First Two Groups of Nursing Students to Graduate from New Program

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Volume 28, Number 2, December 2017 First two groups of nursing students to graduate from new program Darlyn Sustaita is one of 10 students completed the online pro- University of Houston-Victoria gram, that allows them to be flexi- nursing students who on Friday ble with their work schedules. The will graduate from the university’s former UHV School of Nursing new Bachelor of Science in Nurs- moved to UH in August 2015. ing program. “All of our students are working “Getting a degree from UHV professionals who already have has been a great experience,” Sus- positions as registered nurses,” taita, director of clinical services at said Cindy Hudson, founding di- Gulf Bend Center. “It’s been excit- rector of UHV’s nursing program. ing to be part of the pilot group for “We made sure to build a program this program.” that allowed them to have a flex- The nursing students will be part ible schedule while also focusing of a group of more than 490 stu- on real-world issues they face in dents scheduled to participate in their day-to-day workplaces.” two graduation ceremonies on Fri- Sustaita received a full schol- day at Faith Family Church, 2002 arship from the M.G. & Lillie A. E. Mockingbird Lane. A 5 p.m. Johnson Foundation, and she plans ceremony will be for graduates of to bring the skills she learned at the School of Business Adminis- UHV back to her work at the Gulf tration. A 7:30 p.m. ceremony will Bend Center. be for graduates of the schools of “The program is demanding, Arts & Sciences, and Education, but we always had lots of support Health Professions & Human De- from the faculty,” Sustaita said. “It velopment. helped me to improve my nursing The nursing graduates are part skills and taught me how to be a of the first two classes that were better leader. This is an incredible admitted to UHV’s new Reg- program, and I look forward to University of Houston-Victoria graduates hold up their degrees in May after one of the spring 2017 commencement ceremonies. More than 490 students are scheduled to participate Friday in UHV’s fall 2017 commencement ceremonies at Faith Family Church. Contrib- istered Nurse to BSN program seeing how it will improve health uted photo. which started in August 2016. The See UHV, pg. 16 Ray Thomas announces for Chief Justice IN THIS ISSUE of the Thirteenth Court of Appeals McDonald...... pg 3 Raymond “Ray” Thomas, Part- is my time to serve the people of heart is. “The practice of law is not ner of law firm Kittleman Thomas, Texas as a member of the judicia- a right, it’s a privilege, and I’ve Noticias...... pg 4 PLLC is pleased to announce his ry, ensuring that justice is served spent my entire legal career striv- candidacy for the office of Chief with integrity” Thomas said. ing to be worthy of this great privi- Charlando...... pg 8 Justice of the Thirteenth Court of Thomas co-founded and built lege.” Thomas said. Appeals. “With the support of my one of the premier law firms in Thomas has served on numerous family, friends and law firm, I am South Texas. He is Board Certi- boards and projects that has given Barrera...... pg 11 excited to announce my candidacy fied in civil trial law and has been back to the community he lives in. for Chief Justice of the Thirteenth recognized by his peers as one • President of the Texas Young La Cocina...... pg 15 Ray Thomas candidate for Chief Justice Court of Appeals. I have been of the top lawyers in Texas. Pub- Lawyers Association 13th Court of Appeals. Contributed photo. blessed in so many ways and now lic service, however, is where his See THOMAS, pg. 16 2 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com District Judge Elí Garza seeks re-election to Texas court

Judge Elí Garza announced his candidacy for a second term as District Court Judge of the 377th Judicial District Court of Victoria County, Texas. “I am pleased to announce my intent to seek re-election as your District Court Judge for the 377th Judicial District Court. It has been my honor and privilege to serve as District Judge. I intend to continue to make decisions based on the law and nothing else. Parties liti- gating cases before the 377th Judi- cial Court are assured that United States Constitution is the Supreme Law of the Land. Under my di- State District Judge Eli Garza. Contributed photo. rection, the Court will continue to make decisions without regard to office is over 100%. Judge Garza Judge Garza tried over 50 cases partisan interests, public clamor or has presided over 44 jury trials as ranging from capital murder to ag- fear of criticism as the mandated judge. Along with his administra- gravated assault. by the Judicial Code of Ethics.” tive duties, Judge Garza has pre- Before working as a prosecutor, Judge Garza said. sided over contested hearings in he worked as a criminal defense As District Judge of the 377th both the criminal and the civil ar- attorney who represented individ- Judicial District Court, Judge eas of the law. Judge Garza is also uals charged with criminal offens- Garza has ensured that the court the chair of the Juvenile Board. es in both State and Federal Court. dockets run as efficient as pos- In addition, Judge Garza has as- Judge Garza graduated from sible. For example, when it ap- sisted trying several misdemeanor Creighton University School of peared the Court was experiencing cases to reduce some of the back- Law founded by the Jesuit Order some backlog, Garza along with log in County Court. Presiding of Priests in Omaha, Nebraska. the other District Judges brought over misdemeanor cases saves the Prior to that, Judge Garza earned in jury panels every week to alle- county taxpayer money by ensur- his Bachelor of Arts in Political viate the backlog. Therefore, the ing that visiting judges will not be Science from Texas A&M Uni- 377th District Court’s disposition employed to cover local cases. versity-Kingsville. Judge Garza rates for criminal cases are above Prior to being elected in 2014, is married to Jennifer and they are the state average. Judge Garza served as First Assis- the proud parents of a 15-year-old Case disposition rates for each tant Criminal District Attorney for son. year that Judge Garza has been in Victoria County. As first assistant, www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 3 Former County Judge Ronnie McDonald files for U.S. Congress

