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Bringing Peach Baskets Back to the Game Los Fresnos B&G Club Share a Little History Lesson about Basketball & the origins of the Sport since they did work at the same YMCA in Massachusetts. Interestingly enough, Basketball was the first major sport invented in the United States. It quickly became a huge hit, really taking off by 1936 when it became an Olympics sport. The B&G’s Club went all out having actual peach baskets fastened to the rims of the backboards. Eddie Barron mentions that back then, there was actually an assigned person dedicated to retrieving the ball from the basket to put it back into play. These assigned workers would often be dressed up because it was a gentleman’s sport, so the B&G Club did not hold back from keeping it original.
Self-Eliminating Genes Tested On Mosquitoes
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ISL Completes First EU Ship Recycling Project in the U.S.
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Ready to Rumble
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To Create a Greener Future
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By Emilio Flores Los Fresnos News The Boys & Girls Club of Los Fresnos decided to do a throwback to the late 1800s when basketball was first invented. Eddie Barron, Executive Director of the Los Fresnos Boys & Girls Club, explains the importance of teaching these kids history in a fun and interactive way. He also mentions that even most of the parents don’t know the history of basketball, so this was a great opportunity to teach & engage the whole family.
According to Britannica, Basketball was invented by James Naismith on or about December 1, 1891, at the International Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Training School, Springfield, Massachusetts, where Naismith was an instructor in physical education. Naismith was challenged with creating an indoor sport that was safer than football while being indoors and keeping the participants active and engaged. Some interesting facts about the early forms of
this sport were that the baskets were made out of peach baskets, which meant that when a basket was made they needed to stop the game and have a designated person put the ball back in play. Another interesting fact is that basketball was first played with a soccer ball. It’s sometimes rumored that they used a volleyball, when in fact volleyball wasn’t invented until 1895, four years after basketball by William G. Morgan. Some actually say that Morgan was influenced by Naismith, which may have some validity
All the kids, family, and volunteers had a great time watching these kids relive a little history. Sitting down and talking with Mr. Barron, it became apparent the passion and drive he has in making these events a great success and a great experience for these kids. He has many projects that he has already done, and many he is in the process of doing, though he does mention may decide to retire, he says that there are a few big projects on the bucket list first. Mr. Barron has been a part of the B&G’s club for some 20 years now and has been heavily involved in coming up with these creative events. That’s his passion, serving these kids and his community.
The Positive Effects Of Gardening On Mental Health
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James Naismith holding a ball and a peach basket, the first ® basketball equipment. Photo by UPI/Bettmann Archive
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Self-Eliminating Genes Tested On Mosquitoes 2 • May 11, 2022 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS
Temporary transgenes may reduce risks associated with invasive genetic elements public that ‘if something bad happens, we’re just out of luck,’” Adelman said. “This mechanism is about how we get back to normal whether the experiment does or doesn’t come out the way we expect.” Adelman and Myles are co-directing a team of scientists who received a five-year, $3.9 million grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to test and finetune the self-eliminating transgene technology.
Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientists published an article detailing a mechanism to make temporary genetic alterations to mosquitoes. (Stock photo) Written by Adam Russell Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientists have tested a technology to make temporary genetic modifications in mosquitoes. The modifications self-delete over time. The mechanism to make temporary genetic changes could be important for scientists hoping to modify mosquitoes in ways that help manage populations and prevent vector-borne diseases like West Nile virus without permanently altering wild populations’ genetic makeup.
An article detailing their test results, “Engineering a self-eliminating transgene in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti,” was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences’ PNAS Nexus. The authors, Zach Adelman, Ph.D., and Kevin Myles, Ph.D., both professors in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Entomology, describe a method for programming the removal of edited genes within populations of mosquitoes over multiple generations.
