June 2011
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Volume 2 | Issue 6
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June 2011
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Features Table of Contents
Columns & Departments
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Summer is here!
It’s hard to believe that we are once again starting summer break. This is the time when we are all looking for fun and educational activities for children so they won’t spend their summer months idle-minded. In this issue, we bring you a variety of camps sponsored by Texas A & M International University where kids can learn new activities or even get a head-start on their studies. We also bring you summer events by Open Art. An amazing and creative place where kids (and adults) can learn to release their inner artist. In addition, two of our wonderful columnists joined forces to explore some of Laredo’s splash parks. They present us with an insightful and informative piece on six of Laredo’s splash parks. Don’t miss this amazing feature. Also in this issue, we celebrate ‘Mompreneurs’! Moms who inspire with their own unique ventures and vision. This celebration of Mompreneurs is an ongoing segment we present exclusively at Laredo Family Time Magazine. Enjoy reading about these inspiring women and how they are able to juggle family life with the tough world of business. And finally, our collaboration with Laredo Sports Wire News Network, brings us information on Laredo’s up and coming athletes...not just as they progress through the ranks in Laredo but after they graduate and move on to other colleges and universities. Stay on-track with local sport news and support our local athletes. Don’t forget to check our website for additional resources, calendar of events, business spotlight and much, much more.
Thank you again for reading and being a part of our amazing ‘Laredo Family’.
All the best,
Claudia Perez Rivas Editor-in-Chief Laredo Family Time Magazine
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Laredo Family Time Magazine Publisher
Rimar Publishing Group
Editor-in-Chief
Claudia Perez Rivas
crivas@laredofamilytimemagazine.com Advertising/Marketing Manager
Juan J. Martinez Jr.
juan@laredofamilytimemagazine.com Photographer
Guillermo A. Sosa
Calendar Editor
calendar@laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Sales
sales@laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Columnists
Patricia Driscoll Eric Ellman Gretchen Otto-Pimentel
Activities & Craft Columns
Veronica Ortega– Open Art Imaginarium of South Texas
Comments
info@laredofamilytimemagazine.com
Editorial Submission Guidelines Would you like to write for our Magazine? For editorial guidelines contact us at editor@laredofamilytimemagazine.com A submission does not guarantee publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Interested in advertising in Laredo Family Time Magazine? Contact out advertising department for more information. Laredo Family Time Magazine is published monthly by Rimar Publishing. Copyright ©2011. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of this publication. Mailing Address: Laredo Family Time Magazine P.O. Box 3735 Laredo, TX 78044
Laredo Sportswire News Publisher
Nuno Sciaraffa
Sports Editor
Elsa Garcia
Sports Analysts
Danny "The Soccer Guru" Perez—Soccer Mark Guerra Mike Hernandez—Basketball
Photojournalists
Nuno Sciaraffa Tere R. Tamez Alex Cano Website: www.lrdsportswire.com
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With family schedules full to the brim, it can often be challenging to find
Schedule a date and time - The best time to play is after dinner. If it's a school or work night, agree that homework and assignments will be finished so you can focus on the fun.
Build excitement with lunchbox invitations - Turn game night into a special event by making an invitation for each family member. Simply fold a piece of paper into a card and write "Are you game?" on the cover along with the date and time of your game night inside. Place the note into lunchboxes for kids to discover.
Family Life
quality time to spend together. One way to create a night of fun without distractions is by planning a family game night. Parenting expert and Family Adventure Mom, Deb Geigis Berry, offers tips for sharing sweet moments of family fun during game night:
Family and parenting expert Deb Geigis Berry, founder of FamilyAdventureMom.com plays Sorry! with her husband Bryan Berry, left, son Hudson, 9, and daughter Cady.
Sweeten Family Game Night - You can substitute playing pieces in games like Hasbro's SORRY! with different Hershey's Kisses Chocolates. Players can choose from chocolates in silver, gold, orange, purple, striped or polka-dotted foils. The iconic candy also makes the perfect treat when the game is over at the end of the night.
Pick a game that's new to your family - It may be the next family favorite! Be sure to designate one person as "Game Captain." That person will review the rules prior to game play and present them to each of the players at the start of the night.
Create a comfortable atmosphere and eliminate distractions - Why not play in your pajamas? Feeling comfortable boosts the enjoyment factor. Also be sure to turn off cell phones, televisions and other distracting devices during the event.
Elise Jones and her daughter Madeleine, 2, play Sorry! Family Game Night is a fun and interactive way to encourage kids to turn off the television and spend quality time as a family.
Present a door prize - When players eat a Hershey's Kisses Chocolate, have them roll up the wrapper into a ball and place it in a small clear jar or vase. At the end of the evening, have everyone guess the number of foil balls in the jar. After the official count, award the winner (closest to the correct answer) with a prize.
"Family game night is a fun and interactive way to encourage your kids to turn off the television and spend quality time together as a family," says Berry. "Everyone loves Hershey's Kisses Chocolates and incorporating the iconic candies is a simple way to help make your family's time together even more special and memorable."
For more game night ideas, visit www.kissesfamilygamenight.com.
Content courtesy of ARA
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by Patricia Driscoll
Hotel Breakfast With Toddlers. Yeah, Right! What follows is the description of a challenging morning where I attempted the impossible- to take my 2 and 3 year old to breakfast in a hotel restaurant by myself. We had escaped the Laredo heat for a little while and were vacationing up north. After speaking with a few of my friends, everyone seems to have a similar story: Traveling with toddlers is notoriously full of minor obstacles, normally surmountable. This particular morning, I was looking forward to a leisurely hotel breakfast with the two kids- the first un-rushed meal with real food after three days of aggressive mini-van roadtripping. More than the breakfast, I was really looking forward to a good cup of coffee.
Patricia Driscoll writes from Laredo, where she lives happily with her husband, two children, two cats, a millipede, three hermit crabs and the occasional domesticated scorpion
We went down the ―alligator‖ also known as the ―elevator‖. I found a table I could prop the kids at that allowed me full view of them while I hastily piled pancakes, eggs, oatmeal and cantoulope onto plates, thinking they might actually and uncharacteristically, eat some of it. The waiter brought chocolate milk and mini-wine glasses which I promptly returned with him. I asked for straws for the cartons. I did not know what a mistake that was until later.
After I brought the kids plates, I ran to the fruit stand and piled on some fruit for myself, and sprinted it back to the table. The kids were not eating, but were having a lot of fun with their milk cartons and straws, pulling them out and flicking chocolate milk at the businessemen and women around us. They experimented with how far they could tilt the milk into their mouths before the milk poured onto the table and themselves. So I rushed back each time I ventured to the omelet stand to give part of my order to clean up a mess and to threaten the chidren with ―NO MORE CHOCOLATE MILK!‖. I tried a time out in the neighboring lounge with one of them after a few screeching outbursts audible from the distant omelet line. And, once the chef had added the cheese to my much anticipated breakfast, the last step in this excruciating exercise, I looked over and saw my son had chosen that moment to discover the drawstring of his gymnastics shorts could stretch. It not only stretched, it stretched over his head and neck. When I looked over, I witnessed my son in a mild state of suffocation. So, for the fifteenth time, I ran to him to release the selfmade drawstring noose. I know some of our table neighbors blithely thought, ―that was the quietest that kid’s been all morning‖. All the while, judgmental people all around me cast scornful looks my way for my general lack of competence and total inefficiency with this whole kid situation. I thought for a moment, that a brief 5 years ago, any of these briefcased and manicured people could have been me, judging a mom for failure to control her rowdy kids in public. And, I marvelled at the profound irony and pain of karmic retribution. I sat down with my omelet. I took a bite. I still had not had coffee. So, I got up to get a carafe and a cup and I savored the caffeinated aroma that spilled into it. It was blissful. It would be good. And then, a blood curdling scream from a B-list horror movie eruped from our table. People spilled their coffee and dropped their forks. The wait staff cast empathetic looks my way while the manager’s eyes pleaded for me to have mercy on them and just leave. My son had screamed because, in the process of stabbing his batman with his chocolate milk straw, he had dropped the milk carton onto the floor. So, I grabbed my male child, and ushered my female child out of the restaurant. He clutched his impaled batman,straw sticking straight out of the abdomen, and I grabbed my key. My son was grasping for the floor as I held him, screaming, ‖MY CHOCIT MILK!!!!!!!!‖ His emotion evoked that scene in Cliffhanger where Sylvester Stallone couldn’t hold onto the woman he loved and she fell to her death at the bottom of the rocky chasm. In the whirlwind, the staff asked our room number so that they could charge this lovely breakfast. The most ridiculous thing, amidst the maelstrom, I couldn’t even remember what room we were in. So, they smiled in a way that was part sympathy and part annoyance, and they let me go. I would almost feel bad about not paying, but we really didn’t eat anything. But, there was the chocolate milk. So, I’ll be calling down to reception to pay any moment now- $25 for two chocolate milks, a whiff of coffee and one bite of an omelet. I’m taking a nap and strategizing how we’ll get through lunch. Read more from our columnist in her Critters & Crayons blog! http://crittersandcrayons.wordpress.com You may also follow her on Facebook: Critters and Crayons
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When the final school bell rings for summer break this year, many children will plan to come home and spend their three-month vacation in front of the television. However, by providing alternative activities that are still fun and exciting for kids, this summer can be more simulating and beneficial for your children.
Here are some suggestions for exciting activities to get kids away from the television and video games this summer:
Plan a fun family day each week and let your children be involved in the planning process. Some ideas you might consider are: a trip to a local park; a day at the pool; heading to a roller or ice skating rink; biking along a local trail or even arranging a treasure hunt around your neighborhood. By setting aside just one day every week for a family fun day, you'll not only be encouraging physical activity, but also family connections.
Form a local baseball, soccer, swimming or tennis team. If you have a lot of children in your neighborhood of the same age, encourage them to become part of a sports team. They don't have to be the best team, or the most talented athletes to have fun. It will take a little organization from you to get the team's practice and competition schedules planned, but the benefits of team playing and outdoor fun will far outweigh the work involved.
