PROGRAMS
LEADERSHIP
EDUCATION
HEALTH
magazine Volume 2 / Issue 4
Welcome to the next dimension of excellent
October/November/December
Š
Angels Surviving Cancer page 8
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH
page 9
Janice Workcuff Angels Surviving Cancer President Breast Cancer Survivor, 25 yrs Story on page 5
November 5th
PROGRAMS
LEADERSHIP
EDUCATION
HEALTH
magazine
Volume 2 / Number 4
mission is to partner with those interested in developing the minds of young men and women from youth-to-adult by way of and their lives.
Breast Health Stats, page 6 Organization
Angels Surviving Cancer, page 8
Team Members Cherlyn K. Latham
Sharon Daniels-Bonets
Publisher/Editor
Copy Editor/IT Manager
Cynthia Batieste
Derek Stevenson
Human Resources Director
Artistic Manager
Jonah ‘JB’ Baker, Ural Garrett, Cynthia Batieste
James Bauman, NP, RN Medical Advisor
Contributing Reporters
Donnell Smith, Atty Legal Advisor
Inez Burton
Voting, It’s Your Responsibility, page 13 Did You Know?, page 14
Fitness Specialist
Matthew Dever Ural Garret, Matthew Dever, Ronnie Curtis, Cherlyn K. Latham
Columnist
Photographers
emPOWERED Now Media & Consulting Service Communication Advisor
Elect Ben Hall, page 16 Health Coverage, page 16 Empowered to Live, page 16
DISCLAIMER HELP Magazine (HM) is a quarterly free copy right publication and is not liable for errors or appearing in advertisements beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error, and notification must be made in writing within ten days of publishing. The right is reserved by HELP Magazine to edit, reject, or cut any copy without notice. NO CASH REFUNDS. The opinions of the individual contributors or correspondents do not necessarily reflect those of the publication or its management. HELP Magazine may include material produced under copyrighted or syndicated ad service. Permission of the publisher must be obtained before copying any of the material from any issue of HELP Magazine. DEADLINES for classified/program ADs, display ADs, and editorials are due the first of each new quarter month. Quarter One - January/February/March Quarter Three - July/August/September October/November/December
Quarter Two - April/May/June Quarter Four -
Fashions by
Loozboo, page 16 Quick and Easy Desert Recipes, page 22
publishing
empower 2 │ HELP Magazine
Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
ASC is a non-profit organization
Breast Cancer Survivor Celebrates 25 Years I had just celebrated my 32nd birthday, and things seemed to be going well. It was a Friday evening, about the middle of February, and I was wrestling with my 5-year-old son, William, Jr. I was trying to grab his hand and it slipped and he accidentally hit my left breast, sending a very painful blow. As I grabbed my breast with the palm of my hand, it rested on a lump. I always performed my monthly breast examination, and I had never noticed this before. The doctor examined me and scheduled me for a mammogram, which he explained was a low level x-ray of the breasts. He then proceeded to read my report: “An ill-defined, somewhat lobulated density, approximately 2.5 cm in the outer left quadrant of the left breast, close to the chest wall. Biopsy may be appropriate. If biopsy is not appropriate, repeat mammogram in six months.” I was not comfortable waiting six months.
