examen de cáncer colorrectal a los 45 os adultos deben someterse pólipo es un crecimiento anormal L a exámenes de detección de de tejido. cáncer colorrectal de forma ruDebería hacerse una colonosco-

Vive tu vida, Get Up Get Moving!

Noticias de salud/ Health News YOGA Welcome to our yoga class held every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. This class is perfect for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Our cer- tified yoga instructor will guide you through a series of postures and breathing exercises, helping you to connect with the present moment, find inner peace, and achieve mind-body harmony. On 12/5/2023, 9:30 – 10:15 AM, at 4020 30th. Cost is $25/ Month, Ages 17+ BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC Calvert Home Health Care will be doing a free blood pressure clinic at the Lubbock Adult Activity Center on December 6th, 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at 2001 19th St. Come out to get your FREE screening! Ages 50+ CHILD CARE AVAILABLE FOR INCOME-ELIGIBLE FAMILIES who are income eligible may receive fee assistance to attend one of the Early Learning Center’s five centers. Parents or caretakers must be employed or in school. The program is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mon. through Fri. Call (806) 765-9981 for more information.

HEALTHBEAT EQUIPMENT brings the best of the gym to the great outdoors at Buddy Holly Lake of Cesar Chavez Drive.

The outdoor fitness equipment is available to the public and has 10 pieces of fitness equipment. This is a project of Los Hermanos Familia. FREE. OPEN FITNESS Avoid the unpredictable weather of high winds and too hot temperatures. Use our fitness equipment to get fit!

Treadmill, bikes and more! Ages 13+ (13-16 yrs. needs guardian) 3 p.m., M-F at the Trejo Center. Free.

FREE CLINIC at Lubbock Impact The Free Clinic holds a free doctors clinic every Wednesday at 34th Street and Boston Avenue. Registration begins at 4 PM. Patients must be 18 and older and medically uninsured to receive free medications and doctors visits. For more info call (806) 799-4320.

FREE SICK CHILDREN'S CLINIC is a free, all-volunteer clinic that treats sick children up to age 15 at 10th Street and Avenue A. Prescriptions at the on-site pharmacy are free. Call 762-1805 for more info.

FAITH BASED AA for Lubbock and the surrounding area, Thurs. from 6:30-8:00 P.M. and Sundays from 7-8 P.M. For more info call 806-793.3336.

Health/ salud

The Doc or Is In

Advice from our Doctors...

Consejos de nuestros médicos

Aids Awareness Month

J

IDS stands for acquired im- childbirth.

A munodeficiency syndrome.

The first signs of HIV infection It is the most advanced stages of may be swollen glands and flu-like

Flu or Cold?

udging by all the people sneezing and coughing, and the ubiquitous “Get your flu shot” signs at every pharmacy, it’s obvious we’ve begun the dreaded cold and flu season.

So how can you tell if your aches and scratchy throat are a typical cold or a more serious bout of the flu?

A quick rule of thumb is that cold symptoms generally occur from the neck up, whereas flu symptoms take over your whole body.

How to prevent getting a cold: Once the cold season starts, gargle daily and take probiotics. Gargling can lower your risk of getting sick, research shows, and probiotics may also help prevent colds and boost your immune system, a 2011 Cochrane review of research found.

Preventive medicine experts also

recommend eating yogurt with active cultures or taking pro biotic supplements. Supplements containing lactobacillus should have at least 5 billion colony-forming units per daily serving.

Get my flu shot now, or wait? Get it as early as possible — it not only protects you against the flu, recent studies show it can cut your risk of heart attacks and stroke by 36 percent. Plus, a flu shot protects both children and adults against pneumonia.

When to go to work, when to stay home: You’re contagious even before your symptoms start getting bad, say infectious disease experts, so if you wake up feeling under the weather, the virus is already multiplying. In addition, you remain contagious for five to seven days after

becoming ill. So do your friends and colleagues a favor — stay home and don’t infect them. Another reason to avoid the office: Side effects from cold or flu medication can make you too groggy to work.

To prevent flu: Drink green tea, wash hands, wear a mask - Green tea has catechins, a type of antioxidant, that can help protect against the flu, recent studies suggest. Even more dramatic: A 2012 study found that wearing a surgical mask and regularly washing your hands during the flu season resulted in a whopping 75 percent reduction in flu risk. Need another reason to wash your hands?

Viruses survive on surfaces between two and eight hours, so people touching those surfaces who then touch their mouth or nose can get sick as the virus enters the respiratory tract.

La gripe o resfriado? Aquí es cómo saber

infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV is a virus that kills or damages cells of the body's immune system.

HIV most often spreads through unprotected sex with an infected person. AIDS may also spread by sharing drug needles or through contact with the blood of an infected person. Women can give it to their babies during pregnancy or

Mes nacional de la prevención del SIDA

Los primeros signos de infección IDA es la sigla del síndrome de S inmunodeficiencia adquirida. con VIH pueden ser inflamación Es el estadio más avanzado de in- de los ganglios y síntomas gripales. fección por el virus de inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH). El VIH es un virus que mata o daña las células del sistema inmunológico del organismo.

El VIH suele contagiarse a través de las relaciones sexuales sin protección con una persona infectada. El SIDA también puede contagiarse por compartir agujas con drogas o mediante el contacto con la sangre de una persona infectada. Las mujeres pueden transmitírselo a sus bebés durante el embarazo o el parto.

tobacillus deben tener al menos 5 mil millones de unidades formadoras de colonias por porción diaria.

Obtener mi vacuna contra la gripe ahora, o esperar? Get it lo más pronto posible - no sólo le protege contra la gripe, estudios recientes demuestran que puede reducir el riesgo de ataques cardíacos y accidentes cerebrovasculares en un 36 por ciento. Además, una vacuna contra la gripe protege a niños y adultos contra la neumonía, un nuevo estudio de la Universidad de Vanderbilt encontró.

Cuándo ir al trabajo, al quedarse en casa: Usted es contagiosa, incluso antes de que sus síntomas comienzan a conseguir malo, dicen los expertos en enfermedades infecciosas, así que si te levantas sintiendo bajo tiempo, el virus ya se está multiplicando. Además, usted sigue siendo contagiosa durante cinco a siete días después de enfer-

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

evitar la oficina: Los efectos secundarios de la medicación resfriado o gripe puede hacerle demasiado aturdido para trabajar.

Para prevenir la gripe: Beber té verde, lavarse las manos, usar una máscara El té verde tiene catequinas, un tipo de antioxidante, que puede ayudar a proteger contra la gripe, estudios recientes sugieren. Aún más dramática: Un estudio de 2012 encontró que el uso de una máscara quirúrgica y lavarse las manos con regularidad durante la temporada de gripe se tradujo en una reducción de la friolera de 75 por ciento en el riesgo de la gripe. ¿Necesitas otra razón para lavarse las manos? Los virus sobreviven en superficies de entre dos y ocho horas, por lo que las personas que tocan esas superficies que luego se tocan la boca o la nariz pueden enfermarse ya que el virus entra en el tracto respiratorio.

All Rights reserved.

Los mismos pueden presentarse y desaparecer un mes o dos después de la infección. Los síntomas graves pueden no aparecer hasta pasados meses o años.

Con un análisis de sangre se puede saber si una persona tiene una infección por VIH. El profesional de la salud puede realizar la prueba o llamar para una derivación a la línea nacional 1-800-CDC-INFO (en español y en inglés, las 24 horas del día, 1-800-232-4636; 1-888-2326348 - TTY).

welcomes

juzgar por todas las personas dan comer yogur con cultivos activos marse. Lo mismo ocurre con sus amiA estornudos y tos, y los "Obtenga o tomando suplementos probióticos. gos y colegas un favor - quedarse en su vacuna contra la gripe" señales om- Los suplementos que contienen lac- casa y no infectarlos. Otra razón para nipresentes en todas las farmacias, es obvio que hemos comenzado la temporada de resfriados y gripe temida.

Entonces, ¿cómo puede saber si sus dolores y picazón en la garganta son una típica pelea más grave resfriado o una de la gripe? Una regla rápida es que los síntomas del resfriado generalmente ocurren desde el cuello hacia arriba, mientras que los síntomas de la gripe se apoderan de todo tu cuerpo ..

Cómo evitar contraer un resfriado: Una vez que la temporada de frío se inicia, haga gárgaras diaria y tomar probióticos. Hacer gárgaras puede disminuir su riesgo de contraer, según muestra una investigación enfermos, y los probióticos también puede ayudar a prevenir los resfriados y estimular su sistema inmunológico, una revisión Cochrane de la investigación 2.011 encontrado. Expertos de medicina preventiva también recomien-

symptoms. These may come and go a month or two after infection.

Severe symptoms may not appear until months or years later.

A blood test can tell if you have HIV infection. Your health care provider can perform the test, or call the national referral hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO (24 hours a day, 1-800-232-4636 in English and en español; 1-888-232-6348 - TTY).

Kyle Howard, MD

Originally from Mississippi, Dr. Kyle Howard and his wife settled in Lubbock and made it their home. He has completed his residency at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center and has worked in Marshall and Wichita Falls before coming back to Lubbock.

Main Clinic 1610 5th Street Lubbock, TX 79401

In his free time, he enjoys reading, basketball, golf and being outdoors. He loves his family and his dogs and is excited for this new journey he is about to begin with CHCL.

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS CHCL accepts most insurance including: Private Insurance, Medicaid / Medicare, CHIP and Uninsured. Discounts are available on a sliding scale fee. Services will not be denied due to your inability to pay. Services that are not discounted are to be paid in full.

Call for an Appointment

806.763.5557

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Or Register Online

chclubbock.org/onlineregistration

Page 11

WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER, CHRISTY MARTINEZ-GARCIA: The following is a historical prepared by the late Reverend Phillip McNamamar who served as a priest at St. Joseph's Church in 1974. His vision to prepare this piece is very significant as St . Joseph's Church celebrates 100 years as the first Catholic Church in Lubbock, Texas. Although he discusses that in the beginning they celebrated mass at the Merrill Hotel, parishioners also shared that they celebrated mass in a tent pitched in the migrant labor camps as well as in what is known as Guadalupe Park.