Encourage your children to become active in the community by getting involved in charity projects that you can work on together. A great cause for families to take part in is the Downy Touch of Comfort program, because it helps kids who are unable to go out and enjoy the summer. Through Downy fabric softener and Quilts for Kids Inc., you can create quilts for children who are hospitalized to give them a touch of comfort during their medical treatments. This program has already delivered 20,000 quilts to hospitalized children thanks to all the quilters who put their talent to good use.
To help out and put a smile on the face of a child in the hospital visit www.facebook.com/Downy, where you can learn more about the program. You and your child can get started on making a quilt from scratch with helpful patterns and tips found at www.downy.com.
Organize a talent show. Give the neighborhood children an opportunity to showcase their talents - whether it's dancing, singing, playing a musical instrument or even acting. Host the show one evening for the community, and then take it on the road to your neighboring community centers or a nursing home where residents will appreciate the young entertainers.
Don't just encourage your children to get out and be creative with their activities this summer - make sure you join in the fun. It will be a great bonding experience and you'll create special memories to look back on many years down the road.
Content courtesy of ARA
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By Tricia Driscoll & Gretchen Pimentel
Family Fun Alright- We did it- With much help from my friend, Gretchen (and at her suggestion, I must say), we visited each of the 6 alleged Laredo splash parks reported in the Laredo Morning Times. We didn't believe they existed. We've both lived in Laredo for awhile but still didn't know a thing about them, and discussion with a whole lotta moms seemed to show the same trend of water-fun ignorance. In a city with a heat index rivaling the ninth ring of Dante's Inferno during the Summer, not knowing about these places seems nearly unforgiveable. Turns out, they are not mythical- and they actually do exist! You'll notice there is no water splashing in any of the pics- This is because Laredo Parks and Leisure was serious when they said that they open in the Summer. Yes, I know it was nearly 115 F this week and it's not even June, but we'll have to wait to see what these places look like with frolicking kids and spurting water for another month. Also, please note- we aren't overly technical here and didn't break out a measuring tape so you'll find some loose metrics where we use terms like "relatively small" , "medium", "not a lot" or "unknown". Your opinion may differ when you visit and you are welcome to provide comments with your thoughts at www.crittersandcrayons.com We would love to hear from you! Here is the information that started us on our quest to find the six splash parks:
Azteca Splash Park at 100 Grant St. Dr. Cecilia “May” Moreno Splash Park at319 W. Lyon St. Farias Splash Park at 1600 Ortiz St. Fr. C. McNaboe Splash Park at 100 Rancho Viejo Drive Seven Flags Splash Park at 1508 Monterrey Loop Lafayette Splash Park at 1900 Lafayette St.
Cost: No fee! Hours of Operation: Tuesday through Sunday, 1 to 7 PM. Just open for the summer. Ages: All ages Special Instructions: Children must be supervised by parents. No animals. No food. No drink. There are no dedicated lifeguards. For more information, call (956) 794-1765 . For more info on Parks and Recreation Summer Aquatics offerings, see their link at: http:// www.cityoflaredo.com/information/aquatics.pdf www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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Father John C. Mcnaboe Park
AND HERE IS WHAT WE FOUND... My reviews of three splash parks (Azteca, Father C. Mcnaboe and Farias) will be followed by Gretchen's review of the other three (Seven Flags, Moreno and Lafayette).
Tricia’s Reviews:
Azteca Park
Where: 100 Rancho Viejo Easy to get to? Yes. Off of Mines and Rancho Viejo. You'll drive through a residential area, but the streets are wide. The park is at the end of the street once you make the turn off of Mines Rd.
Where: 100 Grant Street Easy to get to? Probably the least easy of the three I reviewed. I took I-35 South and took a left onto Matamoros Street not far from the port to get to the park- The GPS routed me through a lot of narrow residential areas and one way streets.
Availability of seating: A cement circular bench around splash area with overhead cover. Overhead cover: There is some overhead cover surrounding the splash area which is uncovered.
Availability of seating: None around the splash park. Some about 100 meters away near the small playground on the other side of the cul de sac.
Size of splash area: Large. The largest of the three I visited.
Overhead cover: None for splashers or watchers. The small playground on the other side of the cul de sac is covered.
Cleanliness: Very clean. Receptacles throughout the park area.
Size of splash area: Relatively small. The smallest of the three I visited.
Availability of restrooms: Porta-Potties scattered throughout area.
Cleanliness: Garbage receptable by the playground.
Parking in lot: A lot of parking. The splash park is one amenity among many in this very large and beautiful park!
Availability of restrooms: None visible.
Other amenities on site: A walking trail across the street, acres of green fields, a skate park, soccer fields, basketball courts, baseball fields, a large playground, a volleyball court, covered benches and a view of the river. Big River Outfitters starts their Rio Grande kayaking tour at this park.
Parking in lot: No dedicated parking. The splash park is on a small cul de sac that I estimate could host about 10 vehicles bumper to bumper without blocking anyone in. Would not recommend this park for large groups.
Overview: This park is amazing!!!
Adjacent Parking: No real parking on the residential feeder street as there are vehicles parked on that road. Other amenities on site: The playground on the other side of the street. Safety Consideration: Next to the splash park, there is a pretty steep hill with some drop-off areas that would cause me some concern for the safety of my toddlers. There is a chain link fence blocking off part of the steep hill but there are breaks in the fencing that would be very easy for small children to slip through.
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Gretchen’s Reviews:
Farias Park:
Yayyy for summer……Laredo’s splash parks! Gretchen, here with a partial review of Laredo’s splash parks! For a map to any of the parks (and all the other park and rec sites (over 60!) not even mentioned above) the Parks and Leisure website has a map here: http://www.cityoflaredo.com/Maps/GIS_MAPS/maps/parks_2010.pdf The pdf file allows you to print out the particular area of the city that you need to customize your map. I reviewed and photographed Moreno, Seven Flags and Lafayette splash parks. Please feel free to note if I missed anything or got something wrong and we can correct and/or add it in later. Special thanks to Lisa Chappa for her input and help in reviewing Seven Flags park!
Dr. Cecilia “May” Moreno Splash Park
Where: 1600 Ortiz Easy to get to? Yes. It is located along a wide road in the warehouse and trucking area as you pass Kohls and the Movie Theater heading south. Availability of seating: None. Overhead cover: None currently. Parks and Leisure Services intends to emplace overhead cover but the date it will be installed is unknown. Size of splash area: Relatively large. Cleanliness: Receptacles on site. Availability of restrooms: Unknown. Parking in lot: The splash park is located on a long cul de sac. Do not make the mistake I made and pull into the small parking lot just in front of the parkIt is a police station. Park along the street.
Where: 319 W. Lyon Street Easy to get to? Yes. From I-35, a simple turn on Lyon Street straight to park (not far down.)
Other amenities on site: An open field park across the street. Police Station to the immediate right as you face the splash park.
Availability of seating: Yes, a small section of covered stadium seats. Additional seating within the water park (fenced off area) itself. Some of those cement benches did receive coverage from the tarp over the splash park itself. Overhead cover: Yes. Good cover over splash park and bleachers. Size of splash area: Very small. Cleanliness: At least one garbage bin visible. Availability of restrooms: One visible porta potty marked ―men.‖ Perhaps others may be added when the water portion of the park opens up and is ―in season.‖ Parking in lot: Very small lot. Adjacent Parking: Very busy street, so long walk to nearest adjacent parking.
Don't park here! The police station next to the splash park
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Other amenities on site (playground equipment, walking trails, skate park, ball fields, etc): Nice access to walking trails and bridge. Playground equipment and ball field roughly adjacent but a much longer walk. Probably too far for younger kids.
Availability of seating: Not very good. Sporadic benches in the splash area itself. No covering is apparent, but maybe it will be repaired and re-covered by the start of the season? Overhead cover: No. None apparent at this time, but poles for covering could be seen. Services intends to emplace overhead cover but the date it will be installed is unknown.
Other amenities nearby (restaurants for meet ups, etc): Very close to I-35 so fairly close by to other amenities. Overview: This park had very minimal parking, but easy access from highway and other major thoroughfares. It was completely adjacent to the skateboard park portion and was surrounded a by a very high fence for excellent security.
Size of splash area: Very good size. Cleanliness: At least three garbage bins visible. Availability of restrooms: None visible. Local worker confirmed that there were currently no restrooms, but others who have been there recall them. Perhaps a porta potty may be installed in season?
One big plus: if a family or group has very differently aged kids, it would be possible to keep your eye on toddlers in the splash portion while simultaneously watching bigger kids skateboarding. They are so close together that you should be able to keep them all in view. This park is on a very busy road, however, so parents of toddlers must exercise extreme caution when they are out of the ―fenced in‖ splash area.
Parking in lot: Very good sized parking lot. Ample room. Adjacent Parking: Very good amount of additional adjacent parking within a short walk. Other amenities on site (playground equipment, walking trails, skate park, ball fields, etc): Small park with benches and grassy play area is adjacent, but very limited kids play structures. Covered bandshell type structure very nearby where you could picnic. No swings, slides, etc apparent. Outdoor hockey rink close by. Other amenities nearby (restaurants for meet ups, etc): Decent access to I35 so straight shot to other amenities, but not nearly as close as Moreno. A bit further drive. Possible need to bring a picnic lunch as no quick McDonalds runs or access to fast food bathrooms. Overview: This park had best water area of the reviewed options. Very large and more faucets, etc. Covering is missing and parental/caregiver seating is extremely minimal. Best to bring your own chair(s) for this one. No bathrooms is a also a big downside.
LaFayette Splash Park
Where: 1900 Lafayette Street Easy to get to? Yes. From I-35, simple turn on Lafayette Street straight to park. A good distance down, though. An abruptly sloping bridge will appear to extend Lafayette Street…no need to take it. The park is pretty much right under that bridge. www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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Seven Flags Splash Park Overview: While the splash park portion itself is small, this park rates highly just because there are so many other things to do. Swings, slides, soccer, basketball court, skateboarding, walking trails etc etc etc Permanent bathrooms a big plus. But it lacks benches for supervising caregivers . Also the park is very spacious, so it would be very difficult, especially when park is very busy, to keep an eye on all multiple aged kids at once if that is applicable. There is much to do and it would be easy to lose a wandering child. No busy street for a toddler to wander into, like in Moreno, but there is a potential hazard if they wander towards Chacon Creek, though it is usually dry. The park is well entrenched within a residential only area, so no quick trips for food, etc. Definitely must pack picnic lunch if you want to stay awhile. Not accessible by many major thoroughfares, so can be tricky to get to the first time.
