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Vol. 21 No. 013
Dr. SEAL: Doing research
UT Tyler Biology Prof Gets Award
Dr. Jon Seal has received a prestigious Faculty Development Early Career Award from the National Science Foundation, Dr. Michael Odell, The University of Texas at Tyler vice president for research and technology transfer, announced. An assistant professor of biology, Seal studies fungus-growing Leaf-Cutter ants. He joined The University of Texas at Tyler in 2013.
A celebration of Jesus Christ. Visiting, and having fun, with family and friends. Going to church. Eating a big dinner. Looking for Easter eggs. These are some of the ways schoolchildren in East Texas celebrate Easter. East Texas Review asked students in three elementary schools — J.L. Everhart, Johnston McQueen and South Ward, how they observe Easter. The group from Everhart happily responded, and here are their answers, in their own words. Ethzy Islas - Easter is a time of celebration. We are thankful for Jesus rising from the dead. We celebrate by inviting friends and family over to do a big egg hunt. After our egg hunt we attend church where we learn more about him.
See EASTER on Page 3
J.L. Everhart students prepare for Easter
Senate AG Paxton’s Office Assists Bowie County in Arrests of Parents During Child Support Roundup Approves AUSTIN – Attorney Gener- the Child Support Division al Paxton said. the strong commitment of Budget Bill “I want to thank all the Sheriff Prince to track down al Ken Paxton has announced (CSD) of the attorney gen-
that 11 parents were arrested last Friday in Bowie County for violating court orders to pay child support. Bowie County Sheriff See SEAL on Page 2 James Prince and Texarkana Police Chief Daniel ‘Celebrating Life’ L. Shiner conducted the sweep in conjunction with for Seniors to be
eral’s office. A total of 26 parents have been arrested since Sheriff Prince initiated the roundups earlier this month. “Parents have a fundamental and moral responsibility to provide for their children,” Attorney Gener-
law enforcement officials involved in apprehending those who were delinquent in their court-ordered child support. I encourage other parents who may owe back child support to contact my office to resolve the issue.” The latest sweep reflects
held March 30
Registration for Tyler Summer Camp Opens
Summertime is quickly approaching and some may need a place for their child to spend their summer days! The City of Tyler’s Glass Recreation Center’s Summer Camp is perfect for children to spend their time playing, learning and building lifelong friendships in a safe, supervised environment.
See CAMP on Page 2
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parents who are wanted for contempt of court because of their failure to pay child support. Early last Friday morning, he dispatched six teams of law enforcement officers to locate and arrest noncompliant parents.
See PAXTON on Page 3
By Richard Lee
The Senate on Tuesday unanimously passed its version of the state budget in the form of SB 1, a bill that would spend $106.4 billion in state revenue over the next two years.
See SENATE on Page 3
Dallas Homeless Surge Felt Strongest in Classrooms
The 11th Annual Seniors Celebrating Life event will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on March 30 at the Harvey Convention Center, located at 2000 W. Front St. in Tyler. This free event will feature a myriad of hands-on sessions of interest to seniors celebrating life.
See SENIORS on Page 2
March 30 - April 6, 2017
By David Wilfong, North Dallas Gazette/NNPA Member Dallas is looking at a large, and continually growing homeless population. While the spread-out geography of a city like Dallas may make the appearance of the homeless less visually constant, the problem is growing large enough that people are starting to take a second look at it. One of the most obvious places where the homeless issue arises is in Dallas classrooms. Mark Pierce of the Dallas Independent School District’s Homeless Education program has characterized the numbers he is seeing as “catastrophic.”
Cornyn Meets with Mexican Ambassador to U.S. U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) met this week with Ambassador Geronimo Gutierrez, the Mexican Ambassador to the United States, to discuss the important relationship between Texas and Mexico.
Pirates Shine at District Meet Students from the Pine Tree Independent District showed well at academic competitions sponsored by the University Interscholastic Leaghe held last week in Mt. Pleasant.
See PIRATES on Page 2
See DALLAS HOMELESS on Page 3
Smith County Recognizes Employees Maria Reyes has worked nearly every job in the Smith County Adult Probation Department, working her way up to supervisor during her 15-year career. Reyes was recognized in Commissioners Court last Tuesday, for her years of service.
Also recognized in court on Tuesday was Donna Henry, who has served Smith County for 10 years. “Each day presents a new set of challenges and a new opportunity to help people,” Reyes said. “We are here to serve the probationers, the courts,
and to protect the community. I’m also honored to work with a great group of people who do a hard job every day,” she added In 2002, Ms. Reyes started working in the Misdemeanor Unit, supervising bilingual caseloads.
See SMITH on Page 2
SSA Has New Online Service
The Social Security Administration introduced the expansion of online services for residents of Texas available through its my Social Security portal at www.socialsecurity.gov/ myaccount.
See SSA on Page 3
Texas Economy Expands; Manufacturing, Leisure Jobs Up The Texas economy expanded in February with the addition of 6,700 seasonally adjusted nonfarm jobs. Texas’ seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 4.9 percent in February, up slightly from 4.8 percent in January. “Texas employers added 222,400 jobs over the year in the diverse Texas economy,” said Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Andres Alcantar.
See TEXAS ECONOMY on Page 3
Upcoming Job Fair Ad
Generous in love—God, give grace! Huge in mercy—wipe out my bad record. Scrub away my guilt, soak out my sins in your laundry. Psalm 51:1-2 MSG
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Local News
March 30-April 6, 2017
Smith County Honors Top Employees
From Page 1
She handled a caseload of about 185 misdemeanor offenders, as well as a caseload of about 25 civil, child support and pre-trial cases. In 2006, she was promoted to court officer for County Court-at-Law No. 2, implementing and upholding court policies. She was also responsible for all probation court proceedings and supervising a criminal caseload. She acted as a liaison between the court and other offices, assisted in the training of new community supervision officers and she was a Certified Alcohol Education Instructor, teaching courses to firsttime DWI offenders for seven years. In 2011, Reyes was selected as court officer for the 241st District Court, doing much of the same work but for a felony caseload. In 2015, she was promoted to supervisor of the Intensive
Supervision Unit, comprised of specialized caseloads such as people on probation for substance abuse, felony DWI and sex offenses. She supervises the coordinator of the Community Service Restitution Program and the Intake Unit, which processes all new criminal cases for the six Smith County criminal courts. “As you can see, I’ve done almost every job at our department, but out of all the jobs I’ve held, being in the courtroom has been my favorite,” Ms. Reyes said. “Working in the courtroom was interesting, challenging and rewarding.” She said she also likes working for the Adult Probation Department because every day is different. “It’s been a lot of fun working with her,” Janet Fugler, Assistant Director of Adult Probation, said about Ms. Reyes. “It’s an honor to be able to call her
Honoree Maria Reyes, with Janet Fugler, left, and honoree Donna Henry with Judge Nathaniel Moran
a friend.” Henry, who was also recognized, began working as probate clerk for the County Clerk’s Office in 2007, and started working for the County Judge as Mental Health Court Coordinator in 2011. “What I love about working for Smith County is that
I have learned so much about county government, and my ability to help people who are in need,” Mrs. Henry said. Smith County Judge Nathaniel Moran said Mrs. Henry does her job relentlessly every day, without any recognition. She often deals with people who are
Tyler Summer Camp Opens
10 Years: George Sharper, Road and Bridge Department; James Fortner and Pamela Williams, Sheriff’s Department. 5 Years: Gordon Altman, Road and Bridge Department; Blake Banner and Henry Mills, Sheriff’s Department; and Debra Caldwell, Tax Office.