trict 27 on Saturday, December 2, portunities and the development of said as he met with supporters time in which the county expe- 2017 in his hometown of Bastrop, strong infrastructure. My message to prepare for his Congressional rienced explosive growth dou- Texas at the Bastrop Convention will be a message of inclusion, op- campaign launch. bling in size and he led the county and Exhibit Center, 1408 Chest- portunity and hope and I will work McDonald was Bastrop County through many natural disasters nut Street. This was a free, family towards those ends,” McDonald Judge from 1998-2012 during a See MCDONALD, pg. 12 friendly event and the public was welcomed to attend to show support and solidarity. “Should the voters give me their trust, I will go to work for them to ensure a future of greatness for our children and the future of our children’s children. I will focus on those things that will help Ameri- cans live their best lives and unify Former Bastrop County Judge Ronnie Mc- instead of divide. I will work to Donald candidate for US Congress. Con- provide opportunity and give hope tributed photo. by focusing on job creation and employment opportunity and equi- Former Bastrop County Judge ty, retirement security and benefits Ronnie McDonald will officially for our veterans, educational im- announce his candidacy for US provements and affordable educa- House of Representatives, Dis- tional opportunity, healthcare op- Feliz Navidad and Thank you for your Patronage La Rosita Bakery Victoria’s Best Pan Dulce & Taquitos Mary Rangel-Owner 206 W Water Street Victoria, TX 77901 361.575.5271 4 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com

por Gloria Rivera edes tengan un buen día este Navi- americano que fue prisionero por dad. Que la pasen muy bien. Que 40 años después de que salió, se VATICAN – El Papa Francisco Dios los bendigan. muere a la edad de 77 años. les saluda y quiere que todos ust- USA – Charles Jenkins, un WASHINGTON – El Presidente Trump anuncio que los Estados Unidos han ganado en contra el Estado Islamic en Siria, Iraq. ENGLAND – El Príncipe Harry y su novia Meghan Markle se casan en mayo 2018. CALIFORNIA – Los fuegos del sur de California arrasan más de 1,000 casas y edificios. Más de 14.000 acres de tierra han devastado a Ben por el fuego de Thomas de California, que se agravó por vientos de 70 millas y horas. NEW YORK – Akayed Ullah, de 27 años, es acusado de disparar ¡Feliz Navidad y prospero año nuevo! Contributed art. una bomba casera. Escribió en Facebook, “Trump, no protegiste bama puede destruir los registros Isabel II rompió la mañana de su a tu nación.” de votación digital (después de boda. El Fringe Tiara fue hecho NORTH KOREA – Las tensiones todo.) por Queen Mary. en la península de Corea son el CALIFORNIA – Wildfire amen- WASHINGTON – La secretaria de problema de seguridad más pelig- aza la casa de Ellen Degeneres y la Casa Blanca dice que los testi- rosa del mundo. Debe ser resuelto Portia Rossi. gos respaldan las negaciones de pronto. EGYPT – Egiptano Shyma fue mala conducta del presidente. ALABAMA – En una orden últi- enviado a prisión durante 2 años EUROPE – Un ex combatiente ma, el tribunal dictamina que Ala- por un video musical que fue ex- capturado con el Estado Islámico plícito de que ella comía un pláta- ha anunciado que una ola de sus no. combatientes que regresan lanzará UPS – UPS advirtió que las en- ataques terroristas en todo Europa. tregas navideñas están que dando WORLD – Los científicos dicen rezagadas. que los humanos no mejorarán ENGLAND – La Tiara de la Reina más de lo que están ahora. www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 5 Holiday safety

