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A sister publication of Alice24-7.com

The Bridal Fair

A first for Alice April 21

Also this issue - Coping with Alzheimer’s • Couponing Tips • And More!

2 a Magazine April 2013

4On the cover

Platinum Events is hosting its and Alice’s first Wedding Fair on April 21. Planning on

tying the knot soon? Then you don’t want to miss this ‘a Must’ event.

A publication of Real Hometown Media, LLC.607 E. 7th Street, Alice, Texas,

78332, 361-668-6397Nicole D. PerezPublisher/Editor

Tony MorrisPublisher Emeritus

Brenda PoeWriter

Lois StephensWriter

Mark MolinaWriter

Anthony RuizWriter

Jennifer WallgrenMarketing

David RodriguezMarketing

Marisol MarquezAdvertorial/Accounting

Vickie CummingsMarketing

Contributing Writers:Dr. Jason Bradford

Pastor Kathleen KasperMegan Hogan

Jennifer WallgrenBilly Scoggins, R.N.

Distributed monthly to every household in Alice, Texas.

©2013 Real Hometown Media, LLC

CONTENTSFor LoveAlzheimer’s has brought the Borses closer together in their marriage.

17

MONTHLY FEATURES

9 A More Excellent Way

12 The Savvy Kitchenista

15 Women’s Health

14 Frugal Living

7 Health & Wellness

Spring has sprung and our fans share with us their

favorite snowcone flavors!

Iron Man

11

Alice native Richard Torres takes his health seriously.

Women are often caregivers, but don’t forget yourself

The LeagueThese Bible Drill coaches are more than that to their participants.

8

April is designated Women’s Health Care Month, and with the Jim Wells County

Relay for Life teams raising funds and awareness, there is no time like the present for women to get the check ups they need.

We all get busy. Life is hec-tic, but you owe it to yourself and your loved ones to take care of yourself, too.

So, if you haven’t sched-uled your mammogram, please do so.

According to Mammog-raphy Saves Lives, mammo-grams have helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the United States by nearly 1/3 since 1990.

The Web site provides these other facts:

• 1 in 6 breast cancers oc-cur in women ages 40 to 49.

• 3/4 of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family history of the disease and are not considered high risk.

• Even for women over the

age of 50, skipping a mam-mogram every other year would miss up to 30 perccent of cancers.

Self-breast exams are also important and should be done at least once a month beginning from age 20. It is important to know how your body looks and feels so as any changes can be easily detect-ed by you.

What to look for in a self-breat exam (breastcancerpre-ventionfund.org):

• Any new lump or hard knot found in the breast or armpit.

• Any lump or thickening

that does not shrink.• Any change in the size,

shape or symmetry of your breast.

• A thickening or swelling of the breast.

• Any dimpling, puckering or indention in the breast.

• Redness or scaliness of the nipple or breast skin.

• Nipple discharge. • Nipple tenderness or

pain.Being informed is key to

prevention.

6

April 2013 a Magazine 3

VOTE! Keep Alice moving in the right direction!

Dorella Elizondo and Yvette Terrell Johnson have worked and voted to improve the quality of life in

Alice. Building a community in which we all want to live and be inviting to newcomers. A win for us all!

Alice is making huge strides in improving our quality of life. A re-cord amount of water and sewer work has been completed and con-tinues; Texas Blvd. and numerous other streets have been or are be-ing rebuilt; seal coating projects continue all over town; new retail development is underway, partic-ularly on Alice’s east side. We have more jobs available than people available to fill them. Thus hous-ing projects are moving forward and others being considered.

Upgrades or construction of parks, walking trails, concession stands, golf course – too many projects to list – are all a reality. A multi-use facility with water-park, indoor pool, amphitheater and more is planned for Alice’s west side. This project is the result

Continue the progress and vote!Dorella Elizondo for Mayor

Yvette Terrell Johnson for City Council

Early Voting April 29 - May 7Election Day May 11

New Concession Stand New Cart Paths New Playground Equipment

New Walking Path

Lightening Rental ToolsWade and Kari Hendricks

1370 FM 665Alice, TX 78332

EndynKevin and Kati Downs

301 W. 1stAlice, TX 78332

Texas Rig ServicesCommissioner Margie Gonzalez

3305 N. Highway 281Alice, TX 78332

Alice Pediatric ClinicDr. Erik and Carolina Nisimblat

305 E. ThirdAlice, TX 78332

Political Ad Paid for by:

Pictured is the artist’s rendering of the new west side development.

The facts about what is happening in Alice

of private and public partnership. Taxes in Alice remain a historic low and have decreased several years in a row.

The west side development is be-ing funded with sales tax surpluses,

private investments and grants. This will open an entirely new corridor for more retail develop-ment along the 281 bypass; a great investment for our future without raising our taxes.

Alice will be showered with ideas at the first-ever Bridal Fair, hosted by

Platinum Events Ballroom and Decorations.

The Bridal Fair is set for 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 21, at the Platinum Events Ball-room, 108 E Main St., Alice.

“We are trying to promote shopping local,” said Jerry Martinez, of Flower Girls, who is helping coordinate the event. “The vendors feature all local businesses, including photography, florists, hotels and much more. Wedding Lace will be featuring their bridal and formal gowns.”

Martinez said the gowns won’t be featured down a runway on models.

“Instead the models will be walking around the event,” Martinez said. “This will give

people a chance to see the dresses up close.”

Martinez said among other vendors is Jolene’s Merle Norman boutique, which will feature hair and makeup for bridal parties.

“And what bride doesn’t think about dropping a few pounds, so we will also have In Motion at a booth,” Marti-nez said. “There will be jewel-ers and caterers. We will have Accurate Printing at a booth with samples of invitations and more.”

And to make sure that every guest feels pampered at the event, everyone will be greeted at the door with a glass of champagne.