UT Tyler Biology Professor Gets Award
From Page 1
GRC Summer Camp is for children ages six to ten and will include funfilled activities like sports, games, swimming, arts and crafts, an education enrichment program, special events and much more. Breakfast and lunch will be provided each day of the camp by the East Texas Food Bank Summer Food Program. Camp registration opens April 3. Summer Camp will begin June 6 and run through Aug. 4 on Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost to participate is $100 per child for nine weeks. Partial payment is due at registration. All fees must be paid before June 7. Space is limited to 75 campers and will be given on a first come, first serve basis. A mandatory meeting for parents of participating children will be held on Monday, June 5 at 6 p.m. at Glass Recreation Center. The Glass Recreation Center is located at 501 W. 32nd St. For more information, parents or guardians can contact the Glass Recreation Center at(903) 595-7271.
at their lowest point in life and she treats them with kindness, respect and dignity, he added. “It’s a joy to work with you every day,” Judge Moran told her in court. Those recognized for their years of service this month but who were not in court include:
From Page 1
Happy Seniors try the hula hoop during last year’s ‘Celebrating Life’ event.
‘Celebrating Life’ for Seniors to be held March 30
From Page 1
Each participant can choose to attend three sessions. The program choices include: 9:15 a.m. Classes • “Creating Beauty from your Yard” Presented by Michael Brosang, Michael Brosang Creations • “Depression is Not a Normal Part of Aging” Presented by Holly Arbuckle and Heidi Davis, Outreach Health Services • “Aging and Your Brain” Presented by Trisha Leg-
gon, CBIS,C P Home Care • “SCAMS Against Seniors” Presented by Officer Chuck Boyce, Tyler Police Department • “Own Your Future: Texas Long-Term Care Partnership” Presented by Frank Deluna and Heather Bates, New York Life 10:15 a.m. Classes • “Exercise For Older Adults” Presented by Cassie Ebert, ACSM, EP-C, ETMC Olympic Center • “Brain Health”
Presented by Dr. Andrew Schmitt, Alzheimer’s Alliance of Smith County • “Area Agency on Aging Senior Services and Programs” Presented by Nellie Henry, Area Agency on Aging/ ETCOG • “Planning for the Unexpected” Presented by John K. Ross, IV, elder law attorney, Ross & Shoalmire • “Reforestation of Tyler” Presented by Cody Goldman, Urban Forester, Tyler Parks and Recreation
CAREER grants support early-career faculty who have shown potential to serve as academic role models in research and education. “The Department of Biology is very proud of Dr. Seal’s accomplishment. As the department moves to emphasize fundamental and applied research in all areas of biology, awards such as the one received by Dr. Seal are encouraging and signal that the department is moving in a positive direction,” said Dr. Srini Kambhampati, Sam A. Lindsey Professor and department chair. “Because the CAREER award includes research and education components, both undergraduate and graduate students, in and out of the classroom, will benefit immensely from this award.” With the five-year $643,077 award, Seal will integrate his research on ant-fungal interactions on campus with the development of biology major and non-major coursework in ecology, animal behavior
and symbiotic interactions at the university. In addition, he will train up to eight undergraduate and four graduate biology students in ecological biology and laboratory research methods. Scientific outreach also will be supported by increased signage at The University of Texas at Tyler Nature Preserve, a ten-acre plot between Harvey Lake and University Blvd., as well as the construction of a live Leaf-Cutter Ant display at the Discovery Science Place, a University of Texas at Tyler center. “These Leaf-Cutter ants are unique among animals because they grow their own food. In addition to these ants, only humans, a group of termites and beetles are known to exhibit agriculture,” Seal said of his research. “What we find in nature is that most of these ants grow a type of fungus related to the edible commercial mushroom. Many of these ants prefer if not require specific strains of these ant-domesticated fungi.
Pirates Shine at District Meet From Page 1
Advancing students will compete at Regionals April 7th - 8th at Prosper High School. The Pirates’ Chris Schaetz won first place in Calculator Applications, earning a medal, and advancing to the Regionals. Schaetz, Audrey Soltau, Samuel Gonzalez, and Callisto Davis placed 2nd in team competitions for the same event, earned medals, and a Wild Card slot advancing to Regionals. The other winners: Current Events Colby Holloman - 3rd place individual, earned a medal, and advancing to Regionals.
Feature Writing Hannah Hunt - 2nd place individual, earned a medal, and advancing to Regionals. Lincoln-Douglas Roshni Edalur - 5th place individual, earned a medal Mathematics Chris Schaetz - 3rd place individual, earned a medal and advancing to Regionals Number Sense Chris Schaetz - 2nd place individual, earned a medal
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and advancing Regionals Andrew Short - 5th place individual, earned a medal Kia Miller - 6th place individual, earned a medal Chris Schaetz, Andrew Short, Kia Miller and Audrey Soltau - 2nd place team, earned medals Persuasive Speaking Britton Campbell - 5th place individual, earned a medal Ready Writing Joel Ramirez - 3rd place individual, earned a medal and advancing to Regionals Science Callisto Davis - Top Biology competitor, earned a medal and advancing to Regionals Chris Schaetz - 4th place individual, earned a medal
March 30-April 6, 2017
Texas Economy Expands
From Page 1
“TWC will continue to focus on the workforce needs of these growing industries and build partnerships that develop a world-class workforce for Texas employers.” The Education and Health Services industry recorded the largest private-industry employment gain over the month with 11,700 jobs added. Leisure and Hospitality employment grew by 4,400 jobs in February and Manufacturing employment expanded by 3,900 jobs. “Texas employers continue to keep our state’s economy strong with private-sector employment expanding over the year with an overall jobgrowth of 189,200, including 12,300 jobs added in February,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Ruth R. Hughs. “TWC is committed to offering programs that allow employers to provide customized training to meet the skills needed for today’s competitive job market.” The Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) recorded the month’s lowest unemployment rate among Texas MSAs with a non-seasonally adjusted rate of 3.6 percent, followed by the Lubbock and Austin-Round Rock MSAs with a rate of 3.7 percent and the College Station-Bryan MSA; 3.8 for February. “Texas’ labor force is the backbone of the Texas economy. It is made up of hard-working individuals who are eager to obtain the skills that our employers need,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Julian Alvarez. “For individuals who need assistance connecting with that perfect career opportunity, I encourage our labor force to tap into TWC’s training resources like our apprenticeship training program that can help prepare them for a good-paying career.”