leave, we overlook even the sim- plest things. If you’ll be gone for several days, have your newspaper and mail service stopped. Piles of newspapers and mail is an indica- tor to burglars that no one is home. Consider leaving your lights, TVs, or radios on timers to give your home the lived in look. You can also have a trusted neighbour, Protect yourself and property. Contributed photo. friend or relative keep an eye on your house for you. Allow them by Officer John Turner hazard if too cumbersome. Have to park their vehicle in your drive- your keys in hand upon leaving the way or if you’ve left a vehicle With the peak of holiday shop- store. This way you will have them there, have them move it from ping season comes an increase in ready when you get to your door time to time to make it appear that the opportunities for criminal ac- and have one less thing to fumble someone is coming and going. tivity. with. This year, take a little extra time We shouldn’t have to worry This is also a great time of year to protect yourselves and your about crime this time of year but, to visit family and friends. If you property from any Grinch that may unfortunately, some people out are going to be heading out this be out to steal your Christmas. there are more interested in taking year, give yourself a little peace John Turner is a Crime Preven- than giving. of mind by ensuring that your tion Officer for the Victoria Police The following are a few simple homes are secure while you’re Department. For more information reminders that can keep you crime away. Double check that all doors on personal safety or home securi- free this holiday season. and windows are securely locked. ty contact VPD Crime Prevention When shopping, always park in Sometimes in our enthusiasm to at (361)485-3808. a visible, well lit spot. Lock your vehicles and never leave any packages or other valuables in view. It’s best to secure them in the trunk or at least keep them out of sight. Carry only the credit cards you will need for your purchases and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. When returning to your car after a full day of shopping, make sure you’re not overloaded with packages. This could be tempting to thieves and create a walking 6 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com A cure for America’s diabetes crisis: Early education

by Satesh Bidaisee diabetes patients die of heart disease. Diabetes is the primary cul- The greatest health threat to prit behind nearly half of cases of America’s youth isn’t opioid ad- kidney failure. Diabetics are twice diction or cancer -- it’s diabetes. as likely to suffer from depression The number of children and as nondiabetics. teens diagnosed with type 2, so- Diabetic youth are especially at called “adult” diabetes increased risk. More than 70 percent of peo- 5 percent every year between 2002 ple diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and 2012. as children or teens suffer from at The disease dooms millions of least one diabetes-related compli- Americans to early deaths. Treat- cation. ing it costs more than $100 billion It’s impossible to reverse the Professor Satesh Bidaisee. Contributed a year. Consequently, it’s the na- disease. And for a variety of rea- photo. tion’s costliest chronic condition. sons, diabetics have trouble ad- Perhaps the saddest thing about hering to treatment plans. Just 10 U.S. groups are ramping up their Elect these stats is that diabetes is pre- percent of patients follow their education campaigns, too. ventable. But efforts to stop young doctor-recommended exercise, The American Diabetes Asso- people from contracting the dis- diet, and medication regimens. ciation recently held its first dia- ease have failed. As a result, many diabetics be- betes prevention camp for youth A new approach is needed -- one come sicker. Diabetics are hospi- at risk of developing diabetes in that battles diabetes with rigorous, talized for complications related Santa Clarita, California. Students individually targeted education to their inability to adhere to their learned how improved nutrition programs. treatment regimens more than any and increased physical activity Type 2 diabetes generally results patient group except the mentally could help them dodge diabetes. from obesity, which prevents the ill. The YMCA of the East Bay and body from regulating blood sugar The best way to manage the U.C. Berkeley researchers recently levels. disease is to prevent it in the first developed a program that teaches The percentage of children who place. overweight kids how to eat health- are obese has tripled over the past Education has proven an effec- ier. After a year, participants were half-century. So the prevalence tive tool against the condition. able to reduce their body-mass of diabetes has surged too. The Patients who participated in a pro- indexes and regulate their blood Centers for Disease Control and gram developed by England’s Na- sugar levels more effectively. Prevention estimates one in three tional Health Service that focused Meanwhile, Reach In! Reach Americans will have diabetes by on physical activity and healthy Out!, a diabetes prevention pro- 2050. lifestyle choices reduced their risk gram in Chicago, offers cooking The condition can lead to dev- of developing diabetes by 80 per- classes to help kids and parents astating health conditions. Half of cent. See DIABETES, pg. 12

from www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 7 Ring in a healthier 2018 with the Farmers’ Market