Martinez said there will be no presale tickets.

“Tickets are $10 at the door,” Martinez said. “There will be plenty of samples. This Bridal Fair is to show the

residents of Alice that it is possible to get everything you need for your wedding right here in Alice.”


The Bridal FairSunday, April 21 • Platinum Events Ballroom

Story by Brenda Poe

Wedding Lace, which is one of the vendors at Alice’s first Bridal Fair, carries Exquisite Bridal gowns from Karelina Sposa

SUBMITTED


Coming soon...

Family fun at the City of Alice

new Multi-use Complex.

creating a place to live, work and play!


Keeping your house Clean has never been so easy!

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Schedule your cleaning lady today at (361) 227-5135

The Jewel of Downtown Alice is your one-stop shop for antique

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214 E Main St. • Alice(361)396-4753

119 N. King St., Alice • (361)664-3421

Don’t Forget! We are yourMother’s Day Gift Headquarters!

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“For better or for worse, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.” These are words spoken at count-

less weddings, a vow made between a man and woman to stay together, no matter what happens.

Alan and Diana Borse of Alice have been together through 52 years of marriage, nine chil-dren - six daughters and three sons, 26 grandchil-dren and five great-grandchil-dren, and the usual vagaries of married life. They didn’t know, when they made that vow all those years ago, that they would ultimately face the prospect of a disease that would - little by little - rob them of Alan’s identity.

Borse doesn’t remember exactly what caused him to approach their family doctor in November 2008, but unbe-knownst to his wife, he began taking medication to treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s Dis-ease. He was more aware of

the symptoms because several of his family members suf-fered from dementia and his father died from Alzheimer’s in the early 1990s.

Diana Borse said she was working full-time as an Eng-lish professor at Texas A&M University-Kingsville, and had started to notice slippage

in her husband’s short-term memory.

“He would ask me a ques-tion, and then ask me the same question again 10 min-utes later with no memory of having asked it the first time. Telling the same stories over and over again. And having long term memories that I am not sure whether they actual-ly happened or not,” she said.

He was also losing weight because he would not eat when she was not home, and ultimately had dropped to 95

lbs. before she retired from her job to come home and care for him full-time.

“By the time I started thinking maybe it was time for him to be on medication, I realized he already was, and had been for some time,” she said.

The Borses were told the general rule of thumb av-erages for dementia patients was about 7 to 9 years.

“But I think we’re pushing 6 now,” Di-ana Borse said, “and

he knows everybody, and he manages - he does all his dressing, he eats, he takes care of a lot of things - most things that you take care of yourself. We are just coming out of early stage and tipping into mid-stage. I think the rule of thumb time frame isn’t good anymore. I think the drugs are significantly slowing it down.”

Alan Borse said, “There’s something that I’d like to see, and that’s more general public knowledge and understanding

of the disease.“I think that one of the

most difficult parts of hav-ing Alzheimer’s, is that all

of my life, I was the guy who could cope. When I was in the Army, I had way

Story by LOIS STEPHENSIn sickness and in health

Alan and Diana Borse - SUBMITTED

uu Page 7


As a long term resident of Alice I have seen good ideas abandoned because a few people did not support a particular project. Our most recent example of abandonment being our recent AISD bond issue. In that bond election the bond issue passed at every polling place except Schallert School. At that time eleven simultaneous bond elections were held in our region. Nine passed. The only two that did not were Alice and Crystal City.

We are behind our peers in the development of new facilities. If you follow the Coyotes, that should be apparent. To be progressive we have to look polished. It is particularly frustrating when we deny ourselves the benefit of state funds and other assistance which greatly reduce the cost of new facilities. If you never build it you always chase it, then years go by, along with missed opportunities. Certainly cost was an issue when Dubose was built in 1953.

The Alamo Dome, the American Bank

Center and Whataburger Field are a few shining examples of what were originally considered terrible ideas. In those settings the city fathers made investments in what were then considered unsightly places of blight and low valuation.

The mixed use facility approved by our city fathers has merit for many reasons. The natatorium must be built by a governmental entity with taxing authority. Substantial maintenance costs can be passed along proportionately to principal and seasonal users which certainly will include other school districts. There will always be peaks and valleys in our local economy. For a few years we have been at a peak. Let’s take advantage of all available resources and cut hay while the Sun is shining…

“In times of crisis people will follow someone who is strong and wrong more quickly than someone who is weak and right”…B. Clinton.

Sincerely, Roger Saenz

Diving into Progress in Alice

By All Means - Health & Wellness

By BILLY SCOGGINS, RN

Wesley Nurse

April is National Humor Month, so this is the perfect time to add a little humor into your

daily routine. Founded in 1976 by author and humorist Larry Wilde, the original idea was to heighten public aware-ness of the therapeutic and restor-ative values of joy and laughter.

Studies have shown that intense laugh-ter can cause heart and re-spiratory rates to rise, as well as increased respira-tory depth and oxygen consumption. Immediately following these changes are re-laxed muscles and a corresponding decrease in respiratory rate, heart rate and blood pressure.

There may be something about that old adage that advocates laugh-ter/humor being the best medicine.

Short-term benefitsA good laugh has great short-

term effects. When you start to laugh, it doesn’t just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can:

• Stimulate many organs. Laugh-ter enhances your intake of oxy-gen-rich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain.

• Activate and relieve your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response and increases your heart rate and blood pressure. The re-sult? A good, relaxed feeling.

• Soothe tension. Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, both of which help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.

Long-term effectsLaughter isn’t just a quick pick-

me-up, though. It’s also good for you over the long haul. Laughter may:

• Improve your immune system. Negative thoughts manifest into

chemical reactions that can impact your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreas-ing your immunity. In contrast, positive thoughts actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.

• Relieve pain. Laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkill-ers. Laughter may also break the pain-spasm cycle common to some muscle disorders.