Paxton’s Office From Page 1
CSD investigators provided assistance in locating the scofflaws. Delinquent parents arrested on civil warrants face up to six months in jail. Cash bonds posted by delinquent parents seeking release from jail are paid to the custodial parents and children who are owed back child support. Parents who have fallen behind on their child support payments, but are not yet subject to warrants for their arrest, should immediately contact the Attorney General’s Child Support Division at (800) 252-8014 to make payment arrangements.
State
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Dallas Homeless Surge Felt Strongest in Classrooms From Page 1
According to Pierce, the school district is currently working to educate approximately 3,700 homeless students. He also warns that there may be another 1,000 children in the city who are homeless, but not currently enrolled in school. Dallas having a homeless population is nothing new, but Pierce said he thinks the problem has swelled in the past couple of years. “There’s a lot of reasons [for homelessness],” Pierce said. “The one that stands out the most is that property costs have gone up a lot recently. So apartment complexes are raising their rents, and so it’s harder for people with lower income to find a place to live.” Pierce has been working with the homeless in the district for 21 years, and he said that one of the programs that has been most successful are the campus “Drop-In” programs. In 2012, beginning at North Dallas High School, the district, in partnership with the Episcopal Church of the Incarnation and utilizing a grant from Baron & Blue, opened its first campus Drop-In in 2012. The district now runs Drop-Ins at 12 Dallas high schools and two middle schools. Once a week the Drop-In centers are open to help students with a wide range of needs, from food and clothing to simple
hygiene items. Additionally, the district can also employ some students to work in the centers, providing both support and learning opportunities as well as a way to earn money in the process. “I would like to see one of these at every, single high school in Dallas, and throughout the rest of the country actually,” Pierce said. “People would be surprised. Even in the wealthier suburbs there are probably kids who have no home for one reason or another and could use a little assistance.”
extensive, but it comes in fragmented form, with the With any effort to help the homeless, funds and other resources special consideration need to be made for the most vulnerable being distributed throughamong the population; the children out the city from a wide who need not only food and clothes, array of public and private but consistent access to education interests. as well. (Photo: Wendy Kenin / Flickr) Services of Hope, a local nonprofit on the front line, sees the need when working with the school district and local apartment complexes which offer an after-school program. “We work with a nearby Dallas ISD school and provide items such as personal hygiene, clothes, food and any other supplies we can get our hands on because more than 20 percent of the school’s population is defined as homeless. Their families are either living in shelters, their cars or shortterm extended stay hotels,” a “home base” to operate As for what needs to shared Doris Prescott from. happen in the near future, Services of Hope board In the meantime, the Pierce keeps his expectamember. district mans the Drop-In tions reasonable. Dallas Housing Direccenters and works to reach tor Bernadette Mitchell “I’m an educator, I believe the kids should be students where they are, briefed council members often delivering food and in school,” Pierce said. “I on the current condition believe that public schools other essentials to families of assistance resources currently stuck in hotel liv- for the homeless during a can help meet their most basic needs and help them ing situations, both during February 21 briefing of the the school year and in the through a difficult time, Housing committee. She summertime, as well. and get them educated advised members that, in “The Dallas ISD has and graduated from high total, approximately $26.5 been at the front of this and million is allocated toward school at the same time.” we are doing some really Pierce also said he the homeless problem in wonderful things,” Pierce would like to see universiDallas, though the city said. ties join into the process, itself does not administer Help to alleviate the realizing that many stuthe majority of it. homelessness problem dents could be coming to in Dallas is actually quite college campuses without
Senate Okays Budget Bill
From Page 1
Finance Committee Chair Jane Nelson of Flower Mound led the budget writing efforts, and told members that in spite of a reduction in available funds this session, the Senate’s budget still meets the state’s critical priorities “This is a lean budget, but it’s also a smart budget,” she said. “It responsibly meets the needs of our state and it preserves our principles of fiscal responsibility that have guided us through tough budgets in the past, and I believe it helps us come out stronger on the other side.” As in every session, the two largest slices of the
budget go towards healthcare and education spending, but for the first time health and human service spending in all funds has surpassed the education budget. Health and Human Services Chair and Georgetown Senator Charles Schwertner led the Article II workgroup, which developed the health care spending portion of the budget. He said they prioritized two areas, Child Protective Services and mental health spending. The Senate budget will continue the emergency interim funding aimed at solving the state’s foster care capacity crisis.
SSA Has New Online Service
From Page 1
Nancy A. Berryhill, Acting Commissioner of Social Security, said that residents of Texas can use the portal for many replacement Social Security number (SSN) card requests. This will allow people to replace their SSN card from the comfort of their home or office, without the need to travel to a Social Security office. “I’m pleased to offer the residents of Texas the added convenience of replacing a Social Security card through the my Social Security portal,” Berryhill said. “We will continue to work on innovative initiatives to provide people with safe, secure and convenient options for doing business with us online or in person.” The agency is conducting a gradual roll out of this service; Texas is one of the states, plus the District of Columbia, where this option is available. Throughout 2017, the agency will continue to expand the service option to other states. This service will mean shorter wait times for the public in the more than 1,200 Social Security offices across the country and allows staff more time to work with customers who have extensive service needs. U.S. citizens age 18 or older and who are residents of Texas can request a replacement SSN card online by creating a my Social Security account. my Social Security is a secure online hub for doing business with Social Security, and more than 29 million people have created an account.
Vision Services Optometry & Optical
Wellness Pointe accepts most medical and dental insurance plans, CHIP, Medicaid, and Medicare. Affordable payment options are available for qualified patients. Walk-ins and new patients are welcome at all locations!