The method is a first step toward building safeguards for genetic modifications developed to control populations of mosquitoes and the vectorborne diseases they carry. The idea is to test proposed changes without making the changes permanent and without the risk of transmitting them to wild populations, Adelman said. “There are lots of ecological questions we don’t know the answers to, and when you are testing technology, you don’t want to get into a situation where you have to tell a regulatory agency or the
Back to normal in a few generations To prevent mosquitotransmitted diseases, approaches based on genetic control of insect populations are being developed, Adelman said. However, many of these strategies are based on highly invasive, selfpropagating transgenes that can rapidly spread the trait into other populations of mosquitoes. Keun Chae, Ph.D., a post-doctoral researcher in Adelman’s group, led the experiments in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which are known vectors of diseases. Taking advantage of a form of DNA repair, Chae engineered a
duplicated genetic code region along with two genes for fluorescent proteins into the middle of a gene important for eye pigment. The result was a whiteeyed mosquito, and also red and green fluorescence in the eyes and body. When combined with a site-specific nuclease, which is essential for many aspects of DNA repair, they acted as a precise set of molecular scissors that could cut the transgene sequences. Over several generations, mosquitoes regained their normal eye pigment and lost the modified genes. Adelman said the work is proof of principle that scientists can do two important things – remove transgenes placed in mosquitoes and repair disrupted genes. “Many groups are developing genetic methods for mosquito population control,” Adelman said. “Our method provides a braking system that can restore sequences in the wild.” Self-editing transgenes could be leap for genetic research Myles said creating this
self-editing transgene is the first step in a longer process. The mosquito genome is not easy to manipulate, and the breakthrough is the culmination of around six years of experimental work. But this first publication starts to address concerns about genetic modification in wild populations, he said. As genetic modification technology advances, Adelman and Myles believe this mechanism will allow researchers to evaluate the effects of changes more safely within the environment and on animals other than mosquitoes. “These are highly conserved genetic pathways, and there is every reason to believe this method could be applied to a diverse range of organisms,” Myles said. Both scientists are looking forward to expanding the application of their discovery in the context of highly active gene drive. They hope their method will be useful for geneticists and in pushing the boundaries of genetic research.
Ask Our Dentists by DR. ADAM LALONDE
Q: “Why are my teeth so sensitive?”
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ANSWERED by DR.ADAM LALONDE: This is a very common complaint and question I hear patients express during their regular check-ups. There are a number of reasons your teeth may be sensitive. Sensitivity to temperature doesn’t always mean tooth decay (cavity). Sensitivity can occur in other situations such as worn enamel, exposed roots, fractured teeth or restorations, and can even indicate gum disease. Consider your tooth enamel as a winter coat for your tooth’s nerve. If this enamel wears from activities such as clenching, grinding, or even acid Dr. Adam Lalonde erosion, our dentin is exposed. Think of your dentin as the long johns under your winter clothes. Just as long johns have a pretty direct route to your skin, your dentin has a direct route to your nerve. When your enamel is worn, your nerve can more easily access the environment, therefore sensitivity arises. Below the gum line, this winter coat is called cementum. When you have gum recession or gum disease, the cementum can wear down as well. There are effective treatments for sensitive teeth, but treatment varies on your specific sensitivity. Some treatments include: • Fluoride toothpastes • Soft bristled toothbrush • Night guard • Desensitizing toothpaste • Crown or filling • Root canal • IN CONCLUSION: Visit your dentist soon to determine proper avenue for addressing your teeth sensitivity, so you can get back to enjoying some of your favorite treats, like ice cream! If you don’t already have a dentist, we would be honored to see you. For more information, call our office 956-233-4400 or visit us at www.losfresnosdental.com.
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PUBLIC NOTICE The Board of Aldermen of the Town of Bayview will be conducting a Public Meeting on Thursday, May 19, 2022 at 6:30 P.M. to get public comments on the following: a. Disannexation of North San Roman Road north of Centerline Road and Bayview Palm Subdivision. b. Change of Town Zoning Ordinances.
Any residents unable to attend the public hearing can submit their comments to our email: info.townofbayview@gmail.com. These comments will be read during our Public Meeting when asked for public comments.
The MT Wolverine moored Brownsville. Recycler EMR Group announced on April 25 the completion of the first European Union ship recycled in the United States by International Shipbreaking Ltd (ISL). The project follows a $30 million investment in new equipment and processes at ISL’s site at the Port of Brownsville to meet the requirements of the rigorous EU Ship Recycling Regulation (EU SSR). The MT Wolverine is a 158-meter-long chemical tanker with a carrying capacity of 16,000 tons. Prior to being decommissioned, she was sailing under the flag of Norway. Using innovative and sustainable recycling processes, ISL was able to recycle 97 percent of the materials removed from the MT Wolverine. “The arrival of MT Wolverine at our Brownville site was a proud day for everyone at International Shipbuilding Ltd,” said Chris Green, Senior Manager at ISL. “By investing $30 million in the latest technology, equipment and infrastructure, our
feet (48 meters) wide. The ship was built by Aker Tulcea SC SA in 2006. An Inventory of Hazardous Materials (IHM) was completed by the ship’s owner, which ISL reviewed before developing the MT Wolverine Ship Recycling Plan. “ISL completed the MT Wolverine ship recycling project without any recordable injuries to our employees, hazardous or regulated material spills, or regulatory violations of any kind”, said Green. “This represents a new era for International Shipbreaking Ltd. and our parent company EMR in the marine recycling industry.” The project is fully compliant with the EU SRR with all waste materials removed from the MT Wolverine disposed of in accordance with the EU SRR requirements. The EU SRR helps responsible ship owners make the shipbreaking industry greener and safer. Increasingly, banks and investors are unwilling to fund shipping companies who cannot prove that their ships are recycled responsibly.