I included a chronological order of significant dates, names, and events, as well as some photos.

St. Joseph's Church is located at 102 N. Ave. P and remains strong and one of the most beautiful and historical facilities in Lubbock, in one of the most historical neighborhoods of Lubbock.

THE BEGINNING The Lubbock areas were originally part of St. Joseph's parish in Slaton.

The earliest records show that prior to 1924, Fr. Keller used to travel from Slaton to celebrate Mass for the faithful of Lubbock and administer the Sacraments, at The Merrill Hotel, which was situated on the corner of 11th Street and Avenue I. The hotel was owned and operated by Mr. Bowen and Mr. KellyFr. C. Gutierrez C.M. and Fr. Tom O'Brien, because of their knowledge of Spanish, used to come from Amarillo once a month to minister to the Mexicans at the same hotel.

On April 24, 1924, Bishop Joseph P. Lynch of Dallas purchased two lots on the corner of 1st Street and Avenue P, (then known as Blackstone Avenue) for the purpose of building a church to serve the Lubbock area. Fr. MG. French, Pastor of Slaton, took on with the building of the new church. With the help of The Extension Society, he built a "small frame church" which was blessed by Bishop Lynch and dedicated to St. Joseph on December 12, 1924. This was the first Catholic Church in Lubbock.

Lubbock at the time had a popula-

Page 12

tion of approximately 5,000, about 1,500 of whom were of Chicano or Mexican origin. Conveniently situated on the Gulf-Pacific truck line of the Santa Fe Railroad, Lubbock was described as a good market town and distribution center for the South Plains area. Besides the railway station, it had one gas station, plenty of warehouses and windmills, and of course the "Merrill Hotel" where the Padre got an Irish welcome and where a sleeping "wasp" would no longer be disturbed by a Latin service on Sunday morning.

From its foundation up to the year 1927, St. Joseph's Church was attended by Fr. French, the Pastor of the Slaton-Lubbock parish who built it. He used to minister at St. Joseph's-Lubbock on two Sundays of the month. He was assisted by Fr. Diego, pastor of Sweetwater, who attended our church once a month to minister especially to Mexican Americans.

In October of 1927, for some reason or other, St. Joseph's-Lubbock was placed under the care of the Pastor of Plainview, Rev. Fr. Krukker, who with the help of Fr. Diego managed to give the people mass every Sunday. By the year 1927, the congregation had grown considerably, and plans were being made to appoint a resident priest to Lubbock.

So, Fr. Krukker again with the aid of The Extension Society, built two rooms for a priest's residence right at the back of the church.

It was during that year (1927) that Bishop Gerken sent an appeal to the Mother Superior of the Missionary Catechist Sisters (now The Victory Noll Sisters) asking them to establish a center in Lubbock. In this letter to the Mother Superior,

the Bishop spoke at length about the need for Catechists for the children of the "poor Mexican Americans".

He also noted that the sisters would be expected to work voluntarily and without any fixed remuneration.

The Sisters responded generously to the Bishop's appeal and terms, and it was arranged that three sisters would come to Lubbock to serve as Catechists, as soon as living accommodation was provided. Once again Fr. Krukker called on The Extension Society, and the Sisters' house was built on the north side of the parish property. The Sisters arrived in August 1928 and have ministered faithfully in St. Joseph's Parish ever since. Indeed, their Apostolate has by no means been confined to the parish; from the beginning, they have also helped out in the neighboring towns and parishes.

In October of 1928, two months after the arrival of the sisters, an assistant was appointed to Fr. Krukker with his residence in Lubbock. His name was Fr. Luis Gonzalez, and even though he stayed only a month, he must be recognized as the first resident priest in Lubbock.

From November 1928 to July 1929 a total of five different priests were assigned to live and work in this part of what was then the parish of Plainview. Then on July 19, 1929, St. Joseph's Lubbock was canonically established as a parish with Fr. Gregory Boeckman as the first pastor. Fr. Boeckman had been assistant to the Cathedral of Amarillo, up until then, and professor and procurator of St. George's College, (now Amarillo High School).

The first book of the parish register, however, was begun by Fr. Krukker on August 22, 1928, with the baptism of Maria Euphemia Sanchez.

The first recorded marriage is that of Venancio Chavez and Lujansita Sena on September 6, 1928. The first death recorded in the books was that of a 17-year-old boy, Antonio Martinez, he died with the Sacraments. The funeral services were conducted by Fr. Krukker, the date was October 3, 1928.

Two months prior to the foundation of the parish, on May 26, 1929, Bishop Gerken confirmed 161 children and adults at St. Joseph's Church. The names of these children and adults are mostly Mexican.

With the help of the Sisters and the arrival of the new pastor, the community began to take a very active interest in the Church, so the lay societies of the Sacred Heart for the men and the Sociedad Guadalupana for the women were quickly founded, as were also the Society of Our Blessed Lady for the girls and the Society of San Luis Gonzaga for the boys. Plans were already underway for the celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe's feast the following December of '29.

December 12, 1929, the day of the feast, was a wonderful day and was talked about for many years afterward. Five priests crowded the altar for the Solemn High Mass, a beautiful choir conducted by the sisters, and the newly formed societies in their colorful regalia, followed by a joyful procession in the afternoon, “Vivas and Salvas, himnos and cantos.” St. Joseph’s parish even though only four months in existence, was well established.

Meanwhile, the Anglo Catholics who didn’t understand Spanish and very little of this Chicano brand of Catholicism, felt a kind out of it.

They didn’t really fit into this very active Mexican community. That put the bishop and the pastor in quite a dilemma, as traditionally in the South wherever there was no Catholic Church, Catholics usually drifted into whatever other Christian sect was most convenient for them.

So, towards the end of 1929, Bishop Gerken had two lots purchased on the corner of 10th Street and Ave W for the purpose of building a church for the Anglo-American Catholics.

The price of the lots was $1,650.

That same month, November 1929, electric power, water, and gas were installed in St. Joseph’s Parish at the cost of $600.

From 1929 to 1936 our records show that both communities coexisted and cooperated as Christians should. Then in 1936, the new church for the Anglos was completed and dedicated to St. Elizabeth. It was a beautiful, solid transitional-styled church, considered at the time to be much too big for the size of the congregation. The pastor of St. Joseph’s also attended the new St. Elizabeth’s and St. Joseph’s remained the parish church until 1939.

Visit us online at www.latinolubbock.net

During the ten-year period 19291939, the following priests served as pastors at St. Joseph’s Church: Fr. FG.A. Boeckman, the first pastor appointed on July 19, 1929; Fr. Gabriel Diamante, appointed July 16, 1932; Fr. George Schneider appointed July 15, 1933; and Fr. Gabriel Diamante appointed a second time August 31, 1934.

On June 23, 1939, Fr. Diamante being Pastor of St. Joseph’s, Bishop Lucey officially made St. Elizabeth’s Church the parish church of Lubbock and reduced our church at St. Joseph’s to mission status serving the Latin-American population.

Fr. Gabriel Diamante moved to St. Elizabeth’s and Fr. Cesareo Gutierrez was appointed assistant pastor in charge of St. Joseph’s. Now there were two resident priests in Lubbock. However, the transfer was never very clear cut as the parish registers at St. Joseph’s never have been interrupted and the priest in charge has always had all the powers and privileges of a pastor. Fr. Stanley Crocchiola succeeded Fr. Gutierrez as a priest in charge on November 4, 1939. Then in 1940, the Paulist Fathers took charge of the whole Lubbock area, Fr. James A. Noon being assigned to take care of St. Joseph’s. He remained until 1950 when the Pallottine Fathers replaced the Paulists.

Fr. Noon C.S.P., who spent 10 years in the ‘parish’, was a very zealous and hard-working priest.

He is credited with having a very generous disposition and a wonderful sense of humor. He is still kindly remembered by many of the parishioners of St. Joseph’s.

In another chapter, we have told of the coming of the Pallottine Fathers to the diocese. They arrived on April 11, 1950, in response to an appeal sent out by the late Bishop Fitzsimon who needed Spanish-speaking priests for his diocese. Two Pallottines were immediately assigned to St. Joseph’s: Fr. Vincent Cunningham as pastor and Fr. James Daly (now Pastor of Guadalupe, Slaton) as assistant. By 1950, the Catholic community of St. Joseph’s had grown enormously, as indeed had the entire city of Lubbock. The little frame church built in 1924 was no longer adequate, besides it was somewhat the worst of the wear.

Special - Faith/Fe So, Fr. Cunningham set about extending the church. In 1952 the old rectory was removed to allow for the enlarging of the church which was doubled in size and completely renovated.

Fr. Cunningham was succeeded as pastor by Fr. Michael Martin on August 12, 153. He in turn was succeeded by Fr. Thomas Phelan on December 1, 1954; he served as pastor until January 1, 1961.

On January 1, 1961 St. Joseph’s was again re-established as a parish and so regained the status it had lost in 1939. On that date Fr. Kevin Clarke was appointed as its “first pastor”. His assistants were Fr. George Buckley and Fr. John Howlett. The reconstituted parish included the neighboring towns of New Deal, Lorenzo, Ralls, Crosbyton, and Tahoka. These towns did not have churches. Mass was celebrated in halls or in the homes of the parishioners. New Deal still remains part of St. Joseph’s parish.

The towns of Ralls, Lorenzo, and Crosbyton have since developed into an independent parish and their story will be told in another chapter.

Tahoka now belongs to the parish of O’Donnell.

THE NEW CHURCH Construction of the present new plant, consisting of the church, priest’s house, CCD Center, and convent was begun by Fr. Clarke in August 1962 and was blessed and inaugurated by Bishop De Palco on August 3, 1964. All the buildings are solidly constructed with goodquality brick walls and tiled roofs.