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Opinion
March 30-April 6, 2017
Freedom Caucus, Today’s Abolitionists By Star Parker
The House Freedom Caucus and its chairman, North Carolina Republican Congressman Mark Meadows, are taking flak, many saying they are responsible for the failure to pass the American Health Care Act. With all other Republicans on board, a big assumption, the votes of the 29 members of the Freedom Caucus could have made the difference in passing the legislation. But they refused to support it. Should they be chastised as obstructionists? Are they childish idealists who don’t grasp that politics is about the “art of the deal”? Some go beyond suggesting that these conservatives are naive. They accuse them of being sinister, opposing the AHCA to receive fundraising from right-wing zealots and ideologues. I say not only is this is unfair criticism, but that the conservative stalwarts of the Freedom Caucus are American patriots deserving high praise. Let’s first appreciate that dealmaking in business and dealmaking in politics and governing are not the same thing. Business deals are about one thing — money. A businessman determines his bottom line. If the deal he constructs
doesn’t meet it, he walks. Although certainly there are critical economic implications to a political deal, these considerations don’t define the essence of the exercise. The essence of the political deal is about the nature and meaning of the society in which we live. There was a lot of deal making in the founding of the American republic and the construction of our Constitution. One of the most famous and consequential “deals” was the accommodation in the U.S. Constitution of slavery and the slave trade. Arguably, without this accommodation, there would have been no deal. However, the irony of the accommodation of slavery in a nation founded on the ideals of human freedom speaks for itself. Regardless of how one chooses to look at what happened, what is clear is that a dear moral and human price was paid for making this deal, culminating in a civil war in which 620,000 Americans died at the hands of their own brothers. And the repercussions of this deal are still felt today. The accommodation of slavery in the founding states then lead to further deals — the Missouri Compromise and the Kansas-Ne-
braska Act — trying to find ways to accommodate slavery in new territories that entered the union. All along there were abolitionists. Those who refused to accept any “deal” that accommodated slavery in existing or new states entering the union. Many viewed the abolitionists as extremists, fanatics who refused to accept compromise that
would permit slavery in America. One abolitionist, Senator Charles Sumner, was attacked with a cane and almost beaten to death on the floor of the Senate after he gave a fiery speech attacking slaveholders. Abraham Lincoln started off as gradualist on slavery, but ultimately clarified his view that on slavery there was no “deal,” no compromise. In his famous “House Divided”
speech, he said, “I believe this government cannot endure, permanently half slave and half free. ... It will become all one thing or all the other.” The Freedom Caucus members are today’s abolitionists. They see, rightly, how far America has drifted from its blueprint of freedom, and the grave consequences of this fiscally, morally and existentially. Our health care system was already broken before Obamacare was passed. The factors causing escalation of health care insurance premiums and health care expenditures as a percentage of GDP are because of structural defects in the system, created by government, which precludes it from operating as an efficient market. Certainly, the American Health Care Act made improvements in Obamacare. But these core structural problems were left intact. The legitimate point of the Freedom Caucus is that there is no deal on right and wrong, no compromises on our ideals of freedom. We must fight for these ideals because ultimately we will wind up being either all free or all socialist. Star Parker is an author and president of CURE, Center for Urban Renewal and Education. Contact her at www.urbancure.org.
Mr. President, What If It Was Your Mama?
By Austin R. Cooper, NNPA Newswire Columnist
During the summer before the election, then-presidential nominee Donald Trump, added this message to his speeches: “You’re living in poverty; your schools are no good; you have no jobs; 58 percent of your youth is unemployed. What the hell do you have to lose?” It was an attempt to appeal to Black voters. Needless to say, this was an unusual way of trying to expand his political base among a constituency that had not shown much support for the GOP in recent years. President Trump is perhaps the first political candidate to knowingly insult the very ones to whom he was appealing for votes. What also made these appeals to African-Americans out-
side of the norm, and even bizarre, is that they were often made before predominantly, White audiences. After reviewing the president’s first budget proposal, titled “America First: A Budget Blueprint to Make America Great Again,” his question of “What the hell do you have to lose?” can now be more broadly posed beyond African-Americans. Based on his fiscal priorities, many Americans, including a significant number of those who voted for him, stand to lose a great deal. Unfortunately for some, Hell might seem like a better alternative than trying to survive under some of the president’s proposed cuts. Take, for example, the “Meals on Wheels” Program. The president’s budget identified steep cuts in numerous domestic programs. It
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Contributing Writers
David Wilfong • Richard Lee • Ben Shapiro Star Parker • Austin Cooper • Mary Hunt Nathaniel Sillin • Rusty Wright Zig Ziglar • Dwight Brown East Texas Review is published at 517 S. Mobberly Ave., Longview, TX 75602 Email us at joycelyn@easttexasreview.com Visit us online: EastTexasReview.com Like us on: facebook.com/EastTexasReview The entire contents of the East Texas Review are copyrighted 2017. Any reproduction or use in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. The Publisher welcomes input from the public. You may write or e-mail your comments. East Texas Review reserves the right to edit and make appropriate modifications. The opinions published by contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the views of East Texas Review or its advertisers. Submission deadline - Every Friday.
calls for the elimination of a key program that Meals on Wheels groups depend on: a $3 billion program—community development block grants (CDBG)—that began under the Ford administration to combat poverty by giving states and cities greater flexibility in how to combat poverty. Therefore, pain and hardship will be felt if Congress enacts the cuts. Meals on Wheels delivers food to individuals at home who are unable to purchase or prepare their own meals. The name is often used generically to refer to home-delivered meal programs, not all of which are actually named “Meals on Wheels.” Research has shown that home-delivered meal programs significantly improve diet quality, increase nutrient intakes and improve the quality of life among
recipients. The program also reduces government expenditures by reducing the need of recipients to use hospitals, nursing homes or other expensive community-based services. Mick Mulvaney, the new director of the Office of Management and Budget recently stated, “We can’t spend money on programs just because they sound good…to take the federal money and give it to the states and say, ‘Look we want to give you money for programs that don’t work.’” Try telling someone, who is no longer experiencing hunger pains due to Meals on Wheels, that the program does not work. President Trump is blessed to have never gone hungry a day in his life. However, I wish that he would visit with 56-year-old Linda Preast in Macon, Georgia.