Janice Workcuff Angels Surviving Cancer President Breast Cancer Survivor, 25 yrs
The physician stated, “The only sure way of ruling out malignancy was to perform an open incision biopsy surgical removal with the microscopic examination of the suspicious tissue.” He continued to slowly and thoroughly explain to me what an incision biopsy was. The doctor gave me a sense of comfort. He made all of the necessary arrangements for day surgery on that Friday. The biopsy was positive for malignancy (cancer) infiltrating ductal cell breast cancer. He carefully explained our next options would be a Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM), which is a surgical removal of the breast with the muscles left intact, or a lumpectomy, where only the tumor mass and its surrounding tissue are removed. The physician called informing us of the results from the ERA and PRA were negative. I told him of my decision to have the modified radical mastectomy. About three months after the surgery, I woke up with a feeling of fullness in my chest. When I looked in the mirror, I noticed that the area on my chest where the mastectomy had been was red and slightly protruding. It frightened me so much that I didn’t go to work. I immediately called my physician and made an appointment to see him that same morning. I began to undergo an extensive series of tests, including a bone scan, MRI, blood work, chest x-ray, to rule out the possibility that there may be other places in my body where cancer was growing. Celebrate - continued on page 6
HELP Magazine │ 5
Celebration story continued on page 5
The physician stated, “that when a recurrence happens that fast, it could indicate that I may have another type of cancer. One that aggressive, deadly cells and would shorten my life.” It was recommended that I undergo toxic chemotherapy, (the use of drugs to kill cancer cells) and my physician wanted me start immediately. Many days of chemotherapy and radiation followed. My days turned into months and my months turned into 25 years of survivorship. God is so faithful! Glory to God for the great things he has done. God has allowed me to meet people I would not have met if it had not been for the diagnosis of breast cancer. Janice E. Workcuff, wife, mother (William Jr) God daughter (Grace Wiggins/son Chance) and grandmother (Imani) a 25-year survivor of breast cancer, is a native of Kansas City, Missouri who moved to Houston, Texas in 1980. Janice lives a very productive life employed as Registered Cardiac Sonographer at University Health Science Center-Internal Medicine/cardiology department in Houston Texas. She is also a Peer Counselor, motivational speaker, and advocate for breast cancer survivors. She stands in the gap for breast cancer survivors as a role model. She is involved with many
major organizations, including the American Cancer Society, MD Anderson Cancer Center Network program, Celebrating Life Foundation and the Susan Komen Foundation whose goal is to raise funds and wage war against this disease. She participates in the “Race for the Cure walk” each year. Janice was featured in the Houston Chronicle newspaper, various television and radio shows, and received numerous awards for her work in the making a difference in the healthcare community. Currently, serving as President for Angels Surviving Cancer. Inc a non-profit breast cancer organization that provides support and assistance to breast cancer survivors and their families. Janice spends tireless moments at the bedside, on the phone or visiting women who are experiencing breast cancer for guidance and direction to help them have a quality of life and productive living. She offers comfort by praying with them and ministering to their families. It has become her mission to raise women awareness to this silent killer through speaking engagements and education. Her motto: “Mission not Remission” . Janice concluded saying, “If I close I eyes each night and know that I have honored God, and I’ve done my best. Then all my living is not in vain.” Janice currently resides in Missouri City, Texas with her husband William, Sr.
Workcuff is the author of: "Road to Restoration through the Diagnosis of Breast Cancer and Walking on by Faith“, written in 2003. This book provides hope, new perspective and insight into ways of overcoming the many challenges of living with cancer. It touches mind, body, spirit and soul of everyone who reads it. Road to Restoration also includes an effective reference guide containing informative resources and educational information. As a learning tool, it gives powerful information to enlighten and educate women regarding a cancer diagnosis. Road to Restoration is one woman's testimony of determination and perseverance. It provides inspiration by offering personal reflections from a 25year breast cancer survivor and 14 other courageous survivors and their families and courageous survivors and their families and friends about how the cancer diagnosis affected their lives. It will surely bless all who reads it. http://bookstore.trafford.com/Products/S KU-000147377/Road-to-Restorationthrough-the-Diagnosisof-Breast-Cancerand-Walking-on-by-Faith.aspx
In 2013, 40,030 estimated breast cancer deaths are expected. In 2013, 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed.
6 │ HELP Magazine
Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
HELP Magazine │ 7
Breast cancer is a disease that has had a profound impact on survivors, their families and the public. Recognizing that the need for support, education and care extends beyond medical intervention for those diagnosed with the disease, a group of survivors who experienced first-hand the gap that exists for survivors and their families, came together in 2011 to establish Angels Surviving Cancer, Inc. (Angels) a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to enlighten, educate and address real needs for those affected by breast cancer. Angels is committed to educating the public on the importance of assisting breast cancer survivors with all of their needs—be it financial, spiritual and emotional support--thereby minimizing depression, anxiety, improving their moods and overall self-image. Angels provide those facing cancer with a much-needed sense of control over their situation, by assisting them with maintaining their quality of life and developing coping mechanisms in the face of cancer. Instead of using a clinical approach, Angels are committed to a grassroots effort that fosters personal attention and provides care to both the patient and their families. Angels Surviving Cancer, Inc. provides services through a three-part approach—1) Angel Education and Outreach; 2) CARE (Cancer Awareness Resource Effort) and 3) the Angel Network. The Angel Education and Outreach program provides opportunities for the organization to raise awareness about all aspects of breast cancer.