Where: 1508 Monterrey Loop Easy to get to? Not extremely accessible from any major thoroughfares. You must take Monterrey Street (from Saunders will work) until Guerrero, and then it is very tucked away behind JC Martin school. It abuts the Chacon Creek. Chacon Creek is not far from I-35, but you need a street with a bridge to get across to the park. Not all streets go through. Availability of seating: Not good. Scattered benches near play equipment. Bring your own lawn chair to get up close and supervise kids on the actual water park portion of the park. Overhead cover: No cover over splash park and but some cover over other kids equipment. You should bring your own chairs to place under the canopy. No covered seating for specatator parents, though. Size of splash area: Small. Cleanliness: Over six garbage bins visible. Availability of Restrooms: Yes! A building, even! Disclaimer: Did not appear to be open when reviewed. Parking in lot: No lot. Adjacent Parking: Very good amount of additional adjacent parking within a short walk. The park is tucked within a neighborhood so no super busy street. It is also tucked behind a school. Other amenities on site (playground equipment, walking trails, skate park, ball fields, etc): Very good equipment with multiple other things to do. Playground equipment, basketball court, soccer fields, skate park, walking trails. Other amenities nearby (restaurants for meet ups, etc): No. It is within a neighborhood and far from major thoroughfares. It would be quite a drive to restaurants, stores, gas stations, etc
If you have anything to add or any corrections to note, please contact us at crittersandcrayons@gmail.com, visit us on facebook (search "critters and crayons") Happy SPLASHING! Have a GREAT SUMMER! Gretchen and Tricia
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By Gretchen Otto Pimentel
Overconsumption in the home...lessons from larger families problems. Rather than the size of a population, actually the consumption factor per individual is the key factor in sustainable growth and eco friendly living: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/02/opinion/02diamond.html
In fact, much can be learned from large families about reducing the size of our carbon footprint on our beloved environment. Here are five ways that large families care for the earth by practicing the FIVE ―R‖s…..refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle and repurpose. 1. Large families REFUSE clutter and extraneous earth depleting material
goods before they even come into the home
In larger families, space is typically at a premium. It is likely that children share a room and only have a finite space to keep and store everything they own. Where space issues exist, each member of the family much choose want they want and need very carefully. Thus they are likely to refuse many items before they even enter the home.
Gretchen Otto Pimentel, “Mrs. Green,” is a Laredo resident and freelance author. She is currently on hiatus from her legal career while at home with her young children. She enjoys researching and writing on family budgeting with a focus on choices that benefit the planet.
2. Bigger families REDUCE waste per family member Economies of scale in a larger household reduce use of resources per family member. Buying in bulk, streamlining, and more effective sharing of resources can reduce household waste. For example, cooking can be easier with a larger family. In a standard meal, it may be the case that fewer leftovers are tossed or wasted. Toddlers and smaller children can be notoriously picky, for example, and have tiny appetites at times. Thus something prepared especially for them, that they choose not to eat, may make a nice packed lunch the next day for an older child at school or parent at work. 3. People living with more family members REUSE items The best example of this is probably clothing. In a larger family, the parents must only buy clothes for the oldest boy and the oldest girl. After that, clothing can be handed to the next youngest child when it is outgrown. Things like pajamas and neutral looking baby clothes are even typically handed down to siblings regardless of gender. Good quality shoes can also be reused. To make this practice even more effective, a savvy shopper can also acquire gender neutral items where possible. 4. RECYCLING is a way of life for families with many members Larger families often buy quality items. In an effort to be able to hand items down from member to member in a larger family, many families choose to buy sturdier products that are better quality and will more likely last the test of time. Many of these products can be repaired instead of cheaper, more disposable, versions of the same products. Thus, even after an item has seen its fair share of use from a larger family, it can often still be passed down for use in yet another family. An example of this is a sturdy wooden high chair that was passed down from family to family, far longer than a plastic version would likely have lasted. As a bonus, sometimes the sturdier versions may not even be more expensive than the lower quality versions. It is helpful to research products on consumer sites to make purchases more wisely, with long term use in mind. 5. Increased family size necessitates REPURPOSE of many items Excess packaging, old magazines, and other typical ―throwaway‖ items make wonderful art supplies. Torn laundry baskets can be taped up (one family’s girls prefer pink duct tape for this purpose!) to make excellent bins for book and toy storage. Any already used container lying around is wonderful for growing plants. Container gardening also has the added bonus of being a fun family activity that produces healthy, organic food for your family!
Tips for your family If you have a smaller family, one way to extend the benefits of large family consumption habits in your own situation is to move in with extended family or relatives to share resources. This also makes sense for efficient land use, as it helps stabilize urban sprawl. At the very least, it is a great idea to pair with other smaller families to realize some of the same benefits. You can form a recycled clothing chain for example. Or split the cost of bulk items from a warehouse club to reduce packaging. You can also share the cost of gas to transport goods. It is also a great idea to pair with multiple families and arrange for regular free swap meets. All families can meet and put excess items in a pile, and other families can take what they can use. It can be a great day of socializing, too. No matter what your family size, we wish you all the best in reducing your footprint and working toward sustainable living.
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June 2011
Green Living
Many people wrongly assume that larger family size contributes to environmental
It doesn't take much effort to run your household in a more eco-friendly way. You might even be surprised by how much money you can save. "A small change can make a big difference," says Charles Valinotti, senior vice president of insurer QBE. His company recently implemented a series of small environmental changes and the savings are adding up. "These are changes anyone could make in their own home. We just did it on a larger scale."
Here are four simple green changes inspired by QBE that could benefit any homeowner:
1. Recycle - and not just the obvious stuff. Chances are, you're already recycling glass bottles and aluminum cans. But why stop there? Consider recycling before you throw anything away. You might also consider collecting aluminum cans and bringing them to your local recycling facility where you may get some cash for your efforts. QBE's Sun Prairie, Wis. office recycles electrical wire, cabinets, shelving, scrap metals and light fixtures. In two years, not only did the company collect $4,000 for non-traditional recyclables, it also avoided fees for disposing of them. 2. Switch to high-efficiency lighting. For years we've heard that high-efficiency lighting is the way to go. But did you know the magnitude of difference this one change could make? EnergyStar reports that each compact florescent light bulb can save up to $40 in energy costs over its lifetime. In March 2010 QBE's Bellevue, Wash., site converted from halogen to fluorescent light fixtures in its parking garage. This one change is saving 378,554 kilowatt hours per year in electrical usage, totaling $26,575 in annual utility expense. 3. When it's not in use, turn it off. Moms all over the world can be heard reminding their brood, "Turn the lights off!" While there's no doubt it makes sense to turn off lights, some may question when and if a computer should be turned off since it takes a bit more energy to power up than to leave it running. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that for energy savings and convenience, consider turning off your monitor if you aren't going to use your computer for more than 20 minutes. Turn off your computer if you're not going to use it in the next two hours. Like a lot of people, QBE employees don't always shut down their computers at the end of the day. Last year, the company began automatic shutdowns at 9 p.m. local time - saving about $55,000 in energy costs each year. The system gives a prompt 60 minutes prior to the automatic shutdown, allowing employees who are actively working to bypass the shut-off. 4. Paper - who needs it? Valinotti suggests that taking baby steps toward a paperless existence can be natural and painless. For example, many homeowners already do their banking online - so why not also switch to paperless bank statements? Many utilities, credit card companies and municipalities also offer online billing.
By just moving a portion of its monthly reports online, QBE saves 2.5 reams of paper and $11 per day, totaling $2,000 in savings last year.
As you can see, just a few small changes can help you go green - and help you build financial strength as well.
Content courtesy of ARA
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June 2011
Community Summer Camp Schedule TOTS 4-6 YOUTH 6-8
Camp Philosophy
June 6-9 June 13-16
• Instill a new appreciation for our environment and its organisms.
June 20-23 June 27-30 July 25-28 July 18-21
• Build confidence in water related activities. • Develop a new perspective for the river and its value to us.
REGULAR 9-11 ADVANCED 12-14
• Begin new relationships with other environmentally conscious students.
June 20-23 July 25-28 July 11-14
Register Now!
Office (956) 764-5701 Fax (956) 764-5929 E-mail: lbvesc@laredo.edu
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June 2011
By Eric Ellman Long Dormant City Project Springs to Life Who ever imagined a 200acre nature preserve in the very heart of downtown Laredo? With rolling hills, trails for hiking, mountain-biking and jogging? With lakes full of fish and turtles...even beaver? Certainly not Father Bill Davis, whose San Francisco de Javier Church sits within rock-throwing distance. As a dedicated outdoorsman who regularly travels to hike, climb and camp, Father Bill was flabbergasted to find that hundreds of acres of undeveloped riverside property, an abandoned quarry where some of his own parishioners had worked in the 40s and 50s, was now owned by the City, open for non-motorized use, and in his own backyard.
Big River Outfitters founder, EricEllman is a wastewater engineer and a long time citizen and activist throughout the Americas. Eric is also the author of Bicycling Mexico and feature stories on tour destinations such as Mexico's Lacandon Jungle and Copper Canyon.
Contact Eric Ellman, Executive Director of the Big River Foundation to see it on foot, bike or kayak. tel: 956.209.1879. e-mail: eric@BigRiverFoundation.org *** Big River Foundation is the recipient of funding from the EPA’s Urban Waters initiative which seeks to help low-income communities discover, appreciate and care for local waterways.