During a recent interview on “CBS Evening News,” Ms. Preast was asked if she was surprised by the spending cuts to Meals on Wheels being proposed by the president. She replied, “Yeah, because I was told—I was under the [impression] that he was going to help us.” The reporter then asked, “What would you tell him to convince him not to cut the program?” Ms. Preast responded, “What if it was your mama?” Ms. Preast, who is White, poor and confined to a wheelchair due to a stroke, signed up for Meals on Wheels two years ago. Last November, she, like a majority of Macon residents, voted for President Trump. According to Robert A. Caro, the author of “The Passage of Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson,” the President Johnson
loved the phrase “War on Poverty.” From personal knowledge, he knew that the causes of poverty stem from a “lack of education and training, in a lack of medical care and housing, in a lack of decent communities in which to live.” These were, to President Johnson, real-life foes. Poverty in America is Democratic, Republican, independent and nonvoting. It is my hope that the 45th president will learn from his predecessor and find the compassion to use the bully pulpit to alleviate, and not compound, the pain currently being experienced by so many Americans, many who supported the president as well as many who did not. So, Mr. President, what if it was your mama?
When Does Trump Become the Establishment? By Ben Shapiro
Let’s pretend. It’s January 2017, and President Jeb Bush just took office. After conceding to his right flank during the election cycle that he would move to overturn President Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, Bush immediately backtracks and does nothing. Attempting to fulfill a campaign promise, he then pushes a bill that would supposedly repeal and replace Obamacare, except that the bill does no such thing. Instead, it makes significant changes to Medicaid but re-enshrines the central provisions of Obamacare while also creating a new entitlement program. The bill earns the support of establishment stalwarts ranging from House Speaker Paul Ryan, R-Wis., to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky. Conservatives revolt. They tell Bush that they won’t stand by for Obamacare 2.0 — they promised repeal and replace, and they’ll fulfill their promise. And Bush responds by issuing an ultimatum: It’s either this bill or nothing. He’ll let Obamacare stand. Who thinks talk radio would be split? Who believes that Fox News’ top hosts would spend the evening stumping for the bill? Who thinks that Bush would be blamed rather than Ryan or McConnell? If the House Freedom Caucus had defeated the bill, who thinks that many of the anti-establishment conservatives would have mourned? And if Bush and his top surrogates had then spent the weekend talking about dumping the Freedom Caucus to work with Democrats, who thinks conservatives would have resignedly nodded along?
Of course they wouldn’t have. They would have rightly labeled Bush an avatar of the establishment. They would have criticized him for selling out his base, abandoning his supporters and playing to the cocktail party circuit. They would have ripped him up. But Bush isn’t president. Donald Trump is. And because Trump played an anti-establishment figure on TV, too many conservatives assume he is one. He isn’t. President Trump is anti-establishment when it comes to persona, of course — he thinks that every governmental Gordian knot can be cut, that he can simply bulldoze his opposition, that deals are for sissies and that tough guys finish first. But the deals he wants to cut look a lot more like former President George W. Bush’s compassionate conservatism than they do like the tea party agenda. And yet, many Americans keep treating Trump like an outsider. He isn’t. He’s the most powerful man on Earth, the head of the executive branch. He can’t just keep yelling at Ryan and McConnell publicly while dealing with them on legislation that Jeb Bush would endorse in a heartbeat, and then rip conservatives who disagree. That doesn’t make him anti-establishment. It just makes him a blowhard. If Trump wants to represent the outsider, it’s about time for him to represent those outside of governmen . And that means minimizing government power, not maximizing it. But that’s the dirty little secret: Trump isn’t anti-establishment; he’s pro-establishment so long as he’s the establishment. Ben Shapiro, 33, is host of “The Ben Shapiro Show” and editor-in-chief of DailyWire.com.
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Business
March 30-April 6, 2017
Practical Financial Planning for Parents-to-Be
By Nathaniel Sillin Planning for a baby is exciting and sometimes a little frightening for expectant parents, especially first-time parents. The months will fly by and soon you’ll be at home embarking on an adventure along with the newest member of your family. Welcome to the excitement, exhaustion, fascination, bewilderment and love that is parenthood. Along with the joy and fulfillment that a new baby brings, you’ll have new financial responsibilities. Some costs are unavoidable, while others may largely depend on your discretion. Sticking to a financial plan could help you provide wonderful opportunities and experiences for your child while keeping your family’s costs under control. Preparing for the cost of birth. Paying down debt, creating a new budget, building an emergency fund, setting up automated personal finance software and reviewing the beneficiaries on your accounts could all be on your prebirth checklist. You might not have the time or energy for these tasks once you’re a parent. You’ll also want to review your health insurance policy and get a
clear understanding of your coverage during prenatal care, labor and delivery. Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) and Medicaid plans always cover pregnancy and birth, but copays, coinsurance, deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket amounts can vary. You might not be covered at all if you have a grandfathered plan. You can change to a new Marketplace plan, and add your child, after the birth as you’ll be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. Saving money during the first few years. As you adjust to life as a new parent – sleepless nights, bath times and diapers galore – you’ll likely be tempted by a wide range of childcare products. Some are necessary, but there are many ways to save on everyday infant purchases. Ask at the hospital, research online and check with pediatricians for free childcare samples. They may not last long, but having a stockpile of various sample-size products can come in handy. Also ask about a free breast pump, which you may have a right to with an ACA healthcare plan.
A USDA Infographic on how much it costs to raise a child in 2017.