The Town of Indian Lake will receive bids addressed to Hon. James Chambers, Mayor for Drainage Improvements to Texoma, Iowa, and Citrus Streets Project, TDA TxCDBG Project No. 7220201, until 10:00 a.m. on May 31, 2022 at the Indian Lake Town Hall, 62 South Aztec Cove Drive, Los Fresnos, Texas 78566. The bids will be publicly opened and read aloud.
EVENTS Chicken Fried Steak Festival, April 29-May 1, Lamesa, TX. More than 100 booths, volleyball tournament, 5K Run, live music, children’s story time, pet costume contest, petting zoo, parade, Chicken Fried Steak Cookoff, team roping, car and motorcycle show, worship service, kickball tourney, children’s story time, carnival games, tumblers & dancers, Mister and Miss Chicken Fry Pageant. For registration forms and more information go to www.ci.lamesa.tx.us or call 806-872-2124 ext. 322.
Hunting/investment/recreational property. Starting at $650/acre. Trans Pecos region. Also the Hill Country (Edwards, Menard, Coke, Val Verde Counties free ranging exotics), South Texas (Duval County - whitetail, hogs). Large or small acreage. 30-year fixed rate owner financing, only 5% down. Call toll-free or email for individual prices and terms, New Braunfels Area Car Club Swap Meet & Sunday www.ranchenterprisesltd.com, 800-876-9720. Car Show – April 22, 23 & 24, 2022, Comal County Fairgrounds, 801 E. Common Street, New Braunfels. ARROWHEADS www.newbraunfelsareacarclub.com. Face Masks Encouraged. Indian Arrowheads Wanted – Point Type: Clovis, Yuma, Firstview & Eden. Must be old, authentic & ROOFING unbroken. Absolute TOP DOLLAR paid – up to 5 ATTENTION HOME-OWNERS – Upgrade figures for one point. I am a very serious high-end your home with a new METAL ROOF ONLY collector. Call 979-218-3351. $4995* COMPLETELY INSTALLED. Professional installation. Factory warranty. CALL 800-664-4856 AUCTION LIMITED TIME OFFER. * 1500 sq ft roof. Huge Estate Auction, On-Site & Online Bidding –Thurs., April 28, Starts 9:35 a.m., Mayes County Fairgrounds, 2200 NE 1st Street, Pryor, OK. On-site and online bidding on Lots 1-57 starts 11:37 a.m. Vintage Restored Cars, Pickups, SUVs, Mowers, Snow Blower, Generator, Vintage Fuel Pump, Porcelain & Metal Signs, Shop Hoist, Lighted Signs, Model A & Early V8 Engine Auto Parts, Tools, Furniture & Decor, Vintage Collectibles & More. (918) 630-0495, for photos & info: chuppsauction.com.
business has become the first in the U.S. to be able to recycle ships to a level compliant with the EU Ship Recycling Regulation. The MT Wolverine shows that this effort and commitment is paying off.” ISL’s investment will help reduce the number of end-of-life vessels that are broken up, in rudimentary and often very unsafe conditions, on the beaches of South Asia. As of 2018, over 90 percent of merchant vessels were disposed this way. “Around the world there are still too many ships that end their days being recycled in dangerous and environmentally-harmful yards on the other side of the world”, said Green. “By continuing to raise our standards, International Shipbreaking Ltd is showing responsible ship owners there is a better way to do business.” The MT Wolverine was accepted for recycling on January 31, 2021 and is one of 28 projects undertaken by the company during the past year. ISL has the capacity to safely moor and recycle ships over 1200 feet (366m) in length and 158
ADVERTISEMENT AND INVITATION FOR BIDS
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TexSCAN Week of April 17-23, 2022 ACREAGE
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WANTED FREON WANTED: Certified buyer looking to buy R11, R12, and R500 and more. Call Joe at 312-625-5322. Need Extra Cash – I Buy RVs & Mobile Homes –Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels, Goosenecks, Bumper Pulls. In Any Area, Any Condition – Old/New, Dirty or Clean! I PAY CA$H. No Title – No Problem, we can apply for one. We go anywhere in Texas. ANR Enterprises, 956-466-7001.