―Most people have never come here,‖ says the vigorous octogenarian, spiritual leader of Colonia de Colores, one of Laredo’s oldest and poorPhotos courtesy of Big River Outfitters est communities that dates back to the earliest days of Fort McIntosh. Determined to change that, he rounded up a cadre of parishioners. They toured the area, picked out a spot and went to work. On a promontory separating two ponds -- holes in the ground whose contents went to pour concrete for homes in the Heights -- they cleared shrub and hacked out steps. Two weeks later, Colonia de Colores had a shady picnic spot that doubles as a kayak launch within easy walking distance of their homes. That the area would be used like this was part of a vision shared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Laredo’s Environmental Services Department over a decade ago. But that vision was much grander. Requiring a couple of hundred thousand dollars in government money just to plan, the actual improvements were projected to cost over $4,000,000. When the money failed to materialize, plans drifted. The trees and birds and fishes that live there, however, were unaffected. Aside from a few fishermen and bird watchers and Border Patrol agents, the park remained an unguarded secret. But the secret’s out. Father Bill’s congregation is just the latest in a string of local groups who are helping to bring the old ―Riverbend Park‖ project site back in the public realm. Laredo’s Monte Mucho Audubon Society considers ―the gravel pits‖ one of the best places in the region to find the much sought after White-Collared Seed Eater. Big River Outfitters uses its lakes for introductory kayak classes. Students from Santo Nino Elementary and Lizzy Newsome’s new Non-traditional High School have adopted the park for regular educational outings. Bernie Chapa, owner of Cyclo Mania is planning to use the area as part of a mountain bike race as part of the upcoming October 15 Laredos Riofest. None of these people care that the multi-million dollar improvements envisioned in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ―Riverbend Park‖ plans never materialized. All of them appreciate the land for what it is: a place to get away from the pavement and the noise, where fish break the surface of the water, turtles sun on rocks, and gaudy blue, green and black Green Jay flit through the trees. That it is where it is: smack dab in the middle of one of the Border’s most environmentally unfortunate places, with 1,000,000 people living oblivious on all sides is a bit of a miracle, and a great demonstration that the reality of the Rio Grande is not what television and rumor would have you believe. The ―Lost Lakes‖ are on City land and open to the public via nonmotorized use on a daily basis. www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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Scenes in recent weeks from The Big River Foundationʼs Urban Waters efforts in partnership with the EPA, Border Environment Cooperation Commission and River Systems Institute. June 2011
Every month, we celebrate women in business. Mom-preneurs, who in spite the difficulties and challenges of family life, they follow their passion by operating their own unique business.
Meet Diana Vela, Doodlebug Creations
Meet Sylvia Enriquez, Social Butterfly The Business:
Doodlebug Creations provides an array of services to meet all of your party needs. Everything from custom invitations, delectable sweet treats, jaw dropping balloon sculptures and more... all designed to meet ANY budget and vision! Doodlebug Creations was born shortly after the birth of my son Luke Matthew. I looked and looked around for invitations to celebrate his first birthday but everything seemed so "commercial." I wanted something unique... With my media and public relations background, I used my computer knowledge to create his invitations.
The Business:
I had so much fun! Everyone needs a creative outlet of some sort, and I finally had found this to be mine!
Social Butterfly is an event planning and dĂŠcor business. I specialize in children's birthday parties.
Designing invitations led to me creating unique party favors and balloon sculptures and centerpieces. My business has been contracted by Appetit Restaurant to develop a line of sweet treats and party decorations and offer them to all of Appetit's customers. Find us at Appetit after June 13!
It all started with my background in interior decorating and Mural painting. It evolved into Party Planning with a passion for children's parties. All of the designs and colors are a wonderful way to put my skills to good use. Friends and family would come to my children's parties and would ask for help with their own upcoming event, that encouraged me to go out and start my own business.
Challenges & Rewards:
My clients love the fact that they get to spend their free time with their loved ones and literally walk into a magical party without the stress and worries of organizing a party.
I decided to open my own business because I wanted to put some of my talents to good use and still be available for my children as I have been a stay at home mom for 11 years. The event planning idea was a good way to combine my two passions together.
Starting a business is scary for anyone but I think it's even scarier if you're a mom. One of the biggest challenges I face is balancing my time so that I feel that all aspects of my life are being taking care of without any compromise or neglect. It is the guilt that I think all working women and mothers face. At the end of the day, the best that we can do is give our all to all facets of our life and hope that we are doing a good job in all our roles.
Challenges & Rewards: Some of the challenges i have faced so far is learning new techniques in order to keep up with the popular trends in parties and trying to see if my customers will welcome change. So far I did not expect to meet so many mompreneurs like me with the same passion while trying to balance the everyday challenges that comes with family and running a small business.
There are no words to express what I feel when a customer is satisfied with their product. Every single item that I create for an event is priceless because it is something that will forever be remembered as part of someone's celebration. It is a honor to be a part of someone's happy day. My heart bursts with pride when I see a customer's face light up with my creations.
Social Butterfly 956.285.4100
Diana Vela - Doodlebug Creations mydoodlebugcreations@yahoo.com Facebook: Doodlebug Creations
Email: socialbutterflytx@hotmail.com Facebook: SocialButterfly8
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June 2011
Introducing Appetit Restaurant, Catering & Party Rental
Introducing CM Designs The Business: CM Designs is an outlet of paper crafts and other handmade elements that have inspired me from fellow scrapbook enthusiasts and other individuals who share the same passion to create as I do.
The Business: Appetit , owned by Tania
This venture really began as a hobby and passion I have for anything ―artsy‖ and creative-which is the essence of expressing my creative potential-rather than a business. I love to create and use different mediums. This has served as a creative outlet for me during my spare time. After having my three children, I started creating scrapbooks for them and of our family happenings. Since I also enjoy taking pictures I also started sharing my creations with others. What good is an idea if it isn't shared? So I also started a blog to serve as an on-line journal of
Ancira de Galindo, specializes in healthy, low calorie, low fat and low sugar food. We use all natural and organic products. We have an ample restaurant and catering menu as well as custom designed dishes and canapés. We also offer cooking classes for kids and adults. Our objective is to teach everyone inhouse recipes as well as to show that you can eat delicious meals that are good for you. Appetit opened its doors in July 2009. I decided to create a restaurant with healthy food in mind due to the alarming statistics of people (babies, kids and adults) with health problems linked to poor nutrition like diabetes, cholesterol, obesity, etc. I know it's difficult in this day and age to go home and cook due to the lifestyle much of us lead. We don't have time for that so we turn to fast food. My idea for this venture was to offer the opportunity to eat a delicious and healthy meal. Eating healthy does not consist in dieting for a week or three days or event to stop eating. Eating healthy is day to day, choosing the best nutritional option for our bodies so that in the future, we can enjoy good health. In Appetit, we serve food to those who are looking to reduce calories or sugar and also for those choosing vegan and organic food. I also think its important to take care of our environment so we use utensils, bags and napkins made from recycled materials.
Challenges & Rewards: In regards to the concept, I have heard people say, what do they sell? Diet tacos? Salads? This has been my greatest obstacle, to erase the idea that eating healthy means that you should only eat salads. The idea is to become more open -minded and to know there are tastier alternatives. My greatest reward is to see my customers happy and to have them tell me they have reached their goals by making us part of their meal plan.
Appetit Restaurant, Catering & Party Rental
what I do. I hope to inspire others who share the same passion and want to take their natural ability to any level they aspire in life. I didn’t know (actually, think) that this type of hobby could actually evolve into my personal small business. But with the unconditional support of family & friends (and through them), I have received several suggestions and endless encouragement to do just that. I am blessed with a career that I love and this is another venue that is also self rewarding for me.
Challenges & Rewards: Being a mother of three, having a full time job as an educator and trying to pursue my masters is not exactly what I had in mind along the way with this new venture. However, in the midst of everything that I do with and for my children, I always try to find the time to secure those special moments in their life by scrapbooking them in what I hope will be heirlooms in the future for our family one day. I have been very blessed and fortunate to have encountered several rewards along the way. I have gotten closer to my children and they in turn love what I do for them and appreciate the books I create for them. Most, if not all, of my creations have been gifts I have made for very special individuals that have touched my life in one way or another. It is the ―gift of giving‖ that I like to share with them. That in itself is selfrewarding and the only thing that matters to me and that makes me happy just doing it.
956.740.0522
CM Designs
107 Calle del Norte Suite 2a
Carmen Castro Martinez
Laredo, TX 78041
E-mail: ccastromtz@yahoo.com
www.appetitrestaurant.com Twitter: healthycuisine1
Facebook: CM Designs
Facebook: APPETIT and LoungeAnd Cuisine
Website: http://cmdesignsbycarmen.blogspot.com (956)693-0401
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June 2011
Keep your child’s mind and body active this summer with a number of special summer camps and programming at Texas A&M International University. From robotics and weight-loss programs to sports camps and intensive college-prep courses, there’ something for children of all ages, from 3-18 at TAMIU.
Kid Stuff
Camp: Boy’s & Girl’s Soccer Skills Academy
Athletics Camps
For More Information: 956.326.3000 Camp: Boy’s & Girl’s Soccer Premier Academy Age: 5 to 7 yrs For More Information: 956.326.3000 Date: June 6 to 10 Age: 8 to 17 yrs Time: 9 a.m. to 12 Noon - Monday - Friday Date: June 6 to 10 Cost: $75 Time: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. – Monday - Friday Location: Soccer fields and KCB. Cost: $125.00 Location: Soccer fields and Kinesiology/Convocation Building (KCB). Description: The TAMIU Soccer Academy is designed for players 8-17 who wish to improve their technical, mental and tactical game. Players in the Academy will enjoy a different and innovative camp experience. Website: www.GoDustdevils.com
Camp: Softball For More Information: 956.326.3000 Ages: All Ages
Description: The camp is designed for children that play at the recreational level and are looking for some soccer fun while learning new skills. Website: www.GoDustdevils.com
Camp: Baseball Skills Camp Age Group: 6 to 12
Camp: Baseball Father/Son Camp Date & Time: June 18 from 9 a.m. - Noon
Date & Time: June 20-23 from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $30.00
Cost: $100.00
Location: Jorge Haynes Field
Location: Jorge Haynes Field
Description: This skills camp will teach the fundamentals of the game. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in the camp with a member of their family. Mothers, friends, or other relatives are encouraged to attend!
Description: This Skills Camp will teach the fundamentals of the game. The camp will be conducted by TAMIU’s coaching staff and current players. The Camp will be a great opportunity for your child to take the right step in becoming a better ball player.