Consumables, such as formula, diapers and wipes, can be bought in bulk at warehouse stores or shipped to you via a subscription from an online retailer. Either option could provide long-term savings compared to buying as you go. Discuss childcare options. Some families need the income from two working parents, others can choose to stay at their job or become a full-time parent. Weighing the pros and cons of leaving work can be difficult as you’ll want to consider a variety of ancillary costs and benefits. In the end, the decision may not be entirely financial. You could value extra parent-child time over a second income, even if it means living with a tighter budget. But
even if you’re unsure of daycare, you may want to sign-up for local centers’ waitlists now because it can take years to get a spot. Plan for the worst-case scenario. As a parent, you’re responsible for the wellbeing of your child. Now may be the time to prepare or revise a will and consider appointing a guardian. Also, if you don’t have life insurance, this is a good time to start shopping for a policy. If something happens to you, life insurance can help provide financial support for your child in the coming years. Whole or permanent life insurance policies will cover you for as long as you pay your premium while term life insurance covers you for a specific period, such
as 10 or 20 years. Premiums on term policies may be lower than on whole life insurance, and this could be the better option if you’re only looking for coverage while you support your child. Bottom line: A new child will bring great joy to your family, and when wants or needs arise, you will want your finances to be in order. Whether you’re early in the planning process or already expecting, it’s never too early to prepare for the cost of raising a child. After all, a new addition to your family is the best gift and the start of an amazing adventure. Nathaniel Sillin directs Visa’s financial education programs. To follow Practical Money Skills on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Practi-
By Mary Hunt You need more money, and you need it now. What are you choices? You have two: You can increase your income, or you can reduce your spending. There are several ways to increase your income: INCREASE INCOME Get a bigger paycheck. Ask for a raise; land a new job that pays a lot more; or get a second (or third) job to supplement your income. Win the lottery. Keep in mind when considering this option that your chances of being struck by lightning are much higher than your chances of winning the lottery. Sell your assets. Find a cash buyer for your grandmother’s sterling silver, your boat or some other asset. All of these are ways for you to increase your income and improve your financial picture. But let’s get real: If you could do any of these things, you would have done so already, and we wouldn’t be having this conversation. While increasing your income is a way to change your financial picture in theory, it is not always easy or effective. More income means higher taxes and increased work-related expenses. And it does nothing to address old habits of overspending and incurring too much debt. Your second option to change your financial situation is to reduce spending. REDUCE SPENDING Unless you are living below the poverty line, I am confident you can reduce your expenditures without compromising your standard of living.
Target every area. The secret is to look at every area of spending and reduce it a little bit. It all adds up! Instantaneous. When you reduce your expenses, the effect is instantaneous. The money you don’t spend remains in your pocket. It’s your money, and it has already been taxed. Every expense you have is a candidate for some type of systematic reduction. Less stress. Reducing your expenses forces you to focus on what really matters. You begin to notice unneeded baggage, and you’re more willing to acknowledge what brings you joy, what needs to go and how to create the life you love. More contentment. Throwing conspicuous consumption into reverse has a calming effect on both adults and kids. Overindulging complicates life and causes much stress. The key to achieving financial freedom is to spend less than you earn. It takes desire and commitment to live below your means without giving up your style and your quality of life. Don’t worry that you’re going to lose your dignity. In fact, no one needs to know about your new resolve to find ways to drastically cut your expenses. You don’t have to print “I’m Cheap!” on your forehead. A better option is to engrave this motto in your mind: Wherever I am, whatever I do, there is a way to do it for less. Mary invites questions, comments and tips at mary@everydaycheapskate. com.
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6 Gospel Spotlight
March 30-April 6, 2017
By Rusty Wright
Have you ever lied about a relationship to protect yourself? Or told close friends you didn’t believe them … about something really important? Maybe you can identify with Peter or Thomas, subjects of the two remaining episodes in CNN’s second season of Finding Jesus: Faith, Fact, Forgery. “The Bones of St. Peter” airs on April 2; “Doubting Thomas” on April 9. Each of these two followers of Jesus had their signature flaw. Each deserted the one they called “Lord.” Once restored, each followed him with fervor. Curious about these two? Here’s a short primer that may facilitate your understanding of the CNN programs. Fishermen become “fishers of men” Andrew, a fisherman, introduced his brother Peter to Jesus. As they spent time together, Jesus eventually challenged the brothers plus James and John (also brothers and fishermen) to leave their trade and become “fishers of men.” Peter, James and John became Jesus’ closest friends. Traveling with him, they saw him teach, feed hungry people, heal the sick, deal with opposition. Impressed with Jesus, Peter later reflected, “He never sinned, nor ever deceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands
of God, who always judges fairly.” If your roommate says that about you, you must be something special. In fact, Peter (originally called Simon) was convinced Jesus was divine: “You are the Messiah,” he affirmed, “the Son of the living God.” Jesus commended this affirmation and named him Peter, meaning “Rock.” Denial to dedication Peter promised Jesus on the night before his crucifixion that even if all others left, he would remain faithful. Yet within hours, Peter had denied several times – twice to two servant girls
Doubting Thomas
CNN’s Finding Jesus Series Wrap: Denial, Doubt, Dedication
Peter, ‘fisher of men’
– that he even knew Jesus. Guilt-ridden, he wept bitterly. Sunday morning, hearing Jesus’ tomb was empty, Peter ran there and entered it to confirm. He later saw Jesus alive, realized he was forgiven, and accepted Je-
sus’ mandate to spread his message. Emboldened by believing he had seen the resurrected Messiah, he pursued this vigorously, at great risk. Tradition says he eventually was crucified in Rome.
Doubt to dedication We don’t know if Thomas was born skeptical or cultivated the skill. Jesus’ biographers give us some glimpses of his attitudes. When the disciples questioned the wisdom of returning to Judea amid threats to Jesus’ life, Thomas cynically coun-
seled, “Let’s go, too—and die with Jesus.” After Jesus’ arrest, the disciples fled. Only John and several women were brave enough to show up at the cross. When the disciples later told Thomas they had seen Jesus alive again after he died, Thomas doubted: “I won’t believe it unless I see the nail wounds in his hands, put my fingers into them, and place my hand into the wound in his side.” Eight days later, Jesus appeared to Thomas, inviting him to touch his wounds. “My Lord and my God!” Thomas exclaimed. Tradition says he took Jesus’ message to India, where he was martyred. Resurrection liars? Flawed, failed, forgiven, faithful … Peter and Thomas gave their lives – literally – in Jesus’ service.
Cowards became heroes because they believed they had seen the resurrected Christ. Their martyrdom – and that of other disciples – argues loudly against the theory that Jesus’ disciples invented the resurrection story. Someone might willingly die for a lie they believed to be true. If these men were lying about the resurrection, they were dying for what they knew was false. That’s highly unlikely. CNN’s series highlights Peter’s and Thomas’ lives, also examining whether Peter visited Rome and Thomas India. Though such questions are interesting for church history, neither outcome affects New Testament reliability. These final two CNN episodes can stimulate thinking about these two influential historical figures.