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Bids are invited for items and quantities of work as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
184 LF of 36” RCP Storm Line 800 LF of 24” RCP Storm Line 16 LF of 18” RCP Storm Line 96 LF of 15” RCP Storm Line 8 EA Concrete Manholes 9 EA Concrete Inlets 1 EA Storm Line Headwall Structure
Bid/Contract Documents, including Drawings and Technical Specifications are on file at CRUZ-HOGAN Consultants, Inc., 2290 W. Pike Blvd., Ste. 102, Weslaco, Texas 78596, (956) 854-4227. Copies of the Bid/Contract Documents may be obtained by depositing $150.00 with the Engineer for each set of documents obtained. This payment represents reproduction costs and is non-refundable. If requested, the documents will be promptly dispatched by courier at the expense of the bidder, but no liability can be accepted for loss or late delivery. No refunds will be made. A Pre-Bid Conference has been scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on May 24, 2022 at the Indian Lake Town Hall, 62 South Aztec Cove Drive, Indian Lake, Texas All Bidders are encouraged to attend. A bid bond in the amount of 5 percent of the bid issued by an acceptable surety shall be submitted with each bid [for those contracts that exceed $100,000]. A certified check or bank draft payable to the Town of Indian Lake or negotiable U.S. Government Bonds (as par value) may be submitted in lieu of the Bid Bond. The project to be constructed will be financed with assistance from the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant(CDBG) program and is subject to all applicable Federal and State laws and regulations. Attention is called to the fact that not less than, the federally determined prevailing (Davis-Bacon and Related Acts) wage rate, as issued by the Department of Labor and contained in the contract documents, must be paid on this project. In addition, the successful bidder must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.Adherence to the grant recipient’s Section 3 Policy is required for contracts and subcontracts in excess of $100,000.00. All contractors/subcontractors that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation on federal assistance programs may not undertake any activity in part or in full under this project.Minority Business Enterprises, Small Business Enterprises, and Women Business Enterprises, and Historically Underutilized Business firms are encouraged to submit bids. The Town of Indian Lake reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. Bids may be held by the Town of Indian Lake for a period not to exceed 60 days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the bidder’s qualifications prior to the contract award. TOWN OF INDIAN LAKE JAMES CHAMBERS, MAYOR MAY 11, 2022 CRUZ-HOGAN Consultants, Inc. CHC#561
1
Town of Indian Lake Drainage Imp. to Texoma, Iowa, & Citrus Advertisement & Invitation for Bids
4 • May 11, 2022 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS
Ready to Rumble
Los Fresnos Baseball ready for the Postseason
Los Fresnos might Falcons take a celebration picture in being 2022 district Champs. Photo taken from LFHS Baseball's twitter. By Ruben Rodriguez Los Fresnos News The Los Fresnos Falcons Baseball team are now set to go in the Bi-District Round of the 2022 Texas High School Baseball Playoffs. The 32-6A Undefeated District Champions will take on the Mission Eagles, who clinched the 4th seed after a thrilling win over PSJA North in a Play in matchup. Los Fresnos, who finished the District Season 14-0, were able
to capture the district title that evaded them in 2021. With key returning members from the 2021 squad, the Falcons have their eyes set on Round Rock after the historic playoff run in 2021. Last season, Los Fresnos went through PSJA in the Bi-District, San Antonio Brennan in the Area Round, Edinburg Vela in the Regional Quarterfinal, Round Rock in the Regional Semifinal, and Smithson Valley in the Regional Final. Los Fresnos is led by the
Senior Duo of Ace Pitcher Mathew Padilla and Outfielder Hector Muniz. Other Key members for the Falcons include Luis Lucio, Roel Gonzalez, Sebastian Barrera, Diego Cantu and Juan Garcia. The Falcons are led by 20+ year Skipper Rene Morales. For the rest of 326A. Harlingen will take on PSJA, Weslaco will take on La Joya, while San Benito will take on Edinburg Vela.