• Increase personal satisfaction. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations. It also helps you connect with others.

How to improve your sense of humorPut humor on your horizon. Find

a few simple items, such as pho-tos or comic strips that make you chuckle. Then hang them up at home or in your office. Keep funny movies or comedy albums on hand for when you need an added humor boost.

Laugh and the world laughs with you. Find a way to laugh about your own situations and watch your stress begin to fade away. It does your body good.

Share a laugh. Make it a habit to spend time with friends who make you laugh. And then return the favor by sharing funny stories or jokes with those around you.

Laughter is the best medicineMany studies have shown that

laughter can actually improve one’s health. And laughter is fun! Af-ter all, you can’t feel sad or angry when you’re laughing, right? That being said, a bout of uncontrol-lable laughter is no substitute for regular, moderate exercise, but it can provide mood elevation and improve how we manage stress on a daily basis. Laughter can enhance relaxation, help us feel more con-nected to others, or just better, by creating positive immune and cardiovascular effects that can improve overall mental and physi-cal health.

Article adapted from the following references:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress-relief

http://www.heartmdinstitute.com/v1/heart-healthy-lifestyles/mindbody-connection/laughter-medicine

Laugh for better health

Wednesday SpecialEnchiladas, Rice and

Beans with Tea

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Monday SpecialBeefy Chalupas &

Rice with Tea

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Serving Breakfast and LunchS i B kf t d L hS i B kff t d L h

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more authority than my rank. I was in a technical outfit and I knew more than anybody - including the instruc-tor in the courses I was required to take. So I’m not used to not being the one that was ahead of the curve - on everything. It was very difficult for me to not continue to think that I was probably ahead of most of the people - I have to be nice about it,” he said, laughing.

The Borses are devout Catholics, and one of the hardest changes for Alan Borse was having to step down from his service as an assigned Dea-con at St. Elizabeth Church, which he had performed for 20 years. He retired after his illness was diagnosed. He is likely familiar to many of the Catholics in Alice, because as “Dea-con Al” he lead countless Rosaries, performed Communion services, graveside services, and blessed many headstones and new homes.

“He finds it very difficult not to be on the altar, he really misses it,” Diana Borse said. “We frequently go to a dif-ferent church to go to Mass.”

“I do miss it, and I resent having to miss it, but it’s where I am,” he said.

“He’s very hurt that we’ve lost things like that,” she said.

“But I love it that we’re almost never apart,” he said, “we get to do things together, whatever we want to do.”

Diana Borse said the strongest ad-vice she could give anyone facing this situation is to not borrow worry from the future. Prepare for what’s com-ing, but “Don’t borrow that anxiety, unhappiness and fear and whatever worry and whatever comes with it if it hasn’t happened yet. Appreciate what you’ve still got and enjoy it while you’ve got it. Because the thing with

Alzheimer’s is, now is the best time you’ve got left.

“Our long marriage is a tremendous advantage,” she continued. “Marriage is a vocation, it’s a part of our faith. We’re both pretty profoundly Catho-lic - but in a pretty practical sense, a day-to-day sense. Basically the vow is ‘until death do us part,’ not ‘until I get tired of this; and the advantage of a very long marriage is that you are going to go all the way. You promised to see it all the way through. You’re committed to that, because that is what marriage is about,” she said.

uu Borse

10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s:

u Memory loss that disrupts daily lifeu Challenges in planning or solving problemsu Difficulty completing familiar tasksu Confusion with time or placeu Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationshipsu New problems with words in speaking or writingu Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace stepsu Decreased or poor judgmentu Withdrawal from work or social activitiesu Changes in mood and personality

www.alz.org


for MAYOR

Vote

Political Ad Paid for by Dorella Elizondo Campaign, Ella Munoz, Treasurer,

301 E. 1st St., Ste. A, Alice, TX 78332.

Story and Photo by LOIS STEPHENS

THE LEAGUE ofExtraordinary Ladies

League members include Mellie Smithwick, Kookie Guti-

errez, Bertha Rodriguez, Brenda Gonzalez, Barbie Wymore, Lelia

Keliehor, April Anzaldua and Seana Towler.

The Bible says in Romans 12:7 that everyone should act according to their gifts, among

which admonitions is, “and if it is teaching, teach.” Three women at West Main Baptist Church have volunteered thousands of hours over the past 11 years to teaching the young people of their con-gregation how to use their Bibles; both as Sunday School teachers and as the leaders of the church’s Bible Drill team.

Wanda McDaniel, Shir-ley Dennis and Maureen Bergmann have taken what was originally intended just as a program for the youth and turned it into a ministry which has created several state winners, a na-tional third-place winner and changed the lives of “their kids.” For their loving and dedicated efforts on behalf of their church’s children, they have been selected as this month’s inductees into a Magazine’s League of Ex-traordinary Ladies.

West Main was looking for a program for its young

people and heard about Bible Drill from another church. The Baptist church from Agua Dulce was invited to come and do a demo for the children and the women were amazed at the immediate and enthusiastic response from their students. Despite the intense dedication and time they were told it would require of them, seven of the children wanted to begin immediately, and thus the program was born. Dennis helped McDaniel the first year, and Bergmann came on board the second year.

The West Main Baptist Bible Drill team has grown to include students from fourth grade through high school, with 15 members on this year’s team. The students compete on an individual points basis, through several levels of competition to reach the state level; but West Main almost always fields a large team at the state competi-tion.

In addition to teaching Bible Drill, they also teach Sunday School, drive the church van to act as chauf-

feurs for the children to get to church, and generally become involved in the chil-dren’s lives not just as teach-ers but as confidantes and sometimes counselors.

The ladies work together so well they can - and do -

finish each other’s sentences. They said of their work with the youth, “We don’t limit it just to Sundays. We want to know them, their families - it’s a 24-hour relationship. We become a household name in each one of these fami-

lies - it’s an emotional roller coaster for us sometimes, because we get very involved. It’s just a tough job at times.”