Date: June 13 to 16 Time: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - Monday - Thursday Cost: $80 Location: TAMIU Softball Field. Description: The camp will focus on all aspects of softball fundamental skills, both defense and offense, including the sacrifice bunt, slapping and surprise bunt. Website: www.GoDustdevils.com
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June 2011
Your kids will enjoy making, and eating, this ice cream made in a ziplock bag. Prep Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Ingredients:
1/2 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
1 - 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
6 tablespoons salt
ice
Preparation: Put milk, vanilla and sugar into a pint or quart-sized freezer bag. Seal well. Fill a large, gallon-sized freezer bag with ice. Add the salt. (For best results use rock salt.)
Put the smaller bag into the larger bag and seal.
Shake and mix until the ice cream thickens, about 10 minutes. You can also let the kids gently throw the bag back and forth to help mix the ice cream. The bag gets very cold, so you might want to use towels to hold it. Makes 1 serving.
Imaginarium of South Texas a place for curiosity and creativity www.imaginairumstx.org www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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June 2011
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June 2011
Camp: Boy’s Basketball
Camp: Girl’s Basketball
For More Information: 956.326.3000
For More Information: 956.326.3000
Age: 7 to 17 yrs
Age: 7 to 17 yrs
Date: June 20 to 23
Date: June 13-16
Time: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. - Monday - Thursday
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. - Monday - Thursday
Cost: $150
Cost: $100.00
Location: KCB
Location: KCB.
Description: TAMIU Men’s Basketball Camps will teach your child the basic fundamentals of the game. Each camper will receive individual instruction. This will be accomplished through shooting, dribbling, defense, passing, and rebounding stations.
Camp: Volleyball All Skills Camp
Website: www.GoDustdevils.com
Ages: 13-18 1:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Description: TAMIU Girls Basketball Camp is designed to teach each camper the fundamental skills of basketball. We will also develop and enhance the individual skills of each participating camper. We will cover all aspects of the game of basketball including teaching campers how to stay in good physical and mental condition.
Age Group: 7 to 18 Date & Time: July 25-27 Ages: 7-12 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Camp: Volleyball Team Camp
Cost: $100.00
Age Group: Junior High and High School teams.
Location: KCB.
Date & Time: July 29-30 from 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Cost: $150.00 per team Location: KCB. Description: The team camp will provide a round robin format with playoffs. Current players will official matches. Each team will have a training session with the TAMIU coaching staff.
Website: www.GoDustdevils.com
Description: The All Skills Camp will focus on the individual development of each player. Topics covered Kinder to High School Camps include teaching the skills of the game; serving, passing, Camp: Kinder Camp overhand passing, setting, hitting, blocking, individual deFor More Information: Kimberly Martin del Campo fense, and individual serve 956.326.2765 or 956.326.3067 receive. Age: 3 to 5 yrs Website: Date: June 6 to June 30 www.GoDustdevils.com Time: 7:45 a.m.- 5:15 p.m. - Monday – Thursday
Website: www.GoDustdevils.com
Cost: Early Bird Registration: $325 Camp: International Language Institute Children’s Language Program For More Information: 956.326.2136
Multiple Child Registration: $300 Faculty and Staff: $325
Age: 8 to 12 yrs
Registration after May 1st: $375
Date: June 13 to 24
Location: Student Center 225
Time: 8:30 – 10:30 a.m. – Monday - Thursday
Description: Art & Crafts, Math, and Reading
Cost: $250.00 Location: On campus, TBA. Description: Kids ages 8 – 12 can register to learn Portuguese, Spanish or ESL. Children will be introduced to learning a language through fun-filled activities such as songs, interactive role playing and games
Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/ binationalcenter/ KINDERCAMP2011.shtml
Website: www.tamiu.edu/coas/lla/ili/
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June 2011
Camp: Middle School Camp
Camp: Title V-EEP Math Summer Camp (Middle School)
For More Information: Kimberly Martin del Campo 956.326.2765 or 956.326.3067 Grades: 6th- 8th
Age: Students transitioning from 8th to 9th grade or 7th to 8th grade
Date: July 5- July 28
Date: July 11 to July 29
Time: 7:45 a.m.- 5:15 p.m. - Monday – Thursday
Time: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - Monday-Thursday
Cost: Multiple Child Registration: $325
Camp: High School Camp
Cost: Free
Early Bird Registration: $350
For More Information: Kimberly Martin del Campo 956.326.2765 or 956.326.3067
Location: Dr. Billy F. Cowart Hall (BCH) 118
Faculty and Staff: $350
Grades: 9th - 12th
Registration after May 1: $400
Dates: Session 1: June 6 - June16
Location: TBA Description: Math, Reading, Writing, and Technology
Session 2: August 8 - June 18 Time: 8:00 a.m.- 5:15 p.m. - Monday- Thursday Tuition per child: Multiple Child Registration: $325
Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/ binationalcenter/ MIDDLECAMP2011.shtml
Early Bird Registration: $350
Description: This summer, Texas A&M International University Title V EEP program will be hosting a three-week math seminar for students transitioning from middle school to high school. During each seminar, students will have the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of algebraic concepts through the use of graphing calculators. Students will also focus on college readiness skills in mathematics that include, Geometric Relationships and Spatial Reasoning, Probability and Statistics, and Measurement Reasoning. (Three (3) week camp has only 40 spaces available)
Faculty and Staff: $350 Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/titlevmath/ communityoutreach.shtml
Registration after May 1: $400 Description: SAT Material, College Research, FAFSA, and Staying Focused
Camp: For Inspiration and Recognition of SciWebsite: http://www.tamiu.edu/binationalcenter/ ence and Technology (FIRST) Lego League HIGHCAMP2011.shtml 2011 Camp: YES Camp, ECO 1399 For More Information: Kimberly Martin del Campo 956.326.2765 or 956.326.3067 For More Information: Office of Recruit- Camp: NXT Robotics ment 956.326.2270 For More Information: Kimberly Martin del Ages: 6 to 8 yrs Campo 956.326.2765 or 956.326.3067 Grade: High School Juniors & Seniors Date: June 13 to June 16 Ages: 9 to 12 yrs Date: June 6 to July 8 Time: 8:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m - Monday Thursday Time: 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. – MTWR Date: June 20 to June 23 Location: TBA
Cost: $50.00
Time: 8:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m. - Monday - Thursday
Tuition: Early Bird Registration: $150
Location: Western Hemispheric Trade (WHT) 104
Location: TBA
Faculty and Staff: $150 Registration after May 15: $175 Description: Robotics Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/ binationalcenter/FLL2011.shtml
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Tuition: Early Bird Registration: $150
Description: Topics covered in class Faculty and Staff: $150 include the definition of an entrepreneur, characteristics of a successful entrepreRegistration after May 15: $175 neur, rewards and challenges of entrepreneurship, importance of entrepreneur- Description: Robotics ship in the American economy, how to select a business and how the successful Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/binationalcenter/ business satisfies a consumer need. In NXT2011.shtml addition, students learn marketing insights, business costs, financing strategy and how to raise capital for a business.
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June 2011
Camp: Title V-EEP Math Summer Camp (High School) For More Information: 956.326.3137 Age: High School Students (Previous math camp participants only) preparing for THEA, ACT, SAT Date: August 1 to August 4
Camp: Minority Science and Engineering Improvement Program (MSEIP)
Time: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Monday-Thursday
For more information: Office of Special Programs, 956.326.2700
Cost: Free
Age: High School Students
Location: BCH 118
Date: June 27 – August 4
Description: This summer, Texas A&M International University Title V EEP program will be hosting a one-week math seminar for students preparing for THEA, ACT, SAT. During each seminar, students will have the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of algebraic concepts through the use of graphing calculators. Students will also focus on college readiness skills and test preparation. (One (1) week camp has only 25 spaces available)
Time: 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday-Thursday Cost: Free Location: Student Center, room 126, 128E Description: TAMIU-MSEIP is a science, technology, engineering and mathematics-based, academic enrichment program for High School students. The program provides classes in Mathematics, Science, ELA, and SAT workshops. It also includes team projects, class presentations, examinations, career awareness speakers, field trips and special events. The MSEIP goal is to increase the participation of underrepresented ethnic minorities in scientific and technological careers.
Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/titlevmath/communityoutreach.shtml Camp: TAMIU Summer Weight Control Camp For More Information: Dr. Kyung-Shin Park at 956.326-2685 Age: 9 to 16 yrs Date: Summer I: June 6 – July 1 Summer II: July 11 – August 5 Time: 1:30 -5:30 p.m. - Monday - Friday Cost: Summer I : $250 Summer II : $250 Summer I + II : $450/$400 (for research participants only) Location: TAMIU Kinesiology, Wellness and Recreation Center Description: Campers will participate in physical activities for four hours/day with plenty of rest.
Recreational Sports Summer Camp Camp: Recreational Sports Summer Camp Date(s): June 6 to June 23 & July 5* to July 22 (*this camp will begin on Tuesday July 5)
An hour 30 minute lectures regarding nutrition and healthy lifestyle will be given once a week.
Time: 8 a.m. to 12pm - Monday - Thursday
Website: http://www.tamiu.edu/ coedu/fitnesscamp/
Ages: 6 – 13 yrs
For Information: Sylvia Barrera at 956.326.3016
Camp: Intensive College Math Prep (ICMP) For More Information: 956.326.2134 Grade: 2011 graduating high school seniors Date: June 6 – July 6 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. - Monday-Thursday Cost: Free Location: University Succes Center (USC) 101 (June 6 and July 6 only from 8:30 - 9:30 a.m.) Classrooms: BCH 209, 210 & 211 from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Labs: BCH 116 & 117 from 10:00 a.m.– 12:00 and 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Description: TAMIU’S ICMP program will offer services to 100 students with the goal of helping them qualify for College Algebra classes.
Cost per child: $180 TAMIU Employees/Students/Alumni $210 General Community Description: Summer Recreational Camp that will help children develop good leisure attitudes in a fun and positive atmosphere. Activities include character education discussions, recreational games and other fitness activities. Website: www.tamiu.edu/recsports www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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June 2011
Summer Programs
2011
Enrichment Programs
www.open2art.com
(956) 726-1700
openart@rocketmail.com
Program
Ages
Digital
7 -13 June 6- 9:00 am -12:00 Create digital stories and illustrations. Enhance writing skills using fictional or 10 pm real - life stories.