The primary objectives of the organization’s outreach and educational programs are to: 1) enlighten and educate the public on the importance of breast cancer education; 2) to increase breast cancer education and reduce cultural barriers for underserved, minority women and 3) to increase breast cancer screening rates in the Houston Metropolitan area. The CARE (Cancer Awareness Resource Effort) provides services to women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer who are facing financial challenges. This program provides resources and referrals of financial assistance for items including (but not limited to): medical-related lodging, medical co-pays, office visits and prostheses (as funds are available) based on an application process. The Angel Network provides support, networking and collaboration opportunities for survivors, their families and friends. Within this Network, real life “angels” provide one-on-one care to those who are undergoing breast cancer treatment. Angels not only serve the patient, but are also a source of support for the families in any way possible. When hearing what is perhaps the most dreaded news about a loved one—“You have cancer” ---information, sound, concrete and simple answers to questions can make a world of difference.
What makes Angels Surviving Cancer different from other support groups? Within this Network, real life “angels” provide one-on-one care to those who are undergoing breast cancer treatment. Angels not only serve the patient, but are also a source of support for the families in any way possible. When hearing what is perhaps the most dreaded news about a loved one—“You have cancer”---information, sound, concrete and simple answers to questions can make a world of difference.
Can anyone join ASC? Yes, anyone can join.
How many survivors do you have in your organization? We have 40 members.
You stated that ASC has a special life. What is that special touch you may have? Having someone there to provide a shoulder to lean on; or offer a cooked meal; or even to assist with navigating the maze of insurance, financial and medical concerns is, to a grieving and emotionallydistraught family—an Angel.
Are you a survivor? And how many years? Yes, I’m a survivor; for 25 years. What are the requirements? Survivor of breast cancer and $25 yearly annual dues.
Is ASC looking for volunteers? Our volunteers are called Guardian Angels. You will receive the following benefits: participate in local outreach events, local monthly meetings and promote the local programs and services; receive e-newsletter (includes press release), a membership certificate. Annual membership includes: $25 individual annual membership gift
Having someone there to provide a shoulder to lean on; or offer a cooked meal; or even to assist with navigating the maze of insurance, financial and medical concerns is, to a grieving and emotionally-distraught family—an Angel. Angels Surviving Cancer, Inc., is a true example of a nonprofit organization born out of a passion and a purpose brought on as a result of first-hand experience. Because of their experiences as survivors of breast cancer and the gap in services that they discovered in their journey, a group of dedicated women made the courageous decision to take on the responsibility to become advocates—or Angels—for other survivors and dedicate themselves to ensuring that future survivors and their families would have the support, resources, and education that were lacking when they went ASC story continued on page ____
Angels Surviving Cancer, Inc., is a true example of a nonprofit organization born out of a passion and a purpose brought on as a result of first-hand experience. Because of their experiences as survivors of breast cancer and the gap in services that they discovered in their journey, a group of dedicated women made the courageous decision to take on the responsibility to become advocates—or Angels—for other survivors and dedicate themselves to ensuring that future survivors and their families would have the support Can younger females with breast cancer join ASC? Yes, we like to get them involved with our care program CARE (Cancer Awareness Resource Effort) The Angel Education and Outreach program provides opportunities for the organization to raise awareness about all aspects of breast cancer.
Former Victim of Domestic Violence Uses Story to Inspire Others Story & Picture by: Ural Garrett
Laura White shows the scars left from a shotgun blast to her abdomen by her abusive ex-husband that nearly killed her.
A
ccording to the Domestic Violence Resource Center, one in four
women or 25 percent have experienced domestic violence in their lifetime. More startling is that on average, more than three women and one man are murdered by their intimate partners. One who almost faced that deadly fate and not with some serious mental and physical scaring his Houston resident Laura White. She was around 45 when she met Dennis Foreman, a man who thirteen or so years older than her at church in 2003. Around that time, White had just dealt with a traumatic divorce that saw her ex-husband leave her for another woman. When she met Foreman everything started wonderful. Then things changed and the nightmare began. “After we had been together for a while he really started to exhibit a lot of signs of anger and verbal abuse,” said White. “He was extremely paranoid all the time and I would always get in trouble for doing things wrong like putting the hangers in the wrong place or forgetting something on the grocery list.” Things would escalate to where Foreman would accuse her of infidelity along with radical mood swings. At that point there wasn’t any physical violence but verbal damage had become the norm. Foreman would also try to control her through physiological games according to White. “One night he sat me on the table and flashed a light in my eye as he was interrogating me as a police would,” White explained. “I never knew what he would be like when I would come back from work.” Foreman was so controlling that White wasn’t allowed to see family including her own kids from her previous marriage. “He basically isolated me,” White said. Like many women subjected to abuse, White would either blame herself or think that it would eventually get better. She would later go on to say that Foreman suffered from insecurity issues outside of being a former alcoholic and drug abuser. “He was a really nice guy when he wasn’t being mean,” explained White. “ I kept thinking he would through whatever problems he had going on and things would get better.” White would marry Foreman in 2007 in hopes of changing his suspicion of her being unfaithful. The outside perception of Foreman was that he was a kind man who was very giving, not knowing the trauma he was subjecting White to. “He was the guy that everybody thought was the nicest man in the world,” White explained. “But he had a dark side to him that a lot of people didn’t see.” Because White’s kids were dealing with the divorce of her former husband, they tried to be accepting to Foreman but began to worry about her after they picked up on her mannerisms. “They saw changes in me with being with him,” said White. “I started really shutting down.” White says that her and Foreman tried counseling through her church’s pastor. According to White, her ex-husband was so much of a smooth talker that everything was her fault. That was the first sign that this unhealthy relationship had to end. The second sign not only was the last straw, but could have ended violently.