The church might be described as modern or simplified Gothic architecture. It has a seating capacity of 500 and is equipped with all modern furnishings. A feature of the church that was much appreciated and availed of by the local people is its basement or tornado shelter (also an atomic fallout shelter). It can accommodate up to 1,000 people. The cost of the new plant was approximately $250,000.

St. Joseph’s had come a long way from the little frame church built some forty years earlier. Hence the inauguration of the new church was to be an occasion of great celebrations. Bishop De Falco officiated; all the Pallottines and most of the diocesan priests attended. The guest of honor was Fr. Richard Kennedy, exProvincial of the Pallottine fathers and the man mainly responsible for sending the Pallottines to Texas.

Fr. Antonio Gutierrez preached the sermon and there were delegations from Lorenzo, Ralls, and Crosbyton, the three missions pertaining to St. Joseph’s parish. This was another wonderful day for our parish,

comparable in enthusiasm, the old folks said, at the famous feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrated away back in 1929, the year the parish was founded.

The inauguration was comparable to another very happy event which took place three years later in June 1967. That was the ordination to the priesthood of the first native son of St. Joseph’s Parish, Fr. Cornelio Ramirez, who is also the first Texan Pallottine.

Soon however, we were to record a very tragic event, the tornado of 1970, which took some 23 lives, many of them parishioners, and wiped out the old neighborhood around St. Joseph’s Church. Except for some roof damage, the new church withstood the storm bravely harboring in its basement some hundreds of the neighbors who came to take refuge there. In the center of the church at the right-hand side, a fitting monument has been raised to the memory of the victims and the tragic event.

Fr. Clarke was appointed pastor of St. Anthony’s Brownfield in April 1966; he was succeeded at St. Joseph’s by Fr. Aidan Donlon, who in November 1972 was succeeded by the present pastor Fr. Michael O’Dwyer. The associates at this time are Fr. Phillip McNamara and Fr. Aubrey Perry.

The Victory Noll Sisters continue to take care of the C.C.D. apostolate, as they have been doing since 1927. Next year, God willing, they will celebrate their golden jubilee at St. Joseph’s parish.

There are about 1,000 families registered and we calculate about 500 others who aren’t registered. Many of these families have their own history of association with St. Joseph’s church and a few remember a huddled early morning mass at The Merrill Hotel.

ST JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC CHURCH CHRONOLOGICAL HISTORY TO 2023 • Established by: Father M.G. French, Pastor of St. Joseph’s in Slaton, TX • First settlers: Mexican Americans • In 1940 Paulist Fathers were the first missionaries to visit the area followed by Pallottine Fathers (Irish Province) in 1950.

• Came from: Paulist Fathers U.S.A. • Holy services: Conducted once a month from 1924-1927. By 1927, twice a month and from 928-1940 conducted every Sunday.

• First Catholics: Mr. and Mrs. Bowen- Owners of the “Merril Hotel”.

• First community: Missionary Cathecist Sisters (The Victory of Noll Sisters) 1927.

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

• Sacramental records: Kept in St. Joseph’s and Diocese of Lubbock until 1982, in 1983 moved to Diocese of Lubbock and St. Joseph’s.

• Sacramental records: Copied • Starting date:August 22, 1928; First person baptized: Maria Euphemia Sanchez • First married: Venancio Chavez & Lujansita Sena September 6, 1928 • First death: Antonio Martinez October 3, 1928 • First communion and confirmation: conducted by Bishop Gershen , May 26, 1929 • Brief History: First church dedicated on December 12, 1924.

Later extended in 1952. The second and present church was dedicated in August 1962 by Bishop Falco. Cost - $250,000 • C.C.D. Center & Gym dedicated on June 3, 1990 by Bishop Sheehan.

Cost - $450,000 • Priests and Pastors: 1924-Keller C. Gutierrez and Tim O’Brien.

1927- M.G. French, Diego, Krukker, and Luis Gonzales. 1929-Gregory Boekman. 1932-George Schneider, 1933- Gabriel Diamante, Cesareo Gutierrez, Stanley Crocchiola.

1941-James Noon. 1950-James J. Daly, Vincent Cunningham, George Buckley. 1952-Patrick O’Brian, Michael Martin. 1954-Kevin Clarke, Thomas Phelan. 1957-Aidan Donlon.

1961-John Howlett. 1965-Sean Sweeney. 1966- Michael O’Dwyer.

1969-Cornelio Ramirez. 1970-John McDonagh. 1972-Michael O’Dwyer.

1973-Michael McCormack.

1974-Phillip McNamara.

1976-Aubrey Perry. 1978-John Casey.

1979-Sean Sweeney. 1981-Lawrence Perry. December 1983-William Dillon. October 1984-Cornelio Ramirez. 1986-John O’Brien.

1987-Tim When. 1988-Christopher Quinn. 1989-Michael O’Carroll.

1991-Cornelio Ramirez Michael O'Dwyer (the last Pallotine priest assigned in Lubbock to serve at St. Joseph's) 2005-2015 - Martin Piña 2015 (July to September) Andres Mendoza 2015 (September) Raymundo Manriquez SOURCE: Historical Records St. Joseph’s Rectory CHURCH CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION - 100 Join Saint Joseph Church in Lubbock for a Mass to begin the year-long parish centennial anniversary celebration on December 13, 2023 at 7 p.m. Bishop Coerver will celebrate the Mass at Saint Joseph Church in Lubbock.

The parishioners will celebrate the parish centennial through 2024 with different jubilee days announced during the year.

All Rights reserved.

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 13

Education/ Educación

¡Ya viene Pancho Clos!

BY CHRISTY MARTINEZ-GARCIA FOR LATINO LUBBOCK MAGAZINE

ancho Clos, Santa P Claus’ Mexican cousin from the South, will make

SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED BY LHF: Los Hermanos Familia with its University & Education Advocate Partners - Wayland Baptist University, Lubbock Christian University, West Texas A & M, and South Plains College; as well as scholarships from Rosa & Julio Llanas, Frank Garcia & Christy Martinez-Garcia, Josh & Jessica Ortiz, and Jarrett Thornton will award scholarships to 30 area students totalling $30,000.

LHF PARTNERS WITH LUBBOCK CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY: Los Hermanos Familia and LCU are committed to increasing attention to education by providing tools and addressing issues impacting individuals and families.

his 49th annual visit to the children of Lubbock at the Maggie Trejo Super Center on Sunday, December 9, 2023, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the, at 3200 Amherst St. All kids can come see Pancho Clos and get a bag filled with treats.

The idea for an actual Pancho Clos originated in Lubbock in 1970, by the late Gus Medina, owner of a small bilingual publication in Lubbock, and two of his reporters, Jesse Reyes and Bidal Aguero.

Pancho Claus made his first appearance in 1971. Since then, he has been a part of G.I. Forum fundraisers and community events.

The Pancho Clos character continues to be portrayed by GI Forum members locally and across the U.S.

But as a new year passes, so will a new leaf of the program. The Pancho Clos program originally managed by the American G.I. Forum has been passed on to Fiestas Del Llano, Inc. to continue the tradition that was set out by the founders, the many contributors and countless volunteers since 1971.

Volunteers will prepare bags of fruit and candy, and help facilitate the lines of eager children waiting their turn to meet one-onone with this Christmas icon in the Hispanic community, to share their Christmas wishes.

Congratulations to Pancho Clos and all the volunteers who have helped to sustain this program, from Latino Lubbock Magazine!

nce I for living fast. I can vouch for the O underlying motto of the city life achieve a being, “the only way is forward,

LHF PARTNERS WITH WEST TEXAS A & M: Los Hermanos Familia and WT recognize the growing interest of students from the Lubbock area interested in their university and partnered to extend those opportunities to area students.

goal, I immediately prepare myself and get ready to set a new goal to meet within the following week. Constantly meeting and setting goals— new home, new career, new project— has made me slip into the idea that happiness is just around the corner. I remember thinking to myself, “if only I can just get one more interview for medical school.” I’ve fallen into the trap of thinking, “I’ll be happy when…”

Living on the east coast, I’ve noticed that the culture has a knack

and you better hurry.” However, in order to avoid feeling burned out by the city hustle and bustle, I am working to think of myself less. I easily dwell in my own worries for the future, but I remind myself that the best thing in each opportunity is not in how great a person I can become, it is in the great people I get to meet. I’m grateful for being in a program and learning new skills, but the best part is having the chance to reach out to other students and faculty and getting to know one another over coffee— a little effort that has made a lovely difference.

Bailee Alonzo - is a recent graduate from Texas Tech, who majored in Biology/PreMed. She aspires to become a dermatologist.

Education & Scholarship Updates SCHOLARSHIP INFO ONLINE Fastweb.com This website claims to be the most complete source of local, national, and college-specific scholarships on the net. It lists thousands of scholarships. When you sign up, you can get email updates when new scholarships become available. Good and free resource.

SPC FALL COMMENCEMENT CEREMONY on Dec. 15, at 10:30 a.m., in the Texan Dome - Levelland.

NATIONAL STUDENT NURSES' ASSOCIATION, Inc. (NSNA) Breakthrough To Nursing Scholarships For Ethnic Apply online at www.nsna.org 2023–24 FAFSA FORM AVAILABLE The new 2023–24 FAFSA form is here!

Some states and schools have limited funds, so don’t delay! Additional forms might be required. Private and two-year institutions may have different deadlines. Check with your financial aid administrator. To begin your application, go to https://studentaid.gov/.