Story Telling
Dates
Time
Description
Tuition Fee
Instructor (s)
$100 week
Chris Navarro, SA, Art, Theater, Writing
Mon Fri Silhouette
Textile Treasures
7 -13 June 13- 9:00 am -12:00 Explore the concept of negative & posi17 pm tive images. Make scenery, portraits, shadow theaters, and more. July 1115
Mon Fri
7 -13 June 20- 9:00 am -12:00 24 pm
$100 week
Design, quilt, loom, weave, create! It’s all about fabrics!
Motion
7 -13 June 27 9:00 am -12:00 Learn the basics of frame by frame animation or continue advanced levels of -1st pm movie making skills.
Math Fusion
Transformations
Cyclist Craft
3 -7 June/ July 7-13
Women 14 & up
June/ July June 630
1:00 pm - 4:00 A continuous workshop where students explore using different media & sculptpm ing techniques.
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm
4-up
FRIDAYS
Saturday Studio
4-14
Saturdays
www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
$100 week
$100 week
Ana Garcia, UISD, All - level, Fine Arts
Learn something new every week.
Mon Fri
Melissa Flores, Art, Harmony Sci. Acad.
Art and Math fusion in a series of creative activities
$40 M T
Sylvia Tellez, LISD, Art, Math, Green Club
6:30 pm - 7:30 Perfect for designers of all ages! Create $10 day artistic and useful accessories or gifts pm using alteration skills. Mon -
Gricel Rodriguez, LISD, Graphic Art
Thu
Par6:30 pm - 7:30 July 11entpm 29 child
Sundown Story time
Printmaking, Art
History
Mon Fri
July 2529 Fun with Form
Christina Garza,
Mon Fri
July 1822 Stop
$100 week
In a dual partnership, learn the basics of bike mechanics and create your own design and decorations.
$50 week
Ruben Ortega, UISD, Math, One -Act
Mon Thu
Mystery Storytell6:30 pm -7:30 Our mystery storyteller reads a fun book and you take home a craft. FREE ers pm Art workshops: Drawing, painting, $10/ Victoria Ortega, LISD Fine Arts, 10:00 am sculpture, mosaics. hour Sp. Ed. 3:00pm 29
June 2011
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June 2011
Family Recipes
Summer is the season of relaxation for many, but it's easy to become lazy on your mission to better health. Plenty of temptations can negatively affect your well being, but with the right tools, you can treat yourself to good health and good times. Mix it up Seasonal drinks and dishes are a highlight of summer, but too many hamburgers, ice cream cones, and cocktails can have a disastrous effect on your diet and waistline. Fortunately, keeping your body bathing-suit ready doesn't mean you have to sacrifice taste or variety. And the best part is you need only one machine to create all your healthy summer recipes. The Vitamix 5200 creates a wide range of nutritious options that taste great. Whether it's a whole-fruit smoothie, frozen sorbet, fat-free salad dressing, or veggie dip, this powerhouse machine can whip up endless healthy options. A favorite tool of professional chefs, your new culinary prowess will make summer entertaining a snap. With hundreds of healthy options, the Whole Food Recipes cookbook included with the machine will help you make delicious and smart decisions all summer. Sun safety After months of dreary, cold weather, you may be eager to soak up the sun's rays. As good as the warm sunshine feels, though, it can be damaging to your health. More than 2 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year, with unprotected exposure to ultraviolet radiation as a leading cause. To lower your risk, make sure you have the right sun-safety tools: sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Any time you head outside, generously apply sunscreen and lip balm SPF 15 or higher, taking care to cover all exposed areas, including the back of your neck and tips of your ears. Sunglasses should block 99 to 100 percent of UV rays to best protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them, and a comfortable, wide-brimmed hat will give your head and face added protection. Feet first Summer is the perfect time to become more active, enjoying the fresh air and scenery while you improve your health. Whether you're planning to hike a trail, ride your bicycle, run a 5K or just stroll through the park, it's important to make sure you have the right support. Walking in poorly fitted or thin-soled shoes can cause back and joint pain, blisters, and stress fractures, so invest in quality cross-training or running shoes that provide sufficient cushion and comfort. Make sure that the shoes fit properly and don't hurt or rub any parts of your feet. Wear thick, sweat-wicking socks, and get ready to enjoy better health in the great outdoors. Stay hydrated With the temperatures rising and the sun beating down, it doesn't take much to break a sweat on a hot day. Even if you don't feel thirsty, replacing the water your body loses through sweat is important, as dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you know you'll be outside for an extended period of time or if you're heading out to exercise, make sure to bring a refillable water bottle or canteen. Fill it with ice and cold water, and drink 8 to 10 ounces about every 15 minutes. With the right knowledge and tools, you can make this summer healthier and more enjoyable than ever. Invest in and incorporate these essential items into your lifestyle every day, and you're sure to feel healthy and refreshed throughout the summer months.
Content courtesy of ARA
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June 2011
Whether it's a birthday, graduation, reunion or impromptu get-together, dressing up sweet scoops of ice cream makes a party easy, fun and creative. From edible ice cream cups to cones dipped in colorful sprinkles, the entertaining experts at Wilton have big ideas to get you started. One way to wow guests is by making your own, edible, individual ice cream cookie bowls and candy cups to hold those scrumptious scoops. Favorite cookie flavors become cookie bowls with the new Ice Cream Cookie Bowl Pan. Cookie bowls bake on the outside of the pan using recipes - like the Chocolate Chip Cookie Bowl - specially created for this baking application. A sugar cookie variation is available on www.wilton.com. Candy cups start with Candy Melts - versatile, creamy and easy-to-melt wafers available in a variety of colors and flavors. The melted candy is brushed inside a silicone cup and refrigerated until firm. Then just unmold and fill with ice cream. For foolproof, step-by-step instructions, visit www.bakedecoratecelebrate.com. Even the tried-and-true ice cream cone can get a new look. To jazz up a basic store-bought cone simply dip an inch or two from the top into melted candy. Then dip again or roll in colorful, crunchy sprinkles and toppings.
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June 2011
For more summer celebration ideas or to purchase toppings, pans, Candy Melts and other supplies, visit www.wilton.com. Chocolate Chip Cookie Bowls 3
cups all-purpose flour
2/3
cup firmly-packed brown sugar
1/3
cup granulated sugar
3/4
teaspoon baking powder
1/2
teaspoon salt
3/4
cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter, melted
2
eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2/3
cup miniature semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350째F. Spray outside of each bowl cavity of Ice Cream Cookie Bowl Pan with vegetable pan spray. In large bowl, combine flour, sugars, baking powder and salt; mix well. In small bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs and vanilla; add to dry ingredients, mixing well to form stiff dough. Mix in chocolate chips. Roll out dough on generously-floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut 5-inch round circles from dough. Drape one circle over each cavity of pan, pressing to form smooth surface. Bake 12-14 minutes or until cookie cups are firm and golden brown. Cool on pan on cooling rack 5 minutes. Loosen bottom edges of cookies from pan using small spatula. Carefully remove cookies from pan and cool completely. Wash and dry pan; repeat with remaining dough. Fill cooled cookie bowls with ice cream, pudding or fresh fruit. Makes 12 bowls Content courtesy of Family Features
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June 2011
Warmer weather and longer days mean more time to get moving. It's the season to rev up the daily exercise routine. Hydration is key to safely increasing activity. While water remains the go-to beverage, these days exercisers are also opting to add in flavor or nutritional enhancements. The latest evolution of the water bottle - the new Mix 2 GoTM Bottle - makes that easy and eco-friendly. Perfect for those who are eco-conscious and economically aware, Mix 2 GoTM from Copco, a division of Wilton Enterprises, is reusable, BPA-free, highly durable, top-rack dishwasher safe and impact resistant for years of continual use. Two single-serve drink mix sticks can be stored in the dry storage chamber, accessible via an attached cover at the bottom of the bottle. When the mood strikes for flavored water - whether it's lemonade or an electrolyte-enhanced option - simply remove the drink mix packet, empty it into the bottle of water and shake to mix. The lid has an integrated flip-open straw for sip, no-tip drinking.
On-The-Go Snack Bars
On-The-Go Snack Bars are a satisfying, great tasting accompaniment to any flavored water. These easy-to-make bars are packed with dried fruit, granola and nuts. Fuel up before you leave, or enjoy a bar after your workout. Bring extra to share with friends, or wrap and freeze individually so they're ready to go when you are.
Makes about 32 bars
For more information on the Mix 2 GoTM Bottle or other beverage-to-go options, visit www.copco.com.
1/2
cup dried tart cherries, chopped
1/2
cup slivered dried apricots
2/3
cup orange juice
1 1/2
teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
1 3/4
cups whole wheat or all-purpose flour
1 1/2
cups raisin nut granola
1
cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
1
cup firmly-packed brown sugar
1/3
cup chopped walnuts
Heat oven to 350째F. Spray 13 x 9-inch baking pan with vegetable pan spray.
In small bowl, combine cherries, apricots, orange juice and 1 teaspoon cinnamon; let stand at least 5 minutes.
In medium bowl, combine flour, granola and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. In large bowl, beat butter and sugar with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add flour mixture; beat until crumbly. Reserve 1/2 cup mixture for topping; press remaining mixture into bottom of prepared pan.
Bake 10-12 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove from oven; spread fruit evenly over crust. Add nuts to reserved flour/cereal mixture; mix well. Spread evenly over fruit.
Bake 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely; cut into bars.
