volume 8 - number 31 february 2016 c african-american ......diabetes mellitus has consisted of diet...

BY ERIC JENSEN

Deborah Branch wore several hats in her lifetime: assistant criminal district at-torney, naval officer and community volun-teer, and dear friend, among others.

Branch, who died of ovarian cancer on Nov. 19, 2015, is remembered for her kind-ness and giving heart.

Her daughter Monique McNeely of Houston, described her mother as a people person.

“If you were around her and didn't know her, you were going to know her,” Mc-Neely said. “She knew everyone, she spoke to everyone. Her eyes talked.”

She said she couldn't find anyone who did not enjoy being around her mother.

“I would visit her in Victoria and it didn't matter where we went, somebody knew her,” she said. “My kids used to tease her saying ‘grandma’s like a star around here.’”

McNeely’s fondest memory of her mother was witnessing the joy of being a

grandmother.

BY CYNTHIA J. STALEYExecutive DirectorGolden Crescent Habitat for Humanity

Despite her young age of 30, Kinsey Layton, a future Habitat homeown-er, has faced several trials. A series of bad choices, in-cluding a long, unhealthy relationship ultimately left her a single mother with no home, no job skills, no direction and no idea where to start.

Fortunately, she and her two young children found Perpetual Help Home, a transitional home that helps women and children get back on their feet. She has re-sided there for the past two years; and this month she will move her family into their own Habitat home.

Kinsey’s story is both unique and fa-miliar. With almost 17 percent of the ar-ea’s population residing in poverty, hard-

working poor families of all shapes and sizes find themselves stuck in the cycle of poverty with no options to get ahead. Even worse, 24 percent of those people are children. Even with the parents’ best efforts, there is not enough money to afford decent housing, to save for the future, or to pro-vide adequate nutrition and healthcare. They will

never make enough for a traditional home loan, so they pay exorbitant rent for what is often substandard housing. Sadly, this story generally repeats itself in their chil-dren’s lives. The cycle of poverty is hard to break.

However, there is hope for these fami-lies. Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit Christian ecumenical housing ministry that builds safe, decent, affordable

BY DR. B. DEAN MCDANIELCitizens Medical Center

The traditional treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus has consisted of diet modification, exercise, and medications. Unfortunately, diabetes continues to be a very dangerous healthcare problem with progressive characteristics. Over the past 15 years, weight loss surgery has emerged as effective treatment for diabetes in the severely obese population, often offering complete remission of the disease. The more recent data shows these minimally invasive procedures to be safe and effec-tive treatment options, equal to gallbladder surgery. While much of the research has been done on diabetics with severe obesity, we are now starting to see studies focused on surgery for diabetics with only mild to moderate obesity.

Scientists at the Cleveland Clinic stud-

ied over 1000 diabetics with mild to mod-erate obesity. 40% of the patients were

www.voicesunitedpublicationofvictoria.comVolume 8 - Number 31 February 2016

Celebrating afriCan-ameriCan Heritage montH

McDaniel

Laparoscopic Surgery For Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

See HEALTH, page 7

The University of Houston-Victoria has hired a director with nearly 40 years of professional health experience to oversee the development of the university’s new nursing program.

Cindy Hudson, dean of the Langston University School of Nursing and Health Professions in Langston, Okla., will start her new job as UHV’s director of nursing on Jan. 4. In August, UHV will launch a Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

“Under the guidance of Dr. Hudson, we will move into the next chapter of nurs-ing at UHV,” said Jeffrey Cass, provost and vice president for academic affairs. “Dr. Hudson’s vast experience in teaching, lead-ing, practice and research will be a major asset as we shape a program that provides the most benefits to nurses in the Coastal Bend and beyond.”

The UH System Board of Regents and Texas Higher Education Coordinat-ing Board already have granted approval

for the RN to BSN program in Victoria and online. The program will be housed in the

Longtime nurse educator to lead UHV’s new nursing program

Hudson

See HUDSON, page 5

Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity Builds Homes, Hope & Communities and A New Neighborhood

See HABITAT, page 15

Former assistant district attorney remembered as dear friend, community leader and volunteer

Branch

See BRANCH, page 14

Staley

2 — VOICES UNITED PUBLICATION OF VICTORIA • FEBRUARY 2016 • www.voicesunitedpublicationofvictoria.com

Publisher’s Message

VOICES UNITED Publication of Victoriawww.voicesunitedpublicationofvictoria.com email: [email protected]

(310)-729-4939

Publisher & EditorRick PerkinsAssociate EditorOscar Hernandez-Perkins

SalesRick PerkinsGeorge Gant

Contributing WritersRick PerkinsEric Jensen

Photographer Roy HillGraphic Design Manuel Zamora

Voices United Publication of Victoria is published quarterly

BY RICK PERKINS

Graduates of Victoria College’s Basic Peace Officer Certification Class No. 87 were honored at a graduation ceremony on Wednesday, Dec. 16. All fifteen students passed the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement exam and earned the Basic Peace Officer Certification. Pictured from left to right, back row, are: Emily Erickson, Michael Kelley, Robert Armstrong, Juan Ruiz and Braylen Ross. Middle row: Cheyenne Beaver, Ryan Johnson, Jes-se Garcia, Bobby Banda and Roger Balerio. Front row: Amanda Caughey, Roberto Moreno, Jessica Ruiz, Jason Zambrano and Maria Perez.

Fifteen graduate from VC’s Law Enforcement Academy2016 Wish List:

Formulate a Plan to Achieve Goal(s) * Prepare & Implement * Strive for Excellence = Suc-cess!!!!!!!!!!!!

Action speaks louder than words!

www.voicesunitedpublicationofvictoria.com • FEBRUARY 2016 • VOICES UNITED PUBLICATION OF VICTORIA — 3

SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOUSOCIAL SECURITY EVOLVES TO

SERVE CUSTOMERS

BY SHERYL SCHROEDERSocial Security Public Affairs Specialist in Brenham, TX

Social Security is at the forefront of adapting and meeting the ever-changing needs of our customers. Technology plays an important role in helping us provide the world-class customer service America ex-pects and deserves. And we’re changing to keep current with new laws and judicial rulings as well.

One way we’ve evolved is by develop-ing the my Social Security account. Once you enroll for a free account at www.so-cialsecurity.gov/myaccount, Social Secu-rity can help you estimate your future re-tirement or disability benefits, or manage them if you are already receiving benefits. You can do all of this easily and securely from the comfort of your home or office.

Social Security listens to your needs as we improve the technologies that enhance the customer experience. We continue to look for new services to add to my Social Security to make it an even more powerful resource for you and your family.

Another way we’re evolving is by adapting to legal and social changes. In 1935, when Social Security was created, the definition of “family” was different than it is today. On June 26, 2015, the Supreme Court issued a decision in Obergefell v. Hodges,

holding that same-sex couples have a con-stitutional right to marry in all states. As a result, more same-sex couples will be rec-ognized as married for purposes of deter-mining entitlement to Social Security bene-fits or eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments.

Not only have we adapted to provide benefits for same-sex spouses, but trans-gender people can now change the gender marker on their Social Security records based on identity, with no requirement for reassignment surgery.