It Is Playoff Time in Texas! By Ruben Rodriguez Rio Sports Live
After a very lengthy regular 2022 Texas High School Baseball regular season, now enter the playoffs. Teams across the state are gearing up for the Bi-District Round, which is set to begin this weekend. In South Texas, 32 big Bi-District Matchups are scheduled to take place this weekend. So let's take a look at the South Texas Baseball Playoffs. Firstly, we start off with the 29-6A/30-6A BiDistrict, where teams from San Antonio will clash with Laredo Area teams. These are the matchups that will take place: 1- San Antonio Stevens (29-6A) vs 4- Laredo Nixon (30-6A) 2- San Antonio O’Connor (29-6A) vs 3Laredo United (30-6A) 3- San Antonio Harlan (29-6A) vs 2- Eagle Pass (30-6A) 4- San Antonio Taft (296A) vs 1- Laredo Alexander (30-6A) Next up we look at the 31-6A/32-6A in the Rio Grande Valley. For 326A, All teams from the 2021 Postseason are in the playoffs in 2022. Two Bi-District Matchups are a rematch of last year’s BiDistrict Round. These are the matchups that will take place: 1- PSJA (31-6A) vs 4Harlingen (32-6A) 2- Edinburg Vela (31-6A) vs 3- San Benito (32-6A) 3- La Joya (31-6A) vs 2Weslaco (32-6A) 4- Mission (31-6A) vs 1Los Fresnos (32-6A) Switching gears to 5A Baseball, we first look at District 29-5A/30-5A Bi District meeting, arguably a very interesting set of BiDistrict matchups, which feature the fabulous four of CCISD Baseball. For 305A, The Palmview Lobos prove to be the toughest team from the Rio Grande
Valley in that District. Here are the matchups: 1- Corpus Christi Ray (29-5A) vs 4- Rio Grande City (30-5A) 2- Corpus Christi Veterans Memorial (29-5A) vs 3- Mission Veterans Memorial (30-5A) 3- Corpus Christi Moody (29-5A) vs 2- Roma (30-5A) 4- Corpus Christi Carroll Tigers (29-5A) vs La Joya Palmview Lobos (30-5A)
Down to the RGV we go for the 31-5A/32-5A Bi-District round. This Bi-District round features two teams who entered the playoffs after a very rough start. Those two teams being McAllen and Brownsville Porter. Both teams found themselves low in their standings and quickly turned it around to take the 4th seeds in their districts. For Porter, this matchup has more meaning. In 2021, the Cowboys eliminated the Diamondbacks in a three game series, sending shockwaves across the RGV. Porter once again will meet Sharyland Pioneer. Here are the matchups: 1- Sharyland Pioneer (31-5A) vs 4- Brownsville Porter (32-5A) 2- McAllen Rowe (31-5A) vs 3- Edcouch-Elsa (32-5A) 3- Sharyland (31-5A) vs 2- Brownsville Veterans (32-5A) 4- McAllen (31-5A) vs 1Weslaco East (32-5A) Now we move down to 4A, which is home to arguably two of the best teams in the Coastal Bend, if not South Texas. The Sinton Pirates, who lost in the State Tournament have been on fire in 2022. Alongside Sinton we have the Calallen Wildcats, who just captured another District Title. RockportFulton and Alice are other teams to lookout for in the 4A side of things. Down in the RGV 4A, the Hidalgo Pirates have been red hot in 2022, becoming the
Undefeated 32-4A District Champions These are the 25-4A/264A Bi-District Matchups: 1- Needville (25-4A) vs 4- Port Lavaca Calhoun (25-4A) 2- Sweeny (25-4A) vs 3Ingleside (26-4A) 3- Columbia (25-4A) vs 2- Rockport Fulton (26-4A) 4- Brazosport (25-4A) vs 1- Sinton (26-4A) Now we look at the 31-4A/32-4A BiDistrict Matchups 1- Calallen (31-4A) vs 4Raymondville (32-4A) 2- CC Tuloso-Midway (31-4A) vs 3- La Grulla (32-4A) 3- Alice (31-4A) vs 2- La Feria (32-4A) 4- Robstown (31-4A) vs 1- Hidalgo (32-4A) Lastly we look at 3A South Texas Baseball, Here are some of the key matchups to lookout for. Some teams to watch are CC London, Mathis, Odem, Santa Gertrudis and Bishop. Here are the 29-3A/30-3A Bi-District Matchups: 1- Orange Grove (29-3A) vs Falfurrias (30-3A) 2- Taft (29-3A) vs Santa Gertrudis Academy (303A) 3- Odem (29-3A) vs Bishop (30-3A) 4- Mathis (29-3A) vs CC London (30-3A) Now we look at the RGV in 3A where the playoffs are set and prove to be exciting. Here are the 31-3A/32-3A Bi-District: 1- IDEA Quest (31-3A) vs 4- Brownsville Jubilee (32-3A) 2- Monte Alto (31-3A) vs 3- Santa Rosa (32-3A) 3- IDEA Edinburg (313A) vs 2- Progreso (32-3A) 4- IDEA Donna (31-3A) vs 1- Lyford (32-3A) Without a doubt, this certainly proves to be an exciting Bi-District Round. The beauty of the postseason is that Anything can happen. Expect the Unexpected.