The youth spend so much time with their Bibles, learn-ing passages by heart and

Pictured (l-r) are Shirley Dennis, Wanda McDaniel and Maureen Bergmann.

uu Page 18


Offi ce VisitsAccepting New Patients,

Walk-ins WelcomeMedicare and most

insurance plans accepted

Anti AgingCosmetic FillersBotulinum ToxinChemical Peels

Skin CareSkin Cancer

(Biopsy & Treatment)Eczema

Psoriasis • Acne

Family MedicineDiabetes

High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol

Heart Burn

The Ten Com-mandments have become a source of dispute in many communi-

ties throughout the United States. Some people protest the display of them because they believe that such dis-plays violate the “separation of Church and State.” Others believe they are helpful to individuals and communities alike because they provide guidelines for how people are to live in community.

Many people know the Ten Commandments word for word and have been taught to “live by them.” However, even many of these people get tripped up over the word “commandment.”

Why is this?The reason we “trip” over

the word “commandment” is this: Few, if any of us, like to be told, much less “com-manded,” to do anything and, at first glance, the Ten Com-mandments appear to be a list of ‘dos and don’ts.’

But, are the Ten Command-ments really a set of “com-mandments,” that is, a list of “dos and don’ts,” or are they something entirely different?

Though they appear to be a list of “dos and don’ts” they actually are not! When an expert in the law asked Jesus “What is the great-

est commandment?” Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” 38 This is the first and greatest command-ment. 39 And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”

We read Jesus’ words and we shake our heads and think: “But love isn’t even mentioned in any of the commandments.” If love isn’t mentioned, how then can love summarize them?

Here’s how. In the beginning when God

created human beings, He created us to be relational creatures. We were created to be in relationship with God and with other human be-ings. In the perfection of the Garden of Eden, the relation-ships our first parents had with God and with each other were perfect. Our first par-ents loved God with all their heart, soul, strength, and mind, and they loved each other as they loved them-selves. Having a perfect rela-tionship of love for God and each other meant that they willingly did nothing to harm either relationship. They were not in any way forced to love in this way; they did so for love’s sake.

We are most certainly aware of the fact that we

don’t live in a perfect world. Sin entered into the world in the Garden of Eden through the deception of the devil and when it did, our ability to love God and love one another perfectly was affected. Sin af-fected (infected) people; they need to be instructed how to love God and love one’s neighbors and this is what the Ten Commandments are: They are words of instruction to us – words instructing us how to love.

Knowing that the Ten Commandments are words instructing us how to love rather than a list of “dos and don’ts,” we can consider them and see this truth. For example, the First Command-ment states: “You shall have no other gods before me.”

This means, God is cen-tral to our lives. From the perspective of knowing that “love” is the summary of the Commandments, we under-stand that if we truly love God with all of our heart, soul, strength, and mind, we will be sure to love God as He desires to be loved and we won’t love anyone or anything more than Him. Our lives will be devoted to Him. Our hearts will be set on being who He created us to be while doing what He directs us to do. This would be our outward expression of our

love for Him.We can go through all of

the Commandments in this way and see them through the lens of love. To love God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind, means that we aren’t going to dishonor His beautiful and precious Name. It also means that our heart’s desire will be to spend time with Him.

The Sabbath Day was set aside for the rest of God’s people and to enjoy God’s company. When we love God with all we are, we love spending time with Him. In fact, one day a week will not be enough; twenty-four/seven will be more like it!

Regarding the second great commandment, when we love our “neighbors as ourselves” we will not hurt or harm them in any way. We won’t kill them or steal from them or commit adultery with them or use our tongues to destroy them with gossip and lies. Such things harm relation-ships!

We won’t covet their property, neither will we con-nive and scheme to get what belongs to them for ourselves. We will also honor our par-ents for this is how we show our love for them.

So “love” does summarize the Commandments! Isn’t this nice to know?

Is it Law or Love?

A More Excellent WayBy PASTOR

KATHLEEN G. KASPER

Pastor Kathleen holds degrees from Texas Tech University, Valparaiso University, and Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago. She is cur-rently enrolled in the School of the Holy Spirit. She is an avid reader and enjoys mentoring others in the Christian faith. She is the pastor of Living Word Fellowship in Alice and can be reached at [email protected]


Expansion Advancement

Progress

“Moving forward is a process in life that many people loathe because moving forward is a time that requires one to make changes. Being able to move forward in life is a true test of a (community’s) maturity level, and a true test of the confidence that they have within themselves. In order to succeed in the accomplishment of the dreams and goals that we have in our hearts we must be able to not only look forward, but also have the capacity to move forward as well. We must resist looking back, and trying to relive the past, because our past can only be lived but once, and the mistakes that we made in it can not be redone. We can choose to make wiser decisions, and learn from the experiences that we went through in order to become the best person possible in moving forward in our lives.”

- Author unknown

We support the progress Alice is making and all the people who make it possible!

Way

(361)664-8973 62 N. Cameron Streetrowsinc.com


The reason I have been proud to call Alice my home for most of my adult life is because of the citizens of Alice, and this is why I have chosen to run for mayor. In order to move Alice forward, we as citizens must unite and work together for the future of our families and community.

As your future mayor, I believe that my dedication to public service, my personal devotion to economic growth, and my proven record of facilitating compromise can help Alice achieve even more. I am confident that I can work with all the citizens of Alice to build a better today, and an even brighter tomorrow.

- Larry Martinez

Pol. Adv. Paid for by the candidate, 1131 Cobblestone, Alice, Tx 78332.

for Mayor

AlIce, TX

www.unifyalice.com

Larry Martinez

Former Alice City Councilman

Former Alice Planning and Zoning Commissioner

Retired United States Postal Service Letter Carrier for 33 years

St. Joseph Catholic Church parishioner for 35 years

Partnered in the development of the Forrest Creek subdivision located off of South Texas Boulevard.