Our mission at Social Security is to deliver services that meet the changing needs of the public. By keeping the public informed of their benefit estimates with my Social Security and adapting to our chang-ing society, we will continue to achieve our goals and help you achieve yours. No mat-ter who you are, you deserve the benefits

of Social Security. Find out more at www.socialsecurity.gov.

THE FORCE IS STRONG WITH SOCIAL SECURITY’S

ONLINE SERVICES

“There’s been an awakening. Have you felt it?”

This winter, Americans of all genera-tions are awakening to the newest film in the Star Wars franchise, Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Many readers probably re-member seeing the first Star Wars film in theaters in 1977. Audiences watched with fascination at the advanced technology used by the Jedi and Sith in a galaxy far, far away.

We still don’t have interstellar travel, personal robots, or holographic communi-cation, but we now use technology in our daily lives that would have seemed like sci-ence fiction in 1977. At that time, it would still be years until the modern Internet and smart phones would be part of our lives. Now, many of us can’t imagine life without such technology.

Many people who need to do business with Social Security are finding an awak-ening of sorts in how easy it is to use our online services. We continually expand our online services to reflect changing customer needs, and to provide you with world-class service that would even have interplanetary traveler Han Solo saying,

“Chewie, we’re home.” Our online services are convenient and secure, and allow you to conduct much of your business with us from the comfort of your home, office, or space freighter. (Not all services are avail-able in all galaxies).

For instance, you can use our website at www.socialsecurity.gov to apply for re-tirement, spouse’s, or disability benefits online. You can also apply for Medicare and Extra Help with your Medicare prescrip-tion drug costs on our website. We also have online benefit planners to help you estimate your future retirement, disability, and survivors benefits.

You can open a free personal online my Social Security account, where you can keep track of your annual earnings and ver-ify them. Why is that important? Because your future benefits are based on your an-nual earnings. With your account, you can also get an estimate of your future benefits if you are still working; or, if you currently receive benefits, you can use your account to manage your benefits, and get an instant letter with proof of your benefits. You can also request a Medicare card replacement.

“The force is calling to you. Just let it in.” This winter, check out our online ser-vices and join the millions of other Ameri-cans who have already awakened their own personal my Social Security accounts. A my Social Security account is a force to be reckoned with. And you don’t need to be a Jedi to have one.Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov. Once you go online, this force will be with you … always.

The dream continues!

HONORING THE LEGACY

“The function of education is to teach one to think inten-sively and to think critically....Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.


1165 Angelina Street - Austin, TX 78702

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Website: http://www.carvermuseum.org/ Facebook & Twitter: @CarverMuseumATXEmail: [email protected] HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday: ...10am -6pmThursday:............................................ 10am-9pmFriday:................................................. 10am-5pmSaturday: ............................................ 10am-4pmSunday:.......................................................Closed

The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require special assistance for participation in our programs or for use of our facilities,

American historical and cultural material reflecting all dimensions of experiences of persons of African descent living in Austin, Travis County, Texas and in the United States. The museum is a key source of information on the history and celebration of Juneteenth.

2016 Black History Month Event Schedule (Tentative)

please call (512) 974-4926. MISSION:The Carver is dedicated to the collection, preservation, research and exhibition of African

Saturday February 13, 2016Title: Black History Month Kids DayType: TBALocation: Various (inside and outside museum)Time: noon-4 p.m.Description- Join us for our first annual Black History Month Kids Day. Will feature activities, crafts, fun and games in celebration of Black History Month. Free and open to the public. Friday February 19, 2016Title: Folktales: Black Women’s Literary SocietyLocation: ClassroomTime: 6:30 – 8:30 pm Description: Folktales Bookclub will discuss “Grant Park” by Leonard Pitts. Folktales meets the third Friday of the month at the Carver beginning in February. For more information, email Peggy Terry at [email protected] Friday February 19, 2016 Title: “More than a Month”Type: Film Screening of PBS documentaryLocation: Boyd Vance TheatreTime: 6:30-8 p.m. Description: Should Black History Month be ended?

That’s the question explored by Shukree Hassan Tilghman as he embarks on a cross-country campaign to do just that. Both amusing and thought provoking, More Than a Month examines what the treatment of history tells us about race and power in contemporary America. Free and open to the public. Title: Screen and Discussion of “This Little Light of Mine: The Legacy of Fannie Lou Hammer”Type: Film ScreeningLocation: Boyd Vance TheatreTime: 6:30-8 p.m.Description: Screening and panel discussion with filmmaker Robin Hamilton in collaboration with the Carver Library. Light refreshments will be served. This event Is free and open to the public. Monday February 22, 2016Title: TBATime: 5:00 – 7:00 pmLocation: TBADescription: This is an “Access Event” focused on high school aged students. A workshop will be developed present to youth with a focus on the Juneteenth Monument.

Monday February 22, 2016Title: Why Black Life Matters: Beyond State Sanctioned BrutalityType: Panel DiscussionLocation: Boyd Vance TheatreTime: TBADescription: Join us for a panel discussion co-sponsored by Huston Tillotson and the National Forum Black for Public Administrators (NFBPA). Thursday February 25, 2016Title: Black Mural Art in AustinTime: 6:30-8 p.m.Location: Main Gallery (Juneteenth Space)Type: Lecture/Q&ADescription: The Carver will host an Art in Public Places’ presentation on the Black Mural Art scene in Austin. Will feature pieces in AIPP’s collection by African-American muralists such as Reginald Adams, Freddie McCoo, John Yancey, John Fisher, and Werllayne Nunes. Seating is limited. To RSVP, email [email protected]. Title: Vibe and Verse: Bi-Monthly Poetry and Black Art SeriesTime: TBA

Location: Boyd Vance TheatreDescription: The George Washington Carver Museum Cultural and Genealogy Center in collaboration with Torch Literary Arts will host its first Black Art Slam. Join us for a night of poetry, performance art, and music featuring the work of local and regional black artists. Saturday February 26, 2016Title: Art in Public Places Lecture SeriesTime: TBALocation: Boyd Vance TheatreDescription: Join us for a discussion with the Austin Psychological Association as they examine the impact and value of formal desegregation in America 52 years after the signing of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Sunday February 28, 2016Title: Black History Concert in Collaboration with Austin Chamber MusicTime: TBALocation: Boyd Vance TheatreDescription: A free concert celebrating the contributions of African-American composers to chamber music.

BY ERIC JENSEN

What is Juneteenth?That’s the question Bernadette M. Phi-

fer had when she first saw the word after moving to Texas from Washington, D.C. She initially thought it was a misspelling. Now Phifer, who serves as culture and arts manager curator of the George Washing-ton Carver Museum & Cultural Center in Austin, educates people about the historic term and its meaning.

“When it came time for us to develop the George Washington Carver Museum, the major question people asked us is ‘what is Juneteenth,’” Phifer said. “You would expect people to know about Juneteenth but they really don’t.”

Juneteenth is celebrated each June commemorating the 1865 announcement of the end of slavery following the Civil War. President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863 but word didn’t reach Texas until June 19, 1865.

Phifer said that each June, local re-porters will select a child to interview and ask him or her the meaning of Juneteenth.

“The answer invariably was that it’s a parade, a barbecue, a party,” she said. “It is all of that but I want them to learn and know the historic information on Juneteenth. We tell them the how and why it was created. That’s an important mission that we have - to tell everyone the story.”