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LAST WEEK’S SUDOKU ANSWERS
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THEME: THE 1950s ACROSS 1. a.k.a. vampire 6. Asian cuisine pan 9. Type of tide 13. Make more attractive 14. Lawyers' grp. 15. China grass 16. *"West Side Story's" Tony and ____ 17. Mourner's acronym 18. Utilizing 19. *a.k.a. "The King"
21. *Kitschy art movement begun in '50s (2 words) 23. Mortar carrier 24. Back of the neck 25. *Kelly or Chanel 2.55, e.g. 28. Hurtful remark 30. "____ Margery Daw," nursery rhyme 35. Paper unit 37. Duds 39. Eurasian antelope 40. Guesstimate phrase
(2 words) 41. Unaccompanied 43. Disgust with sweetness excess 44. Brandish 46. Track competition, e.g. 47. Frustrated driver's recourse 48. Legendary King of Pylos 50. Tsar, tzar or ____ 52. Greek letters on campus
53. Deprivation 55. Greek R 57. *"A Streetcar Named Desire" star 60. *Popular type of 1950s restaurant 64. Pro athletes' move 65. Sea in Spain 67. Narcotics agent 68. Stringed instrument of India 69. Brewpub offering 70. Shakespearean "ergo" 71. *Gwendolyn Brooks' "Annie Allen" entry, e.g. 72. *Doris of "Que Sera, Sera" fame 73. Disinfectant brand DOWN 1. Statue of Liberty: "I lift my ____ beside the golden door" 2. Sixth month of civil year 3. Encore! 4. *Like Maureen O'Hara and Samuel Beckett 5. Not digital 6. On one's guard 7. ____-Wan of "Star Wars" 8. Fraternity K 9. *Space program established in 1958 10. Arabian chieftain 11. Are not 12. Margaret, for short 15. Raja's money, pl. 20. Changes to a manuscript 22. Military moves 24. Fail to care 25. *_____ v. Board of Education 26. Eagle's nest 27. Kr and Xe on the periodic table, e.g. 29. *Postwar prosperity 31. Per person 32. Farm structures 33. Ancient market 34. *"Rio Grande" and "Rio Bravo" star 36. Lose skin 38. *Egypt's disputed canal 42. Sir Richard Starkey of the Beatles 45. Like certain Debbie 49. Unit of absorbed radiation 51. Relating to nose 54. Frances McDormand's Oscarwinning 2020 role 56. Estrogen producer 57. Spiritedness 58. Equal to distance divided by time 59. Actor Driver 60. Squirrel's nest 61. Units of work 62. International Civil Aviation Org. 63. Hall of Fame Steelers coach 64. Cooking meas. 66. Fla. neighbor
6 • May 11, 2022 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS
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May 11, 2022 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS • 7
To Create a Greener Future, Rethink, Reuse and Refill
(StatePoint) Humans produce over 380 million tonsvof plastic every year, according to Plastic Oceans. Because plastic doesn’t biodegrade, it creates waste, litter and pollution. But there are steps you can take to reduce your own contribution to this mounting problem. Here are a few ideas to consider: • Hold the plastic: Ordering in tonight? Chances are you don’t need the plastic utensils that come with your meal. The good news is that many online food delivery platforms offer you the option of forgoing plastic forks, knives and spoons. If this option isn’t available, you may be able to use a “special instructions” field to make the same request. • Write right: Switch to brands that are working toward sustainable solutions, such as Pilot Pen. Since 2007, Pilot has been producing premium pens with recycled content, like B2P. B2P (or ‘Bottle-2-Pen’) Gel pens by G2 contain 89% post-consumer upcycled plastic, and are the world’s first pens made of recycled plastic bottles. With 2.5 million plastic bottles entering landfills every hour in the United States, this is a good example of how companies can convert plastic into a valuable resource. • Ditch single-use items: Speaking of plastic bottles, the array of amazing reusable water bottles available today will have you breaking your singleuse bottle habit in no time. Models today include all kinds of innovative
features that make it easy to make the switch, including water filtration, insulation, sleek designs and built-in straws. But refilling goes beyond just water bottles. Eighty-seven percent of Pilot’s best-selling pen brands, including B2P, G2, Precise and erasable FriXion, are 100% refillable and reusable? Simply swap out the empty ink refill for a fresh one and use your favorite pen again and again. It’s a small step you can take to create less plastic waste for continued use. • Rethink your household routine: Studies show that 39% of shoppers in the United States want “sustainable” options. Roughly the same amount also look for premium quality from the items they choose for their families. So many household items are packaged in plastic, but more sustainable alternatives are available, from zero waste bathroom products to eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Product packaging is also getting eco-friendly updates. Roughly 77% of Pilot’s retail packaging contains recycled materials, and the company is committed to continuing to increase this percentage in the coming years. Manufacturers like Pilot make it easier to make greener choices without having to give up your favorite products. The small choices you make matter. By reducing your use of plastic today, you can help write the story of a more sustainable tomorrow.