One rainy night, her two-year-old grandson felt Foreman’s abuse for simply playing on a toy piano. After being yelled at, White’s grandson began to cry uncontrollably for his mother leading Foreman to kick him out the house. “He told him to go find your mother if you want your mother,” White said. “I was petrified, I was sitting their and I didn’t want to make it worst.” With Foreman making her grandson stand outside for about five minutes, she would realize the child had wondered off into the street. The look on her grandchild’s face broke his heart. “He just looked at me like why wouldn’t you helped me,” said White who realized that enough was enough. Outside of facing the abuse, White worked a full time job in which she paid majority of the bills and was a full time student at the University of Houston Downtown where she hopes to graduate next year in business management. In September 2009 she began to start divorce proceedings and move out of Foreman’s home into her own apartment. It appeared as if everything was starting to turn back to normal when White received a call from Foreman. According to White, Foreman seemed to be begging her to come see him in regards to talking about the divorce. She agreed to meet with him the next day on the golf course because both enjoyed the sport. Foreman suggested that the two get something to eat and bring it to his home in Northwest Houston so they can discuss the divorce more after playing golf all day. “Next thing I knew, I was in the bedroom with a shotgun to my face,” said White. “He said I was going to kill you and I’m going to kill myself.” Terrified, White didn’t know what to do and Foreman’s words became graphic. “He told me he was going to shove the shotgun inside me,” White said. “ At that point I thought to myself, that not only was this man going to kill me but he was going to torture me.” White then decided in her mind at that moment that if he was going to shot her, he would have to do it as she was attempting to escape. As she jumped to get around him, he managed to shoot her right in the abdomen. According to White, it wasn’t the shotgun blast that sent her to the floor but the shells’ pellets severing a nerve in her left leg. Foreman in a state of panic blamed her. “Now I don’t have the courage to kill myself, you’re going to die and I’m going to spend the rest of my life in prison,” White Domestic Violence Story continued on page 11
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echoing her former husband. “I’m looking up at him from the floor like are you kidding me?”
member with a deadly weapon resulting in serious bodily injury according to White.
After 30 minutes, Foreman pretended to call 911 and puts the gun in his mouth before saying that he couldn’t go through with ending his own life.
According to White, it was an open and shut case but she would receive help from Foreman’s former girlfriend. Foreman had gained a felony prior to his relationship with White but she didn’t know exactly why. Startling testimony from an ex-girlfriend would reviled where the felony stemmed from.