With a staff of 10 and volunteers rang-ing from 50-100, the museum shares that story as its core exhibit.

“A lot of people, especially in this re-gion, use it as a coming home or family re-union time,” she said. “It’s a time to tell old stories, to reflect on what has happened to us as a people and to celebrate where we are now.”

What started as a spiritual celebration became an educational one, “knowing what was out there in our culture and society that can help us move up and move on.”

She stressed that Juneteenth is not solely an African-American celebration.

“It’s also a coming together, but not just of blacks,” Phifer explained. “Everyone is invited to the party. It’s a celebration of ALL men being freed.”

Phifer, a grad-uate of Tennessee State University and Webster University, came to Austin to work for the agricul-ture department as a nutritionist/dieti-cian in their mar-keting department. She traveled the state telling people how they could help themselves by farm-ing. To get the mes-sage out, the “Taste of Texas,” program was created, taking Texas products all over the U.S. and into some foreign countries.

A native of Montgomery, Alabama and reared in Washington, D.C., Phifer first came to the museum as a volunteer and, in 1990, officially began as director and cura-tor. As a community liaison, Phifer works to interest people in their history through marketing and promotional presentations.

Last year, 174,000 people visited the museum. That number included school

groups, many from schools in Houston and Dallas, along with students in Travis Coun-ty school districts.

While at the museum, students and other visitors learn the story of George Washington Carver.

“Every child who comes in here knows the name of a popular singer, or someone who can dunk a ball,” Phifer said. “But we want them to know who affects their lives every day: those inventors and scientists.”

She said Carver is one individual

Austin museum curator shares stories of Juneteenth, George Washington Carver

Bernadette Phifer Juneteenth Memorial Monument at the George Washington Carver Museam and Cultural Center in Austin, Texas.

See CARVER, page 6


UHV School of Education, Health Profes-sions & Human Development.

Among Hudson’s duties will be select-ing and supervising nursing faculty mem-bers, managing enrollment strategies for student recruitment, and overseeing the academic progression of students. She also will prepare for seeking accreditation and solicit external financial support, such as grants and endowed scholarships.

“Starting a new program has a lot of appeal,” Hudson said. “I like having the op-portunity to get a feel for the Victoria com-munity and find out what the needs are. I’m looking forward to working with the com-munity to make UHV a destination for ad-vanced nursing degrees.”

Hudson earned a BSN from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. She obtained a master’s degree in health care administra-tion from Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant and a Master of Science in Nursing with a Family Nurse Practitioner concentration from the University of Pitts-burgh. She went on to earn a Doctorate in Nursing Science from the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Mem-phis.

Hudson has worked as a staff nurse at a VA hospital, a community health nurse for a health department and an advanced practice nurse for a material and child health program. She also served as a com-munity health nurse in the U.S. Army.

Her teaching career includes faculty

positions at University of Texas at El Paso; Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va.; Uni-versity of Alabama in Huntsville; the Medi-cal University of South Carolina in Charles-ton; and Centerville University in Ohio. In 2011, she became director of nursing edu-cation at the Round Rock campus of the Texas A&M Health Science Center.

“Dr. Hudson not only has outstanding academic credentials, but also a wealth of experience to draw from,” said Fred Lit-ton, dean of the UHV School of Education, Health Professions & Human Develop-ment. “She has administrative experience and has worked in various health-profes-sion settings. She will be an exceptional addition to the university as we embark on building our nursing program.”

Hudson has served as dean and associ-ate professor at Langston University since January 2014. She supervises a program with 120 students and 21 faculty members

on two campuses that offer bachelor’s de-grees in nursing, public health and health care administration. Her duties include being in charge of finances, recruiting and hiring, promoting strategies for faculty and student engagement, reviewing instruc-tional assessment initiatives and enhanc-ing partnerships with the community. Un-der her leadership, the school has made significant changes to the curriculum.

Hudson said her background as a dean, RN to BSN program director and public health educator will aid her in the new position.

“In public health, you work a lot with community partners,” she said. “In start-ing a new program, that’s an important piece. With UHV recently adding health studies and kinesiology, I can bridge across to work with those faculty members.”

The former UHV School of Nursing transitioned to UH in August. UH will no

longer offer RN to BSN classes in Victo-ria when UHV’s new program begins. UH will continue to offer its Master of Science in Nursing degree in Victoria until UHV administrators can request and gain ap-proval for its own graduate-level nursing program.

“The RN to BSN program is important to UHV, and we want to get it off on the right foot,” Litton said. “Dr. Hudson will be work-ing in the spring and summer to prepare to welcome our first students. There’s a lot of work to be done.”

In her first months on the job, Hudson plans to talk with nursing officials at Victo-ria College, DeTar HealthCare System and Citizens Medical Center.

“I want to find out from their nurses what their needs are,” Hudson said. “In planning, there are different ways to set up an RN to BSN program. You want to set it up in a way that is going to meet the nurses’ needs.”

Hudson is a member of many nurs-ing organizations and took part in numer-ous community service projects. She also is editor-in-chief of the Nursing: Research and Reviews journal.

Hudson said she enjoyed living in Tex-as before, and she’s pleased to be moving back.

“When I came to interview at UHV, I saw the genuineness and interest in meet-ing the needs of the community, “Hudson said. “The collaboration among the faculty and deans was appealing. I want to work in that environment.”

HUDSON, from pg 1

“Starting a new program has a lot of appeal, I like having the opportunity to get a feel for the Victoria community and find out what the needs are. I’m looking forward to working with the community to make UHV a destination for advanced nursing degrees.”

-- Dr. Cindy Hudson


whose name is recognizable for all the things he had done, not only for blacks but for the nation at large.

After cotton producers experienced poor crop yields, Carver attempted to edu-cate them about crop rotation.

“They were having very bad results over something that was killing the soil and that was cotton and the boll weevil,” Phi-fer said. “Carver told them to rotate their crops, primarily with peanuts because the peanut was a plant that gave nutrients back to the soil. Cotton took nutrients out of the soil.”

The peanut, the sweet potato, and the soybean were just a few of the products Carver told farmers to produce. He devel-oped booklets that would assist farmers with crop rotation.

“He was a very meek man who be-lieved in education, as we do,” Phifer said. “He believed in sharing with people, as we do.”

Center got its start downtown Built downtown at Guadalupe and

9th Streets as the Colored Library, it later moved to the present Angelina Street loca-tion and became the first library branch in Austin. The Carver name was selected for the facility in 1947, and the museum got its start in 1980. That same year, it became the first African-American museum in the state of Texas. The current museum build-ing opened in 2005.

The building also houses the first stand-alone genealogy center in Texas that primarily deals with African-American ge-nealogy, but is open to everyone.

“We are a collecting museum and are interested in all Afrocentric memorabilia and artifacts,” Phifer said. “We have a won-derful collection of African artifacts.”

Included at the site are obituary ar-chives of Austin and Travis County people, as well as other notable people from all walks of life. It is also a facility used to re-search topics and individuals.

As the museum’s curator, Phifer shares history with visitors but also has a history story of her own to tell.

In her early teens, she participated in the historic Selma to Montgomery Civil Rights march in 1965.

“I didn’t think how monumental it was at the time, but it changed everyone’s lives, not just those of blacks,” she said.