scan and visit!
My message to PRESIDENT BIDEN:
My message to GOVERNOR ABBOTT:
Walk back your decision on Title 42.
Stop the political stunts. On the border, trade = jobs.
You don’t have a plan and when the next wave of caravans comes, we here on the border will pay the price.
Your truck blockade cost over $400 million in economic losses.
And we know they’re coming.
Mess with the supply chain, and you hurt working families by adding to inflation.
Fixing our immigration system won’t be easy, but we can no longer afford to ignore it.
It’s time to sit down at the table and put forward reasonable solutions.
This is not a Democratic or Republican problem.
This is an American problem!
FF RUNO 24th
Matiyng May 16-20th
Early Vo
www.morganlamantia.com Pol. Adv Paid for by Morgan LaMantia for State Senate Pol. Adv Paid for by Morgan LaMantia for State Senate
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8 • May 11, 2022 • LOS FRESNOS NEWS
The Positive Effects Of Gardening On Mental Health
Experts explain the many psychological benefits of plants and gardening
Master Gardeners are involved in a number of community outreach and education activities related to gardening and horticultural education. (Texas A&M AgriLife photo)
Research shows participating in gardening and other horticultural activities gives people a more positive outlook on life. (Texas A&M AgriLife photo)
Written by Paul Schattenberg Getting outdoors and gardening can do more than just provide some physical activity and produce food for the table; it can be beneficial to the mind as well. Although there are many functional benefits of gardening and the inherent ways in which plants improve the quality of life, Texas A&M AgriLife experts say a particularly important aspect is how plants enhance mental health and a person’s overall outlook. “As many people already knew and others discovered during the pandemic, plant-related hobbies like gardening offer an opportunity to enjoy nature and give a person a more positive outlook on life,” said Charles Hall, Ph.D., professor and Ellison Chair in International Floriculture in the Department of Horticultural Sciences of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, BryanCollege Station. Hall has done extensive research on how plants and gardening can improve both physical and mental health. Research by Hall, presented in an article published in the Journal of Environmental Horticulture, outlines the numerous psychological benefits of plants and the activity of gardening in a variety of categories. These benefits include:
• Anxiety and stress reduction. • Attention deficit recovery. • Decreased depression. • Enhanced memory retention. • Improved happiness and life satisfaction. • Mitigation of PTSD. • Increased creativity, productivity and attention. • Reduced effects of dementia. • Enhanced selfesteem. Hall said the pandemic was partly responsible for an increased interest in gardening as more people were becoming involved in at-home activities. He said being in naturalized settings and engaging in activities like gardening have a positive impact on people’s feelings of vitality and energy. “Consequently, this has a significant positive effect on a person’s overall mental health,” Hall said. He also noted the activities of gardening and plant care help distract the mind and put it into a quieter and more relaxed state. “When young gardeners have the experience of planting and caring for something from seed to harvest, they get a sense of accomplishment, pride and ownership. It’s a real esteembuilder for them.” — Randy Seagraves, Junior Master Gardener Program Gardening programs benefit mental health
of all ages Jayla Fry, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service program coordinator for the agency’s Texas Master Gardener volunteer effort, said almost every day she sees gardening’s calming effect and ability to improve a person’s outlook. “Through the Department of Horticultural Sciences, AgriLife Extension oversees thousands of adult Master Gardener volunteers throughout the state,” she said. “These Master Gardeners support agency horticultural programs and reach tens of thousands of people annually through their educational and community beautification efforts. These volunteers can attest to the positive psychological benefits gardening provides for them — and for those they work with in the community.” Further commenting on the intersection of plants, gardens and