“Give me the gun I’ll do it,” White retorts wittingly to Foreman before he shouts more expletives at her. As White began to go into shock due to the massive gunshot wound, she asked Foreman to shot her again and just end it. That’s when changed, realized what he did and called 911. Luckily for White, the fire station was right around the corner or three minutes away. White would be airlifted to the hospital after being wrapped up to keep her insides together, she was airlifted to the hospital. Foreman was right about everything except one thing. He didn’t have the courage to kill himself and he was going to spend the rest of his life in prison but White wouldn’t die. By the time White arrived at Hermann Memorial Hospital, she didn’t have a pulse and she completely bleed out. “The doctors gave me less than one percent chance of living,” said White. She would be in a comma for three weeks, endure twelve surgeries, have to be given 28 units of blood (the human body only takes 23), and lost 80 percent of her digestive system including 17 feet of her small intestines. Doctors advised White’s children to look for some sort of nursing home. “I was out of the hospital in three months and back at work in seven,” White said who currently has to be careful with her diet. “I am having an excellent quality of life.” The emotional recover hasn’t been as easy on the other hand. “I still suffer from post dramatic stress but I don’t have any nightmares anymore, White said. “It wasn’t easy because the recovery has been long and hard.” Foreman’s trial for the shooting would take place a year to the day where he would be charged with aggravated assault on a family
“I knew he had a prior felony on his record; he had kidnapped a former girlfriend who had broke up him and repeatedly raped her at gunpoint,” explained White. “My story is what found him guilty, her story is what gave him life.” In fact, White saw her exact same story and pattern of abuse when she spoke to one of Foreman’s former wives. “It was like we were completing each other’s sentences,” White said. Along with the physical scars, White has faced panic attacks along with various symptoms of post traumatic stress syndrome. Something that can be chronic in women who are abused according to psychologist Susanne Babbel in an opinion written for “Psychology Today.” “Being abused by someone who should be trustworthy and nurturing leads many women to feel abandoned, betrayed, even crazy,” said Babbel in the article entitled Domestic Violence: A Power Struggle With Lasting Consequences. “Depression is by far the most common symptom of domestic violence, and it’s also one of the chronic effects of PTSD.” Still facing panic attacks one night, she would call the number for the national domestic violence hotline which would lead her to the Houston Area Women’s Center. Started in 1977 by a small group of volunteers, The Houston Area Women’s Center was created to help individuals affected by domestic and sexual violence in their efforts to move their lives forward. “We’ve gone from being an organization of volunteers to being an organization with around 120 full and part time employees,” said current president and CEO Rebecca White. The center has two 24 hour numbers for both sexual assault and domestic violence. If a women calls for domestic violence, there are trained advocates that can help the victim form a safety plan and talk about resources that she might need. If shelter is needed, there is a 120 room shelter located in an undisclosed location for a women and children up to the age of 18. Women who come to the shelter as a house wife have opportunities through a career development program according to White. “Where ever they are, we try to help them where they want to go,” said White who had a background in many non-profits and for-profits before joining the center. White said that domestic violence stories like the one of Laura White are pretty common in all forms of life. “Domestic violence effects everyone; doesn’t matter about race, age, gender,” said White. “Nobody is immune to it.”
Domestic Violence Story continued on page 13
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Domestic Violence Story continued from page 12
“I never been around it, never experienced it and when I went to the center it was 58 women there,” said White. “It was like I had come home.” According to Babbel in the same article, domestic violence can take many forms ranging from physical abuse, sexual abuse, rape and even economic deprivation. Following her horrific experience, White has found a new lease on life. She has found a better job, recently bought a home, is planning to write a book and has a significant other. Most importantly, she hopes to one day volunteer at The Houston Women’s Center. “I’m no longer a victim anymore I’m a survivor, White said. “God has truly blessed me.” One of the programs that the Houston Area Women’s Center offers are group sessions, something that makes the issue of domestic violence a little more easier to talk about. According to Rebecca White, it’s powerful. “You can get a group of women into a room and they start talking about their experience and you can hear another women say this happened to me too,” explained White. Because of the change in time, White has said that the issue which is more about one partner’s power over the other has gotten greater awareness. “30 years ago you might have seen someone with a black eye and you would just turn the other way, explained White. “There weren’t any services available and now there are. One of the ways The Houston Women’s Center has tried to curb domestic violence is through education.
We accept private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare and private pay
“You start before violence occurs and that means typical starting with younger people,” White said before suggesting to look for signs. “Talk about what healthy relationships look like, talk about equality between partners, talk about the underlining issues of control.” Interestingly enough, Laura White didn’t even know what domestic violence was before entering the center.
We offer the following service Physical Therapy │Speech Therapy │ Occupational Therapy Skilled Nursing │ Wound Care │ Medical Social Work Home Health Aide │ Provider Service Business: 281.459.1281 24 Hour Call: 281.883.6358 Fax: 281.459.1282 Email: newbeginhealthcare@mail.com
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Disabilities: voters with a disability may apply with the county voter registrar for an exemption. Those who obtain a disability exemption will be allowed to vote by presenting a voter registration certificate reflecting the exemption. Religious objection or natural disaster: other exemptions include voters who have a consistent religious objection to being photographed and voters who do not have any photo identification as a result of certain natural disasters as declared by the President of the United States or the Texas Governor. These voters may cast a provisional ballot at the polls and, in order for their vote to count, must sign an affidavit attesting to those facts in the presence of the county voter registrar within six days of the election date. Provisional Ballots Voters who show up at their polling place and discover they do not have a valid form of photo identification will be able to cast a provisional ballot. A provisional ballot, however, will not count unless the voter takes additional action after election day to prove they have the proper photo identification. In order for their vote to count, these voters have up to six days after the election to present to the county voter registrar appropriate photo identification. Election Identification Certificate If you or a family member do not have one of the forms of photo identification listed above, there is a free option available. The change in law creates a new form of photo identification called an election identification certificate, which the Texas Department of Public Safety will issue. Registered voters or those eligible to register who do not have a required form of photo identification may apply for the election identification certificate at any DPS driver license office. There is no fee for the certificate.