A hub of education Phifer called the center a hub of educa-

tion, conveniently located near the Univer-sity of Texas, Huston–Tillotson University, the Texas State Cemetery, and the Texas State Capitol.

While noting what came before, the museum and cultural center curator is looking beyond today.

“Our next phase is an art school, to have onsite all of those creative things that we are doing elsewhere,” Phifer said. “We call this a campus; we have the museum, the genealogy center, the library and a magnet school.”

For almost 30 years, VCS Companies have grown and expanded right along with Victoria to encompass Victoria Communi-cations, VCS Security Systems, I.C.T., and Rocket. Together, these companies provide Victoria and the surrounding communities everything from AT&T wireless phones and accessories, two-way radio systems, intercom systems, phone systems, security systems, and fire alarms, to fiber optics, and oilfield pipeline construction.

That means the Hartman Family pro-vides a wide range of products and services to both commercial and private customers. Each valued customer is treated with the philosophy that it’s more important to give, than to receive. This philosophy is also shared by their knowledgeable and profes-sional staff who greet each customer as they would a friend.

VCS Companies is here to make find-ing the right solutions for you with one call or visit. We provide multiple technologies and products paired with excellent service and installation that make your solution “puzzle” simple to complete. The solution you will find within our four companies are presented to you by professionals that are trained in their respective fields yet able to work together as a team when solutions overlap between the companies. For all of your communication, wireless, wired, secu-rity, audio, video and networking needs it’s

one simple place to call…VCS Companies. We’ve been around since 1985 and look forward to more years to come as we stay on top of technology changes to insure we bring only the best to you…our customers!

The Hartman Family…Jennifer, Jim, J.R. & Kelly are very proud of the VCS teams and all that they do to insure VCS Companies offer the very best in customer service at all times. You don’t have to “take a number” and wait no matter what your needs are. From wireless phones and de-vices, to residential and commercial secu-rity, to TV’s and audio, to VoIP phone sys-tems and networking solutions, to boring and trenching…and the list of solutions just continues as we train and work to be sure we earn your trust and business with only the best available.

We care about you from the first con-versation through the sale and installation. Our customer importance does not stop when the invoice is paid but continues for years to come. We like to consider the rela-tionship between VCS Companies and our customers as a long term business friend-ship.

Our success is measured by our cus-tomers that have been with us since 1985 and joined us “today”. We’re grateful for each opportunity and know that you will be pleased to become a part of VCS Compa-nies.

CARVER, from pg 4VCS Companies continues to grow after 30 years in business


YOUR HEALTH

taking insulin injections at the time of sur-gery and the remaining 60% were on oral medications. Over 90% of the patients showed improvement with their diabe-tes after surgery and nearly half of them achieved complete remission. It is im-portant to note that the highest remission

rates occurred in the patients with the shortest duration of diabetes. This would indicate the sooner diabetics turn to sur-gery, the more likely they will be complete-ly off medications.

Both the American Diabetes Associa-tion (ADA) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) now recommend weight

loss surgery for diabetics with a body mass index (BMI) of 35 or more, which is ap-proximately 75 lbs. overweight. The Na-tional Institute of Health guidelines, which have not been updated since 1991, also en-dorse surgery for diabetics with a BMI of 35 or greater. The two most common pro-cedures are the gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy. Both operations have shown positive outcomes, however, the gastric bypass seems to offer a more powerful re-sponse with regards to diabetes remission.

This evolving area of surgery for dia-betes could impact millions of individuals. Diabetes has such an impact on quality of life, as well as longevity. It will be inter-esting to see over time if surgery is able to lengthen the life span of the diabetic. Outside of research programs, weight loss surgeons are currently limiting surgery to diabetics with a BMI of 35 or greater. With evidence to support a significant ben-efit with minimal risk in the lower weight range, it will most likely become a standard of care in the near future.

About the author:Dr. B. Dean McDaniel is a weight

loss surgeon and program director of the weight management services at Citizens Medical Center. He is a fellow of the Amer-ican Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons, with over 15 years dedicated to laparoscopic weight loss procedures and the treatment of obesity.

HEALTH, from pg 1

This evolving area of surgery for diabetes could impact millions of individuals. Diabetes has such an impact on quality of life, as well as longevity.


BY ERIC JENSEN

Working in musicals since she was five, Kate Klimist was nevertheless sur-prised when she got the female lead role in the Pepperdine University production of “South Pacific.”

Klimist, 20, earned the role after at least two callback auditions.

“I worked all summer long and I guess it paid off,” she said with a smile.

The vivacious theatre major said the role of Nelly Forbush was probably the most difficult she’s ever had to play, but she had a little parental help. She watched the Theatre Victoria production of “South Pacific” where her mother, Laura Klimist, choreographed the musical in the 2006-07 season.

“I worked so hard this summer; I knew my audition piece and watched the movie I don’t know how many times,” she said. “I was so ready.”

Approximately 100 students, mostly female, auditioned for the musical. Some 20 female students were called back for a second audition. From that second tryout, Kate won the role.

“Last year, I felt so invisible but felt I can do this if I only get a chance,” she said. “I finally got my chance this year.”

Her parents traveled to Malibu and attended the full run of the show, which wrapped up the weekend before Thanks-giving. All eight perfor-mances were nearly sold out.

While relishing her “South Pacific” memo-ries, Klimist is busy pre-paring for a February audition for Pepperdine’s spring production of “The Threepenny Opera.”

If that wasn’t enough to keep her busy, she was also accepted into the Ed-inburgh theatre program after an extensive inter-view process.

According to the website, the eight-week Edinburgh Sum-mer Program begins with a week in the Scottish Highland village of Glenelg, moves on to Glasgow, and culminates in perfor-mances at the Festival Fringe in Edin-burgh.

“It’s like taking a very selective study abroad course,” she said. “We’re taking classes at the Royal Conservatoire of Scot-

land in Glasgow. We’ll get to go hiking in the high-lands and experience ev-erything Scotland has to offer.”

“I’m so excited,” she continued. “There are 12 of us theatre majors go-ing from the whole the-atre department.”

The 2014 graduate of Victoria West High School had worked very closely with Theatre Victoria, which she described as her second home.

She performed in musicals such as “Annie,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” and “High School Musical.”

Her first big sing-ing role was as “Belle” in

“Beauty and the Beast” for two years. “This past summer, I was Fiona in

‘Shrek,’” she said. “That was awesome. Those were wonderful experiences - I wouldn’t trade them for anything.”

During the summers, she taught in the Theatre Victoria’s Triple Threat theatre camp.

As a student at Pepperdine University

in Malibu, Calif., Klimist is a sorority mem-ber and sings in a choir, but theatre takes up most of her time.

“This past semester, it was school and the show, maybe a little bit of eating and mi-nor sleeping,” she recalled.

“The show had five to six-hour rehears-als every day,” her mother added. “She did this while taking 17 hours of coursework.”

Laura Klimist, who works as a volun-teer choreographer with Theatre Victoria, said theatre has been a part of her family since Kate was little.

“I never thought she was really going to do this but it’s what makes her happy and what makes her tick,” she said.

Klimist wants a career in musical theatre, hopes to work in New York follow-ing graduation, but is keeping her options open.