The Experts Are Not Always Right By Zig Ziglar
The Wall Street crash of 1929 was followed by the Great Depression. The crash came as a complete surprise to many “experts.” A month before the crash, Charles Mitchell, former Chairman of the National City Bank, announced, “The industrial condition of the United States is absolutely sound.” Prominent economist Ervin Fisher said nine days before the crash, “I expect to see the stock market a good deal higher than it is today within a few months.” Even the Harvard Economic Society Bulletin announced, “A depression like 1920-21 is clearly out of the question.” Finally, non-economist Calvin Coolidge put the times in correct perspective when the former president observed, “The country is not in good condition.” (From The Blunder Book by H. Hirsch Goldberg) And the experts could be wrong in many other areas, as well. In 1949, Popular Mechanics magazine stated, “Com-
puters in the future may weigh no more than one-and-a-half tons.” I personally remember reading a detailed account of why landing on the moon would be impossible, and that if we did succeed in landing, leaving the moon would be out of the question. Along these lines, I’m always intrigued with the number of “unbreakable” records that continue to be broken. The truth is, records are made to be broken, so maybe you will be a record-breaker who will do the “impossible” some day. I suspect that all of us, at one time or another, have been told we couldn’t do something only to learn later that with commitment, preparation and intense effort, we could do far more than even we had imagined. The message is don’t always listen to the experts — listen to your heart. Give it your best shot, and even if you don’t make it all the way, you will still have “won” because best effort always makes you a winner. See you at the top!
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March 30-April 6, 2017 By Dwight Brown, NNPA News Wire “Trainspotting” was a breakthrough film back in 1996. An edgy, eccentric blend of debauchery and rebellion set to one of the best British rock soundtracks ever made. Twenty years later, the original director Danny Boyle (“Slumdog Millionaire,” “28 Days Later”) and screenwriter John Hodge assemble the same set of Scottish miscreants and make them deal with the aftermath of a betrayal that affected all their lives. In the ‘90s film, Mark (Ewan McGregor) and Simone, aka Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller), were best friends since childhood. In their mid-twenties, they hung out with the tall skinny dullard Daniel “Spud” Murphy (Ewen Bremner) and the short, violent and temperamental Francis “Franco” Begbie (Robert Carlyle). The four of them, and other comrades, had one thing in common: heroin addiction. It united them. Broke them apart. Caused death and destruction. Their depraved indifference to life and traditional mores ended with a dope deal gone bad. Mark, who flirted with sobriety, ran off with £12,000 pounds. He left Spud £4,000, which went right into his arm. Simone got nothing. Franco got a jail sentence and a grudge against Mark that was eating him alive. In 2017, nearing middle age, Mark’s yuppyish job at a Dutch software company ends. He returns to the scene of the crime, Edinburg. These days, Simone, a cokehead, is in love with a prostitute named Veronika (Anjela Nedyalkova). The couple makes money by blackmailing clients, “Johns,” who are secretly videotaped as they bed Veronika, who dresses up as a dominatrix. Spud is a bit of a depressed loner.
A Film Review
In fact, Mark is banging at the door of his flat just as his dejected friend is attempting suicide. Mark saves his life and Spud’s sour response is: “You ruined my life, and my death.” Meanwhile, the fiercely vindictive Franco is plotting an escape from jail. The reunion of these four is fraught with more anger, deceit, maleficence, apologies and ill will than a feud between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. It’s a hard task recapturing the dark humor and light spirits that made the original movie so shocking yet endearing. This script puts Mark and Simon on a mission to build a spa (brothel) that Veronika can operate. Mark, whose libido knows no bounds, flirts with Veronika, knowing that Simon loves her. But that’s Mark’s M.O: he can’t be trusted
Kids Talk Easter
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with a friend’s girlfriend. The character that gets the best facelift is Spud, who dares to dream big and finds an ounce of courage, when he had none in the first film. Franco, who makes a junkyard dog look like a prince, is so mean and violent he alienates himself from his family and goes after Mark with a sheer vengeance. Boyle has a fun way with the footage. He will stop it cold; shoot scenes at odd angles (cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle, Slumdog Millionaire); Cut in flashbacks (editor Jon Harris, “Kingsman: The Secret Service”); and add colorful and textured dreamy images over scenes (production design Patrick Rolfe and Mark Tildesley; art direction Patrick Rolfe). It is a pleasure to watch him weave his artistic magic. And though the soundtrack doesn’t boast a song as
catchy as the first movie’s hit tune “Lust for Life,” some of the kinetic music has a throbbing beat. Boyle’s innovation helps greatly as you realize that this script is not as fresh as the 1996 one, which was based on a novel by Irvine Welsh. That screenplay treaded new territory that audiences couldn’t fathom: Piss poor Scottish adolescents, living in and around wealth and middle-class amenities, unable to hold down a nine-to-five and relegated to a parallel world. Their degeneracy and irresponsibility had no limits, and they were so oblivious to reality that a baby died while in their custody. That stream of decadence was a jolt to the senses. Nothing in this film is quite as shocking. But then again, what could be? McGregor, Miller, Bremmer and Carlyle slip into their old characters, friendships, jealousies and rivalries comfortably—like they were trying on a pair of old faded, torn jeans that still fit or dusting off old drug paraphernalia. At one point Veronika points out to Mark “You’re a tourist in your own youth.” That’s the way it feels watching these graying, saggy-eyed fortysomethings trying to get their mojo back. They can’t relive their lives, but they can die trying. In the end, there is something woefully nostalgic about watching McGregor, Miller, Bremner and Carlyle running down the cobblestone streets of Edinburg with an urgency and abandonment that is similar to the chaos they wreaked in “Trainspotting.” The guys are a few paces slower, and almost as reckless. Just like T2. Dwight Brown is a film critic and travel writer. As a film critic, he regularly attends international film festivals including Cannes, Sundance, Toronto and the American Black Film Festival. Read more movie reviews by Dwight Brown at DwightBrownInk.com.
Senate Approves Voter ID Changes By Richard Lee
It would also create a way for people without a photo ID to still vote a full ballot. A person would have to sign an affidavit affirming that they have a reasonable impediment to obtaining a photo ID, such as a lack of transportation, work schedule, or lack of a birth certificate. Then they would present an official document verifying their name and address, like a bank statement, pay stub or utility bill, and can cast a regular ballot. The penalty for intentionally lying on this affidavit would be a third degree felony. It would also allow use of an expired photo ID for up two years after it lapses, and allows those older than 70 to use an expired photo ID indefinitely. The bill will face a final vote later in the week. Texans looking to obtain a license to carry would pay much less under a bill passed by the Senate Monday. When the Legislature passed open carry last session, licensing was combined with the existing concealed carry license into a
general license to carry, but no change was made to the cost to obtain a license. At $140 to obtain, and $70 to renew, Jacksonville Senator Robert Nichols says Texas has one of the most expensive handgun licenses in the nation. His bill would reduce that significantly, setting the cost to obtain and renew a license to carry at $40. In committee action Monday, the Senate State Affairs Committee approved unanimously a bill intended to protect judges. SB 42, by Laredo Senator Judith Zaffirini, is named after Judge Julie Kocurek, who was shot and nearly killed in her driveway allegedly by a man facing charges in her court. Kocurek testified before the committee that after enduring such significant trauma to herself and family, she wondered if she should retire. “I realized this was bigger than me,” she said. “I had to return to the bench to show to show that justice will prevail over violence.”