DID YOU KNOW? 1.
In Houston there are 96 different languages.
2.
1 in 5 Harris County residents cannot read this statement, up from 1 in 7 in 1992.
3.
Of the 75 most populous US cities, #75 being least literate, Houston was ranked #60, down from #53 in 2005.
4.
Immigrants who are proficient in English earn 13-24% more than non-English proficient immigrants.
5.
4 out of 10 working age adults do not have the functional literacy skills to perform even the most basic jobs and 1 in 5 US adults do not have the reading and writing skills to fill out the application. From the Houston City for Literacy (HCL)
More Information Visit www.gotIDtexas.org for additional information. You can also contact the Texas Secretary of State's office or your county's voter registrar: •Texas Secretary of State: 1-800-252-VOTE •Harris County Elections: 713-368-2000 •Fort Bend County Elections: 281-341-8670
You can order this women inspirational book on amazon.com, barns and noble, or contact the author Cherlyn K. Latham at helpmagazine411@gmail.com. Price: $12.99 (from author) Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
HELP Magazine │13
VOTING . . . . it’s your RESPONSIBILITY This month of August marked the 48th anniversary of the passage of the Voting Rights Act, landmark federal legislation aimed at preventing discrimination in voting. The Voting Rights Act was passed in response to an era in which many states, particularly in the south, mandated literacy tests, poll taxes, and other devices to institutionalize the disenfranchisement of African Americans. One of the key tools of the Act is Section 5, which requires states with a history of discrimination at the ballot box - Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia - to receive special preclearance from the U.S. Department of Justice or a federal court prior to changing election and voting laws. For nearly five decades, the Department of Justice and our court system has blocked racially discriminatory voting measures from going into effect in communities across the country. However, this past June, the U.S. Supreme Court gutted this essential protection when it ruled in Shelby County v. Holder that Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act is unconstitutional. Section 4 outlines which states are subject to the extra protections provided by the preclearance requirements of Section 5. So while Section 5 survives, it remains unenforceable until Congress updates the formula for which states and jurisdictions are subject to the preclearance requirements.
The fight to protect our right to vote continues, as there are pending lawsuits filed by citizens attempting to pull Texas back into a preclearance requirement based on a different section of the Voting Rights Act. However, unlike Section 5, this provision shifts the burden of proof to the challenger to prove a voting change is discriminatory rather than the state being required to prove it is not. Once again, it is up to the citizens to fight to preserve their voting rights. Friends, do not let the Court's decision reverse decades of progress we have made to protect our voting rights. The United States Congress must immediately revamp the Voting Rights Act to create a formula which takes into account current and historical discrimination and bias while meeting the requirements the Supreme Court has set out. I urge you to let Congress know that it must act now to protect the voting rights of millions of Texans. Voter ID: What you need to know While ongoing litigation sorts out the future of voter ID, it makes sense to plan as if the law will be in effect during the next election. Voter ID requires all voters to present one of the following forms of photo identification in order to be eligible to vote:
Writing for the majority of the Supreme Court, Chief Justice John Roberts said, "Our country has changed, and while any racial discrimination in voting is too much, Congress must ensure that the legislation it passes to remedy that problems speaks to current conditions." I don't know what America the justices are living in to pretend deliberate and blatant attempts to disenfranchise people of color at the ballot box do not exist. I believe this decision is outrageous and nonsensical, and the fight to protect our right to vote goes on to this day.
Driver's license, election identification certificate, personal identification card, or concealed handgun license issued by the Texas Department of Public Safety;
Instead of poll taxes and literacy tests of yesteryear, states now use controversial voter ID laws and gerrymandered districts to suppress the vote. The Texas voter ID law, approved in 2011, will make it significantly more difficult for approximately one million eligible Texans to exercise their right to vote.
U.S. passport.