FALLEN HEROES FUND Scholarship to assist with educational expenses of dependent survivors of service men and women and first responders who have died on active duty since September 11, 2001. Dependent survivors would include spouse, sons, and daughters (biological, adopted or step children). The scholarships are available as supplements to financial aid and survivor educational benefits. The applicant may be registered as a full or parttime student. Use the following link to apply: www.grantrequest.com/ SID_6007?SA=SNA&FID=35040 COLLEGE BOARD Fund Finder is an online tool to help you locate scholarships, internships, grants, and loans that match your education level, talents, and background. Apply online at: bigfuture.collegeboard.org/scholarship-search COLLEGENET A convenient, speedy site which searches scholarships from categories such as ACT and SAT scores, GPA, etc. Apply online at: www.collegenet. com CONGRESSIONAL HISPANIC CAUCUS INSTITUTE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM www.chci.org/scholarships/page/chci-scholarship-program AAUW SCHOLARSHIP The Association of University Women Educational Foundation Apply at www.aauw.org ADELANTE SCHOLARSHIPS www.adelantefund.org/#!scholarships/crij

LHF PARTNERS WITH WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY: The scholarships are designed to encourage retention and demonstrate their support to the students. Visit www.loshermanosfamilia.org for more info.

LA UNIDAD LATINA FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP Latino Lubbock Magazine Proudly Advocates for Education/La revista latina Lubbock aboga por la www.lulf.org/apply/ educación

South Plains College and LHF Group Photo Not Available.

Page 14

HISPANIC SCHOLARSHIP CONSORTIUM www.hispanicscholar.org/#!apply/c17ip

Youth/Juventud

Youth Opportunities BREAKFAST WITH SANTA December 2, 2023, 10 a.m. to Noon. Bring your kids and grandkids to Maxey Community Center for their Annual Breakfast with Santa. This event is the perfect way to start the Christmas season. Families will enjoy keepsake holiday crafts, a delicious brunch, and photos with Santa as their children share their Christmas wishes. Tickets can be purchased online at playlubbock.com or in person at Maxey Community Center.

Registration and ticket purchase deadline is Wednesday, November 29, 2023 THE NORTH POLE EXPERIENCE at Godeke Branch Library December 7, 10:30 to 11:30 AM. Enjoy the holiday magic with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Become an elf with Mrs. Claus’ stories and songs and take a picture with Santa! For ages 0-5 at Mahon Library, 1306 9th Street. For more information, call 806-775-2835.

DIY REUSABLE HAND WARMERS AT MAHON LIBRARY December 8, 4 to 5 PM. Cold? Come make your own reusable hand warmers to keep you toasty this winter! Registration not required, but supplies are limited. For ages 13 and up at Mahon Library, 1306 9th Street.

COCOA, COOKIES, AND POPCORN PAJAMA STORYTIME at Groves Branch Library December 15, 6:30 to 7:30 PM. Join us in your winter jammies while listening to holiday stories! We will also make a holiday craft.

For ages 0-8 at Groves Branch Library, 5520 19th Street.

HOLIDAY ORNAMENT CRAFTERNOON at Patterson Branch Library December 18, 4:30 to 6 PM. Create ornaments for your holiday tree or simply to display while supplies last! Festive drinks and cookies will provide in limited supply. This is an all-ages program at Patterson Branch Library, 1836 Parkway Drive.

UPCYCLED BOOKS: SNOWMAN at Godeke Branch Library December 18, 5:30 to 7 PM. Join us as we will be cutting and folding books into the shape of a snowman! For ages 13 and up at Godeke Branch Library, 5034 Frankford Avenue.

“GAME ON!” at Patterson Branch Library December 26, 27, 28 from 1 to 3 PM. Come to the Patterson Branch Library, 1836 Parkway Drive, for an afternoon of board games and video games for grades K-12.

FREE ONLINE MOVIES FOR KIDS Did you know you can watch movies online through the library?!? We've got movies for all ages available through the OverDrive App (not Libby) or on the website lubbock.overdrive.com!

Galvan Among Dancers to Perform At Disney World

CARRYING THE TORCH: Lubbock Optimist BGC Torch Club, our Youth Group Get Involved Award honorees, are a spirited and proactive team of young volunteers.

Over the past 25 weeks, they've dedicated 3 hours each week to combat food shortages in our community, wholeheartedly supporting the South Plains Food Bank and the Apple Orchard. Through food drives and hands-on work, they've made a significant impact.

Their passion for service isn't confined to the community; they also contribute to the betterment of their own club. They manage concession stands, aid in developing activities for younger members, and play a pivotal role in upholding club rules and ethics. Setting up and dismantling club sporting events is just one of the many ways they assist. WAY TO LEAD AND CONGRATS FROM LATINO LUBBOCK MAGAZINE!

aniela Galvan, daughter of around the bend to Frontierland and D Deanna Galvan, and the late the other places at Disney World. It Adrian Galvan will be among 49 is a 20-minute parade loop. They girls from The Dance Gallery of Lubbock performing at Disney World on December 3.

She and the other dancers will be marching down Main Street, USA, going past the iconic castle and

will be performing for a showcase at the Beauty and the Beast stage.

Daniela is 15 years old. She has been with The Dance Gallery since she was 3 years old. She does tap, jazz, and ballet.

MACKENZIE MARIACHIS: congratulations to Mrs. Gonzales and our All-Region Mariachi performers as they showcased their skills at Coronado High School’s

very year, I like to reflect dur- ery day, so I E ing the winter season. It gives can achieve me a chance to realize what I have my goals accomplished and the things I want to work towards. First off, I want to say how thankful I am. In the year 2023, I went to see my favorite artist live, had my dream internship, became a bridesmaid, and got to go on a trip to present my research. I made many new friends and outgrew old ones. I spent time with the people I love most and created some of my favorite memories. I want to say that without my mother and father, none of this would be possible. They have stood with me side by side, always having my back. They have worked hard ev-

and have fun experiences.

So, I want to thank my parents for all they have done for me and every friend, family member and loved one that has helped me along my journey.

Thank you, 2023. 2024 – Let’s go!

Blaise Martinez - is an 11th grader at Lubbock High School. She aspires to attend Stanford University, major in computer science, and pursue a career in computer science and app development.

Merry Christmas! y ¡Feliz Navidad!

The offices of Latino Lubbock Magazine (LLM) will be closed from Dec. 24th to Jan. 1st. Normal office hours, as well as Jan. distribution of LLM, will resume on Jan. 2, 2023. Thank You!

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

LHS PRIDE AT VETERANS PARADE: JROTC Cadets proudly represented LHS at the Veterans Day parade, showcasing their discipline and respect. Great job!

All Rights reserved.

IN DECEMBER · Take a break. · Go online and register for fastweb.com, or look up scholarships during the holiday break. · Apply for FAFSA or get to know it. · Checkout the scholarships and updates on Latino Lubbock's Education page, 14

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 15

Anniversary/Wedding/Quinceañera/Birthday Announcements

¡Felicidades! Congratulations!

ESTACADO MATADORS: The 2023 Matador football season came to an end November 25th. They had a great season with 10 wins! Congratulations to Coach Blaylock, and the other EHS coaches, and Matadors! "Thank-you to our cheerleaders, Pom, band, families, and community for their support." We are proud of you - from Latino Lubbock Magazine! (Photo by Estacado High School)

Anniversary Rufus & Julia Carrillo, 63rd as of Nov. 21, 1959

May you have an awesome day!

Purchase tickets at

buddyhollyhall.com Page 16

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Christy Martinez-Garcia December 2nd!

May God continue to bless you on your special day and every day!

¡Feli c i da des !

C on gr a tula ti o n s !

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Maria Ojeda Lara December 17, 1971

NEW DEAL LIONS: New Deal fell to #4 Stratford 53-16 ending a solid season for the Lions. The Lions are still proud of becoming AREA CHAMPIONS and are grateful to their coaches, players, cheerleaders, pom squad, the band, families, and community for their support! Congratulations from Latino Lubbock Magazine!

(Photo by New Deal High School)

Anniversary Fernando and Suzy Salas, 59th as of November 28, 1964

Anniversary, birthday, or special occasion photos may be submitted online by the 18th of each month, along with payment at www.latinolubbock. net/specialtyads. THE FEE IS $25. Please submit photo, name, number of years, and wedding date. Call (806)792-1212 for more info, or email us at news@latinolubbock.net

Christy Martinez-Garcia Cast as Nutcracker Mother Ginger

Christy other is coming home for the of Ballet Lubbock’s Annual NutM holidays. Fans of The Nut- cracker performance. It is truly participated cracker — and even anyone who one of our highlights during the in a special has a tangential knowledge of the holiday stage production — likely recognize the larger-than-life figure of Mother Ginger. In countless productions across the globe, her circus tent-like skirt smuggles in a troupe of child dancers in one of the highlights of each performance.

Ballet Lubbock makes the flamboyant experience even more exciting by inviting performers who, regardless of their gender, are well-known around Lubbock.

Now a holiday classic, The Nutcracker ballet was originally based on the 1816 book, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, written by E.T.A. Hoffman.

For Ballet Lubbock's 45th annual production of The Nutcracker, ballet Lubbock has cast six area community leaders as Mother Ginger.

Among them will be Christy Martinez-Garcia, Publisher of Latino Lubbock Magazine!

“I’m super excited to be a part

holiday season,” said MartinezGarcia who incidentally is the first Hispanic to ever be cast to the role in the Lubbock production.

"I'm thankful to Nicholas Dragga, former Ballet Lubbock’s Executive Director for the invitation.

We will miss him," she said explaining that he stepped down, to become the next Executive Director of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.

Martinez-Garcia added that she and the other five member of Mother Ginger will all be part of choreography by Ballet Lubbock's Yvonne Racz Key, but these guest stars won't have to worry much about the steps. The scaffolded dress is so huge that their feet will not touch the stage, so all the dancing and acting is done from the waist up. The Christmas Orchestra will play the famous Tchaikovsky score, which includes Christmas classics like the "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy" and the simply dubbed "March."

Read us online at www.latinolubbock.net

performance on November 29th, and will also be on stage on December 10th at 2 p.m. during the matinee.

Performances are scheduled December 1-3, and December 8-10th.

This year, Ballet Ballet Hispánico of New York will also participate in the production.