“Realistically, Pepperdine has so many doors it can open for me out in Los Ange-les; I will probably see what can happen out there,” she said. “I’d love to get on a Broad-way tour out of college.”

Klimist is the daughter of Bernard and Laura Klimist of Victoria. Laura choreo-graphs area theatre shows, and her hus-band Bernard is an attorney and serves as vice president of the VISD Board of Trust-ees.

Victoria undergraduate played leading role in Pepperdine University production of ‘South Pacific’

Kate Klimist


STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

GAMARQUIS LADARIUS BRITO Age: 19

Victoria West HS - Grade: 12th

Academic Recognition/Awards:Clubs/Teams/Organizations: 4 Years Football, 2 YearsBaseball, 4 Years Track

Community Service: Christ Kitchen for 2 yearsFavorite Subject: English & Psychology

Goals: Get a High School Degree and a College Degreein Business

Parent(s): Demeka JohnsonCharles Derouen

JOSHUA SMITH Age: 17

Victoria West HS - Grade: 11th

Academic Recognition/Awards: A Honor Roll

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Football, Basketball,Track

Community Service:Worked at the soup kitchen forthe homeless

Favorite Subject: Math

Goals: Go to College and graduate

Parent(s): Josh and Lola Smith

ANTANIAH HILLAge: 18

Victoria East HS - Grade: 12th

Academic Recognition/Awards: A/B Honor Roll

Clubs/Teams/Organizations:Basketball 9th-11th grades; Art Club

Community Service: Hopkins Fall Festival volunteer

Favorite Subject: Science

Goals: To graduate with a Doctorate de-gree from Mary Hardin Baylor and become a physical therapist

Parent(s): Leandra Hill and Anthony Hill

MICHALLA MARSHALLAge: 17

Victoria East HS - Grade: 12th

Academic Recognition/Awards: Top Ten Percent; A Honor Roll

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: HOSA; National Honor Society

Community Service: Volunteer at Smith Elementary School to gain experience with kids

Favorite Subject: English; Medical Science

Goals: I will attend Texas State. I want to become a physical therapist or a pediatri-cian.

Parent(s): Maria Marshall and Charles Marshall, Jr.

TRAY’LON THOMASAge: 16

Liberty Academy - Grade: 11th

Academic Recognition/Awards: Perfect Attendance

Clubs/Teams/Organizations:Vipers Flag Football

Community Service: Christ’s Kitchen

Favorite Subjects: English, Law Enforce-ment, Environmental Systems, Algebra II, Spanish 2, US History

Goals: I want to attend college for crimi-nal justice and become a private detective.

Parent(s): Yolanda Thomas and Bruddy Barefield

KEIR WALKER Age: 18

Liberty Academy - Grade: 11th

Academic Recognition/Awards: A/B Honor Roll; Perfect Attendance; Habitat for Humanity: An Evening with Emmitt Smith; Knighted in 8th grade

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Drama Club; National Junior Honor Society

Community Service: Christ’s Kitchen, every second Saturday of the month; nursing home visits and ministry; NJHS Neighborhood Cleanup. Youth choir and drill team.

Favorite Subject: Anatomy and Physiology

Goals: After high school graduation, I plan to continue my education and earn a medical degree.

Parent(s): Ms. Demetria Brown, mother; Ms. Margie Montgomery, grandmother

LACEY LAVONNE LITTLESAge: 13th

Harold Cade MS - Grade: 8th

Academic Recognition/Awards: A/B Honor Roll, Texas Performance Standards, Project (TPSP) partici-pant, Miss Jump Award at Cheer Camp

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Harold Cade (Co-Head) Cheerleader, UCA All-American Cheerleader, per-formed in the Houston Thanksgiving Parade, Manning All-Star Cheer Team, Harold Cade Middle School volleyball, basketball and track, Select softball – Texas Diamond Stealers

Community Service: Feast of Sharing volunteer New Mount Pleasant Bearen Baptist Church: treasurer for the youth group, member of Growing in his Grace group, Purpose Praise Team (Mime), children’s group helper, visitors acknowledgement, works in the church kitchen


Goals: Attend Baylor University and play college basketball

Parent(s): Leslie and Phyllis Littles

BRENAJE THOMPSON Age: 14

Patti Welder MS - Grade: 8th

Academic Recognition/Awards: A-B Honor Roll

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Diamonds in the Rough

Community Service: Student helper at Baptist Church & volunteer in assisting low income individuals with make-up and makeovers.

Favorite Subject: English/Reading

Goals: Professional Make-up Artist, Youth Counselor, Work at NASA

Parent(s): Tracy Franklin & Bishop Thompson

QUINCY L. JOHNSON, JR. Age: 14

Howell MS - Grade: 8th

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Boys Athletics - fooball, basketball, and track. Also plays on a select bas-ketball team. Won state award with basketball select team in 2013


Goals: To make A Honor Roll. Attend Division 1 school on scholarship for football or basketball. Become an Athletic Trainer as his career

Parent(s): Quincey L. Johnson, Sr. & Mikah Barnes

MADISON ALEXANDRA BARNES Age; 14

Stroman MS - Grade: 8th

Academic Recognition/Awards: A Honor Roll- 2015 and 2016, National Junior Honor Society- Member, Taking Advanced Placement/Honors Courses, Second nomination for Voices United, Highest Academic Average in 6th ELAR- 2014

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: 1st Place Cheer Team- 2015, Head Cheerleader- 2016, Student Council Member 2016

Favorite Subject: Math

Goals: Plans to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician through High School Endorse-ments, and to attend Louisiana State University or Houston Baptist University after college to become a Registered Nurse

Parent(s): Daryl Barnes

Students were selected by VISD administrators at their respective schools.


• Personal Injury• Auto Accidents• Truck Accidents• On the Job Accidents• Wrongful Death• Injury Caused by Defective Product or Premises• Business Litigation

• Oil Field Accident• Construction Accidents• Nursing Home Abuse and Negligence• Family Law• Divorce and Child Custody• Rape and Premises Liabilties• Commercial Litigation

*Not certi�ied by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in any other area of practice unless designated

Law Offices ofBernard Klimist

Call Us Today for a FREEConsultation on all injury cases!361.572.8234 / 1.800.765.8234

Se Habla Español

Lawyers in Victoria, Texas, with the Experience and Expertise You

DeserveThe Law Of�ices of Bernard T. Klimist is a premier South Texas law �irm located in beautiful downtown Victoria. We are committed to providing the best representation to individuals and companies in need of legal assistance.

www.klimistlaw�irm.com

BY COL MIKE PETRASHUS Army (Ret)

These are exciting times in the Warrior’s Weekend commu-nity. Preparations for Warrior’s Weekend X began almost im-mediately following last year’s incredibly successful weekend of fun, fishing, camaraderie and rejuvenation for over NINE HUNDRED Warriors, Family members, and Caregivers.

The Executive Board has been brain-storming hundreds of ideas about how to make Warrior’s Weekend X the most mem-orable, honorable, and excellent event...EVER. For starters, as many as 600 of the Warriors will arrive in Victoria on THURS-DAY afternoon, May 19, 2016.

They will be treated to a dinner at the Community Center, and then make their way to the Field of Honor. For the first time ever, the Warriors will see the Field at night...one of the most beautiful and patri-otic sights they will ever see. Think about it, 600 Warriors plus another (hopefully) 1,000 Victoria area Patriots at the Field to welcome them! No place but TEXAS!!!