Content courtesy of Family Features
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June 2011
Family Health
Kids and water play go together like peanut butter and jelly. Sadly, what is a fun, healthy activity for most children, too often brings tragedy and heartbreak for others. Each year, more than 3,400 people drown in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and more than one in five fatal drowning victims are children younger than 14. Drowning is the second-leading cause of injury-related death among children ages 1 to 14. For every child who dies from drowning, another four are injured in nonfatal drownings, CDC statistics show. Many of the children who survive will face lifetimes of long-term disabilities. Typically, when a child drowns, the parent or caregiver has been away from the child for less than five minutes according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). "The single most effective thing parents can do to protect their children from drowning is to ensure they know how to swim," says Debbie Hesse, executive director of the USA Swimming Foundation. "Learning how to swim is not only a fun way to encourage exercise, it can save a child's life." Unfortunately, lack of swimming knowledge is common among American children, especially among minority populations. In fact, seven out of every 10 African-American and Hispanic children cannot swim, according to a national research study by USA Swimming and the University of Memphis. African-American children drown at a rate nearly three times higher than their Caucasian peers, the CDC reports. To help combat these statistics, the USA Swimming Foundation has granted more than $1.5 million dollars to communities across the nation to help provide free or discounted lessons so that all children will have the opportunity to learn to swim. This June, the Foundation will launch its annual cross-country water safety tour, Make a Splash with Cullen Jones, presented by ConocoPhillips. The tour aims to raise awareness about the importance of learning to swim. The USA Swimming Foundation offers parents five tips for keeping children safe in and around water this summer: 1. Teach children to swim. It's the best way to be safer in the water. Research shows that parents are the most influential factors in whether or not a child learns to swim. Only 13 percent of children from non-swimming households will ever learn to swim, according to national research conducted by the University of Memphis for USA Swimming. 2. Make sure a responsible adult is watching the water at all times. Drowning can be completely silent, and most child drownings occur when the victim has been out of sight for less than five minutes. 3. Remind kids to always obey the rules of the pool, not to jump on or dunk other swimmers, and not to jump or dive unless they know how deep the water is. 4. Require kids to always swim with a buddy. 5. Remember, you don't have to be at a pool to drown. Lakes, rivers, large puddles and any other bodies of water also require caution. Make sure your child knows how to swim, whether or not they'll be around a pool this summer. "Swimming is unique in that there is a lifesaving element to it it can be fun and competitive, but learning to swim can also save a life," Hesse says. "It's a skill every child needs, and one that every child should have regardless of their social or economic situation." As part of its Make a Splash water safety initiative, the USA Swimming Foundation, in partnership with ConocoPhillips, is providing resources for families, including swimming lessons that are low cost or even free, depending on a family's economic need. To find local learn-to-swim groups in your community, visit www.makeasplash.org. Content courtesy of ARA www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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June 2011
The start of the new year might have already come and gone, but that doesn't mean the resolutions you made need to fall by the wayside. Research shows that one third of people who have made New Year's resolutions will have broken them by the end of January. When it comes to sticking to your resolutions, especially those that will help to shrink your waistline, it's the simple everyday tweaks to your routine that can make a big difference in how you look and feel, all year long.
According to a recent survey conducted by SPLENDA Sweetener Products, with the support of SHAPE Magazine, more than a third of American women think about their weight three or more times per day, and 54 percent of them think that they will reach their ideal weight this year, but are unsure of the best way to do so. "It's important women know that it's the simple changes that are not only crucial to the weight loss process, but are also the healthiest and most effective in the long run," said Sharon Liao, SHAPE Magazine senior health and nutrition editor. "By incorporating healthy habits into their daily lives, women can start to see real results that will last well beyond the first few months of the year and quite possibly last for the rest of their lives." Make this year your best yet by getting back on the "resolution bandwagon" and following these healthy tips.
Know the Numbers More than two thirds of American women surveyed didn't know that it takes 3,500 calories lose a pound. Simply being knowledgeable about the calories you're consuming daily is the first step to smart and healthy weight management. This doesn't mean that you can't enjoy an occasional slice of birthday cake, but realize you might have to spend more time at the gym or compensate by choosing a lower calorie lunch. Savvy Substitutions By becoming savvy with healthy substitutions, you can swap out ingredients and still enjoy your favorite foods for fewer calories. Instead of butter, use light margarine. You can also swap whole milk for skim and use applesauce instead of cream. According to the survey, more than 70 percent of women add sugar to foods and beverages. To cut back on the added calories, try using SPLENDA No Calorie Sweetener Granulated instead of sugar in your favorite foods and beverages. It measures cup for cup like sugar. A cup of SPLENDA Granulated has 678 fewer calories than a cup of sugar, so you can have your cake and eat it too! Eat Up Women often tend to count calories and skimp on meals by nibbling too-small portions or skipping meals entirely throughout the day, leaving them hungry and more likely to reach for an unhealthy snack. Instead of skipping lunch, grab some greens and pair them with lean protein like chicken, or fiber like apples and nuts to ensure that you are not hungry throughout the day. Mix It Up Feeling uninspired by your workout schedule? Just because you're breaking a sweat doesn't mean that it has to be at the gym. Breathe some life into your physical activity by taking a class at the park, walking your dog with a friend, biking or walking to work or taking the stairs. Reward Yourself Stay on track with little rewards. Buy yourself a cute workout shirt to get excited about going to the gym. Go out to the movies or book that vacation you've been dreaming about taking. In fact, more than one third of women said that an upcoming vacation would inspire them to lose weight. By putting a vacation on the schedule, you may feel extra motivated to achieve your weight-loss goals. For more information visit www.SPLENDA.com. Content courtesy of Family Features
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36
June 2011
Anyone who has ever experienced a migraine knows how debilitating it can be. When you're suffering from a migraine, it's likely that you have a hard time focusing on anything else besides the pain you're enduring. If migraines are interfering with your daily life, it's a good idea to visit a doctor who can suggest the best ways to combat your headaches. But there are also some practical steps you can take to avoid migraines. Here are a few ways you can minimize the onset of migraines and ease your pain and nausea during a migraine episode:
* Get good and regular sleep. Migraines often follow sleepless nights. Do what you can to establish a consistent sleep schedule. If you're having trouble sleeping, remove distractions such as a TV or radio, which can prevent you from entering a deep sleep when left on all night.
* Try acupressure therapy. Similar to acupuncture, but without the needles, acupressure can provide natural pain relief by applying pressure to certain points in your body. This can be done with your hands, or through a device you can wear, such as Sea-Bands, which can be worn to apply pressure to a point just below your wrist. A recent study conducted by Berolina Clinic in Germany concluded that 83 percent of its participants - all chronic migraine sufferers - experienced a reduction in nausea when wearing Sea-Bands.
* Establishing consistency in your diet can also help reduce the frequency of migraine attacks, according to the medical experts. Also, if you suspect a certain food is causing your migraines, try eliminating it from your diet and see if it helps. Eating at different times each day or skipping meals can also trigger migraines.
* Try relaxation techniques. Stress is a major cause of migraines, so anything you can do to eliminate stress from your life will help. In addition, you may want to try deep-breathing exercises and muscle-relaxing routines designed to help your body deal better with stress and tension. If you are looking for a place to get started, ask your doctor which types of exercises he or she recommends.
* Get regular exercise. Perhaps nothing reduces stress and promotes good sleeping habits more than getting a good workout on a regular basis. Being physically active for at least a half hour a day can go a long way toward reducing your headaches.
* If you do experience a migraine attack, try to get to a dark, calm place. Lie down and sleep if your pain and schedule allows you to. Applying hot or cold packs to the affected area or the back of your neck may also help relieve your pain.
The pain caused by migraines can be extremely unpleasant and affect your ability to participate in normal daily activities. By doing what you can to avoid migraine attacks, you'll help ensure that the disruption they cause is kept to a minimum. For more information on migraine relief, visit www.sea-band.com/blog. Content courtesy of ARA
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June 2011
En Español
Los niños y los juegos en el agua se unen de manera tan indisoluble como la mantequilla de cacahuete y la mermelada. Lamentablemente, una actividad divertida y sana para la mayoría de los niños, se convierte a menudo en tragedia y dolor para algunos. Cada año, más de 3,400 personas mueren ahogadas en los Estados Unidos, según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC), y más de uno de cada cinco víctimas fatales de ahogamiento son niños menores de 14. El ahogamiento es la segunda causa de muerte por lesiones en niños de 1 a 14 años. Por cada niño que muere ahogado, otros cuatro sufren lesiones en ahogamientos que no son mortales, revelan las estadísticas de los CDC. Gran parte de los niños sobrevivientes padecerán discapacidades a largo plazo por toda la vida. Generalmente, cuando un niño se ahoga, el padre o cuidador lo ha dejado solo por menos de cinco minutos, según la Comisión de Seguridad de Productos de Consumo (Consumer Product Safety Commission, CPSC). "La medida más efectiva que pueden tomar los padres para proteger a sus hijos de ahogarse es garantizar que éstos sepan nadar", explica Debbie Hesse, directora ejecutiva de la Fundación de Natación de los Estados Unidos (USA Swimming Foundation). "Aprender a nadar no es sólo una forma divertida de estimular la ejercitación, sino que también puede salvarle la vida al niño". Lamentablemente, la falta de conocimientos de natación es común en los niños estadounidenses, especialmente en poblaciones de minorías étnicas. A propósito de esto, siete de cada diez niños afroamericanos e hispanos no saben nadar, según un estudio nacional de investigación realizado por USA Swimming y la Universidad de Memphis. Los niños afroamericanos se ahogan a un nivel casi tres veces mayor en comparación con los caucásicos, reportan los CDC.