Make plans to join us for this beloved holiday tradition in 2023!

Tickets are on sale NOW at buddyhollyhall.com! Prices range from $15 to $120.

All performances will be at The Buddy Holly Hall. Clear back policy enforced. Contact The Buddy Holly Hall Box Office at boxoffice@buddyhollyhall.com or call (806) 792-8339 for more information.

Sabor Hispano

ON YOUR FEET!

Broadway Show to Premiere in LBK

ickets are now on sale for ON A HIT!” and The New York Times on your feet from start to finish!

Show times are Fri., January 12, T YOUR FEET! the inspiring cheering, “The very air in the room true story about heart, heritage and seems to vibrate in this undeni- 2023: 8 pm; Sat., January 13, 2023: two people who believed in their talent—and each other—to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Now their story is an all-new exhilarating original musical winning the hearts of critics and audiences alike, with the Chicago Tribune declaring “IT’S

ably crowd-pleasing musical!” ON YOUR FEET! features some of the most iconic songs of the past quarter-century, including “Rhythm is Gonna Get You,” “Conga,” “Get On Your Feet,” “Don’t Want To Lose You Now,” “1-2-3” and “Coming Out of the Dark.” Prepare to be

Messiah,” performed by the Lubbock Chamber Orchestra, premieres December 16th at 7:30 p.m. at The Buddy Holly Hall of Performing Arts and Sciences.

Experience the musical rite of the holiday season with Handel’s epic oratorio, brought to life by the power and beauty of choral music,

dition is conductor Dr. Eric Allen.

In addition to his work with the Lubbock Chamber Orchestra, Allen serves as Associate Professor of Music and Associate Director of Bands at the Texas Tech University School of Music.

Vocal soloists for this performance include soprano Amy Ow-

2 pm; at 8 pm; and on Sun., January 14, 2023: 1 pm.

Performances will be at The Buddy Holly Hall. Clear back policy enforced. Contact The Buddy Holly Hall Box Office at boxoffice@ buddyhollyhall.com or call (806) 792-8339 for more information.

Lubbock Symphony Presents “Handel’s Messiah” he most-beloved concert of featuring some of the most impact- ens, mezzo-soprano Quinn Patrick Ankrum, tenor Eric Reiger, and T the season for Lubbock Sym- ful choral passages ever written.

Joining LSO for this holiday tra- bass Gerald Dolter. Adding to the phony Orchestra (LSO), “Handel’s

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

HONORING OUR VETERANS: Members of the Los Hermanos Familia (LHF) took time to pose for a photo. In addition to organizing the event with the Purple Hearts #0900, Los Hermanos Familia distributed 300 "A Proud Veteran Lives Here" yard signs to demonstrate their support to area Veterans. The 2024 Veterans Parade is set for Nov. 9, 2024. To learn more about LHF visit www.loshermanosfamilia.org

excitement of this collaboration, the Lubbock Chamber Orchestra is delighted to be joined by The First United Methodist Church (FUMC) Chancel Choir along with members of The Lubbock Chorale.

Tickets start at $25. For more information, call (806) 762-1688 or visit LubbockSymphony.org.

All Rights reserved.

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 17

Faith & Religion - Fe y religion

Annual Local World Youth Day

he Catholic Church celebrates (cf. Rom 12:12).

T the lives of its young people These words mark the beginning annually. This celebration takes of a two-year cycle of messages

ST. JOSEPH'S LUBBOCK VETERAN'S MASS: The mass in honor of veteran's at St. Joseph's Lubbock has been held annually for a number of years. (Photo by St Joseph's Church)

THANKSGIVING MEAL 2023 BY ST ELIZABETH'S WOMEN'S ORGANIZATION: Fr. John along with the St. Elizabeth's Women's Organization served a Thanksgiving meal at The Raider Catholic event, which was a success! They served almost 150 plates. Great job ladies and gentleman from Latino Lubbock Magazine!

place on multiple levels, often on the local stage in towns, parishes and dioceses, leading up to the international World Youth Day celebration that takes place every 2-4 years.

The Jubilee of Youth and Young Adults in 2025 is a chance for pilgrims around the world to come together with young people from every continent to pray, worship, and celebrate their Catholic faith.

The Annual Celebration of Young People, which takes place every year on the Feast of Christ the King, are celebrations to strengthen communities, and, through the use of shared scriptural themes, help prepare the Church for its major international gatherings, the next of which will be the Jubilee of Young People.

Pope Francis marks the beginning of a two-year cycle on the theme of hope that will prepare young people for the Jubilee of 2025, which will be centered upon St. Paul's words to the Romans, "Rejoicing in hope"

addressed to young people, all connected by the common thread of hope that is the theme of Jubilee 2025: "Pilgrims of Hope."

These messages will accompany the youth on their journey to celebrate the Jubilee of Young People in Rome in 2025.

In his message, Pope Francis reminds young people that they are "the joyful hope of a Church and of a humanity always on the move"; he suggests meditating together on joy and hope, which flow from the Paschal mystery; and reminds them that this hope “is no facile optimism, no placebo for the credulous: it is the certainty, rooted in love and faith, that God never abandons us”.

On December 2, 2023, the Diocese of Lubbock's Annual Local World Youth Day will have a pilgrimage through Plainview.

Youth in 6-12th grade are invited to particpate. Contact your PCL or parish youth leaders to register.

Forward in Chris

receiving gifts and rejoice consid- knock at the ering the gift, but do we rejoice in door. It was the giver of the gift? When we can his father, appreciate the giver, we can enjoy and he had just returned the gift at a whole new level.

The Bible says in Romans 8:32, from South“He that spared not his own Son, east Asia. didn’t but delivered him up for us all, He how shall he not . . . freely give us ask, “Daddy, what did all things”?

God is the Giver of the gift. The you bring me?” He threw his capability of the donor usually es- arms around his father’s neck and timates the value of the gift. We said, “Oh, Daddy, this is the best don’t usually think of a person as Christmas present I’ve ever had!” a gift, but personal relationships Consider the giver of the gift this are the most valued and cherished year and enjoy the beauty of His gifts of all. But the Bible teaches gift! CHRIST! that God gave a Person as a gift to Ramirez is the Campus Pasevery one of us, and that Person is Joshua tor of the Lubbock Dream Center and Jesus Christ. has been in ministry for 32 years.

One day a six-year-old boy in Latino Lubbock Magazine is a Christian owned business

YOUTH LEADERS: The St. Joseph's Church youth are very active and have served their church in many capacities preparing for the future leadership in the church. Posing are a few of the students preparing for the holiday festivities. (Photo by St Joseph's Church.)

Page 18

hrist is the true reason for a southern anC this season! I was just think- town a ing this morning how we all love swered

Church Bulletins CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL Join Saint Anthony of Padua Church in Anton (401 Maurer Ave. Anton, Texas 79313), on December 16, from 2 – 8 p.m., for a Winter Wonderland with great food, games, and activities, live entertainment, and live Nativity Scene!

Vendors will be selling handmade, unique crafts! Join to shop or as a vendor. For information email ace2195@hotmail.com with “Christmas Festival Question” in the subject line.

ENGAGED ENCOUNTER WEEKENDS The Diocese of Lubbock Office for Marriage & Family Life announces the schedule for 2024: January 26 -28 in English; April 5 – 7 in English and Spanish; June 7 -9 in English and Spanish; and October 4 -6 in English. Updated registration information will be available at catholiclubbock.org/FamilyLife.html.

DEVOTION TO THE SACRED HEART OF JESUS Join Sacred Heart Church in Plainview for this First Friday devotion each month, from 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. for Holy Hour and Confession. Visit catholiclubbock.org/Calendar.html DEVOTION TO THE IMMACULATE HEART OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Join Sacred Heart Church in Plainview for this First Saturday devotion each month, at 8:30 a.m. for a celebration of Mass followed by prayer of the Rosary. Visit catholiclubbock.org/Calendar.html.

GRIEFSHARE AT SAINT JOHN THE BAPTIST CHURCH The journey of grief is a painful process. If you are grieving the death of a loved one or friend, we would like to encourage you to attend the special seminar and support group.

Register at https://www.griefshare.org/ groups/172104 MARRIAGE MYSTAGOGY PODCAST The Office of Communications and Office of Marriage & Family Life – A Diocese of Lubbock Podcast. Deacon Adrian and Dr. Rosalinda Jimenez discuss the mysteries of marriage listen at soundcloud. com/catholiclubbock ONLINE SAFE ENVIRONMENT TRAINING Parish volunteers & staff remember you can take your safe environment training through the diocese’s website at www.CatholicLubbock.org/SafeEnvironment.html LAS ESTACIONES Presented by Our Lady of Grace Church for persons 60 years and older, meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month, 10 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Join for prayer, fun and fellowship.

BIBLE STUDY AT OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CHURCH Father Piña’s Bible Study in English will be held on Wednesdays, at 7 pm. at 1120 52nd St. El Estudio Bíblico en Español con Emilio Abeyta estará los Miércoles, a las 7pm.

Special - Faith/Fe

La Morenita

T he S ig n ific a n e o f L a Vi rg e n de Guadal upe

BY CHRISTY MARTINEZ-GARCIA FOR LATINO LUBBOCK MAGAZINE

he color of her skin stands out, neither pale like the Spaniards, nor dark like the indigenous, she is a mestiza, a mixed-blood. This identified her with completely with the New World, affirming the uniqueness of both Spanish and Indigenous culture and presenting herself as the link between the two as their mother.

She stood with the sun at her back and the moon at her feet, traditional imagery associated with the Woman of the Apocalypse (Rev 12:1). To the Aztecs, this symbolized her power over the blood-thirsty Sun god Huitzilopochtli and the lunar, feathered serpent, Quetzalcoatl. This showed a new path to cosmological harmony without human sacrifice, a radical new conception of the universe.