A federal court has already ruled that the law will have a discriminatory impact on minorities and impose "strict, unforgiving burdens on the poor." When it comes to redistricting, Texas is now 55% minority - and still increasing - yet only one-third of Texas legislative seats provide minorities the opportunity to elect the candidate of their choice. Shamefully, Texas was the only state in the country which adopted redistricting plans following the 2010 Census that have been ruled to deliberately discriminatory against African American and Latino voters. Both the voter ID law and the discriminatory redistricting maps were stopped because of the preclearance requirements of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act. Due to the Supreme Court's decision, however, these types of voting changes will be much more difficult to prevent from taking effect. The legislature has since passed new redistricting maps, and ongoing litigation continues to sort out the future of the voter ID law. In fact, today the U.S. Department of Justice announced that it would be filing a new lawsuit against Texas over the law.
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U.S. military identification card containing the person's photograph; U.S. citizenship certificate containing the person's photograph; or
With the exception of the U.S. citizenship certificate, all of the forms of identification must be current or have expired no more than 60 days before being presented at the polling place. Exceptions There are very limited exceptions to the photo identification requirement: Voting story continued on page 14
“In your opinion, what areas does Houston need HELP?”
Cedric Robinson 26, Fifth Ward, Houston TX “Well in my neighborhood the streets are messed up and the sidewalks need fixing. When I drive my car I’m hitting pothole after pothole and it’s causing me to have to replace my tires sooner than normal. We have holes in the street that are not covered and people are running in them and mess up their cars. Who is going to pay for that? Then we have sidewalks that need to be repaired. Children are riding their bikes in the street and walking in the street also. Houston can really help us by utilizing their resources and concentrating on neighborhoods in the inner-city. That’s how Houston can help us! “
Efran Menny recent TSU Social Work graduate Kingwood TX
“Houston need to address the growing economic problem. On the surface the city appears to be doing well; however, underneath the cracks of the city, we have a major debt and pension problem. Houston’s budget is not getting fixed. Politicians say, “We are doing fine”, but we are not. The Mayor and Comptroller need to address these problems before we become another Detroit.”
Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
Anetria Devera-Ely South Houston
“The one thing Houston need HELP in is diversity in the Arts and film industry. We need to be more alive like Atlanta. Houston has the resources, but we don’t have the unity to work together.”
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November 5, 2013
What if someone doesn't have health coverage in 2014? If someone who can afford health insurance doesn’t have coverage in 2014, they may have to pay a fee. They also have to pay for all of their health care. When the uninsured need care When someone without health coverage gets urgent—often expensive—medical care but doesn't pay the bill, everyone else ends up paying the price. That's why the health care law requires all people who can afford it to take responsibility for their own health insurance by getting coverage or paying a penalty. People without health coverage will also have to pay the entire cost of all their medical care. They won't be protected from the kind of very high medical bills that can sometimes lead to bankruptcy. The fee in 2014 and beyond The fee in 2014 is 1% of your yearly income or $95 per person for the year, whichever is higher. The fee increases every year. In 2016 it is 2.5% of income or $695 per person, whichever is higher. In 2014 the fee for uninsured children is $47.50 per child. The most a family would have to pay in 2014 is $285. It's important to remember that someone who pays the fee won't get any health insurance coverage. They still will be responsible for 100% of the cost of their medical care.
After open enrollment ends on March 31, 2014, they won't be able to get health coverage through the Marketplace until the next annual enrollment period, unless they have a qualifying life event.
Civilian Health and Medical Program (CHAMPVA), and Spinal Bifida Health Care Benefits Program)
Minimum essential coverage To avoid the fee in 2014 you need insurance that qualifies as minimum essential coverage. If you're covered by any of the following in 2014, you're considered covered and don't have to pay a penalty:
•Other plans may also qualify. Ask your health coverage provider.
•Peace Corps Volunteer plans
•Learn about getting exemptions from paying the fee.
•Any employer plan (including COBRA ), with or without grandfathered status. This includes retiree plans.