Our objective for this year is simply this…increased community participation. We want Patriots and their Families to take time to do something HONORABLE…

come to the Field of Honor...often...between MAY 7th (Flag Posting) and May 30th (Memo-rial Day) . We want them to come to the Warrior Welcome and Field Dedication Ceremo-ny on MAY 19th when the War-riors arrive from all across the nation.

No one can do EVERY-THING; but EVERYONE can do something. As I’ve said on many occasions…”Whatever

we can do for these Soldiers…or their Families...is NEVER ENOUGH. We can ALWAYS DO MORE.” Won’t you just take the time this year to Honor a Veteran, and sponsor a flag.

If you don’t have a Veteran, we will post a flag in honor of a wounded Soldier. You can contact us at [email protected] . Flag sponsorship is still only $40. It’s posted with the name of your Veteran or wounded Warrior. Our goal...3,500+ flags on the Field this year; each one represent-ing a deserving Veteran or currently serv-ing Warrior. It’s honorable, it’s excellent, and it’s healing.

If you, your Family, youth group, civic organization, or church are interested in volunteering with us at the Field of Honor, please contact COL Mike at [email protected]; or, Ms. Janice Driver at

[email protected] if you would like to volunteer with Warrior’s Weekend.

Very Important dates:FEB 8th: Field of Honor Volunteer

Meeting, 6:30pm, Faith Family Church “Kid’s Life”

FEB 22nd: Field of Honor Volunteer Meeting, 6:30pm, Faith Family Church “Kid’s Life”

March 7, 21, 28: Work Meetings: 6:30

pm, Faith Family Church storage buildingApril: Work Meetings: Every Mon-

day, 6:30 pm, Faith Family Church storage building

May 7th: Flag Posting. ALL ARE WEL-COME to come help.

May 19th, approx. 9:00 pm. Field of Honor Dedication Ceremony

MAY 20th-22nd: Warrior’s Weekend, Port O’Connor

May 30th: Memorial Day ceremony

Warrior’s Weekend 10th Anniversary!

Petrash


Elementary:

Red Carpet Rollout at PES & BESExtended Computer Lab Hours

Annual Spelling Bee at BES Participation in the Victoria County Spelling Bee

Academic UIL Meet in PothBES Book Fairs with contests, family night activities, etc

Annual Fire Prevention PostersVictoria Fire Department Visit

Weekly Backpack Food ProgramJump Rope for Heart

Tutorials during and after schoolGirl Scout Program during school

Weekly after school Math & Science Clubs at BESTicket Store at PESChristmas Program

After School Enrichment at BES (STEM activities, Lego activities, Construction activities)

Region 3 G/T Book Trailer Activity GREAT Program with Deputy Kenneth Wells

Annual Parental Involvement Conference at Region 3Gardening Project at BES

Spring FlingRed Ribbon Week Activities

Secondary:

Athletics/Band/FFABHS National Honor Society

Academic UIL Meet in Karnes City (BMS)Texas Floating Classroom (8th – 11th Grades)

Dream Big STEM Expo at Victoria College (8th Grades)Coastal Bend Museum (7th & 8th Grade Students)

BMS Christian ClubAnnual Spelling Bee at BMS

Participation in the Victoria County Spelling BeeVictoria College Pirate Preview Days

Victoria College Nursing Academy DayTour of Texas State University

Pen Pal Program (12th Grade connected with Kindergarten)Student Art work will be entered in the Victoria Livestock Show

Bobsquad Spirit Club at BHSCoaches took Basketball Boys to Texas A&M Basketball Game

Annual VFW Essay: Matthew Hansen at BHS wonEats & Treats Program: Cafeteria for BMS & BHS

Perfect Attendance Awards each 6 weeksAnnual Career Fair

Veteran’s Day Flag Retirement CeremonyRed Ribbon Week Activities

Building Big Dreamers in Bloomington!Building Big Dreamers in Bloomington!2015-2016 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

bloomington i.s.d.bloomington i.s.d.

BOBCATSBOBCATSHOME OF THE

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

CHASTINY WALKERAge:18

Bloomington HS - Grade:12th

Academic Recognition/Awards:Honorable Mention in Theatre

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Basektball and Theatre

Community Service: Church Participation and Fundraisers

Favorite Subject: English

Goals: To graduate college and become an actress

Parent(s): Kevin Ray Walker and Bernadette Walker

DEMARCUS BRYANTAge:18

Bloomington HS - Grade:11th

Academic Recognition/Awards:A-B Honor Roll

Clubs/Teams/Organizations: Football, Basektball, Track, and Baseball

Community Service: Volunteered with Salvation Army, Assisted with Houston Homeless Shelter Food Donations

Favorite Subject: History and English

Goals: Play sports in college and further his education

Parent(s): Jermaine Fulton Sr and LaShaunda Fulton

Garza & AssociatesGarza & AssociatesAttorneys at Law

• Serious Injuries, Auto Accidents, Work Related Injuries

• Federal/State Criminal Law

• Immigration

• Divorce, Custody, Child Support

• Serious Injuries, Auto Accidents, Work Related Injuries

• Federal/State Criminal Law

• Immigration

• Divorce, Custody, Child Support

Attorneys at Law

Joseph G. GarzaFormer State and Federal Prosecutor

Former JAG Officer

361-570-3900361-570-3900361-570-39001101 N. Navarro, Victoria, TX 77901


BY ERIC JENSEN

Ernest Guajardo Sr., retired from the real estate business at the beginning of 2016, yet he still returns to his East Park Avenue office each day to handle business matters.

“This is like a hobby to me; it’s not work,” he said with a smile.

Guajardo, 83, opened his office in 1973 as Guajardo Realty, a few years after re-ceiving his real estate salesman’s license. While building his business, he also worked at Union Carbide. He quit Union Carbide to devote himself totally to the franchise, which he purchased in 1975. Guajardo had served in the U.S. Army and was dis-charged in 1954. He then spent four years in the Marine Corps Reserve.

He entered the real estate business in an off-chance way when he and his wife Margaret bought a vacant lot to build a home. Instead of building that home, the couple bought an existing house, sold the lot and doubled their money. “When I doubled my money, that opened my eyes and made me see this is the kind of busi-ness that I would like to be in,” Guajardo explained. “I made a few investments that paid off.”

He gets satisfaction by putting people into a home that they will enjoy and work-ing with those who might not otherwise af-

ford a down payment. “I remember working with this bro-

ker who was also a developer,” Guajardo recalled. “He said that if people don’t have the down payment but own cattle or hors-es, we would take those. He said, ‘Ernest,

Food Bank of the Golden Crescent earns AIB Food Safety Certification

We are so proud to announce that the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent has re-ceived their certificate from the American Institute of Baking (AIB) International, the gold standard for food safety inspection. Scoring 885 out of a possible 1,000 points. As a member of the Feeding America Net-work, all food banks are now required to pass this certification by March 2016. The announcement was made by the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent’s CEO, Robin Cadle “This demonstrates the Food Bank’s commitment to the highest standards for handling food safely and efficiently,” she said.