Beneath her feet is an angel with jewel-colored eagle wings. The eagle in Aztec culture was a herald of civilization and the symbolic conveyor of the Aztec’s sacrificial offerings to the gods. This eagle-winged Angel is a herald of a new civilization and the carrier of the new and ultimate sacrifice in Christ the redeemer. The eaglewinged angel shifted the religious orientation of the Aztecs, instead of striving to touch divinity, this eagle-winged angel brings God to them. This connects to Juan Diego’s indigenous name, Cuauhtlatoatzin which means ‘one who speaks like an eagle’, this humble man was the messenger and herald of this new civilization.

She is pregnant. The black sash is normally worn at the waist by Aztec women is worn higher up during pregnancy.

The stars on her veil map the positions of the constellations in the sky at the time of the apparition.

The blue-green color was a special color reserved for Aztec emperors and divinity. The rich pink of her tunic represents the earth.

The meeting of the veil and tunic in the hands of the angel represent a cosmic harmony from which new-life will come forth. The miraculous image was instituted on

T

the Winter Solstice, a significant day for the Aztecs and also in European Christianity. The Winter Solstice was the shortest day of the year, from which point the days would begin to lengthen. It was symbolic of rebirth and new life.

Her tunic is covered with gold flowers that were much more than decoration; they were symbols representing words and concepts in Nahutal.

The most significant is the Jasmine flower. This simple fourpetal flower represented the highest, single divine being, Ometetol, who did not concern himself with the affairs of humanity.

This flower is positioned over her womb, identifying her child as divine and more radically, this remote, omnipotent being is now reachable by any human being who delivers himself to humanity through his mother. Our Lady of Guadalupe speaks of her Son in the same titles attributed to Ometetol.

The eight-petaled flower appears eight times and represents the planet Venus. The movement of Venus was a significant measure in the Aztec calendar which by the time of the conquest, had become inaccurate and often was in opposition to the solar measurements. The presence of both the sun and Venus with neither dominating the other represents a new cosmological harmony and peace.

The large flower clusters represent a new communal concept in Nahutal. The large triangle blossom represents ‘hill’ and the long curved stem ‘water’ which together, represent the concept of nation or civilization. These particular glyphs were highly significant symbols, mountains and rivers were the most essential geographic features necessary for human life. When the flower cluster is turned upside down, it becomes a human heart and arteries, representing sacrifice in an entirely new way, in which a divine heart and blood, not a human one carries the sacrificial burden in love.

Her posture indicates a profound humility, pointing towards some-

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

one to whom she prays. This is indicated in her clasped hands and down-turned gaze, a gesture understood by both cultures. Significantly for the Aztecs, her entire body is in motion. Her weight is on one foot with the other knee bent in a dance-step position, which was the highest form of prayer for the Aztecs.

THE LOCAL PROCESSION In Lubbock Hundreds of area Catholic faithful from the Diocese of Lubbock will gather on Sunday, December 10. The procession line-up will be at a new location - at Stubbs Park off 36th & Ave. L. Buses will run from Our Lady of Guadalupe to the park starting at 2 p.m. The procession commences South on Ave. L through the residential neighborhood to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Jamaica Grounds, 1120 52nd St. A Rosary on the Our Lady of Guadalupe Jamaica Grounds will follow the procession.

All are invited to walk with us in prayer and thanksgiving to our holy Mother Mary.

Church Banners are welcome for each church prepared by various groups including the Guadalupanas and the Guadalupanos, some will feature the Joyful Mysteries of the Holy Rosary and some will feature a girl who will play the role of the Virgen and a boy who will play Juan Diego.

Members of the Guadalupanas participate in the annual procession in her honor during which they pray the Rosary as they journey from the designated location in Lubbock to the parish church to serenade her, while Matachines-“Indigenous Dancers.”

Mass will be celebrated immediately after the procession.

Following the celebration of the Mass, the roses will blessed for families to take home. A reception after the mass will conclude festivities.

DÍA DE LA VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE Annually, on Dec. 12, Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe (The Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe), celebrations and processions take

All Rights reserved.

place beginning early at dawn, weaving indigenous dances and traditions into the worship of the Virgen.

Thousands of devout worshippers make pilgrimages to the Basilica of the Virgen de Guadalupe in northern Mexico City. They view the image of the Virgen on Juan Diego’s blanket and worship with Catholics from around the world. Pilgrims also visit the shrine that was built on the hillside where Juan Diego first saw the vision.

Celebration of the Patroness of the Americas and Empress of Latin America & Protectress of Unborn Children: Title given by Holy Father John Paul the Great will be held in Lubbock at the following churches on December 12th: ▪ Our Lady of Guadalupe starting with Las Mañanitas at 6:30 a.m. and mass at 7 a.m.

▪ St. Joseph Church ~ Las Mañanitas at 6 a.m.; mass at 7 a.m.

▪ Our Lady of Grace ~ Las Mañanitas & Mass at 6 a.m.

The women's group referred to as las Guadalupanas have formed wherever Catholics have established their faith.

La Sociedad’s duties culminate each year on December 12th, the Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. In preparation for her Feast Day, La Sociedad Guadalupana prays the Rosary and a novena on the nine days leading up to her Feast Day. On December 12th, in the a.m. new members are installed. Serenades, like Las Mañanitas, are sung in praise to La Virgen.

For more information, please call (806) 763-0710.

Source: CathFamily

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 19

Veteran & First Responder Affairs

Veterans Cemetery

Ground Breaking Held in LBK

eterans and families of those to visit them.

V who have served were honored Veterans will need to register with a long-awaited groundbreaking themselves at the West Texas State

PARADE GRAND MARSHALL: Benny Guerrero served as the 2023 Grand Marshall. Congratulations from Latino Lubbock Magazine! Thank you for your service.

FEMALE VETERANS PARTICIPATE IN VETERAN PARADE: Some femal Veterans participated in the Veteran's Day Parade held Nov. 11, 2023. Thank you for your support!

Merry Christmas! y ¡Feliz Navidad!

The offices of Latino Lubbock Magazine (LLM) will be closed from Dec. 24th to Jan. 1st. Normal office hours, as well as Jan. distribution of LLM, will resume on Jan. 2, 2023. Thank You!

for the West Texas State Veterans Cemetery The project was led by veterans as well as local, state and federal lawmakers. It was also made possible by more than $15 million in funding from the Department of Veteran Affairs and over $10 million in funding from the Texas General Land Office.

With the new cemetery, veterans can not only lay to rest at home, but families of veterans don’t have to worry about driving hours at a time

Veterans Cemetery.

Registration can be done through the VA Website under the “burials” tab. Veterans should register for the Texas State Veterans Cemetery at Abilene and then transfer to the Lubbock Veteran’s Cemetery once the cemetery is finished in the summer of 2025.

The cemetery, located at 4614 E. 50th St., which will be complete with a memorial walk and scattering garden, is anticipated to be completed in late 2024.

Programs (MVP) cut the ribbon on the new Military & Veterans Tribute Walk and Wall of Honor.

The Military Wall of Honor, located on the east side interior wall of Memorial Circle, recognizes eight honorees who were killed in action, distinguished themselves on the field of battle or other heroic acts that earned them distinction.

The Military & Veterans Tribute Walk, located on the grassy area adjacent to the Pfluger Fountain east side exterior comprises a brick

The new installation at Memorial Circle joins a longstanding tradition.

Originally dedicated in 1948 after the end of World War II, Memorial Circle started as a place to remember those who “brought honor to college and country.”

The names of Texas Tech alumni who fought in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, the Iraqi and Afghanistan wars and others can be found at Memorial Circle.

Veteran & Military Connection DATES TO REMEMBER ▪ Dec. 7, 2023 – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day ▪ Dec. 13 – National Guard Birthday ▪ Dec. 16 – National Wreaths Across America Day ▪ Dec. 20 - Space Force birthday PURPLE HEART SOUTH PLAINS OF TEXAS CHAPTER MEETINGS 3rd Saturday at 110 a.m., at American Legion, 6628 66th St, in Lubbock. For more info call Steve Oien at (707) 592-4598.

VETERAN SUICIDE HOTLINE If you know someone is actively considering suicide, call the veterans' suicide hotline at 1 (800) 273-8255. It's a service rendered by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

TTU Cuts Ribbon on Military & Veterans Tribute Walk and Wall exas Tech Military & Veterans and paver walkway dedicated to T Alumni Network (MVN) and all service members who attended HELP OUR MILITARY HEROES Texas Tech Military & Veterans Texas Tech.

DISABILITY.GOV This website gives information on disability programs and services. It helps find information on how to apply for disability benefits, find a job, get health care or pay for accessible housing. www.disability.gov is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing the military wounded with fully equipped handicapped vehicles. www. helpourmilitaryheroes.org

Important Numbers

Teléfonos de interés para los veteranos

Thank You From The Veteran's Parade 2023 Sponsors & Participants

Los Hermanos Familia with the Purple Hearts 0900 hosted their 7th annual Veteran’s Day Parade in Lubbock on Saturday, November 11. The theme for this year’s parade was “Generations of Patriotism”. Collectively, advocates and participants of all backgrounds united to pay tribute to Veterans and all who have served the community. Make plans to be a part of next year's parade will be held on Saturday, November 9, 2024. For more information, visit www.loshermanosfamilia.org/get-involved.

Información y referencia

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Page 20

SUICIDE & CRISIS LINE 9-8-8 U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs 806-472-3420 Lubbock Vet Center 806-792-9782 or 877-927-8387 2-1-1 Information and Referral Latino Lubbock Magazine 806-792-1212

Thank you for your service! ¡Gracias por su servicio!

Home/casa Neighborhood News & Resources NORTH LUBBOCK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION will resume its monthly meeting January 2024. Thank you to all who have participated in our monthly meetings. We look forward to bringing you the latest updates that impact our lives in our city.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

HEART OF LUBBOCK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETING is the 2nd Monday, of each month, 7 p.m., at the Hope Shalom, 2005 Ave. T. 2-1-1 NON-EMERGENCY QUESTIONS 2-1-1 is a free help line answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which will link you to health and community services.