grass-fed and grass finished meats one with fruit trees or a garden, to our market. You can buy lamb who might have an abundance of chops, lamb roast, lamb ribs, pork fruits and vegetables a few times a chops, ground pork, pork shoulder, year, but not enough to sell at the country style pork ribs, ground market year-round. beef, sirloin steak, chuck roast, I hope you will come out and ribeye steaks and more. There are visit our farmers’ market each documented health benefits to eat- Saturday; it is a great opportunity Famers’ Market moves back. Contributed ing pasture-raised animals instead to meet the people who grow and photo. of animals raised on feedlots. The raise your food. If you have ever As new year’s resolutions go, meat is lean and delicious, with thought about selling at a farmers’ getting (or staying) healthy seems higher levels of heart healthy ome- market, I encourage you to give us to be near the top of everyone’s ga-3 fatty acids than a convention- a try! list. Whether your goal is to lose ally raised animal. Meridith Byrd is the Director weight, eat more fresh vegetables The eggs at the farmers’ mar- of Programs and Development and fruits, cut down on processed ket all come from chickens that for the Food Bank of the Golden foods, or just get healthier overall, can roam and graze on the insects, Crescent. She also manages the the Victoria Farmers’ Market can seeds and grasses in the farmers’ Victoria Farmers’ Market. Contact help you accomplish it! pastures. Pastured chickens lay her at 361-218-9246 or mbyrd@ Market is held every Saturday eggs that studies show have less feedingamerica.org. We are enjoying our return to the cholesterol and saturated fat than Pattie Dodson Public Health Cen- conventional eggs, while having ter on Navarro, and judging by the higher levels of vitamins A and number of customers shopping our E, omega-3 fatty acids, and beta market each week, Victorians are carotene. happy with the move as well. Our Do you have a farm or garden? market is held nearly year-round, Join the farmers’ market! so you will see us at the Pattie Our market is open to gardeners, Dodson Public Health Center ev- farmers and ranchers located with- ery Saturday through July from in 100 miles of Victoria. We are 9:00 to 1:00. If fresh vegetables always looking for more vendors are at the top of your shopping list, who sell fresh fruits, vegetables, make sure to get there early before and meats, from full-time farmers they sell out. to part-time gardeners. We offer a Fresh food at your fingertips full market membership for $25/ Even during the coldest days of year, plus a $15 booth fee each winter, you can still find an array time you sell at the market. Full- of fresh, healthy vegetables at the fledged members may also sell farmers’ market. Throughout De- eggs, honey, jelly, breads, cakes, cember and January our farmers cookies, pickles, crafts, and more. will have fresh-picked broccoli, For part-time gardeners, we also cabbage, cauliflower, tomatoes, have a Backyard Gardener mem- green onions, cucumbers, yellow bership that allows you to sell only squash, zucchini, bell peppers, fruits or vegetables at 8 markets jalapenos, kale, green beans, rad- over the course of the year at a ishes, Swiss chard, eggplant, and reduced $5 booth fee and no an- potatoes. nual membership fee. This type of Two local farmers bring fresh, membership is perfect for some- 8 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com

por Gloria Rivera

Hola, estamos en el tiempo más el hospital por una infección reci- sus fans esperan que este bien para bonito del año, el nacimiento del entemente. Esta delicado. Tiene la Navidad. niño Jesús. Para muchos es el tiempo que esta delicado. Su fa- Finalmente, Gabriel Soto con- tiempo más bonito del año. Hay milia siempre está cerca de el con feso que sí tuvo relaciones con celebraciones y familias se juntan. mucho amor. Majorie de Sousa. Ahora él y Ger- Es también tiempo de paz. La joven cantante Selena Gó- aldine Bazán están separados. El cantante José José estuvo en mez dice que su nuevo álbum ya El amor por su hija une a Ga- briel Soto y Geraldine Bazán. William Levy está trabajando para ser el papel de un villano. Nombre de la peluca es “Killing Sari”. Levy va ser Víctor Faust, José Luis Rodríguez. Contributed photo. un asesino. Faust, un asesino – Victoria Ruffo. Contributed photo. termina enamorado con Saraí, la viene y dijo, que su corazón está protagonista. Eduardo Yáñez regresó a los en su música. Elizabeth Gutiérrez, esposa de Estados Unidos para juicio con el Adamari siempre no le impor- William Levy, anuncian que ella y periodista al que abofeteó. ta lo que la prensa dice de ella. William no se van a separar. Adamari siempre ignora a los Siempre ignora a las críticas, pero México se acordó de Pedro In- criticas de que no se viste bien. luce muy bien con la ropa que usa fante este año. Este año Pedro Pero ella luce sexy con la ropa que Recientemente se fue con su fa- cumplió 100 años. Pero la gente usa. Porque así se fe. Ella es muy milia para España en vacaciones nunca se ha olvidado de él. Fue feliz con su hija y su esposo con su familia un actor que fue un gran actor y Adamari y su familia se fueron a Victoria Ruffo sufrió un des- cantor. Fue, pero muy querido por España de vacaciones. mayo recientemente. Su familia y fans de todo el mundo. See CHARLANDO, pg. 9 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 9 son y Chris Martin andan juntos. El Canelo Álvarez ya termino con Shannon de Lima En una vez, el salió con Kate Del Castillo, pero el romance no duro mucho tiempo. Este mes el rumor que Shakira y su esposo Pique están en separa- ción. Ellos no han reportado nada todavía. Que tengan un hermoso día de Navidad que falta nomas unos días. Hasta el mes que va estar con nosotros muy pronto.