What kinds of health insurance don't qualify as coverage? Health plans that don't meet minimum essential coverage don't qualify as coverage in 2014. If you have only these types of coverage, you may have to pay the fee. Examples include:
•Medicare
•coverage only for vision care or dental care
•Medicaid
•workers' compensation
•The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
•coverage only for a specific disease or condition
•TRICARE (for current service members and military retirees, their families, and survivors)
•plans that offer only discounts on medical services
•Veterans health care programs (including the Veterans Health Care Program, VA
Information provided by
•Any Marketplace plan, or any individual insurance plan you already have
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HELP Magazine │16
Empowered to Live speaks on
Motivated for Greatness What makes a person GREAT? Why does he or she do the things they do that which makes them great? Did they want or expect to be great? These are some of the questions that go through my mind when it comes to achieving greatness. So, the best thing to do now is to define what greatness is and then see what it takes to be great. Let’s get started! The word great is defined as of extraordinary powers; having unusual merit; very admirable: also skillful; expertise. This is not to say that people who achieve greatness have special powers and they magically make things happen. “NO”! They are gifted in certain areas more than others and they have the skill set to achieve more and do better than others. Athletes become great because the go “Above and Beyond” the call of duty which is one of the motivating factors for becoming great. The next motivational factor is your “Daily Habits and Disciplines”. Are you structured or organized? What are your daily habits and rituals? I know when I evaluate myself to see where I stand as far as becoming great I have to see what I do on a constant basis. Continually moving forward and gauging where I am in life right now tells me how structured, organized or unorganized and disciplined I am. I recently started keeping myself organized and I’m on my way!!! The old cliché is “You are what you repeatedly do”. If you haven’t achieved greatness or at least achieved some of your goals that you set for yourself, you might have to change your habits and be more disciplined. People who are great (not just athletes) have structure and discipline. Let’s explore one more motivating factor on our journey to becoming great. This factor is Creativity! Anyone who is great has the ability to be creative. Thinking outside of the box and being different sets you apart from just the average person. If you want to be great you must be creative, because creativity brings color and flavor to greatness. So, if we put everything together it looks like this: Motivating Factors: 1. Go Above and Beyond the Call of Duty, 2. Be Disciplined, Structured and Start Good Habits, and 3. Be Creative (think outside of the box; don’t be average). These are just a few factors to get you started on the road to GREATNESS. Stay Tuned for the next issue of HELP MAGAZINE as we explore more motivating factors as we journey to becoming GREAT!!! Written by Matthew Dever, HELP Magazine Columnist / Founder of ACT Inc.
ASC story continued from page 7 through the experience. Because of their dedication, breast cancer survivors, their families and those who are diagnosed with the disease can breathe a bit easier knowing that they are not alone in their fight—because they have an Angel and Advocate in their midst. The organization is seeking partners, supporters and contributions to fund the expansion of its programs and initiatives as outlined in its full proposal for funding support. Please join with us in our quest to expand our network of Angels Surviving Cancer.
Empresas Hispansas Terry Ann Barron Founder/President
Tax Issues – Levies/Leins, Debts Injured Spouse Claims Appeals/Audits Immigration Forms Notary Public 990 Form Non-Profit ITIN Application tannbarron@gmail.com
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Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
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For the crust: 8 oz. cream cheese, softened 1 c. unsalted butter, softened 2 c. all-purpose flour 1/4 tsp. salt For the filling: 1/4 c. sugar 1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon 1/8 tsp. ground allspice 2 c. tart apples, peeled and finely chopped 2 tbsp. cold unsalted butter For the finishing: 1 egg yolk 2 tbsp water Coarse sugar and cinnamon-sugar
Banana Nut Bread
DIRECTIONS For the crust: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Combine the flour and salt; gradually add to butter mixture until well blended. Divide dough in half. Shape each into a ball, and then flatten into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. For the filling: Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and allspice; set aside. Divide each portion of dough into 12 balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a 4-inch circle. Place a mixture; dot with 1/4 teaspoon butter. For the finishing: In a small bowl, whisk egg yolk and water. Brush edges of pastry with egg wash; fold pastry over filling and seal edges well with a fork. Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Brush remaining egg wash over tops. Cut slits in pastry. Sprinkle with coarse sugar and cinnamon-sugar. Bake at 425 degrees for 11-14 minutes or until golden brown. Remove to wire racks to cool. 22 │ HELP Magazine
3/4 c. butter 1 1/2 c. sugar 2 eggs, beaten 3 c. flour, sifted 2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking soda 1/4 c. milk 3/4 c. mashed banana 1 c. pecans, chopped Directions: • Cream butter; add sugar and mix until light and fluffy. • Add beaten eggs and blend well. • Sift flour, baking powder, salt and soda together. • Add milk to banana. Add alternately with dry ingredients to creamed mixture. • Fold in chopped pecans; pour into two greased loaf pans. • Bake at 350 degrees 40 to 50 minutes.
Welcome to the next dimension of excellence
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