The award recognizes the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent’s quality in goods handling, outstanding food safety and sani-tary working conditions, and its exemplary training for employees regarding proper handling of food products. Rigorous in-spections and training are required of food banks / companies that receive the certi-fication. The recognition verifies that the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent is com-mitted to the highest level of service to its Partner Agencies, donors, and the families it ultimately serves.

Robin Cadle said she was very proud of the team responsible for achieving this success, crediting Director of Operations,

Helen Sisco; Warehouse Manager, LuAnna Heysquierdo as well as staff members – Mary Lou Trevino, Frances Santellana, Pablo Lineras, Jerret Sodia, Porsha Ra-mos, Roosevelt Williams, Anna Celum, Shannon Lewis, Carol Ayala and Tiffinie

For Victoria retiree who still comes into the office, work is his hobby

GuajardoRoben Cadle

Food Bank of the Golden Crescent earns AIB Food Safety Certification

See GUARJARDO, page 14 See FOOD BANK, page 15


BY DIANA SNEEDVolunteer Coordinator/Recruiter,CASA

My name is Diana Sneed and I am Golden Crescent CASA’s Volunteer Coor-dinator/Recruiter. I would like to share a story with you that may help you see how valuable a CASA Volunteer is in the life of a child in foster care. I want you to meet Hai-ley. Here is her story:

Hey! Let me ask you something. How was your holiday? Mine was awful! Want to know what I did? On the last day of school, I came home and was so excited about the upcoming school break. We had a small Christmas tree with a few gifts underneath. No one was home so I helped myself to a snack and waited for mom to come home. Finally mom came home and we talked about plans for the next few days, visiting family and foods we could prepare for the holidays. We watched a movie and then I went to bed.

I woke up to my mother screaming. It was dark and I could hear voices coming from the living room- angry voices, men's voices. My mother was screaming and cry-ing. I was so scared. I hid behind my bed. I could hear sirens and the police banging on the door. There was lots of yelling and I could hear my mother crying. She was sending a police officer to my room to check on me. When I came out, my mother was in handcuffs and they were leading her to the

police car. The police had also handcuffed two other men I did not recognize and led them to other police cars. I was scared, cry-ing, confused and no one would let me see my mother.

My name is Hailey and now I am a fos-ter child. That night was the beginning of a nightmare that seems to never end. That night a woman from Children's Protective Services took me to a home in another city. She said I would be fine. She said the people at the home would take good care of me. She said they would make sure I had clothes since all I had were the pajamas I was wearing. She said I would be fine, but

Welcome to Golden Crescent CASA!

Sneed

See CASA, page 15

Achieving Excellence for All! EVERY CHILD • EVERY CLASSROOM • EVERY DAY

The Victoria Independent School District does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, or age for admission, treatment, or participation in its educational programs, services and activities, or employment. El distrito escolar de Victoria no discrimina contra ninguna persona por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, discapacidad o edad de admisión, tratamiento, o la participación en los programas educativos, servicios y actividades, o empleo.

From Pre-Kindergarten programs to college level courses and career preparation, Victoria Public Schools are dedicated to helping every child

have a future of endless possibilities. We are VISD PROUD!


whatever you do in the real estate busi-ness, owner-finance whatever you can be-cause interest never sleeps.’”

In the span of 40 years, Guajardo esti-mates his Century 21 Guajardo Realty of-fice has done about 80 buying and selling transactions a year.

Guajardo made a positive impression on many people over the years, including acquaintance Sarah Korczynski.

“He is one of those men who dresses for success long before anyone knew what that meant.” Korczynski said. “The man didn’t leave his house until he was totally, completely, and professionally put together. He worked really hard. He’s been a part of the community, serving on several boards.”

That service includes: Citizens Medical Center Board of Di-

rectors, 1988-2000 Victoria College’s Board of Trustees,

1996-2009 Victoria City-County Child Welfare

Board, 1978-80 Victoria Sembradores Educational

Foundation Board of Directors In 1980, he was also made an honor-

ary life member of the Victoria Foster Par-ents Association, and recently awarded by the Century 21 Corporation for 40 years of service, commitment, achievement, dedi-cation and loyalty. The National Associa-tion of Realtors named Guajardo Realtor Emeritus in 2014.

He and his wife have three sons and a daughter, all of whom live in Victoria.

“That, I think, was her richest reward because she loved her three grandchildren so much,” she said.

McNeely said her mother she spent a lifetime of service, beginning at an early age. Branch received a service award in high school for helping in the school office, and performing hall and crossing guard du-ties. She was involved in the Girls Scouts since she was 14, and even served as her daughter‘s Girl Scout leader. For five years, Branch was a leader in the Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas, which is composed of 26 counties, including Victoria.

At its annual meeting in Robstown on April 18, the group plans to dedicate the Victoria Girl Scouts Service Center in memory of Deborah Branch.

In addition to work with the Girl Scouts, Branch also served as a board member of the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent, Golden Crescent Workforce De-velopment Board, Victoria Adult Literacy Council, Boys & Girls Club of Victoria, the Sunrise Rotary Club, and others.

She was a faithful member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church where she served as Sun-day School superintendent, and as an ad-viser to the pastor.

Branch also served the community as a contributing writer for Voices United from its first issue in August 2008.

“Deborah submitted many inspiring, uplifting, and informative articles, and we are deeply indebted to her,” said Rick Per-kins, Voices United publisher & editor. “We

valued her as a family member and a pro-fessional colleague. She was always there for Voices United as well as the Perkins family. She is deeply missed.”

Making a difference in someone’s life In a 2013 Voices United interview,

Branch expressed pleasure in doing her absolute best and seeing a difference it makes in a person’s life.

“When there’s someone who’s better for our having come across one another, or when there’s somebody whose day has improved because we had the opportunity to meet - that’s what makes me feel good,” she said.

In 1975, she enlisted as a seaman in the U.S. Navy Reserve, and later earned a commission as an officer. After serving 34 years in the Navy Reserve, including a year of active duty after Sept. 11, 2001, she retired in 2009 with the rank of commander.

“One of her fellow naval officers wrote that my mother pulled herself up in an area that was predominately white, pre-dominately male and made it to the rank of commander as a reservist,” McNeely said. “That is almost impossible.”

After earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and a Doc-tor of Jurisprudence from the University of Houston Law Center, Branch found her passion in legal work.

Through the years, that work includ-ed time as a criminal justice instructor at Victoria College, first assistant criminal district attorney in Victoria, and assistant district attorney in Beeville and Houston.

She ran twice and lost twice to be the Victoria County District Attorney.

“The second time, she lost by a handful of votes in a tight election,” McNeely noted. “She didn't let that stop her. She got every-thing together and kept moving.”

Longtime friend Travis Williams re-calls that Branch was a very “take charge” type of person.

“Under all situations, she could take control, whether it was a minor situation or a catastrophe,” Williams said. “She could just bring everyone together and come up with immediate solutions, but she would be compassionate in all those situations.”

Williams said she was friends with Branch for about three years before she learned just how many things she had done, her military service, and the organi-zations she had participated in.

“She never put herself first,” Williams said. “You would learn about her as the situation presented itself. Deborah loved people and made friends with people solely on who they were as a person, not their po-sition or stature in the community.”

Williams said she felt a great personal loss at her friend‘s passing.