Adamari. Contributed photo.

de páncreas. CHARLANDO, from pg. 8 Otro reporte de José José dice Ha visto muchos reportes que que él se va separar de su esposa. OPEN José Luis Rodríguez ha muerto. ¿Sera? Tues. & Wed. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Otros reportes dicen que esta con Thur. & Fri. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Reporte de Eric Castillo es que Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. su salud muy delicada. dicen que puede perder la vista. Closed: Sundays & Mondays También se reportó que el med- La actriz y cantante anuncio que ico de José José asegura que el ella cantará el año 2018. En con- 361-575-5355 ‘Príncipe de la Canción’ ya está 1103 SW Moody Street ciertos parece. (Across Guadalupe River) libre de cáncer. El sufre de cáncer Hay rumores que Dakota John- Thalía. Contributed photo. Arnulfo & Janie Gonzalez, Owners

Pol. Ad pd. for by Ray Thomas Campaign in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. Treasurer, Benigno “Trey” Martinez, 1201 E Van Buren St.,Brownsville, TX 78520 10 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Reduce stress and preserve marriage The holidays arrive and with them come those endless lists of gifts to buy, decorations to put up and parties to attend. Meeting all the demands can place a lot of stress on a married couple’s relationship, but it doesn’t need to be that way. “We all want our holidays to be magical and perfect, but the reality doesn’t always meet the expectations,” says Dr. Tim R. Thayne, a Marriage requires compromise. Contributed photo. marriage and family therapist and author of Not by Chance: How you were raised in different fami- I’m sure it will come off beauti- Parents Boost Their Teen’s Suc- lies, you may have different ideas fully.” cess In and After Treatment (www. about what Thanksgiving dinner, • Know that not all traditions drtimthayne.com). Christmas morning, or New Year’s need to live on. Family circum- “But that’s OK. One of the most Eve festivities should look like,” stances and needs change, Thayne important things couples need to Thayne says. “You can avoid con- says. Holiday traditions might remember this time of year is that flict by setting expectations early have their place for a time, but as you don’t have to live up to every- for how many events you’ll attend, children grow, you may be able to one else’s expectations and you whether you’ll take the kids, how swap out the childhood fun of ev- don’t even have to keep doing ev- much you plan to spend on each eryone-sleeps-in-the-same-room- erything you did in holidays past.” other, or what houseguests you’ll on-Christmas-Eve tradition for the Thayne offers a few tips to allow to stay over.” benefits of the teenagers getting couples to help keep the stress • Write a decline script. If you a good night’s rest instead. Any- level low and marital bliss on track feel relieved when the holidays are one can add shiny, fun things into through the hectic holiday season: over, you probably are guilty of their life. It takes determination to • Hold a holiday powwow. No overbooking yourself. “Write and evaluate and edit. “So, make the one wants the frustrating experi- then practice a script for politely traditions you do decide to con- ence of parental shock when one turning down invitations for yet tinue even better,” Thayne says. parent buys a child an unexpected another holiday party, ice skating “How? Find a way to make them gift that is way over budget. The with the baseball team, or a per- more relationship-focused.” resulting tension can put a damper forming arts event,” Thayne says. “A scaled-down holiday may be on the sweetness of the experi- “Realize and commit to memory just what a couple needs to keep ence for everyone. Thayne says that mantra that the quality of an the season relaxed and joyful,” you can avoid this by scheduling a event is far better than quantity.” Thayne says. “It may just take a holiday planning session to brain- Your decline script could be some- little planning, compromising, as storm gift ideas, work out bud- thing like: “That sounds like a well as a willingness to let go of a gets, and review letters to Santa wonderful opportunity. Unfortu- few traditions, to make it happen.” or teenage wish lists. “Because nately, we won’t be able to attend. www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 11 Raul “Roy” Barrera announces as candidate for 27th U.S. Congressional District

our people by working for 35 years the generations to come. “Togeth- as a peace officer. He was demo- er (Juntos), we can make this hap- crat nominee in 2016. pen,” said Barrera. The changes needed in Wash- Barrera is married to Terry Bar- ington D.C. will be a challenge rera, and they have two sons and that Barrera looks forward too. one daughter. He graduated from Working across the aisle to secure Robstown High School, and a na- health insurance for all, keeping tive Texan. Barrera is a Del Mar our Social Security benefits sol- College certified communications vent, raising the pay rate for our officer and peace officer. He has school teachers, advocating for been a migrant worker and public an additional Veterans Hospital in servant for 35 years as a Special the Coastal Bend, maintaining our Deputy/Court Security Officer at military bases, being a friend to the Federal Courthouse in Corpus Raul “Roy” Barrera. Contributed photo. businesses as well as private citi- Christi, Texas. He can be reached zens, making the economy more at Barrera for Congress at P.O. Box Roy Barrera is seeking the of- vibrant for South Texas, making 10317, Corpus Christi, TX 78410. fice of the United States 27th Con- college affordable and being a Together (Juntos) for South gressional District. Barrera has the dedicated servant to the people of Texas! “Committed to the people,” passion, the moral integrity and south Texas. Barrera stated. the work ethic needed to represent Barrera asks for a partnership the approximately 700,000 con- with his constituents because we stituents of this district in south need to do this together. Roy Bar- Texas. He has proven that it takes rera wants to join in making a dif- teamwork and dedication to serve ference for you, your children and 12 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com the first African American Con- things better for others. Choices , from pg. 3 MCDONALD gressman from District 27. that will make my community and including the largest fire in Texas About being a history maker, my wife and children proud. history. McDonald is a history McDonald says, “I’m not so con- McDonald has 3 children who maker, elected County Judge at cerned about making history. It’s attend public schools in Bastrop, age 27, the youngest in Texas his- nice in that it can inspire others, Texas and is married to Ty Mills tory and the first African American but my passion is to write a great McDonald, a senior pastor in Bas- in Bastrop history. He hopes to history through the choices I make trop and a former Bastrop ISD make history again by becoming as I live my life that will help make teacher.