NEXTDOOR allows you to keep up with your neighborhood at https://nextdoor.com/ news_feed/ 3-1-1 CITIZENS CALL CENTER provides citizens with direct access to NonEmergency City Services.

SOUTH PLAINS FOOD BANK To receive a food box, you need to qualify through one of our partnering agencies and receive a voucher. You can call 2-1-1 or visit www.211texas.org to find a local agency that is giving our vouchers. Bring all documentation needed to see if you qualify.

DO YOU HAVE A STORY? NEWS? Submit your story online at www.latinolubbock. net/have-a-story For more info call (806)7921212.

Important Numbers for Senior Citizens

Teléfonos de interés para la tercera edad

AARP: 888-687-2277 Social Security: 800-772-1213 Medicare: 800-633-4227 TX Area Agency on Aging: 800-252-9240 2-1-1 Information and Referral Información y referencia

3-1-1 Information and Referral Información y referencia

4-1-1 Voting Information

Información de votación

Latino Lubbock Magazine (806)792-1212 news@latinolubbock.net www.latinolubbock.net

Heat Your Home

Tips for a Safe, Warm Winter

ost injuries from fires involv- as paint, gas cans and matches, M ing heating equipment oc- away from the heater. curred when the user was asleep 7. Unless the heater is designed or when a child under 10 was left unsupervised with the equipment, according to data released in September 2009, from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Portable electric heaters should be used according to the manufacturers' instructions so that injuries can be avoided. Follow these simple and important safety tips when using portable electric heaters: 1. Read the manufacturer's instructions and warning labels before using your portable electric heater.

2. Do not leave an operating heater unattended and always unplug heater when not in use.

3. Do not use your heater with a power strip or extension cord. Overheating of a power strip or extension cord could result in a fire.

4. String out cords on top of area rugs or carpeting. Placing anything, including furniture, on top of the cord may damage it.

5. Keep combustible materials, such as furniture, pillows, bedding, papers, clothes and curtains at least three feet from the front of the heater and away from the sides and rear.

Do not block heater's air intake or outlet.

6. Keep flammable materials, such

for outdoor use or in bathrooms, do not use in damp or wet areas.

Parts in the heater may be damaged by moisture.

8. Check periodically for a secure plug/outlet fit. If the plug does not fit snugly into the outlet or if the plug becomes very hot, the outlet may need to be replaced.

Check with a qualified electrician to replace the outlet.

9. Unplug the heater when not in use by pulling the plug straight out from the outlet. Inspect the heater's cord periodically. Do not use a heater with a damaged cord.

10. Do not plug any other electrical device into the same outlet as your heater. This could result in overheating.

11. Heaters should be kept away from children and not be placed in a child's room without supervision.

12. Place heater on a level, flat surface. Only use heater on table tops when specified by the manufacturer. Do not place your heater on furniture. It could fall, dislodging or breaking parts in the heater.

For more information or to order a free portable heater safety brochures in English and Spanish online at www.heatersafety.org or by calling (888) 785-SAFE.

PROJECT HUB CITY SMILES: The car club community, solo riders, along with sponsors & the spectators came together for their annual toy drive and car show! They will be distributing Christmas gifts on Christmas Day! Thanks for a collective effort!

HONORING VETERANS: Some members of the Hispanic Association of Women participated in the 7th Annual Veterans Parade of Lubbock. Way to go, ladies!

En Aquellos Días…

eliz Navidad…..¿otra vez? Pa- cuenta nos dábamos de lo pobre que F rece que apenas estábamos estábamos. No extrañábamos lo celebrando el año nuevo y ya que nunca habíamos tenido. estamos haciendo lo otra vez. Y apenas acabe de pagar las comparas del año pasado.

En aquellos días los chiquitos nos conformábamos con muñequitas y ropita, trastecitos para cominear, pelotas a mis hermanos, calcetines, guantes para las manos, etc. Ahora ya no hay de eso. Ahora quieren celulares nuevos, juegos electrones, pantalones todos descoloridos y todos rotos. Si yo hubiera sabido todo esto cuando yo era teenager, hubiera alzado esos pantalones. Pero para nosotros lo que recibíamos era lo mejor. Ni

Copyright 2023 by Latino Lubbock Magazine

Ahora de adultos gastamos todo en los nietos/nietas, sobrinos/sobrinas.

Lo que si extraño es que ya no nos reúnenos como antes. Ahora todos tienen sus reuniones con sus familiares en sus propias casas, haciendo memorias de sus familias. Gracias a Dios por teléfonos celulares porque cada familia pueden gravas sus reuniones y compartir con los demás. Feliz Navidad todos mis familiares y amigos.

Editor's Note: Rosario Montez Smith grew up en un rancho in Levelland, and enjoys sharing her memories of living in rural West Texas.

All Rights reserved.

December/deciembre 2023, Vol. 17, Issue 12

Page 21

Memorials

Mike “Miguel” Castro, 57, passed away on Sunday, November 5, 2023. He was born on June 16, 1966, to Juan and Fidencia Castro. Mike was a loving father, and awesome mentor, who was blessed with three wonderful children. He loved the Lord, NASCAR, motorcycle racing, fishing, and hunting. He was blessed to have numerous nieces and nephews that adored their “Uncle Mike”. Mike was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army and a proud generator tech specialist who was one of the few who had special certification in this region. He loved his career of over 20 years with Prices Repair.

Those left to cherish his memory are his children, Michael Ryan Castro, Marquee Teutsch, and Tristian Castro; sisters, Mary Rodriguez, Connie Fuentes, Julia Castro, Melissa Perez and husband, Mike, Melinda Olivares, and husband, Rick, Vivian Solis, and Michelle Lopez; brothers, Daniel Castro and wife, Josie, David Castro, and wife, Silvia, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Juan E. Castro; mother, Fidencia S. Castro; sister, Genoveva Perez, Diana Castro, Janie Castaneda, Dianita Castro; brother, Carlos “Charlie” Castro; niece, Terry Perez; nephew, Eric Rodriguez.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil ~ Psalm 23:4

Veronica Amanda Flores, a lifelong resident of Lubbock passed away on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at the age of 44. She was born on November 3, 1979, to Elias and Lucinda (Garcia)Flores.

Veronica enjoyed watching movies, reading books, and spending time with her family and grandchildren. Those left to cherish her memory are her children, Jacinda Vasquez, Angelina Vasquez, and Andrew Perez; mother, Lucinda Flores, best friend and longtime partner, Andrew Perez; Siblings, Tammie (Gabriel) Loya, Elias (Crystal) Flores, Julian (Denise) Flores, Stephanie (Wes)DeLeon, Leslie (Dustin) Flores, and David (Lorene) Flores; two grandchildren, 21 nieces and nephews, two great nieces and one great nephew.

NOTE: American Flag displays that the individual was a veteran.

Page 22

Guadalupe "Lupe" Ortiz, 77, of Lubbock, passed away on Nov 22, 2023. She was born on June 26th, 1946 to Francisco and Eufemia Flores in Lubbock, Texas. She met the love of her life Joe P. Ortiz, and they were married on October 17, 1970. Lupe worked for the Texas Workforce and was a beautician. She was a member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Francisco and Eufemia; a sister, Linda "Chata" Flores; and a niece, Josie Masaros.

She is survived by her husband, Joe P. Ortiz; her daughter, Michelle Ortiz; her son, Chris (Naomi) Ortiz; her grandchildren, Mandi, Joey, Crispin, Tytiana; greatgrandson, Luka; sisters, Connie (Ernesto) Hernandez, Julia (Joe Gonzales) Barron, Janey (Richard Parra) Brito; her brother; Raymond (Janie) Flores; and several nieces and nephews.

Raymond Rojas Alonzo, 76, passed away on November 13, 2023, in Lubbock, TX. He was the husband of Maria Briseno Alonzo. They married on November 8, 1988, and shared 35 years together. He was born on May 30, 1947, in Rosebud, TX to Juan G. Alonzo and Margarita Alonzo. He attended Lubbock Cooper High School and Cursillos de Cristiandad. He was employed at The Garage and worked as a Car Salesman. He was a member of St. John the Baptist. He enjoyed Playing Golf, watching his beloved Dallas Cowboys, and playing the Lottery.

Mr. Alonzo is preceded in death by his parents, Juan G. Alonzo and Margarita Alonzo, and by Zackery Andrew Villegas.

Raymond is survived by his children, Lisa Villegas Perez (Gino), Doroteo Dee Alonzo, Johny R. Alonzo (Lisa) and Benjamin V. Alonzo (Erica); Stepchildren, Andy Gutierrez (Kim) and Sonia Gonzalez; siblings, Josie Campos (Raul [passed]), Olivia Esquibel (Tony), Pauline Moreno (Alfred), Margarita Barron (Sylvester), Mary Wyatt (Dennis), Tina Brookover (John) and Anthony Billy Alonzo (Carol); 22 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

“They that love beyond the world cannot be separated by it. Death cannot kill what never dies.” ~ Williams Penn

Johnny Joe Martinez, Feb. 17, 1962 to Dec. 22, 2011 We continue to miss you and think of you.

We love you and you are forever, in our hearts.

Always on our minds and in our hearts.

Love Your Family & Friends

Eloisa Guajardo, 93 of Lubbock, passed away on November 23, 2023. She was born on April 28, 1930, in Ingleside, Texas to the late Trino and Refugia Ortiz. In 1945, she married Jimmie Guajardo treasuring 34 years of a loving marriage before he preceded her in death in 1979.

Her life was characterized by love, devotion, and unwavering faith. Eloisa found immense joy in attending church when she could and drew daily inspiration from reading her Bible.