“She was a confidante who never be-trayed a confidence,” she said. “She let everyone blossom in their own right, yet if something was going on - good or bad - she would step up and be there for that person.”

BRANCH, from pg 1 GUAJARDO, from pg 12

Next Issue May 2016


houses in cooperation with low-income homebuyers and the Golden Crescent re-gion, is breaking the cycle. Habitat’s mis-sion is: “Seeking to put God’s love into ac-tion, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build Homes, Communities and Hope.”

Volunteers and the future Habitat homeowners build the houses, which are funded by individuals, foundations, corpo-rations and churches. Qualified low-income families purchase their homes at cost and repay the mortgage over 30 years at 0 per-cent interest. These mortgages create a sustainable funding source for the organi-zation and are used to help build additional houses for other families in need.

Since 1996, Habitat volunteers have built 98 homes in our five-county area (De-witt, Goliad, Jackson, Lavaca and Victoria), with six houses scheduled for construction in 2016, including our 100th house. Ninety eight homes translates into almost 350 indi-viduals, approximately 225 under the age of 18, who now know the security and stability of a simple, decent home. Habitat contin-

ues to increase its mission area, building capacity and impact thanks to generous community support and sound strategic planning and leadership. Most recently Habitat merged with Dewitt County Habi-tat in 2015.

In October 2015, Habitat broke ground on a new 18-home neighborhood, Koinonia, in the heart of Victoria on a four acre par-

cel of land generously donated by a local fam-ily. The neighborhood will be located off Arroyo Drive and will include a community garden. The neighborhood is named Koinonia, which means fellowship or commu-nion with other Chris-tians, perfectly repre-senting the spirit with which Habitat accom-plishes its mission.

By transitioning a long-time empty parcel of land into a thriving neighborhood, Koinonia will have an enormous positive impact on the community. Each house

built will generate $420,000 in the local economy, and adds an estimated $105,000 to the tax roll.

More importantly, Koinonia will for-ever change the lives of 18 families and their children. It is estimated that between 54-72 children will live in the neighborhood.

Poverty is a significant problem in the com-munity. It is next to impossible to break its negative cycles and effects. The opportu-nity for these low-income families to own a home doesn’t just provide them with ad-equate shelter, it sets them and their chil-dren up for success. Increased savings, improved grades and test scores, higher graduation rates, better nutrition—all of these add up to children who are finally given the tools and resources they need to succeed. This opportunity forever changes the entire family’s future, especially for the children.

“We are thrilled about what this neigh-borhood means for our community,” said Cynthia Staley, Habitat Executive Director. “And, in the spirit of Koinonia, I hope every-one is a part of it – whether it’s donating, referring a family, volunteering, brining a lunch to volunteers or simply praying. We want this neighborhood, located in the heart of Victoria, to be part of the heart of Victoria.”

For more information on Golden Cres-cent Habitat for Humanity or Koinonia, please visit our website at www.golden-crescenthabitat.org.

Newman. Our team members were in-strumental in preparing for the inspection. They take their day-to-day responsibilities for ensuring food safety very seriously.

The Food Bank’s warehouse, a 20,000-square-foot facility, is located at 3809 E. Rio Grande, Victoria, TX. Last year, (2015) FBGC distributed over 3.2 mil-lion pounds of donated food and grocery product, enough for more than 3.4 million meals to those in need. The food was dis-tributed to our Partner Agencies in Cal-houn, Colorado, DeWitt, Goliad, Gonzales, Lavaca, Matagorda, Refugio, Wharton and Victoria counties. The chart below shares how many pounds of food was distributed in each of the eleven counties that the food

bank serves (See chart below for County specific information.)

County Food out in pounds Per county

Calhoun 179,633Colorado 195,239DeWitt 245,237Goliad 92,264Gonzales 301,995Jackson 146,916Lavaca 209,572Matagorda 490,491Refugio 148,386Victoria 906,934Wharton 298,887

Total 3,215,554 pounds of food distributed in 2015

what does she know? How can I be fine? I am in the home of strangers! My mom told me to not talk to strangers! What was go-ing to happen to me? I was exhausted and finally fell asleep.

The next day was not much better. I was hoping when I woke up, I would be back at home and my mom would be mak-ing pancakes for breakfast. But no, I was still a foster child. I was in a home with 2 adults, a man named Joe and a woman named Sara. There were 3 other children in the home- Angela, River and Marcos. They were foster children too. They tried to in-clude me in games, encouraged me to eat and Angela even shared some clothes with me. Sara gave me a new toothbrush and toothpaste of my own. I also got a new hair-brush. These were the only things I could call my own. I kept asking Sara and Joe about my mother, when was I going to see

her, when can I go home. What was going to happen to me? Sara could not answer any of my questions. She tried to assure me that I was going to be fine and could stay with them as long as needed. How long was that?

Guess what? I have been here for 2 weeks! School starts tomorrow. New school, new teachers, and no friends- I was not looking forward to this! Now I know what it’s like to be the new kid-everyone staring, sitting in the front of the class, the teacher making kids play with me. It was awful!

When I got home from school, a new Children's Protective Service worker, Ms. Jessica was waiting for me. She asked me how I was doing. I asked her about my mom and when can I go home. She said my mom was still in jail and did not know for how long. She said I would have to stay here lon-ger. She said she was so proud of me and how well I was doing. What did she know! Doing well? Really? How can I be well! I

AM A FOSTER CHILD! I want to go home! I want to see my mom! How much longer will this nightmare last?

Can you see how alone Hailey feels? Who can she talk to? Who will help her un-derstand this nightmare she is living? Who will hear her? Who can help Hailey?

A CASA Volunteer can hear Hailey! Hailey can talk to her CASA Volunteer, tell her about the nightmare she is trapped in, and provide a voice for her throughout this process. A CASA Volunteer is the one adult who is working for Hailey's best interest. A CASA Volunteer will let the Judge who is overseeing this process know what Hailey needs and how her needs are being met. The CASA Volunteer will hear Hailey's con-cerns.

The Problem: There are not enough CASA Volunteers for every child in foster care. Without a CASA Volunteer, children in foster care are all alone as they move through this process. There is no one for the child to talk to, no one for the child to

confide in, and no one to speak for her in court. Without a CASA Volunteer, Hailey's nightmare may never end. Hailey does not have a CASA Volunteer and we may never know how her story ends.

But, YOU CAN HELP! Let Volunteer Training help you help Hailey. Volunteer Training consists of classroom and guided independent studies, courtroom observa-tions, an interview, and application and background checks. Volunteer Training covers the process children go through when they are removed from their home. The Volunteer Training also covers how you can be a support to the child, listening to their questions and concerns and how to be a voice for the child in court. CASA Volunteer training classes are forming now. Make that commitment today! Call 361.573.3734 to reserve your seat or learn more at www.goldencrescentcasa.org.

HABITAT, from pg 1

FOOD BANK, from pg 13

CASA, from pg 13

Kinsey Layton has been building her home with volunteers and Golden Crescent Habitat for Humanity since September. She will move her family into their safe, decent, affordable home in February 2016.

A family enjoys some fishing during Warrior’s Weekend at Port O’Connor.

Warrior’s Weekend begins May 20th

volume 8 - number 31 february 2016 c african-american ......diabetes mellitus has consisted of diet...

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