with our government to provide has proven to reduce the number , from pg. 6 DIABETES exercise classes to locals and boost of diabetes-related amputations. learn how to prepare healthy physical activity in schools. The rising prevalence of dia- meals. Our students and staff are also betes among children is a deadly St. George’s University in Gre- training Grenadians to use the trend. Early education and inter- nada, where I am a professor, is “Touch Toe Test” to screen for vention can prevent untold suffer- training students to tackle the dia- diabetes. This procedure involves ing. betes epidemic. We’re working applying pressure to toes. Diabetes Satesh Bidaisee is a professor can sometimes cause peripheral of public health and preventative neuropathy, or nerve damage in medicine and assistant dean for hands or feet. That can lead to in- graduate studies at St. George’s juries, infections, and amputation. University in Grenada. Since its implementation, the test www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 13 Affordable Care Act enrollment extended to December 31 impacted by Hurricane Harvey

gathering the informa- missing the original deadline. gator-program/ For more information, contact tion they need to enroll,” Local enrollment assistance is San Antonio: enrollsa.com Drew Stanley at 512-621-9072. said Melissa McChesney still available across Texas. Enroll- of the Center for Public ment programs are listed on con- Policy Priorities, a mem- nector.getcoveredamerica.org and ber of the Cover Texas localhelp.healthcare.gov. People Now coalition. “This can also call 2-1-1 in many com- extension of the sign-up munities to get connected with lo- window gives people cal enrollment centers. more time to find the Texans seeking assistance with Nicholas Amaya - Funeral Pre-Need Mgr. best plan and determine enrollment can contact the follow- whether they qualify for ing local organizations: 361-827-5215 Contributed art. financial assistance.” Texans signing up dur- Central Texas: getenrolledatx. The regular open enrollment pe- 706 E. Crestwood 827 W. Austin ing the special enrollment period com riod for health insurance through will need to take some extra steps Corpus Christi: cbcil.org/pro- Victoria, TX 77901 Pt. Lavaca, TX the Obamacare Marketplace ended to enroll. The extension is not au- grams/healthcare-navigator-ser- 361-575-3212 77979 Friday December 15, but Texans tomatically granted on the health- vices 361-552-2300 who either currently live in a di- Formerly Artero Funeral Home care.gov website. Cover Texas Gulf Coast: enrollgulfcoast.com saster-affected area, or did when Now strongly encourages affected Rio Grande Valley: mhpsalud. [email protected] Hurricane Harvey hit, will have Texans to access local help from org/programs/our-programs/navi- until December 31, 2017 to enroll trained application assisters for in 2018 coverage without a fine. this special process. The process According to FEMA, the Spe- starts with a visit to healthcare. cial Enrollment Period covers gov and completing a 2018 ap- Texans in the following coun- plication, and then calling the ties: Aransas, Austin, Bastrop, Marketplace Call Center at 1-800- Bee, Bexar, Brazoria, Burleson, 318-2596 to request the special Caldwell, Calhoun, Chambers, enrollment period. Applicants will Colorado, Comal, Dallas, DeWitt, need to explicitly state that they Fayette, Fort Bend, Galveston, currently live in, or at the time of Goliad, Gonzales, Grimes, Guada- the hurricane lived in, a county on lupe, Hardin, Harris, Jackson, Jas- the FEMA list, and that they are per, Jefferson, Jim Wells, Karnes, requesting additional time to sign Kleberg, Lavaca, Lee, Liberty, up because of Hurricane Harvey. Madison, Matagorda, Milam, Texans in hurricane-affected ar- Montgomery, Newton, Nueces, eas who sign up during the special Orange, Polk, Refugio, Sabine, enrollment period through Decem- San Augustine, San Jacinto, San ber 31, 2017 will not have to pay Patricio, Travis, Tarrant, Tyler, a fine on their taxes in 2018 for Victoria, Washington, Walker, Waller, and Wharton. These in- clude the Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and VICTORIA COUNTY San Antonio metro areas. 15.8 million Texans, or 60 per- TAX SALE cent of the state’s population, live in counties eligible for the hurricane special enrollment period. The attached map shows detail of Tuesday, January 2, 2018 the affected counties where Tex- ans are eligible to get an extension to sign up for 2018 coverage. At the Front Door of the Victoria County Courthouse Applicants only need to attest to living in one of the affected counties currently or at the time of the hurricane and to not being able to complete enrollment due to the hurricane. No special documenta- For Tax Sale Information contact tion will be required. “Hurricane Harvey affected mil- LINEBARGER GOGGAN BLAIR & SAMPSON, LLP at: lions of Texans, many of whom are (361) 573-9666 or still living in temporary housing — often away from their home- www.publicans.com town — and may need extra time 14 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com A disaster recovery center opens in Victoria County