Owner of South by Southwest restaurant

rrrrr

r

Last day to register to vote is Thursday, April 11th.

Early voting begins Monday, April 29th and

runs until Tuesday, May 7th.

Election Day is May 11, 2013.ELE

CT

It isn’t always easy to get up and go out and do something, but when you add passion to the mix, it is hard to

deny yourself the opportunity whether it is the norm or not.

Richard Torres, a 43-year-old Alice native, resides in San Diego and has been cycling and competing in tri-athlon-type events for more than two decades (22 years); doing so all over Texas and places such as New England, Providence and Arizona. He aspires to qualify as a rider for international competitions.

While all sports require an individual to be dedicated in some way, cycling is some-thing that Torres feels can be very self-fulfilling.

“Cycling is one of those things where if you are suc-cessful it is because of you and nobody else,” Torres said. “It is more than just a com-petition. It takes dedication to want to put in what you would like to get out of it.”

Torres has raced in events ranging from triathlons to

regular 5K runs and has placed at least in the top four in a majority of those races in

the last two years.Fueled by a weekly workout

schedule that involves things

like spinning, gym time, and mock triathlons, Torres has competed in state duathlons (running and cycling) and hopes to qualify for a trip to Spain when he competes at the USAT National Duathlon Championships this October in Tucson, Ariz.

Age, however, has not and probably will not become an issue for Torres as the for-mat keeps it competitive for everyone.

“There are just so many competitions out there and new competitors, but it doesn’t really matter because you eventually get put into categories,” Torres said. “It allows you to keep pushing yourself and discover new goals.”

Even with all the success and happiness cycling has brought Torres, he has had his share of downs to go along with his ups.

During 2012, Torres was involved in two accidents that resulted in serious injuries for him, but despite all that he considers himself more for-

tunate than others who have been in similar situations.

“It was kind of a bad year with two car wrecks into me that left me with concussions, nice scars, some disc damage, broken ribs, a new nose and a lot of blood loss,” Torres said. “I am happy to be alive because friends of mine have been killed or left paraplegic.”

With the sport of cycling being a dangerous one, Torres urges all to ride with a part-ner or in a group for safety reasons as well as fun, and has wanted to introduce the sport to the area to help participa-tion grow.

Torres also wishes to get kids involved simply to get the sport introduced and show what it has to offer.

Unfortunately, for Torres, it is easier said than done, es-pecially in South Texas where football, baseball, basketball and even track are the main sports.

He also has dealt with negative energy in South

Story by MARK MOLINAPhotos SUBMITTEDTorres - Full

Speed Ahead

uu Page 18

‘Cycling is one of those things where if you are successful it is because of you and nobody else’

Richard Torres

Are smoothies a healthy meal option? That de-pends since not all smoothies are

created equal.Smoothies are so con-

venient for a grab-and-go breakfast or a portable lunch. While some smoothies offer outstanding health ben-efits, others are essentially a full-fat milk shake wearing a health food halo.

Smoothie recipes, powders, and mixes vary drastically in nutritional benefits. Most smoothie establishments add extra sugar, fruit juice, whole milk, or even ice cream.

Even the smallest size smoothie at a popular restau-rant chain has 70 grams of sugar, about twice as much as your recommended daily allowance.

That amount of sugar will spike your insulin levels sky high; then be followed with a dramatic energy crash.

Any sugar not burned during physical activity will be stored as fat. Suddenly, ordering a hot fudge sundae seems like it would have been a better option.

A well-made smoothie can do wonders for your health;

helping you boost your im-mune system, gain energy, and lose weight.

Making them at home is the best way to guarantee quality ingredients that boost your nutritional fitness rather than hidden calorie bombs that go right to your thighs.

You don’t need rigid recipes. To make a deli-cious smoothie, focus on the healthy ingredients you want to add in and balance it with ingredients that will taste good.

Try the following ideas for healthy, satisfying smoothies. All you need is a blender.

Start with a liquid Choose water, coconut

water, aloe vera gel, almond milk, juice, or even chilled herbal tea or coffee.

Water is a no calorie op-tion that you’ll always have on hand and coconut water may be better at replacing lost fluids than a sports drink if you work out heavily.

Aloe vera gel can be bought at the supermarket near the supplements and is great for your health.

Aloe soothes and cleanses your digestive tract, reduces

inflammation, and helps you resist illness.

Almond milk adds a creamy texture with only 45 calories per cup and juice diluted with water is a good option if you don’t add a lot of other sugary sweet compo-nents. Teas or coffee chilled or at room temperature are a great way to add an energy boost.

Add something nutritious My favorite nutrient pow-

erhouse is greens. One cup of spinach, kale, broccoli flo-rets, or collard greens helps you get a jumpstart on eating your daily dose of vegetables.

Adding a spoonful of oat-meal or flax seeds adds fiber to keep you full. You can even blend in your multivita-mins or protein powder.

Half an avocado, a tea-spoon of all-natural nut butter, or a spoonful of chia seeds is an excellent source of healthy fats to keep you satisfied. And a few table-spoons of Greek style yo-gurt adds a rich texture and protein.

Make it delicious Fruit is a fantastic way to

add sweetness with healthy carbohydrates that can fuel you through your day.

Fresh fruit or frozen un-

sweetened fruit is a fantastic option. Try peaches, straw-berries, bananas, blueberries, mango, pineapple, or your favorite fruit.

Fruits contain sugar, but the fiber present when eaten in their whole form helps maintain steady blood sugar. Mix and match your fruits or choose just one, but keep the measurement to about 1 cup or less.

This formula gives you the freedom to use what you already have, allowing you to keep your sanity while eating healthy.