mental health was Joseph Johnson, manager of The Gardens at Texas A&M University, BryanCollege Station. “We think of The Gardens area as the Central Park for the Texas A&M University campus,” he said. The Gardens is a 27-acre public teaching garden on campus that serves as a living classroom for educational, inspirational and recreational experiences. Primarily a peaceful retreat away from the activity of campus and the surrounding community, students and visitors alike visit to enjoy and learn from the nature that surrounds them. “The Gardens helps enrich their lives by connecting them with the living world of horticulture,” Johnson said. “Students and community members can more easily relax being in such a beautiful and tranquil place. It makes them feel more peaceful in their minds and souls.”
Growing welladjusted kids through gardening Hall said when young people, particularly students, have a view of green spaces during school, they exhibit significantly better performance on attention tests and stress recovery. “They get even greater psychological benefits if there’s a classroom or teaching garden on their campus,” he said. “These gardens provide opportunities for young people to improve their social, physical, psychological, cognitive, environmental and spiritual well-being.” Randy Seagraves, AgriLife Extension specialist and curriculum coordinator for its Junior Master Gardener program in the Department of Horticultural Sciences, said it is common to see a child’s demeanor and attitude improve as soon as he or she steps into a garden. “We see them slow down, pause and smile,” he said. “For many of these kids, being a part of a school garden project will be their very first garden connection. When young gardeners have the experience of planting and caring for something from seed to harvest, they get a sense of accomplishment, pride and ownership. It’s a real esteembuilder for them.” Hall said in addition to improved concentration and attention, children in schools with classroom gardens have been shown to have fewer instances of interpersonal conflict and bullying. “Gardening is conducive to generating a positive learning environment, reducing children’s tendency towards distraction and helping them better concentrate on schoolwork,” he said. “Children engaged in classroom gardens
get to be outside, be physically active and work together toward a common goal. Maybe most importantly, they also get to understand how patience and persistence are needed for them to literally see the fruits of their labor.” Social and mindfulness benefits of gardening Hall said another psychological benefit of gardening is its ability to bring people together socially, especially in the case of a community garden. “Neighborhoods with a community garden are often more friendly and inviting,” he said. “And a community garden helps break down certain social barriers in that you will often see people of different backgrounds, ethnicities and economic levels collaborating on them. This sense of community is really the glue that makes a neighborhood special and allows people a chance to really get to know and understand one another.” Miquela Smith, AgriLife Extension program specialisthealth, Lubbock, with AgriLife Extension’s Family and Community Health unit, said studies show people at lower economic levels experience greater average net benefits from home gardening compared to mediumand high-income respondents. “One reason is
likely that low-income families often live in food deserts and experience greater food insecurity from limited access to fresh produce,” she said. “Home or community gardening allows them to grow their own nutritious food, which provides some measure of control over their food security and has a positive impact on their physical and mental well-being.” Smith also noted gardening is one of the ways people can improve their mindfulness as a means of supporting their mental health. “Gardening is an excellent activity for practicing mindfulness, which is beneficial to overall well-being,” she said. “The ability to use our hands, coupled with being outside, makes it less likely to be distracted by phones or other technology. This helps you focus and distract your mind from those things that would worry you.” She also reiterated Hall’s point that gardening can also be a family or community activity that promotes togetherness and provides the opportunity for making personal connections. “This ability to make and sustain personal connections is something that is beneficial to all people, regardless of demographics,” she said.
Building a community garden often brings together people of different experiences and backgrounds. (Texas A&M AgriLife photo)
The Junior Master Gardener Program introduces children to the joys and benefits of gardening. (Texas A&M AgriLife photo)