The State of Texas/Federal Di- Recovery specialists from saster Recovery Center (DRC) in the Federal Emergency Man- Victoria County is relocating less agement Agency (FEMA) than two miles away from its cur- and the U.S. Small Business rent location. Administration (SBA), the The center closes at the follow- State and other agencies will ing site: be at the new DRC. Disaster recovery centers Pattie Dodson Public Health are accessible to people with Center disabilities, and are equipped 2805 N. Navarro with assistive technology Victoria TX 77901 equipment such as amplified telephones, phones that dis- New location center. Contributed photo. Closes: Friday, Dec. 8 at 6 p.m. play text, amplified listening Chambers, Colorado, DeWitt, devices and magnifiers. Video Re- Fayette, Fort Bend, Galveston, A new DRC will open at 9 a.m. mote Interpreting is available and Goliad, Gonzales, Grimes, Hardin, Saturday, Dec. 9, 2017, in the city in-person sign language is avail- Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, of Victoria, at the following site: able by request. The centers also Karnes, Kleberg, Lavaca, Lee, have accessible parking, ramps Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Wells Fargo Building and restrooms. Newton, Nueces, Orange, Polk, 1501 E. Mockingbird Ln., Suite American Sign Language inter- Refugio, Sabine, San Jacinto, San 425 preters are available to assist at a Patricio, Tyler, Victoria, Walker, Victoria, TX 77904 DRC. Requests can be made via Waller and Wharton counties may text message at (470) 379-5943. be eligible for help. Opens: Saturday, from 9 a.m. to Survivors will need to provide For more information on Hur- 6 p.m. their name, the address of the DRC ricane Harvey and Texas recovery, they will be visiting, the date and visit the Hurricane Harvey disaster Regular Hours: Monday-Satur- time of their visit and the type of web page atwww.fema.gov/disas- day 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays sign language they are requesting. ter/4332, or Facebook at http:// from noon to 5 p.m. All requests for help should be www.facebook.com/FEMAha- made at least 24 hours in advance rvey, the FEMA Region 6 Twitter Disaster recovery centers offer of a DRC visit to ensure assistance account attwitter.com/FEMARe- in-person support to individuals is available. gion6, or the Texas Division of and businesses in counties includ- Homeowners, renters and busi- Emergency Management website ed in the Texas federal disaster nesses in Aransas, Austin, Bastrop, at www.dps.texas.gov/dem/. declaration for Hurricane Harvey. Bee, Brazoria, Caldwell, Calhoun, www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com Revista de Victoria, December 2017 — 15