This new healthy habit will help you feel alert, energized, and lighter on your toes.

Try this tasty treat

Morning Energizer Coffee Protein Shake

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt• 1/2 cup almond milk• 1/4 cup coffee• 1 banana• 1 cup spinach• 1 scoop chocolate pro-

tein powder or cocoa pow-der with a squeeze of agave nectar

• 1 tablespoon all natural peanut butter

Blend together and enjoy!


Smoothies: Hype or Healthy Habit?

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THE SAVVY KITCHENISTAMegan Hogan is a Board Certified Health Coach in Kingsville, Texas, and founder of

www.takeoutintervention.com


Patrol Division

The Sheriff’s Department is committed to helping and educating our children on the dangers of alcohol and drugs. Since 1992, our department has had programs like D.A.R.E. and C.O.P.S. in Schools to reach out to our kids. With the changing demands in programs, our department will continue to educate our young ones about the dangers of drugs and alcohol, about how to cope with bullying, teach them about gun safety, and how to use the 9-1-1 system. By being involved with our children, we can make a difference!

Administration

SWAT Division

Criminal InvestigationsClerks

Jail Division

Making aDifference

Communications

Be a role Model, Say no to drugS!

Our Promise to You

300 n. CaMeron St. aliCe, texaS

(361)668-0341

Sheriff Lopez is a GOOD Man - Government Officials Opposed to Drugs


Platinum Events Ballroom

2 - 5 p.m. Sunday, April 21, 2013

Admission $10

Featuring Platinum Events Decorating & Wedding Coordination

(Catering, Hair, Makeup, Cakes, Hotels, DJ, Photo Booths, Invitations, Photography, Chocolate Fountain Rentals, Bridal & Formal Wear and more)

Over 20 LOCAL Vendors providing displays and

vendor information

Complimentary Champagne Models • Door Prizes

Free SamplesCash Bar Available

presents the 1st Annual Bridal

Fair

FRUG

AL LIVING

By JENNIFER WALLGREN

So, by now, you have your book with all the dividers showing the different sections of the store and you

have gotten your baseball card holders to separate all the different coupons in your collection.

What to do now? Go shop-ping, of course! If you are anything like me, distractions can destroy an unplanned grocery store visit.

Never plan to go on a trip without the visit being well planned and laid out.

Know what you need and make your list, this is impor-tant to make sure you use coupons that are relevant to what you need. I had a nay sayer once tell me that coupons are useless because women always buy things they don’t need just because we have a coupon!

If you follow this advice, that will not be a problem! Once you have made your list, for each individual item, perform a search online for that product.

Once you find it, clip it. If you are working with news-paper inserts, do the same, you just might not find a coupon every time. On your list, write down that you have a coupon ( c ) and what the terms of the coupon are.

Sometimes, you need to buy two in order to get that $1 off. Is it worth it? If you use this product religiously and there are no expiration dates on that product, then yes! (ex: shampoo)

When you have your list, look at the ad inserts for the stores that you shop at. Most of them can be found online, you don’t have to have the paper insert. Find out what is on sale or what items might have a store coupon that week. Store coupons and manufacturer coupons are not the same! You may only use one store coupon or one manufacturer coupon at a time but you may use both of them together on one prod-uct! Here is an example....

One name brand shampoo ($4.99/ea)

$1 off in-store coupon$1 off manufacturer couponUse both coupons and get the

shampoo for $2.99!

There are no stores in our area that double coupons. When I find one that does, that is any closer than 2 hours away, my readers will be the first to know! I know many of you have watched that series that you can walk out of the store with $600 in merchandise and only pay

$40. While we might not be

able to do that here in Alice, Texas, USA, we can find that there are many deals and steals available to us every day. There are a few stores here in town, that utilize reward cards.

When you buy certain items in their store you rack up points and you also get the sale price for the items bought.

The points accumulated at Walgreen’s can be used as cash towards your next purchase. If you utilize these points, you cannot acquire more points during that pur-chase. Here is an example:

You have 10,000 points which is worth $10

You purchase something for $25

You will only owe $15 at the register

You will not be given any re-ward points at this point of sale

As you are doing your shopping, keep an envelope handy so that as you place an item in your cart, remove the coupon, make sure you have followed the instructions for the coupon, and

place the coupon in your envelope.

When you walk up to the cashier, s/he will usually have a look of relief on their face because you are an organized Couponer! They stress as much as we do because they have to make sure every-thing is done correctly for

the store.If you have any tips or

advice that can be used in everyday couponing or tips at being frugal, send them to me!

If I pick your tip, your name will be used!

Happy Couponing, Alice, Texas!

You’ve got your coupons, so what’s next?

Use food to help you maintain a healthy weight

Maintaining or adopting a healthy lifestyle involves a host of factors. Getting off the couch to be more active is one such factor, as is taking control of your diet so it’s helping you and not hurting you.

While adopting a more active lifestyle is a relatively simple step for many people, modifying a diet is often-times a much steeper hill to climb. Dietary habits can be hard to break. But altering your selections so the food you consume is helping you instead of hurting you is pos-sible, and you won’t have to abandon your favorite foods, either. The following are a few tips aimed at helping you make your diet work for you.

* Choose the right foods. Many people feel the culprit behind their unhealthy weight is the portions they con-

uuPage 17


HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infec-tion in the United

States. HPV is associated with almost all cases of cervi-cal cancer. Not everyone who gets HPV will go on to have cervical cancer, but almost everyone who has cervical cancer also has HPV.

In the U.S., women are much more likely to get regu-lar Pap smears than in other parts of the world. There-fore, the number of deaths from cervical cancer in the U.S. is lower than other plac-es. However women must take advantage of the health care opportunities available to them. Patients need to see their health care providers on

a regular basis, keeping fol-low up appointments when asked to do so.