1. Enseñe al niño a nadar. Es la mejor manera de garantizar la seguridad en el agua. Varias investigaciones revelan que los padres son los principales factores de influencia con respecto a si un niño sabe nadar o no. Sólo el 13 por ciento de los niños de hogares donde no se sabe nadar aprenderán a hacerlo algún día, según datos de un estudio nacional realizado por la Universidad de Memphis para USA Swimming. 2. Asegúrese de que un adulto responsable supervise las actividades junto al agua todo el tiempo. El ahogamiento puede ser en completo silencio, y la mayoría de los casos en los niños ocurren cuando la víctima ha estado sola sin supervisión por menos de cinco minutos. 3. Recuérdeles a los niños que deben obedecer siempre las reglas de la piscina, y no saltar sobre otros nadadores ni tampoco hundirlos, ni saltar o bucear a menos que conozcan la profundidad del agua. 4. Exíjales a los niños que naden siempre acompañados. 5. Recuerde que no se necesita una piscina ahogarse. Los lagos, ríos, estanques grandes y cualquier otra fuente de agua también exigen precaución. Asegúrese de que su hijo sabe nadar, independientemente de que vaya a estar o no en una piscina este verano. "La natación se caracteriza por la existencia de un elemento salvador de vidas en ella. Puede ser divertida y competitiva, pero saber nadar también puede salvar una vida", añade Hesse. "Es una destreza que todo niño necesita, y que se debe tener independientemente de su situación social o económica". Como parte de la iniciativa de seguridad en el agua Make a Splash, la Fundación de Natación de los Estados Unidos, en alianza con ConocoPhillips, está proporcionando herramientas para familias como lecciones de natación a bajo costo o incluso gratis, en dependencia de la necesidad económica de cada caso. Para buscar grupos de aprendizaje de natación en su comunidad, visite el sitio Web www.makeasplash.org. Contenido cortesia de ARA
Para disminuir tales estadísticas, la Fundación de Natación de los Estados Unidos (USA Swimming Foundation) ha otorgado más de $1.5 millones de dólares a diversas comunidades de la nación, para impartir clases gratuitas o a precio módico, para que los niños puedan aprender a nadar. Este mes de junio, la Fundación inaugurará su gira anual nacional de seguridad en el agua, titulada Make a Splash with Cullen Jones, presentada por ConocoPhillips. La gira tiene el propósito de llamar la atención acerca de la importancia de saber nadar. La Fundación de Natación de los Estados Unidos les ofrece a los padres cinco consejos para garantizar la seguridad de los niños en y alrededor de playas, piscinas y otras instalaciones acuáticas este verano: www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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June 2011
No se necesita mucho esfuerzo para que su vivienda funcione de forma más favorable al medioambiente. Incluso le sorprenderá cuánto dinero podría ahorrar.
El Departamento de Energía de los Estados Unidos reporta que, para lograr ahorros de energía y conveniencia, debe apagar el monitor si no va a usar su computadora durante más de 20 minutos. Y apague la computadora si no va a usarla en las próximas dos horas.
"Un pequeño cambio puede marcar una gran diferencia", afirma Charles Valinotti, vicepresidente principal de la aseguradora QBE. Recientemente, su compañía implementó una serie de pequeños cambios para proteger el medioambiente, y los ahorros siguen en aumento. "Son cambios que cualquier persona puede hacer en su propia casa. Sólo que nosotros los emprendimos a mayor escala".
Al igual que muchas personas, los empleados de QBE no siempre apagan sus computadoras al final del día laboral. El año pasado, la compañía inició desconexiones automáticas a las 9 p.m. hora local, lo cual equivale a ahorros por unos $55,000 en gastos de energía cada año. El sistema envía un aviso 60 minutos antes de la desconexión automática, para que hacer que sus computadoras sigan funcionando.
4. Papel - ¿a quién le hace falta? Valinotti aconseja que tomar medidas modestas con vistas a una existencia sin papel puede ser natural e indoloro. Por ejemplo, numerosos dueños de viviendas realizan sus transacciones bancarias en Internet. De ser así, ¿qué utilidad tiene seguir recibiendo estados de cuenta impresos en papel? Numerosas compañías de utilidades y tarjetas de crédito también ofrecen pago de cuentas por Internet.
A continuación, cuatro sencillos cambios "verdes" inspirados en QBE que pudieran beneficiar a cualquier propietario de vivienda:
1. Reciclar - y no solamente los artículos obvios. Es muy posible que esté reciclando frascos de cristal y latas de aluminio. Pero, ¿por qué limitarse solo a eso? Considere reciclar antes de desechar. Tal vez podría también recolectar latas de aluminio y llevarlas a la instalación de reciclaje más cercana en la cual podrían recompensarle en efectivo por sus esfuerzos.
Al publicar una parte de sus reportes mensuales en Internet, QBE ahorra 2.5 resmas de papel y $11 por día, lo cual totalizó ahorros de $2,000 el año pasado.
La sucursal de QBE en Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, recicla cables eléctricos, gabinetes, estantes, metales y lámparas. En dos años, la compañía no solo recolectó reciclables no tradicionales por la suma de $4,000, sino que también evitó el costo adicional para desecharlos.
Como habrá podido ver, unos cuantos cambios pequeños pueden ayudarle a ser más "verde" y a crear fortaleza financiera además. Contenido coretesia de ARA
2. Cambiar a una iluminación de alta eficiencia. Durante años hemos escuchado en todas partes que la iluminación de alta eficiencia es lo indicado. Pero ¿conocía la magnitud de diferencia que implica este cambio en sí? EnergyStar reporta que cada bombilla compacta de luz fluorescente puede ahorrar hasta $40 por concepto de costos de energía en su vida útil.
En marzo del 2010, la oficina de QBE en Bellevue, Washington, transformó la iluminación de su estacionamiento de lámparas halógenas a fluorescentes. Este cambio les ahorra 378,554 kilovatios/hora en uso de energía eléctrica, lo cual totaliza $26,575 en gastos anuales por utilidades.
3. Cuando no se use, apáguela. Las madres de todo el mundo les recuerdan siempre a sus hijos: "¡Apaguen las luces, por favor!". Aunque sin duda tiene sentido apagar las luces innecesarias, algunos podrían preguntarse si se debe apagar la computadora, pues se gasta más energía para echarla andar que dejándola encendida. www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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June 2011
Laredo Sportswire
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June 2011
Emalie Humphreys sets a new standard at Texas A&M University she has qualified for the NCAA Division One track & field for the fourth Year in a row on the Javelin for the Aggies. With a PR (Personal Best) Humphreys advances to nationals.
Jorge Guarneros ends his 2011 season with an impressive ERA of 2.83 and a pitching record of 11-1 with 14 appearances and started 14 games. Congrats Jorge on a great outstanding NCAA season at IW University. Your victory in your conference game was outstanding. We look forward to your next year accomplishment at IW University. Outstanding! we are so proud of your work .
Luis Pollorena, Mississippi State, first year in the NCAA Division One has come to close in 2011. ERA 4.44 Record 6-5 Appearances 20 Starts 3. Luis we congratulate you on a great first year in NCAA D1 baseball program. We are proud of your accomplishments this year and look forward to your next season with Mississippi State.
Sam Humphreys the Big 12 Back to Back Men's Javelin champion qualifies to the NCAA Nationals in track & field on the Javelin for the second straight hear. Sam returns to nationals wherein 2010 he earned ALL AMERICAN Honors on the Javelin for Texas A&M University.
UTPA Laredo athletes L-R Cindy Velasquez, Joe Sciaraffa, Brittany Talamantez Cindy Velasquez earn All Conference Honors on the Heptathlon, Brittany Talamantez earns All confrence honors on The Hammer. Joseph "Javelin Joe" Sciaraffa on theJavelin.
www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
41
June 2011
By Danny "Soccer Guru" Perez INTERVIEW SOCCER GURU TYLE
The guru asked her what she attributes to her soccer success, to which she said: "Of course Coach Gonzalez’s practices that made us work hard and all the training we did, the support of my family and friends, also my wonderful teammates that were with me all these four years".
The end of an era was on hand at Alexander High School which was a little sad but was also met with great joy. This day, one of their best players to ever put on that Alexander uniform was about to take her talents, pride and heart to the next level. The player signing was none other than the versatile, speedy soccer star Adriana Nino. She signed a letter of intent to play for the Dustdevils of Texas A&M International University in Laredo, Texas.
The guru asked if she was worried about playing at the next level and she quickly said: "No, I'm hoping for the best but will work hard to help the team out". The soccer guru asked her what position she feels more comfortable in and she said: " Defense but will play anywhere the team needs me".
Her signing brought out her family, friends, teammates and coaches to witness her commitment to, not only soccer, but her commitment to go to one of our finest institutions of higher learning in the region. The refreshments and the soccer cupcakes provided added a nice touch to the event. A big thank you to Coach Charlie Gonzalez for the treats.
She was asked whether she will miss playing with her high school teammates, she said: "There will always be a place in my heart for my friends here at Alexander but I'm also looking forward to the next chapter in my life making new friends and having new teammates on the TAMIU team".
The event began with Alexander Head Coach Charlie Gonzalez thanking all those in attendance as well as members of the media. Coach Gonzalez lauded Nino’s toughness, her passion and her strong work ethic as the keys to her success.
The guru asked her what she would bring to the Dustdevil team, she said:" Hopefully I can contribute with my speed, my aggressiveness and I may be small but I'm not easy to push over and will play hard every game".
Coach Gonzalez said: " We formed our defense around her....she was the foundation of defense as well as our team".
The soccer guru, in all his years of watching soccer, is really amazed by Adriana Nino's soccer skills and thinks she is one of the city's most special players. She may be small but she has never ever shied away from a challenge or getting physical with bigger and taller players.
He said: " We are very proud to have move up to play at the next level especially here at TAMIU. She is the perfect athlete leadership wise, her work ethic also sets her apart from a lot of players. She will proudly represent the TAMIU team at the next level".
She has great speed and reacts good to the ball. She also makes many defensive stops as she is constantly moving on the field to recognize where the play is going. She is very versatile as she can play defense, midfield or forward really well to the dismay of the other teams.
The soccer guru asked Coach Gonzalez his thoughts on Adriana Nino's progression from her freshman year to now. Coach Gonzalez said: "She was a freshman when I started coaching this team so I have seen her grow up these four years into a great soccer player. She has been a starter all 4 years‖.
She is a great field leader and is respected by teammate and adversary alike. She brings work ethic, tenacity, skill, but it’s the heart of a champion that sets her apart from other high schoolers. Winners just know how to win and Adriana has always had great success in any sport she has played in.
Adriana ―has a great knowledge of the game and she is very coachable‖, said Coach Gonzalez.
She has garnered All District 1st teams several times, twice selected for the All-City team but also Defensive MVP once and has been an All-star for the city league two years in a row. One of the best players to not only come out of Alexander High School but one of the city's best all time.
The soccer guru asked what was his favorite moment in Adriana Nino's high school career to which he said: "Whenever I would move her up to forward and she would score a goal to help her team win." The guru then asked Coach Gonzalez what sets her apart from other players and he simply responded " her work ethic".
So take bow a Adriana....you have earned it and one more thing...welcome to the TAMIU Dustdevil family.
Lrd Sports Wire News Network
The soccer guru interviewed the star of the hour Adriana Nino and asked how she felt signing with her local university. She said: " I feel honored that I have this opportunity to keep playing soccer at the university level". www.laredofamilytimemagazine.com
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