She is survived by her daughter Alice Saenz; two brothers Emilio Ortiz and Raymond Ortiz; a sister Patsy Gonzales; 12 grandchildren, 35 great-grandchildren, and a host of great great-great-grandchildren all of Lubbock. She is preceded in death by her husband Jimmie Guajardo; a son named Jimmie Guajardo Jr.; two daughters named Dora Licon and Dorothy Salazar; and a grandson Ben Licon Jr. God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ~ Matthew 5:4

Priscilla "Prissy" Marie Lara, 43 of Lubbock, passed on November 21, 2023.

She was born July 26, 1980, in Lubbock to Samuel C. Lopez and Linda Castillo Garcia; on November 20, 1998, she married Richard Luna Lara cherishing 25 years of marriage.

Prissy had a deep love for books and spent countless hours engrossed in reading.

Prissy is survived by her loving husband Richard Lara Sr.; sons Marcial Lara and Richard (Mary Grace) Lara; daughters LeTricia (John) Gonzalez, April (Mitchel) Skillman, Danyel Lara, Gabrielle (Terrance) Wade, Thalia Lara, and Neko Lara all of Lubbock; her parents Samuel C. Lopez of Lubbock and Linda Castillo Garcia of Austin; brothers Ismael Castillo and Jerry Garcia, both of Austin; sisters Jasmine Garcia and Melynda Trevino both from Austin; 19 grandchildren.

Santiago Diego Martinez, 24, passed away on November 4, 2023.

He was born on June 17, 1999, in Lubbock Texas. Santiago began working for Walmart in the electronics department and worked his way up to becoming a team leader.

Those left to cherish his memory are his mother Pamela Avila Torres, step dad, Adam Torres, and his dad, Crispin Martinez; fur babies, Bunny, his cat and KodaBeau, his dog; siblings, Xavier D. Martinez, and Mercedes Torres, all of Lubbock; halfsisters, Estella Martinez, of Slaton, and Aprille Martinez of Pecos; nephew Aiden Martinez; grandparents, Diana Avila, Carmen Martinez, Hilarido and Mary Torres; great grandfather, Adan Avila, and several extended family members and friends.

Fr a n c i s c o “Frank” Rodriguez, 88, passed away November 6, 2023. Born on April 16, 1935, in Weslaco, Texas, he was the son of Celestino Rodriguez and Guadalupe Ortiz Rodriguez. Frank dedicated 33 years of loyal service to Texas Tech University, retiring as a Warehouse Foreman. He was an active member of Our Lady of Grace and served as a Guadalupano. Frank had a passion for landscaping and cherished moments spent with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his humor, his love of dancing, and, above all, his deep love and devotion to his family.

Frank is survived by his wife, Henrietta Rodriguez, and two daughters, Sylvia Henrickson (Steve Henrickson) and Sonia Rodriguez (Michael Perez). Frank was a loving stepfather to Janie Hilburn, Angelo, and Felix Adame. Frank was blessed with 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He also had numerous nieces and nephews and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Celestino and Guadalupe, as well as his sisters, Clifofas Rodriguez, Otila Guajardo, Guadalupe “Lupita” Garibay, Gumecinda “China” Torres, Janie Olivares, and his brother Isidro Rodriguez.

Alice Martinez, 71, passed away on November 14, 2023. She was born June 25th, 1952, in Austin, TX to parents Eliso Davila and Catherine Reglado. She was married to Manuel Martinez in a bond of 33 years of marriage.

Alice's legacy lives through her daughters: Vanessa Flores, Veronica Davila, Trixie Dunning and Tracy Vasquez; 13 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren along with her siblings Lillie Baldovino, Rosa Guzman, Chris Guzman, Jesse Guzman, Robert Davila, Dora Davila, and Sylvia Davila; and 3 bonus daughters: Cindy Martinez, Marivel Martinez, and Erica Garcia along with 5 sons-in-law: Gilbert Flores, Dewayne Dunning, Fidel Duron, Santos Escobedo and Matthew Garcia and many nieces, nephews and loving friends Preceded in death by her parents Eliso Davila and Catherine Reglado, and siblings Frank Guzman, Beatrice Davila, and Richard Davila.

Rosie Garcia August 23, 1948 December 2, 2022 You were taken away to sson, but in our hearts you will remain forever. We love you and miss you and trust God, We know that one day we will reunite in Heaven, but for now we remember and cherish our memories of you always and forever.

Love your husband, Andy Garcia, son - Adrian Garcia and your grandchildren - Breana Garcia, and Adrian Jr.

Submit Memorials online at www.latinolubbock.net/specialtyads

In Loving Memory

Fidencia "Frances" Castro Dec. 27, 1928 to Jan 21, 2014

I miss you. I dream of you. I long for the day we reunite. Happy Birthday my darling grandmother!

Love Always, Christy MartinezGarcia In Memory of Monsignor Curtis T. Halfmann May 27, 1934 - December 2, 2012 There once was a flock that was lost and afraid It wandered around without direction for days.

But the Lord looked down with compassion from above and sent a good shepherd to lead them with love. He taught them about the blood of the Lamb and about the creator, the great I AM. Thank you for leading the flock Safely into God's Promised Land.

Another year, still a tear, remaining in our hearts near and dear. We miss you.

In Loving Memory on Your Birthday Julia Garcia 12/28/34 to 7/9/14 Hundreds of stars in the pretty sky, Hundreds of shells on the shore together, Hundreds of birds that go singing by, Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn, Hundreds of bees on the cotton flower, Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn, But only one mother the wide world over.

And you are mine. I miss you mom.

Love, Frank Garcia - your son

December Prayer

A PRAYER FOR TODAY Almighty God, I give honor and praise to express my joy for thy great love in the gift of thy Son, Jesus Christ. With a glad heart I wish all mankind "A merry Christmas," and may I ever remember, where the angels sang, "Peace on earth, good will toward men." Amen.

"Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. " ~ Isaiah 7:14

Pic

¡Merry Christmas, Feliz Navidad!

Meet Pico the bilingual gallo (rooster). He loves school, he likes to read, play outside and discover ways to have fun and make friends. Now it is time for Pico to enjoy the Christmas holiday with familia (family). His prima (cousin) is visiting from South Texas. Her name is Jita la Gallita (little hen). Together they will enjoy being with family, making tamales, signing Christmas Carols, and listening to cuentos (stories) about past Christmas memories.

The Gallo "Canciones" Jita likes singing Christmas Carols & to the Virgen de Guadalupe on Dec. 12th

"La Pinata"

There is always a piñata for the children filled with fruits, nuts, candies and small toys. One after another, blindfolded stick wielders swing wildly until one finally succeeds in breaking it. This custom originated in China, but Christianity added its own meanings. Although they now come in every form imaginable, the traditional piñata was spherical with seven conical protrusions trailing paper streamers which represented the Seven Deadly Sins. Its destruction symbolizes the defeat of Satan himself and the treats are the rewards of that moral victory.

"Making Tamales" Jita is ready to continue the family tradition at her their tamalada! Do you help make tamales with your family? Send pictures to news@latinolubbock.net

Copyright 2022 by Latino Lubbock Magazine.

All Rights reserved.

Kid's Activities Page

"Pico Claus" is ready to deliver gifts to boys and girls.

Miracles Christmas Parade

he 18th Annual Miracles Christmas participant in the parade. The parade is a T Parade is set for Saturday, December 9, United States Marine Toys For Tots event 2023, at 6 pm. The nighttime, lighted parade to gather unwrapped toys for needy children features Santa Claus and approximately 30 parade units, including more than 20 floats from area businesses and non-profit groups.

The parade is free of charge for spectators.

The parade route is down 34th Street starting at Avenue Q and going west to Indiana Avenue. Parade Chairman is Jason Davis and one of several Wrangler volunteers who produce and host the event.

This year’s parade theme is “Twinkle of Hope”. Groups and floats are asked to use as many lights as possible, with a minimum of 1,000 lights per vehicle. Our website, www.miraclesparade.com, has complete information about the parade, along with the downloadable application to be a

in this area. 2023 is the 76th Anniversary of the Toys For Tots in America.

The parade is open for local and area businesses to have a float or vehicles in the lighted parade as well as any non-profit groups, schools, families, and organizations.

The deadline for completed applications from participants is Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at 6:00pm. Visit website for documents. This is also the time for the mandatory meeting for all parade participants at the Sunset Family Life Building at 3631 34th Street.

Make plans to attend this fun and free event set for Saturday, December 9, 2023. Visit the parade website at www.miraclesparade.

Page 23

Our mission "Provide quality primary and preventative health care services to those in need."

Teamwork

Service

Our Services Adult Dental Adult Medical Behavioral Health Healthy Kid's Club Immunizations Limited Radiology Obstetrics & Gynecology Outreach Health Education

Pediatric Dental Pediatric Medical Prenatal Case Management Senior Care Sports Physicals Telehealth Visits Wellness / Texas Health Steps Women's Health

Find a CHCL Location Near You Main Clinic : 1610 5th Street / 806.765.2611 Chatman Community Health Center : 2301 Cedar Avenue / 806.749.0024 96 West : 2401 Fulton Ave # B / 806.776.4946 West Medical and Dental Clinic : 5424 19th Street, Suite 200 / 806.722.4453 Medical Office Plaza : 3502 9th Street, Suite 280 / 806.791.5537 Arnett Benson Medical and Dental Clinic : 3301 Clovis Road / 806.763.5557 Community Dental Clinic : 1826 Parkway Drive, Suite 500 / 806.687.6259 Parkway Community Health Center : 406 MLK Blvd / 806.767.9744

Excellence

Respect

Pediatric Providers

Shawn Walker, MD West Medical and Dental

Kyle Howard, MD Main Clinic

Malisa Akin, FNP West Medical and Dental

Karen Burke, FNP Main Clinic

Emily Zimmerman, FNP- C Main Clinic

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

CHCL accepts most insurance including: Private Insurance, Medicaid / Medicare, CHIP and Uninsured. Discounts are available on a sliding scale fee. Services will not be denied due to your inability to pay. Services that are not discounted are to be paid in full.

Call for an Appointment

806.765.2611

Or Register Online

chclubbock.org/onlineregistration