There are about 150 differ-ent strains of HPV. Approxi-mately 40 of those strains can infect the genitals. Some of those strains can also cause warts, but not everyone will get warts. The bottom line is that if you have ever had sexual intercourse with more than one person or if your partner has been with other partners, you very likely have some form of HPV. Most of us will have the virus and nev-er know it. Others will have a “bad” Pap smear that requires us to go back more often for a while. Having a normal Pap smear does not mean that a woman has not had HPV. A

normal Pap smear means that the cells of the cervix look normal and don’t show any effects of HPV infection. A negative HPV test does not mean that a woman hasn’t had HPV, it simply means that the virus is not active at that time and is not likely to cause her any problems in the near future.

Some 75 percent of women will have HPV at some point in their lives. Most HPV infections will not develop into cancer. Today, males and females between 9 – 26 years of age can receive a vac-cination against HPV. This vaccine, along with regular female examinations will help women to protect themselves from cervical cancer.

Having HPV doesn’t make you a bad person, but it can kill you if it leads to cervical cancer and goes untreated. We are blessed to live in this country at a time when help is available from many sourc-es for many illnesses. Women do not have to die from cervi-cal cancer, but they cannot be treated if they do not seek help. Make your appoint-ment today for your screening Pap smear.

Judy Perdue spends four days each week as a women’s health nurse practicioner with Dr. Jason C. Bradford, M.D., at Alice Obstetrics and Gynecology Associates.

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)

The proverb “April showers bring May flowers” can be dated back several centuries. Even those who repeat the proverb are likely unaware it dates all the way back to an English poet and farmer who made

a name for himself nearly half a millennium ago. Thomas Tusser, an English poet and farmer in the 16th century, is best known for many proverbs, many of which originated in his “Five Hundred Points of Good Husbandry.”

The poem includes the line “Sweet April showers do bring May flowers.” That oft-repeated proverb has since widely been shortened to “April showers bring May flowers.” As much as those words have held up over the years, they’re not Tusser’s only words of wisdom to withstand the test of time.

“A fool and his money are soon parted” is also credited to Tusser, as is the holiday advice, “At Christmas play, and make good cheer, For Christmas comes but once a year.” Tusser died in 1580 at the age of 56.

Did you know?


TexasRig Service

“Specializing in all types of oilfield equipment sales and service”

• Drawworks• Diesel Engines• Mud Pumps• Rotary Tables

Servicing the Oilfield Industry 24/7.

• Swivels• Blocks• Hooks

3305 N. Hwy 281 • Alice, TX 78332

Owners: Jesse & Margie H. Gonzalez

361.661.0036

Welder fabricating 6” suction line and also installing suction screen on pump that is

being unitized at STRS shop.

Welder and mechanic install air line on generator house and prepare it to be sent

to sandblasting shop.

Mechanic preparing to install radiator on D-398 CAT engine that is being used on

H&H mud pump unit.

Mechanic dismantles rotary table and prepares it to be sent to sandblasting shop.

H&H F-1000 mud pump with D-398 CAT engine being unitized at STRS shop.

Welder fabricating belt guards for rod oiler pump and 6X5 charging pump.


sume. While portion size might have something to do with it, the foods you’re eating are likely the prima-ry suspect. If your diet is devoid of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and the dairy products you choose are not fat-free or low-fat, then this could be why you have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. Choose low-fat or fat-free, formerly known as “skim,” milk and dairy products instead of whole milk for your morning cereal or when preparing recipes that call for cheese. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains each day.

Choose lean meat when buying red meat, but don’t overdo it even if you are buying lean meat. Red meat once per week might

be enough to satisfy your craving, so enjoy poultry and fish for dinner on other nights of the week.

* Alter your recipes. Many of the foods you en-joy may not be unhealthy. But how you prepare those foods could be compromis-ing their nutritional value or unnecessarily adding calories and causing weight gain. For example, fried foods are typically loaded with salt and contain more calories than foods that are baked or grilled. Foods that are fried are typically fried in oil, and that oil undergoes changes to its molecular structure dur-ing the frying process. The molecules become harm-ful free radicals that can damage the body’s cells while negatively affecting your cholesterol levels and your body weight. Instead of frying foods like fish or

chicken, grill or bake them instead. It’s alright to oc-casionally indulge in some fried chicken or other popular fried foods, but keep such indulgences to a minimum.

Another way to alter your recipes is to replace potentially harmful ingre-dients with lower-calorie alternatives. When pre-paring a meal that calls for butter, choose a more heart-healthy alternative such as a low-calorie butter spread. You likely won’t be able to taste the difference, but your body will feel the difference.

* Plan your snacks. Many people run into trouble when they find themselves hungry in the hours be-tween lunch and dinner. Healthy snacks that are rich in nutrients do not seem as readily available as snacks like potato chips or

cookies that provide little or no nutritional value. But snack time does not have to be a daily sacrifice of discipline in favor of convenience. Plan ahead for snack time just as you do for meal time, packing items like fresh fruit, diced-up vegetables or low-fat yogurt when you leave for work each morning. These foods can satisfy hunger just as successfully as their less-healthy alternatives,

but they won’t do so at the cost of your waistline.

Food is too often seen as the enemy for men and women looking to maintain a healthy weight. But when you choose nutrient-rich, low-fat foods, then main-taining a healthy weight becomes a lot easier.

Choosing fresh fruits like strawberries instead of potato chips at snack time is one way

for men and women to maintain a healthy weight

uu Weight Tips

The first recorded snow cones were produced by Samuel Bert of Dallas, TX in 1919 at the State Fair of Texas. He created the first ice-crushing snow cone machine in 1920 and sold both snow cones and snow cone machines until his death in 1984. www.epopcorn.com

With or without ice cream, our alice24-7.com fans cast their vote for their favorite snow cone flavors. The snowcone shops preferred are Silva’s, Snowee Melts, Cool Me Down Snowcones (Orange Grove) and

Texas Snow Cones (San Diego). The most voted-for flavors were:

Top Snowcone flavors

Editor’s Note: Many of our fans said they missed Alicia Trevino’s snowcones, which were sold under the water tower by the baseball fields on the city’s northside. She is no longer with us, but her snowcones still bring back great memories for our readers.