ter. Double fold opposite foil edg- minutes to cool slightly. tatoes in a single layer in a 2-quart chive garnish. es, leaving room for steam. The Cut the potatoes in half length- square baking dish. last 1-hour of roasting time place wise. Carefully scoop pulp out 3. Bake, uncovered, in a 400ºF MEXICAN PECAN PRALINE packet beside roast. The last 30 of each potato, leaving a ¼ -to ½ oven about 20 minutes or until 2 cups light brown sugar, packed minutes place pears in pan beside -inch shell; set potato shells aside. golden brown and heated through. 1 cup butter, softened roast; stir once. Place potato pulp in a large bowl. If desired, garnish with snipped ¼ cup half & half or whole milk 3. Transfer roast and pears to plat- Mash potato pulp with a potato chives. Makes 4 servings. 2 ½ cups powdered sugar ter; cover, let stand 15 minutes. masher or an electric mixer on low 4. Bacon-Cheddar Twice-Bake 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract Remove foil packet from oven; set speed until nearly smooth. Potatoes: Prepare as above, except 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped aside. Reserve 1 tablespoon fat in 2. In a 1-to 1½ -quart saucepan in Step 2 stir in 1/3 cup cooked, Christmas rib roast. Contributed photo. roasting pan; whisk flour into fat. heat milk and butter over medium crumbled bacon along with the Generously grease a large slab or Whisk 2 cups juice with 1-table- heat until butter is melted. Pour sour cream; substitute cheddar baking sheet. In a saucepan over CHRISTMAS RIB ROAST spoon mustard; add to pan. Place milk mixture over mashed pota- cheese for the Gruyere cheese. 5. medium heat, combine brown 1 (6-lb. beef rib roast) pan over two burners on medium- toes; beat until smooth. Stir in sour Southwestern Twice-Baked Po- sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla ex- 1 tablespoon anise seeds, lightly high heat. Whisk until thickened cream, the 1 tablespoon snipped tatoes: Prepare as above, except tract and milk. Bring to a boil. Stir crushed and bubbly, scraping up browned chives, and 2 tablespoons of the in Step 2 substitute snipped fresh in butter, pecans and vanilla. Beat 3 tablespoons olive oil bits; whisk 1 to 2 minutes more. cheese. Season to taste with salt cilantro for the chives; substitute until thickened, then pour immedi- 3 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard Strain; serve with beef, fruits, and and pepper. Mound mixture into Monterey Jack Cheese with jala- ately onto prepared surface and let 3 cloves garlic, minced onion. Garnish with rosemary. reserved potato shells. Sprinkle penos for the Gruyere. Serve with rest until firm and completely cool 3 cups dried figs, apricots, and/ Serves 12. with remaining cheese. Place po- purchased salsa. Omit optional before cutting. or pears ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper TWICE-BAKED POTATOES 12 red boiling onions, peeled and 2 large Yukon Gold potatoes halved (about 1 pound) 2-1/3 cups orange juice 2 teaspoons olive oil 3 fresh pears, cut into wedges ½ teaspoon salt 1-tablespoon all-purpose flour 3 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons butter or margarine 1. Preheat oven to 325ºF. Trim 2 tablespoons dairy sour cream fat from beef. In bowl, combine 1 tablespoon snipped fresh chives anise, oil, 2 tablespoons mustard, ¼ cup finely shredded Gruyere or garlic, ¾ teaspoon salt, and ¼ tea- Swiss cheese (1 ounce) spoon ground black pepper; set Salt aside 3 tablespoons oil mixture. Ground black pepper Place beef on rack in a shallow Snipped fresh chives (optional) roasting pan. Spread remaining oil mixture on top and sides. Roast 1. Preheat oven to 400ºF. Scrub 1-1/3 to 2¼ hours for medium-rare potatoes thoroughly with a brush; (135ºF internal) or 2¼ to 2¾ hours pat dry. Prick potatoes with a fork. for medium (150ºF). Drizzle olive oil over each potato 2. Meanwhile, combine dried and sprinkle with salt. Wrap each fruit, onions, 1/3-cup juice, and potato in foil. Bake potatoes in reserved oil mixture. Fold 18x36- the preheated oven about 1 hour or inch heavy foil in half to 18-inch until tender. Remove and discard square; place fruit mixture in cen- foil. Let potatoes stand about 15 16 — Revista de Victoria, December 2017 www.RevistaDeVictoriaTx.com a pinning ceremony at 2 p.m. Fri- to the RN to BSN graduates signi- have completed their degrees. special events coordinator Nan- , from pg. 1 UHV day in the UHV University North fying UHV’s program. All nursing David Cockrum, UHV interim cy Gresham at 361-570-4351 or care in the Crossroads.” Multi-Purpose Room, 3007 N. Ben programs have a unique pin. provost and vice president for aca- [email protected]. Students who The nursing program will host Wilson St. A pin will be presented Joseph Ben-Ur, UHV Faculty demic affairs, will recognize honor have graduation questions should Senate president and a professor of students, including the outstanding contact UHV Student Life & Ser- marketing in the School of Busi- students for the fall semester from vices at 361-485-4411. A live- ness Administration, will serve each school. streaming broadcast of the cer- as grand marshal of both com- “Commencement is one of the emonies will be available at www. mencement ceremonies. Neelesh most exciting events for UHV,” uhv.edu/graduation. Mutyala, a student regent, will of- Morgan said. “This is the culmi- UHV also will hold an Inter- fer greetings on behalf of the UH nation of what our students, fac- national Student Sash Ceremony System Board of Regents for the ulty and staff have been working from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Friday in the first ceremony. Roger Welder, a toward. I am looking forward to University North Auditorium. The UH System regent from Victoria, celebrating this achievement with university will provide graduating will do the same for the second. the graduating students, and I wish international students with a sash UHV President Vic Morgan will them the best as they take this step from their country of citizenship. confer the degrees, and the deans toward their future.” The students then will wear the of each of the university’s three For general information about sashes at commencement. schools will certify that students UHV commencement, contact

Access to Justice Commission • Board of Directors of the State , from pg. 1 THOMAS • Texas Supreme Court Griev- Bar of Texas • Commissioner on the Texas ance Oversight In addition, Thomas has served in various leadership positions in the local bar association, the Hi- dalgo County Pro Bono Project, the Vannie Cook Children’s Can- cer Foundation, and the McAllen Boys & Girls Club. Thomas has been publically recognized as one of the top 5 percent of Texas lawyers by his peers through Texas Super Lawyers, and his peers rank him as an AV-rated lawyer (highest level of profes- sional excellence). “While I am humbled to be recognized by my peers, I would trade every profes- sional accolade for just one – Su- per Dad” Thomas said. “I married Sandra Gonzalez 28 years ago and she blessed me with great children. I look forward to the opportunity to campaign hard for your support and, if it is the will of the people, to serve as your Chief Justice of the Thirteenth Court of Appeals.”

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