The Senate on Monday tentatively passed a bill that would bring Texas Voter ID law into compliance with federal court rulings. Passed originally in 2011, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled last July that the law requiring use of a government photo ID violated provisions of the Voting Rights Act. In order to update the law and allow enLillianna LeCounte forcement, SB 5, by HousJesus was hung on a cross Aleah Garcia - A fun Ethzy ton Senator Joan Huffman, and died for our sins. In 3 celebration of Jesus is what When church is over we would bring the law into days, he rose again. Easter is Easter means to me. He go back home with family compliance with the ruling. important because it tells the died for us so we should and have a big Easter dinner. Huffman believes her bill story of Jesus and what he celebrate him. I celebrate has done for us. To celebrate by having a big dinner at my meets the standards laid out by the court while prohim, my family and I, attend grandparent’s house. I also tecting against voter fraud. church and the big egg enjoy dying eggs and filling “The intent of Senate Bill hunt. After church, we visit plastic eggs at their house. 5 is to follow all constitumy Aunt’s house for a big My parents normally hide tional direction that we’ve dinner. them and we look all over for received from the federal them. It is just a lot of fun. courts to achieve a bill that is fair to all who want to vote, yet retains the integrity of the vote,” she said. The bill would expand a pilot program that created mobile ID certification service that offers an ID suitable for voting at no charge. Quincy Galvin - Easter represents the time Jesus died on the cross and then rose again from the dead. Presented by: Metro News ©2017 All Rights Reserved. 1-800-580-1039 We celebrate by going to Spending more and buying less? Maybe you should be shopping at WALchurch and learning. After Nehemiah Greer MART where your dollar goes a lot further! Conveniently located at 4006 Estes Pkwy, in Longview, phone (903) 236-0947; this full line department service, we go out into the Easter is a day of fun. First, store offers something that most other stores can’t compete with… the area’s community sharing the we visit Grandma’s house. Bao Dang - Easter is a very lowest prices on EVERYTHING! Food to feed your family, toys to story of Jesus. When we are While at her house we dye day of excitement. It’s the entertain your children, school supplies, sporting goods, tools, and auto accessories. Nearly every little finished sharing we go back eggs. When we are finished, one day we enjoy outside air thing you can think of! Most “regular” retail department stores feature “full retail” prices. At WAL-MART, this is not the case! Here you get the service you want, the quality you look for, and prices you can afford! Open 24 hours, they to the church for a big egg my parents hide them. We the most. I love helping my can meet all of your needs at any given time day or night. If you are shopping for appliances or furniture WAL-MART hunt. My family also invites have our big egg hunt and af- parents dye and fill eggs. I offers you the kind of quality you deserve. family and friends over to terwards we eat a big dinner. especially like the eggs with We, The editors of this 2017 Area’s Best Business Review, offer this suggestion to the people in our our home to dye and hide I have lots of fun hunting money in the inside. It is just area: So, whether or not you need a big grocery shopping trip, get your tire changed or pick-up a prescription, do what smart shoppers do…make WAL-MART your one-stop shopping headquarters for eggs after church service. eggs all day on Easter. a joy to celebrate. the best products, the largest selection and the ultimate in everyday bargains!
Area's Best Business Review
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8
Health
March 30-April 6, 2017
Treatment options such as vaginal reconstruction with no messy products enable women to enjoy life again
Chi l d b vag ir th c a inal n bring a nd u trauma, teri ne p rola ps e By Kelly Bell, East Texas Review
T
he joys that come with a new baby are obvious, intense and enduring, but there is a flip side. The stresses of birthing can lead to incontinence, vaginal muscle and tissue damage, which can go as far as a collapsing uterus. The passage of time can make these effects more noticeable, but there are alternatives to merely putting up with them. The uterus (also known as the womb) is a muscular organ supported by pelvic muscles and ligaments which can be stretched and weakened to the point they no longer hold up the uterus. This leads to uterine prolapse. The uterus migrates into the vagina, or birth canal. In cases of an incomplete prolapse the uterus drifts only partway into the vagina. When there is a complete prolapse the uterus sags so far into the vagina that part of it may extend to the outside of the birth canal. Symptoms are unmistakable although in cases of minor prolapse women may not notice anything. Moderate to severe prolapse shows up as follows: * A woman feels like she’s sitting on a ball * Vaginal bleeding * Increased discharge * Painful sexual intercourse * Seeing the uterus or cervix protruding from the vagina * Pulling sensation or heavy feeling in the pelvis * Constipation * Recurrent bladder infections Risk factors and severity of symptoms increase as women age and estrogen levels decrease. Because the estrogen hormone strengthens the pelvis muscles, damage to pelvic muscles and tissues during pregnancy and childbirth can precipitate prolapse later in life. Women who have had multiple children, and postmenopausal women are at the greatest risk. Activities and conditions that place stress of the pelvic muscles increase the risk of prolapse. The following further increase the likelihood of prolapse: * Obesity * Chronic coughing * Chronic constipation Doctors can detect uterine prolapse through physical exam and by evaluating symptoms. During such exams doctors insert an instrument called a speculum to view the interior of the vagina and examine the vaginal canal and uterus.
A vaginal speculum can be inserted into a woman’s vagina during a regular exam.
Meet Dr. Charles Newlin,M.D.
Diagnostic Clinic of Longview
Dr. Charles Newlin, MD explains that there are both surgical and non-surgical options for this condition. A Longview native, Newlin graduated from Longview Christian School before attending LeTourneau University and earning his undergraduate degree there. He took his medical degree from the Texas A&M College of Medicine, and finished his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at Scott and White Memorial Hospital in Temple, Texas. A member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, the Texas Medical Association, and the Christian Medical Association, he and his wife are delighted o return to Longview. For treatment options and questions in general, please contact Dr. Charles Newlin with the Diagnostic Clinic of Longview at (903) 757-6042.
With every heart we help, we help another heart keep smiling. That’s why our patients say their heart belongs to Longview Regional Medical Center. Our cardiac care team 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We offer: Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Chest Pain Center Heart Risk Assessment P.A.D. Coalition Stroke Center
2901 N Fourth Street • Longview • 903-758-1818 • www.LongviewRegional.com Longivew Regional is recognized as Certified Stroke and Chest Pain Accredited facility
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