1 2 3 4 5Strawberry Natural Lemon Leche Picosito Wild Cherry


As your City Councilman, I will: • Keep taxes low • Help to deter gang violence • Ensure housing needs are met • Work to diversify our economy • Communicate with the public on key issues

Ike Ornelas, a member of Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors and President of the

Alice Chamber of Commerce.

Early voting is April 29 - May 7Election Day is Saturday, May 11

Vote for Ike Ornelas for Alice City Council

Likeike

for Alice City Council

Political ad paid for by the candidate.

“I want to ensure Alice is a great place to live,

work and play.”- Ike Ornelas

Pictured are Ike Ornelas and his wife Elsa Trejo Ornelas.

GonzalezYour

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studying so they know the entire book from front to back, that it becomes part of their lives. The ladies were proud that one group of their team members was challenged to recite a verse and even though it was one they had learned several years before, they stepped forward and recited it, in unison.

“We are able to look back over the years and see the changes we’ve made in these kids - how kids that are labeled to be failures turn completely around to become produc-tive, responsible adults. They’ve learned God’s word and how to apply it in their lives,” they said.

“If someone had

told me what an amaz-ing journey this would be...” McDaniel said, wiping tears from her eyes. “It’s just been an incredible journey of the heart.”

They are confident at least two of “their kids” have a good chance at being state champions this year and are justifi-ably proud of the fact that “our little church

from Alice, Texas, is known throughout the state for our Bible Drill team.”

“We love these kids,” they said. “We try to

lead them with a Christ-like attitude to see that God is real and to see God in us. We think we do that and it makes a difference in their lives.

You might not right away see where this scripture will play a part in their lives - but at some point you will, and it makes them stronger.”

uu League

Texas while trying to bring awareness to the sport, which is different than what he is accustomed to when racing out of the local area.

“When you go out of state and further north the attitude is different.

“People in this area are statistically so unhealthy and closed off to the idea,” Torres said.

“When you surround yourself with different people it reflects how you are as a person. It really takes a lifestyle change to get healthy and it takes determination and drive.”

While attending college at then-Texas A&I in the late 1980s, Torres attempted to bring in cycling and triathlon-type sports in an effort to belong to something, but much like now, he was turned down and given hardly any consideration.

However, that still hasn’t shaken him from his routine or drive to bring the sport to those around him.

“You see a lot of people starting trends like cross fit, or MMA training, but I

always wanted to belong and bring the positive energy and let people know that anyone can get in shape and participate,” Torres said. “Sometimes I see thousands of people at races and I can’t believe that I am this one guy from Alice, Texas, and I wish that someone was there to push me when I was the fat

kid growing up.”Now, Torres is in the pro-

cess of starting a triathlon team, preparing for his race in

October along with his first-ever Iron Man next year.

“Over 20 years ago I made the decision to get up and

make a change in my life,” Torres said. “I made that change and I never looked back.”

uu Torres

Torres is competing at USAT National Duathlon Championships this October in Arizona. Competing well means a trip to compete in Spain.


Love Chrysler Dodge Jeep1259 East Main St

Alice, TX 78332(361) 664-9955

WWW.LOVECHRYSLERDODGEJEEP.COM

2013 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew

2013 Dodge Journey SE

2013 Dodge Durango SXT

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

1259 E. Main St., Alice, Texas

www.lovechrysler.com (361)664-9955


Celebrating 4 years in Freer

800-741-1494805 E Riley in Freer or www.cantuchevy.com

Currently offering

$10,000 off All Texas Edition Trucks

Ringing in our 4th year with a new state-of-the art facility

Before the old Cantu Chevro-let building was demolished along Highway 44 in Freer, Carlos Sali-nas made a point of removing and keeping a door from the dealership’s warehouse.

“That door was there since I start-ed,” Salinas said, and since he is cel-ebrating his 40th anniversary with the dealership, that is a significant amount of time.

The Chevrolet dealership, though it has changed hands at least four times, has stood as an icon in Freer since the 1940s. Dealer Jacob Cantu, who is celebrating his 4th anniversary with the dealership, kept several of the rafters of the building to construct a picture frame to feature photographs of the old building and the new once it’s complete.

Salinas, who is planning to build a table or a bench with the door, has remained with the dealership for 40 years because he has always been

treated so well.He began in March 1973 as part of

a high school program. He worked half days making dealer trades, mov-ing cars, washing cars and some me-chanic work. The dealer at the time, Frank Thomas, was a “pretty good guy,” Salinas recalls.

“When we first started here, every-body wanted to leave Freer,” Sali-nas recalled. “But, I stayed here. My family is here.”

Salinas spent about five years working wherever he was needed at the dealership, then he was moved to parts and service, where he has been since.

He has met many people through the years.

“People from San Diego and Bena-vides, they keep coming back,” he said. “We treat them good.”

He says the dealership has “gotten better and better,” and has nothing but praise for Cantu and his family.

“They are good to us,” he said.Salinas has four sons. He and his

wife, Juanita, also live in Freer. And his car, after 40 years, practically drives itself to work, Salinas jokes.

Retirement is not in the cards.“I’m going to stick it out as long as

I can move around,” he said.Cantu quickly said, “We’ll always

accommodate him.”

Salinas celebrates 40 years with Freer dealership

Continuing the tradition of selling quality vehicles in a

friendly, no-nonsense manner to residents of

Freer and the surrounding area. Thank you for

your business.

Jacob Cantu, Dealer

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